Surname Listing of Divorces

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A
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, March l0, l904

ALICE AREBAUGH vs. FRANK AREBAUGH. The plaintiff wants a divorce. She was married to defendant in this county on August 2l, l884, and lived with him until Feb. l, l904. She alleges in her petition that she has always treated defendant in a loving and dutiful manner, but that he has treated her in a cruel and inhuman manner, and has threatened at divers times to shoot her. That he has a violent temper and is liable to carry out his threat. V.R. McGinnis, attorney for plaintiff.

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April 12, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, June 5, l902

MRS. LAURA E. ASHBURN has through her attorney, Geo. W. Baker, commenced an action for divorce in the district court against her husband, WILLIAM T. ASHBURN. The parties live in Bloomington Township and were married at Tuskeego on Sept. l9, l90l, living together until June 2, l902. She alleges her husband has treated her in a cruel manner, refusing to come to see her when she was taken sick with lung fever while nursing her mother at Tuskeego, although she repeatedly sent for him and he was only four and a half miles away. That he has threatened to kill her and at one time packed his valise and said he intended to leave her. The plaintiff has no property, but her husband has 85 cattle, 4 horses, l2 hogs, wagons and other property, the value which is about $3,500. She asks for a decree of divorce, that she be restored to her maiden name, LAURA E. PIERCY and that she have $300 temporary and $l,l00 permanent alimony.

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February 11, 2003
 
B
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, March 8, l900

JULIA BAKER vs. THOMAS BAKER, Action for divorce. The parties were married March 5, l898. Plaintiff alleges her husband has been guilty of adultery, EMMA PARKER being named as the co-respondent. J.H. Kling attorney for plaintiff.

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December 20, 2002
 
Decatur County Journal
March l6, l893

MISMATED COUPLES
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

ISABEL BAXTER has commenced divorce proceedings in the district court
against her husband, ROBERT C. BAXTER. The plaintiff alleges that their
marriage occurred at Goshen, Mo., in l878, and that on the l7th of
November, l892, the defendant was sent to the Missouri penitentiary for
the period of two years by the U.S. Court, on a charge of
counterfeiting. She prays for a decree granting her a divorce and the
custody of their children, ALMA, aged l5 and ANNA, aged 7. E.W. CURRY
appears for the plaintiff.

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Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, October 2, l902

LIZZIE BELL vs. AMOS BELL. These parties were married in this county on April l8, l900, and lived together until April 8, l902, when defendant deserted plaintiff and her small child and left them without means of support. She also charges him with abusing her by calling her vile names and says he would bring gamblers to his home to drink and carouse and that he would bootleg whiskey to them. She asks for a decree of divorce and the custody of their infant child. Geo. W. Baker, attorney for plaintiff.

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February l9, 2003

 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, January l1, l999

MARY BOBBITT vs. FREELAND BOBBITT. The plaintiff asks for a decree of divorce. They were married at Kansas City, March 27, l899, and plaintiff alleges defendant has treated her in a cruel and inhuman manner and has frequently struck her. Marion Woodard, attorney for plaintiff.

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February l9, 2003
 
Decatur County Journal
March l6, l893

MISMATED COUPLES
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

FRANKIE BRAND, in her application for a divorce from R.L. BRAND, alleges
that she married defendant in Branch County, Michigan, April 9, l873,
and has lived in Lamoni for the past two years. The defendant, in utter
disregard of his marriage vows, has committed acts of adultery at
various times. Plaintiff therefore asks for divorce, the custody of her
daughters, aged l6 and l2, and alimony in the sum of $500. S.A. GATES
appears for the plaintiff.

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Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, November 25, l897

LENNA L. BRIGHT vs. CHAS. A. BRIGHT. Suit is brought for divorce. The parties were married at Decatur City on April 30, l893, and lived together until Sept. 28, l897. The plaintiff charges her husband with adultery at various and divers times but names no parties. She asks for a decree of divorce and the custody and control of their two minor children, BESSIE and LOLA. Stookey & Brooks attorneys for plaintiff.

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November 26, 2002

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Decatur County Journal
November 25, l897

LENA L. BRIGHT asks for a divorce from CHARLES A. BRIGHT. She accuses the festive CHARLES with being a gay Lothario. It will be remembered that CHARLES became enamored of one, MRS. GOODPASTER and they are now enjoying each others society in parts at present unknown. The plaintiff asks for the custody of the two children, BESSIE and LOLA. STOOKEY &

BROOKS for plaintiff.

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The Lamoni Chronicle
January 6, 1910

Among the new court cases in Decatur county are two divorce cases in which Lamoni people are interested, and a former Lamoni attorney, A. P. Olsen, is the attorney for the plaintiffs. They are Marie Buffum vs. J. M. Buffum who were married in Lamoni in August, 1898, and lived together until March, 1906. Plaintiff asks for a decree of divorce, on the ground of desertion, and the custody of their son Leroy Buffum, who is sixteen years of age. Also, L. H. Rew vs. Grace Rew. They were married in Lamoni, August 14, 1902, and lived together until November 20, 1907. Plaintiff asks for a decree of divorce on the grounds of desertion and cruel and inhuman treatment.

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April 2, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, October 11, l900

NORA BURNISON vs. W.A. BURNISON, is an action for divorce. The parties were married in Decatur County, Dec. 23, l884, and lived together until Aug. 2, l900. The plaintiff alleges her husband has been guilty of adultery with divers persons and has been guilty of cruel and inhuman treatment toward her, so as to endanger her life, alleging that he has choked her, threatened to kill her and otherwise maltreated and abused her. She asks for a decree of divorce and the custody of their four children, WALTER, aged l5 years, MERL, aged 9 years, MARLY, aged 6 years, and MABEL, aged 3 years, and for other equitable relief, and that she be restored to all the rights of an unmarried person. C.W. Hoffman, attorney for plaintiff.

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January 9, 2003
 
Decatur County Journal
July 8, l897

'NEW COURT CASES'

MARY A. BURNS vs. JOHN F. BURNS, Action for divorce. The plaintiff asserts that she was married to the defendant at Brazil, Iowa, January l, l890, and that to them has been born one child, MARY FRANCIS BURNS aged six years. She bases her cause for action on the grounds of cruel and inhuman treatment, asserting that although her husband before their marriage was sober and industrious, since he has been working in a coal mine he has become an habitual drunkard. She declares that many times he has struck, beat and bruised her in an outrageous manner and on one occasion, December 25, l896, secured a revolver and threatened to kill her, having on a previous occasion assaulted her with a knife. For these reasons, believing that he would carry his threats into execution, and considering her life in danger, she left him January l, l897. C.W.

HOFFMAN for plaintiff.

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C
Decatur County Journal
November 24, l892

A rather sad case was tried in the District Court last week, lasting three days. It was the case of A.E. CARRITHERS vs. CARRIE E. CARRITHERS, in which the plaintiff had filed a petition asking that the marriage contract be annulled, on the ground of insanity of the wife prior to their marriage. The guardian ad litem filed a general denial and set up as a defense post-connubial insanity.

