Siam Fiddlers--

    Clayton and Roush Families Among

    Music Entertainers for 150 years

       

 

                         

                                             Charles Dodd and Margaret (Clayton) Roush

 

 

     

      Music to the ear or one might say music is played by ear, especially those in the Clayton and Roush families. There were numerous family members who enjoyed singing and playing a guitar, manadin, harmonica, or a piano.

     Charles Addsion Clayton, son of George Washington and Fidelia (Schoonover) Clayton, was one of the first know singers. He led the church choir at the Siam Methodist Church.

     Music has always been a part of the Roush and Clayton family entertainment. Following a family gathering for a dinner, potluck, or reunion, they would gather around a family piano and start singing and playing their favorite musical instruments.

      There were numerous singers in the family that played at family gatherings such as anniversaries, weddings, and funerals. Those to name a few were:

     Tina Rashell (Baldwin) Bounds, daughter or Melleen (Freemyer) and Glen Baldwin; granddaughter of Thelma Loraine (Roush) Freemyer; great-granddaughter of Lester and Ruby (Riley) Roush; and great-great-granddaughter of Charles and Maggie (Clayton) Roush;

     Deena (Roush) Poynter, daughter of Charles and Barbara (Carmichael) Roush; granddaughter of Lester and Ruby (Riley) Roush; and great-granddaughter of Charles and Maggie Roush. Deena was also a music teacher in the Ravenwood Schools;

     Gloria (Wurster) Schuelke was a music teacher in the Bedford Schools. She also played taps at her father, Willis Wurster’s, funeral on July 17, 2006 at the Clearfield Cemetery. Gloria is the daughter of Lois Irene (Blessman) and Willis Wurster; granddaughter of Leah ‘Grace’ (Roush) (1903-1981) and John Blessman (1896-1963); great-granddaughter of Charles and Maggie Roush.

     The family has told that Leah ‘Grace’ (Roush) Blessman could play about anything on the piano.  

     Siam was always been known for its musical talent. There were many “fiddlers” around Polk Township in the early days. Some of the area families that were very active in the musical world were: Davisons, Claytons, Roushes, and Millers. These families often provided their good music for church, school entertainment, or family get-togethers. There were times they had a little faster music for old-fashioned “hoe-down.” Also there were several male quartettes that furnished music for local entertainment.

      David Clayton (1798-1879) was among the first settlers in Polk Township. He first acquired land in June 1855 in Taylor County and Page County, Iowa. According to records he laid out the town of Buchanan, naming it after President Buchanan. He donated the ground for the Siam School and the Siam Methodist Church. Clayton also sold land to the Masons for their hall.

      David Clayton’s land transaction included: Taylor Co., Vol 37, p 429; Vol 40 p 106, 107; Vol 46 p 182; Page Co., Vol 37 p 421, 423; Vol 51 p 443; Vol 52, p 476; Book C p 556-557.

     Henry Harris ROUSH was born on July 16, 1836 in Miffinburg, Union County, Pennsylvania. He married Mary Elizabeth LOOKER on May 9, 1858 in Hardin County, Ohio. They moved to Iowa in 1859.  He served during the Civil War. He became a preacher and followed that until his death on April 3, 1926 in Siam, Taylor County, Iowa. According to 1860 and 1870 census, Henry was also a carpenter. He spent his entire life around Buchanan/Siam.

       Mary Elizabeth (Looker) Roush was born 1836 and died 1905. Following her death, Henry married Martha L. (Feiring) Dubbs 1907 in Bedord, Taylor County, IA. They were divorced Sep. 28, 1915.

       The family told the story of their grandfather, Henry H. Roush, going to like the general store to get the newspaper. They weren’t sure if it was printed weekly or monthly. After he got it home, Henry would get a needle and thread to sew up the side of the paper together. That way the paper would stay together as it was read many times.

     The following land transaction were found in the First Entry to April 1872, Index Misc. Taylor Co for Henry H. Roush: Taylor Co., BK 3 p 179; p 236; p 240; p 537; p 242.

Buchanan named Siam—

     Siam originally had been called Buchanan, but when the time came to launch a post office, that name already had been taken. So, Buchanan's post office was named Siam instead and, gradually, the old name faded away. Although there were already numerous records recorded and other early information still listed as Buchanan. The early county land records all had Buchanan on them.

      Buchanan located, Section 8, in the southwest part of Taylor County (beginning at the Page County line extending six miles). Originally the northern boundary of Buchanan Township was eight miles north of the State line, which was the south half of Page County and Nodaway Township, the northern half of Page County.  Buchanan Township is south of the "East River Twp." It is west of Taylor County and north of the Missouri State line. Polk Township is crossed almost centrally from the north to the south by the 102 River. It is bordered with considerable excellent timber and rich soil.

      Game was abundant in Polk Township in pioneer times.  Deer were plenty, as well as turkey, grouse, partridge and pheasant. 

      There were few fences in the early years. Each farmer had a favorite way to mark their stock. The various marks (usually in the ear) were established and recorded with trustees as early as 1829.

      The first physician who practiced medicine in Buchanan and Polk townships was Dr. Luther Bent, of Bedford.  Dr. James Stone was the first physician who located in Polk Township.

         Charles Deesher arrived in the county Oct. 8, 1858. T. Cole and Harriet Hobbert were the first marriage he solemnized.

      The first birth of a male child in the township, was a son to James and Harriet Harris, in 1856.  He was given the name of Daniel.

      The first death in the township was in the family of Joseph Smith.  His daughter died, and soon after his wife, Jane followed.

      One of the first settlers in Polk Township was Mr. Thompson in 1844. Other early settlers were: Elias Bridgewater in 1852, from Orange County IND., William Ferguson, of Andrew County,

MO., moved to Polk Township in 1852, as did Peter Chrisman.  Mr. Bridgewater settled on section 6; Ferguson settled on section 5, and Chrisman on section 7.  In 1853 Russell Barnes and James B. Campbell came from Buchanan County, MO.; Lynord Reagor Thomas Dakin Joseph, of Andrew County, MO.; Thomas Dakin and Joseph Snodgrass, and Thomas Wade from Indiana.  Barnes settled on section 18, Campbell on section 8, Reagor on section 17, Dakin and Snodgrass on section 7 and Wade on section 25. . Campbell was the first sheriff of Taylor County. In 1854 Joseph Smith of Missouri came and settled in section 9 of Polk Township.

      Other early settlers were: Jacob Taylor, Cyrus (Wolfeton) Wolverton, William Hatfield, William Brandberry, Daniel Thompson, Milton Blake, Benjamin Ball, J. Ward, J. and S. Taylor, James and Jess Harris, George Washington “Wash” and Harrison Clayton, E. Cook. Peter Fine who came in 1857, and lived in section 19, John M. Fine, who came in the same year, and resided in section 30, and Jesse Laswell, a '57-er, who lived in section 26. Abijah Wilder came in 1852, and his home was in section 29; J. Ward, J. and S. Taylor, E. Cook, D. Clayton, James and Jesse Harris, Martin McKee, Wash Clayton and Harrison Clayton..

Siam Businesses--

      Siam had numerous businesses: a barber shop, blacksmith, a few general stores, hotel, and brick yard. There were three churches and a school. Buchanan had two civic societies - the Masonic and Odd Fellow.

     A general store included such things as: linens, calico, shoes, dishes, barrel salt, coal oil, hardware, knick-knacks, school supplies, including slates, and a full line of groceries.

     A commercial baked bread was introduced in 1925 at a store. Several had discouraged Max Kneading as they didn’t think the bread would sell. It wasn’t long they said he had sold 100 loaves in one a day.

     All the groceries had to be hauled into Siam from surrounding towns, mostly, Hopkins and New Market. There was some merchandise shipped on the railroad and some was brought from neighboring merchants. Several men, including, John Blagrave, Charley Roush, Arthur Radke and many others made trips to neighboring towns for the Siam merchants.

     According to the Polk Township booklet, the Roush brothers, Harve [sic) Harvey and ‘Bill’ William, traveled the country as windmill salesmen in the early days. They were the sons of Henry Harris Roush and Mary Elizabeth Looker. 

     Charles Addison ‘Swaddle’ Clayton was among the businessmen in Siam. He operated an implement shop east of the Masonic Hall. His main business was the sale of buggies. Later he ran and ice house and in the winter the men iced. It was as important work as haying in the summer. When the ice was the right thickness, it was sawed into chunks and hauled to the ice houses, where it was packed in saw dust. There was a butcher shop near the Clayton’s ice house and the meat was packed in the ice.

     It was told that Buchanan had produced more preachers and auctioneers than any other small town in the country. Beginning the auctioneering was James Hanshaw, who lived east of Buchanan. He married Emma Bailey, daughter of Joseph Bailey.

     A nephew of James Hanshaw’s’ wife, Randolph ‘Roy’ Clayton, partnered with James. They became an auctioneering team. Roy was married to Iva Pearl Laub, daughter of Henry and Sarah (Shearer) Laub. Randolph ‘Roy’ was the son of Charles Addison and Elizabeth June (Bailey) Clayton and grandson of George Washington and Fidelia (Schoonover) Clayton.  Roy and Pearl later moved to Arizona.  Roy died July 30, 1958. (The Arizona Republic (Phoenix, Arizona), Friday, Aug. 1, 1958, pg. 47) His obituary is listed with the Clayton obituaries. 

      Hanshaw soon partnered with Ivan Wells and they did the auctioneering in the community. Then when Hanshaw retired, Ivan Wells’ brother, Elvin became his partner. Ivan purchased the Bedford Sale Barn. He had the sale barn for many years.

     Another brother auctioneer combination were the Stickelman brothers. Ervin and Ernest.

Methodist Church--

     A few families started meeting as early as 1846. In the early years the church was connected with the circuit of churches of Hawyeyville, Memory, North Star, Calhoon, Thompson, with Samuel Farlow as the minister. Many of the preachers came from Des Moines by train on Saturday and would stay with various members until Monday. There was no record of the name of the pastor. The presumption was it was Rev. J.M Stockton, a Cumberland Presbyterian. He was an old citizen of the county.

      The three churches included: Christian, Church of Christ and the Methodist. The Christian Church existed from 1870-1987. Church of Christ was built in 1872 and another church was rededicated in 1897. This church is the only church still standing and has church services. The Methodist Church was built in 1882. Henry Harris Roush (1836-1926), was among the preachers and a carpenter. He played a large part in getting the Methodist Church built. The Methodist Church was sold and torn down in 1980 due to lack of attendance.

