Robert Edwin Thompson is buried in Greenwood Cemetery, Muscatine, Bloomington Twp., Muscatine Co., IA.

Dora Agnes "Aggie" (Bickett) Chapman is buried in Galveston Memorial Park, Hitchcock, Galveston Co., TX . Thanks to Find-A-Grave for making this image available.

An Illustrated History of the State of Iowa, being a complete civil, political, and military history of the state from its first exploration down to 1875, by Charles R. Tuttle; assisted by Daniel S. Durrie.  Chicago: R. S. Peale, 1876.

Gen. Jonathan E. Fletcher

Gen. Jonathan E. Fletcher was a native of Thetford, Vermont, and came to Muscatine in the summer of 1838, when Iowa was made a separate territory. He attended the first land sale in the territory, in November, 1838, at which he bought lands six miles west of the city, upon which he located in the fall of 1839, and went to farming, having previously returned to Vermont and married his surviving wife. He had resided a few years in Ohio before he came to Iowa. Gen. Fletcher held many responsible offices in this territory and state. He was a member of the convention which framed the old constitution, taking an important part in the formation of our fundamental law. In 1846, he was appointed, by President Polk, an Indian agent for the Winnebagoes, and served in that capacity eleven years; few agents were ever better calculated to manage a tribe of Indians. The Winnebagoes, Sioux and Chippewas were frequently at war, and he was often instrumental in saving much bloodshed. With quiet apprehension, decision and firmness, and great courage to face and surmount all difficulties, his valuable services in his long career as Indian agent, to the government, and to the country, are incalculable. Gen. Fletcher returned to his farm, one mile west of Muscatine, Ia., 1858, where he resided till his death. He left a wife and eight children, his eldest son a practicing physician at Detroit, Mich.

History of Muscatine County Iowa 1879,

OLD SETTLERS' ASSOCIATION

Gen. J. E. Fletcher came to Bloomington in the summer of 1838. He was a native of Thetford, Vt., and from that State he brought his wife. In 1839, he purchased lands about six miles from the county seat, and located thereon. His public life dates back to the Territorial days. He was one of the delegates, who framed the State Constitution, and, in 1846, was appointed Indian Agent for the Winnebagoes, which office he filled for eleven years. The location of the agency was twice moved during his administration. He first had quarters at Fort Atkinson; thence he moved to Mankato, on the Minnesota River; thence to a point above St. Paul. During his official term, the Winnebagoes, Sioux and Chippewas were frequently at war; but by his brave and judicious management, he generally averted disastrous results. During all those years of wild life and arduous duties, the General was accompanied by his wife, who rendered him great assistance. Mrs. Fletcher also devoted much time to the education of the Indians. The General, Mrs. Fletcher and their son, Dr. Fletcher, then a mere lad, became proficient in the Indian tongue. In 1858, the General returned to Muscatine County with his family. He was a man of noted character, of energy and industry. His death was mourned by many friends. He died in April, 1872.

Col. Jonathan E. Fletcher

Col. Jonathan E. Fletcher Owned land bought 01 Aug 1827 Monroe office Sec 26 Twp 5-S Range 4-E Meridian Michigan-Toledo Strip; Lenawee Co Col. J E Fletcher was captured and incarcerated in the Lenawee Co Jail at Tecumseh. A copy of the letter written by him May 5, 1835, tells of his imprisonment Colonel Fletcher, was retained to “test the validity of the arrest” and spent some months in custody in Tecumseh. Benjamin Baxter�s account of the events, found in Clara Waldron’s One Hundred Years – A Country Town, states that Fletcher was: "a genial gentleman not suffering apparently from his term of incarceration, but sometimes subjecting us to the inconvenience of hunting him up when we had occasion to use the jail for some counterfeiter or horse thief, as he was likely to be found out riding with one of the sheriff�s lovely daughters, having taken the jail keys with him."

Jonathan Emerson FLETCHER, eldest son of Joseph Fletcher, born in 1806, removed to Western New York in 1832, and to Ohio in 1833. In 1835 he was appointed by Governor LUCAS, of Ohio, with others, to re-mark the boundary between Ohio and Michigan. In 1838 he went to Muscatine, Iowa, and became a major-general of militia. He was a member of the convention which drafted the state constitution of Iowa, was elected state senator, and was twice appointed United States agent to the Winnebago Indians, serving twelve years. He was a General of the Union Army in the Civil War. He died in 1872 and is buried in the Glendale Cemetery, Summit Co, Ohio.

American Biographical Notes, The Chicago Historical Society, page 141

FLETCHER, JONATHAN EMERSON, b. in Hartford, Vt.; went to Ohio when young and settled at Muscatine, Iowa, in 1838; In 1846, was appointed Indian agent to the Winnebagoes and held 11 years; residing during this time at Port Atkinson, Iowa, and Long Prairie and Blue Earth, Minn.; returned to Muscatine in 1858; and d. April 6, 1872.

THE UNITED STATES BIOGRAPHICAL DICTIONARY PORTRAIT GALLERY , Eminent and Self-made Men, IOWA VOLUME, Chicago and New York: American Biographical Publishing Company, 1878

Benjamin Woodruff Thompson, M. D.

Benjamin Woodruff Thompson, son of Robert Thompson and Susan nee Johnston, was born at Goshen, Orange Co, New York, on the 26th of April 1820. This branch of the Thompson family is descended from William Thompson. A native of Edgesworthstown, County Longford, Ireland. of Scotch linage, who was born about 1695, married Ann Jenkins in the year 1717, emigrated to America and settled in Goshen, Orange Co, New York, in the 1737. The following is a copy of the certificate from the church when in Ireland, the original of which is still preserved by the family archives. William Thompson and his wife Ann have lived many years in this neighborhood, and all along have behaved as it becometh Christians; have been members of the Protestant dissenting congregation, and may be received into Christian communion wherever Providence may cast their lot; and their children have behaved soberly and in offensively. Certified at Cork Bay, County Longford, Ireland, May 12, 1737. Jas Bond

