Hawkins, John 1822 - 1902

HAWKINS, SWANCUTT, VAN ETTEN

Posted By: Bill Waters (email)
Date: 1/12/2013 at 16:37:41

Brodhead newspaper
Date unknown

John Hawkins Dead, he was born near Elmira, NY, October 6, 1822. He died near Riceville, Iowa, December 27, 1902, at the home of his granddaughter, Mrs. John Swancutt. His last illness was of short duration lasting only six days. The disease was paralysis.

On June 9, 1901 his wife preceeded him to the better land. Her maiden name was Miss Amanda Van Etten. They were married at Hainesville, NJ. Eight children were born to them, seven boys and one girl. Five survive to mourn as orphans. They are as follows: Chester and Joseph of this place. Ira of Stacyville, IA; George of Little Cedar, IA, and William of NE. Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins moved to this state and settled at Avon near the Sugar River about the year 1847. Thus they were of that noble class of people now growing few in numbers and to whom prosperity will always be indebted-the pioneers. Mr. Hawkins early professed religion and identified himself with the Baptist church of Avon, and through his long life he lived a consistant Christian life. His old time friends and neighbors rise up eager to speak words of testimony to his fidelity to Christ and his church.

The funeral services were conducted Monday the 28th of December, in the M.E. Church of Brodhead by Dr. O.E. Murry. The text used was John 14:18-"I will not leave you comfortless." The pastor and his wife furnished the music. The Congregation was made up by relatives, children, and friends of the deceased, some of whom came very long distances to attend the last services in honor of their father, friend and grandfather.

Contributed by Bonnie Pehrson, 2011