| The Tompkins Branch |
Rufus Tompkins and Harriet Woodard
The Rufus Tompkins family
Iowa) to make a new home in the west...Here he grew up to a man'sestate and on January 8, 1879, he was happily
married to Miss Della P. Deming, who for 46 years has been his helpmate and guide through life.
Four years later, Mr and Mrs. Tompkins and 2 young sons, Will and Ford, catching a true pioneer spirit, came west and
settled in Sanborn County, taking a homestead 8 miles west and 1/2 mile north of Carthage. (South Dakota). Here their
home was made for 35 years. These hardy settlers helped to conquer and to win through the hardships of pioneer life in
the west, and to bring up their children to maturity with respect and credit to themselves.
To Mr and Mrs Tompkins 8 children were born, seven of whom survived and were present at the funeral. They are: Will
B. of Carthage; E. F.(Ford) of Carthage;Frank A. of Madison; Mrs. E. J. Drury (Elsie) of LaFox, illinois; Mrs. O.G.
Salter (Lizzie) of Artesian; Mrs. L. E. Crandall (Mabel) of Artesian; C. I. (Charley) of Carthage; and Mrs. B. V. Hanson
(Ethel) of Esmond, who passed away less than a year ago.(more about her later - Alice) Besides these children and the
well beloved wife, there are three sisters and brothers, twenty nine grandchildren, and a host of friends who mourn the
passing of a noble husband, father and friend who through all these years has so magnified the relationships of life, they
shall linger with us like a sweet incense.
Seven years ago Mr. Tompkins sold the old homestead and bought a home in Carthage, where they have since lived,
visiting their children and being visited by them; finding their chief pleasure in these whom they loved and for whom they
had worked and planned. Mr. Tompkins has been in failing health for some time, but not so dangerously so, it was
thought. The end came saturday afternoon, Oct. 3, very suddenly, and no doubt as he might have chosen it to be, in his
own home and with the loved ones near him.
Mr. Tompkins was a quiet, reserved man.He did not have many intimate friends as some have, but to the few who
enjoyed this inner circle of his friendship and confidence, as well as his home folks, he was found to have an exceedingly
kindly heart and a high sense of right and a clear and well defined standard of conduct. He leaves a rich heritage to the
sons and daughters who survive him. He was 71 years, 6 months, and 7 days of age at the date of his death.
The funeral, which was largely attended, was held from the home in Carthage and from the Christian Church, where the
family have their church home. The service, in the absence of the pastor, was conducted by Rev. W. S. Harper, Pastor of
the Congregational Church of Humboldt, who is an old friend of the family. The music was furnished by a male quartet,
who sang old favorites of Mr. Tompkins. A wealth of flowers were in evidence, mute tokens of the friendship and love of
many friends and of various church societies. The internment was in Pleasant View Cemetery in Carthage, South Dakota.
Relatives and friends from a distance who attended the funeral were: Mr and Mrs. Gust Tompkins, of Goodland, Kansas;
Mrs. Carrie Woods of Osakis, Minnesota; John Tompkins of Osakis, Minn; Mrs. Rhoda Holub of Wyoming, Iowa; Mrs.
Mabel Shimerda and son, Robert, of Sioux City, Iowa; Norris Tompkins of Humboldt, South Dakota; and Mr. Fairchild
of Osakis, Minn.
CARD OF THANKS:- In the loss of our beloved husband and father we have passed through the greatest trial of our
lives, through it all, you, our beloved neighbors and friends have constantly brought us your beautiful ministries of service
and sympathy, and we shall never forget it. How dark life would have been without it. From the bottom of our hearts we
thank you -----family
Story compliments of Alice Crandall
married to Miss Della P. Deming, who for 46 years has been his helpmate and guide through life.
Four years later, Mr and Mrs. Tompkins and 2 young sons, Will and Ford, catching a true pioneer spirit, came west and
settled in Sanborn County, taking a homestead 8 miles west and 1/2 mile north of Carthage. (South Dakota). Here their
home was made for 35 years. These hardy settlers helped to conquer and to win through the hardships of pioneer life in
the west, and to bring up their children to maturity with respect and credit to themselves.
To Mr and Mrs Tompkins 8 children were born, seven of whom survived and were present at the funeral. They are: Will
B. of Carthage; E. F.(Ford) of Carthage;Frank A. of Madison; Mrs. E. J. Drury (Elsie) of LaFox, illinois; Mrs. O.G.
Salter (Lizzie) of Artesian; Mrs. L. E. Crandall (Mabel) of Artesian; C. I. (Charley) of Carthage; and Mrs. B. V. Hanson
(Ethel) of Esmond, who passed away less than a year ago.(more about her later - Alice) Besides these children and the
well beloved wife, there are three sisters and brothers, twenty nine grandchildren, and a host of friends who mourn the
passing of a noble husband, father and friend who through all these years has so magnified the relationships of life, they
shall linger with us like a sweet incense.
