Randall McAllister Hartzell 1836-1918

HARTZELL, MCALLISTER, WAIT

Posted By: Deb (email)
Date: 10/3/2015 at 10:29:42

Randal McAllister Hartzell was born November 9, 1838 in the state of Pennesylvina. When but a small boy he with his parents moved to Dodgeville, Iowa; there he grew to manhood.

On the 16th day of August 1862 he answered the call of his country and enlisted in the Union Army as a fourth sergeant and was mustered into the service October 8th the same year. On the 5th day of October he was taken prisoner at Alattona, Georgia and remained a prisoner until the close of the war; Serving in both Southern prisons, Libby and Andersonville. He was mustered out June __1865 at Washington, D.C.

At the close of the war he returned to his home in Iowa, remaining there for a number of years. He was married to Mary Ellen Wait in November of 1865 at Burlington, Iowa. To this union four children were born, three of whom survive him.

In the spring of 1871 Mr. Hartzell with his wife come to Kansas and settled on his farm just west of Peru where he resided for many years. A few years ago as age crept upon him he moved into Peru, built a nice home and settled down to spend the remaining days of his life in a quite way.

Later he moved to Sedan where he resided until the death messenger sounded the alarm at the outer door and his spirit was summoned to the land were our Fathers have gone before us.

Mr. Hartzell was well known throughout the county and loved by all who knew him. He was a faithful member of the I.O.O.F. for more than 38 years. He was also a member of the Masonic order and not only a member but a true Brother. He stood in our midst a straight forward and upright man.

He departed this life November 13, 1918 at his home here. Funeral services Saturday by the Rev. Joseph B. Brown of Elgin and his body taken for burial to his old home at Peru for interment in the Peru Cemetery. Services at the grave were conducted by the Masonic lodge of Peru.