Ogle County Reporter
Oregon, Illinois
30 September 1875

Washington Grove
Mr. David Maxwell, one of the oldest settlers at this place, was severely injured by being thrown from his wagon on Friday last, near Ashton.
His horses became frightened, and ran away, throwing himself and wife and a small child out of the wagon. Mrs. Maxwell was but slightly injured, while
her child escaped without injury. Mr. Maxwell was severely hurt internally, but hopes are entertained of his recovery.

Ogle County Reporter
Oregon, Illinois
October 7, 1875

In Memorial

Died, at his residence in Washington Grove, Pine Rock Township, Ogle County, Illinois, September 22nd, 1875, Mr. David Maxwell, aged 68 years.

Mr. Maxwell's death was occasioned by being thrown from a wagon, living six days after the accident. As Mr. Maxwell was one of the pioneers, whose
history is identified with the early settlement of the county, you will please allow me to give a very brief sketch of his life in your columns. He
was born in North Carolina, and with his father removed to Indiana when 14 years of age. In 1825 his father and family removed to Bloomington in this
State. Being of an active temperament and fond of adventures, Mr. Maxwell took an active part in what is known as the Black-Hawk War. He was in the
battle between the Indians and United States troops fought in what is known as Stillmans valley, in this county.

It was when returning from that disastrous battle, that he first saw Washington Grove, and the tract of land where afterwards he made his home.
Struck by its beauties, he determined to possess it, and when hostilities ceased, he returned and made it his home. He first saw this country in
1832, but did not make his claim until 1834. He built the second cabin put up in Ogle County, at Washington Grove. The Indians then held possession of
the Grove, and were encamped in it. The Prairie on all sides of the grove was in its native loveliness, untouched by the foot of the white man.
Indians fished in the beautiful Rock River, and hunted on the prairies. Mr. Maxwell was early identified with the settlement of the county, and aided
materially to its development. His house and his heart was always open to receive the new settler, seeking for a home in Ogle County. Only one of
those who settled here with him survives; By his sudden death the community has lost a worthy member, and a wife and five children are called to mourn.
His funeral was largely attended, at the Christian Chapel, by the old settlers and others. He sleeps near the grove he loved so well, and his
memory is embalmed in the hearts of those who remain.

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