Edward Frederick McDonald (1887 - 1982)

Born 27 Nov 1887 in Sheridan, Grant, Arkansas, United States

Ancestors

Husband of Cattie (Stephens) McDonald — married 7 Nov 1908 (to 22 May 1917) in Grant, Arkansas, United States

Husband of Virgie Shaw (Cole) McDonald — married 9 Jun 1920 in Grant, Arkansas, United States

Died 20 Jul 1982 at age 94 in Sheridan, Grant, Arkansas, United States

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Biography

Edward McDonald is Notable.

Edward Frederick McDonald is notable for his remarkable journey from a young "flunky" on an ice-bound wagon train during an Arkansas winter to becoming a respected lawyer, educator, and Arkansas Secretary of State from 1931 to 1936 . His childhood memories of resilience and determination face extreme adversity, including an ice storm that paralyzed his town, shaped his character and guided his later pursuits. Through his varied career as a school teacher, principal, Assistant Secretary of State, and accomplished civil attorney, McDonald showcased his adaptability, leadership, and commitment to service. His legacy is a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and his enduring impact on the community of Sheridan, Grant County, Arkansas.^[1]

Edward Frederick McDonald was born on November 27, 1887, in the picturesque town of Sheridan, Grant County, Arkansas. His parents, William Daniel McDonald and Emilie Vashti (Rushing) McDonald, provided a nurturing environment for their young son, instilling in him the values of hard work and perseverance that would shape his remarkable journey.^[2]

Childhood Memories and Early Struggles

Edward's memories of his childhood were centered around a pivotal moment in 1899, when he was just twelve years old. He found himself embarking on a challenging adventure as a "flunky" on a wagon train. Little did he know that this experience would come to symbolize his indomitable spirit. Recalling these memories later in life, he vividly described the hardships of that time, including crossing the frozen Arkansas River during an ice storm. The bitter cold and harsh conditions left an indelible mark on his young mind, fostering a deep appreciation for resilience and community.^[1]

Ice-Bound and Unyielding

The ice storm that had gripped Sheridan was severe, paralyzing the town and leaving its residents stranded. The trip to acquire groceries from distant suppliers became a treacherous journey, with the frozen streets, downed trees, and ice-covered landscapes making every task a challenge. Young Edward, alongside other determined souls, played an essential role in keeping the community afloat. He tended to water buckets, broke ice in frozen containers, cut firewood, and even helped carve a path through the icy roads. His dedication and determination were evident as he worked tirelessly to ensure his community's survival.^[1][3]

Marriage and Family

As Edward matured, he found love and companionship. He married Cattie Stephens on November 7, 1908, in Grant County, Arkansas. Their marriage marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, one characterized by shared dreams and responsibilities.^[4][5]

Challenges and Triumphs

Throughout his life, Edward faced numerous challenges. The untimely death of his beloved wife, Cattie, on May 22, 1917, left him a widower with three young children. Undeterred, he turned his attention to education, becoming a school teacher. His commitment to the advancement of others was evident as he took on the role of a guiding figure for the next generation.^[6]

Education and Leadership

In 1920, Edward's journey led him to marry Virgie Shaw Cole on June 9, further solidifying his commitment to family and community.^[7] His professional endeavors evolved, with him becoming a principal of a high school in Merry Green Township. He demonstrated an innate ability to lead, inspire, and shape young minds, fostering a legacy of learning that would endure.^[8]

Diversifying His Expertise

Edward's ambitions expanded, leading him to explore various fields. By 1930, he had transitioned to the role of Assistant Secretary of State, showing his adaptability and versatility. His dedication to public service and his drive for self-improvement remained constants throughout his life.^[1][9] He became Secretary of State in 1931 and served until 1936.^[10]

A Life of Accomplishments

The year 1940 saw Edward as a homeowner and a lawyer, showcasing his resilience and success. He had come a long way from the young boy braving the ice storm. His expertise in law led to the establishment of his own firm, where he practiced civil law, advocating for justice and fairness.^[11][12]

A Legacy of Respected Service

Edward's life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to his community. By 1950, he had solidified his place as a prominent figure in Sheridan, owning his law firm and earning the respect of his peers.^[13]

A Farewell, But Not Forgotten

Edward Frederick McDonald's journey concluded on July 20, 1982, in Sheridan, Grant County, Arkansas.^[14] He left behind a legacy of determination and accomplishment, impacting both his local community and the lives he touched. His final resting place at Sheridan Cemetery is a tribute to his enduring spirit and the mark he left on the world.^[15]

Edward's life story encapsulates the essence of resilience, community, and the transformative power of embracing challenges with unwavering determination. His journey from a young boy facing an ice storm to a respected lawyer and leader serves as an inspiration for generations to come.

