Oldest

GURTNER

Posted By: Chris Storey (email)
Date: 7/4/2006 at 17:16:27

OTTUMWA

_______

June 12 1930

OLDEST

At the age of 29 years, H.R. Gurtner of Muscatine fought to quell the rebellion of the southern states in the Civil war. Today,at the age of 95 years, 7 months and 12 days, he still lives to tell about it. Comrade Gurtner was the oldest veteran in attendance at the state encampment, which closes its sessions in Ottumwa today. Although he supports himself with a cane and his steps are hesitant, the old soldier's mind is clear. He has been a resident of Muscatine since 1857.