Winterset woman celebrates 108th birthday
It’s not every day that someone reaches the age of 100 — let alone 108.
Wednesday marks 108 years since Pauline Jones was born in Forest City in 1917. She still remembers stories from her grandfather, who served in America’s Civil War in the 1860s.
"They didn't fight the wars then like they do now. He had to ride a horse down and fight that way," Pauline said. "That was before my time."
Pauline is proud to call Iowa home. She moved to St. Louis for a decade to work as a housekeeper, but her roots and family have always been in the Hawkeye State.
"My favorite place is in Iowa, of course. I was born here [and] raised here," she said. "I was a farmer's daughter and a farmer's wife."
Pauline’s been living by herself in her Winterset home for 30 years. She said maintaining that sense of independence has kept her spirits high.
"I would be lost if I wasn't here," Pauline said. "Now that I have lived here this long, I have things the way that I want it."
Living at home has allowed her to explore new passions — especially baking and painting — which she discovered only 20 years ago. Her artwork covers her walls from ceiling to floor, including a painting of the church where she married her late husband.
As far as birthday celebrations go, Pauline keeps them simple. But every milestone marks a new year to live life to the fullest.
"It's a lot of birthdays," she said. "I've enjoyed them — I guess I've enjoyed every one. And maybe I'll have a few more."