Brown, John 1833-1911

BROWN, BROWNELL

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes (email)
Date: 4/20/2010 at 07:55:53

The Grinnell Herald (Grinnell, Iowa) Nov. 10, 1911

JOHN BROWN

The funeral of John Brown, one of the old residents of Westfield, was held yesterday afternoon from the Westfield church, conducted by Rev. Elias Handy. Mr. Brown passed away early Wednesday morning at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Curtis Brownell, at 703 Second Avenue, aged 78 years, 4 months and 11 days. Death was caused by apoplexy after an illness of seven days.

John Brown was born in Bruham Lodge, Somersetshire, England, June 29, 1833. He came to America in the summer of 1852. He first resided in Kenosha, Wis., remaining in that vicinity until he came to Grinnell in 1855. He located on a farm in the Westfield community and kept his residence there until 1899 when he moved into town and resided here until his death.

On April 15, 1860, Mr. Brown was united in marriage to Mary Jane Brown, who departed this life September 17, 1908. Six children were born to them, of whom four passed away without reaching maturity. Two, Walter E. and Ella A. (Mrs. Brownell) survive.

Mr. Brown is mourned by three brothers, Seth, George and Henry, by four half-brothers, three in England and one in Illinois and by two half-sisters, one in Dubuque, Iowa, and one in Oregon. Two of the brothers were present at the funeral.

Mr. Brown was one of the pioneers who have helped to build up the community. He was a good citizen, honest, straightforward and respected by all. He was a life long member of the Protestant Episcopal church. The entire community in which he made his home for so many years mourns him sincerely.