John Nicol Andrew

ANDREW, NOBLE, CONSTANT

Posted By: Clay County IAGenWeb Coordinator (email)
Date: 10/20/2010 at 15:11:55

Andrew, John A., stationery and newsdealer, Main, res Second. Was born in Lafayette, Indiana July 16th, 1829 and lived there until 1854 when he learned the harness making trade. After leaving Lafayette he went to Oregon where he remained two years and then returned to Indiana and stayed a brief time and then moved to Iowa and located at Brighton and from the latter place, a year or so later, moved to Martinsburg. In 1861 he enlisted as a private in Co. K, Seventh Iowa Infantry. After serving about six months in the ranks he was appointed hospital steward, a position he held until mustered out of the service. Upon receiving his discharge he moved to Indianola, and opened a harness shop, which he conducted until appointed postmaster. He held the postofficeship for a number of years and was also agent for the United States Express Company. On retiring from the postmastership he began the business of dealer in books, stationery and other articles. In 1879 he closed out his business and came to Spencer and since that time has been engaged in the business of book, stationery and news dealer. Associated with him in business is his son-in-law, I. F. Constant. They carry a full and complete line of books of all descriptions, stationery of every kind, musical instruments, sewing machines, toys, fancy and toilet articles. Their stock is large and probably as extensive in the multitude of articles they carry as any store in the northwestern part of the State. They have a large and profitable trade, and are the recognized leaders in every branch of the book trade. Their holiday trade is immense and is yearly growing and keeping pace with the increase of population. Mr. Andrew was the agent for the United States Express Company for over ten years at this place and is now the agent for the Adams Express Company. He was married in 1856. They have two children, Fanny and Florence. The former is Mrs. Thos. D. Noble and the latter Mrs. I. F. Constant.

Source: A History of Clay County, Iowa, by W. C. Gilbreath, 1889, p. 80.

CC Note: Correct name of John is John Nichol Andrew. Information provided by Katrina B. Weed, 2nd great-granddaughter of John.