MARTIN, Milton J. (1828-1903)

MARTIN, POWELL, GIVENS, DUPREE, JACKSON, MOORE

Posted By: Elaine Harrington (email)
Date: 11/27/2006 at 20:54:08

MILLS COUNTY TRIBUNE
DATED MAY 14, 1903:

Milton J. Martin, familiarly known as “Uncle Milt,” died last Thursday morning at 11 o’clock at his home north of Pacific City, death being caused by degeneration of the arteries, together with he infirmities of old age. He had been seriously sick for about four weeks past. For a full half century he had lived in Mills county, and for 10 years of that time on the same land he had preempted from the government in 1854. Mr. Martin by his industry and thrift had accumulated much wealth. He was a man of upright character and enjoyed the respect and esteem of a wide circle of friends.

The funeral was held last Saturday afternoon at one o’clock from his late home and in spite of the rain was attended by a large number of old neighbors and friends. The funeral sermon was preached by Rev. C. W. Brewer, of Des Moines, under whom the deceased had been converted, Rev. I. P. Kelley, the present pastor at Martin’s Chapel, assisting in the services. A male quartette consisting of C. P. Hale, C. R. Buffington, L. A. Bower and W. H. Byers, rendered several appropriate songs. The remains were laid to rest in the Glenwood cemetery. Following is an obituary of his life:

Obituary

Milton J. Martin was born in Jackson county, Ohio, August 2, 1828, and died in Mills county, Iowa, May 7, 1903, being 74 years, 9 months and 5 days old. He leaves to mourn their loss a loving and faithful wife, one sister, two half-sisters and three half brothers, also a host of friends.

He was married at Ottumwa, Iowa, in February, 1856, to Elizabeth Powell. His sister is Mrs. Hamilton Givens of Des Moines. His two half sisters are Mrs. M. T. Dupree of Glenwood and Mrs. D. C. Jackson of Silver City. The half brothers are James Moore, Henderson; Shank Moore, Silver City, and Joseph Moore, Plattsmouth.

He was deprived of his parents when he was a small boy, and was raised in his grandfather’s home in Ohio, where he lived until 1848, when he came to Wapello county, Iowa. In 1853 he moved to Glenwood, Iowa, where he resided until 1854, when he entered 160 aces of land in Platteville township, where he resided until death.

He was converted at a revival meeting held at White Chapel school house by Rev. C. W. Brewer in the winter of 1887, and was one of the charter members of the Methodist church, organized at the close of the meeting. He was a leading and valued member of the Methodist church, to which he has been a liberal and willing contributor, and was the founder of the neat little chapel which bears his name. Martin’s Chapel was erected in 1888 and is located near his home.

His benevolence is known far and wide, the recipients of his charity numbering many who would have suffered had he not come to their rescue in true Christian spirit. He has been an industrious man all of his life, but has never forgotten that it is more blessed to give than to receive, and has willingly divided his substance with those in need. One especial case is that of the invalid boy who has lived in his home, and for whom Mr. Martin made ample provision for his needs for life.