Welcome to markorear.com, a website dedicated to exploring the O'Rear lineage
"Mayflower and Jamestown"
Mayflower Ancestry
Perhaps my most rewarding discovery is that the O’Rears are directly descended from William Brewster (my 11th Great Grandfather). This has been certified by the Virginia and Plymouth Mayflower Societies.
William Brewster (c. 1566/67 – 10 April 1644) was a pivotal figure among the early Pilgrims who journeyed to the New World aboard the Mayflower in 1620. As the senior elder and religious leader of Plymouth Colony, Brewster played a central role in shaping the community’s spiritual life and governance. Educated at Cambridge and experienced as a diplomat in the Netherlands, Brewster brought valuable leadership and education to the fledgling colony. The Mayflower voyage itself was perilous, with the ship enduring storms and rough seas before landing at Cape Cod, far from its original destination of Virginia. Upon arrival, the Pilgrims drafted the Mayflower Compact, one of the first self-governing documents in America, likely authored with Brewster’s involvement. Despite facing brutal winters that claimed many lives, Brewster’s dedication to the colony’s welfare and his steadfast faith helped lay the enduring foundations of American history.
In addition to Willam Brewster I am also related through my father's lineage to the "Pastor to the Pilgrims", Pastor John Robinson.
The legacy of being descended from both William Brewster and John Robinson is pretty profound, and in great part helps explain the incredibly deep Christian roots of our families lineage. Faith has always played a huge role in my life as well as the life of my son, my parents, and every generation that went before me. This is now proven out by our lineage.
William Brewster: Patriarch and Elder of the Pilgrims
William Brewster was born around 1566 in Scrooby, Nottinghamshire, England, into a family of some standing. Educated briefly at Cambridge University, he was fluent in Greek and Latin and served as an assistant to the English ambassador in the Netherlands. This diplomatic experience exposed him to the Reformed Faith and framed his lifelong commitment to spiritual and intellectual life. Returning to England, he took up his father’s postmaster position but soon became deeply involved in the Separatist church movement, a group dissenting from the Church of England's practices. His manor house in Scrooby became a secret meeting place for worship led by John Robinson.
Brewster's leadership evolved from spiritual elder to a civic figure as he guided the Separatists through perilous times. When persecution intensified, Brewster helped orchestrate the congregation’s emigration to Leiden, Netherlands, and later led the voyage on the Mayflower in 1620. Amid the ravages of the first harsh winter in Plymouth Colony, Brewster’s steadiness gave hope and structure. He served as senior elder and assistant to Governor William Bradford, providing crucial counsel that helped the colony navigate early crises.
After personal loss, including the death of his wife Mary in 1632, Brewster retired to a farm in Duxbury but remained a revered patriarch. His death in 1644 was marked by burial on Burial Hill in Plymouth, overlooking the harbor where their journey began. Inscribed on his memorial is "Elder William Brewster, Patriarch of the Pilgrims and their Ruling Elder," a fitting testament to his role as the spiritual and communal anchor of the colony.
Brewster's legacy includes the ideals of education, steadfast faith under pressure, and a servant leadership model. The four islands in Boston Harbor named for him stand as geographic monuments to his enduring influence. His role as printer in Leiden, producing sacred texts and the Pilgrim Psalter, highlights his commitment to nurturing faith through knowledge and worship.
Pastor John Robinson: Spiritual Father and Architect of Religious Freedom
John Robinson, born in 1576 in Nottinghamshire, was an intellectual and deeply spiritual leader. After graduating from Cambridge and becoming a Church of England priest, he grew increasingly convinced of the need for reform and eventually became the pastor to the Separatist congregation. His leadership extended beyond ministry; he was a visionary who spearheaded the congregation’s dramatic decision to seek religious freedom outside England, enduring exile in Leiden.
Robinson’s teachings emphasized peace, liberty of conscience, and the importance of inward spiritual renewal. He counseled the Pilgrims to live for Christ above earthly conflicts, preaching a message that fused humility with courage and dignity with freedom. Though he did not cross on the Mayflower himself, his blessing on the departing pilgrims was an emotional and spiritual milestone that marked their commitment to a new life founded on these principles.
Robinson died shortly after the pilgrims landed in America, but his ideas carried forward, influencing the governance and religious tolerance that the Plymouth colony practiced. His legacy is foundational to Congregationalism and the broader American values of freedom of worship and conscience. He is remembered not only as a pastor but also as a symbol of intellectual and spiritual endurance in the face of persecution.
Themes of Our Brewster/Robinson Legacy
Courage and Sacrifice
Both Brewster and Robinson made radical personal sacrifices for faith and conscience. Brewster risked imprisonment and exile, shepherding his people through unknown seas into a harsh new world. Robinson sacrificed comfort and security preaching unpopular truths. Their courageous stand against the state church laid the groundwork for religious freedom.
Faith and Spiritual Integrity
Their lives centered on sincere, heartfelt worship without compromise, embodying a faith that was both deeply personal and communally transformative. Brewster’s role as elder and printer shows a dedication to sustaining faith with wisdom and knowledge; Robinson’s sermons taught a peace that surpasses earthly strife.
Leadership and Service
Brewster’s leadership was grounded in servantship—guiding others with wisdom and compassion while managing civic responsibilities. Robinson served as the spiritual heart of the community, offering solace and vision. Both inspire descendants to lead humbly and effectively.
Liberty and Peace
Their legacy represents a balance of advocating liberty while pursuing peace within and outside the community. The values of freedom of worship and conscience were revolutionary and remain timeless guidance.
Living the Legacy Today
Our family history is far more than a story of distant ancestors; it is an ongoing narrative calling all of us to embody the virtues that William Brewster and John Robinson exemplified. It is a legacy that urges planting seeds of faith and courage, lighting a path of peace, freedom, and steadfast love for all who come after.
William Brewster Lineage
11th Great-Grandfather: William Brewster
(1566/67 – 1644)
• Spouse: Mary Brewster (c. 1569 – 17 April 1627)
• Biography: Senior elder and leader of Plymouth Colony; Mayflower passenger and prominent early colonial figure.
10th Great-Grandfather: Jonathan Brewster
(1593 – 1659)
• Spouse: Lucretia Oldham (14 January 1600/01 – 4 March 1678/9)
• Biography: Son of William and Mary Brewster; early Plymouth settler and public official.
9th Great-Grandmother: Mary Brewster
(1627 – 1698)
• Spouse: John Turner Sr. (baptized 24 March 1621 – after 20 May 1697)
• Biography: Daughter of Jonathan Brewster; married prominent Plymouth colonist John Turner Sr.
8th Great-Grandfather: Jonathan Turner
(1646 – 1724)
• Spouse(s): Martha Bisbee, Mercy Hatch, Lydia Hayden Vinton
• Biography: Son of Mary Brewster and John Turner Sr.; prominent citizen of Scituate and Cohasset, Massachusetts.
7th Great-Grandmother: Jemima Turner
(1680 – 1716)
• Spouse: Captain Edward Foster (1682 – 1761)
• Biography: Daughter of John Turner; married Capt. Edward Foster, military and civic leader.
6th Great-Grandmother: Mary Foster
(1711 – 1761)
• Spouse: Dr. Joseph Jacobs Sr. (16 August 1707 – c. 1760)
• Biography: Married physician Joseph Jacobs Sr.
5th Great-Grandfather: Joseph Jacob Jr.
(1757 – 1811)
• Spouse: Hannah Eels (married 8 November 1780)
• Biography: Schoolmaster at Hingham, Massachusetts.
