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biography from Portrait & Biographical Album of Mahaska Co., Iowa, 1887
ABIJAH JOHNSON, deceased, was born in Warren County, Ohio, and there grew to manhood. He was married in Clinton County, that State, to Miss Elizabeth Bailey, a native of Virginia, and daughter of David Bailey. Eight children were born to them, five sons and three daughters: Sylvia B., wife of Amos McMillan, of Henry County, Iowa; J. Kelly, of Oskaloosa; Micajah D., of Los Angeles, Cal.; Rebecca O., wife of William Ranson, of Henry County, Iowa; Overton A., a merchant in Muncie, Ind.; Warren C., of Oskaloosa; A. Henry, of Los Angeles, Cal.; and Anna, also living in Los Angeles. After his marriage Mr. Johnson engaged for a time in farming, but subsequently in milling and merchandising in Ohio. In 1854, with his family he removed to Crawfordsville, Ind., where he also engaged in merchandising. While still residing in Crawfordsville he traded for a farm in Tippecanoe County, in the same State. Having great faith in the future of Iowa, "the beautiful land," he determined upon removing to this State, and in 1865 came to Oskaloosa with his family. Here he again embarked in the mercantile business, which he follwed for a number of years, and here Mrs. Johnon died Feb. 11, 1870. In 1881, on account of failing health, Mr. Johnson went to California, in the hope that the balmy breezes of that fair land would bring again to his cheeks the rosy hue of health. But it was not so to be; Death claimed him for his own in the summer of 1882. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson were active members of the Society of Friends, and died in the blissful hopes of immortality and eternal life beyond the grave. In the days of African slavery Mr. Johnson did not fear nor hesitate to avow his friendship and sympathy for the drown-trodden negro, and ever aided them as opportunity offered. In his church relations he was an active and influential member; as a citizen none enjoyed the confidence and respect of neighbors and friends more than he. His word was as good as his bond, and once given was never forfeited.
Portrait & Biographical Album of Mahaska Co., Iowa, 1887
Mahaska County, Iowa Genealogy