Donald Brown Ewing

Other Events:

• Census: 1900, Gallipolis, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Donald B. Ewing, son, in the household of Robert Ewing
• Census: 1910, Harveysburg, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Donald Ewing, son, in the household of Robert B. Ewing

Notes:

.....Donald Brown Ewing, son of Robert Brown and Mary Laura Ewing, was born in Childress, Texas on Sept. 14, 1894. In 1895 his family moved back to their home state of Ohio, settling in Gallipolis, where his father was superintendent of schools. Donald attended Ohio State University, where he was a member of Alpha Rho Chi, professional architectural fraternity. He graduated in 1916 with a degree of Bachelor of Architecture. Early in 1917 he enlisted as a private in the U. S. Corps of Engineers, and in July of that year went to France with his regiment, there to help in the building of docks, railroads, warehouses and hospitals, which was part of a long-range program for a ten year war on the part of the United States. In Sept. 1918 he was commissioned Second Lieutenant in the U. S. Corps of Engineers. After the Armistice in Oct. 1918, he remained in France with the engineer corps, working on a project to rebuild the highways of that war-torn country. Returning to the United States in August, 1919, he settled in Chicago where for the next seven years he engaged in the selling of construction materials for Concrete Steel County, and the United States Gypsum Co.
.....On Sept. 1, 1920, Donald was married to Irma Mary Kueker of Faribault, Minnesota. she was born Dec. 10, 1895 and was the daughter of William L. D. Kueker and his wife Wanda Von Ziegenhagen. Mr. Kueker was the founder and proprietor of Farmer's Seed and Nursery Co. of Faribault.
.....In 1926 Donald and Irma Mary became residents of Cleveland, Ohio. In 1928 Donald purchased Cleveland Steel Specialty Company, manufacturers of metal building materials, and embarked on this somewhat unfamiliar business just at the beginning of the big depression. He continued with this enterprise for the next thirty-two years, during part of which time he was a member of Kiwanis Club and President of Southeast Manufacturer's Association of Cleveland. Early in 1961, he retired from active business, and with his wife, move to Calif.
.....Donald and Irma Mary have one child. [Source: Donald Brown Ewing, "Our Ewings in America 1740-1966", Santa Monica, California: The Acme Press, 1966]

Donald married Irma Mary Kueker on 1 Sep 1920. Irma was born on 10 Dec 1895; died on 6 Feb 1984 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California, United States; was buried in Feb 1984 in Cypress, Orange County, California, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events:

• Name: Brown Ewing
• Occupation: Teacher & Politician
• Census: 1900, Gallipolis, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Robert Ewing, school superintendent, head of household
• Census: 1910, Harveysburg, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Robert B. Ewing, High School Superintendent, head of household
• Newspaper: 8 Jun 1912, Gallipolis, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; Attending Funeral Services of Amos Clark; Address:
  The Gallipolis Daily Tribune
• Census: 1920, Franklin, Robertson County, Texas, United States; Address:
  Wheelock Road

Notes:

.....Robert Brown Ewing, son of John R. and Rachel Hawk Ewing, was born on Jan. 21, 1860 in Ewington, Ohio and died Feb. 24, 1930 in Franklin, Texas. He received his education at Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, and Normal School, Lebanon, Ohio. He was known to all as Brown.
.....On August 12, 1885 he was married to Mary Laura Clark (July 23, 1864 - Nov. 26, 1956), daughter of the Hon. Amos Clark and wife Harriet Frances Riggs. Mary Laura -- known as Mamie -- was born in Eureka, Ohio, which is about twelve miles down the Ohio River from Gallipolis. She spent her youth on the Clark farm about eight miles down river from Gallipolis, and graduated from Gallipolis High School in 1885.
.....Soon after marriage in 1885, Brown and Mamie moved to Texas where Brown pursued his teaching career in Dallas, Weatherford, and Childress. During this nine year period their four children, Max, the twins Van and Rex, and Donald were born. In 1895 Brown heard that they were looking for a new superintendent of schools in Gallipolis. He at once took the train to Gallipolis and after a short time was elected to this position. He telegraphed to Mamie to bring the children to Gallipolis. On the way north there was a stop-over in St. Louis, and the young mother found the time and energy to take her four children to see the sights at the zoo, and to give the three older children a ride on the elephant. With one child eight, the twins six, and the baby only nine months old, one wonders how she managed.
.....In 1900, after six years as Superintendent of Gallipolis Schools, Brown was not re-elected to his school position. He then moved with his family to Ewington, where they lived in Calla House.
.....In 1902 Brown resumed his teaching career as superintendent of schools in other towns in Ohio, including Centerville and Carlisle, both near Dayton. In 1915, Brown retired from teaching and he and Mamie moved to Franklin, Texas, where Brown became County, Agricultural agent of Robertson County,. This position, together with certain civic activities, enabled him to gradually become well acquainted with most of the voters in the county, and he was asked to stand for election to the State Legislature of Texas, on the democratic ticket. From a long line of republicans, and a lifelong republican himself this took a little soul-searching. However, running for election in Texas as a democrat is tantamount to election, and following the old adage of 'when in Rome' he accepted the invitation to run and was elected a member of the Texas State Legislature, where he served for several years until his death in 1930. [Source: Donald Brown Ewing, "Our Ewings in America 1740-1966", Santa Monica, California: The Acme Press, 1966]

Robert married Mary Laura Clark on 12 Aug 1885 in Gallia County, Ohio, United States. Mary (daughter of Amos Clark and Harriett Frances Riggs) was born on 23 Jul 1864 in Eureka, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; died on 26 Nov 1956 in Gallipolis, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; was buried in Nov 1956 in Gallipolis, Gallia County, Ohio, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events:

• Name: Mamie Clark
• Census: 1870, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Mary L. Clark, in the household of Amos Clark
• Census: 1880, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Mary L. Clark, daughter, in the household of Amos Clark
• Census: 1900, Gallipolis, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Mary L. Ewing, wife, 4 children/4 living, in the household of Robert Ewing
• Census: 1910, Harveysburg, Warren County, Ohio, United States; as Mamie C. Ewing, wife, 4 children/3 living, in the household of Robert B. Ewing
• Beneficiary: 20 Sep 1911; in the will of her father, Amos Clark, as Mamie L. Ewing
• Newspaper: 8 Jun 1912, Gallipolis, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; Attending Funeral Services of Amos Clark; Address:
  The Gallipolis Daily Tribune
• Census: 1920, Franklin, Robertson County, Texas, United States; Address:
  Wheelock Road

