DEATH OF MRS. STEWART
Passing of the oldest of the early pioneers
There passed away on Tuesday morning in Tavistock, one of the oldest, if not the oldest of the early pioneer residents of this section in the person of Helen Bell Stewart, familiariy, known as “Grandma Stewart.”
The late Mrs. Stewart was born at Locherbie, Dumfrieshire, Scotland, in 1817, and had she lived till October next she would have reached the advanced age of 95 years. She was the eldest daughter of David Bell, and, with her parents and four brothers and four sisters, came to Canada in 1832, the journey across the ocean taking six weeks. The family settled where the village of Shakespeare now stands. They pitched their tent on what is now the site of the Presbyterian Church in that place and for many afterwards it was known as "Bell’s Corners". At that time the county was a dense wilderness, their only abode for a time was four poles covered with a few blankets. Mrs. Stewart saw pioneer life in all phases; she also saw the country transformed from a wilderness to its present prosperous state. The first wheat grown on her father's clearance was put in with a hoe, and after it was threshed he carried it on his shoulder to Galt to have it ground.
In 1837 she was married to Duncan Stewart, who predeceased her many years ago. For over 43 years she has lived with her daughter, Mrs. F. Krug, of this village.
Mrs. Stewart is survived by a family of 1 son, John, of Grafton, North Dakota; and 4 daughters, Mrs. Spark, of Stratford; Mrs.G. D. Matheson, of Chicago; and Mrs. F. Krug and Mrs. Neil Murray, Tavistock. She is also survived by 29 grandchildren, 22 great grand children and 1 great great grand-child.
Deceased had been in failing health for the last couple of years, but retained her faculties to the end. She was one of the most cheerful and kindly women found anywhere, and was beloved and revered by all. The funeral will take place this (Thursday) afternoon, interment being made in St. Andrew's cemetery, North Easthope.