In Albion, Dane Co., Wisconsin, on the 16th of Oct., Benjamin Maxson, in the 79th year of his age. This much-afflicted man, who was deaf and dumb from his birth, was born in Rhode Island in 1770, and removed to Berlin, N. Y., in his youthful days, where he chose a companion who was also deprived of the senses of hearing and speaking. They had a family of eight interesting children.
In 1812, when the people of God in Berlin were enjoying a refreshing from the presence of the Lord, he also sought a place among the disciples of Christ. A brother of his, who doubted the spirit-work of religion, objected, saying that he knew nothing of the nature of such profession, and that some one must have influenced him to be baptized. But, at the suggestion of the church, they held a short conversation together, in which the brother inquired who had told him to be baptized, when he lifted his face toward heaven, making signs that God had impressed it upon his mind. The unbelieving brother at once removed his objections, and gave vent to his convictions with a flow of tears.
He was one of the pioneers in settling Allegany County, N. Y. Four years ago he removed to Wisconsin with his oldest son. For the last year and a half he was entirely blind. O. P. H.
