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AUNT MART'S SCRAPBOOK Clippings from Davenport , Iowa
newspapers, 1901 – Submitted and transcribed by: Mary Jane
Anderson MINISTER FOR
MAYOR REV. MOTT R.
SAWYERS NOMINATED AT CENTERVILLE Republican Caucas
[sic] Last Friday Evening Honored Popular Young Davenport Divine With Nomination
for Mayor—Was Result of Joking Ultimatum Which He Delivered to Citizens Some
Little Time Ago A
minister for mayor is what threatens Centerville today, and Centerville is not
in the least alarmed, for the minister is Rev. Mott R. Sawyers, the popular and
eloquent young pastor of the Second Presbyterian church in this city. At the Republican nominating convention held in Centerville
on last Friday evening he was placed in nomination for the highest office in the
gift of the city, and was successful on the third ballot taken, having a
substantial lead over the other candidates throughout the balloting, but, not
securing the required majority until the third ballot, when the name of one the
other candidates was withdrawn from the race.
Very few of the people who sat in the pews of the Second Presbyterian
church Sunday and listend to his excellent sermons realized the young pastor was
just home from Centerville where he had been “attending to his fences” if
the expression may be permitted. But
he had. He only told the good news
to his most intimate friends and it did not become a matter of general news
about town at any time, it being rather the desire of Rev. Sawyers that the
matter be kept as quiet as possible. The
nomination all started in a joke. The
people of Centerville are good judges of good preaching.
They have heard Dr. Sawyers many times.
In fact, his parents live there, and he at one time was the pastor of
their church. Since he has come to
this city to accept the pastorate of the Second Presbyterian church they have
been insistent with their entreaties for him to return. One day he jokingly told a number of the church officers:
“You’ll have to elect me mayor before I return to you.”
They took him at his word and now that he is nominated he announces his
intention of doing the square thing and staying in the race until the finish.
Centerville is a hustling city of 10,000 inhabitants, and while it is
quite strongly Republican a very popular Democrat has held the office for the
past three years. Rev. Sawyers will
have a good race on his hands, but with his genial good following and universal
popularity his friends can forsee for him nothing but a brilliant success.
He will not, for the present at least, resign the pastorate of the church
here. The Centerville Daily Citizen
has the following account of the matter. How it Happened The
convention hall was filled with spectators an all were very much interested in
the proceedings. Mr. Sawyers’
nomination for mayor was received with cheers of applause, which was as much as
to say we will take our coats off and go to the polls and elect him. The
Citizen editor met with Mr. Sawyers Saturday morning and in congratulating him
over his nomination asked him if he had any statement to make to the voters of
the city. He replied:
“I am preparing an address to the voters of the city which will be
published in a few days, and will set forth my position on the questions now
before the people. I will, however,
say this: I have been confident
from the beginning that the nomination would come to me.
My reason for this confidence has been tin the fact that the movement for
me has been an act of the people rather than politicians.
I believed all along that the popular demand for the principles for which
I stand was so strong that it would sweep aside any objections that might be
raised by political managers. I
believe now that this same sentiment will manifest itself at the polls.
The people at large believe that this is the best chance the city ever
had to grow and prosper and they desire to assist that prosperity as far as they
can by a business city administration.
“The only objection that I have heard as being urged against me is
that I will be radical along some lines to the exclusion of others.
This objection is groundless and is scouted by those who know me best.
My aim if elected shall be to build up the commercial and industrial
interests of Centerville. My
platform was stated in detail in an address delivered before there was any
thought of my being a candidate. I
still hold to the ideas there. Eloquent
Pastor Who Ran for Mayor made Strongest Fight in History of the City
Rev. Mott E. Sawyers, pastor of the Second Presbyterian church of
Davenport, who ran for mayor of Centerville, Iowa, was defeated by only eight
votes. This intelligence came in a
special telegram to The Times from that city this morning.
The winning candidate, Sanders, ran on the Citizens’ ticket, which is
practically a Democratic ticket in Centerville.
Rev. Sawyers was the Republican candidate and it is said that it was the
hardest fight ever held in Centerville. The
Times special is as follows:
Centerville, Ia., March 31.—The hottest election contest in the history
of the city took place yesterday. Sanders
of the Citizens’ ticket was elected over Sawyers, Republican, by eight votes.,
the balance of the ticket being divided. Twelve
hundred and sixty votes were cast.
Mr. Sawyers is in Centerville, where he has been conducting his campaign.
The question up before the people was whether they wanted a reform
administration or not. They
evidently did not and will go in the way which they have been going.
Rev. Sawyers has been pastor of the Second Presbyterian church since last
summer. His home, however, has
always been at Centerville. He has
many friends in that place and has always been an ardent Republican and in favor
of cleanliness in local politics. He
has favored a strict adherence to the laws.
His interest in politics in his native city has always been strong.
Recently, when there, in speaking of the political situation and efforts
for a cleaner city, he said, half jestingly, “If you want a reform
administration, elect me mayor.” His
friends at the next convention nominated him and he was forced to accept.
The people of Davenport generally and the members of the Second
Presbyterian church especially, while they would have hailed with pride, the
honor to their pastor, will be pleased to know that it will not be necessary
for him to leave them. In case of his election, he would have been obliged to go to
Centerville to live. He has been
one of the most popular pastors that has ever filled the pulpit of the Second
Presbyterian church. Having an
excellent education, he is a born orator and a speker possessing much [?] and
energy. Members of the Second Presbyterian Church Hold
Their Annual Meeting
Rev. Mott R. Sawyers, pastor of the Second Presbyterian church, will in
all probability remain in Davenport and not go back to Centerville and contest
the election there in which he was a candidate for mayor.
Rev. Sawyers stated that he would remain in Davenport if the selection of
the officers of the church was unanimous. At
the second annual church meeting held Thursday evening the election took place
and was unanimous, so Mr. Sawyers will in all probability remain in the city.
The meeting was the largest one that has been held for some time and a
great deal of interest was taken in it. The
capacity of the parlors was taxed. The
reports of the different societies of the church were read and approved.
Then the congregation as a whole decided to increase the elders of the
church from four to six and this was accordingly done.
They also decided to add one more member to the board of trustees.
All the elections that took place at Thursday evening’s meeting were
unanimous on the motion of the pastor, Rev. Sawyers.
The following elections took place last evening: Elders—Andrew Jack, J.W. Ferris; and J.A. Miller,
The societies of the church elect their own officers.
After the meeting lunch was served. The Contest
Rev. Mott R. Sawyers who succeeded Rev. D. Wiley at the Second
Presbyterian Church came from Centerville, Ia.
The people of that place tried hard to make him stay but to no avail.
When he left them he told them that if they would make him their next mayor, he
would return. The election took
place and Mr. Sawyers was defeated by only eight votes.
His opponent was a lawyer by the name of Sanders.
The committee on the election was indignant over the outcome and refused
to let it stand as it was, stating that there was illegal voting.
Rev. Sawyers himself says:
“The opposing party went to the jail and brought the inmates to the
polls and had them vote. There
were also people from out of the state who voted, and this is against the law.
There is absolutely no doubt that I won the election, and if I were to
contest it I would be made mayor. THE SICKLE KEEN THE GREAT REAPER CONTINUES HIS HARVEST IN
DAVENPORT The Death of Miss Hattie P. Dalzell Leaves Many to
Mourn—Mrs. Harvey Leonard, Who Came Here in 1836, Dies of Old Age
The death of Miss Hattie P. Dalzell, which was briefly announced in the
Sunday Morning Democrat, was a sad surprise to a great number of people of this
city. It was not known that she was ill, and none but her family were aware that
she had gone to the hospital, Hadial Heights, to prepare for and undergo a
surgical operation. She was one of the women of this city who had compassed
herself about with a great multitude of friends, to whom she was dear because to
them she had been helpful, and the sudden and unexpected news that she was gone
from then was a painful shock.
For years Miss Dalzell had been a sufferer, never possessing robust
health, but always on her feet and at her work, much of which she insisted upon
making hers because she saw that it needed to be done. A year ago she was
advised that the offices of a competent surgeon could do much to improve her
condition, and would probably avert a life of painful invalidism.
She had a dread of becoming helpless and unable to attend to her round of
duty. It was her whole nature to be at work for others, and so, rather than
drift into a state of chronic helplessness and suffering, she determined to
undergo the operation. It was
performed a week ago today. It was
highly successful, and for several days after it her condition was in the
highest degree encouraging. Friday
night of last week, the last night of her life, she slept more soundly than
usual, and all seemed to be going well, but when she awoke in the morning she
was filled with a sense of approaching death, and asked for the attendance of
her family. They came at once. She rallied later, but again declined, at
11:45 Saturday night she died. Her
brother Edgar reached the city in time to barely see her alive, and close her
eyes.
Harriet Parry Dalzell was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Dalzell, and
was born in this city May 3, 1853. Since
the death of her father 16 years ago she was, it is fair to say, the active head
and front of the family, her native gift of leadership making her the main stay
of the household. From her infancy
Davenport has been her home, though she has traveled often and widely in
visiting other parts of the country. She
took the full course of the Davenport city schools, and graduated from the High
school in the class of 1871—the first class graduated there under Prof. J. B.
