Arrived in Brainerd on March 17, 1872.
•See Maud Sleeper Hazen.
•See Emma E. Forsythe.
•See Louisa Wright Congdon.
•See Maria A. Spalding.
•See Charles Douglas Johnson.
•See Dr. Werner Hemstead.
THE Ladies’ Leap Year Party, given at Bly’s Hall last evening, was largely attended, and, in fact, THE party of the season. The managers, Mrs. H. A. Towne, Mrs. A. A. White and Mrs. T. C. Bivins, are entitled to great credit for the very efficient manner in which they conducted the affair with uniform pleasure to all. The old established rules of etiquette were reversed with a good grace and few mistakes, though the way the ladies forgot their engagements, expecting the gentlemen to “come around,” and blushed when they asked a gentleman to see his programme, was not unobserved; but in that the gentlemen had little to boast of, for they were not infrequently caught without a ready answer to invitations, etc., and exhibited no little confusion. Upon the whole everything passed off in fine style, everyone enjoyed themselves, and the change was considered by all excellent for a change. (Brainerd Tribune, 12 February 1876, p. 1, c. 2)
Mrs. T. C. Bivins returned home last week after an absence of several months, visiting friends in Ohio. (Brainerd Tribune, 09 November 1878, p. 4, c. 1)
Mrs. T. C. Bivins is just getting around from a serious attack of typhoid fever. (Brainerd Tribune, 25 October 1879, p. 4, c. 2)
A large number of our citizens gathered on Tuesday evening last at the residence of Mr. George Forstyth, on 11th street, in a sort of impromptu or surprise party, met to pay their respects to Mr. and Mrs. Bivins, old residents of the town, who are preparing to remove hence to their old home in Ohio, and a very jolly time indeed was enjoyed by the participants. Dancing was indulged in followed by a lunch and a real social time, when at a late hour they separated. Mrs. Bivins has been a member of Brainerd society who will long be remembered very kindly by our people one and all, and who will often be sadly missed in her wonted acts of kindness and generous hospitality among her neighbors. Ever a constant attendant on the sick-bed with words of cheer and soothing care we fail to realize how the people of Brainerd are to learn to do without her. Many kind wishes will follow them to their future home. (Brainerd Tribune, 29 November 1879, p. 4, c. 1)
For Charity.
On Thursday evening a meeting was held at the residence of Mrs. T. C. Bivins for the purpose of finding some means of aiding the needy and people that are in want in this city. It was arranged to have a charity ball and donate the proceeds to a fund which is to be placed in the First National Bank, and to be used judiciously for this purpose. The ball will be held at the roller rink of Messrs. Slipp & Spaulding on Friday evening of next week, October 23, and the price of the tickets has been placed at $1.00, which includes dance and refreshments. The refreshments will be served in the rink. Committees were appointed to solicit contributions for the supper as follows: South side of the railroad track, Mrs. J. J. Howe, Mrs. J. E. Wilson and Mrs. R. E. Gleason. Between Front and Juniper, Mrs. Merritt and Mrs. Ferris. North of Juniper Mrs. Bivins and Mrs. D. D. Smith. East Brainerd, Mrs. A. J. Forsyth and Mrs. Breheny. Another meeting will be held on Wednesday evening of next week, when all necessary preliminaries will be arranged and a committee appointed to take charge of the funds and attend to the disbursing of the same. This is one of the best moves that has ever been inaugurated in Brainerd, and its success is certain if the citizens respond in the manner that they should. Let everybody lend a helping hand and assist in the good cause. (Brainerd Dispatch, 17 October 1884, p. 3, c. 3)
"AUNT" JENNIE
BIVINS IS CALLED
_____
Breathed Her Last on Sunday After-
noon—She was an Old Time
Pioneer of the City
_____
CAME TO MINNESOTA IN 1871
_____
Truly a Splendid Woman, Optimistic,
Helpful, Hopeful, a Friend to
Many People
Mrs. Jennie Bivins, or "Aunt" Jennie Bivins as she was generally known, died Sunday afternoon at her home in Brainerd. She was born in England on June 15, 1834, and came to America in 1843. Her family settled in Elyria, Ohio. She was married Sept. 28, 1857 to Thos. C. Bivins, and they came to Brainerd on March 17, 1871 [sic] [1872]. Her maiden name was Gaudern.
She was one of the founders of the Episcopal church of Brainerd and of the Eastern Star lodge in this city, in both of which she took a deep interest.
Her husband preceded her in his reward 23 [sic] years ago. No children blessed the union. In Ohio reside three brothers of the deceased. The funeral will be held on Wednesday afternoon at 3 o'clock from St. Paul's Episcopal church, Rev. Stacy officiating.
Of the character and attainments of Mrs. Bivins, an old friend writes as follows:
Aunt Jennie Bivins is dead. Sunday afternoon, June 13th, she breathed her last. She was up and around Sunday morning, wearing the same gladdening smile that for years has brought cheer, sunshine, hopefullness to her neighbors, young and old—but the great hand on the dial of time tolled its stroke at 2 P.M.—the messenger, death, came and said, "Come, Aunt Jennie, come with me."
