Abigail Ann Spencer, pioneer resident of Buena Vista Co., Storm Lake, IA, resided in the county 57 years. Abigail went to school in Eagle Point, IL, through High School. She married Theodore Carlton Samsel and lived on a farm near Milledgeville, IL, until the family moved to a farm 3.5 miles NW of Newell, IA. Annie and T.C. lived there 2.5 years, moved to farm in Coon Twp where they stayed for 16 years. In 1894, the family again moved to Grant twp. staying for 7 years. Another move was in the future as they again moved to a farm near Sulphur Springs, IA, where they stayed 8 years. In 1910, Annie made her final move, moving to Storm Lake, Iowa. Through these many moves which in themselves are hard work, Annie birthed 9 children, 7 boys and 2 girls. These Samsels were short in stature. I remember visiting Uncle Allie in Storm Lake and he was under 5 foot tall in his old age. Still spry and ready to tell a story. Was there family nearby to help with the children or did Abigail shoulder the load by herself? I understand Great Grandpa asked for her to wait upon him and demanded his meals be served on time. Was life difficult for women of this time? Oh, yes!