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biography from Portrait & Biographical Album of Mahaska Co., Iowa, 1887
ERASTUS COFFIN, well and favorably known as a worthy resident of Madison Township, was born in Tippecanoe County, Ind., Oct. 1, 1841. His father, Samuel Coffin, who was a native of North Carolina, born April 19, 1809, came to Iowa in 1842, and to this county in 1844, and died May 6, 1880. At the time of his death he owned 560 acres of land. His mother, Sophia (Fisler) Coffin, was a native of Indiana, born Jan. 24, 1814, and was united in marriage with Samuel Coffin in the year 1830. She is now deceased. Erastus Coffin, of this sketch, came to Iowa with his parents, lived with them in Lee County for one year, and then located in Madison Township of this county. He was married to Miss Sarah E. Corwin, May 26, 1866. Mrs. C. was born in New Jersey, Sept. 11, 1845, being a daughter of S. O. and Lydia E. (Baker) Corwin, also natives of New Jersey. By this marriage there have been four children: Nellie is the wife of E. Knight, of this township; Frederick, Josella and Harry are at home. Mr. Coffin served three years in the late war, as a member of Co. H, 8th Iowa Vol. Inf., and participated with his command in all its engagements. He was in the battles of Black River, Champion Hills, and other engagements preliminary to the investment and siege of Vicksburg, and witnessed the surrender of that stronghold, July 4, 1863. At the second battle of Corinth he received a severe wound in the neck, not sufficient, however, to disable him. He was also with Gen. Banks in his famous Red River campaign, and continued with his regiment until the expiration of his term of service, receiving his discharge at Davenport, Iowa. His record is that of a brave soldier, who performed every duty in a creditable manner. Mr. Coffin owns 197 acres of fertile land, in a high state of cultivation and well improved. His early education was received in the common schools of this county. He was a close student and apt scholar, and possesses a fund of general information. He is an enthusiastic Republican, and socially belongs to Phil. Kearney Post, G. A. R. Mr. Coffin manages his business wisely, is fairly successful in life, and enjoys the friendship and association of a large circle of acquaintances.
Portrait & Biographical Album of Mahaska Co., Iowa, 1887
Mahaska County, Iowa Genealogy