Yes, Tom I spent many happy spring vacations in Missouri Valley when I was growing up. My grandmother Maggie Palmer married Stephen Williams and they lived on Erie Street for a long time.
I have also been researching McGavern in respect to Abigail Hungerford Palmer. Her sister I believe her name was Clarissa married a Dr. McGavern in New York I think and I think they went with Abigail and Eurastus to Cass County Michigan. I think Clarissa and her husband came to Missouri Valley and then later after Eurastus passed away Abigail and her children came to live with her sister and her husband. Does this sound like anything you have researched? Do you have Missouri Valley's celebration book or M V's 1905 marriage and directory book.They are great reference materials. If I find anything more about Elizabeth Emerson or the McGaverns I will let you know.
Susan Frank