LECLAIRE RIEVERMEN
Part 10
SWEENEY HUGH
Photo by Robert Jones
The Daily Times, Thursday, Thursday, September 18, 1924, page 19.
HUGH SWEENEY OF LECLAIRE IS DEAD; FUNERAL ON FRIDAY
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Hugh Sweeney, 65, well known LeClaire resident, and a fireman on government boats in the Mississippi for many years, was found dead in bed yesterday by his daughter. Mrs. Josephine Thompson at the home in LeClaire. A jury called by Coroner Cantwell held that death was due to a stroke of apoplexy.
Mr. Sweeney had been in failing health and had just returned Monday from Marine hospital in Chicago where he had spent some time. His wife died a year ago. He leaves three daughters, Mrs. Thompson, Mrs. Henry Stichter of LeClaire and Mrs. Hattie Bethel of Chicago; a son, Charles of LeClaire, two sisters, Mrs. Catherine Hugenin of Camanche and Mrs. Mary Reynolds of Silvis and a half-sister, Mrs. Fannie Buchheit of LeClaire.
The funeral will be held at the home at 2 p.m. tomorrow with burial in LeClaire.
The Davenport Democrat and Leader, September 18, 1924, page 17.
HUGH SWEENEY OF LECLAIRE DIES SUDDENLY.
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Riverman Found Dead in Bed at Home; Funeral Service Friday.
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Hugh Sweeney passed away at his home, LeClaire, Ia., Wednesday night at 11:50. He was found dead in bed this morning by his daughter.
Mr. Sweeney, until two years ago, was employed on government boats, navigating on the Mississippi river.
The deceased was born in Willington, Del., on June 3, 1857, later moving to LeClaire.
He is survived by three daughters and on son; Mrs. Henry Sticker, and Mrs. Josephine Thompson, of LeClaire, and Charles Sweeney of LeClaire.
The funeral will be held from the home in LeClaire Friday afternoon at 2 o’clock. Rev. W. E. Green will have charge of the services at the home and at the graveside in the LeClaire cemetery.
The Davenport Democrat and Leader, Sunday Morning, September 21, 1924, page 15.
THE SWEENEY FUNERAL
The funeral of Hugh Sweeney was held Friday afternoon at 2 o’clock from the home in LeClaire.
Rev. W. E. Green officiated both at the home and at the grave in Glendale cemetery.
The pallbearers were: Arthur Newton, Arthur Dawley, George Bissick, Ewold Von Hein, Jacob Meyer and Robert Senthouse.
The Daily Times, Saturday, September 20, 1924, page 14.
Hugh Sweeney is Laid to Rest at LeClaire.
LECLAIRE, Ia., Sept. 20.--(Special)--The funeral services of Hugh Sweeney of LeClaire were held from the home yesterday afternoon. Rev. W. E. Greene, pastor of the Methodist Church of LeClaire, officiated. Interment was in the Glendale cemetery of LeClaire. The pallbearers were: A. H. Dawley, T. A. Newton, E. W. Von Hein and George Bissick.
SMITH IRA FULLER
Photos by Bob Jones
1885 Iowa State Census Scott County LeClaire page 263.
Name Age Sex Occupation
Smith Ira 45 M Pilot
Catherine 42 F Keeping House
Lola 23 F
Mary 12 F
Gracie 3 F
The Davenport Daily Times, Tuesday Evening, August 25, 1896
DROPS AT HIS POST.
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PILOT SMITH OF THE VERN SWAIN IS STRICKEN.
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Apoplexy Causes Him to Fall in the Pilot House--Steamer Starts Up Stream, but is Checked and Landed by Capt. Knaack.
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Capt. Ira Fuller Smith, the efficient pilot of the natty steamer, Verne Swain, fell at his post about noon today, stricken with deadly apoplexy. The steamer for a moment or so was left without a guiding hand and her course led on toward the government bridge. The trouble was discovered in time, however, and before any accident had occurred she was brought safely to land.
The steamer was just returning from Rock Island, where she had discharged her cargo, and was preparing to land at the Davenport bank and to lay there until time for her departure for the north. There are always a number of spectators on shore, and they had their eyes on the little steamers as she made for the land. Nothing out of the usual course was expected, and consequently when the steamer’s prow was seen to turn up stream there was much wonderment as to the cause. The guiding hand in the pilot house could not be seen, and the steamer seemed to be going ahead undirected. Such was the case. Her pilot had fallen to the floor of the pilot house under the influence of some malady or other.