Notes:

Mamie was a member of Daughters of the American Revolution, active in church work, and for several years Secretary of the Robertson County, Fair Board and Director of the First National Bank of Franklin. After the death of Brown, she returned to live in Gallipolis for the rest of her life, and her home there was a popular stopping-off place for her relatives whenever they were near Gallipolis. Many of these attended her ninetieth birthday, and that day the Postmaster of Gallipolis personally delivered to her a good sized package of birthday greetings. Brown and Mamie rest in the cemetery on top of the hill at Gallipolis. [Source: Donald Brown Ewing, "Our Ewings in America 1740-1966", Santa Monica, California: The acme Press, 1966]

Other Events:

• Religion: Active in the Methodist Episcopal Church
• Census: 1850, Frankfort, Waldo County, Maine, United States; as Amos Clark, in the household of Prudence Clark
• Census: 1860, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Amos Clark, clerk, in the household of Joshua Clark
• Military: 13 Aug 1861; enlisted in Co. I, 36th Ohio Infantry as 1st Sergeant
• Military: 4 Mar 1862; was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant Co. G, 36th Ohio Infantry during the Civil War
• Military: 17 Mar 1863, Carthage, Smith County, Tennessee, United States; was discharged from the military
• Newspaper: 4 Jul 1867; Gallipolis Journal (Gallipolis, Ohio), 11 July 1867, p2
• Newspaper: 4 Feb 1869; Gallipolis Journal (Gallipolis, Ohio), 4 February 1869, p3
• Census: 1870, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Amos Clark, Steam Boat Clerk, head of household
• Census: 1880, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Amos Clark, Produce Speculator, head of household
• Newspaper: 18 Nov 1880; Gallipolis Journal (Gallipolis, Ohio), 18 November 1880, p3
• History / Bio: 1882; History of Gallia County (Chicago and Todelo: H. H. Hardesty & Co., 1882), p27
• Physical Description: 21 Aug 1885; height 5' 11", dark complexion, black hair, brown eyes
• Military Pension: 21 Aug 1885, Eureka, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; filed a Declaration for Original Invalid Pension
• Census: 1890, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Amos Clark. Lieut, Company G, 36 Ohio Infantry
• History / Bio: 1898; History of the Rebuplican Party of Ohio (Chicago: The Lewis Publishing Company, 1898), p294
• Census: 1900, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Amos Clark, farmer, head of household
• Census: 1910, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Amos Clark, farmer, head of household
• Will: 20 Sep 1911, Gallia County, Ohio, United States
• Obituary: 4 Jun 1912; The Gallipolis Daily Tribune (Gallipolis, Ohio) 4 June 1912, p1
• Obituary: 5 Jun 1912; Gallipolis Daily Tribune (Gallipolis, Ohio) 5 June 1912 p1
• Obituary: 5 Jun 1912; Newspaper unknown - original clipping
• Obituary: 6 Jun 1912; Xenia Daily Gazette (Xenia, Ohio), 6 June 1912, p5
• Probate: 24 Jun 1912, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; Address:
  Probate Court

Notes:

Military:

Civil War Service
Amos Clark enlisted in the Civil War on August 13, 1861 as 1st Sergeant in Company I, 36th Ohio Infantry. Amos was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant March 4, 1862 and mustered to company "G" 36th Ohio Infantry. In June 1862 while on a forced march to Jackson River Depot (about 200 miles) and near Meadow Bluff, Virginia he contracted chronic diarrhea and fever. The weather was inclement and they were without tents. By permission of General George Crook he was taken to Gauley Hospital, later transferred to Gallipolis Hospital, and granted leave of absence for treatment of stomach and liver trouble. After about two months he was able to join his regiment. Amos Clark was discharged March 17, 1863. September 3, 1885 Amos filed a Declaration for Invalid Pension, Application 548.698 Certificate 338.465. After the death of Amos his widow Sarah filed for a Widow's Pension,. Application 988.262, Certificate 745.319

Newspaper:

Notice.
Lost Note for $1000.00, drawn by Jacob Rigs, in favor of Amos Clark, and bearing date of April 26th, 1867, payable in sixty days from date. All persons are notified not to trade for said note as payment has been stopped.
Amos Clark
July 4 '67

Newspaper:

Court.—The Spring Term of the Court of Common Pleas will begin, in this city, March 8th. The following are the Jurors selected...
Grand Jurors... Listed among the names is Amos Clark, Clay and Jesse Ingels, Gallipolis.

Newspaper:

Five coal and produce boats, belonging to Graham, Riggs & Clark, left Monday in tow of the Thomas Means, for the South. Amos Clark and Ed. Riggs accompany them.

History / Bio:

AMOS CLARK—has been married twice. His first wife, Frances H., daughter of James and Mary Riggs, was married to him June 2, 1863, and died Nov. 24, 1874. She was the mother of three children: Mamie Laura, born July 23, 1864; James Stephen, Mar. 8, 1869; Ada Frances, Nov. 7, 1871. His second wife, Mrs. Sallie B. Harper, was married to him in Gallipolis, Ohio, Oct. 19, 1881. She was born in Gallia county, Ohio, Oct. 24, 1851, and is the daughter of Jesse and Mary A. (Waddell) Ingels. Her father came to this county in 1826. Her mother was born here in 1830. Mr. Clark is a resident of Clay township, and settled in this county in 1859. He was born in Frankfort, Maine, Dec. 8, 1839, and his parents, Stephen and Prudence M. (Martin) Clark, now deceased, were residents of Waldo county, Maine. He entered the late war July, 1861, and was appointed orderly sergeant of Company I, 36th O. V. I. He was commissioned second lieutenant of Company G, 36th O. V. I., in Mar. 1862, resigned April, 1863, on account of disability. Occupation, farming. Address, Eureka, Gallia county, Ohio.

