Rufus E. Shumway was born in Oxford, Massachusetts June 1st , 1833. He came west to
Minnesota in 1856, settling in Wilmington township, where he lived for a number
of years when he moved across the line into Winnebago where he resided until
his death.
He was married to Miss Hannah E. Metcalf, March 4th, 1860. His wife and two children
preceded him in death, his wife having died Dec 1st, 1913.
Mr. Shumway crossed the great divide May 4th, 1921 at the ripe age of 87 years, 11 months
and three days. One brother, three children, six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren
survive him. The children are Fred of LaCrosse and Edwin and Bertha of this place. His brother,
Jerry, lives in Lyons, Nebraska and is nearly 94 years old. Mr. Shumway was a kind-hearted
generous man, a good husband father and neighbor. He was a veteran of the Civil War, having
served in the 5th Minnesota infantry in the war of the rebellion. His grandfather had served
in the Revolutionary War. He took a great interest in the boys of the world war.
He was laid to rest at the Portland Prairie cemetery Friday afternoon, Rev. J.C. Williamson,
pastor of the M.E. church, officiating at the house and the church. Members of the American
Legion acted as active pallbearers and marched in a body from the house to the grave.
The honorary pall bearers were Moses Emery, O.J. Weida, Major Burns, Fred Monk, and
Fred Theis, members of the G.A.R. The G.A.R. and the American Legion had charge of
the services at the grave. The funeral was largely attended.
Moved with his parents to Burrillville when 10 years old; was employed in the woolen mills &
attended school. Worked as a clerk in a store 1854, moved to Wilmington (Houston Co., Minnesota)
in 1856. Private in 5th Minn in Civil War (11/15/1864 to 9/6/1865
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