Thomas Charles Council was born in Logan county, Illinois, October 25, 1838. He was the third of six children born to Charles Council and Mary Culberson/Culbertson. By 1856 Thomas had moved with his family to Dallas County, Iowa. Except for the years of his military service, he remained in Dallas County for the rest of his life.

Thomas Charles enlisted in Company E of the 39th Iowa Infantry on August 15, 1862. His enlistment papers describe him as having dark eyes, dark hair, dark complexion, and a height of five feet seven 3/4 inches. He was detailed as a teamster, likely driving two-to-four mules that pulled the battery's baggage or forage wagons. Less than five months after his enlistment, Thomas was with the 39th Iowa Infantry near Parker's Crossroads, Tennessee. It was here, on December 31st, that Union forces battled General Nathan Bedford Forrest in their attempt to stop his expedition into West Tennessee. Thomas was captured and taken prisoner at Shady Grove, Tennessee on December 30, 1862. According to Thomas Jordan and J. P. Pryor's "The Campaigns of Liet.-Gen. N. B. Forrest" 120 officers and men were captured about seven miles east of Trenton. Their captor, Col. Biffle, "determined to rid himself of them by the expedient of the Parole. So, sending them with a flag of truce, under Captain John S. Grove, for the nearest Federal command..." We have yet to determine where Council spent the remainder of his enlistment until he was mustered out on June 5, 1865.

T. C. (as he became known) returned to Iowa where he married Elizabeth Orman in Greene County on December 16, 1866. He owned land, farmed, and raised a family in Dallas County. We know that watermelons were among the crops that he raised because on August 28, 1886 T. C. Council shot and killed Frank Marsh, one of several young men who had been stealing watermelons from his melon patch. T. C. was charged with manslaughter, stood trial, and was acquitted of the charge. "The Perry Advertiser" summarized the case by printing the following statement: "The taking of the life of one so young was regretted deeply--to no one more than he who took it. But the sober second thought of fair minded men found much in the aggravating circumstances to paliate the guilt of the prisoner called to the bar for justice, and long before the day of trial came many who had been loud and bitter in their denunciation at the first report of the deed, came to regard the chief actor in this tragedy with less horror and aversion. Night after night and week after week he had been harrassed by actual depredations and tormented by threats of intended ones until through loss of sleep and long continued vigilence he had lost in a degree that cooler judgment which would have directed a punishment less severe. And the aggravation was great. Upon the crop which was nightly pilfered he was dependent, to a large extent, for the means of supporting his family and the discharge of obligations which must be met."

Thomas Charles Council raised nine children with his wife Elizabeth (Jennie, James, Albert, Nettie, Cora Bell, Harriett, Neoma, Blanche and Mary. Two children, Elijah and Thomas Walter, died in infancy). T.C. named his wife the executrix of his estate in his will dated December 29, 1905. T.C. apparently suffered from an extended illness before passing away at age seventy-one on May 27, 1909. He is buried in Valley View Cemetery (formerly Crocker Cemetery) in Dallas County, Iowa.

1856 Iowa State Census Dallas Twp., Dallas County, Iowa, Pgs. 100-101, lines 30-37. LDS Family History Library Microfilm #1021295.

Thomas Council - 17 - M - 0 - 0 - 0 - 2 - Illinois - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 ...

1860 United States Census (Free Schedule), Spring Valley Twp., Dallas County, Iowa, p.532, lines 17-22. National Archives Microfilm, Roll 317.

Thomas Council - 21 - M - 0 - Farmer - 0 - 0 - Ill. - 0 - 0 - 1 - 0

1862 Abstract of Judgment, Vanmeter, James & James v Council, Council, Ewing & Council. Dallas County, Iowa Judgment docket, District No.1, p268. LDS Family History Library Microfilm #1034099.

Names of Parties = JR & H[?] Vanmeter, William James & Daniel James vs. Charles Council, Thomas C. Council, James L. Ewing & Mary Council
Date of Judgment = April 15, 1862
Date of Execution = June 20, 1862
Amt of Judgement = 584.37
Amt of Costs = 6.95
Date of Satisfaction = July 26, 1862 by sale of Real Estate to plff. Cole Noel, Clerk
Abstract of Judgment = Action on Note & Mortgage and Decree of foreclosure and Special Execution to issue against NE 1/4 of SE' of the NW Sec 8 & SE of SE' Sec 9 & N of the SE of the NW & the N of SW 1/4 of the NE 1/4 Sec 18 & the N of the NW & the SW of the NW 1/4 Sec 20 & the SE of the SE Sec 28 Township 81 N R 28 W 53 M.M

1862 Declaration of Recruit for Thomas Council, Des Moines, Iowa, September 1, 1862. Iowa State Archives, Rolls, Civil War, 39th Regiment, Cos. C-K, Box 52.

I, Thomas Counsel [sic] desiring to volunteer as a Soldier in the Army of the United States, for the term of Three years, do declare that I am twenty three years and [blank] months of age; that I have never been discharged from the United States service on account of disability or by sentence of a court-martial, or by order before the expiration of a term of enlistment; and I know of no impediment to my serving honestly and faithfully as a soldier for three years.
Given at Des Moins [sic] the first day of September 1867
Witness: Thomas Counsel [sic]
E
No. 11
Thomas Councel Volunteered at Rippey from dallas Co. Aug 15" 1862
By ....
39th Regiment of Iowa inft.
... enlistment; last served in Co. ( ) ... Regiment of ... Discharged ... 18
Thomas Council Rippey, Greene County, Iowa
Mustered into the U.S. service Sept 3d AD 1862

1862 Volunteer Enlistment for Thomas Council, Des Moines, Iowa, September 3, 1862. Iowa State Archives, Rolls, Civil War, 39th Regiment, Cos. C-K, Box 52.