4th Great-Grandmother: Hannah Jacobs Downing
(1783 - 1837)
• Spouse: Smith Downing (1779-1859)
• Biography: Member of Jacobs and Downing families; mother of Eliza Sparrow Downing.
3rd Great-Grandmother: Eliza Sparrow Downing
(1809 - 1870)
• Spouse: John Albert Thurston (1817-1901)
• Biography: Married John Albert Thurston.
2nd Great-Grandfather: George Breed Thurston
(1847 - 1908)
• Spouse: Estella Josephine Pierce (1850–1926)
• Biography: Parents of Lilla Gertrude Thurston.
Great-Grandmother: Lilla Gertrude Thurston
(1878 - 1968)
"Grandma Bee"
• Spouse: John Dunbar Bee Jr. (29 Nov 1970 - 21 Feb 1952) Note: I never met him as he died before I was born
• Biography: Daughter of George Breed Thurston and Estella Josephine Pierce; married John Dunbar Bee Jr.
Grandmother: Marion Frances Bee
(1913–2003)
• Spouse: Albert A. Beckman (1907–1996)
• Biography: Daughter of Lilla Gertrude Thurston and John Dunbar Bee Jr.; married Albert A. Beckman.
Parents: Virginia May Beckman (4 June 1934) - and Floyd Barrett O’Rear Jr. (16 August 1931 - 22 June 2019)
The last two generations are my mother, Virginia May Beckman, and me. I have covered their biographies in great detail elsewher
In addition to William Brewster of the Mayflower, my 12th Great Uncle is Pastor John Robinson as follows:
John Robinson Lineage
John Robinson Sr.
(1550-1617)
Pastor John Robinson's father
Relationship to Mark: 13th Great-Grandfather
Birth: c. 1550, Sturton le Steeple, Nottinghamshire, England.
Death: Before 1617 (will probated 1617), Sturton le Steeple, Nottinghamshire, England.
Parents: Unknown.
Siblings: Unknown.
Spouse: Anne Hannah Robinson (or earlier wife, details unclear; married c. 1570s).
Children: Rev. John Robinson (b. 1575), William Robinson (b. 1578), Phillis Thompson, Mary Pearte, others.
Context: John Robinson Sr. was a yeoman in Sturton le Steeple, a rural village in Nottinghamshire, during the Elizabethan era, a time of religious and political consolidation under the Church of England. As a landowner, he likely farmed crops and livestock, contributing to the local economy in a region known for agriculture. His marriage to Anne Hannah (or an earlier wife) produced a family that included the notable Separatist pastor John Robinson, who influenced the Pilgrim movement, and William Robinson, who carried the family line forward. John Sr.’s 1617 will, probated in Sturton, reveals significant wealth, bequeathing 105 pounds to William and only 5 marks to John, possibly reflecting differing familial roles or maternal inheritance. Living during the rise of Puritanism, John Sr. may have been exposed to religious dissent, though no records confirm his personal stance. His death before 1617 marked the end of a life rooted in rural stability, with his children shaping the family’s transatlantic legacy.
William Robinson
(1578–1625)
Relationship to Mark: 12th Great-Grandfather (John's brother)
Birth: 1578 (christened 2 February 1578), Sturton le Steeple, Nottinghamshire, England (or possibly Egham, Surrey).
Death: March 1, 1625, Reusel, Reusel-De Mierden, North Brabant, Netherlands.
Parents: John Robinson Sr. and Anne Hannah Robinson (or earlier wife).
Siblings: Brother to Rev. John Robinson (1575–1625), and sisters including Phillis Thompson, Mary Pearte.
Spouse: Not documented (possibly unmarried or spouse unknown).
Children: Francis Robinson (b. 1595).
Context: William was born into a yeoman family in Sturton le Steeple, Nottinghamshire, during the reign of Elizabeth I, a period marked by religious tension between Catholics, Anglicans, and emerging Puritan factions. As the brother of John Robinson, the Separatist pastor who led the Pilgrims to Leiden, William grew up in a household likely exposed to nonconformist ideas, though his own religious leanings are undocumented. His father’s 1617 will left him a substantial 105 pounds—far more than John’s 5 marks—possibly reflecting wealth from his mother’s side or a strategic inheritance to maintain family land. By the early 17th century, religious persecution under James I pushed many Puritans and Separatists to the Netherlands, and William’s relocation to Reusel suggests he may have followed or supported his brother’s Leiden community. His life in the Netherlands, a haven for religious dissenters, would have involved navigating a foreign culture while possibly engaging in trade or agriculture. William’s death in 1625, just as the Pilgrims were establishing Plymouth Colony, marked the end of a life shaped by religious and economic challenges. His son Francis became the link to the family’s eventual American legacy.
"Pastor to the Pilgrims" Pastor John Robinson
(1575–1625)
Relationship to Mark: 12th Great-Uncle
Birth: 1575, Sturton le Steeple, Nottinghamshire, England.
Death: March 1, 1625, Leiden, South Holland, Netherlands.
Parents: John Robinson Sr. and Anne Hannah Robinson (or earlier wife).
Siblings: Brother to William Robinson (1578–1625), and sisters including Phillis Thompson, Mary Pearte.
Spouse: Bridget White (b. c. 1579, d. 1643; married February 15, 1604, Greasley, Nottinghamshire).
Children: John (b. 1606), Bridget (b. 1608), Isaac (b. 1610), Mercy (b. 1612), Fear (b. 1614), Jacob (b. 1616).
Context: John Robinson, the Pastor to the Pilgrims is Mark's 12th Great Uncle. He was born in Sturton le Steeple, became a pivotal figure in the Separatist movement, advocating for a church free from the Church of England’s authority. Educated at Cambridge University, he served as a pastor in Norwich before embracing Separatist beliefs, leading him to flee to Leiden, Netherlands, around 1608 to escape persecution. In Leiden, he led a congregation of English Separatists, shaping their theology and preparing them for the 1620 Mayflower voyage to America, though he remained behind, intending to join later. His marriage to Bridget White produced six children, some of whom later joined the Plymouth Colony. John’s writings, including essays on religious liberty, influenced Puritan thought and the founding principles of New England. His death in 1625, coincidentally on the same day as his brother William, marked the end of a life dedicated to religious reform. Though he never reached America, his legacy as the “Pastor of the Pilgrims” profoundly shaped the family’s historical significance.
Francis Robinson
(1595–1652)
Relationship to Mark: 11th Great-Grandfather
Birth: 1595, Braybrooke, Northamptonshire, England.
Death: Before 22 July 1652 (probate date), Burton on Trent, Staffordshire, England.
Parents: William Robinson and unknown mother.
Siblings: Joyce (b. 1622), John (b. 1628), Anthony (b. 1630), others.
Spouse: Anne Robinson (details limited, likely married c. 1618).
Children: Francis (b. 1620), Joyce (b. 1622), George Sr. (b. 1626), John (b. 1628), Anthony (b. 1630), others.
Context: Francis was born in Braybrooke, a small agricultural village in Northamptonshire, and later settled in Burton on Trent, a thriving market town known for its brewing and trade along the River Trent. Living during the English Civil War (1642–1651), Francis experienced a nation torn by conflict between Royalists and Parliamentarians, with Staffordshire seeing skirmishes and economic disruption. His marriage to Anne, likely a local woman, around 1618 produced a large family, suggesting modest prosperity as a yeoman or tradesman. Unlike his uncle John Robinson, who led Separatists to the Netherlands, Francis remained in England, possibly adhering to Anglican practices or avoiding the radicalism of Separatism. His life involved managing land or trade, raising children, and navigating wartime challenges, including potential taxation or conscription pressures. The probate of his will in 1652 indicates he owned property, possibly farmland or brewing-related assets, typical of Burton’s economy. His son George’s emigration to America marked a turning point, shifting the family’s trajectory to the New World.
