Bryan, James A. 1831-1918

BRYAN, COBB

Posted By: Paul Van Dyke --Volunteer
Date: 10/18/2015 at 22:40:02

Source: Hawarden Independent (9-26-1918)

Born: December 8, 1831
Died: September 21, 1918

James A. Bryan, one of the pioneer business men of this city, died at the home of his son, Frank Bryan, at Clear Lake, Iowa, Saturday, September 21, at the age of 86 years. He had been a sufferer from dropsy for some time and this was the ultimate cause of his death. The body was brought to Hawarden by his son and interment was made in Grace Hill Cemetery Monday morning. Reverend C.W. Heady, pastor of the Baptist Church officiated at the grave. Owing to her state of health his wife was unable to make the journey from Clear Lake at this time and be present at the last rites. Mrs. Nellie Stevens, a granddaughter, and her husband of Sioux City, and a numerous of relatives and friends in this city were present at these services.

The deceased was born in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, December 8, 1831. He came to Davenport, Iowa in the early 50’s and was in that city when the first locomotive used west of the Mississippi was brought across the river on the ice, there being no bridge at that time and no ferry that would carry that much weight. He was united in marriage with Hannah Cobb at Andrew, Jackson County, in 1864. Two children were born to them. One son died in infancy and one son, Frank, together with the sorrowing wife, survive him. One sister, Mrs. B.W. Corson, died at her home north of Hawarden a number of years ago.

Mr. Bryan and family came to Calliope in July, 1882 and he entered the mercantile business there in the boom days of that embryo city. He later moved his store to Hawarden and continued in business here until 1893 when they moved to Sioux City where they made their home for a number of years. His failing health necessitated his retirement from business and for the past few years he has made his home with his son at Clear Lake.

A wide circle of old friends in this community extend sincere sympathy to the bereaved wife and son.