State of Iowa town of [blank]
I, Thomas Counsel [sic] born in Logan County in the State of Illinois aged twenty three years, and by occupation a farmer, do hereby acknowledge to have volunteered this fifteenth day of August 1862, to serve as a soldier in the Army of the United States of America, for a period of three years, unless sooner discharged by proper authority. Do also agree to accept such bounty, pay, rations and clothing as are, or may be established by law for volunteers. And I, Thomas Counsel do solemnly swear that I will bear true and faithful allegiance to the United States of America, and that I will serve them honestly and faithfully against all their enemies or opposers whomsoever; and that I will observe and obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to the Rules and Articles of War.
Thomas Counsel [sic]
Sworn and subscribed to at Des Moines this [first - crossed out] third day of Sep 1862
Before J H Dykeman
I certify on honor, That I have minutely inspected the Volunteer, Thomas Counsel [sic] previously to his enlistment, and that he was entirely sober when enlisted; that, to the best of my judgment and belief, he is of lawful age; and that in accepting him as duly qualified to perform the duties of an able bodied soldier, I have strictly observed the Regulations which govern the recruiting service.
This soldier has dark eyes, dark hair, dark complexion, is five feet seven 3/4 inches high.
39th Regiment of Iowa Inft. Volunteers.
J H Dykeman
Second Lieutenant and Recruiting Officer.

1862 Return of Alterations [Left 1/2 of page] in Co. E, 39th Regiment Iowa Infantry, Capt. R.M. Rippey, from Nov 24th 1862 To December 31st 1862. Iowa State Archives, Rolls, Civil War, 39th Regiment, Cos. C-K, Box 52.

1862 Return of Alterations [Right 1/2 of page] in Co. E, 39th Regiment Iowa Infantry, Capt. R.M. Rippey, from Nov 24th 1862 To December 31st 1862. Iowa State Archives, Rolls, Civil War, 39th Regiment, Cos. C-K, Box 52.

Council Thomas - age=23 - Town=Rippey - County=Greene - State=Iowa - Nativity=Illinois - Rank=Private - Date of Enlistment = Aug 5th 1862 - Muster into US Service=Sept 3d 1862 - Promoted to=[blank] - missing - Dec 30th 1862 - Remarks= Taken prisoner at Shady Grove Tenn

1865 Muster-out Roll of late Captain John N. Coulter [transcript - original too large to photocopy] Iowa State Archives, Rolls, Civil War, 39th Regiment, Cos. C-K, Box 52.

Muster-out Roll of late Captain John N. Coulter, Company [E] in the 39th Regiment of Iowa Infantry volunteers, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Joseph M. Griffiths late[?] Col. Cumming's called into the service of the U.S. by the President at Camp Burnside, Des Moines Iowa, (the place of general rendezvous) on the 28th day of Sept. 1862 to serve for the term of three years, from the date of enrollment, unless sooner discharged from the thirty first day of August, 1864, (when last paid), to the 5th day of June, 1865 when mustered out by reason of expiration of term of service. This company was organized by Captain Robert M. Rippey at Rippey, Iowa in the month of August, 1862, and marched thence to Camp Burnside where it arrived the 28th day of Sept. 1862, a distance of fifty miles.

7, Thomas Council, 23, Aug 15, 1862, Rippey, Iowa J.N. Dykeman, 3 yrs, Sept. 3, 1862, Des Moines, Lt. Dykeman, Maj. Hale, Aug. 31, 1864, O, O, Aug 31, 186, 0, 0, 0, 0, 25, 75, Alton, Iowa, Detailed as teamster in Regimental DM Dept.

Muster Roll of Capt. John N. Coulters Co. E. of 39th Regiment of Iowa Infantry volunteers, United States Army, Col. H.J.B. Cunnings from the thirty first day of August 1864 when last mustered to thirty five day of Oct. 1864

Council, Thomas, Private, Aug 15, 1862, Rippey, Iowa J.H. Dykeman, 3 yrs, Sept. 3, 1862, Des Moines, Dykeman, 0, 0, 0, Detailed in Division Pioneer Corps., Nov 30, 1863, Gd descriptive roll.

Thomas C. Council Grand Army of the Republic Record, Dallas County, Iowa. LDS Family History Library microfilm #1205526.
Department of Iowa. Grand Army of the Republic
Veteran's name: Council, Thomas
Residence: [blank]
Occupation: Farmer, Perry, Iowa
Date birth: Oct 25 1834 Place: Logan Co., Ill.
Date death: My 27 1909 Place: Perry, Iowa
Cause: Crocker Cem., Wolf Hill Cem., Place burial: Spring Valley Twp., Dallas Co., Ia.
War record: Rank:Pvt. Company: E Regiment: 39 State: Iowa Organization: Inf.
Enlisted: Date: 15 Ag 1862 Place: [blank]
Discharged: Date: [blank] Place: [blank]
War: [blank}
Battles, etc. [blank]
Nearest relatives: Father: [blank] Nativity: [blank] Mother: [blank] Nativity: [blank] Wife: [blank] Children
Sources: Roster Ia. Soldiers: Counsel, Thomas. Application Paper Post 25 signed Thos. rewritten Council Offices of honor in G.A.R. [blank]
Year: [blank] Date Paid: [blank] Amount: [blank] Member-at-Large
Suspended: [blank] Died [blank]
Record Membership and Dues Paid
Post name: Refield Sus. 1st trm '94 Post No. 26 (84) Place: Perry Date Joined: 9 Ja 1884 age 43
Year: [blank] Date Paid: [blank] Amount: [blank] Year: [blank] Date Paid: [blank] Amount: [blank]
Roster of Post #26: b. Oct 25, 1840; Died My 27 1909; buried Crocker Cem.

1866 Marriage license application for Thomas Council and Elizabeth Orman, December 13, 1866 (solemnized December 16, 1866), Greene County, Iowa. Greene County Marriage Record Book [#?], p. 61. Iowa Genealogical Society microfilm. December 13th 1866}
Application for}
Marriage License}
By}
Thomas Council}
and}
Elizabeth Orman:}

On the application of the aprties and the court being satisfied that they are of lawful age and condition for marriage Therefore Marriage License are issued them.

December 25th 1866
Now comes E. Rhinehart as Justice of the Peace and files in certificate which the following is a coppy [sic]

I hereby certify that I did on the 16th day of December 1866 Solemnize the marriage of Thomas Council and Elizabeth Orman.
E. Rhinehart, J.P.
A correct record
A. Anderson, County Judge

1870 United States Census (Free Schedule), Dallas Township, Dallas County, Iowa, p.8, family 60, dwelling 62, lines 38-40, June 21, 1870. National Archives Microfilm Series M593, Roll 385, Page 550.