Seven years ago Mr. Tompkins sold the old homestead and bought a home in Carthage, where they have since lived,
visiting their children and being visited by them; finding their chief pleasure in these whom they loved and for whom they
had worked and planned. Mr. Tompkins has been in failing health for some time, but not so dangerously so, it was
thought. The end came saturday afternoon, Oct. 3, very suddenly, and no doubt as he might have chosen it to be, in his
own home and with the loved ones near him.
Mr. Tompkins was a quiet, reserved man.He did not have many intimate friends as some have, but to the few who
enjoyed this inner circle of his friendship and confidence, as well as his home folks, he was found to have an exceedingly
kindly heart and a high sense of right and a clear and well defined standard of conduct. He leaves a rich heritage to the
sons and daughters who survive him. He was 71 years, 6 months, and 7 days of age at the date of his death.
The funeral, which was largely attended, was held from the home in Carthage and from the Christian Church, where the
family have their church home. The service, in the absence of the pastor, was conducted by Rev. W. S. Harper, Pastor of
the Congregational Church of Humboldt, who is an old friend of the family. The music was furnished by a male quartet,
who sang old favorites of Mr. Tompkins. A wealth of flowers were in evidence, mute tokens of the friendship and love of
many friends and of various church societies. The internment was in Pleasant View Cemetery in Carthage, South Dakota.
Relatives and friends from a distance who attended the funeral were: Mr and Mrs. Gust Tompkins, of Goodland, Kansas;
Mrs. Carrie Woods of Osakis, Minnesota; John Tompkins of Osakis, Minn; Mrs. Rhoda Holub of Wyoming, Iowa; Mrs.
Mabel Shimerda and son, Robert, of Sioux City, Iowa; Norris Tompkins of Humboldt, South Dakota; and Mr. Fairchild
of Osakis, Minn.
CARD OF THANKS:- In the loss of our beloved husband and father we have passed through the greatest trial of our
lives, through it all, you, our beloved neighbors and friends have constantly brought us your beautiful ministries of service
and sympathy, and we shall never forget it. How dark life would have been without it. From the bottom of our hearts we
thank you -----family
Story compliments of Alice Crandall
The Frank Tompkins family
Frank, Nora, Myrtle, Arletta, Clifford, Elbra, and
Grace
Frank, Nora, Myrtle, Arletta, Clifford, Elbra, and
Grace
The Norris Tompkins family
Norris Tompkins b. 1856 in Oneida county, NY (Rufus
Tompkins and Harriett Woodward) m. 11 Nov 1877 of
Wyoming, Jones, Iowa to Ruth H Jewett b. 1862 of Wyoming,
Jones, Iowa (Abel Jewett and Mary Waldren)
Children:
1. Bertis b. 1878 of Wyoming, Jones, Iowa
2. Llewellyn b. 1879 of Wyoming, Jones, Iowa
3. Emma Nettie b. 2 Mar 1882 of Wyoming, Jones, Iowa
4. Female b. 23 Jan 1884 in Wyoming, Jones, Iowa
The marriage record for Norris and Ruth came from film #
1255526 #2 Marriages of Jones county, Iowa (LDS)
The birth of Emma came from #1255498 #1 Births of Jones
and the marriage from >the same source as above.
The birth of the last child came from the same source as the
birth of Emma. It listed her as female and child #4 with no
name.
Norris Tompkins b. 1856 in Oneida county, NY (Rufus
Tompkins and Harriett Woodward) m. 11 Nov 1877 of
Wyoming, Jones, Iowa to Ruth H Jewett b. 1862 of Wyoming,
Jones, Iowa (Abel Jewett and Mary Waldren)
Children:
1. Bertis b. 1878 of Wyoming, Jones, Iowa
2. Llewellyn b. 1879 of Wyoming, Jones, Iowa
3. Emma Nettie b. 2 Mar 1882 of Wyoming, Jones, Iowa
4. Female b. 23 Jan 1884 in Wyoming, Jones, Iowa
The marriage record for Norris and Ruth came from film #
1255526 #2 Marriages of Jones county, Iowa (LDS)
The birth of Emma came from #1255498 #1 Births of Jones
and the marriage from >the same source as above.
The birth of the last child came from the same source as the
birth of Emma. It listed her as female and child #4 with no
name.
