Obituaries - Perth Courier & Others

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Perth Courier, January 1, 1897

Stevenson—Died, at Lanark on Dec. 24, Ellen Ferguson Stevenson, wife of John Stevenson, aged 74.

Curtis—Died, on Wednesday, Dec. 23, James Curtis of North Burgess, aged 73, a native of County Armagh, Ireland.

McIntyre—Died, on Thursday, Dec. 21, Peter McIntyre, Balderson, (Bathurst), aged 86(?).

Templeton—Died, on Christmas morning at Perth, Dec. 25, Mrs. Phoebe Templeton, daughter of the late Capt. Smith, R.E.(?), Woolwich, England,  and widow of the late James Templeton, Esq., aged 83.

Elsewhere in the same paper:

An old and once familiar resident of this town, Mrs. James Templeton, Sr., died suddenly at her residence on Beckwith Street on Friday morning, Dec. 25 at the age of 82(?) years.  She lived alone in one part of the house and the care taker, John Flett, occupied the other and when Mr. Flett’s little girl in the morning made her usual visit to her room to inquire her wants, she found Mrs. Templeton dead though the coldness of dissolution had not then enwrapped the corpse.  Her remains were buried in Elmwood Cemetery on Monday.  The deceased was born in Portugal in 1814 during the era of the Peninsular War, her father Capt. Smith of the Royal English being on duty in the British Army with Welllington in that mortal struggle with Napoleon’s Marshalls.  She was a cousin of Rev. Mr. Pyne, the Anglican clergyman in Perth 40 years ago and came here through his instrumentality from England.  Her sister, Miss Smith, accompanied her, but she returned to England some years ago and is living there yet.  A brother, Dr. Smith, made his home in St. Louis, Missouri.  Deceased was married to James Templeton, Sr., over 20 years ago and survived him about half that time.  A year ago Mrs. Templeton was stricken with partial paralysis and had been afflicted physically and to some extent mentally since then.  Her death was finally caused by apoplexy.  She was a woman of strong individuality and was much esteemed.  The funeral was conducted by Rev. Mr. Currie, pastor of kNox Church.

Holdane—Died, at Montreal on Saturday, Dec. 26, Mrs. M. Haldane, in her 79^th (?) 70^th (?) year, mother of Mrs. H.D. Wells of the Merchants Bank, Perth. (Transcriber’s note, went back and re-checked this, it is definitely MRS. Wells of the Merchants Bank)

McLaren—Died, on Thursday, Dec. 24, Christina McLaren, relict of the late James McLaren, 8^th Concession Drummond, aged 74.

Middleville:  Miss PatiencE Penman, aged 15(?)16(?), youngest daughter of Robert Penman, died on Sunday at Galbraith after a lingering illness of consumption.  She was buried in the Middleville Cemetery on Tuesday.  Services were held at the house by Rev. W.S. Smith, Presbyterian minister.

Perth Courier, Jan. 8, 1897

Another old resident of Balderson, Mrs. Naughton McNaughton, died on the 4^th last at Winchester, Dundas County at the age of 75.  She was a native of the Scottish Highlands and came to Canada in 1839, settling near Balderson.  She was the mother of William McNaughton of Balderson and Miss McNaughton, teacher at Winchester.  Her remains were interred at Elmwood Cemetery, Perth, on Tuesday.

The home of John Stevenson, Boyd’s Settlement, was cast into a deep gloom on Christmas Day by the death of his beloved wife Ellen Ferguson.  Deceased was born near Ferguson’s Falls and lived most of her life within a few miles of that place.  Many years ago she was married to John Stevenson and the union was blessed with a family of seven:  Dr. Andrew Stevenson, who died several years ago in Iowa; Messrs Fred and Isaiah now living in the western States; Ebeneezer on the homestead; Ms. Jackson Willows at Boyd’s; Mrs. William Patterson who died in Carleton Place last spring; and Miss Lizzie Stevenson at home.

Morris—Died, on Monday, Jan. 4 at Fallbrook, Mary Ledger Morris, relict of the late James Morris, aged 72.

Scott—Died, on Jan. 4 at Fair View Farm, East Oxford, Jean Armstrong Scott, beloved wife of M. Scott and mother of Rev. A. H. Scott, Carleton Place, in her 82^nd year.

Pepper—Died, at Lanark on Thursday, Dec. 24, Eliza Taylor Pepper, relict of the late William Pepper, aged 86(?).

Death of Mrs. Peter McIntyre—The subject of the following sketch, whose maidenname was Christina Craig, and who died on Thursday, Dec. 31, was born near Lochearnhead, Paisley, Scotland, in 1810.  She was married in 1830 and with her husband emigrated to this country in 1831 when they settled in Drummond on the farm now occupied by Archibald McTavish where they remained until 1840 when they removed to her home in Bathurst near Balderson.  Deceased was greatly respected  and much beloved by all who knew her. She was a devout Christian and a member of the Presbyterian Church.  It was always a joy to her to fulfill the divine injunction to feed the hungry, clothe the naked and to minister to the afflicted.  Her family, which consisted of six children, are:  Findlay, deceased, who was at one time a bookkeeper for the late Boyd Caldwell of Lanark; and Duncan who died at the age of five years.  Those who survive are:  Mrs. Ansley(?) Keyes of this town; Lizzie C. and John P. on the homestead and Peter on his farm adjoining.  The funeral took place Sunday afternoon, Jan. 3 when Rev. J.S. McIlraith conducted the services and gave an appropriate address from Isaiah 57-1, the righteous perish and no man layeth it to heart.  A large assembly accompanied the remains of the departed to Elmwood.  May He who wept at the grave of Lazarus be the consolation of the aged and bereaved husband and his family and may they through Him be united in the mansion beyond.

Perth Courier, Jan. 15, 1897

The Smith’s Falls Echo says:  “About six months ago Mrs. Hartford O’Hara of North Elmsley had a paralytic stroke from which she never recovered.  For some days past it was felt that the end was near and this morning she passed away.  She was 71 years old.  Her maiden name was McTavish and she was a woman held in general esteem.”

Wilson—Died, at Los Angeles, California on Jan. 2, Mr. John L. Wilson, son of George Wilson, Drummond, aged 33(?).

Elsewhere in the same paper:

Balderson:  The sad news reached us of the death of John Wilson son of George Wilson, Drummond, who left here a short time ago for California.  Lung disease was the trouble.  His remains arrived home on Monday.

Lamont—Died, at Yarmouth, Ontario, Thomas Lamont, formerly of Pakenham, aged 77.  Deceased was a brother-in-law of Robert Lochead of Perth.

Perth Courier, Jan. 22, 1897

Grant—Died, at Perth on Sunday afternoon, Jan. 17, William Grant, M.D.

Elsewhere in the same paper:

On Sunday morning last about 9:00 Dr. W. Grant came home from attendance on a patient after a prolonged stay partly at night, and not feeling well, retired to bed and rest.  Mrs. Grant was in Montreal at the time under treatment for her health, which was impaired, and her mother Mrs. Caldwell of Toronto, conducted the household affairs in her absence. Mrs. Caldwell with the children, went to church in the forenoon and in their absence  the doctor had a weak turn but nothing to cause apprehension either in his own mind or of those in the house who were careful in attendance upon him.  About 3:00, however, he was found in pain and helpless and shortly afterwards he died without a struggle, apparently conscious though unable to speak.  The physician called the disease which cut short the doctor’s life so suddenly and unexpectedly angina pectoris, akin to neuralgia or rheumatism of the heart.  This is the same complaint which carried off Rev. Dr. Chisholm another Glengarry man and an early friend of the doctor over twenty years ago.  The startling occurrence we have described naturally caused a great sensation and much sorrow in town for Dr. Grant, besides being an old resident, was yet a man in his prime as far as years were concerned and was a very popular, busy man with a large stake in the town and one of our most active and enterprising public citizens.  A telegram of the fatal event was dispatched to friends that afternoon and T.B. Caldwell of Lanark at once set out to Montreal to break the news to his sister Mrs. Grant and to bring her home.  Dr. William Grant was born in the township of Charlottenburg in the year 1845 and was of pure Scotch Highland parentage, proud of his nationality.  Brought up on a farm, he went to school in the village of Williamstown and after that attended McGill University, Montreal, where he graduated in medicine in May of 1867  He at once came to Perth and settled down to a successful and lucrative practice terminated by his death.  In 1883 he married Minnie Caldwell, eldest daughter of the late Boyd Caldwell, Esq., one of Lanark’s leading citizens and she with two daughters and two sons  one of the latter an infant, survive him.  Dr. Grant was appointed gaol coroner some years ago by the Ontario government and for the past few years was an active and useful member of the town council.  About ten years ago he and Co. A. J. Matheson purchased the Gamsby farm in the East Ward from the owner and the doctor was especially energetic in converting it from a bare farm into a well peopled suburb or extension of this town and today besides a multitude of dwellings many of brick, this tract now shows in its bounds the Gemmell Woolen Factory and the Perth Canning Factory, two of our leading industries.    Now that he is gone, the town and the council will miss the doctor and his cheerful, active presence in and around our streets and homes.  The doctor leaves a brother in Glengarry, Duncan Grant, and a sister Mrs. Hugh McGillis in Williamsotown.  The brother and an uncle also from Glengarry were at the funeral.  By the sad stroke that has so successfully bereft them, Mrs. Grant and the fatherless children have the sympathy of the entire town.  The funeral took place to Elmwood Cemetery on Wednesday afternoon and was an exceedingly large one though the want of sleighing and the bad roads prevented notices of the burial from reaching the country.  The members of the town council and the local medical profession attended the funeral in a body.  The services were conducted by Rev. A. H. Scott, St. Andrew’s Church.

Lamont—Died, at Yarmouth, Ont., Thomas Lamont, formerly of Pakenham, aged 77.  Deceased was brother-in-law of Robert Lochead of Perth and of George Blair, Drummond.

