Sara Allen Thomas and her husband, Joseph Thomas, moved to the village of Rockford in April 1880. Joseph worked at the Rockford Woolen Mill for sixteen years as a finisher and also served on the village council. The couple raised two children, Jennie and Frank. Once she was old enough, Jennie followed in her father’s footsteps and worked at the Woolen Mill as well.
In 1894, Joseph and Sarah traded their village home for 80 acres near Dean Lake. Joseph remained active in community affairs, later serving as Rockford Township Supervisor and becoming a shareholder on the Dickinson Co‑op Creamery board.
This photo of Sarah was taken at their home in Rockford Township around 1900. Take a moment to notice the wonderful collage of photographs displayed on the wall behind her — a glimpse into the family’s life and the era they lived in.
Rooftop Ames-Florida-Stork House