Introductions - Ann Vessey

 Ann Vessey

10 Sep 1816 - 13 Jun 1900

Ann Vessey was born September 10th, 1816, in Candlesby, Lincolnshire, England to Benjamin Vessey, a butcher. She was married three times and, in every case, her husband died by drowning.

• She was first married to James Laird, a master mariner, on 29 Dec 1840. He was lost at sea.
• Her second husband was Francis Alexander Sims, reportedly a ship's captain. They were married on 9 Jan 1843. They had three children before he, too, was lost at sea in April 1849.
• Her third husband was Harvey Annis, a carpenter living in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, whom she was married to on 18 Nov 1850. They also had three children.

Any thoughts Ann had that marrying a Wisconsin carpenter would prevent a repeat of her previous husbands' fates were dashed when the riverboat Sultana exploded and sank outside of Memphis, Tenn. on 27 Apr 1865. Harvey, a 2nd lieutenant with the 51st U.S. Colored Troop, had been discharged due to illness and was returning home with Ann and their youngest daughter, Isabella when the tragedy occurred. Ann escaped and survived by floating on a door. Harvey and Isabella were never found.

Ann fought for years to secure a pension, and finally succeeded, although an act of Congress was required to get it. She lived until 13 Jun 1900. She was buried at Riverside Cemetery, Oshkosh, Wisconsin.   

 

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