Tracing Family History: A Journey from Gettysburg to the Revolutionary War

Susan Alexander’s Journey into Her Family’s Past

Susan Alexander, a 76-year-old retiree living in Vermont, embarked on a fascinating journey into her family history that reached back to the Battle of Gettysburg and revealed a surprising love story. Although Alexander grew up near Philadelphia, she felt a deep connection to Gettysburg, a place that often played a role in her life through family visits.

Her maternal grandfather, Grover Cleveland Thompson, hailed from Hunterstown, a mere five miles from Gettysburg. “There’s something unique about Gettysburg, an atmosphere that isn’t solely defined by its historical battle,” Alexander told Newsweek.

Dive into Genealogy

Alexander’s interest in genealogy blossomed in the 1970s after moving to Los Angeles. While engaging in various activities like playing drums in bands and attending college, she caught the “genealogy bug” from a friend. The Family History Center in West Los Angeles provided her with extensive microfilm and book resources, enabling her to uncover family records starting with her grandparents.

Upon returning to visit her parents over the years, Alexander frequently explored the Adams County Historical Society and the Pennsylvania State Library to deepen her research. The internet’s evolution allowed her to enhance her efforts using MyHeritage, a tool that connected her with new relatives and considerably expanded her records.

A Love Story Amid the Battle of Gettysburg

A Union soldier met a local nurse, and amidst war’s chaos, love bloomed.

The story of Grover Thompson emerged as Alexander delved deeper. Thompson, an English immigrant, fought for Union forces during the Battle of Gettysburg. Among the makeshift hospitals set up throughout the town, Thompson met Margaret Slonaker, a local woman turned nurse during the battle’s aftermath. Caring for Thompson, Slonaker developed a romantic bond that flourished despite the grim circumstances.

Upon recovering, Thompson rejoined the military, eventually serving until the surrender at Appomattox Court House in 1865. Post-war records revealed that Thompson returned to propose marriage to Slonaker, and they married in 1866. Together, they raised a family, and Thompson became a renowned citizen of Carlisle.

Connecting to Revolutionary War Ancestors

Alexander’s genealogy enthusiasm revealed connections to the American Revolution. Her fifth-great-grandfather, James Alexander, served in Washington’s army at Valley Forge, while Hugh Alexander communicated with his son fighting at Trenton.

Yet, the Thompson-Slonaker love story profoundly impacted Alexander’s visits to Gettysburg and Hunterstown. “Visiting these places swells my heart,” she reflected. The journey taught Alexander the allure of family history and the enduring power of love.

MyHeritage encourages everyone to explore their family’s role within America’s history.