Catherine Anderson Galliher Templeton was born in Fairfield, Iowa. She was united in marriage to Hezakiah S. Templeton on March 24, 1868 in Fairfield, Iowa. The presiding minister was Rev. Chester of the M.E Church.

Hezekiah went west to Montana for his health. Catherine followed in August 1872 with Hezekiahs sister Charlotte and her then 9 month old daughter Mantie Gaye. They made the trip via train to Salt Lake City, this was the safest route due to the danger of the Sioux Indians, who did not appreciate white travelers in their territory. They took a stage from Corinne, Utah to Virginia City, Montana, arriving at 6AM. A remaining letter from Hezekiah, states " "If I should not be there to meet you, have the driver leave you at the Clasky House. Be sure your ticket is first class, and for Virginia City in Montana. You will get through in 7 or 8 days with the last change at Gaffneys. Take good care of little Mantie and yourself. Your husband, H. S. Templeton

Catherine taught school in or around Ruby Valley probably a one room schoolhouse

She and Hezekiah had 7 children:

Major Fay, Born October 7 1869 Died: February 6 1872
Mantie Gaye Heber, November 13 1871 Died May 11 1957
James William, Born May 13 1874 Died May 16 1874
Ernest Montana, Born October 18 1875 Died October 13 1912
Leah Maud, Born September 3 1878 Died May 11 1969
Melinda Margaret Born July 4 1881 Died October 4 1969
Charlotte Catherine. Born July 22 1884 Died April 20 1961


Catherine was petite and family rumour has it that she was fiery tempered. Being a pioneer she had a hard life no doubt. She is remembered and honored by her family.

She is buried next to Hezekiah in Twin Bridges, Montana

THANKS TO ALL WHO LEAVE A NOTE FOR CATHERINE, IT REALLY DOES MEAN SOMETHING TO OUR FAMILY.

A SPECIAL THANKS TO DANISH PENQUIN FOR HER SPONSERSHIP OF THIS MEMORIAL.