Harding, Wm. H. 1816 - 1897

HARDING, CROWL, CHURCH

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 8/5/2021 at 20:31:23

Elkader Register, Fri. morning, 30 Apr. 1897.

Our Giard correspondent notes the death at that place on Monday, April 26, 1897, after a lingering illness, of Wm. H. Harding. He was born March 12th, 1816, near Harpers Ferry, Louden Co., West Virginia, his parents being natives of Vermont. After receiving a common school education, at the age of 21, he went to Clark county, Ohio, where he taught school. March 1_ (looks like 13 or 15), 1838, at Bock Creek, O., he married Virginia Crowl. In 1842 he embarked in hotel keeping in Ohio, remaining in the business until 1852. That year he came to McGregor and opened the first hotel - the American House. While landlord of this place he became known far and wide for his genial manner and welcoming and caring for his guests, and his kindness to the young and unfortunate. In 1863 he moved to Chicago, remaining one and one-half years, then moved back to Giard where he has resided since. His first wife died March 15th, 1878. To this union were born four sons and two daughters, all of whom preceded him except one son, James Harding, who survives him. Mr. Harding was married to his second wife, Julia Church, March 8, 1882, she survives him. His funeral occurred on Wednesday, at 9 a.m., Rev. Marshall, of McGregor, conducted the services from the house, after which the remains were laid to rest in the Oakland cemetery.

We regret that we have not the data at hand to do justice to the memory of the departed. "Uncle Billy" was one of the kindest hearted men in the county. Men are living to whom he gave the first start in a useful career. No hungry or unfortunate man was turned away from his place without assistance. Among the early settlers of the country he was widely known, and his memory will live in the hearts of many.

(Same paper and date, in the Giard column.)

Jas. Harding, of Strawberry Point, was here to attend the funeral of him father, Wm. Harding.