Census:

Special Schedule - Surviving Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines
Amos Clark. Lieut, Company G, 36 Ohio Infantry
Enlistment: 13 Aug 1861
Discharge: 26 July 1865
Length of Service: 1y 4m
Post Office: Raccoon Island, Ohio
Disability: liver disease, chronic diarhea

History / Bio:

Amos Clark, of Raccoon Island, Gallia County, has for many years been one of the most active Republicans in Ohio, giving to his party the benefits of a keen mentality, an energetic nature and an unswerving fidelity to its principles, believing them to be for the best of interests and future prosperity of the nation. In 1889 Mr. Clark was elected a member of the board of equalization of Ohio from the eighth senatorial district, over W. S. Thorniley, his Democratic opponent. The board meets every ten years to equalize the value of counties and cities of this state. Ever since 1864, when he voted for Abraham Lincoln, Mr. Clark has supported and worked for the principles of the Republican party, and today no man in the county has a wider influence than he or is more closely identified with the inside workings of that organization. He has frequently been the committeeman for his neighborhood, has served on the county committee, and as a delegate he has been in some of the most noted state conventions, among which may be mentioned the one in which William McKinley was nominated the first time for governor of Ohio. In attending the congressional and senatorial conventions Mr. Clark has always taken an active part, and in county politics he has figured as a most potent factor.
The Clarks of today are descendants of a good old New England family, the male members of which were in early times adherents of the Whig party, the father of our subject, Stephen Clark, being an old-line Whig, who lived and died in Maine, where he reared five sons, four of whom took part in the Civil war. J. M. Clark, at present in the pension department at Washington, District of Columbia, at one time lived in Gallia county, but later moved to Danville, Illinois.
He was a lieutenant of Company I, Thirty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, during the war. The three other brothers of our subject were Stephen, Henry and Augustus.
At the age of nineteen, Amos Clark came to Gallia county, and for one winter taught school, the following year engaging in boating on the river, in which vocation he continued until the outbreak of the war, when he returned home and enlisted in 1861, in the three-year service, his regiment, the Thirty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, being assigned to duty with the Army of West Virginia and the Army of the Potomac, and participated in the battles of Antietam and South Mountain, together with numerous others, till February, 1863, the regiment was transferred to Tennessee and became a part of the Army of the Cumberland, and where Mr. Clark remained until his term of service expired, when he was honorably discharged, and, as his health had become seriously impaired, he returned home. He subsequently located at Chambersburg, Gallia county, Ohio, and with his brother, J. M., engaged in the mercantile business for the next five years, when Mr. Clark once more embarked in his former business, buying and selling produce, which he boated down the river to Vicksburg, and he also built up a coal trade along the river, his southern headquarters being Vicksburg, and this vocation he carried on successfully up to within a few years, when he retired from active life, and is now residing on a large farm near Raccoon Island on the Ohio river. He has been a member of the Gallia County Soldiers' Relief Commission ever since it was organized, and he is affiliated with the Masonic fraternity, the Knights of Pythias, and D. L. Martin Post, Grand Army of the Republic, of which he is one of the organizers and was its first commander.
In 1863 Mr. Clark was married to Miss Fannie Riggs, and of this union three children were born namely: James S., who is now in Montana; Mamie L., the wife of R. B. Ewing, of Gallipolis, Ohio; and Ada, who is a teacher in the Ohio Soldiers' and Sailors' Children's Home, at Xenia, Ohio. Mr. Clark's second marriage too place in 1881, when he was united to Mrs. E. L. Harper. Our subject is in favor of a McKinley tariff, Blaine's idea of reciprocity, and sound money, is a good Republican and a loyal American, and is one of the most highly respected citizens in southern Ohio.
Left Maine by sea and traveled to New Orleans, then from there to Ohio. He clerked in brother Joshua's store until the War. All five brothers were in Civil War.

Will:

Will:
I, Amos Clark of Gallia County, Ohio being of sound and disposing mind and memory do make, publish and declare this as and for my last will and testament, that is to say: First - I will and direct that all just debts existing against me at the time of my decease may be settled. Second - I give and bequeath to my wife Sallie V. Clark, all my household goods of every nature and character absolutely. And I also give, bequeath and devise to my said wife Sallie V. Clark the one third (1/3) part of all my property both personal and real of every nature and character wheresoever situate absolutely and in fee simple. Third - I give, bequeath and devise all my property not heretofore disposed of, both personal and real, of every nature and character wheresoever situate to my three children, Mamie L. Ewing, James S. Clark and Ada F. Lackey, to each, the full on third (1/3) part thereof absolutely and in fee simple. Fourth - I hereby will and direct that the several devisees and bequests, devised and bequeathed in this my last will be charged and subject to the following provisions to wit: If at the time of my decease, any one or all of said legatees or devisees named therein, be indebted to me for money to them loaned, or by me paid for them as surety, or after my decease any one or all of them become indebted to my estate on account of monies paid out of my estate by reason of any being surety for any one or all of them, or by reason of the failure on the part of either of them to pay his note or obligation, of which I may be a co-maker with either of them, and for the payment of which I am responsible only as surety, then and in such event, the share and portion of my estate bequeathed and devised to such legatee or devisee by this will shall be charged with such indebtedness to my estate from said legatee or devisee and the same shall become a lien on the share and portion of my estate so bequeathed and devised to such legatee or devisee - And unless such legatee or devisee pay off said indebtedness and save my estate harmless therefrom then his or her share and portion under this will shall be sold by my executors to pay such indebtedness, my executors paying any surplus after paying such indebtedness to said legatee on devisee. I hereby revoke all former wills by me made. I hereby nominate and appoint Jasper C. Ingels and my son, James S. Clark sole executors of this my last will and testament to serve without being required to give bond for the performance of their duties hereunder. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand at Gallipolis, Ohio this 20th day of September A.D. 1911
Amos Clark
Signed by the said Amos Clark who at the same time published and declared the same as and for his last will and testament in the presence of us, who in his presence and in the presence of each other and at his request have hereto subscribed our names as witnesses.
Robert M. Switzer, Gallipolis, O.
Alvin O. Dickey, Gallipolis, O.

