Will J. Edwards Dead - 1904, Leon, Iowa area Obituary

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Miss Cora Chastain Died, 1900

1900, Leon, Iowa area

Miss Cora Chastain died yesterday noon at the home of her mother, southeast of Leon, after a long illness from consumption. She was a member of the graduating class of '98 and a lovable young lady whose friends are numbered by the score. The funeral will be held today at the family residence at 1 o'clock. Interment in the Chastain cemetery.


Cora Chastain.

The funeral of Miss Cora Chastain at the family residence, southeast of Leon, last Thursday, was largely attended, many schoolmates and other friends from Leon showing the last tribute of respect to one they loved. Elder R. W. Castor of the Leon Christian church conducted the services at 1 p. m. and the remains were interred in the Chastain cemetery.

Cora Nyna Chastain was born December 17, 1878, at her home near Leon and died December 19, 1900, aged 22 years and 2 days. She leaves a mother, four brothers, and two sisters to mourn her loss. The father, one brother and two sisters have gone before. Cora was a graduate of the Leon High School class of '98.

Note: These two articles are from an old scrapbook from the Leon, Iowa area.

Harry Potter, 55, Former Resident, Called by Death

Zanesville, Ohio, 1932

Former Agent for Union News Co. Local B. & O. Passenger Station

Friends here have been notified of the death of Harry Potter, 55, former well known resident of Zanesville, which occurred Friday morning at his home in Cincinnati. The funeral will be conducted there Monday afternoon and burial will be made in Cincinnati.

The deceased for a number of years was in charge of the Union News company's stand at the local Baltimore & Ohio passenger station, and left this city about six years ago. Shortly after leaving Zanesville he was badly injured in an automobile accident and since that time he had been in failing health.

Mr. Potter was an ardent sportsman and was a great baseball fan. He was also a race horse enthusiast and was well acquainted with prominent known sportsmen throughout the country. Surviving are his widow and one daughter, Miss Harriet Potter, all of the home.

—The Times Recorder, Zanesville, Ohio, April 23, 1932, p. 2.

Harry Potter Dies of Pneumonia

Pennsylvania, 1916

Harry Potter, a native of this city, and well known here, died of pneumonia Wednesday at his home, 1414 La Clair street, Swissvale, following a short illness.

He was born in this city 57 years ago, and for 35 years, had been identified with the railway postal service. His father was the late John Potter. He had been an untiring and enthusiastic church and mission worker, and was teacher of class No. 1 of the Emory Methodist Episcopal Sunday school, and also a member of the church. He was also a member of the Mifflin Avenue M. E. Sunday school, Wilkinsburg, and lay preacher of the Pittsburgh conference. He was connected with the Trotter mission o£ Pittsburgh. During his residence in this city, he was an active worker in the Epworth M. E. church.

His widow, Mrs. Emily D. Potter, survives, with one son, Rev. James V. Potter, pastor of the Mount Morris Methodist Episcopal church; one daughter, Mrs. W. O. Bitzer, at home; also one brother, R. R. Potter, formerly a member of The News editorial staff, and two sisters, Mrs. B. B. Ramsey and Mrs. J. A. Cox.

His son, Rev. James V. Potter, is at present ill at the home, of the parents, suffering from diphtheria, which developed while he was visiting in their home.

The funeral services are to be held Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Mifflin avenue M. E. church, and interment will be made in Pittsburgh.

—New Castle News, New Castle, PA, April 6, 1916, p. 2.

The Death of John Merwin

Leon, Iowa area, no date given

Iolan Succumbed in Hospital in Clarinda, Iowa

Mrs. John Merwin, of 901 East street, received the sad news in a telegram from Clarinda, Iowa, this afternoon, that her husband died there this morning at 1 o'clock. She will leave tonight for Iowa and escort the remains to the old home at Leon, Iowa, where the funeral will be held.

Mr. Merwin was for five years employed as a carriage builder at the McCarty carriage works on South street, but broke down and went to a hospital in Iowa to take treatment for paresis. His recovery was always doubtful and the end was not unexpected.

He was a man twenty-nine years old, and is survived by his widow and three children, the oldest five years and the youngest a babe four months of age. He had many warm friends in Iola who will be sincerely grieved to learn of his death.

Judge F. S. Gardner

Leon, Iowa area, no date given

One of the best known citizens of Decatur county, passed away at the home of his son Frank A. Gardner five miles northwest of Leon last Saturday.

Judge Gardner was born in Syracuse, New York, April 10, 1821, where he lived with his parents until manhood, when he came west. In 1850 he went to California and spent several years in the far west, returning to Chicago where he engaged in the wholesale lumber business and amassed a fortune, but it was swept away in the great Chicago fire. He then came to Decatur county and purchased several hundred acres of land and engaged successfully in farming and stock raising.

He was married to Miss Maria E. Reynolds on Jan. 26, 1847, and to this union were born three children, one daughter and two sons, the eldest son dying in infancy. Mrs. Gardner died in 1887, the surviving children being Frank A. Gardner who lives on the home farm and Mrs. Ellen Perry.

Funeral services were held at the home on Saturday, March 18th, at 11 o'clock, conducted by A. M. Pilcher, pastor of the Leon M. E. Church, interment being in the Leon cemetery.

Judge Gardner was loved and respected by all who knew him and he was a polished gentleman of the old school. He loved to gather his friends around his home, and until the death of his wife, "Ocean Farm," as he named his beautiful country home, was the scene of many pleasant social gatherings. A few years ago he was severely injured by his horse falling on him and of late years has been in quite feeble health.

Note: The article had Marie E. Reynold, without an 's'.

Mamie Dale Sylvester (Mrs. F. A. Bowman)

Leon, Iowa area, 1905

Mamie Dale Sylvester, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. N. Sylvester, was born in New Buda township, Decatur county, Iowa, Feb. 4th, 1874, died at Leon, Iowa, March 10, 1905, aged 31 years, 1 month and six days.

Her last illness dated from Feb. 4th and everything that medical skill and kind hands could do was done, but to no avail. As a last resort an operation was performed on last Thursday by Dr. Ruth, of Keokuk, but the shock was too great and she passed quietly and peacefully away the following morning at 5 o'clock.