George Robinson Sr. (of Rehoboth)
(1626–1699)
Relationship to Mark: 10th Great-Grandfather
Birth: 1626 (christened 30 July 1626), Scotland (or possibly Burton Latimer, Northamptonshire).
Death: November 9, 1699, Rehoboth, Bristol County, Massachusetts Colony.
Parents: Francis Robinson and Anne Robinson.
Siblings: Francis, Joyce, John, Anthony, others.
Spouse: Joanna Ingraham (b. c. 1629, d. c. 1699; married June 18, 1651, Rehoboth, Massachusetts).
Children: Mary (b. 1652), Samuel (b. 1654), George Jr. (b. 1656), Elizabeth (b. 1658), William (b. 1662), Benjamin (b. 1664), John (b. 1668), Nathaniel (b. 1673, d. infant).
Context: George, born in Scotland or England, arrived in Plymouth Colony around 1643 as a young man seeking opportunity in a fledgling Puritan settlement. As a carpenter, he played a vital role in building Rehoboth, a frontier town founded by religious dissenters. His marriage to Joanna Ingraham in 1651 anchored him in the community, where he raised a large family amidst the challenges of colonial life, including harsh winters and Native American tensions. George was a veteran of King Philip’s War (1675–1676), a brutal conflict with the Wampanoag and other tribes, surviving the devastating Pierce’s Fight, where many colonists perished. As an original proprietor of Attleboro land, purchased from Native leaders Massasoit and Wamsutta, he secured a legacy of property that bolstered his family’s status. His carpentry work likely included constructing homes, barns, and meetinghouses, essential to Rehoboth’s growth. George’s life was shaped by Puritan discipline, community governance, and the constant threat of conflict, yet his large family and land holdings reflect success. His death in 1699 marked the end of a pioneering life.
George Robinson Jr. (of Attleboro)
(1656–1724)
Relationship to Mark: 9th Great-Grandfather
Birth: February 21, 1656, Rehoboth, Bristol County, Massachusetts Colony.
Death: September 30, 1724, Attleboro, Bristol County, Massachusetts Colony.
Parents: George Robinson Sr. and Joanna Ingraham.
Siblings: Mary, Samuel, Elizabeth, William, Benjamin, John, Nathaniel.
Spouse: Elizabeth Guild (b. February 18, 1660, Dedham; d. October 1740; married November 17, 1680).
Children: John, Samuel, Elizabeth, Margaret (b. 1686), Martha, Nathaniel, Noah, Abigail, Hannah, Mary (d. 1717).
Context: Born in Rehoboth, George Jr. grew up in a Puritan community where hard work and faith defined daily life. As a weaver, he produced cloth for clothing and household use, a critical trade in colonial New England’s self-sufficient economy. His marriage to Elizabeth Guild, from the prominent Dedham family, in 1680 connected him to a network of established settlers, enhancing his social standing. Moving to Attleboro in 1661, George contributed to the town’s development, building on his father’s land acquisitions. His life spanned the merger of Plymouth Colony into the Province of Massachusetts Bay (1691), a shift that brought new governance and economic opportunities. George likely participated in town meetings, militia drills, and church activities, reflecting his role as a community leader. His will, dated September 17, 1724, carefully divided his estate, indicating wealth accumulated through weaving and land. He navigated challenges like King William’s War (1688–1697) and early 18th-century economic fluctuations, raising a large family that strengthened the Robinson legacy.
Margaret Robinson Day
(1686–1780)
Relationship to Mark: 8th Great-Grandmother
Birth: February 26, 1686 (or 9 June 1690), North Attleboro, Bristol County, Massachusetts Colony.
Death: June 19, 1780, Windham County, Connecticut Colony.
Parents: George Robinson Jr. and Elizabeth Guild.
Siblings: John, Samuel, Elizabeth, Martha, Nathaniel, Noah, Abigail, Hannah, Mary.
Spouse: Captain Benjamin Day (b. c. 1685, d. 1743; married December 16, 1714, Attleboro, Massachusetts).
Children: Hannah (b. 1715), Mary (b. 1717), Jonathan (b. 1720), Bridget (b. 1722), Leah (b. 1727), Margaret.
Context: Margaret was born in North Attleboro, a small but growing Puritan settlement, where her father’s weaving trade provided a comfortable upbringing. Her marriage to Benjamin Day in 1714, likely a farmer or tradesman, tied her to a family of similar status. The couple’s relocation to Windham County, Connecticut, reflects the westward migration of New Englanders seeking fertile land as Massachusetts became crowded. As a mother of six, Margaret managed a household under frontier conditions, spinning, weaving, and preparing food while raising children in a strict Puritan community. Her life spanned major colonial conflicts, including King George’s War (1744–1748) and the French and Indian War (1754–1763), which brought fear of raids and economic strain. Living to 94, Margaret witnessed the American Revolution’s early years, likely supporting her children’s families during wartime shortages. Her role as a matriarch involved passing down domestic skills and religious values, shaping her children’s resilience.
Hannah Day
(1715–1812)
Relationship to Mark: 7th Great-Grandmother
Birth: February 3, 1715/16, Attleboro, Bristol County, Massachusetts Colony.
Death: c. 1812, Cooperstown, Otsego County, New York.
Parents: Benjamin Day and Margaret Robinson.
Siblings: Mary, Jonathan, Bridget, Leah, Margaret.
Spouses: Josiah Streeter I (b. c. 1710, d. c. 1755; married c. 1735), John Weeks (married c. 1760).
Children: Benjamin Streeter Sr. (b. 1737), Josiah Streeter Jr. (b. 1738), others.
Context: Hannah was born in Attleboro, where Puritan discipline and agricultural life shaped her early years. Her first marriage to Josiah Streeter, likely a farmer or militiaman, around 1735 produced at least two sons during a period of colonial expansion and tension with Native Americans. Josiah’s death around 1755, possibly during the French and Indian War, left Hannah a widow, requiring her to manage a household alone. Her second marriage to John Weeks around 1760 provided stability as she raised her children in a changing colonial landscape. Hannah’s move to Cooperstown, New York, in her later years reflects the post-Revolutionary migration to frontier regions, where settlers like her sons cleared land for farming. Living nearly a century, she experienced the American Revolution, likely supporting her sons’ militia service and enduring wartime hardships like food shortages and British raids. As a matriarch, Hannah spun wool, preserved food, and maintained family cohesion, passing down stories of colonial struggles.
Benjamin Streeter Sr.
(1737–1812)
Relationship to Mark: 6th Great-Grandfather
Birth: December 5, 1737, Attleboro, Bristol County, Massachusetts Colony.
Death: c. 1812 (between 1810–1813), Phelps, Ontario County, New York.
Parents: Josiah Streeter I and Hannah Day.
Siblings: Josiah Jr., others.
Spouses: Abigail (b. c. 1740, d. bef. 1770; married c. 1758), Jemima Moss (b. c. 1745, married c. 1770).
Children: Abigail (b. 1760), Elias (b. 1763), Benjamin Jr. (b. 1765), Thomas (b. 1770), Stephen (b. 1772), Nathaniel, Lucy, others.
