Gavin McElhinney 1834-1914

MCELHINNEY, GILLIS, WILSON

Posted By: Beverly Gerdts (email)
Date: 2/19/2025 at 06:43:45

The Wapello Republican, Columbus Junction, IA
Thursday, December 10, 1914
Page 1

News- Herald: Gavin McElhinney died at the home of his son, R. W. McElhinney, Monday afternoon, November 30th, after an illness extending over several weeks. He was aged 90 years, 8 months and 6 days. The funeral services were held from the McElhinney home Wednesday afternoon conducted by Rev. H. G. Patterson, assisted by Rev. E. L. McKnight of Sharon. Many old neighbors and friends were present to pay the sad respects to an honored man, a son, Wm. McElhinney, from Omaha and Mrs. H.W. Gillis of Mt. Pleasant, were here to attend the funeral.

Mr. McElhinney was born in Ireland, March 24, 1834. When a mere lad he emigrated with his parents to this country, settling in New York City for a short time. They moved later to Oswego. N. Y. After a few years spent at that place the family moved to Philadelphia, reaming there until 1840, when they came west and settled on a farm in Louisa county, not far from the Sharon neighborhood. About twenty-five years ago, Mr. McElhinney retired from the farm and came to Morning Sun to live. His wife, who was Miss Jane Wilson, died in 1897 and a son, John in 1909. Two sons, R. W. of this city and Wm M. of Omaha, survive the father. Mr. McElhinney was the last member of his father's family. A brother, John H. McElhinney, died at the home of his son, Lyly McElhinney, in Quinter, Kan. on November 21st.

The deceased had been a resident of Iowa for 74 years. He was of that sturdy pioneer type that has made Iowa the great state that she is. He was a life long member of the Reformed Presbyterian church. He was a quiet steadfast Christian life and his end was peace.