The testimony was voluminous and quite racy. As usual, when cases of this character are being tried, the court room was packed with spectators eager to catch every word.

It was on September l5, l89l, at her father's home that MISS CARRIE became the happy wife of the husband of her choice, with anticipations of a life of wedded bliss. At the time, being in delicate health, the excitement and preparations attending the event seemed to affect her mental condition and on the 23rd of September, being just one week and one day from the time of her marriage, she was adjudged insane and taken to the asylum at Clarinda, where she remained until the time of the trial last week.

The testimony disclosed the fact that prior to the marriage, she had talked incoherently. A number of neighbors testified as to her eccentric ways and were of the opinion that she was mentally deranged for some time prior to September l5, l89l. The members of the family, however, had always regarded her as of sound mind.

The Court found insanity to have existed prior to the marriage and, as no lucid intervals were shown, granted the petition of plaintiff, annulling the marriage contract.

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Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, February 28, l90l

MARY M. CARTWRIGHT vs. HARRY CARTWRIGHT. Plaintiff asks for a divorce. She was married to defendant at High Point, on Nov. 28, l896, and lived with him until Jan. 6, l899, when he deserted her without cause and has since absented himself. She asks for custody of their daughter, MILLIE VIOLET, aged 3 years. S.H. Amos, attorney for plaintiff.

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January l7, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, May 20, l897

EMMA CHURCH vs. EDWARD CHURCH. Suit is brought for divorce. The parties were married Dec. 4, l884, and resided at Davis City. The plaintiff alleges she has in all ways fulfilled the duties of a wife toward the defendant but he has been guilty of such cruel and inhuman treatment as to endanger her life, he having been guilty of abusive conduct and language toward her, threatened to poison and shoot her, and abused and mistreated her minor children, so that she was compelled to separate from him on March 24, l896. She asks for a decree of divorce and the custody of their two minor children, CARRIE J., aged l0 years, and LEVI EDWARD, aged 7 years. Harvey & Parrish attorneys for plaintiff.

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November 2l, 2002
 
D
 Decatur County Journal
Leon, Decatur County, Iowa
Thursday, July 30, 1903

Mary A. Dooley has brought an action for divorce from her husband, Jacob A. Dooley, on the grounds of desertion.

Transcription by Sharon R. Becker, April of 2015
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, October l8, l900

THOMAS E. S. DOSS vs. EADY A. DOSS. The parties were married at Davis City, on April 4, l895, and lived together until January 2l, l897, when plaintiff alleges, his wife deserted him and has ever since absented herself from his home. He asks for a decree of divorce. Frank J. Horton, attorney for plaintiff.

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January l0, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, December l2, l90l

GERTRUDE CROFFORD DOZE vs. PETER DOZE. This is a case of December and May, the honeymoon terminating in just one month from the date of their marriage. The parties were married at St. Joe., Mo., on Sept. 11, l901, and lived together as man and wife until Oct. l2, 1901. The marriage created considerable comment at the time as the groom was 77 years old and the bride, l9 years. The plaintiff in her petition alleges the marriage was illegal, and at the time she supposed the defendant was legally capable of entering into a marriage contract. That at the time of said marriage, the defendant, PETER DOZE, was impotent, which fact was unknown to the defendant. That prior to making said marriage contract he represented to her he was worth $50,000 and since said marriage he has stated to her that he was not worth to exceed $5,000, but she is informed he has money and notes to the value of $8,000 to $l0,000, and the only real estate he owns is a claim in Oklahoma worth $500. She asks for a writ of attachment to restrain him from disposing his property, and that she be granted a divorce and temporary alimony in the sum of $500, and permanent alimony in the sum of $3,000. V.R. McGinnis attorney for plaintiff.

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December l3, 2002
 
E
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, January l0, l90l

W.H. EATON vs. C.F. EATON. Suit is brought for divorce. The parties were married at Eagleville, Mo., Oct. l, l897, and lived together until Dec. l2, l900. The plaintiff alleges that defendant on Nov. l5th did draw and threaten to strike the plaintiff with a stick of stove wood, and threatened to smash the plaintiff's head, and that on several other occasions defendant has inflicted upon plaintiff great mental injury by threats of a criminal character and he therefore asks for a decree of divorce. Frank J. Horton, attorney for plaintiff.

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January l5, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, March 8, l900

NANCY C. EDWARDS vs. WM. A. EDWARDS. The parties were married in Decatur County, Oct. 7th, l880, and lived together until July l889, when defendant deserted plaintiff and has since refused to care for or support her. C.W. Hoffman, attorney for plaintiff.

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December 20, 2002
 
F
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, January ll, l899

NANCY FETRO vs. JOHN FETRO. Action is for divorce. They were married at Osceola Aug. 30, l897, and lived together until Sept. 26, l899. Plaintiff asks for a decree of divorce, alleging defendant has struck and mistreated her, accused her of unchaste conduct and that he brought another woman to his home and kept her there, his conduct toward the woman being such as to injure and bear upon her mind and health. G.W. Baker, attorney for plaintiff.

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February l9, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, December 2, l897

JOSIE FLEMING vs. J.H. FLEMING. Plaintiff is a resident of High Point Township and was married to defendant at High Point on Sept. 7, l892, and lived with him until Feb. l4, l894, when he deserted her. She asks for a decree of divorce and the custody of their four-year-old daughter, FAYE. S.H. Amos attorney for plaintiff.

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November 27, 2002
 
Decatur County Journal
March l6, l893

MISMATED COUPLES
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

T.P. FULTON, in his petition asking for a judicial separation from his wife, ORPHA, alleges that he was married in Decatur County, December 25th, l89l. Plaintiff says that defendant has been guilty of cruel and inhuman treatment, such as throwing hot water on him and drawing a revolver and threatening to kill him. He therefore asks to be restored
to all the rights of an unmarried person. C.W. HOFFMAN is his attorney.

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G
Decatur County Journal
August 4, 1898

ARMILDA GAMMON vs. BIRD L. GAMMON et al. The plaintiff states that in March, 1896, she purchased property in Decatur County for the purpose of making it her home and at that time entered into an agreement with the defendants, BIRD L. GAMMON and ROSA B. GAMMON by which plaintiff agreed to buy a team of horses, plows, farming utensils of various kinds, cow, hogs and other stock to be kept and used upon said premises; said stock and farming implements to be and remain the property of this plaintiff during her life time. The defendants further agreed to maintain, care for, and support this plaintiff and in consideration of this maintenance of plaintiff was at her death to become absolute owners of said real estate and personal property. The defendants also agreed to farm this land and pay the taxes and keep up the repairs. The plaintiff further states that the defendants have failed to keep their part of the contract by failing to support the plaintiff and by running accounts at certain stores in Davis City in her name. Therefore, the plaintiff asks that a temporary injunction be issued to restrain said defendants from removing any of the said personal property from the premises and be restrained from disposing of the crop and that upon final hearing, said injunction be perpetual and for such other and further relief as may be just and equitable in the premises and for costs.

