Abel Garrett 1825-1894

GARRETT, RELKER

Posted By: Beverly Gerdts (email)
Date: 3/16/2024 at 10:41:20

The Wapello Republic, Wapello, Iowa
Thursday, January 11, 1894
Page 4

Abel Garrett was born May 9th, 1825, in Darmouth, England. In early life he was a sailor in company with an uncle, who was a sea captain, during which time he visited many countries, acquiring a large fund of general information which served him well in after life. Mr. Garrett's parents came to this country in 1844, settling in South Charleston, Ohio. After several voyages to America, Mr. Garrett became a permanent settler in 1847. In 1855 he was married to Miss Elizabeth Felker in Louisville, Ky and the same year located in Burlington, Ia. The following year they came to Wapello, where they have ever since made their home. Of seven children, six, with the widow, survive him, one daughter and six sons, all of whom have attained their majority.

Until 1860 Mr. Garrett worked at his trade, that of blacksmithing, when he bought the general store of E. B. Isett, where his business ability found larger scope. Although a democrat in polities, he never allowed his political views to interfere with his business. He was also a man of great energy and of indomitable will. He was an indefatigable worker, ever alert and active. Twice he served the city as mayor, several times in the city council and on the school board for several years, being its president at the time of his death. He was baptized into the Church of England in Trusham church in childhood and continued in that communion through life.

A little more than a week before the end came the physician was first summoned, and on Thursday, Jan. 4, the life struggled had ended and the last but one (a sister) in a family of twelve had passed away. The funeral services were from the late home Saturday at 1 p. m. conducted by Rev. J. H. Condit and were very brief. A large concourse attended the remains to their last resting place in the Wapello cemetery.