Class of 1956

New Ipswich Historical Society

Appleton Academy - Class of 1956

Death of Mrs. Josephine Maria Simonds Bucknam

April 7, 1915

Mrs. Josephine M. S. Bucknam died on April 7 after a very protracted sickness of over one year. Her age was 76 years, 4 months, and 7 days She Was born in Groton, Mass. Her parents were James Simonds of Groton and Hannah W. Wood of Pepperell, whose immediate family, besides the deceased, were two brothers, James W. Simonds and Freddie Simonds, and three sisters, Mrs. Martha S. Hill, Mrs. Mary S. Richardson and Mrs. Abbie C. Pratt. Mrs. Bucknam was the last survivor of the family.

When the Simonds family became citizens of this town, they resided on the Robinson farm in the west part of the town on the Rindge road. Her education was secured in her native town and the public schools of this town

On Dec. 31, 1867, William T. Bucknam and Miss Josephine Maria Simonds were married, and took a wedding trip to Vermont. Upon their return their home was established here where they have since continued to reside. Mrs. Bucknam resided in town 67 years, many of which were spent at the Bucknam homestead.

She was an active member of the Congregational church many years; very energetic and efficient in the Ladles' circle, also very loyal in her own home, and a most highly respected citizen of the community with which she cordially affiliated. Mrs. Bucknam was optimistic and strove to attain high ideals in life's pathway. Her friends were numerous The last Easter brought many kind remembrances to awaken and brighten the shadows of her setting sun.

The children numbered two daughters, Mrs. Katherine B. Barber, wife of Rev. Henry A. Barber of Framingham, Mass. and Mrs. Mary Abbie Bucknam Sargent, who died Feb. 19, 1911. The grand-children are: Alfred William Barber, Catherine Louise Barber, Eleanor May Sargent and Robert William Sargent. Mr. Bucknam and Mrs. Barber are the survivors of the immediate family.

Rev. J. E. Bowman conducted the services and Rev. Henry A. Barber read a poem. The singers were: Walter S. Thayer, Robert B. Walker, Mrs. Hattie C. McKown and Mrs. Ethel M. Parker. Mrs. McKown presided at the organ. The following hymns were sung: "Beautiful' Isle of Somewhere," and "Some Sweet Day Bye and Bye." The floral tributes were many and reflected the beautiful life of the departed. The interment was in Central cemetery.e

James Roger diary entry

20th November 1912 (Wednesday)

Frost warm day, warming in afternoon, wind west. David working at Ashley’s dam. I was in house most of the day feeling squeamish. Went to mail in afternoon and library. Got letters from Cora and Jean. I raked some leaves in the cemetery in forenoon.

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