She was united in marriage to Dr. Fred A. Bowman at Davis City, on June 12, 1894, and their married life was truly an ideal one. She was from a child a member of the Advent church and faithfully did she live the teachings of her religious faith. Thus ends the career of a soul immortal so far as this life is concerned.

The brief words of the above sketch tell the sad story of the passing of a pure soul whom to know was to love. "Dale" as she was familiarly and affectionately called by her friends, possessed the rare combination of child-like beauty of face and form, with a strength of character, where her highest convictions were concerned, unusual for one even of greater years, yet she never obtruded her faith upon the attention of others. She simply lived it and thus gained for it, and for herself the highest respect from her associates.

The funeral was held at the M. E. church at 3:30 o'clock Sunday and the large building was filled to overflowing with those who wished thus to express their love for the departed and their sympathy for the bereaved. The service was conducted by Rev. Dr. Pilcher of the M. E. church and Rev. W. A. Montgomery of the Presbyterian church. Each read from the scriptures words of promise and helpfulness and added such words of comfort and consolation as they were able to draw from their own experiences of life and of Christian faith. The music under the direction of Mrs. C. E. Gardner was very beautiful. A quartette consisting of Mrs. Gardner, Mrs. J. A. Caster, H. J. Vogt and J. S. Warner sang three selections, the first being "The Ninety and Nine," the favorite hymn of the deceased.

The various orders of which Mrs. Bowman was a member, The Eastern Star, The Thirteen Club, of which she was vice-president, and the P. E. O. society were represented by attendance of members and by beautiful floral offerings while the Knights Templars in uniform formed a guard of honor and escorted the cortege to the silent city. The white casket containing the beautiful white robed body was almost hidden beneath its load of sweet flowers.

This was fitting, for no short-lived flower ever shed abroad a sweeter fragrance in the world than did this fair and lovely woman during the short stay she made among the inhabitants of earth. She wore ever "the white flower of a blameless life" the memory of whose fragrance and beauty will linger long with those who knew and loved her and will continue to be an incentive toward all pure, joyous and noble living. Such a life is a benediction, and for the privilege of having been allowed to share and enjoy it, even for so short a time, her friends should now give thanks.

Maria Beavers Paris

Leon, Iowa area, 1906

Maria Beavers was born May 24, 1845, in Highland county, Ohio, died at her home in Leon, Iowa, May 9, 1906, aged 81 years, 11 months 15 days.

The deceased moved with her parents, Joseph and Christina Beavers, to Decatur county, in 1855, where she was united in marriage to William H. Paris, July 12, 1866. They were the parents of nine children, four of whom died in infancy. On April 23, 1897, this happy union was severed by the death of the husband.

The five living children, Mrs. Cora Campbell, of near Leon, Mrs. Etta Rosengrant and Mrs. Nanna Warrington, of near Garden Grove, Mrs. Frank Manning, of near Kellerton and Ralph, of Leon, were present during her sickness. She was suddenly taken with pneumonia May 4th, and lived but five days. All was done for her that kind friends and willing hands could do, but the disease claimed her so far as earthly appearance is concerned, but death is not the victor, for the same Christ who loved her and who conquered death will care for her and take her home to rest. Mrs. Paris united with the Christian church under the pastorate of Elder Hubble about two years ago, remaining a faithful member until death. She was also an esteemed member of the Women's Relief Corps, of Leon.

She was a kind mother and neighbor, and numbered her friends by her acquaintances. Elder D. F. Sellards conducted a short service at the home in Leon and the main service at High Point. The W. R. C. of Leon and Garden Grove assisted at the grave. Services Friday at the home at 11:30 a.m., at High Point 3 p.m.

Sad Death — Emma Osborn, Leon, Iowa — Clothing Caught on Fire

Leon, Iowa area (no date given)

The school-house two miles east of Leon, where Miss Alice Dilsaver is teacher, was the scene, Friday morning last, of one of those startling accidents, so chilling and saddening to those who happen to be eye witnesses. Emma, the ten year old daughter of Mrs. Lydia Osborn, whose husband, Joel Osborn, it will be remembered by many, died very suddenly on the 29th of August last, went to school as usual, arriving at the school house at about half past eight o'clock. No other children were in the room when Emma got there and Miss Dilsaver was at her boarding place close by, not having yet [gone] to open school, though two or three [—] were playing near the house. Her clothes caught fire either by her standing against the stove or opening the stove door to stir the fire (Miss Dilsaver thinks the latter,) and the first any one knew of it was when she came out in the sight of those boys, she being badly frightened, the flames reaching upward and around her, presenting at once a pitiable and horrid spectacle. Orin Wilson, a scholar in the same school began to do all he could to subdue the flames, burning his hands considerably in the attempt, and though working like a hero, he made poor headway until Mr. High Manchester and his sister Lydia, came along the road, joined in the effort to save the child. They tore what clothing was not burned off of her and thus stopped the fire, but alas, too late. The fire had already done deadly work and it became at once apparent that the life of the unfortunate little one was doomed. However, she talked quite cheerfully when rescued from the flames. The Manchesters wrapped her up in a comforter and took her speedily to her mother and family whose feelings on beholding her condition may be imagined but not described.

Dr. Van Werden was called and he did all that could be done to relieve the awful agonies of the little sufferer but to no avail. She talked hopefully to Dr. who says she was quite heroic for one of her years. Her sufferings were terrible until midday, about which time the vital powers appeared to fail quite rapidly and from then onward it was apparent that the last ray of life would soon flicker; and that she was not conscious of pain. She had the closest attention of a goodly number of sympathising friends throughout the day, but with all they could do they were powerless to assuage one pang or to prolong her young life by even one breath. She rested quietly the last six hours and ceased to breathe at seven o'clock in the evening, ten and one-half hours after she was burned.

The funeral was set for Sunday last at Welcome school house, where a large concourse of people assembled to show their sympathy and to listen to a well timed and beautiful funeral service by Elder S. A. Garber, on the death of Emma and also that of her father from the text of Scripture: "What is your life." At the close of the services the people filed around in a solemn procession to look for the last time on the calm features of the loved and lost one, who in her serene calmness, accompanied by her own beautiful doll, which had been placed beside her by a tender hand, creating as it were a delusion; for it did not seem so much like death, only we all knew it was death.

