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Elizabeth Hansell & James McGannon

Elizabeth Hansell, sister of Rebecca Hansell

Hansell - McGannon Proposed Lineage

Compiled by Judy Griffin, 2007 - email address

William Hansell (1793 - 1872) + Ann Sunderland
..... 2 Elizabeth Ann Hansell (1819 - 1901) + James A. McGannon (1811 - 1871)
............ 3 Ella V. McGannon (ca. 1850 - 1909) + William H. Callender (ca. 1841-1848 - 1886)
................ 4 Ella Hope Callender (1870 - )
................ 4 Henry B. Callender (1876 - )
................ 4 Lula F. Callender (ca. 1876)
............ 3 Anna M. McGannon (1845 - 1901)
............ 3 Emeline McGannon (1848 - )
............ 3 A son, died in early childhood.
............ 3 A daughter, died in early childhood.

Elizabeth A. Hansell & James A. McGannon

James A. McGannon was born on November 19, 1811 in Attleboro, Bucks County, Pennsylvania and died on March 21, 1871 in Jerseyville, Jersey County, Illinois. (1) James married Elizabeth Ann Hansell circa 1837. Elizabeth Ann Hansell was born on January 21, 1819 in Trenton, New Jersey and died on January 9, 1901 in Jerseyville, Jersey County, Illinois. They may have married in New Jersey and moved to Philadelphia circa 1841 and then to Jersey County, Illinois in the 1850s. The family was not found in the 1850 census.

A possible father of James A. McGannon is a Richard McGennon [sic] who resided in Middletown Township, Bucks County, Pennsylvania in 1810. (2) The family was not found there 1790, 1800, 1820-1840. Attleboro seems to have been in Middletown Township. A Richard McGannon was found in Nottingham Township, Mercer County, New Jersey in 1840 and 1850.

Elizabeth and James were in Burlington County, New Jersey in the 1840s when their daughters Anna and Emeline were born. Emeline, born June 12, 1848, Burlington County, New Jersey, (3) died in early childhood. Bordentown, where daughter Anna was born, is just south of Trenton, in Burlington County, New Jersey. They apparently were in Philadelphia circa 1840. Elizabeth joined the Baptist Church in Philadelphia in 1841. Elizabeth’s sister, Sarah (Hansell) Norris, stated that when her father came to Jerseyville with his family, he left a married daughter in Philadelphia. This was probably Elizabeth. The McGannons arrived in Jerseyville in the 1850s. Elizabeth’s married sisters, our Rebecca (Hansell) Hutchinson and Sarah Norris were already there.

James McGannon was listed as a blacksmith residing in Jerseyville, Illinois circa 1852 in a newspaper article found in his nephew James L. Hutchinson’s scrapbook. (4) He was listed as a blacksmith in the 1860 census and in 1865 in the local newspaper. (5) In 1860 James owned real estate valued at $600 and a personal estate valued at $400. After her husband died in 1871, Elizabeth and Anna remained in Jerseyville, possibly in the same home. Elizabeth never remarried.

In 1874-75, Elizabeth and her daughter Anna traveled to the East to spend the winter with friends and/or relations in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New York. (6) They certainly must have visited Elizabeth’s nephew, James L. Hutchinson, in New York, the son of Elizabeth’s sister, our Rebecca. In 1879 Elizabeth held a Christmas reunion in Jerseyville, which was attended by her sisters and immediate relations. James L. Hutchinson sent a telegram, dated December 25, 1879, to Mrs. James A. McGannon stating that they should spare no expense for the “spread” at the home of his aunt’s sisters. By this time, James L. was doing well financially with the Cooper & Bailey Circus.

In 1880, Elizabeth and Anna “Annie” were living on Pearl St. in Jerseyville, not too far from her sister, our Rebecca. In 1900 the family was still on W. Pearl St. and, for whatever reason, Annie was listed as the head of household. Elizabeth was now eighty-one and possibly suffering from some age related physical impairment(s) as indicated in her obituary or the census taker just made an error. Annie was listed as a dressmaker, an occupation that her aunt Rebecca may have followed. They owned their home free of mortgage, so apparently they were left in fairly good shape financially when James A. died.

