Iowa Archives – Page 5 of 90

Biography of Jacob Frazier

Jacob Frazier, born in Ohio in 1820, became a significant figure in Eastern Oregon’s wool industry. After a challenging journey across the plains to California in 1850, he transitioned from gold mining to ranching, where he amassed a large sheep herd. Frazier also faced multiple life-threatening incidents but persevered, leading to his successful ranching ventures. By 1880, he shifted focus to real estate in Pendleton, constructing notable buildings and engaging in various business enterprises. He married fellow pioneer Mary Kizer and had a son, Nickolas K.

Biography of Turner Oliver

Turner Oliver, born on May 7, 1860, in Iowa, is the son of Hiram W. Oliver. He vividly recalls his family’s journey to the Grande Ronde at the age of four, including encounters with hostile Native Americans. Educated at home and later at Blue Mountain Academy and the State University, he began teaching at seventeen. In 1884, he took over his father’s lumber business, and in 1885 became principal of Union’s public school, significantly improving its condition. Currently, he serves as deputy county clerk, committed to education and social progress.

Biography of David Greiner

David Greiner, born in Ashland County, Ohio, on May 7, 1837, emerged as a notable pioneer in the West. After a formative education and apprenticeship as a carpenter, he ventured to Iowa before crossing to Walla Walla in 1864, where he combined farming and carpentry. Greiner settled in the Grande Ronde Valley in 1892, becoming a successful agriculturist. He was initially married to Mary J. Sweeney, who died in 1868, and later wed Jennie Jaycox in 1883. Together, they raised a family and contributed positively to their community.

Biography of Jacob Newman

Jacob Newman, a prominent figure in local agriculture and real estate, has contributed significantly to the region over his forty-year tenure. Born in 1826 in Pennsylvania, he moved through several states before settling in Oregon in 1862, where he developed a prosperous 2,000-acre estate. He was married three times and had several children. Renowned for his industrious spirit, he also supported early church efforts. A notable anecdote from his life involves a near encounter with hostile Indians, showcasing his resilience. In recent years, he has stepped back from active management of his holdings.

Biography of R. M. South

R.M. South, born on December 10, 1841, in Ohio, was a key figure in the development of his county. A Civil War veteran, he served with valor in the Fourth Iowa Cavalry, enduring hardships and injuries. After his honorable discharge in 1865, he married Emma Van Devanter and moved to the Grande Ronde Valley in 1875, where he established a prosperous 220-acre farm. South, a member and past commander of the G.A.R., is recognized for his integrity and community leadership, and he has five children.

Biography of Amanda J. Weathers

Amanda J. Weathers, born in 1848 in Wayne County, Iowa, is recognized for her significant contributions to the development of Union County. After marrying George See in 1865, the couple ventured westward, facing trials before settling in the Grande Ronde Valley. Following her husband’s passing, Amanda successfully managed her estate, cultivating a flourishing farm and nurturing her family. She married twice more, experienced personal sorrow, yet remained resilient and committed to her community. A member of the Christian church, she is esteemed for her faith and character.

Iowa Vital Records

Iowa County Courthouse Addresses

Biographical Sketch of William Farthing

William Farthing, originally from Albemarle County, Virginia, married Polly Vaughn and relocated to Kentucky, where they had six children: Sarah, Elizabeth, William, John, Thomas, and Shelton B. Each of their children established families of their own, with Sarah, Elizabeth, and Shelton B. settling in Montgomery County in 1836. William moved to Iowa, while John settled in Missouri City, Missouri, marrying Lucena J. Moran. Thus, Farthing’s lineage expanded across several states, marking a significant westward movement.

Bryant, Amanda J. – Obituary

Amanda J. Hammack Bryant, who passed away at 68, was a notable pioneer of Oregon. Born on April 26, 1848, in Wayne County, Iowa, she relocated to the Willamette Valley in 1863. Amanda was married six times, most recently to J.A. Childers in 1878, and had seven children, with three surviving her at the time of her death. Known for her resilience, she worked to support her family after the loss of her husbands. The funeral is scheduled for Thursday at the Christian Church.

Biographical Sketch of Geo. W. Hayes

Geo. W. Hayes, a prominent attorney in Eastern Oregon, has made significant contributions to Harney County through his talent and dedication. Born in Marion County, Iowa, in 1859, he migrated to Oregon with his family in 1862. After a varied early life that included teaching and carpentry, he began studying law in 1887 and was admitted to the bar in 1891. Hayes has actively engaged in politics as a Republican and is married with two sons.