V.R. MCGINNIS for Plaintiff.

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~ ~ ~ ~

Subject: COURT CASE - ARMILDA GAMMON vs. BIRD L. GAMMON et al.

Decatur County Journal
August 4, l898

ARMILDA GAMMON vs. BIRD L. GAMMON et al. The plaintiff states that in March, l896, she purchased property in Decatur County for the purpose of making it her home and at that time entered into an agreement with the defendants, BIRD L. GAMMON and ROSA B. GAMMON by which plaintiff agreed to buy a team of horses, plows, farming utensils of various kinds, cow, hogs and other stock to be kept and used upon said premises; said stock and farming implements to be and remain the property of this plaintiff during her life time. The defendants further agreed to maintain, care for, and support this plaintiff and in consideration of this maintenance of plaintiff was at her death to become absolute owners of said real estate and personal property. The defendants also agreed to farm this land and pay the taxes and keep up the repairs. The plaintiff further states that the defendants have failed to keep their part of the contract by failing to support the plaintiff and by running accounts at certain stores in Davis City in her name. Therefore, the plaintiff asks that a temporary injunction be issued to restrain said defendants from removing any of the said personal property from the premises and be restrained from disposing of the crop and that upon final hearing, said injunction be perpetual and for such other and further relief as may be just and equitable in the premises and for costs.

V.R. MCGINNIS for Plaintiff.

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Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, December 15, 1904

J.M. GATTON vs. NORA GATTON. Plaintiff sues for a divorce on the grounds of cruel and inhuman treatment. They were married at Leon on Jan. l7, l90l and lived together until Dec. 4, l904. He alleges she has been in the habit of striking him and calling him vile names. That she is lazy and refused to provide his meals for him, and would not dress the children, and in other ways has harassed him and destroyed his peace and health. He also asks for the custody of their minor children EUGENE and ARTHUR. Geo. W. Baker, Attorney for plaintiff.

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August 7, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, April l9, l900

JESSIE GILBERT vs. WM. GILBERT is a suit for divorce. The parties were married at Leon, October l0, l897, and lived together until April 9, l900. The plaintiff alleges in her petition that her husband has been guilty of cruel and inhuman treatment of her in beating her and has threatened to kill her, and has also accused her with being intimate with other men. She asks for a decree of divorce, the custody of their fifteen months old son and $500 alimony. Marion Woodard attorney for plaintiff.

MRS. JESSIE GILBERT through her attorney, Marion Woodard, has brought suit for divorce against her husband, WM. GILBERT, on the grounds of cruel and inhuman treatment. She left her home Sunday and came to Leon with her baby. Monday morning, MR. GILBERT came to town and secured possession of the baby, taking it to the home of his parents, northeast of Leon. MRS. GILBERT and her sister, MRS. CHAS. BRIGHT, drove out the same afternoon and again secured possession of the infant, using a revolver to enforce their demand for the child. The matter will now be settled in court.

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December 24, 2002
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, December 2, l897

J.T. GOODPASTER vs. EMMA GOODPASTER. The parties were married Sept. 30, l886, and lived together until Sept. 29, l897, when plaintiff alleges his wife deserted him and their two children and ran away with one CHARLEY BRIGHT, since which time he has heard nothing of her present whereabouts. He charges his wife with adultery with BRIGHT. He asks for custody of their minor children, CLARENCE and CLARA GOODPASTER. Harvey & Parrish attorneys for plaintiff.

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November 27, 2002
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, September 8, l904

EMMET GORE vs. LEONA GORE, is also a divorce case. They were married at Leon on Dec. 2, l899, and lived together until April, l904. He alleges that during the time they lived together she made life one continual burden to him and destroyed his peace and happiness so as to injure his health by continually nagging and harassing him, finding fault with him and refusing to speak to him or eat at the same table. He also accuses her of going to other towns and keeping company with other men, and accuses her of adultery. He also says she has threatened to kill him and has told others that she intended to kill him. No children have been born to them. Geo. W. Baker, Attorney for plaintiff.

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July 28, 2003

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Decatur County Journal
September 8, l904

EMMETT GORE vs. LEONA GORE. Parties were married at Leon, December 2, l899, and lived together till last April. Plaintiff asks for a decree granting a divorce on the following grounds:

l. Defendant is a nagger of the most pronounced type.
2. She acquired a habit of remaining away from home several days at a time.
3. She would visit surrounding towns and keep company with other men.
4. She threatened to kill plaintiff one September night in l903, while petitioner was sleeping on a couch in his home. He awoke about 2 o'clock in the morning and observed his wife
standing not far away with a revolver in her hand. When he moved, she disappeared.
5. She has committed adultery.

G.W. Baker for Plaintiff.

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Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, December l9, l90l

DORA M. GOULD vs. ROY GOULD. The plaintiff asks for a decree of divorce on the grounds of cruel and inhuman treatment. It was a runaway wedding as the bride was not yet of legal age when they applied to Clerk Kehler for a license, but he refused having been notified by her mother not to issue a license, but they went to Chariton and secured a license and were married. She alleges he has treated her in a shameful manner, cursing her and calling her vile names and of being unfaithful to him. That since their marriage he has squandered about $500 of her money and has wholly neglected to provide for her. That since their marriage he has become addicted to the use of intoxicating liquors and is an habitual drunkard. She asks that she be granted a decree of divorce and be restored to her maiden name DORA M. FIERCE. John W. Harvey & Son, Attorneys for plaintiff.

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January 28, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, August 25, l904

KATE GROGAN vs. MICHAEL GROGAN. The plaintiff brings suits for divorce, stating in her petition that she was married to defendant at Grand River, on May 10, l897, when he was 45 years old and she was 17. She alleges that since their marriage he has become addicted to the use of liquor to such an extent that he has run through with all his property and she has been compelled to support herself and two children. She asks for a decree of divorce and the custody of their two children, THOMAS W., 6 years old and FELIX M., aged 3 years, and also asks for an order restraining him from trying to take the children or deprive her of their household goods which she has moved to Leon from their home in Van Wert. She also asks for temporary alimony in the sum of $100 and for permanent alimony in such sum as the court may deem just. Marion F. Stookey, Attorney for plaintiff.

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July 28, 2003
 
H
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, July 3, l902

LAURA HOGUE vs. JOHN HOGUE. The plaintiff sues for divorce. They were married in the State of Tennessee on Feb. l, l90l, and lived together until April 2l of the same year. The plaintiff states that during the time they lived together she conducted herself as a kind and loving wife, but that the plaintiff in violation of his marriage vows, was guilty of such cruel and inhuman treatment as to endanger her life; that he threatened to kill her and did attempt to do so, that he has written her many threatening and abusive letters which would endanger her life, peace and happiness. One child, ROBERT, now nine months old, was born to their union and she asks for his care and custody. Although the defendant owns about 400 acres of land in Tennessee, the plaintiff makes no claim for alimony of any kind or character. Hoffman & Jackson, attorneys for plaintiff.

