Campbell - Alexander - Montgomery InGenWeb Project

More than 80 years old and lying the victim of cancer for many months, hundreds of inquiries of sympathy and kindly interest have been expressed in behalf of Alexander Campbell who died last Friday Feb 28.  Two years ago he prepared several affairs to be done at his death which he did not believe to be far distant then.  He even wrote a short autobiography and selected hymns to be sung at his funeral.  His companion was then in good health but he lived to see her buried six months ago.  Mr. Campbell was a fine old gentleman, of sturdy character and refined appearance.  He was one of the stalwart pillars of the nearby chapel.  He was a man of his word and found even on the right side of moral questions. The funeral occurred at the house last Sunday and in spite of the storm was largely attended.  Rev. CB Stanforth conducted the services, remarking that it was the first occasion where he had read from the pen of the deceased his life history.  It follows supplemented by other remarks since his death.  Alexander Campbell son of Alexander Campbell and Rachael Campbell was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, Nov 27. 1827.  Died on 28 day February 1908 at age 80 years 3 months and 1 day, was converted in his 14th year uniting at same time with ME Church at Kingston, Ohio, emigrating with his parents to Montgomery County, Indiana in 1845 and settling in this locality which was at that time almost a wilderness.  He took hold with a will power to subdue the forest and make this part of this country what it is today, being a resident here for more than 60 years.  In the year 1847 there being two Methodist families in the locality at that time, to unite, the Campbell and Paxton families, they through the help and influence of Rev. Wm Campbell (of precious memory) undertook to build a house of worship in which they succeeded. This house was used for more than 30 years and at the end of that time the membership had increased so that a large and more commodious house was demanded.  Under the labors of Bro. Wm. Fraley in 1871 steps were taken to erect a new church.  A building committee was appointed consisting of Bro. Winter, James Rich and Alex Campbell.  This house was completed at a cost of $1,500.  During the past 4 or 5 years because of declining health Mr. Campbell was prevented from attending services of this church.  All of the associates of his early days had passed before him.  Alone he stood at last, as a strong oak that is beaten by storm, destined to fall also in the end as the others had done.  He had twice married and six children came to bless his home, four of these survive him and his wife who preceded him only last August, whose maiden name was Caroline Hottle.  The children are FW Campbell of this place, Mrs. Willis Moore, Charles Campbell and Mrs. Frank Fraley of Terre Haute.  He was laid to rest in Odd Fellows Cemetery of this place. – kbz