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A.J. Archer, 1835-1899

ARCHER, SHAFFER, FRENCH, AINSWORTH

Posted By: Constance Diamond, IAGenWeb Volunteer (email)
Date: 10/1/2017 at 18:03:06

The Argo
West Union, Fayette County, Iowa
August 16, 1899
Page 1 column six

A.J. ARCHER GONE.

This community was startled and shocked on Friday morning by the announcement that A.J. Archer was dead.

He went home the previous Monday evening about eight o'clock, complaining of not feeling well. From that time on he rapidly failed until the end came. Jack Archer was one of "Nature's noblemen," kindhearted and generous to a fault when the cause was worthy. He came here in the middle fifties, and by his own efforts, unaided, built up a competence. At the time of his death he was the oldest man who had been continuously in business since the foundation of the town. He was a good citizen, a kind husband and an indulgent father; and his genial and cheery presence will be missed in the business circles of West Union.

Funeral services were held at the Presbyterian church yesterday afternoon, under direction of West Union Lodge 69, A.F. & A.M. The business places of the city were closed as a mark of respect and it was one of the largest funerals ever held in the city. Rev. H.S. Brunson, of Fayette, assisted by Rev. M.E. Todd, conducted the services.

Mr. Archer's children were unable to get here from California, and they are not expected to arrive until Friday.

A.J. Archer died at West Union, Iowa, on August 11, l899, at 3:30 A.M., at the age of 63 years, 11 months and 19 days. He was the son of James and Mary Archer, and was born at Bellefonte, Centre County, Penn.. on the 23d day of August, 1835. His father was a farmer and A.J. lived at home with him until he was about 17 years of age, when he went to the town of Bellefonte and there became an apprentice to the saddler's trade; serving as an apprentice for about four years and becoming thoroughly equipped as a saddler. After completing his trade he came to Iowa in August, 1857, and has ever since resided at or near West Union, working at his trade for other parties until 1859, when he commenced business and opened a harness shop for himself, in which business he continued until the date of his death, being in the shop and attending to business on Monday, the 7th day of this month.

He married Miss Mary Shaffer April 19, 1860. To them were born four children; Adel, Jennie A., James (who died in infancy) and Harry H. His wife died September 12, 1885. Adel is the wife of C.J. French, and she and Harry H. now live in California. Jennie A. is the wife of J.W. Ainsworth and resides at West Union, Iowa.


 

Fayette Obituaries maintained by Constance Diamond.
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