Elizabeth died just three days before her daughter, Anna May:

Mother And Daughter. Mrs. Elizabeth A. McGannon. (7)

Elizabeth Ann Hansell, second daughter of William and Ann Hansell, was born in Trenton, New Jersey, January 21st, 1819. At the early age of 18 she was married to James A. McGannon of Attleboro, Pa., who crossed over the river of death March 21, 1871. There were born to them five children, four girls and one boy. Three of them, the boy and two of the girls, were called to the “upper fold,” in early childhood. Mrs. McGannon professed faith in Christ and united with the 12th Street Baptist church of Philadelphia in 1841, and removing in the fifties to this place, she, with her husband, united with this church by letter during the pastorate of Dr. Justus Bulkley.

She loved the church with unwavering affection and guarded its interests with zealous care. When her sickness came upon her and she could no longer go to the sanctuary, she was always ready to hear sermons rehearsed by those who listened for her sake as well as their own good. She was always a friend to her pastor, heeding his admonitions and teaching them to her children.

Mrs. McGannon was a woman of marked individuality of character, a wise counselor; a faithful friend, strong in purpose; decided in action. In the home she was mother in the purest, truest sense of the word; and her wealth of mother-love knew no limitations, whether of sacrifice or duty. Her children rise up and call her blessed, and her memory, which time cannot efface, hovers over them as a hallowed benediction.

“There are words that speak of a changeless love
That live in the hearts we cherish;
And accents that tell of a friendship proved,
That will never blight nor perish.

There are soft words murmured by dear, dear lips;
Far sweeter than any other;
But the sweetest word that the ear hath heard
Is the blessed name of mother.

O, magical word; may it never die
From the lips that love to speak it,
Not melt away from the trusting hearts
That ever would seek to keep it.

Was there ever a name that lived like this?
Will there ever be such another?
The angels have reared in heaven a shrine
For the holy name of Mother.”

The above tribute of love was written by Miss Anna McGannon, daughter of the deceased, who was a rare example of filial faithfulness to the end of her mother’s life. Through the years of her mother’s illness and suffering, when Mrs. McGannon could not go out of doors, could not even look out into the light of day because of the trouble with her eyes, Anna stood over her and gratified, so far as lay in her power, the every wish of her dear one. The funeral took place from the First Baptist church Friday, January 11, 1901 at 2:30 p.m.; the pastor, Dr. Jay A. Ford, officiating. He preached a discourse appropriate to the occasion from the text: “Let not your heart be troubled. Ye believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so I would have told you: I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again to receive you unto myself, that where I am there ye may be also. John 14: 1-3. A large concourse of people gathered at the funeral showing with what sincere regard and affection she was remembered by those with whom she had passed a long and a good life.

Ella McGannon

Ella V. McGannon (James¹) was born circa 1850 in New Jersey and died on August 8, 1909 in St. Louis, Missouri. (8) She married William H. Callender on March 27, 1866. (9) William was born circa 1841/1848 in Missouri or Massachusetts (from census). William died on March 24 or 25, 1886 in, St. Louis, Missouri. Ella’s birth date ranges between 1839 to 1850, according to the censuses from 1860 to 1900.

Ella taught music in Jerseyville before her marriage. In 1857 a Mrs. Susan Henderson Cutting reopened the Jerseyville Young Ladies Seminary, which she conducted as a private enterprise for about twelve years, or until about 1869, during the period employing teachers, educators of the highest talent, gathered from both eastern and western states. Instruction was given in the common and higher English branches, with Latin and French, painting, drawing, vocal and instrumental music. In 1861-62 the board of instruction was represented by the following teachers: Mrs. L.M. Cutting, principal; Miss Jennie V.A. Vosburch, teacher of French and Latin; Miss Harriet M. Henderson, principal of the primary department; Miss A. Maria Blackburn, teacher of instrumental music; Miss Ella V. McGannon, teacher of both vocal and instrumental music. (10)

Before her marriage, Ella is mentioned in a number of articles in the Jersey County Democrat:

“The passengers by the evening stage on Monday, had a very narrow escape from serious damage. The firing of crackers just as the stage drove up, so frightened the horses that they became unmanageable and one of them cleared himself entirely, and ran a mile before being caught; the other succeeded in overturning the coach in which were four persons, who escaped with severe bruises. Miss Ella McGannon was the only lady passenger; she suffered considerably from bruises and fright, but was able to be out the next day to assist in the exercises of the 4th.” (11)

“The ‘Floral Queen,’ or Coronation of the Rose, was handsomely and well performed last night at Otter Creek by the pupils of Miss Jennie Chandler. Miss Ella McGannon assisted in many of the difficult portions of the piece, and of course with her usual ease and efficiency, Jerseyville was fairly as well as numerously represented.” (12)