      The first Methodist service was held in Buchanan community dates back to 1854 and was held in Warnsley’s/Wamsley’s Grove, located northwest of Buchanan in Section 6. Rev. J. M. Stockton, known as “Uncle Jimmy Stockton,” was the minister who went to and from the services in his ox cart. Stockton, a Cumberland Presbyterian, settled in Section 28 in 1852. In 1859 services were held in the cabin of D. Martin, with Rev. Peterson as minister. Later services were held at the ‘Fine’ school house, (located in Section 19) south and west of Buchanan. Rev. Stockton died in December 1874.

      In 1859 the Methodists of the township attended service in a Ross township log cabin dwelling house, situated in section 11, and owned by D. Martin.

     There was one account of Sunday-schools. It was held at the High Prairie school-house; its membership was fifty. C.F. Dresher was the superintendent.

      There were several known people who attended the Methodist Church. Charles Addison Clayton led the choir for many years. He was always willing to give of his talents and would often assist with music at the Christian Church and other social gathering and funerals. According to information, two men, called uncle George Wilson and uncle Roush, were regular attendants. They had their favorite pews and praised the Lord in testimony and prayer.

     During the summertime ice was sold to make ice cream. The churches each had several ice cream suppers during the summer to increase their finances. The ladies of the community made cakes to sell along with the ice cream. The lights were made of coal oil lanterns and strung on wires.

    During the ice cream season there were a number of romances started.

Schools—

     Mr. Buchanan taught the first school, in 1856.  Buchanan/Siam’s first school-house was erected in the township in 1858. Originally it had been built for a residence by a Lambert, who sold it to the citizens. The school was an independent school district.

      In 1859 George Hatfield taught a term in a log dwelling-cabin, located on section 11.  He had twelve pupils and was paid by private subscription.  Sarah McFarland, a resident, taught a term in section 6.  She had 15 pupils. 

       The school ran three months of the year and was paid by subscription. An early female teacher was Mrs. Carson McFarland. She had to walk 4 miles morning and evening.

      Many students attended school until they were 21. Most of the older boys would only attend school during the winter months as they were needed to help their father’s with the farm work. The school year was divided into three terms with two week vacation between the fall and winter term and winter and spring.

          The one room schools continued until 1959, when the district was voted into the New Market School. Then the Junior High was sent to New Market and the lower grades continued in the one room school. At the end of the 1960-61 school year the doors for closed,

     On Oct. 8, 1961 Ted Bix bought the school house, equipment and land. Frank Shields purchased the school bell and it was set at his home.

     At the school sale in October, 1961 Fred and Jess Henderson were the only ones present that attended the school in the old school house.

     During the winter of 1962-63 Tex Bix and sons remodeled the school house cutting a large door on the west side, thus converting it into a commercial garage. So the old Siam School house still served the people in the community. p16

        Fine School: Front: Neola and Clarissa Taylor, Mahlon Oxley;

         middle: Inez Fine, Ruby Fine, Frank and George Oxley, Audry

         Rankin; back: Elza Fine, Glenn Steward, Lynn Fine, Gladys

         Rankin and Clara Jeffers. May 18, 1923 (1922?) From Neola

         Peterson’s “Earl and Mary Taylor” collection of photos                                                                       

    

      Country Schools in Polk Township included:  #1 High Prairie, section 11; #1 Siam [Buchanan], section 8; #2 Fine, section 19; #3 Bebout [Last Corners] [Excelsior], section 21; #4 Valley, section 23.    

     Polk Township was noted for several students getting their teaching certificates after their country schooling. They would take an examination at the county superintendent’s office in Bedford.

Two Cemeteries—

     The two cemeteries in Polk Township were Siam (first known as Buchanan Cemetery) and Willard (also called Blake).

     The first written records of the Siam Cemetery meeting was held April 4, 1887. Joseph Smith, D. Bradley, and Samuel Scrivner were trustee. They plotted the cemetery and priced lots at $2 for the lots on the east end and 4 lots in the northwest corner, to be sold at $1 each. Isaac Hutchison, Joseph Smith, Dee Bradley, Samuel Scrivner, D.H. Clayton, H. H. Clayton, D. E. Clayton, Sarah Robbins, J. M. Stickelman, Joseph Bailey, and J.W. Miller bought lots in 1887 at $2 each.

     The land for the cemetery was bought for $14 for the half acre. Hitch racks were erected on the east side at a cost of $11. Laying off the lots and repairing gate was $7. Cleaning off cemetery and fencing cemetery was $26.10.

     The first recorded death in Willard Cemetery was 1863 and the first burial in the Siam Cemetery was in 1859. On www.findagrave.com in 2020 the Siam Cemetery had 631 memorials and Willard Cemetery had 45 memorials.

     Directions to the Siam Cemetery, located in Section 8, are as follows: take Hwy 2 east of Clarinda, turn south the Redline paved road (N26), go 6 miles south; turn east on Goldenrod Road, 1 mile to intersection and turn back north on gravel road one mile.

      Directions to the Willard Cemetery: take Hwy 48 south of Bedford, turn onto 308^th Way, turn left on N32 (Highland Ave.), turn right on 315^th St.; or take Hwy 48 south of Bedford, at the intersection of J55 (Goldenrod Road) & N32, turn south and go to first road going west, turn right at field, drive around building to right then turn north. It is in a pasture but it is all fenced in. It is easiest to go back there if you talk to the Jackson’s that live on the property.

 

           

                    David Clayton (1798-1879) purchased land in Polk Township, Taylor County, Siam, IA.,

                      Vol 40, p 106, June 15, 1855

 

         

David Clayton (1798-1879) purchased land in Polk Township, Siam, Page County, Vol. 37, p 421; June 15, 1855

 

     1860 Polk Township, Siam, Taylor County, Iowa, David Clayton (1798-1879), 62, Mary 60, and

     David E. Clayton, 22, (David E. Clayton is a cousin to David 62). Also in the neighborhood were:

     Peter Fine, 50, (1818-1887) and Eliza Fine, 40 (1816-1891), Matilida, Amanda, John, Aaron, Martha.

                1860 Polk Township, Siam, Taylor, County, Agriiculture: David Clayton and G.W. Clayton

                   

Clayton Family--

Thomas Clayton (1742-1813) married Mary Walker (1747-1785)

Two sons and brothers: John Calvin Clayton (1773-1854) and Joseph Clayton (1775-1829);

John Calvin’s son, Alexander (1802-1879) married Hannah Collins (1802-1883); their son, David E[lzy] Clayton (1836-1916) married Harriet Griffin (1843-1932). David E. and Harriet Clayton settled in Siam, Taylor County, Iowa in mid-1800’s.

Joseph Clayton married Mary ____ (1780-1840); their son David Stanton Clayton (1798-1879) married Mary Rashler (1800-1883). They settled in Siam, Taylor County, Iowa and bought land in 1855.

David and Mary (Rashler) Clayton’s children:

George ‘Wash’ Washington Clayton married Fidelia Schoonover. There children were:

     Charles Addison Clayton (May 14 1856-Sep 28, 1936);

     John E. Clayton (1857-1931;

     Mary E. Clayton (1860-1872)

     Margaret Jane “Maggie” Clayton m Charles Dodd Roush (1864-1936)

     William E. Clayton (1865-1926)

     Henry S. Clayton, (1869-1910)

     Ora D. Clayton (1871-1954)

Harriett Clayton (1822-1895)

Daniel Harrison Clayton (1827-1908); Harrison married Marian Looker. There children were: Ida, Vinton, John ‘Randolph’, Mary Jane, Alta, Angeline, Frona, and David Stanton;

     John Randolph Clayton married Marrietta “Mary Etta’ Manley. Their children were: Charles

     (1848-1920); Cora Alice (1874-1936) m Oliver Wilson; Oda (1875-1876); Fred (1877-1962) m

     Esther Eyre; Guy Monrow (1882-1954); Ollie Bell (1885-1971) m Arnold Johnson; Elizabeth

     (1888-1927) m Charles Hockett; Bessie (1891-1967) m Eldon Harris; Jonathan Jennings (1894-

     1978) m Florence Jessie Campbell; and Virgil Vinton (1898-1980) m Florence Anderson.

Eli K. Clayton (1828-1895)

Mary Jane Clayton

Jonah Clayton (1840-    )

Elizabeth Clayton married Tom Hosman and were the parents of Chester and Cassius Hosman, and Emma Owings

 

Bedford Free Press, Bedford, Iowa

July 30, 1908

     Daniel Harrison Clayton was born in Washington county, Ohio, March 3, 1827 and died at the home of his son D.S. Clayton in Clearmont, Mo, July 21, 1908, aged 81 years, 4 months and 18 days. During his boyhood he removed to Hardin county, Ohio, where on June 3, 1847, he was married to Mariah J. Looker. In the spring of 1857 they came to Taylor county where were born to them a family of three sons and seven daughters. Of these, three sons and two daughters survive as follows: J. R. Clayton, Naw Market, Iowa; V. W. Clayton, Wiener, Nebraska; D. S. Clayton, Clearmont, Missouri; Mrs. Mary J. Toll, Omaha, Nebraska and Mrs. Alta Miller, Clarinda, Iowa. Hie wife, Mariah J., died Jan. 31, 1890.

      In September, 1897 he removed to Clarinda, Iowa and later in 1903 to Clearmont, Mo., where at the home of his son, D. S. Clayton, his declining year were spent. At his death he had living 5 children, 27 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

      His funeral was held in Siam M. L. church, of which he was a member, Thursday, July 23, by Rev. J. B. Bartly, after which interment was held in the Siam cemetery, where by the side of his life companion, close to his own father and mother and 'in the innumerable company of many relatives gone before, he awaits the coming of the King. "Uncle Harrison" was the last of his generation, a type of the early pioneers who first came in and possessed this land. His family came to this section in an early day and the town of Buchanan was laid out and named by his father, David Clayton, who also donated land for school and church purposes here, and in various ways built up a community and a trading point.

Bedford Times-Republican

Thursday July 23, 1908 p. 8

Old Settler Dead

[Daniel] Harrison Clayton, one of the old settlers of Polk Township, died Tuesday, and the funeral is to be held at Siam today at 11 o'clock. Deceased was 65 years of age, and was the father of several children, all grown to maturity. He was a man of strict integrity and high standing in the community, and his death is the cause of sincere sorrow wherever he was known.

[Clayton, Daniel Harrison]

Bedford Times-Republican

Thursday August 6, 1908 p. 3

Obituary.

     Daniel Harrison Clayton was born in Washington County, Ohio March 3, 1827, and died at the home of his son D. [avid] S.[tanton] Clayton in Clearmont, Missouri, July 21, 1908, aged 81 years, 4 months and 18 days.

     During his boyhood he removed to Hardin County, Ohio, where on June 3, 1847, he was married to Mariah Looker. In the spring of 1857 they came to Taylor county, where were born to them a family of three boys and seven daughters. Of these three sons and two daughters survive, as follows: J. [ohn] R.[andolph] Clayton, New Market, Iowa; V. [inton] W. [Benton] Clayton, Wisner, Nebraska; D. [avid] S. [tanton] Clayton, Clearmont, Missouri; Mrs. Mary J. Toll, Omaha, Nebraska, and Mrs. Alta Miller, Clarinda, Iowa. His wife, Mariah J., died Jan. 30, 1890.

