Ann Saddler Farnum 1827-1900

SADDLER, FARNUM, CRESSELL

Posted By: Volunteer - Rich Lowe
Date: 10/19/2001 at 07:55:08

Mrs. Ann Farnum departed this life August 28, 1900, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Grace Cresswell, in Harrisburg township, Van Buren county, Iowa, aged 73 years, five months and 24 days.

Deceased was born March 4th, 1827, in Harrisburg county, Ohio, her maiden name been Mary Ann Saddler. With her parents she moved to Van Buren county Iowa, where she resided until her death. On April 15, 1845, she was married to Frederick Farnum, with whom she lived in peace and harmony, mutually sharing with him the joys and sorrows of life, until the death of her companion, which occurred June 6, 1892. This worthy couple, with indomitable zeal and courage, endured all the privations incident to pioneer life; diligently laboring till they've secured an honorable competency which assured them of a bountiful supply of all their temporal wants for all time to come. Five sons and two daughters and were born to this union. Four of these died in infancy, and one at the age of 27 years. Two, Clinton and Grace, still survive.

By her sterling integrity and exemplary life, Mrs. Farnum won the respect and confidence of all her associates. Her home was that the light of her husband, well ordered and a place of true contentment. She was kind to the poor, always ready to lend a helping hand and to administer to their needs, but never sounding a trumpet before her. She was a practical illustration of that scripture which enjoins: "But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth." Her genial and generous nature especially endeared her to the children, to whom she was uniformly kind and courteous. Their hearts were often made glad by her precious gifts; all the children who knew her will miss her. She by no means neglected that culture and education of her own children, as those who survive her will cheerfully testify. She lived to see them well settled in life, honored and respected by all who know them. Since the death of her husband, she has made her home with her son, Clinton, most of the time, who, with his excellent wife, did all he could to smooth her pathway to the home and beyond. On April 18th she was taken suddenly ill, from which illness she never recovered. Her suffering was extreme, but born with great fortitude and courage; she was patient to the last. The devotion of her daughter, Grace, to her dying mother was truly touching. God will reward her for her fidelity and unflinching love to the one who gave her birth.

Mrs. Farnum was a member of the Lutheran church, having been confirmed in that body at the age of 14 years. A few weeks previous to her death she was taken to the home of her daughter, Mrs. Grace Cresswell, where she was tenderly cared for till death relieved her of her suffering. On the evening of August 27th it was evident to all that her beautiful life was surely ebbing away. On the following morning her unfettered spirit took its flight to the fairer scenes and sweeter voices of the better world. On Thursday, August 30, 1900 A large concourse of people, coming from all directions, gathered at the Cresswell home to pay their last respects to the dear departed. The funeral was conducted by the pastor of the Harrisburg Baptist church, assisted by Rev. Tennent, of Hillsboro, and the remains reposed in the beautiful vault on the old homestead.
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Source: Entler Scrapbook Vols. 2 & 4, Iowa State Historical Library, Iowa City, IA
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I am NOT related and am posting this obit for those who may find this person in their family history.