Baird Family History
John Baird purchased 80 acres of land from F. A. Duncan. This farm is situated three miles west of Columbus City, and is now operated by his grandson, Frank Acheson Moore. The house consisted of a large living room with a bedroom on the east. Later a shed kitchen was added on the south and before the Civil War; two more bedrooms were built on the west. About this time, Mary Baird and her children set out an elm tree just east of the house, which has become a magnificent tree still guarding the house which has been built on the same site as the old one.
In addition to farming, John Baird taught a few terms of school. He always opened the morning session with Scripture reading and prayer. One man said, "It would have been better to have left the Bible out and taken the stick in."
The Sabbath was strictly observed in the Baird home. They were members of the Associate Presbyterian Church in Columbus City, and bad weather did not prevent their attending the services. There were two sermons, between which they ate the lunch they brought with them. On Sabbath evenings they recited the Shorter Catechism, memorizing both the questions and answers. They also learned the Psalms and other portions of Scripture. Family worship, which consisted of singing a Psalm, Scripture reading and prayer, was held every morning and evening.
In 1858 the Associate Presbyterian and Associate Reformed Presbyterian churches united to form the United Presbyterian Church. The Columbus City congregation, which had been established in 1844, went into the union. But there were a member who could not conscientiously become United Presbyterians, so the Seceders organization was retained, and a brick-meeting house was built in the country, on the boundary between the farms of Jackson Duncan and Mrs. Jane Orr. The hedge trees which were planted and part of the foundation remain today.
John Baird, who was an elder, and his wife, continued with the Seceders, and later their three older children became members.
On January 8, 1858, the Baird's rejoiced at the birth of a baby girl, the first of their children to be born in Iowa. The mother told Finley Baird that he might name the baby. He was a teacher and had two little pupils whose names he admired. So he suggested either Araminta, or Anzonetta. The mother preferred the latter and the child was named Esther Anzonetta.
On the twenty fourth of May, this same year, the family circle was broken for the first time by the death of Calvin, the oldest child, who was nine years of age. His brief illness was believed to have been rheumatism.
On December 17, 1859, a fourth daughter, Ella ______ was born, and on February 27, 1862, a son Sherman ________ came to bless their home for a short time. Lina, their eighth child, was born March 31, 1864.
On the first of September, (1864) Sherman died of the flu, a serious epidemic which caused the deaths of several children in the neighborhood. Although but two and a half years old, he was greatly missed by the family who always remembered his cute sayings and winning ways.
Emma was born August 18, 1867, bringing the number of children to nine, seven of whom grew to maturity.
Times were very hard during the War, prices were low on what they sold, but high on things which must be bought, Calico was 58 cents a yard. As a substitute for coffee, they used cornmeal browned in the oven with molasses. Their only way of travel was with team and wagon, and the girls walked a great deal to save the team. Netta told of talking to Old Clifton with a neighbor girl, to buy a broom and a few other things.
Even a spring seat was a luxury in those days when most people laid boards across the wagon to sit on, or stood up. James Baird was among the few who could afford such a luxury, and he was very careful of the spring-seat, never allowing more than two persons to sit on it at the same time. One day he went to town with a load of apples to sell, and took two of his nieces, Netta and Ella, with him. Netta was privileged to sit on the spring-seat beside her uncle, but Ella had to ride behind, sitting on the apples.
Besides making a home for their children, John and Mary Baird opened their hearts to many relatives who found a home with them for varying lengths of time. The Acheson family circle having been broken by deaths from cholera, the mother with the younger children, Johnston, Andrew (A.D.), and Wallace, lived with them part of the time. For a few years David Baird made his home with his son, John. The pastor of the Seceder church, who preached alternate Sabbaths, at Columbus City and Washington, was frequently entertained in the Baird home. Later on Mary's nephews, James, John, and Robert Acheson, spent most of their college vacations here.
There were left in the old home, three daughters, Ella, Lina, and Emma. Ella and Emma taught school and were considered very successful schoolteachers. Outlines of their schoolwork, which have been preserved would be creditable for teachers of today, and the penmanship is beautiful. Some years later a niece was elected teacher of Lincoln school because the director remembered her Aunt Ell's splendid work in 1887. During her last spring vacation at Lincoln, Ella went to visit her aunt in Burlington. On her way to the train, she stayed a few hours in a home where they were taking the measles. She went on to Burlington and her aunt wanted her to stay there until she was over the measles, for neither of the younger girls had been exposed. After an exchange of letters, it was decided she should return home, which she did. Today, physicians recommend that lots of water be drank in cases of measles, but at that time, only an occasional sip of lukewarm water was permitted. Ella soon became dangerously ill and died on the 18th of March.
Her two sisters also contracted the measles. Emma, the youngest of the family was to be married to Chas. N. Johnston in the fall, and had some quilts and a few pieces of furniture in readiness. On the 29th of March she, too, fell asleep in Jesus, and was buried the next day.
As the funeral procession was leaving the house, Lina became decidedly worse, and died the following morning, which was March 31st, her 28th birthday. Netta had never had the measles, so could not be with her parents, and a daughter was born in the Lee Baird's home on March 16.
An obituary states that "each in turn gave satisfactory evidence that their peace had been made with God, and this fact proved a great consolation to their family in their three-fold affliction.
