Drew, Mike J. 1860 - 1932

DREW, OMALLEY, JONES, SEXTON

Posted By: Bill Waters (email)
Date: 4/22/2014 at 19:46:09

Mike J. Drew, a prosperous and successful farmer of Madison Township, owning two hundred and forty-five acres of valuable land on section 28, is a native of Winneshiek County, born in Glenwood Township, July 10.1860. He is a son of James and Catherine (O'Malley) Drew, natives of Ireland, the former of whom came to America and located in New York. After remaining there for a short time he and his wife came to Winneshiek County and bought land in Glenwood Township. James Drew cleared, improved and developed this property during the remainder of his life, dying upon his holdings April 3. 1894. His wife survives him and still resides upon the homestead.

Mike J. Drew was reared under the parental roof and acquired his education in the district schools of Glenwood Township. Until he was twenty-two years of age he remained with his parents, becoming thoroughly familiar with the details of farm operation by assisting his father with the work of the homestead. When he began his independent career he rented land and operated this for three years, at the end of which time he joined his father and his brother, working the farms on shares. Eventually the father gave Mike J. Drew a quarter section of land on section 28, Madison township, and upon this property he has since resided, it’s neat and attractive appearance being evidence of his careful supervision. He has from time to time added to his holdings, which now comprise two hundred and forty-five acres of well improved land, and his standing in agricultural circles is high.

In May, 1890, Mr. Drew was united in marriage to Miss Jane Sexton, a daughter of John and Johanna (Jones) Sexton, natives of Ireland. The father came to Winneshiek County at a very early date and turned his attention to farming, an occupation in which he is still active, owning a fine tract of land in Bluffton Township. He is now eighty-four years of age and has survived his wife since 1888. Mr. and Mrs. Drew have become the parents of eight children, Catherine, Willie. Grace, Jennie, Bea, Loretta, Francis and Lucy.

Mr. Drew is a stockholder in the Farmers Hog Buying Company of Decorah and in the Farmers Creamery Company of Ridgeway, and his ability is widely recognized in business circles. His political allegiance is given to the Democratic Party and his religious views are those held by the Roman Catholic Church. He is well and favorably known in this part of Winneshiek County, where his success has gained for him the respect of his associates and his honorable and upright life has won him the esteem and confidence of many friends.

Source: History of Winneshiek County, Iowa Vol. II Chicago the S. J. Clark publishing Company 1913

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