The Oskaloosa Times Jefferson County Friday September 29, 1899 Mrs. Maria MERRIMAN our neighbor, friend, and mother of Robert BLAND, died in Tonganoxie the 20th of this month, and was brought here for burial. The funeral service was held at the A.M.E. church conducted by Rev. D.D. Cole. Mother Merriman has been a faithful christian since a girl. She was 86 years old. Her remains now rest in Pleasant View cemetery. (Note: This was entered in the newspaper under, Colored Folks Items, by Grace Todd.)