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February 12, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, May l2, l898

NEW COURT CASES:

A.J. HUGHES vs. IZORA HUGHES. Action is brought for divorce. The parties were married at Leon, April 26, l896, and lived together until April 26, l898, at which time plaintiff left the defendant. He alleges among other things the defendant has tried to kill him with a razor, swore at him, refused to cook or wash for him, and told him she did not love him, but some one else. J.H. McVay attorney for plaintiff.

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December 7, 2002
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, October 2, l902

MARY HULDBRAND vs. THOMAS J. HULDBRAND. The parties were married at Balbridge, Mo., Oct. l, l899 and lived together Until Oct. 25, l90l when plaintiff deserted her after threatening her life. She asks for decree of divorce and the custody of their two-year-old son. Frank J. Horton, attorney for plaintiff.

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February l9, 2003
 
I
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, January l0, l90l

LAURA O. ILIFF vs. H.J. ILIFF. Plaintiff brings suit for divorce. The parties were married in Des Moines on May 8, l896 and lived together as husband and wife until Oct. 24, l900. Plaintiff alleges her husband has been guilty of cruel and inhuman treatment of her and has accused her of infidelity with various persons and sought in this way to humiliate her and disgrace her in the minds of the public. She asks that she be granted a decree of divorce and that she be restored to all the rights of an unmarried person. Ed. H. Sharp, attorney for plaintiff.

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January l5, 2003
J
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, July 3l, l902

WM. M. JENNINGS vs. ANNIE B. JENNINGS. Plaintiff sues for a divorce and the custody of their three minor children, alleging as grounds, desertion, and that defendant has been guilty of adultery with one W.M. COX. G. Taylor Wright, attorney for plaintiff.

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February l4, 2003
 
From: "Stacy Smith"

Court Case # 2586 F.F. # 5 of Divorce Files

Cause of Divorce- Cruel & Inhuman Treatment towards Plaintiff by Defendant
Defendant-William Henry Jones
Race-White
Age- 60 yrs
Nationality-American
Date of Marriage- Sept 4, 1913
No prior marriages

Plaintiff-Lillie Jones
Race-White
Age-70 years
Nationality- American
Date of Divorce- July 7, 1948
No prior marriages

To whom Divorce granted- Lillie Jones
 
K
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, December l2, l90l

ALZADIE KANE vs. C.E. KANE. Plaintiff sues for divorce on the grounds of desertion. They were married at Van Wert, Sept. 23, l890, and the plaintiff alleges her husband deserted her in l895 and has ever since absented himself. She also asks the care and custody of their l0 year old daughter, GENEVA MAY KANE. Marion F. Stookey, attorney for plaintiff.

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January 30, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, February 28, l90l

LAOMI KEOWN vs. THOMAS KEOWN. The plaintiff brings an action for separate maintenance. They were married at Leon on Nov. 27, l898, and lived together at Chariton as man and wife until Jan. l6, l90l. She alleges she has been sick for some time and the defendant has failed and neglected to give her proper attention or care, such as should be given to a wife by her husband and that since the l6th day of January he has absolutely failed and refused to contribute anything to her support. That since their marriage he has become an habitual drunkard. That he has sold the cook stove and other household effects and sent her personal effects to her at Leon without her request. The defendant is a brakeman employed by the C.B. & Q. receiving a salary of $65.00 per month, and she asks for an order of court allowing her the sum of $35 per month for her care and support. C.W. Hoffman, attorney for plaintiff.

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January l7, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, September l8, l902

MRS. CORA MCGREW KNAPP, of this city, has brought suit in the district court for a decree of divorce from her husband, S.F. KNAPP, a wealthy farmer who resides near Grundy Center. The couple were married in this city last October. The husband is a well to do and for a time the match gave every evidence of being a happy one. MRS. KNAPP, who is well known in this city as CORA MCGREW, in her petition alleges excessive sensuality and abuse to her child by a former husband. She asks that the court give her $l5,000 alimony.

After the marriage last fall, the couple went to Pensacola, Florida, where they spent some time in one of the leading hotels of the south. Later they returned to Des Moines and the honeymoon days wore off. The farmer after several months, returned to his lands near Grundy Center, and MRS. KNAPP remained here in Des Moines. She resided at 5l8 Corker Street for a time, and was once arrested by the police as being the keeper of a disorderly house, but the police failed to convict her in court. MRS. MCGREW is now at Mercy Hospital, where she has been lying dangerously ill for several weeks. She has been operated upon twice within the past week.

Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, October 9, l902

MRS. C.E. KNAPP today filed application in the district court for immediate alimony in her divorce case against her husband, S.F. KNAPP. The wife claims that she must have $l,500 at once in order to pay her expenses at Mercy Hospital, where she is confined, and take care of her until the courts can act on her divorce suit, in which she asks for $l5,000 permanent alimony.

MRS. KNAPP accompanies her application today by an affidavit in which she states that she is confined in Mercy Hospital (she blames her husband for the illness which sends her to the hospital) and that to meet her expenses there, provide for her maintenance and secure the necessary medical attendance, she must have money at once. She states that she has already undergone two operations at the hospital, one on August 9th and one on September 9th, and will be in bed indefinitely.

MRS. KNAPP states that her husband is possessed of a farm of 240 acres in Grundy County, valued at $l6,800, a house and lot in Grundy Center valued at $3,000, and a lumber yard and merchandise stock in Grundy Center, valued at $l8,000. She asks that she be given $l,500 temporary alimony and $l5,000 permanent alimony.

--DES MOINES CAPITAL.

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February l7, 2003
 
Decatur County Journal
March l6, l893

MISMATED COUPLES
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

WILLIAM KOEHLER says that he was married to ANNIE KOEHLER December l, l887, and that they lived together as husband and wife until February 9, l893. Since that time ANNIE has conducted herself improperly and has been guilty of acts of adultery. Defendant in consequence wants to be restored to a condition of single blessedness. C.W. HOFFMAN is plaintiff's counsel.

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L
The Lamoni Chronicle
July 26, 1906

From the list of new court cases in the Leon Reporter we clip the following: Ruth H. LACKEY has brought suit for divorce against her husband, Mr. Claude LACKEY. She resides at Lamoni and was married to the defendant at Marion, Iowa, August 5, 1904, and they lived together only three hours as he was arrested on his wedding day on the charge of obtaining money under false pretenses, and after being released on bond absconded and deserted her, and is now not a resident of this state. She asks for a decree of divorce and that she be restored to her maiden name, Ruth H. STEDMAN. A. P. Olsen attorney for plaintiff.

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April 24, 2003
 
Decatur County Journal
March l6, l893

MISMATED COUPLES
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

EMMA LANYON in her application for a divorce from her husband, W.C. LANYON, avers that she married defendant in Keokuk, Iowa, December 5, l88, and that they lived together until November l2, l890. At that date defendant deserted plaintiff and has ever since refused to aid or assist in her support. She has resided in Lamoni six years and has eight
children. MARION WOODARD is her attorney.