Perth Courier, Jan. 29, 1987

Death came and took away on Thursday one of the few surviving settlers of this county in the person of Mrs. John Wilson of the Scotch Line.  Deceased’s maiden name was Mary Forgie and she was born in Glasgow, Scotland in 1812, coming to Canada in the sailing vessel Commerce in 1820 with the Lanark Township settlers.  The family settled near Rosetta(?) and the parents are buried there.  Deceased was married to John Wilson, Scotch Line, in 1833(?) and from then to his death she had been a resident of the Wilson homestead in North Burgess.  Her family numbered 13 children of whom 7 are still living.  Six, all daughters, died before her.  The surviving children are:  George in Drummond; John and Gilbert on the Scotch Line; Isaac, Perth; Mrs. J.W. Cowie of Balderson; Mrs. John Miller of North Sherbrooke and Mrs. James Allen, Scotch Line.  She, with her whole family, were members of the Presbyterian Church.  The remains of the deceased will be interred in the Scotch Line Cemetery on Saturday at 2:30, Rev. A. H. Scott of St. Andrew’s Church,  will officiate.

Saunders Watson, brother of William Watson of Drummond, died at his residence at Pine Creek near Calgary on Jan. 14 of Bright’s Disease.  He was an old resident of the west.  His wife died a week previous to this after an illness of two years.  She was a sister of Mrs. Joshua Bothwell of this town.  A family of six sons and two daughters survive.

Perth Courier, Feb. 5, 1897

Lister—Died, at Perth on Feb. 1, Monday morning, John Allan Lister, infant son of James Lister, aged 1 year and 1 month.

Young—Died, at Rockland, Ont., Jan. 22, Mrs. Adam Young, Jr., Carleton Place, aged 50.

Waugh—Died, at Carleton Place on Jan. 27, Jane Waugh, relict of the late Alexander Waugh, aged 81 years, 7 months.

Elsewhere in the same paper:

Mrs. Alexander Waugh of Carleton Place, once of Innisville, died on Wednesday, 27^th Jan., aged 84(?).  She was buried at Innisville beside her husband and two sons.

Moffatt—Died, at Pilot Mound, Manitoba, on January 20(?), Ivy Bell McLean Moffatt, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Moffatt, aged 3(?)5(?) years.

Comrie—Died, at Carleton Place on Jan. 29, Miss Jennie Comrie, in her 18^th year.

O’Brien—Died, at New York City, on Tuesday, Feb. 2, Mrs. John O’Brien, eldest daughter of R. Lochead, Perth, aged 44.

Blakeley—Died, at Dalhousie on Tuesday, Jan. 26, Clara Blakeley, aged 14.

Stone—Died, at Dalhousie, on Thursday, Jan. 28, Nancy Stone, relict of the late Robert Stone, aged 72.

Elsewhere in the same paper:

The Era says:  “On Thursday morning of last week death brought relief to the sufferings of Mrs. Robert Stone, widow of the late Robert Stone of Dalhousie.  Deceased was 72 years of age.  She leaves a family of seven, three sons and four daughters.  Deceased had been ailing for some months and her daughters Mrs. George Manahan of Gilbert P – alns(?) and Mrs. George Buffam of Eganville wee called home a few weeks ago.  The three sons, Messrs. Johnston, Robert and William and two daughters Miss Mary and Miss Lizzie reside on the homestead.  The funeral took place on Satuirday from her late residence to the Lanark Village Cemetery.”

Irvine—Died, on Friday, Jan. 29, Mary Moodie(?) Irvine, widow of the late William Irvine of Perth and lately of North Elmsley, aged 86, a native of Dumfrieshire, Scotland.

Donnelly—Died, at Perth on Friday, Jan. 29, Catharine Morgan Donnelly, relict of the late Arthur Donnelly, aged 80.

Middleville:  Miss Maggie McFarlane, daughter of the late Robert McFarlane, died at her mother’s residence in Rosetta after a lingering illness.  The funeral service was conducted by Rev. Cross of Lanark in the Rosetta Church on Monday afternoon.

An aged resident of North Elmsley, Mrs. Joseph Frisell, died at the residence of her son Ebeneezer Frisell on Saturday last at the age of 81.  The deceased was born in County Wexford, Ireland and came with her parents Mr. and Mrs. William Radford when she was about five or six years of age.  As in the early days of this settlement, before taking land in Bathurst, she was a member of the Church of England, and a true Christian.  She leaves a family of three children:  Ebeneezer on the homestead, and Charles and Henry in Cleveland, Ohio.  One son, Joseph, went to California 25 or more years ago and has not been heard of for twenty years.  A daughter Mrs. Donald McTavish, died a number of years ago.  Her remains wee placed in the Elmwood Cemetery to be interred beside those of her late husband in the old Anglican Cemetery in the spring.  The funeral on Tuesday was one of the largest seen here for years.

Perth Courier, Feb. 12, 1897

Mrs. Alonzo B. Dana of Brockville, mother of George A. Dana, M.P.P. for Brockville, died a short time ago at age 83.  Her maiden name was O’Neil and she was born in County Clare, Ireland coming to Canada in 1818.  Her father, Constantine O’Neil, took up land in Perth and the C.P.R. station here stands upon a portion of it.  She was a member of the 1^st Presbyterian Church.

McVicar—died, at the home of his brother, Peter McVicar, Bruce County, on Tuesday, Feb. 2, William McVicar of Kansas City, formerly of Drummond.

Chapman—Died, at Perth on Monday, Feb. 8, Kathleen Walrath(?) Chapman, wife of J. Chapman, C.P.R. conductor, aged 31.

Elsewhere in the same paper:

On Monday, Mrs. W.J. Chapman, wife of the conductor on the Perth and Montreal local, died of la grippe after being sick from Wednesday.  Deceased leaves a family of four children two of them being small.  The remains were taken to Seeley’s Bay via Brockville and Gananoque for interment she having been born in that village.

Cavers—Died, at Beckwith, on Feb. 4, Margaret Campbell Cavers, relict of the late Thomas Cavers, aged 72.

Boyne—Died, at Carleton Place on Feb. 3, Alexander Boyne, Sr., native of Perthshire, Scotland, aged 86.

McGregor—Died, at this residence 96 Stanley Avenue, Ottawa, on Feb. 3, James McGregor, aged 80.

Cameron—Died, at Newboro on Friday, Feb. 5, Luke Cameron, aged 77.

Smith’s Falls Echo, Feb. 8:  Yesterday about noon Mrs. Thomas Nichol residing on Lombard Street, died after a short illness from pneumonia.  Deceased was a quiet, unobtrusive woman, a fond mother and a devoted wife and was much beloved by her family and respected by all. She was a native of New Castleton, Roxburghshire, Scotland and was one of the original settlers from that quarter who made their home in the Hutton neighborhood.  The original settlers can now almost be counted on one hand and are all up in years.  The late Mrs. Nichol’s maiden name was Jane Kyle and she and Mr. Nichol had journeyed through life together for over half a century.  She was 77 years old and her activity and constitution gave promise of years of life yet before her.  She leaves a husband, three daughters and three sons all grown up.

The Smith’s Falls Echo of Feb. 8 says:  Death has been reaping a rich harvest here during he past day or two among the old people.  Yesterday afternoon three within the corporation had crossed the bar and were sleeping their last sleep.  They were Mrs. Jas. O’Neil, Mrs. William McSpadden and Mrs. Thomas Nichol.

A former resident of Glen Tay, Louis Compeau, died at Westport on Monday at the great age of 98 years and six months.  Deceased was a French Canadian from Lachine, Quebec but had been living in this part for many years.

Perth Courier, Feb. 19, 1897

Cuthbertson—Died, at Bathurst, on Monday, Feb.15, Margaret Andison Cuthbertson, relict of the late Alexander Cuthbertson, aged 84.

Elsewhere in the same paper:

Early on Monday morning, one of the oldest and best known residents of Bathurst passed peacefully away in the person of Mrs. Alexander Cuthbertson.  Mrs. Cuthbertson was one of the first settlers in this section and was born in Scotland in 1813.  Deceased leaves a family of four sons and two daughters, John (with whom she was living) and George in Bathurst; William in British Columbia; James in California; Mrs. P. Sinclair of this town and Mrs. Thomas Nichol in Buffalo, New York.  Her husband preceded here a number of years ago. She was a member of the Presbyterian Church.  The funeral took place on Wednesday afternoon to Elmwood Cemetery.

Holliday—Died, at Ardock, N.D., on Sat., Feb. 13, George W. Holliday, aged 40.

Elsewhere in the same paper:

A subscriber to the Courier in the Norwest, George W. Holliday of Ardoch, N.D., died

On Saturday last.  He was a printer by trade and learned his calling in Perth.  He was a son of the late George Holliday of this town and son-in-law of Alexander Abercrombie of the Scotch Line.

Blair—Died, at Evanston(?), U.S., on Sat., Jan. 30, Mrs. William Blair.  (no age)

Elsewhere in the same paper:

Word has been received of the death of Mrs. William Blair of Evanston, U.S.A. Mr. Blair is the third son of the late John Blair, formerly of Drummond, and the news of his loss will be much regretted by those who knew him.  (Transcriber’s note:  Yes this is confusing, but it is MRS. Blair who died.)

Fair—Died, at Watson’s Corenrs on Sunday, Feb. 7, the beloved wife of George Fair, aged 51.

Elsewhere in the same paper:

Watson’s Corners:  It becomes our sad duty this week to record the death of Mrs. George

Fair which took place at her late home on Sabbath morning, 7^th inst. After suffering intensely from cancer for months.  On December 15 the deceased underwent an operation and had what was supposed to be at the time all the cancer removed but as time went on it was found that her system was full of cancer which eventually caused her death.  Deceased, whose maiden name was Agnes Craig, was born in Dalhousie 51 years ago.  Twenty six years ago she married George Fair who survives her and came to live in our village where she has resided ever since with the exception of a few years she spent in Michigan.  The deceased was of a kind and loving disposition and made friends with all with whom she came into contact.  During her illness her sufferings were such as pen would fail to describe.  Some time previous to the end she called her loved ones to her bedside and bade them a loving farewell telling them she was going to the home prepared for God’s children where there would be no more pain or sorrow.  The funeral on Tuesday was very large the church literally packed while many had to remain outside.  Rev. J.A. Leitch preached a very appropriate sermon after which the remains were conveyed to the cemetery and deposited in their last resting place to await the resurrection morning.  Deceased was a member of Zion Church, the Ladies Aid Society and Christian Endeavor Society and also a teacher in the Sabbath School.

Dittrick—Died, at Perth on Monday, Feb. 15, Christina Thornton Dittrick, relict of the late William Dittrick, aged 82.

