Ella Shull Silpath

A handwritten note from that awful day.

Philadelphia, PA.

  • Ella Silpath Shull circa 1898. Courtesy of Suzanne Moller.
  • Death Certificate of Ella Silpath Shull. Courtesy of Suzanne Moller.

I live in Neptune, NJ but my family is from Philadelphia.  My great grandmother died of the influenza in Philadelphia on October 5, 1918.  Her name was Ella Shull Silpath.  My great grandfather’s name was George Silpath.  I have a handwritten note of his from that awful day where he records her death.  She was only 41 years old. I am just grateful that my great grandfather and his two sons, Albert and Leslie, survived. Albert was my grandfather.

The described note, courtesy of Suzanne Moller.

The note says:

“Born Feb. 22, 1877

Died Oct. 5, 1918    41 years old

My beloved Wife departed this earth Oct. 5, 1918 at Presbyterian Hospital 5 mins of 6 O clock A.M. I was at her bed side

Husband George L. Silpath Jr.”

The note is written in fountain pen.  It had been affixed to something at each corner with 1 cent postage stamps.  I will send a photo of it when I can.

Contributed by Suzanne Moller, great granddaughter of Ella Shull Silpath.