Benjamin H. Clark was born in Indiana, August 3, 1833, and died at Leavenworth, Kas., November 21, 1916 aged 83 years, 3 months and 13 days. Mr. Clark was united in marriage to Rosella E. Wood in 1859. The moved to Kansas, where in 1863 he enlisted in Company A, 7th Kansas Cavalry. After returning from the war the family moved back to Missouri, residing there about eight years. They then moved to Rooks County, Kansas, and took a homestead. Here they passed through the trying period of pioneer days, remaining several years. They moved to Downs in 1885, making this their home most of the time since, living in peace and happiness until death came and took his beloved wife, Mrs. Rosella Clark, October 31, 1906. Since that time Mr. Clark has spent most of his time at the Soldier's home in Leavenworth, returning to Downs during the summer months and living with his son, John R. Clark. Deceased leaves four children, Mrs. Emilson A. Purdy, Speed, Kas.; John R. Clark, Downs; Mrs. Adelia A. Brock, Glem Elder; and Mrs. Mary J. Ray, Downs. He also leaves one brother Benoist Clark, Guthrie, Okla.; one sister, Mary J. Sargent, Seneca, Kas., besides a large number of grandchildren and great grandchildren to mourn the loss of a kind and loving father, brother and grandfather. Benjamin H. Clark passed away from this life at the Soldier's home in Leavenworth, Kas., November 21, 1916, at 8:05 a.m. The body was brought to Downs November 23 by his son, John R. Clark, and the funeral services were conducted by Rev. L.A. McKeever, pastor of the Methodist church. The remains were laid to rest in the Downs Cemetery. Father Clark was a member of the United Brethren Church while living in Missouri. He afterwards took a letter to the Methodist church. After moving to Rooks County, he joined the Free Methodist Church, living a consistent christian life and being devoted to the Master.

Newpaper Obituary: The Downs News & The Downs Times; Ranson & Mann, editors/proprietors; Down, Osborne, Kansas, USA; Thursday, 30 Nov 1916; Vol. XXXII, No. 42.