Sample

Pioneers of Progress: The Legacy of the Sample Family in Keokuk

Written by Erika Berrett

The Sample family, buried in Oakland Cemetery, played a pivotal role in the early development of Keokuk, Iowa. Through their business ventures, public service, and contributions to the city's infrastructure, the Samples left a lasting mark on Keokuk and beyond. Hugh Workman Sample, in particular, stands out as a figure of enterprise and public spirit, while his sons, Samuel and William, carried forward the family’s legacy in industry and real estate.

Hugh Workman Sample: Pioneer, Mayor, and Visionary

Born on November 23, 1814, in Washington, Pennsylvania, Hugh Workman Sample rose from humble beginnings. Leaving school early, he ventured into the world of business, first as a tanner's apprentice, then as a merchant, and later as a produce dealer navigating the southern rivers. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to Fort Madison, Iowa, in 1838, where he engaged in land speculation before eventually settling in Keokuk. 

Keokuk's rapid growth during the mid-19th century owed much to Hugh's efforts. His influence was felt across many sectors, from his business ventures in the grocery and provisions trade to his role in city infrastructure projects. Sample became known for his foresight and confidence in Keokuk's future. His tireless work resulted in the improvement of streets, wharves, bridges, and ferry services, while his role in developing the city's eastern railway connections laid the groundwork for Keokuk's rise as a key transportation hub. “He did more to advance the material interests of Keokuk than any other man in it,” one contemporary observer noted, a testament to his deep commitment to the city’s prosperity.

In 1858, Hugh was elected Mayor of Keokuk, having already served as an Alderman. His mayoral election signaled a turning point in the city's municipal finance strategy, with Hugh championing responsible governance. In addition to his business and political contributions, he played a key role in establishing Keokuk's fire department and was a founding commissioner on the city’s railroad systems.

Though known for his impulsiveness at times, those who knew him best recognized the depth of his character. As one obituary noted, "None knew better than himself his own failings, and all knew better than he did the goodness of his heart and actions." He left a lasting impression on Keokuk, not only through the city’s physical development but also through his dedication to the community.

Hugh Workman Sample passed away on March 31, 1869, after a lifetime of public service. His funeral was a significant event, drawing members of the Masonic Order, the City Council, the Fire Department, and local citizens to pay their respects.

Samuel and William Sample: Industrialists and Real Estate Developers

Hugh's two sons, Samuel C. Sample and William S. Sample, carried on their father’s legacy, each making their own mark on Keokuk. Samuel co-owned the former Buckeye Foundry, later renamed Sample and McElroy Ironworks, which became a prominent industrial fixture in the region. His involvement in manufacturing contributed to Keokuk’s growing reputation as a center for ironwork and heavy industry. 

William S. Sample, meanwhile, became a well-known real estate dealer in Keokuk, helping to shape the city’s landscape through property development and transactions. His efforts ensured the continued expansion of Keokuk’s residential and commercial districts, which were crucial for accommodating the city's growth.

Both brothers were recognized for their contributions to Keokuk's economy and community. Their achievements were seen as a reflection of their father's dedication to public service and enterprise. As one account reflected, "It is not the least of Hugh W. Sample’s honors that he was the father of two such sons."

A Lasting Legacy

The Sample family’s legacy endures in Keokuk through the institutions they helped build and the city's continued development. Hugh's Italianate-style home, built in 1859 at 205 N. Second Street, remains one of Keokuk’s finest architectural treasures and stands as a reminder of the family’s influence. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it continues to be celebrated as the "finest and most intact example" of its architectural style in the city.

The Samples’ contributions to Keokuk—whether in politics, industry, or real estate—underscore their importance to the city's history. Their final resting place in Oakland Cemetery serves as a testament to a family that helped shape the future of their community, leaving behind both a physical and civic legacy that continues to inspire.

Sources:

1. Illustrated Historical Atlas of Lee County, Iowa, A. T. Andreas, 1874

2. Fairfield Ledger Weekly, April 8, 1869

3. Main Street Keokuk, Inc. Walking Tour, 2020

4. IAGenWeb: Lee County Obituaries, 2007