Alexander French Foster married his wife Nancy Olivia Adams in 1839. After several moves, the family finally settled on a house on Maple Avenue.
Alexander worked as a carpenter often spending much time in Chicago while Nancy took care of the family that now numbered 8 children. Their lives, like many in Downers Grove, were touched by the Civil War.
Even though Alexander was in his forties, he enlisted in Company B of the 105th Illinois Infantry in August of 1862. His mustered in date was in September. Following the example of his father and father-in-in law, he wanted to serve his country. His service lasted less than a year as he was injured falling off a twenty five foot ledge about 17 October 1862. He later became a POW during December 1862 and January 1863 when the town and hospital he was staying in was captured by Confederate Forces. He was discharged on April 7 1863.
His life after discharge was full of illness, but he resumed his trade life as a carpenter, helping to build the Methodist Church on Maple Avenue.
He was a member of the Grand Army of the Republic Naper Post and lived to the age of 88.
Alexander is one of two people to have two markers in the cemetery. The other is Walter Blanchard.
