JOHN STEWART

STEWART, KELL, STEELE, GRIFFIN, HOLCOMB, MILLER

Posted By: County Coordinator
Date: 4/4/2020 at 20:34:28

JOHN STEWART was born April 11th, 1822 in Guernsey County, Ohio. His parents, James Steward and Mary Kell, were natives of Scotland. In 1843, Mr. Stewart came to this State; he first located in Van Buren County, where he lived until 1848, at which time her moved to this county. He first located on Section 10, in Marion Township, where he lived until 1856, when he moved to his present residence on Section 1. In 1844, Mr. Stewart was joined in marriage to Mary Steele, a native of Ohio. By this union ten children have been born, four sons and six daughters; eight are now living, three sons and five daughters. Three daughters are married; Mary Ellen is the wife of John Griffin, now living in Saline County, Nebraska. Rezilla is the wife of Oliver Holcomb, living at the same place. Jane is the wife of Wm. L. Miller now living in Monroe County, in this State.

Mr. Stewart’s education was obtained in a log house, with oiled paper for windows; it is limited, yet practical. Since his school days closed he has studied a great deal at home. He has always been a radical Democrat; he has always supported that party because of its principles. Although a radical Democrat, yet he has not been blinded by party prejudice to vote for men merely because they were candidates of his party. His voting is based on the principle of best man, best officer. He has kept himself secluded from the political field.

Mr. Stewart began life with about $1,500, but at the end of five years adverse circumstances had deprived him of it all, and he was obliged to begin his financial career again. By strictly adhering to certain business principles, although he has met with a few losses, he has again reached a good condition in life. He has about six hundred and fifty acres of land, and a farm well stocked. He has a good location and is building for himself a good house, which, when finished, will make him a good home.

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

Transcription by Mary H. Cochrane, Volunteer