Early Pioneers of Magrath 1902
Anderson, Alfred Robert & Anna Lundquist
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Anderson, Alfred Robert & Anna Lundquist
Alf Anderson (43) and Anna Lundquist moved their large family to Magrath from Vernal, Utah in 1902. They travelled by covered wagon and train, arriving in a spring snowstorm. The family first settled 12-15 miles SW of Magrath, then moved to the Bradshaw area, only a few miles west of town. They owned one of the early steam-threshing outfits in the area.
The Anderson family moved to Taber (50 miles NE) for a time but returned to Magrath to farm. They lived in a small farmhouse, before moving into a large home in Magrath. Anna and Alf “had a life with many joys and hardships.”
Sources: Magrath History & Museum Assn; Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Oct 2023).
Anderson, Alfred Robert & Anna Lundquist
Alf Anderson (43) and Anna Lundquist moved their large family to Magrath from Vernal, Utah in 1902. They travelled by covered wagon and train, arriving in a spring snowstorm. The family first settled 12-15 miles SW of Magrath, then moved to the Bradshaw area, only a few miles west of town. They owned one of the early steam-threshing outfits in the area.
The Anderson family moved to Taber (50 miles NE) for a time but returned to Magrath to farm. They lived in a small farmhouse, before moving into a large home in Magrath. Anna and Alf “had a life with many joys and hardships.”
Sources: Magrath History & Museum Assn; Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Oct 2023).
Clarence William Bennett and Emma Pyrah family
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Bennett, Clarence William & Emma Pyrah
Clarence W. Bennett (24) had come to Magrath as a child in 1899. He wed Emma Pyrah in 1902 and they had 10 children. Clarence and his brother ran the first picture show in Magrath. About 1912, the family moved to Utah and Idaho, before returning to Magrath.
A devastating blow hit the family when Emma (47) was killed in a car accident, at the start of the Great Depression (1930’s). This left 4-5 children still at home. And within 3 years, Clarence passed away (likely of cancer), dealing a second blow to the children. One of the youngest, Kay, has described in detail the chaos of surviving in such a time.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Oct 2023).
Bennett, Clarence William & Emma Pyrah
Clarence W. Bennett (24) had come to Magrath as a child in 1899. He wed Emma Pyrah in 1902 and they had 10 children. Clarence and his brother ran the first picture show in Magrath. About 1912, the family moved to Utah and Idaho, before returning to Magrath.
A devastating blow hit the family when Emma (47) was killed in a car accident, at the start of the Great Depression (1930’s). This left 4-5 children still at home. And within 3 years, Clarence passed away (likely of cancer), dealing a second blow to the children. One of the youngest, Kay, has described in detail the chaos of surviving in such a time.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Oct 2023).
Winnie Hansen and Elijah Bourne 50th Anniversary
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada
Bourne, Elijah John Jr. & Winnifred E. Hansen
Elijah Bourne (28) from American Fork, Utah, came to Magrath as a single man in 1902. He wed Winnifred Hansen in 1906. She had come with her parents the year following Elijah. She worked in Merkley’s Ice Cream Parlour and had clerked in the Jensen Brothers store.
Elijah was a well-known cowhand. In 1916, he helped form the La Prairie school board, which built a rural, 1-room schoolhouse, 6 miles SE of Magrath. He bought a threshing machine in partnership with several others. The Bournes had 7 surviving children.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Bourne, Elijah John Jr. & Winnifred E. Hansen
Elijah Bourne (28) from American Fork, Utah, came to Magrath as a single man in 1902. He wed Winnifred Hansen in 1906. She had come with her parents the year following Elijah. She worked in Merkley’s Ice Cream Parlour and had clerked in the Jensen Brothers store.
Elijah was a well-known cowhand. In 1916, he helped form the La Prairie school board, which built a rural, 1-room schoolhouse, 6 miles SE of Magrath. He bought a threshing machine in partnership with several others. The Bournes had 7 surviving children.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Briggs, Azer Richard & Emilie Sophia Osterloh
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Briggs, Azer Richard & Emilie Sophia Osterloh Azer Briggs (20) came to Magrath in 1902, from Lehi, Utah, as a single man. He had earlier (17), served in the Spanish-American war in the Philippines. Upon coming to Magrath ‘Aze’ remarked, “When I looked over the broad expanse of rolling prairie… I said to myself, ‘This is the place for me!’” He worked for 3 years and along with army savings, bought a farm.
In 1909, Aze (27) served a mission to West Virginia for 2 years. Upon returning home to Utah, he met Emilie Osterloh, and they married in 1913. She had gone to BYU, taught school, and filled a mission of her own. Both were active members of the Church.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); Family Search (Nov 2023).
