E. P. Taylor’s 94th birthday celebration

BLACK, TAYLOR

Posted By: JCGS Volunteer
Date: 1/22/2010 at 18:24:48

Comrade Taylor is 94 Years Old Today
Civil War Veteran Surprised Friday Night; Family Dinner Today
(Photo included)
E. P. Taylor last surviving Civil War veteran living in Jasper county, was celebrating his 94th birthday today at a one o’clock dinner at the home of his daughter, Mrs. D. R. Black, with whom he makes his home part of the time.
About 15 members of the immediate family will participate in the affair this afternoon. Some of the same group were present at the surprise potluck supper extended by the Daughters of Union Veterans Thursday evening at the G.A.R. room.
Birthday Cake
A large birthday cake baked by the president, Mrs. Jasper Hatch, centered the table with covers for about 55.
The committee was Gertrude Stover, Mrs. B. W. Dodds, Mrs. Dirk Freeken, and Mrs. Charles Schwarz.
After the short meeting, Mrs. O. L. McAuley, patriotic instructor, was in charge of the following program: “An Angel Hath Appeared”, a reading by Mrs. Minnie Dodds; “A Joy to the World” sung by Mrs. Schwarz; a few remarks by Mr. Taylor; reading, “The Old Grand Army Boy” by Lottie Tice; “God Bless America” by Mrs. Freeken and a reading, “Christmas in the Quarter” by Mrs. D. R. Black.
Presented Gift
Mrs. Hatch presented a gift to Comrade Taylor from the chapter.
Those from out-of-town who are at the Black home today for the celebration include: Mrs. Jen Allender of Chicago, Ill., Milford McLain of Fremont, Nebr., Mr. and Mrs. Cliff Taylor and Beverly and Mr. and Mrs. Donald Taylor and Sandra of Marshalltown, Marjorie Taylor of Des Moines and relatives were expected from Fairfield.
Vicksburg Battle
Mr. Taylor, whose father was also a Civil War Veteran, enlisted for service with the union forces at the age of 15 and in the four years of fighting took part in the battle of Vicksburg.
Mr. Taylor is a member of the G.A.R. post at Fairfield, Ia.
Source: The Newton Daily News; December 23, 1939; page 1, col. 5