Sources

1. ↑ ^{1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3} Newspaper Clipping, Arkansas Democrat Gazette, Little Rock, Arkansas, 24 Aug 1975. "Arkansan Recalls Ice Storm of '99." Accessed 21 Aug 2023.
2. ↑ Arkansas, Birth Certificates, 1914-1922: Arkansas Department of Vital Records; Little Rock, Arkansas; Birth Certificates; Year: 1887 Ancestry Record 61774 #576087
3. ↑ 1900 United States Federal Census: Year: 1900; Census Place: Merry Green, Grant, Arkansas; Roll: 59; Page: 6; Enumeration District: 0034 Ancestry Record 7602 #35407745
4. ↑ Arkansas, U.S., County Marriages Index, 1837-1957: Ancestry.com. Arkansas, U.S., County Marriages Index, 1837-1957 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2011. Original data: "Arkansas County Marriages, 1838–1957." Index. FamilySearch, Salt Lake City, Utah, 2009, 2011. "Arkansas County Marriages, 1838–1957," database, FamilySearch; from Arkansas Courts of Common Pleas and County Clerks. Digital images of originals housed at various county courthouses in the State of Arkansas. Marriage records. Ancestry Record 2548 #1160503
5. ↑ 1910 United States Federal Census: Year: 1910; Census Place: Tennessee, Grant, Arkansas; Roll: T624_51; Page: 4b; Enumeration District: 0077; FHL microfilm: 1374064 Ancestry Record 7884 #525067
6. ↑ U.S., World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918: Registration State: Arkansas; Registration County: Grant County Ancestry Record 6482 #24286878
7. ↑ Arkansas, U.S., County Marriages Index, 1837-1957: Ancestry.com. Arkansas, U.S., County Marriages Index, 1837-1957 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2011. Original data: "Arkansas County Marriages, 1838–1957." Index. FamilySearch, Salt Lake City, Utah, 2009, 2011. "Arkansas County Marriages, 1838–1957," database, FamilySearch; from Arkansas Courts of Common Pleas and County Clerks. Digital images of originals housed at various county courthouses in the State of Arkansas. Marriage records. Ancestry Record 2548 #492783
8. ↑ 1920 United States Federal Census: Year: 1920; Census Place: Merry Green, Grant, Arkansas; Roll: T625_64; Page: 7B; Enumeration District: 97 Ancestry Record 6061 #90397910
9. ↑ 1930 United States Federal Census: Year: 1930; Census Place: Little Rock, Pulaski, Arkansas; Page: 16B; Enumeration District: 0008; FHL microfilm: 2339826 Ancestry Record 6224 #85736355
10. ↑ Lancaster, Bill., Grant County Museum, Encyclopedia of Arkansas. Revised 2022, David Sesser, Henderson State Unviersity, last updated on 16 Jun 2023. "Grant County." Accessed 21 Aug 2023.
11. ↑ 1940 United States Federal Census: Year: 1940; Census Place: Sheridan, Grant, Arkansas; Roll: m-t0627-00138; Page: 61A; Enumeration District: 27-9 Ancestry Record 2442 #101114778
12. ↑ U.S., World War II Draft Registration Cards, 1942: The National Archives At St. Louis; St. Louis, Missouri; Record Group Title: Records of the Selective Service System; Record Group Number: 147 Ancestry Record 1002 #132933
13. ↑ 1950 United States Federal Census: National Archives at Washington, DC; Washington, D.C.; Seventeenth Census of the United States, 1950; Year: 1950; Census Place: Sheridan, Grant, Arkansas; Roll: 1437; Page: 15; Enumeration District: 27-9 Ancestry Record 62308 #30956362
14. ↑ U.S., Social Security Death Index, 1935-2014: Social Security Administration; Washington D.C., USA; Social Security Death Index, Master File Ancestry Record 3693 #40591721
15. ↑ Burial: Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/13435103/ed-f-mcdonald: accessed 21 August 2023), memorial page for Ed F McDonald (27 Nov 1887–20 Jul 1982), Find A Grave: Memorial #13435103, citing Sheridan Cemetery, Sheridan, Grant County, Arkansas, USA; Maintained by RS Green-Starnes (contributor 47410223).