AVEO incall Pettey uh) ca nti eects ht ry i tidedetat paresis Soke pies erate atts Hee rears eet sist za meas ee ube ate ) parieae psd Pada? ete Paes e niaie 7 ie elit rg geen feild Bates one fests : ie ulbnieay eee ; Circe mie tii te tetalhty ‘ cu : : eee Sse MME ater At tal late Seidl a eter ae r ee seep toes Slr aes ae ties Renu ed ih ket siliai nite f es da cmos i iat te ta Beetle cm eRe ere. eT ee aac anaman ener te Ore eres meee re Slee arene ‘3 y Pea Pere to s A se telgot Se fe nite Mae edt ae PASE Sopa bea Bed tl (ee th et a : zh ie ss eee : PPE l nnn aa fies Wee: : f denies ae ms rere ae Fe eM eo aioe ‘ eit ; f , iti tat eal ire BGR pe i) Rena att i if ie ie “ee s Seen Mec MoE YA 3 hs fel Me 2 pe OTN es ltt ne ome tha sa snes Ad oy naa ae at Bea TV Han am nah Poem DLA Hf } rae Banana Mena suet an magenta Put Rene ties SMe aan a rt aCe ir ld FUR Ae ae ; eT Tila a sett CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY oe7 University Library E 627W8 H hc olin DATE DUE GAYLORD PRINTED IN U.S A HISTORY OF THE COUNTIES OF Woodbury and Plymouth, IOWA, INCLUDING AN EXTENDED SKETCH OF STOUX CITY, THEIR EARLY SETTLEMENT AND PROGRESS TO THE PRESENT TIME; A DESCRIP- TION OF THEIR HISTORIC’AND INTERESTING LOCALITIES } SKETCHES OF THE TOWNSHIPS, CITIES AND VILLAGES ; PORTRAITS OF SOME OF THE PROMINENT MEN, AND BIOGRAPHIES OF MANY OF THE REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS. [ILLUS TRATED. CHICAGO, ILLINOIS: A. WARNER & CO., PUBLISHERS. 1890-91. ea 62] WEHET+ | JOHN MoRRIS COMPANY, PRINTERS, 118 AND 120 MONROE STREET, CHICAGO, ILL. Os 2 COS 295 PREFACE. N the preparation of this volume the publishers have endeavored to give a clear and concise statement of historical facts, and as well to sketch in ‘fitting terms the wonderful growth, development and possibilities of this highly favored region; for not only are the residents of Sioux City and vicinity interested in its past history, but its glowing prospects for the future are attracting the marked attention of people in every section of' the country. An earnest effort has been made to treat with accuracy all matters touched upon, and no expense has been spared to render the book attractive, and to more than fulfill the promises made in the prospectus. It is fortunate indeed, that many of the facts of history, which are here recorded, have been rescued from oblivion, by being placed in enduring form before the early settlers have passed away. With the exception of the chapters hereafter mentioned, which were written by citizens, who, from their long residence, special knowledge of the subjects, and official positions, were exceptionally qualified for the work done, the historical part of the work for both counties (including the early history of Sioux City, and its present interests—commercial, social and religious), and the matter relating to the formation and settlement of the townships in Plymouth county, were written by Mr. W. L. Clark; the chapters on the origin and formation of the townships in Woodbury county, and the sketches of the towns and villages therein, were furnished by Mr. J. E. Norris. The local writers and the chapters written by them are as fol- lows: Pror. J. C. C. Hosxins, Chapter II, Woodbury county, Topography and Geology (of the two counties). Pror. J. S. SHovur, Chapter VII, Woodbury county, Educational In- terests. Hon. W. L. Joy, Chapter X, Woodbury county, Bench’ and Bar. IV PREFACE. Pror. J. Wernut, Chapter VI, Plymouth county, Education. Hon. H. ©. Curris, Chapter IX, Plymouth county, Bench and Bar. The publishers wish to acknowledge their obligations to all who have assisted those engaged in the preparation of the work, among whom may be mentioned the editors of the leading journals throughout the district em- braced, the county and city officials, the clergy, the officers and members of the various societies, the managers of the numerous industrial enterprises, and many others. We have been allowed to present some interesting facts taken from A. E. Suzerz’s Centennial History, and are under special obliga- tions to Dr. Wittiam R. Smira and the Hon. D.M. Mitus for many favors shown, and much information given. The biographical sketches were so numerous that it has necessitated as brief treatment as the circumstances would warrant, and the publishers have been compelled to depend mainly upon the members of the respective fam- ilies for the reliability of the facts set forth. No pains have been spared to make this department accurate, and it is believed that it constitutes an inter- esting portion of the work, and that it will increase in value with the lapse of time. Trusting that the volume will prove satisfactory to its readers, it is submitted to their considerate judgment. THE PUBLISHERS. Chicago, July, 1891. CONTENTS. WOODBURY COUNTY. CHAPTER I. IntroductOry:...aa2cc25 saeuseecen bas csess eeeccowe » ReMEER RE RS eee ek SeemeeS 11-14 CHAPTER II. : Topography and Geology......... 0... c cence eee ener eee nee nee abs ebamp bratlchated 14-47 CHAPTER III. Early Settlement of Sioux City and Vicinity... ........... cee eee cee eee. 49-73 CHAPTER IV. Organization of the County «2.0.0.0... cece cece cece eee eee tenet ene 73-80 CHAPTER V. County Government; Cteiciies sew or's cisely y senate digdetes aah Ae eee mee 80-90 CHAPTER VI. Political History..... 0... ......... Sa avelyice atapetlenarasehananeseialeen, Gaels Guin Widenta oases 90-100 CHAPTER VII. HWUCa MONE! [NGELESE ss oc ntscarndie ne adaien ¥ she vs awameadnii ocaed a ea Given BREN aebLs 100-116 CHAPTER VIII. OPT CUVEE OS i dng as 8 sn oa aie ex nos are cede Brera iis reife waded Alona RGhe se hed H sgshawsr L aeaeeae aces eus 116-122 CHAPTER IX. Ratlroads Of the: County. isiss aimee w/e cin decsindencadyaes 4.2 064 o dimecinnede Rein NGA 122-131 CHAPTER X. Bench:dnd Bar zc sap sw eoonaee. caw one 64 vas cetawidae Gahoe ve ese aeRE aA 181-153 : CHAPTER XI. Karly Physicians:.¢vencrme cay exes se atie aoe) Faas aGe Sate oe ERRe EEC ea 153-159 CHAPTER XII. The Newspaper Presa.ces ae sxe adn sxoaeeweneriowss 2uae ROR YOREEES sananinian 4 159-166 CHAPTER XIII Civil War and Indian Troubles.......... 0.00 -cce ce enee ceeeseeseenenentee snes 166-176 CHAPTER XIV. BiOUX: Citys cx csan vominn sea kegs 2 - veeeee eee 176-186 CHAPTER XV. Sioux City, continued............. cece cece cece eee sees eee eeeuuneeaeeceuees 186-192 CHAPTER XVI. Sioux City, continued.—Religious Societies................0ccc cee ese ee ve aes 192-201 CHAPTER XVII. Sioux City, continued.—Civic and other Societies................00 ccc eee eee 201-211 CHAPTER XVIII. Sioux.City, continued.—Industrial and Commercial Interests..............-5+ 211-286 CHAPTER XIX. Sioux City, continued.—Events of Special Interest........ 6.0... 0. .0000.00 2+ 236-264 vI CONTENTS. CHAPTER XX. General Township Matters........ vo ee. 264-279 CHAPTER XXI. Woodbury Townshipsce sxcnaesiner ateckcatewa adcencususrermiee nacpa va aio wawen . 279-293 CHAPTER XXII. Little Sioux Lowiiships: cece taccaw. cae Axnsedecemars eer waaweonid «4s aha BRN 293-311 CHAPTER XXIII. Union Township.............. Gicoraeisetinsnitiass sisintetseh roernnare aaslenseuaieuqatelateced aoe 311-326 CHAPTER XXIV. Lakeport, Liberty and Grange Townships. .........-..-:00- eee cess eee eee 826-342 CHAPTER XXV. Rock, Kedron, Rutland, Morgan, Miller............... diac eBditcicachrets apie shar wastes tna 342-353 CHAPTER XXVI. West Fork, Wolf Creek, Grant, Moville.......... cc cee cece eee cee neers 358-366 CHAPTER XXVII. Liston TOWO SW pine wea vewiae aw taasdngeoa Gece cous deetewth sawed Di yeas agal see Mee § 366-375 CHAPTER XXVIII. Arlington, Floyd, Concord, Banner............. 02 cece cee cece eee cece eee 875-886 CHAPTER XXIX. Willow and Sloan Townships. ........... cee ce cee eee tee eee eee 386-397 CHAPTER XXX. Oto Township: <2 w«sascscacnsanaiaaawn 4 teacieedeee d ile seions aidhidn is MSS VE a Ke 399-406 PLYMOUTH COUNTY. CHAPTER I. THtTOGUCLORY, vais sewing eu wnuaisruendontneena tara. esti Gane eel Madan gid nee 409-411 CHAPTER II. Early Settlement ............ WHORE ADNSH, Sache tts iend GRE REAReT RMLs EER EE! RUsOS 411-419 CHAPTER III. Organization and County Government... ...... 6c cece eee eee cece eee 419-431 CHAPTER IV. Miscellaneous Items ...... 0... 0... cc cece cece cece eevee wee. 481-439 . CHAPTER V. Political History icc, cas sion agian gaistamp nna siGe Ai aise 5 Gt GS Pee vada gaged 439-447 CHAPTER VI. Educational .................0005 oe ss 449-462 CHAPTER VII. Railroadan sp vcxvear cage sparcigioncamans sear ucon dines one g hs cake eea eu 462-469 CHAPTER VIII. Agriculture and Stock Raising.... 2.0.0... 6... cece eee cee cence ee ee ees 469-472 CHAPTER IX. The Bench and Bar ........ 1... 06. e eee ce eee eee eee eee e ee cette ees 472-479 CHAPTER X. The Medical Profession...... {. {RSA Gee TM RNASE AE Santora. obo sd 479-486 CHAPTER XI. Plymouth County Newspapers..........-. 0 cesses eeeete sent eee teneege siatnineie 486-492 CONTENTS. vil CHAPTER XII. IPT, TOWNS Ps ais cinisesiavssaliemvspsnse mart cutee aiesas go puartatomuemanansemenmceaeeed. SGeably weesbnl 492-498 CHAPTER XIII BHO PH TO WHS DI pis aiig2ge aeais dace st ceaceaeae Saale, Bala ele yis maaan malneneun ease 498-503 CHAPTER XIV. Bredonia; VOwnshi p ys, acs seecccine a ateasecisuiiasaay iomcened aman paca oneheudaegen ene 503-507 CHAPTER XV. Gar tield: POWs Hipp vissisciaiecseushesetsoies. sedyacivecsencesevevdrerets’a.siiesd lh avetayors Qateud dadidh “Gautsaimauuanua nbs 507-516 CHAPTER XVI. Grant) Townshipeycancken avermnaiaientiasussce®aRewaredandnd aide adbe shared 516-523 CHAPTER XVII Hancock. Townships: i AND- yy a | @O'Leary PO. < W OODBU RY | Lane ih Wy Cru STANTON | UNLOS HENRW !r9/2 COUNTIES, jj ~ IOwA *) i ¢ . - | SANCOCH) . PERRY i — + a j= ———— a ‘ . . } {FIELD [20 eyAiigsiey PO. 42 a . ayliom, 4 2 NFL Q’N |r 09 ‘) > ‘ hi ; y . s tionville — é o . PON... », hoe tt yi : PO. - S Ay) ee 4 MILLER | wor AN ‘re. COUNTIES OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH, IOWA. CHAPTER I. INTRODUCTORY. Tur CHANGE—INDIAN OCCUPANCY—THE WHITE MAN’s FIRST SETTLEMENT— THEN AND NOW—THE CONTRAST. - introducing the reader to the chapters comprising this volume, it only needs to be said that herein will be found an historic account of the great transformation which the last forty years have wrought out in this portion of the “‘ Middle Kingdom” of America—the State of Iowa. Prior to April 20, 1836, the domain of all Iowa was included in territory subject to the jurisdiction of Michigan territory. At the above date, through Gen. George Jones, of Dubuque, then in con- gress, the territory of Wisconsin was created and organized in due form. It embraced “all that portion of the great west included in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa.” , In 1838 the question of organizing the territory of Iowa began to be agitated. In November of that year congress was memorialized to do this and to define the line between Wisconsin and Missouri ter- ritories. The act of congress which admitted Iowa also gave her the sixteenth section of every township of land in the state (or its equiva- lent) for the support of schools; also seventy-two sections of land for 1 12 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. the purpose of a university; also provided that her public lands should be exempt from any general taxation. Thus provided for as a bride with her marriage portion, Iowa commenced housekeeping on her own account. ’ At first but a few counties were organized in the extreme eastern ‘portion of the state—along the Mississippi, the remainder being still ‘possessed by Indians, including the Sacs and Foxes. The last treaty ‘with the Indians was made in 1842 and ratified March, 1843. In this treaty, which John Chambers, United States commissioner, made with the Sac and Fox Indians at Agency City, all the lands west of the Mississippi river to which they had any claim, were ceded to the Gov- ernment. By that treaty the Indians were to be removed from the territory named, at the expiration of three years. A part of them was removed to Kansas in the fall of 1845, and the remainder in the spring following. On July 15, 1830, the Sac, Fox, Western Sioux, Omaha, Iowa and Missouri Indians ceded to the United States a portion of the western lowa slope, including what is now Woodbury and Plymouth counties. In consideration of three tracts of land the Government agreed to pay the Sacs $3,000; the Foxes $3,000; the Sioux $2,000; the Yankton and Santee bands of the Sioux $3,000; the Omahas $1,500; the Ottoes and Missouris $2,500, to be paid annually for ten years. Provision was also made for farm implements and schools of training for these tribes. Thus it will be observed the Indians were not ruthlessly driven from the hunting grounds of Iowa, but given a cash consideration to go in peace. Prior to the coming of William Thompson, no white man had looked upon the fair domain now known as Woodbury county with the view of becoming a permanent settler. That brings us down to 1848. Be- hold the wondrous transformation—the almost incredible change! Then this section was all as a wise Creator had fashioned it, The beautiful prairie lands had never felt the plowshare; the waters of the Big Sioux, the Floyd and the lesser streams which here flow into the Missouri had never been spanned by a wagon or foot bridge. The Indians alone had hunted and fished along their meanderings and bathed their dusky forms in their clear and cooling waters. It is safe to assert that no portion of the civilized globe ever made more rapid and substantial growth than the Missouri valley slope has WOODBURY COUNTY. 