Anderson—Died, at Fallbrook, on Sunday, Feb. 14, Jane Hopkins Anderson, relict of the late Alexander Anderson.

Elsewhere in the same paper:

Harper:  Mrs. Alexander Anderson, sister of Messrs James, Richard and John Hopkins, died at her home near Fallbrook on Sunday.  Deceased leaves one child to mourn her loss. 

Chester—Died, at Perth, on Friday, Feb. 12, John Roy, son of Mrs. T. A. Chester, aged 15 months and nine days.

Harvey—Died, at Perth on Friday, Feb. 12, John J. Harvey, aged 24

Christ will gather in His own

To the place where he has gone

Where their heart and treasures lie

Where our life is bid on high.

Eddington—Died, at Kingston, on Saturday, Feb. 13, Mrs. David Eddington, formerly of Perth, aged 45.

Spence—Died, at Lanark on Friday, Feb. 12, Jane McDougall Spence, beloved wife of Jas. Spence, aged 43(?) 45(?).

Elsewhere in the same paper:

Lanark Links:  We regret to record the death of Jane McDougall, wife of James Spence of this village. She had been ill for over nine weeks and during her sickness suffered severely yet showed great patience.  She leaves a husband and five little children to mourn her loss.

The Herald says that Mrs. Daniel Cram, Sr., died at Carleton Place on Saturday last in her 73^rd year.  Her maiden name was Margaret Harkness, daughter of Col. Harkness, aide-de-camp to the Duke of Richmond when Governor General of Canada.  Deceased was born in Lancaster, Glengarry, Ontario and was married to the late Daniel Cram in 1845(?).  Seven of their nine children born are living.  In religion she was a devoted Baptist.

Perth Courier, Feb. 26, 1897

Buffam—Died, at Balderson, on Feb. 20, Elizabeth Buffam, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Buffan, aged 2 years, 1 month.

Davidson—Died, on Wednesday, Feb. 17, Ellen Hunter Davidson, wife of William Davidson, Owatonna, Minnesota, formerly of Perth, aged 72.

Perth Courier, March 5, 1897

Graham—Died, on Sunday evening, Feb. 28, Maggie A. Graham, daughter of Mrs. D. Watson, Gore Street, West Ward, Perth.

Elsewhere in the same paper:

After a lengthened illness from consumption, Miss Maggie A. Graham passed away on Sunday morning and her remains were deposited at Elmwood Cemetery on Tuesday afternoon.  Deceased was a young lady of amiable disposition and among her other accomplishments was that of drawing and painting; her pictures in oil were one of the well known features of our exhibitions here in Lanark for some years past.

The Minto, North Dakota Journal of Feb. 23 published the following notice of the death of George Holliday, son-in-law of Alexander Abercrombie, Scotch Line and son of Mrs. George Holliday of Perth:  “Mr. Holliday was taken ill on Friday at 11:00 a.m. with a severe attack of his old trouble.  Friends and neighbors did all that was possible to alleviate his suffering.  Dr. Williamson attended him faithfully but in spite of all efforts he rapidly sank until about 8:30 Saturday evening he passed away.  Dr. O’Keefe of Minto was sent for but did not arrive until after his death.  When first taken sick he told his wife he would never recover.  Still, all hoped for the best.  He calmly and coolly directed his wife about business matters in all the minute details.  His faithful and devoted wife, prostrated with grief, never left his side until all was over and when asked how he felt about leaving earth, his greatest regret seemed to be leaving his little boy and girl and wife with a young baby.  He leaves his family in a comfortable condition and their future well provided for.  Mr. Holliday was born in Perth, Lower Canada and was one of the pioneers of this section of North Dakota having settled here 18 years ago.  He first took the claim owned by James Abercrombie, he afterwards sold that and purchased the one where he now lives.  He was here to witness the growth of the village of Ardoch and also to see the organization of the state and the county of Walsh.  He has many friends and acquaintances for miles around as was shown by the many friends and neighbors from town and country who called to pay their respects to the deceased.  He was a good man, conscientious, honest and upright in all his dealings, respected and esteemed by all and a faithful member and worker in the Presbyterian church of this place.  He will be greatly missed in his home, his circle of friends, his church, among the business men of our town, in all walks of life.  His sudden death has cast a gloom over our little town but we mourn not as those without hope and we believe that our loss is his eternal gain and that he was only passed on before to a home in the mansions of our Lord.”

On Monday, a telegram came to announce the death of Mrs. Matthew Bell at the residence of her daughter in Wolford, Grenville County, on Sunday morning.  Her remains were interred in the Smith’s Falls cemetery vault Tuesday.  The late Mrs. Bell was born in Northumberland, England on the Scottish border in the year 1804 and came to Canada with her husband settling in 1831 on the well known “Matthew Bell farm” now owned by Hon. Peter McLaren.  They had five children, three of the girls dying when grown up and the son Matthew in middle age.  Her husband died many years ago and Mrs. Bell built a dwelling in town and lived in it until a few years ago when her very advanced age compelled her to sell and live wither daughter, Mrs. John Ballantyne of Wolford where she died at the age not often attained of 92 years.  The maiden name of the deceased was Agnes Smith and she was a sister of the mother of Messrs. M.R. Dodds of Perth and Ralph Dodds of Glen Tay.  Though of English blood and birth she was a strict Presbyterian and a devoted member of Knox Church, Perth, for long years and in every way was a consistent and exemplary Christian.

We regret to learn of the death of Mrs. William Johnson wife of the C.P.R., freight agent at Perth for some years, which took place at Charleston, Leeds County on Monday morning.  Her age was about 75 years.  Both Mr. and Mrs. Johnson left many friends behind them in Perth when illness obliged him to leave his position here and retire from work.

Lanark Links:  Another old resident of Lanark Township has passed away in the person of Mrs. Patrick O’Keefe.  She has been very feeble for a number of years and has been taken care of by Mrs. Thomas Richard since the death of her husband a few months ago.  Her age is not exactly known but she was over 100 years old and though her late husband was quite a few years younger, she survived him several months.  The funeral took place on Wednesday when her remains were interred in the R.C. Cemetery at Ferguson’s Falls.

Perth Courier, March 12, 1897

Closs—Died, at Lanark on Wed., Feb. 24, Jane Murphy Closs, beloved wife of Henry Closs, aged 78.

O’Keefe—Died, at Drummond on Monday, March 1, Margaret Felther(?) O’Keefe, relict of the late Patrick O’Keefe, aged 100.

Samuel Forde, an old and well known resident of North Elmsley, died at his residence this morning after an illness of some duration from la grippe.  He was a heavy, robust man before being taken down and was in the 73^rd year of his age.  For 60 years he hade been a resident of North Elmsley.  His surviving family consists of an only daughter Miss Maggie.  The late Mr. Forde was a native of County Armagh, Ireland and came with his parents to this country in 1825 being then one year old.  He was a man held in general respect.

On Sunday morning a young man aged 26 years named Edward Donnelly, died suddenly at the residence of Richard C. White, Bathurst.  He was found dead in his bed.  Heart disease is supposed to have been the cause.  He was a nephew of Edward Donnelly of the same township.

Perth Courier, March 19, 1897

Hopetown:  On Saturday night Master Robert Horn, aged 8, after about nine days of serious illness supposed to have been caused by falling on a stick of wood, passed away.  The funeral on Monday proceeded from his father’s (David Horn) home to the cemetery in Dalhousie.

Phillips—Died, at Perth on Sunday, March 14, Andrew Phillips, aged 65(?).

Drysdale—Died, at Perth on Saturday, March 13, Martha O’Neill, relict of the late Mr. Drysdale of Pakenham, aged 67(?).

Bisnette(?)—Died, at Lombardy, on Sunday, March 7, John Frances(?) Bisnette(?), infant child of John Bisnette(?), six weeks.

Another lamb has gone

To dwell with Him who gave

Another little darling babe

A shelter in the grave.

God needed one more angel child

Amidst His shining band

And so He bent with loving smile

And clasped our darling’s hand.

Mrs. Hugh Ackland of Carleton Place died there on Friday last aged 80 from the effects of la gripe.  The maiden name of the deceased was Mary Bulger and she was born in County Tipperary, Ireland, in 1816 coming to Canada when 12 years of age, living with her brother-in-law Mr. Charles who had taken up land in Drummond.  When 18(?) years of age, in 1834(?), she was married to Hugh Ackland also from County Tipperary, Ireland, in Perth, by Rev. Mr. Harris and whose family was of considerable distinction in that part of Ireland.  They began life together on a farm in Drummond at (illegible word) Landing, Mississippi Lake, but they afterwards removed to Playfairville then to (illegible word) Gillie’s Mills and after a stay there of a number of years moved for good to Carleton Place 26 years ago.  The husband died 16 years ago in his 72^nd year.  The surviving children are Mrs. James Horn of Kingsley, Manitoba; Dudley Ackland of Winnipeg; Mrs. James Gillies of Carleton Place; James Ackland of Philadelphia; Hugh Ackland of Carleton Place, with whom she lived for the past 16 years; John Ackland also of that town; Robert Ackland of Brooklyn and Joseph Ackland of Ottawa.  The funeral took place on Sunday at 1:30 pm to St. James Church and cemetery.  The pall bearers were the four sons Hugh, John, Robert and Joseph and the two grandsons John S. and Alfred Gillies.  Central Canadian.

Robert Waugh of Carleton Place, a native of Innisville section, died in that town on Thursday morning last week.  Deceased was once in the woolen business in Carleton Place and before that was bookkeeper for Abraham code. His age was 53 years.

Brooke:  A gloom has been cast over the neighborhood by the sudden death of Eddy Donnelly who went to bed in his usual health on Friday, March 5 and was found dead in the morning.  He was a respectable young man of 34 and is a member of the English Church.  The funeral was largely attended on Sunday.

We loved him yea no tongue can tell

God loved him too and thought best

To take him home with Him to rest.

He’s gone! The loved and cherished one

Like some bright star he passed away

Death claimed its victim and he sank

Calm as the sun’s expiring rays.