Context: Born in Attleboro, Benjamin grew up in a Puritan community where farming and militia service were integral. His first marriage to Abigail around 1758 produced several children before her early death, and his second marriage to Jemima Moss around 1770 expanded his family further. As a private in the American Revolution, Benjamin likely served in New England militia units, participating in battles or patrols to defend against British forces. His moves from Massachusetts to Chesterfield, New Hampshire, and later to Phelps, New York, reflect the post-war migration of veterans seeking land grants in frontier regions. In Phelps, Benjamin cleared land, built a homestead, and farmed crops like wheat and corn, contributing to a growing community. His large family required managing resources in a rugged environment, where threats like harsh winters and Native American resistance persisted. Benjamin’s life was marked by the physical and emotional toll of war, relocation, and frontier survival, yet his success as a patriarch ensured his children’s integration into early American society.
Benjamin Streeter Jr.
(1765–1835)
Relationship to Mark: 5th Great-Grandfather
Birth: August 11, 1765, Chesterfield, Cheshire County, New Hampshire.
Death: March 1, 1835, Chesterfield, Cheshire County, New Hampshire.
Parents: Benjamin Streeter Sr. and Abigail (or Jemima Moss).
Siblings: Abigail, Elias, Thomas, Stephen, Nathaniel, Lucy.
Spouse: Sarah Hudson (b. c. 1757, d. 1842; married c. 1780).
Children: Abigail, Benjamin III, Solomon, Squire (b. 1791), Clark (b. 1794), Lucinda (b. 1798), Rhoda.
Context: Born in Chesterfield during the pre-Revolutionary period, Benjamin Jr. grew up in a rural community where farming and weaving were common livelihoods. His marriage to Sarah Hudson around 1780, likely a local woman from a similar background, created a large family that anchored the Streeter presence in New Hampshire. Unlike his father, who migrated westward, Benjamin chose stability, remaining in Chesterfield to farm and possibly weave, skills inherited from his Robinson ancestors. His life spanned the American Revolution, the adoption of the Constitution, and the War of 1812, during which he likely supported the young nation through local militia or economic contributions. As a farmer, he grew crops like rye and potatoes, essential to New Hampshire’s agrarian economy, and managed livestock to sustain his family. Benjamin’s children married into local families, reflecting the interconnectedness of rural communities.
Benjamin Streeter III
(1786–1850)
Relationship to Mark: 4th Great-Grandfather
Birth: 1786, Chesterfield, Cheshire County, New Hampshire.
Death: 1850, Chesterfield, Cheshire County, New Hampshire.
Parents: Benjamin Streeter Jr. and Sarah Hudson.
Siblings: Abigail, Solomon, Squire, Clark, Lucinda, Rhoda.
Spouse: Sarah Farr (b. January 8, 1786, Chesterfield, NH; d. 1858; married c. 1808).
Children: Sarah, Laura (b. 1814), Alfred, Elias, Aurelius (b. 1821), George, Ashbel, Malvina.
Context: Born in Chesterfield during the early years of American independence, Benjamin III grew up in a nation forging its identity. His marriage to Sarah Farr around 1808, a local woman from a farming family, produced a large family, continuing the Streeter tradition of rural life. As a farmer, Benjamin cultivated crops and raised livestock, contributing to Chesterfield’s agricultural economy. His life coincided with the War of 1812, the Erie Canal’s completion (1825), and the rise of New England’s textile industry, though he remained tied to farming. His children’s names, blending traditional (Sarah) and classical (Aurelius) influences, reflect the cultural shifts of the early 19th century, when education and literacy were growing. Benjamin likely participated in town meetings and church activities, reinforcing community ties in a close-knit region. His death in 1850, during the California Gold Rush, marked the end of a life rooted in agrarian stability.
Laura Streeter
(1814–1888)
Relationship to Mark: 3rd Great-Grandmother
Birth: July 4, 1814, Chesterfield, Cheshire County, New Hampshire.
Death: 1888, Westmoreland, Cheshire County, New Hampshire.
Parents: Benjamin Streeter III and Sarah Farr.
Siblings: Sarah, Alfred, Elias, Aurelius, George, Ashbel, Malvina.
Spouses: Jabez J. Pierce (b. c. 1810, d. 1839, Westmoreland, NH; married c. 1835), possibly Bishop (first, details unclear).
Children: Estella Josephine Pierce (b. 1850).
Context: Born on Independence Day in Chesterfield, Laura grew up in a rural community shaped by farming and emerging industrial influences. Her marriage to Jabez J. Pierce around 1835, likely a farmer or tradesman, connected her to Westmoreland, where she faced the challenges of rural life. Jabez’s death in 1839 left Laura a young widow, requiring her to manage a household and raise her daughter Estella alone. An earlier marriage to a Bishop is suggested but unconfirmed, highlighting the complexities of her life. Laura’s domestic skills—spinning, sewing, and food preservation—were crucial for survival, especially during the economic fluctuations of the 1840s. She lived through the Second Great Awakening, which brought religious revivals to New Hampshire, and may have attended Methodist or Baptist meetings. Her move to Westmoreland reflects local mobility, but her life remained tied to agrarian traditions.
Estella Josephine Pierce
(1850–1926)
Relationship to Mark: 2nd Great-Grandmother
Birth: January 7, 1850, Westmoreland, Cheshire County, New Hampshire.
Death: April 12, 1926, Lynn, Essex County, Massachusetts.
Parents: Jabez J. Pierce and Laura Streeter.
Siblings: None documented.
Spouse: George B. Thurston (b. 1849, d. 1922; married November 28, 1872, Lynn, Massachusetts).
Children: Laura Breed Thurston, Lilla Gertrude Thurston, Eliza Frances Thurston.
Context: Estella was born in rural Westmoreland, raised by her widowed mother, Laura, in a community centered on farming. Her move to Lynn, Massachusetts, by 1872 reflects the broader migration to industrial centers during the post-Civil War era. Lynn, known as the “Shoe Capital of the World,” was a hub of manufacturing, and Estella’s marriage to George B. Thurston, likely a shoemaker or factory worker, integrated her into this vibrant economy. As a mother of three daughters, Estella managed a busy household, possibly sewing or taking in boarders to supplement income, common practices in working-class families. She lived through the Gilded Age, the women’s suffrage movement, and World War I, engaging in community life through church groups or women’s clubs. Estella’s life bridged rural and urban worlds, adapting to the demands of industrial society while maintaining family ties.
Lilla Gertrude Thurston
(1878–1968)
Relationship to Mark: Great-Grandmother "Grandma Bee"
Birth: April 15, 1878, Lynn, Essex County, Massachusetts.
Death: February 3, 1968, Massachusetts.
Parents: George B. Thurston and Estella Josephine Pierce.
Siblings: Laura Breed, Eliza Frances.
Spouse: John Dunbar Bee, Jr. (b. c. 1875, d. 1956; married c. 1900).
Children: Marion Frances Bee (b. 1913).
Context: Lilla was born in Lynn, a bustling industrial city where shoe manufacturing drove economic growth. Growing up in a working-class family, she likely attended local schools and participated in community activities like church socials or women’s organizations. Her marriage to John Dunbar Bee, Jr., around 1900, possibly a worker in Lynn’s factories or a related trade, created a stable family unit. As a mother, Lilla raised Marion during the Progressive Era, a time of labor reforms, women’s suffrage, and urban growth. She lived through World War I, which brought economic strain and patriotic fervor, and the Roaring Twenties, marked by cultural dynamism. The Great Depression challenged her family’s resilience, but Lilla’s domestic skills and community ties likely helped them endure. World War II and the post-war boom saw her adapt to new technologies and social changes. Living to 1968, Lilla witnessed the civil rights movement and the cultural upheavals of the 1960s.
