Compiled by Teresa
Martin Klaiber 2023
Nelson
Andrew Klaiber was the third son of John Andrew and Mary Ann McBrayer Klaiber,
born 24 September 1861 in Boyd County, Kentucky.
Nelson
never married and according to family had health issues most of his life. He resided with his parents on Long Branch,
here in Boyd County, Kentucky. He was
extremely active in community affairs.
His
tombstone includes the Masonic emblems with chains as well as initials: “S.C.G.
of M.P.S.”, and “K.G.E.” (K.G.E. is Knights of the Golden Eagle founded in 1873
for white males of good moral character free of physical and mental defect.)
The M.P.S. Mutual
Protective Society.
Residents knew them as “Mules.” I wrote
a lengthy three-part article about this group in 2011. (You can read extended
information and activity of Nelson by hovering over the name then clicking to
go to the link.) Nelson Klaiber was the
Supreme Grand Counsellor in 1899. I do not think anyone thought of him, nor did
he, think he was a vigilante.
Among
our possessions is a small notebook, Nelson Klaiber is said to have hand
stitched himself. The first page seems
to be practice for writing his name.
(note: the typed label
incorrectly says Sexton)
Nelson
Andrew Klaiber died 28 September 1904 at the age of 43 years and 4 days. Among loose papers in the attic of the Boyd
County Courthouse Jim Kettel and I located death records for 1904/1905[i]
stating that Nelson was single, a farmer and died of “kidney trouble” on
Garner.
[i] We
scanned these records and they are available
at the genealogy desk in the
Boyd County Public Library, 2nd floor, Central Ave., Ashland,
KY
