H. W. Zimmerman (b. 1818)

ZIMMERMAN, RILEY

Posted By: Dorothy Gosse (email)
Date: 7/4/2002 at 13:23:14

Zimmerman, H. W., farmer, Section 10 (Fremont township); PO Mill; born in Center Co., Pennsylvania; May 27, 1818. Married Margaret M. Riley February 22, 1844, in Clarion Co., Pennsylvania; she was born in the same place October 23, 1824. In Pennsylvania, Mr.Z. was manager of iron works for a number of years; in 1851, he moved to LaSalle County, Illinois, and in 1856, to this county; a pioneer settler and preacher. Mr. Z and his family endured hardships and overcame difficulties than can only be appreciated by those who have been similarly situated. Mr. Z. has special reasons for remembering the Winter (an unusually severe one) following his arrival; he, in company with three others, was lost in a terrific snow storm while out on an expedition to recover a load of corn abandoned by his brother two days previous; almost numb with the intense cold, they wandered aimlessly about, when suddenly they were overjoyed in the discovery of a track which it was thought must certainly lead to some habitation. Their joy, however, was soon turned to despair, as it was found that they were following a track made by themselves; about to succumb, under a crust of snow blown up by the wind, they saw the tracks of oxen, these they followed and finally arrived at home in almost exhausted condition. Mr. Z. had charge of the first M. E. congregation organized in this town; was also the first Supervisor and Justice of the Peace elected; he has held since then various township offices. Have had ten children --- Jessie, deceased; Riley E., deceased; Robert L., deceased; James S., deceased; Thomas K., Mary E., Sarah M., Willis H., Maggie S., Samuel L.; his grandchild, Cora R., daughter of James, is a loved member of the family.

Page 748, "1878 History of Fayette County, Iowa"