     In September 1896, he removed to Clarinda, Iowa, and later, in 1903, to Clearmont, Missouri, where his declining years were spent at the home of his son, D. [avid] S.[tanton] Clayton.

     At his death there were living of his descendants, 5 children, 27 grand children and 12 great grandchildren. His funeral was held in Siam M. E. church, of which he was a member, Thursday, July 23d, conducted by Rev. J. B. Bartley. Interment was in Siam cemetery, where by the side of his life companion, close to his father and mother, and in the company of many relatives gone before, he lies at rest.

     Uncle Hamilton [Harrison] was the last of his generation, a type of the early pioneer who first possessed this land. His family came to this section in an early day and the town of Buchanan was laid out and named by his father, David Clayton, who also donated land for school and church purposes here and in various ways built up a community and a trading point.

[Note: The same obituary was printed in the Bedford Free Press, July 30, 1908, page 5.]

 

[Hosman, Elizabeth Clayton]

Taylor County Democrat

Thursday    January 31, 1895

Siam News

     Mother Hosman [Elizabeth Clayton] departed this life on Sunday, Jan. 20, 1895, and was interred on the following day in the Shearer cemetery.  The funeral will be preached in the Christian church on Sunday, Feb. 3d, at 11 o’clock a. m., by Elder L. R. McKinney.

Father Has Gone

     George Washington Clayton was born June 19^th, 1825, in Perry County, Ohio and died February 25^th, 1888.

     Brother Clayton has had a family of nine children, three having died prior to his death, six remaining to mourn his loss, but they need not mourn as those who have no hope.

     Brother Clayton was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church some 37 years.  United with said church in Hardin County, Ohio.  He loved its privileges and enjoyed its communion for all those years, serving the Lord.  He served the church at times as class leader and steward.  In the year 1881 he was made one of the trustees of seven who were incorporated as a body to erect the M. E. Church of Siam, Iowa, in which his funeral services were held.  Brother Clayton was taken sick very suddenly with lung fever, which terminated in his death in ten days.  He was well aware when taken sick that he would not recover, he also expressed his unshaken confidence in the precious promises in God’s word, oft repeating the three first verses of the fourteenth chapter of the Gospel by John, and other portions of scripture such as, “All things are ready now.”  Exhorting neighbors, taking his neighbors by the hand praying for them.  He was a man of uniform habits, loved his home, scarcely ever absent from it, and spent most of this present winter reading his bible.

     He was a man that appreciated how good the Lord had been to him and he tendered of his substance to aid in building a temple of worship at Siam and was always ready to support the Gospel.  The funeral services were conducted by brother Joseph Stewart and H. H. Roush.

From the 14^th chapter of the Gospel by John.

Let not your heart be troubled; ye

Believe in God, believe also in Me,

In my Father’s house are many mansions;

if it were not so, I would have

told you.  I go to prepare a place for you.

And if I go to prepare a place for you,

I will come again, and receive you unto

myself, that where I am, ye may be also.

Our prayer is that the kind Father in heaven may sanctify this affliction, to the good of the children and friends of the deceased.

Our time is short, the season near,

When death will us remove,

To leave our friends however dear,

And all we fondly love.

Together let us sweetly live,

Together let us die,

And such a starry crown receive,

And reign with Christ on high. 

H. H. Roush

 

Fidelia (Schoonover) Clayton (1831-1920)

     Clayton, Fidelia - Fidelia Clayton was born Aug 11, 1831 in Cyhuga Co., New York, and died April 2, 1920, at the age of 88 years, 7 months and 21 days. She moved to Harden county, Ohio, at the age of 12 years where she was married to G.W. Clayton, Sunday, Oct 26, 1851, Rev Hughes of the Methodist church officiating. From Ohio she moved with her husband to Lynn county, Iowa, from there they moved to Taylor county, Iowa, in 1885. Her husband departed this life Feb 25, 1888, aged 63 years. To the union were born nine children, two having died in infancy, Harry in 1910, and Mary Elizabeth at the age of 12. Those living are Charles Clayton of Siam, John E. Clayton, of Parker, S. Dak., Maggie J. Roush of Braddyville, Iowa, Oran D. Clayton of Lakota, N.D., William E. Clayton of Wisner, Nebr., also 19 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren, who are left to mourn the loss of the loved one.

      Mrs Clayton passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs Maggie Roush, where she had been living. The remains were taken to the M.E. church at Siam, Monday, April 5, and the funeral services were conducted by Rev Anderson of Braddyville, following which her body was laid to rest in the Siam cemetery. (Page County Democrat, Clarinda, Iowa, Apr 8, 1920)

 

Charles Addison Clayton (1856-1936)

[Clayton, Charles Addison]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday October 1, 1936 [p. 1]

Charles Clayton, 80, Of Siam Succumbs

     Charles Clayton, 80, died at his home in the Siam community Monday evening, Sept. 28, after having suffered a stroke a few weeks ago.

     The funeral services were held at the Methodist church in Siam Wednesday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Robert Boshen of Bedford.  Burial was in the Siam cemetery.

Charles Addison Clayton was born May 14, 1856, the son of George Washington Clayton and Fidelia Schoonover Clayton.  He was the oldest child in a family of seven children, and only the youngest of them is now living, Ora Clayton of Lakota, N. Dak.

     Excepting one year spent near Bedford, his entire life had been lived near Siam.  He was born and grew to manhood on the farm, which later became his, and where he passed away.

     He was married to Elizabeth Bailey of Siam on March 4, 1877 and to this union five children were born, one dying in infancy and Arthur Elmer, who met death by accident April 15, 1894.  The three surviving children are Rudolph Roy Clayton of Phoenix, Arizona; Grover Archie Clayton and Mrs. Nellie Miller of Siam.

     Sept. 12, 1895, his wife was called to the Great Beyond, leaving him and the three children alone.  Thus they lived until on Nov. 18, 1900 he was married to Nancy C. Barnes, who shared a happy home with him.  She was called to her heavenly home Nov. 14, 1925.  Since her death he has continued to live in his own home, two of his children, Arch and Nellie, living near to help and care for him.  Besides his three children he leaves to mourn his going seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

     Mr. Clayton had been a member of the Siam M.E. Church for many years and had always taken an active part in the music of the church. He loved music and loved to sing. He never had greater joy then when he had a large chorus of singers and was directing them. The church feels keenly the loss of another of its loyal supporters.

 

Rudolph Clayton (Rudolph Roy Clayton)

Rites to be Today

     Funeral services for Rudolph Roy Clayton, 80, 1312 W. Washington, who died Wednesday at a Phoenix hospital will be held today in Memory Chapel, A.L. Moore and Sons Mortuary, 333 W. Adams.

     Dr. Ivan B. Bell of the First Baptist Church, will officiate. Cremation will follow.

     Born in Bedford, Iowa, Mr. Clayton moved to Arizona 28 years ago from Idaho. He was a retired auctioneer.

     He is survived by his wife Mrs. Pearl Clayton and a brother Arch Clayton, Conway, Iowa. (The Arizona Republic (Phoenix, Arizona), Friday, Aug. 1, 1958; page47.)

 

[Clayton, John Randolph]

New Market Herald

Thursday March 18, 1920 p. 3

Old Settler Gone

     [John] Randolph Clayton, an old and respected citizen, passed away Wednesday morning about 8:30 o'clock. Dropsy was the cause of his death. No arrangements have yet been made for burial, these waiting word from absent members of the family.

[Clayton, John Randolph]

New Market Herald

Thursday March 25, 1920 p. 3

Obituary

     John Randolph Clayton was born in Hardin county Ohio, May 3, 1848. Departed his life at the home of his daughter Mrs. Bessie Harris, of New Market, Ia., March 17, 1920, aged 71 years, 9 months, and 14 days. He leaves to mourn him 5 sons, 4 daughters, 2 brothers and 2 sisters and a host of friends His wife departed this life December 12, 1908. His sons are Charles, St Joseph, Mo., Fred of Sharpsburg, Ia. , Virgil of Pacific Junction, and Guy [Monroe] and Jonathan [Jennings] of New Market; the daughters are Mrs. Cora [Alice] Wilson, Hopkins, Mo., Elizabeth Hockett of San Francisco, Cal , Mrs. Ollie Johnson and Mrs. Bessie Harris New Market, Ia.

     His brothers are V. [inton] W. Clayton, Wisner, Neb., V. D. [avid] S. [tanton] Clayton, Clearmont, Mo., the sisters are Mrs. Ed Tolle, Yakima, Wash., and Mrs. Alta Miller, Clarinda.

     All were present except one daughter, the 2 brothers and one sister.

    He was converted in 1900 uniting with the M. E. church of Siam and has lived faithful to his Lord and Master.

    Funeral services were held Friday in the M. E. church at Siam, conducted by Rev. Fields, and interment was in Siam cemetery. (He was the son of Daniel Harrison and Mariah (Looker) Clayton)

[Clayton, Mary Etta Manley]

Bedford Free Press

Thursday December 17, 1908 p. 4

Obituary.

     Mrs. Mary Etta Manley Clayton was born Aug. 12, 1855, in Monroe county, Iowa. She moved to Taylor County in 1869, where she has since resided, most of the time near Siam, until about one year ago, she moved to the farm 4 1/2 miles east of New Market, the place of her death, which occurred Dec. 12, 1908, after an illness of several months. She was married to John Randolph Clayton, August 12, 1869 and to this union were born 13 children of whom five boys and four girls are still living, the other four having crossed the river of death.

     January 21, 1897, she made a profession of Christianity and united with the Christian church of Siam. Sister Clayton was an excellent woman and had the respect and esteem of the entire community as was shown by the very large attendance at her funeral, which was held on the following Monday at 11:30 o'clock in the Christian church of Siam, conducted by the writer, after which the remains were kindly laid to rest in the Siam cemetery.

 

[Clayton, John Jennings]
Clarinda Herald Journal (Clarinda, Iowa), Thursday, March 9, 1978, p. 5
     JOHN CLAYTON - John Clayton, a resident of Taylor County, Iowa, for 72 years and had lived in Villisca, Iowa the past 11 years, passed away at the Good Samaritan Care Center February 28, 1978 at the age of 83 years and six months.

