MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA REGISTER OF OLD SETTLERS BOOK ONE

Source: REGISTER OF OLD SETTLERS , BOOK One, page 124
submitted by Neal Carter, Sept. 28, 2007

WASHINGTON A. RIGBY

RIGBY – Washington A. Rigby died at his home in Stanwood, Iowa, March 22, 1881. He was born in Knox county, Ohio, Oct. 2, 1814. His father’s family were pioneers in Ohio. He himself turned his face westward in 1836, to seek a home in Cedar county, Iowa.

He was among the first settlers. Upon him as a pioneer it devolved to lay the foundations of society in education and religion. For this he was well qualified by nature and grace, having been converted at fourteen, and being endowed with great natural force of character and physical strength. He took an early and decisive stand for Christ in his new home. He promptly united with the nearest class, which was many miles away, and has held uninterruptedly a place in the church as an earnest, efficient witnessing member.

In 1838 he found in the home of a neighboring pioneer, a wife to share his joys and labors, a true helpmeet who now survives him. To them were given two sons and two daughters. One of them went to heaven in early womanhood. They lived to see the country change from a wilderness to a wealthy and populous community, and the church from a few settlers in a log cabin, a pastorless flock, to many charges and members in well-appointed buildings. Their own labors were rewarded by ample returns.

A few weeks before his death, a serious disease manifested itself in his foot. It was pronounced incurable by the physicians, and he was told that his end would not long be delayed. He received the word with calm faith and looked to heaven with joyous anticipation. Afterward the disease took a more hopeful turn. He received the promise of further life with resignation and thankfulness. But disease soon reasserted itself and did its work. He died in great peace. He was cheered and sustained by the hymn, “My heavenly home is bright and fair.”

He was buried near his pioneer home in Red Oak Grove. He sleeps in Jesus. He was a man successful in business, true to his convictions, yet without an enemy. He was the father of Rev. J. H. Rigby, lately so deeply bereaved in the loss of his two children.----R. D. PARSONS

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