Thus passed swiftly away as a meteor one of earth's beautiful and bright gems. Had little Emma stayed to witness the coming of the 6th day of another spring time, or the daisies bloom again, or another return of the song birds, the music of the rills, the awakening to life of the leaves and flowers, all the emblems of childhood, she would have reached the [*1 - tenth mile] stone on the precarious and uncertain road of this earth life.

Who would dispute a mother's trust that her child dwells [*2 - in a land] where the bright and beautiful [*3 - ones reside]?

X.

Notes:

[*1] A piece missing, and faded letters. But it looks like her birthday, not stated anywhere else, must have been the 6th day after the first day of spring. It looks like it must say "reached the tenth mile stone" but the article already says she was 10. Maybe they meant she was in her 10th year or virtually 10.

[*2] Letters between 'e' of 'dwells' and 'and' of 'land' are missing.

[*3] Letters between 'beautiful' and 'ide?' are missing.

The other brackets cover a small piece missing and filled in. The phrase "two or three — were playing near" has room for "kids," if that was a word they used.

There is an Emma C. Osborn to be found on the internet from the area. But she was 20 years old when she died.

Obituary — Mrs. Mary Gassett, 1884, Iowa

Leon, Iowa area, 1884

Died, at her home in Eden township, July 17, 1884, at 5:30 A. M., after a lingering illness, Mrs. Mary Gassett.

Her maiden name was Mary Hodgman and was born Nov. 19, 1823, in Townsend, Middlesex Co., Mass., and was married to G. W. Gassett Jan. 7, 1847. She became a Christian at the age of 14, and united with the Baptist Church at Nashua, New Hampshire, which faith she maintained until the day of her death. Her first home after marriage was at Monticello, Jones Co., Iowa. In the spring of 1853, she, with her husband and two children, removed to Eden township, Decatur county, Iowa, where she resided until death called her to a home up higher. Death, however, for her had no terrors.

Mrs. Gassett was cherished by a large and devoted circle of friends and fondly beloved in all the relations of life. She was the mother of seven children — three sons and four daughters — all of whom, with the husband, except one son, were permitted to follow her to her last resting place in the beautiful cemetery in Leon, where she was lovingly laid by the side of her beloved son.

She was a sufferer for many weary months, but bore it all with rare fortitude and Christian resignation that she might ease, if possible, the heart pangs of her family, whom she had reared with such tender solicitude, and who in return did everything within human power to sooth the pain of a suffering mother. When she realized that she was near the "dark river" she kissed and bade the loved ones good bye tenderly, and said I am ready to go.

Thus passed away Mrs. Mary Gassett, who adorned every relation of life, but devoted her greatest energies and fondest affections to the holy duties of a Christian wife and mother, and has erected in the hearts of her household a throne of love that will ever remain consecrated to her memory, yielding to their broken affections a fragrance redolent of Heaven, whither she has gone.

"Thus star by star declines,
Till all are passed away.
As morning higher and higher shines
To pure and perfect day;
Nor sink those stars in empty night,
But hide themselves in Heaven's own light."

D.

Mortuary — Cora Bell Cartwright

Leon, Iowa area, 1901

Mortuary.

Cora Bell Cartwright, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. T. Cartwright was born in Davis City, Iowa, Jan. 23, 1879, and died of that dread disease, consumption, at her home in High Point township July 7, 1901, aged 22 years, 5 months and 14 days. She left a father, mother, four brothers and three sisters who were all at her bed side except one, Harry who is in Joplin, Mo. She had been a sufferer for the past five months, but in all her suffering she was patient and cheerful. "Co" as she was familiarly known had a kind word for every one, always ready to do her part, and such nerve and presence of mind as she manifested in her last hours is seldom seen. She called each member of the family and friends to her bedside and bade each one a last good, begging them not to grieve for she was ready to go and wanted rest. She leaves a host of friends to mourn her loss.

Dearest sister you have left us,
To mourn thee here alone,
Thou art singing with the Angels,
Before God's shining throne.

—————

The house occupied by Mrs. Sears will be for rent after June 1.
T. E. HORNER.

Gone To Rest — Dr. John P. Finley, Iowa, 1883

Leon, Iowa area, 1883

Gone To Rest

Dr. John P. Finley died at his home in this city, Sunday evening, March 11, 1883, at 9 o'clock. He had been in feeble health for several years, but was able most of the time to attend his patients. He made two trips to the country during the blustery weather of last week, which it is thought hastened his death. His death was unexpected to most of our citizens, very few of whom knew he was sick, until they received the sad intelligence of his death.

Dr. Finley was one of the pioneers of the State. He came to Iowa long before it was made a State, when the Indian and buffalo held undisputed sway over the greater part of its territory. He participated in and contributed to its rapid growth and development. The greater part of his life was spent as a practicing physician. He was careful, laborious and unremitting in his attention to the arduous and responsible duties of the profession he loved, and for which be was eminently fitted, both by natural disposition as well as by careful training and study.

In politics Dr. Finley was an earnest Republican — we may say, a decided partisan — but with no bitterness of feeling. Always courteous, kind and respectful to those who differed from him, he won, as he deserved, friends from all sorts and classes of people. He held but few public trusts, but his ability and integrity were marked in every position he assumed. During the war he accepted a position as a member of the State Board of Enrollment and served until the close of the war. In this important position he endeared himself to thousands of volunteers by his active care for their welfare, while his energy, fairness and scrupulous honesty marked his fitness for the trying position. An exalted public spirit ever animated him, and soldiers in every part of the State remember him kindly for his faithfulness and promptness in responding to every demand made upon him. His kindness of heart was unbounded. Thoughtful of the happiness of others, he endeared himself to all with whom he was intimately associated, and was a marked favorite of all with whom he came in contact. He had ability of no mean order, but it was used less for his own advancement than for the service of others. With all his toil and trials, his life was a happy one, for he consciously contributed to the happiness of others.

Dr. Finley was a man of a high sense of honor, of irreproachable integrity, fine abilities and professional acquirements. He possessed a heart of as tender susceptibilities as a woman. He fully appreciated the responsibilities of life, and met them in a right manly way. There was nothing sordid or mean in his nature; nothing low, base or groveling. In the fullest, widest meaning of the term, he was a gentleman. Now that his life is finished, the testimony is cheerfully borne that he has left to his family and friends the precious heritage of a good name.