Council, Thomas - 28 - M - W - works on farm - 0 - 800 - Ill - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 1 - 1 - 0 - 1 - 0
Council, Elizabeth - 25 - F - W - keeping house - 0 - 0 - Ill - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 1 - 1 - 0 - 0
Council, Jane - 5 - F - W - 0 - 0 - 0 - Iowa - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0

1879 Biographical Entry for T.C. Council. The History of Dallas County, Iowa containing a History of the County, its Cities, Towns, &c. (Des Moines: Union Historical Co., 1879), p.645.

Council, T. C., farmer, Sec. 1; P.O. Perry

1880 United States Census (Free Schedule), Dallas Township, Dallas County, Iowa, E.D. No.46, p. 52; family 118, dwelling 110. National Archives Microfilm Series [?].

Council, T.C. - W - M - 39 - 0 - 0 - 1 - 0 - Farmer 1 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - Ill - NC - KY
Council, E. - W - F - 36 - 0 - wife - 0 - 1 - 0 - keeping house - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - Ind - Tenn - Ind
Council, Jennie - W - F - 11 - 0 - dau - 1 - 0 - 0 - at school - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 1 - 0 - 0 - Iowa - Ill - Ind
Council, James - W - M - 10 - 0 - son - 1 - 0 - 0 - at school - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 1 - 0 - 0 - Iowa - Ill - Ind
Council, Albert - W - M - 8 - 0 - son - 1 - 0 - 0 - at school - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 1 - 0 - 0 - Iowa - Ill - Ind
Council, Nettie - W - F - 6 - 0 - daugh - 1 - 0 - 0 - at school - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 1 - 0 - 0 - Iowa - Ill - Ind
Council, Cora B - W - F - 3- 0 - daugh - 1 - 0 - 0 - at home - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 1 - 0 - 0 - Iowa - Ill - Ind
Council, H M - W - F - 2 - 0 - daugh - 1 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - Iowa - Ill - Ind

1885 Iowa State Census (continued), Dallas County, Iowa; dwelling 8, family 10, lines 1-10, p.2. LDS Family History Library microfilm #1021458.

Thomas Council - Residence: Twp 81 - Range 29 - Section 1 - Subdivision: S.E. S.E. - age in 1884: 46 - Sex: Male - Color: [blank] - Married - Profession: Farmer - Birth: Illinois - Parentage: Father N [Native/Foreign] - Mother N - Entitled to vote Y

Elizabeth Council - Residence: Twp 81 - Range 29 - Section 1 - Subdivision: S.E. S.E. - age in 1884: 39 - Sex: Female - Color: [blank] - Married - Profession: keeping house - Birth: Indiana - Parentage: Father N [Native/Foreign] - Mother N - Entitled to vote [blank]

Jennie Council - Residence: Twp 81 - Range 29 - Section 1 - Subdivision: S.E. S.E. - age in 1884: 16 - Sex: Female - Color: [blank] - Single - Profession: keeping house - Birth: Green [sic] Co., Iowa - Parentage: Father [blank] [Native/Foreign] - Mother [blank] - Entitled to vote [blank]

James Council - Residence: Twp 81 - Range 29 - Section 1 - Subdivision: S.E. S.E. - age in 1884: 14 - Sex: Male - Color: [blank] - Single - Profession: keeping house - Birth: Dallas Co., Iowa - Parentage: Father [blank] [Native/Foreign] - Mother [blank] - Entitled to vote [blank]

Albert Council - Residence: Twp 81 - Range 29 - Section 1 - Subdivision: S.E. S.E. - age in 1884: 12 - Sex: Male - Color: [blank] - Single - Profession: [blank] - Birth: Dallas Co., Iowa - Parentage: Father [blank] [Native/Foreign] - Mother [blank] - Entitled to vote [blank]

Annttie [sic] Council - Residence: Twp 81 - Range 29 - Section 1 - Subdivision: S.E. S.E. - age in 1884: 10 - Sex: Female - Color: [blank] - Single - Profession: [blank] - Birth: Dallas Co., Iowa - Parentage: Father [blank] [Native/Foreign] - Mother [blank] - Entitled to vote [blank]

Cora Bell Council - Residence: Twp 81 - Range 29 - Section 1 - Subdivision: S.E. S.E. - age in 1884: 8 - Sex: Female - Color: [blank] - Single - Profession: [blank] - Birth: Dallas Co., Iowa - Parentage: Father [blank] [Native/Foreign] - Mother [blank] - Entitled to vote [blank]

Hattie M. Council - Residence: Twp 81 - Range 29 - Section 1 - Subdivision: S.E. S.E. - age in 1884: 6 - Sex: Female - Color: [blank] - Single - Profession: [blank] - Birth: Dallas Co., Iowa - Parentage: Father [blank] [Native/Foreign] - Mother [blank] - Entitled to vote [blank]

Naoma [sic] E. Council - Residence: Twp 81 - Range 29 - Section 1 - Subdivision: S.E. S.E. - age in 1884: 3 - Sex: Female - Color: [blank] - Single - Profession: [blank] - Birth: Dallas Co., Iowa - Parentage: Father [blank] [Native/Foreign] - Mother [blank] - Entitled to vote [blank]

Dianna B. Council - Residence: Twp 81 - Range 29 - Section 1 - Subdivision: S.E. S.E. - age in 1884: 0 - Sex: Female - Color: [blank] - Single - Profession: [blank] - Birth: Dallas Co., Iowa - Parentage: Father [blank] [Native/Foreign] - Mother [blank] - Entitled to vote [blank]

1886 - "Charged with Murder", "Charged with Murder" (cont.), The Perry Advertiser, Saturday, September 4, 1886, p.3. Iowa Historical Society Library microfilm.

On Sabbath last our people were startled by the report that a man had been shot and killed on the night previous within a few miles of the city limits. Information was filed Aug. 29 by Jesse Marsh before squire Chappelear, to the effect that his son, Frank, had been killed by Thos. Council. A warrant was issued and served by constable Willis and Council was brought to town. A preliminary examination was had and upon application of the prisoner the case was held over until the 11th of Sept. Bonds to the amount of $1,500 were given with D. J. Pattee and P. A. Mourer as bondsmen. The following report of the proceedings is taken from squire Chappelear's books.

An inquisition heldeth[?] over the dead body of Frank Marsh, before H. A. Chappelear, Justice of the Peace in and for Spring Valley township, Dallas county, Iowa.