Obituary:

AMOS CLARK DEAD
Prominent Gallia County Citizen Passed Away at Xenia
Auditor James S. Clark received the sad news, this morning, that had been foreshadowed in these columns, of the death of his father at the home of his daughter Mrs. Ada Lackey of Xenia, O.
It is thought that the body will reach here Wednesday evening, when Undertaker Wetherholt will have charge, but further details of the funeral and burial cannot be given at this time, being undetermined.
Mr. Clark was born at Winterport, Maine, 72 years ago the 8th of last December.
He came to New Orleans when only 19 years of age, and followed the river up to Chambersburg, and later he and brother Joshua went to merchandizing together and running the wharfboat.
Later on he bought a farm and became a farmer prominent as such and later on formed a partnership with Capt. William Graham and Jacob Riggs, under the firm name of Graham, Clark & Riggs, and boated produce south for perhaps 30 years and bought up large quantities of fruit, running into immense transactions some years. A year ago he sold his farm to John Sanders and has done nothing since but try to recuperate his failing health which began several years ago, but in the last two years particularly so. Last fall he went to Florida and spent his winter at St. Petersburg with his wife, they only arriving North recently, and going immediately to Xenia where they have been sojourning until the end.
Mr. Clark was a member of the State Board of Equalization a few years ago, and had been often spoken of for high places in the State, but shifting conditions in politics never seemed to quite be opportune, but he was recognized as capable and worthy of distinguished preferment.
He was married first to Miss Fannie Riggs in June, 1865, and became the father of Mrs. R. B. Ewing of Carlisle, O., Mrs. Dr. Lackey of Xenia, and Mr. J. S. Clark, the present auditor of Gallia county.
Mrs. Clark dying, he was united in marriage the second time to Mrs Sallie Harper, widow of the late Attorney Eben Harper, in October, 1881, and she survives him without children.
He was a member of the M. E. church and a highly moral christian man of a kindly and agreeable nature and much respected and admired by a large acquaintance and sincerely and devotedly loved by family and relatives.
He belonged to the Chambersburg lodges of Masons and Knights of Pythias and was a valued fraternal brother and will receive all the honors these orders can possibly confer and all who knew him will regret that he was unable to continue a useful influential and worthy life, whose trend had been for the good of his fellow man, the world and in obedience to the Divine Will of an Over-ruling Providence.

Obituary:

HON. AMOS CLARK
Died at Xenia Yesterday Morning--
Well Known and Highly Respected Throughout County.
Yesterday morning Auditor James S. Clark received a telegram that his father, Hon. Amos Clark had died at 5:45 o'clock at Xenia, O., at the home of his daughter, Mrs. B. L. Lackey. Mr. Clark had been in failing health for some time and spent the past winter in Florida in the hope of being benefited by a change of climate. He returned to Xenia about two months ago and since then failed rapidly. He was born in Westport, Me., December 8th, 1939, and was 72 years, 5 months and 26 days old. For a short time he was a sailor and when 19 years of age came to this country from New Orleans and located near Chambersburg. In connection with his brother Joshua he operated a store and wharfboat at that place for a number of years. June 2, 1865 he was united in marriage with Miss Fannie Riggs and they became the parents of three children, Auditor James S. Clark, Mrs. R. B. Ewing, of Carlisle, O., and Mrs. B. L. Lackey, of Xenia, all of whom survive. In October, 1881, several years after the death of his first wife, he was united in marriage with Mrs. Sallie Ingels Harper, who survives him.
For over twenty-five years he was engaged in the apple and produce business with the firm of Graham, Clark and Riggs and was very successful. Until two years ago he owned one of the best farms on the Ohio River and was always a progressive, wideawake farmer.
He served three years in the Civil War in the 36th O. V. I. and was promoted to Second Lieutenant for meritorious service. He was also a member of the State Board of Equalization at one time and for years was prominent and active in Republican politics.
Mr. Clark could fitly be described as a gentleman of the old school and as a man of sterling worth. He was widely known in this section of the country and highly respected. His relatives have the sincere sympathy of many friends, who are grieved to learn of their loss.
His body will arrive here on the H. V. Thursday evening and will be taken in charge by Wetherholt. The funeral services will be held at the residence of James S. Clark Friday morning and will be conducted by Rev. J. R. Fields.
Three brothers also survive, J. M. Clark of Topeka, Kas., Henry B. of Girard, Kas. and Augustus of Winterport, Me.

Obituary:

Funeral Services
The body of Mr. Amos Clark will arrive here Thursday evening. The funeral services will be conducted at the home of his son Auditor Clark, by Rev. J. R. Field of Oak Hill, Friday forenoon and the interment by Wetherholt the place not being fully decided upon, and will be attended by members of both the Masonic and Knights of Pythias orders. Gallia Lodge of Chambersburg will have charge.

Obituary:

FUNERAL SERVICE FOR HON. AMOS CLARK
Brief funeral services for the late Hon. Amos Clark were held Thursday morning at the home of his son-in-law and daughter, Dr. and Mrs. B. L. Lackey, on Home avenue. The Rev. O. M. Sellers, of Jamestown, an uncle of Dr. Lackey, was in charge of the service, assisted by the Rev. C. W. Sullivan. Rev. Sellers gave the funeral discourse. A quartette, Mr. and Mrs. J. C.. Dodds, Frank Keyes and Raymond Stillings sang, "Safe in the Arms of Jesus" and "In the Upper Garden." Shortly after the services, the family started with the body for Gallipolis, where the burial will take place.

Probate:

Probate Records:
Gallia County, Ohio
p266 - 16 June 1912 Last Will and Testament of Amos Clark, deceased, was produced and offered for probate.
p270 - 24 June 1912 Will admitted to probate.
p275 - 6 July 1912 James S. Clark and J. C. Ingels appointed Executors after accepting letters of testamentary.
p285 - 24 July 1912 Executors filed an Inventory and Appraisement. Confirmed and ordered to be recorded.

Died:

Amos Clark Dead
Prominent Gallia County Citizen Passed Away at Xenia
Auditor James S. Clark received the sad news, this morning, that had been foreshadowed in these columns, of the death of his father at the home of his daughter Mrs. Ada Lackey of Xenia, O. It is thought that the body will reach here Wednesday evening, when Undertaker Wetherholt will have charge, but further details of the funeral and burial cannot be given at this time, being undetermined.
Mr. Clark was born at Winterport, Maine, 72 years ago the 8th of last December. He came to New Orleans when only 19 years of age, and followed the river up to Chambersburg, and later he and brother Joshua went to merchandizing together and running the wharfboat there. Later on he bought a farm and became a farmer prominent as such and later on formed a partnership with Capt. William Graham and Jacob Riggs, under the firm name of Graham, Clark & Riggs, and boated produce south for perhaps 30 years and bought up large quantities of fruit, running into immense transactions some years. A year ago he sold his farm to John Sanders and has done nothing since but try to recuperate his failing health which began several years ago, but in the last two years particularly so. Last fall he went to Florida and spent his winter at St. Petersburg with his wife, they only arriving North recently, and going immediately to Xenia where they have been sojourning until the end.
Mr. Clark was a member of the State Board of Equalization a few years ago, and had been often spoken of for high places in the State, but shifting conditions in politics never seemed to be quite opportune, but he was recognized as capable and worthy of distinguished preferment.
He was married first to Miss Fannie Riggs in June, 1865, and became the father of Mrs. R. B. Ewing of Carlisle, O., Mrs. Dr. Lackey of Xenia, and Mr. J. S. Clark, the present auditor of Gallia county.
Mrs. Clark dying, he was united in marriage the second time to Mrs Sallie Harper, widow of the late Attorney Eben Harper, in October, 1881, and she survives him without children.
He was a member of the M.E. church and a highly moral christian man of a kindly and agreeable nature and much respected and admired by a large acquaintance and sincerely and devotedly loved by family and relatives. (Gallipolis Daily Tribune, June 7, 1912 , Transcribed by Henny Evans)

