Note: References to Richard Smith are for research compiled by Richard B Smith, unpublished collection

Rachel Elizabeth Kerr was born November 23, 1820 to John M and Elizabeth Kerr. She was born in Madison Country, Alabama, although some researchers have mistakenly put the place of birth in Mississippi and in Tennessee.

On the 1840 US census, Rachel would be the female between the ages of 15-20 in the home of John Kerr in Madison County, Alabama. Rachel and Thomas L Wright were married in Madison County, Alabama on 06 July 1841. (Madison County, Alabama Marriage Licenses. Vol 4, page 581 & Richard Smith family group sheet)

At least two children were born to Thomas and Rachel in Alabama. William was born about 1847 and a daughter, Susan Jane, was born July 1852.

At the 1850 US census, Rachel and Thomas are living in District 35, Madison County, Alabama with three-year-old William. The family of Rachel’s sister Susan Cast are neighbors.

By the 1870 US census, the family has moved to Union County, Illinois. Rachel’s 18-year-old daughter, S Jane has married John B Thompson and Rachel is living with the couple.

Rachel’s daughter Sue’s second marriage was to William Aldrich. The widow Rachel is living with William and Sue and their five-year-old son Robert R at the 1880 US census. The family resides at South Pass, Cobden Township, Union County, Illinois.

According to the Richard Smith family group sheet, Rachel Elizabeth Kerr Wright died and was buried in Jackson County, Illinois.

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