Bryan, Neri

BRYAN, MENDENHALL, KIRK

Posted By: Gary Norris (email)
Date: 12/4/2012 at 17:40:00

The History of Poweshiek County, Iowa
Des Moines: Union Hist. Co., 1880.

BRYAN, NERI - Jackson Twp. - pg 642-3. Proprietor of brick-yard, section 14, P.O. Montezuma. Was born in the State of Ohio, March 11, 1820, and after receiving his education engaged in farming, and followed that until February, 1846, when he went to Jefferson county, Iowa. He there engaged in agricultural pursuits, and in the winter of 1849 he came to this county, which has since been his home. In 1850 he commenced brick-making, and was the first man in this business in the county. His brick-yard is one of the best in the county and he now makes 12,000 bricks a day. Mr. Bryan has been twice married. First, in Ohio, May 20, 1840, to Miss Sarah Mendenhall. She died in March, 1867, leaving seven children, four of whom are now living: Alanson, William A., James H. and Elma I. Three are deceased: Silas, Thomas P. and John M. His second marriage was to Margaret H. Kirk, on the 25th day of August, 1869. She died November 21, 1877, leaving three children: Charlie D., Lucy R. and Mary E. Mr. B. was one of the pioneers of this county, and has seen many hardships, such as now would seem almost unendurable.