PARENTAGE: MAXWELL TRIBUNE; Maxwell; Iowa; abt 14 Dec, 1909; Obituary of Mary (Hale) Whitney Thompson; listed as child of Mary; lists married name as Witmer; list Jennie living in Maxwell, Dec 1909.
SIBLINGS-MARRIED NAME-PLACE LIVING IN JUL 1918: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday Jul 16, 1918 - "MRS. FRANK M. GAGLE - Cora Belle Whitney ..... Mrs. Gagle was the third of a family of six children. Her sister, Mrs. Jennie Witmer, of Maxwell, Iowa, and three brothers: W. W., L. R., and E. H. Whitney survive her. The eldest brother, Clayton, died several years ago. .."
SIBLINGS: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa. THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday July 11, 1918, page 5. "Mr. and Mrs. E. W. Whitney and children of Canton, Illinois, are visiting relatives in Maxwell and Des Moines, having been called to Iowa by the death of his sister, Mrs. Frank Gagle, near Colfax, who died suddenly the evening of July 4th. Mrs. Gagle's funeral was held Sunday at the residence. Mrs. H. Witmer and A. W. whitney and Mary Whitney, sister, brother and sister-in-law of deceased, attended the funeral."
SIBLINGS-MARRIED NAME-PLACE LIVING IN APRIL 1949: THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday, April 14, 1949, page 1, column 4. "LeROY WHITNEY - Le Roy** Whitney, son of E. H. and Mary Whitney was born at Greencastle, Iowa .... Surviving are ... two brothers E. H. Whitney, of Altadena, California and Allen Whitney of Santa Ana, California and one sister, Mrs. Jennie Witmer of Maxwell, ..."
SIBLINGS-MARRIED NAME-PLACE LIVING IN JUNE 1949: THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday, July 21, 1949, page 1, column 5. "E. H. WHITNEY PASSED AWAY IN CALIFORNIA. - Edwin Hales Whitney..... A sister, Mrs. Harding Witmer of Maxwell and one brother, Alan Whitney of Santa Anna, Calif. ..."
MARRIAGE: JASPER COUNTY IOWA MARRIAGES 1849-1898; Compiled by the Jasper County Iowa Genealogical Society; Copy of bk Iowa Historical Library; Des Moines; Iowa; 977.76 H 7 83m; p 213; # 1426; Harding age 26; born Pennsylvania; father D. R. Witmor; mother M. Diffenderfer; Jennie age 20; born Ohio; father E. H. Whitney; mother Mary Hales; Rev. N. B. Neibel.
SPOUSE-ISSUE:Hallam Spencer Whitney, Historian John R. Whitney and Allied Branches; info sent to Jennie (Whitney) Bell; info dated 5 Sep 1956.
AGE-SPOUSE-ISSUE # 3: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa; POLK COUNTY IOWA BIRTHS BS 1-5, Geneal. *F 627 .P7 B2 BK 1-5; Book 4 1890-1894 page 89 WITMER, _____ born 4-15-92 (1892) Washington Twp., Polk County, Iowa, mother Whitney, Jennie born Ohio age 34, father Harold D. born PA age 35.
ISSUE # 4: THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, April 4, 1895, page _, column 2. "Born - To Mr. and Mrs. Harland Witmer, Tuesday April 2nd, a bouncing ten pound boy. Hard is stepping around as big as if he had just been inaugurated president of the U. S."
SPOUSE-ISSUE # 6: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa; POLK COUNTY IOWA BIRTH REGISTER 6 1899-1901, Geneal. *F 627 .P7 B2 BK 6-7 page 118 WITMER, Harland male born 12-23-01 (1901) Washington Township, Polk County, Iowa, mother Whitney Jennie M., father Harding.
SPOUSE-ISSUE #6: Nevada Public Library obituary file, Nevada, Iowa, NEVADA JOURNAL March 1988. "HARLAND H. WITMER. - Harland Harding Witmer,... Mr. Witmer was born Dec. 21, 1901, at rural Maxwell, IA to Harding and Jennie (Whitney) Witmer. ... Survivors include ...one sister, Gladys Olinger of Ankeny IA; and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife on Oct. 4, 1986; two brothers and two sisters."
BIRTH-PARENTAGE-SIBLING-MARRIAGE-ISSUE-DEATH-BURIAL: Obituary of Jennie Marilla Whitney Witmer; MAXWELL TRIBUNE; Oct 1956; Maxwell; Iowa: " MRS. JENNIE WITMER: Jennie Marilla Whitney was born January 29, 1868 in Lormaine County, (probably Lorain County instead of Lormaine) Ohio, the daughter of Mary and Eli Whitney. The family moved to Humboldt, Iowa, and a few years later settled on a farm near Mingo, Iowa. On March 15, 1887, she was united in marriage to Harding Witmer and made their home near Mingo for four years, after which time they moved to the present home, where she has resided for 65 years. She was preceded in death by her husband who passed away July 11, 1939. When a very young girl she united with the Methodist Church and was a very faithful member, attending as long as health permitted. Surviving are six children, Archie, Frank and Harland Witmer, Mrs. Vera Hostettler, Mrs. Hazel Young of Maxwell and Gladys Olinger of Nevada. Eight Grand Children and 11 great grandchildren, also one brother, Allan Whitney of Santa Anna, California, besides a number of nieces and nephew and host of friends. Funeral services were held, Tuesday, Oct. 13, at the Methodist Church with the Rev. Oren Hall and Rev. Geo. Yetter, officiating. Music was furnished by Wendell Whitney with Mrs. Laura Pearson at the Organ. Floweres were cared for by Mildred Nelson, Amy Dykastra and Gladys Peters. Casket bearers were: Marold Witmer, Dean Witmer, James Olinger, Richard Green, Everett Kahl and Carl Whitney. Interment in Maxwell Cemetery." CARD OF THANKS: Words cannot express our gratitude to each and every one who has helped us through these days of sorrow, with beautiful flowers, words of sympathy and deeds of kindness. We can only say, "Thank you so much." The Witmer Family."
BIRTH-PARENTAGE-SIBLING-MARRIAGE-ISSUE-DEATH-BURIAL: Nevada Public Library obituary file, Nevada, Iowa. AMES ____, Ames, Iowa, Saturday, October 27, 1956. "OBITUARY - Jennie M. Witmer. MAXWELL - Jennie M. Whitney Witmer was born Jan. 29, 1868, in Lorraine County, Ohio, the daughter of Mary and Eli Whitney. The family moved to Humboldt, Iowa, and a few years later settled on a farm near Mingo. On March 15, 1887, she was married to Harding Witmer and they made their home near Mingo for four years, after which they moved to the present home, where she had lived for 65 years. She was preceded in death by her husband July 11, 1939. Surviving are six children: Archie, Frank and Harland Witmer, Mrs. Vern Hostetler, Mrs. Hazel Young of Maxwell and Gladys Olinger of Nevada; eight grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren; and brother Allan Whitney, Santa Ana, Calif. Funeral services were Oct. 13 at the Methodist Church. Music was furnished by Wendell Whitney with Mrs. Laura Pearson at the organ. Flowers were cared for by Mrs. Mildred Nelson, Amy Dykstra and Gladys Peters. Pallbearers were Merold Witmer, Dean Witmer, James Olinger, Richard Green, Everett Kahl and Carl Whitney. Burial was in Maxwell cemetery."