The parents were then past sixty years of age, their sorrow seemed more than they could bear, but their faith failed not, and they were submissive to the Divine will, recognizing that "God's ways are not our ways."
Soon after this, they sold their farm and moved to Columbus City. In 1891 the farm was purchased by J. J. Moore and is still owned by descendants of the Baird Family.
Mary Acheson Baird passed to her reward on the fourth of March, 1896, after a lingering illness. Three years later on January 28, 1899, John Baird received his call to come up higher.
"He was an active temperance worker and ready to help in every movement for reform. He was one of the first to give encouragement to the founding of a newspaper at the county seat in the interest of better politics and was a charter member and Director of the Tribune Company." (Obituary)
When a young man, he had formed the habit of chewing tobacco, and later, realizing the influence he might have on younger men, he stopped. But soon he found it necessary to consult a physician, who told him to continue to use tobacco as he had before. A few weeks before his death, he gave it up entirely, giving as his reason that he "Wished to go home clean."
He attended divine services both morning and evening on Sabbath, January 22 and before the morning light broke again, his spirit had returned to God who gave it.
There living in 1932, 16 grandchildren, 22 great grand children and 6 great-great-grand-children of John and Mary Baird.
This is the history of our ancestors - men and women of whose faith and character their descendants may well be proud. They carried their faith with them into new lands, and passed on to us their belief in God as our Father, and Christ as our Savior. We should cherish this heritage, which cannot be taken away, so that those who follow may have a greater zeal for the things of the Kingdom. God grant we may be a re-united family in that heavenly home, whither so many of our loved ones have gone and that each in turn receive the welcome, "Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord."
Compiled by Harriet C. Moore
Sources - Family Bible; Netta Moore, Elizabeth Moore, Euphemia Orr; obituaries. ************************************************************
Death of John Baird
"The friends of John Baird were shocked to hear of his sudden death last Monday at his home in Columbus City. He attended church, as usual both Sunday morning and evening but the next morning he was found dead in his bed.
John Baird was born in Ohio, Dec. 9 1825, and was therefore in his 74th year. he came to Iowa in 1854 locating in Columbus City township where he continued to live until his death. He was an active and life long member of the U. P. church, a man of strong convictions and with the courage to express them. An active temperance worker he was ready to help in every movement for reform, and for the advancement of the community.
He was quick to see the very right of any question, and ready to take that side. He was one of the first to give encouragement to the founding of a new paper at the county seat in the interest of better politics and was one of the charter members and a director of THE TRIBUNE company. His coworkers in this quasi-public enterprise will ever hold him in kindest remembrance for his many splendid qualities of mind and heart. The funeral occurred from the U. P. church, Wednesday and a large company of friends and neighbors were present to pay their final tribute of love and respect." Source: The Tribune, Wapello, Iowa, Friday, 27 January 1899, page 4.
CALLED HOME
John Baird, of Columbus City,
Dies Suddenly and Alone Sunday Night.
Mr. John Baird, of Columbus City, was found dead in his bed Monday, January 23, 1899.
He had been taking treatment from his physician for stomach trouble and complained to friends of his heart action some days previous to his death. He was in attendance upon divine services at the U.P. church the Sunday previous both morning and evening. At the evening services, the house being warmed to a high temperature, he felt faint and left the church in the midst of the sermon and was accompanied to his room by his grandson, Mr. Fred Moore. After preaching his friends were in to see him and he said the felt better and would not agree to having anyone remain with him for the night. His friends were urgent in the request that some one should stay with him; but he prevailed upon them to leave him to himself, saying that it was not necessary, but ere the morning light broke again his spirit had fled to the God who gave it.
From the posture in which he was found it was evident that he had fallen peacefully to rest without a struggle, dying of heart failure.
The deceased was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, December 10, 1825 and lived out more than the three score years and ten allotted to man on earth, dying at the age of 73 years, 1 month and 13 days.
On October 18, 1847, he was married to Miss Mary Acheson. Came to Iowa in 1854 and settled in the vicinity of Columbus City. Nine children were born to this union of whom four survive viz, Mrs. Robert Moore, Mrs. W.W. Orr, Jr., Lee Baird and Mrs. Joseph Moore. The deceased has one brother and four sisters in the western part of the state but owing to sickness and infirmities none were able to attend the funeral.
The burial services were conducted from the U.P. church Wednesday, January 25, 1899. Of this church the deceased had long been an earnest, faithful, consecrated and influential member. None who knew him could doubt his christian profession. His holy and godly conversation attested the genuineness of his faith in the only Redeemer of men. In his decease the church and the community have sustained a great loss as well as the loved ones who are left behind. An active worker on Zion's wall has laid down his sword and trowel and keenly will the church feel his loss. But not only the church and community feel the loss, but the loved ones who most keenly feel this loss have the blessed assurances and comforting solace that their loss was his eternal and glorious gain.
For him to live was Christ and for him to die was gain.
"Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. Yes saith the spirit for they shall cease from their labors and their works" Source: Newspaper Obituary
************************************************************
Columbus City. The funeral of Mr. John Baird occurred at the U. P. church today. He was aged 73 years, 1 month and 14 days. He leaves four daughters to mourn the loss of a kind and much respected parent. Source: The Tribune, Wapello, Iowa, Friday, 27 January 1899, page 5.
