ERASTUS M. STEWART

STEWART, BABBS, WOOD, SNOOK, TAYLOR

Posted By: County Coordinator
Date: 4/4/2020 at 20:32:48

ERASTUS M. STEWART, the fifth son of Martin Steward and Elizabeth Babbs, his wife, was born in Dearborn County, Indiana, Sept. 16, 1824. His father was a Virginian, of Scotch descent. And his mother was a native of Ohio, of Welch descent. In 1849, Mr. Stewart left his native State, and went via the Isthmus to California; he remained there three years, eighteen months of which he spent in mining. Leaving California, he returned to his native State, and staid until 1852, at which time he came to this State and located in Muscatine County. In 1855 he came to this county and located in Pleasant Ridge Township, where he now resides.

Mr. Stewart began his education in the common schools; at the age of fourteen he entered the seminary at Rising Sun, Ind. In this way he got an education that fitted him for his work on his farm and his other duties. In 1855, September 6, Mr. Stewart and Elizabeth Wood were married; by this union five children were born, three of whom are now living—two sons and one daughter. In 1864 the hand of Death took from his side his beloved wife; her death was lamented by all who knew her. In the same year Mr. Stewart was married to Julia Ann Snook; by this union three children have been born, two sons and one daughter. Politically, Mr. Stewart was born and educated a Whig; his first vote for President was polled for Zachary Taylor. He is now a Democrat, but his party favor does not prejudice him to vote for the candidates of his party regardless of their ability to fill the positions for which they are nominated. In 1871, he was elected Representative to the Legislature from this county. He has also filled a few township offices.

Beginning life with good health, strong hands and a stout heart as his capital stock, we see him toiling patiently and awaiting the fruits of his labors. While a boy, he spent a short time in a printing office. When he came to this county, he bought a farm with very few improvements, on which he began preparing his future home. His farm is now under good improvement, and with a loving family he can spend the remainder of his days in comfort.

Source:
Illustrated Historical ATLAS of Lee County, IOWA
A. T. Andreas
Chicago, ILL.
1874

Transcription by Mary H. Cochrane, Volunteer