Zimmer, William

ZIMMER

Posted By: Harriet Odom (email)
Date: 10/11/2003 at 11:54:32

This article was found by another researcher. William Zimmer is the great-grandfather of Harriet Odom. Newspaper unknown.

"William Zimmer a Clinton, Iowa centenarian, claimed to be the oldest voter in the United States. Since the election, there has been many comments as to who is the oldest voter in the United States, but so far as heard from, Iowa takes the lead by 8 votes. William Zimmer the centenarian of Clinton cast his first vote for James Monroe in 1820. He was born in April 1799. He is hale and hearty and is seen on the streets of Clinton every fair day. He was born in Schoharie Co., NY."

Another paper, 16 April 1901
"William Zimmer of Clinton, said to be the oldest citizen of Iowa, celebrated his 102nd birthday yesterday. He was born in Schoharie Co., NY in 1799. and has voted at twenty-one presidential elections, voting first for James Monroe."

AGED MAN PASSED AWAY
"Following appears in the Chicago Tribune this morning: "William Zimmer, aged 102, died this morning from an attack of pneumonia. William Zimmer was born in Schoharie Co., NY, April 15, 1799. He grew to manhood in his native state coming west when a young man. He first settled near Sterling, Ill., then moved to this city about fifty years ago. He is survived by eleven children. By special invitation from Gov. Shaw, Mr. Zimmer attended the Govenor's inaugurations at Des Moines, IA on Jan. 11, 1900, occupying a seat on the platform beside Noah Bacon of Des Moines, also a centenarian. William Zimmer had a distinct recollection of the Louisiana Purchase and the war of 1812. James Monroe was the first president he voted for. Subsequently he voted at every presidential election. 
Our old citizens will distinctly recall Mr. Zimmer, as he was a familiar figure on our streets. He was a hard working man, and followed teaming for a livelihood, hauling wood, and labor of that kind."

("Our research shows William fudged a little on his age. It is different in different census'. We believe he was born in 1809. His brother, Peter of Tioga Co., NY also lived to about 100 yrs. of age. He farmed before moving to Clinton, IA.")