Only a few weeks have passed since we chronicled the death in Drummond of Patrick O’Keefe, who had attained the ripe old age of 90 some odd years and this week it becomes our duty to announce the death of his widow which occurred Monday, March 1 at the home of her nephew Thomas Richards in Drummond.  The deceased lady was born in Waterford County, Ireland in 1796 and therefore had passed the century mark.  She came to this country 68 years ago and has lived in the vicinity of Ferguson’s Falls ever since.  The funeral took place to the R.C. Cemetery at the Falls on Wednesday and was largely attended.  Rev. Father O’Rourke of this town conducted the services.  The following additional particulars are from the Era:  “Deceased came to this country with her brother James Felther now of Ferguson’s Falls and a sister Mrs. Hickey also of Ferguson’s Falls.  Fifty two years ago she was married to Patrick O’Keefe whom she outlived by a few months.  The family seems to be remarkable for their longevity.  Mrs. Hickey, sister of the deceased, is now over 80 years old and still quite smart.  Her brother James Felther of Ferguson’s Falls, is over 78 years old and still quite active.  William Felther of Ashton, Renfrew County is a cousin of the deceased and is now 97 years of age and weighs 250 pounds.  He also walks a distance of nearly 5 miles to church every Sunday.  Another circumstance of note is that so far as is known, she was the first of the name Felther that has died in this country.”

Perth Courier, March 26, 1897

Arthur J. Butler, son of John Butler of Arnprior, died of consumption on the 14^th inst.  He was a nephew of Messrs. William and George Butler of this town.  The father is confined to the house with a hopeless illness.

On Saturday, March 13, Mrs. Alexander Drysdale died at her residence on Foster Street after a few days illness from pneumonia at the age of 67(?) 87(?).  The maiden name of the deceased was Martha O’Neil and she was born in Ireland; the family settled in Pakenham after emigration from the old country.  Her brother, Major O’Neil, died in Pakenham a few months ago.  Quite a few years ago the deceased, with her family, removed to Perth where she led a retired life, her health not being good but her house was always happy and a hospitable retreat for visitors.  Her family consisted of four sons and four daughters:  James of Rat Portage; Mrs. J.J. Drummond, Mrs. W. Walker and George Drysdale of  Radcor(?), Quebec; William Drysdale, M.D., of Nanalmo(?), B.C.; Alexander Drysdale of Arnprior; Misses Jean and Salay(?) Drysdale of Perth.  Five of those were present at her death bed and another, Dr. William Drysdale of Nanalmo(?), B.C. arrived east in time to attend the funeral at Pakenham; he meeting the funeral at that place.  Deceased was buried in the Presbyterian Cemetery at Pakenham on Thursday, March 18.

James Mordy(?) Moody(?), aged 90, died in the township of Ross, Renfrew County, on March 9.  He was a native of Northumberland County, England and was born in 1807, coming to Canada in 1819(?).  The family settled on a bush farm near Perth.  They afterwards removed to Carleton and Joseph (transcriber’s note:  I checked this twice, it says James in the beginning and Joseph in this sentence) left in 1833 for Renfrew County.  He married Hannah Metcalfe of Ramsay and they had a family of 8 sons and 6 daughters.  Rev. Dr. D.M. Blakeley, Forrester’s Falls, Presbyterian minister, conducted the funeral service.

Robertson—Died, at Montreal on March 26, Alexander Robertson, formerly bookkeeper for Robert Lillie of this town, aged (illegible).

Elphin:  John McDonnell of Roberstville quietly passed away on Saturday evening after a lingering illness.  Deceased had been unwell for nearly a year with some sort of stomach trouble.  The funeral took place on Tuesday to Crawford’s Cemetery and was largely attended as Mr. McDonnell was well known and highly respected and also an elder of the Presbyterian Church here.

Hopetown:  On Sunday morning the infant child of John James took ill suddenly and within three hours passed away.  Inflammation was the cause of death.  The funeral took place on Monday to the village cemetery.

More on this

Middleville:  The youngest child of John S.(?) James of Hopetown died on Sunday after a very long illness

Elphin:  We deeply regret to record the death of Duncan Dwight Ferguson, only son of Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Ferguson. Deceased was about four years old and was taken ill Sunday afternoon and on the same evening took convulsions from which death relieved him on Monday morning at 10:00.

Mrs. James Snedden of Almonte died from the effects of whooping cough on March 12 at the age of 66.  She was a native of Glasgow, Scotland and came to Canada forty years ago.

An old resident of Alice, County Renfrew, James Leitch, died on March 10 at the age of 94 years.  He was born in Lanarkshire, Scotland in 1802, came to Canada in 1821, the family settling at Ramsay.  Many years ago he married Francis Wilson of Ramsay and then removed to Alice.  Deceased was a Presbyterian and a Liberal.

Poole—Died, on Saturday, March 20, Hubert George Gow Poole, infant son of Alfred Poole of North Elmsley, aged one year and 14 days.

Buchen—Died, at the residence of her son-in-law William Chalmers, McDonald’s Corners, Jessie McFarlane Buchen, relict of the late William Buchen, aged 85.

Elsewhere in the same paper:

A very old resident of Dalhousie, Mrs. William Buchan died at the residence of her son-in-law William Chalmers at the age of 85.

McNaughton—Died, on Sunday, Feb. 28, Donald McNaughton of North Elmsley, aged 80, a native of Perthshire, Scotland. Deceased came to Canada in 1842 and first settled in Drummond.

Furlong—Died at Toronto on Monday, March 22, Mary Furlong of Perth, aged 30.

Elsewhere in the same paper:

A short time ago, Miss Mary Furlong of this town went to Toronto hospital for an operation but unfortunately she did not survive.  Her death occurred on Monday.  Her remains were brought home on Tuesday and interred in the R.C. Cemetery on Wednesday afternoon.

McAllister—Died, at 557(?) Sherbrooke Street, Montreal, March 30, Janet McAllister, aged 91, widow of the late Rev. W. McAllister, formerly of Lanark.

Robinson—Died, at S. Sherbrooke on March 17, Mrs. A. Robinson, aged 75.

Allan—Died, at Vancouver, B.C., on Saturday, March 27, William Fenwick Allan, aged 51(?) 61(?)

Rosamund—Died, at Almonte on March 22, Margaret Wilson, relict of the late James Rosamund, aged 86(?)

McEwen—Died, at Stonewall, Manitoba on March 16, Christina McKerracher McEwen, relict of the late Peter McEwen, formerly of Lanark Village, aged (illegible).

Malcolm McCallum, a former resident of Balderson, died lately at Underwood, Bruce County, where he moved from Balderson 20(?) 30(?) years ago.  He was well known to all the old residents of Ramsay who used to team up the “Grand River” as the Ottawa used to be called before the building of the Canadian Central Railway.

Perth Courier, April 2, 1897

The Almonte Gazette of March 26 says:  James R. Holliday, a typographer(?) of many years experience, well known in Ottawa, Montreal and Toronto, a native of Perth and a graduate of the Almonte Gazette office, son of David Holliday of Almonte, died a week ago last Thursday from consumption.  Jim was a good compositor and his early demise will be regretted by his old friends.  He was forty years of age and unmarried.

News reached here Saturday that a former resident of Perth, Alexander Robertson, manager for a few years of the Lillie Bolt Factory in town, died that day in the Montreal General Hospital.  He was holding the position of assistant superintendent of the House of Industry and Refuge(?) Refuse(?) in that city at the time of his death.  He was 55 and born in Glasgow, Scotland coming to Canada 20 years ago.  The cause of his death was hemorrhage.

On Tuesday last Mrs. Jane McAllister, widow of the late Rev. William McAllister, died at Montreal at the advanced age of 90 years.  The husband of the deceased was a Presbyterian minister in Lanark Village very long ago soon after the formation of the present congregation there and after leaving there went to Sarnia and thence to Metis(?) Quebec.  The husband died many years ago and the deceased came to Perth to live, leaving again for Montreal some time since.  She lately became blind but bore her affliction with great patience.  Her grandson John Featherston, now a civil engineer in British Columbia, was a frequent visitor here during his grandmother’s stay here and afterwards. The Witness says of her:  “The deceased lady was well known for her exemplary piety and upright Christian life which won for her the esteem and deep regard of all with whom she came into contact.  Her remains were taken to Metis(?) for interment.”

Perth Courier, April 9, 1897

Mrs. Amelia Schofield of Brockville died in the general hospital there on Friday night at the age of 79.  She had been married to the late Mr. Breckenridge of the Canada Life Co., and had lived at Smith’s Falls for a time.

Sheridan—Died, on Monday, April 5, Ann Freeman Sheridan, relict of the late Richard Sheridan, Dalhousie, aged 66(?) 86(?) of heart trouble.

Ferguson—Died, at North Sherbrooke, on Monday, March 22, Duncan DeWight, only son of Alexander/Agnes Ferguson, aged 3 years 22 days.

Through the valley he has gone

To live in his eternal home

With happiness and peace and love

He sings His praises now above.

McIntyre—Died, at North Sherbrooke on Wednesday, March 31, Peter McIntyre, aged 72 years, 6(?)5(?) months, a native of Perthshire, Scotland.

Elsewhere in the same paper:

McDonald’s Corners and Elphin:  Death has been busy in this section recently. On April 2, Peter McIntyre, an old and respected resident of this community, was laid to rest.  He died at the age of 72 after a severe and protracted illness.  The funeral service was held in the Elphin Church and was largely attended by sympathetic friends.  He leaves a widow and one daughter Mrs. Walter Geddes to mourn his loss.  He was a member of the Presbyterian Church.  He endured suffering and faced death with Christian fortitude. 

McDonalds Corners and Elphin: Death claims the young as well as the old.  On Tuesday, 6^th inst. Maggie McFarlane, 13, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Neil McFarlane, of Elphin, was laid to rest in the Crawford burying ground.  She had a long illness which she endured without a murmur and then fell asleep in Jesus.

Robert Bradley, once a resident of Smith’s Falls, died in the gaol here on Monday at the age of 75 years.  He was sent to gaol for want of a better home in 1887 and was an inmate off and on ever since.  The usual inquest was held.

William Pierce, hotel keeper, Franktown, who has been ill for some time, died on Friday last.

The Echo records the death of Gershon W. Phillips, Smith’s Falls, from the effects of paralysis on Sunday, at the age of 75.  He formerly lived on a farm on the Lombardy Road.