This brief tribute we would pay to our loved friend, for he was our friend, sincere, earnest and true. Rest and sleep, sleep and rest! There are many who mourn you — eyes that are dimmed with tears as they remember with grateful hearts your many generous acts of kindness. There are many who feel that your place can never be filled. "The best portions of a good man's life are the little acts of tenderness and love;" and with these Dr. Finley's life was made redolent and glorious. Such men must die, but the world is the better that they have lived.

Dr. John P. Finley was born in Augusta, Kentucky, on the 29th day of August, 1813. After the death of his father, which occurred when he was quite young, he moved to Piqua, Ohio, with his mother and brothers. Here he clerked in a store for some time, and studied medicine. He afterwards engaged in business at Lima, Ohio, and in 1836 was married at Piqua, Ohio, to Maria L. Cheever, who died in Des Moines, Iowa, in January 1865. He came to Iowa in 1839, and settled on a farm near New London, Henry county, where he lived a few years. From New London be moved to Burlington, and from there to Galena, Illinois, where he engaged in the drug business. In 1845 he returned to Iowa, and lived at Bloomfield until 1853, when he moved to Leon, where has been his home ever since, with the exception of two years spent in Des Moines during the war.

Dr. Finley was an active and honored member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was a charter member of Bloomfield lodge, No. 23, and the first charter member of Leon lodge, No. 84, also a member of Decatur Encampment, No. 38.

For many years he was a member of the Methodist church, and Rev. A. Brown conducted a short funeral service at the residence, after which the Odd Fellows took charge of the services. The Decatur County Medical Society, of which the deceased was an active member, attended the funeral in a body. The Odd Fellows turned out in full force, and most of the lodges in the county were represented. A large number of citizens were present, and the deep feeling manifested showed unmistakably the strong hold the deceased had on the affections of the people among whom he had lived and toiled so many years.

The services at the grave were the beautiful ritual of the Odd Fellows, with solemn dirge and impressive obsequies. So was a noble man laid to rest on a beautiful hill, near a large evergreen, in the early spring time, when the springing grass and swelling buds are nature's assurances of the life to come. His good name, his kind disposition, his great ability, and his social qualities, will be remembered long after his body molders to "mother dust."

——

The following resolutions were unanimously adopted by the Leon Lodge, No. 84, I. O. O. F.:

WHEREAS, It has pleased Almighty God to remove from among us our beloved brother Past Grand John P. Finley, senior, it is therefore, by Leon Lodge, No. 84, I. O. O. F., of Iowa, at their lodge room assembled,

Resolved, That in the death of Brother Past Grand Finley, the community has lost an upright, honest man; society at large a genial and true gentleman; the family a kind and affectionate father, and this lodge one of its most honored and faithful members, whose name is inscribed the first upon the Charter of the lodge, and who has lived for the last two years as the only remaining charter member.

Resolved, That since the 7th day of February, 1856, Brother Past Grand John P. Finley, sr., has been a true and faithful worker in this lodge, and his genial presence in times of despondency, his energy and ability as a worker, and his high appreciation of the tenets of our order, to a great extent has kept alive the fire upon the altar of this lodge, for more than twenty seven years.

Resolved, That while Brother Past Grand Finley will never again sit with us in this lodge, we will ever cherish his manly qualities, emulate his many virtues, and in token of our high esteem for him, we have draped the lodge in mourning, and will wear the fraternal badge for thirty days.

Resolved, That to the family and friends we pledge our heartfelt sympathy in their bereavement, reminding them and ourselves, however, that what has been our great loss has proven his eternal gain.

Resolved, That these resolutions be spread upon the records of this lodge; that they be published in the Decatur and Davis County Iowa, papers, and that a copy of these be presented to our deceased brother's family.
JOHN L. YOUNG,
C. W. BECK,
C. M. MURRY.

——-

John C. Stockton:

The news of the death of Dr. John P. Finley fell with sadness upon my ears. In December, 1849, I met him at his home in Bloomfield, Iowa. He was then vigorous, brilliant, and versatile. Gentle as a child in his manners, kind as a woman in his devotion to his friend and brave as a lion in defense of his conviction of right. Dr. Finley was of a noble stock of Scotch Irish Presbyterians. My father listened to the ministration of his grandfather, Robert Finley, in western Pennsylvania. Robert Finley was a strong man among strong men. Two of his sons, John P. Finley, the father of our friend Dr. Finley and James B. Finley, were Methodist Ministers.

Rev. John P. Finley was a finished classical scholar and died while he was president of Augusta college, Kentucky. To his widow was left the care of his children, which she raised with honor. The two brothers Dr. William McKendree Finley passed away only a few years ago, his only remaining brother now follows him. Each of these brothers were pioneers in the civilization of Iowa, as their father and brothers had been in Ohio, and their grandfather had been in Western Pennsylvania. With his generation. Dr. Finley has passed away. A nobler heart never beat in the bosom of a man.

I owe this tribute to the memory of these good people that I knew and loved so long.

Yours, HENRY CLAY DEAN,
Leon, Iowa, March 12.

News from Woodland Township, Decatur County, Iowa

Leon, Iowa area, date unknown

Woodland.

T. J. Stephens has his new house nearly completed; it is quite a commodious residence.

Mrs. Knowles is having an addition built to her house.

John and Jim Newlin are home from Charles City visiting their families.

Clyde Rain was an over Sunday visitor at his father's in Woodland.

It is our sad duty this week to report the death of our young friend Evert Stephens, son of James Stephens, of this township which occurred last Sunday evening at 5. p. m. Evert had been sick for three months or more and all was done for him that could be done by kind hands and loving friends; but he had to go. He was born and grew to manhood in Decatur county. He was 18 years 2 months and 15 days old at the time of his death. He was a member of the Advent Christian church. I think I would be safe in saying he had no enemies, but his friends were legion. He leaves father, mother and two sisters to mourn his loss. The family have the sympathy of the entire community.

Rev. Foster filled his regular appointment here last Sunday.

Lawyer Jackson, of Mt. Ayr, is visiting his brother Dr. Jackson for a few days.

