The Girard Press, Thursday, Aug. 3, 1899

Died: July 31, 1899

The Late Joseph Ennis

Joseph Ennis, who died at his home on South Cherokee, Girard, Kan., July 31st, 1899, aged 63 years, 2 months, and 27 days, was born in Westmoreland county, Pa., May 4th, 1836. At the age of 19 years he removed to Iowa, and in March 1858, was married to Maria Gantz in Brookfield, in that state. One son was born to them, William whose home is in Philadelphia, Pa. His first wife died in November, 1860.

Mr. Ennis enlisted in the Union army in 1861, and served until July 4th, 1863, being a member of Co. D, Fourth Iowa Cavalry.

After being mustered out he returned to Iowa, and November 16th, 1864, was married to Pauline Hollibaugh, who survives him. One daughter was born to them, Mrs. Belle Gaitskill.

He came to Kansas with his family March 18th 1870, and located on a claim in Osage township, and afterwards removed to Sheridan Township.

In 1873, he left the farm and came to Girard, this city being his home for twenty-six years. He first engaged in blacksmithing and became a partner of P. A. Sams. They afterwards bought the L. B. Lehr carriage works, and took in another partner.

He served as city councilman from 1875 to 1881, when he was elected mayor.

He was also county commissioner for a number of years, and held that position when the court house was built.

During the past few years he has been engaged in the implement business, having establishments both in Girard and Pittsburg.

He was Great Keeper of Wampum of the improved Order of Red Men of Kansas at the time of his death, and was also a member of the Masonic order and the A. O. U. W.

Personally Mr. Ennis was a man of strong character, honorable in his dealings with his fellow men, and his death will be sincerely mourned by all who know him.

The funeral services will take place from his late residence this afternoon at 3 o’clock.

The pall bearers selected are Capt. J. D. Barker, Frank E. Robb, Wm. Anderson, James A. Smith, W. H. Braden, and J. W. Magie.