O.H.P. Roberts

ROBERTS, CLARK MILLER, FREEMAN

Posted By: Phyllis Stackhouse (email)
Date: 8/21/2008 at 18:33:38

Oliver H. P. Roberts, a successful farmer and stockraiser of Leroy Township, was born in Lawrenceburg, Dearborn County, Indiana, February 20, 1829. He is the oldest son of Moses and Elmira E. (Clark) Roberts. Eben E. Roberts the father of Moses M. Roberts, was born in the State of Maine, and was a soldier in the war of 1812. Moses M. Roberts was also born in the State of Maine, and Almria E. Clark, his wife, was born in Newport, Rhode Island, and at an early day removed to Dearborn County, Indiana. She was the daughter of George Clark, who removed to Cincinatti, where he was a ship carpenter for many years. Moses M. Roberts and family removed from Indiana to Illinois, and settled on a farm in Henderson County. O. H. P. Roberts was at this time about twelve years of age. He received only a common school education, and remained on the farm with his parents until his twenty fourth year, at which time he was married to Martha W. Miller, the oldest daughter of Robert and Elizabeth Miller. In the fall of 1866, Mr. Roberts removed with his family to Audubon County, Iowa, and settled on a farm in section 1, Leroy Township, on the east branch of the Nish nabotna River. The land was wild, and neighbors were few and far between. E. J. Freeman an old and tried friend, was Mr. Robert's most intimate associate, with whom he passed many happy hours. On first coming to the state his means were limited, and there were many hardships to be met, and many burdens to be borne; but his courage and industry were equal to the test; and by diligence and good management he has one of the best farms in the neighborhood. The place contains 187 acres of choice land in a high state of cultivation. The residence, which is a twostory frame building, stands in the midst of a natural grove. There are also many pines and cedars growing near the house which add to the attractiveness of the place as no other foilage can. Although they were planted by Mr. Roberts, they have grown to be forty or fifty feet in height. The farm is well stocked with the best grades of livestock, and everything is arranged with an eye to convenience and ease in the care of them. Mr. and Mrs. Roberts have seven children William S., Robert C., Ida L., Herbert M., Mary E., Lewis W. and Oscar P. Mr. Roberts has been officially identified with his township as trustee, and also as clerk. He is a member of Veritas Lodge, No. 302, A. F. & A. M. In political matters he is rather conservative. He was a staunch Union man during the war, and offered his services to his country, but was not accepted, on account of ill health. In National elections he votes the Democratic ticket, but in local affairs he votes for the man best fitted for the office, regardless of party ties.

NOTE: This was taken from the 1895 edition of a History of Audubon County. O. H. P. actually married Margaret Ross in his 24th year. She died after six years of marriage and all four children from that union died as well. Almira P. Roberts was the last child to live and she married Charles W. Wheeler. She is buried in Luccocks Grove with her infant son. Her sister Allie is also buried in Luccocks Grove. Also, O. H. P. actually moved outside of Exira from Henderson County Illinois. He lived there with his family for one year.