The Augustus Tompkins family
Ford, Elsie, Frank,
Mabel, Charles, and
Billie Tompkins
Charlie and Elizabeth
Tompkins
Mabel, Charles, and
Billie Tompkins
Charlie and Elizabeth
Tompkins
Lizzie was from
Montana I think and
named Mary
Elizabeth Dilsneider
Clara and George
Tompkins
Montana I think and
named Mary
Elizabeth Dilsneider
Clara and George
Tompkins
John H Tompkins
Mary Tompkins
Rhoda Tompkins
Willie
Tompkins
Tompkins
Augustus Tompkins
Emma Tompkins
*******
Annsville is where Rufus lived before moving to Iowa. So it is very possible that these are at least related to Rufus:
Maple Hill Cemetery
Coal Hill Road, Town of Annsville, NY
Tompkins, Asa J. died July 17, 1889 age 35 yrs (Sect. 4)
Tompkins, Betsey M. Abbott, wife (of Chauncey Tompkins), died Dec. 8, 1890 age 75 yrs 7 mos 8 dys (Sect. 2)
Tompkins, Betsey, wife (of Daniel S. Tompkins), died May 5, 1897 age 82 yrs (Sect. 4)
Tompkins, Chauncey died Dec. 7, 1897 age 81 yrs 11 mos 26 dys (Sect. 2)
Tompkins, Daniel S. died Dec. 16, 1888 age 77 yrs (Sect. 4)
Tompkins, Erastus, son of Zachariah & Mary Tompkins, died Apr. 19, 1857 age 38 yrs 7 mos 3 dys (Sect. 2)
Tompkins, Jay, son of Chauncey & Betsey Tompkins, died Nov. 16, 1864 age 22 yrs 2 mos 2 dys (Sect. 2)
Tompkins, John, son of Zachariah & Mary Tompkins, died Apr. 11, 1897 age 88 yrs 2 mos 13 dys (Sect. 2)
Tompkins, Julia M. died Sep. 5, 1869 age 19 yrs (Sect. 4)
Tompkins, Mary Norris, wife (of Zachariah Tompkins), died Sep. 19, 1866 age 79 yrs 3 mos (Sect. 2)
Tompkins, Norris, son of Zachariah & Mary Tompkins, died Dec. 27, 1853 age 24 yrs 9 mos 1 dy (Sect. 2)
Tompkins, S. C. 1842-1934 (Sect. 4)
Tompkins, Walter J, son of Jay & Jane Tompkins, died Apr. 19, 1890 age 26 yrs 3 mos 4 dys (Sect. 2)
Tompkins, Zachariah died Dec. 25, 1845 age 58 yrs 3 mos 14 dys (Sect. 2)
Erastus Tompkins in Vienna, Oneida Co NY (same county as Annsville NY) In 1860, however, there is a Rufus in Ulster
Co, Shandaken, NY a Chancey in Oneida Co, Annsville NY and an Augustus in Tompkins Co NY In 1870, there is an
Amasa Tompkins, John Tompkins, Mary Tompkins,Stewell Tompkins, Rufus Tompkins and ?? Tompkins listed for Jones
Co, Wyoming IA. The "?? Tompkins" says he was age 25 that year and there is an additional note of "IL".
Tompkins County New York was named for Daniel D. Tompkins who was governor of New York during the revolution
and Vice President of the United States during Monroe's administration.
