JOHN C. DOW

    JOHN C. DOW, who died at his home, in Sunfield Township, July 11, 1904, was a man who ably upheld the honors of the name which he bore-a name long and prominently l inked with the annals of Eaton County, as indicated in the foregoing memorial tribute to his father. Mr. Dow was born in Seneca County, New York, April 30, 1837, and was but six months old at the time when his parents came to Michigan and took up their abode in the forests of Eaton County, where he was reared under the conditions and environments of the early pioneer epoch, assisting in the reclaiming of the homestead farm and duly taking advantage of the limited educational opportunities afforded in the district schools, which he attended principally through the winter terms. He was one of the argonauts who crossed the plains to California after the memorable discovery of gold, in 1849, and he remained in that state seven years, meeting with fair success and then returning to his home in Eaton County. In 1854 he came into possession of one hundred and fifty-four acres of land, in section 24, Sunfield Township, the same having been conveyed to him by dead from his father. On this place, which he developed into one of the model farms of the township and which was divided
between his widow and sons after his death, he continued to reside from the time of his marriage until he was summoned to the life eternal. He was an intense sufferer for many years prior to his demise, but bore his afflictions with utmost fortitude and resignation, ever showing the most gentle appreciation of the care bestowed upon him by his devoted wife and children and ever being indulgent and unselfish in the relations of the home life. He was a man of unbending integrity and commanded the unqualified regard of all who knew him. He was affiliated with the independent order of Odd Fellows and his political allegiance was given to the Republican party, though he never sought or held office. His widow still resides in the homestead residence, and is surrounded by a circle of real and loyal friends. July 3, 1870, Mr. Dow was united in marriage to Miss Harriet M. Bishop, who was born in Huron County, Ohio, December 7, 1845, being a daughter of Reuben and Sarah Ann (Gardner) Bishop, concerning whom more specific mention is made in the sketch of the life of their son Deloss, on another page of this volume. Mr. and Mrs. Dow became the parents of three children: Lessie, who was born May 14, 1873, became the wife of Albert Fay, of Sunfield township, where she died April 7, 1901, leaving no children; Clarence W., who was born September 4, 1885, and who owns and resides upon a portion of the old homestead farm, married Miss Nellie
Doyle, and they have two children, Clarence K. and Florence N.; J. Arthur, who was born April 5, 1881, and who likewise is a successful farmer of Sunfield Township, married Miss Mabel G. Wright, a daughter of Burdett Wright, of whom mention is made elsewhere in this work.