BIRTH-SPOUSE-DEATH-BURIAL: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa Vol. IX GRAVE MARKER INSCRIPTIONS, INDIAN CREEK TOWNSHIP, INC. CITY OF MAXWELL STORY COUNTY, IOWA. Page 463 Maxwell Municipal Cemetery, row 20, plots 12, 13 & 14, father Harding D. WITMER 1861 - 1939; mother Jennie M. WHITMER 1868 - 1956.
MARRIAGE-ISSUE-DEATH OF SPOUSE: THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday, July 17, 1939. "FINAL RITES FOR MAXWELL PIONEER - Funeral services for Harding D. Witmer .....On March 15, 1887, he was united in marriage at Mingo to Jennie Whitney. The young couple took a farm near Farrar where they lived for four years. They then purchased the farm south of Maxwell where they have lived for the last 48 years. Six children, three sons and three daughters, came to bless their home......Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Jennie Witmer, three sons Archie, Frank and Harland all of Maxwell; three daughters, Mrs. Harvey (Vera) Hostettler and Mrs. Hazel Young both of Maxwell and Mrs. James (Gladys) Olinger of Nevada....."
1870 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Clayton County, Lodomillo Township, Post Office - Strawberry Point, page 328, 6th day of June 1870, WHITNEY, Jennie, age 2, sex - female, color - white, occupation - at home, birthplace - Ohio, living in household of Eli H. and Mary E. Whitney and Erwin C. age 4.
1880 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Jasper County, Independence Township, page 12 D, WHITNEY, Jennie, relationship to head of household - dau, marital status - single, gender - female, race - white, age -12, birthplace - Ohio, occupation - farm laborer, father's birthplace - Ohio, mother's birthplace - Ohio.
1900 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Polk County, Washington Township, Enumerated 18 & 19 day of June 1900, Page 278, Sheet No. 5 A, Dwelling # 81, Family # 86. Name - WITMER, Jennie, Relationship to head of household - wife, Color - W, Sex - F, Birth month - Jan, Birth year - 1868, Age - 32, Marital status - M 13 years, No. of children - 5, No. of children living - 5, Birthplace - Ohio, Father's birthplace - Ohio, Mother's birthplace - Ohio, Occupation - blank, Can read - yes, Can write - yes, Can speak English - yes. Spouse - Harding, children listed this census - Vera L., Archie V., Hzael M., Frank W. and Gladys M.
1910 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Polk County, Washington Township, Enumeration Date 27 - 28 April 1910, Page 277 Sheet - 4B, Dwelling # 85, Family # 86. Name - WITMER, Jennie, Relationship to head of household - wife, Sex - F, Race - W, Age - 42, Marital Status - M 1, 23 years, No. of children - 6, No. of children living - 6, Birthplace - Ohio, Father's birthplace - Ohio, Mother's birthplace - Ohio, Able to speak English - English, Occupation - none, Able to read - yes, Able to write - yes. Spouse - Harding, children listed this census - Vera, Hazel, Frank, Gladys and Harlan.
1930 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Polk County, Washington Township, Enumerated 6 - 7th day of May 1930, Page 239, Line # 87, Dwelling # 143, Family # 144. Name - WITMER, Jennie, Relationship to head of household - wife, Live on farm - yes, Sex - F, Race - W, Age - 62, Marital status - M, Age at 1st marriage - 19, Attended school within the last year - no, Able to read and write - yes, Birthplace - Ohio, Father's birthplace - Ohio, Mother's birthplace - Ohio, Able to speak English - yes, Occupation - none. Spouse - Harding H., child listed this census - Harlan H. Also living in household is HOSTETLER, Vera S., relationship to head of household - daughter, YOUNG, Mary H., relationship to head of household - daughter, YOUNG, Howard, relationship to head of household - grandson and KEEFE, Virginia M., relationship to head of household - granddaughter.
HISTORICAL NOTES:
THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday, December 2, 1920, page 1, column 1. "Mrs. Harve Hochstetler** returned to her home in Des Moines Monday morning, after an over week-end visit at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harding Witmer. She was accompanied by her mother, who will remain in Des Moines for some time, undergoing treatment." **Editorial note - other records indicate spelling of married name as Hostettler.
THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, March 18, 1937, page 1. "GOLDEN WEDDING ANNIVERSARY - Mr. and Mrs. Harding Witmer celebrated their golden wedding anniversary, March 15, at a very quiet family gathering, with all the children present, including Vera Hostetler, of Washington D.C., and Archie, Frank and Harland and their wives; Hazel Young, of Maxwell, and Mrs. James Olinger, of Nevada. Mr. Whtmer's brother and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Earl Eitmer, of Newton, were also present."
Brief history of Roy and Jenny Bell included in MAXWELL, IOWA 1883-1983, page 168, Walsworth Marceline, Mo., USA; "HARDING AND JENNIE WHITNEY WITMER, Harding Daniel Witmer was born November 26, 1861 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. His parents were Daniel and Mary Diffenderfer Witmer. When he was eight years old he came to Greencastle, Iowa with his father and step-mother. Later they moved to a farm near Mingo. On March 15, 1887 Harding married Jennie Whitney. She was born January 29, 1868 in Lorain County, Ohio, the daughter of Eli H. Whitney and Mary Elizabeth Hales. Harding bought 440 acres in Polk and Story County and moved to the farm south of Maxwell in 1891. On December 26, 1897 the home was destroyed by fire. The new home was built in 1898. Harding was a Director and President in the Peoples State Bank of Maxwell and was active in community affairs. Harding and Jennie were member of the Methodist Church at Maxwell. Harding died July 11, 1929. Jennie died October 13, 1956. They lived on their farm for 48 years. Six children were born to Harding and Jennie. Vera Leota was born in 1888. She married Harve Hostetter. Archie Vernon was born in 1890. He married Viola Susan Link. Mary Hazel was born in 1892. She married Roy Keefe. They were later divorced and in 1920 she married Fred L. Young. Frank Wayne was born in 1895. He married Hazel Mather. Mildred Gladys was born in 1896. She married James A. Olinger. Harland Harding was born in 1910. He married Bernice Fish. Harland Witmer bought some of the farm and lived in the home until 1976, when they moved to Maxwell. Marold and Stephen Witmer, Harding's grandson and great grandson are now farming the ground." Article also contains a pictures of the Witmer family.
