FRANCIS M. REDMON

    Francis M. Redmon, son of George and Eliza Redmon, was born Dec. 22, 1837 at Louisville, Kentucky. He was the oldest of four children. The family came to Iowa and located near Ottumwa in 1855, and there his father and sister died with smallpox. In 1859, he, his mother and two brothers came to Montgomery County, locating near Sciola.

    He and Miranda Whitney were married at Mortons Mill, Iowa, January 1, 1861. Miranda at the age of three months was brought to Iowa from Indiana in 1842, by her sister.

    The Redmons purchased a farm in Pilot Grove Township, where they became the parents of ten children, four of whom died in one week's time from the scarlet fever epidemic. The six children who survived to adulthood were George, Mary Ann, Edward, Jesse, Nora and Charles.

    As the children grew older the parents saw the advantages of living nearer town. They sold their farm in Pilot Grove and bought a farm one mile north of Elliott, Iowa. In 1892 they sold their farm and bought a home in Elliott where they resided the remainder of their lives. In 1933 the celebrated their 72nd Wedding Anniversary.

    The eldest son, George, died October 1931.

    Charles M. Redmon, long time resident of Elliott, died Mar. 1966.

    Nora Redmon Woolsey died October 1967.

    Jessie Redmon Selby Evans died in California, August 1974.

    Mrs. Redmon died July 14, 1933 at the age of 92. She devoted her life to being a good Christian, a true neighbor and mother.

    Mr. Redmon died Nov. 2, 1934 at the age of 97. He was a true pioneer, helping develop the County through the hardships of the early days, having much respect from those who knew him. He was a stanch Republican, casting his first vote for Abraham Lincoln.

    At the time of his death there were five generations living. Thirteen grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, three great-great-great grandchildren, two sons and three daughters.