**********
*******
Annsville is where Rufus lived before moving to Iowa. So it is very possible that these are at least related to Rufus:
Maple Hill Cemetery
Coal Hill Road, Town of Annsville, NY
Tompkins, Asa J. died July 17, 1889 age 35 yrs (Sect. 4)
Tompkins, Betsey M. Abbott, wife (of Chauncey Tompkins), died Dec. 8, 1890 age 75 yrs 7 mos 8 dys (Sect. 2)
Tompkins, Betsey, wife (of Daniel S. Tompkins), died May 5, 1897 age 82 yrs (Sect. 4)
Tompkins, Chauncey died Dec. 7, 1897 age 81 yrs 11 mos 26 dys (Sect. 2)
Tompkins, Daniel S. died Dec. 16, 1888 age 77 yrs (Sect. 4)
Tompkins, Erastus, son of Zachariah & Mary Tompkins, died Apr. 19, 1857 age 38 yrs 7 mos 3 dys (Sect. 2)
Tompkins, Jay, son of Chauncey & Betsey Tompkins, died Nov. 16, 1864 age 22 yrs 2 mos 2 dys (Sect. 2)
Tompkins, John, son of Zachariah & Mary Tompkins, died Apr. 11, 1897 age 88 yrs 2 mos 13 dys (Sect. 2)
Tompkins, Julia M. died Sep. 5, 1869 age 19 yrs (Sect. 4)
Tompkins, Mary Norris, wife (of Zachariah Tompkins), died Sep. 19, 1866 age 79 yrs 3 mos (Sect. 2)
Tompkins, Norris, son of Zachariah & Mary Tompkins, died Dec. 27, 1853 age 24 yrs 9 mos 1 dy (Sect. 2)
Tompkins, S. C. 1842-1934 (Sect. 4)
Tompkins, Walter J, son of Jay & Jane Tompkins, died Apr. 19, 1890 age 26 yrs 3 mos 4 dys (Sect. 2)
Tompkins, Zachariah died Dec. 25, 1845 age 58 yrs 3 mos 14 dys (Sect. 2)
Erastus Tompkins in Vienna, Oneida Co NY (same county as Annsville NY) In 1860, however, there is a Rufus in Ulster
Co, Shandaken, NY a Chancey in Oneida Co, Annsville NY and an Augustus in Tompkins Co NY In 1870, there is an
Amasa Tompkins, John Tompkins, Mary Tompkins,Stewell Tompkins, Rufus Tompkins and ?? Tompkins listed for Jones
Co, Wyoming IA. The "?? Tompkins" says he was age 25 that year and there is an additional note of "IL".
Tompkins County New York was named for Daniel D. Tompkins who was governor of New York during the revolution
and Vice President of the United States during Monroe's administration.
**********
The
Woodards
Woodards
Parents of Harriet Woodard, the wife of Rufus Tompkins.
Charles 0. Woodard, Born September 17, 1869,whose standing as a farmer and business man is known all over Jones
county, has for many years been a resident of Hale township. He was born in this county, two and a half miles northwest of
Wyoming, Madison township, September 17, 1869, a son of Leonard and Jennie (Hall) Woodard. The father was a native
of Oneida county, New York, while the mother was born near Dunkirk, New York, being a daughter of Joseph and
Sophia (Taylor) Hall, both natives of the Empire state. Three children were born to them, as follows:
Lewis, of Wyoming;
Charles O., of Hale and Albert, of Canada.
After losing his first wife in Ohio, Leonard Woodard removed to Jones county, Iowa, where he now resides.
Until he attained his majority, Charles 0. Woodard assisted his father upon the homestead, but at that age he commenced
working out by the month on neighboring farms, being thus employed for a year. After his marriage he rented land in
Madison township and commenced farming for himself. In 1903 Mr. Wood ard bought his present farm of one hundred
and eighty-seven acres on section 11, Hale township, and he also has fourteen acres on the Wapsi river. His farm is well
improved and yields a comfortable annual income. He has learned the best methods of working his land so as to secure the
largest profits and he feels satisfied with the results of his efforts and good management.
In 1891 Mr. Woodard married Amanda Lage, of Rock Island, Illinois, who was born in March, 1873, a daughter of Henry
and Margaret Lage, natives of Germany, who now, reside in Wyoming. Mr. and Mrs. Woodard have two children, namely:
Bertha L. and Margaret. Mr. Woodard is a republican but as yet his farm duties have prevented his holding public office.
His religious affiliations are with the Methodist church of Hale, of which he is a member.
One of the best stone quarries in the neighborhood is located on his farm. It has been in operation for fifty years and all of
the stone used in Wyoming was procured from this quarry. Other villages and towns also depend upon it for stone as the
product of the quarry is excellent. A good farmer and business man, careful and conscientious in his dealings with others,
consistent in his church life, Mr. Woodard is a good citizen and a man whose example others would do well to follow. He
and his wife have an ideal home life and welcome their friends with true hospitality that knows no distinction because of
social standing or worldly prosperity.
From History of Jones County, Iowa, Past and Present, R. M. Corbitt, S. J. Clarke Publishing Co., Chicago, 1910, p. 187.
**********
Chancey Tompkins,Born October 16, 1854, is one of the successful farmers and stockmen of Wyoming township, whose
home is on section 20. He was born in New York state, October 16, 1854, and is a son of Rufus and Harriett (Woodard)
Tompkins. They were natives of the same state as their son and came with their family to Iowa in 1867, locating in
Wyoming township, Jones county, where they passed the remainder of their days.
Nine children were born to them. Carrie, who is the wife of Fordam Woods, of Wyoming township; Mary, deceased;
Rhoda, who is the wife of George Holub, of the same township; Emma, who is the wife of John Deming, now living in
Montana; Chancey, the subject of this sketch; Edward, who lives in South Dakota; Gus, a resident of Goodland, Kansas;
John, of Wyoming township; and one who died in infancy.
