by Betty Jane Wilson, President Valley Falls Historical Society
The 1881 Valley Falls New Era publication of June 4 and 11 reported that A.L. Forsythe (Abe), who was living in Valley Falls at that time, had purchased interest in a grocery store, painted it inside and out, planning to "run the whole 'shebang' himself," remaining in the same location while his neighbors were busy exchanging businesses and residences.
The same news source also reported notice of one of the citizens of Valley Falls in the New York "Scotsman" (A.L. Forsythe) and his eventful life. Brief episodes follow:
"Mr. Forsythe was born in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., in 1814, but not withstanding the fact, we (the Scotsman) claim him as a full-blooded Scotchman, his father being a native of Edinburgh and a soldier, his son comes honestly by his fighting and other praiseworthy qualities.
"Prior to his arrival in Valley Falls as a very young man he enlisted in Edinburgh in the 85th Regiment of Infantry and soon sailed with the Corps to Canada. At his request, he transferred to the 93rd Highlanders in Canada where he served more than three years during minor insurgents. He purchased his discharge from the Regiment, departed for the U.S., remaining until the commencement of the Mexican War, where he served under General Scott's Army from Texas to the Halls of Montezuma for two years and eight months, after which he pursued more peaceful occupations until 1861 at the commencement of the Great Rebellion.
"Living in Neenah, Wisc., at the time, and nearing 50 years of age, he enlisted in Co. K, 11th Regiment Wisconsin Volunteers and served with it throughout the war as a non-commissioned officer principal in Mississippi, Arkansas, and Tennessee, twice wounded at Port Gibson and the Battle of Jackson. He was at the siege of Vicksburg and while on that stronghold in 1863, on March 7 he was presented a unique pipe by Gen. U.S. Grant, which Forsythe smoked with pride. It was a small china pipe on which two union flags were painted with appropriate patriotic mottos.
"Forsythe served with General Grant during the Mexican War and throughout the Civil War," the Scotsman concluded.
"We have only to add that Mr. Forsythe lives in peace and contentment at Valley Falls and in these piping times enjoys himself — and draws regularly a pension for services and wounds in the last Great War."
The Valley Falls Historical Society will open at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 12.
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