Deaf-Mute Journal masthead
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It would seem to those abroad very much as if this city had been in ruins, like the once famous city of the same name, for the reason that nothing has been heard of it since a year ago, when we went on our ever-memorable excursion to the Gallaudet Home. But such is not the case. Every thing remains about the same as before, with a few exceptions. One is the death of our beloved friend, Mrs. [Julia] Atkins, which occurred last winter, after much suffering and a long illness. The pall-bearers were all mute gentlemen, namely: Messrs. W. T. Collins, J. M. Witbeck, [James] Ritter and [Hiram B.] Brown. They, as the representatives of the Troy Deaf-Mute Literary Society, of which the deceased was a regular member, purchases some splendid flowers, which remain now visible on her grave, and a beautiful cross of roses with the letters, “At Peace,” was also presented by Mr. Saxton, a former pupil of the deceased. Her funeral took place from her sister, Mrs. Porter’s residence, over in West Troy, and she was buried in the Mount Ida Cemetery. The deceased was 68 years old at the time of her death, and is survived by her sister, Mrs. Porter, and brother, Mr. Hoffman. She was born deaf, in Lansingburgh, N. Y., in the year 1820. At the age 11 years, she went to the 50th Street School, where she remained until the year 1838, when she graduated. She afterwards married a Mr. Atkins, who died many years ago, and had to the time of her death lived in Lansingburgh, N. Y. She had a narrow escape from being burned to death when a child. Her house was set on fire, and all the folks but herself got out in safety. After great difficulty she was saved, however. May her soul rest in eternal peace.
Deaf-Mutes Journal [NY]. August 12, 1888: 3 col 5.