Young. She took the training school
course, and 25 years ago began her life work in the schools of this city as a
teacher. She rounded out her 25th
year of this labor with the close of school last spring. She began this work in No.2, and was transferred from it,
about fifteen years ago, to No.1, being in charge of the infant room at the time
of her death, and all her time there being in the lower rooms, where she had her
work among the smaller children. She naturally liked little people, and as years
went on, grew still fonder of them. She had the gift of getting out of them all
there was in them, of leading instead of driving them, and of giving them a
strong interest in and love for their studies. She was one of the strongest
teachers in the city schools in this respect.
In her early life Miss Dalzell became a church member, and for the past
20 years has been one of the foremost members of the Second Presbyterian church
of this city; one of the pillars in very fact; always interested and energetic
in its work, in spite of her ill health, and one of its chief promoters. Her
qualities of leadership were as strongly displayed here as in the schoolroom.
She was a power in the Sunday school. She had the infant class there for
years, and it numbered from 40 to 50 little people, every one of them her
devoted friend and admirer. She was among the actives in the work of the
Christian Endeavor Society, both the junior and the senior. She was a prominent
member of Circle No.1 of the King’s Daughters, and of the Lend-a-Hand club,
and was always helpful to them both. It seemed to make no difference with her
that she was physically unable to respond to all the many calls these
organizations made upon her strength, she made a response notwithstanding. Her
conception of duty, in its highest form and sense, was exceedingly fine and
noble.
Aside from her manifold activities, all of which, of necessity brought
her in contact with many people, and endeared her to them all, she was, in her
own self, a woman of most lovable traits. She made friends wherever she touched
people, and she held them. In her departure from the busy life in which she
placed herself she has left sad vacancies, some of which may be filled, but
never so as to exclude the sense of loss in her death. There are some places
thus opened that will never be filled. Miss Dalzell leaves her mother, Mrs.
Hannah P. Dalzell; a sister, Miss Annie Dalzell, and a brother, Edgar Dalzell,
at home, at the family residence in this city, and another brother, Dr. Henry M.
Dalzell, of Muscatine, with other relatives more distant, resident in Davenport.
The funeral has been arranged for 10 o’clock tomorrow morning, at the
home, 1003 East Thirteenth street. The pallbearers will be members of the
Christian Endeavor societies of the Second Presbyterian church. The Sunday
school of that church will attend in a body, and the services will be
conducted by Rev. John McArthur, the pastor. The sense of loss that pervades
this congregation is very great, and is personal with every member of it. So
great was the feeling that the regular services Sunday were oppressed with
unwonted gloom, and almost interrupted. [hand dated
Nov. 20, 1901] A
pre-nuptial party was given last night by Will Noth at his home, Fourteenth
street and Arlington avenue, in honor of Miss Margaret Lumsden and Stanley
Foutz of Baltimore, Md., whose marriage takes place tomorrow. The evening was
spent at cinch, and afterwards supper was served. There were 16 young people
present.
The marriage of Miss Margaret E. Lumsden of 1411 Fulton avenue to Hon.
Stanley Foutz of Baltimore, Md., will take place at high noon tomorrow at the
bride’s home. The wedding will be a quiet home affair and will be witnessed
only by the immediate relatives and a few friends. Following the ceremony, the
bridal couple will leave for Baltimore, where they will reside. Miss Lumsden
has formerly been employed at Pertersen’s and is a popular young lady. Mr.
Foutz is an attorney of Baltimore, and was recently elected to the
legislature. He was the only Republican candidate elected to a seat in the
legislature at the recent election, and he has an excellent reputation for
ability. REMAINS OF DEAD BROUGHT HOME FATHER AND SON TO BE INTERRED SUNDAY Sad Calvacade Wends Its Way to the Yocum Homestead
in Liberty Township
The remains of Isaiah C. Yocum and his son Carey in the big fire in
Chicago yesterday morning arrived in Davenport this morning at 3 o’clock over
the Rock Island road and were later taken to the family home, half a mile east
of the Summit church to Lincoln township. They will remain there until Sunday
morning when they will be interred at the Summit cemetery.
The remains were accompanied to Davenport by Chas. Yocum, son of Dave
Yocum, of DeWitt, who is a cousin of the elder deceased man. He was in Chicago
at the time of the accident and hearing of it went at once and sought his
relatives. The remains were taken first wen they arrived in Davenport to the
Boles Undertaking establishment. About 10 o’clock some of the neighbors came
and conveyed the remains of the father and son to the sorrowing wife and mother
at the country home.
The funeral will be held Sunday morning. Short services will be held at
the late residence to be followed at 11 by services at the Summit church. Rev.
Smith will officiate.
From the accounts of the inquest held by the Chicago coroner, it would
seem that the blame for the accident rests with the hotel proprietor and with
the city authorities of Chicago, the first for not providing methods of escape
and the latter for allowing such a fire trap to continue in use in the heart of
the city. The case is being thoroughly investigated and the proprietor and night
clerk of the hotel have been arrested on the charge of accessory before the fact
of manslaughter. Coroner Traeger of Chicago has the following in regard to the
accident:
“The crowded condition of those rooms in the rear of the second and
third stories of that hotel was outrageous. The fire escape on the west side of
the building was no protection to a number of guests in a crowded hotel such as
that was. It is true they were putting a fire escape up in the front part of the
building, but I am afraid that one will never be used for the Lincoln hotel.
“According to some persons about the hotel, I understand that the only
room leading to the sole fire escape was crowded by two beds, and the room is
not much more than 6x8 feet. How would total strangers to the hotel escape by
that fire escape?”
Incidental to the fire a lively crusade is to be waged by the city
officials against buildings not fully equipped with means of escape… YOCUM FUNERAL WAS LARGELY ATTENDED Remains of Fire Victims Laid in a Double Grave It is estimated that between 700 and 800 persons
attended the funeral of I. C. Yocum and son at Summit church Sunday morning. The
church was filled as it never was before and fully as many people stood in the
churchyard as there were within the doors of the sanctuary. The funeral services
were in charge of the Rev. J. I. Smith and the Rev. F. I. Moffat.
Anthems were sung by the choir of the church. Many flowers were laid on
the caskets that contained the remains of the father and son who perished last
Thursday morning in the Lincoln hotel horror in Chicago.
Burial occurred in the cemetery adjoining the church, within sight of the
Yocum farm house. Both of the
deceased were members of this congregation which is allied with the Presbyterian
denomination. The Yocum family had
much to do with the starting of the church, which was erected on one corner of
the Yocum farm. Father and son were
laid in the same grave. Pallbearers for the older man were W.W. George, H. F.
Bonnell, Chas. Van Avera, W. D. Kepler, John Port, and M. Proudfoot, and for the
young man Bennie Bonnell, Robert Moffat, Frank Claussen, Edward Shepler, Kepler
Van Evera and True Kepler.
Among those who attended the funeral from this city were W. H. Wilson and
Thos. Murray. Wesley Greene, at the head of the state horticultural society, was
present and officiated as one of the pallbearers. Relatives of the dead were
present from this city, Rock Island, and Freeport.
Sisters of I. C. Yocum who were present at the funeral of their brother
and his son were Mrs. M. J. Kipe, Mrs. Samuel MacDowell, and Mrs. John Walker.
The all live in the Summit neighborhood.
Some of the newspapers have confused Samuel Carey Yocum with Samuel T.
Yocum, his cousin, giving a description of the latter as the young man who met
death in Chicago. Samuel T. Yocum was present at the funeral. He is living at
Freeport, Ill., and attended a business college in Davenport some years ago.
Samuel Carey Yocum, the 17 year old boy who met death in the hotel fire, did
not attend a business college here, but was a student at the Davenport high
school a year ago. FATHER AND SON LAY SIDE BY SIDEREMAINS OF YOCUMS INTERRED AT SUMMIT SUNDAY
Funeral of Men Who Were Killed One of the Largest Ever Held in Scott
County
One of the largest funerals in the history of Scott
county was that of I. C. Yocum and his son Carey Yocum. The two men suffocated
in the hotel fire at Chicago last week. The funeral was held yesterday morning
at their late home in Lincoln township and fully 2,000 people gathered to pay
their last respects to the dead. There were about 400 carriages, buggies and
vehicles of all kinds, extending for a distance many times greater than between
the home and the church. Short
services were held at the residence, first by Rev. Moffat, old time pastor of
the Summit church and a lifelong friend of the family and also by Rev. Smith,
the present pastor of the church. After the ceremony at the home, the cortege
proceeded to the church, the remains were interred in the cemetery adjoining. YOCUM WILL HAS BEEN PROBATED
REAL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY LEFT TO WIFE
Provisions Made For Son Who Died in the Fire at Chicago With His
Father
The last will and testament of I. C. Yocum, the Lincoln township farmer, who,
with his son, was burned to death in the Lincoln hotel fire at Chicago a week
ago, was filed for probate in the Scott county district clerk’s office this
morning. Wilson & Grilk are the attorneys who filed the will.
The instrument provides that, first, all just debts and funeral expenses
of the deceased be paid.