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Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, March l9, l903

LENORA LINDSEY, after long years of married life, seeks a divorce from her husband, MILTON F. LINDSEY, alleging cruel and inhuman treatment. She also asks the custody of their minor children, HARRIET aged l3, LUCY aged l0, FRANK aged 7, and FLOYD aged 4. She also asks judgment for alimony in the sum of $60 per quarter for the next five years and $30 per quarter for the succeeding five years. S.A. Gates, Attorney for plaintiff.

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August 24, 2003
 
M
The Davis City Advance, Davis City, Iowa
Thursday, March 20, l896

MILLY MCLAIN has commenced suit for divorce against her husband, JOSEPH MCLAIN, on the grounds of cruel and inhuman treatment. She alleges that defendant whipped her on numerous occasions during the years l894 and l895. She asks the custody of her little girls, MARY and GRACE, aged 5 and 2 years respectfully. J.H. Kling for plaintiff.

--JOURNAL.

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September 14, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, September 8, l904

DAISY L. MCCUTCHAN has commenced an action for divorce against SANFORD B. MCCUTCHAN. She states in her petition that they were married at Leon on October l, l902, and lived together until August 23, l903, when she claims he deserted her and has since remained away. She also says that after their marriage he frequently threatened to knock her head off and accused her of infidelity, and that during the time they lived together he compelled her to move on an average of once every thirty days, regardless of her health. She also accuses him of coming home drunk on an average of once a week when she would have to put him to bed. For these and other reasons she asks for a decree of divorce and the custody and control of their minor child, LEO, now one year old. Ed. H. Sharpe, Attorney for plaintiff.

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July 28, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, March 8, l900

KATE MCDANIEL vs. BRUCE MCDANIEL. The parties were married at Middle Grove, Ill., Sept. 25, l897, and lived together until January, l900. She alleges her husband has harassed and injured her by stating she was of unchaste character in the presence of his children and divers persons, all of which is untrue. She asks for a decree of divorce. C.W. Hoffman attorney for plaintiff.

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December 20, 2002
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, July 3, l902

LILLIAN MCKLVEEN vs. HENRY BENNETT MCKLVEEN is an action for divorce. They were married at DeKalb, Iowa, on Dec. 26, l893 and lived together until Jan. l6, l900. The plaintiff alleges that since their marriage she has at all times conducted herself as a loving and dutiful wife, and that on Jan. l6, l900 defendant deserted her without cause and has ever since absented himself and failed to provide plaintiff with any support. That after their marriage defendant became addicted to the use of cocaine and morphine to such an extent that he has at five different times taken so-called cures without being successfully cured. That for weeks from the use of said drugs he would by his acts frighten, worry and cause this plaintiff to lose sleep and rest to such an extent as to endanger her health and life. She asks for a decree of divorce and that she be awarded the custody of their minor daughter, MARGARET, now four years of age. Ed. H. Sharp, attorney for plaintiff.

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February 12, 2003
 
 Leon Reporter
Leon, Decatur County, Iowa
May 01, 1890

Louisa P. Mead secured a divorce from her husband on the grounds that he made fun of her culinary efforts.

Transcription by Sharon R. Becker, March of 2015
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, October 6, l904

JOSEPH J. MOFFET vs. NELLIE M. MOFFET. The plaintiff and defendant were married at Pleasanton on Jan. 24, l886. He alleges that she has threatened to kill him and poison him, and done many other cruel and inhuman things which have endangered his life and health. He also says she curses and swears in the presence of their children and objects to them attending Sunday school, and is not a fit person to have the custody of the children. He asks for a decree of divorce and the custody and control of their five children. W.B. Kelley, Attorney for plaintiff.

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July 3l, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, July 2, l896

PHOEBE MORRIS has commenced an action for divorce against WALTER MORRIS. The plaintiff resides at Lamoni, and was married to defendant at Lamoni on Sept. l6, l894. They lived together until January, l895, when the defendant deserted his wife leaving her at St. Joe where she had gone for a visit without any means of support or money to return to her home at Lamoni, she being in a delicate condition at that time. The plaintiff asks for a decree of divorce and the custody and control of their infant child, HELEN M. MORRIS. Stookey & Brooks attorneys for plaintiff.

Copied November l2, 2002
"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
 
Decatur County Journal
October 2l, l897

JAMES A. MOSELY vs. TIMOTHY GRIFFIN is another chapter in the divorce case of SUSIE MOSELY vs. J.A. MOSELY. Plaintiff says that himself and wife lived happily together until the serpent entered their Eden. Plaintiff says he is a poor man who is compelled to work for his living and that defendant owned a large farm in Decatur County, and having seen and met the plaintiff's wife he came to the plaintiff and hired him to move into the house with him and have plaintiff's wife do the housework; that not suspecting the evil designs upon his happiness or upon the affections of his wife, plaintiff hired to defendant and remained in his employ from October, l894 to March, l895. That soon after moving into his house, defendant began making advances to plaintiff's wife, who being young and unexperienced in ways of the world and men, gradually yielded to the advances and the defendant, taking advantage of his success, finally seduced and carnally knew her. That soon after the bad relations became apparent and he moved away from defendant's house and took his wife to a distant part of the county, that he might regain her affections, but the impressions were so indelibly imprinted upon her innocent heart that he found it impossible
to restore her love for plaintiff. JAMES, therefore, asks judgment against TIMOTHY for $5,000 for the said alienating of his wife's affections. J.L. YOUNG for plaintiff.

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Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, March 8, l900

MATTIE MOTT vs. HARRY B. MOTT. The parties were married at Davis City on Feb. l, l899, and lived together until August l2, l899. Plaintiff asks for a decree of divorce on the grounds of cruel and inhuman treatment, alleging her husband struck, kicked and beat her and neglected to provide for her when she was sick, and that she be restored to her maiden name, MATTIE WHEELER, Frank J. Horton, Attorney for plaintiff.

Copied by Cordelia Suzann
"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
December 20, 2002
 
O
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, June l3, l900

D.J. OFFIELD vs. WM. J. OFFIELD. Suit is brought for divorce. The plaintiff states that they were married May 7, l894, and they lived together until August 3, l894, at which time defendant without cause therefore willfully deserted plaintiff. She asks for the custody of their minor child, BESSIE M.

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"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
January 2, 2003
 
P
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, August 23, l900

M.E. PARSONS vs. LAURA PARSONS. Plaintiff sues for divorce. The parties were married at Leon on June l6, l900, and lived together a little over a month, or until July 27, l900. The plaintiff alleges that since their marriage his wife has been guilty of the crime of adultery with divers persons to him unknown. C.W. Hoffman, attorney for plaintiff.

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"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
January 7, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, August 2l, l902

JOHN PERKINS vs. MARY PERKINS is a suit for divorce; the plaintiff alleging his wife has deserted him and been guilty of adultery. G. Taylor Wright, attorney for plaintiff.