William Thompson was the father of George Thompson, born in Ireland in the 1719, emigrated to America with his parents, and settled in Orange County, New York, where, in the year 1753, he married Elizabeth Wells and raised a family of four sons and one daughter. He died in the year 1782, in his sixty-third year of his age. William Thompson (grandfather of our subject) eldest son of George and Elizabeth Thompson was born in Goshen, New York on the 29th of July,1756; married Mittie Hudson (daughter of John Hudson and Hannah Coleman) on the 20th of March,1783, and had four sons and two daughters. He died on the 29th of February 1836, in the eightieth year of his age. Robert Thompson, second son of William and Mitty and the father of our subject, was born on the 24th of March. 1787. He married Susan H Johnston of Blooming Grove, Orange County, New York, on the 2nd of June 1810; had two sons and four daughters, of whom Benjamin W. is the eldest son. He died in November 1872, in the eighty-sixth year of his age. His widow, (mother of our subject) is living in Middletown, New York, in the eighty-eighth year of her age and can see to darn stockings with the aid of glasses. The family, which is still largely represented in that pastoral region (Orange County, New York), have been all tiller of the soil in time past, - men of substance and high character. The grandfather of our subject (William Thompson) was a captain of the light dragoons under General Washington during the revolutionary war. His sword and suit of captain's uniform, together with a grape shot fired from the enemy at the battle of Fort Montgomery, which plowed up the ground under the captain's feet, are now heirlooms in the family of our subject. Robert (the father of the doctor), was a soldier in the war of 1812,and a member of Captain Denton's company. He was a plain, plodding farmer, dealt largely in stock, and was a good honest business man, very highly esteemed in the community, but of retiring disposition, and rarely went into company. His wife was a most energetic and industrious woman, who in her early days was accustomed to manufacture fabrics from flax and wool, and afterward make them up into garments for her family, first spinning the flax and wool into yarn, them weaving it into cloth, and afterward manufacturing it into garments - all of her own hands. She was, moreover, a most exemplary Christian woman, and lives in the love and veneration of her children and a large circle of devoted friends. Benjamin W. Thompson was raised on his father's farm and received his preliminary education at the Farmer's Hall Academy, Orange county, then under Nathaniel Webb and James Mc Master, the latter being now the editor of the "Freeman's Journal," New York. Here he studied the usual English branches, the higher mathematics, and the Latin Language. At an early age he conceived a desire to become a physician, but his father demurred, preferring that his son should follow in his footsteps. Finding however, that the youth was bent on a profession, the latter's agreeing to defray the expenses of his education, he yielded his consent. Accordingly at the age of twenty years, he entered the office of Dr. James Horton, (now of Muscatine), at Goshen as a student, where he remained until 1844. Meantime he attended the usual courses of lectures at the medical department of the University of New York, being under the special direction of Dr. John H. Whitaker, then demonstrator of the anatomy in the University, being himself a graduate of the Edinburgh, Scotland, Medical College. The other members of the faculty at that time Mott, professor of surgery and clinical surgery; John H. Revere, professor of theory, and practice of medicine and clinical medicine; Granville S. Patterson (also a graduate of Edinburgh Medical College), professor of anatomy; Martin Pain, professor of materia medica and institution of medicine, etc; G. S. Bedford, professor of obstetrics, etc. From this institution our subject was graduated in 1844,and immediately commenced the practice of his profession in his own home, being the some twelve-hundred dollars in debt for his education. He soon after purchased the office and practice of his preceptor, Dr. Horton retaining him the latter in the partnership for one year, at the end of which time Dr. Horton removed to Muscatine, Iowa. Dr. Thompson at once took charge of the large practice of his predecessor, which extended over a radius of twelve from the village, employing four horses in the discharge of his duties. This he continued for ten years without intermission. In 1854 he sold his practice to his cousin, Dr. John H. Hudson, who had studied in his office, and followed his old friend Dr. Horton to Muscatine, Iowa, where he has since resided being now one of the oldest practicing physicians in the city. His contemporaries in the practice some twenty-three years ago were Drs. Reeder, Schok, Waters and Johnson - the two former since deceased- Dr Horton having relinquished the practice on moving to the west. Dr. Thompson soon built up a large an lucrative practice, established himself in the confidence and esteem of the people, and was always prompt in responding to the calls of duty, whether the patient was able to pay for professional services or not; being anxious only to relieve suffering.; hence he was called "the poor man's doctor" a title that speaks more in his behalf of fulsome adulation could do. His specialty, if he has any, is the practice of surgery, at which from the incipiency he devoted a remarkable talent, his preceptor Dr. Horton, being accustomed to hand him the knife and look on while his pupil performed some of the most critical operations with a dexterity rarely surpassed by the most experienced surgeons. In politics the doctor always adhered to the Jefferson school, but has meddled little in political affairs. nor held office, except that of Alderman of the city of Muscatine. During the years 1856, 1857, and 1858 he held the position of surgeon to the Orange Co. poor-house, small-pox, cholera and fever hospitals, and lunatic asylum. He was raised in the communion of the Presbyterian Church, and attended Sunday school until the age of twenty, but never united with the church. On the 29th of October 1846 he married Miss Elizabeth daughter of the Hon. Stephen St. John, of Port Jervis, New York, one of the best and noblest of her sex, an exemplary member of the Episcopal church and a promoter of every good and excellent work within the sphere of her influence. She died quite unexpectedly on the 12th of September, 1877, in the fifty-fourth year of her age. They have two children, sons. The eldest Stephen St. John, is a captain of a river steamboat, and the youngest Robert Edwin, has adopted the profession of his father, and is a graduate of the College of Physicians and Surgeons, of New York city, and is a gentleman of considerable promise, Especially in the line of surgery, in which he rivals his father. They have had no daughters, but raised an orphan girl named Annie Mautche, whose parents died of cholera in the year 1857, and educated her as their own daughter. She is now the wife of Clarke Sheckelford Esq., of Des Moines, Iowa.

Joseph G. Gordon, Muscatine, Muscatine Co., IA.

The Muscatine Evening Journal, Muscatine, Muscatine Co., IA , Thursday, October 16, 1873

FASHIONABLE WEDDING - Trinity church was the scene of a  brilliant and fashionable wedding last evening, the nuptials of Dr. R. E. Thompson and Miss Fannie W. Waters being celebrated at 6 o'clock p.m. The bride was attended by Miss Annie B. Gordon and the groom by Theodore S. Stewart. Geo. Jackson and Frank Warfield acted as ushers. O. P. Waters, Esq., the father, gave away the bride in due form. Rev. Dr. Roach performed the ceremony in a beautiful and impressive manner, according to the ritual of the church. The charming bride was attired in exquisitely good taste. The church was densely crowded on the occasion. The young couple left by the 8:05 o'clock train on a bridal tour to the east and will be gone some two weeks. That their wedding journey, with its bright pleasures and joys, will be only a taste of the happiness that awaits them in their journey through life, es the earnest wish of a legion of friends and the writer hereof.

REGISTER OF OLD SETTLERS , BOOK One, pages 72 & 73

PASSED AWAY.

Gen. John G. Gordon no More - A Brief Sketch of an Honorable and Useful Life.

For several days the community has been expecting, with painful and anxious hearts, the dread news of the death of Gen. John G. Gordon. At 2 o’clock this morning the end came, and the spirit of the beloved husband, and father, the honored citizen and esteemed friend, crossed the dark flood, to mingle with the celestial band on the other shore. Surrounded by weeping wife and children, sweetly, peacefully, like a child hushed to gentle slumber, and unconscious of the physical pain too often inflicted by the arrows of Death, he sank to rest, only the still pulse and marble-like features indicating the great transition from time to eternity.

�So fades the summer cloud away,
So sinks the gale when storms are o’er,
So gently shuts the eye of day,
So dies the wave upon the shore.�

Thus passed away one of Muscatine’s oldest and most esteemed citizens one whose form and face and pleasant voice and kind greeting were familiar to the young and old of the city. It will be remembered that the cause of his death was a paralytic affection. Until this sudden and unexpected attack he had been remarkably free from disease, never before having, in his recollection, been ill a day, and never, practically speaking, having taken medicine. The attack which loosed “the silver chord� of life came on Saturday evening, Dec. 16, two weeks ago last Saturday. It was about 7 o’clock, and Mr. Gordon was in the store standing by the counter, listening to the reading of the evening paper by his associate, Eugene Klein, when he experienced a singularly painful sensation, and, on the impulse of the moment, started towards the door. It was noticed by Eugene that one leg seemed to drag heavily, and that it seemed to be a painful effort to walk. On reaching a point about half way between the stove and the front door, the General stopped and leaned over the counter, evidently in distress. In reply to the tender inquiries of Eugene he remarked that he felt very strangely. Eugene and Mr. Hunt, the head clerk, at once assisted him home. He then left the store, never to return. For a day or two he was able to move about the house, and hopes of his recovery were entertained, but his strength gradually failed and he, was soon compelled to keep his bed. During the last week or ten days of his illness the General was only conscious at intervals, the trouble having, it seemed, most seriously affected the brain. It is believed that the attack was superinduced by a severe fall received on the steps of his house last spring.