The wife, M. E. Yocum, is then to receive all of the real and personal
property, in lieu of dower to have for her personal needs and to lease and sell
as she may sit fit.
Out of the life insurance which the deceased carried is to be paid $500
to each of the daughters, Sarah Alice Yocum and Mary E. Yocum.
To the son, Samuel Yocum, when he arrived at the age of 21, was left, if
he wished to be a farmer, a team and wagon and other implements with which to
start to work. If he did not care to farm the son was to receive $500 in money
the same as the sisters. In the will was also provided that the premium on a
$1,000 life insurance of the son, amounting to $47.50 annually, was to be paid
from the estate.
The son for whom all of these timely provisions were made by the father
was the one who perished by his side in the terrible fire and was lid to rest
with him, side by side in the same lot.
The deceased also carried $6,000 in life insurance all of which policies
were made out in favor of the wife, M. E. Yocum.
The policies were as follows: Summit lodge No. 182, Iowa Workmen, $2,000.
Scott lodge No. 2, Iowa Legion of Honor, $2,000
Carnival camp, No. 1, Woodmen of the World, $1,000
Penn Mutual Life Insurance Co., $1,000.
The wife is made executrix of the estate without bonds and after her
death, if she leaves no will, the property is to be divided equally among the
surviving children. The will was dated Aug. 13, 1902. [hand dated September 1903] OBITUARY Alexander
The death of John Holliday Alexander occurred at his home, 302 Kirkwood
boulevard, this morning. Mr. Alexander was 78 years of age and death is said to
be from old age, hastened by stomach trouble. He was born in Hollidaysburg, Pa.,
May 19, 1825. His mother was a member of an old family after whom the town was
named. He came west in 1850 and in 1853 married Miss Elizabeth Dickson. They
resided at Summit, Scott county, until 14 years ago when they removed to
Davenport and have made their home in this city ever since.
Mr. Alexander was a member of the Presbyterian church, having assisted in
the building of the Summit church. He was an elder of that congregation unti his
removal to Davenport. He leaves besides his wife, two brothers and four sisters.
The funeral will be held Monday afternoon at 2 o’clock from the First
Presbyterian church of Davenport. [hand dated March 16, 1903} HER DEATH CAUSED BY ATTACK OF THE GRIP Mrs. James Walker Passed Away Yesterday Morning
Mrs. James Walker passed away yesterday morning at the home of her
sister, Mrs. John H. Alexander, 302 Kirkwood boulevard. She had been suffering
with a severe attack of the grip for about a week and on Sunday her sickness
took a turn for the worse. Death occurred Monday morning at 10 o’clock, when
Mrs. Walker was 66 years of age. She was born in Pittsburg, Pa., and her maiden
name was Sarah Hickson. Having lost her parents while quite young she came to
this state and county with her uncle, Jesse Teagarden in 1851. She took up her
residence at Summit with her husband James Walker, to whom she was married in
this city in 1854. There they continued to live until the present time. Mr.
Walker survives his wife and two sons are living, Albert B. of British Columbia
and Jesse A. of Oklahoma. Mrs. Margaret Teagarden, an older sister, lives in Des
Moines. Mrs. Walker leaves many relatives
in this county, including Fred J. Walker, the county superintendent, who is a
nephew. The funeral announcement will be made later.
WILL IS PROBATED
Last Bequest of John Alexander Filed in County Clerk’s
Office
The will of John Alexander was admitted to probate this afternoon. The
will provides that all personal property shall go to his wife, Elizabeth
Alexander. To the sisters, Marguerite McGee and Anna Alexander is given a farm
located in Scott county and the remainder of the real estate goes to his wife.
The will was dated Sept. 26, 1879. IRISH
Cerebro spinal meningitis claimed another life last evening. Earl
Irish, 16-year-old son of Mrs. Mary Irish passed away at the family residence
in East Davenport, about 11 last evening. The deceased was taken seriously ill
last Sunday, and after a brief illness death came to his relief. He was the
youngest of a family of three sons, and two daughters, and a member of the
Second Presbyterian. MOFFATT
Foster, the 4-year-old son of Rev. F. I. Moffatt, of 1201 Arlington
avenue, died Saturday at Newcastle, Pa., whither he was taken by the family
about a month ago on a summer visit. No details of the child’s illness were
learned from the brief telegram received by friends here. It is not known
where the burial will take place. A LONG LIFE It Linked Almost Two Centuries—Death of Mrs. Ash Mrs. James Ash was born in the north of
Ireland, July 14, 1804, and died in this city Dec. 3, 1898, aged 94 years, 4
months and 22 days. She came to this country and
located in Philadelphia in 1826 where the same year she married Mr. William
Hood. Three children were the issue of this marriage, all of whom are now
living, the oldest, Mrs. Martha Moore, a resident of this city, and with whom
her mother made her home for many of her last years. After the death of Mr.
Hood, she remained in Philadelphia for a time and in 1834 was married to Mr.
William Ash who died some years ago. She had five children by this second
marriage, two of whom are living. From Philadelphia Mrs. Ash came to Pittsburg
in 1837, thence to galena, Ill., thence to Wisconsin and from there to Iowa in
1856. It was in 1875 she reached Oregon and made her home in Benton County where
she remained till her death. Most of her life has been an
active, healthy, vigorous one, though her last years have been filled with the
sufferings and infirmities of old age. Four weeks ago she fell and was so badly
injured that she never recovered. It was intensely interesting to hear her
relate the events of the past century, for she was a bright, intelligent,
observing woman. The echoes of the Revolution were still ringing in her ears and
the stirring scenes of our early history were fresh in her memory. She was a
woman of firm purpose, indomitable will and clear convictions. Her knowledge of
the Scripture was surprising and up to within a few days of her death she could
repeat many very precious passages. Prayer was a great delight to her. In
infancy she was baptized and early in life united with the Presbyterian church
of which she was a loyal, consecrated and faithful member for 82 years. She was the mother of eight
children, eight grand children and twelve great grand children. Her life was
long, eventful, historical and beautiful. “It was finished” and sweetly she
fell asleep in Jesus to whose services she gave her entire life. She died at the
home of her daughter, Mrs. Moore, who had lovingly and tenderly cared for her
for many years. The funeral occurred on Sabbath morning, the 4th, at
this home and at her casket stood three generations; two children, Mrs. Martha
Moore and Mr. David Ash, two grand children, Mrs. J. R. Hughes and Miss Emma
Moore, two great grand children, children of Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Hughes. The
services were conducted by Rev. Dr. Thompson of the Presbyterian church and
attended by a large circle of friends. The burial service was at the Oak Ridge
cemetery. She has fought the fight, kept the faith, finished the course and
received her crown of life eternal. Peace to her ashes.
Moore—Mary Stewart Moore
was born in the month of August, 1815, near Rathmelton, Donegal county,
Ireland, emigrated to Philadelphia, Pa., December 29, 1836, was united to John
Moore in the holy bonds of matrimony by Rev. Alexander Macklin. September 18,
1842, she removed to Le Claire, Iowa, at which place she gave her heart to God
and united with the Le Claire Presbyterian church. She came of a Presbyterian
family, paternally and maternally, and during four generations her peoplehad
been of that faith. She was mother of ten children, her husband and five of
which have passed over the silent river, whither she has gone to meet them.
She came to the home of her daughter, Mrs. J. D. Campbell at this place, in
June 1894, where she remained until called to the home above, Tuesday,
September 18, 1894. Moore Samuel D. Moore, one of the long
time residents of this county, passed away last night at 9 o’clock at St.
Luke’s hospital. The cause of death was heart disease, with which Mr. Moore
had been ailing for about a year. He had resided in Scott County since 1847 and during most of
those years had been one of the well known farmers of Lincoln township. The deceased was born in
Philadelphia, May 20, 1838, and 55 years ago he came west, settling here.
He engaged at once in farming and was one of the successful
agriculturalists of the county. He was married there to Miss Eliza C. Port,
January 16, 1879, and with the bereaved wife he leaves two children—Samuel P.
and Chalmers D., both at home. He
is also survived by three sisters, Mrs. J. B. Campbell of Gilman, Ia, Mrs. L. F.
Royer of North Dakota, and Mrs. Melinda Eddelblute of Chicago. The
funeral will held from the residence near Argo, Sunday forenoon at
11 o’clock, with services at Summit church. Rev. Dr. Smith will
officiate. Interment will be in the Summit cemetery. [ca 1882]
[Porter] Quite unexpectedly the messenger of death came Tuesday morning and claimed Mrs. Mary Ann Porter, wife of Robert Porter. The deceased had been ill some days, but was thought to be improved, so much so that Mr. Porter was out of town when the sad news reached him. Her age was thirty-eight years and nineteen days. She was the daughter of Mr. William Stewart, of Le Claire, and had been a resident of Davenport for ten years. Four children—two sons and two daughters—are left to mourn a mother’s loss. The fatal disease was asthma. Mrs. Porter was a woman who had surrounded herself with friends, and one who will be sadly missed. The funeral will be held tomorrow at ten o’clock, from the house, No. 117 East Fourth street, the interment to take place in Oakdale. A Boy Burned to DeathAvoca, Ia., April 8. The farm
residence of J. H. Porter was consumed by fire at 3 o’clock this morning.