Be it remembered that on this 29th day of August, 1886, notice having been given me that the dead body of one Frank Marsh was lying in the house of Tom Council, in Dallas township, Dallas county, Ia., who is supposed to have come to his death by unlawful means, and it appeared to me that the Coroner of Dallas county, Ia., is absent on [sic] so far distant from said body that he would be unable to act in this case, owing to the hot season of the year that was prevailing at the time of deceased's death, wherefore I issued a summons for three electors of said county, to act as jurors to hold an inquisition over the dead body of the deceased, placed said summons in the hands of D. Willis, Constable, for service, said summons returned, showing the following names to serve as jurors in this case: A. E. Willis, H. Hall and F. M. Hoeye; whereupon I called the following named physicians: Dr. E. R. Aiken, P. A. Mourer and Z. Leonard. The jurors having been sworn by me to hold said inquest according to law, after which the aforsaid physicians were sworn to make a true examination by post-mortem upon the body of said deceased, and report in writing to said jurors the result of their examination. Said physicians made examination by post-mortem. It being impossible to procure further evidence on this 29th day of August, 1886, I therefore adjourned the case until the 30th day of August, 1886 at 9 o'clock a.m. to meet in my office, in the city of Perry, Iowa, for further examination of witnesses in this case. I issued a subpoena for the following named witnesses to appear before said jurors on the 30th day of August, 1886; J. S. Cooper, John Morrison, Geo. Marsh, J. H. Wilcox, J. M. Morgan. Now, on the 30th day of August, 1886, said jurors met pursuant to adjournment. Witnesses testified in this case, under oath, to said jurors, which testimony was reduced to writing. The aforesaid physicians appeared before the aforesaid jurors handed in their report to said jurors under oath - as follows:

Dr. E. R. Aiken, Zenas Leonard and P. A. Mourer on oath depose and say each for himself that we made a post-mortem examination upon the body of one Frank Marsh, lying dead in the home of Tom Council residing in Dallas tp., in Dallas county, Iowa on the 28th day of Aug. A D. '86. That we have came [sic] to the conclusion that the said Frank Marsh came to his death from hemmorrhage caused by gun shot wounds. We and each of us having been practicing physicians in county of Dallas for the past 15 years.
E. R. Aiken, M.D.
Zenas Leonard,
P. A. Mourer.

Subscribed and sworn to by E. A. Aiken, Z. Leonard and P. A. Mourer, before me on this 30th day of Aug. A. D. 1886
Norris Brown,
Notary Public, Dallas County

The said jurors after hearing the evidence of said witnesses, rendered the following verdict:
Sate of Iowa,} SS
Dallas County}
At an inquisition held at the residence of Thos. Council, in Dallas township, Dallas county, on the 29th day of Aug. 1886, and adjourned and conintued on the 30th day of Aug. 1886, at the office of H. A. Chappelear, in Perry, Iowa, before H. A. Chappelear, J.P., acting Coroner of said county upon the body of Frank Marsh, there lying dead, by the jurors, whose names are hereto subscribed. The said jurors, upon their oaths, do say that on or about the 28th day of Aug. 1886, the said Frank Marsh came to his death by reason of gun shot wounds inflicted by a shot gun in the hands of Thos. Council

In testimony whereof the said jurors, now hereto set their hands on the 30th day of Aug. 1886
H. Hall,
A. E. Willis
F. M. Hoeye
Attest: H. A. Chappelear, Justice of the Peace.

The deceased in company with seven others was taking watermelons from the field of the prisoner on the night of the terrible tragedy.

The case being called again on yesterday the defendant waived preliminary examinaton and gave bonds in the sum of $25,000 for his appearance at the October term of the District Court.

1886 - "Local and Otherwise", The Perry Advertiser, Saturday, September 11, 1886, p.3. Iowa Historical Society Library microfilm.

When the Council shooting case is called at the October term of court Messrs. Cardell & Shortly will appear for the accused and Mr. Norris Brown for the state.

1886 - "Council's Acquittal", The Perry Advertiser, Saturday, November 6, 1886, p.3. Iowa Historical Society Library microfilm.

The trial of Thomas Council, charged with manslaughter, occupied the Court at Adel during the greater part of last week. The verdict found was a surprise to but few, if any, who heard the testimony, or were at all conversant with the facts connected with the sad affair which was the occasion of the trial just closed. The attorneys on both sides are credited with conducting the case with marked ability and the pleas made, both for the prisoner and the State, are ranked among the most eloquent ever heard at the county seat of justice. But the case did not need the eloquence of the attorneys to make it a memorable one in the history our county.

The taking of the life of one so young was regretted deeply - by no one more than he who took it. But the sober second thought of fair minded men found much in the aggravating circumstances to paliate the guilt of the prisoner called to the bar of justice, and long before the day of trial came many who had been loud and bitter in their denunciation at the first report of the dead, came to regard the chief actor to this tragedy with less horror and aversion. Night after night and week after week he had been harrassed by actual depredations and tormented by threats of intended ones until through loss of sleep and long contiumed vigilence he had lost in a degree that cooler judgment which would have directed a punishment less severe. And the aggravation was great. Upon the crop which was nightly pilfered he was dependent, to a large extent, for the means of supporing his family and the discharge of obligations which must be met. Is there not danger that in the well meant sympathy felt for the victim of this unfortunate affair we may loose sight of the important lesson which the circumstances of his death should emphasize?

There is an idea, far too common, especially among men and boys, that small things, especially apples and melons and grapes and nuts are the common property of the community in which they grow and the legitimate booty of those whose daring may capture them. Those who hold this communistic idea uniformly rate as mean and small the man who having labored long and late to secure these trifles objects to their distribution in a manner which would be entirely satisfactory to themselves. The verdict found by the jury in the case just tried contains a lesson which many boys of to-day [sic], and not a few boys of other days, need to learn thoroughly and frequently to review. "Thou shalt not steal" is a command which covers watermelon patches as well as treaury vaults and money tills. And while we regret the severity of the punishment which in this case fell upon one no more guilty, perhaps, than many others, let us not overlook the wholesmoe lesson it teaches nor allow it to pass from our minds.

1886 - Appearance Docket for State of Iowa vs Thomas Council, Continued, Dallas County, Iowa, District Court, Appearance Docket Book 4, Case no. 480, p.96. LDS Family History Library microfilm #1034085.