We can give here only a brief sketch of the eventful life of this well-known and loved citizen. He was born in Baltimore, Md., February 16, 1810, his age being nearly 67 years. At an early age he was sent to York, Pa., to serve an apprenticeship for the mercantile business. When a young man he removed to Louisville, Ky., and there embarked in business for himself. After a short but very successful career here, he transferred his headquarters to Pittsburg, Pa., and such was the popularity he had gained at Louisville that he carried with him in his new home a large part of his old custom. In the spring of 1844, following the tide of emigration and the course of the empire, he came west and located in Muscatine, commencing business as a general merchant. His first stand was an old frame standing on the site of the brick now occupied by McQuesten and Sawyer; his next a similar structure standing where Mr. Gerndt has his meat market, next to Dougherty�s drug store. He occupied this stand till 1851, when he completed and moved into the handsome brick block which is so well known as the store of J. G. Gordon & Co. During all those busy years his has been the controlling spirit in the store. For eight years - from 1866 to 1871 - O. P. Waters, Esq., was a partner, and for several years before and ever since Eugene Klein, his brother-in-law, was associated with him in the business, but the General has ever taken a pride in giving his personal attention to its supervision, and the customer who entered the store without being greeted by the General himself with a hearty salutation, a cheery word, a bright smile and a cordial hand-shake would have felt as if something was wrong.

In his business relations, the General ranks with the pioneers of the city and the best-known and most prominent and influential in the State. In earlier times, when dry goods, groceries, hardware and queensware were combined, his trade commanded a sweep of country taking in a radius of from 100 to 140 miles, and his large establishment was known as one of the finest and most extensive in the west. His popularity as a merchant was commensurate with the extent of his trade. Every one liked to deal with one who was at once so courteous, obliging and straightforward in his commerce with all.

General Gordon was twice married first at Louisville, to Miss Sarah Reinard, who bore him six children (five daughters and one son) and second, in 1856, in Muscatine, to the widow of James M. Dougherty, and daughter of Edward Klein, by whom he had one son and one daughter. All his children are living save the daughter by his second marriage. His surviving daughters are Ella, wife of Wm. R. Stone, and Mary, wife of Col. J. B. Culver, both of Duluth, Minn.; Susan, wife of W. S. Humphreys, of St Louis; Maria, Wife of M. W. Griffin, of Muscatine, and Miss Annie, at home. Gardner, the elder son, has been in St Louis the past few years, and Glenn, the younger, is at home.

The distinguished title of �General� was bestowed on Mr. Gordon in 1847 by Governor Ansel Briggs, of Iowa. The commission, the original of which we were shown, was dated at Iowa City June 27, and appointed the General to the command of “the second division of Iowa militia.� We do not hear that he ever performed any active service, but the appointment was a deserved recognition of the worth and talents of a prominent and esteemed citizen.

Though at home no man stood higher in the confidence and affections of the people than Mr. Gordon, we believe that during his long residence here he held but one public office, and that was the humble municipal trust of alderman. Not that he was not urged to serve the public with his clear judgment and fine abilities, but that it was a part of the philosophy of his life to abstain from active participation in politics, preferring rather the quiet and pleasures of home and the honors of a successful business to the turmoil and strife of the political arena. As a Mason, however, he was one of the oldest and most esteemed members of the order.

General Gordon will be missed in every walk and circle of Muscatine life and society. Prominent and active in business; liberal and zealous in forwarding public enterprises; denial, intelligent and communicative in society, with a rich store of anecdote and reminiscence to entertain friends, his death will leave a void hard to fill and bring a pang to every heart. Who that was not familiar with his fine figure and handsome presence as he made his regular diurnal trips between the store and house? Time, with his magic wand, had touched him but lightly; yea, so gently that in his more than thirty years of reputable citizenship he seemed but little changed, either as to the cheerful and intellectual face or the lively and sympathetic spirit animating him, and he glided almost imperceptibly into the ripeness of old age. At heart, he was kindness itself. Talmage told us that a single flash would sometimes reveal all the secret springs in a man’s life, and so a simple incident will serve to illustrate Gen. Gordon’s character. On the bitterly cold Friday just before his illness, a well-known professional beggar, a woman, came into the store to solicit charity. She stood near the door some little time without receiving attention, when the General chanced to observe her for the first time. Hastening forward he placed a piece of money in her hand and politely bowed her out, remarking on his return that he “couldn�t turn a dog away without something on such a day.�

But we cannot speak further of those admirable traits of character which so endeared him to his relatives and immediate friends and made him personally so popular. His long life of usefulness and activity will be an enduring monument that speaks more eloquently than words and will keep his memory green. The General was a regular attendant at Trinity church, and was one of its most zealous and liberal supporters.

The bereaved widow and children of deceased have the deepest sympathy of the community in their sore affliction.

The funeral will take place from the family residence on Second street, on Saturday, at 10 � o�clock a. m. The pall-bearers selected are: H. W. Moore, G. A. Garrettson, P. Jackson, F. H. Stone, J. Carskaddan, A. Jackson, John Lemp, J. J. Hoopes and J. P. Ament.

The Muscatine Daily Journal, Muscatine, Muscatine Co., IA , Tuesday, February 19, 1884

Mrs. R. E. Thompson has decided to remain in Muscatine for some time and will give lessons in painting at 50 cents a lesson, and if desired go to the residence of pupils. Can be seen 702 W 3d St. d2t.

The Muscatine Daily Journal, Muscatine, Muscatine Co., IA , Wednesday, May 21, 1884

Circuit Court.

Last evening a decree of divorce was granted plaintiff in the case of Fannie W. Thompson vs. R. E. Thompson and $1,500 alimony granted plaintiff.

The Muscatine Daily Journal, Muscatine, Muscatine Co., IA , Monday, June 2, 1884

Death of Dr. R. E. Thompson

Dr. R. E. Thompson died at the Mt. Pleasant asylum this morning, after lying in an unconscious state since a week ago last Saturday. Deceased was born in Orange county, N. Y., June 17, 1849. He came to Muscatine, when a child, with his father, the late Dr. B. W. Thompson, and with the exception of intervals spent in eastern schools and hospitals in preparing for his profession, he has continued to make his home in this city, until his removal to the asylum, which was on March 23, 1881. His death was the culmination of the disease which carried him to the asylum. The funeral will take place from the residence of his brother, S. St. Johns Thompson, corner of Front and Linn street, to-morrow at 2 p. m.

The Muscatine Daily Journal, Muscatine, Muscatine Co., IA , Tuesday, June 3, 1884

The remains of Dr. R. E. Thompson did not arrive from Mt. Pleasant today, owing to the wash-outs on the C. B. & Q. railroad. They are expected this evening and the funerall will take place to-morrow.

The Muscatine Daily Journal, Muscatine, Muscatine Co., IA , Wednesday, June 4, 1884

The funeral of Dr. R. E. Thompson took place this forenoon, the services being conducted by Rev. Edwin S. Carr. The pall-bearers were Charles L. Warfield, T. Stewart, Will G. Block, John B. Dougherty, Fred. Bridgman and Wm. L. Mull.

The Muscatine Daily Journal, Muscatine, Muscatine Co., IA , Tuesday, June 17, 1884

MARRIED.

At the home of the groom's mother, on East Third street, Sunday evening, at 6 o'clock, June 15, 1884, by the Rev. C. H. Seymour, MR. G. D. FLETCHER and MRS. FANNIE W. THOMPSON, all of this city.

The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Des Moines Co., IA, Tuesday, June 17, 1884

CITY BRIEFS.

Mrs. Fannie Waters Thompson was married to Mr. Glenn Fletcher, of Muscatine, on Sunday morning.

The Newton Daily Republican, Newton, Harvey Co., KS , Sunday, December 11, 1887

PERSONAL PARAGRAPHS.

