On Thursday, July 25, at his residence near Alamo occurred the death of one of the oldest and most respected of Ripley Township's citizens. Samuel Truax was born near Eaton, Preble County, Ohio May 6, 1825. Seven years later his parents returned to this county and with the exception of two years his life has been spent in the neighborhood to which he came as a child. He married Martha Stubbins of Waveland Jan 1, 1852. Surviving her 23 years he leaves a family of 4 sons and two daughters, who realize in their bereavement the grief that passeth speech. While not strictly speaking one of the old settlers, Uncle Sam was of the time that witnessed the conquest of the wilderness. His earlier days were familiar with the log cabin and clearing. In that stern burdensome servitude which redeemed from the unbroken forest the fairest country in the realm of agriculture he performed his part faithfully and well. The untiring industry and unserving integrity that marked his career was rewarded with a full measure of success in the accumulation of the substantial comforts of this life. Strongly independent in character, yet thoughtful and kindly in disposition, he was typical of all that is best in American citizenship - a home - builder and keeper, a model husband, an indulgent father. He joined the Masonic Fraternity Nov 24, 1849, becoming a Master Mason in January 1850 and in 46 years never missed a lodge meeting except when prevented by illness. The column of white aproned brethren of the compass and square who preceded the hearse and conducted the last imposing ceremonies was sufficient evidence of the esteem in which he was held by the order.
Crawfordsville Weekly Journal Friday August 2, 1895