13 made, in the same length of time. History proves that in the Old World it has taken hundreds of years to bring about even slight changes in a given locality. But since William Thompson built his little log cabin on the Iowa side of the “Big Muddy,” a few miles below where Sioux City stands to-day, the advancement has been like magic. Its enterprising pioneers, its geographical location on the longest river in the world, backed by an expanse of fertile Jand, the rich- ness of which is not excelled, if equaled anywhere—have caused Sioux City to be one of the leading and rapidly increasing railroad centers of the west. Its railroad lines extend from the Atlantic to the Pacific and from Lake Superior to the Gulf of Mexico. The east sends her manufactured treasures to this point and exchanges them for the vegetable and mineral wealth of this “garden spot of the world.” It matters not on what line one allows his mind to center, or upon which hand one looks, the same stir and bustle and genuine progress may be seen. The Indian teepe, which fifty remaining pioneers here well remem- ber, as the only adorning object this spot had, aside that given by nature, has gone to decay—the broken Indian tribes are scattered like chaff before a whirlwind, and are soon to become extinct. In the place of these emblems of savage life, the true types of modern Chris- tian civilization have come to grace this goodly portion of the Hawk- eye State. Nearly two hundred school-houses and half as many church edifices within this county are good indexes, pointing to the work strong-minded and stout-hearted men have here been able to per- form in the short period of one generation. ‘‘Thirty years ago, my county, You were fair—yes very fair; There were no furrows on your brow, No silver in your hair. The blush of early womanhood Was on your rounded cheek; The wild flowers on your bosom Exhaled their fragrance sweet.”’ 14 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. CHAPTER II. TOPOGRAPHY AND GEOLOGY. INCOMPLETE SURVEY—SURFACE OBSERVATIONS—STREAMS—ELEVATIONS OF Grounp—Rock FORMATIONS—COMPOSITION OF GROUND—ALL LAND SUB- MERGED—DEPOSITS FROM GLACIERS— EVIDENCES OF ANIMAL LIFE—EARLY FoRMATION—TROPICAL VEGETATION—SPECIES OF TREES—LATER PERIOD —ABSENCE OF ANIMAL AND VEGETABLE LIFE—SUDDEN CHANGE—LUXU- RIANT VEGETATION—SPECIES IDENTIVAL WITH THOSE OF PRESENT TIME —DEPRESSION OF THE EARTH—INCREASE OF SHELL-FISH—THIRD, OR N10- BRARA GROUP—DEEPENING OF THE SEA—APPEARANCE OF VERTEBRATED FISsH—LARGEST CREATED ANIMALS—VALUE OF CLAY BEDS. le the shame of the State of Iowa, no exhaustive geological sur- vey of any portion of her rich territory has yet been made, and our knowledge of the rocks and soils of Woodbury and Plymouth counties depends on the hurried and very superficial reconnoissance of Dr. White, and the casual observations of scientific men like Hayden, Marcon and Capellini, who have visited a few special locations, mainly with the view of collecting proofs of theories already promul- gated. The writer of this treatise has endeavored to avail himself of al] that has been recorded by these gentlemen, and has himself passed with eyes wide open, if not accurately discerning, over most of these two counties, and here records the results of his best judgment. He w shes, however, to state distinctly that this is not a complete scientific monograph; the data-for such a writing do not exist, nor are the statements herein made to be taken as strictly exact, whenever figures and dimensions are set down. For instance, when it is stated that a certain formation has a cer- tain thickness, or covers a certain area, it is to be understood that such statements are not exact, but only approximate, their exactness being impossible at present, and not at all essential to our general knowledge of the region. It is believed, however, that there are facts observed, patent to all who will look intelligently, to fix the geological status of the region we are considering sufficiently for all practical purposes, WOODBURY COUNTY. 15 Woodbury and Plymouth counties are nearly equal in area (Plym- outh being a few hundred acres the larger), comprising together about 1,100,000 acres; and may be looked at, in general, as part of a larger plain with gentle slope toward the southwest. In riding over the country one is struck very forcibly with the apparent equality in height of all the peaks and ridges within his horizon, and with the certainty that the channels of all the streams and the drains that lead down to them, have been carved out of level ground by the action of water, aided in places by winds that have helped to give roundness and softness to the everywhere beautiful landscape. Close observation brings conviction that such has been the case. Indeed, such observation enables us to see the process of the ages still going on; and the brief occupation of civilized man has in many places assisted very perceptibly in the process. In the whole chapter of indirect causes there are few things more interesting than that portion narrating the unexpected and wholly un- foreseeable influence of man over external nature, and particularly over the conformation of the surface of the ground. The direct and intended changes are very meager and insignificant compared with the results of acts or accidents altogether unthought of, so far as their effects are concerned. The passage of a stream at one point rather than another equally easy, the wagon track up the hill at one point rather than at another, the felling of a tree across a ravine, or even the thoughtless rolling of a stone down a tempting slope, by obstructing or diverting a current of water, or gathering the next fall of rain into the slight depression of a wagon track, have produced changes quite important in their neighborhood, and strictly of the same pattern with the manifold changes which an infinite variety of petty forces, increasing with rapid ratio by continued action, have brought about in reducing the general surface to its present contour. An excellent and easily understood illustration of this influence, and of the manner in which ravines and valleys have been excavated and hilltops rounded, is the following: There are now many deep and rugged gulches in the loess and drift, where the early settlers remem- ber gently sloping valleys leading down to neighboring streams, and covered with turf as compactly as the adjacent hillsides. How has the change been wrought and what has man had to do with it? Simply this: Man brought neat cattle with him. Now the buffalo, the elk 16 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. and the deer in passing from one place to another in their feeding grounds make their trail, so far as they can, on high ground; and when they go down to a stream of water to drink, or to ford, they usually pass down the ridge of some point of high land nearest the water; but the habit of neat cattle is exactly the reverse; for they, when passing from one feeding ground to another, or to the water for drink, invari- ably seek the head of the nearest valley and follow it on the lowest ground until they reach the desired locality. So it happens that the frequented valley soon has a beaten path worn through the turf in its full extent, which gathers rain-water from the adjacent slopes into a narrow channel, and the heavy summer rains begin at once the exca- vation of a deeper vale. If it happens that when the path reaches the stream, the slope is steep and the bank abrupt, the overfall from the water-flow soon cuts out a pit in the alluvium, down to the water level, and every rain extends the gulch farther back into the higher ground, until, in some observed cases, excavations a mile or more in extent, with perpendicular sides of soil, and perhaps twenty or thirty, or even more feet in depth, are found where not so very long ago all was smooth and grassy turf. Nor does the process stop here, water flows from the side slopes over the edge of the gulch and wearing off the edge until in a short time the sides are no longer precipitous, but form a steeper part of the original slope, and here and there, from lateral draws, come heavier currents, and these in their turn make tributary gulches, cutting back into the side hill and going through the same process as the main excavation. So in a few years the gulch is excavated, the descent is diminished, the bottom widens and lateral tributaries are formed in the image of their parent, and we find a new valley with its narrow bottom ground and its central channel, or, per- haps, since cattle can no longer enter at the head, there may be no channel but smooth turf instead, and at its extreme head a deep and precipitous pit where the process still goes on at a diminished rate, because of the diminished supply of water. So streams of con- siderable size, which, when cattle came into the country, flowed in narrow and deep channels, between slopes well grassed over, or lined with bushes and with unbroken slopes, now flow in gulches with sides torn and ragged, cutting deep into this side or that, wherever a path has broken the turf on the slope, widening their beds, until iy many places, the beginning of a new alluvial plain may be distinctly seen, WOODBURY COUNTY. 17 through which the current flows between banks so low and flat that water from the sides has no longer excavating force. This illustration is given because instances of it may be found in every neighborhood and on almost every upland farm throughout this district; and in them we can see going on to-day the full process by which the land has been wrought from a tolerably level, smooth plain into its present rolling surface, furrowed at frequent intervals by the abrupt ravines of smaller streams, or wider valleys of the Floyd and. Little Sioux. A dry weather crack in the soil and a heavy fall of rain, an un- usual amount of snow drifted and frozen, a pile of dry weeds heaped up by wind—any one of thousands of apparently inefficient accidents, has in past ages changed the course or concentrated the volume of trivial currents whose forces, singly insignificant, have in the lapse of centuries, carved out the beautiful landscape we now behold. To similar insignificant causes are due the broad and fertile bottom lands that border the larger streams. The accidental stranding of a piece of driftwood on the side, or a strong wind across the stream, or any one of myriad constantly occurring accidents, directs the current. at some point against the higher ground which it wears away, and then carries the material down to be deposited in some eddy or gentler current to form a bar, or narrow the channel, and so increase its mo- tion or give it new direction, and so continue to wear down the adja- cent bluff and widen the alluvial vale. So from unnoticed and singly insignificant causes the stream is moved from side to side of the depression, reaching higher ground here and there, and wherever reaching it bringing down more or less soil and rock to increase its alluvial plane. To the effects of water, winds have added no little in forming the present surface. The im- mense volume of ashes from the annual prairie fires that have pre- vailed ever since the grasses grew, have had no small share in filling up old excavations, and even in building mounds and considerable ele- vations around springs where the greener unburned vegetation caught and retained them. So,there are many