Wayne Co. Press
Feb. 17, 1887

 Maria Kenshalo was born Sept. 18, 1828, and died of pneumonia at her home near Barnhill, Feb. 2, 1887, aged 58 years, 4 months, 14 days.  She married Nathaniel Harlan, May 15, 1855; was the mother of nine children, three of whom preceded her to the better world.  She professed religion more than 30 years ago, and, with her husband, united with the M. E. church.  Their house was often the home of the itinerant, as many of the preachers of the Southern Illinois Conference can testify to their hospitality.  Although not demonstrative her experience in the things of God were deep and abiding.  Her husband died in 1872, leaving her with the care of seven children, three of whom were less than five years old.  During her widowhood of fifteen years, she toiled with energy and tact to support and educate her children.  After the death of her husband she moved to her farm, the Kenshalo homestead, where her father settled nearly 70 years ago.  She was a thoroughgoing business woman, and superintended the management of her farm in a remarkably successful manner, often assisting with the most arduous farm labor.  Although taken in the midst of her usefulness, and when her family seemed to need her most, we can but bow in humble submission to His will.  Her only regret expressed over the thought of dying was that of parting with her children, who needed her care so much.  But she weighed the matter well, and trusted all to the care of Him who doeth all things well.  She was a loving and self-sacrificing mother, and will be missed most by those who knew her best--the members of the home circle.  She called her family around her bedside, and bidding each one farewell, she exhorted them to devote themselves to Christ, and meet her in heaven.  She then passed peacefully to her reward.
 The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Wm. M. Owen at her late home, after which the remains were interred in the cemetery near Mill Shoals, there to await the resurrection morn.