This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Classification: Query Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/1YB.2ACI/876 Message Board Post: THE FREEPORT PRESS - October 6, 1932 SARAH FOX HARRISON COUNTY WOMAN, DESCENDANT of DESIGNER of OLD IRONSIDES Few people in Harrison County are aware that living within its boundaries ia a woman who is a direct descentant of the designer of the old U. S. Frigate "The Constitution," which became famous during the War of 1812. This venerable lady is MISS SARAH FOX, 91, a grandaughter of JOSIAH FOX, who drafted the plans in 1794. Much dispute has arisen in recent years as to whether the "Constitution" was designed by JOSHUA HUMPHREY, a Philadelphia shipbuilder, who was creditied with its drafting, or JOSIAH FOX. However, after over 20 years of research work, that has carried him into several states, MR. ERNEST J. WESSEN of Mansfield, has at last uncovered data that leaves MR. FOX as the designer, without a question. He has ransacked attics, examined hundreds of documents covering the subject in his quest for the designer and is preparing a book which will be published the first of the year, portraying the history of the "Constitution." MISS FOX wants no fame or glory for herself, but is mighty proud to have her grandfather get the honor that is due him for the shaping of our first navy. A few years ago when the "Constitution" was being rehabilitated, the funds being furnished by donations from schoolchildren, a number of the pieces of timber from Harrison county were used in its reconstruction. Returning to MISS FOX, who will be 91 years of age on November 14, she was born near Georgetown to CHARLES JAMES and ESTHER COOPER FOX, and was one of a family of four children. Her father settled in Harrison county in 1839, being one of the pioneer famlies. MISS FOX is suprisingly active for one of her years, and takes an active interest in the affairs of the world, eargerly looking forward to the daily papers, and is well versed on all current topics. The above picture was taken two weeks ago. A typical Hicksite Friend, she has lived a useful life and many kindnesses have been bestowed upon unfortunates by this little old lady without thought of reward. Being noted for her charitable disposition, she has given thousands of dollars to the colored schools, Anit-Saloon League, and others. She writes a remarkably fine hand, her flow of English is perfect, and combined with a wonderful memory, makes a visit with her an enjoyable event. She reveals starting to school at No. 5, and the children sat on slab benches and used goose quills for pens. No bell adorned the building to mark school time. Her first teacher was ELIZA HEARN, of whom she spoke highly. She later attended the Hopedale college. Many times before the Civil War she recalls seeing negros passing from the JOHNSON FARM to the COPE FARM, which were "underground railroad stations" from the South to Canada. For many years she was Clerk of the Ohio Women's Yearly Meeting a position of importance in the Quaker Church. She has also been an ardent worker for the dry cause. MISS FOX is an ardent republican and always votes the "straight" ticket and is glad that woman suffrage has given her the right to vote. After a long life of usefulness, she is now being tenderly cared for by her nephew CHESTER A. BRANSON and wife. May she have many more years of happy memories and pleasant associations. There is a small but clear picture of her in the atricle. I will be happy to send a copy to anyone interested.