“For once during the summer we are promised a public concert, and that it will be a good one we have no doubt at all. The Orpheus Club, of St. Louis will be here on a week from Sunday and will sing in the Presbyterian Choir, assisted by Miss Ella McGannon, and on Monday evening they propose giving a concert for the benefit of the Church.” (13)

Ella and William apparently moved to St. Louis before 1870, where William was a book keeper. Ella did return to Jerseyville to sing in various community and church events. However, they may have returned to Jerseyville circa 1872: “We are happy to learn of the removal of Mrs. Ella Callender from St. Louis to our city. . . . The ‘sweet singer’ will sing in the Baptist Church the coming Sabbath.” (14) “At the Old Settlers Society meeting, Mrs. Callender sang ‘John Anderson, My Joe John,’ which went straight to the hearts of the old settlers who sang the song in their youth. (15)

William had a writing school there in 1876 (16) and their daughter, Ella Hope, was attending school. (17) William was the City Clerk in Jerseyville in 1878. (18) He did not hold this position in 1879 or later. Not only was Ella entertaining the community with her singing talent, but William evidently had some artistic ability:

“On last Sabbath morning we had the pleasure of witnessing the quarterly exercises of the Mission Sabbath school. The Superintendent, Mr. Pogue, first read the quarterly reports of the officers and teachers, after which we listened to a beautiful piece of music, “Eve’s Lament,” sung by Mrs. Callender with a delicacy and truthfulness which is seldom excelled. Next followed the panorama consisting of a number of large crayon sketches, plain and colored, illustrating the lessons of the past quarter, drawn by Mr. Callender. All the sketches were credible in design and happily illustrative of the different topics, and some of them were evidently executed with considerable care. An interesting exercise of mingled music and recitation, entitled “Jesus, the Rose,” was then given, the following scholars participating: Ada Harris, in charge, Louisa Rosenberg, Annie Denton, Fiora Olmstead, May Hurd, Julia Farris, Annie Griggsby, Kate Woods, Mary Crayton, Thrazy Bilcher, Nettie Hand, and Estella Howey. The music was by Mrs. Callender, Mr. Callender (violin), and Henry McFain (bass viol.). Stella Howey was declared the banner scholar and received from the Superintendent the handsome banner of the school. Armina Jones received the 1st prize for having secured the greatest number of new scholars, Susan Smith was entitled to the 2nd prize but was not present to receive it. Class 10 took the palm for the recitation of scripture, having committed a total of 1032 verses. A large number were present, the hall being quite crowded and the occasion was one of unusual interest and heartily enjoyed by all.” (19)

Sometime in the late 1870s, Ella and William moved to Chicago. They were found there in the 1880 census where William was listed as a butcher. However, they appeared to be back in St. Louis by 1881, where Ella was again mentioned in the Jersey County Democrat, along with her mother and Aunt Rebecca Hutchinson, her sister and her daughter. The family seemed to visit back and forth between Jerseyville and St. Louis on a regular basis.

“Mrs. McGannon and Mrs. Hutchinson are in St. Louis, visiting Mrs. W. H. Caliender [sic].” (20)

“Will H. Callender, St. Louis, was up and spent Sunday with his friends.” (21)

Miss Annie McGannon left Monday to attend the St. Louis fair, and will be the guest of Mrs. Will Callender during the week. (22)

“Mrs. C. W. Johnson and Mrs. McGannon are in St. Louis, guests of Mrs. W. H. Callender.” (23) Ella’s Aunt Emma was married to Charles Johnson.

“Ella Callender and sister Lulu of St. Louis are visiting Miss Annie McGannon.” (24) This Ella and Lulu are daughters of Ella V. and William Callender.

“First Presbyterian Church dedication. Mrs. Ella V. Callender sang a solo. Miss Ella Callender and Miss Annie McGannon sang in the choir.” (25)

“Miss Ella Callendar, after a visit of several weeks at grandmother’s, returned to her home in St. Louis last Saturday.” (26) Ella’s daughter was probably visiting Elizabeth (Hansell) McGannon.

“Mrs. Ella Callender, of St. Louis, sang at the Baptist church last Sunday. She has many friends here who think no one sings like Ella.” (27)

William died of typhoid pneumonia on May 25, 1886 and was probably buried in Jerseyville. (28) After William died, Ella remained in St. Louis, living at 2223 Cass Avenue. (29) Ella died on August 5, 1909. They had three children, Ella Hope, Henry/Harry B. and Lula/Lulu F.