     Jonithan [Jonathan] Jennings, the son of John Randolph and Mary Etta Manley Clayton was born August 28, 1834 in Siam, Iowa. He was educated in the Siam School and grew up in that vicinity. On January 15, 1917 he was united in marriage to Florence Campbell in Clarinda, Iowa. They moved to a farm in the Guss, Iowa vicinity where they lived over 50 years. On January 15, 1978 they observed their 61st wedding anniversary. To this union were born two sons and two daughters, Carroll Leo and Max Dwane, both preceding their father in death, Mrs. Clyde Jones (Naomi) of Red Oak, Iowa and Mrs. James Neal (Donna) of Villisca, Iowa. Jean Osborn, now Mrs. Carl Gray, was taken into their home at the age of three and raised as their own, now of Turlock, Ca. He leaves eight grandchildren and ten great grandchildren, also one brother Virgil, living in Hepburn, Iowa.

     He farmed in Taylor County, also worked in the coalmines for a number of years; after retiring he worked five years at the Mental Health Institute. In 1967 he moved to Villisca. In 1974 he suffered a stroke, paralyzing his right side, losing the use of his right arm and hand. He leaves his devoted wife, Florence, who has cared for him these past four years, two daughters, Naomi and Donna, grandchildren, many nephews and nieces and many friends.

     Funeral Services were held March 3, 1978 at the Sutphen Funeral home with Reverend Dennis Neal in charge. Two selections were rendered on the organ, "How Great Thou Art" and "Sweet Hour of Prayer" by Mrs. Quincy Dunn. Casket Bearers were his six grandsons: David Clayton, Stephen Neal, Terry Sellers, Russel Clayton, Douglas Jones, Richard Culver. Flower bearers - Mrs. Dennis Neal and Mrs. Bob Neal, Registry - Mrs. Warren Miller. Interment at Guss Cemetery, Guss, Iowa.

 

[Roush, Margaret Jane “Maggie” Clayton]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday March 19, 1936 p. 8

Mrs. C. D. Roush, 73, of Siam, Dies Friday

     Mrs. C. [harles] D. [odd] Roush, 73, died at her home in the Siam community Friday, March 13, after an illness of several years.

     The funeral services were held at the Methodist church in Siam Sunday afternoon, March 15, conducted by Rev. Chas. Arnold. Burial was in the Siam cemetery.

     Margaret Jane Clayton, daughter of George Washington Clayton and Fidelia [Schoonover] Clayton, was born Feb. 10, 1863, in Siam, Iowa. All of her life was spent in or near Siam, excepting six years spent near Hopkins.

     On Jan. 15, 1885, she was married to Chas. D. [odd] Roush. They celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary together more than a year ago, surrounded by their children and a host of friends.

     To them were born seven children, one little boy, Theodore two years of age, preceded the mother in death in 1897. The husband and six children survive.

     The children are: Mrs. Phemie Gray, Bedford; Henry C. Roush, of Hopkins; Ernest Roush of Des Moines; Mrs. Eva Blessman of Lincoln; Lester [Ellis] Roush of Hopkins; and Mrs. Grace Blessman of Clearfield. Besides her children she leaves 17 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren; also two brothers, Chas. Clayton of Siam, and Orie Clayton of Lakota, N. Dak.

     In 1883, during a union revival in Siam she was converted and when the Methodist church was built the next year she became a charter member of that church, and during all the years that have passed she has remained a faithful member of that body. She was a charter member of the Ladies Aid society, always with a willing heart and hand to help in any way she could.

 

Bedford Free Press
Thursday October 20, 1910 p. 4
     Henry S.[herman] Clayton was born near Siam September 3, 1869, and died at his residence October 10, 1910, aged 41 years, 1 month and 7 days. He was the fourth son of Mr. and Mrs. G. [eorge] W. [ashington] Clayton [Fidelia Schoonover], who were early settlers in Taylor county.
     He was married September 11, 1893 to [Mary] Chrystal Smith, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Smith. To them were born three children, Ralph, Lily and Omar [Omer]. Omar's presence gladdened their home but 8 short years when the Master called him to his Heavenly home.
     His entire life was spent in the community where he was born, having been afflicted with paralysis for 11 years, the past 8 years being entirely helpless. Medical aid was bought but none could be obtained sufficient to heal his afflicted body. He was cared for by his affectionate wife and dutiful children. Patient in his suffering, always greeting his friends who called on him with a smile, and during his last hours committed himself wholly into the care and keeping of his Heavenly Father, admonishing his family to put their trust in the' same Father who careth for the widow and the orphans.
     Funeral services were held October 12, at 2 o'clock p. m. in the M. E. church, at Siam, conducted by their pastor, Rev. Beverage, who took for his text, Zech. 14-7. interment was made in the Siam cemetery.
     The deceased leaves to mourn his departure a devoted wife, one son, one daughter, an aged mother, four brothers, one sister, together with other relatives and a large circle of friends, who by their attendance at the funeral showed the high respect in which he was held.
     The sorrowing family have the sympathy of the entire community in their bereavement

 

     The obituary below is the cousin of David Clayton (1798-1879), David Clayton who settled in the Siam, Polk Township area. He is also on the 1860 Polk Township area with David and Mary Clayton.. He was the son of Alexander Clayton, grandson of John Calvin Clayton and great-grandson of Thomas Clayton. Alexander was a brother to David Clayton.

Clarinda Herald, Clarinda, Iowa, March 9, 1916

     David E. Clayton was born in Washington county, Ohio, July 17th, 1837, died in his home in Siam, Taylor county, Iowa, Feb 28th, 1916; age 78 years, 8 months and 11 days. Mr. Clayton was reared to manhood on a farm in Ohio. In the year of 1857 he came to Gentry County, Mo., and in the following year came to Iowa. In the year of 1862 he returned to Ohio to visit his parents, and while at home Lincoln's call came for volunteers for the union army and on Aug 21, 1862, he enlisted in Co "G", Ohio Infantry, as a Sergeant, serving until the close of the war.

     He was a participent in the following battles. Fort Donelson, Stone River, Chicamagua, Missionary Ridge, the capture of Jonesboro, and Atlanta, the Atlanta campaign, Shermans celebrated march to the sea, and the last regular battle of Bentonville. He marched with his regiment to Richmond, then to Washington, D.C., where he participated in the Grand Review. He was mustered out in Washington, D.C., with honors. Mr Clayton was united in marriage to Miss Harriett E. Griffith, on Feb 27, 1866, and to this union was born four children, Ora G., Alva J., Elza E. and Mary H., all living in Iowa except Mary, who as the wife of Mr Scrivener, lives in Craig, Mo.

     Soon after their marriage, Mr and Mrs David Clayton moved to Taylor county, Iowa, where they have made their home ever since.

     Mr Clayton was converted and joined the Methodist Episcopal church in 1883 and have been a faithful devoted member, serving his church in various relations as an officer. He has been a subscriber to the North Western Christian Advocate for many years. Surly these lines are none too appropriate for such an active life.

Sleep on, Oh soul with peaceful sleep
From which none ever wake to weep
You've earned this long, much needed rest,

Sleep on, Sleep on, O loved and blessed.

     David Clayton came to Polk Township from Washington County, Ohio by way of Gentry County, Missouri He settled in section 8, near where Eldon Clayton lived. He built a log cabin. He then returned to Ohio where he married Harriet E. Griffith of Perry County, Ohio Feb. 23, 1866, coming directly back to Iowa. About 1869 he sold his land to Peter Fine and Columbus Allen, who later sold it to Al Dyche. J.Q. Adams, Peter Bebout, and Henderson Wells were trustees during these transactions.

     Mr. Clayton later bought a farm northeast of Buchanan. He built what was considered a mansion on this farm. He remained on this farm all his life. Mr. and Mrs. Clayton were parents of four children. Mary, who married Ora Scrivner, son of Samuel and Jane Scrivner. The boys were Ora, Alva and Elzy. Ora married Anna Frye who died. He later marred Phoebe Harper, a school teacher at Siam. The Claytons were very active in civic affairs.

 

  CLAYTON, D. E., farmer, section five, post-office Siam, a native of Washington county, Pennsylvania, was born July 17, 1836.  Was raised on a farm and received a liberal common school education.  In 1858, he imigrated to Tazewell county, Illinois.  Came to Iowa the year following and settled in this county.  In 1862 he answered his country's call, enlisted in company G, Ninety-second Ohio infantry volunteers, and served three years.  Participated in the battles of Fort Donelson, Stone River, Chickamauga, Lookout Mountain, Atlanta, charge at Jonesborough, Fort McAllister, Bentonville, etc.  Was mustered out at Washington City.  He was married in 1866, to Miss Hariet E. Griffith, a native of Ohio.  This union has brought them four children:  Ora G., Mary H., Alva J. and Eliza E., all living.  Mr. C. is the owner of 280 acres of well improved land; is a splendid farmer and successful stock-raiser.

 

[Clayton, Ora Griffith]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday July 8, 1943 p. 5

O. G. Clayton

     Ora Griffith Clayton, oldest child of David E. [lzy] and Harriet Griffith Clayton, was born on March 24, 1867 just south of Siam.  He lived his entire life in the community of his birth, and died at his home one and a half miles northeast of Siam on Friday evening, July 2, 1943 at the age of 76 years.

     On February 5, 1891 he was married to Annie Fry.  To them four children were born, Dessie, Ralph, Floyd and Nannie.  After a lingering illness the wife and mother died on September 26, 1905.  He then became both a father and a mother to his children, rearing them to manhood and womanhood.

     On May 15, 1917 he was married to Phoebe Harper.  To them two daughters were born, Frances and Ruth Ellen.

     Many years ago he united with the Methodist church, serving continuously on the various church boards.  He was a consistent Christian, doing what he could to make this a better world in which to live.  His sickness began last December and he endured months of suffering with patience.

     Besides the wife and six children [he leaves two] daughters-in-law, two sons-in-law, seven granddaughters and five grandsons to mourn [the] loss of a loved one; also two brothers, Alva

J.[efferson] Clayton of Siam and Elza E. [dgar] Clayton of near Hopkins.  Several nieces and nephews survive him and a cousin, R. C. Griffith of near Bedford.  A sister, Mrs. Mary H. [annah] Scrivner, preceded him in death and a little granddaughter, Annabel Redenbaugh.

     The funeral services were held at the Methodist church in Siam Sunday afternoon, July 4, conducted by Rev. Harry Walling of Clarinda.  Burial was in the Siam cemetery.

     A very large crowd attended, relatives and friends being present from Omaha, Clarinda, Bedford, Conway, Gravity, Sharpsburg, Braddyville, New] Market, Clearmont and Hopkins.

__________________________________________________________________________

Roush Family—

     The Roush family has been traced to the late 1700's.  John Adam Roush (Rausch) came to America on the vessel Perthamboy from Palestine, Germany, October 19, 1736, sailing from the port of Rotterdam.  John and his wife Susannah Schlern began their new life in Shenandoah County, VA. They were the parents of nine sons of Revolutionary War and three daughters.  John Adam Roush was known not only for furnishing these sons to fight but also for supplying rations and other equipment for the Continental Army.