Capt. William Knaack was standing on the forward part of the top deck near the head light. When he saw the steamer was not heading as she should, he made his way to the pilot house where he found that no hand was upon the wheel. He at once turned the boat around and landed her as speedily as possible after which calling a number of men to his assistance he had the pilot taken to his state room. Dr. E. S. Bowman was called and pronounced the case a stroke of apoplexy, although not a very serious one. The sick man was taken to his home on Iowa street near Eighth, and it is thought that with proper care and nursing, which he will receive, the sick man will be able to be about in a week or two.
The weakness of Pilot Smith did not cause the Vern to lose a trip, and she left as usual at 3 o’clock, with Pilot Zach Suiter at the wheel. Capt. Suiter is a regular rapids pilot, who makes his headquarters at the office on the Rock Island levee, near the ferry.
Davenport Daily Republican, Wednesday, August 26, 1896, page 6.
FELL AT THE WHEEL.
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Capt. Fuller Smith Suffers a Stroke of Apoplexy.
Captain Fuller Smith, one of the oldest pilots on the river had a stroke of apoplexy yesterday afternoon while at the wheel of the Vern Swain. For several days Captain Smith has been complaining of not feeling well, but yesterday he seemed as well as ever, and took the Vern over the rapids in the same way that he has done for years. The Vern came first to Davenport as is the custom, and then went to Rock Island where she unloaded the remainder of her passengers. After this she coaled up at the Cable Coal company.
After 2 p.m. the Vern started for this side of the river, with Captain Smith in the pilot house. All went as usual till the boat was about in the middle of the stream, when Captain Knaack came out of the cabin and noticed that the Verne was headed squarely for the bar which lies across the Rock Island slough. Captain Knaack made a straight shoot for the pilot house, and when he got there found Pilot Smith lying unconscious on the floor beside the wheel. The engines were stopped immediately, and Captain Knaack and those on board did all they could for the relief of the unconscious man. Captain Knaack brought the boat to the Iowa shore and Dr. Ed Bowman was summoned. Dr. Bowman pronounced the case to be only a slight attack of apoplexy caused by indigestion.
After lying in the state room of the Vern for about two hours and a half, Captain Smith was taken to his residence at 715 Iowa street. Dr. Bowman state that there is nothing very serious about the attack, but that Captain Smith needs rest, and should have a long one before he goes back to work. Captain Smith has been the Vern Swain’s pilot or the last seven years and there is no more cautious or reliable pilot on the rapids. He has a host of friends along the river men and is very well known in Davenport. Captain Zach Suiter will take his place at the Vern’s wheel.
Captain Ira Fuller Smith’s obit is on LeClaire Rivermen page 3.
The Davenport Republican, Friday, May 9, 1902, page 7.
THE PILOT STOOD PAT
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CAPT. JOHN SMITH WAS BOYCOTTED FOR TESTIMONY.
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Incurred Hatred of Rivermen for Testifying That the Railroad Bridge Was Not Responsible for the Wreck of Effie Afton--Interesting Account of the Disaster Given by Henry Parmele, an Eyewitness.
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The item inspired by the anniversary of the wreck of the steamer Effie Afton on the old government bridge has brought forth many recollections of that memorable disaster. Henry Parmele was here when the Effie Afton burned and he gives the following interesting account of the disaster and of the subsequent career of Pilot John Smith, who held the wheel on that day of fate:
As Mr. Lawhead was at the lower end of Rock Island at the time the steamer Effie Afton struck the bridge, he cannot give a description of anything until the boat struck the bar and sunk. I was living in the upper end of town at the time and witnessed the accident. The old bridge was built so there was a cross-current in the channel a little above the bridge. At the time of the accident to Effie Afton the wind had been blowing strong form the northeast for several days, and boats bound north had laid by at Davenport for several days waiting for the wind to fall. I think there were five or six boats in waiting and among them the Effie Afton. On the morning in question the Effie Afton, the largest of the lot, and loaded down to the guards with freight and passengers, started through the bridge when the strong wind and current struck her and threw her around broadside against the bridge. All the passengers made a rush for life for the bridge, and in a very few minutes after the boat struck the bridge she took fire. It was stated at the time that all the passengers were saved.
The burning boat soon burned one span of the bridge, and then the floating structure floated past Davenport. Horses and cattle could be heard neighing and lowing, chickens liberated by the fire were seen flying into the water. It made a sight never to be forgotten.
All the steamboats lying at the wharf had steam up and as soon as the burning span fell all started one after another for the gap in the bridge, every one of them blowing their whistles for joy. Such noise was never heard here before or since.
