James E Elias was born 10 Aug 1834 in Fulton County, New York, where he spent his youth and received his education. In 1856 he came to Concord township, where he engaged in farming for about eighteen years. In 1876 he came to Milton, and bought the Milton Mill, which he has since operated. In October 1857 he was married to Martha A Moreland, who was born in Pennsylvania 18 June 1839. Eight children have been born to them.

Biography from the History of Winona, Olmsted and Dodge Counties published in 1894 by H. H. Hill.

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OLD RESIDENT PASSED AWAY
(Contributed)
JAMES E.. ELIAS an old resident of Milton township died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. John Brandli on the second day of August 1918 after a long illness of a complicated disease.

James Elias was born August 10, 1835 (differs from bio) at Lasselville, New York. He came to Minnesota in 1855 and was united in marriage to Martha Ann Moreland on September 15, 1859.

Eight children were born to this union, seven of whom survive. Mrs. Martha Elias died June 5, 1877 and their little son, James Franklin soon followed to the Great Beyond.

The surviving children are Mrs. James Lyke of Kasson, Mrs. Ida Brandli of Warroad, Mrs. Estella Gibbs of Concord, Mrs. John Gruhn of Augusta, Wisconsin, Mrs. George Walker of Lutson, Mr. Elmer Elias and Mrs. John Brandli of Milton.

At the time of his death James was 82 years, 11 months and 22 days, He leaves to mourn his loss, seven children, forty-five grandchildren and fifty-two great grandchildren besides a host of friends. All through his sickness he was patient and always looking on the bright side of all things.

Funeral services were held at one o'clock at the home and was conducted by Rev. Roy E. Scott. He was laid to rest in the Concord Cemetery.

Obituary published in the Pine Island Record, August 15, 1918.

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Family research notes: James was married
lst to Martha Moreland, who died in 1877, 8 children listed in the obituary

2nd to Mary Amos-Harkcom in 1880 daughter Myrtle

3rd to Adeline McNeil in 1889, later divorced:
son, Henry, 2 daughters, Vergie (Peterson) & Nancy

Researched by Cynthia (Wayne) Elias and Cathy W. 2016