MaGill, Col. Samuel G.(died 1899)

MAGILL

Posted By: Ken Wright (email)
Date: 5/11/2012 at 07:27:15

Clinton Age, December 29, 1899

COLONEL SAMUEL G. MAGILL

Colonel Samuel G. MaGill, who formerly resided in this city, died at the Chicago Beach Hotel early Thursday morning. Col. MaGill was a native of Pennsylvania and came to Lyons in about 1858 and with a brother engaged in the lumber and grain business. On August 10, 1862, he was commissioned Lieut. Colonel of the 26th Iowa Infantry. The regiment was mustered into service September 30, following Col. Milo Smith of this city commanding. The regiment reported for service at Helena, Ark., on November 28, being attached to the 1st Brigade, 4th Division of the Army of the South and West, under command of Gen. A. P. Hovey. While the regiment was at Helena, Ark., Lieutenant Col. MaGill was captured by a party of guerrillas, he being near the vanguard of the regiment. He was carried prisoner to Vicksburg, and was later paroled. He came north and was mustered out of service December 1, 1862. He resumed his business and resided in Lyons nine years.
He came to Clinton from Lyons in 1871 and was engaged in the warehouse business on Front Street conducting a large trade and carrying a large stock. For a time Mr. E. S. Hart, now of Chicago, was Col. MaGill's partner, the firm name being MaGill & Hart.
Col. MaGill was one of the strong men of the state. He was a politician whose influence was much sought for by men who are ambitious to serve their country. He was always a Republican and did his part to keep the Republican Party in power in both state and county. He was a man of great independence of mind or action and when he cared to make a point on which he had set his heart, it came just as he desired. He was an enterprising, pushing, energetic citizen, and always commanded the respect of his neighbors and associates. He was one of the most amiable of gentleman, extreme sociability being a natural trait and in the domestic circle he was the kindest of husbands and the most indulgent of fathers.
Col. MaGill is survived by his widow and children: Thomas W., Harry, John R., Mrs. F. Briggs and Miss Hattie MaGill of Chicago, and Lieut. MaGill in the United States Navy.