Ostrom, George L. 1833-1924

OSTROM, ORMISTON, DIXON

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes (email)
Date: 5/5/2010 at 13:41:12

Grinnell Herald (Grinnell, Iowa)

OLD RESIDENT OF POWESHIEK IS DEAD

George L. Ostrom Dies at Hartwick Aged Nearly 91 Years.

Hartwick, Jan. 24--Poweshiek county lost one of its oldest citizens Sunday afternoon at 4 o'clock when George L. Ostrom, of Hartwick, passed away at the age of nearly 91 years. Mr. Ostrom was born April 12, 1833, in New York state, and when 21 years old had the feeling that most young men have, that they must go west and grow up with the country.

In April, 1854, he arrived in Galesburg, Ill., with but $10 in his pocket, but a strong determination to make a success in life.

He was married on March 2, 1858, and after forty-six years of married life Mrs. Ostrom passed away a little over twenty years ago.

In 1865 Mr. Ostrom came to Poweshiek county and took a government homestead, buying the land for $6 per acre where the town of Hartwick is now located. He from time to time purchased other land until at one time he owned 1,000 acres, and in later years of his life was able to give each of his children a farm.

He was also interested in the Farmers Savings Bank of Hartwick and for a number of years was a director. He joined the Masons in 1867 and has been a member of Sharon Lodge for over fifty years, and was the last charter member of the Victor Lodge.

Mr. Ostrom leaves five children, Mrs. Mary Ormiston and Murray at home, Mrs. Jennie Dixon, Fred G. and Arthur Ostrom, all located in or near Hartwick, also twenty-two grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Funeral services were held at the Congregational church Tuesday afternoon, and burial in the Hartwick cemetery.