The Detroit Tribune

Detroit Matron, 93, Takes Last Look at Old Homestead

By FRED HART WILLIAMS

The old Campbell home was born in a small but cozy house. Its exterior a soft shade of brown with a red fence shutters painted a dark green. It stood on Beacon street, near St. Antoine street, just Weller's Laundry.

The side street was of far different appearance than presently seen. For the year in Little Julia first saw the light of day was February 15, 1858.

Born in the three-block area extending from Brush and Gratiot point to St. Antoine eastern terminus.

Elegantly intervaled chestnut and maple trees An eminently respectable street: earned a steady-going and what is it which the family of Charles H. Campbell's was nightly esteemed.

Six weeks after the birth of Julia the family moved to 180 Macomb street, between Hastings and Rivard.

The little Julia grew into young womanhood to become known later as one of the Belles of the city.

Now approaching the grand old age of 93, Julia Bush Campbell still remains the 'Belle' within the domicile of her daughter, Nellie, and son-in-law, Bert Williams, at 1553 Virginia Park.

Quite a number of distinguishing incidents set Mrs. Campbell somewhat apart from others of her fruitful years. She still persists, despite the admonitions of her daughter, to make up her own bed: time given to reading and writing some of which are of her own creation.

Then, too she has committed to memory about 48 writings by her favorite poet C.W.D. Eddie Guest. Favored one "The Making of a Friend."

reflect which have been made traits of this dear Little Old Lady.

Becoming a member of old Second Baptist Church 75 years ago, this month also marks Mrs. Campbell's affiliation with the church. She is its oldest member.

Second Baptist to show its deep regard and reverence for the Grand Dame of this institution. every other Sunday has its deacons to faithfully go to her home and attend her in religious and spiritual communion.

When Mrs. Campbell read the City condemning the area centered about where she had grown into womanhood, she had her son, Charles H., Jr., drive her in his automobile for one last look at the old house which had been her home and that of her parents for many years.

The old place is now gone, but Julia Bush Campbell is with us still, reading her poems, and reciting for our edification and emulation, "The Making of Friends."

While doing this there is another son who helps cheer her days, Bennie Campbell.