Obituary of Captain B G BLOWNEY Contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives Copyright 1999 Janice Buchanan Name of Deceased: Benjamin G BLOWNEY Name of Newspaper: Waukegan Daily Gazette Date of Newspaper: June 1, 1904 Obituary: LIGHTS OUT Captain B. G. BLOWNEY Called to Join The Ranks Above HE WAS A GALLANT SOLDIER AND ONE OF WAUKEGAN'S OLDEST AND MOST RESPECTED CITIZENS Captain Benjamin G. BLOWNEY departed this life on Tuesday a little after 5 o'clock P.M. His death had been expected for some days, and to him was a blessed relief. Mr. Blowney was born in Naas, Ireland, Jan 6th, 1834. He came to this country and settled in Chicago in the year 1849. He resided in Chicago until 1855 when he came to Waukegan, and for the past forty-nine years he has been one of the city's most respected and honored citizens. On Oct. 7, 1857, he was united in marriage to Miss Katherine Cleaver. From this union six children were born. Two died in infancy. The four living children are Henry Elmer of Chicago; Mrs. John Demorest, Benjamin O., and Walter S. all of this city. About twenty years ago, a great affliction befell Mrs. Blowney in that she suddenly became blind. She remained totally blind until her death which occurred in June 1902. When Mr. Blowney came to Waukegan he engaged in the Harness and Saddlery business, and was very successful. When the Union was in danger Mr. Blowney leaving home, wife, children, to up arms that freedom might perish. He was instrumental recruiting Company G or the famous Ninety-Six Ill., and was elected second Lieutenant of that Company. In December 1862, he was promoted to the First Lieutenancy, and in July 1864, received his commission as Captain. He was a most gallant soldier, being with his regiment in all of its conflicts except Nashville. At Chickamauga he received a severe scalp wound, but refused to leave the company. The war being over he returned home, and once more resumed his business. Mr. Blowney always took a great interest in public affairs. In politics he was a staunch Republican. He served Waukegan for years as School Director and also as supervisor of the township. He served the city as Collector and was twice elected City Treasurer. In every public position he was an ideal official. Mr. Blowney's honesty was proverbal. Nothing could turn him from what he considered right. About six years ago, he suffered a stroke of paralysis, which left him partially helpless. Since then he has had several strokes and for the past year has been entirely helpless. Death to him was a blessed relief. His funeral will take place from his late residence, corner of Franklin and County streets, at 2:30 P.M. He will be buried under the auspices of the G. A. R. ------------------------------------------------------------------ USGENWEB NOTICE: These electronic pages may NOT be reproduced in any format for profit or presentation by other organiza- tions or persons. Persons or organizations desiring to use this material, must obtain the written consent of the contri- butor, or the legal representative of the submitter, and contact the listed USGenWeb archivist with proof of this consent. ----------------------------------------------------------------- File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Janice Buchanan