     Like many early families they kept on the frontier for almost a century.  Settling in Pennsylvania, the Shenandoah Valley and after the Revolutionary War on to the Ohio Valley.  John Adam Roush was a tanner and several of his sons followed in that trade.  The business was carried on in a large scale after coming to Gallia County, Ohio.

     According to some information, it was said that the sons of John Adam Roush were intimate acquaintances of George Washington while fighting in the Revolutionary War.  Jacob marched with Col. Andrew Lewis to Point Pleasant and returned with glowing reports of that area.  As the families were getting larger and the land seemed to be getting smaller the emigration began to the Ohio Valley.  Across the Blue Ridge to the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains.  Here they stayed for three quarters of a century to rear children and build churches, schools and businesses.  Then on to the wilderness of the River Valley to start over again, to help establish civilization.  Land grants of several thousand acres were received by the Roush brothers both in West Virginia (which was then Virginia) and Ohio.

     Then the younger generations started traveling west on to Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Iowa and some further west. 

 

    

Clarinda Herald Journal, Friday, June 23, 1905, p3; Clarinda Herald Journal, July 18, 1905, pg 2; Clarinda Herald, May 30, 1905. Page 3 (Mary Elizabeth (Looker) Roush 1836-1905 m Henry Harris Roush).

 

Clarinda Journal, Feb. 24, 1905 page,3

 

    This photo has little identification.  I wanted to share it in case someone may have more information.

     Roush Family Photo: front to back, Frank Rouch w/Henry F. Roush(?), Henry H. Roush, unknown, Sarah Roush B-Bessie Dock, Della Roush, John Moyer & wife ,Ira Roush, Mable Erdley ,George A. Erdley, Lizzie Heimbach Roush; child in photo, 2^nd man in the front was identified as Henry H. Roush. Since Harry H. Roush passed away in 1916 and George R. Erdley wasn’t born until 1917, it is not possible for BOTH of them to be in this photo. A second guess was that the 2^nd man in front was Henry R. Roush, the child may have been Henry F. Roush, born in 1914 and the son of Ira Roush (back row) and Cora Roush, who passed away shortly after the child was born. She was the daughter of Frank Roush and his first wife, Ages Roush, who passed 1883. He would be the grandson of Frank Roush.

 

Henry (1803-1881) and Mary Elizabeth (Morehead) (1804-1845) Roush had the following children:

     George Harold b Feb. 5, 1825 d 1913; m Elizabeth Ponias;

     John b Jun. 29, 1827 d 1918; m Mary Jane Jenkins (1832-1899);

     Joseph Allen b Mar. 6. 1829 d 1918; m Mary J. Anderson;

     William Henry b Feb. 26, 1831 d Jan 1, 1899 Ks.; Sarah Anna Osman;

     Catherine b Jun 27, 1834 d 1915; m Willis Copeland (1830-1895);

Henry (1803-1881) m 2- Susannah Winegardener (1814-1887);

         Theodore b Jan 18, 1847 m Martha Diltz;

          Jane b Dec. 4, 1848 m Samuel Boose;

          Emma b May 7, 1850 m Francis M. Roberts;

          Ephriam b Mar. 6, 1852 m Lutitica;

(Henry FAG #6857157; Mary Elizabeth (Morehead) Roush FAG #6983090; Susannah (Winegardener) Roush, FAG #73960064)

Henry Harris (1836-1926) and Mary Elizabeth (Looker) Roush (1836-1905) had ten children:

       Mariah b 1857 d 1862;

       Eldith b 1860 d 1941; m John Finley Blagrave (1856-1946);

       James McClellend b 1862-1921; (according to his obituary he had cancer of the face); m

               Amanda Zephron Gibbons b 1857 d 1945;

        Charles Dodd b 1864 d 1940; m Margaret Jane (Clayton) Roush b 1863 d 1936; Margaret was the daughter of George Washington Clayton (1825-1888) and granddaughter of David Clayton (1798-1879). Their children were:

               Phemie Clotide b 1885 d 1967;

               Henry Clifford b 1877 d 1967;

               Ernest Ellsworth b 1892 d 1982;

              Theodore Ottis b 1896 b 1997;

               Eva Thelma b 1899 d 1992; m Harry Earl Blessman; Dec. 26, 1916 in Siam;

                      Thelma Pearl (Blessman) Peery (1917-2009); Pearl married Oren Peery (1916-2002)

                       Nov. 15, 1936 in Lincoln, NE.;

                                Four children: Viola Mae (1937-2019), Leola Marlene (1942-  ), Linda Dalene

                                 (1947  ) and Galen Oren (1950  );

                      Opal May (Blessman) Dove (1919-1995); married Walter Dove Dec 1, 1935;

                               Five children: Paul Dove (1937-1962); Joan Darleen (1938-2018); Nancy Lee

                               (1940-1995); Walter Dwaine (1945-  ); Marilyn Ma3 (1947-  ).

                Lester Ellis b 1901 d 1980;

                Leah ‘Grace’ b 1903 d 1981;

         Lawrence Franklin b 1866 d 1929; m Dora Alice Manley b 1871 d 1957;

         Albert Burch b 1868 d 1947; m Ida Mae Anderson b 1887 d 1970;

         William Ernest b 1870 d 1954;

         Rachel Catherine b 1874 d 1956; m Perry Pleasant;

         Harvey Monroe b 1875 d 1965;

         Carrie Alice b 1878 d 1947; m Charles F. Burley b 1876 d 1920.

     (Henry H. Roush FAG #52298027and Mary Elizabeth (Looker) Roush FAG #52298110)

     Eva Roush and Leah ‘Grace’ Roush (sisters) married brothers, Harry Blessman and John Blessman.

      Those in the family who enjoyed their talent with music were: Thelma Pearl (Blessman) Peery and her sister, Opal Mae (Blessman) Dove who sang at the Lincoln, NE., prison and the mission when they were growing up. Pearl also played the mandalin. Their mother, Eva (Roush) Blessman, played the guitar. Galen started playing the guitar in 2012 before he retired. He played with Jason Bun’s band and also the praise team at the Arthur Evangelical Free Church. He enjoyed looking for new songs to learn and play.

     Alvin Gray could play the guitar and banjo; Lester Roush played the Hawaian guitar, mandalin, and the harmonica, Jerry Roush played the mandalin; Teresa (Roush) Parker loved to sing and enjoyed singing with her family at church; Mary Lou (Mace) Dofner was very talented with the piano as well as her sister, Dixie Mace, With Mary Lou’s love of the piano, she can be found in the Clarinda Herald Newspaper after she found two pianos built by the Roush Piano and Organ factory between 1903-1907. Mary Lou and Emmet Dofner’s son, Andrew, attended college in Illinois on a music scholarship. He also played in a band and later sold music on the internet by live streaming. There were numerous family members who loved to sing and dance.

Bedford Free Press (Iowa) Thursday, May 16, 1907

     Wm. and Harvey Roush were down last Thursday from Clarinda in their new Rambler auto on business. They were accompanied by Frank Bebee who drove them. Again on Sunday they were down to visit and take dinner with their father, H. H. Roush and their sister, Mrs. J. Finley Blagrave. J. B. Eastman drove them on this trip. Roush Bros., who were born and raised in this community have successfully established a piano factory in Clarinda during the past winter involving quite extensive preparations and expenditures. They have a skilled force of workmen in a large factory building there and are ready to turn out their first lot of pianos this month while about thirty more are in the varnishing room nearly completed. The action of this piano was designed by Harvey Roush who has marked talent.

     William and Harvey Roush, sons of Henry and Mary Elizabeth (Looker) Roush, built pianos from 1903-1907 in Clarinda, IA. Their factory was located on the south side of the square and across from B & D Outdoors. It was the former Peterson Building. (Clarinda Herald Journal, Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2002, pages 1 and 22.)

 

Roush Annual Family Reunion started in 1939

According to the article below, the 1^st Annual Roush Reunion was held in 1939,

From The Maryville Daily Forum newspaper
Maryville, Missouri
Friday August 13, 1948

     The ninth annual reunion of the Roush family was held August 8 at the Like-of-Three-Fires at Bedford. 

     Afternoon visitors were Mr. and Mrs. Ray Fine, New Market, Ia.; Mrs Rachel Fine and Clarence Fine and son, Hopkins.

 

This song is sung to the tune of “Carry Me Back to Old Virginia.” (words written by Dwight I. Roush) 

This song is sung at all National Roush Reunions and at some separate branch Roush Reunions.  This recording was made by Mary Lou (Mace) Dofner and played on a “Roush” piano crafted circa 1903-1907 in the Roush brothers’ piano/organ factory in Clarinda, Iowa.  William and Harvey Roush were Mary’s great, great uncles.  This piano was acquired by Mary and Emmett Dofner in August 2002.  It was found by Robert Henke, a Roush cousin at the Page County, Iowa fairgrounds.  It was restored by Laverne Goss and was tuned by Walter Hansen, both from Council Bluffs, IA.  The accompaniment music changes keys three times, once for each verse.

Verse 1:
My heart goes back to Old Virginia.
The state the Roushes helped to build long years ago;
There would I roam by the grand Shenandoah
Our fathers’ homeland where rills and rivers flow;
There’s where they labored to build homes of comfort,
There’s where they planted and tilled the fertile soil
There’s where they reared stalwart sons and fair daughters,
With hearts of glad song and with hands of earnest toil.

REFRAIN:
I’m going back to old Virginia.
I long to see those valleys bloom and wild flow’rs grow.
I long to hear those red-birds singing sweetly,
And feel those joy-thrills our fathers once did know.

Verse 2:
My heart goes back to Pennsylvania,
There’s where the Roushes found the land of promise true;
Old Susquehanna homeland in her beauty,
Inspired our fathers with faith and hope anew.
There’s where they labored to clear out the forest,
There’s where they toiled in the fields of golden grain,
There’s where the bob-whites tuned in with the children,
And made the mountains echo back a sweet refrain.

REFRAIN:
I’m going back to Pennsylvania,
I long to see those children play and home-fires glow
I long to hear those song-birds warble sweetly,
And feel those life-thrills our fathers once did know.

Verse 3:
My heart goes back across the ocean,
Where once the Rausches rendered honor to a king
They fought for right and for truth that their children
Might, in their day, make the songs of freedom ring,
There’s where they labored with courage immortal,
There’s where they molded on manhood strong and brave,
There’s where they builded on solid foundation
With faith undaunted that could see beyond the grave.

REFRAIN:
I’m going back across the ocean,
I long to see the Rhine-land bloom and vintage grow,
I long to stand where those crusading Rausches
Stood for the right in that homeland long ago.