G. D. Fletcher, of St. Louis, made a business call in our city yesterday.

The Newton Daily Republican, Newton, Harvey Co., KS , Thursday, January 5, 1888

PERSONAL PARAGRAPHS.

Mrs. G. D. Fletcher has moved from East Ninth street and taken up her abode at the hotel Clark.

The Newton Daily Republican, Newton, Harvey Co., KS , Wednesday, April 4, 1888

Instruction in Painting.

Mrs. G. D. Fletcher desires a number of pupils for instruction in oil and water color painting, pastel and crayon work. Also in sketching in still life and nature. Further information as to terms etc., can be learned at Miss Coult's book store, where specimens of work are on exhibition.

The Newton Daily Republican, Newton, Harvey Co., KS , Friday, June 29, 1888

PERSONAL PARAGRAPHS.

Mrs. G. D. Fletcher left last evening for Burlington, Iowa, in answer to a telegram announcing the dangerous illness of her father.

The Burlington Weekly Hawk-Eye, Burlington, Des Moines Co., IA, Thursday, July 5, 1888

GONE FROM EARTH

Death of Mr. O. P. Waters, a Prominent Citizen and Mason.

A few minutes before twelve o'clock Wednesday night Mr. O. P. Waters died at his home on South Gunnison street. He had been suffering for some time from an ailment of the liver which finally resulted in an ailment of the heart. Upon several occasions of late it had been made manifest that that organ was badly affected and that serious trouble was to be expected. About twelve days ago he became quite ill and Monday his case assumed a critical aspect, nothing less than a serious stroke of apoplexy appearing, complicated with paralysis of the left side. This became so bad that he was unable to receive any food and, although he slightly rallied late Wednesday afternoon, his death occurred at the time named. His last moments were calm, a quiet cessation of life's forces. Ozias Phelps Waters was born in Franklin, Delaware county, New York, March 23, 1830. In 1848 he came to the west, settled at Muscatine and engaged in the business of merchandising. In 1876 he came to this city and organized the Centennial Mutual Life association, of which he was president and manager and which was highly successful in his hands. He left the company about three years ago and since then has been connected with the life and general insurance business here and elsewhere, remaining so engaged until the time of his death. He was a good insurance man and commanded respect in all his dealings with his fellows in that business. In 1883 he was elected alderman of the fourth ward and served a full term of two years in a highly creditable manner, good sense and good business ideas making him one of the best aldermen our city ever had. Mr. Waters was a prominent Mason, an active worker in the order and thoroughly schooled in all the mysteries of the craft. He was initiated into symbolic Masonry in Hawkeye Lodge No. 30, September 23, 1853. He was made a Royal Arch Mason in August, 1865, elected Excellent King June 29, 1866, and High Priest in 1870 and re-elected in 1871. In Cryptic Masonry he passed the circle December 13, 1866; was elected Right Illustrious Master October, 1868, and Captain of the Guard, October, 1870. In the Commandery he was crested a Knight Templar October 12, 1865, DeMolay Commandery, No. 1; chosen Captain General in 1866, and Eminent Commander in 1868; which office he ably filled by re-election for several years. In the grand lodge he first appeared at the annual communication in 1863, held in Iowa City, and afterward at the sessions of 1867, 1868, 1869 and a870. In the latter year he was appointed Deputy Grand Master, and was elected by very flattering majorities to the office of Grand Master in the years of 1871 and 1872 and in the Grand Commandery he was chosen Grand Captain General in 1867, Grand Senior Warden in 1870 and 1871, Deputy Grand Commander in 1872, and Grand Commander in 1875. He remained a zealous member of the order until the day of his death.

Mr. Waters was married in 1853 to Miss Ellen E. Klein of Muscatine, who died thirteen years later. In 1866 he was again married to Mrs. Emma Campbell of Mt. Pleasant, who survives him. Three children were born of the first marriage: Mrs. Fannie Fletcher of Newton, Kansas, and Mrs. Nellie Mc Murphy of Osborn, Idaho, both living. The other child, a son of more than ordinary promise, was drowned in 1869 and his death was a severe blow to his father, by whom he was most tenderly cherished. In addition to these members of his own family he leaves one brother, Dr. Charles O. Waters, of Chicago, and two sisters, Mrs. E. Fitch of Avoca, Iowa, and Mrs. Dr. King, wife of the famed Methodist minister of New York. These relatives have all been notified, together with his old and intimate friend, Gov. Buren R. Sherman. Arrangements for the funeral depend upon the word that comes from them.

Mr. Waters was a man of the coolest, calmest judgment, composed and unruffled under all circumstances, and like all such men, was clear headed; had original and positive ideas and knew how to speak them and to defend his position. He was capable of using the keenest and most cutting sarcasm, but had a host of warm friends here and was generally respected as a man of honor and a gentleman. He will be greatly missed.

The Newton Daily Republican, Newton, Harvey Co., KS , Thursday, August 30, 1888

Miss Hermione Schreiver has been appointed one of the military aides and Mrs. G. D. Fletcher, general aide, by managers of the Kirmess. Miss Scheiveley will act as bugler in the battle scene of the Sepoy Rebellion.

The Newton Daily Republican, Newton, Harvey Co., KS , Wednesday, July 23, 1890

PERSONAL PARAGRAPHS.

G. D. Fletcher, formerly a Newton resident but now of Galveston, is in the city to-day.

The Newton Daily Republican, Newton, Harvey Co., KS , Tuesday, September 21, 1897

PERSONAL MENTION.

G. D. Fletcher, the well-known traveling man was in the city a short time yesterday afternoon and called on a number of merchants.

The Galveston Daily News, Galveston, Galveston Co., TX, Thursday, October 31, 1890

Appointed General Manager

Mr. W. J. Chapman, who for several years past has served as agent of the Wells-Fargo Express company in this city, has been elected general manager of the Galveston Packing company. The stockholders of this company have displayed wisdom in this selection, as Mr. Chapman is a thorough business man and has proven successful in what he has heretofore undertaken. It is by no means likely this new move on his part will prove an exception.

The Galveston Daily News, Galveston, Galveston Co., TX, Monday, November 10, 1890

A Change of Agents.

Mr. A. D. Chapman arrived in the city and assumed the position of agent of the Wells Fargo Express company last Saturday. He was formerly in charge of the company's office at Gainesville. Mr. Chapman succeeds his brother, W. J. Chapman, who resigned to accept the management of the Galveston Packing company.

The Galveston Daily News, Galveston, Galveston Co., TX, Thursday, December 18, 1890

The Nuptial Knot.

Yesterday evening, at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. G. W. Grover, were celebrated the nuptials of their cousin, Fannie W. Fletcher, and Willoughby J. Chapman. The wedding was a quiet one, only the immediate relatives and most intimate friends of the contracting parties being present. Though quiet, it was none the less brilliant, and the participating will long remember the festive occasion. The bride has endeared herself to her many friends in Galveston and Mr. Chapman is well known in town as the agent of Wells Fargo's Express company for the past three years, and more recently as the general manager of the Galveston Packing company.

The Muscatine Journal, Muscatine, Muscatine Co., IA, Tuesday, Thursday, September 13, 1900

Fannie Waters Safe.

The Galveston Daily News, Galveston, Galveston Co., TX, Wednesday, October 20, 1909

Social Notes.

Miss Dorothy Chapman will entertain her little friends with a party Saturday afternoon from 3 until 6 o'clock at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Willoughby J. Chapman, 3504 Avenue O. Invitations for this frolic are now being prepared for mailing.