John Baird purchased 80 acres of land from F. A. Duncan. This farm is situated three miles west of Columbus City, and is now operated by his grandson, Frank Acheson Moore. The house consisted of a large living room with a bedroom on the east. Later a shed kitchen was added on the south and before the Civil War; two more bedrooms were built on the west. About this time, Mary Baird and her children set out an elm tree just east of the house, which has become a magnificent tree still guarding the house which has been built on the same site as the old one.
In addition to farming, John Baird taught a few terms of school. He always opened the morning session with Scripture reading and prayer. One man said, "It would have been better to have left the Bible out and taken the stick in."
The Sabbath was strictly observed in the Baird home. They were members of the Associate Presbyterian Church in Columbus City, and bad weather did not prevent their attending the services. There were two sermons, between which they ate the lunch they brought with them. On Sabbath evenings they recited the Shorter Catechism, memorizing both the questions and answers. They also learned the Psalms and other portions of Scripture. Family worship, which consisted of singing a Psalm, Scripture reading and prayer, was held every morning and evening.
In 1858 the Associate Presbyterian and Associate Reformed Presbyterian churches united to form the United Presbyterian Church. The Columbus City congregation, which had been established in 1844, went into the union. But there were a member who could not conscientiously become United Presbyterians, so the Seceders organization was retained, and a brick-meeting house was built in the country, on the boundary between the farms of Jackson Duncan and Mrs. Jane Orr. The hedge trees which were planted and part of the foundation remain today.
John Baird, who was an elder, and his wife, continued with the Seceders, and later their three older children became members.
On January 8, 1858, the Baird's rejoiced at the birth of a baby girl, the first of their children to be born in Iowa. The mother told Finley Baird that he might name the baby. He was a teacher and had two little pupils whose names he admired. So he suggested either Araminta, or Anzonetta. The mother preferred the latter and the child was named Esther Anzonetta.
On the twenty fourth of May, this same year, the family circle was broken for the first time by the death of Calvin, the oldest child, who was nine years of age. His brief illness was believed to have been rheumatism.
On December 17, 1859, a fourth daughter, Ella ______ was born, and on February 27, 1862, a son Sherman ________ came to bless their home for a short time. Lina, their eighth child, was born March 31, 1864.
On the first of September, (1864) Sherman died of the flu, a serious epidemic which caused the deaths of several children in the neighborhood. Although but two and a half years old, he was greatly missed by the family who always remembered his cute sayings and winning ways.
Emma was born August 18, 1867, bringing the number of children to nine, seven of whom grew to maturity.
Times were very hard during the War, prices were low on what they sold, but high on things which must be bought, Calico was 58 cents a yard. As a substitute for coffee, they used cornmeal browned in the oven with molasses. Their only way of travel was with team and wagon, and the girls walked a great deal to save the team. Netta told of talking to Old Clifton with a neighbor girl, to buy a broom and a few other things.
Even a spring seat was a luxury in those days when most people laid boards across the wagon to sit on, or stood up. James Baird was among the few who could afford such a luxury, and he was very careful of the spring-seat, never allowing more than two persons to sit on it at the same time. One day he went to town with a load of apples to sell, and took two of his nieces, Netta and Ella, with him. Netta was privileged to sit on the spring-seat beside her uncle, but Ella had to ride behind, sitting on the apples.
Besides making a home for their children, John and Mary Baird opened their hearts to many relatives who found a home with them for varying lengths of time. The Acheson family circle having been broken by deaths from cholera, the mother with the younger children, Johnston, Andrew (A.D.), and Wallace, lived with them part of the time. For a few years David Baird made his home with his son, John. The pastor of the Seceder church, who preached alternate Sabbaths, at Columbus City and Washington, was frequently entertained in the Baird home. Later on Mary's nephews, James, John, and Robert Acheson, spent most of their college vacations here.
There were left in the old home, three daughters, Ella, Lina, and Emma. Ella and Emma taught school and were considered very successful schoolteachers. Outlines of their schoolwork, which have been preserved would be creditable for teachers of today, and the penmanship is beautiful. Some years later a niece was elected teacher of Lincoln school because the director remembered her Aunt Ell's splendid work in 1887. During her last spring vacation at Lincoln, Ella went to visit her aunt in Burlington. On her way to the train, she stayed a few hours in a home where they were taking the measles. She went on to Burlington and her aunt wanted her to stay there until she was over the measles, for neither of the younger girls had been exposed. After an exchange of letters, it was decided she should return home, which she did. Today, physicians recommend that lots of water be drank in cases of measles, but at that time, only an occasional sip of lukewarm water was permitted. Ella soon became dangerously ill and died on the 18th of March.
Her two sisters also contracted the measles. Emma, the youngest of the family was to be married to Chas. N. Johnston in the fall, and had some quilts and a few pieces of furniture in readiness. On the 29th of March she, too, fell asleep in Jesus, and was buried the next day.
As the funeral procession was leaving the house, Lina became decidedly worse, and died the following morning, which was March 31st, her 28th birthday. Netta had never had the measles, so could not be with her parents, and a daughter was born in the Lee Baird's home on March 16.
An obituary states that "each in turn gave satisfactory evidence that their peace had been made with God, and this fact proved a great consolation to their family in their three-fold affliction.
