Emma Elizabeth (Knight) Freitas

When Emma Elizabeth Knight was born on 16 October 1869, in Buffalo, Erie, New York, her father, John, was 36, and her mother, Bridget (nee Brennan), was 21. She was the third oldest among six children. Her father, John, was born in England and her mother, Bridget, born in Ireland which made her generation the first to be American born.

Emma's father died in 1887 when Emma was just seventeen years old. This led to her seeking work to help her mother and younger siblings. Emma became the house maid for John and Mary Ann (nee Lattimer) Freitas family on the 'island' known as the seawall strip. According to daughter-in-law, Madeline (Ritzenthaler) Freitas, Captain George gave Emma a diamond ring which she wore on a chain around her neck. One day the chain fell out of her dress where it was made known of their engagement.

At the age of twenty years old, Emma married Captain George Francis Freitas on 17 March 1890, in her hometown. A devout Catholic, they married at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Their first child was born later that year. They had six children within 15 years. 

Captain George moved their family from Buffalo, Erie, New York to Sandusky, Erie, Ohio in 1903. Emma was an active worker of St. Brigid's parish. She was an avid gardener and could be seen walking through her yard taking care of each of her flower beds. Emma loved playing cards and would often enjoy an afternoon with the ladies in the "Five Hundred Club." Emma had a kind heart and always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. 

Emma died on 28 February 1924, in Sandusky, Erie, Ohio, at the age of 54, and was buried at the Oakland Cemetery.  Emma's death certificate stated her cause of death as "organic head disease" which typically meant having a form of dementia.