Williams - Maria Bulger
Source: Crawfordsville Daily Journal Feb 28, 1918 p 5 c1
One of the pioneers of Crawfordsville passed away Saturday morning Feb 23 at 2 o'clock. Mrs. Williams was born 73 years ago in Mayslick, KY and came to Crawfordsville in 1863. At the age of 14 years she was a leading factor in the underground railway system and helped many slaves to escape into Canada. At one time she was cast into prison for assisting runaway slaves but the Abolitionists protected her and made her escape possible. It was while engaged in this pursuit that she was converted to the Christian faith and joined the Methodist Church under Rev. William J. Jackson. Her father, Major Bulger, bought her for $500. Her life was consistent she filled the offices of stewardess, Sunday School superintendent and teacher, steward, class leader. The commissioners appointed her to see after the desitute of this city. Her home was always open for the needy, all found a welcome with her. She and her husband, Zach Williams, reared and educationed four girls and two boys, all of whom reflect creditably upon them. Funeral services were held at Bethel AME Church, Rev. Mr. Butler officiated assisted by Rev. Mr. Sebree and Judge West. Resolutions were read by the Sunday School class No 1 and Eastern Star. Three months ago Mrs. WIlliams made all arrangements for her funeral, scriptural readings, text, songs, solors and soloists, etc. "To live is not to die."