Chancey Tompkins was about thirteen years of age when his parents came to this county and received his education in the
common schools, whence he derived all the instruction be could during the few months in which they held session. In the
meanwhile he worked upon the farm with his father, participating in all of the labor that was carried on there, and not until
he was twenty-six years old attempting to start in life for himself.
At that age he married and established his home on a rented farm. After five years' experience as a tenant he bought the
place on which he is now living but which was only partly improved at the time. It embraces one hundred and forty-seven
acres on section 20, and through careful cultivation well supports the general line of agriculture to which Mr. Tompkins has
devoted his energies. He has also engaged largely in the stock business, raising, feeding and shipping large numbers of cattle
and hogs. From experience he has learned the value of incessant toil in obtaining appreciable returns in his calling and his
capacity for industry- united with the good judgment he displays in the management of his affairs has won him, a, measure
of success that is gratifying indeed.
At the age of twenty-six,, Mr. Tompkins wedded Miss Mary Jennings, a native of Ohio, and their union has been blessed
with two children. Iva, the older, graduated from the Wyoming high school and is now the wife of Dr. Chamberlain, of
Wyoming. Lyle, lives at home.
Mrs. Tompkins is a member of the Methodist Episcopal -church, but Mr. Tompkins does not profess allegiance to any
creed. Politically, he is in sympathy with the platform of the democratic party, for whose candidate he almost invariably
casts his vote at. the polls. For himself, however, he has never sought office, although he has served efficiently as a school
director for a number of years.
From History of Jones County, Iowa, Past and Present, R. M. Corbitt, S. J. Clarke Publishing Co., Chicago, 1910, p. 163.
*********
Horace T. Woodard Born July 19, 1829 HORACE T. WOODARD. For many years the agricultural community of Jones
County had an able and efficient representative in the subject of this notice, who settling in Wyoming Township in 1865,
gave his attention to the tilling of the soil and improving of a farm. As an agriculturist he was discriminating and industrious,
and by systematic rotation of crops and proper fertilization of the soil he was enabled to secure bountiful harvests from his
land. At last, having accumulated a competence, he retired from farm work, and in March of 1893 came to Wyoming,
where with his family he occupies a pleasant home. The Woodard family is of Scotch lineage and its representatives, as far
back as the record is traced, have been men of upright character and honorable lives. The paternal grandfather of our
subject was Pliny Woodard, a native of Connecticut and during much of his life a resident of New York. The parents of our
subject were Augustus B. and Hannah (Owen) Woodard; the father was born in Connecticut and the latter in the Empire
State, being a daughter of Abraham Owen. The father came west and settled in Jones County, Iowa, where his death
occurred in 1889, at the age of eighty-nine years. In Oneida County, N. Y., the subject of this sketch was born on the 19th
of July, 1829. His boyhood years were passed uneventfully, and during the vacations from school work he assisted his
father in the cultivation of the home farm. In 1851 he was united in marriage with Miss Ann Gibson, a native of Canada and
a daughter of Patrick Gibson. In 1865 he came west and settled in Wyoming Township, Jones County, where as above
stated he carried on a farm until 1893, meantime improving his land with an adequate set of buildings, good fences,
orchards and gardens. In youth he had learned that success in agriculture can be gained only through tireless industry and
perseverance, and these qualities he exercised in the cultivation of his property. The present wife of our subject, whom he
married in 1893, bore the maiden name of Julia Cook, and was born in Ohio. Her parents, Thomas and Maria (Lyle)
Cook, were natives of Pennsylvania, and were old settlers of Ohio. Her mother came to Iowa in advanced years and died
at Wyoming at the age of seventy-nine. Her grandmother was Sarah Kerr, of Easton, Pa. The Lyle family originated in
Scotland, but was represented in Pennsylvania at an early period in its settlement, being identified with the history of
Northampton County. Mr. Woodard has two sons, both of whom reside in Monona County, Iowa. Always actively
interested in public affairs, our subject is a pronounced Republican in politics and both at local and general elections
exercises his elective franchise in favor of the candidates of that party. His wife holds membership in the Presbyterian
Church and is a worthy Christian. They are generous in their contributions to charitable objects, and in them the distressed
and needy always find a friend. The life of Mr. Woodard affords an illustration of what may be accomplished by energy and
perseverance, seconded by sound judgment and good management. His success is due to his own exertions, as he started
in business without means, and has achieved prosperity through his indefatigable exertions. From Dubuque, Jones, and
Clayton Counties History, 1894, pgs. 331-332, and submitted by Becky Teubner.
