ABRAHAM MAYNARD Taken from the The Hampshire Register, April, 1896 Another Old Settler Gone The Death of Abraham MAYNARD Occurs Here Last Thursday The death of Abraham MAYNARD occured on Thursday, April 9th, at 11:05 o'clock a.m., at his home in this village. About two years ago he suffered an apopletic stroke from which, thanks to a strong and rugged constitution, he in a measured recovered, but which so undermined his health that the members of his family had been in almost constant fear of another attack, and maintained a zealous guard, prepared to cope with any symptoms which should present themselves. In this way, death was kept at bay for sometime. About three weeks ago his old enemy--dropsy--again fastened its hold on him, and in two weeks gained the victory. The end was a gradual sinking away--a peaceful ending of a well-rounded life. His age at the time of his death was 79 years, 11 months and 15 days. Abraham MAYNARD was born on a farm in Chenango County, New York, April 25, 1817, a son of Isaiah and Esther (Travis) Maynard, who were natives of the same state. From early childhood he worked on a farm, and his education was limited to a few months attendance at school in the year. January 12, 1841, he married Ann TERWILLIGER, daughter of Phillip and Mary (LOW) TERWILLIGER. In 1845 Mr. MAYNARD, having grown tired of the small farms of the east, resolved to try his fortune in the West. He came to Hampshire in '45 and purchased forty acres of land, now a part of the old homestead, erecting thereon a little log hut, in which they lived a number of years, until the comfortable structure which now marks the spot was built. Mr. Maynard and his wife were for a number of years compelled to endure many hardships. All the money they had for sometime was what Mrs. Maynard could earn by sewing for farm hands. They toiled and saved three years before they were able to buy a cow. Both being blessed with excellent health and plenty of pluck and perseverance, they labored early and late and prospered accordingly. They lived on the farm until 1881, when having amassed a comfortable competency, they built and moved into a pleasant home in this village to spend their declining years in well-earned peace and comfort. Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Maynard, of whom six are living, James W. and Henry, of Vail, Iowa; George, Edwin, Charles and Etta (Mrs. S.M. DOW) of this place. Mr. Maynard will always be remembered by those who enjoyed his friendship as an ever loyal friend; a kind and sympathetic neighbor, and one who had the confidence and esteem of all. The funeral was from the house Saturday forenoon, services being held at eleven o'clock, Rev. G.H. Wells officiating. Transcribed and submitted by: Melanie Howe 24 Feb 2006. She is researching this family and would love to hear from other researchers at harborhvn@sbcglobal.net. Return to Kane County pages using the "BACK" button on your browser.