No. of case = 480 C
Parties to Suit: The State of Iowa vs Thos. Council
Attorneys: Dist Attorney, Cardell & Shortley
FRE Book: No.7 Page 9
Return of original notice: murder manslaughter

[The following entries fall under these headings] Date of Filing Instrument - Instrument Filed - Date of Proceedings - Proceedings in Case - Where Entry Made

Sept 29, 1886 - Papers from J.P. - Oct 18, 1886 - Deft appears by Cardell & S & waives change to G.J. - C.R. 6-118

Oct 22, 1886 - Indictment - Oct 26, 1886 - Deft waives arraignment says he is indicted by his true name pleads not guilty. Jury empaneled & trail begun - C.R. 6-145

Oct 25, 1886 - Notice of Introduction of witnesses

Oct 29, 1886 - Application for order for payment of Deft witnesses - Oct 27, 1886/ Oct. 28, 1886 - Trial continued - C.R. 5-151/C.R. 6 -155

Oct 30, 1886 - Verdict of Jury - Oct 29, 1886 - Trial concluded jury retire - C.R. 6-156

Oct 3[0], 1886 - Reporter Notes - Oct 30, 1886 - Jury return verdict of not guilty - C.R. 6-157

1886 - Death in a Melon Patch (1886), A Town Called Perry: Midwest Life in Small-town Iowa by Marjorie Patterson (Perry, Iowa: Fullhart-Carnegie Museum Trust, c1997) pgs. 144-146.

Perry people were startled on Sunday morning, August 29, 1886, to hear the report that Thomas Council had shot and killed a man in his melon patch.

Council lived two and a half miles directly west of Perry and made a specialty of raising garden truck of all kinds. He also had a large melon patch. Council had had a melon patch in 1885, but before the melons were ripe the "boys" made a raid on it, pulling up the vines and stacking them. Council resolved to keep watch during the night the next season and, for that reason, lanterns were placed on poles in different parts of the patch and he and his help kept watch with a loaded shotgun.

About midnight that Saturday, eight young men decided to go after Council's melons. A cornfield was on the north side of the patch, so they entered the patch from there. Council saw them and made a rush. The last one to go was Frank Marsh and when Council was within thirty steps of him, he fired. Marsh yelled "Murder!" Council called a halt and fired again. Marsh fell after going a few steps.

All left except for George Marsh, the victim's brother. Council called J.B. Wilcox for help. Marsh was carried into Council's house where he died about twenty-five minutes later. Doctor Mowrer was sent for but did not arrive in time.

Squire Chappelear summoned a coronoer's jury and Drs. Aiken, Leonard and Mowrer made a post mortem examination which showed sixty-three shots had penetrated his body, mostly through the back.

An injuncton was sworn out charging Council with murder. Constable Dave Willis made the arrest. Squire Chappelear, knowing the circumstances, placed bond at $1,000 and set September 11 for the preliminary hearing.

Council secured bond and was at liberty until Thursday night, September 2, when word was received from the county attorney that the first information was worthless as it failed to specify a crime. A new information was filed and Council was arrested again by Constable Thornburg.

Public sentiment was divided over the shooting. Council was said to be a good neighbor and an industrious man. Rumors were thick Wednesday night September 1, that Marsh's friends were going to take matters into their own hands, so Council came to town and put himself under the care of Constable Willis.

Council was indicted by the Grand Jury for manslaughter on October 29, 1886. Council was defended by Henry Cardell and John Shortley. The address to the jury by prosecutor Williams was said to have been one of the best heard in the court room, but he could not claim laurels against the addresses made by Cordell and Shortley.

The trial occupied nearly the whole week. On the 30th, after being out for about twenty-four hours, the jury returned a verdict of not guilty.

1898 Clipping The Perry Chief Reporter, Perry, Iowa (29 Sep 1898). Courtesy Merrill J. Price.

Thos. Council. east of town. has painted his farm residence and added greatly to its beauty.

1900 United States Census (Free Schedule), Dallas Township, Dallas County, Iowa, S.D. No.80, E.D. No.7, Sheet No.4; family 82, dwelling 82. National Archives Microfilm Series [?].

Council, C.T. [sic] - head - W - M - Oct - 1838 - 61 - M - 33 - 0 - 0 - Illinois - Ohio - Ohio - 0 - 0 - 0 - Farmer - o - 0 - yes - yes - yes - O - F - F - 37

Council, Elizabeth - wife - W - F - May - 1845 - 53 - M - 33 - 11 - 8 - Indiana - Tennessee - Indiana - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - yes - yes - yes - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0

Council, James - son - W - M - May - 1870 - 30 - S - 0 - 0 - 0 - Iowa - Illinois - Indiana - 0 - 0 - 0 - farm laborer - o - 0 - yes - yes - yes - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0

Council, Albert - son - W - M - Mar - 1872 - 28 - S - 0 - 0 - 0 - Iowa - Illinois - Indiana - 0 - 0 - 0 - farm laborer - o = 0 - yes - yes - yes - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0

Council, Hattie M - Daughter - W - F - July - 1878 - 21 - S - 0 - 0 - 0 - Iowa - Illinois - Indiana - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - yes - yes - yes - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0

Council, Neoma E - Daughter - W - F - Dec - 1881 - 18 - S - 0 - 0 - 0 - Iowa - Illinois - Indiana - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - yes - yes - yes - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0

Council, Diana B - Daughter - W - F - July - 1884 - 15 - S - 0 - 0 - 0 - Iowa - Illinois - Indiana - 0 - 0 - 0 - At School - 0 - 9 - yes - yes - yes - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0

Council, Mary A - Daughter - W - F - Nov - 1887 - 12 - S - 0 - 0 - 0 - Iowa - Illinois - Indiana - 0 - 0 - 0 - At School - 0 - 9 - yes - yes - yes - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0

1905 Will of Thomas C. Council, 29 December 1905 (recorded 31 August 1909) Dallas County, Iowa, Will Records 1851-1911, Volume 2, pages 516-517. LDS Family History Library Microfilm #1034103.

