Harriett Bacon
March 11, 1917
Mrs. Harriet E. Bacon a well known pioneer resident of Niles, passed away last evening shortly after six o’clock. Funeral services will be held at her late home on Broadway on Wednesday afternoon at 2 o’clock. More extended notice later.
In the passing of Mrs. Bacon one of our oldest residents is taken away. In September 1842, Joseph S. Bacon of Niles married in Dorset, Vermont, Harriet E. Holley, daughter of Justus Holley and Eliza E. Woodward. A new house on the grounds about a half miles south of the town and across from the old George H. Jerome place, was ready for their occupancy. It was a pleasant home with many tall forest trees about it commanding a pleasing view of the St. Joseph River in the distance. Here their five children were born, Gertrude, now Mrs. George H. Sheldon of Rock Island, Angeline, Mrs. Frederick Crosby of Evanston, Bessie who died a the age of 22, Mrs. Adolph Panhurst and Mr. N.H. Bacon, both of Niles. Besides there she leaves four grandchildren, one brother, W. J. Holley; two sisters, Miss A. M. Holley and Mrs. W.H. Sheldon of Vermont. When the children were still small they moved into the town and with the exception of eight years spent with her daughter in Erie, Pa, there in the same house on Broadway. Mrs. Bacon has lived for nearly forty years.Mr. Bacon died in March 1882 and Mrs. Bacon lifted bravely the burden of redoubled care occasioned by his loss.
She has herself been, nearly helpless for eighteen years. It would be hard to imagine a greater trial for an active nature, one eager to work and do for those about her or for any whom she might serve; yet this trial she has borne with rare sweetness, patience and good cheer.
Her home has been a gathering place for many friends drawn nearer but her heart of love and her winsome spirit, and her rooms have been fragrant with flowers, summer and winter, the offering of many friends.To Mrs. Bacon every flower spoke of the infinite love of her Heavenly Father, and to His nearer presence we feel sure she has gone.
Mrs. Bacon was a charter member of the Ladies Historical club.
She passed peacefully away at sunset on Sunday, March 11 in her 81st year.
Submitted by family member; publication details unknown