The family escaped in their night clothes, but John Beatty, aged 12 years,
perished in the flames. Men who attempted to rescue the boy had their hair and
whiskers burned off. The loss on the house was $1,200; partly insured. [hand dated June 29, 1900] DESTROYED BY LIGHTNING Finley Porter Loses Barn, Hogs and Many Bushels of Corn
During Storm
The lightning that accompanied the brief storm Friday afternoon played
pranks in other cases besides those reported yesterday. Finley Porter, one of
the best known farmers in the upper end of the county, whose place is near
Lost Grove, lost his barn, many bushels of corn, considerable hay and a number
of hogs, as a result of the lightning. The story was brought to town by S. S.
Davis of Valley City, who stated that none of the property was insured. There
were about 4,000 bushels of corn in the barn. MISS HYDE, THE BRIDE OF JULIUS N. PETERSEN
A pretty but quiet home wedding took place at 7 o’clock last
evening at the residence of the groom’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Theo. Petersen,
520 West Eighth street, Davenport, when Miss Jean C. Hyde was united in marriage
with Mr. Julius N. Petersen, a prominent young business man of Davenport. The
wedding, which was charming in its simplicity, was attended only by a small
company of about twenty relatives and close friends.
Pink and white was the color scheme throughout and the house had been
transformed into a floral bower by the use of great clusters of fragrant
carnations artistically combined with the greenery. Thee wide bow window of the
parlor was converted into an arbor banked with palms and potted plants to which
pink and white carnations added their beauty and touch of color. A large palm
occupied the center and beneath this the bridal couple, unattended, took their
places as the glad strains of the Mendelssohn wedding march, played by Miss
Wilma Reuter, resounded throughout the rooms. Justice Louis E. Roddewig
performed the impressive ceremony.
The bride was gowned in a pretty white mull, dainty with trimmings of
fine embroidery and she carried an arm bouquet of bride’s roses.
After the ceremony congratulations were showered upon the happy couple
and the guests repaired to the dining room where an elaborate wedding dinner was
served. Tall vases of pink and white carnations adorned the table and smilax
gracefully wreathed the cloth and festooned the chandelier.
Mr. and Mrs. Petersen deferred their wedding trip until later and went
immediately to housekeeping in a pretty room already prepared by the groom at
906 Gaines street, Davenport, where they will be at home to their friends after
May 15.
The bride is a native of Pleasant Valley but has made her home in
Davenport for the past eight years. For about a year she has been in the
training school for nurses in Mercy hospital and it was while there that the
pretty romance was begun which culminated in the happy event of last evening.
A young woman of charming and winning personality she has surrounded herself
with a wide circle of friends. The groom has lived in Davenport all his life.
A graduate of the Davenport high school, he has rapidly made his way in
business circles, where his genuine worth, integrity and splendid business
qualifications have gained for him the highest esteem. He is junior member of
the dry goods firm of Bugislaus & Petersen and a host of friends will join
The Times in good wishes to him and his bride. Bachelor Friends Decorated the New Residence of Julius Petersen For Fair
Persons who passed along Gaines
street this morning were witnesses to a scene which on account of its large
staring signs and disordered appearance and the fact that it had all sprung up
during the night was a surprise to them. The pretty little cottage bearing
the number 906 Gaines street was bedecked with all manner of attractively
painted signs announcing different things and unless the observer took especial
pains he could not be sure that there was more than a frame there for the place
was one great billboard. On the chimney was a great sheet
of white card board on which were painted in black the following words:
“ANOTHER BACHELOR GONE TO THE BAD.” That served as a key to the
mystery and after it had been reread several times and the others had been
viewed, it was evident that there was the abode of a newly married pair of
doves. In every window was a big flaring
card announcing something and even the fence was plastered with the bills. Tin cans were lying all over the
premises indicating that a rousing charivari had taken place there. That was the
clew to the fiendish noises which were heard all over the city for an hour or
two last night and the persons who thought that the strike at the Glucose works
had broken out heaved a sigh when they put one and two together and decided that
it was a charivari. Further investigation divulged
that the house was the new abode of Mr. and Mrs. Julius N. Petersen and that
they had repaired to that place after the double knot which made Miss Jean C.
Hyde the Mrs of the corporation was tied by Justice Roddewig. Mr. Petersen had been a member of
the bachelor club before he voluntarily sentenced himself to the life of a
benedict and it was the remaining contingent of the club that had made the place
a veritable Midway. Entering the house through a
second story window early last evening they proceeded to add the finishing
touches to their plans and had everything in working order before the couple
arrived. Every dish, vase and other
receptacle in the house was filled with rice which has come to be the
conventional sigma of marriage as it used to before the trusts sent the price of
the white grain sky high. Cost of the product did not figure with the jolly
baches, however, and several bushels of the Chinese staff of life were
distributed in the little house. It was then that the signs were
placed at different places. Their work was done well and every
person who passed the place this morning occupied many minutes in reading of the
placards and commenting upon them. It is
rumored that another member of the abstainers is soon to announce the throwing
off of his single life and the members of the club are hard at work forming
plans for that happy event. The man in question is a prominent dentist of this
city NORTH OF IRELAND, MAY 12TH MISTER EDITOR—Shure and I see
by the last paper an account of the big wedding and the big crowd that was
there. Faith and the best way to show the size of the crowd is by
illustration. It was so large that they did not have pegs and nails enough to
hang all the hats upon, and one young man had to keep his upon his head for
most of the evening, for he did not like to lay it down for fear some of the
girls would make a “mash”. Faith and the way they do at a big wedding, so
that all can see the ceremony, is
enough to tickle anyone, let alone Dennis. As soon as the “boss” went
“just” to let them know they were coming down stairs, shure and didn’t
everyone next the wall jump up and stand on chairs, and the next row stood up
on the floor, and the front row sat on their chairs like ladies and gentlemen,
and so they all got to see by this sort of graded row business. Then the byes
that wasn’t axed came around and made a big racket and said they wanted to
see the bride, and faith and Preston, like a little man, took her out on the
porch, and they made their bow to the uninvited scalawags, and retired in good
order. Supper, did you say? Shure and from what I can hear they did have one,
but it is too big to tell about. Shure the question that is troubling the
people now is that when a gun goes off and a man jumps up and goes through the
contortions of a man that is wounded when he is not hurt, is he lying, or in
other words, what is the difference between telling a lie and acting one? Will
some good preacher give us a sermon on that subject?
By the last issue a brief mention was made of the wedding of Mr. P. H.
McGinnis and Miss Becky Porter, which occurred at 7:30 p.m. on May 1st
at the residence of the bride’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Finley Porter. The
wedding ceremony was performed by the Rev. J. B. McBride, according to the
service of the Presbyterian church.
This was the largest wedding ever held in this township.
Mr. J. H. Taylor of Le Claire, and Miss Jennie Turner of DeWitt,
officiated as groomsman and bridesmaid.
The bride who is tall and stately, and one of the handsomest girls in
this community, looked very lovely in an elegant wedding dress of pale blue
silk. The bridegroom was attired in regulation costume, and was the adulation of
all the ladies present.
One hundred and fifty guests were assembled, the towns of Princeton, Le
Claire, Davenport, McCausland, De Witt, and Malone, being represented. It was a
beautiful moonlight night, and one that will be long remembered.
Following is a list of the wedding presents Set silver knives—Mr. and Mrs. Headley Silver butter knife—Tillie
Jones Her Remains to Be Laid to Rest at LeClaire Cemetery.
The funeral of the late Mrs. Mary McGinnis will be held at the
Christian church at LeClaire, Ia., this morning at 11 o’clock.
Mrs. McGinnis died at the home of her son, J. B. McGinnis, of DeWitt,
Ia, at the age of 77 years, 11 months and 30 days. She was married to William
McGinnis June 11, 1843. Twelve children were born to them, seven of whom are
dead and five living. Those surviving are as follows: J.C. McGinnis of
Seattle, Wash.; Mrs. S. L. Carpenter, of Clear Lake, Ia., P.H. McGinnis, of
Princeton. Porter
Mrs. Finley Porter, a woman of notable character and universally beloved
in Princeton, has passed away. Anna Doherty was born in Donegal, Ireland, moved
to this country when a child and grew to womanhood. She was married to Finley
Porter, who, with eight grown children is left to mourn her loss. Her death
occurred on the 15th day of March at 6:30 in the evening, after a
sickness of from Saturday until the next Friday, when she passed quietly away,
which was a great shock to both her family and many friends.
There seems to be a universal feeling of regret and sorrow not only for
the time and measure of Mrs. Porter’s removal, but for the fact of her removal
at all. I have heard remarks to that effect from ones here and there in
different walks of life among us, and from men and women. And to so live that
you will be missed by your community is a tribute to your worth; it is a goal
that is worthy of effort. It means that in your life must enter elements of good
cheer and kindly ministries in which self will be forgotten for others, and to
say that your town misses you, means that your life has been able to touch the
life of your community in various ways—touch it in a social way; touch it in a
neighborly way, touch it in sorrow and in joy.
