Age: 61
Auxiliary
b. 09 Sept 1785 in Virginia, son of William Pyle, Jr. (b. 1755 in MD, d. 28 Dec 1814 in KY) and Lucretia Keyes (b. abt 1765 in VA, d. abt 1810 in Lexington, KY)
m. 16 Jan 1807 in Washington Co., VA Rosanna McMahon (b. 04 Oct 1789 in VA, d. 20 Apr 1848 at Sutter’s Fort, Sacramento Co., CA)
d. 15 Oct 1875 in San Jose, Santa Clara Co., CA
Overland emigrant of 1846, mentioned several times in Jacob Wright Harlan’s memoir. By an interesting coincidence, “Old Man” Pyle was a first cousin of Margret Reedof the Donner Party — his mother, Lucretia Keyes Pyle, and her father, Humphrey Keyes, were brother and sister. It’s doubtful, however, that the two emigrants ever knew of their relationship.
The Pyles were living near Sutter’s Fort when news of the Donner Party’s plight arrived. Edward Sr. did not accompany any of the relief parties up into the mountains but rather helped transport supplies to meet the First Relief on their return. He is listed on Kern’s payroll as serving 19 days and earning $28.50. Like many other emigrants of 1846, Pyle and his family settled in Santa Clara County.
Sources:
New Light on the Donner Party, Kristin Johnson
Ordeal By Hunger, George Stewart