I need help solving a family mystery! My gggrandfather, Benjamin DeBolt, lived in Butler County, Ohio (Miltonville) and first married Amanda Shaffer, with whom he had many children. She died in 1853. He then married (though I can't find a record) Sarah Marks in 1855 and in 1862, they had my gggrandfather, Samuel Mark DeBolt.

On the 1860 census, Sarah is living with Benjamin DeBolt, as are her sons William Elsay Marks (b. 1845 or so) and Isaac (b. 1846 or so). On the 1880 census, Benjamin,Sarah, William E.Marks, and Samuel Marks (their son) is listed. William E. is indicated as "stepson".

I cannot find ANY information about Sarah Marks other than that she's listed on the 1850 census, in Butler County Ohio, with her three sons but no male head of household. Was she widowed? Divorced? Never married? I also know she was born in Ohio.

Given Benjamin's stature in the community (tavern owner, blacksmith, member of a citizen's brigade, etc.), one would think Sarah has a reputable background, but I'm at a loss for information!

If someone can help me with this mystery, I'll be able to sleep at night! Thanks!!