The Savior loves the little birds, and the flowers, and the fields—was
in touch with them, for they were the works of his own hands. He cares for them
all. He openeth his hand, and his creatures, like the birds, open their mouth,
and of his bounty they receive. Mrs. Porter stood sympathetically related to the
world of nature in a marked degree. Even though she is dead and may she yet
speak to us, and admonish us to be faithful. The time is short. I am sure that
in the presence of the Savior whom she endeavored to serve, she does not regret
being faithful to Him. She honored the ordinances of her Father’s house by
love and respect she showed the ministers of the gospel. The swift progression
of the events of the last few days have been a great shock to all who knew her.
We can scarcely yet realize that we shall never see Mrs. Porter in her seat at
the Lord’s house. Ah, how uncertain is time, and how fleeting are the years,
the places that know tis now, shall soon know us no more forever. But, dear
friends, brief as this life may be it is yet not so brief that it can become to
us the earnest of a heavenly inheritance through the realized presence
of the spirit of God, the fellowship of the Redeemer and the merciful
keeping of God our father. Let us be followers of those, who amid manifold
infirmities, yet through faith and patience, have inherited the promised land.
The encrustings of earth shall be removed from us as we take our flight to
higher and purer realms, looking forward to the goodly company that is
constantly growing in the heavenly places, to the new Jerusalem, the innumerable
company of angels, and to Jesus, the mediator of the new covenant, may be filled
with the purpose to so live here that the place prepared for His redeemed shall
be awaiting us. As you sorrow then for the one who has been taken from you let
it be mingled with the joys of the
faith that she is with her Lord, which is far better. At the same time let there
be present the hope and the purpose that by God’s grace you shall yet enjoy
the fellowships offered one cleansed of all earthly strains. But the truer life
draws near,
And its morning climbs higher, Earth’s hold on
us grows slighter,
And the heavy burden lighter, And the dawn
immortal brighter every year.
The funeral was held on Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock, conducted by
Rev. Dr. Campbell and Rev. McBride. The interment was made at the Lutheran
graveyard beside her father and mother and her other children who have gone
before.
The funeral was said to have been the largest ever held in this
community, over 600 people being present. AN OLD LADY’S LIFE
The funeral of Mrs. Isabel Sykes, in LeClaire township, on Friday last,
was attended by a great number of people, though the weather was very inclement.
The services were held in Zion’s church, the Rev. Mr. Williams of Summit
church, officiating.
Mrs. Sykes had resided in LeClaire and Princetown townships for
thirty-five years. She was a singular woman—singular in her strength of mind,
her strong common sense, her industry, and kindliness of heart. She was a native
of Ireland—born in County Donegal in 1800. In 1822 she married James Porter,
who died in 1844, leaving her with eight children. The year after her
husband’s death, she emigrated to America, remaining some time in New York,
where in 1847 she married Mr. Charles Sykes. In 1848 the family emigrated to
this county and settled on a farm in LeClaire township—removing to Princeton
township a few years thereafter, where they dwelt for fifteen years. Mr. Sykes
died in 1862, and not long thereafter the widow purchased a cottage with a tract
of four acres in LeClaire township, which was her abiding place, except during
the winter months, when she lived with her son Finley, to the day of her death.
Her industry was remarkable—she could not be content unless at work—if not
for herself, then for somebody else. Her memory was wonderful—and her fund of
information often astonished people who conversed with her. Six sons and a
daughter survive—all children of her first husband. There are Mr. Robert
Porter in Davenport, Finley in Princeton, James in Lincoln, William in LeClaire,
John in Grinnell, Joseph in Avoca, and Mrs. Mary Littlepage in Oregon. Her
eldest son, Samuel, died in Story county last year.
Mrs. Sykes’s death was singular as her
life. She was ailing but a week—fell into a painless decline, which
gradually drew death to her without causing suffering. [Porter]
The subject of this sketch, Mr. William Porter, was born in Donegal,
Ireland in 1817. In a844 he came to the United States, landing in New York and
remaining there until he came to Scott county, Iowa, in 1848. Before leaving
Ireland he married Ann Buchanan. The result of this union was ten children, five
of whom survive him. He united with the Presbyterian church in Ireland at the
age of twenty. Removed his letter to the Presbyterian church in New York, thence
to LeClaire in 1851. After the burning of the church in 1859 LeClaire church
became practically disorganized. Mr. Porter did not take part in its
reorganization in 1874 but was restored to membership June 12, 1892. Mr. Porter
came to this country a poor man, having about $150 ready money and by skillful
management accumulated his present property. Mrs. Porter departed from this life
in 1879. Mr. Porter remained a widower until 1881, when he married Mrs. Martha
Kirby, who with his two sons and three daughters are left to mourn his loss. The
deceased had been in declining health for the past three years, and during this
protracted illness has bourne his suffering with the greatest patience and
Christian fortitude. With the closing of the year 1892l, Dec. 31, the summons
came and peacefully he went to sleep.
The funeral services were held in Zion Baptist church, Jan 3, 1893. the
services were conducted by Rev. J.E. Cummings, assisted by Revs. Hanna,
Cleland and Moffat. He was laid to rest in Jack’s cemetery. Though the day
was extremely cold a large concourse of his friends and neighbors gathered and
thus showed their appreciation of the departed. A STRANGE STORY
A Marshalltown dispatch of Nov 1st has the following:--
“On Sunday Last the body of Samuel Porter, an old and respected citizen
of Story County, whose home was about two miles east of Iowa Centre, was found
on his farm,his death being caused by gunshot wounds. The Coroner was summoned,
and the result of the investigation was the committal of Porter’s wife and two
sons, named George and John, to be tried for the murder of husband and father.
The preliminary examination is now
in progress at Colo. The facts already known bring to mind the murder of George
Kirkman, which occurred in the same township a few years ago. Like that it seems
to have been preceded by years of trouble in the family. It appears that Porter
was missing for several days previous to the finding of the body, and accounts
given of various circumstances by different members of the family and
contradictory and lead to the belief that they do not tell all they know. An old
gun was placed in such a position as to indicate suicide, but all appearances
indicate that Porter was killed at some other place and his body and the gun
afterwards placed as found. It appears that he was shot twice—first in the
back and afterwards in the face—and that neither of the shots could have been
fired from the gun in the position in which it was discovered. There is great
excitement over the affair, and the general belief is that it was a foul murder.
Porter was a man over fifty years of age. The boys now under arrest are of the
younger members of the family. One of them is said to be only about sixteen
years old.”
A bare statement of the fact mentioned above was telegraphed from Des
Moines to the Associated Press and appeared in THE GAZETTE from that source
last Friday morning. There is little doubt but that the murdered man was well
known in Davenport. He was a brother of William, Robert, James and Finley, of
Scott County, Joseph, of Avoca, and John, of Grinnell. On Saturday Mr. Robert
Porter received a telegram announcing his brother’s cruel murder, and on
Saturday evening James, William and Finley started for Story County. ADMINISTRATOR’S SALE
Notice is hereby given, that on Thursday, the 29th day of
March, A.D., 1883, between the hours of 10’clock in the forenoon and 5
o’clock in the afternoon of said day, at the residence of Samuel Porter,
deceased, the personal property of said decedent, consisting of two horses, one
pony, two mules, two sets of double harness, three steers coming 3 years old,
seven steers coming 2 years old, four heifers coming 3 years old, one heifer
coming 2 years old, one bull coming 2 years old, five calves, seven milch cows,
one lumber wagon, one threshing machine, plow, harrow, mowing machine, a lot of
hay, corn, oats, wheat and flax seed, and other articles will be sold at public
sale.
TERMS OF SALE:--Purchases of less than five dollars to be paid in hand;
for that amount and over, on a credit of eight months, the purchaser giving note
with approved security at eight percent interest. W.H.
NELSON March
2d, 1883
34w3
Administrator REVOLVER AND POISONMISS
GILES’ STORY OF HER LOVER’S THREATS Declares
Hary Drenter of Lincoln Township Said There Would Be Two Less People in the
World If She Refused to Marry Him—Faints When She Reaches Friends in
Davenport One of the most sensational cases of the year will come to trial on preliminary hearing this afternoon at 2 o’clock when Harry Drenter, a young farmer living two miles east of the Summit church, will be arraigned in the charge of threatening the life of Freda Giles, a Milan, Ill., girl who has been employed as a domestic at the home of M. Drenter, a brother of the accused, at whose home Harry Drenter, an unmarried man aged 28 years, is living while attending to his own farm across the road.
The girl’s story is that she went to work at Mr. Drenter’s and that
soon after she arrived there Harry Drenter tried to show her attentions, which
she discouraged. She refused to go anywhere with him and he complained to her
that she would go where Mrs. Drenter suggested, but never where he asked her
to go.
Miss Giles, who is 18 years of age and of attractive appearance, says
that, a month ago, Harry asked her how she would like to live in the vacant
house across the road on his farm. He replied she would not like it and then
he declared he wanted to marry her. She walked away from him and said nothing.
A little over a week ago, she declares he came to her and said he had a
revolver for her and a dose of strychnine for himself, and there would be two
less people in the world if she would not marry him. In fear she said she
would have to see her father first and he answered that made no difference.