• Ella Hope Callender was born in February 1870 in Missouri. She married a _?_ Molloy of St. Louis circa June 1889 (30) and had one child, Leon A. Molloy. Leon was born circa April 1892 in Missouri and was not listed as attending school in the 1900 census. Ella’s husband died before 1900, she was listed as a widow in the 1900 census. (31) In 1930 Ella was living by herself in St. Louis, working as a private secretary for a printing firm. (32) Evidentially Ella did not marry again.

• Henry/Harry B. Callender was born in April 1876 in Missouri. In the 1900 census he was listed as a stock clerk in St. Louis.

• Lula F. Callender was born circa 1876 in Illinois. Her given name may be Louise.

Anna May McGannon

Anna May McGannon (James¹) (33) was born in September, circa 1845 in Bordentown, Burlington County, New Jersey and died on January 12, 1901 in Jerseyville, Jersey County, Illinois. (34) Anna never married and died just a few days after her mother. Anna attended school at Mrs. Susan Cutting’s Young Ladies Seminary in 1861-62, where her sister taught, and was active in the Jerseyville community.

Like her sister, Anna was a musician, an organist for the Jerseyville Baptist Church and sang in the Presbyterian Church choir. She taught Sunday School and wrote poetry. Anna from 1870s to 1890s:

“Miss Anna McGannon (and others) had charge of the vocal music for the Sunday School children for the 4th of July.” (35)

“At the Baptist Church [Jerseyville] presentation of a check for $50 to Annie McGannon on behalf of the Sunday School.” (36)

“On the decorating committee for the Jerseyville Strawberry festival, Miss Annie McGannon.” (37)

“In the First Presbyterian Church choir, Miss Anna McGannon.” (38)

“Miss Annie McGannon received an envelope containing $25 at the Baptist church last Friday night. It was hung on the Christmas Tree by her friends as a slight token of their appreciation of her services as organist.” (39)

“Baptist Sunday School, Miss Annie McGannon, organist.” (40)

“At the 15th wedding anniversary of Mr. & Mrs. Rev. Stephen Catt, Miss Anna McGannon. She gave them a butter dish.” (41)

“Miss Annie McGannon left Monday to attend the St. Louis fair, and will be the guest of Mrs. Will Callender during the week.” (42) Her sister Ella.

“Miss Annie McGannon received quite a severe injury by the falling of a window on her right wrist last Sunday.” (43)

“Miss Annie McGannon who has been _?_ in St. Louis, returned home last Satur[day].” (44)

“First Presbyterian Church dedication. Mrs. Ella V. Callender sang a solo. Miss Ella Callender and Miss Annie McGannon sang in the choir.” (45)

“Miss Annie McGannon is visiting in St. Louis.” (46) She was probably visiting her sister Ella.

“Anna McGannon is the organist for the Baptist Sunday School.” (47)

“The G.A.R. plans for Decoration Day will request Miss Annie McGannon to write a poem for the occasion.” (48)

“The Baptists gave Miss Anna McGannon $45 in appreciation of her as an organist.” (49)

“Miss Annie McGannon has been requested to write a poem for parties in New Jersey, to celebrate the 100th birthday anniversary of a gentleman residing there. This is a compliment to Miss McGannon.” (50)

Anna wrote a poem for her aunt, our Rebecca, in 1881:

To Aunt Rebecca on Her 63d Birth-Day (51)


We meet again to celebrate, with heartiest good cheer,
Your birth-day, and rejoice that you’ve been spared another year
And ever on fair memory’s page may this inscription be,
“A reminiscence of the day when you were Sixty-three.”




The past we leave behind us with its sunshine and its shade,
Its checkered paths wherein so oft our weary feet have strayed.
Yet oftentimes unbidden tender, touching memory
Will bring dear recollections back, when you were sixty-three.

My earnest wish is that you may be with us many years,
And that the “autumn of your life” may not decline in tears,
And may none of us e’rr forget through all futurity,
The happy day we spent with you when you were sixty-three.

We miss the many loved ones that have met with us of yore,
We listen for the footsteps and watch the opening door;
But they come not from the distance, but then at heaven’s gate,
We have the sweet assurance they will watch for us and wait.

And some day when the Master calls, and we each other greet,
United once again, we’ll find a family complete,
And we’ll bless the Bounteous Giver through all eternity,
For the watching will be over; from waiting we’ll be free.