She was an old time pioneer enduring the hardships, suffering the privations of the comforts and conveniences of life incident to one who came to Minnesota in 1853, helping to blaze the way for the coming of a new civilization.
Aunt Jennie Bivins, as she was known and so greeted by all who passed her by, was truly a splendid woman, with a character so good and grand, so optimistic and hopeful that the darkest hour seemed half-bright in her presence. She had a Christian spirit, she lived a Christian life, her cardinal doctrine was to do right and her motto was to do good.
Forty years ago when Brainerd was but a settlement in the midst of a jackpine forest, when trained nurses and hospitals were unknown, Aunt Jennie was the ministering angel at the bedside of the sick. It was Aunt Jennie in those days who smoothed the pillow of the sick, it was Aunt Jennie that comforted the sorrowing heart when death invaded the home.
Yes, she was a pioneer. Coming to Brainerd on March 17, 1871, living in the same house at the corner of Juniper and Fifth streets for over 35 years, greeting her friends, strangers and sojourners, all with the same kindly, genial greeting. She was no patron of the worn fashions of the past, but a lively enthusiast of the times in which she lived, keeping pace with the progress of the world, she was one of those women whose consideration of others and posterity was such that she would plant a tree today knowing she was to die tomorrow. Blessed, blessed be the memory of our dear old Aunt Jennie Bivins. (Brainerd Dispatch, 18 June 1915, p. 3, c. 5) [Courtesy of John Van Essen and Brian Marsh, CWCHS]
Attending the funeral of Mrs. Jennie Bivins today were Mr. and Mrs. Fred Keys [sic] of Minneapolis, Mr. and Mrs. C. C. Kyle of St. Paul, Miss Erma Johnson and Frank Johnson of St. Paul, Mr. and Mrs. George Ames of Staples. Ed. E. Gaudern, brother, of Elyria, Ohio. The funeral was largely attended by the many friends of the deceased being held at St. Paul's Episcopal church which she helped to found. Rev. Stacy officiating. (Brainerd Dispatch, 18 June 1915, p. 8, c. 4) [Courtesy of Brian Marsh, CWCHS]
"AUNT JENNIE"
—IS NO MORE
_____
Mrs. Jennie Bivins Dies Suddenly
On Sunday Afternoon
_____
From Stroke of Paralysis—Was an Early
Pioneer, Coming to Brainerd in 1871.
_____
It was with a feeling of profound sorrow that our citizens learned of the sudden death on Sunday last of Mrs. Jennie Bivins, familiarly known as "Aunt Jennie" Bivins. Death came suddenly and unexpectedly. To a friend who called just before 11 a.m. to ask if she was going to church, Mrs. Bivins said she was not feeling very well and would stay at home. About noon she suffered a paralytic stroke, and passed peacefully away at 1:30 p.m.
Mrs. Bivins was one of the early pioneers of Brainerd, and was known and loved by all the older residents of the city. Kind hearted, sympathetic, charitable, she was ever the same sympathizing friend and neighbor, ministering to the sick and comforting the sorrowing—always cheerful, optimistic, and helpful. Her kindly, genial disposition made her friends everywhere, and those who knew best her beautiful traits of character will mourn the loss of a dear friend.
Mrs. Bivins was a native of England, born June 15, 1834, and therefore would have been 81 years old on Tuesday. She came to America with her parents in 1843, and the family settled at Elyria, Ohio. She was married Sept 28, 1857, to Thos. C. Bivins, and they came to Brainerd on March 17, 1871 [sic] [1872]. Her maiden name was Gaudren [sic]. Mr. Bivins died in 1892. They had no children.
Mrs. Bivins was a member of St. Paul's Episcopal church from its organization here, and for many years was active in church work. She was also one of the founders of the Eastern Star chapter here, in which she always took great interest. She will be greatly missed in church and Masonic circles, and in the community as well.
The funeral of Mrs. Bivins took place on Wednesday afternoon at 3 o'clock, at which hour services were held in St. Paul's church, conducted by Rev. H. G. Stacy, the rector. Rev. G. P. Sheridan of the First Congregational church spoke briefly, and the vested choir sang two hymns. The church was crowded with friends and neighbors of the deceased, and the members of Alpha Chapter, O. E. S., attended in a body. Among those present from out of town were Ed. E. Gaudren [sic], of Elyria, Ohio, a brother of the deceased; Mr. and Mrs. C. C. Kyle, Miss Erma Johnson, Frank Johnson, Mr. and Mrs. Keyes [sic] and Howard Currie, from St. Paul; J. E. Goodman, Duluth; Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Ames, Staples. The pall bearers were E. C. Bane, C. J. Duffey, John Carlson, J. T. Sanborn, Henry Spalding and Geo. Ames. The interment was at Evergreen cemetery. (Brainerd Tribune, 18 June 1915, p. 1, c. 6) [Courtesy of Brian Marsh, CWCHS]
•See Maud Sleeper Hazen.