SIBLINGS-MARRIED NAME-PLACE LIVING IN JUL 1918: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday Jul 16, 1918 - "MRS. FRANK M. GAGLE - Cora Belle Whitney ..... Mrs. Gagle was the third of a family of six children. Her sister, Mrs. Jennie Witmer, of Maxwell, Iowa, and three brothers: W. W., L. R., and E. H. Whitney survive her. The eldest brother, Clayton, died several years ago. .."
SIBLINGS: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa. THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday July 11, 1918, page 5. "Mr. and Mrs. E. W. Whitney and children of Canton, Illinois, are visiting relatives in Maxwell and Des Moines, having been called to Iowa by the death of his sister, Mrs. Frank Gagle, near Colfax, who died suddenly the evening of July 4th. Mrs. Gagle's funeral was held Sunday at the residence. Mrs. H. Witmer and A. W. whitney and Mary Whitney, sister, brother and sister-in-law of deceased, attended the funeral."
SIBLINGS-MARRIED NAME-PLACE LIVING IN APRIL 1949: THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday, April 14, 1949, page 1, column 4. "LeROY WHITNEY - Le Roy** Whitney, son of E. H. and Mary Whitney was born at Greencastle, Iowa .... Surviving are ... two brothers E. H. Whitney, of Altadena, California and Allen Whitney of Santa Ana, California and one sister, Mrs. Jennie Witmer of Maxwell, ..."
SIBLINGS-MARRIED NAME-PLACE LIVING IN JUNE 1949: THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday, July 21, 1949, page 1, column 5. "E. H. WHITNEY PASSED AWAY IN CALIFORNIA. - Edwin Hales Whitney..... A sister, Mrs. Harding Witmer of Maxwell and one brother, Alan Whitney of Santa Anna, Calif. ..."
MARRIAGE: JASPER COUNTY IOWA MARRIAGES 1849-1898; Compiled by the Jasper County Iowa Genealogical Society; Copy of bk Iowa Historical Library; Des Moines; Iowa; 977.76 H 7 83m; p 213; # 1426; Harding age 26; born Pennsylvania; father D. R. Witmor; mother M. Diffenderfer; Jennie age 20; born Ohio; father E. H. Whitney; mother Mary Hales; Rev. N. B. Neibel.
SPOUSE-ISSUE:Hallam Spencer Whitney, Historian John R. Whitney and Allied Branches; info sent to Jennie (Whitney) Bell; info dated 5 Sep 1956.
AGE-SPOUSE-ISSUE # 3: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa; POLK COUNTY IOWA BIRTHS BS 1-5, Geneal. *F 627 .P7 B2 BK 1-5; Book 4 1890-1894 page 89 WITMER, _____ born 4-15-92 (1892) Washington Twp., Polk County, Iowa, mother Whitney, Jennie born Ohio age 34, father Harold D. born PA age 35.
ISSUE # 4: THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, April 4, 1895, page _, column 2. "Born - To Mr. and Mrs. Harland Witmer, Tuesday April 2nd, a bouncing ten pound boy. Hard is stepping around as big as if he had just been inaugurated president of the U. S."
SPOUSE-ISSUE # 6: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa; POLK COUNTY IOWA BIRTH REGISTER 6 1899-1901, Geneal. *F 627 .P7 B2 BK 6-7 page 118 WITMER, Harland male born 12-23-01 (1901) Washington Township, Polk County, Iowa, mother Whitney Jennie M., father Harding.
SPOUSE-ISSUE #6: Nevada Public Library obituary file, Nevada, Iowa, NEVADA JOURNAL March 1988. "HARLAND H. WITMER. - Harland Harding Witmer,... Mr. Witmer was born Dec. 21, 1901, at rural Maxwell, IA to Harding and Jennie (Whitney) Witmer. ... Survivors include ...one sister, Gladys Olinger of Ankeny IA; and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife on Oct. 4, 1986; two brothers and two sisters."
BIRTH-PARENTAGE-SIBLING-MARRIAGE-ISSUE-DEATH-BURIAL: Obituary of Jennie Marilla Whitney Witmer; MAXWELL TRIBUNE; Oct 1956; Maxwell; Iowa: " MRS. JENNIE WITMER: Jennie Marilla Whitney was born January 29, 1868 in Lormaine County, (probably Lorain County instead of Lormaine) Ohio, the daughter of Mary and Eli Whitney. The family moved to Humboldt, Iowa, and a few years later settled on a farm near Mingo, Iowa. On March 15, 1887, she was united in marriage to Harding Witmer and made their home near Mingo for four years, after which time they moved to the present home, where she has resided for 65 years. She was preceded in death by her husband who passed away July 11, 1939. When a very young girl she united with the Methodist Church and was a very faithful member, attending as long as health permitted. Surviving are six children, Archie, Frank and Harland Witmer, Mrs. Vera Hostettler, Mrs. Hazel Young of Maxwell and Gladys Olinger of Nevada. Eight Grand Children and 11 great grandchildren, also one brother, Allan Whitney of Santa Anna, California, besides a number of nieces and nephew and host of friends. Funeral services were held, Tuesday, Oct. 13, at the Methodist Church with the Rev. Oren Hall and Rev. Geo. Yetter, officiating. Music was furnished by Wendell Whitney with Mrs. Laura Pearson at the Organ. Floweres were cared for by Mildred Nelson, Amy Dykastra and Gladys Peters. Casket bearers were: Marold Witmer, Dean Witmer, James Olinger, Richard Green, Everett Kahl and Carl Whitney. Interment in Maxwell Cemetery." CARD OF THANKS: Words cannot express our gratitude to each and every one who has helped us through these days of sorrow, with beautiful flowers, words of sympathy and deeds of kindness. We can only say, "Thank you so much." The Witmer Family."
BIRTH-PARENTAGE-SIBLING-MARRIAGE-ISSUE-DEATH-BURIAL: Nevada Public Library obituary file, Nevada, Iowa. AMES ____, Ames, Iowa, Saturday, October 27, 1956. "OBITUARY - Jennie M. Witmer. MAXWELL - Jennie M. Whitney Witmer was born Jan. 29, 1868, in Lorraine County, Ohio, the daughter of Mary and Eli Whitney. The family moved to Humboldt, Iowa, and a few years later settled on a farm near Mingo. On March 15, 1887, she was married to Harding Witmer and they made their home near Mingo for four years, after which they moved to the present home, where she had lived for 65 years. She was preceded in death by her husband July 11, 1939. Surviving are six children: Archie, Frank and Harland Witmer, Mrs. Vern Hostetler, Mrs. Hazel Young of Maxwell and Gladys Olinger of Nevada; eight grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren; and brother Allan Whitney, Santa Ana, Calif. Funeral services were Oct. 13 at the Methodist Church. Music was furnished by Wendell Whitney with Mrs. Laura Pearson at the organ. Flowers were cared for by Mrs. Mildred Nelson, Amy Dykstra and Gladys Peters. Pallbearers were Merold Witmer, Dean Witmer, James Olinger, Richard Green, Everett Kahl and Carl Whitney. Burial was in Maxwell cemetery."
