Pilgrim, Thomas G. 1840-1927

PILGRIM, CLARK, HAFKEY, BACON

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes (email)
Date: 3/4/2010 at 07:53:52

Grinnell, Iowa newspaper dated Feb. 8, 1927

T.G. PILGRIM IS SUMMONED

Closes a Life Full of Good Works At The Ripe Old Age of 87 Years.

SERVED THREE YEARS IN THE UNION ARMY

Had Made His Home in Grinnell and Its Vicinity for the Past Forty Years.

Thomas G. Pilgrim was born in Connecticut Feb. 11, 1840, and died at his home in Grinnell, Iowa, Feb. 3, 1927, having reached the age of almost 87 years. He was united in marriage with Miss Lizzie Clark on Nov. 26, 1868, and for a little more than 58 years they walked life's highway together in faithful companionship. Five children were born to them, all of whom, with the wife and mother, mourn the passing of a loved one. The children are, Mrs. Will Hafkey, Gilman, Mrs. A.H. Bacon, Grinnell, Miss Carrie Pilgrim, at home, H.C. and Will Pilgrim of Omaha, Neb. Five grandchildren also survive him.

Mr. Pilgrim served for three years in the Civil War, enlisting at Rock Island, Ill., Aug. 14, 1861, and was mustered in as Corporal in Co. A 37 Reg. Ill. Vol. Inf. at Chicago, Ill., Sept. 18, 1861. The regiment was known as the "Fremont Rifles" and participated in many major engagements of the war. It is estimated that this regiment covered a distance of 17,846 miles and earned the sobriquet of the "Illinois Greyhounds."

He was well known in this community as he lived in Grinnell and vicinity for forty three years. He engaged extensively in dairying in which business he was considered an expert. A man of splendid character and clean living he was highly esteemed by all who knew him.

Funeral services were held at the home on Sunday afternoon in charge of the Rev. George Blagg. Appropriate hymns were sung by a male quartet under the direction of Mr. Dave Peck. Burial was made in Hazelwood.