                    

         This is one of the pianos that was built by Harvey         

  Lawrence Franklin and Dora Roush; Helen and Homer; Siam, IA

          and William Roush. It is on display at the Nodaway

          Valley Museum, Clarinda, IA.

 

   1860 Polk Township, Siam, Taylor County, Iowa, Henry Roush (carpenter), 24, Elizabeth (Mary

   Elizabeth), 24, Maira (Mariah) 2, Eda (Edith) 2/12.

 

 

    1870 Polk Township, Taylor County, Iowa, Henry H. Roush, (carpender) wife, Elizabeth (Mary Elizabeth) children, Edith,

   11, James, 9, Charley (Charles), 6, Franklin (Lawrence Franklin), 4, Albert (Burch), 2; also G.W. (George Washington)

  Clayton, 44, (farmer), wife Fidelia, 37, and Charles, 14.

 

 

 

 1885: Iowa Collections 18=36-1925; John Blagrave, Edith, Gracie; Henry H. Roush, 67,

 Elizabeth, James, Charles, Frank, Albert, William, Rachel, Harvey, and Carrie.

                                         

                                                1905: Iowa Collections 1836-1925: Polk Township, Siam, Taylor County, Iowa; Fidelia Clayton,

                                                widowed, Henry H. Roush, and Mary Elizabeth Roush.

 

                  Marriage Record: Oct 12, 1907: Henry H. Roush married 2-Martha (Feining) Dubbs. She was the

                  daughter of Frederick Feining and Barbara Price. Henry’s occupation is listed as carpenter. They

                  were divorced Sep. 28, 1915. (Family Search film #008313530)

 

Roush, Henry Harris]

Times-Republican

Thursday April 8, 1926

Henry Roush

     Henry [Harris] Roush, son of Henry Sr., and Mary Elizabeth [Morehead] Roush, was born in Juanita County, Pennsylvania, July 16, 1836.  He was united in marriage to Miss Mary Elizabeth Looker in Harding County, Ohio.

      To this union ten children were born, of which 8 are now living.  Mr. Roush was converted when a young man and after coming to Iowa in 1859, he joined the M. E. church at Siam.  Soon after he felt the need of his service in the Civil War and enlisted.  He was asked to assist in preaching the Gospel and was given a preacher’s license.  From that time until his declining years he preached whenever opportunity availed.

     He passed away at his home in Siam, Ia., at 10:00 a. m., Saturday, April 3, 1926, at the age of 89 years, 8 months and seventeen days.  Those who survive are Mrs. Edith Blagrave, of Siam; Charles [Dodd] Roush, of Siam; [Lawrence] Franklin Roush, of New Market; Albert [Birch] Roush, Clarinda; William [Ernest] Roush, Excelsior Springs, Mo.; Harvey  [Monroe] Roush, Des Moines; Mrs. Rachael [Catherine] Fine, Siam; Mrs. Carrie [Alice] Bulrey, Sacramento, Calif.

     Funeral services were held at the M. E. church in Siam on Monday, April 5, at 10 a. m.  Burial was made in Siam cemetery.

 

 

Bedford Free Press
April 8, 1926

SIAM

     Henry Roush, who had almost reached the 9th milestone in life, passed away at the home of his son, Charley in Siam, Saturday morning about 9 o'clock. His wife preceded him to the better world many years ago. He leaves five sons and three daughters, 24 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren, also an aged sister, to mourn their loss. He was almost a lifelong member of the Methodist church. A veteran of the Civil War, and in the early days was granted a license to preach. He had a kind disposition and was friend to all. And as he had often remarked lately, was a ripened sheaf only waiting for the reaper. Funeral services were conducted Monday at 10 a.m. at the Methodist church by the pastor, Rev. Bennett, assisted by pastor of New Market church. Interment in Siam Cemetery.

Henry Harris Roush b July 16, 1836, Somerset, PA; d April 3, 1926 Siam, Taylor; m Mary Elizabeth Looker b April 15, 1836, Kenton, Harding, Ohio; d. May 30, 1905, Taylor Co. They had 10 children:

Mariah Roush (1857-1862);

Edith Roush (1860-1941) m John Finley Blagrave (1856-1946)

James McClellan Roush b Jan. 19, 1862, d Oct 17, 1921; m Amanda Zephrone Gibbons 1857-1945;

Charles Dodd Roush b Feb. 21, 1864; d May 12, 1940 Clearfield, Taylor, IA (at his daughter’s, Grace Blessman); m Margaret Jane Clayton 1863-1936; (daughter of George Washington Clayton 1825-1888 and Fidelia Schoonover 1831-1920 & granddaughter of David Clayton (1798-1879) and Mary Kishler Rashier (1779-1883) The grandfather, David Clayton was the one who donated land for Methodist Church and school and sold land for Mason’s building.

Lawrence Franklin Roush 1866-1947; m Ida Mae Anderson 1877-1970;

William Ernest Roush b Oct 6, 1870; d Aug 21, 1954;

Rachel Catherine Roush b Feb. 11, 1874; d Mar 23, 1956; m Perry Pleasant Fine (1871-1947);

Harvey Monroe Roush b Dec 18, 1875; d Dec. 25, 1965;

Carrie Alice Roush b Oct 1, 1878; d July 5, 1947; m 1-Chares F. Burley (1876-1920); m 2- Anthony Frederick Kornmayer (1877-1958); FAG #87730424

 

[Blagrave, Edith Roush]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday February 27, 1941 [p. 1]

Mrs. John Blagrave Dies

Mrs. John Blagrave [Edith Roush], 80, died at her home in Siam Monday, Feb. 24. The funeral services were held at the Methodist church in Siam Wednesday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Paul Barton of Hopkins. Burial was in the Siam cemetery.

[Blagrave, Edith Roush]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday March 6, 1941 p. 3

SIAM

Obituary-Mrs. John Blagrave

     Mrs. John Blagrave [Edith Roush] died on Monday evening, Feb. 24 at her home in Siam. She had been an invalid for some time from the effects of a stroke.

     The funeral services were held at the Methodist church in Siam Wednesday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Paul Barton of Hopkins. Burial was in the Siam cemetery.

      She was born in Siam April 22, 1860 and had spent the greater part of her life in this community.

     Nov. [2] 2, 1877 [sic] (correct date in John’s obit) she was married to John [Finley] Blagrave. To them was born one daughter, Grace [May] of the home. She was one of a family of ten children, four of whom have preceded her in death. The five living are Mrs. Rachel Fine of Siam, Bert Roush of Rosemead, Calif., William Roush of Hamburg, Harvey M. Roush of Des Moines and Mrs. Carrie Guerrerost of San Francisco, Calif.

[Blagrave, Grace May]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday April 20, 1944 [p. 1}

Dies At Nursing Home

     Miss Grace [May] Blagrave, 64, a resident of the Siam community, died at the Armstrong Nursing Home in Bedford early Tuesday morning. The funeral services were held at the Walker & Shum Funeral Home Wednesday afternoon, conducted by Rev. G. L. Hufstader. As soon as the roads permit, the body will be taken to the Siam cemetery for burial.

     She is survived by her aged father, John [Finley] Blagrave of Siam, who is also a patient at the Armstrong Nursing Home. Her mother died three years ago.

[Blagrave, John Finley]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday October 17, 1946 p. 2

SIAM

Obituary J. F.Blagrave

     John Finley Blagrave, son of Emmet and Mary Damewood Blagrave, was born in Orange County, Indiana July 18, 1856 and died at the Armstrong Nursing Home in Bedford, Iowa Sunday October 13, 1946, age 90 years and 2 months and 15 days.

     When a small boy he came to Page County, Iowa, and located in Buchanan Township, where he grew to manhood.

     On Nov. 22, 1877, he was married to Edith Roush of Siam at Maryville, Nodaway County, Mo. To them was born one daughter, Grace May.

     After his marriage, Mr. Blagrave made his home in Iowa the remainder of his life with the exception of a few years spent in Kansas. He carried the mail from Hopkins to Siam for many years, being very faithful in his service to Uncle Sam.

     He was a member of the Methodist church at Siam, where, as long as their health permitted, he and his family were regular attendants at the church here.

     After the death of his wife at the family home in Siam on Feb. 24, 1941, he and his daughter made their home in Bedford where she passed away April 18, 1944.

     Mr. Blagrave was the sole surviving member of his family. He leaves three nephews, H. B. Snodgrass of Amarillo, Texas, Rev. R. E. Snodgrass of Tulsa, Okla., and one niece, Mrs. Flo Miller of Shambaugh.

     Mr. Blagrave was physically handicapped in later life, but ever mentally alert and was never so happy as when visiting his Siam friends, who called on him.

     The funeral services were held at the Methodist Church at Siam Tuesday afternoon, conducted by Rev. W. A. Purdy of Bedford. Burial was in the Siam cemetery.

James Mclelland Roush 1862-1921
From New Market Hearld
October 27, 1921 

     The funeral of James Roush was held at Oak Grove Church Wednesday, October 19, and interment in the cemetery near by. Mr. Roush was taken to Kansas City in May where he was being treated by specialists for cancer of the face, and passed away Monday, Oct. 17 at the age of 59 years.  He leaves a wife, one daughter, Mrs. Treva Putnam of Council Bluffs, Ia. three grand children, an aged father, five brothers and three sisters, all of whom were present at the funeral except Carrie Burley of California and Wm Roush of Excelsior Springs, Mo.  Mr. Roush was ever ready to help those in distress and had a kind word for all and will be greatly missed in this community.  The funeral was preached by Rev. Perkins.  Music funished by Misses Lola Fine and Ella Bix and Messrs. Chas. and Ralph Clayton with Mrs. High Reid accompanist.  Pall bearers were:  M. W. Miller, Al Acree, Ed Stewart, John Miller, Dell Fine and Richard Potter.

 

[Roush, Charles Dodd]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday May 16, 1940 p. 5

     Charles D. [odd] Roush, son of Henry H. [arris] and [Mary] Elizabeth [Looker] Roush was born in Siam, Iowa in 1864 and died at the home of his daughter, Grace Blessman at Clearfield, Iowa, May 12, 1940 at the age of 76 years, 2 months and 21 days.

     The funeral services were held at the Methodist church in Siam Monday afternoon, conducted by Rev. L. E. Gatch. Burial was in the Siam cemetery.

     He was married to Maggie Jane Clayton of Siam in 1885. To them were born seven children: Phemie Gray of Bedford, Henry Roush of Hopkins, Ernest Roush of Des Moines, Theodore dying at the age of 17 months; Eva Blessman of Lincoln, Lester [Ellis] Roush of Maryville, Grace Blessman of Clearfield.

     Surviving with the six children are nineteen grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren. Also three sisters, Edith Blagrave of Siam, Rachel [Catherine] Fine of Hopkins, Carrie [Alice] Burley of California; and three brothers: Bert [Albert Birch] of California, Harve [Monroe] of Des Moines and Will [iam Ernest] of St. Joseph. Mrs. Roush died four years ago, on March 13.

