Mary H. Graves

“ ABBIE TRASK USHER, for four years President of the Woman's Relief Corps, auxiliary to A. W. Bartlett Post, G. A. R. of Newburyport, was born in Roxbury, Mass., September 19, 1847, a daughter of John Bowdlear and his wife, Mary Seeley. Educated in the public schools of Roxbury, Abbie Trask Bowdlear shortly after her gradua tion was married, on May 25, 1865, to William Robert Usher, a shoe manufacturer, of Stoneham, Mass. While living in Stoneham, Mrs. Usher was active in church and benevolent work, thus endearing herself to the community. ”

“ Major Robert Wilson married Mary Hodge, of West Carybridge, and went to Peterboro, N.H., where he became a farmer and tavern-keeper. William' Wilson also kept a public house, the Wilson Tavern, a noted place for assemblies and balls and public meetings in his day. ”

“ Citizens' Sunday is another method of securing widespread interest in this movement. Invite a clergyman to preach a sermon devoted to this matter, or, if deemed more effective, arrange for a union service in one of the churches, with addresses by several clergymen. ”

“ She cjuietly became acquainted with the people, then started a sewing-circle, and formed other plans for creating a new interest. By suggesting that they open their homes for socials, and formulating methods of work that was much needed, she awakened enthusiasm. In a brief time there were many changes in the management of the church, and thrtuigh her zealous efforts a new church edifice and parson- age were built.
In 1886 Mr. and Mrs. Usher returned to Stone- ham, and soon after settled in Newburyport, where they became leading citizens. Mrs. ”

“ Her efficiency and devotion were cjuickly recognized, and she received appointment on important conunittees representing the State work. The duties of Department Aide, of Assistant Inspector, ami of Installing Officer were performed by her with credit. For seventeen years she was an active worker for the State organization and a promi- nent participant in its annual conventions. Mrs. Usher was elected for two successive years as Department Chaplain of the Woman's Re- lief Corps of Massachusetts, and her reports containetl suggestions and recommendations of value. ”