From the Almonte Times:  In our last issue we referred briefly to the death of Mrs. James Rosamund, but promising to give additional facts.  Collecting information for a biography is a more difficult undertaking that many suppose it to be.  Many of the facts in this history were obtained verbally from relatives who have lived in these parts during the past 75 years and although they are recounted in as brief a manner as possible we hope they will prove of interest.  Much information in reference to the Rosamund family has been published from time to time in the local journals and is therefore familiar to most of the residents of this county but there are additional details in regards to these well known families who have taken such a prominent and leading part in the affairs here which have not appeared in the press.  In short, then, to make this sketch complete we are going back a couple of centuries or more and then lead in as briefly as possible up to the sad event of last week.  From the documents which we have seen, the Rosamunds can trace their ancestry on both the father’s and mother’s sides for over 250 years.  Remember, we are speaking of the late James Rosamund’s relatives.  Several of the Rosamunds came to Ireland from Germany in 1689 with William, Prince of Orange, to befriend the long suffering Protestants in that island.  The Rosamunds held commissions in the Prince’s army and when the power of King James was broken at the memorable Battle of the Boyne in 1690 they were granted lands in the north of Ireland (where the late James Rosamund was born) for their service.  The mother’s side was originally English, having crossed from that country into Ireland about 1690.  Mrs. Rosamund, the subject of this obituary, whose maiden name was Margaret Wilson, was the eldest daughter of William and Margaret Wilson, born at Eldersle near Paisley, Scotland on Feb. 16, 1811.  Her father studied for the Presbyterian ministry but his hearing being impaired, he gave up his intentions to enter that vocation and decided with others to seek a home and more rigor of body in the new world beyond the seas.  The family, which consisted at that time of Mr. and Mrs. Wilson and their two young daughters, the late Mrs. Rosamund and her sister Mrs. Adam Beck of Carleton Place, left with others from the same part of Scotland for this country in 1821. They embarked on a sailing vessel which contained 600 passengers and nine weary long weeks passed before they reached Quebec.  From there they went up the St. Lawrence to Prescott, thence to Perth and then on to Lanark Village where the Crown Land Office was located.  They were granted a section of land about a mile or so above Carleton Place where the family lived and hewed out a home on what was then little better than wilderness.  Here two sons and one daughter were born.  Carleton Place at that date (1821) was known as Morphy’s Falls and the settlement consisted of four or five houses only but it grew considerably during the ten or twelve following years during which time the late James Rosamund came over from Ireland and settled there.  In 1832 while still a resident of Ramsay she was married to the late James Rosamund and they lived for a number of years in the village or until 1857(?) when the family removed to Almonte.  Her family consisted of three sons, B. Rosamund, M.P. for North Lanark, and James Rosamund of this town and William Rosamund of Cobourg and two daughters Mrs. Andrew Bell and Mrs. (Dr) Hurd, all of whom were born in Carleton Place.  Mrs. Rosamund’s parents were Presbyterians and the only church of this denomination was the one next to the 8^th Line Cemetery, Ramsay, still standing but has been vacant for a number of years.  The late Rev. Mr. Fairburn, was a pastor of the congregation at the time.  To this church, then, the family repaired for worship and as there were no records to speak of in those far off days they had to walk 16 miles – 8 going and 8 coming.  To those who came out in the ship referred to we might mention the Langs and Neilsons of Ramsay and Caldwells of Lanark, whose descendants are numbered throughout the district today.  The Toshacks and Bennies had emigrated too, and settled in Ramsay some time previous; and this leads us to remember that the late Enos Toshack’s father and Mrs. Rosamund’s father were first cousins and there was also a relationship with the Bennies who lived in the vicinity of Bennie’s Corners and after whom the place was named.  William M. Lachlan, Mrs. Rosamund’s mother’s brother, was the only relative who came from Scotland to Canada and settled.  He went into the dry goods trade in Montreal and in later years his two sons, William and John succeeded to the business and successfully conducted it for a number of years as a wholesale concern under the firm name McLachlan Brothers.  Coming back again to Mrs. Rosamund’s parents, they were fervent Christians throughout their lives and the good example and precepts they taught their children became their safeguards throughout their long careers.  The sons and daughters were noted for their kindness of heart. 

It is little matter at what hour of day

The righteous fall asleep, Death cannot occur

To him untimely who has learned to die

The less of this brief life the more of Heaven

The shorter time the longer immortality.

Mrs. Rosamund’s family on her mother’s side especially were noted for longevity with one exception.  Her father died at the early age of 40; her mother lived to be 88.  Mrs. Adam Beck, a sister, is still living at Carleton Place at the age of 81 and her eyesight is so good that she can still read without the aid of glasses.  Andrew Wilson, a brother, is a prosperous farmer in Kansas where he moved about 25 years ago from western Ontario, and purchasing a section of land and dividing it into farms for his sons in order to keep them near him.  William Wilson, was another prosperous farmer in the County of Huron; he died three years ago aged 79.  The only one of the family who died at an early age was the youngest member Mrs. Samuel Pittard mother of the author of this journal; she was but 33 years of age when she passed away.  Thus endeth another chapter in the early history of Lanark County.

Lanark Links:  We have to record the death of another of our citizens, Mrs. John Manahan.  She had been ill for a long time and manifested a Christian patience during her illness.  Being beloved by all who knew her, the funeral on Monday was largely attended.

Perth Courier, April 16, 1897

Gilday—Died, at Perth on Thursday, April 8, Elle n Gardiner Gilday, relict of the late Thomas Gilday, aged 72.

Elsewhere in the same paper:

On Thursday last week, Mrs. Thomas Gilday (nee Ellen Gardiner), died at the residence of her son-in-law, Hiram McKenney, Harvey Street, Perth, at the age of 72.  She came to Perth from Lombardy a few years ago, her family having one by one left the contracted field of Lombardy to push their way into the world.  Deceased was born in Ireland and survived her husband many years.  She was a member of the Episcopal Church.  Her funeral took place to Lombardy on Saturday.

Darou—Died, at Lanark on Sunday, April 1, Olive May Darou, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A. Darou, aged 3 years, 10 months and 11 days.

Penman—Died, at Middleville, on Saturday, April 3, George E. Penman, aged 29.

McFarlane—Died, at Elphin, on Saturday, April 3, Maggie McFarlane, aged 13.

Gorman—Died, on the 2^nd Concession Bathurst on Tuesday, April 13, Jeremiah Gorman, aged 83.

Manahan—Died, at Lanark, on April 10, Mary McFarlane Manahan, beloved wife of John Manahan, aged 33.

Elsewhere in the same paper:

Prestonvale:  A number from this vicinity attended the funeral of  the late Mrs. Manahan of Lanark, sister of William McFarlane of this place on Monday of this week.  Deceased passed from this life on Saturday, (date illegible) after a lingering illness of some years.  She was well known and highly thought of by everyone around here.

Dan Cameron, who operated a photo gallery here a few years ago, died at Carleton Place of consumption on April 9, aged 24.

On the morning of April 9, Mrs. Robert McKimm, mother of our confrere, G.F. McKimm of the Smith’s Falls Record, passed away in her 84^th year at the residence of her daughter Mrs. Gilhully.  She was born in County Armagh, Ireland and came to Canada when a young girl.

Smith’s Falls and Vicinity:  George Burrows, one of the original settlers in the barren lands of Montague, died at the age of 80.  He was an Irish Protestant.

Perth Courier, April 23, 1897

Those members of the Lanark County Council of 15 years ago will learn with sorrow of the death of a much respected member of that body, Daniel Drummond.  The Gazette of April 16 says:  “The township of Ramsay has lost one of its oldest and most highly respected residents by the death of Daniel Drummond which took place on Friday, at his home in Clayton at the age of 70(?).  Deceased had been ailing with a heart affliction for the past two years and in consequence had not been able during that time either to take an active part in public affairs or paying much attention to his own private business.  The late Mr. Drummond was born in Ramsay in 1826 and removed to Clayton about 30 years ago where he bought a grist mill and saw mill which he continued to work until the time of his death.  Mr. Drummond was a man of strict integrity, upright in all his dealings and of a kind and genial disposition.  He was a man of more than ordinary intellect and this was early recognized by his friends and neighbors in the vicinity and he was for many years the respected and efficient reeve of Ramsay.  In religion he was an active member of the Presbyterian Church as long as his health permitted him to do active work.  In politics he was a Liberal.

Tennant—Died, at Lanark, on Thursday, April 1, Lloyd Tennant, only son of Edward Tennant, aged 15.

Cameron—Died, at S. Sherbrooke on Wednesday, 14^th inst., James Cameron, aged 85.

Another old resident has gone from our midst in the person of Mrs. Thomas Gilday wife of the late Thomas Gilday, farmer, South Elmsley, in the County of Leeds.  During an illness of about three months, she patiently bore her sufferings, peacefully passing away, conscious to the last, of her approaching end.  The sad event took place at her residence in Perth Thursday, April 8, at 2:00 in the afternoon.  As we chronicle the demise of the old pioneers more than a passing notice is due such an event.  Mrs. Gilday’s maiden name was Helen Gardiner.  She was born in 1825 in Killala, County Connaught, Ireland and was the daughter of the late Major Gardiner of the British army.  She came to Canada while still a girl and settled in the township of Yonge, County Leeds, where she met and married Thomas Gilday of the same district.  About this time, they moved to South Elmsley in the same county.  Here, Mr. Gilday died in 1885 at the age of 86.  After her husband’s death, Mrs. Gilday remained on the farm until 1874 when she took up her residence in Perth.  She was held in high esteem by all who knew her.  She was always in good health, active and industrious up to the time of her recent illness which proved fatal.  She leaves behind her a large family to mourn her loss, six sons and one daughter.  One son, James, died in 1887 in Dakota at the age of 28 years; the remainder of the family are worthy of their parents.  They are:  Sarah Jane, the wife of Hiram McKenny, contractor, Perth; Thomas is a well known and respected business man in Montreal being a member of the firm of Campbell and Gilday, roofers; Richard follows the same occupation as his brother Thomas, and lives in Toronto and is equally well known and respected; Daniel lives in Smith’s Falls and is in the employ of Frost and Wood, implement manufacturers; Gardiner is a contractor in Dakota; Edward, manager of the Montreal Spraham Roofing Company’s mines in Portland, Oregon; Robert who lives at Blain, Washington, a lumber merchant.  Friends met in the home of the deceased about 10:00 in the morning and then adjourned to the Episcopal Church in Perth where an impressive funeral service was conducted by Rev. Mr. Muckleston, incumbent.  Thereafter, the body was conveyed to Lombardy where on arrival, it was borne from the hearse to the grave by five of her sons and her son-in-law and laid to rest by the remains of her beloved husband.  Rev. Mr. French of Lombardy read the funeral service and made a few solemn remarks befitting the occasion. We may state that Mrs. Gilday, has two sisters still alive—Mrs. Willis of Michigan and Mrs. Ashton Troy of New York.

