BRIDGE, James: Born 1838

BRIDGE

Posted By: Volunteer: Sherri
Date: 7/18/2013 at 06:50:01

JAMES BRIDGE.

James Bridge, son of James and Ellen Bridge, was born in Stockport, England, in 1838. He was the only son in a family of four. He grew to manhood in England and worked at the trade he had learned weaving. In 1861 he came to America, settling in Philadelphia where he found employment.

In 1862 he enlisted in the service of the United States and was a soldier during the years of the civil war, being honorably discharged from service. He became a citizen of the United States by naturalization in 1866.

In 1868 he came to Bonaparte and that place was his home until the day of his death. For nearly thirty-seven years he was employed in Meek Bros' Woolen Mill, faithful and steadfast in all things. He was an earnest, active Christian, a member of the Presbyterian church. His integrity of character, honesty and uprightness have been an example to all who knew him. His neighbors and friends loved and respected him and realize the community has lost a good citizen.

The funeral was held Thursday afternoon from the Presbyterian church, Rev. Walter Barber, his life long friend, preaching the sermon-one of peculiar pathos and beauty on account of the long friendship existing between himself and Mr. Bridge. The family left to mourn are Mrs. Bridge, Mrs. Lee Cox and Mrs. Mary Cantril. One son Lee died several years ago. The interment was made in Bonaparte cemetery. The floral offerings were many and beautiful.

Source: Van Buren Co. Genealogical Society Obituary Book C, Page 151, Keosauqua Public Library, Keosauqua, IA