Edson, Rev. Henry K.

EDSON, MAYNARD

Posted By: Gary Norris (email)
Date: 1/14/2013 at 08:22:24

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

EDSON, Rev. HENRY K., A.M.—Grinnell Twp—pg 895. Professor of the history and practice of teaching, in Iowa College; residence on the corner of Fifth Avenue and Broad Street, Grinnell, Iowa. The subject of our sketch was born October 5, 1822, in Hadley, Massachusetts. He received his early education while living at home. He fitted for college at Hopkins Academy and entered Amherst College at the age of eighteen. He graduated with honor in 1844 and was immediately called to the principalship of Hopkins Academy and remained at the head of this school till 1849. He had chosen the Christian ministry for his profession and in pursuance of that end entered Union Theological Seminary, New York, in the fall of 1849. From ill health was obliged to discontinue study there for the year. Afterward spent two years in Andover and East Windsor theological seminaries. He, however, finished his studies at Union Theological Seminary of New York. He then preached a short time in 1852, at West Hampton, Massachusetts, but was soon called to Denmark, Iowa, where he took charge of the academy striving for influence in that place. With unusual energy and tact Prof. Edson built up the school and gained for it a great name. During the twenty-six years of his administration over 2,400 students passed under his care, and as a reward for well-done service he can now find hundreds of his former pupils in professions and other useful avocations. His untiring labors prostrated his health and he was compelled to take a year’s recreation in Europe. When he returned he was called to his present position in Iowa College. He married Mrs. Celestia K. Maynard at Utica, New York, on the 30th of August, 1852. Carrie M. Edson, an adopted daughter, is the other member of their household. Prof. Edson has a fine residence and is surrounded with well-earned comforts in his professional career.