The Rock Island Railroad company was made defendant in a heavy damage suit, which it won mainly by the evidence of the late John Smith, the pilot, who testified the bridge was not in his way. John Smith was one of the best rapids pilots that ever turned a wheel. Now this evidence so angered all steamboat men that with one accord they agreed not to hire Smith any more. In consequence he was idle all one summer, with the result the steamboat companies had several boats damaged by striking the bridge besides the Effie Afton. The following spring the company paid John Smith his price for taking all boats over the rapids and through the bridge. Smith’s price was just pay for two summers’ work. This remarkable pilot was born and raised on the banks of the rapids and knew every dangerous rock on the rapids as well as his A B C’s.
THOMAS FRED
I knew Captain Ike Wasson liked good eating and was going to get the best on the market and I furthermore knew that Fred Thomas could and would put it on the table in first-class style so jumped at the chance but I only made one trip. A. D. Summers --RECOLLECTIONS OF A. D. SUMMERS Collected From “THE OLD BOATS” Additional Information from Men Who Knew Them--The Saturday Evening Post, Burlington Iowa
One other thing I recall was that Fred Thomas was going to serve meals on time if the heavens fell. His policy was that as it only took so long to eat and that to work you must eat and that you might as well eat on time as to wait, so eat it was…A. D. Summers --RECOLLECTIONS OF A. D. SUMMERS
Collected From “THE OLD BOATS” Additional Information from Men Who Knew Them--The Saturday Evening Post, Burlington Iowa
1885 Iowa State Census LeClaire City Scott County
Thomas Fred 48 cook
Caroline 43
Mary C 1
Fred Thomas died at LeClaire, also. I believe he moved there from Nauvoo. RECOLLECTIONS OF A. D. SUMMERS Collected From “THE OLD BOATS” Additional Information from Men Who
Knew Them—The Saturday Evening Post, Burlington Post.
The Davenport Times, April1, 1903, page 1.
Fred Thomas of LeClaire Dies Suddenly
Fred Thomas Dies
The death of Fred Thomas, an old resident of this place occurred yesterday afternoon at 4 o’clock, after an illness of several months. His wife preceded him in death several years ago, and he leaves a daughter, Mary, to mourn his loss. He was a prominent member of the A. F & A. M, Lodge here, and also carried insurance in the M. W. A. lodge at this place. The latter will have charge of the funeral services which will probably be held Thursday.
The Davenport Democrat, April 2, 1903, page 7.
OBITUARY
Thomas
At LeClaire, Tuesday, occurred the death of Fred Thomas, a member of the LeClaire Lodge, A.F. and A.M., and of the M. W. of A. He is survived by a daughter.
The Funeral will be held at LeClaire this afternoon.
TOHER BERTHA (ZUBER)
Davenport Times, April 5, 1902, page 4.
LECLAIRE
Mrs. Ella Fesson (Tesson) and Miss Bertha Zuber left on Thursday for Rock Island to take charge of the kitchen on the steamer Rutledge.
The Davenport Democrat, June 25, 1903.
MATRIMONIAL.
Toher-Zuber
Justice J. C. Hall united in marriage at his office today James Toher and Miss Bertha Zuber, both well known young people out of LeClaire, and the children of very worthy parents. The couple took in the carnival, after which they returned to LeClaire for permanent future residence.
The Daily Times, Thursday, February 7, 1952, page 1A
Husband and Wife Die 2 Weeks Apart
Mrs. James Toher, 72, a lifelong resident of LeClaire, died at 8:30 a.m. today in the home of her daughter, Mrs. Harold Graham, R. R. No. 2, Davenport, just two weeks after the death of her husband, James. Mrs. Toher died after an extended illness.
A native of LeClaire, she was born April 7, 1879, the daughter of Joseph and Marguerite Zuber. Her marriage to Mr. Toher took place in Davenport, June 23, 1903.
In addition to her daughter, Mrs. Toher is survived by two brothers, Herman Zuber, Davenport, and Louis Zuber, Bucyrus, O., and a grandson, James Arney, Pleasant Valley.
The body was removed to McGinnis funeral home, where services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday. The Rev. John A. Lewis, pastor of Mt. Ida Presbyterian Church, will officiate at the rites. Burial will be in Glendale Cemetery, LeClaire.
Morning Democrat, Friday, February 8, 1952, page 14.
LeClaire Deaths
MRS. JAMES TOHER
Funeral services for Mrs. James Toher, 72, LeClaire, who died at 8:30 a.m. Thursday in the home of her daughter, Mrs. Harold Graham, R. R. 2, Davenport, will be held in the McGinnis Funeral Home at 1:30 p.m. Saturday. The Rev. John A. Lewis, pastor of Mt. Ida Presbyterian Church, will officiate. Burial will be in Glendale Cemetery, LeClaire.