BIRTH-SPOUSE-DEATH-BURIAL: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa Vol. IX GRAVE MARKER INSCRIPTIONS, INDIAN CREEK TOWNSHIP, INC. CITY OF MAXWELL STORY COUNTY, IOWA. Page 463 Maxwell Municipal Cemetery, row 20, plots 12, 13 & 14, father Harding D. WITMER 1861 - 1939; mother Jennie M. WHITMER 1868 - 1956.
MARRIAGE-ISSUE-DEATH OF SPOUSE: THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday, July 17, 1939. "FINAL RITES FOR MAXWELL PIONEER - Funeral services for Harding D. Witmer .....On March 15, 1887, he was united in marriage at Mingo to Jennie Whitney. The young couple took a farm near Farrar where they lived for four years. They then purchased the farm south of Maxwell where they have lived for the last 48 years. Six children, three sons and three daughters, came to bless their home......Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Jennie Witmer, three sons Archie, Frank and Harland all of Maxwell; three daughters, Mrs. Harvey (Vera) Hostettler and Mrs. Hazel Young both of Maxwell and Mrs. James (Gladys) Olinger of Nevada....."
1870 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Clayton County, Lodomillo Township, Post Office - Strawberry Point, page 328, 6th day of June 1870, WHITNEY, Jennie, age 2, sex - female, color - white, occupation - at home, birthplace - Ohio, living in household of Eli H. and Mary E. Whitney and Erwin C. age 4.
1880 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Jasper County, Independence Township, page 12 D, WHITNEY, Jennie, relationship to head of household - dau, marital status - single, gender - female, race - white, age -12, birthplace - Ohio, occupation - farm laborer, father's birthplace - Ohio, mother's birthplace - Ohio.
1900 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Polk County, Washington Township, Enumerated 18 & 19 day of June 1900, Page 278, Sheet No. 5 A, Dwelling # 81, Family # 86. Name - WITMER, Jennie, Relationship to head of household - wife, Color - W, Sex - F, Birth month - Jan, Birth year - 1868, Age - 32, Marital status - M 13 years, No. of children - 5, No. of children living - 5, Birthplace - Ohio, Father's birthplace - Ohio, Mother's birthplace - Ohio, Occupation - blank, Can read - yes, Can write - yes, Can speak English - yes. Spouse - Harding, children listed this census - Vera L., Archie V., Hzael M., Frank W. and Gladys M.
1910 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Polk County, Washington Township, Enumeration Date 27 - 28 April 1910, Page 277 Sheet - 4B, Dwelling # 85, Family # 86. Name - WITMER, Jennie, Relationship to head of household - wife, Sex - F, Race - W, Age - 42, Marital Status - M 1, 23 years, No. of children - 6, No. of children living - 6, Birthplace - Ohio, Father's birthplace - Ohio, Mother's birthplace - Ohio, Able to speak English - English, Occupation - none, Able to read - yes, Able to write - yes. Spouse - Harding, children listed this census - Vera, Hazel, Frank, Gladys and Harlan.
1930 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Polk County, Washington Township, Enumerated 6 - 7th day of May 1930, Page 239, Line # 87, Dwelling # 143, Family # 144. Name - WITMER, Jennie, Relationship to head of household - wife, Live on farm - yes, Sex - F, Race - W, Age - 62, Marital status - M, Age at 1st marriage - 19, Attended school within the last year - no, Able to read and write - yes, Birthplace - Ohio, Father's birthplace - Ohio, Mother's birthplace - Ohio, Able to speak English - yes, Occupation - none. Spouse - Harding H., child listed this census - Harlan H. Also living in household is HOSTETLER, Vera S., relationship to head of household - daughter, YOUNG, Mary H., relationship to head of household - daughter, YOUNG, Howard, relationship to head of household - grandson and KEEFE, Virginia M., relationship to head of household - granddaughter.
HISTORICAL NOTES:
THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday, December 2, 1920, page 1, column 1. "Mrs. Harve Hochstetler** returned to her home in Des Moines Monday morning, after an over week-end visit at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harding Witmer. She was accompanied by her mother, who will remain in Des Moines for some time, undergoing treatment." **Editorial note - other records indicate spelling of married name as Hostettler.
THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, March 18, 1937, page 1. "GOLDEN WEDDING ANNIVERSARY - Mr. and Mrs. Harding Witmer celebrated their golden wedding anniversary, March 15, at a very quiet family gathering, with all the children present, including Vera Hostetler, of Washington D.C., and Archie, Frank and Harland and their wives; Hazel Young, of Maxwell, and Mrs. James Olinger, of Nevada. Mr. Whtmer's brother and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Earl Eitmer, of Newton, were also present."
Brief history of Roy and Jenny Bell included in MAXWELL, IOWA 1883-1983, page 168, Walsworth Marceline, Mo., USA; "HARDING AND JENNIE WHITNEY WITMER, Harding Daniel Witmer was born November 26, 1861 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. His parents were Daniel and Mary Diffenderfer Witmer. When he was eight years old he came to Greencastle, Iowa with his father and step-mother. Later they moved to a farm near Mingo. On March 15, 1887 Harding married Jennie Whitney. She was born January 29, 1868 in Lorain County, Ohio, the daughter of Eli H. Whitney and Mary Elizabeth Hales. Harding bought 440 acres in Polk and Story County and moved to the farm south of Maxwell in 1891. On December 26, 1897 the home was destroyed by fire. The new home was built in 1898. Harding was a Director and President in the Peoples State Bank of Maxwell and was active in community affairs. Harding and Jennie were member of the Methodist Church at Maxwell. Harding died July 11, 1929. Jennie died October 13, 1956. They lived on their farm for 48 years. Six children were born to Harding and Jennie. Vera Leota was born in 1888. She married Harve Hostetter. Archie Vernon was born in 1890. He married Viola Susan Link. Mary Hazel was born in 1892. She married Roy Keefe. They were later divorced and in 1920 she married Fred L. Young. Frank Wayne was born in 1895. He married Hazel Mather. Mildred Gladys was born in 1896. She married James A. Olinger. Harland Harding was born in 1910. He married Bernice Fish. Harland Witmer bought some of the farm and lived in the home until 1976, when they moved to Maxwell. Marold and Stephen Witmer, Harding's grandson and great grandson are now farming the ground." Article also contains a pictures of the Witmer family.
