Histories

James Hazlet

Among the well known and highly respected farmers of Eden township is James Hazlet, who was born in Iroquois county, Illinois, December 10, 1871, of the marriage of Hugh D. and Margaret Ann (Graham) Hazlet. The father was born in Indiana on the 21st of January, 1822, of English and Scotch ancestry and the mother was a native of Ireland. In 1852 she emigrated to this country and on the 15th of December, 1857, was married at Oxford, Indiana. Hugh D. Hazlet was a farmer by occupation and owned land in Illinois, which he sold on his removal to Decatur county, Iowa. He purchased three hundred and twenty acres of land in Eiden township, this county, and was one of the most successful of the early residents of that township. He helped to organize the Church of Christ in his towship and the congregation for some time met in the old schoolhouse, as they had no church edifice. Politically he belonged to the greenback party and later to the democratic party. He passed away on the 16th of January, 1887, but his wife is still living upon the homestead at the age of eighty years. She is yet active and in full possession of her mental faculties and is highly honored by all who know her.

The last named attended school in district No. 1, Eden township, and as soon as he was old enough began to assist his father, thus gaining much profitable knowledge concerning agricultural work. He is still living upon the home farm with his mother and since his father's demise has had full control of the operation of the place, which comprises three hundred and twenty acres. He carries on general farming and stock-raising and sells many cattle and hogs annually to the shippers. He is both practical and progressive and his labors yield him a good financial return.

Mr. Hazlet is a democrat and has always taken much interest in public affairs, although he has never sought office. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Church of Christ of Eden township and his daily life testifies to the sincerity of his belief. He has won recognition as a capable and up-to-date farmer and all who have come in contact with him hold him in high esteem.