places, as at Sand Hill lake, in Woodbury county, sand dunes that loom up across the level bottom like hills of some magnitude. Indeed there is no region where the processes of geological change are more readily perceived and un- derstood than in northwestern Iowa, or where it can be more distinctly 418 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. seen that the present active forces of nature are amply sufficient of themselves to have produced in the illimitable past all the wonder- ful earth changes apparent to our view, without any special spasmodic catastrophe. The counties of Woodbury and Plymouth are plentifully watered by frequent streams, flowing by gentle descents southwesterly into the Missouri. On the western border flows the Big Sioux from the northwest corner of Plymouth, in section five, township eighty-nine, range forty-eight, to its mouth at Sioux City, in section thirty, town- ship eighty-nine, range forty-seven. Its elevation where it enters Plymouth county is 1,150 feet above meantide, and on a direct line, drawn from its entrance to the mouth, it falls at the rate of one and four-tenths feet per mile, or probably less than six inches following the actual course of the stream. It forms the western boundary of the county and the state, and, including its tributaries, drains about 140,000 acres of land in Plymouth county. Its alluvial plainis continuous, and from half to one and one-half miles in width, is rarely overflowed, and forms a body of land unsur- passed for fertility and ease of cultivation. The bluffs on its border, in the upper part of the county, are quite gentle of ascent, and the valleys opening through them have very little rough land and no stone. A little way below Westfield, about the north line of township ninety- one, cretaceous rocks begin to appear, and thence to the mouth of the river the bluffs are very precipitous, even where no rock is apparent. These rocks are also more or less exposed for some distance up the course of all the tributary streams, in many places forming consider- able precipices. The tributaries, of the Big Sioux are Indian creek, Beaver creek, Westfield creek.and Broken Kettle, which last has a course of more than twenty miles, and is a very important stream, with much good land in its valley; and it is the only stream having rock exposure along its valley, beyond its immediate entrance to the river bottom. The mouth of the Big Sioux is in Woodbury county, and thence, to the south Jine of the county, the Missouri River is the western boundary of the county and state, and at this point, or a short dis- tance above, begins that very remarkable bluff formation on the eastern border of the great Missouri bottom,which extends far down the river, even beyond the south line of the state. The first tributary entering WOODBURY COUNTY. 19 the Missouri in Woodbury county is Perry creek which rises near the northeast corner of township ninety-one, range forty-seven, and runs nearly south to section twenty-eight, in township eighty-nine, range forty-seven, about seventeen miles in a direct line, with a descent of ten and one-half feet per mile, or somewhat less than five feet, follow- ing the stream. The summit between Perry creek and Mink creek flowing into the West Fork of the Floyd river, by railroad level, is 342 feet above the river bottom at Sioux City, or 1,455 feet above meantide. It is probable that some points in this neighborhood rise to a height not less than 1,525 feet, and are higher than any other points of land in Plymouth county. The Floyd river emptying into the Missouri at Sioux City, in section thirty-three, township eighty-nine, range forty- seven, rises in O’Brien county in the northwest corner of township ninety-seven, range forty, runs west to the southeast corner of town- ship ninety-seven, range forty-two, thence west of south, entering Plymouth county in section thirty-one, township ninety-four, range forty-four, and continuing in the same direction to its mouth. It is a very considerable stream, with broad open valley and wide alluvium. There are no steep bounding bluffs beyond the Missouri bottoms, but the slopes rise gently on either side, and there is no waste land be- tween the bottom and the rolling upland prairie. No rock is visible in this valley north of the Woodbury county line, and it shows a con- stant succession of beautiful and highly cultivated farms, from its mouth toits source. Its average descentin Woodbury and Plymouth counties is about four feet per mile in a direct line. From Merrill to its mouth, in a direct line, a little less than twenty miles, the descent is three and eight-tenths feet per mile. The elevation at Merrill is 1,191 feet above meantide. At Merrill the Floyd receives its principal tributary from the west, known as Beaver creek, or the West Fork of Floyd. . It rises in the south part of township ninety-seven, range forty- four,and running thirty-five miles a little west of south,debouches into the main stream in section two, of township ninety-one, range forty-six. Its valley is open, the bottoms have no precipitous bordering bluffs, but the slopes rise in many places gradually from the bank to the up- land prairie. Among all the rich and beautiful valleys of northwest- ern Iowa none are more beautiful or productive. A trip through Plymouth county over the Northern railroad in midsummer, or better 20 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. perhaps in harvest time, is a treat to be long remembered. The val- ley has a descent of about six and two-thirds feet per mile on the direct line. Where the West Fork enters the county, the elevation is 1,284 feet above sea level, or 184 feet higher than the Big Sioux valley, directly west about eighteen miles, giving to the general plane a westerly descent of about seven and one-half feet per mile. The only important tributary of the West Fork is Mink creek, coming from the northwest, with a course of about twelve miles. From the east the Floyd river receives in Plymouth county, the Willow, which has a course from the southeastern part of Sioux county to Le Mars, of about eighteen miles, and receiving in section two, township ninety-two, range forty-five, a tributary, Deep creek, which rises in the southwestern corner of O’Brien, and is more than twenty miles in length. Plymouth creek, with a course of ten miles, has its mouth in section thirty-one, township ninety-two, range forty-five. The valleys of these streams are all open, with wide fertile bottoms and very gentle slopes. In Woodbury county the Floyd re- ceives from the east several small streams, all of which enter the val- ley through narrow and deep ravines, cut precipitously into the bluff or drift formation through which they flow. Below the Floyd river, there are no streams reaching the Missouri within the limits of Woodbury county. Just below the mouth of the Floyd, and within the limits of Sioux City, the bluffs recede eastward from the river, and the great Missouri bottom commences. This re- markable tract of alluvium extends down the east side of the Missouri more than 150 miles, and in some places attains a width of more than twenty miles. On the south line of the county the width is about fifteen miles, and its entire area is more than 200 square miles, or nearly one-fourth of the county. It is never subject to overflow from the Missouri, but portions are occasionally flooded from the Little Sioux and its tributaries. No other county in the state has an equal amount of alluvial soil fit for cultivation. Through the eastern part of this vast alluvial plain, flows the sluggish swampy stream known as the Big Whiskey, which has its source in sloughs far up in the southern center of township ninety-one, range forty-five, and runs a little west of south, till it debouches on the great Missouri bottom about section thirty-two, township eighty-eight, range forty-seven, and its waters spread out to join Deadman’s run and Little Whiskey, and form the * WOODBURY COUNTY. 21 broad slough that runs southeast tosection thirty-six, township eighty- seven, range forty-six, where it resumes its open channel, and crossing the county line in section thirty-two, township eighty-six, range forty- five, falls into the West Fork of the Little Sioux, just south of the county line.* Into this slough falls Elliott and Camp creeks, and some other smaller streams. Recently this swamp has been partially drained by the excavation of a canal thirty-five feet wide at the top and eight deep, with side slopes of one to one. Its descent is for the first 3,000 feet, two inches per 100 feet, or eight feet ten inches per mile, thence for 2,900 feet, five and one-half feet per mile and the remainder from one to one and a half feet per mile. It has proved to be amply sufficient to carry off all surplus water, and has made cultivable many thousand acres here- tofore given up to bog, and swamp grass and rushes. The West Fork of the Little Sioux has its source in Cherokee . county, and passing to the southwest crosses into Plymouth county, and thence flows westerly and south, passing diagonally through town- ship ninety, range forty-three, and thence nearly south through Wood- bury county, entering the Little Sioux in Monona county. It receives in Plymouth county, from the north, a fine stream ten or twelve miles long, also Deer creek five miles long, and Clear creek twelve miles in length, and in Woodbury county from the northwest, Mud creek and several smaller streams. From the northeast comes Booth creek, which has a course of ten or twelve miles, receiving on its south side Bear creek about five miles in length. There are no other streams of any magnitude entering the West Fork within the county. The West Fork is a very considerable stream, and drains nearly 100,000 acres in Plymouth county, and with its tributaries, including Big Whiskey and Wolf creeks, more than 200,000 * The naming of Big and Little Whiskey creeks was the outcome of a characteristic frontier in- cident. Inthe summer of 1858 the inhabitants of Smithland and Wocdbury (now Sergeant’s Bluff), agreed to bridge the numerous streams between those points, to avoid traveling over the almost im- passable Missouri bottom, which was then one vast slough. They cut and hauled timbers and willows, and with the aid of grass and slabs, the latter supplied by a saw-mill at Woodbury, passable bridges were made. The two working parties met and completed their labors at what is now called Big Whiskey creek. In order to celebrate the event properly, according to the rule of the times, the Wood- bury men had provided a five-gallon demijohn and two-gallon jug of whiskey. By the time the larger package had been liberally sampled, all were feeling pretty well. John Lloyd concluded that they had had enough, and quietly secreting the jug in his wagon, he started for home. The loss was soon dis- covered, and Lloyd was pursued by horsemen and compelled to turn about and bring back his booty. Despite all effort to change them, the names have ever since clung to Big and Little Whiskey ereeks. [ED.] 22 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. in Woodbury, making fully 300,000 acres of drainage area. In Plym- outh county its valley is wide, and the slopes very moderate, but below Booth creek the bottom lands are divided from the uplands by much steeper slopes, and in places, the bluffs are quite abrupt. There is, however, no rock exposure so far as is known to the writer. In Woodbury county the West Fork and its chief tributaries lie quite deep below the intervening country, the general level of the plain being from 100 to 180 feet above the beds of the streams, and the streams lying so near each other as to render the country very diffi- cult to cross with railroads. The principal tributary of the West Fork on the east, is Wolf creek, which rises in the center of township eighty-nine, range forty-three and running a little west of south, loses itself in a broad marsh near the south line of the county in township eighty-six, range forty-four, from which its waters reach the West Fork by a recently excavated ditch. Wolf creek has a course of more than twenty miles through a beauti- ful and rich valley bounded by gentler slopes than the West Fork, and occupied by some of the finest farms in the county. Entering Woodbury county near its extreme northeastern corner, the Little Sioux river flows somewhat west of south and passes into Monona county in section thirty-five, township eighty-six, range forty-four. Itis by far the largest and most important stream in northwestern Iowa. Its sources are in the state of Minnesota, the Ocheyeclan branch issuing from West Okabeni lake at Worthington, Minn., in township one hundred and two, range forty, and its eastern from the West Heron lake in township one hundred and three, range thirty-seven west. These lakes are very nearly on the divide between the Missouri and Mississippi waters, at an ele- vation of 1,580 feet above sea level. The elevation of its con- fluence with the Missouri in Harrison county, Iowa, in township eighty-one, range forty-five is 1,030 feet above sea level, showing a fall from its source to its mouth of about 530 feet. Its course does not touch Plymouth county, though some small tributaries drain about nine square miles of its territory, but passes nearly across Woodbury, draining (without reckoning its larger tributaries, as Wolf creek and the West Fork and Whiskey) an area of 216 square miles. It has within the county a descent of two feet per mile measured along the valley, but, as by measurement the current meanders about two and a WOODBURY COUNTY. 