My Genealogy Hound

RICE, A. L., farmer, Sec. 15; P. O. Fort Madison; the eldest son of Col. James Rice, who was born in Worcester Co., Mass. Married Miss Gratia Partridge; had eleven children; A. L. was born Jan. 13, 1822, at Templeton, Worcester Co., Mass.; did not enjoy the advantages of even a common-school education on account of losing his voice when quite young; at the age of 17, came with his father and family to Lee Co., settling in Washington Tp.; remained until his death, in March, 1862; Jan. 8, 1846, he married Miss Mary A., daughter of John Davis, a soldier of the war of 1812, pioneer of Lee Co., from Ohio in 1838; he died March 21, 1877, at the age of 86 years; her mother, Sarah Moore, died March, 1868. Mrs. Rice was one of twelve children, seven sons and five daughters; after their marriage, they settled in Sec. 7 of this township, and remained until 1856, when he purchased his present residence; he owns 150 acres of land, valued at $55 per acre. They have had three children - Celesta A., born Oct. 23, 1846, died July 27, 1848; Evaline G., born May 26, 1848, and married Wm. M. Marsh, Dec. 24, 1866; died Sept. 24, 1867; George A., born Dec. 26, 1854. Their adopted daughter, Jennie, now about 9 years of age, was taken from the Orphan’s Home at No 1, Pine Place, Boston. Democrat. Mrs. Rice is a member of the Christian Church; Mr. R. is a member of the A., F. & A. M., Hiram Lodge, No. 7; also of I. O. O. F. Rescue, at Denmark. He has held the office of Township Clerk, Trustee, and various school offices.