•See Emma E. Forsythe.
•See Louisa Wright Congdon.
•See Maria A. Spalding.
•See Charles Douglas Johnson.
•See Dr. Werner Hemstead.
THE Ladies’ Leap Year Party, given at Bly’s Hall last evening, was largely attended, and, in fact, THE party of the season. The managers, Mrs. H. A. Towne, Mrs. A. A. White and Mrs. T. C. Bivins, are entitled to great credit for the very efficient manner in which they conducted the affair with uniform pleasure to all. The old established rules of etiquette were reversed with a good grace and few mistakes, though the way the ladies forgot their engagements, expecting the gentlemen to “come around,” and blushed when they asked a gentleman to see his programme, was not unobserved; but in that the gentlemen had little to boast of, for they were not infrequently caught without a ready answer to invitations, etc., and exhibited no little confusion. Upon the whole everything passed off in fine style, everyone enjoyed themselves, and the change was considered by all excellent for a change. (Brainerd Tribune, 12 February 1876, p. 1, c. 2)
Mrs. T. C. Bivins returned home last week after an absence of several months, visiting friends in Ohio. (Brainerd Tribune, 09 November 1878, p. 4, c. 1)
Mrs. T. C. Bivins is just getting around from a serious attack of typhoid fever. (Brainerd Tribune, 25 October 1879, p. 4, c. 2)
A large number of our citizens gathered on Tuesday evening last at the residence of Mr. George Forstyth, on 11th street, in a sort of impromptu or surprise party, met to pay their respects to Mr. and Mrs. Bivins, old residents of the town, who are preparing to remove hence to their old home in Ohio, and a very jolly time indeed was enjoyed by the participants. Dancing was indulged in followed by a lunch and a real social time, when at a late hour they separated. Mrs. Bivins has been a member of Brainerd society who will long be remembered very kindly by our people one and all, and who will often be sadly missed in her wonted acts of kindness and generous hospitality among her neighbors. Ever a constant attendant on the sick-bed with words of cheer and soothing care we fail to realize how the people of Brainerd are to learn to do without her. Many kind wishes will follow them to their future home. (Brainerd Tribune, 29 November 1879, p. 4, c. 1)
For Charity.
On Thursday evening a meeting was held at the residence of Mrs. T. C. Bivins for the purpose of finding some means of aiding the needy and people that are in want in this city. It was arranged to have a charity ball and donate the proceeds to a fund which is to be placed in the First National Bank, and to be used judiciously for this purpose. The ball will be held at the roller rink of Messrs. Slipp & Spaulding on Friday evening of next week, October 23, and the price of the tickets has been placed at $1.00, which includes dance and refreshments. The refreshments will be served in the rink. Committees were appointed to solicit contributions for the supper as follows: South side of the railroad track, Mrs. J. J. Howe, Mrs. J. E. Wilson and Mrs. R. E. Gleason. Between Front and Juniper, Mrs. Merritt and Mrs. Ferris. North of Juniper Mrs. Bivins and Mrs. D. D. Smith. East Brainerd, Mrs. A. J. Forsyth and Mrs. Breheny. Another meeting will be held on Wednesday evening of next week, when all necessary preliminaries will be arranged and a committee appointed to take charge of the funds and attend to the disbursing of the same. This is one of the best moves that has ever been inaugurated in Brainerd, and its success is certain if the citizens respond in the manner that they should. Let everybody lend a helping hand and assist in the good cause. (Brainerd Dispatch, 17 October 1884, p. 3, c. 3)
"AUNT" JENNIE
BIVINS IS CALLED
_____
Breathed Her Last on Sunday After-
noon—She was an Old Time
Pioneer of the City
_____
CAME TO MINNESOTA IN 1871
_____
Truly a Splendid Woman, Optimistic,
Helpful, Hopeful, a Friend to
Many People
Mrs. Jennie Bivins, or "Aunt" Jennie Bivins as she was generally known, died Sunday afternoon at her home in Brainerd. She was born in England on June 15, 1834, and came to America in 1843. Her family settled in Elyria, Ohio. She was married Sept. 28, 1857 to Thos. C. Bivins, and they came to Brainerd on March 17, 1871 [sic] [1872]. Her maiden name was Gaudern.
She was one of the founders of the Episcopal church of Brainerd and of the Eastern Star lodge in this city, in both of which she took a deep interest.
Her husband preceded her in his reward 23 [sic] years ago. No children blessed the union. In Ohio reside three brothers of the deceased. The funeral will be held on Wednesday afternoon at 3 o'clock from St. Paul's Episcopal church, Rev. Stacy officiating.
Of the character and attainments of Mrs. Bivins, an old friend writes as follows:
Aunt Jennie Bivins is dead. Sunday afternoon, June 13th, she breathed her last. She was up and around Sunday morning, wearing the same gladdening smile that for years has brought cheer, sunshine, hopefullness to her neighbors, young and old—but the great hand on the dial of time tolled its stroke at 2 P.M.—the messenger, death, came and said, "Come, Aunt Jennie, come with me."
