John F. Kirby

BURKE, COSTELLO, KIRBY, NOLAN

Posted By: Judy Wight Branson (email)
Date: 10/11/2005 at 13:27:59

John F. Kirby, who now lives retired in his handsome farm residence in Crawford township, was there successfully identified with general agricultural pursuits throughout his active business career and is still the owner of three hundred and sixty acres of valuable land. His birth occurred in Carbondale, Pennsylvania, on the 24th of June, 1853, his parents being James and Bridget (Nolan) Kirby, natives of Ireland. They emigrated to the United States in early manhood and womanhood and took up their abode in Carbondale, Pennsylvania.

By occupation the father was a miner and a merchant. In 1857 James Kirby brought his family to Iowa and the following year located on a tract of forty acres on section 17, Crawford township, Madison county, which he began cultivating. As time passed and his financial resources increased, owing to his well directed industry and capable management, he augmented his holdings by additional purchase until at his death he owned three hundred and sixty acres of valuable land. He passed away on the 14th of March, 1887, and his demise was the occasion of deep and widespread regret. His wife, who also enjoyed an extensive and favorable acquaintance throughout the community, was called to her final rest in March, 1901. Their children were six in number, as follows: Mary, who is the widow of John Burke and resides in Des Moines; William, deceased ; Anna, who is the widow of Michael Costello and makes her home in Granger, Iowa; Margaret, who resides with and keeps house for her brother, John; James, of Union township; and John F., of this review. The parents were devout communicants of the Catholic church and reared all of their children in that faith.

John F. Kirby, who was about four years of age when brought to this state by his parents, acquired his early education in the public schools of Crawford township, this county, and later continued his studies in St. Joseph's College of Dubuque, Iowa, while subsequently he entered St. Mary's University of Baltimore, Maryland. Returning to Madison county, he gave his attention to agricultural pursuits and throughout his active business career was successfully engaged in general farming, cultivating three hundred and sixty acres of rich and productive land which he still owns. He now leases the property but still lives in his handsome home on the farm, which is perhaps the finest, most commodious and most modern residence in Crawford township. A large new barn and substantial outbuildings also adorn the place, which in its neat and attractive appearance bespeaks the careful supervision of a practical and progressive owner.

Mr. Kirby has made many friends throughout the community and enjoys an enviable reputation as one of its prosperous and respected citizens. His fraternalrelations are with the Knights of Columbus.

Taken from the book, “The History of Madison County, Iowa, 1915,” by Herman Mueller.