Obit: Mardin (Marden), William H. (1849 - 1912)
Transcriber: Stan

Surnames: Marden, Mardin, Hall

----Source: Judy Hansen Scrapbook

Mardin (Marden), William H. (15 MAR 1849 - 10 NOV 1912)

William Henry Mardin, who died suddenly at work in the Elgin Warehouse on Tuesday, Nov. 10, was born in Canada on March 15, 1849 (family says he was actually born 1845), and entered the Union Army as a member of Company A., 30th Wisconsin, at the age of eleven years, being one of eight brothers who served our country during the great rebellion. He spent one year as a prisoner of war at Louisville, Ky. Upon his release he was sent to Washington, where he met Abraham Lincoln, who took him upon his knee and called him his baby soldier. While in battle he received a wound in the shoulder.

Of his life prior to coming to Elgin there is but little to tell, as he was never inclined to speak of it.

About eight years ago his first wife died, and since that time until coming to Elgin, he led a roving life. A little over a year ago he went to the Soldiers Hospital in Orting, Wash., where he spent six months. From there he came to La Grande, then to Elgin, where he was married to Mrs. E. J. Hall, on March 28, 1912. Sine that time he has made his home in our midst.

He was a kind husband and father, enjoyed his home life and did everything in his power to make life pleasant for others.

He leaves a son who lives in Centralia, Wash, but sent word that it would be impossible for him to be at the funeral.

The funeral service was held at the M. E. Church, conducted by the pastor,, and at the grave the Civil War Veterans had charge.