Briggs, Azer Richard & Emilie Sophia Osterloh Azer Briggs (20) came to Magrath in 1902, from Lehi, Utah, as a single man. He had earlier (17), served in the Spanish-American war in the Philippines. Upon coming to Magrath ‘Aze’ remarked, “When I looked over the broad expanse of rolling prairie… I said to myself, ‘This is the place for me!’” He worked for 3 years and along with army savings, bought a farm.
In 1909, Aze (27) served a mission to West Virginia for 2 years. Upon returning home to Utah, he met Emilie Osterloh, and they married in 1913. She had gone to BYU, taught school, and filled a mission of her own. Both were active members of the Church.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); Family Search (Nov 2023).
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1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Burbank, David Lindsay & Melissa Collett David Burbank (27) came to Magrath with his new bride from Bennington, Idaho, in 1902. They likely travelled in company with his father-in-law, Charles A.C. Collett, from the same area. That fall, a son was born. By 1905, the Burbank family had relocated to the Taber area (60 mi. NE). After living in Taber for 3 years, David was struck with typhoid fever. Having battled the disease for several weeks, he was confined to his bed, dying in August of the same year. Melissa remarried 5 years later, to Adam Hunter Van Orman of Taber. They raised a family of their own. She died there in 1962, her husband having predeceased her by more than 20 years. Sources: FamilySearch (Dec 2023). |
David Lindsay Burbank
Melissa Collett
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John I. Chipman
Adelia Betsy Green
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1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Chipman, John I. & Adelia Betsy Green ‘John I.’ Chipman (40), came from American Fork, Utah to Magrath, Alberta in 1902. He was a sheepman and he and Delia Green brought a family of 6 children. Delia was described as a real ‘doer’, “one who loved to work. And everything she did, she did well.” ‘John I.’ secured sheep range for 4,000 animals near Warner, Alberta, 50 miles to the east. There, he survived the infamous May 1903 snowstorm, wherein many newborn lambs died out in the open. But ‘John I.’ went on to prosper. He was a member of the Alberta Wool Growers Association and served a term on Town Council. Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023). |
Charles Collett and Hannah Merrill family
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Collett, Charles A. C. & Hannah Ann Merrill
Charles Collett (48) and Hannah Merrill came to Magrath about 1902. Married in Paris, Idaho, they brought a family of 7 and two married children. One child (Morgan) was born in Magrath.
About 1906, the family moved to Taber, Alberta (60 miles NE). Most of the children married near there. Mary Jane, already married, died relatively young (36) within a month of birthing her 8th child. Both parents and several of the children (eventually married) are buried in the Taber Cemetery. Hannah died in 1916 (56 yrs.), with Charles A.C. passing away in 1922.
Source: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Collett, Charles A. C. & Hannah Ann Merrill
Charles Collett (48) and Hannah Merrill came to Magrath about 1902. Married in Paris, Idaho, they brought a family of 7 and two married children. One child (Morgan) was born in Magrath.
About 1906, the family moved to Taber, Alberta (60 miles NE). Most of the children married near there. Mary Jane, already married, died relatively young (36) within a month of birthing her 8th child. Both parents and several of the children (eventually married) are buried in the Taber Cemetery. Hannah died in 1916 (56 yrs.), with Charles A.C. passing away in 1922.
Source: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Hyrum Smith Cooper Jr.
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Cooper, Hyrum Smith Jr. & Ruby Frances French
About 1902, Hyrum Smith (23) brought his young family from Uintah, Utah to Magrath. He and Ruby F. French may have come north with her parents and others. The family lived in the Spring Coulee area, about 10 miles to the west.
The Coopers went on to have a family of 8 children, with 3-4 of these being born in the Magrath/Spring Coulee area. Hyrum and Ruby are buried in Magrath.
Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Cooper, Hyrum Smith Jr. & Ruby Frances French
About 1902, Hyrum Smith (23) brought his young family from Uintah, Utah to Magrath. He and Ruby F. French may have come north with her parents and others. The family lived in the Spring Coulee area, about 10 miles to the west.
The Coopers went on to have a family of 8 children, with 3-4 of these being born in the Magrath/Spring Coulee area. Hyrum and Ruby are buried in Magrath.
Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
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1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Dalton, Joseph Alvin & Mary Paulina Holmes Joseph Dalton (42) and Mary P. Holmes came to Magrath from Bear Lake County, Idaho in 1902. The couple brought the only 2 surviving of their 7 children with them. They had another child shortly after arriving, but she too, passed away. The following year, Mary had the awful experience of watching her 12-year-old son dragged home dead, by a horse. From a family of 8 children, the parents only had one child left, and he passed away at 30 years of age. By then the Dalton’s had returned to the United States. Source: FamilySearch (Aug 2023). |
Joseph Alvin Dalton
Mary Paulina Holmes
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George Forsyth and Sarah Snow family
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Forsyth, George James & Sarah Sophronia Snow
Around 1902, George J. Forsyth (58), shipped several carloads of cattle from Utah to Magrath. He was joined later by Sarah S. Snow and their family of 10. Four of the children later raised their own families in the town.
According to family records, Sarah had an “almost religious prejudice” against waste of any kind. As a typical pioneer woman, she wove rag rugs, made lye soap, and stitched her own hand-sewn pillows. In retirement, George and Sarah relocated to Utah.
Sources: Magrath History & Museum Assn; Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Forsyth, George James & Sarah Sophronia Snow
Around 1902, George J. Forsyth (58), shipped several carloads of cattle from Utah to Magrath. He was joined later by Sarah S. Snow and their family of 10. Four of the children later raised their own families in the town.
According to family records, Sarah had an “almost religious prejudice” against waste of any kind. As a typical pioneer woman, she wove rag rugs, made lye soap, and stitched her own hand-sewn pillows. In retirement, George and Sarah relocated to Utah.
Sources: Magrath History & Museum Assn; Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Daniel Fowler and Clara Bradshaw family
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Fowler, Daniel Theodore & Clara Jane Bradshaw
Daniel T. Fowler (33) moved from Lehi, Utah to Magrath in 1902. He and Clara J. Bradshaw brought their 3 surviving children, with 2 daughters born later. A gracious man, he was generous and willing to share.
Daniel, a constable in Lehi, became Magrath’s first constable. He also sat on the School Board, and on Town Council. When his daughter-in-law (Sylvan’s wife) suddenly passed away, Daniel and Clara raised his 4 children as if they were their own.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Fowler, Daniel Theodore & Clara Jane Bradshaw
Daniel T. Fowler (33) moved from Lehi, Utah to Magrath in 1902. He and Clara J. Bradshaw brought their 3 surviving children, with 2 daughters born later. A gracious man, he was generous and willing to share.
Daniel, a constable in Lehi, became Magrath’s first constable. He also sat on the School Board, and on Town Council. When his daughter-in-law (Sylvan’s wife) suddenly passed away, Daniel and Clara raised his 4 children as if they were their own.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
William French and Adelia Pierce family
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
French, William Edgar & Adelia Delilah Pierce
William French (42) came from Utah to Magrath about 1902. He and Adelia D. Pierce (previously divorced) brought their own family of 3 surviving children. (The oldest, Ruby, was already married).
The French’s owned a large farm on the St. Mary River, SW of town. Adelia, a midwife, kept a record of the more than 800 babies she delivered. About 1914 the family removed to Hill Spring (40 miles west). Will French Jr. eventually raised his own family in Magrath.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
French, William Edgar & Adelia Delilah Pierce
William French (42) came from Utah to Magrath about 1902. He and Adelia D. Pierce (previously divorced) brought their own family of 3 surviving children. (The oldest, Ruby, was already married).
The French’s owned a large farm on the St. Mary River, SW of town. Adelia, a midwife, kept a record of the more than 800 babies she delivered. About 1914 the family removed to Hill Spring (40 miles west). Will French Jr. eventually raised his own family in Magrath.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Clara Evans, Melba Goates, Joseph Goates
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Goates, Joseph & Clara Evans
Joseph Goates (28) came to Magrath from Lehi, Utah about 1902. He and Clara Evans eventually had 4 children. Their twin sons (Lorin W. and Warren L.) were born in Magrath.
The family relocated to Lehi prior to 1906, when a daughter was born. But late that year, Joseph Goates died from typhoid fever, leaving Clara as a young widow to raise 4 children on her own. Albeit a difficult task for Clara, through it all, the family maintained its ties with Southern Alberta.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Oct 2023).
Goates, Joseph & Clara Evans
Joseph Goates (28) came to Magrath from Lehi, Utah about 1902. He and Clara Evans eventually had 4 children. Their twin sons (Lorin W. and Warren L.) were born in Magrath.
The family relocated to Lehi prior to 1906, when a daughter was born. But late that year, Joseph Goates died from typhoid fever, leaving Clara as a young widow to raise 4 children on her own. Albeit a difficult task for Clara, through it all, the family maintained its ties with Southern Alberta.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Oct 2023).
G Gurney and Nora Howes
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Gurney, George Albert & Nora Howes
George Gurney (31) moved to Magrath in 1902. He and Nora Howes left Lehi, Utah with their family of 2 children. George was a farmer, purchasing an ever-widening acreage of land. Active in civic affairs, he served a 2-year term as Mayor.