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"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
February l5, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, August 5, l897

WM. POST vs. IDA A. POST. Suit is brought for divorce. The parties were married in Decatur County, on the 2lst day of Dec., l89l, and the plaintiff alleges, he has always conducted himself as a kind and devoted husband. He alleges the defendant has been guilty of adultery with various men. He asks for a decree of divorce. S.A. Gates, attorney for plaintiff.

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"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
November 22, 2002
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, November 25, l897

MARIETT L. PRUYN vs. THEODORE PRUYN. Suit is brought for divorce. The plaintiff resides at Davis City and was married to defendant at Fremont, Wis., on July 4, l860, and lived together until Nov. 7, l897. She alleges she has always treated defendant as a kind and loving wife should, but that he has repeatedly assaulted, beat and mistreated her, calling her vile names, accusing her of infidelity and striking her over the head with a poker and knocking her down, as well as frequently threatening to kill her. Five children have been born to them, the oldest being l8 and the youngest 7 years. She states defendant is worth more than $l0,000 while she is without any means and asks for a decree of divorce with temporary alimony in the sum of $500 and permanent alimony in the sum of $5,000, and that she be awarded the custody of their children. Judge Towner ordered an attachment issued against defendant's property for $l,000. J.H. Kling and C.W. Hoffman attorneys for plaintiff.

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"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
November 26, 2002
 
R
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, May 24, l900

The family and friends of EMRIC RADNICH a well-known and popular young man of Davis City are greatly worried over his strange disappearance and fear that harm has befallen him. He left home Sunday about noon, telling his wife he was going to see a man on some business and would not be gone more than an hour and a half. He did not return and his present whereabouts are unknown. Tuesday morning his team and buggy were located at Stout's barn in this city and it appears he drove straight to Leon on leaving home. Arriving here he put the team in the barn and took the afternoon train for Chariton. His brother-in-law, CHARLES PENISTON, went to Chariton Tuesday and traced him to a small hotel where he stayed all night Sunday, but no trace of him could be found after he left the hotel Monday morning. He had been complaining of a pain in his head for several days before leaving home, and his wife and parents think he is temporarily deranged. At Chariton the hotel people say he acted in a peculiar manner, but did no talking. MR. RADNICH is the son of MR. and MRS. S. RADNICH of Davis City. HE WAS MARRIED ABOUT SIX WEEKS AGO TO MISS NELLIE SPARGUR, who is prostrated over his strange actions. It is hoped by all that he will soon be located and return home. His business and family affairs were most pleasant and there is no reason whatever for his strange action of leaving home, unless his reason is deranged.

Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, June 6, l902

No tidings have been heard from EMRIC RADNICH, the young man who left his home at Davis City a couple of weeks ago, no trace of him being found after he was seen at Chariton.

Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, February 28, l90l

NELLIE D. RADNICH vs. EMRIC A. RADNICH. Plaintiff sues for a divorce. They were married at Davis City, April 4, l900, and lived together until May 20, l900. She alleges in her petition that she at all times conducted herself as a dutiful and loving wife, but that defendant in violation of his marriage vows, did on May l8, l900, slap her and threaten her life by cruel and inhuman actions, and that on several other occasions he willfully and without cause, abused plaintiff by the use of vile and profane language. Wherefore she asks for a decree of divorce. Frank J. Horton, attorney for plaintiff.

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January 4, 2003
 
Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, August 25, l904

OLLIE RICHARDS vs. WINDSOR W. RICHARDS is another suit for divorce. The parties were married at Davis City, Sept. 24, l899, and lived together until two years ago since which time he has not contributed to her support. She also alleges he has treated her in a cruel manner by striking her and cursing her. In addition to a decree of divorce she asks that she be restored to her maiden name, OLLIE BOSWELL. W.B. Kelley, Attorney for plaintiff.

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July 28, 2003
 
The Lamoni Chronicle
January 6, 1910

Among the new court cases in Decatur county are two divorce cases in which Lamoni people are interested, and a former Lamoni attorney, A. P. Olsen, is the attorney for the plaintiffs. They are Marie Buffum vs. J. M. Buffum who were married in Lamoni in August, 1898, and lived together until March, 1906. Plaintiff asks for a decree of divorce, on the ground of desertion, and the custody of their son Leroy Buffum, who is sixteen years of age. Also, L. H. Rew vs. Grace Rew. They were married in Lamoni, August 14, 1902, and lived together until November 20, 1907. Plaintiff asks for a decree of divorce on the grounds of desertion and cruel and inhuman treatment.

Copied by Stacey McDowell Dietiker
April 2, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, September 27, l900

HARRIET H. ROSE vs. J.R. ROSE. The parties were married at Storm Lake, Ia., in l885 and lived together until Sept. l5, l900, when plaintiff alleges she was forced to leave her husband on account of cruel and inhuman treatment; that he has threatened her life, has assaulted and whipped her and otherwise humiliated and mistreated her to such an extent as to endanger her life. She asks for a decree of divorce and the care and custody of their three minor children, GEORGE aged l4, FLORENCE J. aged l3 and BLANCHE E. ROSE aged 9 years. She also asks for temporary alimony of $l00 and permanent alimony of $500, and an attachment has been issued against defendant's property. C.W. Hoffman attorney for plaintiff.

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"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
January 11, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, November 29, l900

MISS JENNIE ROSENGRANT through her attorney, S.A. Amos has commenced an action in the District Court for a divorce from T.J. ROSENGRANT. They were married near Leon, March 5, l87l, and lived together until March 8, l895, when she alleges he deserted her and eloped with a married woman named LIL SMITH, and has since lived in adultery with the said woman. The plaintiff asks that she be divorced from defendant and be restored to her maiden name, JENNIE BEAVERS.

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January l4, 2003
 
S
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, October 9, l902

MYRTLE SAVAGE vs. JOSEPH SAVAGE. Action is brought for divorce. Parties were married at Leon, March 29, l90l. Plaintiff states in her petition that she has always conducted herself as a dutiful and loving wife. That defendant during the time marriage relations existed did strike and beat plaintiff and threatened to kill her, and that as a result of such treatment her life was endangered and her health impaired. Stivers & Haymaker, Attorneys for plaintiff.

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August 9, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, June 2l, l900

LAURA O. SCHOONOVER vs. FRANK M. SCHOONOVER. Suit is brought for divorce. Plaintiff alleges in her petition that they were married at Lincoln, Neb., about December l5, l892; that she has always conducted herself as a faithful and loving wife. She alleges that the defendant has been guilty of such cruel and inhuman treatment as to greatly impair her health and endanger her life. That such treatment consists of starving and neglecting her, striking her and threatening to strike her, cursing her and applying vile epithets to her accusing her with infidelity to her marriage vows. That by such treatment she was compelled to leave plaintiff and return to her home in Leon, Iowa. She asks for decree of divorce, the care, custody and control of their minor children, BLANCHE, ETHEL and MYRTLE SCHOONOVER and that she be restored to the rights and privileges of an unmarried woman, that the costs of this action be taxed to the defendant. S.A. Gates, attorney for plaintiff.

