Vanarsdall - William A.
Source: Crawfordsville Daily Journal Thursday, 5 July 1894
William A. Vanarsdall died this morning shortly after 5 o’clock at his home on South Washington Street. Mr. Vanarsdall had not been in vigorous health since last winter when he suffered from an attack of the grip, but was about the streets and his business until last Saturday. He had a chill Saturday which was followed by an attack of malarial fever. His condition was not considered serious until Tuesday and his death was hardly anticipated before midnight last night. The funeral will occur on Sunday at 2 o’clock p.m. and will be in charge of the Masons and city officials.
Mr. Vanarsdall was born in Mercer County, Ky., on November 14, 1824, being one of the six children of Cornelius Vanarsdall. When William was ten years old his father came to this place and settled and here William passed his life. In July, 1853, he was married to Martha Brassfield, who survives him. Three children were born to them; Emma, who died in infancy, Jennie, the wife of Wallace Linder, and Mrs. Kate Garber, deceased. Mr. Vanarsdall was in the contracting business here for twenty five years, but for the past several years has devoted himself to looking after his farm and other business interests.
Perhaps no man in Crawfordsville was so well versed in the history of the city and its government as he. For twenty two years, he served the city as councilman and for four years as street commissioner. Mr. Vanarsdall’s sterling integrity and devotion to Crawfordsville’s interests were potent to all and he was the natural choice of the citizens for the council, always being elected by large majorities, although never seeking the position and its duties, while in his hands were arduous. He was conservative yet progressive, and always considered a matter thoroughly before sanctioning it by his vote. His term expired last May but he had been re-elected to fill the unexpired term of A. L. Tomlinson, who likewise died in office.
Mr. Vanarsdall was honored and respected by all with whom he had dealings. He was plain spoken but as honest as the day and had a more than kindly heart. His death is deplored by all and the city’s loss in the deprivation of his services can hardly be estimated. -- thanks muches to "S" for both of these obits
Source: Crawfordsville Daily Journal Monday, 9 July 1894
The funeral of Wm A. Vanarsdall was held yesterday afternoon at the family residence on South Washington Street. Promptly at the hour the band came up the street heading a procession of police, city officials, fire department, citizens and 109 Masons. When a halt was made they gathered about the house and yard. After a son, Rev. H. A. Tucker read a portion of Scripture and gave a short account of the life work of the deceased. Rev. J. W. Greene offered prayer and Rev. G. W. Stafford made a few remarks. Those desiring then took a parting look at the deceased and the procession was formed for the march to Oak Hill.
The pallbearers were T. J. West, T. D. Brown, Chas Goltra, E. C. Snyder, J. C. McKinsey and J. H. Wasson. There were several beautiful floral designs, the most prominent being a broken wheel sent by the city officials. At the grave the Masonic order took charge under the guidance of L. A. Foote, and the impressive funeral service of that order was gone through with. Thus has been laid away one of our oldest citizens, respected by all, and one who was faithful to his word and work.