Their first home was a 12’x16’ tent, amongst an endless horde of mosquitoes. A scarcity of food in those early years, caused the family to live largely on bread & milk. The Gurney’s were faithful members of the Church. Long after their marriage, in 1912 George filled a 2-year mission to the Eastern United States.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Gurney, George Albert & Nora Howes
George Gurney (31) moved to Magrath in 1902. He and Nora Howes left Lehi, Utah with their family of 2 children. George was a farmer, purchasing an ever-widening acreage of land. Active in civic affairs, he served a 2-year term as Mayor.
Their first home was a 12’x16’ tent, amongst an endless horde of mosquitoes. A scarcity of food in those early years, caused the family to live largely on bread & milk. The Gurney’s were faithful members of the Church. Long after their marriage, in 1912 George filled a 2-year mission to the Eastern United States.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
George Hacking and Frances Briggs family
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Hacking, George A. & Frances Briggs
In 1902, George Hacking (26) and Frances Briggs brought their family from Cedar Fort, Utah, to Magrath. George, a farmer, was some time later called to leave his family at home and go on a mission for the Church to the Eastern United States.
In one terrible spring snowstorm, the weather was so cold that it was necessary to bring the chickens into the house just to keep them alive. The Hackings built a fine brick home on Main Street (1st W), which later became the hospital in the town. They later relocated (1920) to the Glenwood area, 40 miles to the west.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Apr 2023).
Hacking, George A. & Frances Briggs
In 1902, George Hacking (26) and Frances Briggs brought their family from Cedar Fort, Utah, to Magrath. George, a farmer, was some time later called to leave his family at home and go on a mission for the Church to the Eastern United States.
In one terrible spring snowstorm, the weather was so cold that it was necessary to bring the chickens into the house just to keep them alive. The Hackings built a fine brick home on Main Street (1st W), which later became the hospital in the town. They later relocated (1920) to the Glenwood area, 40 miles to the west.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Apr 2023).
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1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Hall, Orson & Anna Maria (Price) Hall Orson Hall (48) came to Magrath, from Dry Fork, Utah in 1902. He was a recent widower, caring for 7 children. Orson worked around town and in Taber (60 miles NE). In 1908, he married Anna Maria (also surnamed Hall), a young widow with 3 children. The couple went on to have 3 babies of their own, for a total of 13 children. Anna Maria (‘Rye’) Hall had come to Magrath a year earlier, travelling with her parents. In 1906, to better herself, she bought a homestead near Taber, Alberta. There, ‘Rye’ faithfully taught her combined family the principles of the gospel. Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Sep 2023). |
Orson Hall
'Rye" Hall
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Ollie Stevens (Heap) family
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Heap, Mary Olive Stevens (widow)
Mary Olive ‘Ollie’ Stevens (Heap) came to Magrath in 1902. Her husband Charles Heap had passed away in Utah at 41 years of age, leaving her a widow with 8 children. Ollie’s father and brothers were shipping cattle to Canada and persuaded her to go along.
Ollie eventually worked as a practical nurse, spending many hours with the sick. Active in the Church, she served in many positions. She passed away in 1959 at 95 years of age.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Dec 2023).
Heap, Mary Olive Stevens (widow)
Mary Olive ‘Ollie’ Stevens (Heap) came to Magrath in 1902. Her husband Charles Heap had passed away in Utah at 41 years of age, leaving her a widow with 8 children. Ollie’s father and brothers were shipping cattle to Canada and persuaded her to go along.
Ollie eventually worked as a practical nurse, spending many hours with the sick. Active in the Church, she served in many positions. She passed away in 1959 at 95 years of age.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Dec 2023).
Lawrence Hilton
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Hilton, Lawrence & Olive May Holder
Lawrence Hilton (19), Olive May Holder, and their young family appear to have moved to Magrath shortly after their marriage in Salt Lake City, Utah in early 1902. Their arrival was likely towards helping to settle the area. The Hilton’s second child, a son, Gilmer Gale, was born in Magrath in May 1904.
Birth records indicate that by 1907, the family was back in Utah, where 4 more children were born. Olive May passed away at a relatively young age (44) and Lawrence remarried, but no children came from that union. Lawrence died in 1955 at 72 years of age.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Aug 2023).
Hilton, Lawrence & Olive May Holder
Lawrence Hilton (19), Olive May Holder, and their young family appear to have moved to Magrath shortly after their marriage in Salt Lake City, Utah in early 1902. Their arrival was likely towards helping to settle the area. The Hilton’s second child, a son, Gilmer Gale, was born in Magrath in May 1904.