The Era of April 14 says:  “News was received here yesterday of the death of Mrs. R. Robertson of Port Robertson, Ontario, mother of our respected townsman, Robert Robertson.  The death had been enjoying good health until about two weeks ago when she was taken ill with la grippe which caused her death Tuesday morning.  She was the youngest member of a family of Gemmills who were among the earliest settlers of Lanark Township.  When a girl, her parents had to market all their grain and produce in Brockville and buy many of their supplies there as well.  It might also be mentioned that she is the last of her family.  When she reached womanhood, she married R. Robertson of Rosetta where they lived for nearly 30 years.  The union was blessed with a family of 13 children, two of whom died in childhood.  In 1870 they moved to Port Robinson where Mr. Robertson died in 1881 and since that time she has made her home with her son Andrew on the homestead here.  Her eldest son John died in 1871 and her two daughters Mrs. Trantar(?) of Toronto and Mrs. John Drysdale of this place died some time ago.  The surviving children are:  Mrs. Young of New York; and Mrs. A.S. McGregor of London, Ontario; Mrs. Stark; the Miseners(?) of Port Robinson; Andrew and William of Port Robinson; and Mr. R. Robertson of Lanark.

Perth Courier, April 30, 1897

O’Brien—Died, at Bathurst on Friday, April 23, Thomas O’Brien, aged 82.

Cairns—Died, at Sydenham, on Sunday, April 25, Walter H. Cairns, barrister, aged 28.

Elsewhere in the same place:

After a brief career as barrister, Walter H. Cairns of Smith’s Falls, has been snatched away by death; and his former companions and associates here had the melancholy duty to perform of following his remains to their long resting place in Elmwood on Tuesday afternoon.  Deceased was taken ill with inflammation of the lungs not long ago at the residence of his sister Mrs. (Rev.) Jamieson of Syndenham, near Kingston, and his frame not being strong, naturally he succumbed to this dire complaint on Sunday afternoon last.  He was only 28 years of age.  Mr. Cairns was born in Perth and was the 5^th son of the late Thomas Cairns, postmaster.  He studied law after leaving school and passed his final a few years ago when he started an office at Newboro, but left that not long ago to join his brother George F. Cairns in his law business in Smith’s Falls.  While a student he was a leading member of the LaCrosse club and one of the most proficient players.  He was a member of the fraternity lodge of Odd Fellows here and the brethren took charge of he funeral.  Rev. Mr. Huxtable, pastor of the Methodist Church, conducted the services.

Mrs. Eleanor Hamilton, Smith’s Falls, is dead.  She was born in Adolphustown, U.E. Loyalist settlement on October 9, 1802.  Her father was Capt. Joshua Booth, a prominent U.E. Loyalist.  He was killed during the rebellion of 1812.  Mrs. Hamilton was twice married.  Her first husband was Dr. Phelps and after his decease in 1835 she was married to Andrew Gordon Hamilton, who died in 1848.  She leaves a family of four sons and three daughters living.  A year or two ago Mrs. Hamilton was a guest for some time of County Treasurer Monsell. Though 95 years of age, her mental faculties remained unimpaired up to the time of her death.  She was also a delightful conversationalist.

Perth Courier, May 7, 1897

McCulloch—Died at Dalhousie on Wednesday, April 28, Robert McCulloch, aged 51(?).

White—Died, on the 8^th Concession Drummond on Monday, May 3, Robert R. White, aged (illegible).

Young—Died, at Bayonne, N.J. on April 20, David Young, aged 59(?).

From the Daily Argus of Mt. Vernon, New York, we learn of the death of David Young, which took place at his home in Bayonne, N.J. on Tuesday, April 20.  Deceased was born in Lanark 59 years ago  and learned the trade of a carpenter there with Jas. Drysdale.  After he had served his time at his trade, he removed to Pembroke where he worked for a short time, finally removing to the States.  He was an uncle of James Young of Lanark and was married to a sister of R.(?) Robertson.  From the Argus we take the following particulars:  “Mr. Young was a prominent builder.  He was born in Lanark, Ontario and came to Bayonne several years ago.  He was an elder in the 1^st Reformed Church of that place.  The funeral service was conducted on Friday evening and his remains laid in Bay View Cemetery.  The deceased was well known in Mt. Vernon.”

Clark—Died, at Bathurst, on Thursday, April 29, Catharine Ferguson Clark, wife of James Clark, aged 63.

The Carleton Place Herald of April 27 says: “After a lingering illness of many months, borne with patience and resignation, Finlay Sinclair passed quietly away to his last rest on Friday evening last aged 69(?).  The deceased was born in Drummond in April of 1828 being the fourth son of the late Peter Sinclair of Breadalbane, Scotland who came out to this country in the early 1820’s and was one of the early pioneer settlers of this county.  In 1858 Mr. Sinclair was married to Janet Wilson daughter of the late Dr. Wilson of this town, who survives.  By this union six children were born, two sons and four daughters. Two of the daughters died in infancy.  The survivors are Mrs. John McPherson of Carleton Place; Mrs. Mattes of Pueblo, Colorado; and Howard and Albert at home.  After their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Sinclair continued to reside in Drummond for a short time, then moved to Lanark Village where Mr. Sinclair conducted a grocery business for years and 20 years go came to Carleton Place.  Mr. Sinclair was in the employ of Mr. Caldwell here in the capacity of culler(?) until the saw mill was closed a few years ago.  In politics he was a Liberal and in religion a Baptist and died happy in the hope of a better life beyond.  The funeral took place on Sunday afternoon to Cram’s Cemetery and was largely attended considering the unfavorable weather.  In the absence of the Baptist minister, Rev. Mr. Scott conducted the religious services at the house.  The pall bearers were Jas. McFadden, A.Armour, G. Dunlop, William Allen, O. Virtue(?) and M.W. Sumner.”

Much sympathy is felt for James Clark, 6^th Line Bathurst, for his bereavement by the sudden death of his wife which occurred on Thursday of last week from apoplexy.  The deceased having finished milking, was talking to her sister-in-law Miss Clark, when she was taken ill and helpless.  Her husband set out at once for medical aid from Perth but it was impossible to afford any help and in an hour from the time she was stricken down death ensued.  Mrs. Clark’s maiden name was Catherine Ferguson and she was born in Beckwith of Scotch Highland parentage.  Her remains were interred in Elmwood on Saturday last, relatives from other parts of the county and a large number of neighbors attending the funeral.  The Carleton Place Herald says Mrs. Clark was a niece of George Comrie and a cousin of J.C. Elliott of Beckwith

Balderson:  One of our most respected and well known citizens, Robert White, passed away on Monday morning, 3^rd inst., after a lingering illness of over a year at the age of 62(?).  Deceased was of a very upright character and had gained the esteem of all with whom he came into contact. About two and a half years ago he lost an arm while attending a threshing machine but with unabated energy he still pursued his calling of farming until overtaken by illness.  His remains were interred in the Methodist Cemetery, Perth, last Tuesday.  A widow and large family of children are left to mourn his loss.

Perth Courier, May 14, 1897

Boyd’s Settlement—An old resident of this locality, John Stevenson, died of heart disease and dropsy on Thursday last week, aged 74 and the remains were buried on Saturday in the Methodist burying grounds, Boyd’s.  His wife died only about five months ago.  Deceased was an active worker in the Methodist Church and also a staunch Liberal.  He leaves several children among them being Ebeneezer Stevenson, on the homestead; a daughter at home; Mrs. Jackson Willows; and Mrs. W.H. Patterson of Carleton Place.

Boyd’s Settlement:  Mrs. Henry Hammond, one of the most highly esteemed residents of this locality and well known as a devout and thorough Christian, died on Wednesday of last week.

Boyd’s Settlement:  James McCall, 1^st Line Ramsay, died on Saturday morning of cancer and brain fever and was buried on Sunday.

On Monday morning, May 3, at 1:15, Robert Reinhart White, of Drummond, passed quietly away at the age of 62.  About a year ago he first consulted the doctors and they gave his friends little hope of recovery; saying that it was the general breaking up of the constitution; his heart being so badly affected that nothing could be done to restore him to health.  About the 24^th of last May, he was very low, indeed, but rallied somewhat through the summer and was to Perth two or three times and to other places.  He was born November, 1834 on the farm on which he died, 8^th Line Drummond, near Balderson.  His parents were Thomas Whyte (note this spelling is different from the above, that is the way it was printed in the paper) and Ann Reinhart who were married in Canada after coming to this country from Wexford, Ireland.  They settled in Lanark County and here made themselves a home and cleared their lot.  This Robert inherited as the only surviving son at his father’s death in 1887.  His mother died in 1880.  His brother John, oldest of the family, and Mark, the youngest. Both died in 1842.  His sisters are Mrs. Richard Code of Perth; Mrs. John Poole of North Elmsley (deceased 1888) and Miss Charlotte Whyte of Perth.  He was endowed naturally with more than ordinary physical strength or he could never have endured so much for about a year after his marriage to Lucinda White (note—here it is spelled ‘White’ again) in 1874, he had his arm taken off in a threshing machine.  Nevertheless, although handicapped, he worked his farm with the energy of a man with both hands.  Then in 1889 he was stepping out of the barn and he startled a heifer which was laying close to the door, and she rose quickly and pitched him forward several feet, alighting on his back; and again in 1894 he sustained a very bad fall caused by the rope of the hay fork breaking and becoming unbalanced, fell, striking on his head on the barn floor, which rendered him unconscious for a time.  This last fall seemed to have paralyzed his limbs for he never had the right use of them again.  He left a family of six daughters and four sons.  He was a man of generous disposition.  He was also a kind friend and neighbor, this fact being shown by the great attendance he received in the neighborhood and friends during his last illness having taken worse after last Easter.  His funeral which passed through Perth on Tuesday, May 4, to the Methodist burying ground, was well attended although it was a very wet day.