She was an old time pioneer enduring the hardships, suffering the privations of the comforts and conveniences of life incident to one who came to Minnesota in 1853, helping to blaze the way for the coming of a new civilization.
Aunt Jennie Bivins, as she was known and so greeted by all who passed her by, was truly a splendid woman, with a character so good and grand, so optimistic and hopeful that the darkest hour seemed half-bright in her presence. She had a Christian spirit, she lived a Christian life, her cardinal doctrine was to do right and her motto was to do good.
Forty years ago when Brainerd was but a settlement in the midst of a jackpine forest, when trained nurses and hospitals were unknown, Aunt Jennie was the ministering angel at the bedside of the sick. It was Aunt Jennie in those days who smoothed the pillow of the sick, it was Aunt Jennie that comforted the sorrowing heart when death invaded the home.
Yes, she was a pioneer. Coming to Brainerd on March 17, 1871, living in the same house at the corner of Juniper and Fifth streets for over 35 years, greeting her friends, strangers and sojourners, all with the same kindly, genial greeting. She was no patron of the worn fashions of the past, but a lively enthusiast of the times in which she lived, keeping pace with the progress of the world, she was one of those women whose consideration of others and posterity was such that she would plant a tree today knowing she was to die tomorrow. Blessed, blessed be the memory of our dear old Aunt Jennie Bivins. (Brainerd Dispatch, 18 June 1915, p. 3, c. 5) [Courtesy of John Van Essen and Brian Marsh, CWCHS]
Attending the funeral of Mrs. Jennie Bivins today were Mr. and Mrs. Fred Keys [sic] of Minneapolis, Mr. and Mrs. C. C. Kyle of St. Paul, Miss Erma Johnson and Frank Johnson of St. Paul, Mr. and Mrs. George Ames of Staples. Ed. E. Gaudern, brother, of Elyria, Ohio. The funeral was largely attended by the many friends of the deceased being held at St. Paul's Episcopal church which she helped to found. Rev. Stacy officiating. (Brainerd Dispatch, 18 June 1915, p. 8, c. 4) [Courtesy of Brian Marsh, CWCHS]
"AUNT JENNIE"
—IS NO MORE
_____
Mrs. Jennie Bivins Dies Suddenly
On Sunday Afternoon
_____
From Stroke of Paralysis—Was an Early
Pioneer, Coming to Brainerd in 1871.
_____
It was with a feeling of profound sorrow that our citizens learned of the sudden death on Sunday last of Mrs. Jennie Bivins, familiarly known as "Aunt Jennie" Bivins. Death came suddenly and unexpectedly. To a friend who called just before 11 a.m. to ask if she was going to church, Mrs. Bivins said she was not feeling very well and would stay at home. About noon she suffered a paralytic stroke, and passed peacefully away at 1:30 p.m.
Mrs. Bivins was one of the early pioneers of Brainerd, and was known and loved by all the older residents of the city. Kind hearted, sympathetic, charitable, she was ever the same sympathizing friend and neighbor, ministering to the sick and comforting the sorrowing—always cheerful, optimistic, and helpful. Her kindly, genial disposition made her friends everywhere, and those who knew best her beautiful traits of character will mourn the loss of a dear friend.
Mrs. Bivins was a native of England, born June 15, 1834, and therefore would have been 81 years old on Tuesday. She came to America with her parents in 1843, and the family settled at Elyria, Ohio. She was married Sept 28, 1857, to Thos. C. Bivins, and they came to Brainerd on March 17, 1871 [sic] [1872]. Her maiden name was Gaudren [sic]. Mr. Bivins died in 1892. They had no children.
Mrs. Bivins was a member of St. Paul's Episcopal church from its organization here, and for many years was active in church work. She was also one of the founders of the Eastern Star chapter here, in which she always took great interest. She will be greatly missed in church and Masonic circles, and in the community as well.
The funeral of Mrs. Bivins took place on Wednesday afternoon at 3 o'clock, at which hour services were held in St. Paul's church, conducted by Rev. H. G. Stacy, the rector. Rev. G. P. Sheridan of the First Congregational church spoke briefly, and the vested choir sang two hymns. The church was crowded with friends and neighbors of the deceased, and the members of Alpha Chapter, O. E. S., attended in a body. Among those present from out of town were Ed. E. Gaudren [sic], of Elyria, Ohio, a brother of the deceased; Mr. and Mrs. C. C. Kyle, Miss Erma Johnson, Frank Johnson, Mr. and Mrs. Keyes [sic] and Howard Currie, from St. Paul; J. E. Goodman, Duluth; Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Ames, Staples. The pall bearers were E. C. Bane, C. J. Duffey, John Carlson, J. T. Sanborn, Henry Spalding and Geo. Ames. The interment was at Evergreen cemetery. (Brainerd Tribune, 18 June 1915, p. 1, c. 6) [Courtesy of Brian Marsh, CWCHS]
Arrived in Brainerd on March 17, 1872.