Historical Review of South-east Texas and the Founders, Leaders and Representative Men of Its Commerce, Industry and Civic Affairs, Volume 2, Dermot H. Hardy and Ingham S. Roberts, Brookhaven Press, 1910

WILLOUGHBY J. CHAPMAN was born in Devonshire, England, December 23, 1860. His father, Alfred Chapman, came from Devonshire to the United States in 1879, and was a merchant in Missouri until his death in 1900. The mother, whose maiden name was Bessie M. Dufty, of Devonshire, is now living in Ohio. After an education in the boarding schools of England and the public schools of Missouri, W. J. Chapman began working for Wells, Fargo & Company, and was employed at different places in the West from 1883 to 1897. While in the employ of the express company he located at Galveston, in 1888, and has been a resident of the city since that time. He resigned his work with the express company in 1897 and became manager of the Gulf Fisheries Company. In January, 1905, he established the Bettison Fishing Pier Company. The pier was destroyed in the storm of July 21, 1909. Mr. Chapman is president of the W. J. Chapman Company, dealers in fish and oysters. This is a wholesale business, and was founded in 1905. The principal localities supplied by this company are in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana and Arkansas. Mr. Chapman is a member of the Galveston Business League. His politics is Republican, and he is a member of the Episcopal church. He is a trustee of the Galveston Lodge, no. 126, B. P. O. E. His marriage to Miss Fannie Waters, daughter of Co. O. P. Waters, of Burlington, Iowa, occurred in 1891. They have one child, Dorothy Virginia.

The Muscatine Journal, Muscatine, IA, Tuesday, August 1, 1911

AGED RESIDENT IS CALLED IN DEATH

The Daily Gazette, Xenia, Greene Co., OH, Tuesday, February 11, 1913

Miss Agnes Bickett, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Bickett, of Chestnut street, has taken a position as traveling representative of George E. Dum and Company, selling a Practical reference Library, and started on her new work Tuesday morning. She went first to New Philadelphia, where she joined a party of young women with whom she will be associated in the work. She expects to travel over a number of States and Canada.

Francis Williams "Fannie" (Waters) (Thompson) (Fletcher) Chapman Death Record.

The Galveston Daily News, Galveston, Galveston Co., TX, Tuesday, September 25, 1917

Mortuary Record

WOMAN CIVIC WORKER IS DEAD

Mrs. Fannie W. Chapman Was Prominent in Social Life.

The funeral of Mrs. Fannie W. Chapman, wife of Willoughby J. Chapman, who died at 11 o'clock Sunday night at the family residence, 1718 Avenue G, was held yesterday afternoon at the home. Mrs. Chapman was a descendant of the old Everett family of Georgia, but was born in Muscatine, Iowa. Mrs. Chapman came to Galveston in 1889, and the following year married W. J. Chapman, a business man of this city. She was prominently connected with the social life of this city, having taken an active part in the work of the Women's Health Protective Association, and was a devout worker in the Episcopal Church as a member of the Trinity Episcopal Church here. Funeral services were held yesterday afternoon at 4 o'clock at the residence, Rev. George B. Norton, formerly pastor of St. Mark's Episcopal Church of Beaumont, officiating. George M. Murray, Bonneau Murray, W. E. Grover, E. J. Pettibone, V. L. Bautard and H. T. Adriance were pallbearers. Interment was in the Episcopal Cemetery.

Marriage License - Willoughby  J. Chapman, 45, Galveston, Texas, a merchant, and D. Agnes Bickett, 30, bookkeeper. Rev. D. D. Dodds.

The Evening Gazette, Xenia, Greene Co., OH, Tuesday, July 16, 1918

Local Items

Marriage License - Willoughby  J. Chapman, 45, Galveston, Texas, a merchant, and D. Agness Bickett, 30, bookkeeper. Rev. D. D. Dodds.

The Evening Gazette, Xenia, Greene Co., OH, Tuesday, July 16, 1918

MISS AGNES BICKETT WEDS A TEXAS MAN

Miss D. Agnes Bickett, daughter of Mrs. George Bickett of Yellow Springs, became the bride of Willoughby J. Chapman of Galveston, Texas, Monday, the quiet service taking place at the home of the officiating clergyman, the Rev. D. D. Dodds, on East Market street. The bridal pair was unattended. The bride wore a tailored suit in taupe. Following the ceremony Mr. and Mrs. Chapman started for Cleveland, and they will visit Mr. Chapman's mother and sisters in that city and Akron. They expect to be in Yellow Springs for a short visit before going to their home in Galveston. Mr. Chapman, who is an Englishman by birth, is a wholesale grocer and dealer in ship supplies at Galveston. Mrs. Chapman has been in Milwaukee for the past year, having been engaged there as bookkeeper for The Petley Rubber Manufacturing Company. She came home two weeks ago to prepare for her marriage.

The Galveston Daily News, Galveston, Galveston Co., TX, Tuesday, June 17, 1919

Social News

Mrs. Ruth Bickett who has been visiting  her daughter, Mrs. Willoughby Chapman, 1718 Avenue G, will return today to her home at Yellow Springs, Ohio. Mrs. Chapman, Miss Dorothy Chapman, and little Miss Jean Elizabeth Chapman will accompany her and will spend the summer at Yellow Springs and Akron, Ohio, where they will visit Mr. Chapman's sisters. Mr. Chapman will join them later to accompany them home.

The Xenia Evening Gazette, Xenia, Greene Co., OH, Tuesday, September 2, 1919

YELLOW SPRINGS

Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Chapman and daughters, Dorothy and Jean Elizabeth, left Thursday for their home in Galveston, Texas, after spending the summer with Mrs. Chapman's mother, Mrs. George Bickett.

The San Diego Union, San Diego, San Diego Co., CA, Sunday, May 23, 1920

DEATHS

FLETCHER - At 1030 Fifteenth street, this city, May 22, 1920, Glen Deshler Fletcher: a native of Minnesota, aged 65 years. Strictly private funeral services will be held at the chapel of Johnson-Saum company tomorrow (Monday), Rev. Charles L. Barnes officiating. Interment at Greenwood cemetery. Please omit flowers.

The Galveston Daily News, Galveston, Galveston Co., TX, Friday, July 2, 1920

Social News

Mr. and Mrs. Willoughby J. Chapman and Baby Jean Elizabeth left yesterday for Yellow Springs, Ohio, to visit Mrs. Chapman's mother and sisters at Akron, Ohio. Mrs. Chapman and baby will spend the summer months with Mrs. Bickett at Yellow Springs, Mr. Chapman returning home the latter part of July after attending to some business matters.

The Galveston Daily News, Galveston, Galveston Co., TX, Sunday, September 25, 1921

CHAPMAN BUYS BUILDING USED AS SHIP CHANDLERY

W. J. Chapman has purchased from T. L. Cross the three-story building at 2014-16 Strand, occupied by Mr. Chapman's ship chandlery business, it was announced yesterday. The consideration was $12,000. The building, known as the Hendley building, has been used as a ship chandler's store continuously for the past thirty-seven years. Mr. Chapman has been in business there for five years.

The Galveston Daily News, Galveston, Galveston Co., TX, Sunday, November 21, 1921

Social News

Mrs. Willoughby Chapman and baby daughter, Jean Elizabeth, and Miss Dorothy Chapman, returned Thursday from a month's visit to St. Louis, Mo., and other Northern cities.

The Galveston Daily News, Galveston, Galveston Co., TX, Thursday, November 2, 1922

Social News

Willoughby J. Chapman returned yesterday from an extended trip to New York, Akron, Springfield and Yellow Springs. Mrs. Chapman and children, Jean Elizabeth and Robert Alfred, will remain for a longer visit with Mr. Chapman's mother in Yellow Springs.

