HOUGHKIRK, Benjamin (1864-1925)

HOUGHKIRK

Posted By: Lisa Reilmann (email)
Date: 4/4/2006 at 18:53:20

"B.B. Houghkirk is dead." That announcement made in Tama on Monday aroused memories of olden times in Tama and Toledo on the part of those whose home has been here for the past half century. For many years, Mr. Houghkirk was one of the interesting and picturesque characters of south Tama and it is probable there were few men in the period of his residence here who had a wider acquaintance.

Mr. Houghkirk's home had been in Marshalltown for some years and he returned to Tama to make his home last Friday, passing away three days thereafter, death resulting from a complication of disease.

The funeral service was held from Harrison's mortuary Wednesday morning at 10:00 o'clock and was conducted by Rev. Harry N. Throckmorton, pastor of the Baptist church. Music was furnished by Mrs. Carl B. Harrison, who sang two hymns. The body was taken to the Soldiers' home cemetery at Marshalltown for interment.

Benjamin B. Houghkirk was born in Schenectady, New York, May 3, 1846. On August 13, 1862, he enlisted in Company E, 122d New York Volunteer Infantry, and was wounded in the battle of Gettysburg and was discharged March 6, 1864. He came to Tama county soon thereafter and on August 3, 1868, was married to Miss Cornella Dolth. His home continued in Toledo until 1910 when he removed to Marshalltown and remained there until his return to Tama a few days before his death.

Mr. Houghkirk had been failing in health for several months before his death and he returned to Tama to be near his daughter, Mrs. Wm. E. Sadler. He never recovered entirely from the wound he received in the war and was unable to perform any physical labor during the rest of his life.

Eight children were born to Mr. Houghkirk. Two passed away, Edgar L. in 1910 and James S. in 1917. Those living are Mrs. Viola E. Hartsell, Waterloo; Mrs. Mayme Hamiel, Waterloo; Fred A. Houghkirk, Illinois; Silas H. Houghkirk, Marshalltown; Mrs. William E. Sadler, Tama; and Terol F. Nicholas, Chicago. He is also survived by his widow, thirteen grandchildren and none great-grandchildren.