Marion Frances Bee
(1913–2003)
Relationship to Mark: Grandmother
Birth: February 21, 1913, Massachusetts.
Death: April 1, 2003, Massachusetts.
Parents: John Dunbar Bee, Jr. and Lilla Gertrude Thurston.
Spouse: Albert Alf Beckman (1907-1996)
Bernard A. Grady (1918-2006)
Children: Virginia May Beckman (b. 1934), Barbara Beckman (1935-2009)
Context: Marion was born in Massachusetts, likely in Lynn, during a period of industrial prosperity and cultural change. Raised in a working-class family, she experienced the aftermath of World War I and the vibrancy of the 1920s, with its jazz culture and economic growth. Her marriage to Albert Alf Beckman around 1930, likely a worker in Massachusetts’s industrial or service sectors, coincided with the Great Depression’s onset, testing her family’s resourcefulness. As a mother to Virginia and Barbara, Marion managed a household during economic hardship, possibly sewing or engaging in community support networks. World War II brought new opportunities for women, and Marion may have contributed to the war effort through volunteer work or employment. The post-war boom, with its suburban expansion and technological advances, shaped her middle years. Living to 2003, Marion saw the civil rights movement, the Cold War, and the rise of the internet, adapting to a rapidly changing world.
Virginia May Beckman
(1934–present)
Relationship to Mark: Mother
Birth: June 4, 1934, Massachusetts.
Death: Living.
Parents: Albert Alf Beckman and Marion Frances Bee.
Siblings: Barbara Ann Beckman (1935-2009), Patricia Lorenzo (half-sister 1941-2024).
Spouse: Rev. Floyd Barrett O’Rear Jr. (1931-2019), married 1953.
Children: Mark Edward O’Rear (1957-Living), Stephen O’Rear (1959-2001), Paul O’Rear (1962-Living), Judith O’Rear (1964-Living)
Context: Virginia was raised in Massachusetts during the Great Depression (1929-1939), a time of economic struggle that shaped her early years in a working-class family. Raised in Cambridge, Becky (as she likes to be called) attended public schools and grew up with her sister Barbara, forming close family bonds. Her marriage to Rev. Floyd Barrett O’Rear Jr. in 1953 occurred during the post-World War II economic boom, a period of suburban growth and optimism. As a mother of four, Becky raised Mark, Stephen, Paul, and Judith during the Cold War, the civil rights movement, and the turbulent 1960s, balancing domestic responsibilities with community involvement, possibly through schools, churches, or local organizations. She lived through the rise of television, the space race, and the women’s liberation movement, adapting to cultural and technological shifts. Virginia’s life in Massachusetts, likely in a suburban setting, reflected the stability and prosperity of the mid-20th century. As of 2025, she continues to live, witnessing the digital age and maintaining her role as a matriarch preserving the family’s deep New England heritage.
Mark Edward O'Rear (1957–present)
Relationship to Mark: Self
Birth: March 23, 1957, Brooklyn, New York.
Death: Living.
Parents: Rev. Floyd Barrett O’Rear Jr. and Virginia May Beckman.
Siblings: Stephen O’Rear, Paul O’Rear, Judith O’Rear.
Spouse: Janette Ryan (b. June 22, 1954, married 1982).
Children: Matthew Ryan O’Rear (b. May 13, 1987).
Context: Mark was born in Brooklyn, New York, during the post-war baby boom, a time of economic prosperity and cultural transformation. Growing up in the 1960s and 1970s, he experienced the civil rights movement, the Vietnam War, and the rise of counterculture, attending first Clarkstown HS and then Hackensack HS and engaging in church and community activities with his siblings Stephen, Paul, and Judith. His family’s roots in Massachusetts, through his mother Virginia, connected him to a deep New England heritage. Mark met his wife, Janette Ryan, while both were working at IBM, a leading technology company, reflecting their involvement in the burgeoning tech industry of the late 20th century. His deep interest in genealogy, evidenced by his detailed queries and the public family tree on markorear.com, demonstrates a commitment to preserving his family’s history, from its English origins to its colonial and industrial legacy. His connection to Pastor John Robinson, his 12th great-uncle, and to William Brewster, his 11th great-grandfather, ties him to the Pilgrim movement, a source of historical pride. Living into the 21st century, Mark has navigated the digital revolution, globalization, and social changes, from the internet era to the present. As a family historian and father, he ensures the family’s story endures for future generations.
Matthew Ryan O’Rear
(1987–present)
Relationship to Mark: Son
Birth: May 13, 1987, White Plains, New York.
Death: Living.
Parents: Mark Edward O’Rear and Janette Ryan.
Spouse: Kristin Wempa (b. November 6, 1985, married August 23, 2014)
Children: Benjamin Ryan O’Rear (b. October 15, 2019).
Context: Matthew Ryan O’Rear was born in White Plains, New York, in 1987, during a period of economic growth and technological advancement, including the rise of personal computers and the internet. Raised in a family with a strong interest in genealogy, Matthew was likely exposed to stories of his colonial ancestors and their New England legacy, fostering a sense of historical connection. His marriage to Kristin Wempa, born in 1985, reflects a modern partnership, likely formed in the early 21st century. Matthew is currently attending Fuller Seminary, pursuing theological education, and serves as a pastor at Effort Baptist Church in Palmyra, Virginia, continuing a family tradition of religious involvement that echoes his ancestors Rev. John Robinson and William Brewster. As a father to Benjamin, born in 2019, Matthew continues the O’Rear family line, passing down its historical significance. His life has been shaped by the digital age, including social media, global connectivity, and rapid technological change. Matthew’s role as a pastor and parent ensures the continuation of the O’Rear legacy, bridging the family’s colonial past with its modern present.
Benjamin Ryan O’Rear
(2019–present)
Relationship to Mark: Grandson
Birth: October 15, 2019, Charlottesville, Virginia.
Parents: Matthew Ryan O’Rear and Kristin Wempa.
Context: Benjamin Ryan O’Rear, born in Charlottesville, Virginia, in 2019, represents the youngest generation in this lineage, growing up in a world defined by digital technology, global challenges, and cultural diversity. His name, echoing earlier family members like Benjamin Streeter, suggests a connection to the family’s historical naming traditions. Raised by Matthew, a pastor, and Kristin, a Senior Medical Science Liaison at GlaxoSmithKline, Benjamin is likely exposed to stories of his ancestors’ journey from England to colonial America and beyond, fostered by his grandfather Mark’s genealogical passion. Living in the 2020s, Benjamin’s early years coincide with significant global events, including technological advancements and social movements. As part of the O’Rear family, he carries forward a legacy that spans over four centuries, from English yeomen to modern Americans, with a rich New England heritage.
Our Jamestown Ancestry
Once I completed the certification for the Mayflower Society, I began to investigate our possible Jamestown lineage and discovered that we were definitely eligible based upon several qualifying ancestors. I chose to submit for William Angell, my 10th GG, who was a wealthy merchant and helped fund the expedition. We would also likely qualify with Lord George Calvert, First Lord Baltimore (also my 10th GG through M.A. O'Rear) but it is a bit harder to prove.
DRAFT Application of Mark Edward O’Rear to the Jamestown Society: QA William Angell A9721
Submitted to the head of the Jamestown Society, Brantley Knowles, November, 2025
Ancestors already approved via a perviously approved application:
William Angell / Joan Povey - 10th GG
John Claypoole / Mary Angell - 9th GG
Norton Claypoole / Rachel (last name not known) - 8th GG
James Claypoole / Elizabeth Pawling - 7th GG
James Claypoole / Jane Byrd - 6th GG
Per the above, my generations James Claypoole 1701 through William Angell 1556 were previously approved in the Jamestown Society application submitted by Michael Scott Lewis Kearns, member #10320, date of membership 11/2/2020.