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"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
January 3, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, June 2l, l900

ANDREW G. SCOTT vs. BESSIE F. SCOTT. Suit is brought for divorce. The plaintiff alleges in the petition that they were married near Davis City, March 8, l900, and lived together until May 22, l900, that he always conducted himself as a dutiful and loving husband, that the defendant has treated the plaintiff in such a manner as to destroy his peace of mind and endanger his life. That she has threatened to kill him and used vile language, that he is 65 years old and weak in health and constitition. That on or about the 8th day of May, defendant shot at plaintiff. That defendant is l6 years old and of a vicious temper. Plaintiff asks for divorce and rights of an unmarried person. Geo. W. Baker, attorney for plaintiff.

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"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
January 3, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, November 25, l897

MINNIE A. SHOCKLEY vs. ALONZO SHOCKLEY. Plaintiff states that they were married at Mt. Ayr about Nov. 30, l892, and lived together until Nov. l9, l897. That to them was born one child, FERN, about l7 months old. That plaintiff has always conducted herself toward her husband as a dutiful and loving wife. That the defendant has at divers times been guilty of cruel and inhuman treatment such as to endanger the life of plaintiff. That in the spring of l896 about six weeks prior to the time of the birth of the child the defendant without provocation kicked plaintiff in the back causing a badly discolored and very painful bruised place. That he armed himself with a razor and threatened to kill her.

(*I did not copy the rest of the article.)

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November 27, 2002
 
Decatur County Journal
June l6, l898

SAMUEL SHELINE asks for a divorce from CARRIE SHELINE on the charge of adultery. The plaintiff's petition states that he has resided in Woodland Township since November, l897; that within the past eight months he has repeatedly seen actions on the part of defendant with other men that led him to believe she was not true to him; that
especially in the month of November, l897, he saw her in the embrace of a man in Garden Grove and knows that she committed adultery with him. That for said act he left her and commenced action for divorce, but the defendant acknowledged her guilt and implored his forgiveness. He forgave her and they lived together up to April 28, l898. She went to
Nebraska; that about the time she went there, he found she had again disregarded her marriage vows and had been guilty of adultery.

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Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, August 23, l900

A.S. SMITH vs. ELIZABETH SMITH. Plaintiff brings suit for divorce on the grounds of adultery by the defendant with divers persons to him unknown. The parties were married in Decatur County on August l8, l898. C.W. Hoffman, attorney for plaintiff.

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"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
January 7, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, July 24, l902

ALMOND SPRAGUE vs. LIZZIE SPRAGUE. The plaintiff wants a divorce. He was married to defendant at Maynard, Iowa, on Jan. l, l893, and lived with her until July l, l900, at all times treating her as a dutiful and loving husband, but on the last named date she deserted him without cause or provocation. He also alleges she has been guilty of such cruel and inhuman treatment as to endanger his life, impair his health and destroy his peace and happiness. As a result of their marriage, three children were born and the two eldest, EARL, aged nine and ERVIE, aged eight years, are in the custody of the plaintiff. MAY SPRAGUE, aged two years, is with her mother. Plaintiff asks for a decree of divorce and the custody and control of the two oldest children. Hoffman & Jackson, attorneys for plaintiff.

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"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
February l3, 2003
 
The Lamoni Chronicle
August 23, 1906

Among the new cases to be tried during the August term of court is that of Hannah STUART vs. Thomas STUART, the plaintiff asking for a decree of divorce. She says she was married to the defendant, on November 30, 1905 and lived with him until May 14, 1906. Plaintiff also says defendant represented to her, prior to marriage, that he was possessed of considerable means and had plenty to keep them all their lives, and that during the time they lived together he only gave her two dollars and a cheap apron. She claims that he has property to the amount of $7,000 and asks for $300 temporary alimony and $2,000 permanent alimony, and that her name be restored to Hannah CLARK. A. P. OLSEN Attorney for plaintiff.

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May 23, 2003
 
T
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, August 4, l904

C.W. TERRY vs. IDA E. TERRY. Plaintiff is a resident of the town of Weldon, and was married to defendant at Osceola on May 30, l899, and lived with her until June 28, l904. He alleges he has always treated her as a dutiful and loving husband should, but that she in violation of her marriage vows and in disregard of morality, publicly insulted him in the presence of their children by using blasphemous and obscene language to him, would knock her children down and swear at them, and is entirely unfit to have the care and custody of them. That she has accused him in the presence of relatives and friends with being intimate with other women, and such acts have produced great mental strain and suffering, and would if continued greatly endanger and injure his health. He asks for a decree of divorce and the care and custody of their three children, GEORGE I., aged four years, ROY A., aged three years, and CLEO, aged 2 months. A.P. Olsen, Attorney for plaintiff.

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June 18, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, October 6, l904

GRACE THOMPSON vs. JAMES THOMPSON. The parties were married in Decatur County on August l5, l898, and only lived together one month, when she alleges he deserted her. She asks for a decree of divorce and that she be restored to her maiden name, GRACE WOODRUFF, and that she have temporary alimony of $200 and permanent alimony of $500. C.W. Hoffman, Attorney for plaintiff.

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July 3l, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, July 3l, l902

JOHN W. TONEY vs. ROSA B. TONEY. The parties were married in this county July 3, l893, and lived together until Sept. l, l90l. The plaintiff alleges he has always treated his wife as a kind and loving husband, but she has disregarded her marriage vows and has been guilty of such cruel and inhuman treatment as to destroy the peace and injure the life of the plaintiff. That she has threatened and attempted to inflict great bodily injury on him, and accused him of infidelity without cause. That when he was sick she would absent herself from home and give him no care or attention. He also charges her with having become addicted to the use of morphine since their marriage. Hoffman & Jackson, attorneys for plaintiff.

Copied by Nancee(McMurtrey)Seifert
"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
February l4, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, February 25, l904

GEO. TROWER has commenced a suit for divorce from his wife MOLLIE TROWER. They were married at Grand River on August 6, l903, and resided together about two months. He says he always treated her as a kind and loving husband, but that she has been guilty of such cruel and inhuman treatment as to endanger his life and destroy his peace of mind and happiness. L.B. Jackson, attorney for plaintiff.

Copied by Nancee(McMurtrey)Seifert
"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
April 9, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, October l8, l900

MARY E. TURNER vs. J.A. TURNER. Plaintiff brings suit for divorce. She was married to defendant in Decatur County on January 9, l887, and lived with him until March 28, l898. She asks for a decree of divorce on the grounds that after their marriage the defendant became an habitual drunkard, was guilty of cruel and inhuman treatment toward her, and on March 28, l898, was convicted of the crime of grand larceny, and sentenced to the penitentiary at Ft. Madison for two years, where he is at present confined. She also asks for the custody and control of their minor son, FRED, aged 7 years, and temporary alimony of $l00 and permanent alimony of $l,000. Ed H. Sharp and C.W. Hoffman, attorneys for plaintiff.

