BRIDGMAN, Martin D. (1852-1880)

BRIDGMAN

Posted By: Sheryl McClure (email)
Date: 1/16/2024 at 15:57:22

Martin D. Bridgman was born at Fayette, Wis. in 1852, emigrated to Iowa in 1863; lived in Hardin county nine years and finally removed to this county, where he resided for the last eight years, up to the time of his death. He taught his first school in this county, at Merrill's Grove, and his last, we believe, in Monroe township. He was elected county superintendent in the fall of '77 and served the term so faithfully and acceptably that he was returned to that place by an overwhelming majority last fall. Not only was he a favorite with the public, but his personal friends cherished him for his purity of heart and character. His sole ambition seemed to be to advance the educational interests of the county, which was evinced by the unconnected sentences he let fall, while his mind wandered during his last hours. Yet, in the promise of life, he had a future before him bright with possibilities, now alas! never to be realized. Our city and county are saddened by this loss, and with reason, for one of its purest and best has gone. He passed away peacefully Saturday evening, his funeral sermon was preached at the M. E. church Monday, at 10 o'clock and his remains were followed to their last restingIn "Hillside" cemetery by a large concourse of citizens. The bereaved famiy have the heartfelt sympathy of the entire community in this, their sad loss. The form of their loved one is removed but his memory will remain ever fresh and dear.

Harlan Weekly Herald
Apr. 8, 1880