Iowa became a state in 1846 and was soon settled by restless pioneers looking for land. An eye-witness described migration to Iowa in 1854: "The immigration into Iowa the present season is astonishing and unprecedented. For miles and miles, day after day, the prairies of Illinois are lined with cattle and wagons pushing on towards this prosperous state. At a point beyond Peoria, during a single month, seventeen hundred and forty three wagons had passed, and all for Iowa. (The Friend, Vol. XXVII, p. 319)Quakers were part of this throng, crossing the Mississippi River and settling in the fertile valleys. It was said that ferrymen on the river became familiar with the Quaker salutation 'thee' and 'thou'.
Ann and Henry Way were part of this migration, moving to Iowa in 1855.
Quaker meeting records show that the Way family moved several times during their 12 years in Iowa including Cedar Creek Meeting, Salem Meeting, Western Plains Meeting, Bangor Meeting, South River, Ackworth Meeting, and Rosemount Meeting.
Eventually in 1867, the family made the decision to return to Indiana. They stayed another 18 years in Indiana before coming west... which is why I am a Californian and not a Hoosier.
I can't wait to see the Iowa towns where Great-great-grandmother Ann lived!
Lorraine, I was on Jenni's FB page and saw where you were blogging your trip. Your posts are well written and very interesting. Way to go!! I look forward to following your travels. Thanks for doing this. Who knows...you may have a television series, book or even a movie in your future. :)
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