My Genealogy Hound

JAMES McCALLISTER RALSTON, who for many years was one of the honorable, upright and much esteemed citizens of Mechanicsburg, passed away in 1903, leaving behind him the record of an exemplary and useful life. Mr. Ralston was born Jan. 14, 1823, a son of David and Leacy (McCallister) Ralston, both members of old settled families in these parts.

David Ralston, the grandfather of Mr. Ralston, was a son of Andrew Ralston, who emigrated to Cumberland county from the north of Ireland, about 1728, being among the very first settlers of the Cumberland Valley.

Andrew Ralston had six children, one of these being David, who, in turn became the father of David Ralston (father of James McCallister Ralston), who was born on the old home near Newville, in 1783, and died March 14, 1848. His four children were: James McCallister; David, who died in 1902; Andrew, deceased; and Mary Ellen, who married David Line, and both are deceased. The family has always been a stronghold of the Presbyterian Church. In early days Mr. Ralston was a Whig, but became identified with the Republican party on its formation.

James McCallister Ralston was educated in the public schools, and settled down to farming, which he followed all his active life. The family has been noted among the agriculturists of the Valley, and his industry and excellent management kept up the old reputation for excellence. In 1870 he retired from activity on the farm and removed to Mechanicsburg, where his last years were passed in the comfortable enjoyment of ample means and pleasant surroundings. In politics he ardently advocated the principles of the Prohibition party. In 1849 he was made an elder in the Presbyterian Church, and his orderly life until his death gave honor to his religious office. Mr. Ralston was frequently called upon to serve in various township offices, and on numerous occasions he was sought as a guardian of minors and as administrator of estates. His death removed an honored and trusted citizen.

In December, 1868, Mr. Ralston married Margaret J. Dunlap, daughter of James and Margaret (Mateer) Dunlap, whose two other children were: Dean, deceased; and Mary E., wife of J. O. Saxton, both deceased. The Dunlaps and Mateers settled in the Cumberland Valley in 1737, and have been prominent in this county for 150 years.