Mrs. Toher’s death occurred just two weeks after that of her husband, James. She died following an extended illness.
A life-long resident of LeClaire, she was born April 7, 1879, the daughter of Joseph and Marguerite Zuber. Her marriage to Mr. Toher took place June 23, 1903, in Davenport.
Survivors, besides Mrs. Graham, include two brothers, Herman Zuber, Davenport, and Louis Zuber, Bucyrus, O., and a grandson, James Arney, Pleasant Valley.
The Daily Times, Saturday, February 9, 1952, page 1A
Toher Funeral
Funeral services for Mrs. James Toher were held at 1:30 p.m. today in McGinnis funeral home, the Rev. John A. Lewis, pastor of Mt. Ida Presbyterian church, officiating. Finley McGinnis was soloist, accompanied by R. M. Barclay at the organ. Burial was in Glendale Cemetery, LeClaire.
Pallbearers were Charles Morgan, Roy Long, Louis Herman, Edward Thornton, Louis McWilliams and Louis Schaeffer.
THE WEBBS
Researched by
Susan Rekkas
“Capt. N. F. Webb of steamer “Itasca” of Northwestern Packet Company was engaged to point out those places at which the greatest obstacles to navigation were usually found. His long experience as Captain of steamers on the river made him familiar with the needs of navigation as well as the difficulties attending it. His good sense and kind, manly character endured him to us all. He subsequently lost his life, by an accident, in the public service.”--Annual Report of the Chief of Engineers to the Secretary of War by United States Army, Corps of Engineers, Mississippi River Commission
ITASCA
“Captain N. F. Webb was master of the “Itasca” in 1863, with Charles C. Mather chief clerk….Captain N. F. Webb again was in command of the “Itasca” in 1867, and may have been in charge in the intervening years, but of this I have no evidence. -- George B. Merrick, Steamboats and Steamboatmen of the Upper Mississippi. The Saturday Evening Post of Burlington, Iowa, May 27, 1916, page 4.
“My season’s work was on the “Itasca” with Captain Webb whose home was in LeClaire. He had come from the Ohio River at an earlier date and was rather a peculiar man in some respects but we became very good friends. He was perfectly bald and wore a wig.” -- Captain Hanks, “The Life and Adventures of Stephen B. Hanks. The Saturday Evening Post, Burlington, Iowa, “Recalling the Dred Scott
Case. Collected and Transcribed by Georgeann McClure.
The Davenport Democrat, Thursday, August 18, 1870, page 1.
Sad News--Probable Death of the Steamboat Veteran, Capt. Webb.
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The Dubuque Times of yesterday contains the following account of a fatal accident to Captain N. F. Webb of the Northern Line.
Last Monday the Montana got aground at a point known as Robinson’s bar, about ten miles below St. Paul. She had thrown out a line to the shore, and with the aid of the “dummy” engine was attempting to haul herself off, when the steamer Milwaukee came in sight, and as the line was stretched over the main channel, she was obliged to pass over it. Instead of slacking their line, the officers of the Montana kept it taut, and through this carelessness the accident ensued. The Milwaukee steamed down slowly and passed over the rope, stopping her wheels entirely in order to avoid all danger of tangling with it, but caught the line with the rudder, and, of course, pulled it down with great violence. The check holes through which the line passed from the Montana were unable to bear the pressure, and gave way allowing the rope to sweep down over the deck with great force. Captain Webb chanced to be standing on the boiler deck. Before he could make a motion to get out of the way or even think, the rope struck him full in the stomach and threw him up in the air a distance of
TEN FEET
He was a large, portly man, and he struck the deck with a sickening thud, lighting on the back of his head. When picked up he was insensible and a hasty examination revealed the fact that his skull was badly fractured. He was soon removed to St. Paul and shown every attention possible. In passing Winona Capt. Buford received a dispatch stating that Mr. Webb was just alive and that was all. We regret to write it, but we must. There is no doubt that the noble, hospitable, chivalrous Capt. Webb is numbered with the dead ere this time.
Capt. N. F. Webb was an universal favorite in Dubuque, and the news of the accident that caused his death will be received with profound sorrow. He was one of the old veterans in steamboat circles and has made the bosom of the Father of Waters his home for more than forty years. He first commenced his career as cabin boy, and worked up to the post of engineer, and from that captain. About two years ago he was commissioned to take charge of the government steamer Montana, a responsible position, the duties of which he performed with much acceptability.
The wife of Capt. Webb, who has been an invalid for many years, resides at LeClaire and is nearly frantic over her terrible loss. We hope soon to gather fuller and more accurate information in regard to the sad accident.
