Wells, Mattie (DeMoss) -

WELLS, DEMOSS

Posted By: Janice Sowers (email)
Date: 12/26/2006 at 12:26:46

From the Scrapbook of Newspaper Articles by Mrs. Lillian Wheeler

OLD FRIEND PAYS TRIBUTE TO MRS. MATTIE DeMOSS WELLS

Surely a Mother in Israel has fallen leaving the heritage of a well-spent life to her husband and children and to the community in which she lived. In death as well as in life, she wore the victor's smile.

In the fall of 1888 she and her husband located on the old DeMoss homestead located four and one-half miles northeast of Riceville. There they lived for many years, when they purchased a home in your village. In the same fall, 1883, the writer A. G. Morgan and his wife settled across the road on what is known as the old Spencer place, now owned by Sam Jennison. There sprung up a friendship between the families--that had ripened into close fellowship, growing through the passing years.

Her first interest was her home, always the comfort of those she loved.

In the fall of 1888 in a revival meeting held by Rev. Alice VanAuken in the old Round Grove school house she renewed her covenant with God. Her depth of Christian character has few parallels. She fought the battles of life mingled in the social and public affairs on her knees alone with her God. She that were of interest to her community. With the courage of one who was sure of her ground she contended for the principles that she loved. One incident which reveals her character was impressed upon my mind. In the old Round Grove school house she stood behind the Teacher's desk contending that a Christian should be a prohibitionist; never flinching she gave her opponents battle, coming off victorious.

A Godly mother has gone, but she has left behind a legacy worth more than all earthly possessions--the memory of valiant years, nobly lived and beautifully ended. Peace to her memory.

A. G. Morgan

(No dates given)