STRAHAN, Otis A.

STRAHAN, MORRIS

Posted By: Roseanna Zehner
Date: 3/14/2004 at 16:08:48

Otis A. Strahan, residing in Malvern, controls important farming interests, having valuable and productive land in Mills County, He was born in Malvern in 1873, a son of J.M. Strahan, deceased, of whom mention is made elsewhere in this volume. He spent his youthful days under the parental roof and the public-school system afforded him his educational opportunities. At the age of nineteen years he made a forward step in the business world by securing a position in the First National Bank of Malvern, of which he was made assistant cashier. In that connection he worked his way upward, his fidelity and ability advancing him until he became vice president, which position he occupied for a number of years, or until 1907. Since that time he has given his undivided attention to agricultural pursuits. Some time previous to this he had been actively interested in farming, making stock-raising an especial feature of his business and also buying and shipping stock very extensively. He is the owner of several hundred acres of rich and productive land and in the conduct of his farm displays marked energy, keen insight and unfaltering perseverance. He understands the value of stock, so that he makes judicious purchases and profitable sales, and his labors have made his success most desirable.

In 1897, Mr. Strahan married Miss Ida Morris, of Malvern, a daughter of Rev. D.C. Morris, a minister of the Christian church. They have three children, Frances Adele, James Morris and Howard Otis. In 1913 Mr. Strahan erected a fine modern residence in Malvern—a commodious structure, built in the modern style of architecture and supplied with all the conveniences of the twentieth century. This is one of the best homes in the county and, moreover, its warm-hearted hospitality makes it a favorite resort with the many friends of the family. Mr. Strahan has always lived in Mills County and is widely known among its residents, his sterling worth gaining for him the high regard and goodwill of those with whom he has been brought in contact.

Source: Iowa: Its History and Its Foremost Citizens 1915