•See Maud Sleeper Hazen.
•See Emma E. Forsythe.
•See Louisa Wright Congdon.
•See Maria A. Spalding.
•See Charles Douglas Johnson.
•See Dr. Werner Hemstead.
THE Ladies’ Leap Year Party, given at Bly’s Hall last evening, was largely attended, and, in fact, THE party of the season. The managers, Mrs. H. A. Towne, Mrs. A. A. White and Mrs. T. C. Bivins, are entitled to great credit for the very efficient manner in which they conducted the affair with uniform pleasure to all. The old established rules of etiquette were reversed with a good grace and few mistakes, though the way the ladies forgot their engagements, expecting the gentlemen to “come around,” and blushed when they asked a gentleman to see his programme, was not unobserved; but in that the gentlemen had little to boast of, for they were not infrequently caught without a ready answer to invitations, etc., and exhibited no little confusion. Upon the whole everything passed off in fine style, everyone enjoyed themselves, and the change was considered by all excellent for a change. (Brainerd Tribune, 12 February 1876, p. 1, c. 2)
Mrs. T. C. Bivins returned home last week after an absence of several months, visiting friends in Ohio. (Brainerd Tribune, 09 November 1878, p. 4, c. 1)
Mrs. T. C. Bivins is just getting around from a serious attack of typhoid fever. (Brainerd Tribune, 25 October 1879, p. 4, c. 2)
A large number of our citizens gathered on Tuesday evening last at the residence of Mr. George Forstyth, on 11th street, in a sort of impromptu or surprise party, met to pay their respects to Mr. and Mrs. Bivins, old residents of the town, who are preparing to remove hence to their old home in Ohio, and a very jolly time indeed was enjoyed by the participants. Dancing was indulged in followed by a lunch and a real social time, when at a late hour they separated. Mrs. Bivins has been a member of Brainerd society who will long be remembered very kindly by our people one and all, and who will often be sadly missed in her wonted acts of kindness and generous hospitality among her neighbors. Ever a constant attendant on the sick-bed with words of cheer and soothing care we fail to realize how the people of Brainerd are to learn to do without her. Many kind wishes will follow them to their future home. (Brainerd Tribune, 29 November 1879, p. 4, c. 1)
For Charity.
On Thursday evening a meeting was held at the residence of Mrs. T. C. Bivins for the purpose of finding some means of aiding the needy and people that are in want in this city. It was arranged to have a charity ball and donate the proceeds to a fund which is to be placed in the First National Bank, and to be used judiciously for this purpose. The ball will be held at the roller rink of Messrs. Slipp & Spaulding on Friday evening of next week, October 23, and the price of the tickets has been placed at $1.00, which includes dance and refreshments. The refreshments will be served in the rink. Committees were appointed to solicit contributions for the supper as follows: South side of the railroad track, Mrs. J. J. Howe, Mrs. J. E. Wilson and Mrs. R. E. Gleason. Between Front and Juniper, Mrs. Merritt and Mrs. Ferris. North of Juniper Mrs. Bivins and Mrs. D. D. Smith. East Brainerd, Mrs. A. J. Forsyth and Mrs. Breheny. Another meeting will be held on Wednesday evening of next week, when all necessary preliminaries will be arranged and a committee appointed to take charge of the funds and attend to the disbursing of the same. This is one of the best moves that has ever been inaugurated in Brainerd, and its success is certain if the citizens respond in the manner that they should. Let everybody lend a helping hand and assist in the good cause. (Brainerd Dispatch, 17 October 1884, p. 3, c. 3)
"AUNT" JENNIE
BIVINS IS CALLED
_____
Breathed Her Last on Sunday After-
noon—She was an Old Time
Pioneer of the City
_____
CAME TO MINNESOTA IN 1871
_____
Truly a Splendid Woman, Optimistic,
Helpful, Hopeful, a Friend to
Many People
Mrs. Jennie Bivins, or "Aunt" Jennie Bivins as she was generally known, died Sunday afternoon at her home in Brainerd. She was born in England on June 15, 1834, and came to America in 1843. Her family settled in Elyria, Ohio. She was married Sept. 28, 1857 to Thos. C. Bivins, and they came to Brainerd on March 17, 1871 [sic] [1872]. Her maiden name was Gaudern.
She was one of the founders of the Episcopal church of Brainerd and of the Eastern Star lodge in this city, in both of which she took a deep interest.
Her husband preceded her in his reward 23 [sic] years ago. No children blessed the union. In Ohio reside three brothers of the deceased. The funeral will be held on Wednesday afternoon at 3 o'clock from St. Paul's Episcopal church, Rev. Stacy officiating.
Of the character and attainments of Mrs. Bivins, an old friend writes as follows:
Aunt Jennie Bivins is dead. Sunday afternoon, June 13th, she breathed her last. She was up and around Sunday morning, wearing the same gladdening smile that for years has brought cheer, sunshine, hopefullness to her neighbors, young and old—but the great hand on the dial of time tolled its stroke at 2 P.M.—the messenger, death, came and said, "Come, Aunt Jennie, come with me."
