About This Project

by Victor Highbaugh

(great-grandson of Fletcher and Mariah Highbaugh)

​

Growing up in a single-parent household with my mother, my exposure to my paternal relatives was limited. I had only a passing acquaintance with my father’s four brothers and a few cousins. I have no memory of ever meeting his sister, my paternal grandfather, or any of my grandfather’s siblings.

However, since embarking on this project, I have uncovered a wealth of information about the lives of my grandfather and his siblings. Remarkably, I have had the privilege of either meeting in person or corresponding with numerous descendants—great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and even great-great-great-grandchildren—of Jordan, Eliza, Amanda, Nancy, William, Burwell, Joseph, Bettie, Sudie, Rebecca, and Riley Highbaugh. These individuals reside in diverse locations across the United States, including Seattle, WA; Dayton, OH; Vallejo, CA; Killeen, TX; Atlanta, GA; Bowling Green, KY; Danville, KY; Fredericksburg, MD; Detroit, MI; Denver, CO; and Indianapolis, IN.

Much of the foundational information for this project was provided by my late uncle, Wheeler Highbaugh, and my cousin, Mary Ethel Wills. Their documentation included the names of eighteen of Fletcher’s children and many of his grandchildren. Their contributions served as a catalyst for the discoveries presented herein. I am profoundly grateful for their dedication to preserving our family’s history and take this opportunity to honor their invaluable efforts.

​