WRIGHT, Appler Reuben
Appler Reuben Wright
Note: Appler Reuben Wright and John Wright were the sons of Reuben Wright and Ruth Shirley
The subject of this sketch, Hon. A. R. Wright, was born in Putnam County, Indiana, January 20, 1829, and died at his residence in Glenwood, Iowa, October 28, being near 62 years of age. The early years of his life were spent upon a farm, but in 1848, he engaged in the mercantile business, which he followed about six years. He was one of Mills County's pioneers, coming here in 1854, and locating on land in Lyons Township, some of which he still owned at the time of his demise. For twenty years he resided in Lyons Township, and by his industry and thrift accumulated a competence and established one of the first country homes in the county. While living here Mr. W. and wife were connected with the Christian Church, and through the activity and generosity of the former, a house of worship was erected and regular services maintained for a number of years. In 1847, he moved to Glenwood and engaged in the loan and brokerage business, to which he devoted more or less of his time during the remainder of his life. He owned a fine, well improved farm in Center Township, and many of his later years were spent in this pleasant home. However, having disposed of his Center Township farm during the past year, he again took up his abode in Glenwood, and at the time of his death had just completed and moved into one of the most cozy and commodious residences in the city. On December 24, 1849, Mr. Wright and Miss Sarah A. Webster were united in marriage, and four of six children born to them survive with their mother to mourn the loss of father and husband. The children are, Cannie, now wife of Robert Hale, Esq., Frank, Charlie and Fannie. During his long residence in Mills County, Mr. Wright was frequently called upon to serve the people in an official capacity, ranging all the way from township office to member of the Iowa Legislature, of which body, he was twice an honored and useful member. He was a man of strong, earnest conviction, intensely practical, and nothing could sever him from the line of duty which he conceived to be right; and he possessed the good sense and judgment that universally arrayed him on the right side of all questions that affected the well being of the people. As for instance, was not only a believer in, but was a fighter for the cause of prohibition, and at the time of his death was President of the County temperance organization. He has gone to claim his reward for a life of industry, uprightness and careful improvement of the talents that were given him, and for his many good qualities of head and heart, the memory of deceased will linger as a "fond recollection" in the minds of all who enjoyed his acquaintance.