Philo Orlando VanWagoner

Philo O. VanWagner passed away on August 4, 1919 at Ida Grove, Iowa. His affliction was pronounced muscular paralysis. Philo was born on November 17, 1849 at Oxford, Michigan, and was in his 70th year. He attended school at the Oxford Academy. At the age of twelve, he moved with his parents to the country. When he was sixteen, he began his trade as a stone mason. He was united in marriage on October 15, 1873 to Miss Etta McVean. Five children were born, three of whom survive him: Nita, at home; Philo Jr. of Ida Grove; and Mrs. Lawrence … Read more

Biographical Sketch of Charles G. Kolb

Charles G. Kolb was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, September 29, 1834. When he was 22 years of age, he came to America, making the journey on a Sailing Vessel that required 40 days for the passage. Altogether in his life, he crossed the Atlantic Ocean 13 times, the second trip being to bring back a bride, Catherine Weiler. The last journey was in 1910 when he visited his fatherland. He lived two years in New York State along the Hudson before he went for his bride. Upon their return, they settled on a farm near Harrisburg, Pa. in 1858. In … Read more