23 half times the length of the railroad near by, the actual descent must be less than three-fourths of a foot per mile. At Correctionville, the crossing of the Illinois Central railroad and the Chicago & North- western railroad is 1,135 feet above tide water, or twenty-three feet above the railroad at Sioux City exactly west, a distance of thirty-one miles, and seven-eighths miles below the crossing, the bed of the river is 1,098 feet, or nine feet higher than the bed of the Missouri river at Sioux City, showing that here as all the way hence to the south line of the county, the descent westward is exceedingly small, if indeed it exists at all. The valley of the Little Sioux is wide and completely occupied by well-cultivated flourishing farms, presenting a spectacle of beauty and prosperity rarely equaled. High bluffs 300 to 400 feet high bound this lovely valley and make access to the upper level of the country somewhat difficult. The principal tributary of the Little Sioux is the Maple, which has a course of about seven miles through the south-east corner of the county, cutting township eighty-six, range forty-two almost from corner to corner. It is a large stream, having its source in township ninety-three, range thirty-eight in Buena Vista county and debouching into the Little Sioux in township eighty- three, range forty-four in Monona county. Its valley is seventy-seven miles long, it drains an area of 732 square miles, of which sixty-seven are in Woodbury county, and from its source to its mouth it descends 398 feet or five and one-fourth feet per mile. In Woodbury county the rate of descent is about four feet per mile. It has a wide valley with slopes gentler than those of the Little Sioux, and fully as pro ductive. Its only important tributary in Woodbury county is Reynolds branch, about nine miles long and draining about twenty-five square miles. The Little Sioux receives, from the east, Miller creek, having a course of about nine miles and draining some twenty square miles of area, and Wright creek, running ten miles and draining about thirty- three square miles, and Bacon creek having a course of six miles due west from its source and draining eighteen square miles. These are all fine, rapid streams with open valleys, and Bacon creek is al- ready occupied by the Chicago & Northwestern railroad, while the Sioux City & Northeastern railroad company, have their surveys made along Wright creek where it will doubtless be built at an early day. 24 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. The Little Sioux receives from the northwest, Pearson creek, which has a course of thirteen miles and draining nearly forty squares about equally divided between Woodbury and Plymouth. Its valley has a rapid descent, but not too steep for railroad occupancy. Three Mile creek enters the river from the northwest, having a course of six or seven miles, and Rock creek runs southeast six miles. This multitude of streams has each its network of smaller streams so numerous that it is quite rare to find a section of land within the upland districts that has not its springs and perennial watercourses. As has been before said, the general appearance of the whole region, to one looking down from above, would be that of a smooth plane sur- face, sloping very gently to the southwest, and quite closely furrowed with watercourses fifty to one hundred and fifty feet deep, or in the case of the Little Sioux, three hundred to four hundred feet, and all tending in the general direction of the slope. On the north line of Plymouth county, at the crossing of the West Fork of the Floyd river, the ground has an elevation of 1,284 feet, as before stated, while directly west, about eighteen miles, the valley of the Big Sioux is 1,150 feet, showing a descent westward of nearly seven and one-half feet per mile. The Floyd descends southerly to Sioux City 171 feet, or about six feet per mile, and the Big Sioux falls thirty-seven feet to the Missouri near the mouth of the Floyd. The elevation of the ground where the valley of the Little Sioux merges in the Missouri bottom is 1,086 feet, making the descent from the north line of Plymouth county,where the West Fork of Floyd enters, to the south line of Woodbury, where the Little Sioux passes out, 198 feet, or a little more than four feet per mile. The banks of these streams, and the bluffs bounding their valleys, afford the chief infor- mation as to the geological characteristics of the country; and with the exception of Big Sioux bluffs and those of its tributaries near their entrance to its valley, the Missouri bluffs at Sioux City and Sergeant’s Bluff, and the lower part of some small streams entering the Floyd from the east in Woodbury county, they show nothing but alluvium and drift. In effect both counties, outside of the alluvial bottoms, are covered with drift from fifty to one hundred and fifty feet in depth. There is no rock exposure except in the narrow line of bluffs above mentioned, with two or three doubtful cases on the west- ern bluffs of the Little Sioux; but this narrow line furnishes ample WOODBURY COUNTY. 25 evidence of the geological horizon to which the region belongs, and it has been supplemented by the borings at Le Mars and Sioux City, and excavations in various other places, until the general character of the underlying strata may be regarded as sufficiently settled. Of sev- eral borings upon Morton’s farm, near Le Mars, all of which substan- tially agree in their showing, it is thought best to set down here the record of No. 3 upon the bluffs and No. 4 upon the Floyd bottom— placing them side by side for convenient comparison: No. 3—Section 7, Township 92, Range 45. FT, IN. 1. Drift clay... ......- eee ee ees 46 No. 4, one-half mile northwest of No. 1 Sale is sa store teeinine wer eeatn eve eins 3 8 and on the Floyd Bottom. Blue Clayuiiss siecseaivva cae ees 4 4 sa 2. Sandstone............eeee ee 37 As Dif tlay! a. cu sees eee ee aden 25 3. Blue clay.........esse see ees 1 Said esi sont ardent Setaeladh as 4, Sandstone .........-+eeeeee 34 Blue clay... .......cceceee ce ee ee 5, Sharp, light colored sandstone 50 2. Sandstone.............. ec ceee sees 6. Clunch clays, dark and light 8. Blue clay ss: snseee ccc ceaceavens es BUR a a acis ausuasnrenstss eae ee A 46 4, Sandstone ......... 0.0 ccs seeee cues 7. Dark blue clay, bituminous.. 4 6 5, Sandstones and shales alternate ... 8. Light blue shale............. ll 6 6. Clunch clays............ 0.05. aye 9. Dark clunch..............-- 6 7. Lignite at depth of 145 feet ....... 2 10. Lignite............. esse eee 1 6 — 8, Shales and sandstones............. 76 li. Fire clay.......--.eeeeeeee 40 6 9, Lignite 2... cece eee eee ee 1 12. Sandstone ...............--- 35 *Sandstones and shales continue to 18. Red and white marl.. ....... 15 alternate ....... ccccc ceeceuee 14, Blue Clayiesssiccs sissy se aga ves 4 *Red marl... ..cccccccece cuccceees 15. Hard sandstone............. 8 *Oolitic beds ....... 2.0.2.0 ee cee 16. Light blue marl ............. 3 MOANGStONE sa sores sone ssed sus. dan Sakeds 17. Oolitic beds, fine and coarse Strata co. ccccceccccccecees 52 *Record not complete; thickness not given. 18. Hard sandstone............. 38 405 Boring No. 1 on Morton’s and the boring on Woodward’s land, nearly three miles southeast, show substantially the same results, alike in passing through the thin beds of impure lignite, and terminating in ‘a very hard sandstone; and the same showing, so far as it goes, is made by a boring in the Broken Kettle valley, some six or eight miles above its entrance to the Big Sioux valley. The Artesian well bored at Sioux City to the depth of 2,011 feet, can not with exactness be compared with the Le Mars borings, by reason of the indefinite nomenclature used by the workmen, but, so far as can be seen, it confirms their showing, and extends our knowledge to a much greater depth. The record is subjoined: . 26 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Artesian well at Sioux City—Section 29, Township 89, Range 47. 1. Soil and clay, loess and drift....... 00.0... c cece eee 60 2. Gravel, Joess and drift, 25 feet................ Sieg uiene a wan 85 Oy lal, 04 eet: ous eee Ais vias wae Vlas loede'a eee s Vets dane Ohens eae 139 4, White sand; (2 feet ..csscse8 30s av eewasn ve uae vorevediws 141 5. Sandstone (brown, white and gray strata), 189 feet......... 330 6: CRANK HOCK, LOOT CG i scicas ctecieceeaniae aa tiem wae veiamenmewd sarcenes os 430 te Gray limestone, 110 $b + sce ces ariosanecancmanne vaammaneseets 540 8. Silicious limestone (water rising within 12 feet of surface) OO TOE i aiclticscn eine renioralen aren aesrineEn Qawamionmaaearen wen DMO 9. Limestones (gray, silicious and white strata), 185 feet..... 755 10. Light colored sandstone, 30 feet ........ . 66. ce eeee ee ee eee 785 11. Gray limestone, 20 feet............ 0.00 cece eee ee ae aiinean : 805 12. Sale; OS feetisceras aowssacsweesayysasd tte bsadaadeneeses 903 18. Limestone and shaly strata, alternate, 347 feet..........., 1,250 14. Sandy and marly strata, 65 feet... 0... ..... cece eee cee ee 1,315 15, Hard rock, 205 £66t x ose casa; cwarsaas ownearnecsa wanvaene nate 1,520 16. Niagara group (?) 840 feet... 2.0.2... 0. cece cere eee ncees 1,860 17. Light colored limestone(?) 5 feet.......... 000. .ceeeeeceeeee 1,865 1S, Hardrock, 146 6t raceme. nraacasionamveaanron tenons Semmes 2,011 These borings, in connection with the rock exposures above re- ferred to, seem to establish sufficiently well that this region belongs to the cretaceous horizon, and the succession from above downward is through the loess, then the drift, then the Niobrara group, then the Fort Benton group, then the Dakota group of the cretaceous rocks; and nothing below this group can be positively affirmed, although the record of the borings seems to show quite clearly that the cretaceous rocks lie directly upon the sub-carboniferous, and that the whole series of strata between the cretaceous and the sub-carboniferous, if it ever existed, was utterly removed before the cretaceous era. Evidently the oolitic beds in the Morton borings which appear only seventy feet below the cretaceous lignite, must be identified with the oolites of the upper Des Moines valley which are referred by Dr. White to the Kinderhook beds, and which lie far below the car- boniferous horizon. Just where the bottom of the cretaceous sys- tem is to be fixed in these borings it is difficult to say with precision, but possibly it may be that the sandstone No. 12 in the Morton bor- ing No. 3 is the lowest member of the Dakota group, and the gray limestone No. 7 of the Sioux City boring may represent the oolitic beds. As toall the strata below, sufficient data have not been col- lected to determine their exact position. Possibly the hard sandstone No. 18 of the Morton borings may represent the Sioux Falls quartzite, WOODBURY COUNTY. 