This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Henderson, McDowell Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/2dB.2ACI/2602 Message Board Post: The Ligonier, PA "Echo" issue of 4 September 1953, p. 4, col. 2 Bolivar's Oldest Lady Celebrates 93rd Birthday Bolivar's oldest lady quietly celebrated her 93rd birthday last week. She is Rebecca McDowell who marked her anniversary by reminiscing with many of her friends. Daughter of Ensign, and Rachel (DuShane) Henderson, she was born August 17, 1860, in Fairfield Township. She was married September 5, 1877, to Franklin P. McDowell who died in 1940. The elderly woman suffered a broken hip in February when she fell in her home and was a patient for many weeks in Memorial Hospital, Johnstown. Now at her home, she is able to get from her bed to a chair without assistance. Prior to her accident, Mrs. McDowell made many braided rugs and plastic covered cushions. Advancing years have not dimmed her keen interest in local, state and national affairs. These she discusses fluently. A member of the Bolivar Methodist Church, Mrs. McDowell continues a close relationship with the church through the visits of members and the minister. A source of comfort and strength is her well-worn Bible. Mrs. McDowell is the mother of 15 children, eight of whom are living. They are: James, Wilmerding; Mrs. Rachel Wilson and Mrs. Naomi Fulton, both of Johnstown; Mrs. Beulah Huston, East Liberty; Franklin, Florida; Charles, California; Fred and Mrs. Dorcas Long, both of Bolivar. She has many grandchildren and great grandchildren as well as several great-great-grandchildren. _____________________________________________