Birth records indicate that by 1907, the family was back in Utah, where 4 more children were born. Olive May passed away at a relatively young age (44) and Lawrence remarried, but no children came from that union. Lawrence died in 1955 at 72 years of age.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Aug 2023).
Henry Howes and Sarah Rhodes family
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Howes, Henry & Sarah Lavina Rhodes
Henry Howes (47) came to Magrath, from Lehi, Utah in 1902, travelling by train. He planted some rhubarb roots into the virgin sod, thereafter known as the ‘Rhubarb King’.
Henry had earlier (1875) married Sarah Rhodes and they nourished a large family (13), only the youngest of whom appears to have come with them. The Howes were known for their “optimism, indomitable courage, and hope.”
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Howes, Henry & Sarah Lavina Rhodes
Henry Howes (47) came to Magrath, from Lehi, Utah in 1902, travelling by train. He planted some rhubarb roots into the virgin sod, thereafter known as the ‘Rhubarb King’.
Henry had earlier (1875) married Sarah Rhodes and they nourished a large family (13), only the youngest of whom appears to have come with them. The Howes were known for their “optimism, indomitable courage, and hope.”
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
J. William Jacobs
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Jacobs, J. William & Sarah Powell
William Jacobs (22) came from Lehi, Utah to Magrath
about 1902. He and Sarah Powell brought their two young daughters. They purchased an 80-acre homestead north of town, for $9 per acre. William broke the sod using a team of horses. The year was a wet one, yet the harvest of the hand-broadcast seed gave a bountiful harvest.
The family first lived in a sod house on the farm, then built a sound wooden one. The couple moved into town in 1952, having electricity and in-door plumbing for the first time. They were well-known for their productive gardens. Sarah, a Red Cross worker, was active in the Church.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Jacobs, J. William & Sarah Powell
William Jacobs (22) came from Lehi, Utah to Magrath
about 1902. He and Sarah Powell brought their two young daughters. They purchased an 80-acre homestead north of town, for $9 per acre. William broke the sod using a team of horses. The year was a wet one, yet the harvest of the hand-broadcast seed gave a bountiful harvest.
The family first lived in a sod house on the farm, then built a sound wooden one. The couple moved into town in 1952, having electricity and in-door plumbing for the first time. They were well-known for their productive gardens. Sarah, a Red Cross worker, was active in the Church.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
George H. James and Margaret Farley family
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
James, George Henry & Margaret M. Farley
George H. James (40) came to Magrath, Alberta from Vernal, Utah in 1902. He had married Margaret Farley in Ireland, and they had a family of 6 surviving children. Two more were born in Magrath. George and his son Ed came first, with the family following the year after, when a house was ready.
George had one of the first blacksmith shops in the town. His son Ed (nicknamed Ted) ran the Shady Nook service station, located on the old Cardston highway that ran along 2nd Ave North.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
James, George Henry & Margaret M. Farley
George H. James (40) came to Magrath, Alberta from Vernal, Utah in 1902. He had married Margaret Farley in Ireland, and they had a family of 6 surviving children. Two more were born in Magrath. George and his son Ed came first, with the family following the year after, when a house was ready.
George had one of the first blacksmith shops in the town. His son Ed (nicknamed Ted) ran the Shady Nook service station, located on the old Cardston highway that ran along 2nd Ave North.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
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1902, Early Pioneers of Magrath, AB, Canada.
Karren, Charles Hopkins & Sarah Agnes Davis Charles H. Karren (53) came to Magrath, Alberta from Lehi, Utah in 1902. In response to a Call from the Church, he brought his wife Sarah Davis and their six children. Charles acquired a farm in the Lehi Field area NW of Magrath and remained there until his death. Before coming to Magrath, Charles was a sheriff in Lehi, Utah, where he brought tramps home for a good night of rest. Sarah might strike up conversations with the young boys, asking them about their homes. She thought of them as one of her own and was a woman who “lived her religion.” Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023). |
Charles H. Karren
Sarah A Davis
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John, Alberta, and Kate Lamb
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Lamb, John Richard & Catherine ‘Kate’ Rees
John Lamb arrived in Magrath from Utah about 1902. He and ‘Kate’ Rees were childless, their firstborn having died shortly after birth. A second child, Alberta May, was named in Magrath for the territory and month she was born. Her parents, hopeful, returned to Utah, and there Alberta began a family of her own.