29 and it may be considered quite certain that the hard rock, No. 15, that is met in the Sioux City artesian well at the depth of 1,315 feet is the quartzite, and below that point to the bottom the rock is quartz- ite or granitic. One thing may be considered sure, there are no coal rocks exposed on the surface nor passed through in the borings, and therefore there can be no coal within these counties, unless there be some insignificant pocket outside the ground as yet examined, and there is very small probability that such is the case. It is to be hoped that no more money will be wasted in fruitless search for coal or any metallic ores. They do not exist in the cretaceous rocks of this region. In the rich alluvial soils of the bottom lands, and in the loess and drift of the uplands are mines which, worked with plow and reaper, produce wealth with certainty and unparalleled abun- dance, and our people are richer by far than the possessors of mines of metal, even if they be of gold and silver. Probably one third of the area now under consideration is alluvial, and the present surface has been formed by the direct action of the intersecting stream wearing down its channel and widening and de- positing sediment along the widened valley. The process is going on under our own eyes and needs no further consideration, nor need much be said of the character or value of the soil so produced. It is the latest product of elemental action, and its value is well understood to depend largely on the fineness of its parti- cles, and on the intermixture of matters that, having once passed through the processes of growth and life, are thereby better adapted to nourish and stimulate new growths. This is the deposit that always constitutes the flood plains and deltas of rivers and some of the terraces of their valleys. It is largely composed of sand and in places is of coarse material, but for the most part in this region it is very fine and silt like. The loess or bluff formation is older than the true alluvium, and of finer material. Its origin is much the same, indeed, in this region it may be counted exactly the same; though the silt was deposited when the Missouri spread out into a wide lake after the manner of Lake Pepin on the Mississippi, only vastly larger; and so, the water being quiet, and only the finest materials held in suspension in the lake, the loess ig much finer and evener in its composition. This formation spread originally over a large extent in Iowa and Nebraska, and indeed fol- 2 30 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. lowed the river down as far as Missouri. Out of it the entire bed of the Missouri and of the tributaries within its limits has been exca- vated, so that only small tracts of the original area remain. Very little, if any, ever existed in Plymouth county, the northeastern shore of the old lake just cutting across the southwest corner of the county. In Woodbury it extended more widely, the line of shore being drawn irregularly from the Big Sioux river southeasterly, including the bluffs that border the Missouri bottom, and extending some dis- tance up the larger streams, reaching a point a little above Oto, on the the Little Sioux, and Danbury, on the Maple. The exact boundary has never been followed. Most of this area has been denuded by the larger streams, and the material has been used to widen and deepen the great alluvial plain, but it may be seen that the beau- tiful and peculiar bluffs that form so picturesque a feature of the landscape, owe their strangely beautiful rounded summits, and sharp cut ridges, smooth and abruptly retreating slopes, and entire absence of rocky ledges except at their bases, to the bluff deposit which mainly makes up their mass. This deposit, in places, reaches a depth of more than 100 feet, and near Sioux City sometimes exceeds 150 feet. Its material can not be chemically distinguished from the sedi- ment now held in suspension by the river, and as a soil it is, of course, fully equal to the alluvium, and indeed in some respects is much superior, from its superior fineness and less compactness, as it was laid down very slowly, and has never suffered pressure. It has in consequence much of a sponge-like nature, and. never suffers from drouth or from excessive rains, absorbing the rain as it falls through- out its whole depth equally, and continuing to furnish moisture to the surface as long as any remains in its mass. One singular and dis- tinguishing property of this peculiar deposit is that it stands securely with precipitous front. The Missouri bluffs have no rocky support, and yet are so steep that it is difficult for a man to climb their declivity, and in artificial excavations a front perpendicular, or nearly so, stands securely. For all practical purposes of building, the ground it composes is as secure as any other, yet it is everywhere easily excavated with the spade alone. Tt remains unchanged by atmosphere and frost, so that wells dug to great depth—100 feet or more—need no walls except to a point above the standing water, and lime kilns and potter’s kilns, and even WOODBURY COUNTY. 81 stables and caves for the occupancy of man, have been successfully carved out and used without danger for years, though their sides had no support save the natural tenacity of the soil. Its composition is Sil@ as ja sccev cies aa oa de ho Yee cee Yew eeiet lene aS 4 ae we es OS 82.15 TROD sone cstees 3 sha ok Sea ave oe sees SEN e eee see TES AES Ss Gest ye. 3.89 AlUMINGs v4.06 seus vy awew cme yeee s Hehe WER s eR ESSE RSENS aes awe 67 Carbonate of limes cessive cic se ea cacy seas tee ereas teaas vessewess 9,68 and this property of remaining unchanged,when exposed to the weather, is doubtless due to a slight cementation of the particles of silica by carbonated water percolating through the mass. The cementation, however, is never sufficient to interfere with its porosity, as is shown by the fact that nowhere within it does the water ever establish cur- rents, but any surplus it cannot hold always drains from the bottom, and wells dug in it yield no water until they pass its bed into the strata below. For agriculture this is probably as valuable as any soil in the world, and is practicably inexhaustible. Corn will grow luxuriantly in soil taken from any part of its depth, even 100 feet or more below the surface. As to the real geological age of the bluff deposit there ean be no doubt. It must be more recent than the drift, because it rests upon it and is not later than the beginning of the terrace epoch, because river terraces are “here and there formed init. Few fossils are found in it, and these are all recent, such as fresh-water shells and land mollusks, no true branchiate shells except unios, the rest being pulmonate gasteropods. It contains no marine remains, and is therefore not of marine origin, but is a true deposit of the Missouri; and, if it were possible to dam the river, somewhere below, to a depth of 200 or 300 feet, in the course of ages the resultant lake would be filled with precisely the same material as that of the bluffs, and if, afterward, the lower end of the basin were to sink gradually, thus draining off the waters of the lake, the great river and its side tributaries would inevitably renew all the features and conditions which we now behold. Cotemporary with the bluff deposit which we have been considering, are found in places, considerable beds of gravel and boulders, generally stratified more or less, and inclined toward the lake on whose margin they have been formed. They lie in nooks and coves of the old lake border, generally where the waves, driven by the western winds, beat most violently against the shores. They 82 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. have been formed by the wash against the drift, the water carrying the lighter material back into the depths, while the coarser gravel and bowlders have accumulated in very considerable, imperfectly stratified masses. In some places, the joint action of wind, ice and water piled up the larger stones until they formed walls along the margin. Very considerable deposits of this gravel and bowlders and sand may be seen along the Big Sioux valley, and sometimes so placed as to be confounded with the genuine drift from which they were formed. More than one-half of the exposed area of Woodbury county, and nearly all (except the alluvium) of Plymouth county, is buried deep beneath the drift. In a few places the streams have, near their mouths, cut through to the underlying cretaceous rocks, but these areas of exposure are insignificant, and it may be generally said the whole territory is good soil, susceptible of easy and profitable cultiva- tion. It has been said that the bluff formation was laid down in a fresh " water expansion of the river. It is likely that during the deposit of the drift in this regin, this lake-like expansion was a veritable inland sea, and during a portion at least of the period, so connected with.the waters of the’ocean then filling the valley of the Mississippi and the lower Missouri, as to be properly counted an oceanic gulf, through which icebergs of some magnitude could pass to the ocean below. It is quite certain that during the glacial period a large portion of north- western Iowa, including at least Woodbury, Plymouth, Sioux and Lyon counties and pgrtions of Osceola, Cherokee and Ida, was beneath water mostly shallow, but deep enough in places, especially along the valleys of the Little Sioux, the Floyd and Big Sioux, to float icebergs of considerable magnitude. In the earlier portion of this period it seems likely that tracts of some magnitude lay above the surface, or near enough to be acted upon by the violent torrents that poured from the neighboring icefields during the torrid summers; for in a few places there are to be found at the very bottom of the drift, streams of sand and gravel more or less stratified, and much waterworn, precisely similar to recent formations along rapid streams. During the middle and later portions, it is probable that the water was deep enough to prevent abrasion of the bottom, and that there were no rapid currents, It is quite certain that the great ice sheet that covered the northern WOODBURY COUNTY. 33 regions to such an enormous depth, never reached the borders of Plymouth county, though some thin outliers may have existed here and there within its limits. No moraines have been observed, and it is believed that none exist. The front of the great glacier that moved down from the far north seems to have split upon the head of the Coteau de Prairie near the sources of the Big Sioux, and its eastern branch crossed into Iowa with the Ocheyedan river, and thence stretched southward through O’Brien and eastern Cherokee to the neighborhood of Des Moines, and thence turned east and northeast- ward, so that the country between the Little and the Big Sioux rivers has no subglacial or true till, such as may be seen so extensively spread out in the hills about Spirit Lake and along the upper course of the Ocheyedan. There is here a marked absence of the commingled clay, sand, gravel and bowlders of diverse character—in places partially stratified, but for the most part firmly compacted into hard pan, tough and resistant, often poorly fitted to support vegetation, that form so prominent a feature in the morainic tracts along the borders of the ancient ice. The true till was subglacial in its origin that is formed beneath the ice, by the forward motion of the glacier over rocks and pre-existent soil, grinding subjacent material into paste, breaking up rocky ledges, and rolling angular fragments into smoothly rounded bowlders and pebbles, and pushing forward and compressing the mass until it was laid down in irregular ridges and hills at the terminal edge of the glacier; or more likely morainic deposits having a considerable width were laid down mainly under the thinned edge of the ice sheet, rather than at the exact margin, or under its deeper portion. It is made up of materials collected in the glacial bed, ground up and moved forward by the glacial current, and the distance from which they have been brought is generally not great. A marked character- istic of a morainic region is the frequency of small lakes, ponds and shallow bogs. The clays of this formation, compressed by the tre- mendous forces of the moving ice, are impervious to water, and wher- ever the ridges were left so as to dam up older channels, permanent lakes were formed. No better illustration of the character of primary till and moraines in general can be found than is presented by the region around the head of the Little Sioux river, and indeed the entire plateau dividing the waters of the Little Sioux from those of the Des Moines river. 