She was an old time pioneer enduring the hardships, suffering the privations of the comforts and conveniences of life incident to one who came to Minnesota in 1853, helping to blaze the way for the coming of a new civilization.
Aunt Jennie Bivins, as she was known and so greeted by all who passed her by, was truly a splendid woman, with a character so good and grand, so optimistic and hopeful that the darkest hour seemed half-bright in her presence. She had a Christian spirit, she lived a Christian life, her cardinal doctrine was to do right and her motto was to do good.
Forty years ago when Brainerd was but a settlement in the midst of a jackpine forest, when trained nurses and hospitals were unknown, Aunt Jennie was the ministering angel at the bedside of the sick. It was Aunt Jennie in those days who smoothed the pillow of the sick, it was Aunt Jennie that comforted the sorrowing heart when death invaded the home.
Yes, she was a pioneer. Coming to Brainerd on March 17, 1871, living in the same house at the corner of Juniper and Fifth streets for over 35 years, greeting her friends, strangers and sojourners, all with the same kindly, genial greeting. She was no patron of the worn fashions of the past, but a lively enthusiast of the times in which she lived, keeping pace with the progress of the world, she was one of those women whose consideration of others and posterity was such that she would plant a tree today knowing she was to die tomorrow. Blessed, blessed be the memory of our dear old Aunt Jennie Bivins. (Brainerd Dispatch, 18 June 1915, p. 3, c. 5) [Courtesy of John Van Essen and Brian Marsh, CWCHS]
Attending the funeral of Mrs. Jennie Bivins today were Mr. and Mrs. Fred Keys [sic] of Minneapolis, Mr. and Mrs. C. C. Kyle of St. Paul, Miss Erma Johnson and Frank Johnson of St. Paul, Mr. and Mrs. George Ames of Staples. Ed. E. Gaudern, brother, of Elyria, Ohio. The funeral was largely attended by the many friends of the deceased being held at St. Paul's Episcopal church which she helped to found. Rev. Stacy officiating. (Brainerd Dispatch, 18 June 1915, p. 8, c. 4) [Courtesy of Brian Marsh, CWCHS]
"AUNT JENNIE"
—IS NO MORE
_____
Mrs. Jennie Bivins Dies Suddenly
On Sunday Afternoon
_____
From Stroke of Paralysis—Was an Early
Pioneer, Coming to Brainerd in 1871.
_____
It was with a feeling of profound sorrow that our citizens learned of the sudden death on Sunday last of Mrs. Jennie Bivins, familiarly known as "Aunt Jennie" Bivins. Death came suddenly and unexpectedly. To a friend who called just before 11 a.m. to ask if she was going to church, Mrs. Bivins said she was not feeling very well and would stay at home. About noon she suffered a paralytic stroke, and passed peacefully away at 1:30 p.m.
Mrs. Bivins was one of the early pioneers of Brainerd, and was known and loved by all the older residents of the city. Kind hearted, sympathetic, charitable, she was ever the same sympathizing friend and neighbor, ministering to the sick and comforting the sorrowing—always cheerful, optimistic, and helpful. Her kindly, genial disposition made her friends everywhere, and those who knew best her beautiful traits of character will mourn the loss of a dear friend.
Mrs. Bivins was a native of England, born June 15, 1834, and therefore would have been 81 years old on Tuesday. She came to America with her parents in 1843, and the family settled at Elyria, Ohio. She was married Sept 28, 1857, to Thos. C. Bivins, and they came to Brainerd on March 17, 1871 [sic] [1872]. Her maiden name was Gaudren [sic]. Mr. Bivins died in 1892. They had no children.
Mrs. Bivins was a member of St. Paul's Episcopal church from its organization here, and for many years was active in church work. She was also one of the founders of the Eastern Star chapter here, in which she always took great interest. She will be greatly missed in church and Masonic circles, and in the community as well.
The funeral of Mrs. Bivins took place on Wednesday afternoon at 3 o'clock, at which hour services were held in St. Paul's church, conducted by Rev. H. G. Stacy, the rector. Rev. G. P. Sheridan of the First Congregational church spoke briefly, and the vested choir sang two hymns. The church was crowded with friends and neighbors of the deceased, and the members of Alpha Chapter, O. E. S., attended in a body. Among those present from out of town were Ed. E. Gaudren [sic], of Elyria, Ohio, a brother of the deceased; Mr. and Mrs. C. C. Kyle, Miss Erma Johnson, Frank Johnson, Mr. and Mrs. Keyes [sic] and Howard Currie, from St. Paul; J. E. Goodman, Duluth; Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Ames, Staples. The pall bearers were E. C. Bane, C. J. Duffey, John Carlson, J. T. Sanborn, Henry Spalding and Geo. Ames. The interment was at Evergreen cemetery. (Brainerd Tribune, 18 June 1915, p. 1, c. 6) [Courtesy of Brian Marsh, CWCHS]
•See Maud Sleeper Hazen.