Amos married Harriett Frances Riggs on 2 Jun 1863 in Gallia County, Ohio, United States. Harriett (daughter of James Riggs and Mary Bare) was born on 13 Sep 1843 in Gallia County, Ohio, United States; died on 24 Nov 1874 in Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events:

• Physical Description: Red hair
• Name: Fanny Riggs
• Occupation: Assistant to Judge
• Census: 1850, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Harriett F. Riggs, in the household of James Riggs
• Census: 1860, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Francis Riggs, in the household of James Riggs
• Newspaper: 11 Jun 1863, Gallipolis, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; Married; Address:
  Gallipolis Journal
• Census: 1870, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Frances Clark, in the household of Amos Clark
• Obituary: 27 Nov 1874

Notes:

Obituary:

CLARK—Nov. 24th, 1874, at her residence in Clay township, Mrs. Frances Harriet Clark. She was born Sept. 13th, 1843; for sixteen years was a faithful member of the M. E. Church. Her loss is greatly felt in this community.

Newspaper:

Married
—On June 2d, 1863, at the residence of the bride's father, in Clay township, by Rev. J. Barringer, Lieut. Amos Clark, to Miss Fanny Riggs, all of Gallia county O.

Obituary:

Harriet Clark
The funeral of Harriet Clark, 83, widow of the late Captain Amos Clark, who died Tuesday, was held Thursday afternoon at 1 o'clock from the residence of her nephew, Philip E. Gilbert, Huffman Hill. The remains were interred in Greencastle cemetery.

Notes:

Married:

Newspaper: Gallipolis Journal (Gallipolis, Ohio), Thursday, June 11, 1863 Page 3
MARRIED
On June 2d, 1863, at the residence of the bride's father, in Clay township, by Rev. J. Barringer, Lieut. Amos Clark, to Miss Fanny Riggs, all of Gallia county O.

Other Events:

• Census: 1830, Frankfort, Waldo County, Maine, United States; as Stephen Clark
• Census: 1840, Waldo County, Maine, United States; as Stephen Clark
• Probate: 3 Jan 1853, Waldo County, Maine, United States

Stephen married Prudence Martin in 1819. Prudence (daughter of Holbrook Martin and Lydia Hosmer) was born on 11 May 1800 in Marblehead, Essex County, Massachusetts, United States; was christened on 11 May 1800 in Marblehead, Essex County, Massachusetts, United States; died on 22 Feb 1860 in Gallia County, Ohio, United States; was buried in Feb 1860 in Gallia County, Ohio, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events:

• Census: 1850, Frankfort, Waldo County, Maine, United States; as Prudence Clark, head of household
• Census: 1860, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Prudence Clark, died in February

Notes:

Mentioned in the probate records of Stephen Clark, deceased.

Other Events:

• Religion: Member of Methodist Episcopal Church
• Census: 1820, Grandview Township, Washington County, Ohio, United States; as James Riggs, farmer
• Census: 1830, Ohio Township, Monroe County, Ohio, United States; as James Riggs
• Census: 1840, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as James Riggs, farmer
• Beneficiary: 19 Oct 1844; in the will of his father as son James
• Census: 1850, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as James Riggs, farmer, head of household
• Newspaper: 12 Jun 1851; Gallipolis Journal (Gallipolis, Ohio), 12 June 1851, p2
• Newspaper: 28 Oct 1852; Gallipolis Journal (Gallipolis, Ohio), 28 October 1852, p2
• Newspaper: 28 Oct 1852; Gallipolis Journal (Gallipolis, Ohio), 28 October 1852, p2
• Newspaper: 4 May 1854; Gallipolis Journal (Gallipolis, Ohio), 4 May 1854, p3
• Census: 1860, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as James Riggs, farmer, head of household
• Newspaper: 19 Mar 1863; Gallipolis Journal (Gallipolis, Ohio), 19 March 1863, p3
• Census: 1870, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as James Riggs, farmer, head of household
• Newspaper: 18 Aug 1870; Gallipolis Journal (Gallipolis, Ohio), 18 August 1870, p2: Sale of Property
• Newspaper: 18 Aug 1870; Gallipolis Journal (Gallipolis, Ohio), 18 August 1870, p2: A Memoir
• Newspaper: 15 Sep 1870; Gallipolis Journal (Gallipolis, Ohio), 3 September 1870, p3: Real Esttate
• History / Bio: 1882; History of Gallia County (Chicago and Todelo: H. H. Hardesty & Co., 1882), p20
• Newspaper: 18 Apr 1990; Times Sentinel (Gallipolis, Ohio), 15 April 1990, pB7

Notes:

My great grandfather, James Riggs, built this big brick home on the Ohio River 7 miles south of Gallipolis in about 1836. He had come to Ohio as a very young child from Washington D.C. where he was born in 1797. He and his parents came west over the mountains with a single horse. For the journey he was placed in one end of a large bag thrown across the horse's back which was balanced on the other side by a wooly-headed little negro girl named Sally. His mother rode upon the horse with his older brother, Bazel Wesley, and his father trudged along on foot carrying his gun.

James Riggs married Mary Bare in 1820 in Washington County, and in 1832 they moved to Gallia County,. They were the first owners of this farm. Here they reared their family of 11 children.

James and Mary, in their first years in Gallia County, were instrumental in forming the first Ohio Conference of Methodist Churches. He gave land to the church from one corner of his farm for the location of Clay Chapel Church and for the cemetery which is the final resting place for most members of this old family who owned this farm for 130 years. The church was dismantled about 1955. James Riggs also provided the land for a parsonage which was built in 1860 about a half mile south of Clay Chapel Cemetery.