Annie May

In 1895-96, Annie McGannon read one of her poems at the birthday celebration for her cousin, James L. Hutchinson (naming James L.’s children, Guy and Edith): “Birthday Dinner (52)

“Mrs. Rebecca Hutchison [sic] gave a family dinner at her home on West Pearl street on Monday, Nov. 18, the event being the 50th birthday anniversary of her son, Mr. J. L. Hutchison, of New York. Among those present were: Mr. and Mrs. L. S. Hansell, Mr. and Mrs. Johnson Norris, Mrs. C. W. Johnson and Miss Etta Johnson, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Hutchison, Mrs. Elizabeth McGannon and Miss Anna McGannon, Mrs. Ella V. Callender of St. Louis was to have been present but was obliged to send regrets.

“The birthday cake was sent from New York by Mrs. Hutchison. While yet seated at the table where a sumptuous dinner had been partaken of, Miss Anna McGannon rose and read a beautiful poem written for the occasion, entitled “As You Cross the Half Century Line,” which is only one of her many poetic gems. The remainder of the day was spent in conversation and various amusements. Master Guy Hutchinson, who is brilliantly gifted as an orator, gave several selections and his sister, Miss Edith, aged 9 years, played and sang quite sweetly, and being a graceful dancer demonstrated her ability in that line.”

Anna’s obituary:

Mother and Daughter

Anna M. McGannon (53)

Miss Anna McGannon, a well-beloved and well known resident of Jerseyville, departed this life on the morning of January 12, 1901. The subject of this obituary was born in Bordentown, New Jersey. Her parents were James A. and Ann McGannon, both well known citizens of Jerseyville. Death claimed her father in 1871 and recently Miss Anna suffered the loss of her aged and respected mother on January 9, 1901. The mutual devotion of mother and daughter was witnessed by friends and neighbors of many years in their home life, and it is a remarkable dispensation of Providence that death should sever that relation and then reunite them so soon forever.

Miss McGannon, during her life was quite a devotee of belles-lettres and has left many beautiful poetical compositions which testify to her eminent accomplishments as a scholar. Her verse is will known to the readers of this county, and its simplicity of thought and beauty of diction has been universally regarded of a lofty type. That she cultivated the muse is in keeping with her kindliness of spirit and her professions of faith in God and all His works.

In 1871 Miss McGannon was converted during the revival services conducted in this church by the Rev. Mr. Parshall, and was baptized by the pastor, the Rev. I. N. Hill. She immediately became a capable and vigorous worker in church affairs. From this time until her death, she was organist of the Sunday School and prayer meeting, and a large portion of that time, was also organist of the church. During this long period the full measure of the Sunday School and church service was not attained without her presence.

She was earnestly devoted to her class in Sunday School, and remained teacher for the long period of twenty-six consecutive years. Her many scholars, in the years that have passed, will learn of her demise with sympathetic emotion and tender regret.

The good she taught and exampled will live on with them, and the inspiration of her life will contribute to their happiness. The mutual admiration and love of teacher and class was the observed of all. She did good and goodness emanated from all her actions. Her lights will go on shining so that others, seeing her good works will be lead to glorify our Father which art in heaven. God grant that teacher and scholars be reunited in that bright realm above where all is peace and love.

She leaves surviving her an only sister, Mrs. Ella Callender, of St. Louis, besides many sorrowing relatives and hosts of friends.

Her labors are ended and she has received the plaudit of the Master, “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy lord.”

The funeral services were held from the Baptist church on Sunday afternoon, Dr. J. A. Ford officiating. Her Sunday School class, with whom she was a special favorite, attended in a body. It is strange that mother and daughter, so devoted to one another, should pass beyond in the same week.

While researching the Jersey County Democrat for the 1870-1880s (published in Jerseyville, Illinois), I found a number of poems and an essay written by Anna McGannon. Some family members might be interested in reading them.

October 30, 1884

Last Friday evening Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Lamb celebrated the twenty-fifth anniversary of their marriage. One hundred invitations had been issued and the house was filled with friends. The bride and groom surrounded by their children, stood in the parlor and received the many congratulations tendered them. A person would supposed they were married very young judging by their youthful appearance, but Father Time has dealt kindly with them and they are nearing the half century mar. About ten o’clock an elegant repast was served and on such occasions this is always an enjoyable feature. After supper the guests were called together, and the editor of the Democrat read the following poem composed for the occasion by Miss Annie McGannon:

We come with greeting; from far and near,
The tones of the “wedding bells” we hear
And we catch the echo while we may,
And HONOR this silver wedding day.
A reminiscence it stands to-night,
Of a day long vanished out of sight;
And yet, its tender memories cling,
Like remnants of song we often sing.