•See Emma E. Forsythe.
•See Louisa Wright Congdon.
•See Maria A. Spalding.
•See Charles Douglas Johnson.
•See Dr. Werner Hemstead.
THE Ladies’ Leap Year Party, given at Bly’s Hall last evening, was largely attended, and, in fact, THE party of the season. The managers, Mrs. H. A. Towne, Mrs. A. A. White and Mrs. T. C. Bivins, are entitled to great credit for the very efficient manner in which they conducted the affair with uniform pleasure to all. The old established rules of etiquette were reversed with a good grace and few mistakes, though the way the ladies forgot their engagements, expecting the gentlemen to “come around,” and blushed when they asked a gentleman to see his programme, was not unobserved; but in that the gentlemen had little to boast of, for they were not infrequently caught without a ready answer to invitations, etc., and exhibited no little confusion. Upon the whole everything passed off in fine style, everyone enjoyed themselves, and the change was considered by all excellent for a change. (Brainerd Tribune, 12 February 1876, p. 1, c. 2)
Mrs. T. C. Bivins returned home last week after an absence of several months, visiting friends in Ohio. (Brainerd Tribune, 09 November 1878, p. 4, c. 1)
Mrs. T. C. Bivins is just getting around from a serious attack of typhoid fever. (Brainerd Tribune, 25 October 1879, p. 4, c. 2)
A large number of our citizens gathered on Tuesday evening last at the residence of Mr. George Forstyth, on 11th street, in a sort of impromptu or surprise party, met to pay their respects to Mr. and Mrs. Bivins, old residents of the town, who are preparing to remove hence to their old home in Ohio, and a very jolly time indeed was enjoyed by the participants. Dancing was indulged in followed by a lunch and a real social time, when at a late hour they separated. Mrs. Bivins has been a member of Brainerd society who will long be remembered very kindly by our people one and all, and who will often be sadly missed in her wonted acts of kindness and generous hospitality among her neighbors. Ever a constant attendant on the sick-bed with words of cheer and soothing care we fail to realize how the people of Brainerd are to learn to do without her. Many kind wishes will follow them to their future home. (Brainerd Tribune, 29 November 1879, p. 4, c. 1)
For Charity.
On Thursday evening a meeting was held at the residence of Mrs. T. C. Bivins for the purpose of finding some means of aiding the needy and people that are in want in this city. It was arranged to have a charity ball and donate the proceeds to a fund which is to be placed in the First National Bank, and to be used judiciously for this purpose. The ball will be held at the roller rink of Messrs. Slipp & Spaulding on Friday evening of next week, October 23, and the price of the tickets has been placed at $1.00, which includes dance and refreshments. The refreshments will be served in the rink. Committees were appointed to solicit contributions for the supper as follows: South side of the railroad track, Mrs. J. J. Howe, Mrs. J. E. Wilson and Mrs. R. E. Gleason. Between Front and Juniper, Mrs. Merritt and Mrs. Ferris. North of Juniper Mrs. Bivins and Mrs. D. D. Smith. East Brainerd, Mrs. A. J. Forsyth and Mrs. Breheny. Another meeting will be held on Wednesday evening of next week, when all necessary preliminaries will be arranged and a committee appointed to take charge of the funds and attend to the disbursing of the same. This is one of the best moves that has ever been inaugurated in Brainerd, and its success is certain if the citizens respond in the manner that they should. Let everybody lend a helping hand and assist in the good cause. (Brainerd Dispatch, 17 October 1884, p. 3, c. 3)
"AUNT" JENNIE
BIVINS IS CALLED
_____
Breathed Her Last on Sunday After-
noon—She was an Old Time
Pioneer of the City
_____
CAME TO MINNESOTA IN 1871
_____
Truly a Splendid Woman, Optimistic,
Helpful, Hopeful, a Friend to
Many People
Mrs. Jennie Bivins, or "Aunt" Jennie Bivins as she was generally known, died Sunday afternoon at her home in Brainerd. She was born in England on June 15, 1834, and came to America in 1843. Her family settled in Elyria, Ohio. She was married Sept. 28, 1857 to Thos. C. Bivins, and they came to Brainerd on March 17, 1871 [sic] [1872]. Her maiden name was Gaudern.
She was one of the founders of the Episcopal church of Brainerd and of the Eastern Star lodge in this city, in both of which she took a deep interest.
Her husband preceded her in his reward 23 [sic] years ago. No children blessed the union. In Ohio reside three brothers of the deceased. The funeral will be held on Wednesday afternoon at 3 o'clock from St. Paul's Episcopal church, Rev. Stacy officiating.
Of the character and attainments of Mrs. Bivins, an old friend writes as follows:
Aunt Jennie Bivins is dead. Sunday afternoon, June 13th, she breathed her last. She was up and around Sunday morning, wearing the same gladdening smile that for years has brought cheer, sunshine, hopefullness to her neighbors, young and old—but the great hand on the dial of time tolled its stroke at 2 P.M.—the messenger, death, came and said, "Come, Aunt Jennie, come with me."
