The following biography of Joseph H. Beelman
was taken from a local newspaper at the time of his death in
Richmond Township, Huron County, Ohio.
May 6, 1883
Mr. Joseph H. Beelman had been in poor health for some time, but death was not expected to claim him as his victim until some time in the future. Suddenly and almost without a moment's warning he died on Sabbath morning, May 6th 1883. Mr. Beelman was one of the earliest settlers of Richmond township. He was born in Shepherdstown, Cumberland County, PA., in the year 1820. His age at the time of his death was 62 years, 7 month, and 14 days. It is about 37 years (1846) since he moved from Pennsylvania to Ohio. He lived in the village of New Haven for one year before coming to this place. For a few years after coming among us he earned a part of his living by teaching our district schools. for the period of no less than 12 years he held the responsible position of Justice of the Peace. During the late rebellion he took an active part in political matters and was one of our foremost men in clearing the township from the draft. He was never heard to express a word of sympathy for the "lost cause" nor would he recognize any of the rights of secession. His loyalty to the Union was known far and wide. In the year 1867 he was nominated and elected to the honorable position of County Commissioner, and again in 1870 he was elected and again filled the same responsible office for a term of years. His entire life was one of usefulness and in his death we lost an honored citizen and a respected neighbor. On the 8th of May his remains was followed by a very large procession of neighbors, friends, and relatives to Union Bethel Cemetery, and there deposited in the dark, cold grave. The funeral service was conducted by Revs. S. A. Welker of Bloomville and J. E. Hill of Chicago Junction. The choir was appropriately led by Prof. A. B. Gilson of Havana.
Mr. Adam Beelman in response to a telegram arrived here in time to attend his brother's funeral.