One by one the early settlers of this county are passing away.  On Friday night, John McLellan, one of the pioneers of Dalhousie, received his summons from the rider of the pale horse after a protracted illness.  The deceased was born in Glasgow, Scotland about 1812 and when only nine years of age came to this country with his parents who settled on the 2^nd Concession of Dalhousie, on the farm owned by Aaron Lashley.  When quite a young man, he took up the land on the 1^st Concession Dalhousie and was shortly afterwards married to Miss Fleming, sister of Robert Fleming, 3^rd Concession Lanark.  For upwards of half a century they lived there and raised a family of ten children two of whom are dead.  One daughter, Mrs. C. Jordan of Darling, died some years ago and a son Matthew died in Minnesota.  Of the remaining eight children, John, Robert, James and Maggie (Mrs. Elliott) are living in Minnesota; Aggie (Mrs. Dunham) in Prescott; Jennie (Mrs. H.(?) Jordan) in Darling; William in Brockville; George in Perth; Grace in Lanark.  For the past four or five years he and his daughter Grace had been living in Lanark and during that time he had been subject to frequent attacks of sickness.

Dalhousie Township has lost another of its oldest and most respected residents in the person of William Rodgers, 5^th Concession Dalhousie, who died yesterday evening at 8:00 at the age of 67.  His parents were among the first settlers of that township and he was born and brought up on the farm on which he died.  For a few years past the deceased had suffered from an abscess in his side but notwithstanding enjoyed fairly good health until last fall.  He was then taken worse and continued to decline throughout the winter until death brought him a final release from his sufferings.  The deceased leaves a wife and family of eight to mourn his departure.  Six of the children are living at home and the other two, the eldest and the eldest daughter live in the same township.  Era

Perth Courier, May 21, 1897

Carleton Place:  Dr. McDiarmid of Malbern, York County, a native of Beckwith, died at his home on Saturday at the age of 67.  Deceased was a son of the late Angus McDiarmid and a cousin of our townsmen Messrs. Robert, Duncan and William McDiarmid.

Carleton Place:  Mrs. Paul, mother of John Paul of Ramsay, died on Friday last at the ripe old age of 92 years.  The deceased lady was remarkable in having retained all her faculties until the last although so far beyond the allotted span of life was far more vigorous then many younger.

Cox—Died, at Perth on Wednesday evening, May 19, John Cox, aged 56. The funeral will take place at 4:00 today (Friday) from the residence of David Hogg.  The members of the True Briton’s Lodge AF&AM are requested to meet in the Lodge Room at 3:25 Friday afternoon to attend the funeral of our late brother John Cox.

Moodie—Died, at Burgess on Saturday, May 15, the infant son of James Moodie.

Sterns—Died, at Carleton Place on May 6, Minor Sterns, aged 81.

Arkinson—Died, at Perth on Saturday, May 15, Mary Echlin relict of the late John Arkinson, aged 74.

The Renfrew Mercury contains the anniversary of the death of William Arith of that town which occurred on the 3^rd inst. At the age of 67 years.  He was the son of Major Arith of Lanarkshire, Scotland and was born in 1829 within the present limits of Renfrew town being the second white child born in those precincts.  In 1864 he started a general store in Renfrew, which prospered, and in six years was able to retire and sold out to Messrs Barr and Wright.  He bought the Coumbes(?) Coombes(?) farm adjoining the town where he died.  He served both on the school board and municipal council and was an active member of the Liberal party.  His wife died a short time ago and he leaves four sons and three daughters all comfortably provided for.  Rev. Dr.(?) Campbell, Presbyterian minister, conducted the funeral service.

Yesterday morning, the town was startled at the news of the death of John Cox, lock master on the Tay Canal at Beveridge’s Bay.   He had died suddenly the night before at  Young’s Hotel.  It seems that Mr. Cox had gone to Perth on Wednesday afternoon to meet the canal inspector and was awaiting his arrival at Perth.  He was seated at a table at Young’s Hotel about 10:00 at night when he was taken suddenly ill and after rising and walking ten feet or so was caught while falling down and in a moment was a corpse although medical aid was summoned.  When it was settled that death had occurred, the remains were taken to the residence of his brother-in-law, David Hogg, from where the funeral will take place today.  Mr. Cox was 56 years of age at his death having been born in Perth in January, 1841.  His father, George Cox, was, in his day, one of our leading citizens, having been a member of the town council and school board for many years and also a prominent Free Mason of long standing.  The family was English—the grandfather, John Cox, was a sergeant in the British army who settled here in Perth in the early days when the regiment was disbanded after the War of 1812. The late John Cox was, like his father, a carriage maker, and carried on business for years in the well known store in the east ward until he was appointed lockmaster at Beveridge’s Bay in 1886 a position he filled with efficiency and satisfaction to the public and department.  He had lately been reappointed to the post and was looked upon as the local chief of the Tay Canal from his experience and position.  Mr. Cox was a volunteer at the time of the Fenian raids of 1866 and was a sergeant in the Perth Rifle Company while in Brockville and Perth in that memorable year.  He was a popular and warm hearted man.  Mr. Cox, being a mason, will be buried today at 4:00 in Elmwood Cemetery by the True Britons’ lodge with honors of the brotherhood.

The Globe on Wednesday contains the following obituary of the late Dr. McDiarmid of Scarboro Township, uncle of the McDiarmid brothers of Carleton Place.  “Seldom in the history of any place has there been witnessed in the township a more touching scene than the occasion of the funeral of the late Dr. McDiarmid.  Deceased was born in the township of Beckwith, Lanark County on May 26, 1833.  It was Dr. McDiarmid’s intention early in life to study for the ministry but owing to an affection of the throat he turned his attention to the study of medicine.  He began practice in Scarboro in 1868.  For more than a quarter of a century writes a friend of the deceased, ‘Dr. McDiarmid has occupied a very unique position in that township. Naturally of a retiring disposition, he possessed qualities of mind and heart of great excellence.  Marked individuality and strong force of character, he was a typical Highlander.  Ian McLaren’s description in The Bonnie Brier Bush, of Dr. McLure, finds its realization in a very marked circle in the life and character of Dr. McDiarmid, filling, as he did, a place in Scarboro similar to that of Dr. McLure in relation to the Drumtochty people.  Free from everything they savored of the spirit of show and parade, actuated by a lofty ideal, animated with noble impulses in life, he was wholly unselfish.  He lived in the lives and won the affection of the people.  Absolutely free from a mercenary spirit, he was the friend of the poor.  The closing scene of his life was touchingly beautiful.  The forenoon of the day on which he died he was out visiting the sick.  After dinner, his horse harnessed in the stable, he thought he would lie down for a few minutes before going out.  He lay down on the sofa in his surgery.  In the course of half an hour or so his wife entered the room and found him dead.  The high esteem in which Dr. McDiarmid was held was evidenced by the vast multitude of people that attended his funeral from all parts of the township.  May his mantle fall on a worthy successor.’ Dr. McDiarmid was a Presbyterian and in politics a staunch Reformer.  The pall bearers were Messrs. Amos Thomson, Frank Scott, James Sterling, S.J. Kennedy, Lyman Kennedy, and RichThomson.  Dr. McDiarmid leaves a widow, formerly Miss Pardee, and two brothers, Dr. Peter McDiarmid of Fontenelle, Iowa and Dr. James McDiarmid of Hensol, Ontario, to mourn his loss.”

Perth Courier, May 28, 1897

An old resident of Balderson, Jane Campbell, passed away at her home there on Tuesday last at the age of 74 years and her remains were buried in the Campbell cemetery on the 7^th Line Drummond on Thursday, a large assembly of friends and neighbors forming the funeral cortege.  The parents of the deceased were Highland Scots her father being Peter Campbell of Perthshire, Scotland.  The brothers and sisters of the deceased were:  Mrs. Cavers, Mrs. Peter Fisher, Mrs. Morphy, (Rev.) Robert Campbell (Montreal), Archibald Campbell, (Rev.) Alexander Campbell, and Donald and Peter of whom three are living

Bowles—Died, at Perth on Saturday, May 22, Ellen Free(?), relict of the late James Bowles, aged 67.

Shipman—Died, at the residence of his son, E.W.S. Shipman, Chicago, on Saturday, May 15, Sylvanus Keeles(?) Shipman, second son of the late Daniel Shipman, Esq., aged 79 years, 10 months.  Interment at Cataraqui Cemetery, Kingston.

Cunningham—Died, at the residence of John McEachren, Ramsay on May 18, Patrick Cunningham, aged 96(?) 99(?).

McLean—Died, at Ramsay on May 16, Robert McLean, aged 32.

Waddell—Died, at Pakenham on May 13(?)15(?), Miss Maggie Waddell, aged 20.

Dunlop—Died, at Almonte on May 16, Jean Dunlop, daughter of Andrew Dunlop, Morten Street, aged 28.

Lochead—Died, at Ottawa on May 15, D.C. Lochead, formerly of Almonte and Toronto, aged 62.

Stanleyville:  We are pained at being called upon to record the death of the little daughter of John McParland who died on Monday last.  A large concourse of friends attended the funeral at the Catholic cemetery.

The Brockville Recorder gives some addition particulars of the incidents in the life of the late William O’Mara who was buried in Perth a short time ago:  “The deceased gentleman was between 68 and 70 years of age, was a native of Ireland, but came to this country with his parents when about two years old.  The family were among those unfortunates who ascended the St. Lawrence at the time of the ship fever and met with great privations.  They disembarked here and first settled in the township of Kitley.  They then moved to the vicinity of Perth where if we mistake not, the body of the elder O’Mara now reposes.  William had a fondness for water and for many years sailed the lakes, retiring from that life about 13 years ago having in his time commanded several vessels.  He settled down in Smith’s Falls and has since followed by business of a ship’s carpenter, building several boats.  His wife died several years ago and the son here with him is the only child.  He has many relatives in that section, however, his brother Michael O’Mara, a well known stock buyer in Smith’s Falls, arrived here this afternoon. 

Perth Courier, June 4, 1897

Cavers—Died, at Bathurst on Sunday, May 31, Mary Campbell, relict of the late John Cavers, aged 80.

