Joseph Ames Little (1830-1892)
- There was joy in the home of Thomas Little on the 24th day of May 1830 -- that came not alone from the beauty of the season, but more largely from the fact that on that day a man child came to add the blessings of its presence to the family circle. The family at that time lived in Webster Township, Merrimac County, New Hampshire. In accordance with the faith of the parents the child received its name in connection with the ordinance of baptism, and for nearly two generations the name of Joseph Ames Little has been a synonym for industry integrity and kindness. The young man came west with his parents in 1855. From that time until his death his home has been mostly in West Creek Township, Lake County, Indiana. He united with the Presbyterian Church at Lake Prairie in 1859. He retained his membership there until his death. We may rest assured that his faith in the gospel never ceased. He was not profuse in profession but those who knew him best and strongest trust in his Christian character. In 1859 he married Miss Mary Gerrish. Six of their children survive him and all of them are members of the church in which for many years the father was a respected officer. During the years 1886-7 he was a member of the legislature of Indiana. On the morning of February 19, 1892, the angel of death entered the room of the sleeping man so noiselessly that even the quick ear of the watchful wife knew not his presence. At the call of that impervious visitor, the soul that through years of constant suffering had gown weary of earth's sorrows, left its pilgrimage to the rest that remaineth for the people of God. On February 22, 1892, all that was mortal of [the] deceased was laid to rest in the cemetery that lies within sight of his former home. A large concourse of neighbors and relatives who come from a distance met to engage in the solemn ceremony. But the exercises of that day could not express the sorrow that has fallen on the hearts of friends; a hush is on many homes. The citizen, the member of the Christian flock, the husband and father, has gone from all early gatherings, but his truest friends cherish his memory tenderly and wait in faith the time that shall see them reunited where death is no more.
J.F.S.
Joseph Ames Little, "Pioneer History Index," for further information.
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