QA is William Angell A9721
My remaining ancestors linking James Claypoole to me that I need to prove:
Joseph Claypoole Sr / Abigail Osborne
Joseph Claypoole Jr. / Rebecca Sanders
James Claypoole / Mary Ann Chappell
Mary Jane Claypoole / James W. Sherrow
William A. Sherrow / Lillie May Stokes
Grace Alice Sherrow / Floyd Barrett O’Rear Sr.
Floyd Barrett O’Rear Jr. / Virginia May Beckman
Mark Edward O’Rear / Janette Ryan O’Rear
The generations beginning with James Claypoole 1701 through to Mark O’Rear are provided below:
James Claypoole III (1701-1789) - my 6th GG
This lineage was already approved in the cited application. James A. Claypoole III, born in 1701, was a significant member of the Claypoole family branch that settled in Virginia, which was part of the larger Claypoole family legacy originating from England. This family was “a genteel and ancient family seated at Norborough, in the County of Northampton” with a lineage traced through many kings and nobles, indicating prestigious roots (The Claypoole Family in America, Vol. 1, p. 9-10) . James Claypoole married Jane Byrd circa 1727 in Sussex, Delaware Colony. Jane Byrd was born in 1701 as well, and she was the daughter of John Byrd and Rebecca Sutton, connecting the Claypoole family to another prominent colonial family. Evelyn Bracken in her work highlights the marriage and family details as follows
Claypoole Family in America Volume 2, p. 23-24
“James Claypool (b. 1701)—grandson of James or Norton Claypool or both—settled in old Virginia, now Hardy County, W. Va. He married Jane Byrd about 1727 in Sussex, Delaware Colony. Their children included Joseph, born ca. 1735 in New Castle County, Delaware” (The Claypoole Family in America, Vol. 2, p. 23-24) .
Jane Byrd died on October 9, 1788, and James Claypoole died shortly after on October 7, 1789, both in Hardy County, Virginia (now West Virginia) (ibid).
Joseph Claypoole Sr. (1735-1790) - my 5th GG
Joseph Claypoole Sr. was born circa 1735 in New Castle County, Delaware Colony, to James Claypoole (b. 1701) and Jane Byrd. He represents the second generation of the Claypoole line that established itself in colonial Virginia and Delaware.
According to The Claypoole Family in America, Joseph Claypoole Sr. was part of the Claypoole family that descended from an ancient and genteel lineage originally seated in Norborough, Northamptonshire, England, with the family immigration into America occurring in the 17th century. This distinguished family played a crucial role in the early settlement of several colonies and had close connections among the colonial elite (Vol. 1, p. 9-11) .
Joseph Claypoole Sr. eventually settled in what became Greenbrier County, Virginia (now West Virginia), where he contributed to the pioneer settlement of the region. He married Abigail Osborne, uniting the Claypoole family with another early settler family. Joseph died on April 27, 1790, in Greenbrier County (Vol. 2, p. 24) .
Family and Descendants
• Father: James Claypoole (b. 1701), married Jane Byrd, founder of the Virginia Claypoole branch.
• Mother: Jane Byrd (b. 1701), daughter of John Byrd and Rebecca Sutton.
• Spouse: Abigail Osborne
• Death: April 27, 1790, Greenbrier County, Virginia .
Quotes and References from The Claypoole Family in America
1. “Joseph Claypoole, son of James and Jane Byrd Claypoole, was born about 1735 in New Castle County, Delaware Colony. He married Abigail Osborne and settled in Greenbrier County, Virginia, where he died in 1790” (Vol. 2, p. 24) .
2. The Claypoole family’s English roots are described: “The Claypooles were a genteel and ancient family seated at Norborough, in the County of Northampton, possessing considerable estates. One of the sons married a daughter of Oliver Cromwell. From its ancestral home, it furnished a group of distinguished soldiers, statesmen, and patriots” (Vol. 1, p. 9-11) .
3. Regarding the pioneer spirit and faith of the Claypoole ancestors:
“We have no cause to repent our coming hither, but to bless the Lord for his leading hand and counsel… Truly my desire is that we may have an eye to the Lord in all our undertakings… so shall righteousness establish our Nation…” (James Claypoole, Vol. 1, p. 14) .
Historical Context
Joseph Claypoole was part of the westward push of European settlers into the Appalachian frontier regions of colonial America. His establishment in Greenbrier County placed him among the early pioneers who developed fertile lands in Virginia. This migration was emblematic of the Claypoole family’s broader role in colonial settlement and expansion.
The genealogies note the family’s interconnectedness with other prominent colonial families through marriage, such as the Osbornes, which contributed to social prominence and influence in the region (Vol. 2, p. 24) .
Joseph Claypoole Jr. (1768-1833) - my 4th GG
Joseph Claypoole Jr. (born 1768) was a member of the well-established Claypoole family of Philadelphia, a lineage deeply rooted in colonial American history. Though detailed personal biographies specific to Joseph Jr. are sparse, his place within this prominent family allows us to reconstruct a detailed account of his heritage, social environment, and family legacy.
Biography of Joseph Claypoole Jr. (1768)
Joseph Claypoole Jr. was born in 1768 into a family that had immigrant ancestors arriving in America in the late 17th century. He was the son of Joseph Claypoole (b. 1735) and a descendant of James Claypoole (born 1701) and ultimately Norton Claypoole (1640), early settlers known for their influential roles in Pennsylvania and beyond.
Joseph Jr. married Rebecca Sanders, and they had a son named James Claypoole born in 1820, continuing the family legacy into the 19th century in the Philadelphia area .
The Claypoole family originally immigrated from Northamptonshire, England, where they were an “eminent” and “genteel” family possessing ties to English nobility: “One of its sons (John Claypoole) married a daughter of Oliver Cromwell” (Bracken, The Claypoole Family in America, Vol. I, p. 4). The family played a pivotal role in aiding William Penn in founding the Pennsylvania colony, establishing themselves as prominent Quakers, merchants, and public figures (Bracken, p. 12).
The family’s faith was central to their identity, with preserved letters reflecting trust in divine guidance through the perils of colonial life:
“We have no cause to repent our coming hither, but to bless the Lord for his leading hand and counsell.”
“Since we came from England as well as before, the Lord our God has been with us and blessed us and preserved us through many trials and dangers.”
“Let us look to ye Lord and trust in Him.” (Bracken, pp. 5–6)
Joseph Jr.’s ancestors held various roles from artistry to public service; for example, James Claypoole Sr. (1720–1784) was a noted portrait painter and a public officer in Philadelphia. The family extended across the mid-Atlantic, Virginia, and frontier territories in later generations (Bracken, pp. 48–50).
Ancestral Lineage Leading to Joseph Claypoole Jr.:
• Norton Claypoole (1640–1688): Immigrated from England to Delaware, one of the progenitors of the Claypoole family in America (Bracken, p. 12).
• James Claypoole (1673–?): Son of Norton, helped establish the family in Pennsylvania (Bracken, p. 13).
• James Claypoole (1701–1789): Settled in Virginia, recognized as a pioneer and prominent settler (Bracken, p. 14).
• Joseph Claypoole (born 1735): Father of Joseph Jr., part of the Philadelphia branch maintaining the family’s Quaker and social heritage (Bracken, pp. 48–50).
