We do not know of a connection between the Rose & Stevens families but do have a puzzle. It's solution could, hopefully, lead to other family members.

Abraham & Phebe Rose of Dryden, NY named a son Benevolent S. Rose, born circa 1840. His headstone at Old Pioneer Cemetery in Dryden, NY is broken and parts are missing but earlier transcriptions include Benevolent or Bemvalent. The middle initial is undisputed. Each is a rare name and only one other family in the area used anything close to either- the Stevens.

He was their seventh child but only their third son. The first two sons had already died, making this naming appear to be a significant choice. He did not survive past one year so no descendants or subsequent census returns can provide information.

Phebe's maiden name was spelled differently on each source found- Houk/ Houck/ Hough and both Abraham & Phebe were born in NJ, as opposed to Benevolent Stevens & his wife, who hailed from New England.

Since they form our most enduring 'brick wall', any info that could solve this puzzle would be useful and most welcome.