PARENTAGE: MAXWELL TRIBUNE; Maxwell; Iowa; abt 14 Dec, 1909; Obituary of Mary (Hale) Whitney Thompson; listed as child of Mary; lists married name as Witmer; list Jennie living in Maxwell, Dec 1909.
SIBLINGS-MARRIED NAME-PLACE LIVING IN JUL 1918: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday Jul 16, 1918 - "MRS. FRANK M. GAGLE - Cora Belle Whitney ..... Mrs. Gagle was the third of a family of six children. Her sister, Mrs. Jennie Witmer, of Maxwell, Iowa, and three brothers: W. W., L. R., and E. H. Whitney survive her. The eldest brother, Clayton, died several years ago. .."
SIBLINGS: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa. THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday July 11, 1918, page 5. "Mr. and Mrs. E. W. Whitney and children of Canton, Illinois, are visiting relatives in Maxwell and Des Moines, having been called to Iowa by the death of his sister, Mrs. Frank Gagle, near Colfax, who died suddenly the evening of July 4th. Mrs. Gagle's funeral was held Sunday at the residence. Mrs. H. Witmer and A. W. whitney and Mary Whitney, sister, brother and sister-in-law of deceased, attended the funeral."
SIBLINGS-MARRIED NAME-PLACE LIVING IN APRIL 1949: THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday, April 14, 1949, page 1, column 4. "LeROY WHITNEY - Le Roy** Whitney, son of E. H. and Mary Whitney was born at Greencastle, Iowa .... Surviving are ... two brothers E. H. Whitney, of Altadena, California and Allen Whitney of Santa Ana, California and one sister, Mrs. Jennie Witmer of Maxwell, ..."
SIBLINGS-MARRIED NAME-PLACE LIVING IN JUNE 1949: THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday, July 21, 1949, page 1, column 5. "E. H. WHITNEY PASSED AWAY IN CALIFORNIA. - Edwin Hales Whitney..... A sister, Mrs. Harding Witmer of Maxwell and one brother, Alan Whitney of Santa Anna, Calif. ..."
MARRIAGE: JASPER COUNTY IOWA MARRIAGES 1849-1898; Compiled by the Jasper County Iowa Genealogical Society; Copy of bk Iowa Historical Library; Des Moines; Iowa; 977.76 H 7 83m; p 213; # 1426; Harding age 26; born Pennsylvania; father D. R. Witmor; mother M. Diffenderfer; Jennie age 20; born Ohio; father E. H. Whitney; mother Mary Hales; Rev. N. B. Neibel.
SPOUSE-ISSUE:Hallam Spencer Whitney, Historian John R. Whitney and Allied Branches; info sent to Jennie (Whitney) Bell; info dated 5 Sep 1956.
AGE-SPOUSE-ISSUE # 3: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa; POLK COUNTY IOWA BIRTHS BS 1-5, Geneal. *F 627 .P7 B2 BK 1-5; Book 4 1890-1894 page 89 WITMER, _____ born 4-15-92 (1892) Washington Twp., Polk County, Iowa, mother Whitney, Jennie born Ohio age 34, father Harold D. born PA age 35.
ISSUE # 4: THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, April 4, 1895, page _, column 2. "Born - To Mr. and Mrs. Harland Witmer, Tuesday April 2nd, a bouncing ten pound boy. Hard is stepping around as big as if he had just been inaugurated president of the U. S."
SPOUSE-ISSUE # 6: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa; POLK COUNTY IOWA BIRTH REGISTER 6 1899-1901, Geneal. *F 627 .P7 B2 BK 6-7 page 118 WITMER, Harland male born 12-23-01 (1901) Washington Township, Polk County, Iowa, mother Whitney Jennie M., father Harding.
SPOUSE-ISSUE #6: Nevada Public Library obituary file, Nevada, Iowa, NEVADA JOURNAL March 1988. "HARLAND H. WITMER. - Harland Harding Witmer,... Mr. Witmer was born Dec. 21, 1901, at rural Maxwell, IA to Harding and Jennie (Whitney) Witmer. ... Survivors include ...one sister, Gladys Olinger of Ankeny IA; and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife on Oct. 4, 1986; two brothers and two sisters."
BIRTH-PARENTAGE-SIBLING-MARRIAGE-ISSUE-DEATH-BURIAL: Obituary of Jennie Marilla Whitney Witmer; MAXWELL TRIBUNE; Oct 1956; Maxwell; Iowa: " MRS. JENNIE WITMER: Jennie Marilla Whitney was born January 29, 1868 in Lormaine County, (probably Lorain County instead of Lormaine) Ohio, the daughter of Mary and Eli Whitney. The family moved to Humboldt, Iowa, and a few years later settled on a farm near Mingo, Iowa. On March 15, 1887, she was united in marriage to Harding Witmer and made their home near Mingo for four years, after which time they moved to the present home, where she has resided for 65 years. She was preceded in death by her husband who passed away July 11, 1939. When a very young girl she united with the Methodist Church and was a very faithful member, attending as long as health permitted. Surviving are six children, Archie, Frank and Harland Witmer, Mrs. Vera Hostettler, Mrs. Hazel Young of Maxwell and Gladys Olinger of Nevada. Eight Grand Children and 11 great grandchildren, also one brother, Allan Whitney of Santa Anna, California, besides a number of nieces and nephew and host of friends. Funeral services were held, Tuesday, Oct. 13, at the Methodist Church with the Rev. Oren Hall and Rev. Geo. Yetter, officiating. Music was furnished by Wendell Whitney with Mrs. Laura Pearson at the Organ. Floweres were cared for by Mildred Nelson, Amy Dykastra and Gladys Peters. Casket bearers were: Marold Witmer, Dean Witmer, James Olinger, Richard Green, Everett Kahl and Carl Whitney. Interment in Maxwell Cemetery." CARD OF THANKS: Words cannot express our gratitude to each and every one who has helped us through these days of sorrow, with beautiful flowers, words of sympathy and deeds of kindness. We can only say, "Thank you so much." The Witmer Family."
BIRTH-PARENTAGE-SIBLING-MARRIAGE-ISSUE-DEATH-BURIAL: Nevada Public Library obituary file, Nevada, Iowa. AMES ____, Ames, Iowa, Saturday, October 27, 1956. "OBITUARY - Jennie M. Witmer. MAXWELL - Jennie M. Whitney Witmer was born Jan. 29, 1868, in Lorraine County, Ohio, the daughter of Mary and Eli Whitney. The family moved to Humboldt, Iowa, and a few years later settled on a farm near Mingo. On March 15, 1887, she was married to Harding Witmer and they made their home near Mingo for four years, after which they moved to the present home, where she had lived for 65 years. She was preceded in death by her husband July 11, 1939. Surviving are six children: Archie, Frank and Harland Witmer, Mrs. Vern Hostetler, Mrs. Hazel Young of Maxwell and Gladys Olinger of Nevada; eight grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren; and brother Allan Whitney, Santa Ana, Calif. Funeral services were Oct. 13 at the Methodist Church. Music was furnished by Wendell Whitney with Mrs. Laura Pearson at the organ. Flowers were cared for by Mrs. Mildred Nelson, Amy Dykstra and Gladys Peters. Pallbearers were Merold Witmer, Dean Witmer, James Olinger, Richard Green, Everett Kahl and Carl Whitney. Burial was in Maxwell cemetery."
