James Mettlin Kerwin (1888-1910)

KERWIN, METTLIN, SPRAGUE

Posted By: Dorothy Gosse (email)
Date: 6/9/2002 at 16:28:02

James Mettlin Kerwin was born in Lander, Wyoming, November 23, 1888 and died in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, October 14, 1910, aged 21 years, 10 months and 21 days. He was baptized in infancy in the Catholic church and afterwards united with his mother and brother with the Union Protestant Church at Stanley, Iowa, and always lived a consistant christian life.

His early school life was spent in the public schools of Stanley and Oelwein. From early manhood he had a strong desire to enlist in the naval service of his country. This desire was realized when in July 1906, having passed the required examination he was enrolled in that service. A short time was passed in the naval yard at Newport, Rhode Island, and from there he was transferred to the battle ship, "Alabama" which was the one of the Battle Ship Fleet making the tour of the world.

At San Fransisco he was transferred to the "Rhode Island" where he served for the remainder of the voyage and was honorably discharged in New York November 22, 1909. During his service in the navy he received six promotions for efficiency, reaching the rank of "Turret Captain First Class", being the youngest man in the navy holding such a position at that time. All through his service he was in the First Class Conduct class and as "apprentice" he won the "Blue Jacket Metal" in a general competitive examination.

Returning home he decided to take a corse in civil engineering and with that purpose in view he entered the Oelwein High School where he so applied himself as to receive high commendation from his instructors. During this time he became a member of the "Tri Mu's" Sunday school class receiving much pleasure from the association. He entered Coe College, Cedar Rapids, September 14, and on the 25th was taken to the hospital where his death occurred. The remains were brought to Oelwein Saturday evening and the last services were held from the Presbyterian Church at 2:30 p.m. Sunday. Dr. Evans, one of the professors of Coe College, and Rev. F. Y. Nichols conducted the services. A large number of the friends of the young man were present, and the floral offerings were beautiful. All that is mortal of this highly esteemed young man were followed to the Otsego Cemetery where interment took place.

He leaves to mourn his loss his parents and a brother, Fred Kerwin.

from Oelwein Register - October 1910

Note: When 1900 census was taken, James Kerwin aged 11 was living with the Sydney and Edith (Mettlin) Sprague family in Jefferson township, Fayette County, Iowa. He is listed as nephew.