That describes my search for the brother-in-law relationship between my paternal great-great granduncle Major Wellman Packard and N. S. (Nathaniel Strong) Sunderland. I was overthinking, which is something I tend to do. It turned out to be very simple.
Major Wellman Packard was married to Ellen Harris, verified by their marriage record. N. S. Sunderland was married to Rachel Harris. verified by their marriage record. Just a few minutes ago, I found a hint as to who Rachel and Ellen's father may have been, each having that hint in the form of the same suggested father for both of them, on their Ancestry profiles. One source listed in support of this relationship was the gentleman's will, which specifically mentions Ellen and Rachel, Rachel under the surname Sunderland. Apparently, Ellen and Wellman Packard had not married at the time of her father's death.
Yes, N. S. Sunderland was indeed Wellman Packard's brother-in-law, and yes, Ellen and Rachel were indeed sisters, as set out plainly in their father's will. I'm glad someone in our family finally died testate!
Case closed.
Not quite. Still more sources to gather, especially a second ton of coverage of N. S. Sunderland's life and times. Lots and lots of newspaper articles to transcribe, comb through for facts and clues, and analyze it all. Lots of work still to be done.
But with all that ahead of me, I finally have the satisfaction that I am so Midwestern, I'm related to myself. Hello, cousin self!
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