The Granger family of Marion, Iowa was one of the founding families of the town, with the family residing in the house for nearly 100 years. Moving to the area in 1855, Earl Granger founded his own meat market in town, Granger and Howe (one of the largest in the area) and worked closely with the city council and Methodist Church on improving the city. Earl married Dora Krouse, and the family had six children (Wesley, Mabel, Louise, Arthur, Alfred and Margaret). The family portrayed a typical Victorian-age family and the majority of their household items remain in the house today. With happy times however, also came tragedies. Early in their childhood, Wesley and Mabel passed away from diphtheria (ages three and six). Louise later passed at age 14 due to complications from the measles. Arthur and Alfred, who lived into adulthood, lived in the house after their parents' passing. When Arthur died, his wife sold the house to the city historical society in 1973. Content can be used with the following standards: 3rd grade SS 3.28 Cultural Contributions and SS-Econ. 9-12.24 Iowa Impact Upon Economy in a lesson on the upper-class families' lifestyle and businesses in Iowa during the later 1800s.
2018.023.011 [House]
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