- DANIEL O. CHAPELL, deceased, will be remembered by many of
the early settlers, and in
- justice to this worthy pioneer, we record the story of his
life in the permanent record of Rock County's history. He was
a native of New York, and in early life learned the blacksmith's
trade, which he followed for many years. He was married in his
Eastern home to Miss Celestia LEWIS, and in the year 1841, emigrated
with his family to the Territory of Wisconsin, locating in Racine
County, and in the spring of 1845 he removed to the village of
Union, then a thriving little hamlet full of industry and life.
It was situated on the old stage line, half way between Janesville
and Madison, and was the point for changing horses. Many of the
prominent men not only of the State but the Nation, honored the
little town with their presence while making a trip between the
two cities. Mr. CHAPELL was then the village blacksmith, and
none had more or warmer friends than he. His jovial nature, his
genial disposition, his kindly manner and cheery greeting made
him a favorite with all, and his hospitable home was the resort
of the many travelers seeking locations in the new West. For
several years Union Lodge No. 32, of the Masonic Order held its
meetings at his home.
- Mr. CHAPELL continued to reside in Union until 1854 when
he again removed to the frontier
- country, settling near West Union, Fayette County, Iowa,
where after a few years he passed to his final rest. Upon the
death of her husband, Mrs. CHAPELL returned to Rock County, making
her home with her son, Russell O., in Magnolia Township, where
her death occurred about the year 1874. This worthy couple will
long be remembered by their many friends, as they were highly
respected by all. They were the parents of eight children, two
sons and six daughters, but only three are now living. The daughters
may be credited with having taught the first schools of Union
Township, and many of the leading citizens of the community learned
the rudiments of knowledge under their directions.
- The surviving children are as follows: Lucretia, who is now
the wife of Rev. James LAWSON, a
- resident of Albany, Green County, Wis.; Russell O., who is
now engaged in farming in Magnolia Township; Farrozina, wife
of Gilbert BLACKMAN, a resident farmer of Hardin County, Iowa.
Those who have passed away are Sarah, who wedded Bela BEEBE,
one of the pioneer settlers of Rock County; Mary A., became the
wife of Dr. Robert BELL, but both are now deceased; Jane married
James O'CONNOR; Lois was the wife of Dr. William PARKER; Brunson
was educated for the ministry, and entered an Iowa regiment as
chaplain, his death occurring while in the service. His wife
and daughter, who survive him, are residing in Sioux City, Iowa.
-
- Taken from "The Portrait and Biographical Album of
Rock County, Wis." (c)1889, pp. 327.
-
- Courtesy of Carol
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