Mitchell, Thomas d. 1894

MITCHELL

Posted By: Volunteer Transcriber
Date: 9/8/2006 at 06:33:30

The Newton (IA) Journal, Wednesday, July 18, 1894

DEATH OF THOMAS MITCHELL - Last Sunday afternoon, there passed from earth Polk County's earliest pioneer, the Hon. Thomas Mitchell, of Mitchellville, after whom the town was named.

Just fifty years ago, he came to Polk County and during the years that have intervened, he has been a power in the community, as an enterprising and loyal citizen, as a through man of affairs, interested in and helping to develop the country from its uncivilized and uncultured state to its present condition of culture and prosperity. He has held several position of trust, among them that of State Senator and while in the legislature was considered a leading member by both parties. In June, 1867, he founded Mitchellville and, through his influence, no lots have ever been sold to parties wishing to engage in the liquor business; consequently, no saloon has ever been opened in that place. In all matters of progress, he has taken a leading part.

He was a member of the Masonic order and his funeral, which took place yesterday, was an imposing one. The Newton Masons to the number of about twenty-five attended.