The treasured past hold jewels as rare,
As dew is pure ‘neath the mountain air,
We look along down the line of years,
And we find our smiles effaced by tears,
The “remember me,” “forget me not,”
Are “touching stones” in a hallow’d spot;
And the tend’rest yearning nevermore
Recall them from the echoless shore.

But ah! if “then” was a scene subline,
The “spring” has merged into “summer time,”
Together you fold the garlands gay,
And tenderly lay them all away.
Content with the fragments gathered up,
That fills to the brim - life’s joyous cup;
Secure in the mellowed light of joy,
That ne’er succumbs to the word destroy.

Your lives have had their thorns and flowers,
Their autumn winds, and April showers;
While sunbeams peeping form their abode,
Elipsed the shadows along the road,
Time has imprinted with talent rare,
Upon your faces the lines of care,
And ne’er did youth more tenderly speak
Than the autumn resting on your cheek.

And into your home has came life’s pearls,
The “sturdy boys,” and the “laughing girls,”
Treasures that naught on earth can compare.
Precious the casket of jewels rare.
Oh! happy home where the light of love,
Is e’en o’ershadowed, like that above;
May the years be few and far between,
If aught but happiness intervene.

But words are vain and of little good,
The silent part is best understood,
And “thoughts,” perhaps; we never express,
Are the ones that purify and bless.
If “length of days” be your promised boon,
And life ekes out beyond “high noon,”
Twenty-five years from to-night may you
Celebrate one of a “golden” hue.

And through life’s long circuitous way,
Rifts in the cloud, but preface the day,
Only a little ways farther on,
The low decline of its setting sun.
Looking at you I lovingly think,
That when you come to the river’s brink,
How sweet “the trust” in the “clinging hand”
Guiding you over the golden strand.

Be this any wish, that your days may be
One purely calm and untroubled sea;
Whose harbor all may securely know,
And changes not at its “ebb or flow,”
And when “the Master,” on wings of peace,
Shall whisper the message of release,
May it find you closer to His dear side,
Waiting together - at eventide.

The sentiment was touching and at its conclusion tears were seen in many eyes, and the young authoress received the congratulations of the company.

June 2, 1887


Decoration Day

J. M Page, editor and proprietor of the Jersey County Democrat read the poem composed by Miss Annie McGannon for the community’s services honoring the veterans.

Our Gallant Dead
(Composed for Lowe Post No. 295 G.A.R, Jerseyville, Ill., by Miss Anna McGannon)

Adown the line of passing years
Whose shadow’d ebb and flow,
Awaken tender mem’ries
Of a “hallow’d” long ago.
We glance with saddened faces,
Where a Nation stops to weep,
And gather “immortelles” for those
Who bravely fell asleep.

Adown the line an earnest gaze
Reveals our hopes, and fears,
So closely interwoven, and the whole
Baptized with tears.
Yet, circling round them, sunbeams
We faintly now descry,
Wafting fuller revelation,
Coming to us “by and by.”

O gallant men, so quick to heed
Our country’s call, to arms!
Can we be censured, if we wish
You safe from all alarms?
All undisturbed, your resting place
Unknown to mortal tread.
It is a consecrated spot,
This bivouac of the dead.

Adown the line we ne’er forget
The loyal, brave and true,
Who nobly sacrificed their lives,
Our own dear boys in “blue.”
And then I think of other hearts
So near, yet far away,
Who sadly mourn misguided ones,
Their own dear boys in “grey.”

A common grief makes all akin,
And as we clasp the hand,
We personate one brotherhood
That none dare countermand.
Here “glory” and “defeat” lie down,
Unconscious, side by side,
The loved and lost are ours and theirs, Across the “great divide.”

Oh! hearts that gave from out your homes
Your all that made life dear,
Your loving sacrifice of self
Is all remembered here.
How bravely you re-echoed
‘Mid the testing, long since gone,
The spartan mother’s noble pies,
“Come with your shield, or on.”

Adown the line, a simple trust
Possesses every day,
Whose sunset colors brightly blend,
Then calmly drift away.
While faith and love still whisper us
In God’s own summer-land,
Together we will wake with Him,
Together understand.

Oh! Mighty Counsellor divine
Who guides our ship of state,
To Thee we give the homage,
As we now commemorate
The cause of right and freedom
We could never call our own,
Unless upheld, and guarded
By the power behind the throne.

Adown the line we look again,
And over you and me,
Still floats this starry emblem
Of a priceless liberty.
Neath the banner of the “nation”
And banner of the cross,
Being true to God and country,
One cannot suffer loss.