Magrath was centered on 90 miles of irrigation canal in a sometimes-thirsty land. The town was on the open prairie, the Rocky Mountains 60 miles away in the west. And miles of grasslands in every direction. There were no trees, roads, or fences. The winters were sometimes long and cold.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Lamb, John Richard & Catherine ‘Kate’ Rees
John Lamb arrived in Magrath from Utah about 1902. He and ‘Kate’ Rees were childless, their firstborn having died shortly after birth. A second child, Alberta May, was named in Magrath for the territory and month she was born. Her parents, hopeful, returned to Utah, and there Alberta began a family of her own.
Magrath was centered on 90 miles of irrigation canal in a sometimes-thirsty land. The town was on the open prairie, the Rocky Mountains 60 miles away in the west. And miles of grasslands in every direction. There were no trees, roads, or fences. The winters were sometimes long and cold.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
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1902, Early Pioneers of Magrath, AB, Canada.
Lott, Benjamin C. & Geneva Rebecca Broadbent Benjamin Lott (27) came to Magrath from Lehi, Utah with his young family in 1902. He and Geneva R. Broadbent brought their lone daughter and had 2 more children before returning to Lehi in 1906. The village was just beginning, a settle-ment begun only 3 years previous in 1899. It was centered on an irrigation project that had constructed 90 miles of irrigation canal in a sometimes-thirsty land. Magrath was located on the open prairie, with the Rocky Mountains 60 miles away in the west, and miles and miles of endless grasslands. There were no trees in sight, no fenceposts, and the winters could be long and cold. Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023). |
Benjamin C. Lott
Geneva Rebecca Broadbent
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George Miller and Emily Williams
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Miller, Martin George & Emily Lovina Williams
George Miller (34) came to Magrath from Lehi, Utah in 1902, where he and Lovina Williams brought their 5 surviving daughters. George homesteaded in an area called Lehi Field, a few miles north of town. The winters could be long and cold. After a heavy, drifting snow, the tops of surrounding fenceposts were barely visible.
Once, the Miller house burned to the ground, destroying everything. But through the kindness of friends, it was quickly rebuilt. George was a strictly honest man, with Lovina famed for her pies. The family returned to Utah in 1910.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023),
Miller, Martin George & Emily Lovina Williams
George Miller (34) came to Magrath from Lehi, Utah in 1902, where he and Lovina Williams brought their 5 surviving daughters. George homesteaded in an area called Lehi Field, a few miles north of town. The winters could be long and cold. After a heavy, drifting snow, the tops of surrounding fenceposts were barely visible.
Once, the Miller house burned to the ground, destroying everything. But through the kindness of friends, it was quickly rebuilt. George was a strictly honest man, with Lovina famed for her pies. The family returned to Utah in 1910.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023),
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1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Miller, Martin Michael & Christina Peterson Martin Miller (59) came to Magrath from Lehi, Utah in 1902. This was in response to a Call from the Church to help settle the area. He and Christina Peterson travelled with their oldest son and brought their 4 youngest children with them. Several of these raised their own families in Magrath. In responding to this Call, Martin was given the specific charge of helping colonists learn how to plant and harvest sugar beets. He died within 10 years of his arrival in town, at 69 years of age. Christina succeeded him by 16 years. Sources: Magrath History & Museum Assn; Irrigation Builders (1974); FamilySearch (Dec. 2023). |
Martin Michael Miller
Christina Peterson
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James Meeks
Sarah Stringham
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1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Meeks, James Edgar & Sarah Stringham James Meeks (26) came from Utah to Magrath as a single man in 1902. He was with his brother Will, and over 500 cattle. A May snowstorm the next year brought 14’’ of snow and the brothers lost 60% of their calf crop. In 1905, James married Sarah Stringham in Magrath. The first 3 of their 7 children were born in the town. By 1913 the family had relocated 12 miles east to Raymond. Just 5 years later, Sarah died within days of childbirth, leaving James a widower. Thereafter, his brother Will and wife May (Sarah’s sister) came to live with and care for the children. Source: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023). |
Al Norton, Myrtle, and Ruth Jones
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Norton, Alfred Squire & Ruth Jane Jones
In 1902, Al Norton (34) and Ruth Jones came to Magrath from Ammon, Idaho. They had been married for 10 years and brought 3 surviving children. Al was a farmer who raised grain, cattle, and hogs. A trustee of the La Prairie school district SE of town, he also sat on Town Council.
In retirement, the Norton’s lived for a couple of years with their son, Rex, in British Columbia. They returned to Magrath to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in the town.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Norton, Alfred Squire & Ruth Jane Jones
In 1902, Al Norton (34) and Ruth Jones came to Magrath from Ammon, Idaho. They had been married for 10 years and brought 3 surviving children. Al was a farmer who raised grain, cattle, and hogs. A trustee of the La Prairie school district SE of town, he also sat on Town Council.