The Daily Dispatch, Wednesday Morning, August 24, 1870, page 4.
THE LATE CAPT. WEBB.
The body of the veteran Steamboat Captain, N. F. Webb, late of the United States steamer Montana, arrived at Dubuque Monday evening, on the steamer Alex Mitchell. The corpse was in charge of and received by a committee of Knight Templars, of Siloam Commandery, of Dubuque. Yesterday morning the funeral took place from the Tremont House. The religious ceremonies were held in the Congregational Church. Dr. E. A. Gnibert pronounced a eulogy upon the deceased, after which the interment took place at Linwood Cemetery, according to the Masonic ritual. The funeral was one of the largest ever seen in Dubuque.
To Circuit Court of Scott County, Iowa
In the matter of Amelia Webb (Insane)
Received of the Clerk of the Court of Dubuque County. Personal property belonging to the Estate of N. F. Webb, (Deceased) for the maintenance of Amelia Webb, To Wit
Cash -- $590.00 Five hundred and ninety dollars, 1 Pitcher, 1 Platter , 1 Cup, 2 Gobbets, 1 picture, 1 cane and 1 album.
The above property has been in my possession since January 24, 1876-and is subject to the order of the court.
Wm F Gault -- Guardian
Dated LeClaire, Iowa. February 1st 1876
Scott County Death Record Volume 4 1897 to 1909
Name Sex Age Date of Death Martial Where Born
Webb Amelia G. Female 77 years 8 months January 26, 1898 Widow New Abany, Ind.
9 days
Place of death Cause of Death Place of Burial
LeClaire Pneumonia LeClaire
Davenport Weekly Republican, Wednesday, February 2, 1998, page 6.
OBITUARY
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WEBB
The death of Mrs. Webb, wife of Captain Webb, a well-known river man on the Mississippi years ago, took place in LeClaire Thursday with burial the next day in the LeClaire Cemetery.
Mrs. Webb had no children. For some time she has lived with the Blairs in LeClaire. She died from the effects of a severe cold.
Mrs. Webb, who was a very cultivated and intelligent woman, had a most peculiar and eventful history. She was married to Captain Webb when she was only 14 years of age. He put her in school and gave her the best education the times allowed, and afterward brought her to LeClaire to live with him. The captain was engaged in the packet trade for some time, and was then made captain of the United States steamer Montana, on which steamer he met with an accidental death. The shock was such that his wife never entirely recovered from it, her mind having been since unbalanced though she has remained a very companionable person.
WILLIAMS BERT
1900 Census State of Iowa Scott County LeClaire Township LeClaire City
Relationship Month and Year of Birth Age Occupation
Williams James Head Jan 1850 50 Engineer
Fannie Wife Dec 1850 50 Carpet Weaver
Bendi Son Dec 1879 20 Riverman
Mark Son June 1885 15 At School
Annie Daughter Jan 1891 8 At home
Morning Democrat, Tuesday, April 19, 1960, page 10.
Death Notices
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ROCK ISLAND
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Bert Williams
Bert Williams, 78, a former resident of Rock Island, died at his home in Winterhaven, Fla., Saturday. Funeral services are scheduled for this morning in Winterhaven.
Survivors include his wife and a daughter.
The Daily Times, Monday, April 18, 1960, page 12.
Death Notices
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ROCK ISLAND
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BERT WILLIAMS
Bert Williams, 78, a former resident of Rock Island, died at his home in Winterhaven, Fla., Saturday. Funeral services are scheduled for Tuesday morning in Winterhaven.
Mr. Williams was a former member of South Park Presbyterian Church in Rock Island.
Survivors include the wife and a daughter.
WILLIAMS JAMES M
1900 Census State of Iowa Scott County LeClaire Township LeClaire City
Relationship Month and Year of Birth Age Occupation
Williams James Head Jan 1850 50 Engineer
Fannie Wife Dec 1850 50 Carpet Weaver
Bendi Son Dec 1879 20 Riverman
Mark Son June 1885 15 At School
Annie Daughter Jan 1891 8 At home
The Daily Times, Monday, August 11, 1919, page 8
DEATH NOTICES
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Williams
James M. Williams, for the past 11 years a janitor in the Davenport public schools, died at 11:30 o’clock Saturday night at his home, 303 East Fourteenth street, after a two months’ illness of cancer of the liver.
He was born near Princeton, Ia., Jan 30, 1850, and was married Sept. 10, 1876, to Fannie R. Rich. He had resided in Davenport the past 14 years.
The survivors are his wife and the following sons and daughters; Bert M of Harper’s Ferry, Frank E. of Orange Ia.; Mark R. of Davenport; Annie of Minneapolis, and Mrs. Nellie Newell of Bettendorf.