Thrice happy day! Our dear old flag
Still holds its honored place,
No ruthless hand may dim a star,
Or even strip erase.
Wherever victory has crowned
These bonny colors true,
We owe it to a higher power,
And to the boys in blue.

The, may our grand thanksgiving anthem
Echo loud and long,
And hallelujahs rend the air,
Amid glad notes of song.
For once again we all rejoice,
Our country stands complete,
While round its heaven born altar bright,
A loyal people meet.

Oh! tender mem’ries of the past,
Like ivy you are found
Still clinging to these cherished scenes
That make it hallowed ground.
Where are the dear, dear faces,
We long for here and there?
Awake not slumbering echoes,
You would only mock us – where?

Sweet mem’ry bells, you saddened tones
Vibrating to and fro,
Recall the unforgotten ones, Now lying sadly low.
It seems but yesterday we met,
In friendly converse sweet,
To-day we trust, the absent one,
Sit at the Master’s feet.

Ring on then, in memoriam,
Your melody appears
To chant a requiem for those
Who have our love, and tears.
But oh! beyond life’s vain regrets,
Beyond our vision dim,
We know what seemeth hidden now,
Will be revealed in Him.

Then nestle low dear memory,
We’re happier when nigh,
Uniting past and present,
With the sweeter by and by.
O, sever not the “silver cord”
Nor break the “golden chain”
The peace that passeth understanding
Shelters us again.

Sleep on, oh! brave defenders
Of a nation’s holy trust,
Your deeds of valor ne’er forgot
Above your treasured dust.
So tenderly, with loving hands,
We’ll strew the graves with flowers,
The gallant dead, we mourn to-day –
These dear, brave boys are ours.

Sleep on, oh! fallen heroes
‘Neath the blossoms of the May,
Till the midnight, and the morning,
Shall blend in perfect day.
So, mid our live and tears we come,
To cover with sweet flowers,
The gallant dead we’ve laid away,
These dead, brave boys of ours.

Oh, rest profound! oh, slumber deep,
That heeds not eve or dawn,
Unmindful of our falling tears,
With folded arms sleep on!
While loving hearts and loving hands,
Still strew with choicest flowers
The gallant dead who sweetly sleep,
These dear, brave boys of ours.

Essay. Read by Miss Annie M. McGannon before the S. S. Concert at the Baptist Church, Sunday evening, November 7, 1875.

In the 14th chap. of John, 1st and 2nd verses, we read the following words: “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are ‘many mansions;’ if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.’ One of the great secrets of human happiness is an unwavering faith in Providence, an unfaltering trust in our “Heavenly Father,” whose promises are sure, very sure; and who, loving “his own,” loves them unto the end. What is faith but belief, and a perfect representation of a heaven-born faith is a purely, spiritual apprehension of the truth when the soul willingly, unquestionably places its entire confidence upon Jesus; who alone is the hope of the life which now is, and that which is to come. And these words spoken in all the unutterable fullness of Christ-love to his disciples are none the less for all his followers, assuring us the choicest comfort under the most adverse circumstances. And acknowledging his wonderful love toward us, our every emotion of pure gratitude, and heartfelt songs of praise, ought to be given to Him, our Creator, Benefactor and Redeemer. Are we passing through deep waters? His grace is sufficient. Are we overburdened with anxieties? We are admonished to cast all our care upon him. Are we neglected? He says, “I will never leave, nor forsake thee.” Are we disquieted within us? He whispers, “Let not your heart be troubled.” O, these words of solid comfort, helping us as we meditate upon them, to realize more fully, they alone are truly blessed, who posseses a heart purified by faith, in the Lord Jesus Christ. Following this we have the precious promise of the “many mansions” in his Father’s house, whither he has gone to prepare a place for all who love Him. And oh! what wondrous love is his; a love that neither height, nor depth can measure, nor breadth nor space entrammel in its boundaries; for its limitations are from “everlasting to everlasting.” A love so touchingly tender in remembrance of our frailties, a love so in sympathy with all our misgivings as to fully verify, his unwillingness to deceive or to lure us on by false inducements; for he says, if it were not so, “I would have told you.” And, conscious that thought is powerless to conceive, much less words inadequate to express, the why, and wherefore of Omnipotence, yet we may rest assured that all will come to “glad fruition,” and that, when Jesus has prepared the place for us, and made us fit subjects for the inheritance of the place, He will call us “up higher,” if we’re only faithful; for ‘tis God’s faithful few, who are “His Jewels.” And the thought of being some day at home with Jesus, has cheered many a wounded spirit, and checked many a falling tear, and during the sacred hours of “sweet communion” with the Master, not a few of us can say, we were not far from those we love.

