Iowa
Old Press
Clinton Age
Clinton, Clinton co. Iowa
December 29, 1899
COLONEL SAMUEL G. MAGILL
Colonel Samuel G. MaGill, who formerly resided in this city, died
at the Chicago Beach Hotel early Thursday morning. Col. MaGill
was a native of Pennsylvania and came to Lyons in about 1858 and
with a brother engaged in the lumber and grain business. On
August 10, 1862, he was commissioned Lieut. Colonel of the 26th
Iowa Infantry. The regiment was mustered into service September
30, following Col. Milo Smith of this city commanding. The
regiment reported for service at Helena, Ark., on November 28,
being
attached to the 1st Brigade, 4th Division of the Army of the
South and West, under command of Gen. A. P. Hovey. While the
regiment was at Helena, Ark., Lieutenant Col. MaGill was captured
by a party of guerrillas, he being near the vanguard of the
regiment. He was carried prisoner to Vicksburg, and was later
paroled. He came north and was mustered out of service December
1, 1862. He resumed his business and resided in Lyons nine years.
He came to Clinton from Lyons in 1871 and was engaged in the
warehouse business on Front Street conducting a large trade and
carrying a large stock. For a time Mr. E. S. Hart, now of
Chicago, was Col. MaGill's partner, the firm name being MaGill
& Hart.
Col. MaGill was one of the strong men of the state. He was a
politician whose influence was much sought for by men who are
ambitious to serve their country. He was always a Republican and
did his part to keep the Republican Party in power in both state
and county. He was a man of great independence of mind or action
and when he cared to make a point on which he had set his heart,
it came just as he desired. He was an enterprising, pushing,
energetic citizen, and always commanded the respect of his
neighbors and associates. He was one of the most amiable of
gentleman, extreme sociability being a natural trait and in the
domestic circle he was the kindest of husbands and the most
indulgent of fathers.
Col. MaGill is survived by his widow and children: Thomas W.,
Harry, John R., Mrs. F. Briggs and Miss Hattie MaGill of Chicago,
and Lieut. MaGill in the United States Navy.
[transcribed by K.W., May 2012]