Willoughby Joseph Chapman and his son, Robert Alfred Chapman, at the Bettison Pier, Galveston, Galveston Co., TX, 1923.

Willoughby Joseph Chapman, Galveston, Galveston Co., TX,  about 1923.

Willoughby Joseph Chapman Death Record. Cause of death: Chronic Myocarditis of 8 months.

The Galveston Daily News, Galveston, Galveston Co., TX, Friday, January 29, 1926

Chandler Dies

WILLOUGHBY J. CHAPMAN, ship chandler, died yesterday evening at 6 o'clock at his home, 2124 Avenue N. Death came suddenly and was attributed to heart failure. Mr. Chapman was prominent in shipping circles and was conducting a ship chandlery and manufacturer's agent business at the time of his death. He was also owner of Bettison's fishing pier. He was 66 years old and had resided in this city for the greater part of his life. Born in Devonshire, England, Mr. Chapman came to America as a youth and resided for some time in Missouri. He came to Galveston more than fifty-three years ago. When the Wells Fargo Express Company opened its first office here in 1888, Mr. Chapman was appointed agent. Until recently he was receiver of the Gulf Fisheries. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Agnes B. Chapmen; two small children, Jean and Bobby; one brother, A. D. Chapman of Ridgefield Park, N. J., and three sisters, Mrs. Rose Woolwny, Mrs. D. M. Carothers and Mrs. Anna Meek, all of Akron, Ohio. Funeral arrangements will be announced later.

The Galveston Daily News, Galveston, Galveston Co., TX, Wednesday, February 3, 1926

SHIP CHANDLERY BUSINESS AND FISHING PIER WILL BE CONTINUED AS HERETOFORE

The business of W. J. Chapman, ship chandler, who died last week, will be continued as in the past, according to information given out yesterday by Mrs. Chapman. As the business demands additional lines and help will be added to the force, she said. Bettison's fishing pier will also be continued as formerly, with all concessions being handled by the one company, Mrs. Chapman said. Old Black Joe, who has been at the pier for a number of years, will continue to hold down his same position.

The Evening Gazette, Xenia, Greene Co., OH, Thursday, April 10, 1930

Mr. and Mrs. Leroy Bickett, of Watertown, Wisconsin, were here Saturday making arrangements to start their brother, Earl Bickett to Galveston, Texas. They left Saturday evening by automobile for St. Louis, where Earl will take the train for Galveston, where he will make his home with his sister, Mrs. Chapman.

 The boat "Eva" in Galveston, Galveston Co., TX, leased by Dora Agnes "Aggie" (Bickett) Chapman, ferried people from Galveston to the popular Bettison Fishing Pier, located on the North Jetty, seven miles northeast of Galveston . The Bettison pier was operated for many years by Willoughby Joseph Chapman and Dora Agnes "Aggie" (Bickett) Chapman. Pictures courtesy of Anne Kathleen (Chapman) Merillat.

Bettison's Pier, one of Galveston's most popular fishing spots of the early 1900's. Operated by Capt. R. L. Bettison, his pier and fishing house was located on the North Jetty, seven miles from the city. Bettison offered free transportation to the pier. The pier sold bait and tackle and had overnight accommodations... for men only. On July 21, 1909 a hurricane struck Galveston... the city's first major test of its new seawall. There was extensive damage to Galveston's beachfront, and both Murdock's and The Breakers were destroyed. But, as the newspaper declared: "the seawall paid for itself today." Though the seawall was strewn with debris, it weathered the storm and came through with flying colors. Not a single life was lost in the city of Galveston. However, 5 lives were lost on outlying fishing piers. Two of those lives lost were those of Capt. Bettison and his wife when Bettison's Pier was completely destroyed during the storm. Their bodies were found within 12 hours, but the coroner reported that nearly every bone in Mrs. Bettison's body was broken, a testament to the awful struggle the two had endured

Dora Agnes "Aggie" (Bickett) Chapman

Robert Alfred Chapman, Dora Agnes "Aggie" (Bickett) Chapman, Jean Elizabeth Chapman, taken for an article in The Galveston Daily News, Friday, March 17, 1939.

Rear: Unknown, Dora Agnes "Aggie" (Bickett) Chapman, Unknown; Front: Bobby Chapman, Jean Chapman

Rear: Unknown, Unknown, Unknown, Dora Agnes "Aggie" (Bickett) Chapman, Unknown; Front: Unknown, Jean Chapman, Bobby Chapman. Picture probably taken at Galveston Beach, TX, about 1930?

Galveston Coastal News, Galveston, Galveston Co., TX, Friday, June 25, 1937

To the right are a group of visitors from Wisconsin, who have been spending the week here as the guests of Mrs. W. J. Chapman and daughter, Miss Jean Chapman. Miss Ruth Bickett, standing, and Miss Helen Bickett, seated on the top step, are the daughters of Mr. and Mrs. L. M. Bickett of Watertown, Wis., and the nieces of Mrs. Chapman. They were accompanied by Miss Doris Kaddatz, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E. C. Kaddatz, of Watertown, who is seated on the lowest step. Miss Chapman who is pictured with the group will accompany them when they leave. They will spend a few days in New Orleans before returning home.

Dora Agnes "Aggie" (Bickett) Chapman at her home, 1314 Avenue M, Galveston, Galveston Co., TX, about 1951.

The extended Chapman family, Easter, 1952, 4710 Unknown, Galveston Co., TX. Photo taken by Harvey Michael Bashor Sr. Picture courtesy of Anne Kathleen (Chapman) Merillat.

Front row, left to right: Paul Warren Chapman; Anne Kathleen Chapman; and Robert Alfred "Bob" Chapman.

Second row: left to right: Harvey Michael "Mickey" Bashor Jr.; Tobe Joseph Bashor; and John Willoughby Chapman.

Third row: left to right: Jean Elizabeth (Chapman) Bashor; Dorothy Elizabeth "Dot" (Warren/Beall) Chapman; and Dora Agnes "Aggie" (Bickett) Chapman.

Back row, left to right: Joan Elizabeth Bashor .

Dora Agnes "Aggie" (Bickett) Chapman Death Record. Primary cause of death: Cerebral Vascular (Stroke) due to an accident of 3 days, and also due to Essential Hypertension of unknown duration.

The Galveston Daily News, Galveston, Galveston Co., TX, Monday, May 17, 1954

Rites Set Today For Mrs. Chapman

Services for Mrs. Agnes B. Chapman, 65, who died at Schneider's Nursing Home at 1103 29th street early Saturday, are scheduled at 4 p. m. Monday at Malloy & Sons funeral home. The Rev. Garnet House, Central Methodist Church pastor, will officiate. Mrs. Chapman, widow of the late Willoby J. Chapman, was for many years owner and operator of the Bettison fishing pier. She was a Galveston resident 36 years. Surviving are: a daughter and son, Mrs. Harvey Bashor and Robert A. Chapman, Galveston; brother, L. M. Bickett of Watertown, Wisc., six grandchildren and other relatives. Burial will be in Galveston Memorial Park. Pallbearers: A. J. Bisaillon, W. H. White, Jeff Huddleston, W.. E. Greer, Harry Melcer and W. M. Smith.

Watertown Daily Times, Watertown, WI, Thursday, December 7, 2006

Historic property will get new use

A long-standing home on Carl Schurz Hill is razed Wednesday to make room for a planned condominium development on the site off North Church Street. Built around 1920 by the Pratt family, the building rests on the original foundation of a home constructed by German statesman Carl Schurz. The Schurz home, which was destroyed by fire in 1912, was also the site where Margarethe Schurz began the first kindergarten iin America before relocating to a downtown building. The Sweeney family raised their large family in the home for 38 years before the property was converted to a bed and breakfast business, The Karlshuegel Inn, in 1992. Developer Mike Martin plans to build 16 custom-built condominium dupleses on the 7 1/2 acres of land which overlook a back bay of the Rock River.

