Holcomb, B. Rev. 1811 – 1896

HOLCOMB

Posted By: Joy Moore (email)
Date: 5/19/2024 at 21:00:45

Source: Decorah Republican Oct. 15, 1896 P 4 C 1

Death of Father Holcomb.
That veteran “soldier of the cross,” Rev. B. Holcomb, passed into his long rest Tuesday forenoon, aged 85 years, 4 months and 3 days, and will be buried this afternoon. From data he no doubt furnished to Alexander’s History of this county we glean the following outline of his long and useful life. Born in the state of New York, June 10th, 1811, the first half of his life was spent therein. Educational advantages were not his in early life, and when twenty-one years old he was teaching school and pursuing his studies at times. So much did he accomplish in this direction he was deemed worthy of holding the office of Superintendent of Schools in Hamilton County for several years. The date of his conversion is not stated, but a number of years he was local preacher in the M. E. Church. In 1852 he left his native state and came out to Illinois. There entered upon active ministerial labor. Two years later came over into Iowa and this state has been his home for forty years. In 1864 a throat difficulty compelled him to leave the ministry and he settled on a little farm in Fremont township. His worth was soon recognized and he became Supervisor in the old days when each township had a member on the board. Acquaintance formed in Decorah led him here and for years he served the public efficiently as Justice of the Peace. Although superannuated he continued to do service for his Master and church as a local preacher until old age crept on.
Mr. Holcomb was twice married. To him and the wife of his youth three children were born. The eldest died at Atlanta in the War of the Rebellion. Two sons, Lewis and C, L., and his second wife survive him. After a long and useful life Father Holcomb is at rest.