Death Claims Joseph Erisman. Aged Pioneer Succumbs to Infirmities of Age-Funeral Services Wednesday Afternoon.
Joseph Erisman, one of the city's oldest citizens, died at 12:00 yesterday afternoon at the family's residence at 424 North Fifth street, from the infirmities of age. His illness dates from last Tuesday. During the week his condition steadily grew worse until the end, which was peaceful. Mr. Erisman was a man of sound character and commanded the respect and good will of the community.

He was born March 19, 1824, in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and while he was four years old moved with his parents to Darke County, O. the trip was made overland in a big wagon and required several weeks time. Mr. Erisman spent his boyhood in Ohio learning the trade of harness making in New Harrison. He was also for a time located in Dayton, O. Mr. Erisman has been a resident of this community since 18 -- and came to Lafayetville from Ohio on the old Wabash and Erie Canal. He made his home at the old Lahr house for some time and November 21, 1854 was married to Miss Frances Virginia Hall at Greenville, Ohio.
Was an Esteemed Citizen in 1882 he purchased the house on Fifth street where he died. For long years Mr. Erisman was engaged in the harness making business in this city, He had a store for a number of years on Columbia Street and also for a time was in business on West Main street. He retired from active business life about twenty years ago. In the death of Mr. Erisman Lafayette sees one of its oldest men and a loyal highly esteemed citizen.

Funeral Wednesday
He was a man who took great interest in his home. While retiring in disposition, he was at all times an interesting conversationalist, being well posted on current events. Because of the steadfastness of his character and his pleasing personality, he attracted many friends. He was a life long republican, taking an active interest in the party, but never seeking an office. He came from a family of eighteen children, and Benjamin Erisman of Piqua, O, is the only surviving member. Besides the venerable widow the following children survive: Charles Q Erisman, president of the board of public works; Miss Margaret J Erisman and Mrs. William Renner, all of this city and Mrs. Belle Dresser, of Michigan City, He also leaves one grandchild, Lee Dresser, of Michigan City.

The funeral services, which will be public, will be held at the family residence Wednesday afternoon at 3:00. Dr. G. W. Switser officiating. The burial, which will be private, will be at Springvale Cemetery.
[No newspaper named. Contributed]