Stephen C. Saunders was born at Alfred, N. Y., January 28, 1833. An attack of the grip terminated in his death April 24, 1915.
He was one of the family of six boys and three girls that grew to maturity in the home of Jesse and Esther Coon Saunders. The only survivors now are Duty Saunders, of Gentry, Ark., and Mrs. Elisha Main, of Albion, Wis. The family moved west when Stephen was eight years old. Their log house was the first built on the present site of Albion village. The local stream still bears the name "Saunders Creek." Jesse Saunders conducted a store and tavern there along the old territorial road. He was a great builder and promoter of good movements in the community. He gave a large part of the land for the academy campus. Stephen was twenty-one then. He helped build the academy and attended school there. He drove ox team, cradled grain, made trips to Milwaukee by wagon and took an active part in that pioneer life to which we owe so much, but which is fast receding from from view.
He was married to Miss Helen Lilly January 1, 1857. Mrs. Saunders, three children and two grandchildren survive to cherish his memory. The family have lived in the neighborhood of Milton for the past thirty years. He was baptized when thirty years old by Elder Joshua Clarke and joined the Albion Seventh Day Baptist Church. His religion was practical. He was a kind neighbor, friendly and companionable. He was a good citizen, reliable and industrious. He had a quaint humor all his own and a rare smile well remembered by those who love him. Although seriously crippled by articular rheumatism he kept at work until his last sickness.
Services were conducted at his home, April 26, by Pastor Randolph, the text being John 4:38. The college male quartet sang two favorite songs, "Home, Sweet Home" and "Tis I, Be Not Afraid."
L. C. R.
