Bowden, Hugh 1833-1927

BOWDEN, HAMILTON, SANDERS

Posted By: Marilyn Holmes (email)
Date: 11/10/2012 at 17:42:09

BODY RESTS IN
GUERNSEY CEMETERY

Hugh Bowden was born September 25, 1833, and departed this life September 8, 1927, aged 93 years, 11 months and 16 days, lacking only 14 days of being 94 years old.

He was born in County Down, Ireland, and came to America in 1864, when 31 years of age. On February 4, 1869 he was united in marriage to Margaret Hamilton in Rock Island County, Ill., who preceded him in death fifteen years ago. They came to Iowa the year of their marriage, in 1869, making their home in this vicinity ever since. In 1875 they moved to the present homestead between Guernsey and Deep River, where he still resided with two daughters and a son at the time of his death.

Six children are still living, Robert, William J., Hugh, Nancy J., Sadie E., and Maggie A., all living in the neighborhood except William J., of Santa Ana, Cal. There also are 11 grandchildren, and one great grandchild.

When quite young he united with the United Presbyterian church in Ireland. After coming to Iowa he united with the United Presbyterian church of Fairview in 1871, and remained a faithful and devoted member until his death.

The infirmities of old age were upon him for many years, and he was tenderly cared for by his children, especially his two daughters and one son who remained at home. Mr. Bowden lived a quiet and peaceful life, and was dearly loved by all who knew him. His children rise up and call him blessed. The entire community keenly feel the loss. And yet is it a loss? There is no death. He rests from his labors, and his words do follow him. "Being dead, he yet speaketh." He has fought a good fight. He has finished his course. He has kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for him a crown.

Rev. J.I. Frederick of Grinnell officiated at the funeral, using for his text, "Thou shalt come to thy grave in a full old age; Like as a shock of grain cometh in its season."

He was laid to rest in the Guernsey cemetery beside his wife and other members of the family. In this same cemetery lie the remains of Rev. Mr. Frederick's grand parents, Mr. and Mrs. George E. Sanders, Mr. Sanders having been born the same year as Abraham Lincoln, 1809. Many old settlers, pioneers, good, hardy, substantial citizens are buried in this obscure cemetery. When the roll is called up yonder many of earth's noble ones will answer from Guernsey.