Last Will and Testament of Thomas C. Council.
Know all men by these presents:
That I, Thomas C. Council, being of full age, and sound disposing mind and memory, do make publish and declare this to be my last Will and Testament in manner and form as follows:
1st - It is my wish and I hereby direct that all my funeral expenses and just debts be first paid.
2nd - I hereby give, devise and bequeath to my following named children, Jennie Lee, Nellie Cros [sic], Cora Buck, Harriet M. Gardner, Elizabeth N. Lewis, Blanche Council, Mary E. Council, Jane Council and Albert Council share and share alike all real-estate of which I may die seized, subject only to the life estate as set out in division there hereof.
3rd. I hereby give and devise and bequeath to my wife Elizabeth Council, to be held by her during the term of her natural life only, all real estate described in Division Two hereof.
4th. I hereby give and bequeath to my wife absolutely all personal property of whatsoever kind and description of which I am the owner at the date of my death.
5th - I hereby nominate and appoint my wife Elizabeth Council Executrix of this my last Will and Testament, and direct that she be permitted to act as such Executrix without bond.
Witness my hand this 29th day of December, 1905
Thomas C. (his X mark) Council

We hereby certify that on the 29th day of December 1905 that Thomas C. Council, declared to us that the above and foregoing presence and in the presence of each other signed the same as said last Will and Testament, and that we three in his presence, and in the presence of each other at his request signed the same as witness to this his last will and testament
L. B. Thornburg
Fred G. Clarke

[Page 517} Proof of Will
State of Iowa, Dallas County ss
I M. J. Graham, Clerk of the District Court in and for said County, do hereby certify that on this day, at the August Term, A.D. 1909 of said Court, the Will and Instrument in writing hereunto annexed [?] bearing date on the 29th day of December, A.D. 1905, was duly proved before and allowed by said Court as and for the last Will and Testament of Thomas C. Council, late of said County, deceased, and was by said Court ordered to be recorded as such Will and Testament, and Elizabeth Council was appointed as Executrix without bond.

In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at my office in Adel in said County, this 31st day of August, A.D. 1909.
M J. Graham, Clerk
By Ralph E. Joy, Deputy

1909 - "Thomas C. Council", The Perry Advertiser, May 31, 1909. Iowa Historical Society Library microfilm.

The funeral of Thomas C. Council was held Sunday from the home on the farm west of Perry, death coming to him after a long illness, through which he bore patiently the affliction which came to him. Friends and family joined in making his declining days as free from care and as pleasant as possible. To the family in their bereav[e]ment comes the sympathy of many frinds, who knew Mr. council well during his life.

He was born in Logan county, Illinois, October 25, 1838, and died May 27, 1909, being 71 years, 7 months and 2 days old. Rev. Treloar of the Baptist church spoke the words of hope and comfort to the family and many friends who gathered at the home yesterday and who followed the remains to their last resting place in Crocker [Valley View] cemetery.

In 1854, after his young boyhood in Illinois, the family moved to Warren county, Iowa. He became a member of Co. E. of the 39th regiment of Iowa infratry in 1862 and gave three years of service to his country. In December 1866 he was united in marriage to Elizabeth Orman and to their union eleven children were born, two of them dying in infancy. the nine remaining to comfort the wife and mother, are Mrs. William Lee, Perry; James Council, Perry; Albert Council; Mrs. Alvin Cross, Perry; Mrs. Ozro Buck, Hesperia, Michigan; Mrs. Ed. Gardiner, Perry; Mrs. Will Lewis, Dawson; Mrs. Harry Bolle, Perry; Mrs. George Pantier, Perry. Two sisters, Mrs. John Wyett and Mrs. Jesse Thornton, and one brother John Council, together with twelve grandchildren, are in the circle of relatives who morn a kind and loving husband, father and friend.

He had been ill since January and at times it was thought the end was near, yet with all the years of a well lived life to bear him up against the inroads of sickness, he fought until the last to stay with those he loved and cherished.

1909 Probate records of Thomas C. Council, 2 June 1909 - 11 October 1909 (filed 14 October 1909), Dallas County, Iowa. Probate Records, Volume 48, pages 27-31. LDS Family History Library Microfilm #1605663.

Proof of Publication, Notice of Probate of Will
State of Iowa}
Dallas County} ss.
To all whom it may concern:
Whereas on the 2d day of June A.D. 1909 a paper proporting to be the last Will and testament of Thomas C. Council late of said county, deceased, was filed in my office and was by me opened, and read, and the 31st day of August, 1909 at 1:30 o'clock p.m. appointed and fixed as the time when the same will came before the Court, at the August term then to be held for final proof and probate as the duly executed last will and testament of the said Thomas C. Council deceased, at which time all persons interested may appear and show cause why same should not be admitted to probate.
June 4-11-18[?]
M.J. Graham
Clerk of said District Court

I Scott Snyder manager of the Perry Daily Chief a daily newspaper printed and published at Perry, Dallas County, Iowa do certify that the attached Notice of Probate of Will was published in said newspaper in one issue each week for these consecutive weeks commencing June 4/1909 and ending June 18/1909.
Scott Snyder
Subscribed and worn to before me by Scott Snyder the 14 day of Aug. 1909
S. M. Thornley
Notary Public in and for
Dallas County, Iowa
Printers Fee $6.00
Field Aug. 17" 1909
M.H. Graham
Clerk

Probate of Will
Last Will and Testament of Thomas Council Deceased

Be it remembered that on the 2d day of June A.D. 1909 there was filed in the office of the Clerk of the District Court of Dallas County, Iowa, an instrument in writing proporting to be the last will and testament of Thomas C. Council [?] August - 31st 1909 was set as the time when the same should come on for hearing. [Page 28] And now on this 31st dayof August 1909 the same being the first in[?] day of the August 1909 term of said Court, the foregoing last Will and Testament of Thomas C. Council came on for hearing and it appearing to the Court, that due and legal notice by publication has been given of such hearing and the Court having heard the evidence of L.B. Thornburg one of the subscribing witnesses to said will and being fully advised in the premises find that at the date of said Will the said Thomas C. Council was of sound disposing mind and memory and that said Will was duly and legally executed.

It is therefore ordered by the Court that the said Last Will of Thomas C. Council deceased, be and the same is hereby admitted to probate and Clerk of this Court is hereby directed to Record the same in the record of Dallas County, Iowa.
And Elizabeth Council is appointed as Executrix without bond as provided in said Will.
J.H. Applegate
Judge
Filed August 31" 1909
M. J. Graham, Clerk
by Ralph E. Joy, Dep.