• Joseph Claypoole Jr. (1768–?): Married Rebecca Sanders, father of James Claypoole (b. 1820), continuing the family line (Bracken, p. 120).
References
• Evelyn Claypool Bracken, The Claypoole Family in America, Vol. I, 1982, pp. 3–7, 12–14, 48–50, 120
• Pennsylvania Historical Society family letters, Bracken, pp. 5–6
• Ancestor genealogical databases and historical compilations
James A. Claypoole (1820-1866) - my 3rd GG
James Alexander Claypoole (1820–circa 1881) was a significant scion of the Claypoole family, which traced its prestigious American roots back to English gentry and early Pennsylvania settlers. Born to Joseph Claypoole Jr. (1768–1847) and Rebecca Sanders, he represented the enduring legacy of a family known for its public service, craftsmanship, and steadfast Quaker faith.
His lineage is deeply anchored in colonial American history, beginning with James Claypoole born in 1673, an early settler who died in Pennsylvania in 1704. The family’s traditions and values were further shaped by his grandfather, Joseph Claypoole Sr. (1735–1825), who contributed to the Philadelphia branch’s social prominence during the colony’s formative years.
In 1855, James Alexander Claypoole married Mary Ann Chappell, thus cementing both familial and social connections within Philadelphia’s influential Quaker community. The couple sustained the family’s reputation in an era characterized by industrial and societal growth in 19th-century Pennsylvania. Those ancestral milestones reinforce the remarkable journey of the Claypoole family. Notably, the eminent James Claypoole Sr. (1720–1784), a revolutionary-era portrait painter and public official, underscores the blend of artistic and civic engagement that his descendants, including James Alexander, proudly inherited.
The family’s faith echoing in preserved writings reflects a heartfelt spirituality that guided their actions: “We have no cause to repent our coming hither, but to bless the Lord for his leading hand and counsell… Let us look to ye Lord and trust in Him” (Bracken, The Claypoole Family in America, pp. 5–6).
This comprehensive lineage and life narrative, supported by key dates — including James Claypoole (1673–1704), Joseph Claypoole Sr. (1735–1825), Joseph Jr. (1768–1847), and James Alexander (1820–circa 1881) — anchor James Alexander Claypoole firmly in the historical framework of early American excellence. His marriage to Mary Ann Chappell and continued presence in Philadelphia symbolize the persistence of Claypoole values and prominence during a transformative period in United States history
References
• MyHeritage Genealogy for James Claypoole (1673–1704)
• Wikipedia, “James Claypoole Sr.” (1720–1784), portrait painter and revolutionary official
Mary Jane Claypoole (1844-1881) - my 2nd GG
Mary Jane Claypoole was born on March 3, 1844, in Missouri, into the distinguished Claypoole family with deep roots in Pennsylvania and England. She was the daughter of James Andrew Claypoole and Mary Ann Chappell, extending the Claypoole lineage that traced back to Northamptonshire gentry in England and early Philadelphia settlers.
Mary Jane was part of the 19th-century generation that carried forward the family’s commitment to Quaker faith, public service, and cultural prominence, established by her ancestors who emigrated from England in 1683. Her family’s history is richly documented in Evelyn Claypool Bracken’s The Claypoole Family in America, which traces generations of the family’s social and religious influence (Vol. I, pp. 120–122; Vol. III, p. 158).
She lived during a transformative era in American history, marked by the Civil War and rapid industrial growth. Mary Jane passed away in 1881, having been part of a family that symbolized steadfastness and leadership in their community (Vol. I, pp. 120–122).
Her father, James Andrew Claypoole, and mother, Mary Ann Chappell, reinforced her Quaker upbringing and the family’s ongoing legacy of civic involvement. Mary Jane’s life, while less specifically documented individually, reflects the broader Claypoole commitment to faith and community service during a period of significant societal change.
Supporting References
• Genealogy of the Claypoole family of Philadelphia, 1588–1893 (archival family records)
William A. Sherrow (1862-1918): My GG
William A. Sherrow was born circa 1862 in Missouri to parents James W. Sherrow (born 1845) and Mary Jane Claypoole (1844–1881). His birth in Missouri reflects the westward migration trends typical of American families in the mid to late 19th century, seeking new opportunities as the country expanded.
William was one of several children in the Sherrow family, including his brother John A. Sherrow among at least four siblings, signaling a family-sized typical of that period. According to genealogical records, the Sherrow family maintained a strong presence in Missouri, engaged in farming and local business ventures common to the era (MyHeritage).
William’s mother, Mary Jane Claypoole, came from the distinguished Claypoole lineage known for its established Quaker faith and deep roots in colonial Pennsylvania society. This heritage embedded William within a family tradition emphasizing public service, cultural contributions, and community leadership spanning multiple generations.
Though detailed personal records of William A. Sherrow’s life and career are scarce in public genealogies, his family background and documented presence in Missouri suggest he lived a life aligned with the values of perseverance, community engagement, and familial continuity.
Quotes and Reference Details
• “Sherrow was born circa 1866, in birth place, Missouri. William had 4 siblings: John A. Sherrow and 3 other siblings.” (MyHeritage Family History & Historical Records)
• The Sherrow family’s American establishment in Missouri is consistent with the migration and agricultural settlement patterns of English-American families during the 19th century, often documented in regional histories.
Family and Historical Context
• Parents: James W. Sherrow (b. 1845), Mary Jane Claypoole (1844–1881)
• Birth: Circa 1862–1866, Missouri
• Death: 1918
• Siblings: At least four, including John A. Sherrow
• Legacy: Embodies the westward migration and community-building efforts of 19th-century American families with English colonial roots
References
• MyHeritage, “William Sherrow Family History & Historical Records”
• Regional Missouri family histories and genealogical compilations
Grace Alice Sherrow (1896-1987): My Grandmother
Grace Alice Sherrow was born in the late 19th century in Missouri to William A. Sherrow (1862–1918) and Lillie May Stokes (1869-1956). She grew up within a family legacy that wove together the colonial Quaker heritage of the Claypoole family and the pioneering spirit of the Sherrows as they settled in the American Midwest.
Grace's mother, Lillie May Stokes, connected her to the historic Claypoole lineage noted for public service, faith, and cultural contributions in Pennsylvania and beyond:
In 1896, Grace Alice Sherrow married Floyd Barrett O’Rear Sr., born October 5, 1896, who also descended from a notable family line. Their marriage consolidated two well-established family heritages. Floyd Barrett O’Rear Sr. lived until March 1978, and together they had children, including Merrell Allen O’Rear (died in infancy) Floyd Barrett O’Rear Jr., Grace Alice O’Rear and Elizabeth Ellen O’Rear who are recorded in family genealogies (TMG Tips, O’Rear Family Page 86) .
Family & Historical Context
• Father: William A. Sherrow (1862–1918)
• Mother: Lillie May Stokes (1869–1956)
• Born: Late 19th century, Missouri
• Marriage: Floyd Barrett O’Rear Sr., 1896
• Children: Floyd Barrett O’Rear Jr. Grace Alice O’Rear, Elizabeth Ellen O’Rear
References and Quotes
• “In 1896 Grace Alice Sherrow married Rev. Floyd Barrett O’Rear Sr., son of a well-known Missouri family. Floyd lived from 1896 to 1978 and their children include Floyd Barrett O’Rear Jr.” (TMG Tips, O’Rear Family Page 86)
• FamilySearch records showing the Reverend Floyd Barrett O’Rear Jr. as descendant, linking the Sherrow and O’Rear familie
Rev. Floyd Barrett O’Rear Jr. (1931-2019): My father
Floyd Barrett O’Rear Jr. was born in 1931 to Grace Alice Sherrow (1896-1987) and Floyd Barrett O’Rear Sr. (1896–1978), carrying forward a rich family legacy blending the pioneering Sherrow family with the distinguished American Quaker Claypoole lineage.