In Memoriam – R. A. Smith

1885, Leon, Iowa area

R. A. Smith died at his residence in Eden township, April 7th, 1885, aged 47 years, after an illness of 18 months.

Deceased was born in Illinois in 1838, and the same year his parents emigrated to Van Buren county, Iowa. In 1864 he was married to Miss Rebecca Perdue, of Decatur county, Iowa. He leaves a wife and 6 children, who mourn the loss of a kind husband and tender father. Services were held at his late residence on the 8th by Elder Wm. Anderson and the undersigned in singing, prayer and reading part of the 15th chapter of Cor. and part of the 4th chapter of 1st Thes. Mr. Smith was well respected by his neighbors, as shown by their kindness during his illness, and their presence and assistance at his burial, which took place at the Leon cemetery. S. A. GARBER.


WOODLAND TP., April 8th, '85

For the consolation of Miss Undine Smith on the death of her father who died the 7th of lingering consumption.

We miss thee, dear father, as we gather
Our household together for prayer or repast.
We miss thee at morning, we miss thee at noontide.
But more at eve when we meet around the hearth.

We look toward the spot, where we're wont to behold thee,
And naught but the vacant chair meets our sad gaze,
But the eye of affection is aided by memory,
And still thou art present though laid in the grave.

We watch for thy coming when twilight shades gather,
And often we listen to catch thy loved voice,
But never on earth shall its glad tones delight us,
Nor again shall thy presence our hearts rejoice.

We miss thee, dear father, at morning, at noontime,
And in calm evening we miss thee more still,
But God in his mercy saw fit to remove thee,
He knows what is best, we bow to his will.

— Mrs. E. E. B.

Obituary — Mattie Frazier, 1845-1918

Leon, Iowa, 1918

Mattie Frazier was born in Vermillion county, Illinois, June 25th, 1845, and removed to Guthrie county, Iowa, in 1853, where she lived almost continually until 1863, when she returned to Illinois. She was here married to James Grandstaff September 4th, 1865, and with her husband immediately returned to Guthrie county, Iowa, where they lived until 1870, when they moved near Pleasanton, Iowa, just across the state line in Missouri. In 1884 they moved to Leon, Iowa, and have lived here continually ever since that time. It was here that she passed peacefully away at one o'clock a. m., March 10th, 1918.

Mrs. Grandstaff was converted and joined the Methodist Episcopal church in the winter of 1862-3, at Guthrie Center, Iowa, and was received into full membership in Greenville, Ill., September 3, 1865, and lived a pure and blameless life to the day of her death.

There was born to Mr. and Mrs. Grandstaff in 1866, a son, F. Otis Grandstaff, whose home is in Dallas, Texas. Mrs. Grandstaff has been a patient sufferer, having suffered since July 7th, 1916, until March 10th, when she suffered another attack which caused her death. She leaves to mourn her loss, her husband, one son, F. Otis Grandstaff, one grandson, Sergeant Ben F. Grandstaff, now somewhere in France, one grand-daughter, Martha Grandstaff, who lives with her parents in Dallas, Texas, also a sister living in Fort Collins, Colo., Mrs. Emily Brenizer, of Lamoni, Mrs. Mattie Ward, of Ravilli, S. D., Miss Mable Houk and Harlin Houk, of Fort Collins, Colo.

Funeral services conducted by Rev. W. M. Brooks, were held at the M. E. church Wednesday afternoon March 13th, interment following in the Leon cemetery.


Marriage Licenses

Leon, Iowa area, date unknown

Lowell V. West, Grand River.....20
Susanna Schoonover, Davis City.....20
Ivyl Painter, Kellerton.....21
Gladys T. Reuss, Decatur.....21
Samuel B. Metier, Weldon.....23
Jessie May Nish, Weldon.....23

Death of Sir Henry M. Stanley.

1904

Sir Henry Morton Stanley, the most eminent of modern explorers, died May 10th, aged 63.

His career was like a chapter of romance. Born in Wales of parentage so lowly that he spent 10 years of his childhood in a poorhouse, he achieved world-wide fame as author and explorer, and became a knight and a member of the House of Commons. At the age of 15 he shipped as a cabin-boy to New Orleans, and was there adopted by a wealthy merchant, who gave him his name.

He served first in the Confederate and later in the Union army, and after the war became a newspaper writer and war correspondent.

In 1871 he was sent by the New York Herald to find Dr. David Livingstone, the English missionary, who had penetrated far into Africa, and from whom no tidings had been received for a long time. He organized an expedition, and penetrating inland from the eastern coast, found Livingstone at Ujiji.

In 1874, under the auspices of the New York Herald and the London Telegraph, he organized the "Anglo-American expedition," which, entering Africa from Zanzibar, emerged about three years afterward at the mouth of the Congo, having traversed the continent through trackless wildernesses, circumnavigated the great lake, the Victoria Nyanza, and explored the Congo.

In later expeditions he explored the Congo farther, and founded the Congo Free State; and relieved Emin Pasha, governor of Equatorial Africa, whose position had become precarious. He wrote several books and gave many lectures describing his travels. He was a contributor to The Companion. In 1895 he was elected to Parliament. — Youth's Companion.

Hiram C. Warden, Licking County, Ohio, 1819-1901

Newark, Ohio, 1899-1901

UNIQUE BANQUET

One Hundred Oldest Men in County

Assist Mr. Hiram C. Warden to Celebrate the Eightieth Anniversary of His Birth.