The parents were then past sixty years of age, their sorrow seemed more than they could bear, but their faith failed not, and they were submissive to the Divine will, recognizing that "God's ways are not our ways."
Soon after this, they sold their farm and moved to Columbus City. In 1891 the farm was purchased by J. J. Moore and is still owned by descendants of the Baird Family.
Mary Acheson Baird passed to her reward on the fourth of March, 1896, after a lingering illness. Three years later on January 28, 1899, John Baird received his call to come up higher.
"He was an active temperance worker and ready to help in every movement for reform. He was one of the first to give encouragement to the founding of a newspaper at the county seat in the interest of better politics and was a charter member and Director of the Tribune Company." (Obituary)
When a young man, he had formed the habit of chewing tobacco, and later, realizing the influence he might have on younger men, he stopped. But soon he found it necessary to consult a physician, who told him to continue to use tobacco as he had before. A few weeks before his death, he gave it up entirely, giving as his reason that he "Wished to go home clean."
He attended divine services both morning and evening on Sabbath, January 22 and before the morning light broke again, his spirit had returned to God who gave it.
There living in 1932, 16 grandchildren, 22 great grand children and 6 great-great-grand-children of John and Mary Baird.
This is the history of our ancestors - men and women of whose faith and character their descendants may well be proud. They carried their faith with them into new lands, and passed on to us their belief in God as our Father, and Christ as our Savior. We should cherish this heritage, which cannot be taken away, so that those who follow may have a greater zeal for the things of the Kingdom. God grant we may be a re-united family in that heavenly home, whither so many of our loved ones have gone and that each in turn receive the welcome, "Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord."
Compiled by Harriet C. Moore
Sources - Family Bible; Netta Moore, Elizabeth Moore, Euphemia Orr; obituaries. ************************************************************
Death of John Baird
"The friends of John Baird were shocked to hear of his sudden death last Monday at his home in Columbus City. He attended church, as usual both Sunday morning and evening but the next morning he was found dead in his bed.
John Baird was born in Ohio, Dec. 9 1825, and was therefore in his 74th year. he came to Iowa in 1854 locating in Columbus City township where he continued to live until his death. He was an active and life long member of the U. P. church, a man of strong convictions and with the courage to express them. An active temperance worker he was ready to help in every movement for reform, and for the advancement of the community.
He was quick to see the very right of any question, and ready to take that side. He was one of the first to give encouragement to the founding of a new paper at the county seat in the interest of better politics and was one of the charter members and a director of THE TRIBUNE company. His coworkers in this quasi-public enterprise will ever hold him in kindest remembrance for his many splendid qualities of mind and heart. The funeral occurred from the U. P. church, Wednesday and a large company of friends and neighbors were present to pay their final tribute of love and respect." Source: The Tribune, Wapello, Iowa, Friday, 27 January 1899, page 4.
CALLED HOME
John Baird, of Columbus City,
Dies Suddenly and Alone Sunday Night.
Mr. John Baird, of Columbus City, was found dead in his bed Monday, January 23, 1899.
He had been taking treatment from his physician for stomach trouble and complained to friends of his heart action some days previous to his death. He was in attendance upon divine services at the U.P. church the Sunday previous both morning and evening. At the evening services, the house being warmed to a high temperature, he felt faint and left the church in the midst of the sermon and was accompanied to his room by his grandson, Mr. Fred Moore. After preaching his friends were in to see him and he said the felt better and would not agree to having anyone remain with him for the night. His friends were urgent in the request that some one should stay with him; but he prevailed upon them to leave him to himself, saying that it was not necessary, but ere the morning light broke again his spirit had fled to the God who gave it.
From the posture in which he was found it was evident that he had fallen peacefully to rest without a struggle, dying of heart failure.
The deceased was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, December 10, 1825 and lived out more than the three score years and ten allotted to man on earth, dying at the age of 73 years, 1 month and 13 days.
On October 18, 1847, he was married to Miss Mary Acheson. Came to Iowa in 1854 and settled in the vicinity of Columbus City. Nine children were born to this union of whom four survive viz, Mrs. Robert Moore, Mrs. W.W. Orr, Jr., Lee Baird and Mrs. Joseph Moore. The deceased has one brother and four sisters in the western part of the state but owing to sickness and infirmities none were able to attend the funeral.
The burial services were conducted from the U.P. church Wednesday, January 25, 1899. Of this church the deceased had long been an earnest, faithful, consecrated and influential member. None who knew him could doubt his christian profession. His holy and godly conversation attested the genuineness of his faith in the only Redeemer of men. In his decease the church and the community have sustained a great loss as well as the loved ones who are left behind. An active worker on Zion's wall has laid down his sword and trowel and keenly will the church feel his loss. But not only the church and community feel the loss, but the loved ones who most keenly feel this loss have the blessed assurances and comforting solace that their loss was his eternal and glorious gain.
For him to live was Christ and for him to die was gain.
"Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. Yes saith the spirit for they shall cease from their labors and their works" Source: Newspaper Obituary
************************************************************
Columbus City. The funeral of Mr. John Baird occurred at the U. P. church today. He was aged 73 years, 1 month and 14 days. He leaves four daughters to mourn the loss of a kind and much respected parent. Source: The Tribune, Wapello, Iowa, Friday, 27 January 1899, page 5.
