From notes by Morlan researcher, Larry Allan (deceased): Newton J. Morlan was born in Putnam County, Indiana, May 22, 1837 and died December 9, 1924 at his home in Independence Township, at the age of 87 years, 6 months, and 20 days. He came with his parents to Iowa when oxen were in common use, in 1862, [this is an error...should be 1852 according to the 1852 Iowa Census]. Many were the interesting stories he could tell of deer, wolves, and wild turkeys.

He was chosen captain of a company of volunteers during the Civil war, but was never called into service. An administrator and arbitrator he was widely and favorably known. As a moral man he was esteemed by all who knew him and to know his was to know a friend. He was married to Emma Banks in 1861, on January 31 and to this union were born 11 children, seven of whom are still living. His wife passed away in August 1898. [my notes: i believe this to be incorrect. I show his wife died in 1913 in August. Her link is attached below. Also read her obit. ] He was an invalid during the past seven years, and received all the attendance and attention that it was possible to give. His suffering must have been intense yet he bore it with scarely a murmur. One brother, Lafe Morlan and one sister, Mrs. Jane Butler, of Seymour still survives him. A short funeral service was held at the house Thursday, December 11 and a funeral discourse at the church at the Jones cemetery, conducted by Reverand Walters of the Primitive Baptist Church of which Mr. Morlan was a member. Relatives attending from a distance were Leeman L. Morlan and Evelyn Elam, of Indianola, Misses Cecil and Coral Stephens, of Cedar Falls, Celete Free of Williamsburg, Lawrence Stephens of Chariton and John Free, wife and daughter Marie, of Russell.