BIRTH-SPOUSE-DEATH-BURIAL: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa Vol. IX GRAVE MARKER INSCRIPTIONS, INDIAN CREEK TOWNSHIP, INC. CITY OF MAXWELL STORY COUNTY, IOWA. Page 463 Maxwell Municipal Cemetery, row 20, plots 12, 13 & 14, father Harding D. WITMER 1861 - 1939; mother Jennie M. WHITMER 1868 - 1956.
MARRIAGE-ISSUE-DEATH OF SPOUSE: THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday, July 17, 1939. "FINAL RITES FOR MAXWELL PIONEER - Funeral services for Harding D. Witmer .....On March 15, 1887, he was united in marriage at Mingo to Jennie Whitney. The young couple took a farm near Farrar where they lived for four years. They then purchased the farm south of Maxwell where they have lived for the last 48 years. Six children, three sons and three daughters, came to bless their home......Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Jennie Witmer, three sons Archie, Frank and Harland all of Maxwell; three daughters, Mrs. Harvey (Vera) Hostettler and Mrs. Hazel Young both of Maxwell and Mrs. James (Gladys) Olinger of Nevada....."
1870 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Clayton County, Lodomillo Township, Post Office - Strawberry Point, page 328, 6th day of June 1870, WHITNEY, Jennie, age 2, sex - female, color - white, occupation - at home, birthplace - Ohio, living in household of Eli H. and Mary E. Whitney and Erwin C. age 4.
1880 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Jasper County, Independence Township, page 12 D, WHITNEY, Jennie, relationship to head of household - dau, marital status - single, gender - female, race - white, age -12, birthplace - Ohio, occupation - farm laborer, father's birthplace - Ohio, mother's birthplace - Ohio.
1900 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Polk County, Washington Township, Enumerated 18 & 19 day of June 1900, Page 278, Sheet No. 5 A, Dwelling # 81, Family # 86. Name - WITMER, Jennie, Relationship to head of household - wife, Color - W, Sex - F, Birth month - Jan, Birth year - 1868, Age - 32, Marital status - M 13 years, No. of children - 5, No. of children living - 5, Birthplace - Ohio, Father's birthplace - Ohio, Mother's birthplace - Ohio, Occupation - blank, Can read - yes, Can write - yes, Can speak English - yes. Spouse - Harding, children listed this census - Vera L., Archie V., Hzael M., Frank W. and Gladys M.
1910 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Polk County, Washington Township, Enumeration Date 27 - 28 April 1910, Page 277 Sheet - 4B, Dwelling # 85, Family # 86. Name - WITMER, Jennie, Relationship to head of household - wife, Sex - F, Race - W, Age - 42, Marital Status - M 1, 23 years, No. of children - 6, No. of children living - 6, Birthplace - Ohio, Father's birthplace - Ohio, Mother's birthplace - Ohio, Able to speak English - English, Occupation - none, Able to read - yes, Able to write - yes. Spouse - Harding, children listed this census - Vera, Hazel, Frank, Gladys and Harlan.
1930 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Polk County, Washington Township, Enumerated 6 - 7th day of May 1930, Page 239, Line # 87, Dwelling # 143, Family # 144. Name - WITMER, Jennie, Relationship to head of household - wife, Live on farm - yes, Sex - F, Race - W, Age - 62, Marital status - M, Age at 1st marriage - 19, Attended school within the last year - no, Able to read and write - yes, Birthplace - Ohio, Father's birthplace - Ohio, Mother's birthplace - Ohio, Able to speak English - yes, Occupation - none. Spouse - Harding H., child listed this census - Harlan H. Also living in household is HOSTETLER, Vera S., relationship to head of household - daughter, YOUNG, Mary H., relationship to head of household - daughter, YOUNG, Howard, relationship to head of household - grandson and KEEFE, Virginia M., relationship to head of household - granddaughter.
HISTORICAL NOTES:
THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday, December 2, 1920, page 1, column 1. "Mrs. Harve Hochstetler** returned to her home in Des Moines Monday morning, after an over week-end visit at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harding Witmer. She was accompanied by her mother, who will remain in Des Moines for some time, undergoing treatment." **Editorial note - other records indicate spelling of married name as Hostettler.
THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, March 18, 1937, page 1. "GOLDEN WEDDING ANNIVERSARY - Mr. and Mrs. Harding Witmer celebrated their golden wedding anniversary, March 15, at a very quiet family gathering, with all the children present, including Vera Hostetler, of Washington D.C., and Archie, Frank and Harland and their wives; Hazel Young, of Maxwell, and Mrs. James Olinger, of Nevada. Mr. Whtmer's brother and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Earl Eitmer, of Newton, were also present."
Brief history of Roy and Jenny Bell included in MAXWELL, IOWA 1883-1983, page 168, Walsworth Marceline, Mo., USA; "HARDING AND JENNIE WHITNEY WITMER, Harding Daniel Witmer was born November 26, 1861 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. His parents were Daniel and Mary Diffenderfer Witmer. When he was eight years old he came to Greencastle, Iowa with his father and step-mother. Later they moved to a farm near Mingo. On March 15, 1887 Harding married Jennie Whitney. She was born January 29, 1868 in Lorain County, Ohio, the daughter of Eli H. Whitney and Mary Elizabeth Hales. Harding bought 440 acres in Polk and Story County and moved to the farm south of Maxwell in 1891. On December 26, 1897 the home was destroyed by fire. The new home was built in 1898. Harding was a Director and President in the Peoples State Bank of Maxwell and was active in community affairs. Harding and Jennie were member of the Methodist Church at Maxwell. Harding died July 11, 1929. Jennie died October 13, 1956. They lived on their farm for 48 years. Six children were born to Harding and Jennie. Vera Leota was born in 1888. She married Harve Hostetter. Archie Vernon was born in 1890. He married Viola Susan Link. Mary Hazel was born in 1892. She married Roy Keefe. They were later divorced and in 1920 she married Fred L. Young. Frank Wayne was born in 1895. He married Hazel Mather. Mildred Gladys was born in 1896. She married James A. Olinger. Harland Harding was born in 1910. He married Bernice Fish. Harland Witmer bought some of the farm and lived in the home until 1976, when they moved to Maxwell. Marold and Stephen Witmer, Harding's grandson and great grandson are now farming the ground." Article also contains a pictures of the Witmer family.
