Lewis, L. P.

LEWIS, PALMER

Posted By: Gary Norris (email)
Date: 12/19/2012 at 09:26:01

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

LEWIS, L.P. - Bear Creek Twp. - pg 838-9. Farmer and stock-raiser, section 34, P.O. Brooklyn. Was born in Genesee county, New York; and in 1828 his parents moved to Morrow county, Ohio, when he was about seven years of age; there his mother died in 1835, and her death cast a gloom over his father?s household. The subject of this sketch spent most of his time in acquiring an education and helping his father on the farm during his residence there. In 1842 he moved with his father to Knox county, Illinois, where he finished his education. In 1863 he offered his services as a soldier, was not accepted on account of disability; but was appointed enrolling-master by the government, which office he retained until the close of the war. He was appointed postmaster at Truro, Knox county, in 1858, which office he held until 1863, when he resigned. He was married in 1849 to Miss Phebe Palmer, of Knox county. In 1869 he became impressed with the idea that Poweshiek county offered superior inducements to men of energy, and so came here in the spring of 1866, after having spent one year in Iowa City. His success in life has been very marked, as he began business for himself in very limited means, and through his habits of continual industry and careful management, now enjoys the possession of a valuable farm of one hundred and sixty acres of land. Is also engaged in stock-raising to quite an extent, and owns a farm of eighty acres in Cerro Gordo county, this State, and a wagon manufactory in Brooklyn. His hospitality is worthy of special mention as his latch-string is always out to the traveling public. He always takes a warm interest in the welfare of the county, and is always willing to lend his influence to all commendable enterprises. His family consists of five children living: Amanda (now Mrs. A.C. Palmer of Fillmore county, Nebraska), Lawrence P. (now in Nebraska), Ella S. (now Mrs. E.M. Palmer of Phelps county, Nebraska), Emma W. (who resides with him and is a graduate of Grinnell College), and Etta A. (also a graduate), and in fact all his children have received a liberal education. Many schools in his neighborhood owe to him their existence and prosperity. He has held many offices of home interests and always to the entire satisfaction of the public.