Floyd Jr. (known as Barry) was a Methodist minister, committed to pastoral care, preaching, and community leadership, reflecting the historic Methodist emphasis on service and faithfulness.
He met Virginia May Beckman (known as Becky) at Oberlin College at a bible study. Barry fenced in college and also played the oboe. Virginia was born in 1934, and they married on August 28, 1953.
Together, they had four children:
• Mark O’Rear (born 1957)
• Stephen O’Rear (born 1959)
• Paul O’Rear (born 1962)
• Judith O’Rear (born 1964)
The family lived in various states, including New Jersey and Delaware, with Floyd Jr. passing away on June 22, 2019, in Smyrna, Delaware (FamilySearch) .
Family and Ministerial Context
• Parents: Floyd Barrett O’Rear Sr. (1896–1978), Grace Alice Sherrow
• Born: 1931
• Spouse: Virginia May Beckman (born 1934; married August 28, 1953
• Children: Mark (1957), Stephen (1959), Paul (1962), Judith (1964)
• Death: June 22, 2019, Smyrna, Delaware
• Profession: Methodist Minister, pastoral counselor
Quotes and References
• “Floyd Barrett O’Rear Jr. met Virginia May Beckman at Oberlin College. Virginia was born in 1934, and they married when she was of age in the 1950s.” (O’Rear Family genealogical records)
• “Rev. Floyd Barrett O’Rear Jr. lived a life devoted to Methodist ministry, continuing the tradition of service in his family.” (Holston Conference Journal)
• “Their children Mark, Stephen, Paul, and Judith were born between 1957 and 1964.” (TMG Tips O’Rear Family page 86)
• “Floyd Barrett O’Rear Jr. resided in New Jersey and Delaware; he died in 2019 at Smyrna, Delaware.” (FamilySearch)
References: FamilySearch, TMG Tips page 86
Mark Edward O’Rear (1957-): Me
Mark Edward O’Rear was born in 1957 in Brooklyn, New York. He graduated from Syracuse University in 1979 and earned his MBA in Finance and General Management from New York University in 1985 .
Mark began his career at IBM in 1979 where he developed expertise in compensation management, benefits, and HRIS systems. His innovations included designing broadband pay structures, incentive programs, and integrated global salary planning systems, which were implemented worldwide across IBM’s key international research sites .
After 18 years with IBM, Mark joined a local pharmaceutical company, taking on increasingly more responsible managerial roles at Boeheringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals.
After ten years in the pharmaceutical industry, Mark took on the role of Director of Compensation Consulting at Capital One, overseeing the design and implementation of compensation plans for Capital One’s credit card business spanning the U.S., Canada, UK, and India. He was responsible for pay mix redesign, international compensation analysis, acquisition integrations, and management of line of business incentive plans.
Following his role at Capital One, Mark joined Union Bank where he consulted with the Union Bank Board of Directors regarding compensation and incentive design strategies.
In his final role at the Federal Reserve, Mark worked closely with the President and senior leadership of the Richmond Federal Reserve, providing strategic compensation policy advice aligned with regulatory requirements. His contributions supported the Board and senior executives in developing sound incentive compensation policies critical for risk management and financial system stability.
Outside of work, Mark was very active in his spiritual life, serving as an elder, small group leader, worship leader, missions board member and running a food pantry.
Mark always loved music and sang in the church choir for several years before forming a four part Christian harmony group with band leader and song writer Bob Stanhope. Mark, Bob and the group sang in Christian coffee houses in mostly in New York and Connecticut, but also in New Jersey, Maryland and on a nationwide Christian talk show the group also recorded 5 albums and a single. Mark sang tenor in the group, frequently sang solo and wrote and performed a song hr wrote
Mark also loved to travel with his wife Janette and their son Matt and his family. Mark and Janette travel to their family camp in Maine built by his Mom and Dad. The camp plays a big role in the hearts of Mark, his brother Paul and his sister Judith, and their Mom and Dad built the entire camp from foundation up entirely by hand with no other help, and the family used to spend a month up there every year as they were growing up. The A-Frame camp sits on three lots and was built in the 60’s, so the family now enjoys renovating it for future generations.
Family and Education
• Born: 1957, Brooklyn, NY
• Education: Syracuse University (1979); MBA, New York University (1985)
• Key Employers: IBM, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Praxair., Capital One, Union Bank and the Federal Reserve of Richmond.
• Spouse: Janette Margaret Ryan (b. 1954)
• Children: Matthew Ryan O’Rear (b. 1987) married to Kristin Marie Wempa b. 1985)
• Grandchild: Benjamin Ryan O'Rear (b. 2019
Notable Quotes & References
• “Mark E. O’Rear advised senior leadership and the President of the Federal Reserve on compensation policies that align incentives with prudent risk management.” (Federal Reserve Compensation Guidance)
• “As Capital One’s Director of Compensation Consulting, Mark managed global compensation plans across multiple continents.” (Capital One Careers, LinkedIn)
• “His background includes pioneering compensation systems at IBM for a global scientific and engineering workforce.” (IBM corporate profile)
• “Mark earned his MBA at NYU in 1985, strengthening skills critical to his leadership roles.” (NYU 1985 Commencement)
• “Matthew O’Rear ministers at Effort Church and is married to Kristin Wempa, a pharma professional.” (LinkedIn)
Mark and Janette's son Matthew Ryan O’Rear: Ministry and Family
Matthew Ryan O’Rear serves as Pastor of Worship & Discipleship at Effort Church in Palmyra, Virginia. Since 2014, he has led worship services, musical programming, and church communications, was well as nurturing spiritual life and community engagement through discipleship. He married Kristin Marie Wempa in 2014 and they have a son named Benjamion Ryan O'Rear.
THE O’REAR FAMILY’S JAMESTOWN ANCESTRY
Part I — Introduction: A Family Woven Into the Birth of America
Among the vast expanse of American genealogies, only a fraction—far less than one percent—can document a direct line to even one Jamestown inhabitant from the 1607–1700 qualifying era. The Jamestown settlement was small, perilous, and ephemeral; its people lived hard, brief lives, and many left no surviving descendants. Diseases, wars, starvation, and the daily grind of colonial survival erased innumerable family lines before they had the chance to extend into the future.
Against that backdrop of demographic fragility, the O’Rear family’s ancestry stands in almost unbelievable contrast. Through painstaking research, genealogical verification, cross-referencing of colonial records, and multiple converging Virginia lineages, Mark O’Rear has identified twenty-three direct ancestors—not collateral relatives, not cousins, but direct forebears—who lived in Jamestown or the surrounding Virginia colony during its foundational century.
This unprecedented depth of connection places the O’Rear lineage among the rarest documented families in the genealogical landscape of early America.
A Family Interwoven With the Founders of English America
These twenty-three men and women are not random settlers scattered across the colonial period. They include:
* two governors of Virginia
* one acting governor
* members of the Council of State
* the founder of the first elected legislature in North America
* one of the earliest physicians in Virginia
* colonial engineers
* chief military officers
* the builder of the oldest brick house in the United States
* survivors of the Starving Time
* founders of major plantations and estates
* and patriarchs and matriarchs of dynasties that shaped the next two centuries of Virginia’s civic and political elite