Stevens, Wm. H. 1802 - 1885

STEVENS, CLARK

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 7/5/2022 at 11:12:20

Elkader Register, 30 July 1885. Garnavillo column.

One of Garnavillo's oldest pioneers has entered upon his long journey. Wm. H. Stevens, died at his home on Wednesday. The funeral took place on Friday, and was attended by a large number of our citizens. Wm. H. Stevens was born at Danville, N.H., on January 9th, 1802. He was married to Mary E. Clark, on May 3rd, 1838, in West Port, N.Y., whence he moved by carriage conveyance to Prairie du Chien, Wis., where he was appointed Indian agent, which office he held two years, when the Indians were moved West to Ft. Atkinson. He then entered into partnership with John Deere, at Grand de Tour, Wisconsin, where the first Deere plows were manufactured. He continued at this place for one year, when he removed to Beloit, Wisconsin, where he continued in the plow business for eight years. He owned two sections of land where Beloit College now stands. Disposing of his business at Beloit, where he was in the mercantile business for a few months, when he removed to Garnavillo, where he has lived for 29 years, occupying the house in which he died, for 28 years. He leaves a wife and three children, two daughters and one son. Mr. Stevens has held numerous town offices and places of trust, having been town clerk for five years, and township trustee for 16 years. He retired from both offices at his own request. He was a man having some peculiarities but many noble qualities. By his wisdom, prudence and economy, and strict honesty in public affairs, he had the entire confidence of the community. He was a kind neighbor and faithful friend. All will miss his genial countenance. May he rest in peace!