Sarah Allen Briggs was born in Saratoga County, New York, December 31, 1827. She was united in marriage to Harvey Briggs in the year 1848. To this union were born three children, Mrs. Sparks Baker of Urich, Missouri; Silas R. Briggs who preceded her in death six years ago and Byron A. Briggs of Montgomery, Illinois, and ten grandchildren. Her husband preceded her in death eleven years ago.

In the early forties they came west and settled near Morris, Illinois, where they resided some years; they then came to Manning, Iowa, where she resided until seven years ago. Since then she has made her home with her children and grandchildren. At the time of her death she was with her granddaughter Mrs. Caroline Smith in Montgomery, Illinois. She died February 22 leaving her 85 years, 1 month and 22 days old.

Rev. Scoggan of Manning preached the funeral address at Lincoln Center school house, after which the body was laid to rest by the side of her husband at Lincoln Center Cemetery. She was known as a loving wife, a devoted mother and a true friend.