Seeking to get him away she said she must then see her uncle, who lives in
this country. Harry said it was not her uncle’s business.
Miss Giles reported this conversation to Mrs. Drenter, who, according
to the girl’s story told it to Mr. M. Drenter, with the result he gave Harry
a scolding. Miss Giles continues by saying that while she was going through
the pantry last Wednesday she found a note commanding her to meet Harry at the
vacant house, on pain of the revolver and the dose of poison. She showed the
note to the sister-in-law of Harry and again the latter was reprimanded, by
his brother. M. Drenter left for a few days and while he was easy, says Miss
Giles, Harry Drenter walked the floor aat night and the two women, occupying a
room together, could not sleep for the fear of what he might try to do. A week
ago yesterday, according to the girl, he again persisted in the demand that
she should marry him, and said he was going to Davenport to get the license.
She was afraid, she says, to object to his going and thought it would be a way
to get him away from the place so she might make her escape. He drove to
Davenport and got the license a week ago yesterday. Acting on advice of Mrs.
Drenter, the girl went to Eldridge with her to catch the train, which she
missed. Then she went to the house of a Mr. Stoltenberg to stay until the next
train. Mr. Stoltenberg advised waiting until the next day, for fear Drenter
might be lying in wait at Eldridge. Next morning Drenter drove up in a red
buggy pulled by aq Whitehorse from which the sweat was dripping. He asked if
Freda was there. Mr. Stoltenberg stretched the truth and said she had been
there but had taken a train for Milan. As a matter of fact the girl was in an
upstairs room beside herself with fear.
Next evening she got a train to Davenport and went to the house on the
bluff where whe formerly worked. Here she told her story to friends and the
lady of the house says whenever she hears the sound of hoofs on the pavement
Miss Giles drew back and fairly shook with fright, thinking the red buggy and
white horse were there. On her arrival who had fainted, when congratulated on her marriage, inferred by the family from the notice of the license read in the papers last week. Through these friends Lawyer J. A. Hanley was brought into the matter and began the action now pending before Justice hall. The girl is in Milan where she is protected by relatives… WOLFE’S OPINIONIS RECEIVED IN
THE BROWNLIE SUIT Decree to
Dismiss Bill of Plaintiff, Charles L. Brownlie—Intention of Father Considered Deputy Clerk J. F. Cheek received from Judge P. B. Wolfe of Clinton a long written opinion on the case of Charles L. Brownlie vs. A. D. Brownlie, et al. The suit, as is well known, is one which the plaintiff seeks to recover property in notes, lands, etc., to the amount of about $25,000, all of which is claimed, were given and deeded over to the defendant. Charles L. Brownlie is a minor son of the plaintiff. The bill of the plaintiff was dismissed.
The case is an action commenced for the plaintiff by his guardian to
quiet his title to certain real and personal property in this county. All the
facts in the case are practically undisputed, so the main question for
consideration is one of law. In
reviewing the story of the case, the judge writes in part:
“On the 13th day of March, 1899, the defendant, A. D.
Brownlie, executed a warranty deed conveying to the plaintiff certain real
estate in Scott County; he also and at the same time conveyed by bill of sale
his personal property and by indorsement his notes in the sum of about $10,000. Said property was conveyed without money consideration and without any knowledge on the
plaintiff’s part. The transfers
were all voluntary on the part of the defendant, A. D. Brownlie, and were
executed in the office of A. P. McGuirk, by whom they were prepared.” Story of the Note
The story of the note left by the defendant is revie3wed also in the
opinion rendered. The note is:
“Dear Charles: I left the $600 note at McGuirk’s and deeds of the
property, both personal and real estate, I turned over to you. Look after the little ones and divide up with them. If you
don’t divide before you are married you might have trouble getting your wife
to sign the deeds. Call at McGuirk’s and get deed and mortgage recorded.”
The papers were left at Mr. McGuirk’s office, with instructions that
they were to be turned over to the plaintiff which within a few days was done.
Now in regard to the disputed intention of the defendant, the judge says: Defendant’s Intention
“This intention must be gathered from all the facts and circumstances
in evidence, as there is no direct testimony as to the intent of the grantor,
notwithstanding the fact that he was during the entire trial present in the
court room. From all the facts and circumstances my finding is that when A.
D. Brownlie left the papers with Mr. McGuirk it was his intention to
write to his son and inform him of the execution of the papers, where he would
find them, when he got them, whathe was to do with them and the property.
That the property was not transferred to him for his sole use and
benefit, but that it was to be equally divided among his brothers and sisters.
That it was his intention to write and mail such a letter at that time I have no
doubt and I do not see how any other decision can be arrived at even from the
letter itself..” Plaintiff Bill Dismissed
In conclusion the judge writes: “Believing as I do that his father never intended to make him the owner of his entire estate at the time it was conveyed to him, but rather that he hold it in trust for himself and his brothers and sisters, a decree will be entered dismissing his bill.” Cook & Dodge were attorneys for the plaintiff and J. A. Hanley for the defendant. ROYER-HAVENS In Des Moines, on June 20, by Rev. I. N. Knipe, Elwood Royer and Miss Jessie Havens. The groom is a son of Mr. and Mrs. L. F. Royer, most estimable residents of Richland township. The young man left the farm five or six years ago to make his way in the capital city, and has succeded well and creditably. His bride is a worthy and attractive Des Moines girl, who will make him an excellent companion. In the Daily Capital published just before the wedding appeared the following: “A very pretty wedding will take place tonight at the Havens home, 1334 Walker street. Miss Jessie Havens will be married to Mr. Elwood Royer. Greeting the guests will be Mr. and Mrs. L. F. Royer, Miss Harriet Havens and Miss May Havens. The rooms will be tastefully decorated with palms, and in the parlors roses will be found in every possible place. Miss Mabel Garton will play Mendelssohn’s wedding march at 8 o’clock. The bride and groom will be unattended, the bride being gowned in wheite organdie with trimmings of lace and carrying roses. Rev. I. N. Knipe will perform the ceremony. The bridal couple will stand before the west bay window, which is built in with palms and ferns, making the entire background green, lightened with pink and white carnations. This forms a canopy in which a bell is hung. The ceremony is to be brief. After the congratulations a wedding supper will be served in the dining room. The table spread will be heavily trimmed with smilax, and pink and white ribbons, alternate will be suspended from the corners of the table to the chandelier above. Assisting in serving will be Miss Mabel Garton and Miss Floy Sheldahl. Miss Callie McCornacs will preside over the frappe. The out of town guests are Mrs. Ciela Allison of Eldora, Mr. Harry Moore of Indianola, Mr. Charles Lyon of Valley Junction, Miss Bessie Ritchey and Miss Olive Deweil of Washington, Iowa, and Mr. John Lyon of Dexter. Mr. and mrs. Royer will leave tomorrow for a four weeks trip in the east, stopping at Chicago, Detroit, Niagara, New York, and other points. On their return they will be at home after September 1 at 1430 Sixth avenue, where the groom has fitted up a cozy home for his bride. Mr. Royer is bookkeeper for the Peycke Bros. And Chaney. Miss Havens is a graduate of the East Side high school, and both have a wide acquaintance in the city. [hand-dated,
May 21, 1903] DEATH LAST EVENING OF JAMES PORTER, PIONEER
Longtime Resident Of This county Passes Away at His Home
James Porter died last evening at 8 o’clock. He was born in Donegal,
Ireland, Dec. 25, 1824, came to American when a young man and to Scott county in
1846. He was married in 1851 to
Miss Rebecca Moore. Six children were born to them, one son and five daughters,
four of whom survive: Jas. A. Porter of Bettendorf, Mrs. Mary J. Bishop of Des
Moines, Mrs. Rebecca Dixon and Martha M. Porter, both of Davenport. He was for
many years a member of the Summit Presbyterian church and after moving to
Davenport he connected himself with the Second Presbyterian church here. The
funeral services will be held at the family residence, 1333 Fulton avenue,
Sunday morning at 10 o’clock. Interment will be at Jack’s burying ground
near LeClaire [hand-written, “buried 24th
of May”] CARD OF THANKS
The widow and family of the late James Porter desire to express their
thanks to their friends for the sympathy and many kindly services received
during their recent affliction in the illness and death of husband and father.
MRS. REBECCA MOORE PORTER [hand-dated June 2, 1904 with note sick one week and one
day] Porter
The death of Mrs. Rebbecca A. Porter, of 1333 Fulton avenue, occurred
this morning at 12:30 o’clock. Mrs. Porter was born in Donegal, Ireland, April
6, 1820, and was united in marriage to James Porter and for many years they
resided on a farm two miles east of the Summit church, of which they were both
members. After moving to Davenport they united with the Second Presbyterian
church of this city. Mrs. Porter is survived by four children, James A. Porter,
of Bettendorf; Mrs. Mary J. Bishop, of Des Moines; Mrs. Rebecca Dixon, and Miss
Martha M. Porter, both of Davenport. Mr. Porter’s death occurred a year ago.
