Francis A. NEWNAM

In the death of Francis A. Newnam of Epworth, Mountrail County lost one of its pioneer homesteaders and one of its most respected citizens. He died at his home at Epworth, Sunday evening, September 3rd. He was at the time of his death 84 years, six months and seventeen days old. Francis A. Newnam was born in Pike County, Missouri, February 17th, 1838. In August 1861 he enlisted in the Union Army and served with the 3rd Missouri Cavalry under Captain Glover for 3 years and 6 months, when he was given an honorable discharge at the end of the Civil War. On November 9th, 1869, he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Jane Hickman, who died on the 2nd day of September 1919. To this union were born five children; only two, Robert A. and Cora are living. In October 1902 the deceased and family moved on his homestead at Epworth, the son, Robert and family and the daughter Cora having homesteads adjoining. Being many miles from railroad the deceased conducted a post office and also a store handling the most necessary articles which was a great accomodation to the nearby settlers. Later he sold his store business and the post office was taken over by other parties but he continued to reside on his homestead until his death. The deceased was a man of sterling character and a devoted Christian; a man whom it was a pleasure to meet and know. His wise counseling was often sought not only by relatives but also by friends and neighbors. The funeral was held at the farmstead at Epworth last Monday and was attended by a large number of neighbors and friends. Rev. Eastvold of Parshall officiated at the last rites. Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Newnam and Miss Cora Newnam accompanied the remains which were shipped from Stanley to Shelbina, Missouri, for interment at the old burial place." MOUNTRAIL COUNTY PROMOTER, 4 Sept. 1922, p. 1.

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