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E.V. couple pursue a sprawling family tree
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April 28, 2005
Joe and Linda Martin’s quest broadens their own world while connecting genetic dots across the country.
If you’re a Martin, too, you may have already plugged into the Gilbert couple’s network.
They avoid the Internet as a genealogy research tool, instead traveling for weeks at a time collecting concrete proof. And while Joe Martin specializes in his surname, Linda Martin studies the women who joined the family because "if it weren’t for the women, there wouldn’t be any Martins."
Each destination they visit bears its own set of libraries, historical societies, cemeteries and courthouses — and sometimes a few relatives. However, the family chain’s main link glows with history.
Joe Martin’s great-greatgreat-great-grandfather, Gen. Joseph Martin, distinguished himself as a hero of the American Revolution who had connections to U.S. presidents and diplomats. Martinsville, Va., was named after the general following his death in 1808.
The general also fathered 20 children. Descendants eventually migrated nationwide with concentrations in Virginia and Tennessee.
"If any Martin can trace their ancestors back to Gen. Joseph Martin, chances are they’re related," Linda said.
Hardly a day goes by where Joe and Linda Martin don’t hear from other Martins inquiring about lineage.
"We find people because they usually find us," he said.
Sometimes they discover Martins by accident. Joe recently met a local sixth cousin at an auto service station, and met another Martin who delivered a pizza to their door.
So far, he has found 34 relatives in the Valley.
"When I moved here 13 years ago, I was only aware of two first cousins,’’ he said.
The couple isn’t alone in hunting for Martins — eight other family members also do research. J.T. Martin, a relative in Chesapeake, Va., has more than 20,000 Martins in his database. The connection helps fuel the challenge of the chase for the couple’s hobby.
"The longer we’re in it, the more we realize how educational it is," said Joe.
To learn more about Martins, call Joe at (480) 365-8202.
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