CHRISTIAN S. BAKER

DEAD AT AGE OF 85

Death claimed Christian S. Baker, Staunton's oldest merchant, very suddenly yesterday morning at his home on Gospel Hill after a period of apparently usual health. As recently as Thursday, he was seen near the C. & O. depot close to where he was in business for so many years before retiring about two years ago, and as he stopped to greet old friends, he seemed in good condition.

Mr. Baker came to Staunton shortly after the Civil war after honorable service in the Confederate army, and he and his brother, the late George T. Baker, went into business together at the stand above mentioned, and for more than half a century Mr. Baker continued in business there, engaged in selling fertilizers, seeds, and other articles used on the farm, retaining to the end the confidence and patronage of the people of this section of the state. Mr. Baker was man of the highest probity, all of his dealings being characterized by a frankness and straight forwardness that drew to him friends, that remained friends for a lifetime.

Man of High Character

As an illustration of his character, a number of years ago there was fire in that part of town which destroyed several stores, and greatly damaged the stock in his store. He had a considerable quantity of wool in stock, which was badly damaged by fire. The company carrying the insurance adjusted the loss and gave Mr. Baker a check for what the loss was estimated at. Mr. Baker salvaged the wool as best he could, and eventually disposed of it at a considerable value above that estimated by the insurance company's adjuster. He at once mailed to the insurance company a check for the difference between what he received for the wool and what the company had allowed him for damage. The amount involved was considerable. This was but one instance of Mr. Baker's steadfastness in doing what he regarded as right.

There was no man in Staunton of more affable manner, he was always bright and cheerful, and had a happy greeting for all with whom he came in contact. Born Jan. 11, 1829, he was past 85 years of age, and he knew that he had not much longer to live, but he always spoke of it pleasantly, and made the impression on all that he was ready to go at anytime.

Mr. Baker married in 1867 Miss Fannie I. Baylor daughter of Colonel George Baylor, of Staunton, who died a number of years ago. He is survived by two daughters, Miss Katie Belle and Mrs. B. L. Stollenwerck, both of Staunton and one granddaughter, Miss Bessie Stollenwerck. A younger daughter, Miss Bessie, who married Dr. Lee Jones of Alabama, a beautiful and lovable young woman, died several years ago.

Native of Frederick

Mr. Baker was born in Frederick county, the son of Jacob Baker and Catherine Streit Baker, of an old and well known family, but as said above came to Staunton just after the Civil war when a young man. He had ever since resided here, identified with the growth and progress of the city. He was a charter member of the Augusta National bank since Nov. 23, 1876 -- one year after the bank was organized being a member of the board up to the time of his death. He was a sincere Christian and had long been a member of the First Presbyterian church,and a ruling elder.

The funeral will be from the residence at 4 o'clock this afternoon and will be conducted by the Rev. A. M. Fraser, D.D., Mr. Baker's pastor, and the interment will be in Thornrose.

Staunton News Leader -- Staunton, Augusta County, Virginia -- February 2, 1924 -- Saturday -- Page #1.