This family history was undertaken as a result of questions asked by my children about their ancestors. Most genealogical studies seem to give only the bare facts of life, death, and marriage with appropriate dates. I have tried to give wherever possible information about the activities of family members, and some description of life during the time they lived it.
In this I have been greatly aided by articles published in the Richmond, Indiana daily newspapers, especially the "Palladium-Item", in 1944, 1945, and 1946. Their primary purpose was to describe 19th century life in Richmond and the nearby countryside, as told by older inhabitants and their descendants.
Some family members have also been of great help; Frederick Cleveland Test 2nd, Frederick Harold Test, Edmonia Test Hammitt, Genevieve Test Peterson, Judge Charles Henry Test, and his daughter Helen Maria Test Arion (1807- ).
My wife, Sarah Davol Test, has offered constructive criticism and encouragement.
Copies of the articles in the Richmond newspapers are available in the Morrison-Reeves Library in Richmond, Indiana. Much of the material used as sources is preserved in the archives of the Genealogy Section of the Indiana Historical Society, or in the W.H. Smith Memorial Library of the Society. Unfortunately cross-indexing leaves much to be desired.
Appendices VIII and IX were taken from articles in an unidentified newspaper, probably The Indianapolis News.
A family tree in the form of a chart is contained in a slip pocket on the inside of the back cover. Copies of this book will be given to both the libraries named above.
Indianapolis, Indiana
April 1991