Saturday, May 27, was the eightieth anniversary of the birth of Mr. Hiram Warden one of Licking county's oldest, best known and most highly respected citizens, and father of Captain F. G. Warden, proprietor of the Hotel Warden. The Captain decided that the event was one which called for more than passing notice, and determined that it should be celebrated in a proper manner. In accordance with this decision over one hundred of the old time residents of the county, whose ages averaged 65 years, were invited, and there were no regrets. Elaborate preparations were made for the event, Mr. Warden being made to believe that all the extra hustling was on account of a banquet that was being prepared for the local lodge of Elks. It was a gathering of old and representative men of the county, such as seldom comes together, and to say that Maj. Warden was surprised when he was greeted by these long time friends, would be putting it mildly. A sumptuous supper was partaken of by the guests, which was followed by a program of speech-making. The toastmaster was Hon. J. W. Owens, and toasts were responded to by Dr. Vail, Charles Montgomery, Abraham Flory, Capt. W. C. Lyon, J. H. Newton, Howard W. Howe, Hon. C. B. Giffin and Hon. Wm. Bell, Jr. Mr. Daniel Thomas offered a pleasant diversion to the program by suggesting that Queen Victoria had been honored by the poet laureate of England by a poem for her eightieth birthday, and as the age of Mr. Warden differed by three days from that of the Queen, he too, should have a similar honor. He read a poem which he had written and which was as follows:

Is it true, or are you joking?
Is it four-score years today
That you were born near Granvilletown
On the twenty-seventh of May?
Is it true that you have traveled
Full eighty years of life,
And look so hale and hearty,
Without any marks of strife?
Your steps so firm and elastic,
Your eyes so bright, and so keen
Your hearing; so quick and active
As a youth about eighteen.
Your mind also clear and active,
With vim and vigor and might
You're able to transact all business
As "sharp" as ever tonight.
May the God of Grace and Mercy
Preserve my friend Warden and wife
For many years, until ready
To enter eternal life.

—Newark Daily Advocate, Newark, OH, May 29, 1899, page 5.

Note: It looks like the headline has his middle initial as "G," and it should be "C," which change I made.


SICK LIST (1900-1901)

Mr. Hiram Warden, who has been confined to his room in the Warden [hotel] for some time past on account of a dislocated hip, is rapidly improving and will be able to be out in a few days.

—Newark Daily Advocate, Sept. 25, 1900, page 3.


Hand Badly Hurt.

Mr. Moses Goodrich, of Granville, who is attending the session of the grand jury, met with a painful accident at the Hotel Warden Monday.

He had called at the hotel to see his friend, Mr. Hiram Warden, and in getting into the elevator had his hand caught and badly lacerated.

Dr. D. M. Smith dressed the injured member, several stitches being necessary.

—Newark Daily Advocate, Sept. 25, 1900, page 1.



Mr. Hiram Warden is lying seriously ill at the Hotel Warden. Mr. Warden was somewhat improved in the past few days, but last night there was a change for the worse.

—Newark Daily Advocate, Jan 5, 1901, page 7.



Mr. Hiram Warden passed a very bad night Monday, and is in no wise improved today.

—Newark Daily Advocate, Jan. 8, 1901, page 8.



The condition of Hiram Warden remains unchanged today.

—Newark Daily Advocate, Jan. 15, 1901, page 8.



The condition, of Mr. Hiram Warden is about the same. If anything he is worse today.

—Newark Daily Advocate, Jan. 24, 1901, page 8.



HIRAM CARY WARDEN

Venerable Father of Capt. Frank G. Warden and One of the Country's Best Known and Wealthiest Citizens Passes to His Eternal Rest — Sketch of His Life.

Mr. Hiram C. Warden, one of Newark's oldest, most highly respected and wealthiest citizens passed peacefully away at his apartments in the Hotel Warden at 11:15 o'clock Tuesday night, after an illness of acute bronchitis following an attack of grip.

Although this was the proximate cause of death, a fall sustained on August 14 last, when Mr. Warden suffered a broken hip, and his age had much to do with his demise.

Mr. Warden on several occasions since the fall has been down stairs, but his recovery never seemed to be complete.

Since the first day of January he has been bedfast and for twenty-nine days made a heroic battle against death, but was forced finally to surrender to the last of foes.

The funeral will take place from the hotel Friday afternoon at two o'clock, Rev F. B. Nash of Trinity Episcopal church, and Rev Bunyon Spencer of the Alexandria Baptist church conducting the services. Interment in Cedar Hill cemetery.

Hiram C. Warden's grandfather, Jonas Warden, enlisted in the defense of the Colonies during the War for Independence, and held the rank of Captain until the close of the Revolution. A son of the latter, and father of our subject, Gabriel, was one of those who responded to his country's call at the time of the second war with England in which he served as Captain with gallantry and courage. He was a native of Burlington, Vt., born Feb. 16, 1777, and in the place of his birth was united in marriage with Miss Mary P. Seeley, a native of Massachusetts. After the birth of three children they removed, in 1814, from Burlington, Vt., to Licking county, Ohio, settling on a farm in Granville township, one mile north of the village of that name. There they remained until called from earth, the father dying February 2, 1838, and the mother February 5, 1862.

On this farm Hiram C. was born on the 27th of May, 1819. His age was therefore 81 years, 8 months and 2 days.

In the parental family there were thirteen children, one of whom died in infancy, and twelve attained to years of maturity and became heads of families. Hiram C. grew to manhood on the old homestead, reared to farm life. His preliminary education was acquired in the old subscription school, and supplemented by two years attendance at Granville College. After the death of his father he served an apprenticeship at the chairmaker's trade in Granville, being thus employed for two years. Later he worked as journeyman at this business.

Believing that agriculture offered better opportunities than his trade, Mr. Warden began farming in 1846, and the first year operated a rented place. In 1847 he purchased seventy-five acres lying in Harrison township, Licking county, and during the ensuing two years cleared about ten acres of this tract. During the winter season he taught singing school in order to gain the means of subsistence for himself and family, and assist in making improvements on the land. At the expiration of the two years he sold the farm, having cleared $1,000 in this speculation. For a few years following he bought and sold a number of farms, frequently changing his location and with each change materially improving his financial condition.

Until 1873 Mr. Warden continued actively engaged in farming and during his residence in Newark has been more or less engaged in agricultural pursuits. In his farming pursuits he was successful through untiring industry and good management, coupled with the assistance of his wife in the accumulation of a handsome competency. In 1881 he bought the hotel in Newark which bears his name. This he greatly enlarged and at the present time it has more than one hundred rooms.

On November 20, 1842, at the Baptist church in Granville he was united in marriage to Miss Mary A., daughter of John and Mary Hartman Lond, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania, where their daughter was born January 19, 1826. She is of German descent and came to Granville with her parents when only five years of age.

To Mr. and Mrs. Warden have been born four children, of whom are living Charles C., of Granville township, and Frank G., proprietor of the Hotel Warden, this city. Mr. and Mrs. Warden have travelled life's journey together nearly sixty years. Both became members of the Baptist church before they were married and have ever been true to the faith.

