JONES, John R.
Source: Princeton, Indiana
Clarion-Leader Sat 8 March 1856 p 2
We regret to learn that Mr. John R.
Jones, died at Vincennes on Tuesday ( March – buried Greenlawn Cemetery,
Vincennes, Knox County, Indiana – no birth date) last. His disease was
consumption that has been working upon his system for the past two years. He
was a candidate for the nomination to Congress before the Democratic Convention
two years ago and withdrew his name for the sake of harmony that resulted in the
selection of the present member. The Vincennes Gazette in announcing his death
says:
Mr. Jones, we believe came to this place in 1844 or 1845, and took charge of the Western Sun, a paper which he purchased of Elihu Stout. Previous to that time, Mr. J. had represented Fountain County in the Legislature, with credit to himself and had been editor of the Covington Friend. In these positions he had established a reputation as an active politician and a sharp and vigorous writer. The Sun, under his control, did not flourish, in a pecuniary sense, though it was conducted with an ability far above mediocrity. Mr. Jones was a man of ambitious aspirations, and was, on several occasions, a candidate before Democratic Conventions for the nomination for Congress but was never successful.
After the “Sun” was closed up, his
restless nature would not permit him to remain in quiet life; and he purchased
another office, and established Jones’ Vincennes Sentinel. This paper was
conducted by him for a few years, with but little pecuniary profit and did not
succeed in furthering the fulfilment of his aspirations for popular favor.
Failing in this, he was appointed
Assistant under Mr. Forney, late Clerk of the House of Representatives, which
post he filled with honor to himself and profit to his purse. At the close of
his labors in that capacity, he was appointed Register of the Land Office at
Vincennes by Mr. Pierce and was afterwards nominated one of the Commissioners
to adjust land titles in this vicinity.
He was born, we think, in Virginia, and
removed with his mother, at an early period in life to one of the northern
counties of this state. In policy he was
always a firm and consistent Democrat.
His manners were pleasing and affable. His writings are piquant and told
with effect. A short time previous to his death he united himself to the
Methodist Church and died professing his faith in the blessed Savior. “After
life’s fitful fever, he sleeps well.” - kbz