The funeral will be held tomorrow morning at 9:30 o’clock from the Horrigan funeral parlors. Interment will be in the LeClaire cemetery.
The Davenport Democrat and Leader, Sunday Morning, August 10, 1919, page 10.
OBITUARY
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Williams
At midnight last night at the family home 313 East Fourteenth street, occurred the death of James M. Williams, a resident of Davenport for the past 12 years. Death was caused by complications arising from old age.
Mr. Williams was born and reared on a farm north of Princeton. In later years he moved to Princeton and 12 years ago to Davenport, where the family home has been since that time.
To mourn his death he leaves his wife and the following children: Mrs. Anna E. Keller, Minneapolis, Frank C. Spirit Lake; Bert M. Harpers’ Ferry, Iowa; and Mark W. of Davenport. One brother, John E. Williams and one sister, Miss Eliza Williams, both of LeClaire, also survive.
The body was removed to the Horrigan funeral parlors. Funeral arrangements will be announced later.
The Davenport Democrat and Leader, Monday Evening, August 11, 1919, page 13.
OBITUARY
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Williams Funeral Tuesday.
The funeral of James Williams is announced to be held Tuesday morning at 9:30 o’clock from the E. H. Horrigan funeral parlors with burial at LeClaire.
The Davenport Democrat and Leader, Tuesday Evening, August 12, 1919, page 13.
OBITUARY
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The Williams Funeral.
Funeral services for the late James Williams were conducted this morning from the Horrigan funeral chapel at 9 o’clock, Rev. Clemens of the Adventist church being in charge of the services.
Hymns were sung by Mrs. Rause, Mrs. Kinney and Miss Blanchard. Internment was made in the LeClaire cemetery.
The pallbearers were A. O. Shorey, Charles Schelhorn, James A. Quigley, D. S. Reckord and Jacob McKeeken.
WOOD JAMES LAFAYETTE
The Davenport Democrat and Leader, Sunday Morning, January 14, 1940, page 6.
James Lafayette Wood
James Lafayette Wood, 72, resident of LeClaire, Ia., died at his home there are 2:45 p.m. Saturday. He had been ill since Tuesday.
Born August 2, 1887, in Camanche, Ia. He moved to LeClaire when a child and spent virtually his entire life there. He was a fireman on various government boats for about 36 years retiring in 1932.
He was a member of the Full Gospel Tabernacle of LeClaire and of the Odd Fellows Lodge of LeClaire.
Surviving are one sister, Mrs. Ida McAllister, LeClaire, and a number of nieces and nephews.
The body was removed to McGinnis Funeral Home where it will remain until 11 a.m. Tuesday when it will be taken to the Full Gospel Tabernacle in LeClaire. Where services will be held there at 2 p.m. Tuesday with burial in Glendale Cemetery in LeClaire.
The Daily Times, Monday, January 15, 1940, page 4.
L. E. WOODS FUNERAL
Funeral services for James Lafayette Wood, 72, who died at his home in LeClaire, Ia. At 2:45 p.m. Saturday, will be held from the Full Gospel Tabernacle in LeClaire at 2 p.m. Tuesday. Burial will be in Glendale Cemetery.
Mr. Wood had been ill since last Tuesday. He was born in Camanche, Ia., Aug. 2, 1867, and moved to LeClaire as a child. He had spent the greater part of his life there, being employed as a fireman on government boats for about 30 years. He had retired in 1932. He was a member of the Full Gospel Tabernacle and of the I.O.O. F.
A sister, Mrs. Ida McAllister, LeClaire, and a number of nieces and nephews survive.
The body was taken to the McGinnis Funeral Home, where it will remain until 11 a.m., Tuesday. It will then be taken to Tabernacle in LeClaire.
The Daily Times, Wednesday, January 17, 1949, page 4.
WOOD FUNERAL
Funeral services for James Lafayette Wood were held Tuesday at 2 p.m. at the Full Gospel Tabernacle in LeClaire, with Miss Edna Watson, officiating. Miss Alta Suiter and Miss Watson sang.
The pallbearers were John Fullmer, James Ryan, William White, Fred Gast, Edward Stevens and Nattie Brown. Burial was in Glendale Cemetery, LeClaire.
The McGinnis Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
The Davenport Democrat and Leader, Wednesday Evening, January 17, 1940, page 13.