In retirement, the Norton’s lived for a couple of years with their son, Rex, in British Columbia. They returned to Magrath to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in the town.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
James Parkinson and Sarah Pyrah family
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Parkinson, James & Sarah Elizabeth Pyrah
James Parkinson (41), a miner, left Coalville, Utah by wagon in 1902 to go to Magrath. Sarah and their large family followed by train. They answered a Call from the Church to help settle the area.
James helped operate a shallow coal mine on the river north of town. In 1913 he left his family at home to serve a full=time mission for the Church elsewhere. He was the Ward Clerk for 15 years. Sarah won many prizes for her flowers and vegetables. Myrtle Parkinson, an unmarried daughter, became a valued schoolteacher in the town for many years.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Parkinson, James & Sarah Elizabeth Pyrah
James Parkinson (41), a miner, left Coalville, Utah by wagon in 1902 to go to Magrath. Sarah and their large family followed by train. They answered a Call from the Church to help settle the area.
James helped operate a shallow coal mine on the river north of town. In 1913 he left his family at home to serve a full=time mission for the Church elsewhere. He was the Ward Clerk for 15 years. Sarah won many prizes for her flowers and vegetables. Myrtle Parkinson, an unmarried daughter, became a valued schoolteacher in the town for many years.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Genevra Ferrin and John Peterson
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Peterson, John Christian & Genevra Ferrin
John Peterson (28) left Huntsville, Utah by wagon for Magrath, in early 1902. His family followed on the train, with Genevra bringing their 4 children. John had access to a dugout very near Magrath, its wooden walls built into a hill on the Pothole River. A May flood washed the house and many of their supplies away.
The Petersons survived in a tent for the summer, then moved into a 2-room house that fall. They became closely associated with the developing town of Raymond, 12 miles to the east. In later years, the family moved south and west (40 miles) into the Cardston/Kimball area.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Peterson, John Christian & Genevra Ferrin
John Peterson (28) left Huntsville, Utah by wagon for Magrath, in early 1902. His family followed on the train, with Genevra bringing their 4 children. John had access to a dugout very near Magrath, its wooden walls built into a hill on the Pothole River. A May flood washed the house and many of their supplies away.
The Petersons survived in a tent for the summer, then moved into a 2-room house that fall. They became closely associated with the developing town of Raymond, 12 miles to the east. In later years, the family moved south and west (40 miles) into the Cardston/Kimball area.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
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1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Rolph, Justin Lomis & Isabella Mary Naylor Justin L. Rolph (36) was apparently living in Kimball, SW Alberta, about 1901. In 1902, he came to Magrath and married Isabella Naylor, who he had known for many years in Utah. Isabella, divorced from her first husband, had brought along the 3 surviving Stevenson children from her previous marriage. Six of the Rolph children were born in Magrath. The couple eventually raised a family of 10, including 2 adopted sons. After most of the children were born (1910) the family relocated to the Western United States. Justin passed away at 75 years of age, with Isabella dying at 79. Source: FamilySearch (Dec 2023). |
Justin Lomis Ralph
Isabella Mary Naylor
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William Sabey and Sarah Evans family
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Sabey, William & Sarah Jones Evans
William Sabey (41) came to Magrath in 1902 from Lehi, Utah. He and Sarah Evans brought 5 children. Each fall, William loaded his wagons with farm produce for the needy.
The Sabey’s raised their son Armand’s children (Iola, Winnie, Sylvester, and Effie), after their mother died, refusing to split them up. They were in their early 50’s at the time. Sarah was a dedicated teacher in the Relief Society of the Church, and a faithful Trail Blazer leader.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Sabey, William & Sarah Jones Evans
William Sabey (41) came to Magrath in 1902 from Lehi, Utah. He and Sarah Evans brought 5 children. Each fall, William loaded his wagons with farm produce for the needy.
The Sabey’s raised their son Armand’s children (Iola, Winnie, Sylvester, and Effie), after their mother died, refusing to split them up. They were in their early 50’s at the time. Sarah was a dedicated teacher in the Relief Society of the Church, and a faithful Trail Blazer leader.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Sandall, Joseph & Mary Louise Andersen
Joseph Sandall (51), no photo and Lou Andersen (no photo) came to Magrath from Layton, Utah about 1902. They appear to have brought most of a large family of 13 children with them. The couple had one child (1903) after arriving in Magrath. Some time thereafter, they appear to have returned to Utah, perhaps leaving a married daughter (R. Bernetta Munroe) still in Alberta.
Born in South Africa, Sandall had come to Utah with his parents in 1860, eventually living in Layton. His next younger sister, Annie, had lived briefly in Cardston, Alberta around 1890 but Joseph’s comings and goings are unclear. It is apparent that in 1906, Sandall traded G. James Forsyth of Alberta for land that he (Sandall) still owned in Alberta. Sandall apparently wanted land near Loa, Utah. He died near there in 1916.