The funeral services will be held at the family residence Saturady
morning at 9:o’clock. The interment will be made in the Jack cemetery near
LeClaire. [hand-dated, June 4, 1904] Porter Funeral
The funeral of Mrs. Rebecca A. Porter was held from the late residence,
1333 Fulton avenue, this morning at 9 o’clock. The rev. Mott R. Sawyers,
pastor of the Second Presbyterian church, of Davenport officiated at the house
and at the grave. The remains were taken to the Jack cemetery near LeClaire
for burial. THE LATE MRS. ANN PORTER
The death of the late Mrs. Ann Porter, wife of Mr. William Porter, of
LeClaire township, recently announced in THE GAZETTE, has been followed by
numerous and continued expressions of heart-felt regret, emenating from a wide
circle of the friends and acquaintances of the deceased. Among these expressions
the following has been sent to THE GAZETTE for publication:
The death of Mrs. Porter occurred on April 27th from cancer in
the stomach. The deceased was born
in Ireland in 1821; so she would have been 59 years of age had she lived until
May. Her marriage to Mr. William Porter took place 35 years ago, and her arrival
in this country in 1844. After that time, three years only excepted, the greatly
attached couple lived in their beautiful home in LeClaire Center, Scott county.
The deceased was the mother of ten children; five of whom survive with her
husband who seriously mourns her loss. She died in the faith of a believer in
Christ whom she had served for many years. She was a member of the United
Presbyterian church , the services of which she delighted to attend, and to talk
with the people of God. She never
tired of speaking of her Maker, whom she trusted. She was never alone; she
always claimed her God was ever with her.
Three of her daughters had moved away a few months before her illness,
and received the sad news of coming death only in time to reach the home to
attend the funeral and look upon her cold face.
The funeral services were held on the 29th at the church,
and were conducted by the Rev. S. S. Ralston. Her family followed her remains
to the grave with broken hearts. All her knew her were in grief, for she was
an affectionate mother; was ever a good neighbor and friend
and kind to the poor;; tramps were never sent away hungry from her
door. She had a host of friends who will miss her, while a sister in Camanche
and a brother in Philadelphia swell the list of her
sincere mourners. Marshalltown,
Ia., Sept 23—(Special.) Mrs. Margaret Moore Stewart, 84 years old, until nine
years ago a resident of LeClaire, Ia., died here this morning after a long
illness.
At the age of 19 Mrs. Stewart, then Miss Mary Moore, came to LeClaire
from Ireland with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Moore. They resided there and
there she was married.
Nine years ago deceased came to Marshalltown, and has since resided
here. She was well known both here and in LeClaire.. The body will be sent
tomorrow to LeClaire, where burial will be made. [hand-dated Oct
25, 1904] PROMINENT FARMER WEDS IN DAVENPORT
At
the home of the groom’s niece, Miss Martha Porter, 1333 Fulton avenue,
Davenport, at 8 o’clock last evening occurred the marriage of Mr. Finley
Porter, of Princeton township, and Mrs. Mary Lobdell, of Pleasant Valley. Mott
R. Sawyers, minister at the Second Presbyterian church, performed the ceremony
in the presence of a small company of the immediate relatives and a few
friends. A wedding prepast followed the congratulations. Mr. and Mrs. Porter
departede on a wedding journey and the honeymoon will be spent visiting
relatives in Chicago and Indiana. On their return they will reside on a farm
recently purchased by the groom near Valley City. The groom is a highly
esteemed farmer of this locality and both he and his bride have many friends
who will bestow good wishes on their union. [hand-dated,
1903] DR. JAMES GAMBLE DEADSCOTT COUNTY LOSES PIONEEROldest
Practicing Physician in County passes Away After Short Illness At His Home At two o’clock yesterday morning occurred the death of Dr. James Gamble of LeClaire, the oldest practicing physician in the county. He was sick only twelve hours before his death.
He was 82 years of age, having been born in Ireland, March 6, 1821. He
moved to LeClaire in 1847 and has been a resident of that place ever since. When
the civil war broke out, he enlisted in the Union army and was made army
physician, in which capacity he served throughout the war. After peace came
again he returned to LeClaire and resumed the practice of medicine there and
succeeded in working up a large practice. His wife died some years ago.
The many city offices held by him at different times, show the great
regard which his fellow citizens held for him. He has been mayor of the city,
member of the council for some years, and was elected president of the school
board several times.
He was a member of the Scott county Medical society and is greatly
respected by the medical profession. His skill as a doctor is acknowledged all
over the county. He was a member of the Presbyterian church and a diligent
worker for the church.
Two brothers survive him. Thomas Gamble, a physician of Wheatland, Ia.,
and another brother in St. Louis. His career has been a noble one, having served
in the civil war as physician, and proved one of the leading physicians in the
state since he has been here. He was greatly respected by all his fellow
townsmen and he leaves a host of friends to mourn his loss. Many Davenporters
also are well acquainted with him and remember him only as a noble man and a
good doctor. His noble deeds and good actions as well as his great charity will
be long remembered by those residents of the county who have come in contact
with him durng his long and successful career. The funeral will be held Thursday afternoon at 2 o’clock from his home in LeClaire with interment in the cemetery at that city. Rev. Williams of LeClaire will officiate and preach the services at the home and at the cemetery. The members of the G.A.R. will attend in a body and all the citizens of LeClaire will be at the services. The
marriage of Mr. Will Bishop and Miss Minnie Hamlin will be Wednesday, December
2. Several pre-nuptial companies will be given. Miss Daisy Bishop gave a plate
shower Saturday afternoon. Mrs.
Will Hamlin gave an afternoon. Mr. Will Bishop will receive his share of
social courtesies. Friday evening, Messrs. Ray McKinnon and James Griffin will
give a sock shower. [Hand-dated
1903]
Mr. William Henry Bishop and Miss Minnie Hazel Hamlin were married last
evening at the home of the bride’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. L. L. Hamlin of
Twenty-second street. The thirty-five wedding guests were welcomed by Mr. and
Mrs. Hamlin, parents of the bride, and Mrs. Mary J. Bishop, mother of the
groom. White chrysanthemums, palms and smilax gave an effective appearance to
the home. Miss Helen Davis played Mendelssohn’s wedding march as the bridal
party entered. Leading was the little flower girl, Leah Hamlin, a niece of the
bride, attired in a costume of pink albatross and carrying a basket filled
with pink and white carnations, followed by Rev. J. H. Burma, and lastly the
bride and groom. At 8o’clock,
while the bride and groom were standing under a bower of similax and in front
of a banking of palms and smilax. Rev.
Mr. Burma, of the Presbyterian church of Knoxville, performed the ceremony.
The bride was gowned in Persian lawn, shirred and lace trimmed, and she
carried bride’s roses. After congratulations, refreshments were served in
the dining room. Mr. and Mrs. Bishop go immediately to housekeeping at 2224
University avenue. At home after January 1. The visiting guests were Mrs.
Roberts of Marshalltown, Mrs. Grier of Hendrick and Rev. Mr. Burma of
Knoxville. {Hand-dated,
1903] Summit Church Notes
The people of this congregation are full of eagerness and hope for its
prosperity. As is becoming in the situation, the leading social interests of the
season of Christmas festivities gather about the church; in these all the people
of the community are invited to share.
First, a largely attended oyster supper was spread in a house close by,
such as is annually observed, a sort of greeting for the home coming of the
absent ones and to rally to their numbers such strangers as may have been
gathering here the year.
In preparation for Christmas eve the large choir of singers rehearsed for
a week in advance as if for a rendering of song, chorus, etc., worthy of
professionals. The decorations of the interior of the edifice were chaste and
apt rather than gorgeous, all pointing their significance to a glowing star in
the west, toward which all eyes in the assembly were directed. On that evening
the mass of attendants filled the house, for in this church is no distinction of
age between young and old. Beside the songs and devotions every child furnished
an exercise, singly or in classes. After this every one in the house was amply
supplied with refreshments, fruits, sweetmeats and nuts that from the heap where
they lay seemed to have fallen from the star which hung in the sky. After the
closing benediction the assembly stood to watch the surprise of the minister
while he was robed in a choice fur coat which had been purchased for him, a
complete defence against winter’s furious gusts.
Next was the throng of the young people alone, who on Tuesday evening
filled the parsonage to repletion, and after several hours of graceful
diversions a banquet furnished as a surprise left, but leaving behind selections
of table supplies and family delicacies.
On Wednesday afternoon their regular missionary meeting and sewing
society was held. On Thursday
evening opens a series of religious services appointed as sharing in the
simultaneous movement to be observed in a large number of the religious
denominations this year. This series here is to be continued for ten days or
longer. [Hand-dated,
Jan. 26, 1905] Criswell
Benjamin Criswell, aged 85 years, and one of the old residents of Scott
county, died at his home at noon today after an illness of several weeks. The
old gentleman had been lingering near death’s door for several days and his
end was expected.
A telephone message to friends in the city conveyed the news of his death
this afternoon. The cause of death was pneumonia.
He was born June 13, 1819 in Pennsylvania, in Blair county. He came to
Scott county in 1851, and had lived in Eldridge most of the time since, on the
place where he died. He is survived by three sons, Andrew B Criswell, at home,
Asbury Criswell of Charter Oak, Iowa, and Orville Criswell of Crawford county.