The Wood Funeral
Funeral services for James L Wood, who died Saturday in LeClaire, were held at the Full Gospel Tabernacle in LeClaire at 2 p.m. Tuesday with Miss Watson officiating. Miss Alta Suiter and Miss Watson sang. Burial was in Glendale Cemetery, LeClaire. The McGinnis Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Bearers were John Fullmer, James Ryan, William White, Fred Gast, Ed Stevens and Nattie Brown.
Davenport Daily Times, Wednesday Evening, September 27, 1893, page 4.
WORRIED BY A CAPTAIN.
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He Didn’t Run a Boat to Suit Owners and They Want Damages.
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John McCaffrey and J. N. Long have a pecuniary grievance against G. L. Short, which they approximate in value $400. Up to July 1, 1892, they state that they were the owners of the Rafter Jo Long, which was
engaged in touring on the upper river. During that time Short was the captain and pilot of the boat at a salary of $200 per month, but if their plaint be true toward the latter period of their ownership of the boat he led them a merry time of it.
He resided at LaCrosse, and it is charged that he frequently ran the boat to that point and tied her up there without any necessity and at great expense to the owners of the boat. Toward the middle of June 1892, Short is accused of having tied the Long to the bank at LaCrosse and without previous notice threw up his position. He refused to work longer and telegraphed the owners to come and get the boat. Capt. McCaffrey went up to LaCrosse and after a delay of two days succeeded in getting Short to change his mind and again take command of the boat. Several days later at Wabasha, Minn., Short again left the boat, when it was again delayed for some time. In addition to this, it is alleged that while in command of the Long he did not run it in the interest of the owners, and they therefore made him defendant in a suit for $400 filed against him today.
YOUNG JOE H
The Daily Times, Saturday, July 25, 1903, page 6.
LECLAIRE AND ITS VICINITY
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Movements of the Rivermen, Personal Mention and Other News of Interest to Times Readers
LECLAIRE
LeClaire, Ia., July 25.--John Young, cook on the steamer Kit Carson, was home a few hours with his folks this week.
Davenport Democrat and Leader, Monday Evening, May 18, 1942, page 15.
EX-RIVER PILOT, LECLAIRE NATIVE, TAKEN BY DEATH
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Word of the death of Joe H. Young, 78, native of LeClaire, Iowa, and captain on a Mississippi river steamboat for 50 years, who died at his home in San Diego, Calif., was received here Monday.
Capt. Young began his career on the Mississippi river at the age 10, and was a steamboat captain from the time he was 21 until he retired in 1935.
He had resided in San Diego for the last six years. Surviving are his wife, Mabel E. Young; two children, Edith Young Anderson and Donald Young, and four grandchildren.
Funeral services and burial were held in San Diego.
YOUNGERS BENJAMIN
Photo by Bob Jones
The Davenport Democrat and Leader, Thursday, November 7, 1912, page 3.
LECLAIRE
Ben Youngers left today for Moline, where he will be employed on the steamer Kalantan for a short time.
Times-Democrat, Tuesday, July 29, 1969, page 18.
LECLAIRE
BENJAMIN YOUNGERS
Benjamin Youngers, 82, 634 N. Cody St., LeClaire, a retired carpenter, died Monday in Veterans Hospital, Iowa City, after a year’s illness.
Services will be 1 p.m. Wednesday in the McGinnis Chapel, Bettendorf. Burial will be in Glendale
Cemetery, LeClaire.
Visitation is today at the funeral home.
Mr. Youngers was a charter member of the American Legion Post 347, Le3Claire, and a veteran of World War I.
He is survived by his wife; a son, Edward, LeClaire, and two grandchildren.
THOMPSON HARRY
Photo by Robert Jones
The Davenport Times, August 31, 1901, page 4.
THE JOB WASN’T SO EASY
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Le Claire Advance: F. J. Thompson tried his hand at rapids piloting one day last week and says he got all he wanted. Having a newly built skiff to deliver to the Lindsey Phelps Company at Davenport he concluded to take it over the rapids himself, taking his son Harry with him as propeller. They had smooth sailing until they neared Duck Creek, when the boat ran aground, but by hard labor they got off, only to strike rocks again a short distance further down. This time the boat nearly upset before it was worked loose, but the navigators finally accomplished this and finished her trip without further mishap. Mr. Thompson thinks it must be an easy matter to take a 1,200 foot raft over as compared to a skiff.
The Davenport and Leader, Sunday Morning, December 5, 1948, page 14.
Deaths and Funeral Announcements
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HARRY J. THOMPSON
Harry J. Thompson, 64, a resident of the Windsor Hotel, died in Mercy Hospital at 9 a.m. Saturday following a brief illness.
Born in LaCrosse, Wis., July 24, 1884, Mr. Thompson came to LeClaire when a small boy and resided there until coming to Davenport 30 years ago. He never married. For the past five years he had been employed as a fireman at Forest Park sanitarium.