Elsewhere in the same newspaper :

One of the oldest residents of the Balderson settlement, Mrs. John Cavers, died at the residence of her son Peter on Monday last at the age of 80 years.  She was of Scotch parentage, her parents being Mr. and Mrs. Peter Campbell of Perthshire, Scotland and Mrs. Cavers may have been born in the old country herself or very shortly after her parents landed in Canada.  Her maiden name was Mary Campbell and her youth was spent near Balderson though after her marriage she and her husband lived on the 8^th Line Ramsay for 16 years.  They then moved to the Bathurst Line where they lived together for 37 years, Mr. Cavers dying 18 years ago.  Deceased left four of a family:  John Cavers of Columbus, Ohio; Peter on the Bathurst farm; Maggie, Mrs. Ferrier of the Scotch Line), Jennie, Mrs. Peter McNee of Harper.  Her brothers and sisters were:  Mrs. Morphy of Carleton Place; (Rev) Robert Campbell of Montreal; Rev. Archibald Campbell of Manitoba; Alexander, Donald (dead), James and Duncan.  Deceased was a Presbyterian and was interred in the Campbell burying ground on the 7^th Line Bathurst on Thursday.  Her sister Jane was buried there on the previous Thursday.

Howden—Died, at Winnipeg on Monday, May 28, Robert C. Howden, M.D., formerly of Perth, in his 63^rd year.

Elsewhere in the same paper:

As was feared, Dr. Howden of Winnipeg did not long survive the attack of paralysis which seized him some weeks ago but passed away on the 26^th of May at the age of 63(?)53(?) years.  The deceased was born in the province of Quebec and was a graduate of McGill College.  He began practice in Almonte but about 1864 removed to Perth where he acquired a large practice being looked upon as a physician and surgeon of great skill.  In 1892 he joined his fortunes with the number of Ontario contingents that left this province for Manitoba and he settled down to practice in Winnipeg where he also attained a great patronage.  The Winnipeg Tribune says:  “He opened up a practice here with a great reputation as a surgeon which he fully maintained always exhibiting great ability in his work. A few years after he arrived here he opened up a practice in Carberry but returned to Winnipeg a couple years later and he continued to practice here up to the time of his last illness.”  The deceased was married about 1861 to Martina, the eldest daughter of  Dr. James Nichol, who, with a family of six or seven children, survive him.  Two of the daughters, Bella and Mary, are married.  The doctor left many friends here who regretted his going, and who will feel sorrow at his death.  He was a man of social and friendly habits without a taint of dissipation.

Tullis—Died, at Drummond on Friday, May 28, Matthew Tullis, aged 44(?) 41(?).

James—Died, near Hilaborn(?), N.D., on Monday, May 16, Nathaniel B. James, son of Benjamin James, of Clayton, aged 30.

Perth Courier, June 11, 1897

Steacy—Died, at Drummond on Saturday, June 5, Robert H. Steacy, aged 25(?).

McIntyre—Died, at Balderson on Wednesday, June 9, Peter McIntyre, Sr., aged 94.

Elsewhere in the same paper:

A long and honorable life came to a close on Wednesday morning, June 9, when Peter McIntyre, Sr., 8^th Line Bathurst, passed away at the advanced age of 94.  Deceased was born near the beautiful glen of Lochcarhead, Perthshire, Scotland in 1803.  He spent some few years among the heather on the hills of his native land as a shepherd and in the year 1831 emigrated with his wife to Canada, settling down on the farm now occupied by Archibald McTavish, Drummond, where he lived 19 years.  In 1850 he moved to his late home in Bathurst where he spent the remainder of his life, esteemed and respected by all.  Being physically a strong man and endowed with the energy of his nationality, he succeeded in his pioneer work of making a comfortable home in the then back woods in Canada.  He was the eldest and last to survive of five brothers.  Three sisters, Mrs. D. McNee(?) of Iowa; Mrs. D.J. Campbell of Drummond; and Mrs. John A. Fraser of this town still survive him. Those of his family who are living are:  Mrs. Ainsley Keyes of Wilson Street; Miss Lizzie C. and John P. on the homestead; and Peter on the farm adjoining.  The funeral took place on Friday, 11^th inst., at 1:00 pm, Rev. J.S. McIlraith officiating.  The line of carriages which followed the remains of the departed to Elmwood Cemetery was fully a mile in length and told of the esteem in which he was held.  He was a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church and in politics upheld the principals of the Liberal party.

The Carleton Place Herald says:  “We regret to record the death of an old and respected resident of the Township of Lanark, James Trodden, which occurred on Sunday morning at the residence of his son-in-law R.A. Wright of this town.  The deceased was born in the town of Moatt(?), County Westmeath, Ireland and came to this country 54 years ago.  He walked from Ottawa, passing through Carleton Place when there were but few houses and settled on Lot 8, 6^th Concession Lanark where he resided until about two years ago when he came to live with his daughter.  His wife died four years ago.  There were two children Christopher on the homestead and Mrs. Wright of this town.  The funeral took place Monday afternoon to the Catholic Church and cemetery at Ferguson’s Falls.  The pall bearers were Messrs. Michael Murphy, James Smith, Thomas Woods, Michael Vallely. William Fennelson and John Kenny.  The deceased was in his 75^th year.”

Code—Died, in Drummond on Wednesday morning, June 9, Eliza Bailey, widow of the late James Code, aged 79.  The funeral will take place at 2:00 Friday from the residence of her son, 4^th Line Drummond, to Elmwood Cemetery.

Elsewhere in the same paper:

Mrs. James Code (nee Eliza Bailey), Drummond, died at the residence of her son John on Wednesday of this week at the age of 79 years.  She was a native of County Wexford, Ireland.  Her children are John and Josiah of Drummond, Mrs. Thomas Liddle of Middleville, Enoch on the homestead, Mrs. John Morris of Perth, and Mrs. Prettie of Hopetown.  Besides these was a Mrs. William Liddle who died about a year and a half ago.

Lowthers—Died, at Royal Victoria Hospital, Montreal, on June 4, Alfred Lowthers, formerly of Perth, aged 30(?).

Kirkpatrick—Died, at Perth on Tuesday, June 8, Mrs. Lawrence Kirkpatrick, aged 24.

Johnson—Died, at North Elmsley on Tuesday, June 1, Aurilla(?) Edmunds, wife of William Johnson, aged 72 years and 6(?) months.

The Carleton Place Herald notes the death of Mrs. William Lang of Beckwith on the 27^th May.  Her maiden name was Agnes Neilson and she was born in Paisley, Scotland the family settling in Ramsay.

The Almonte Gazette says:  “William Bowes, who has been ailing for some time, died Thursday, May 27.  He was born near Perth in 1836 being 61 years of age at the time of his demise.  He went from Perth to Osceola, where he taught school for a few years.  Tiring of school life, he started store keeping in Osceola.  This occupied his time until he decided to move to Almonte about 25 or 30 years ago.  While in Almonte he woked as a carpenter and cabinet maker.  In 1858 he linked his fortunes with those of Margaret Harty who preceded him to the grave four years ago and their union was blessed with a family of seven children four of whom still survive:  Mrs. J.E. Sullivan of Grand Forks, Dakota; Mrs. D. Tuffy of Cobden; Edward of Providence, R.I.; Mattie of this town.  In politics Mr. Bowes was one of the stalwart Conservatives of this Riding and at one time held a very responsible position in the Department of Agriculture in Ottawa.  Owing to ill health, however, he had to give it up.  In religion he was a Roman Catholic.  He was a member of the C.M.B.A. and carried an insurance in that body of $2,000.”

Perth Courier, June 18, 1897

Stafford—Died, at Perth on Wednesday, June 16, John Stafford, aged 67.

Somerville—Died, at Middleville, on Wednesday, June 9, William E. Somerville, aged 21 years and 9 months.

Warner—Died, at Snow Road, on June 9, Mary Anne Moorhouse Warner, beloved wife of Robert Warner, aged 65(?) years and 7 months.

Perth Courier, June 25, 1897

Geddes—Died, at Dalhousie Lake on Friday morning, June 11, Adam Wilfred McIntyre, only son and surviving child of Walter and Violet Geddes, aged four months and two days.

“Suffer the Little Children to Come Unto Me”.

After a severe illness of some weeks, our respected townsman John Stafford died of Bright’s Disease on Wednesday, June 16 at the age of 67.  Deceased was born on the 11^th Line Drummond and was one of a large family, the parents coming from the southern part of Ireland among the earliest settlers.  The family, through its various members, was well known throughout the county and the province.  The late Mr. Stafford learned the trade of shoe making in the palmy days of that business and carried on a large business in Almonte for 18 years and also had a shop in Ferguson’s Falls and Perth afterwards having retired in Perth for the past 14 years.  His brothers were:  Peter, living at Niagara Falls; Tobias in Renfrew; Father Stafford (dead) at Lindasy; James (dead) in Drummond; Henry (dead) in Almonte; Thomas in Drummond.  His sisters were:  Maggie (Sister Mary Elizabeth) and  Julia (Sister Mary Vincent) (dead), both of the House of Providence in Kingston.  His late brother Father Stafford was one of the best known advocates of temperance in the province and was besides a thorough Christian.  Deceased was this spring appointed bridge tender by the Dominion government but he did not, unfortunately, live long enough to perform his duties.  He leaves a wife (nee Miss Kean of Ramsay) and a large family of eight sons and three daughters.  Three of his sons are well and residents of New Orleans, Louisiana.  The funeral was a large one and took place to the Catholic Cemetery on Friday afternoon, Rev. Father French of Pembroke, nephew of Mrs. Stafford, conducting the solemn and impressive service at St. John’s Church.  The three surviving stalwart brothers, Peter, Tobias and Thomas were all present at the funeral.

The Smith’s Falls Record notes the death of an early settler of South Elmsley:  “Another of the early settlers of this part of the country passed away last Saturday evening in the person of Mrs. E.F. Weeks.  Deceased was born in County Derry, Ireland in 1827 and in 1833 came to this place with her family, settling on the Gould farm.  A few years later she married E.F. Weeks who for some years taught school in this vicinity and later at Lombardy.  The latter died about 16 years ago.”

On Wednesday evening last an old resident Thomas Croskery died very suddenly, it is supposed, from heart disease at his home opposite the Methodist Church.  He was born in the north of Ireland and came to Perth with his father, the late Robert Croskery, Sr., when a youth.  He learned the trade of shoe making with his father but since the decline of that business he has worked principally at other things.  He leaves one son and four daughters, all respectable residents of this and other towns.

Posted: 08 October, 2005.