Erdice, Samuel

ERDICE, FELL, CAMPBELL

Posted By: mjv (email)
Date: 10/30/2020 at 09:44:40

Samuel Erdice, deceased, was a native of Ireland, born Jan. 4, 1816, and the son of John and Jane Erdice, who were also natives of that country. When but twelve years of age he was brought by his parent to the United States. They settled in Mercer County, Pa., and there lived during the remainder of their lives. Our subject grew to manhood on his father’s farm in Mercer County, and not only followed the occupation of his youth but in mature age. He was married in the latter-named county, Jan. 1, 1848, to Rachel Fell, born Jan. 6, 1827, and the daughter of George and Rachel (Campbell) Fell, the former a native of Bucks County, Pa., and of English descent, and the latter of Westmoreland County, Pa., and of German descent. Both died in Mercer County many years ago. Seven children were born to them, four of whom are living – Andrew, Aylett, Elizabeth and Rachel.

After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Erdice resided at Pennsylvania until 1864, at which time they emigrated to Iowa, and settled in Washington County, where Samuel Erdice purchased 208 acres of fine land on section 21, adjoining the village of Ainsworth, which he improved, and where he remained until his death, which occurred May 18, 1886. He was a kind and affectionate husband and an indulgent father, and was respected by all who knew him. Commencing life in limited circumstances, before his death he had acquired a large property, which he left to his family and which was enough to render them comfortable through life.

Mr. and Mrs. Erdice were the parents of two children: Alpheus S., born Nov. 1, 1848, and Allie, April 4, 1853. The former is now engaged in mercantile trade at Keota, Keokuk Co., Iowa. He married Eliza Stewart, daughter of Kennedy Stewart, by whom he has four children – Eleanor, Clyde, Lelia and Earl. The daughter, Allie Erdice, is now the wife of A. E. Spaulding, Principal of the High School of Ainsworth, a sketch of whom will be found elsewhere in this volume. Mrs. Erdice is yet living on the home farm. She has been a member of the United Presbyterian Church for many years, and in her life endeavors to walk consistent with her Christian profession. She is a lady of fine ability, and is highly respected by all who know her. Her father was one of the first settlers and large land-holders of Mercer County, Pa., and became wealthy by his own efforts. The father of Samuel Erdice was also an early settler of Mercer County, Pa., and one of its most wealthy citizens at the time of his death.

Source: Portrait and Biographical Album of Washington County, Iowa (1887). Excerpt from Biographical Sketch of Samuel Erdice, page 231.