Griffin, Patrick

GRIFFIN, WASSON

Posted By: Mary H. Cochrane, Volunteer
Date: 6/30/2019 at 13:05:22

"Reflections of Grand River, Iowa 1881-1981", p. 21, Early Pioneers

Patrick Griffin

Patrick Griffin was born in 1831 in Co. Kerry Ireland. He came to this country when he was 13 yrs. old. He could speak only the Gallic language on arrival, but soon learned English. He finished high school and taught school a year before coming to Grand River in 1885. His work was selling town lots, but with his popularity he was appointed postmaster in May, 1885 for four years. He remained in Grand River 35 years. Pat established Grand River's first bank in 1889. It was conducted as a private institution under the name of Bank of Grand River, later as the State Savings Bank and later yet as the First National Bank. It later became a branch of the Decatur County State Bank. Pat was president for 40 years. He married Sarah Elizabeth Wasson, and had four children: Homer, Helene, Hazel and Gussie. In later life they moved to Leon.