Saline County Bios
"Portrait and Biographical Record of Dickinson, Saline, McPherson and Marion Counties," 1893
ELMER ELLSWORTH LEWIS was one of the most prominent young business men of Solomon City, and his death was mourned by all throughout the community. He was born in Malta, Ohio, May 24, 1861, and was the only son of Dr. Lewis, of this city. In 1877 he came with his parents to Kansas, the family settling in Abilene. Much of his boyhood was spent in his father's drug-store. After attending the public schools, he took a course of pharmacy in the State University of Lawrence and afterward opened a drug-store in Independence, Mo. he worked hard to secure a paying business, but when success had crowned his efforts his store was burned and he lost �1,800. Subsequently he came to Solomon City, where he again established a drug-store. He here met with prosperity, and later opened branch stores in Gypsum City and Abilene. He had a fine store and stock of goods in this place, and by his fair and honest dealing and courteous treatment of his customers won a liberal patronage.
Mr. Lewis was married in Independence, July 5, 1884, to Miss Maud Williams, who died May 4, 1886. Unto them was born a son, Elmer Ellsworth, who is now with his grandmother, Mrs. A. C. Williams, in Kansas City.
Mr. Lewis was an active member of the Odd Fellows' society and the Ancient Order of United Workmen. He was also a member of the State Board of Pharmacy and usually held some of its offices. As a business man he was enterprising and progressive, and had the confidence and good-will of all. He was highly respected throughout the community and his friends were indeed many. About a year prior to his death his health necessitated his withdrawal from business and he visited many health resorts all over this country, hoping to be benefited thereby, but he who had overcome obstacles, business disadvantages and trials, had to succumb to the Dread Destroyer. He passed away on the 7th of Mareh, 1889. H. Whitley and his family kindly opened their home to him, and surrounded by all the care and attention of these friends and the loving care of his father, his last days were quietly passed. He died in the full assurance of a life beyond the grave, and expressed this hope to his friends before he dropped asleep for the last time. The funeral services were conducted by the Rev. F. M. Porch, of the Lutheran Church of Abilene, who was assisted by Revs. Reddick and Hollen. The members of the Knights of Pythias and the United Workmen lodges attended the funeral in a body and a great concourse of friends and neighbors came to express their sorrow and sympathy.
�His life is now beyond
The reach of death or change.
Not ended but begun."
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This website created June 15, 2011 by Sheryl McClure.
� 2011 Kansas History and Heritage Project
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