     Mr. Roush had been a member of the Methodist church since he was thirteen years of age. He was a loving father, always kind to all, always speaking a word of encouragement and always interested in his children's welfare. He also was interested in the welfare of his community. Mr. Roush was a friend of every one who knew him and will be greatly missed by all.

Roush, Charles Dodd]

Clearfield Enterprise

Thursday May 16, 1940 p. 2

     Charles D. [odd] Roush, son of Henry H.[arris] and [Mary] Elizabeth [Looker] Roush, was born in Siam, Iowa, in 1864, and departed this life at the home his daughter, Grace Blessman, in Clearfield, Iowa, May 12, 1940 at the age of 76 years, 2 months, 21 days. He united with the Methodist Church at the age of thirteen, and has been very devoted to his Bible, and has used it for a constant guide thru life, always praising his Saviour.

      He was united in marriage to Maggie Jane Clayton of Siam in 1885, who departed this life four years ago on March l3th.

     To this union were born seven children: —Phemie Gray of Bedford, Henry Roush of Hopkins, Mo.; Ernest Roush of Des Moines, Iowa; Theodore who died at the age of 17 months; Eva Blessman of Lincoln, Neb; Lester Roush of Maryville, Mo.; and Grace Blessman of Clearfield. Besides the children, there are 19 living grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Three sisters survive: Edith Blagraves [Blagrave] of Siam, Rachel [Catherine] Fine of Hopkins, Mo., and Carrie [Alice] Burley of California. Three brothers: — Bert [Albert Birch] of California, Harve [Monroe] of Des Moines, Will [iam Ernest] of St. Joseph—besides a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

     He was a loving father, always kind to all, always speaking the encouraging word; always interested in his children's welfare, and also in the community.

     He was a friend of everyone who knew him, and will be greatly missed by all who are left to cherish his memory.

     His last illness started about four months ago and he has been very patient and always hoping for a recovery but expressed so many times of being ready to go if it was the Lord's will.

The funeral was preached by Rev. L. E. Gatch of the Methodist church at Siam, at 2 o'clock Monday May 13. Burial was in Siam cemetery.

 

[Roush, Charles Dodd]

Clearfield Enterprise

Thursday May 16, 1940 p. 2

Charles Roush, father of Mrs. John Blessman, died at the Blessman home near the Presb. church at 2 a. m., Sun. He had been very ill for two months.

[Roush, Charles Dodd]

Clearfield Enterprise

Thursday May 16, 1940 p. 3

Chas. Roush Dead

Charles Roush, 76, father of Mrs. John Blessman, died at the Blessman home here at about 2 a. m. Sunday. While his home was at Siam, this county, he had for several years made long stays with his daughter and her family here so was known by many. Funeral service [s] were at the old home on Monday afternoon, directed by Wetmores of Bedford.

 

                Charles Dodd Roush death certificate

                                                   

                                                            Margaret Jane (Clayton) Roush death certificate  

 

[Gray, Phemie Clotilda Roush]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday April 24, 1975 p. 4

Mrs. Phemie Gray Rites Held Apr. 14 In Missouri

     Funeral services for Mrs. George E. (Phemie) Gray, 89, of Parnell, Mo., former resident of Hopkins. Mo., were held April 14 at Wray United Methodist Church in Hopkins officiated by Rev. Richard Grossman. Mrs. Gray died April 11 at the home of a son, Kenneth Gray, Parnell, Mo., where she had lived the last four and one-half years. Interment was at the Siam Cemetery.

     Phemie Choletilda [Clotilda] Gray was born December 21, 1885 to Charles D.[odd] and Margaret J. [ane] (Clayton) Roush in Taylor County near Siam. She joined the Methodist Church in Siam as a young girl.

     She was married March 21, 1907 at Hopkins to George E. [stel] Gray who died December 2, 1970. To this union eight children were born.

     Besides her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by two children, Maude and Estel, who died in infancy, and two brothers, Henry and Theodore Roush.

     She is survived by three sons, Kenneth Gray, Parnell, Mo., Alvin [Leroy] Gray, Hopkins and Glen Gray of Newhall, Calif.; three daughters, Mrs. Elmer (Bonnie) Friend and Mrs. Henry (Elva) Knierim, both of Clarinda, Ia., and Mrs. Harry (Ferne) Jones, La Marque, Texas; 31 grandchildren; 61 great grandchildren; one great great granddaughter; two brothers, Ernest Roush and wife, Mary, Des Moines, Iowa, and Lester Roush Sr., and wife, Ruby, Ravenwood; two sisters, Mrs. Harry (Eva) Blessman, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, and Mrs. Grace Blessman, Clearfield, Ia.; a sister-in-law, Mrs. Henry (Carrie) Roush, Clearmont; nieces, nephews and friends.

 

Bedford Time-Press, Thursday, August 26, 1954 (p. 1)

W.E. Roush Died in Des Moines

     W.E. Roush, a former resident of the Bedford and Siam community, died at the Iowa Methodist hospital, Des Moines, August 21. The body was brought to Bedford and funeral services were held at Shum Funeral Home at 1:30 p.m. Monday, August 23, conducted by Rev. Robert M. Peters. Burial was in Fairview cemetery.

     William Ernest Roush, son of Henry H. (Harris) and Elizabeth (Morehead) Roush, was born Oct. 6, 1870 at Bedford, and died at the age of 83 years, 10 months, 15 days.

     He was raised in the vicinity of Siam, where he was a member of the Methodist church.

     He and his brother were engaged in the piano business at Clarinda for a number of years. During his later years he spent considerable time in Excelsior Springs, Missouri.

    

William Roush 1870-1954

1880 Polk Township, Taylor County, Iowa, Household #54:
Roush, H H, W, M, 43, Carpenter, Pennsylvania
Roush, Mary E, W, F, 44, Wife, Keeping house, Ohio
Roush, James, W, M, 18, Son, Laboring, Iowa
Roush, Charles, W, M, 16, Son, Work on farm, Iowa
Roush, Frank, W, M, 14, Son, At school, Iowa
Roush, Albert B, W, M, 12, Son, At work on farm, Iowa
Roush, William E, W, M, 10, Son, At school, Iowa
Roush, Rachel C, W, F, 8, Daughter, Iowa
Roush, Harvey M, W, M, 5, Son, Iowa
Roush, Carrie A, W, F, 1, Daughter, Iowa¹

Event: Census-US-1900 1900 Polk Township, Taylor County, Iowa, USA

1900 Polk Township, Taylor County, Iowa, Household #20:
Roush, Henry H, Head, W, M, July 1836, 63, M 43, Pennsylvania
Roush, Mary E, Wife, W, F, March 1836, 64, M 43, 10 children, 9 living, Ohio
Roush, Albert A, Son, W, M, Apr 1868, 32, S, Iowa
Roush, William E, Son, W, M, Oct 1870, 29, S, Iowa
Roush, Carrie A, Daughter, W, F, Oct 1878, 21, S, Iowa

Event: Census-US-1910 1910 Clarinda, Page County, Iowa, USA
1910 Clarinda Ward 1, Page County, Iowa, Household #25:
Roush, Henry H, Head, M, W, 73, M2 3, Pennsylvania
Roush, Martha L, Wife, F, W, 53, M2 3, 4 children, 3 living, Ohio
Roush, William E, Son, M, W, 40, S, Iowa

Death: 21 AUG 1954 in Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa, USA

 

Harvey Monroe ROUSH

Birth: 18 DEC 1875 in Taylor County, Iowa, USA

Census-US-1880 1880 Polk Township, Taylor County, Iowa, USA

1880 Polk Township, Taylor County, Iowa, Household #54:
Roush, H H, W, M, 43, Carpenter, Pennsylvania
Roush, Mary E, W, F, 44, Wife, Keeping house, Ohio
Roush, James, W, M, 18, Son, Laboring, Iowa
Roush, Charles, W, M, 16, Son, Work on farm, Iowa
Roush, Frank, W, M, 14, Son, At school, Iowa
Roush, Albert B, W, M, 12, Son, At work on farm, Iowa
Roush, William E, W, M, 10, Son, At school, Iowa
Roush, Rachel C, W, F, 8, Daughter, Iowa
Roush, Harvey M, W, M, 5, Son, Iowa
Roush, Carrie A, W, F, 1, Daughter, Iowa

Census-US-1900 1900 Buchanan Township, Page County, Iowa, USA
1900 Buchanan Township, Page County, Iowa, Household #15:
Roush, Charles D, Head, W, M, Feb 1866, 34, M 15, Iowa
Roush, Maggie J, Wife, W, F, Feb 1865, 35, M 15, 5 children, 4 living, Iowa
Roush, Pherma H, Daughter, W, F, Dec 1885, 14, Single, Iowa
Roush, Henry C, Son, W, M, Dec 1888, 11, Single, Iowa
Roush, Earnest E, Son, W, M, Aug 1893, 6, Single, Iowa
Roush, Eva, Daughter, W, F, Mar 1898, 7/12, Single, Iowa
Roush, Harvey, Brother, W, M, Dec 1875, 24, Single, Iowa

Census-US-1910 1910 Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa, USA
1910 Des Moines, 405 Ninth St, Polk County, Iowa, Household #14, Family # 55:
Crouse, Homer M, Head, M, W, 56, M1 30, Pennsylvania
Crouse, Rose R, Wife, F, W, 50, M1 30, 4 children, 1 living, Iowa
Rousch, Harvey M, Roomer, M, W, 34, Single, Iowa

US World War I Draft MilReg 1917/8 Polk County, Iowa, USA

Listed as white, native born citizen, married, piano tuner, medium height and build, grey eyes and dark brown hair.

Census-US-1920 1920 Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa, USA

1920 Des Moines, 852 W Fifth, Polk County, Iowa, Household #17:
Tomlinson, Charles B, Head, M, W, 61, Married, Ohio
Tomlinson, Alice M, Wife, F, W, 60, Married, Ohio
Roush, Harvey, M, W, 44, Married, Iowa
Frank, David, Lodger, M, W, 43, Single, Iowa
McMillan, Fred C, Lodger, M, W, 45, Single, Ohio
Frazier, Jasper, Lodger, M, W,25, Single, Kansas
Frazier, Guy, Lodger, M, W, 22, Single, Kansas

Census-US-1930 1930 Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa, USA
1930 Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa, Household #168:
Hicks, John C, Head, M, W, 31, M 25, Illinois
Hicks, Mary D, Wife, F, W, 33, M 25, Iowa
Hicks, Edna M, Daughter, F, W, 15, Single, Iowa
Hicks, Evelyn M, Daughter, F, w, 9, Single, Iowa
Roush, Harvey M, Roomer, M, W, 54, Single, Iowa

Death: DEC 1965

Burial: Fairview Cemetery, Bedford, Taylor County, Iowa, USA

Eva (Blessman) Roush

     Eva Blessman, 93, Maryville, formerly of Elmo, died Saturday, November 21, 1992 at Maryville Health Care Center, Maryville.