Baird Family History
John Baird purchased 80 acres of land from F. A. Duncan. This farm is situated three miles west of Columbus City, and is now operated by his grandson, Frank Acheson Moore. The house consisted of a large living room with a bedroom on the east. Later a shed kitchen was added on the south and before the Civil War; two more bedrooms were built on the west. About this time, Mary Baird and her children set out an elm tree just east of the house, which has become a magnificent tree still guarding the house which has been built on the same site as the old one.
In addition to farming, John Baird taught a few terms of school. He always opened the morning session with Scripture reading and prayer. One man said, "It would have been better to have left the Bible out and taken the stick in."
The Sabbath was strictly observed in the Baird home. They were members of the Associate Presbyterian Church in Columbus City, and bad weather did not prevent their attending the services. There were two sermons, between which they ate the lunch they brought with them. On Sabbath evenings they recited the Shorter Catechism, memorizing both the questions and answers. They also learned the Psalms and other portions of Scripture. Family worship, which consisted of singing a Psalm, Scripture reading and prayer, was held every morning and evening.
In 1858 the Associate Presbyterian and Associate Reformed Presbyterian churches united to form the United Presbyterian Church. The Columbus City congregation, which had been established in 1844, went into the union. But there were a member who could not conscientiously become United Presbyterians, so the Seceders organization was retained, and a brick-meeting house was built in the country, on the boundary between the farms of Jackson Duncan and Mrs. Jane Orr. The hedge trees which were planted and part of the foundation remain today.
John Baird, who was an elder, and his wife, continued with the Seceders, and later their three older children became members.
On January 8, 1858, the Baird's rejoiced at the birth of a baby girl, the first of their children to be born in Iowa. The mother told Finley Baird that he might name the baby. He was a teacher and had two little pupils whose names he admired. So he suggested either Araminta, or Anzonetta. The mother preferred the latter and the child was named Esther Anzonetta.
On the twenty fourth of May, this same year, the family circle was broken for the first time by the death of Calvin, the oldest child, who was nine years of age. His brief illness was believed to have been rheumatism.
On December 17, 1859, a fourth daughter, Ella ______ was born, and on February 27, 1862, a son Sherman ________ came to bless their home for a short time. Lina, their eighth child, was born March 31, 1864.
On the first of September, (1864) Sherman died of the flu, a serious epidemic which caused the deaths of several children in the neighborhood. Although but two and a half years old, he was greatly missed by the family who always remembered his cute sayings and winning ways.
Emma was born August 18, 1867, bringing the number of children to nine, seven of whom grew to maturity.
Times were very hard during the War, prices were low on what they sold, but high on things which must be bought, Calico was 58 cents a yard. As a substitute for coffee, they used cornmeal browned in the oven with molasses. Their only way of travel was with team and wagon, and the girls walked a great deal to save the team. Netta told of talking to Old Clifton with a neighbor girl, to buy a broom and a few other things.
Even a spring seat was a luxury in those days when most people laid boards across the wagon to sit on, or stood up. James Baird was among the few who could afford such a luxury, and he was very careful of the spring-seat, never allowing more than two persons to sit on it at the same time. One day he went to town with a load of apples to sell, and took two of his nieces, Netta and Ella, with him. Netta was privileged to sit on the spring-seat beside her uncle, but Ella had to ride behind, sitting on the apples.
Besides making a home for their children, John and Mary Baird opened their hearts to many relatives who found a home with them for varying lengths of time. The Acheson family circle having been broken by deaths from cholera, the mother with the younger children, Johnston, Andrew (A.D.), and Wallace, lived with them part of the time. For a few years David Baird made his home with his son, John. The pastor of the Seceder church, who preached alternate Sabbaths, at Columbus City and Washington, was frequently entertained in the Baird home. Later on Mary's nephews, James, John, and Robert Acheson, spent most of their college vacations here.
There were left in the old home, three daughters, Ella, Lina, and Emma. Ella and Emma taught school and were considered very successful schoolteachers. Outlines of their schoolwork, which have been preserved would be creditable for teachers of today, and the penmanship is beautiful. Some years later a niece was elected teacher of Lincoln school because the director remembered her Aunt Ell's splendid work in 1887. During her last spring vacation at Lincoln, Ella went to visit her aunt in Burlington. On her way to the train, she stayed a few hours in a home where they were taking the measles. She went on to Burlington and her aunt wanted her to stay there until she was over the measles, for neither of the younger girls had been exposed. After an exchange of letters, it was decided she should return home, which she did. Today, physicians recommend that lots of water be drank in cases of measles, but at that time, only an occasional sip of lukewarm water was permitted. Ella soon became dangerously ill and died on the 18th of March.
Her two sisters also contracted the measles. Emma, the youngest of the family was to be married to Chas. N. Johnston in the fall, and had some quilts and a few pieces of furniture in readiness. On the 29th of March she, too, fell asleep in Jesus, and was buried the next day.
As the funeral procession was leaving the house, Lina became decidedly worse, and died the following morning, which was March 31st, her 28th birthday. Netta had never had the measles, so could not be with her parents, and a daughter was born in the Lee Baird's home on March 16.
An obituary states that "each in turn gave satisfactory evidence that their peace had been made with God, and this fact proved a great consolation to their family in their three-fold affliction.
