James Tennison
Transcribed by Linda K. Lewis, Jan, 2015.
Source: Olathe Mirror, Olathe, KS, Thurs. 7 Jul 1887, pg. 2.
Obituary.
James Tennison, one of the oldest settlers of Kansas died at his home in Shawnee township, Johnson county, Kans., June 18th 1887, having attained to the good old age of 73 years. He was born in Rutherford Co., Tenn., Dec. 23d, 1823. When quite young he emigrated with his parents to Shelby Co., Ill., where he was engaged in school-teaching and farming. From there he moved to Dane Co., Wis., where he was engaged in the same together with mining. He came to Johnson Co., Kas. in the year 1855. This has been his home ever since, having lived for thirty years on the farm where his last days on earth were spent. He was widely known, and a large concourse of friends assembled at Linwood church where the funeral services were held, to pay a tribute of respect to the departed and sympathize with the bereaved family.
Mr. Tennison was a man of very staunch character. This was manifested in the stand he took for prohibition at the time when it was not popular in Kansas. He was an ardent friend of temperance from his boyhood.
He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church for about forty-five years, and was class leader and Sunday School Superintendent for a number of years. Age and failing health had for some years prevented the more active duties of his younger years. From his neighbors who have known him for many years, there is a general expression of high regard for his character and work. This alone, is a nobler eulogy than could come from the pen of one, a comparative stranger. The deep sympathy of many friends is extended to the bereaved.
W. B. Maggs.