SIBLINGS-MARRIED NAME-PLACE LIVING IN JUL 1918: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday Jul 16, 1918 - "MRS. FRANK M. GAGLE - Cora Belle Whitney ..... Mrs. Gagle was the third of a family of six children. Her sister, Mrs. Jennie Witmer, of Maxwell, Iowa, and three brothers: W. W., L. R., and E. H. Whitney survive her. The eldest brother, Clayton, died several years ago. .."
SIBLINGS: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa. THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday July 11, 1918, page 5. "Mr. and Mrs. E. W. Whitney and children of Canton, Illinois, are visiting relatives in Maxwell and Des Moines, having been called to Iowa by the death of his sister, Mrs. Frank Gagle, near Colfax, who died suddenly the evening of July 4th. Mrs. Gagle's funeral was held Sunday at the residence. Mrs. H. Witmer and A. W. whitney and Mary Whitney, sister, brother and sister-in-law of deceased, attended the funeral."
SIBLINGS-MARRIED NAME-PLACE LIVING IN APRIL 1949: THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday, April 14, 1949, page 1, column 4. "LeROY WHITNEY - Le Roy** Whitney, son of E. H. and Mary Whitney was born at Greencastle, Iowa .... Surviving are ... two brothers E. H. Whitney, of Altadena, California and Allen Whitney of Santa Ana, California and one sister, Mrs. Jennie Witmer of Maxwell, ..."
SIBLINGS-MARRIED NAME-PLACE LIVING IN JUNE 1949: THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday, July 21, 1949, page 1, column 5. "E. H. WHITNEY PASSED AWAY IN CALIFORNIA. - Edwin Hales Whitney..... A sister, Mrs. Harding Witmer of Maxwell and one brother, Alan Whitney of Santa Anna, Calif. ..."
MARRIAGE: JASPER COUNTY IOWA MARRIAGES 1849-1898; Compiled by the Jasper County Iowa Genealogical Society; Copy of bk Iowa Historical Library; Des Moines; Iowa; 977.76 H 7 83m; p 213; # 1426; Harding age 26; born Pennsylvania; father D. R. Witmor; mother M. Diffenderfer; Jennie age 20; born Ohio; father E. H. Whitney; mother Mary Hales; Rev. N. B. Neibel.
SPOUSE-ISSUE:Hallam Spencer Whitney, Historian John R. Whitney and Allied Branches; info sent to Jennie (Whitney) Bell; info dated 5 Sep 1956.
AGE-SPOUSE-ISSUE # 3: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa; POLK COUNTY IOWA BIRTHS BS 1-5, Geneal. *F 627 .P7 B2 BK 1-5; Book 4 1890-1894 page 89 WITMER, _____ born 4-15-92 (1892) Washington Twp., Polk County, Iowa, mother Whitney, Jennie born Ohio age 34, father Harold D. born PA age 35.
ISSUE # 4: THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, April 4, 1895, page _, column 2. "Born - To Mr. and Mrs. Harland Witmer, Tuesday April 2nd, a bouncing ten pound boy. Hard is stepping around as big as if he had just been inaugurated president of the U. S."
SPOUSE-ISSUE # 6: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa; POLK COUNTY IOWA BIRTH REGISTER 6 1899-1901, Geneal. *F 627 .P7 B2 BK 6-7 page 118 WITMER, Harland male born 12-23-01 (1901) Washington Township, Polk County, Iowa, mother Whitney Jennie M., father Harding.
SPOUSE-ISSUE #6: Nevada Public Library obituary file, Nevada, Iowa, NEVADA JOURNAL March 1988. "HARLAND H. WITMER. - Harland Harding Witmer,... Mr. Witmer was born Dec. 21, 1901, at rural Maxwell, IA to Harding and Jennie (Whitney) Witmer. ... Survivors include ...one sister, Gladys Olinger of Ankeny IA; and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife on Oct. 4, 1986; two brothers and two sisters."
BIRTH-PARENTAGE-SIBLING-MARRIAGE-ISSUE-DEATH-BURIAL: Obituary of Jennie Marilla Whitney Witmer; MAXWELL TRIBUNE; Oct 1956; Maxwell; Iowa: " MRS. JENNIE WITMER: Jennie Marilla Whitney was born January 29, 1868 in Lormaine County, (probably Lorain County instead of Lormaine) Ohio, the daughter of Mary and Eli Whitney. The family moved to Humboldt, Iowa, and a few years later settled on a farm near Mingo, Iowa. On March 15, 1887, she was united in marriage to Harding Witmer and made their home near Mingo for four years, after which time they moved to the present home, where she has resided for 65 years. She was preceded in death by her husband who passed away July 11, 1939. When a very young girl she united with the Methodist Church and was a very faithful member, attending as long as health permitted. Surviving are six children, Archie, Frank and Harland Witmer, Mrs. Vera Hostettler, Mrs. Hazel Young of Maxwell and Gladys Olinger of Nevada. Eight Grand Children and 11 great grandchildren, also one brother, Allan Whitney of Santa Anna, California, besides a number of nieces and nephew and host of friends. Funeral services were held, Tuesday, Oct. 13, at the Methodist Church with the Rev. Oren Hall and Rev. Geo. Yetter, officiating. Music was furnished by Wendell Whitney with Mrs. Laura Pearson at the Organ. Floweres were cared for by Mildred Nelson, Amy Dykastra and Gladys Peters. Casket bearers were: Marold Witmer, Dean Witmer, James Olinger, Richard Green, Everett Kahl and Carl Whitney. Interment in Maxwell Cemetery." CARD OF THANKS: Words cannot express our gratitude to each and every one who has helped us through these days of sorrow, with beautiful flowers, words of sympathy and deeds of kindness. We can only say, "Thank you so much." The Witmer Family."
BIRTH-PARENTAGE-SIBLING-MARRIAGE-ISSUE-DEATH-BURIAL: Nevada Public Library obituary file, Nevada, Iowa. AMES ____, Ames, Iowa, Saturday, October 27, 1956. "OBITUARY - Jennie M. Witmer. MAXWELL - Jennie M. Whitney Witmer was born Jan. 29, 1868, in Lorraine County, Ohio, the daughter of Mary and Eli Whitney. The family moved to Humboldt, Iowa, and a few years later settled on a farm near Mingo. On March 15, 1887, she was married to Harding Witmer and they made their home near Mingo for four years, after which they moved to the present home, where she had lived for 65 years. She was preceded in death by her husband July 11, 1939. Surviving are six children: Archie, Frank and Harland Witmer, Mrs. Vern Hostetler, Mrs. Hazel Young of Maxwell and Gladys Olinger of Nevada; eight grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren; and brother Allan Whitney, Santa Ana, Calif. Funeral services were Oct. 13 at the Methodist Church. Music was furnished by Wendell Whitney with Mrs. Laura Pearson at the organ. Flowers were cared for by Mrs. Mildred Nelson, Amy Dykstra and Gladys Peters. Pallbearers were Merold Witmer, Dean Witmer, James Olinger, Richard Green, Everett Kahl and Carl Whitney. Burial was in Maxwell cemetery."
