Ohio County, KY Genealogy and History

Success in life more often depends upon the real merit of the man, than the sudden freaks of fortune's wheel which occasionally turns out to some prominent position, the person, perhaps, unfitted for the diversified walks of higher life. It has been the innate energy and studious habits of Judge Iglehart that has placed him so high in the profession; and the young men of this generation, whatever their condition may be, can look forward with trustfulness to the future, if they will only put their shoulders manfully to the wheel, and go forward.

The ancestors of the Iglehart family were of German descent, and located, in 1700, in the vicinity of Baltimore, Maryland. Levi Iglehart, the father of Asa. was born in Annanmdel County, Maryland, on the 13th of October, 178G. He was a a farmer; and, not satisfied with his prospects in his native State, started for the Southwest, and finally settled in Ohio County, Kentucky, in 1816. Here, on the 8th of December, 1817, Asa was born. Little is remembered of his life in this State ; as, in 1824, his father removed to Warrick County, Indiana- There were few schools in those days ; and what there were, were presided over by teachers hardly fitted for the responsible position. His mind was early inclined to books, and what education he received in his youth was directed by his own and his father's taste. As he grew up to manhood's statute, he worked on the farm and studied at his leisure intervals. He at one time taught school ; but his labors, otherwise, were connected with agricultural pursuits.

In 1842, he was married to Miss Ann Cowle, of Blue Grass, Vanderburgh County, and at once removed to a tract of land presented to him by his father some years before. Slowly but surely his studious habits opened his eyes to a wider world, and he now dreamed of becoming a lawyer. This was the turning-point in his career.

He came to Evansville, purchased Blackstone, and read the commentator and kindred authors, as his time would permit. He calculated for tlie future and prepared for professional life; and at the same time managed his farm — feeling the responsibility of his position, and never doubting as to his final entry into the legal profession. With no patronizing friends to console him in his weary moments, the energy of his character finally conquered all obstacles; he completed his course, and in 1849 was admitted to practice. Mr. Iglehart removed to Evansville, and in a short time became associated with Messrs. Ingle and Wheeler, as junior partner. His integrity and prompt attention to business, combined with the faithfulness with which he ever labored for his clients' interests, secured for him a liberal share of practice. In June, 1854, he was appointed Judge of the Court of Common Pleas ; and here his talents as a jurist were Bo apparent, that he was nominated for the same position by the Republican party, and elected without opposition. His independent, firm, and discriminating course endeared him to the people at large ; and when he retired from the bench, he received the commendation of the members of the bar and the people, for the prompt and impartial manner he exhibited toward all with whom he came in contact. Ever since his retirement from the bench his practice has been extensive and lucrative. Never an advocate, the strong bent of his mind inclined him to the careful preparation of his pleadings — and in this particular Judge Iglehart has few, if any, superiors. The Supreme Court reports, undoubtedly, furnish the highest and most satisfactory evidence of his ability as a jurist.

The writer has often seen him toiling, hour after hour, arranging the legal points in his brief and condensing his authorities for the next day's argument in court — in which he was always short — always occupying little time, even in the most complicated cases. Cautious, prudent in the formation of his judgment; yet, when decided, he executes it with an energy eminently calculated to insure success.

Plain and simple in his manner; regular in his habits ; time has thus far laid its hand gently upon him. He is, apparently capable of performing much service for the people of this State, who have delighted to honor him with their confidence.

Source: Evansville and Its Men of Mark [Transcribed by Cathy Schultz; July 2010]

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