Dr. B. H. Chamberlain, Born February 1, 1881, who has been a successful practitioner of medicine at Wyoming since
1903, was born in this city on the 1st of February, 1881, his parents being W. I. and Lucy W. (Witter) Chamberlain. A
sketch of the father appears on another page of this volume. Dr. Chamberlain of this review obtained his early education in
the public schools of Wyoming and subsequently attended successively the Iowa State College and the Iowa State
University, being graduated from the medical department of the latter institution in 1903. Returning to Wyoming,he here
purchased the outfit and took up the practice of his former preceptor, Dr. J. W. Kirkpatrick, who had died in May, 1903.
Wyoming has since remained the scene of his professional labors and he now enjoys a large and lucrative practice, which
has come in recognition of his skill and ability in the application of remedial agencies and the restoration of health. He
belongs to the Jones County Medical Society, the Iowa State Medical Society, the American Medical Association and the
Iowa Union Medical Society. In July, 1903, Dr. Chamberlain was united in marriage to Miss Iva Tompkins, a native of this
county and a daughter of Chauncey and Mary (Jennings) Tompkins. Her paternal grandfather, Rufus Tompkins, made his
way from New York to Jones county, Iowa, at an early day, and her mother came from Ohio. Unto Dr. and Mrs.
Chamberlain has been born a son, Chauncey, whose natal day was June 28, 1908.
Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Dr. Chamberlain has given his political allegiance to the republican
party. He has served as county coroner for the past five years and has also acted as a member of the school board. He is a
worthy exemplar of the Masonic fraternity, is now worshipful master of Keystone Lodge, No. 206, A. F. & A. M., and
also belongs to the chapter and commandery at Anamosa and the Mystic Shrine at Cedar Rapids. In religious faith he is a
Presbyterian. Although still a young man, he has already attained an enviable position in the ranks of the medical profession
and in all life's relations has maintained a high standard of conduct, thus justly meriting the confidence which is so uniformly
accorded him in this, his native county.
From History of Jones County, Iowa, Past and Present, R. M. Corbitt, S. J. Clarke Publishing Co., Chicago, 1910, p. 119.
Charles 0. Woodard, Born September 17, 1869,whose standing as a farmer and business man is known all over Jones
county, has for many years been a resident of Hale township. He was born in this county, two and a half miles northwest of
Wyoming, Madison township, September 17, 1869, a son of Leonard and Jennie (Hall) Woodard. The father was a native
of Oneida county, New York, while the mother was born near Dunkirk, New York, being a daughter of Joseph and
Sophia (Taylor) Hall, both natives of the Empire state. Three children were born to them, as follows:
Lewis, of Wyoming;
Charles O., of Hale and Albert, of Canada.
After losing his first wife in Ohio, Leonard Woodard removed to Jones county, Iowa, where he now resides.
Until he attained his majority, Charles 0. Woodard assisted his father upon the homestead, but at that age he commenced
working out by the month on neighboring farms, being thus employed for a year. After his marriage he rented land in
Madison township and commenced farming for himself. In 1903 Mr. Wood ard bought his present farm of one hundred
and eighty-seven acres on section 11, Hale township, and he also has fourteen acres on the Wapsi river. His farm is well
improved and yields a comfortable annual income. He has learned the best methods of working his land so as to secure the
largest profits and he feels satisfied with the results of his efforts and good management.
In 1891 Mr. Woodard married Amanda Lage, of Rock Island, Illinois, who was born in March, 1873, a daughter of Henry
and Margaret Lage, natives of Germany, who now, reside in Wyoming. Mr. and Mrs. Woodard have two children, namely:
Bertha L. and Margaret. Mr. Woodard is a republican but as yet his farm duties have prevented his holding public office.
His religious affiliations are with the Methodist church of Hale, of which he is a member.
One of the best stone quarries in the neighborhood is located on his farm. It has been in operation for fifty years and all of
the stone used in Wyoming was procured from this quarry. Other villages and towns also depend upon it for stone as the
product of the quarry is excellent. A good farmer and business man, careful and conscientious in his dealings with others,
consistent in his church life, Mr. Woodard is a good citizen and a man whose example others would do well to follow. He
and his wife have an ideal home life and welcome their friends with true hospitality that knows no distinction because of
social standing or worldly prosperity.
From History of Jones County, Iowa, Past and Present, R. M. Corbitt, S. J. Clarke Publishing Co., Chicago, 1910, p. 187.
