Wilson G. Dorrell (1926)

DORRELL, LANDIS, PURCELL, BRAGG

Posted By: Pat Hochstetler (email)
Date: 1/10/2011 at 08:11:15

Winterset Madisonian – September 9, 1926
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Wilson G. Dorrell, one of the very early pioneers of Madison county and one of the few who reach the age of 93 years, died last night at his home in the southeast part of Winterset. Mr. Dorrell came to this county with his parents at a very early date. His recollection was that it was in 1846 but historians of the county’s first settlements believe that the time was a year or two later. The family first lived in the south part of the county for many years and then moved to Winterset.
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Winterset Madisonian – September 16, 1926
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Wilson G., son of John Dorrell, was born in Missouri, July 15th, 1834. When he was still a boy he came with the family to Madison county, where they settled near Buffalo in the early days of the settling of the county.

When still quite young he was married to Sarah Landis in 1853. To this union nine children were born. One died in infancy and Will and Warren died several years ago. Those remaining are John Dorrell and Mrs. Orinda Purcell of Winterset, Joe of Seattle, Washington; Harve of Des Moines; Condo of Minnesota and Mrs. Lillie Bragg of Spokane, Washington. After their marriage, they lived for several years on a farm near Peru and later moved to Winterset, where he has since made his home. Mrs. Dorrell preceded him in death nearly five years, having passed away in November of 1921. Since then his son, John, has made his home with him and helped to care for him.

Mr. Dorrell was quite well to do in his early years, but suffered a heavy financial loss on a later contract connected with the building of the Rock Island road to Winterset and was never able to recover from this loss. He was a man of great physical strength, and did a great deal of heavy work until age and failing health forced him to retire. His last sickness was only of a few days and he passed away on September 8th, 1926, aged ninety-two years, one month and twenty-six days. He leaves beside his children and grandchildren, one half sister, Miss Sallie Dorrell of Winterset, and many friends.

Rev. A. S. Heilser conducted the funeral service at Tidrick’s funeral home on Friday afternoon and interment was made in the Winterset cemetery.