Carlton Holmes Perry

Biography of Carlton Holmes Perry: Colonel, Educator, and Businessman

Written by Erika Barrett

Carlton Holmes Perry was a prominent figure in Keokuk, IA, known for his significant contributions as a colonel, educator, and businessman. He played a crucial role in establishing the Keokuk, Des Moines, and Minnesota Railroad. Perry also served as president of the Keokuk Library Association in 1874 and 1875.

Early Life and Education

Born in Quechee, Vermont, on March 25, 1802, Carlton H. Perry was the son of Col. William and Christian (Marsh) Perry. He attended local schools in his hometown and in Hartland, VT, where his family moved in 1807. In 1820, he entered Norwich Academy in Vermont, graduating in 1823.

Teaching Career

After graduation, Perry taught school during the winters in Hartford and Hartland, VT. He returned to Norwich Academy in 1825 as an instructor of penmanship. Over the next few years, he held various teaching positions at the academy, including instructor in Algebra, Mathematics, and Adjutant of the Corps. He left the academy in 1829, inspired by the opportunities in the expanding western frontier.

Business Career

Perry's journey west began in 1829 when he moved to St. Louis, MO, where he spent six months teaching and clerking. He then moved to Jacksonville, IL, to work in the store of a relative, Dr. Gillette. Perry formed a business partnership with Dr. Gillette, which lasted for a few years before he started his own business.

In 1841, Perry relocated to Fort Madison, IA, and engaged in mercantile business until 1851 when he moved to Keokuk, IA. In Keokuk, he became deeply involved in the city's business development. He partnered with his brother-in-law, Arthur Wolcott, in a successful mercantile enterprise and played a pivotal role in the establishment and management of the Keokuk and Des Moines Railroad. This railroad project was one of the first and most significant in the state, helping to transform Keokuk into an important commercial center.

Military Service

Perry had a strong interest in military affairs. He served as a colonel in the Illinois Militia and participated as an officer in the Black Hawk War. Although he was commissioned a colonel of volunteers for the Mexican War, he did not serve due to the war's conclusion. With the outbreak of the Civil War, Perry's dedication to the Union cause was evident. He helped organize and drill troops for service and was commissioned as a major in the 3rd Iowa Cavalry on August 26, 1861. Perry served with General Curtis until November 18, 1862, when he was forced to resign due to health issues.

Community Involvement and Legacy

Perry's influence extended beyond his business and military endeavors. He was an active member of the Unitarian Church and was instrumental in organizing the first church of that denomination in Keokuk in 1853. His leadership and vision were also evident during his tenure as president of the Keokuk Library Association in 1874 and 1875.

Perry married Elizabeth Ann Wolcott on November 28, 1833. They had two children: Howard Wolcott, who resided in Humboldt, IA, and Kathryn, who lived on the island of Capri in Italy. The Perrys also adopted Saidee, daughter of Arthur Wolcott and Sarah Ann Morrison, making her an equal heir in their estate. The family home at 727 N. Ninth St. in Keokuk was one of the city’s oldest and largest, embodying Perry’s prominence in the community.

Perry passed away on December 26, 1880, after a prolonged illness. His death was deeply mourned in Keokuk, where he was remembered for his numerous contributions and his wise, kind nature. His monument in Oakland Cemetery, made of Barre granite, stands as a testament to his enduring legacy in Keokuk.

Selected References:

1. "Early Keokuk Homes" by Raymond Garrison

2. The Daily Gate City, November 4, 1887

3. The Gate City, December 28, 1880

4. "Capri, Island of Pleasure" by James Money

5. History of Norwich University, With Sketches of Graduates and Roll of Honor, Vol. 2, 1819-1911

6. The Weekly Gate City, May 27, 1880