(Duplicate)
Letters Testamentary

State of Iowa}
Dallas Count} ss
District Court
To all Whom these presents shall come - Greeting

Know ye that whereas Thomas C. Council died on or about the 27" day of May A.D. 1909 having left a last Will and Testament which nominated Elizabeth Council of said County, Executrix of the same, without bond and the said Testator having at the time of his decease personal property and effects in this state which may be destroyed or diminished in value if speedy care be not taken of the same. To the end that said property and effects be collected and preserved I do hereby commission the said Elizabeth Council as Executrix of all and singular the goods, chattels, rights, credits, and effects which were of the said Thomas C. Council estate at the time of his decease with full power and authority to secure and collect the said property and debts wheresoever the same may be found in this State, and in general to do and perform all other acts which now are or hereafter may be required of his by law.

In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the seal of said District Court at my office in Adel, Iowa this 6" day of Oct 1909.
M. J. Graham
Clerk District Court (Seal)

[Page 29]
Oath of Executor

State of Iowa}
Dallas County} ss
I, Elizabeth Council do solemnly swear that I will well and truly administer all and singular the goods and chattels, rights, credits and effects of Thomas C. Council deceased, and pay all just claims and charges against his estate so far as his assets shall extend, and that I will perform all other acts now or hereafter required by law, to the best of my knowledge and ability.
Elizabeth Council
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 11th day of Oct A.D. 1909
L.B. Thornburg
Notary Public in and for
Dallas County Iowas (Seal)

Order of Notice
To Elizabeth Council.
Executrix of Thomas C. Council deceased you are hereby required to give notice of your appointment by posting three public notices thereof: one of which shall be on the south front door of the Court House in Adel, Dallas County, Iowa, and the others in two public places in the vicinity where the deceased last resided.
Witness my hand and seal this 6" day of Oct. 1909 at Adel, Dallas County, Iowa
M. J. Graham,
Clerk (Seal)
Filed Oct 14" 1909
M. J. Graham, Clerk

Proof of Posting
Adminstrators Notice
Notice is hereby given to all persons interested that on the 6th day of Oct A.D. 1909 the undersigned was appointed by the District Court of Dallas County Iowa, Executrix of the estate of Thomas C. Council deceased late of said County all persons indebted to said estate will make payment to the undersigned and those having claims against the same will present them legally authenticated to said Court for allowances dated at Perry Dallas County, Iowa on the 11" day of October A.D. 1909
Elizabeth Council
Executrix
Filed Oct. 14" 1909 M. J. Graham
Clerk

[Page 30]
State of Iowa, }
Dallas County, } ss.
I Elizabeth Council Executrix hereby certify and claim that I posted a copy of the within notice at those public places in Dallas County as follows:
One at the Court House door another at Cor 2d and Worford Sts Perry Iowa and a third at corner of Willis Ave and 2d Sts Perry Ia. Elizabeth Council
Executrix
Filed Oct 14" 1909
M. J. Graham
Clerk

Inventory
State of Iowa}
Dallas Co.} In the Matter of the Estate of Thomas Council Deceased

The following is a full and perfect Inventory of all the Personal Estate of said deceased, so far as the same has come to the possession or knowledge of the undersigned Executrix of the Estate of Florence [sic] C. Council deceased.

List of Property set apart to widow being exempt from Execution
Two horses
Wagon harness and farm machinery
Household and kitchen furniture
One organ
6 swarms bees
100 bushels corn
Beds and bedding

General Assets of Personal Property
Two cows
Cash on hand $1200.00

The foregoing is a full correct and complete Inventory of the Personal Estate of said deceased so far as the same has come to the possession or knowledge of the undersigned in Execution of the estate of said deceased. Dated this 11th day of Oct 1909.
Elizabeth Council
Subscribed in my presence and sworn to before and by Elizabeth Council on the 11 day of Oct 1909 (Seal)
L. B. Thornburg, Notary Public
in and for Dallas County Iowa
Filed Oct 14" 1909 M. J. Graham, Clerk

[Page 31] List of Heirs and Description of Real Estate
To the District Court of Dallas County:

The undersigned Executrix of the Estate of Thomas C. Council Deceased, would respectfully report as follows, to wit:

Name of Deceased & date of death = Thomas C. Council, May 27" 1909
[the following entries appear in a table with the following column headings: Names of Widow & heirs -- Age -- Residence -- Description of Real Estate -- Sec -- Twp -- Range -- acres]

Elizabeth Council -- 64 -- Perry, Iowa -- SE 1/4, SE 1/4 -- 1 -- 81 -- 29 -- 40
Jennie Lee -- 41 -- Perry, Iowa -- [blank] -- Dallas Co.
James Council -- 39 -- Perry, Iowa -- S 1/2, SE 1/4 -- 18 -- 82 -- 28 -- 80
Albert Council -- 37 -- Perry, Iowa -- [blank] -- Boone Co.
Nettie Cross -- 35 -- Perry, Iowa -- [blank]
Cora Buck -- 33 -- Heisper[?], Mich -- [blank]
Harriett M. Gardner -- 31 -- Perry, Iowa -- [blank}
Neoma E. Lewis -- 28 -- Dawson, Iowa -- [blank]
Dianna B. Bolle -- 25 -- Perry, Iowa -- [blank]
Mary A. Pantier -- 22 -- Perry, Iowa -- [blank]

State of Iowa }
Dallas County } ss
I, Elizabeth Council do solemnly swear that the foregoing is a true and correct list of the names, ages, and residence of the heirs of the estate of Thomas C. Council late, deceased.
Elizabeth Council
Executrix
Sworn to before me and subscribed in my presence this 11th day of October A.D. 1909
L. B. Thornburg
(Seal) Notary Public in and for
Dallas County, Iowa
Filed Oct. 14" 1909
M. J. Graham
Clerk

Name: Council Thomas -- 7792
Certificate No. 1097716 -- army invalid -- Law: Act June 27, 1890
Service: P. E 39 Ia Inf.
Rate = 12 -- Date of Commencement = 5 Dec 1906 -- Date of Certificate = 10 Jan 1907 -- Class = Died = May 27, 1909

Class = Reis - Rate = 15 - Date of Commencement = 28 Oct 1908 - Date of certificate = 10 Dec 1908 - Accrued Pension Order Dated = July 21, 1909

