James Sampson Braden (1834-1914)

BRADEN, KEYES, MCNEILL, STOAKES

Posted By: Eileen Reed
Date: 2/10/2024 at 13:06:52

J. S. Braden, one of the earliest settlers of this community and one of the most highly respected citizens, died this Friday afternoon just before this paper is printed. Saturday evening about 6 o'clock Mr. Braden was found lying on the ground in his yard helpless, the result of a stroke of paralysis. At the time the seriousness of his condition was not fully realized, but within twenty-four hours he grew steadily worse. Dr. O'Toole of Eagle Grove was called in consultation with Dr. Peppers and every attention that could be given was rendered him. Paralysis of the bowels with evidence of peritonitis added to the seriousness of the trouble. He made a gallant fight against great odds and suffered great pain without complaint. Mr. Braden would have been eighty years old next September. —Goldfield Chronicle.

The Clarion Clipper
Clarion, Iowa
Thursday, February 5, 1914
Page 3, Column 3
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Goldfield

James S. Braden was born in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, Sept. 9, 1834, and died at his home in Goldfield, Jan. 30, 1914, age 79 years. 4 months and 21 days. At the age of 21 he left the old home and came to Henry County, Illinois, where five years later he was married to Eliza McNeill.

Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Braden. Two are now living, Ida Stoakes of Valeria and Will of Goldfield. Two have been called home, the eldest daughter, Lois in 1876 and the youngest daughter, Carrie in 1903.

In August, 1862, Mr. Braden enlisted in Company A, 112th Illinois Volunteer Infantry and took part in many of the important battles of the war. At Resaca he was wounded and not able to march for about two weeks, when he rejoined his regiment and took part in the battles of Pine Mountain. Eutoy Creek, Kenesaw Mountain and all the battles that attended the Siege of Atlanta. In 1863 Mr. Braden with others was captured by the Confederates at Danville, Ky. On September 1, 1863, he was exchanged and rejoined his company at Sterling, Ky., and was with it till mustered out at the close of the war.

In February, 1866, he came to Iowa and has since been a resident of Wright County. For about six years Mr. Braden was engaged in farming, then entered the mercantile business for about sixteen years, in the same building his son is now conducting business. He was the postmaster of Goldfield for fourteen years and has been one of the successful and prominent business men of Wright County and his success has been attained by his own efforts.

Mr. Braden was a member of the building committee of the U. P. church, the first church built in Goldfield. Dr. Duncan, who was supplying the church at that time, often spoke of his helpfulness and big heartedness in helping along the church in its early days. This beautiful trait of character was shown through all his life, a helping hand for the uplift of his country, his town and his friend. Although making no public profession of faith he was a firm believer in his God, being brought up in the old school Presbyterian church, where he was baptized in infancy.

Since retiring from active business. life he has given his time and thought to his home and family, but he always had time for those in need of sympathy or assistance. No man in the community was more loved, or respected. He was a friend of all.

He leaves to mourn his loss, a wife, son and daughter, two brothers, Millard of Eagle Grove and Frank of Pittsburg, Penn. also, a sister, Mrs. Eliza Keyes of Hutchinson, Kan., and eight grandchildren.

The funeral service which was largely attended was held in the U. P. church. Sunday, Feb. 1st, conducted by Rev. J. S. Nicholson of the Baptist church, assisted by Rev. Comin of the U. P. church. There was a profusion of floral tributes and the entire service was indicative of the high regard in which Mr. Braden was held by every acquaintance. Many friends from all parts of the county were present. The family has the sympathy of all in their sorrow. Interment took place at Glenwood cemetery.

The Wright County Monitor
Clarion, Iowa
Wednesday, February 11, 1914
Page 4, Column 4