SAMUEL
ERDICE, deceased, was a native of Ireland, born Jan. 4, 1816, and the
son of John and Jane Erdice, who were also natives of that country.
When but twelve years of age he was brought by his parents to the
United States. They settled in Mercer County, Pa., and there lived
during the remainder of their lives. Our subject grew to manhood on his
father's farm in Mercer County, and not only followed the occupation in
his youth but in mature age. He was married in the latter-named county,
Jan. 1, 1848, to Rachel Fell, born Jan. 6, 1827, and the daughter of
George and Rachel (Campbell) Fell, the former a native of Bucks County,
Pa., and of English descent, and the latter of Westmoreland County,
Pa., and of German descent. Both died in Mercer County many years ago.
Seven children were born to them, four of whom are living—Andrew,
Aylett, Elizabeth and Rachel.
After their marriage Mr. and Mrs.
Erdice resided in Pennsylvania until 1864, at which time they emigrated
to Iowa, and settled in Washington County, where Samuel Erdice
purchased 208 acres of fine land on section 21, adjoining the village
of Ainsworth, which he improved, and where he remained until his death,
which occurred May 18, 1886. He was a kind and affectionate husband and
an indulgent father, and was respected by all who knew him. Commencing
life in limited circumstances, before his death he had acquired a large
property, which he left to his family and which was enough to render
them comfortable through life.
Mr. and Mrs. Erdice were the
parents of two children: Alpheus S., born Nov. 1, 1848, and Allie,
April 4, 1853. The former is now engaged in the mercantile trade at
Keota, Keokuk Co., Iowa. He married Eliza Stewart, daughter of Kennedy
Steward, by whom he has four children—Eleanor, Clyde, Lelia and Earl.
The daughter, Allie Erdice, is now the wife of A. E. Spalding,
Principal of the High School of Ainsworth, a sketch of whom will be
found elsewhere in this volume. Mrs. Erdice is yet living on the home
farm. She has been a member of the United Presbyterian Church for many
years, and in her life endeavors to walk consistent with her Christian
profession. She is a lady of fine ability, and is highly respected by
all who know her. Her father was one of the first settlers and large
landholders of Mercer County, Pa., and became wealthy by his own
efforts. The father of Samuel Erdice was also an early settler of
Mercer County, Pa., and one of its most wealthy citizens at the time of
his death.
Portrait and Biographical Album, Washington County, Iowa, 1885
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