G. G. THOMASSEN

Was one of Pella's oldest merchants. He was born in Gelderland December 23,
1840, and came to this country with his parents with the first Holland colony in
1847. He received his education here and at the age of six teen years he
commenced buying and selling stock for his brother, and followed that until he
entered the mercantile business for himself. In 1874 he started a meat market
and in 1877 branched out into general merchandise, in which business he engaged
until his death, which occurred December 24, 1919. Few if any merchants of Pella
have a record of longer continuous application in business. He was a man of
exemplary character, great industry, and was universally esteemed in the
community. He was a member of the First Reformed Church at the time of his
death. He was married to Miss Maggie van Wyngarden in March, 1864. She died
leaving live children: Dina, Janie, Minnie, Johannes and John. Lost two. In 1876
he married Miss Elizabeth Den Berger. She was born on the 19th of April, 1857. By
this marriage there were eight children: Margaret, Josephine, Herman, May, Cora,
Edward, Lewis, Paul and Harold.

G. G. THOMASSEN

THOMAS W. COX

Was born in Fulton county, Ohio, July 21, 1849. When about six years of age he
came to Pella with his parents and was educated in the public schools of that
city. When the Civil war threatened the very existence of our government, Tom,
although only twelve years and about six months old, enlisted as a drummer boy
and served throughout the war, not even coming home on a furlough. He was
granted a furlough at one time but generously had it transferred to a comrade
who had a very urgent reason for wanting to visit his home. To those who knew
"Tom" this incident will be recognized as an outstanding indication of his
character. On the 11th day of September, 1882, he married Miss Betsy Hayward at
Creston, Iowa. After his return from the war he attended Central University, and
later learned telegraphy. For the greater part of his active life he followed
this work until failing health caused him to resign. He purchased the American
House at Pella from Mrs. C. Bongers, and continued as manager and landlord until
his death, which occurred in 1909. Few men have ever lived in this community who
had more warm friends than Tom Cox.

THOMAS W. COX