In early life Mr. Warden was a Whig, his first presidential vote being cast for Gen. W. H. Harrison in 1840. Since the organization of the Republican party he has supported that organization.

—Newark Daily Advocate, Newark, Ohio, January 30, 1901, page 8.

Note: The article says he began farming in 1836, which has to be wrong going by other details in the article. And Charles' name was spelled "Chales." I changed these. As for Charles' middle initial: this article says "C" and the last will says "H." I just left each as found. My guess, "H," probably standing for Hiram. And wills are usually more exact.



MR. WARDEN'S FUNERAL.

The funeral of the late Hiram C. Warden took place from the hotel at 2 o'clock this afternoon.

The Episcopal burial service was read by Rev. F. B. Nash. Rev. Bunyon Spencer of Alexandria, delivered a eulogy, in which the virtues of the deceased, his strict attention to business at hand, and his sterling integrity were pointed out as an example for the younger generation.

—Newark Daily Advocate, Feb. 1, 1901, page 8.


THE COURTS.

THE PROVISIONS OF HIRAM WARDEN'S WILL.

Following are the bequests made by the late Hiram C. Warden, in his last will and testament:

My will is that all my just debts and funeral expenses shall be paid out of my estate as soon as after my decease as shall be found convenient.

I give and bequeath the farm on which I resided and have been living at different times, to Charles H. Warden, during his natural life, and at his death to his children, equally.

I give and bequeath to my wife, Mary A. Warden, during her natural life, the store room on the South Side of the Square in Newark, and at her death I give, devise and bequeath said realty to my son Charles H. Warden, during his natural life and at his death, to his children, equally.

I give, devise and bequeath to my beloved wife, Mary A. Warden, the property on the North Side of the Square to her and her heirs forever, absolutely.

I give, devise and bequeath to my beloved wife, Mary A. Warden, during her natural life, all the balance of my property, both real and personal, of which I may die seized.

I give, devise and bequeath to my beloved wife, Mary A. Warden, all the income from my property and estate absolutely to use and do with as she may think best, reposing full confidence in her excellent judgment.

We have labored together industriously for fifty-eight years to accumulate and gather together this estate, and now that we are near to the end of this life it is our wish and prayer that our children, their good wives and children, may have and cultivate habits of industry, honesty, fidelity and love towards one another and inculcate as far as may be, Christian faith and charity.

I do hereby nominate and appoint my beloved wife, Mary A. Warden, executrix of this my last will and testament. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand to this, my last will and testament, this 28th day of July. A. D. 1900.

H. C. WARDEN.

—Newark Daily Advocate, March 8, 1901, page 5.


QUARTER CENTURY AGO

(From Advocate, Oct. 18, 1886.)
Mr. Hiram Warden, who left for California this morning, met with a misfortune before he left. Someone stole his overcoat from the hack in which he had been driven to the station.

—Newark Advocate, Oct. 18, 1911, page 6.

Thomas Fauber, Aged Carpenter, Found Dead

Decatur, Illinois, 1913

THOMAS FAUBER, 80, FOUND DEAD

Aged Carpenter Had 60 Cents In His Possession.

Thomas Fauber, aged about eighty years, was found dead in his room over 718 North Broadway at 6 o'clock Monday evening by M. J. Hennessy, Jake Barry and P. E. Werner, who two hours before had assisted the old man to his room.

About 4 o'clock they saw the old man fall at the corner of Morgan street and Wabash avenue. At the time they thought that he was merely drunk. They assisted him to his room and placed him on the bed, thinking he would be all right after awhile. About 6 o'clock they went back to see how he was getting along and found him dead. Coroner Elmer Brintlinger was notified and removed the body to the Brintlinger undertaking establishment. The inquest was set for 2 o'clock Tuesday afternoon.

WAS CARPENTER.

Thomas Fauber was a carpenter by trade, but for several years he had not been able to do much work, owing to old age. For six or eight years he made his home in Decatur, but no one could be found who knew anything of his past history. For a number of years he and his daughter, Miss Mary Fauber, lived at 1730 North Clinton street, and the city directory of 1908 gives him as being the owner of the place. Former neighbors were located by Coroner Brintlinger early Tuesday and they said that Mr. Fauber had a small interest in the property, and that after his daughter died three years ago he moved away from the house.

SCANTY LIVING.

Since then he has picked up a scanty living filing saws. He had two small rooms over 718 North Broadway, but they were very dirty and indicated poverty. He had a small stove and a supply of coal sufficient to last for some time, and he had 60 cents in his pockets. His bed consisted of some boards with a mattress on them, but no springs. He had plenty of clothing, but it was very dirty.

It is not known that the old man has any living relatives, but Coroner Brintlinger will hold the body awhile and see if he can find any relatives or friends who wish to give the body Christian burial. Otherwise it will be sent to the potter's field.

ONCE AT POOR FARM.

When Mrs. John F. Gepford learned of the death of Mr. Fauber the name sounded familiar to her and she looked up the records of the Macon County Infirmary and found that Mr. Fauber was an inmate of that institution in 1911. When he went there he told Mrs. Gepford that his daughter had died only a short time before and that she was his last living relative. He did not remain at the infirmary very long. After being there a few months he became dissatisfied and came back to the city. While staying at the infirmary he would visit the city occasionally to file saws and earned a little money in that way.

Coroner Brintlinger met a few persons Tuesday morning who wanted to contribute to a fund to give the old man Christian burial, so his body will not rest in the potter's field.

—The Daily Review, Decatur, Illinois, November 11, 1913, page 9.

"Big Dan" Davis Found Asphyxiated, Suicide or Accident?

Middletown, New York, 1908

SUICIDE OR ACCIDENT?

"Big Dan" Davis Found Asphyxiated in Barber Shop

WAS VERY INTOXICATED

This May Account for His Death -- Member of Notorious Davis Family

Daniel Davis, better known as "Big Dan" Davis was found dead on the floor of Angel Vuolo's barber shop at 203 East Main street, at 7:45 Saturday morning. His death was due to gas asphyxiation, but whether he committed suicide or not the police and coroner have been unable to determine.