84 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. As has been said, this formation has not been observed in the limit here under consideration. The upper, or englacial, and superglacial tills are quite similar to the subglacial, but are distinguished by their looseness—by the larger size and the angularity of the rock frag- ments, by the more sandy and porous character of the earthy base, and by the higher oxidation of the iron compounds. This is regarded as material embraced within the glacial ice, or borne upon its surface, and by its melting, let loosely down on the true till beneath. Of course it lies above the true till, and is a large constituent of terminal moraines. It is however, often found as a thin, irregular deposit, carried for- ward beyond the moraines by local and temporary ice sheets not to be reckoned as true glaciers; and some small tracts of this character may be found in the northern part of Plymouth county upon the higher grounds, so overlaid by the upper or berg till that their limits can not be determined. Almost the entire area of Plymouth county, and the larger part of Woodbury, outside of the alluvial bottoms, is covered with the berg or floe till so called, very similar in character to the true tills, but formed under water through the agency of floating ice and sluggish currents and distinguishable from them: first, by a more homogeneous clayey base; second, by a more uniform distribution of imbedded erratics; third, by occasional traces of indistinct lamination; fourth, by its distribution, and fifth, by its stratigraphical relations. It is clear that finer materials settling down from suspension in water would distribute itself with greater uniformity than is possible to clay accumulated under a moving glacier, and stones falling from floating ice would be dispersed with a general regularity, unless there were currents or other circumstances that determined concentration along certain lines or in certain areas. The rocks stand on their edges, or even on their points, as though they fell from melting floats of iee, and were received on a soft mud bottom. Where there is laminew, the lower clayey leaves may sometimes be seen flexed beneath the stone, and the upper ones curve over it, as though it had depressed the former in its fall and the latter had been subsequently formed over it. These deposits were formed in.the oceanic gulf before referred to, as preced- ing in time the river expansion of the bluff formation, along the mar- gin of the melting glacier. These shallow, brackish waters, inter- WOODBURY COUNTY. 85 sected with deeper channels, were the receptacles of the issuing silt-laden glacial waters and of the icebergs that floated from the gla- cier front, and as different portions varied in area, depth and glacier frontage, so the relative amount of coarse and fine material varied. In places the proportion of bowlders to clay is nearly that of the true till, and in such places the distinction between the two is doubtful. The surface aspect of these deposits assists in their correct identifica- tion. Where they occupy broad areas the surface contour is of a sub- dued, undulating outline—of a type readily distinguished from the surface of the true till. In confined areas, as narrow lineal valleys, they form concave sheets, the sides of which lean against the slopes, and terminate at a definite height in shoulders on either side. These deposits are much more erodible than the till proper, and have been more sharply and symmetrically channeled where the slopes in post-glacial times have permitted it. It is this deposit that gives form and character to the landscape of most of northwestern Towa west of the the divide, and it is through it that the multitudinous water courses have cut their chan- nels. It is this deposit that, re-enforced by the decaying vegetation of unnumbered centuries, has given to Woodbury and Plymouth counties a soil practically inexhaustible, and certainly unexcelled by any other region. It, and not the alluvial bottoms, has made the best corn lands known. It has in a marked degree, the power of resisting drought and excessive rain as has been spoken of in connection with the loess. It was deposited in waters comparatively quiet, and has never been subjected to pressure, so that it has that same pecul- jar sponge-like capacity. Its entire depth, ranging from fifty to one hundred and fifty or more feet, must be saturated with water be- fore any excess can appear, and then that excess flows away at the base instead of standing on the surface to the injury of vegetation. Again, as long as any water remains in it, the moisture is available for use upon the surface. In this respect it has a vast. advantage over the region of the true tills farther east, where the compact clays and fre- quent ridges of hard pan confine the water in shallow pools or ponds upon the surface or in depressions filled with soil, and where most of the rainfall, unable to soak deep in the ground, runs off at once in the rapid streams, and much of that left behind stagnates and sours, or 36 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. evaporates speedily to the great detriment of life, both animal and vegetable. It is worth mentioning here that this formation, besides its great value for agriculture, has also in places, beds of the very best brick clay known. It is believed that this clay may be found in abundance along every valley, and it is already worked to a considerable extent at Sioux City on the Floyd, at Le Mars and in the Little Sioux valley. There is no limit to the supply, and if it were desirable, almost every farmer could have his brick kiln on his own premises. There are no fossils proper in this formation. It is not likely that life, either vegetable or animal, existed or could exist at the time when it was laiddown. However, there are found occasionally, remains, mostly fragmentary, of animals that existed in the preceding time, and which have been floated hither from the ter- tiary or cretaceous regions farther north and west. A tooth of the elephas .primigenious was found in the sand beds at Sioux City, and a tooth and vertebra of a mastodon were picked up near Mills’ farm on the Big Sioux in Plymouth county, and silicified wood is quite fre- quent. In many places among the coarser materials may be found the characteristic shells of the adjacent chalk, but these are all foreign to the proper formation. Below this fruitful and beautiful surface lies the cretaceous series of strata exposed in narrow limits along the Big Sioux and Missouri bluffs. These exposures have been quite carefully examined by com- petent geologists as to their horizon, and there is no longer any doubt that the strata are the genuine representatives in this region of the English and European chalk. They will here be treated of only in general terms as they have never been exhaustively explored, and, if the data were at hand, the space allotted to this paper is only sufficient for a very superficial view. But first it is proper to say a few words of what is below. The cretaceous strata lie nearly horizontal, with only a slight dip to the northwest, and disappear in that direction beneath the drift. In Lyon county the Sioux Falls quartzite belonging to the Laurentian rocks, as is believed, has a considerable dip southward and westward, and it disappears beneath the drift. No one has so far observed the connec- tion between the chalk rocks and the quartzite, nor is there anywhere between, any indications of intervening strata. It is, therefore, pre- a WOODBURY COUNTY. 89 sumed that the nearly horizontal strata of the chalk, abut against the more rapidly sloping quartzite, and that such is the case also with any strata of intermediate age that may lie between. That there are such ‘strata is clearly shown by the borings at Le Mars and Sioux City, and that these strata belong to the sub-carboniferous series, and all other strata, if they ever existed (which is not probable), were eroded and totally carried away before the commencement of the cretaceous period, has been previously intimated in this article. The writer has no doubt whatever that these borings in every case terminated in the quartzite or the granitic rocks below. It is to be understood then that the quartzite at Le Mars lies about 400 feet below the general surface of the ground, while at Sioux City it isas least 1,200 feet below; that at Le Mars, between the creta- ceous rocks and the quartzite, intervenes only eighty or ninety feet of marls and sandstone and oolitic rock, while at Sioux City, if the gray limestone No. 71 represents the oolitic beds, these intervening rocks must have a thickness of over 800 feet. However, the data are to be considered, as has been heretefore stated, only in general terms. The existence of the strata in the order given, and their geological hori- zon, may be relied on, but not their exact thickness, nor the exact point of juncture of the different overlying formations. The cretaceous rocks of this region have been the subject of greater interest and have attracted the attention of more scientific men than any single formation in the United States. It was for a long while contended that they were not cretaceous, and eminent scien- tists from Europe, and even the great Agassiz himself, came to Sioux City to see and determine for themselves. But these questions have long since been settled, and what will be said, therefore, will be more like a popular Jecture than a scientific treatise. First let us look at the general area occupied by this formation, and its conditions when the rocks began to be laid down. Away back in the illimitable past there was in this region an intricate maze of narrow, shallow seas, full of islands, some quite large, all of low elevation, no mountains, nor any but moderate hills on islands or shores, many of them flat and just above the surface of water. The general conformation of the country was much as would be shown were the present surface to sink until the water nearly reached the summits of our river bluffs. In fact, in the preceding epoch, a vast area lay at the bottom of deep 40 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. sea, and gradually rising at the commencement of this period, had just emerged from the waters enough to afford considerable areas of dry land, and the process of upheaval had ceased and slow depression just set in. Every bit of land had its stream or streams according to its size. The valleys of the Missouri, the Floyd, the Big and Little Sioux, and of some other streams, existed long before, but now they were be- neath the waters of the sea, and filled with debris of the older land which had existed and sunk in a former epoch. The higher ground along the courses of these ancient streams was the boundary of straits, bays and currents of the shallow seas. The eastern boundary of this sea has not been traced to the Gulf of Mexico, but it is found in northern Texas, and passes northerly through eastern Kansas and Nebraska, crosses the Missouri valley below Council Bluffs, passes as far east as Guthrie county in Iowa, and thence to the point where the Des Moines river crosses the Min- nesota line, thence north to the mouth of the Big Cottonwood. It has been seen 130 miles farther north, reported in British America, and is well known to have reached Greenland and the Arctic seas. Its western boundary is not fully determined, but presumably it is to be found in the foot hills of the Rocky mountains. It has been exam- ined for a width of more than 200 miles in the Arkansas valley, and in Iowa and Nebraska from sixty to one hundred miles. Through this archipelago of low islands, in channels intricate and sometimes of considerable breadth and depth, but usually narrow and shallow, the mighty gulf stream probably poured its tepid waters into Arctic seas. We behold, as the result of low level and tropic currents, a landscape draped in continual mist and frequent rains—no snow or frost—full streams, so full that the estuaries and bays were freshened into brackishness till fresh water shell-fish could maintain life there- in. The vegetation is tropical or subtropical; luxuriant even in Green- land, beyond the vegetation of our present era. Every foot of land was clothed with trees, for the most part so densely as to preclude undergrowth, and so the remains of lower vegetation are few and of inferior grade. Nevertheless, the general effect of latitude or life is plainly apparent. Proceeding northward we observe that vegetation is not less abundant, yet it diminishes in size and in the number of species. In Kansas are found sassafras leaves a foot across, in Wood- WOODBURY COUNTY. 