Jacksonville Courier, 6 Apr 1905

Thomas Heslep died at his home in Virginia Tuesday afternoon at 1 o'clock, at the age of 90 years.

The deceased was born in Pittsburg, Pa., and came to this county when quite young. He settled in this city and built the first hotel which was ever erected here. The hotel was named the "Heslep Tavern" and was situated just opposite the site where the Dunlap House now stands. He was one of the oldest citizens of Cass county and several of his brothers were included in the party which crossed the plains in 1840 to California.

Mr. Heslep united with the Episcopal church in his younger days and was always a stanch upholder of that faith..

He is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Kate Rector, and Mrs. Carrie Arnold of Virginia, and one son, Charles Heslep of Augusta. His wife preceded him to the great beyond two years ago.

The funeral services will be held at the residence of his daughter, Mrs. Carrie Arnold, in Virginia, this afternoon at 9 o'clock, and interment will be in the Rose Hill cemetery.

Those who expect to attend from this city are Miss Olivia Dunlap, Franklin Orear, Mr. and Mrs. James Dunlap and Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Dunlap.