Copied by Nancee(McMurtrey)Seifert
"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
January l0, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, June l3, l900

O.M. TURPIN vs. B.F. TURPIN. Action is brought for divorce. Plaintiff in her petition alleges that they were married October l8, l897, in Leon, Iowa, and lived together until May 28, l900. That she has always been a kind and loving wife. That the defendant has been guilty of such cruel and inhuman treatment as to endanger her life and health and that he has struck her in the face and over the back several times. Plaintiff asks for temporary alimony in the sum of $75.00 and permanent alimony of $200.00, and that she be restored to her maiden name, O.M. SMITH.

Copied by Cordelia Suzann
"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
January 2, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, March l0, l904

CORA TWOMBLY vs. WM. M. TWOMBLY. Plaintiff sues for divorce on the grounds of desertion. They were married at High Point, Dec. 8, l898, and lived together until Jan. l900, when he deserted her and has since absented himself. She also says he has been convicted of a felony and has served a term in the penitentiary. One child, a boy now three years of age, was born to them and she asks for the custody of the child. S.H. Amos, attorney for plaintiff.

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"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
April 12, 2003
 
V
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, April 26, l900

B.F. VENN through his attorney V.R. McGinnis, has commenced an action for divorce from his wife, MARY ELLEN VENN. They were married in Leon in August, l889, and lived together until April l4, l900. The plaintiff alleges his wife has been guilty of such cruel and inhuman treatment toward him in the recent past as to endanger his life. He asks for a decree of divorce and the care and custody of their two minor children, LAURA E., aged six years and BEULAH CHRISTIAN, aged two years, and for an accounting of their property. Last Monday, MR. VENN filed an information before the insane commissioners charging his wife with being insane, but they decided she was sane and ordered her discharged. He then commenced the suit for divorce.

Another Column of the same date:

MRS. MARY ELLEN VENN, of Bloomington Township, was brought before the insane commissioners Monday, her husband, B.F. VENN, having filed an information before the insane commission charging her with being insane. The commissioners made a careful investigation and decided that MRS. VENN was not insane and ordered her discharged.

I was unable to find the divorce article, however, I did find a re-marriage to one another:

Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, July l9, l900

The following marriage licenses have been issued by Clerk Stockton since our last issue:

BENJ. F. VENN, 52
MRS. VARY E. VENN, 39.

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December 27, 2002
 
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Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, August 6, l902

J.W. WALKER vs. FRANCIS M. WALKER. Suit is for divorce. The parties reside at High Point and were married in Wayne County on April 27, l88l, living together until about February, l902. The plaintiff alleges he has always treated the defendant well and provided for her to the best of his ability. That notwithstanding this she has been guilty of such cruel and inhuman treatment as to impair his health and endanger his life, such treatment increasing for the past two years, calling him vile names, cursing him and using profane language, and on account of her treatment he has been unable to secure help to work on the farm. That after the death of his mother fifteen years ago, his father came to live with him, but his wife was so abusive he was obliged to have his father leave the home. The parties have no living children and about three years ago, being desirous of having a child about the house, with the consent of his wife, he had a boy by the name of ELLIS CAIN come to the house to make his home. She soon tired of the boy and mistreated him to such an extent and threatened to kill him, that plaintiff was forced to send the boy away. Plaintiff asks that he be divorced and have all the rights of a single person. Marion F. Stookey, attorney for plaintiff.

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February l4, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, December 11, l902

SUSIE WEBB of Weldon wants a divorce from ALVIN J. WEBB. They were married at Weldon on the l0th day of last January. She states that since their marriage the defendant has been convicted of a crime and sentenced to a term of years in the penitentiary at Ft. Madison, and on this account she asks for a decree of divorce and that she be restored to her maiden name, SUSIE MCVAY. Marion F. Stookey, attorney for plaintiff.

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February 20, 2003
 
Decatur County Journal
March l6, l893

MISMATED COUPLES
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

W.C. WIGHTMAN is made defendant in divorce proceeding instituted by his wife, L.C. WIGHTMAN. The parties were married at Aledo, Ill., August l6, l866, and lived together until February 23, l893. Plaintiff has resided in Lamoni for many years. She alleges that defendant's conduct toward her was such as to cause her great mental anguish and to become
deranged at times. Defendant was a man with an ungovernable temper. He frequently called plaintiff a liar and at divers times remarked: "You are the devil's own angel". At certain times his demeanor was such that plaintiff would be overcome with terror, and in order to ward away insanity was obliged to leave the defendant. She prays for divorce, the custody of her minor son, WILLIAM A., $l00 attorney fees, $300 temporary alimony. County Attorney MCVAY is her counsel.

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Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, June 4, l903

ANNA E. WILSON vs. JOHN A. WILSON. The plaintiff sues for a divorce, alleging that defendant at the time of their marriage was of unsound mind and was incapable of entering into the marriage contract. That he was an epileptic which fact was concealed from her at the time and that the marriage contract was procured by fraud and false misrepresentations. She also charges him with cruel and inhuman treatment as to endanger her life during the more than five years they have lived together. Hoffman & Jackson, attorneys for plaintiff.

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March l3, 2003
 
Decatur County Journal
January l4, l897

ARVADA WOODARD vs ALONZO WOODARD, Suite for divorce. Parties were married at Grand River, December l4, l893, and lived together until December l7, l898, when plaintiff claims her husband deserted her, leaving her "dependent upon the charities of a cold and cruel world."

She asks for alimony. MARION WOODARD for plaintiff.

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Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, October 9, l902

SILAS WORDEN vs. LAURA A. WORDEN. The parties were married in March, l864, and lived together as man and wife until November, l897, when they agreed to a separation and at which time plaintiff deeded to defendant 206 acres of land near Weldon worth $60 per acre and she also received personal property worth $l,000. The defendant is now residing in Nebraska. John W. Harvey & Son, Attorneys for plaintiff.

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August 9, 2003
 
Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, February 28, l90l

JESSIE WYLIE vs. LEON A. WYLIE. The plaintiff brings an action for divorce. She was married to defendant at Leon, Iowa, March 25, l89l, and lived with him until March l0, l900. She alleges she has always conducted herself as a dutiful and loving wife, but that her husband during the last two years she lived with him, became very abusive toward her, and failed to provide for her and his family. That he contracted the habit of gambling and would leave home for a week at a time without cause or provocation. She asks for a decree of divorce. Two children were born to them, WILLIAM, aged 8 and LEON, aged 6 years. She also asks for the custody of their youngest son, LEON. Geo. W. Baker, attorney for plaintiff.

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January l7, 2003
 
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Leon Reporter, Leon, Iowa
Thursday, December 11, l902

W.A. YOUNG 2d, JR., of Grand River also asks for a divorce from LOTTIE M. YOUNG to whom he was married in this county, June 4, l893, living together until Dec. 5, l902 when plaintiff learned she had been guilty of adultery. He also asks for the custody of their two children, ELLA M., aged 9 years and ZELL, aged 2 years. Hoffman & Jackson, attorneys for plaintiff.

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"With permission from the Leon Journal Reporter"
February 20, 2003
 
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