Source: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Sandall, Joseph & Mary Louise Andersen
Joseph Sandall (51), no photo and Lou Andersen (no photo) came to Magrath from Layton, Utah about 1902. They appear to have brought most of a large family of 13 children with them. The couple had one child (1903) after arriving in Magrath. Some time thereafter, they appear to have returned to Utah, perhaps leaving a married daughter (R. Bernetta Munroe) still in Alberta.
Born in South Africa, Sandall had come to Utah with his parents in 1860, eventually living in Layton. His next younger sister, Annie, had lived briefly in Cardston, Alberta around 1890 but Joseph’s comings and goings are unclear. It is apparent that in 1906, Sandall traded G. James Forsyth of Alberta for land that he (Sandall) still owned in Alberta. Sandall apparently wanted land near Loa, Utah. He died near there in 1916.
Source: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Malinda Barton
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Taylor, Joseph James & Malinda Jane Barton
Joseph J. Taylor (64), a son of John Taylor, former President of the Church, came from Manti, Utah to live in Magrath in 1902. He and Malinda J. Barton brought their 7 youngest (unmarried) children with them. Joseph had owned a furniture store in Manti. He farmed in Magrath.
Joseph’s 3 youngest sons (William, Paul, and Walter) were well known in Magrath for helping to establish the “Taylor Brother’s” farm, several miles southwest of town. The brothers, farmers and ranchers, raised Hereford cattle. Malinda’s sister, Sarah Poulsen, lived in Magrath and the two Barton sisters were said to be inseparable. So, the Taylor family moved to Magrath.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Taylor, Joseph James & Malinda Jane Barton
Joseph J. Taylor (64), a son of John Taylor, former President of the Church, came from Manti, Utah to live in Magrath in 1902. He and Malinda J. Barton brought their 7 youngest (unmarried) children with them. Joseph had owned a furniture store in Manti. He farmed in Magrath.
Joseph’s 3 youngest sons (William, Paul, and Walter) were well known in Magrath for helping to establish the “Taylor Brother’s” farm, several miles southwest of town. The brothers, farmers and ranchers, raised Hereford cattle. Malinda’s sister, Sarah Poulsen, lived in Magrath and the two Barton sisters were said to be inseparable. So, the Taylor family moved to Magrath.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
David Richard Toomer and Eliza Ann Matthews
1902, Pioneers of Magrath, Alberta, Canada.
Toomer, David Richard & Eliza Ann Matthews
Richard Toomer (30) came to Magrath from Liberty, Idaho in 1902. He and Eliza Ann Matthews brought their 5 children. They first lived in a tent and a granary. Richard worked on expanding the Irrigation system.
Eliza Ann subsequently served in the local presidency of the Relief Society (women’s organization of the Church) for 20 years. She cared for the sick and prepared the dead for burial. Both parents were noted for their compassionate service and good works.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023)
Toomer, David Richard & Eliza Ann Matthews
Richard Toomer (30) came to Magrath from Liberty, Idaho in 1902. He and Eliza Ann Matthews brought their 5 children. They first lived in a tent and a granary. Richard worked on expanding the Irrigation system.
Eliza Ann subsequently served in the local presidency of the Relief Society (women’s organization of the Church) for 20 years. She cared for the sick and prepared the dead for burial. Both parents were noted for their compassionate service and good works.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023)
Abe Wilde and Lou Chittenden family
1902, Early Pioneers of Magrath, AB, Canada.
Wilde, Abraham Marsh & Louisa Chittenden
Abe Wilde (45) came to Magrath from Provo, Utah in 1902. He and Lou Chittenden lived 5 miles west of where Welling soon would be. Their sons worked off-farm until it supported the family.
Louisa was “a lover of life,” who always seemed to have a cheery disposition. Abe soon became President of a newly created Branch of the Church. It was a time of coal-oil lamps, of no electricity, and of dark basements meant to keep food fresh and cool.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
Wilde, Abraham Marsh & Louisa Chittenden
Abe Wilde (45) came to Magrath from Provo, Utah in 1902. He and Lou Chittenden lived 5 miles west of where Welling soon would be. Their sons worked off-farm until it supported the family.
Louisa was “a lover of life,” who always seemed to have a cheery disposition. Abe soon became President of a newly created Branch of the Church. It was a time of coal-oil lamps, of no electricity, and of dark basements meant to keep food fresh and cool.
Sources: Irrigation Builders I (1974); FamilySearch (Nov 2023).
