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The Glass family had been small town farmers
for generations. Protestants from Ulster, the family
was affiliated with the Methodist Church. Lillie had the
little formal education available in her rural setting.
While the men in her own family fought for the Union,
she had uncles and cousins who were Confederate
supporters.
Mac was from a staunchly Catholic family.
With the exception of Mac, the St. Louis Thomsons
were well-educated. His father, also Mac, was a Civil
War hero brevetted Brigadier General at the Battle of
Gettysburg. Although the war was fast becoming
ancient history Mac’s family was still regaling in the
glory won in the war.
To say the least, Lillie received a very
unwelcome welcome when Mac brought her home
and introduced her as his new wife.