Birth: April 14, 1886 in West Newton, Middlesex, Massachusetts, United States
Marriage: October 5, 1910 in Newton, Middlesex, Massachusetts, United States
Death: October 21, 1954 in Waltham, Middlesex, Massachusetts, United States
Catharine Elizabeth Dowling was born on April 14, 1886, in West Newton, Middlesex, Massachusetts. She was the daughter of Michael Joseph Dowling and Bridget Mally.
On April 18, 1886, Catharine was baptized at St. Bernard’s Church in West Newton, where she was surrounded by her godparents, Cornelius O’Callahan and Catharina O’Mally.
In 1900, Catharine found herself living with her paternal uncle and aunt, James H. Dowling and Catherine Dowling, on Alden Street in Newton. This period in her life allowed her to develop a wider perspective and learn from the experiences of her extended family.
The course of her life took a momentous turn on October 5, 1910, when Catharine married George Gordon Hartlen, in a ceremony held at St. Bernard’s Church in West Newton. This marriage marked the beginning of a new chapter for both Catharine and George.
By 1920, Catharine and George had built a life together on Cherry Street in West Newton. They were blessed with four children and were fortunate to have her father living with them as well. However, their adventurous spirits led them to migrate to Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, later that year. They desired new experiences and opportunities for their growing family.
Life in Halifax was filled with new adventures, but after three years, they decided to return to their homeland in the United States. In 1923, Catharine, George, and their children made the journey back, eager to reconnect with their roots and be closer to their extended family.
By 1930, Catharine and her family had settled on River Street in West Newton, Massachusetts. Their family had grown to six children, and their cozy home became the center of love and laughter. Catharine was a devoted wife and mother, always ensuring her family’s well-being and happiness.
This sentiment continued in 1940, as the family still resided on River Street. Catharine’s dedication and love for her family was unwavering, and she cherished every moment spent together and the memories made in their beloved home.
In 1950, Catharine, George, and their daughter found a new residence on Underwood Park in West Newton.
Tragically, on October 21, 1954, Catharine’s life was cut short by coronary heart disease. Her passing left a void in the hearts of her family and friends, who cherished her kindness, strength, and compassion. She was laid to rest in Calvary Cemetery in Waltham on October 25, 1954, surrounded by love and treasured memories.
Catharine Elizabeth Dowling will always be remembered as a loving daughter, devoted wife, nurturing mother, and cherished friend. Her unwavering faith, kind spirit, and selfless love continue to inspire those fortunate enough to have known her. Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who carry her values in their hearts as they pass them down to future generations.
Sources:
- Massachusetts, Birth Records, 1840-1915
- Massachusetts, Boston Archdiocese Roman Catholic Sacramental Records, 1789-1900
- 1900 United States Federal Census
- Massachusetts, Marriage Records, 1840-1915
- 1920 United States Federal Census
- 1921 Census of Canada
- Border Crossings: From Canada to U.S., 1895-1956
- Massachusetts, State and Federal Naturalization Records, 1798-1950
- 1930 United States Federal Census
- 1940 United States Federal Census
- 1950 United States Federal Census
- U.S. City Directories, 1821-1989 (Beta)
- The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Medical Examiner’s Certificate of Death