John Henry King, Beatrice, Nebraska 1890s-1900s

Writing on back reads:
"John H. King
Workshop on South La Selle St.
Beatrice, Ne."

At the time of his death, John Henry King was one of Beatrice, Nebraska's most prominent and respected citizens.

He was born in 1839 in Indiana to Samuel Alfred and Nancy King. At the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861, 22-year-old John enlisted with the 7th Indiana Volunteer Infantry and served until September 20th, 1864. Five months later, in February 1865, John married Susan Hollett. The couple had six children: Charles Free, Olive Bell, Della Pearl, Fannie Bird, James Otto, and Kale Algada, who died at 12 months.

The family moved to Beatrice, Nebraska in 1882, where John worked as a carpenter. In this photograph, he can be seen in his workshop near the family home on South La Selle St. surrounded by the tools of his trade. John was also a city councilman and a member of the Modern Woodmen of America. 

The Kings lost two of their children four years apart. Their daughter, Della, passed in 1897 at only 24. In 1901 their oldest son, Charles, died after suffering from "Bright's Disease," the historical term for kidney disease. John's obituary notes that following the death of his son, he had been "worried considerably," which may have led to a decline in his health. 

In February 1902, John fell ill with the flu. He died at home on February 14th at the age of 62. His obituary describes him as "a hardworking, industrious man" who was "honored and respected by all who knew him."

If you know who this may be, let us know in the comments!