PIERSON R. DEWEESE GRAVESTONE PHOTO
South Kansas Tribune, March 21, 1888:
Pierson R. Dewees, one of the Elk river valley pioneers, and an old soldier in the 11th Kentucky volunteers, died at his residence, north of Peebler school house, on Sunday night last, aged about 58 years. Until quite recently he has enjoyed good health, excepting at times. Recently he began to suffer with pain in the head, jay and teeth, supposedly caused by an old bullet wound in the head. He had some teeth extracted, but of no benefit. He grew gradually worse, and on Sunday night was mustered out of all earthly battlefields. He was a good citizen, quiet and pleasant neighbor, and universally respected. During the past winter he was instrumental in continuing a religious meeting at Peebler, and was the first convert. His funeral on Tuesday afternoon was under the auspices of Fortitude Lodge No. 107, A. F. & A. M. of which he was a devoted member. Post Master T. W. Conway, acting W. M. A very large concourse of friends followed the remains to Mt. Hope cemetery. The religious services were in charge of Rev. D. King, of the Baptist church.