The parents were then past sixty years of age, their sorrow seemed more than they could bear, but their faith failed not, and they were submissive to the Divine will, recognizing that "God's ways are not our ways."
Soon after this, they sold their farm and moved to Columbus City. In 1891 the farm was purchased by J. J. Moore and is still owned by descendants of the Baird Family.
Mary Acheson Baird passed to her reward on the fourth of March, 1896, after a lingering illness. Three years later on January 28, 1899, John Baird received his call to come up higher.
"He was an active temperance worker and ready to help in every movement for reform. He was one of the first to give encouragement to the founding of a newspaper at the county seat in the interest of better politics and was a charter member and Director of the Tribune Company." (Obituary)
When a young man, he had formed the habit of chewing tobacco, and later, realizing the influence he might have on younger men, he stopped. But soon he found it necessary to consult a physician, who told him to continue to use tobacco as he had before. A few weeks before his death, he gave it up entirely, giving as his reason that he "Wished to go home clean."
He attended divine services both morning and evening on Sabbath, January 22 and before the morning light broke again, his spirit had returned to God who gave it.
There living in 1932, 16 grandchildren, 22 great grand children and 6 great-great-grand-children of John and Mary Baird.
This is the history of our ancestors - men and women of whose faith and character their descendants may well be proud. They carried their faith with them into new lands, and passed on to us their belief in God as our Father, and Christ as our Savior. We should cherish this heritage, which cannot be taken away, so that those who follow may have a greater zeal for the things of the Kingdom. God grant we may be a re-united family in that heavenly home, whither so many of our loved ones have gone and that each in turn receive the welcome, "Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord."
Compiled by Harriet C. Moore
Sources - Family Bible; Netta Moore, Elizabeth Moore, Euphemia Orr; obituaries. ************************************************************
Death of John Baird
"The friends of John Baird were shocked to hear of his sudden death last Monday at his home in Columbus City. He attended church, as usual both Sunday morning and evening but the next morning he was found dead in his bed.
John Baird was born in Ohio, Dec. 9 1825, and was therefore in his 74th year. he came to Iowa in 1854 locating in Columbus City township where he continued to live until his death. He was an active and life long member of the U. P. church, a man of strong convictions and with the courage to express them. An active temperance worker he was ready to help in every movement for reform, and for the advancement of the community.
He was quick to see the very right of any question, and ready to take that side. He was one of the first to give encouragement to the founding of a new paper at the county seat in the interest of better politics and was one of the charter members and a director of THE TRIBUNE company. His coworkers in this quasi-public enterprise will ever hold him in kindest remembrance for his many splendid qualities of mind and heart. The funeral occurred from the U. P. church, Wednesday and a large company of friends and neighbors were present to pay their final tribute of love and respect." Source: The Tribune, Wapello, Iowa, Friday, 27 January 1899, page 4.
CALLED HOME
John Baird, of Columbus City,
Dies Suddenly and Alone Sunday Night.
Mr. John Baird, of Columbus City, was found dead in his bed Monday, January 23, 1899.
He had been taking treatment from his physician for stomach trouble and complained to friends of his heart action some days previous to his death. He was in attendance upon divine services at the U.P. church the Sunday previous both morning and evening. At the evening services, the house being warmed to a high temperature, he felt faint and left the church in the midst of the sermon and was accompanied to his room by his grandson, Mr. Fred Moore. After preaching his friends were in to see him and he said the felt better and would not agree to having anyone remain with him for the night. His friends were urgent in the request that some one should stay with him; but he prevailed upon them to leave him to himself, saying that it was not necessary, but ere the morning light broke again his spirit had fled to the God who gave it.
From the posture in which he was found it was evident that he had fallen peacefully to rest without a struggle, dying of heart failure.
The deceased was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, December 10, 1825 and lived out more than the three score years and ten allotted to man on earth, dying at the age of 73 years, 1 month and 13 days.
On October 18, 1847, he was married to Miss Mary Acheson. Came to Iowa in 1854 and settled in the vicinity of Columbus City. Nine children were born to this union of whom four survive viz, Mrs. Robert Moore, Mrs. W.W. Orr, Jr., Lee Baird and Mrs. Joseph Moore. The deceased has one brother and four sisters in the western part of the state but owing to sickness and infirmities none were able to attend the funeral.
The burial services were conducted from the U.P. church Wednesday, January 25, 1899. Of this church the deceased had long been an earnest, faithful, consecrated and influential member. None who knew him could doubt his christian profession. His holy and godly conversation attested the genuineness of his faith in the only Redeemer of men. In his decease the church and the community have sustained a great loss as well as the loved ones who are left behind. An active worker on Zion's wall has laid down his sword and trowel and keenly will the church feel his loss. But not only the church and community feel the loss, but the loved ones who most keenly feel this loss have the blessed assurances and comforting solace that their loss was his eternal and glorious gain.
For him to live was Christ and for him to die was gain.
"Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. Yes saith the spirit for they shall cease from their labors and their works" Source: Newspaper Obituary
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Columbus City. The funeral of Mr. John Baird occurred at the U. P. church today. He was aged 73 years, 1 month and 14 days. He leaves four daughters to mourn the loss of a kind and much respected parent. Source: The Tribune, Wapello, Iowa, Friday, 27 January 1899, page 5.
