Luther Lakin (1830-1906)

LAKIN, STAPLES, SULLIVAN

Posted By: Dorian Myhre (email)
Date: 2/11/2025 at 15:40:15

From Jewell Record May 3, 1906 (page 4)

Obituary.

Luther Lakin, one of the pioneer settlers of Hamilton county, died at his home in Lakin's Grove Saturday morning, April 28, 1906, at five o'clock, after an illness of some length. In his death this vicinity loses one of the few sturdy pioneers who came while the state was yet young, and laid the foundation for the present proud place of this Iowa land.

Luther Lakin was born in Pike county, Penn., March 7, 1830, being 76 years of age at the time of his death. He early removed to Illinois, where in Nov. of 1855 he was united in marriage to Miss Emily S. Staples, the fiftieth anniversary of their happy wedded life having been celebrated last fall. Sixteen children blessed this union, all but three surviving. One child died in infancy, and two others, Alpheus and Mrs. Alma Sullivan preceded their father to the great beyond.

In the year 1856, Luther Lakin brought his bride to Iowa, to try the fortunes of her rich but untamed prairie lands. He settled in a beautiful spot that since has become known as Lakin's grove, and here in the old homestead has been his home for a full half century. During his residence here he has won the deserved confidence and esteem of an extensive circle of friends and associates. He has held many offices of honor and trust and has been proved a true man of sterling worth.

The funeral services were held Monday, conducted by Rev. Call, a Baptist minister of Webster City. A large crowd of friends and acquaintances were present to show for the last time the respect and esteem in which they held this ragged and faithful pioneer.