**********
Chancey Tompkins,Born October 16, 1854, is one of the successful farmers and stockmen of Wyoming township, whose
home is on section 20. He was born in New York state, October 16, 1854, and is a son of Rufus and Harriett (Woodard)
Tompkins. They were natives of the same state as their son and came with their family to Iowa in 1867, locating in
Wyoming township, Jones county, where they passed the remainder of their days.
Nine children were born to them. Carrie, who is the wife of Fordam Woods, of Wyoming township; Mary, deceased;
Rhoda, who is the wife of George Holub, of the same township; Emma, who is the wife of John Deming, now living in
Montana; Chancey, the subject of this sketch; Edward, who lives in South Dakota; Gus, a resident of Goodland, Kansas;
John, of Wyoming township; and one who died in infancy.
Chancey Tompkins was about thirteen years of age when his parents came to this county and received his education in the
common schools, whence he derived all the instruction be could during the few months in which they held session. In the
meanwhile he worked upon the farm with his father, participating in all of the labor that was carried on there, and not until
he was twenty-six years old attempting to start in life for himself.
At that age he married and established his home on a rented farm. After five years' experience as a tenant he bought the
place on which he is now living but which was only partly improved at the time. It embraces one hundred and forty-seven
acres on section 20, and through careful cultivation well supports the general line of agriculture to which Mr. Tompkins has
devoted his energies. He has also engaged largely in the stock business, raising, feeding and shipping large numbers of cattle
and hogs. From experience he has learned the value of incessant toil in obtaining appreciable returns in his calling and his
capacity for industry- united with the good judgment he displays in the management of his affairs has won him, a, measure
of success that is gratifying indeed.
At the age of twenty-six,, Mr. Tompkins wedded Miss Mary Jennings, a native of Ohio, and their union has been blessed
with two children. Iva, the older, graduated from the Wyoming high school and is now the wife of Dr. Chamberlain, of
Wyoming. Lyle, lives at home.
Mrs. Tompkins is a member of the Methodist Episcopal -church, but Mr. Tompkins does not profess allegiance to any
creed. Politically, he is in sympathy with the platform of the democratic party, for whose candidate he almost invariably
casts his vote at. the polls. For himself, however, he has never sought office, although he has served efficiently as a school
director for a number of years.
From History of Jones County, Iowa, Past and Present, R. M. Corbitt, S. J. Clarke Publishing Co., Chicago, 1910, p. 163.
*********
Horace T. Woodard Born July 19, 1829 HORACE T. WOODARD. For many years the agricultural community of Jones
County had an able and efficient representative in the subject of this notice, who settling in Wyoming Township in 1865,
gave his attention to the tilling of the soil and improving of a farm. As an agriculturist he was discriminating and industrious,
and by systematic rotation of crops and proper fertilization of the soil he was enabled to secure bountiful harvests from his
land. At last, having accumulated a competence, he retired from farm work, and in March of 1893 came to Wyoming,
where with his family he occupies a pleasant home. The Woodard family is of Scotch lineage and its representatives, as far
back as the record is traced, have been men of upright character and honorable lives. The paternal grandfather of our
subject was Pliny Woodard, a native of Connecticut and during much of his life a resident of New York. The parents of our
subject were Augustus B. and Hannah (Owen) Woodard; the father was born in Connecticut and the latter in the Empire
State, being a daughter of Abraham Owen. The father came west and settled in Jones County, Iowa, where his death
occurred in 1889, at the age of eighty-nine years. In Oneida County, N. Y., the subject of this sketch was born on the 19th
of July, 1829. His boyhood years were passed uneventfully, and during the vacations from school work he assisted his
father in the cultivation of the home farm. In 1851 he was united in marriage with Miss Ann Gibson, a native of Canada and
a daughter of Patrick Gibson. In 1865 he came west and settled in Wyoming Township, Jones County, where as above
stated he carried on a farm until 1893, meantime improving his land with an adequate set of buildings, good fences,
orchards and gardens. In youth he had learned that success in agriculture can be gained only through tireless industry and
perseverance, and these qualities he exercised in the cultivation of his property. The present wife of our subject, whom he
married in 1893, bore the maiden name of Julia Cook, and was born in Ohio. Her parents, Thomas and Maria (Lyle)
Cook, were natives of Pennsylvania, and were old settlers of Ohio. Her mother came to Iowa in advanced years and died
at Wyoming at the age of seventy-nine. Her grandmother was Sarah Kerr, of Easton, Pa. The Lyle family originated in
Scotland, but was represented in Pennsylvania at an early period in its settlement, being identified with the history of
Northampton County. Mr. Woodard has two sons, both of whom reside in Monona County, Iowa. Always actively
interested in public affairs, our subject is a pronounced Republican in politics and both at local and general elections
exercises his elective franchise in favor of the candidates of that party. His wife holds membership in the Presbyterian
Church and is a worthy Christian. They are generous in their contributions to charitable objects, and in them the distressed
and needy always find a friend. The life of Mr. Woodard affords an illustration of what may be accomplished by energy and
perseverance, seconded by sound judgment and good management. His success is due to his own exertions, as he started
in business without means, and has achieved prosperity through his indefatigable exertions. From Dubuque, Jones, and
Clayton Counties History, 1894, pgs. 331-332, and submitted by Becky Teubner.