The only immediate survivor is a sister Grace Bissick, LeClaire.
Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday in the McGinnis funeral home followed by burial in Glendale cemetery, LeClaire.
The Daily Times, Saturday, December 4, 1948, page 4.
DEATH NOTICES
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THOMPSON
Harry J. Thompson, a resident of Windsor Hotel, Davenport, died at 9 a.m. today in Mercy Hospital following a brief illness.
A native of LaCrosse, Wis., Mr. Thompson was born July 24, 1884, and as a child moved to LeClaire. He resided there until coming to Davenport 30 years ago. For the last five years he had been employed as a fireman at Forest Park sanitarium.
Mr. Thompson is survived by a sister Grace Bissick, LeClaire.
The body was removed to McGinnis funeral home, where services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, the Rev. D. Paul Chapman to officiate. Burial will be in Glendale cemetery, LeClaire.
The Democrat and Leader, Tuesday evening, December 7, 1948, page 15.
Deaths and Funeral Announcements
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THE THOMPSON FUNERAL.
Funeral services for Harry J. Thompson, who lived in the Windsor hotel, were held in the McGinnis funeral home at 10 a.m. Tuesday with the Rev. D. Paul Chapman officiating. Burial was in Glendale cemetery, LeClaire.
Bearers were John Christiansen, Carl Reimers, Don Justman, Henry Berg, Elmer Rausch and John Sothmann.
THOMPSON WILLIAM A
Photo by Robert Jones
1910 United States Census, State of Iowa, Scott County, LeClaire Township, LeClaire Town
Thompson William Head 46 Caulker Ship
Bessie Wife 33 none
Edward Son 9 none
Blanche Daughter 5/12 none
The Daily Times, Saturday, October 16, 1926, page 2.
WM. A. THOMPSON OF LECLAIRE IS DEAD
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LECLAIRE, Ia., Oct. 16.--(Special)--William A. Thompson, 63 years old, died yesterday at his home here. He had been a resident of LeClaire and vicinity nearly all his life.
For the past 25 years Mr. Thompson had been employed by the United States engineers as a ship caulker, working on government boats on the river. He was born near Princeton July 24, 1863. His wife, who was Miss Bessie Lambach, preceded him in death last March.
Surviving are two children, Edward J., and Blanche E. Thompson, both at home, three brothers, Guy M. Thompson of Seattle, Wash., Charles C. Thompson of LeClaire and Harry J. Thompson of Davenport and one sister, Mrs. Edward Bissick of Davenport.
Funeral services will be held from the Presbyterian Church at 2 p.m. Monday. Rev. R. L. Whitmore, pastor, will officiate. Burial will be in Glendale cemetery.
The Davenport Democrat and Leader, October 17, 1926, page 12.
WILLIAM THOMPSON, LECLAIRE, SUCCUMBS
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William A. Thompson died at his home in LeClaire Friday at 12:50 p.m. He had been ailing for several months.
He was born in Princeton, Ia., July 24, 1863, and was married to Miss Bessie Lambach, Jan 3, 1900. His wife preceded him in death March 18, of this year. Surviving are a daughter, Blanche Louise, and a son, Edward, both of LeClaire.
The funeral will be held at the LeClaire Presbyterian church Monday afternoon at 2 o’clock.
The Davenport Democrat and Leader, October 19, 1926, page 15.
W. A. THOMPSON LAID TO REST
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Funeral services for William A. Thompson were held Monday afternoon from the Presbyterian Church in LeClaire, conducted by the Rev. Leroy Whitmore. Mrs. John Teeter and Mrs. Leslie Rynoth sang the two hymns, “Lead Me Gently Home” and “We Are Going Down The Valley.” Miss Alice Holsapple accompanied.
The pallbearers were A. H. Dawley, N. Nesbit, J. A. Meyer, J. Gilbert, F. Buchheit, and C. Domer. Interment was in Glendale cemetery.
The Daily Times, Tuesday, October 19, 1926, page 6.
DEATH NOTICES
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Thompson Funeral
Funeral services for William A. Thompson were held Monday afternoon at the LeClaire Presbyterian church. The Rev. Leroy Whitmore officiated at the church and at the grave in Glendale cemetery.
At the church Mrs. John Teeter and Mrs. Leslie Rynoth sang “Lead Me Gently Home” and “We Are Going Down The Valley.” Pallbearers were A. H. Dawley, N. Nesbit, J. A. Meyer, J. Gilbert, F. Buchheit and C. Domer. Miss Alice Holsapple accompanied the singers.