James Bridge 1838-1905

BRIDGE, PARKER, COX, CANTRIL

Posted By: Volunteer - Rich Lowe
Date: 10/18/2001 at 18:38:44

James Bridge, son of James and Elleso Bridge, the only son in a family of four children, was born in Stockport, England, May 13, 1838. He grew to manhood in the country of his nativity. He came to the United States in 1862 and settled in Philadelphia, Pa., where he engaged in his work as a spinner. He came to Franklin Iowa, in 1866.

He was married to Miss Emma Parker at Franklin, May 9, 1867, and to their union four children were born, two sons and two daughters. The eldest son, Lee E. died in 1887.

He came with his family to Bonaparte in June 1868, where he has resided continuously for nearly 37 years. During the Civil War he served in company I., 31st Reg. of Pennsylvania militia. He became a citizen of the United States by naturalization on the 23 day of September, 1868.

He was a charter member of Napoleon Lodge No. 55, Iowa Legion of honor.

He was converted in May 1885 and united with the Bonaparte Westminister Presbyterian church under the pastorate of Rev. James Welch and remained a faithful an active member until his death.

He leaves to mourn their loss his companion, one son, Sidney P. of Urbana, Ohio, and two daughters, Mrs. Nellie Cox of Douds, and Mrs. Mary Cantril of Bonaparte. Also nine grand children.

He died at his home in Bonaparte, April 11, 1905, having lived 66 years, 10 months and 28 days.

The funeral took place from the Presbyterian church in Bonaparte, for Thursday, April 13, 1905, conducted by Rev. G. W. Barber of Unionville, Ia. The remains were laid at rest in the Bonaparte Cemetery.

The pallbearers were A. McDonald, C. Hinkle, D. W. Riggle, W. E. Smith, Henry Easling and W. R. Dredge. There were also fourteen honorary pall bearers, his particular associates and fellow workman.

The Presbyterian choir sang, "Some day we'll understand, Beautiful Isle of Somewhere, Nearer my God to Thee and Just as I am."

The casket was covered with a profusion of beautiful flowers, the tribute of loving friends; noticeable among them being a pillow of white carnations and roses, with "Father" imbedded in their midst, from the children.

The mill in which Mr. Bridge found employment for so many years closed down on the afternoon of the funeral as a mark of respect.

His familiar figure will be missed out on our streets, as he has been employed continuously in the spinning department of the woolen mill during all his residence here.

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Source: Entler Scrapbook Collection, vol 3, Iowa Historical Library, Iowa City, IAHistorical Library, Iowa City, IA