41 bury county one six inches broad is a large leaf, and in Greenland the sassafras still grows, but with much smaller leaves. So also in regard to the trunks of trees. In Greenland have been found only 28 species, representing 16 genera of dicotyledonous trees, while in Iowa, Kansas and Nebraska have been gathered more than 50 genera representing at least 111 species, and the formation in Greenland has been very carefully explored. Among the Greenland trees are cottonwood, fig trees, sassafras, magnolias, sumach, and others akin to our forest trees, but here we find two species of sequoia (the California giant trees), 1 araucaria or South American pine, 2 firs, 1 bamboo, 1 palm, 2 sweet gum, 5 poplars (cottonwoods and aspens), 4 trees (their near relations), 6 willows, 1 tamarisk, 1 birch and one of its kin, 1 alder, 2 beeches, 6 sycamores, 1 fig, 2 laurels, 7 sassafras, 2 cinnamon, 1 ivy, 5 magnolias, 3 tulip trees (better known as southern poplars), 1 maple, 1 box elder, 1 walnut, 1 sumach, 1 pear, 1 cherry and numerous other dicotyledonous trees. There had been discovered up to 1875, at least 2 orders, 7 genera, 7 species of cryptograms (mosses, lichens and ferns), and of phanerogamous plants, gymnosperms (pines, firs, cedars, etc.) 2 orders, 7 genera, 9 species, monocotyledons (bamboo, palms, etc.) 3 orders, 3 genera, 9 species, and of dicotyledons (deciduous forest trees) 16 orders, 52 genera, 111 species, making in all no less than 23 orders, 69 genera, 130 species, and this number has been largely increased by later dis- coveries and doubtless many more remain unobserved. Besides this luxuriant vegetation there are several very notable facts to be observed at this period. First, the apparent equability of climate. There seems to have been no storms. Impressions of rain drops are abundant, but the rain fell in a quiet atmosphere. Impres- sions of rippling waves are frequent, but they indicate only gentle motion. The streams were dulland sluggish. There are no accumu- lations of leaves and brushwood, such as are left by rapid currents or are brought from a distance by torrents. The leaves fell quietly on the margin of the stream or sea, and were buried, mostly in horizontal position, by the sediment from quiet or gently moving waters. A second fact is the absence of animal life. In the sea a few shell fish were found, but no fish or reptiles; on land, so far as known, nor bird nor beast existed. The forests were like the dense forests that now clothe the middle slopes of the Alaskan mountains, the abode of death and desolation. 42 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. At the close of the preceding epoch Death seems to have passed over the earth and left no living thing throughout this whole region; not even a shrub, a spear of grass or a sea weed survived the general fate. With the beginning of this period a new creation began with the vegetable world. We can see here that one day life was not, but soon as certain con- ditions prevailed it was luxuriant and varied. Below this group of strata in all the world, no trace of dicotyledonous trees has been found. Hitherto ferns, giant bulrushes, pines, firs, araucarias and cycas made the world’s great forests. At once they give way in this epoch to deciduous hardwood trees in wonderful variety, no less than 111 species, comprised in fifty-two new genera and sixteen new orders. What became of the old? Whence came the new? ‘These are ques- tions which we have no time now to consider; they are still much in the dark. One thing further must be remarked, and that is that all these new species are identical, or near of kin with species now living, while of the species of larger plants in preceding eras, not one re- mains; only a few genera, a few orders of very simple structure still exist to connect the living present with the dead past. Here, at the base of the Dakota group, we stand between the dead and the new creation. Here, in place and time, so far as this region is concerned, God made the vegetable world. I have said before that at the very beginning of this epoch the progress of elevation had ceased and depression commenced. This depression seems not to have affected the eastern border of the area, but to have extended westerly, and more particularly to have been greater toward the northwest. During this slow sinking were deposited the various strata of yellowish, reddish, sometimes white sandstones, that make up most of the Dakota group. There are occasional alternations of various colored clays, and beds and seams of impure lignite, none of which are of economical value. In all the strata more or less silicified wood, and great numbers of leaves of higher types of dicotyledonous trees occur, but most of all in the very hard stratum of sandstone found at the bottom of the soft yellowish, heavy sandrock at the base of the Missouri river bluffs, and a softer, thinner sandstone some twenty-five feet higher. Down, gradually, the earth subsided, the water scarcely deepening, the ma- terial deposited nearly or quite keeping up the bottom level, until the accumulated strata gain a general thickness of some 400 to 500 feet of WOODBURY COUNTY. 43 which about 150 feet are exposed to view in this vicinity. In all this thickness the only remains of animal life are a few unimportant species of gasteropods. Not a bone, not a tooth or scale of vertebrate fish, or air-breathing mammal, bird or reptile is found in the entire thickness. Toward the close of this period the rate of depression seems to have rapidly increased, especially toward the northwest and west. Indeed it seems possible that some sudden catastrophic sinking occurred, for vegetable life disappeared as suddenly as it came, except perhaps along the new and distant shores. Islands and adjacent mainland appear to have sunk suddenly be- neath the expanding sea. With increased depth came multitudes of shellfish in great variety, and so abundant, that many feet in thick- ness of the deposit succeeding, are made up almost exclusively of the shells of a single species, the well-known inoceramus problematicus. The progress of descent again resumed a slow and regular charac- ter, and there were deposited the strata of the Fort Benton group, attaining on the upper Missouri a thickness of 700 or 800 feet of dark gray, laminated clays, alternating in the upper part with seams and layers of soft gray and light-colored limestone. This group has not much thickness in Woodbury and Plymouth counties, if it exists at all in Woodbury. Probably the sinking during this time was ‘slight in this part of the seas, and the deposits, were therefore thin, while toward the northwest the depression was much greater. The third or Niobrara group seems here to lie closely related, if not in actual contact with No. 1, or the Dakota group. The fact seems of little importance, for it is very difficult to draw a distinguishing line between No. 2 and No. 3, the overlying Niobrara rocks being so finely developed along the Big Sioux at Talbot’s farm, just on the south line of Plymouth county, and all along the river upward as far as Mill’s farm, and more especially on the Nebraska side of the Mis- souri, near the mouth of Aioway creek. At the beginning of the Fort Benton (No. 3) epoch, the rate of descent toward the northwest seems to have increased rapidly, and the general depth of water in- creased also, the sediment failing to keep pace with the descent, as it had nearly done while the Dakota group No. 1 was laid down. Now with the disappearance of land and increasing depth of water came animal life. At first shell, few in species, small in size, includ- ing a few survivors from the Dakota group. 44 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Oysters, nautilus, ammonites, and most of all, several species of inoceramus in countless numbers, until the upper strata are one mass of shells many feet in thickness. The inoceramus beds common to the Fort Benton and the Niobrara groups, suggest the waste heaps of some ancient gigantic oysterman, being absolutely made up of shells alone. This can be readily observed at any of the many abandoned lime quarries along the Big Sioux valley. In the upper beds of the Benton group, appear for the first time vertebrated fish, a shark, a flying fish, an apsopelix and a crocodile, the vanguard of the multitude of marine monsters soon to take possession of the deepening, widening sea. The sea was now deepening rapidly, and deposits of yellowish, whitish limestone, largely made up of shells, and mixed with scales and spines, and occasionally entire skeletons of fish, are slowly accumulating at the bottom. As the sea grew deeper, life increased in variety and in multitude. Atits greatest depth the waters seem to have been alive with minute, almost microscopic shell- fish, whose shields fell quietly to the bottom, and formed thick beds of lead-grey, calcareous marl, whitish, sometimes resembling chalk, and the nearest representative of the English chalk found in America. Fine exposure of these beds are to be found at Pegar’s, Dermody’s and Mill’s farms, and at other places in the Big Sioux valley. These beds abound in fish scales, teeth of sharks mixed with oyster and inocer- amus shells in great numbers. Now appears life of a higher order, and as the Dakota group represents an epoch of creation, and luxuriant growth in the vegetable kingdom, so the Niobrara group marks the first appearance in this region, of abundant and monstrous vertebrate life, comprising orders, perhaps some genera or even species now ex- isting. This is the beginning of animal life in forms with which we are familiar, though possibly all its particular species were swept away by succeeding catastrophes. These rocks have yielded two genera of lizard birds, with teeth and bony tails, and two species of swimming birds, one deinosaur, a gigantic kangaroo shaped monster, sometimes exceeding the elephant in size, four pterodactyls, an elasmosaur, the mightiest and most awful of created things, one plesiosaur and one polycotylus, four gigantic turtles, twenty-six pythonomorphs or serpent saurians, and forty- eight species of fish. Among the shellfish may be mentioned the giant haploscaph, of which one shell was found measuring twenty- seven inches across. WOODBURY COUNTY. 45 All these fossils may possibly be discovered here in this region, and many of them have been. Some years ago an elasmosaur (?) or mosasaur (?) was discovered in the bluffs of the Niobrara group near Ponca, Neb. The vertebra found, measured nearly forty feet in length and it seemed likely that the living monster must have been quite seventy feet in entire length. In comparison with such a mon- ster the ancient tales of dragons of the sea shrink into insignificance, and dragons of the air that in old-folk lore terrified even men of mature age, are scarcely worth mentioning by the side of pterodactyls whose jaws were thirty inches long and wings expanded more than twenty feet. Some pythonomorphs, notably the liodon dyspelor were probably longest of all reptiles, and indeed as large in bulk as the great pinner whales of modern oceans. Are any of these monsters still in our modern seas? It is certain that in this group of rocks appear thé first affinities to our modern vertebrates, and it is equally certain that of the many descriptions of sea serpents seen, or supposed to have been seen, in these later years, most would pass well for a description of the awful liodon dyspelor, the tyrant of the Niobrara seas, or the elasmosaurus the most fright- ful and destructive of all its class. Before the close of this period, the land in this vicinity seems to have oscillated upward again—other cretaceous deposits ensued during the process of elevation, but probably they were very thin here, though of great thickness farther west and north. After a season the uprising land appears to have cut off the channels that poured warm water along far northern shores. Probably the quartzite, which stretches at least from the Missouri eastward across the Mississippi to the granitic rocks of Minnesota, rose high enough to form an impassable -barrier. There does not seem to have been any downward movement since the close of the cretaceous period, the drainage of the great lake in which the loess was laid, being probably brought about by the more rapid rise of the upper portion of the Missouri valley rather than by any sinking of the lower portion. Indeed it is the opinion of many scientists that the process of elevation is still continuous. It would be interesting, perhaps profitable, to