ELLMAKER, Reuben

ELLMAKER, MOSIER, GILLMAN, GILBERT

Posted By: Administrator
Date: 2/6/2006 at 11:30:29

131. The Fairfield Ledger, Sept. 14, 1898, Page 2, col. 3.

AN OLD SETTLER IS GONE. Reuben ELLMAKER, one of the oldest settlers of Jefferson County, passed away Monday morning August 29th. His death was caused by old age and a complication of diseases. Deceased was born in Perry County, Penn., June 3d, 1816, being at the time of his death eighty-two years, two months, and twenty-six days old. In June 1838, he came to Iowa and entered the homestead upon which he continued to reside until called to the other world. Coming to this county among the earliest settlers, he has contributed a large share to the development of the commonwealth. For a time after he came here, his post office was Ft. Madison. He endured all the hardships and privations of a pioneer, but came down to old age cheerful and happy. During his last illness, which was of several weeks duration, he was able to converse freely with his old friends, and although knowing that he was not far from the other world, gave no evidence of fear. On the 20th day of February 1843 he was united in marriage to Clarinda C. MOSIER. To this union were born six children, three sons and three daughters. His beloved companion and four children preceded him to the better world. There remains one son, Solon Ellmaker, residing on the old homestead, and one daughter, Clarinda GILLMAN of Des Moines, Iowa. The funeral services were conducted from the Dunkard Church, Wednesday, August 29th, by Rev. GILBERT, assisted by Revs Wolf, Harmon and Holder. A great many weeping friends followed his remains to its last resting place.