THOMAS WELCH

WELCH, DOUGHERTY, STARR, ISHAM, ADAMS

Posted By: County Coordinator
Date: 4/4/2020 at 20:50:54

THOMAS WELCH was born in Harrison County, Ohio, August 2d, 1807. He is the third son and fourth child of Thomas Welch and Martha Dougherty. His father was born in Maryland, and died in 1861 at the age of eighty-five. His mother, of Irish descent, was a native of Pennsylvania. She died in her sixtieth year. His father, as indicated by the name, was of Welsh origin.

In 1835, Mr. Welch moved to Illinois, and in the next year he removed to his native State. In 1838, he moved to this county, and located in West Point Township, and in 1839, he located where he now lives, in Pleasant Ridge Township.

A log school-house, with a rough split slab or a seat, and an enormous fire-place, were the accompaniments with Mr. Welch while obtaining his early education. He could attend only in the winter, being obliged to give his attention to the more arduous duties on the farm during the summer. What a contrast between the common subscription schools of those times and the free schools of the present time! What a contrast between the substantial business men that were educated at that time and in that manner, and the men that are leaving the schoolroom, to begin business, at the present time!

In 1835, Mr. Welch was married to Ann Starr, a native of Ohio. One son was born now living in Kansas. In June, 1838, his wife died; and in October, 1839, he was married to Mary Isham, a native of New York. Three children - two sons and one daughter - have been born, all of whom are living.

He polled his first vote for President for John Quincy Adams, at his second nomination. True to his party, he remained a Whig until the dissolution of that party and the formation of the Republican, when he joined its ranks. During the war he was a strong Abolitionist. And zealously supported the last amendments of the constitution. As an officer, he has served his people long and faithfully, filling nearly every office in the township. His aim has been to support principles before party - men before party candidates.

In early life he had no property worthy of mention. He now lives on a good farm - a comfortable house with the surroundings - a view of which is given and a loving family, make him a pleasant home.

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

Transcription by Mary H. Cochrane, Volunteer