Lane - Henry S.
Source: Greencastle Star, 25 June 1881 p2
On Saturday last at 1:30 o’clock, pm, Hon. Henry S. Lane died at his residence in Crawfordsville of neuralgia of the heart in his 70th year. The bells of the city were tolled, announcing the sad event and many demonstrations of grief and respect were manifested. Governor Lane has been complaining for more than a year of failing health, but he was able to get about very well, and his friends felt no apprehension for him. Last fall he spent a pleasant season with his old friends and relatives just before the elections. He took a keen interest in politics. His advice was sought and highly valued by the younger politicians. Since his retirement from active life he has gone every winter to Washington to look upon the Congressional conflict in which he once played an important part. He was born in Montgomery County, Ky, Feb 11, 1811. In his early life he was reared on a farm and got such an education as the country pedagogues could give him. In his 16th year he began the study of the classics under Judge Silas S. Robinson and after two years began reading law, supporting himself in part by writing in the County Clerk’s office. After three years he was admitted to practice. In his 23rd year he came to Crawfordsville, Ind which has since been his home. At once he began the practice of law and the firm of Lane & Wilson, his 2nd partnership, which took first rank in this circuit, lasted until 1858 when he retired from practice.
In 1826 Mr. Lane was elected to the State Legislature. In 1840 he was the successful Whit candidate for Congress from the then 7th District. Reelected in 1842. On his return he resumed his place at the bar, but when the Mexican War began he was among the first to respond to the call for soldiers and on the organization of the First Indiana Regiment was made its Major and afterwards its Lt. Col, following its fortunes until the close of the war. In 1858 he was elected to the US Senate but he did not get his seat, the Democrats seating Bright & Fitch. In 1860 the nomination for Governor was pressed upon him, much against his desire. Morton was the candidate two years before and had not impressed the party as a brilliant campaigner and although he wanted to be a candidate again, Lane was nominated unanimously and Morton was given the second place on the ticket. He was elected over Thos. A. Hendricks by 10,000 majority. Upon the meeting of the Legislature he was at once elected to the Senate and Lt. Gov. Morton acted as Governor. He was a member of the important Committee of Military Affairs and afterward of the Pensions Committee of which he was Chairman. At the ending of this term in the Senate his public career may be said to close, although he served two years as one of the Indian Peace Commissioners appointed by President Grant. In politics Mr. Lane was first an ardent Whig and afterwards as ardent a Republican. He was chosen President of the first National Republic Convention which nominated Fremont in 1856. He served as sheriff of his county and was Colonel of the State Militia. It is noteworthy that every nomination for office conferred upon him was by acclamation, being without party opposition. He was prominent in the Methodist Church and as Trustee of Asbury University for 30 years was vigorous in the work of education, and indeed in all things that advanced and developed in the State. He was twice married. First to Miss Jameson, in Kentucky who died in 1845; then to Miss Joanna Elston, daughter of the well known Major Elston who was identified with Crawfordsville and Montgomery County as early as 1823. His wife survives him. During his political career, Mr. Lane early achieved a wide reputation as one of the most brilliant and effective popular speakers in this country and he was a ready and fluent debater as well. His ardent temperament carried him into whatever he undertook to do with restless energy. He was a tireless worker to the end of his long and honored career.
Source: Ft. Wayne Daily Gazette Sun 19 June 1881 p 1
Indianapolis, June 18 Ex-Senator Henry S. Lane died at his residence in Crawfordsville, Ind this afternoon. He was 80 years old.
Source: Ft. Wayne Daily Gazette Sun 26 June 1881 p 4
The New York Tribune tells this good one concerning the late Henry S. Lane. Of the late Henry S. Lane, an old friend relates he was chosen chairman of the Philadelphia Republic convention in '56, just after a severe attack of illness. Pale, cadaverous and weak he took the chair and was regarded with astonishment by the southern delegates, some of whom asked, "What is there about that man to recommend him for chairman" Presently Mr. Lane began to speak and in the flowery manner especially pleasing to the southerners. At the end of his speech they rushed over to the Indiana delegates, enthusiastically shaking hands, and one exclaimed in the exuberance of his joy, "Heavens! He's old Demostenes; have you any more men like him in Indiana?"
Source: Princeton, Indiana Clarion-Leader Thu 23 June 1881 p 1
Governor Porter has ordered the state offices at Indianapolis to be draped in mourning for 30 days in honor of Henry S. Lane, deceased. All the state officials attended the funeral in a body.
Source: Same as above
Hon. Henry S. Lane died at his home in Crawfordsville Saturday. Mr. Lane was one of the most prominent politicians of the state during his active life. He served the state in various official capacities and was the first Republican Governor. He was elected as governor in 1860 with Oliver P. Morton as Lt. Governor. Lane, being elected to the US Senate left the Governorship to Morton and each in his capacity did much to make a name and an honorable history for Indiana in the memorable struggle which followed. Mr. Lane retired from politics after his term as US Senator expired.