McGuire, Mathew, 1839-1923

MCGUIRE, WOOD

Posted By: Lydia Lucas - Volunteer (email)
Date: 4/18/2017 at 05:35:03

From the Rock Valley Bee, March 30, 1923:

OLD SETTLER CALLED

Mathew McGuire, a former well-known pioneer of this vicinity, died suddenly at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Tom Whalen, at Larchwood Iowa, Wednesday morning, March 21.

Mr. McGuire was born in County Cavan, Ireland, July 12, 1839. When eleven years old, he came to America with his parents and settled on a farm near Highmore, Wisconsin. In 1871, he drove a team of oxen across Iowa and took a homestead in Lincoln Township, east of Rock Valley, which he still owns. The following year he was married to Miss Jane Wood of Pattersonville, now Hull.

To this union twelve children were born, eight daughters and four sons, all of whom survive their father. They are, Mrs. Bridget Sullivan, New Rockford, N.D.; Mrs. Mary Christenson and Mrs. Eliza Frederickson, of Holland, Mich.; Mrs. Ellen Whalen, Larchwood; Mrs. Rose McKinsker, Ledgewood, N.D.; Mrs. Kate Kimbal, Fineal, N.D.; Mrs. Ann Buckley and Mrs. Rose Aurit, of Rock Valley; Isaac, of Lake Benton, Minn.; James and Mathew, of Cavour, S.D.; and Edward, of Sioux City. He also leaves two brothers, Edward and James, of Highland, Wis.; and one sister, Mrs. Ann Quinlan, of Rock Valley.

Mrs. McGuire died twenty-nine years ago in April, leaving her beloved husband with this large family to care for, the youngest one nine months old. Although not able to do hard work, by careful management, industry and frugality, he made an independent living for his family. Mr. McGuire was a good citizen of exemplary habits, honest, religious, and a kind and loving father.

He bravely battled the grasshopper period of 1873 to 1877, which tried the souls of the pioneers and caused many to abandon their homes for other locations. The first settlers got their mail from Le Mars. It was a long trip, and on one occasion, Mr. McGuire walked to Le Mars and back the same day. After this trip, his health gave away and he never felt the same again.

Funeral services were held at the Catholic Church at Larchwood Saturday morning. Rev. Father Roth celebrated Requium Mass. The services were largely attended by relatives, friends and neighbors, whose presence was itself a splendid tribute to the life and character of this worthy man. All the children except Mrs. Kimbal attended their father's funeral.
=========================

Alton Democrat, May 19, 1923, Hull News:

The remains of Mrs. Matt McGuire were removed Tuesday from the Catholic cemetery here to Larchwood where burial was made beside the body of Mr. McGuire who died a short time ago. Burial of Mrs. McGuire was made nearly 30 years ago.
=========================