My grandfather, Jacob Riggs, born in 1824, son of James, married Elizabeth Guthrie in 1848. They reared a family of 8 children in this same house. Jacob and Elizabeth Riggs and Their children carried on two more generations of devotion and service to Clay Chapel Church.

The northeast corner of the farm was known as Riggs Landing and here they loaded flat boats with any produce and livestock that were ready for marketing. Jacob would accompany these goods to their destinations, often as far south as New Orleans.

My father, Earnest Jacob Riggs, was the youngest child of Jacob and Elizabeth. He was born in this house in 1873 and died in it at the age of 86. His farming operations included a dairy and orchards. He propagated the apply variety which he named the Gallia Beauty.

Earnest's first marriage was to Alyce Stoner in 1898. She died in 1907. Lowell Edward is their son. In 1917 Ernest married Naomi Haber and I am the oldest of their 3 children. My brother is Ernest Jacob Riggs Jr. and Rose Elizabeth Riggs Bliss, my sister.

The family farm has changed ownership 3 times in more recent years and most unfortunately the big brick home was badly damaged, if not destroyed, by fire in 1979.

The present generation of Riggs children live in scattered areas of the States now, but we still regard "Riverside Farm" with much love and affection and no matter where we live, it will always be "home" to each of us. Submitted by Betty Jean Riggs Lowthian. [Reference: "Gallia County, Ohio People in History to 1980". Gallia County, Historical Society, Taylor Publishing County, Paoli, Pennsylvania, 1980, pg. 285]

The following is another version of the same family story....
Came from Hagerstown, Md. to Buckhill Bottom, Monroe County, Ohio, then to Hannibal, Monroe County, Ohio...then to Gallia County, Ohio in 1828 when son Jacob was 4 years old. Jacob rode in one side of saddle bag and a colored boy, Tom, rode in the other side of saddle bag. The colored boy, Tom, and his mother were brought to Gallia County, Ohio at this time and there was a house on the Riggs farm called Tom's house where Tom lived and died. Tom never married as there were no other colored people in the community at that time.

Census:

Also in this household is Lovina Fickle, age 21.

Newspaper:

Roads Established—A road commencing at the Ohio river near James Riggs, in Clay township, and intersecting the main road between William Trotter's and Jefferson Porter's, in Harrison township.

Newspaper:

A curiosity in the way of an Indian stone pipe, was exhibited at the Fair. It was found a few months since on the farm of our friend J. Riggs, and by him exhibited.

Newspaper:

DEDICATION—We have been requested to give notice that the Methodist Chapel, near the residence of James Riggs, in Clay township, will be dedicated next Sunday. Elder Spencer will be present.

Newspaper:

FARMS FOR SALE
A farm in Jackson county, Virginia, one mile above Moore's Mill on Mill Creek, containing 120 acres, 90 acres of which are improved.
Also, 320 acres two miles up Raccoon, in Clay township, Gallia county, Ohio, with 140 acres cleared, 80 good bearing apple trees, a good spring of water, and is the best stock farm for the same money in the county.
Also, I will sell my home farm, two miles below Raccoon creek, in Gallia county, containing 480 acres, 300 acres cleared land. There is a good house, barns and two orchards on the Farm, and well set with grass, and upon the whole is as good a stock farm as may in the county.
Also, a six acre lot below Chamber's Mill, in Clay township, Gallia county, on the river bank, with a frame house and blacksmith shop, and very suitable for a mechanic.
For terms, enquire of the undersigned.
JAMES RIGGS

Census:

Also in this household is:
Jane Jenkins, age 21, born in England
Levinia Fickler, age 25, born in Ohio
George Allman, age 11, born in Ohio

Newspaper:

Notice is hereby given to any person trading in certain notes given by John Anderson to James Riggs or his order, bearing date March 29, 1862. One payable in six months, one in eighteen months, one in two years and a a half, and one in three years and a half from date.
James Riggs
Eureka, Gallia co., O., Feb 10 1863

Census:

also listed: Stafford McClary, age 12, male, white, living in the family, born Ohio and Jackson Powers, age 50, male, black, farm laborer, born Elinginia

Newspaper:

Sale of personal Property
The personal property belonging to the Estate of the late James Riggs, deceased, will be sold at public auction, at his late residence, in Clay township, Gallia county, Ohio, on the ninth (9th) day of September next, commencing at nine o'clock in the forenoon.
The property to be sold consists of horses, cattle, hogs, farming utensils, household goods, etc.
Terms of sale-Cash in hand for all sums up to five dollars, and aa credit of six months on all sums above that amount, to be secured by note and sufficient security.
Also, will be sold at private sale, 150 acres of land, known as the Eoff farm.
Jacob Riggs,
Agent for heirs of said Estate

James Riggs' Estate
All persons having claims against the Estate of the late James Riggs, of Clay township, Gallia county, Ohio, are hereby notified to present the same for payment to the undersigned, by whom all claims will be fully settled and satisfied. Also, all persons indebted to said Estate will make payment to the undersigned, who is authorized, by the heirs of said Estate to make full and complete settlement of said Estate.
Jacob Riggs, Agent of the heirs of James Riggs, deceased.

Newspaper:

A Memoir
James Riggs was born March 6th, A. D. 1794, died July 15th, 1870; age 76 years.
Brother Riggs was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and professor of religion for forty-nine years. He settled in Clay townshp, Gallia county, some 38 years ago. By industry and economy he secured a competency of the things of this life, at the same time he labored to lay up treasures in Heaven.
In the settling of the neighborhood a church was erected on his farm, where a large society was formed and himself and family worshipped until he was removed to the Church above. His house has always been the welcome home of the Itinerant Preachers. He was a warm friend and supporter of the Church.
His disease was of such a character that it affected the mind, and during the greater part of his sickness, which continued for several weeks and for some ten days before his death, it was with great difficulty that he could speak, but before he died he was enabled to speak audibly and give clear and satisfactory evidence, to his aged companion and children, that he was prepared for the change, and while his brethren and sisters joined in singing some of his favorite hymns, he was exceedingly happy and seemed to have a foretaste of the joys that he was so soon permitted to enter upon in the Church triumphant. He has left a beautiful home, and a kind and loving wife and children, for a home in Heaven. The community has lost a worthy and useful citizen, the wife a kind and affectionate husband, the children a loving and exemplary father, the Church a useful and faithful member. But our loss is his eternal gain. He has passed away from the labors and sufferings of this life, and we believe he has entered upon that life where mortal and physical evils will never come. May the blessings of God sustain the widow and children, and may they all meet in that better world where separation will never take place--where husbands and wives, parents and children, will meet each other in the sun-bright clime.
Daniel Tracy.