John Baird purchased 80 acres of land from F. A. Duncan. This farm is situated three miles west of Columbus City, and is now operated by his grandson, Frank Acheson Moore. The house consisted of a large living room with a bedroom on the east. Later a shed kitchen was added on the south and before the Civil War; two more bedrooms were built on the west. About this time, Mary Baird and her children set out an elm tree just east of the house, which has become a magnificent tree still guarding the house which has been built on the same site as the old one.
In addition to farming, John Baird taught a few terms of school. He always opened the morning session with Scripture reading and prayer. One man said, "It would have been better to have left the Bible out and taken the stick in."
The Sabbath was strictly observed in the Baird home. They were members of the Associate Presbyterian Church in Columbus City, and bad weather did not prevent their attending the services. There were two sermons, between which they ate the lunch they brought with them. On Sabbath evenings they recited the Shorter Catechism, memorizing both the questions and answers. They also learned the Psalms and other portions of Scripture. Family worship, which consisted of singing a Psalm, Scripture reading and prayer, was held every morning and evening.
In 1858 the Associate Presbyterian and Associate Reformed Presbyterian churches united to form the United Presbyterian Church. The Columbus City congregation, which had been established in 1844, went into the union. But there were a member who could not conscientiously become United Presbyterians, so the Seceders organization was retained, and a brick-meeting house was built in the country, on the boundary between the farms of Jackson Duncan and Mrs. Jane Orr. The hedge trees which were planted and part of the foundation remain today.
John Baird, who was an elder, and his wife, continued with the Seceders, and later their three older children became members.
On January 8, 1858, the Baird's rejoiced at the birth of a baby girl, the first of their children to be born in Iowa. The mother told Finley Baird that he might name the baby. He was a teacher and had two little pupils whose names he admired. So he suggested either Araminta, or Anzonetta. The mother preferred the latter and the child was named Esther Anzonetta.
On the twenty fourth of May, this same year, the family circle was broken for the first time by the death of Calvin, the oldest child, who was nine years of age. His brief illness was believed to have been rheumatism.
On December 17, 1859, a fourth daughter, Ella ______ was born, and on February 27, 1862, a son Sherman ________ came to bless their home for a short time. Lina, their eighth child, was born March 31, 1864.
On the first of September, (1864) Sherman died of the flu, a serious epidemic which caused the deaths of several children in the neighborhood. Although but two and a half years old, he was greatly missed by the family who always remembered his cute sayings and winning ways.
Emma was born August 18, 1867, bringing the number of children to nine, seven of whom grew to maturity.
Times were very hard during the War, prices were low on what they sold, but high on things which must be bought, Calico was 58 cents a yard. As a substitute for coffee, they used cornmeal browned in the oven with molasses. Their only way of travel was with team and wagon, and the girls walked a great deal to save the team. Netta told of talking to Old Clifton with a neighbor girl, to buy a broom and a few other things.
Even a spring seat was a luxury in those days when most people laid boards across the wagon to sit on, or stood up. James Baird was among the few who could afford such a luxury, and he was very careful of the spring-seat, never allowing more than two persons to sit on it at the same time. One day he went to town with a load of apples to sell, and took two of his nieces, Netta and Ella, with him. Netta was privileged to sit on the spring-seat beside her uncle, but Ella had to ride behind, sitting on the apples.
Besides making a home for their children, John and Mary Baird opened their hearts to many relatives who found a home with them for varying lengths of time. The Acheson family circle having been broken by deaths from cholera, the mother with the younger children, Johnston, Andrew (A.D.), and Wallace, lived with them part of the time. For a few years David Baird made his home with his son, John. The pastor of the Seceder church, who preached alternate Sabbaths, at Columbus City and Washington, was frequently entertained in the Baird home. Later on Mary's nephews, James, John, and Robert Acheson, spent most of their college vacations here.
There were left in the old home, three daughters, Ella, Lina, and Emma. Ella and Emma taught school and were considered very successful schoolteachers. Outlines of their schoolwork, which have been preserved would be creditable for teachers of today, and the penmanship is beautiful. Some years later a niece was elected teacher of Lincoln school because the director remembered her Aunt Ell's splendid work in 1887. During her last spring vacation at Lincoln, Ella went to visit her aunt in Burlington. On her way to the train, she stayed a few hours in a home where they were taking the measles. She went on to Burlington and her aunt wanted her to stay there until she was over the measles, for neither of the younger girls had been exposed. After an exchange of letters, it was decided she should return home, which she did. Today, physicians recommend that lots of water be drank in cases of measles, but at that time, only an occasional sip of lukewarm water was permitted. Ella soon became dangerously ill and died on the 18th of March.
Her two sisters also contracted the measles. Emma, the youngest of the family was to be married to Chas. N. Johnston in the fall, and had some quilts and a few pieces of furniture in readiness. On the 29th of March she, too, fell asleep in Jesus, and was buried the next day.
As the funeral procession was leaving the house, Lina became decidedly worse, and died the following morning, which was March 31st, her 28th birthday. Netta had never had the measles, so could not be with her parents, and a daughter was born in the Lee Baird's home on March 16.
An obituary states that "each in turn gave satisfactory evidence that their peace had been made with God, and this fact proved a great consolation to their family in their three-fold affliction.
