Thomas Trout (1836-1918)

TROUT, MATTHIAS, KNITTLE, GODFREY

Posted By: Anne Hermann (email)
Date: 1/20/2009 at 18:30:30

Maquoketa Excelsior-Record
March 26, 1918

Thomas Trout Passes Away
Aged and Pioneer Resident Passed Into Eternal Sleep Yesterday Morning. No Arrangements.

Once more this community has been called upon to mourn the death of a beloved resident. Yesterday morning Thos. Trout, one of our most highly esteemed and public spirited men, passed into that beautiful sleep after a prolonged illness.

He was born on February 15, 1836, in the county of Schalkyl, Pennsylvania.

In the east he was educated and he was 20 years of age when he came with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Trout, in this community.

He learned the tinner’s trade and becoming efficient opened a little shop on what is now Main street. He was the originator of what is today the Trout & Matthias Hardware store.

In his earlier days he served on the Maquoketa school board and was found ever ready to take a helping hand in anything pertaining to the best interests of the city.

He helped to promote the bringing of the first railroad to our city. He realized it would be a great benefit and convenience to our city and gave generously of his time and money in accomplishing its establishment.

In the building of our various churches Mr. Trout likewise was an untiring worker. His name is to be found in more than one of the cornerstones in recognition of his helpful assistance.

By his industry and honesty he at the age of 47 years had acquired a competence sufficient to warrant his retiring from the business life and his son, George, followed him in conducting the well established business. Later the son, Bert, and son-in-law, W. J. Matthias took charge and are today successful conducting the same.

Mr. Trout was married to Amanda Knittle, who departed this earth more than 25 years ago.

He is survived by one brother, Franklin of this city and by the following children; Mrs. Mary Trout-Godfrey, Mrs. W. J. Matthias and Bert of this city; Charles of New York City and George of Chicago.

Up to the hour of our going to the press no funeral arrangements had been made. The sons, George and Charles, will be here for the funeral also the two grandchildren, Charles Godfrey, who is stationed at Camp Cody and Mrs. Donna Godfrey miller, who will come from Deming, New Mexico.