Peterson W. RICHARDS (1823-1917)

Girard Gazette, 15 February 1917, page 1 column 1:

GIRARD'S OLDEST RESIDENT DEAD

Girard's oldest resident, Uncle Peter Richards, whose age exceeds that of the town itself, passed away at the Home of the Brethren, Sunday afternoon at the age of 93 years.

Mr. Richards, who was a native of Tennessee, came with his parents to this country in 1827, when he was but four years of age. They settled near the site of the old town of Girard. Later he saw the erection of the first dwellings in New Girard, and also witnessed the building of the first railroad, now the Chicago & Alton through the village.

He is survived by four children: Charles Richards of Limon, Colo; Mrs. C. C. Ward of Carlinville; Mrs. C. M. Clevenger of South Otter; and Mrs. Samuel Harbour of Carlinville. He is also survived by thirty grandchildren, and eighteen great-grand children.

Brief funeral services were conducted Tuesday at The Home of the Brethren. Interment was made in the Girard cemetery.