Rufus M. FLOWERS was born circa 1834 to Martin and Louisa/Eloisa FLOWERS. He was a carpenter by trade.

In the 1860 census Rufus' wife is listed as 17 year old Merci/Mercy and they have a 3 year old son, Albert. They are living in Yates, New York.

The family shows up in the 1870 census, still living in Yates County.

But in the 1880 census Rufus is living in Montcalm, Michigan with new wife, Mary Sanderson Flowers, whom he married in Michigan in 1876, and 3 year old daughter, Josie.

I would very much like to know what became of Mercy especially her year of death and burial site.

Did Mercy die some time between 1870 and 1876 or did a separation/divorce take place in the marriage during that time period?

Is anyone aware of any possible connection between Rufus and Eliza Ward of Cheshire, Ontario County, New York.

Any help would be much appreciated.

Sharon
Welland, Ontario, Canada