     Born March 10, 1899 in Siam, Iowa to Charles Dodd and Maggie Clayton Roush, she was a member of the Baptist Church, Clearmont.

     She married Harry Earl Blessman on Dec. 25, 1916 in Siam. They lived around the Creston, Iowa area, later moving to Lincoln, Neb., where they lived for a number of years. In 1947 they moved to Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Where they resided for around 25 years. Three years after her husband passed away, she returned to Missouri where she lived in Burlington, Clearmont, and Elmo.

     Mrs. Blessman was preceded in death by her husband; one son-in-law; one grandson and one great-great-granddaughter.

     Survivors include two daughters, Pearl Perry [sic] Peery, Elmo, and Opal Mae Dove, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla; eight grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren and 34 great-great-grandchildren.

     Visitation is currently under way at Wilson Watson Funeral Home, Mount Ayr, Iowa.

     Services will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Clearmont Baptist Church, with the Rev. Donald Barnett officiating.

     Burial will be at Clearfield Cemetery, Clearfield, Iowa.

     Memorial may be made to the Clearmont Baptist Church.

 

Ravenwood, Mo.—Lester Ellis Roush Sr., 78, died Thursday afternoon at a Maryville, MO., hospital.

     A native of Page County, Iowa, he had resided in Ravenwood for the past eight years. Mr. Roush was a retired farmer and a member of the Ravenwood United Methodist Church.

     He is survived by his wife, Ruby Roush of the home; eight sons, Harold Roush, Corning, Iowa,

Vervil Roush, Kansas City, Mo., Charles and Jerry Roush, both of Hopkins, Mo., Lester Roush Jr., Pickering, Mo., Edwin Roush, Belton, Mo., Leon Roush, Tarkio, Mo., and Deon Roush of Maryville; two daughters, Mrs. Russell Freemyer, Ravenwood, and Mrs. Marvin Palmer, Auburn, Neb; one brother, Ernest Roush, Des Moines, Iowa; two sisters, Eva Blessman, Clearmont, Mo., 25 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

     Services will be Sunday at 2:30 at the Price funeral home in Maryville. Burial will be in the Gaynor cemetery, Gaynor, Mo.

 

[Fine, Rachel Catherine Roush]

Bedford Times-Press

Thursday, March 29, 1956, p. 5

Siam News

Obituary-Rachel Roush Fine

     Rachel Catherine Roush, daughter of Henry H.. [arris] Roush and Mary Looker, was born Feb. 11, 1873 south of Siam in Taylor county, Iowa, and died March 13, 1956 at the age of 83 years.

     On March 23, 1893, she was married to Perry D. [Pleasant] Fine who preceded her in death April 27, 1947. To this union 10 children were born, Mrs. C[h] loe Beck, Mrs. Lydia Wynn, Barstow, Calif., Mrs. Bula Pace, Hillsdale, Wyo.; Lynn Fine, Sheridan, Mo.; Mrs. Inez Homer, Shenandoah; Elza Fine, Bedford; Ray Fine and Mrs. Ruby Renfro, New Market; Mrs. Blanche Jobe, Siam and Clarence Fine, Hopkins. Also surviving are one brother, H. [arvey] M. [onroe] Roush, Des Moines; 21 grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild.

     Her husband, father, mother-in-law, a daughter-in-law, three sisters and 5 brothers preceded her in death.

     At an early age she was united with the Methodist church of Siam of which she was still a member.

     After the death of her husband, she moved to Clarinda, Iowa, to make her home and lived there until her daughter-in-law, Mrs. Clarence Fine, died in April of 1948 at which time she moved back to her old farm home with her son. She made her home there from that time on until she was stricken ill and hospitalized.

     Funeral services were held at the Methodist church in Siam with burial in the Siam cemetery.

 

The History of Polk Township, Taylor County, Iowa

by Mrs Frank W. [Fannie Reid] Shields, 1965; page 47

     Peter Fine, was born in Rowan County, North Carolina in 1808, and came with his parents to Indiana when a young man. He married Elizabeth A. Hybarger, of Fountain County, Indiana, daughter of Johnathan Hybarger. They came to Iowa in 1857 and bought a steam mill, which he operated for some time. He later bought a farm of 200 acres in Polk Township. Their children were: Aaron Columbus, Alonzo Washington, Johnathan Marion, Ephriam Jasper, Stephen Arnold Douglas, Harriet, Martha and America.

     Mr Fine gave each of his sons 40 acres of land when they were married, and to each daughter he gave 2 horses and 1 cow. He donated the land for the (now done away with) Fine school house. The Fine children all located in Polk Township and did much toward helping in civic affairs.

     The Fines, in Indiana were all Lutherans, but as they came west became members of the Methodist Church.

     Peter Fine was a preacher and took a decided stand on religious and moral questions. Politically he was identified with the Democratic party.

     Mr Fine died in June 1887. Mrs Fine was born in 1816 and died in 1891.

     FINE, PETER, farmer, section nineteen, post-office Hopkins, a native of the Old North State, was born August 13, 1808, and was there reared on a farm.  Moved to Fountain County, Indiana, in 1830, where he remained until 1857, at which date he became a resident of this county, locating where he now lives.  He was at one time the owner of a fine tract of land but gave to each of his children a farm, as they became of age, and reserved 125 acres to provide for his wants during the decay of life.  He has the satisfaction of seeing his children living and prospering in the homes he so freely gave them, and awaits the call of him who has promised a better home when the sands of this life are run.  He was married in 1835, to Miss Eliza A. Hyburger [sic] Hyberger, a native of Tennessee.  They are the parents of eleven children, eight of whom are living:  Amanda C., John M., Aaron C., Martha P., Harriet A., Ephram J., America M. and Stephen A. D.  Samuel A. and two infants are deceased.  Mr. and Mrs. Fine are members of the Methodist Church and are respected by all who have the pleasure of their acquaintance.  

     FINE, JNO. M., farmer and fruit-grower, section thirty, post-office Siam, is a native of Fountain County, Indiana, born May 13, 1842.  His parents, Peter and Eliza Fine moved to this county in 1857.  Here he grew to manhood, and owing to the scarcity of schools, received but a limited education.  In 1863 he was married to Miss R. Emerick, a native of the Hoosier State.  They are the parents of seven children:  Wm. T. S., Albert A., Maria C., Peter D., Ada A., Rhoda B., and Ira E., all living.  Mr. F. has a beautiful farm of one hundred and twenty-five acres in a high state of cultivation, good buildings, orchard of five hundred and fifty bearing trees, all of his own planting, and is prospering finely.  He has always taken an active part in measures for public improvement and contributes freely to every worthy enterprise.  Mr. and Mrs. Fine are consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

     FINE. A. C., farmer, section nineteen, post-office Hopkins, was born in Fountain County, Indiana, March 15, 1845.  At the age of twelve years his parents moved to this county and settled on the section on which he now resides.  Was married August 21, 1864, to Miss Arminda [sic] Armina Davison, a native of Missouri.  They are the parents of seven children:  L. E., Laura B., Perry P., Amanda F., Abija B., Dilbert and Cora M.  Mr. F. now has a farm of one hundred and fifty-eight acres, and is one of Taylor County's most successful farmers.  He and his lady are members of the M. E. Church. 

Fine Family—Aaron Columbus Fine (1845-1918) married Armina Davison (1845-1885)

Perry Fine (1871-1947) married Rachel Roush (1874-1956)

Children: Chloe (1894-1979); Beulah (1896-1972); Harvey (1898-1971); Clarence (1899-1961);     Lydia (1901-1989); Blanche (1903-1983); Charles (1906-1972); Elza (1919-1991); Ruby (1911-1987);

Inez (1913-1994)

 

                                        

Siam Methodist Church was built by Henry H. Roush in 1882. The church was sold and torn down

In 1980 due to lack of attendance. Several items were then donated to the Taylor County Museum in

Bedford, IA. The items in photos are at the museum: the church bell, register of attendance, pews, chairs, collection plates, and candle snufer.

 

      

                                                   

                                    

The Siam Methodist Church was built in 1882, for the lack attendance, it was sold and tore down. The bell “IN LOVING MEMORY HAZEL GANT, 1976,” is mounted and stands at the corner of the Taylor County Museum. Inside the museum in the Church Room, are three chairs, two pews, a gooseneck lamp, candle snuffer, small hymnal, cross, two collection plates, Register of Attendance, picture of “Head of Christ” and an invitation to the Dedication of the Siam Methodist Church, July 19, 1885, all reminders of the Methodist Church of Siam. Taylor CO. History Vol. 2 1990 p 55

                 

 

 

            

     

 

 

               

   

             

                            Henry H. Roush left photo; Henry and his son Charles Roush right photo.

           

      Charles Roush, leftphoto; the house is the birthplace of Eva Roush, located about 1 ½ miles west of

Siam; photo taken about 1983; also the photos on right are Eva Thelma (Roush) Blessman and her daughter, Thelma Pearl (Blessman) Peery.

                            

 Photos left to right: Henry H. Roush; Rachel (Roush) & Perry Fine; Opal Mae (Blessman) Dove (1919-1995); Margaret

 (Clayton) Roush, granddaughters, Opal and Pearl Blessman.              

                        

 These two photos were in the Taylor County History vol. 2 p 55. It shows the two churches (Siam Methodist

 Church (left) and Church of Christ (right) of Siam had some similarities.

                                                    

Sources:

Taylor County History Vol. Two 1990 p 44; 55;

Taylor County, Iowa History 1881 by Lyman Evans; Polk Township; page 621; pages 625-626;

History of Polk Township, Taylor County, Iowa, by Mrs. Frank W. Shields; p. 9; 34; 49; 50.

A Roush Family History (a six page booklet);

Roush Family History by Mary Lou Dofner;

www.findagrave.com;

The Roush Family in America, Vol 4, copyright 1979 by Walden F. Roush for Roush and Allied

     Families Association of America, Inc., Library of Congress Catalog Card Number 29-6439;

     George Casper Raush, Vol. 1, pages 696-705; Vol II, pages 75-164; Vol. III, pages 357-366 and 880-889;

    The Roush Family in America, Vol. 3 pages 358-362      

http://iagenweb.org/taylor/

Clarinda Herald Journal, Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2002, pages 1 and 22; Piano strikes note.

     This ends the history of Polk Township and the information I have on the family of the Claytons and Roushes. If some of the particulars are incorrect, that fault is chargeable. Please contact: Karen Peery @ kannpeery@ gmail.com