BIRTH-SPOUSE-DEATH-BURIAL: Iowa Historical Library Des Moines, Iowa Vol. IX GRAVE MARKER INSCRIPTIONS, INDIAN CREEK TOWNSHIP, INC. CITY OF MAXWELL STORY COUNTY, IOWA. Page 463 Maxwell Municipal Cemetery, row 20, plots 12, 13 & 14, father Harding D. WITMER 1861 - 1939; mother Jennie M. WHITMER 1868 - 1956.
MARRIAGE-ISSUE-DEATH OF SPOUSE: THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday, July 17, 1939. "FINAL RITES FOR MAXWELL PIONEER - Funeral services for Harding D. Witmer .....On March 15, 1887, he was united in marriage at Mingo to Jennie Whitney. The young couple took a farm near Farrar where they lived for four years. They then purchased the farm south of Maxwell where they have lived for the last 48 years. Six children, three sons and three daughters, came to bless their home......Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Jennie Witmer, three sons Archie, Frank and Harland all of Maxwell; three daughters, Mrs. Harvey (Vera) Hostettler and Mrs. Hazel Young both of Maxwell and Mrs. James (Gladys) Olinger of Nevada....."
1870 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Clayton County, Lodomillo Township, Post Office - Strawberry Point, page 328, 6th day of June 1870, WHITNEY, Jennie, age 2, sex - female, color - white, occupation - at home, birthplace - Ohio, living in household of Eli H. and Mary E. Whitney and Erwin C. age 4.
1880 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Jasper County, Independence Township, page 12 D, WHITNEY, Jennie, relationship to head of household - dau, marital status - single, gender - female, race - white, age -12, birthplace - Ohio, occupation - farm laborer, father's birthplace - Ohio, mother's birthplace - Ohio.
1900 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Polk County, Washington Township, Enumerated 18 & 19 day of June 1900, Page 278, Sheet No. 5 A, Dwelling # 81, Family # 86. Name - WITMER, Jennie, Relationship to head of household - wife, Color - W, Sex - F, Birth month - Jan, Birth year - 1868, Age - 32, Marital status - M 13 years, No. of children - 5, No. of children living - 5, Birthplace - Ohio, Father's birthplace - Ohio, Mother's birthplace - Ohio, Occupation - blank, Can read - yes, Can write - yes, Can speak English - yes. Spouse - Harding, children listed this census - Vera L., Archie V., Hzael M., Frank W. and Gladys M.
1910 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Polk County, Washington Township, Enumeration Date 27 - 28 April 1910, Page 277 Sheet - 4B, Dwelling # 85, Family # 86. Name - WITMER, Jennie, Relationship to head of household - wife, Sex - F, Race - W, Age - 42, Marital Status - M 1, 23 years, No. of children - 6, No. of children living - 6, Birthplace - Ohio, Father's birthplace - Ohio, Mother's birthplace - Ohio, Able to speak English - English, Occupation - none, Able to read - yes, Able to write - yes. Spouse - Harding, children listed this census - Vera, Hazel, Frank, Gladys and Harlan.
1930 FEDERAL CENSUS: Iowa, Polk County, Washington Township, Enumerated 6 - 7th day of May 1930, Page 239, Line # 87, Dwelling # 143, Family # 144. Name - WITMER, Jennie, Relationship to head of household - wife, Live on farm - yes, Sex - F, Race - W, Age - 62, Marital status - M, Age at 1st marriage - 19, Attended school within the last year - no, Able to read and write - yes, Birthplace - Ohio, Father's birthplace - Ohio, Mother's birthplace - Ohio, Able to speak English - yes, Occupation - none. Spouse - Harding H., child listed this census - Harlan H. Also living in household is HOSTETLER, Vera S., relationship to head of household - daughter, YOUNG, Mary H., relationship to head of household - daughter, YOUNG, Howard, relationship to head of household - grandson and KEEFE, Virginia M., relationship to head of household - granddaughter.
HISTORICAL NOTES:
THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, Thursday, December 2, 1920, page 1, column 1. "Mrs. Harve Hochstetler** returned to her home in Des Moines Monday morning, after an over week-end visit at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harding Witmer. She was accompanied by her mother, who will remain in Des Moines for some time, undergoing treatment." **Editorial note - other records indicate spelling of married name as Hostettler.
THE MAXWELL TRIBUNE, Maxwell, Iowa, March 18, 1937, page 1. "GOLDEN WEDDING ANNIVERSARY - Mr. and Mrs. Harding Witmer celebrated their golden wedding anniversary, March 15, at a very quiet family gathering, with all the children present, including Vera Hostetler, of Washington D.C., and Archie, Frank and Harland and their wives; Hazel Young, of Maxwell, and Mrs. James Olinger, of Nevada. Mr. Whtmer's brother and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Earl Eitmer, of Newton, were also present."
Brief history of Roy and Jenny Bell included in MAXWELL, IOWA 1883-1983, page 168, Walsworth Marceline, Mo., USA; "HARDING AND JENNIE WHITNEY WITMER, Harding Daniel Witmer was born November 26, 1861 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. His parents were Daniel and Mary Diffenderfer Witmer. When he was eight years old he came to Greencastle, Iowa with his father and step-mother. Later they moved to a farm near Mingo. On March 15, 1887 Harding married Jennie Whitney. She was born January 29, 1868 in Lorain County, Ohio, the daughter of Eli H. Whitney and Mary Elizabeth Hales. Harding bought 440 acres in Polk and Story County and moved to the farm south of Maxwell in 1891. On December 26, 1897 the home was destroyed by fire. The new home was built in 1898. Harding was a Director and President in the Peoples State Bank of Maxwell and was active in community affairs. Harding and Jennie were member of the Methodist Church at Maxwell. Harding died July 11, 1929. Jennie died October 13, 1956. They lived on their farm for 48 years. Six children were born to Harding and Jennie. Vera Leota was born in 1888. She married Harve Hostetter. Archie Vernon was born in 1890. He married Viola Susan Link. Mary Hazel was born in 1892. She married Roy Keefe. They were later divorced and in 1920 she married Fred L. Young. Frank Wayne was born in 1895. He married Hazel Mather. Mildred Gladys was born in 1896. She married James A. Olinger. Harland Harding was born in 1910. He married Bernice Fish. Harland Witmer bought some of the farm and lived in the home until 1976, when they moved to Maxwell. Marold and Stephen Witmer, Harding's grandson and great grandson are now farming the ground." Article also contains a pictures of the Witmer family.
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