Anna Franzina Francina Rugh

Story of Franzianna Merckel Rugh and Michael Rugh’s capture by Indians:

This is an interesting story of the pioneer times. "On 13 July 1782 Michael Rugh, his wife Phoebe, his 3 children, and his mother Francina, (daughter of Johan Christian Mercklin) were attending a celebration for a wedding that had taken place the day before at a location known as "Miller's Place" or "Miller 's Blockhouse". This was the home of the Samuel Miller family. (Hempfield Township, Westmoreland County Pa.)

The entire wedding party was attacked by Indians. Several were killed, possibly including Michael's mother, Francina. Mrs. Miller was scalped and managed to survive only to wear a skull cap for the rest of her life to hide her lack of hair. On that same day another element of the same group of raiders attacked and totally burned and destroyed the county town of Hannastown. (Note: The county seat).

Fifteen persons at "Millers" were taken prisoner the day of the attack. Michael and his family were among the fifteen captives. They were taken to the Indian's camp near what is now Oil City Pennsylvania. They spent the winter as prisoners there. Michael's young son died that winter.

Michael (Jr). and Phoebe (his wife) were taken the following spring to Canada where they were held as POWs by the British. Their daughter, Mary, remained behind with the Indians. At war's end Michael & Phoebe were released, sent to New York City, and thus were then able to make their way home.

According to a story related by Mrs Hannah Rough Rowe (aged 88 in 1881), the daughter, Mary, was eventually discovered with some Indians who had come in to trade. Her face and arms were stained to hide her real color. The sum of ten dollars was paid for her release. Soon after his return from captivity Michael built and moved into a new house on his property in Franklin Township. (Near the present day Meadowink Golf Course") ……Christian Mercklin's daughter. (This property stands today 2014 - a substantial stone residence.)