Payable to = Elizabeth Council, wd - Ctf. not file 7/28/09

Council, Elizabeth - head - F - W - 64 - W - 11 - 9 0 - Indiana - Tennessee - Indiana - 0 - 0 - English - Own [?] - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - yes - yes - 0 - 0 - F - F - 100 - 0 - 0 - 0

Council, James - son - M - W - 40 - S - 0 - 0 - 0 - Iowa - Illinois - Indiana - 0 - 0 - English - Farm labor - home farm - W - No - 0 - yes - yes - 0 - [check mark] - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 0

Final Report & Petition for Discharge
The State of Iowa } ss. In the District Court of Said County
Dallas County } November Term 1910

In the matter of the Estate of Thomas C. Council Deceased comes now Elizabeth Council Executirx under the will of said Estate, and reports as her doing herein since the 6th day of October 1909 the date of her last report as follow to wit

Total cash received ................ $1200.00
Total amt paid out expenses ........... $618.74
Paid to Elizabeth Council as per Will . $581.26

All of which is more particularly set forth in the cash account hereto attached.
Dated this 10th day of October 1910
Elizabeth Council
Subscribed and sworn to by Elizabeth Council before this 10th Oct 1910
L. B. Thornburg
(Seal) Notary Public
Dallas County, Iowa

[Page 388]
Debit Account
To cash on hand at date of last report ..... $1200.00
None other but exempt property .............
Total ...................................... $1200.00

[The following information is displayed in a ledger format with three column headings: Date, Credit Account, Amount.
May 29, 1909 - By cash paid R. S. Cross, voucher No. 1 - 5.00
May 31, 1909 - By cash paid Phillips O'Mally T Co., voucher No. 2 - 79.50
May 31, 1909 - By cash paid E.A. Lester, voucher No. 3 - 24.00
May 31, 1909 - By cash paid Rev. J.E. Trelvar[?], voucher No. 4 - 5.00
June 7, 1909 - By cash paid Dr. W. P. Mowrer, voucher No. 5 - 282.00
Aug 28, 1909 - By cash paid C. D. Oldhaus, voucher No. 6 - 138.00
March 30, 1909 - By cash paid Dr. Walston, no voucher - 28.00
march 30, 1909 - By cash paid Taxes 1909, no voucher - 50.49
Aug 31, 1909 - By cash paid M. J. Graham, voucher No. 9 - 6.75
Aug 31, 1909 - By cash paid Bal of Court cost - 3.00
Aug 31, 1909 - By cash paid Elizabeth Council as provided by terms of will - 581.26
[total] - 1200.00
Balance on hand - none

Petition for Discharge
State of Iowa } In the District Court of Said County
Dallas County } Petition of Elizabeth Council for Discharge

To said Court your petitioner, the Executrix under the Will herein says on oath that she has performed all things in this Estate required of such officers under the laws of the State of Iowa and that she has made a full and final distribution and settlement in and of said Estate as herein stated and as herein before shown by accounts, reports, and vouchers and as far as the assets and means in said Estate extended that nothing further remains for your petitioner to do in the premises.

Wherefore she asks the Court to approve all her doings, reports and accounts as Executrix and to discharge her from further duties and responsibilities herein.
Elizabeth Council
Subscribed in my presence by the said Elizabeth Council sworn to by her before me this 10th day of October A.D. 1910.
L. B. Thornburg, Notary Public
(Seal) in and for Dallas County, Iowa
Filed Oct 22" 1910
M. J. Graham, Clerk

[Page 389] Notice of Final Report
In the Estate } In the District Court of Iowa
Thomas C. Council } In and for Dallas County
Deceased } No. 2249 Probate

To Whom it May Concern:
You are hereby notified that the undersigned Executrix of the estate of Thomas C. Council has filed his final report therein in the office of the Clerk & District Court in and for the aforesaid County and has asked for its approval and his discharge from further duty or responsibility therein, and that said report and application for discharge will come on for hearing before the Court aforesaid at November Term on the 9th day of October A.D. 1910 at which time and place you can appear and show cause, if any you have, why said final report should not be opproved and the undersigned discharged from any further duty responsibility therein
Filed Oct 22" 1910
M.J. Graham, Clerk

For the District Court of Dallas County, Iowa
November Term A.D. 1910

In the Matter of the Estate }
of } Order approving Final Report of
Thomas C. Council deceased } Elizabeth Council, Executor under the will

Be it Rememberd That on this 2" day of Dec. A.D. 1910, it being the -- day of the November term 1910 of the District Court of Dallas County, Iowa, this cause comes on for hearing upon the final report of the Executrix herein and the Court having examined the papers herein in said estate, and having investigated the terms of the will of this late Thomas C. Council and the inventory filed herein, and the reports, and having examined the records and carefully looked over the notices filed in the case and having gone over the final report as filed by the executrix: find,
That said executrix has performed all things in this estate as is required by her by the Laws of the state of Iowa and find that said report should be approved, and that said executrix should be discharged, and this estate should be closed.
It is therefore Ordered, Adjudged and Decreed. By the Court that the said final report of Elizabeth Council be and the same is hereby approved and that said adminstratrix be and she is hereby discharged and no longer held for any liability in this cause.
J. H. Applegate, Judge of the
District Court of Dallas County, Iowa
Filed Dec. 2" 1910
M. J. Graham, Clerk

Dallas County, Iowa:
Dallas County IAGenWeb Project -- http://iagenweb.org/dallas/
Forest Park Museum -- http://www.co.dallas.ia.us/conservation/Hist_Cultural/Hist_Cultural_Museums.html
The History of Dallas County, Iowa (1879) -- http://www.usgennet.org/usa/topic/historical/1879dallas/1879dallas_preface.htm

39th Iowa Infantry:
History of the 39th Iowa Infantry -- http://www.angelfire.com/ia/captjoejoe/history.html

Parker's Crossroads, Tennessee:
Parker's Crossroads Battlefield Association -- http://www.parkerscrossroads.com/
American Battlefield Protection Program -- http://www.nps.gov/history/hps/abpp/battles/tn011.htm
The Campaigns of Lietu.-Gen. N. B. Forrest, and of Forrest's Cavalry, with Portraits, Maps, and Illustrations http://books.google.com/books?id=RcO_Lj_RK4AC&printsec=frontcover&dq=intitle:campaigns+inauthor:jordan&lr=&as_brr=0