Unidentified relatives; picture supplied by Anne (Chapman) Merillat.

http://www.ftfmagazine.lewcock.net/index.php/volume-one-new/january-2008/340-alfred-chapman-escapes

Alfred Chapman escapes

Written by Christine in Herts.

Working my way back through my husband’s family I reached his maternal great grandfather, John Chapman. He had lived in Black Torrington in North Devon, amongst a cluster of other Chapmans and had died before the 1841 census. There was no distinguishing middle name � nothing to single him out in the IGI records. It was clear that I was wasting my time trying to get anywhere with his records. I set him aside as an impenetrable 'brick wall' and turned my attention to other parts of the family who looked more promising.

 

By the time she died, just before Christmas of 2005, my mother-in-law had long since ceased to be able to share her family history with us, but there were bits and pieces I had noted in the past, when the topic of conversation had wandered into family tree territory. When the time came to start the house clearing process, various nuggets turned up � some a real delight, even when they didn’t contribute much to the tree. There were wedding and funeral orders of service, invitations and birth announcements, a probate copy of a will from 1869, an original wedding certificate from 1883 and original baptism certificates from the years just after, along with Band of Hope and Women�s Temperance Movement certificates and a family bible, as well as some old letters

 

It was correspondence dating from the very beginning of the 20th century which provided the means to break down the brick wall.

 

Two pairs of letters – two inbound and two copies of the replies – between Arthur Willoughby Chapman of Plymouth (grandson of that John Chapman) and Willoughby J. Chapman of Galveston, Texas.

 

At that time, Arthur was only about 18 years old – a very junior member of the family shipping company in Plymouth, but in an era of when people did not use first names, his name had appeared in full on a document (perhaps a letter of credit?) which had landed on the desk of a clerk in a real estate agents in Galveston.

 

Furthermore, in that era when everyone was Mr this and Mrs that, that clerk happened to know that the 'W. J.' of 'Mr W. J. Chapman, manager, Gulf Fisheries Inc.' stood for 'Willoughby J., and he also knew that Mr Chapman‘s family came from Devon, whence also came the document on his desk. He had been intrigued enough to put the two men in touch with each other. The correspondence was packed full of the detail you�d have to exchange to work out how you were related, and they were indeed related.

 

It was fascinating and it gave me lots of extra detail about the family, including names and anecdotes. It gave me a brief, but first hand account of the great storm of Galveston, in which W. J. Chapman and his wife had lost everything but their lives and counted themselves very lucky for surviving. It also gave an account of the rebuilding of Galveston and the new sea wall to protect it. I was reading these letters shortly after the inundation of New Orleans in August 2005, so that had quite a resonance. 

 

Although this didn’t really get me much further on with John Chapman himself.

 

It occurred to me that someone in the USA called 'Willoughby J. Chapman' was likely to be researched by someone else, because it was that sort of a name. So I did some googling. A couple of e-addresses turned up in the process and I tried e-mailing them, explaining what we�d found. One recipient turned out to be a granddaughter of Willoughby J. Chapman, just as my husband is a grandson of Arthur Willoughby Chapman. She has been enormously generous with her family tree resources. 

 

Perhaps because they were emigrés, her ancestors had made and kept wonderful family tree records. Her great grandfather had written an essay which commenced -

 

"It may perhaps be interesting to learn something of the history and genealogy of our family. I will begin with my grandfather Joseph Chapman of Black Torrington, Devon, England".

 

It went on to encompass enough information to take me three generations further back and several branches sideways. My brick wall was comprehensively demolished!

 

Rather more important than that demolition, is that I have gained an e-friend. In response to a set of images of that set of letters, she posted me a fat A4 envelope of copy records and e-mailed me transcripts and images.

 

Amongst the bundles of information was a copy of W. J. Chapman�s father, Alfred�s diary. It covered the dates from 1 January 1869, as a tenant farmer in North Devon, through his emigration journey, to 4 May 1871, by which time his family had joined him via New York. It records the weather conditions every day and tells of his day-to-day experiences. It mentions the doctor calling to vaccinate two of his daughters (one only two months old) in 1869, when vaccination was pretty much cutting edge medicine; it talks of his difficulties with his landlord; it describes his journey from North Devon to Bristol and his crossing to Boston; it describes his experiences travelling through the US, looking for somewhere to settle – to live and to work and to which he could bring out his family.

 

There are cameo experiences such as glimpsing someone whom he believes to be the president, travelling incognito with his wife; there�s the false hope that he’s bought a goldmine; remarks about the similarities and differences of the countryside, the people, the animals, the crops, even the churches, as well as passing remarks which show most graphically just how much travel has changed such as "Good work, 20 miles in 2 1/2 hours�.

 

One 1871 entry in the diary grabbed my attention in a different way, Bessie being his wife -

 

�February 25th Saturday - J.S. went to P.Office. Posted letter to Bessie, No.13, & received newspaper Western Times with 2 letters from me to Bessie. I am much hurt at their being published without my consent as there are some things ought not to be published and others are misprinted & misrepresented.�

 

I thought to myself, I don’t live that far from the British Newspaper Library at Colindale so I could go and see if I could find the copy of that newspaper in which Alfred’s letters were published. It took me a while to get organised, but I did establish using their online catalogue, that they had the copies covering the relevant time span; 4 October 1870, when he’d landed in Boston and 25 February 1871, when he’d collected the infamous papers from the post office, allowing for a margin of time for letters to have been written and to travel to and fro. Eventually I got myself to Colindale, armed with a spare morning in which to enjoy myself investigating.

 

I called for the first volumes of papers and realised that it was probably going to take a little while. The newspapers were made up of a couple of folded sheets about A1 in size – so about A2 to deal with. It was a daily weekday paper, so there would be quite a lot to wade through.

 

I started browsing: looking for the correspondence pages, for the local news columns and skim-reading for references to Chapman. I began to realise that I would be getting copies of pages from more than just the one paper, when I did find them. Alfred Chapman had been a cause c�l�bre in this (Liberal) newspaper. The descriptions of his difficulties with the landlord clearly understated his problems. He�d ended up going to court to protect his position as tenant farmer, having had his tenancy terminated rather abruptly (almost certainly because his political views and non-conformist churchmanship conflicted with his landlord’s opinions). He was always going to find it difficult because his landlord was Lord High Sheriff of Devon, a practising barrister, an MP and the son of the Archdeacon of Exeter.

 

Alfred himself, referred to “the position he occupies as a magistrate, as a Captain in the Yeomanry, as a practical farmer, and as a so-called leader (being chairman of the committee) of the Conservative Party in North Devon”.

 

Due to the landlord reneging on an unwritten agreement, he found that winning his original case was no advantage because his landlord won another which meant Alfred was down by a couple of hundred pounds, which was a lot of money in those days.

 

The newspaper championed his cause as a tenant farmer trying to protect the interests of all tenant farmers.

 

There were several leader articles, some other letters from Alfred, some directly to the paper and records of the efforts to raise money to send with his wife, when the rest of the family followed after him. * see Related Articles below *

 

My 'spare morning' lasted most of the day! However it was so interesting and was very satisfying to feel that I could send my e-friend something which I knew would bring her so much pleasure.