Newspaper:

James Riggs to Trustees of M. E. Church: 45/100 acres —$1.

History / Bio:

Religious services were held as early as the year 1817, and in 1833 a Methodist Episcopal society was formed, at the house of James Riggs, on Raccoon bottoms, by Rev. Elijah Fields. Among its first members were Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Cubbage, Mr. and Mrs. Patterson, H. Kimler, J. Riggs and wife, and Mr. and Mrs. Welsh. The first Methodist Episcopal society occupied a brick building, which they erected in 1834, 20x40 feet in size, unplastered, with two fire places, and grate. 1 with slab benches.

Newspaper:

Clay Chapel Methodist Church...
Gallipolis — In 1832 Phillip and Catherine Cubbage, James and Mary Riggs, Samuel and Matilda Patterson, Henry and Mary Kinder and Mrs. Lucinda Welch were granted by the Legislature of Ohio a charter to organize what would become known as the Clay Chapel Methodist Church. The steps of the third Clay Chapel church can still be seen today in the Clay Chapel Cemetery located along State Route 7. The first Clay Chapel Church, built in 1833, was of brick.
According to one early member that first brick church "was a queer affair. It was 40 feet in length, 18 feet in width and 8 feet to the ceiling. A huge fireplace was erected in each end, but that in the west end being of pour draft, the opening was closed up soon and a huge box-shaped stove furnished heat for that end of the long room. The door was a double one, and was on the north side, while opposite to it was the pulpit. The walls were unplastered and unpapered. The roof was made of lap shingles."
The first church also served as a school and was located closer to the river than the last two buildings, both of which stood where the cemetery is located. The second Clay Chapel Church was built in 1856, it being frame and covered with joint pine shingles. The third building went up in 1864 and it was that structure that survived to the 1950's when Clay Chapel was closed.
The founders of this church which "saw" some 130 Easter mornings in its history were quite interesting people and some of their life episodes are recorded in a book by The Rev. H E Brill on "The History of Clay Chapel". Philip Cubbage was born in 1781 in Caroline County, Maryland. He settled at Marietta, Ohio in 1802 and in Gallia County in 1821. He was a doctor by profession. His wife (Catherine Jeffers) was born in 1799 in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. The Cubbage home was established about at the mouth of Teen's Run.
James Riggs was born in Washington, D C in 1797 and came across the mountains with his parents on a single horse. James' mother rode in the saddle holding James sister. James was placed in one end of a large bag thrown across the horse's back. A little black girl named Sally was put in the other end of the bag to balance off James weight. The father walked, leading the horse. The Riggs family settled near Marietta. In 1820 James married Mary Bare and the two came to Gallia County in 1832.
Mrs. Riggs was probably the most knowledgeable of the early Clay Chapel settlers about the Bible and the workings of the Methodist Church. Born in Hagerstown, Maryland, Mary lived to be 86. On her death bed she expressed only one regret - that she had not done more good in the world.
"In her final hours", wrote Brill, "Wooing angels seemed hovering about her. At one time looking up she exclaimed "Oh, mamma' Why mamma'. Subdued voices about her bed were singing "Palms of Victory", when suddenly she extended her hands to the angelic throng and went out from among us."
Samuel Patterson, born in Pennsylvania, was the first class leader at Clay Chapel. Mrs Patterson was the daughter of Lucinda Welch as was Mary Kinder. The Kinders and Welches were from Eastern Virginia. Henry Kinder died in 1855 and is buried in the Cottrill Cemetery. Mrs. Kinder died in 1878 but because of high water during the week of her death she had to be buried in Gallipolis
Lucinda "Grandma" Welch lived about 2 miles up the Raccoon Creek, often coming church in a skiff. Once when Grandma Welch was with a young neighbor girl in a skiff, the thunder rolled, the lightning flashed, the wind roared and every moment it was feared that the rain would come in torrents "Be calm", said Grandma, "We shall pray for the rain to hold off until we get home." Just as their feet touched the porch floor the rains came. Such was the faith that these early pioneers breathed into churches like Clay Chapel.

James married Mary Bare on 22 Dec 1820 in Washington County, Ohio, United States. Mary (daughter of Jacob Bare, Sr. and Mary Ann Steele) was born on 8 Jan 1802 in Hagerstown, Washington County, Maryland, United States; died on 24 Jun 1888 in Gallia County, Ohio, United States; was buried in Jun 1888 in Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Other Events:

• Religion: Methodist
• Census: 1850, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Mary Riggs, in the household of James Riggs
• Census: 1860, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Mary Riggs, in the household of James Riggs
• Census: 1870, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Mary Riggs, in the household of James Riggs
• Census: 1880, Clay Township, Gallia County, Ohio, United States; as Mary Riggs, widow, mother-in-law, in the household of Amos Clark
• Newspaper: 18 Apr 1990; Times Sentinel (Gallipolis, Ohio), 15 April 1990, pB7

Notes:

Came from Hagerstown to Monroe Co. Sister of Alec Bare and Nancy Bare O Neil. Nancy lived to be 101 years old.

Newspaper:

Clay Chapel Methodist Church...
Gallipolis — In 1832 Phillip and Catherine Cubbage, James and Mary Riggs, Samuel and Matilda Patterson, Henry and Mary Kinder and Mrs. Lucinda Welch were granted by the Legislature of Ohio a charter to organize what would become known as the Clay Chapel Methodist Church. The steps of the third Clay Chapel church can still be seen today in the Clay Chapel Cemetery located along State Route 7. The first Clay Chapel Church, built in 1833, was of brick.
According to one early member that first brick church "was a queer affair. It was 40 feet in length, 18 feet in width and 8 feet to the ceiling. A huge fireplace was erected in each end, but that in the west end being of pour draft, the opening was closed up soon and a huge box-shaped stove furnished heat for that end of the long room. The door was a double one, and was on the north side, while opposite to it was the pulpit. The walls were unplastered and unpapered. The roof was made of lap shingles."
The first church also served as a school and was located closer to the river than the last two buildings, both of which stood where the cemetery is located. The second Clay Chapel Church was built in 1856, it being frame and covered with joint pine shingles. The third building went up in 1864 and it was that structure that survived to the 1950's when Clay Chapel was closed.
The founders of this church which "saw" some 130 Easter mornings in its history were quite interesting people and some of their life episodes are recorded in a book by The Rev. H E Brill on "The History of Clay Chapel". Philip Cubbage was born in 1781 in Caroline County, Maryland. He settled at Marietta, Ohio in 1802 and in Gallia County in 1821. He was a doctor by profession. His wife (Catherine Jeffers) was born in 1799 in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. The Cubbage home was established about at the mouth of Teen's Run.
James Riggs was born in Washington, D C in 1797 and came across the mountains with his parents on a single horse. James' mother rode in the saddle holding James sister. James was placed in one end of a large bag thrown across the horse's back. A little black girl named Sally was put in the other end of the bag to balance off James weight. The father walked, leading the horse. The Riggs family settled near Marietta. In 1820 James married Mary Bare and the two came to Gallia County in 1832.
Mrs. Riggs was probably the most knowledgeable of the early Clay Chapel settlers about the Bible and the workings of the Methodist Church. Born in Hagerstown, Maryland, Mary lived to be 86. On her death bed she expressed only one regret - that she had not done more good in the world.
"In her final hours", wrote Brill, "Wooing angels seemed hovering about her. At one time looking up she exclaimed "Oh, mamma' Why mamma'. Subdued voices about her bed were singing "Palms of Victory", when suddenly she extended her hands to the angelic throng and went out from among us."
Samuel Patterson, born in Pennsylvania, was the first class leader at Clay Chapel. Mrs Patterson was the daughter of Lucinda Welch as was Mary Kinder. The Kinders and Welches were from Eastern Virginia. Henry Kinder died in 1855 and is buried in the Cottrill Cemetery. Mrs. Kinder died in 1878 but because of high water during the week of her death she had to be buried in Gallipolis
Lucinda "Grandma" Welch lived about 2 miles up the Raccoon Creek, often coming church in a skiff. Once when Grandma Welch was with a young neighbor girl in a skiff, the thunder rolled, the lightning flashed, the wind roared and every moment it was feared that the rain would come in torrents "Be calm", said Grandma, "We shall pray for the rain to hold off until we get home." Just as their feet touched the porch floor the rains came. Such was the faith that these early pioneers breathed into churches like Clay Chapel.

Died:

OBITUARY
Mrs Mary Riggs
Mrs. Mary Riggs, mother of Mrs. Jacob Riggs, died Sunday evening last at 9 o'clock, in her 87th year. Funeral services were held last evening at Clay Chapel, by Rev. Finney. [Gallipolis Paper, No date, Transcribed by F.K. Brown]

Notes:

Married:


[From: galliagenealogy.org History of Clay Chapel by Rev. H. E. Brill, p3]
JAMES AND MARY RIGGS.
James Riggs was born in Washington, D. C, in 1797.When quite young his parents came across the Allegheny Mountains to the west, as the present north-central states were then called. No railroads threaded the narrow winding valleys and crossed the summit of the mountains, and so they took the best conveyance at hand. This consisted of a single horse. On this animal the wife and mother rode, holding upon her lap an older sister of James, while he was placed in one end of a large bag thrown across the horse’s back and balanced on the other side by a Wooly-headed little colored Girl named Sally. To prevent the urchins from smothering, an opening was made for each at the proper place; and the grotesque outfit drew many a villager from his work as the travelers passed along, the father trudging on afoot carrying his gun.
The Marylander first settled in Washington County, on the farm which is now occupied by the town of New Matamoras, in the extreme northeastern corner of the county. There he was united in marriage with Miss Mary Bare in December 1820. The newly married couple removed to Monroe County in the same year, where they remained until 1832, when they came to Gallia County. Here he found a small buckeye cabin about 10x12 feet, located a little below the present Riggs’ landing. The next year a more commodious structure was added to the cabin, the latter being then used as a kitchen. In the course time he built the present comfortable brick building now occupied by his son, Jacob. After many years of usefulness he passed into the great beyond, July 14, 1870, and his body was laid away in Clay Chapel cemetery, the funeral sermon being preached by his pastor, Rev. Daniel Tracy.
It was good that such a man had a wife who was capable of sharing with her husband the cares and responsibilities of life. That such was the case will appear from the following excellent account of her career, written soon after her death, by one who knew her well, Mrs. M. Marshall, now of Columbus, Ohio, and published in a Gallipolis paper:
“Mary, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Bare, was born in Hagerstown Md., January 8, 1802, and died at the house of her son, Jacob Riggs, in Gallia county, Ohio, June 24, 1888. Her father was from Germany, and was a second cousin to William I, the late lamented emperor. When twelve years of age her parents moved to Monroe County, Ohio, there in December 1820, she was married to James Riggs.
She and her husband were two, and she the last of nine members who, in 1833, formed the first, class on what is now known in Ohio Conference as Eureka charge. Mother Riggs’s home was the preaching-place and the stopping-place of the itinerant minister.
She was a subscriber and reader of the Western Christian Advocate from its first issue. Her Bible, church periodicals, and other good books, were her daily companions, and rare spiritual and intellectual attainments were the result. Being industrious, large-hearted, possessed of ample means, and ever ready for every good word and work, for one in the quiet walks of life, she exerted a wide influence. Many besides her own rise up and call her blessed.
Modesty, humility, a deep reverence for holy things, added to her zeal and unflinching loyalty, made up a symmetrical Christian character which commanded and won universal admiration from all about her. In her home she was patient, pleasant, and cheerful.
She was the mother of eleven children. Two died in infancy, and two in mature years. Four sons and two daughters are left. Of her father’s family, one sister and three brothers still live.
Her last sickness was of something more than two week’s in duration; the last few days were full of extreme suffering; at one time when her daughter, Mrs. Hanley, expressed a desire that she might live, her reply was, “I am fully resigned to the will of the Lord,” and while suffering great pain she was heard to plead: “Dear Savior, my Savior come in mercy and take me.” The only regret she expressed was that she had not done more good in the world. In the final hours wooing angels seemed hovering about her. At one time looking up in glad surprise she exclaimed: “Oh, Mamma! Why mamma !” Subdued voices about her bed were singing “Palms of Victory,” when suddenly she extended her bands to the angelic throng and when out from among us.”