My oldest PIERCE is James Samuel PIERCE. He was born 24 March 1872 in Elyria, OH. His father is my brick wall! I do not know his first name for sure, but it possibly was James also. I am guessing he was born in the 1840's-1850's and have some evidence indicating he was born in NY. He owned/ managed/ ran(?) a Harness Shop in Chicago Illinois. He also spent time working in lumber camps. He is believed to have died in the Chicago Fire in October 1871. He married Anne GILMORE who was born in Scotland, but raised most of her life in WI. She was pregnant with James Samuel at the time of her husband's death. Anne and James Samuel moved to back to Waukesha County, WI, and this is where James Samuel grew up. James Samuel married Helen (Nellie) GOWANS in Waukesha County, WI. During the time they lived there, Helen gave birth to 4 sons: Frank, Willie, Baby, & Allie. In 1905 they moved to Taylor County, WI and had one more son while living there: Roy. Helen died when the children were all very young. James Samuel remained in Taylor County, WI for the rest of his life. He dug wells and worked in a saw mill. He is buried in Taylor County, WI. The only other bit of information I have to share is that my line of Pierce's may possibly be of Irish descent. Any help of any kind will be welcomed and greatly appreciated. Hoping to find a connection some day. Sincerely, Lorrie Schneck