 

Christine from Herts

 

 

Birth:	Feb. 16, 1810 Baltimore City Maryland, USA
Death:	Jan. 4, 1877 Muscatine Muscatine County Iowa, USA
He married (1) Sarah Reinhard in 1836 Ky and (2) Mary Ann Klein. John was the son of John Gordon from Carlisle Pa - who died in Md 1818 and wife Maria Gardner. He was orphaned at the age of 8 years. Also, from a book entitled "Our Gordon Family", by Spencer Gordon, 1941, General Gordon's second wife was Elizabeth Dougherty, nee Klein. His children by Sarah Reinhard were Ella Blake, Susan Baker, Mary Edwards, Maria, John Gardner 11, and Annie. By his second marriage with Elizabeth Dougherty, he had a son named Glenn. .

 

Obituary--
General John G Gordon no More - A Brief Sketch of an Honorable and Useful Life

For several days the community has been expecting, with painful and anxious hears, the dread news of the death of John G Gordon. At 2 O'clock this morning the end came, and the spirit of the beloved husband and father, the honored citizen and esteemed friend, crossed the dark flood, to mingle with the Celestial band on the other shore. Surrounded by weeping wife and children, sweetly, peacefully, like a child hushed to gentle slumber, and unconscious of the physical pain too often inflicted by the arrows of Death, he sank to rest, only the still pulse and marble like features indicating the great transition from time to eternity.
"So fades the summer cloud away, so sinks the gale when storms ale o'er, So gently shuts the eye of day, So dies the wave upon the shore"
Thus passed away on of Muscatine's oldest and most esteemed citizens - one whose form and face and pleasant voice and kind greeting were familiar to the youg and old of the city. It will be remembered that the cause of his death was a paralytic affection. Until this sudden and unexpected attack he had been remarkably free from disease, never before having in his recollection, been ill a day , ad never, particularly speaking, having taken medicine. The attack which loosed "the silver chord" of life came on Saturday evening, December 16, two weeks ago last Saturday. It was about 7 o'clock and Mr Gordon was in the store, standing by the counter, listening to the reading of the evening paper by his associate, Eugene Klein, when he experienced a singularly painful sensation, and on the impulse of the moment, started towards the door. It was noticed by Eugene that one leg seemed to drag heavily, and that it seemed to be a painful effort to walk. On reading a point about half way between the stove and the front door, the General Stopped and leaned over the counter, evidently in distress. In reply to the tender inquiries of Eugene he remarked that he felt very strangely. Eugene and Mr Hunt, the head clerk, at once assisted him home. He then left the store, never to return. For a day or two he was able to move about the house, and hopes of his recovery were entertained, but his strength gradually failed and he was soon compelled to keep his bed. During the last week or ten days of his illness, the General was only conscious at intervals, the trouble having, it seemed more seriously affected the brain. It is believed that the attack was superinduced by a severe fall received on the steps of his house last spring. We can give here only a brief sketch of the eventful life of this well know and loved citizen. He was born in Baltimore MD, February 16, 1810, his age being nearly 67 years. At an early age he was sent to York, Pa, to serve an apprenticing for the mercantile business. When a young man he removed to Louisville, Ky and there embarked in business for himself. After a short but very successful career here, he transferred his headquarters to Pittsburgh, Pa and such was the popularity he had gained at Louisville that he carried with him in his new house a large part of his old custom. In the spring of 1844, following the tide of emigration and the course of the empire, he came west and located in Muscatine, commencing business as a general merchant. His first stand was an old frame standing on the site of the brick now occupied by McQuesten and Sawyer, his next a similar structure standing where Mr Gerndt has his meat market, next to Daugherty's drug store. He occupied this land till 1851, when he completed and moved into handsome brick block which is so well know as the store of J G Gordon & Co. During all those busy years his has been controlling spirit in the store. For eight years from 1866-1874 O P Waters, Esq, was a partner, and for several years before and ever since Eugene Klein, his brother in law, was associated with him in the business, but the General has ever taken a pride in giving his personal attention to its super vision, and the customer who entered the store without being greeted by the General himself with a hearty salutation, a cheery word, a bright smile and a cordial hand shake would have felt as if something was wrong. In his business relations, the General ranks with hie pioneers of the city and the best know and most prominent and influent ion in the State. In earlier times, when dry good, groceries, hardware and greenware were combined, his trade commanded sweep of country taking in radius of from 100 to 140 miles and his large establishment was known as one of the finest and most extensive in the west. His popularity as a merchant was commensurate with the extent of his trade. Every one liked to deal with one who was at once so courteous obliging and straightforward in his commerce with all. General Gordon was twice married - first at Louisville to miss Sarah Beinard, who bore him six children (five daughters and one son) and second in 1856, in Muscatine, to the widow of James M Daugherty, and daughter of Edward Klein, by whom he had one son and one daughter. All his children are living, ? the daughter by his second marriage. His surviving daughters are Ella, wife of Wm R Stone, and Mary, wife of Col J F Culver, both of Duluth, Minn; Susan, wife of W S Humphreys, of St. Louis; Maria, wife of M W Griffin,of Muscatine, and Miss Annie, at home; Gardner, the elder son has been in St Louis the past few years and Glenn, the younger is at home. The distinguished title of General was bestowed on Mrs. Gordon in 1847 by the Governor Ansel Briggs of Iowa, the commission, the original of which we were shown, was dated at Iowa City June 27, and appointed the General the command of "the second division of Iowa militia" We do not hear that he ever performed any active service, but the appointment was a deserved recognition of worth of a prominent esteemed citizen.
Though at home no man stood higher in the confidence and affection of the people than Mr. Gordon we believe that during his long residence here he held but one public office, and that was the humble municipal trust of alderman. Not that he was urged to serve the public with his clear judgement and fine abilities, but that he was a part of the philosophy of his life to abstain from active participation in politics, preferring rather the quiet and pleasures of home and the honors of a successful business to the turmoil and strife of the political arena. As a Mason, however, he was one of the oldest and most esteemed members of the order. General Gordon will be missed in every walk and circle of Muscatine life and society. Prominent and active in business; liberal and zealous in forwarding public enterprises; genial intelligent and communicative in society with a rich store of anecdote and reminiscence to entertain friends, his death will leave a void hard to fill and bring a pang to every heart. Who that was not familiar with his fine figure and handsome pre sense as he made his regular diurnal trips between the store and house? Time, with his magic wand, had touched him but lightly; yes so gently that in his more than thirty years of reputable citizenship he seemed but little changed, either as to the cheerful and intellectual face or the lively and sympathetic spirit antimating him, and he glided almost imperceptibly into the ripeness of old age. At heart he was kindness itself. Talmage told us that a single flash would sometimes reveal all the secret springs in a mans life, and so a simple incident will serve to illustrate Gen Gordon's character. On the bitterly cold Friday just before his illness, a well known professional begger, a woman, came into the store to solicit charity. She stood near the door some little time without receiving attention, when the General chanced to observe her for the first time. Hastening forward he placed a piece of money in her hand and politely bowed her out remarking on his return that he "couldn't turn a dong away without something on such a day". But we cannot speak further of this admirable traits of character which so endeared him to this relatives and immediate friends and made him personally so popular. His long life of usefulness and activity will be an enduring monument that speaks more eloquently than words and will keep his memory green. The General was a regular attendant at Trinity church, and was one of its most zealous an liberal supporters. The bereaved widow and children of deceased have the deepest sympathy of the community in their sore affliction. The funeral will take place from the family residence on Second Street, on Saturday, at 10 o'clock a.m. The paul bearers selected are: H W Moore, G A Garrettson, P. Jackson, F H Stone, J Carskaddan, A Jackson, John Lemp, J J Hoopes, and J P Ament. , direct ancestor of John G Gordon holds in safe keeping the above mentioned "commission" dated June 27 1847.