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The Bamkin family are thought to be all related. It is known that Bempkins are descended from a Benjamin Bamkin from Angle, via Tredegar (South Wales) who emigrated to the states. Interestingly Laura was born in Wales, but emigrated (aged one month) to later marry a Welsh man (by descent).

Harry (Henry Rees) died in 1920 during the flu epidemic in Wilkes-Barre. His mother wrote

"I cannot say, and I will not say, That he is dead. He is just away!

With a cheery smile and a wave of the hand, He had wandered into an unknown land,

And left us dreaming how very fair, It needs must be, since he lingers there,

And you, oh, you, who the wildest yearn, For the old-time step and the glad return,

Think of him faring on, as dear, In the live of there as the love of here.

Think of him still as the same, I say, He is not dead - he is just away."

"Three years ago you left us, Harry, dear; It was a sad farewell;

We miss you now, our hearts are sore, as time goes on we miss you more;

Your loving smile, your gentle face; No one can fill your vacant place.

Our loss is great, we will not complain,