Ransom C. Kellogg, b. 5 Aug 1852

PRIOR, DAVIS, FONGER, BATES, PEARSON, GRAY

Posted By: Donna Moldt Walker (email)
Date: 2/21/2004 at 11:39:02

In passing along the southern line of this county the attention of the traveler is invariably attracted to the fine homestead of Mr. Kellogg, which very nearly approaches the ideal country estate. One of the most noticeable features on his well-regulated farm is the fine brick residence, neat and commodious, tasteful in architecture, and, with its surroundings, giving evidence of cultivated tastes and ample means. The barns and other outbuildings are in keeping with the dwelling, and the outlying land has been brought to a high state of cultivation, admirably adapted to the production of the richest crops of this region. Mr. Kellogg is acknowledged by all who know him, to be one of the most intelligent and prosperous men of his township, to whose prestige he has materially contributed in the development of his farm, thus increasing the value of real estate in this section.

Our subject first opened his eyes to the light, ten miles from the town of Akron, Summit Co., Ohio, Aug. 5, 1852. He is the offspring of an excellent family, being the son of Charles W. and Jerusha (Prior) Kellogg; the former a native of Vermont, and the latter of Ohio. Charles Kellogg left the Green Mountain State early in life, settling first in Ohio, and thence, in 1857, came with his family to this county, his son, Ransom C., being then a little lad five years of age. The father secured a farm in Van Buren Township, but only lived two years thereafter, his decease taking place in 1859. It should be stated, however, that he had, prior to this, spent some years in this county, and then returned to Ohio.

Ten children completed the family circle of Charles and Jerusha Kellogg, and of these but four are living, namely: Winfield S., Ransom C. (our subject), Warren C., and Otis E. Ransom C. spent his boyhood and youth mostly in Van Buren Township, this county, but in 1872, when nearly approaching his twentieth year, he made his way to Utah Territory, and sojouned in Salt Lake City one year, returning in December, 1874, with an emigrant train by way of the Union Pacific Railroad. The weather fortunately was pleasant, and the excursionists had a grand time, celebrating the occasion by a Christmas tree on the train, which was constructed of sage brush, decorated with wax candles and artificial flowers. Upon returning, Mr. Kellogg engaged for a time in well-drilling, and the pump trade, in and around Miles, being thus occupied about five years. Prior to this he had had some experience at lumbering in the woods near Salt Lake City.

In the spring of 1880, Mr. Kellogg determined to turn his attention to farming, and accordingly secured the property which he now owns and occupies, settling upon it in the spring of 1884. It comprises 252 acres, and in his stock operations Mr. Kellogg breeds graded Short-horn cattle, Norman and Clydesdale horses, and Poland-China swine.

The marriage of our subject with Miss Jessie Davis occurred at the bride's home, in Iowa Township, Oct. 15, 1879. This lady is the daughter of William and Mary (Fonger) Davis, who were natives of Canada, and who came to this county as early as 1855, the father settling upon the land now occupied by his son-in-law, our subject. At this homestead Mrs. Kellogg was born Sept. 24, 1857, and in Iowa Township received her training and education. Mrs. Davis is still living, making her home with her daughter, Mrs. Gray, in Iowa Township. To her and her husband there were born six children, five of whom are living, namely: Azubah (Mrs. Bates), Lucinda (Mrs. Pearson), Asabel, Kate (Mrs. Gray), and the wife of our subject.

Mr. Kellogg cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. Grant, and steadfastly maintains his adherence to the Republican party. He has no desire for the responsibilities of office, and has consequently given his exclusive attention to his farming interests. Socially, he belongs to the I.O.O.F., and in religious matters leans toward Congregationalism.

("Portrait and Biographical Album of Jackson County, Iowa", originally published in 1889, by the Chapman Brothers, of Chicago, Illinois)