Lyle D. Hawkins (1868-1951)

HAWKINS

Posted By: Karon Velau (email)
Date: 4/1/2022 at 15:42:18

Lyle D. Hawkins
(June 27, 1868 – December 25, 1951)

There is no art in which more marked advance has been made in the past half century than in photography, such decided progress seems to carry it forward almost to perfection. Thoroughly conversant with the most improved methods, using the latest accessories and thus producing work of superior order, Mr. Hawkins, of Lake City, has gained a reputation in the line of his chosen profession which is not limited by the confines of this place or even of the county, and his pleasant gallery is well patronized. Mr. Hawkins is a native of Polk County. Iowa, born on the 27th of June, 1868. His father, Abraham Hackleman Hawkins, was born in Indiana and when he attained to adult age he began farming. In his native state he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah R. Dicken, who was also born in Indiana, and about 1865. they left their old home to become residents of Iowa, settling in Polk County, where they are still living. For more than half a century they have traveled life's journey together, sharing with each other its joys and sorrows, its adversity and prosperity, their mutual love and confidence increasing as the years have passed. On the 2d of November, 1901, they celebrated their golden wedding, many friends joining in the wish that they may continnue on life's journey for many years. They became the parents of fourteen children : Emily, at home; Marshall, who is a carpenter of Coon Rapids, Iowa; Florence, the wife of Lou Ellis, of Altoona, Iowa; Virgil, a farmer of Polk County; Homer and Rolly, who have passed away ; Payton and James, who died in infancy; Barton, a photography of Alden; twins, who died in infancy ; L. D., of this review ; and Charley and Estee, who are still under the parental roof.
At the usual age L. D. Hawkins began his education in the public schools of Polk County and continued his studies through the winter season for a number of years. In the summer months he worked on the home farm and assisted in the labors of fields and meadows until 1888, when, believing that he would find another pursuit more congenial than farming, he learned photography and afterward spent two years upon the road. In the spring of 1890 he located in
Lake City, opened his gallery and has since conducted a successful business here. His studio is well fitted up and he is thoroughly conversant with the best methods used by photographers, is informed concerning the latest processes and is quick to adopt any methods which he believes will improve the work. The results which he attains are very satisfactorv and a liberal patronage is accorded him.
On the 16th of October, 1890, Mr. Hawkins was united in marriage to Miss Myra O. Stevens, of Early, Iowa, and their union has been blessed with two children, but they lost their daughter, Ruth I., who was born August 19, 1895, and died March 13, 1901. The son, Albert Merle, was born December 16, 1899. Socially Mr. Hawkins is connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and with the Highland Nobles. In manner he is pleasant and genial, always courteous and considerate and his pleasing qualities have gained him the warm regard of a large circle of friends. [Source – Biographical Record of Calhoun County, Iowa, by S. J. Clarke, 1902, p.272]