Dr. B. H. Chamberlain, Born February 1, 1881, who has been a successful practitioner of medicine at Wyoming since
1903, was born in this city on the 1st of February, 1881, his parents being W. I. and Lucy W. (Witter) Chamberlain. A
sketch of the father appears on another page of this volume. Dr. Chamberlain of this review obtained his early education in
the public schools of Wyoming and subsequently attended successively the Iowa State College and the Iowa State
University, being graduated from the medical department of the latter institution in 1903. Returning to Wyoming,he here
purchased the outfit and took up the practice of his former preceptor, Dr. J. W. Kirkpatrick, who had died in May, 1903.
Wyoming has since remained the scene of his professional labors and he now enjoys a large and lucrative practice, which
has come in recognition of his skill and ability in the application of remedial agencies and the restoration of health. He
belongs to the Jones County Medical Society, the Iowa State Medical Society, the American Medical Association and the
Iowa Union Medical Society. In July, 1903, Dr. Chamberlain was united in marriage to Miss Iva Tompkins, a native of this
county and a daughter of Chauncey and Mary (Jennings) Tompkins. Her paternal grandfather, Rufus Tompkins, made his
way from New York to Jones county, Iowa, at an early day, and her mother came from Ohio. Unto Dr. and Mrs.
Chamberlain has been born a son, Chauncey, whose natal day was June 28, 1908.
Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Dr. Chamberlain has given his political allegiance to the republican
party. He has served as county coroner for the past five years and has also acted as a member of the school board. He is a
worthy exemplar of the Masonic fraternity, is now worshipful master of Keystone Lodge, No. 206, A. F. & A. M., and
also belongs to the chapter and commandery at Anamosa and the Mystic Shrine at Cedar Rapids. In religious faith he is a
Presbyterian. Although still a young man, he has already attained an enviable position in the ranks of the medical profession
and in all life's relations has maintained a high standard of conduct, thus justly meriting the confidence which is so uniformly
accorded him in this, his native county.
From History of Jones County, Iowa, Past and Present, R. M. Corbitt, S. J. Clarke Publishing Co., Chicago, 1910, p. 119.
The Edward Tompkins family - Front: Charles, Ford, Edward, Ethel, Della, Mabel; Back - Lizzie, William, Frank, Elsie
Edward D.Tompkins Obituary
This community wa shocked last Saturday afternoon when the news went out that Ed. Tompkins had passed away at his
home in this city, at about 3 O'clock P.M.
Mr. Tompkins was oneof the early settlers of Sanborn County, and has been a resident of this city for several years past.
Edward Daniel Tompkins was born in Oneida County, New York, March 26, 1854. Here he passed his boyhood days,
until about 16 years of age the family, consisting of his parents and six brothers and sisters, removed to Iowa (Wyoming,
Edward D.Tompkins Obituary
This community wa shocked last Saturday afternoon when the news went out that Ed. Tompkins had passed away at his
home in this city, at about 3 O'clock P.M.
Mr. Tompkins was oneof the early settlers of Sanborn County, and has been a resident of this city for several years past.
Edward Daniel Tompkins was born in Oneida County, New York, March 26, 1854. Here he passed his boyhood days,
until about 16 years of age the family, consisting of his parents and six brothers and sisters, removed to Iowa (Wyoming,
Charles and Mary Tompkins
Chauncey Tompkins
William and Laura Tompkins
Wyoming Cemetery
Wyoming, Jones, Iowa
Wyoming, Jones, Iowa
Pleasant View Cemetery
Carthage, Miner, South Dakota
Carthage, Miner, South Dakota
Pleasant View Cemetery
Carthage, Miner, South Dakota
Carthage, Miner, South Dakota
Wyoming Cemetery
Wyoming, Jones, Iowa
Wyoming, Jones, Iowa
Pleasant View Cemetery
Carthage, Miner, South Dakota
Carthage, Miner, South Dakota