The Parnell Family

On 11 Dec 1966, the LA Times newspapers printed an article about the Parnell Family. The article was celebrating the birth of their 20th child. The comedic part of this is that the father clear states: "This is the last"... when they actually have their last child 2 years later in 1968. 

The proud parents: 

James Edward Parnell

born: 21 Apr 1914 in Minnesota

died: 17 Aug 1977 in Bakersfield, California, age 63

Eldora E. Doremus 

born: 02 Mar 1924 in Stigler, Oklahoma

died: 01 Sep 2015 in Bakersfield, California, age 91

James and Eldora were married around 1939. 21 children and 30 years later, they divorce in June of 1969. 

Can you imagine having 21 children?! I cannot!!

According to this article in 1966, four of the children are already married and living outside of the home and one isn't born yet... so let's see...

That means there are 2 adults and 16 children living at 1100 Chelsea Street in Bakersfield, California-- this is a 4 bedroom, 2.75 bath, 1591 sqft home. That is NOT enough room. Good lord!

Image is from Zillow.com

21 Children: 

   *Because most are still living, I have left full birthdays out & married names/information.

1. Robert Lee

born: 27 Apr 1940 in Los Angeles County, California

died: 12 Dec 2001 in Fresno, California, age 61

2. James Edward

born: 1942

3. Eldora Edwina

born: 1945

4. Marie Isabel

born: 1946

5. Edwin Delos

born: 23 Jan 1948 in Los Angeles County, California

died: 08 Dec 1986 in Bakersfield, California, age 38

6. William John "Bill" 

born: 1949

7. Charlotte Louise 

born: 1950

8. Christine Patricia

born: 1951

9. Elledie Alice 

born: 1953

10. Patrick Charles

born: 1954

11. Wannetta Geneva 

born: 1955

12. Peggy Ann

born: 02 Apr 1957 in Bakersfield, California

died: 06 May 1997 in Bakersfield, California, age 40

13. Gail L. 

born: 1958

14. Dona A.

born: 1959

15. Steven C. "Steve"

born: 1960

16. Logan K. 

born: 1961

17. Gil L. 

born: 1963

18. Darryl D. 

born: 1965

               (Darryl & Gerald are the only Twins)

19. Gerald W. 

born: 1965

20. Teri Kay 

born: 28 Nov 1966 in Bakersfield, California

died: 23 Oct 1990 in Bakersfield, California, age 23

21. Joyce E.

born: 1968

*I just wanted to state that I am not related to this family.