She was an old time pioneer enduring the hardships, suffering the privations of the comforts and conveniences of life incident to one who came to Minnesota in 1853, helping to blaze the way for the coming of a new civilization.
Aunt Jennie Bivins, as she was known and so greeted by all who passed her by, was truly a splendid woman, with a character so good and grand, so optimistic and hopeful that the darkest hour seemed half-bright in her presence. She had a Christian spirit, she lived a Christian life, her cardinal doctrine was to do right and her motto was to do good.
Forty years ago when Brainerd was but a settlement in the midst of a jackpine forest, when trained nurses and hospitals were unknown, Aunt Jennie was the ministering angel at the bedside of the sick. It was Aunt Jennie in those days who smoothed the pillow of the sick, it was Aunt Jennie that comforted the sorrowing heart when death invaded the home.
Yes, she was a pioneer. Coming to Brainerd on March 17, 1871, living in the same house at the corner of Juniper and Fifth streets for over 35 years, greeting her friends, strangers and sojourners, all with the same kindly, genial greeting. She was no patron of the worn fashions of the past, but a lively enthusiast of the times in which she lived, keeping pace with the progress of the world, she was one of those women whose consideration of others and posterity was such that she would plant a tree today knowing she was to die tomorrow. Blessed, blessed be the memory of our dear old Aunt Jennie Bivins. (Brainerd Dispatch, 18 June 1915, p. 3, c. 5) [Courtesy of John Van Essen and Brian Marsh, CWCHS]
Attending the funeral of Mrs. Jennie Bivins today were Mr. and Mrs. Fred Keys [sic] of Minneapolis, Mr. and Mrs. C. C. Kyle of St. Paul, Miss Erma Johnson and Frank Johnson of St. Paul, Mr. and Mrs. George Ames of Staples. Ed. E. Gaudern, brother, of Elyria, Ohio. The funeral was largely attended by the many friends of the deceased being held at St. Paul's Episcopal church which she helped to found. Rev. Stacy officiating. (Brainerd Dispatch, 18 June 1915, p. 8, c. 4) [Courtesy of Brian Marsh, CWCHS]
"AUNT JENNIE"
—IS NO MORE
_____
Mrs. Jennie Bivins Dies Suddenly
On Sunday Afternoon
_____
From Stroke of Paralysis—Was an Early
Pioneer, Coming to Brainerd in 1871.
_____
It was with a feeling of profound sorrow that our citizens learned of the sudden death on Sunday last of Mrs. Jennie Bivins, familiarly known as "Aunt Jennie" Bivins. Death came suddenly and unexpectedly. To a friend who called just before 11 a.m. to ask if she was going to church, Mrs. Bivins said she was not feeling very well and would stay at home. About noon she suffered a paralytic stroke, and passed peacefully away at 1:30 p.m.
Mrs. Bivins was one of the early pioneers of Brainerd, and was known and loved by all the older residents of the city. Kind hearted, sympathetic, charitable, she was ever the same sympathizing friend and neighbor, ministering to the sick and comforting the sorrowing—always cheerful, optimistic, and helpful. Her kindly, genial disposition made her friends everywhere, and those who knew best her beautiful traits of character will mourn the loss of a dear friend.
Mrs. Bivins was a native of England, born June 15, 1834, and therefore would have been 81 years old on Tuesday. She came to America with her parents in 1843, and the family settled at Elyria, Ohio. She was married Sept 28, 1857, to Thos. C. Bivins, and they came to Brainerd on March 17, 1871 [sic] [1872]. Her maiden name was Gaudren [sic]. Mr. Bivins died in 1892. They had no children.
Mrs. Bivins was a member of St. Paul's Episcopal church from its organization here, and for many years was active in church work. She was also one of the founders of the Eastern Star chapter here, in which she always took great interest. She will be greatly missed in church and Masonic circles, and in the community as well.
The funeral of Mrs. Bivins took place on Wednesday afternoon at 3 o'clock, at which hour services were held in St. Paul's church, conducted by Rev. H. G. Stacy, the rector. Rev. G. P. Sheridan of the First Congregational church spoke briefly, and the vested choir sang two hymns. The church was crowded with friends and neighbors of the deceased, and the members of Alpha Chapter, O. E. S., attended in a body. Among those present from out of town were Ed. E. Gaudren [sic], of Elyria, Ohio, a brother of the deceased; Mr. and Mrs. C. C. Kyle, Miss Erma Johnson, Frank Johnson, Mr. and Mrs. Keyes [sic] and Howard Currie, from St. Paul; J. E. Goodman, Duluth; Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Ames, Staples. The pall bearers were E. C. Bane, C. J. Duffey, John Carlson, J. T. Sanborn, Henry Spalding and Geo. Ames. The interment was at Evergreen cemetery. (Brainerd Tribune, 18 June 1915, p. 1, c. 6) [Courtesy of Brian Marsh, CWCHS]
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