The parents were then past sixty years of age, their sorrow seemed more than they could bear, but their faith failed not, and they were submissive to the Divine will, recognizing that "God's ways are not our ways."
Soon after this, they sold their farm and moved to Columbus City. In 1891 the farm was purchased by J. J. Moore and is still owned by descendants of the Baird Family.
Mary Acheson Baird passed to her reward on the fourth of March, 1896, after a lingering illness. Three years later on January 28, 1899, John Baird received his call to come up higher.
"He was an active temperance worker and ready to help in every movement for reform. He was one of the first to give encouragement to the founding of a newspaper at the county seat in the interest of better politics and was a charter member and Director of the Tribune Company." (Obituary)
When a young man, he had formed the habit of chewing tobacco, and later, realizing the influence he might have on younger men, he stopped. But soon he found it necessary to consult a physician, who told him to continue to use tobacco as he had before. A few weeks before his death, he gave it up entirely, giving as his reason that he "Wished to go home clean."
He attended divine services both morning and evening on Sabbath, January 22 and before the morning light broke again, his spirit had returned to God who gave it.
There living in 1932, 16 grandchildren, 22 great grand children and 6 great-great-grand-children of John and Mary Baird.
This is the history of our ancestors - men and women of whose faith and character their descendants may well be proud. They carried their faith with them into new lands, and passed on to us their belief in God as our Father, and Christ as our Savior. We should cherish this heritage, which cannot be taken away, so that those who follow may have a greater zeal for the things of the Kingdom. God grant we may be a re-united family in that heavenly home, whither so many of our loved ones have gone and that each in turn receive the welcome, "Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord."
Compiled by Harriet C. Moore
Sources - Family Bible; Netta Moore, Elizabeth Moore, Euphemia Orr; obituaries. ************************************************************
Death of John Baird
"The friends of John Baird were shocked to hear of his sudden death last Monday at his home in Columbus City. He attended church, as usual both Sunday morning and evening but the next morning he was found dead in his bed.
John Baird was born in Ohio, Dec. 9 1825, and was therefore in his 74th year. he came to Iowa in 1854 locating in Columbus City township where he continued to live until his death. He was an active and life long member of the U. P. church, a man of strong convictions and with the courage to express them. An active temperance worker he was ready to help in every movement for reform, and for the advancement of the community.
He was quick to see the very right of any question, and ready to take that side. He was one of the first to give encouragement to the founding of a new paper at the county seat in the interest of better politics and was one of the charter members and a director of THE TRIBUNE company. His coworkers in this quasi-public enterprise will ever hold him in kindest remembrance for his many splendid qualities of mind and heart. The funeral occurred from the U. P. church, Wednesday and a large company of friends and neighbors were present to pay their final tribute of love and respect." Source: The Tribune, Wapello, Iowa, Friday, 27 January 1899, page 4.
CALLED HOME
John Baird, of Columbus City,
Dies Suddenly and Alone Sunday Night.
Mr. John Baird, of Columbus City, was found dead in his bed Monday, January 23, 1899.
He had been taking treatment from his physician for stomach trouble and complained to friends of his heart action some days previous to his death. He was in attendance upon divine services at the U.P. church the Sunday previous both morning and evening. At the evening services, the house being warmed to a high temperature, he felt faint and left the church in the midst of the sermon and was accompanied to his room by his grandson, Mr. Fred Moore. After preaching his friends were in to see him and he said the felt better and would not agree to having anyone remain with him for the night. His friends were urgent in the request that some one should stay with him; but he prevailed upon them to leave him to himself, saying that it was not necessary, but ere the morning light broke again his spirit had fled to the God who gave it.
From the posture in which he was found it was evident that he had fallen peacefully to rest without a struggle, dying of heart failure.
The deceased was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, December 10, 1825 and lived out more than the three score years and ten allotted to man on earth, dying at the age of 73 years, 1 month and 13 days.
On October 18, 1847, he was married to Miss Mary Acheson. Came to Iowa in 1854 and settled in the vicinity of Columbus City. Nine children were born to this union of whom four survive viz, Mrs. Robert Moore, Mrs. W.W. Orr, Jr., Lee Baird and Mrs. Joseph Moore. The deceased has one brother and four sisters in the western part of the state but owing to sickness and infirmities none were able to attend the funeral.
The burial services were conducted from the U.P. church Wednesday, January 25, 1899. Of this church the deceased had long been an earnest, faithful, consecrated and influential member. None who knew him could doubt his christian profession. His holy and godly conversation attested the genuineness of his faith in the only Redeemer of men. In his decease the church and the community have sustained a great loss as well as the loved ones who are left behind. An active worker on Zion's wall has laid down his sword and trowel and keenly will the church feel his loss. But not only the church and community feel the loss, but the loved ones who most keenly feel this loss have the blessed assurances and comforting solace that their loss was his eternal and glorious gain.
For him to live was Christ and for him to die was gain.
"Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. Yes saith the spirit for they shall cease from their labors and their works" Source: Newspaper Obituary
************************************************************
Columbus City. The funeral of Mr. John Baird occurred at the U. P. church today. He was aged 73 years, 1 month and 14 days. He leaves four daughters to mourn the loss of a kind and much respected parent. Source: The Tribune, Wapello, Iowa, Friday, 27 January 1899, page 5.
Family Members
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