The funeral will be held Sunday morning from the house at 10 o’clock
with services in the summit church at 11 o’clock and interment in the Summit
cemetery. [Jan 29, 1905] [Hand-written:
died May 22, 1904] OLD SETTLER
PASSES AWAY ANDREW JACK
LIVED IN COUNTY SIXTY-FIVE YEARS Settled in Le
Claire With His Family in 1839—Moved to Davenport Twelve Years Ago Andrew Jack, for 65 years a resident of Scott county, most of which time was spent in the town and township of LeClaire, passed away yesterday morning at 7:25 o’clock at the home of his niece, Mrs. Ed Parmele, 1322 Bridge avenue. Mr. Jack had lived in Davenport for the past twelve years, retiring from his farm in 1892.
Heart trouble was the cause of death. Mr. Jack had suffered acutely from
the disease for many weeks and death came as a welcome relief.
He was born in Alleghaney county, Pa., December 30, 1829 and came with
his family to Scott county in April 1839., settling on a farm in LeClaire
township. He lived on the farm until 1850, when with A. H. Danford and R. H.
Rogers, he entered the milling, lumber and merchandise business in LeClaire.
Fire destroyed their property shortly afterwards and Mr. Jack entered the
merchandise business for himself, continuing to reside in LeClaire for three or
four years. He married in 1851, his wife being Martha A. Jamison. Mrs. Jack
survives him. In 1859, they removed to a farm two and one-half miles northwest
of LeClaire and continued their residence there until 1892, when they retired,
moving to Davenport, where the home has been ever since. About six weeks ago,
they removed from their own home, 1326 Bridge savenue, to that of Mr. and Mrs.
Ed Parmele, who cared for the old gentleman during his last days.
But one son was born to the couple. He died in 1873 at the age of 21. Mr.
Jack joined the Presbyterian church at LeClaire when he was 18 years old and
continued his membership inthat congregation until his removal to Davenport, at
which time he severed his connection as elder of the church, which he had held
since 1874. Since coming to Davenport, he has been a constant attendant at the
Second Presbyterian church. He was a member of the Scott County Pioneer
Settlers’ association and at one time served as its president.
The funeral services will be held tomorrow at
8:30 o’clock at the Parmele home, 1322 Bridge avenue. Rev. Mott R.
Sawyers, pastor of the Second Presbyterian church will officiate. The funeral
party with the remains will then repair to LeClair in carriages where services
will be continued at 1:30 o’clock.
The remains will be interred in the Jack cemetery which the father of
the deceased gave the Presbyterian church many years ago.
[buried 24, 1904] WYLIE MAY GO PASTOR OF
SECOND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH CALLED Has Not
Received Official Notice but That Will Be Sent Soon A special from Iowa City stating that the First Presbyterian church of that place had extended a call to Rev. D. W. Wylie of the Second Presbyterian church of this city, is the first intimation many in Davenport received that there was a likelihood that the local church might lose its pastor.
The special stated that the call had been forwarded, but that
announcement is somewhat premature. At a meeting of the congregation in Iowa
City Sunday morning a recommendation that Rev. Wylie be called was presented and
was unanimously adopted. The session and trustees were instructed to prepare a
call and forward it to Mr. Wylie for his acceptance or refusal. Wylie Not Notified
Rev. Wylie said this afternoon that he had received no notice of any
official action by the Iowa City church, though he had received intimations that
something had been done in regard to the matter. He was in Iowa City some time
ago and the members of his congregation know of the possibility of his being
called there, though the matter has never been presented to them. Till he
receives official notice, Mr. Wylie is not prepared to state his decision or
inclination on the matter, but it is likely that the notice will be received
before the end of the week.
In discussing the Iowa City field, Rev. Wylie said that it offered much
in the way of hard work and much that is attractive. There is a large field of
work with the student class and while it is difficult it offers a great deal
that is interesting to a young man. Since the death of the late Dr. Barret of
Iowa City, the First Presbyterian congregation of that place has been looking
for a minister able to take up his work and they think that in Rev. Wylie they
have found one. Here Three Years
Rev. D. W. Wylie is a native of Ohio and received his college education
at Worcester university, Worcester, Ohio. He was graduated from there in 1895,
and received the dregg of A. B. Later he went to McCormick Theological seminary,
at Chicago, where he studied three years. On the completion of his studies
there, Worcester university conferred on him the degree Master of Arts. He was
at once called to the pastorate of the Second Presbyterian church, coming here
May 13, 1899.
His work for the church since that time has been earnest and inspiring
and he has endeared himself to all of its members. He is still a very young
man but has an excellent reputation as a speaker. Should he accept the Iowa
City call, Davenport as well as the congregation of which he has had charge,
will be a loser. [Hand-dated,
April 13, 1903] DEATH OF MRS. ANNA LONG OCCURRED YESTERDAY Funeral Service Will Be In Charge Of Church
Mrs. Anna Henry Long, who was 75 years of age last Friday, having been
born in Ireland, April 10, 1828, passed away yesterday afternoon at 5 o’clock
after an illness lasting four weeks and after being a patient at the hospital
for nearly two weeks. Mrs. Long lived for many years in this country and in this
city. Her residence was at 1014
East Thirteenth street. James Long, her husband, died here some years ago. They
left no children. The only relative of Mrs. Long who is in the city is her
sister, Mrs. Baird, who is lying in an unconscious condition at St. Luke’s
hospital. Her other relative is a brother, Mr. John Henry, living at Hancock,
Iowa.
Mrs. Long was for a long time a devoted member of the United
Presbyterian church of this city and in all consequence the funeral services
will be held under the auspices of that church. The remains have been removed
to the Boies undertaking establishment for preparation for buriea.
Announcement is to be made that the funeral will be held Wednesday afternoon,
with services at 3 o’clock at the United Presbyterian church and interment
in Oakdale. [Hand-written
note: Robert Moffitt graduated] Class Song
A class song for the graduating students has been written by Harry Hansen
and Professor Ernst Otto has set the words to music. The song will be sung during the class day exercises and
commencement night. The Seniors’ Farewell
Class song of the class of February 1903, composed expressly for this
occasion. Music by Ernest Otto; words by Harry A. Hansen. . In the country of
the free, Do we love it? Can
we say? CHORUS ‘Tis our last
greeting, Our last farewell, II. Four short years
have passed away, Latin, Greek,
astronomy, III. Now our little
song we’ve sung, To our motto true
we’ll be— Forget
the days spent at the D. H. S. (Chorus) SEAMAN-VAN EVERA NUPTIALS ON NEW YEAR’S EVE
A PRETTY HOME WEDDING TOOK PLACE LAST EVENING AT THE RESIDENCE OF Mr. and
Mrs. W. H. Seaman on the Harrison street road, north of Davenport, when their
daughter, Miss Josephine Seaman, was united in marriage with Mr. Carl H. Van
Evera of Scott county, Ia. A company of about forty relatives and intimate
friends were in attendance. The house was adorned with pink and white roses and
carnations combined with smilax and the Christmas greens effectively intertwined
with pink and white ribbons. Promptly at the appointed hour, to the strains of
“Hearts and Flowers,” played by Miss Lulu Seaman, sister of the bride, the
bridal party entered the parlor. Miss Katharine Van Evera, sister of the groom,
and Mr. Benton Gillmore, Miss Helen Hodges and Mr. Gus Seaman, brother of the
bride, who were the attendants, led the way, stretching white satin ribbons and
forming an aisle through which the bridal couple passed, taking their positions
in the wide open bay window, beneath an arch of smilax and pink and white roses.
Here the service was spoken by Rev. J. B. Donaldson of the First Presbyterian
church, the ring service of the church being used. The bride was gowned in
imported white etamine, over white taffeta silk with trimmings of embroidered
chiffon and a wide bertha of pointed lace on the bodice. She carried a bouquet
of bride’s roses. The bridesmaids were attired in light blue crepe with lace
garniture.
Following felicitations an elegant wedding supper was served. The dining
room was done in pink and white roses and carnations being used on the tables
and the cakes and ices carried out the prevailing color tones.
Mr. and Mrs. Van Evera will be at home to their friends after Jan. 15 at
the Van Evera homestead, “Maple Hill” on the Utica Ridge road. The bride is
a bright and charming young woman as well as a talented musician who has many
friends in Davenport. She is a graduate of the city high school and was formerly
a teacher in the county schools. The groom is also well known here, he having
graduated from the high school and is now a prosperous young farmer of the
county. The out-of-town guests were Mr. and Mrs. R. A. Van Evera and Miss Gertrude Van Evera of Grinnell, Mr. Robert Clark of Rock Island and Mr. John Clark of Nebraska. The great social event of this vicinity is the marriage on Thursday, May 1st of Miss Rebecca Porter to Preston McGinnis of LeClaire township. The wedding was the most largely attended of any that has taken place in this region. Miss Porter is a product of Princeton township, being born and reared here, and is a young lady worthy the man of sterling qualities to whom she has united her destiny for life. Big Farm Deal
James Porter sold to Henry Niels today about two hundred acres of land
in Lincoln township for a consideration of $8,000. The property is said to be
the best sheep farm in Scott county. Both parties are residents of Davenport.
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