Davis' wife left him recently, and having no home, Vuolo had given him permission to stay in his shop nights and had furnished him with a key to the back door. Vuolo closed the place Friday evening at 8 o'clock and it is not known what time Davis went in. When Vuolo went to the shop next morning he could open the door only part way. Looking in he saw Davis lying at full length on the floor with his head near the door.

The body was directly back of a barber's chair. Vuolo squeezed his way in and found the room filled with gas, the odor being so strong that it was impossible to remain inside any length of time. He saw at a glance that Davis was dead, as his face was badly swollen. Vuolo at once notified several persons in the neighborhood and the police and Coroner H. T. Crist were informed by telephone. Special officer Howard Jones went to the place and took charge until the arrival of the coroner. The doors were thrown open to permit the gas to escape. An investigation showed that two gas jets directly over the body were wide open.

Davis, who was a laborer, had worked about the city all week until Friday, when he began drinking and by evening he was intoxicated, but he gave no intimation to anyone so far as can be learned, that he was tired of life, and it may be that in his intoxicated condition, he may have blown out the gas by mistake. He had removed his shoes and placed them under a chair near where he was found. His hat lay under one of his arms. The body was taken in charge by Undertaker P. J. Reilly. Coroner Crist will hold the inquest later.

Davis was about forty years of age and had always made his home in Middletown and vicinity. He was a cousin of "Little" Dan Davis, who was arrested as a suspect in the Olney murder case. "Big Dan" was also under suspicion of knowing something of the crime and he and his wife were taken in custody and closely questioned but they succeeded in proving a satisfactory alibi. Little is known concerning the dead man's relatives. His wife is said to be living near Howells.

The funeral of Davis was held Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the undertaking parlors of P. J. Reilly. The service was conducted by Rev. A. H. Schaeffer, pastor of St. John's German Lutheran Church. The interment was made in the Scotchtown Cemetery. Relatives of the deceased acted as pallbearers.

Coronor H. T. Crist held the inquest Monday p.m. and took the testimony of Angel Vuolo, who discovered the dead body, and Dr. M. A. Stivers, who made an examination.

--Orange County Times-Press, Middletown, New York, September 29, 1908, page 2.

Railroad Workers: Sick Children and Some Die

Huron, South Dakota, 1909--

Among the Railroad Workers

Happenings in Shop and Home

Engineer Vance has been on sick list for some days.

E. G. Ball has been constructing cement walks at his residence, 611 Frank.

Miss Linnie Kesler was quite sick the last of last week.

The Infant child of Conductor Gross, who has been quite ill is said to be entirely out of danger.

Little Howard Rilplogal, the infant son of Walter Riplogal is under the care of Dr. Foxton. He is suffering from bowel trouble, as are so many little ones this weather.

Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Ball, parents Mrs. G. R. Dickson and E. G. Ball are visiting at the Dickson home. They arrived Monday evening from Egan, S. D., where another daughter lives. During the last year Mr. and Mrs. Ball have traveled in the southern and eastern portions of the United States and after a short visit here will probably tour the western states.

No. 16 came running two sections this morning, owing to the many Elks en route to their convention.

T. F. Keater has been laying for several days.

Mr. Joseph Thorsness has taken a 30-day leave of absence and gone to North Dakota, where he will, perhaps run a threshing engine.

Harry, the little nephew of Mr. Koerner (the foreman of the Co. blacksmith shops) was drowned while fishing with a crowd of little boys Monday forenoon. Harry has made his home with Mr. and Mrs. Koerner for two years since the death of his mother and they have come to look upon the boy as almost their own. He was a bright and winning little fellow and will be missed by his little playmates. The sympathy of all is with Mr. and Mrs. Koerner in this affliction.

Margarette Adell Dickson, only daughter of George R. and Margarette B. Dickson, passed away Saturday morning, August 14th, aged seven months and four days. The little one was suffering with ilio-colitis aggravated by the intensely hot weather and the fact that she was teething; she lingered but a few days after the illness manifested itself. All that loving hearts and helpful hands could do, all that medical science could lend was taxed to the uttermost but the mission of the little life had been fulfilled and the angels whispered softly, in her ear — "Child, thy Father calls thee, stay not here," as they gently bore her, robed in shining white to their blissful realms of light. At two o'clock Sunday afternoon funeral services were conducted at the home by Rev. Rifenbark, who spoke most beautifully from the text — "Suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven." The choir rendered "Sometime we'll understand" and "Safe in the arms of Jesus" while a friend sang "Beautiful Baby hands." Sympathizing friends filled the house with blossoms and beautiful floral emblems were received from both the B. of L. F. & E. and Prairie Rose No. 5.

God never does nor suffers to be done aught but what we ourselves would choose if we could see the end of all events as well as He.

Mr. and Mrs. Geo. R. Dickson wish to tender their heartfelt thanks to the friends and neighbors who assisted so kindly, and aided in so many ways during the last illness of their beloved little daughter and especially to express sincere gratitude to Prairie Rose lodge, to the B. of L. F. & E., and to Mrs. Porter, Mrs. Eldridge, Mrs. Thorsness and Mr. Kester particular for their untiring efforts in her behalf.

--Weekly State Spirit and Dakota Huronite, Huron, South Dakota, August 19, 1909, page 1.


DEATH OF BABY GIRL.

Seven Months Old Child of Mr. and Mrs. G. R. Dickson Died Suddenly This Morning.

Margarette Adell Dickson, aged seven months and four days, the little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. G. R. Dickson died suddenly this morning at 8:35 o'clock of ilio-colitis. The little one was taken sick on Monday morning, but yesterday was thought to be improved and today appeared to be almost recovered, when at eight o'clock she was taken with convulsions and died in a short time. She was a happy natured child and one that everyone loved, and the sincere sympathy of all will be extended to her parents.

The funeral services were held from the house at 617 Frank street at 2 o'clock Sunday afternoon. Four young ladies acted as the pall-bearers.

--Weekly State Spirit and Dakota Huronite, Huron, South Dakota, August 26, 1909, page 4.

Comment: Even though the article of the 26th says she died "this morning," obviously the funeral was a Sunday past, and the first article says she died August 14. So it just took a little while to get this formal obituary in the paper.