Biographical Sketch of A. J. McKinnon

A. J. McKinnon, born in 1866 in Page County, Iowa, has resided in Harney County since 1886, with brief interruptions. He operated a blacksmith shop in Burns before being elected sheriff in June 1896 on the Democratic ticket. McKinnon has proven to be a capable and efficient officer, earning general satisfaction in his role. He is also active in fraternal organizations, including the Masons, Knights of Pythias, and Odd Fellows.

Biographical Sketch of Hon M. D. Clifford

M. D. Clifford, born in 1859 in Ottumwa, Iowa, moved to Oregon in 1870. He pursued law independently and began practicing in 1882 after studying under Hill Mays. Elected district attorney in 1884 and 1886, he was appointed Circuit Judge in 1890, later winning re-election. A committed member of several fraternal organizations, he served as Grand Master of the Masons in 1896. Married to Edith Hazeltine, he has two children and is recognized for his ability and bipartisan respect.

David and Margaret Mitchell Genealogy – Appendix

David Mitchell Small pays tribute to his father, Albert Small, who prioritized his family during the Civil War and was a prominent church leader known for his favorite psalm. Joseph Kyle D.D. reflects on his father’s strong character and commitment to the church. The text details genealogical notes and historical anecdotes from the Mitchell and Kyle families, touching on significant events, such as early settlements in Lexington, the hardships faced during the Civil War, and familial connections to notable figures and experiences.

David and Margaret Mitchell, Fifth Generation

The Laughead family lineage is detailed, highlighting various descendants and their personal details. Key individuals include David Adelbert (b. 1874), William Martin (b. 1871), and several others residing in Iowa and Illinois. The family members are primarily tied to occupations such as electricians and teachers, with noted affiliations to Presbyterian and United Presbyterian churches. Marriages and children are also listed, emphasizing a diverse family spread across different states, culminating in connections with the Mitchells, showcasing a broader family history.

Margaret and David Mitchell: Fourth Generation

The Laughead family, prominent in the 19th century, included notable members such as William Bradford Laughead, who served in the Union Army but died shortly after enlisting in 1862. Other family members, like George Galloway Laughead, became successful physicians, while many were involved in farming and public service. With strong ties to the United Presbyterian and Republican communities, the family maintained a legacy of civic engagement and professional achievement throughout the Midwest, particularly in Iowa and Ohio.

Margaret and David Mitchell: Third Generation

Isaac Newton Laughead, born in 1810 in Ohio, was a noteworthy figure as the first descendant of David Mitchell to enter the ministry, later serving various congregations mainly in Iowa. His contributions included writing a family booklet in 1885. Other descendants, like David and Joseph Kyle Laughead, also engaged in farming and ministry, with notable military service during the Civil War. The Laughead family maintained strong ties to their Presbyterian faith, shaping their identities across generations.

David and Margaret Mitchell: Second Generation

James Laughead was born in 1787 in Kentucky and spent much of his life in Logan County, Ohio, where he died without children. His brother, David Mitchell Laughead, born in 1789, was a farmer and abolitionist with eight children. William Laughead married in 1820 and eventually moved to Illinois, where he passed away in 1872. Other notable family members include Elenora Laughead-Gillespie, Sarah Laughead, and several siblings of the Mitchell family, highlighting the connections among the Laughead and Mitchell lineages in Ohio.

David and Margaret Mitchell, First Generation

Elizabeth Mitchell Laughead was born in 1763 in Pennsylvania and moved to Kentucky with her family in 1779, where they faced pioneer hardships. She married David Laughead around 1786, contributing to the rich tapestry of early American Presbyterian families of Scotch-Irish descent. Their lineage includes notable figures, with connections to the Covenanter and Seceder traditions. They had six children, and both Elizabeth and her husband were laid to rest in Massies Creek graveyard in 1825. Elizabeth’s legacy reflects the struggles and resilience of early American settlers.

Ida County Iowa Genealogy

This collection provides extensive genealogy data for Ida County, Iowa, sourced from various directories and biographical sketches. Included are farmer directories from 1884, 1906, 1920, and 1923, covering multiple townships like Battle, Blaine, and Corwin. The compilation also features biographical sketches of notable individuals and rural teacher directories, offering valuable insights into the area’s history and its inhabitants. A comprehensive list of sources is provided for researchers seeking further information.