Circa 1955 – NEWSPAPER
Document Signed by Former President Discovered by Hoorn Twins in Garage
A land grant signed by former President of United States Millard Fillmore, and a quick claim deed dated 1871, were among several interesting papers found recently by Bruce and Brian Hoorn, twin sons of Mr. and Mrs. Martin Hoorn, 61st St. SE. The youngsters were playing in a garage building at the home of their grandfather, Charles Thomas 60th St, when they “came up” with the papers.
When Mrs. Hoorn, who was spending several hours with her 91-year old father examined the things her twins were carrying around, she realized they were legal papers of her late grandfather, George Thomas, an attorney for many years. Several of the legal documents had been signed by him, probably for recording, Mrs. Hoorn said.
Condition Of Paper Good
The land grant was made out to a James Morrill of Sandusky, Ohio, and dated Nov. 1, 1852. Although the seal was a bit faded, the paper and printing on it was good, considering the date it was issued.
Mrs. Hoorn does not understand how this particular document became a part of her grandfather’s papers, or how the papers ever reached the garage. “It’s understandable”, she says that paper or two might still be around of her grandfathers, but the land grant is a mystery. She figures her father might be able to explain it all, if he were younger.
Itemized Hospital Bill of $10.93
Among the handful of papers was an itemized bill from a Sanitarium at Battle Creek, showing George Thomas had been a patient there in 1898 for six weeks. The bill for $10.93 was marked paid, and included everything from his board in medicine. Tin-type pictures, a warranty deed, dated January 25, 1871, and correspondence with postmarks of 1898.
May Save Document For Grandchildren
Mr. and Mrs. Hoorn have not decided what they will do with the document that has the late president’s signature on it, but one thing sure, it will be put in a safe place. Both decided it would be nice to keep for their grandchildren.