How many of us to-night, realize what home is? Home around which so many hallowed associations cling; where the name of Father is revered; and whose tones that once awoke the echos round the “family altar” will never be forgotten. Home where the “little ones” were “brought up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Home, where the depths of mother-love, was never fathomed. Mother to whom we owe our virtues and our Christian graces. Mother, whose silent heart-breathings, wafted heavenward, ever made our faith stronger, our hopes brighter, and shortened apparently the weary walk, bu the wayside. O, this is the very acme of earthly bliss; a home where every member of the household possesses Christ; ‘tis a heaven of heavens here below. If then, this is the feebly drawn picture, of an earthly home, that we find hanging on the walls of memory’s gallery to-night, what can we say of the home in “the hereafter” of which we are told, “eye hath not seen, nor ear heard;” neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. What can we say of Heaven, when all we know is but little, and our tongue incapable of telling even that little. Imagination fails us, and understanding is dumb, for the finite cannot comprehend the Infinite. But we do know through the blessings of an open Bible, that Heaven is a place of perfect purity, where all is peace and joy; where sunbeams eternally reign, and shadows never come; where “God reigneth and the upright shall dwell in his presence.” And O, of what small moment are all our feeble sacrifices compared with this home, that is not made with hands; eternal in the heavens! Are not all the glories of earth transient? Have we any foundation outside of Christ, upon which we can build, that is not perishable with time? Let us see. Here the family circle, complete to-day, to-morrow we find a missing link. Here we whisper the fond “good nigh,” never to hear the glad “good morning” until we reach the shores of another clime. Here we “clasp hands” at parting, hoping to meet again; aye, we do meet, but not until the vail is lifted, that separates time from the boundless shoes of eternity. To-day we heap up riches but to-morrow, we are shrouded for the grave, and strangers gather them. To-day we drink deeply from the fountain of pleasure, to-morrow its waters are turned to “marah.” To-day we eat of sweet, but forbidden fruit, to-morrow, its substance is “dead, sea-apples.” To-day we revel in the gratification of some carnal desire, to-night, our souls are required of us. Oh! is it well to live for this life only sustained by no hope beyond the grave, hugging to our bosoms the mistaken idea, that when we fold our arms about us, and lay us down to sleep that this is the end of all, that his, is an uninterrupted slumber: Can we look calmly on, and see our barque, freighted with an immortal soul, instead of stemming the current, drift heedlessly down the tide without pilot or anchor? If so, its harbor will prove a sad, a fearful awakening. Truly there is no hope but in the Savior; no safety but in the Savior, and no forgiveness but through his blood. But yonder, in the “grand eternal” in the presence of God and the Lamb, all is glory, with exceeding joy. Now we seee through a glass darkly, then it is face to face; now we know only in part, then we shall know, even as we are known; now we are faithful over a few things, then we are rulers over many things; now we are saved by hope, then, is the blissful realization; now we have “the promise;” then, the “abundant entrance.” Oh! for more of this trusting faith in God! to take him at his word; to believe it because He has said it; then may we know that having stood by “faith” and endured by ldquo;patience” unto the end, we will enter through the gates into the city, and reunited with all our “loved ones” sit down together at the Savior’s feet, re-count his mercies and tell of his wonder love toward us, and in one glad, triumphant echoing chorus of praise, we will ascribe all glory and thanksgiving, to our God forever.

O, ‘tis not all of life, this fleeting breath,
Some day we’ll stand upon the verge of death.
And what support, if not, a living faith.

Some day, of yes! In some glad, happy day,
These “mansions” will not be so far away,
We’ll claim one as “our own” and ever stay.

Once more the promise given rich and free
In Father’s house, there, “many mansions” be,
I go before, but to prepare for thee.

And if I go, I’ll come again ‘tis true;
Receive you to myself – all trials through,
That where I am, there also, may be you.

Up there, nought can corrupt, no moth nor rust,
Up there is never heard, ‘tis “dust to dust.”
We may not trace thee Father, but we’ll trust.

O, blessed thought, he leads us by the hand,
And whiter it be through sun, or shadowed land,
Some day we’ll wake with Him, and understand.

Would you if nearing Jordan’s rolling tide,
And catching glimpses of the yonder side
Would you in rapture say, I’m satisfied?

Not I, but when my weary, faltering feet,
Shall pass beyond and walk the golden street,
And face to face my friend and Savior meet,
Then, I’ll be satisfied; my rest complete.

Endnotes