The collection consists almost entirely of his diaries, 1919-1951, giving daily accounts of his activities, church attendance, work, and family. The entries are brief to moderate in length and detail. Also included is biographical information on Craker and a diary of Carrie Craker, 1920.
Biography:
William Adelbert Craker was born on July 6, 1863, the eldest son of George A. and Mary Craker. His parents were missionaries to the Chippewa Indians at New Mission Presbyterian school under Rev. Peter Dougherty, a Presbyterian minister who settled in Omena, Michigan, in 1852. George left the Mission in 1866 to buy a farm for himself. He continued to work as an elder and Superintendent of the Sunday School of the Presbyterian Church in Omena until his death in 1915.
On February 22, 1887, William Craker married Miss Carrie A. LaBare (June 27, 1869-April 14, 1959). They then moved to Gladstone, North Dakota. While living in Gladstone, the Crakers had three children: Theta Adele (died 1955); Robert Lee (died in infancy); and George Leonard. After nine years, the Crakers returned to the family farm in Omena. There, another son, Clifford A., was born.
In 1909, William was appointed Superintendent of the Leelanau County farm and home for the aged, later known as the Infirmary. The Craker family lived on the County farm for eleven years, until 1920, when they moved to the family farm in Omena.
At that time, William was ordained an elder in the Presbyterian Church at Omena. He served from 1922-1952 as Superintendent of the Sunday School, elder, and teacher of Adult Bible class.
William, fondly called “Dellie” or “Granpa” or “Uncle Dellie” by his family, died on November 7, 1957 in Omena. He was survived by his wife, two sons, and many other descendants. (This information is from the collection.)
Omena was in Grand Traverse County (Mich.), 1852-1863. The county lines were then redrawn, so after 1863 Omena was in Leelanau County, Michigan. (This information is from Michigan Place Names.)