examine the reasons for such a belief and the consequences of the process if it be actually going on, but for that there is now neither time nor space. Upon the close of the cretaceous period, succeeded the great cosmic winter with its 46 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. enveloping ice and destitution of all life. Of this we have already treated, and in conclusion we would only say a word or two of the economic value of the cretaceous rocks. It is true that very few strata are compact enough to be useful in building large or permanent struct- ures exposed to the elements, but in many places stone may be found of considerable value for common use, and in the Dakota group there are sandstones hard enough to be useful and durable in all rubble work. The inoceramus beds furnish-an inexhaustible supply of lime of fair quality, though generally the cost of shipping them and work- ing them, is, near the railroads, greater than the cost of lime brought by rail from more favored regions east, and so the lime kilns of Woodbury and Plymouth are now mostly closed. In the Dakota group there are some thin ferruginous strata that, if ground finely, make a red paint of most excellent quality. There are also in the Dakota group at Sergeant’s Bluff and Riverside, and in the Niobrara group in many places, shales, which, when properly treated, make the best of pottery clays. There are many places where these shales have been exposed and have become disintegrated, forming large beds of the finest clay ready for use. At Sergeant’s Bluff pottery has been made successfully for many years, and recently large kilns have been erected and are now successfully worked at Riverside in Sioux City. Clays equally good can be found almost anywhere along the Big Sioux in Plymouth county, and for some distance up the Broken Ket- tle, and doubtless in many other places. In the abundant material for the manufacturing of fine building brick, fire brick, tile pipe and pottery of every kind, these counties are far richer than if their streams flowed over golden sands and their hillsides were seamed with occa- sional veins of golden quartz. pRoTo BY GENELLT. WOODBURY COUNTY. 49 CHAPTER III. EARLY SETTLEMENT OF SIOUX CITY AND VICINITY. CHANGE TO CIVILIZED LIFE—THE CLARK AND LEWIS EXPEDITION OF 1804— SERGEANT FLOYD’s DEATH—EXPEDITION OF 1889—AMERICAN FuR Com- PANY—THOMPSON’S SETTLEMENT IN 1848—THEOPHILE BRUGUIER’S SETTLE- MENT ON THE Big S1I0oux—‘WAR EAGLE” BECAME His FATHER-IN-LAW— SETTLEMENT OF ROBERT PERRY, JO. LEONAIS, PAUL PACQUETTE AND: Gus. Pecaut—First WHITE FAMILY—First CHILD—MRs. SANGSTER’S Story—THE CANADIAN-FRENCU—WILD GAME—PIONEER C. K. SMITH’s RECOLLECTIONS—DR. JOHN K. Cook, FOUNDER OF S1IoUxX CITY—Sioux City BY THE PEN oF Dr. 8. P. YEOMANS—LIFE IN THE “FIFTIES”—“ONGIE. War’—Fur TrRapE—Bieé Sioux BripGe History. O the readers of local history, the chapter relating to the early . settlement of a country is of general interest. Especially is this the case with pioneers themselves; those who have witnessed the changes that have been made; who have seen a trackless prairie trans- formed into a beautiful country and filled with an enterprising, happy and prosperous people. The pioneer here reads slowly and critically, every word recalling memories of the dead past, which for a whole generation have been buried among the host of recollections, which now rise up before him like a half vanished dream. The old-time associations, the deeds, the trials and battles against hunger and cold, while the settlers were few and far between; when the wolves howled about the little log cabin, sending a chill to his heart; when the wind drove the shifting snow through the crevices—all now rise vividly before him. Often it is with pleasure he can recall these recollections, view- ing with satisfaction the thought that he lived to see a wealthy land dotted with school-houses and churches, villages and cities. But again, it will be with sadness that the past is recalled, and thoughts will spring up of the dark and painful side of those early days. How a wife, whose virtues, bravery and simplicity will always. be remembered, or a child prattling in innocence, was called from earth to the eternal home, and laid away under the sod, in solemn quietude, by the rough, yet tender hands of a few hardy pioneers. 3 30 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Time had partially allayed the sting, but the wound is now uncovered by the allusion to days gone by, and the cases are not few when a tear of bitter sadness will course down the cheek, in honor of the memory of those who have departed. Pioneers are born, not made. Not every man or woman has the sterling qualities of the pioneer. Not every nation can produce them. The colonizing germ is not found with every race. The Anglo-Saxon race is pre-eminently a race of pioneers. Its greatest glory has been to plant colonies and form states. Notwithstanding, however, the many disadvantages and even sor- rows attendant upon the first steps of civilization, and the adversities to be encountered, the pioneers Jed a happy life. The absence of the aristocratic and domineering power, which is to-day so apparent, must have been a source of comfort. Then, merit alone insured equality, and this could not be suppressed by traditions. The brotherhood of man was illustrated in a sincere and practical way, and hospitality was not considered so much a Christian trait as a duty to humanity. But a few decades ago and the Indian tribes held this goodly heri- tage as a hunting ground, but some one must be the first to look upon the fair domain with the view of setting up a Christian civilization. In 1804 the famous Clark and Lewis expedition was sent out and passed up the “ Big Muddy” (Missouri) river to its headwaters. On August 20, that year, one of their number, Sergt. Charles Floyd, died and was buried on the bluffs now bearing his name. A cedar post marked the spot for many years; finally the river washed in upon his narrow resting place, and the remains of the early explorer were deposited farther back from the river, where they still repose. Both Sergeant’s Bluff and Floyd river take their name from him. In 1839, about one hundred men, trappers and explorers, left St. Louis on the steamer ‘“ Antelope” for the regions of the upper Mis- souri, where they were engaged with the American Fur Company. They proceeded with the steamer as far as Little Cheyenne island, and then they were obliged to leave the boat on account of shallow water. These hardy adventurers made themselves a Mackinaw, and by the use of drag ropes proceeded on their way to the headwaters, where they engaged in hunting, trapping and trafficing with the In- dians. Some remained there while others found the way back to civilization, and a portion of the party located in and near Sioux City. WOODBURY COUNTY. 51 Among them were Joseph Leonais, Albert Peltier, Paul Pacquette, John La Plant, George L. Tackett, —— Le Blanc and Gustave Pe- caut. Johnny Brasos (colored), whom many of the early settlers remember as the violinist, and who was about eighty years of age in 1860, claimed he came up the Missouri river to this point with the notorious outlaw, Mike Fink; and one day when sunning himself on the river bank, had his projecting heel shot off by that historic char- acter, as a mere sample of his marksmanship. Johnny Brasos always affirmed that he was the “first white man” to invade this locality. Still he was black as the blackest of his race. In the summer of 1848, William Thompson settled near Floyd’s Bluff, and was soon followed by an older brother, named Charles, and another man whose name is now forgotten. They were the only white men to spend the winter of 1848-49 in Woodbury county. An- ticipating an immense immigration, he laid out a town there and named it in honor of himself, calling it Thompsontown (known in record as Floyd’s Bluff). For a short period this was looked upon as the coming town. A log house was built there, and when the county was organized in 1853, this point was made the county seat. It was a sort of post for Indian traders for some years, but the roughness of the land thereabouts would not admit of the final building of a city, and all trace of a town site has long since been obliterated. During the month of May, 1849, Theophile Bruguier, a native of Canada, but of French descent, settled at the mouth of the Big Sioux river, about two miles above Sioux City. He had visited the spot and selected the location some three years before. He had been in the employ of the American Fur Company a short time, but left them and joined the Yankton Sioux Indians and finally married a daughter of the celebrated chieftain, War Eagle. Bruguier became a prominent man in the tribe. After he remained with them about ten years he concluded to change his mode of living, and with his Indian wife and children, came down the river and settled on the spot that had at- tracted his attention years before. War Eagle, his father-in-law, died at his house in 1851. His remains, with those of Bruguier, wife and two daughters, now repose on the summit of a lofty bluff at the mouth of the Big Sioux. From this spot may be seen, for many miles, the windings of the broad Missouri, the far-off Blackbird hills of Nebraska, the islands, the rich bottom lands, and the groves of Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota. 52 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Some time during the autumn of 1849, Robert Perry, a somewhat eccentric character, but a man of fine education, came from Washing- ton, D. C., and effected a settlement on the creek now bearing his name. He remained only two years. In 1850 Paul Pacquette settled two miles up stream from the mouth of the Big Sioux. In 1852 Joseph Leonais purchased of Bruguier, before mentioned, the quarter section on which is now situated the business portion of Sioux City. He resided on the tract about three years. Gustave Pecaut, a Frenchman, who was with the party employed by the American Fur Company, went to the head-waters of the Mis- souri river in 1848, remained until 1852, when he came back as far, as the present Sioux City. Louis Phillip, a clerk for the fur com- pany, returned with him, and both located lands here. Pecaut squat- ted on land just north from the Pacquette place. In about 1856 he, in company with Judge Griffey and others, platted the town of Coving- ton, Neb. On that plat Mr. Pecaut lived for twenty-six years. He now resides in Sioux City. The First Family.—The subjoined interview with Joseph Leonais, the first settler at Sioux City, gives much information concerning the first event of this locality. This interview took place in January, 1887. Joseph Leonais is a short, spare, well-preserved Frenchman. The sixty-seven winters that have nipped him, have but slightly sil- vered his hair or slowed his quick step. It was in 1837 he left St. Louis for a trip up the Missouri. The year previous he had left his home in Lower Canada to seek his fortune in the west. He says St. Louis was a small town then, and that he was offered the best located lot in the place for $25. He saw the first trace of Indians at St. Joseph, Mo., which place was a mere Indian trading post for the American Fur Company. Leonais went up the Yellowstone, visiting Ft. Ben- ton, Ft. Pierre, Ft. Buford and Ft. Vermillion. He worked for $15 per month for the fur company. On each up-bound Mackinaw boat were twenty-five men. Tor miles the boat had to be pulled along by ropes—‘“‘cordelling,” they called it. At other places the boat was pushed along by poles, while the men in charge sometimes waded in water to their necks. The goods purchased along the way were left at the posts, where the fur company kept from thirty to a hundred WOODBURY COUNTY. 53 men. The furs were bought at about one-fifth their commercial value. The trip going down stream was pleasant, and the cargo of buffalo robes, bales of furs, ete., was very valuable. The only trouble with Indians was their habit of thieving. The Omahas, on the Nebraska side, never fought the Sioux unless forced to. Sometimes the small-pox would break out among the tribes car- rying off whole villages in a single week. When the fever seized them, if in winter, they would roll naked in the snow, and if in summer plunge into the river, which nearly always caused death. lLeonais finally gave up his roving, and in 1852 settled down at the mouth of Perry creek. About three years before that Theophile Bruguier had built his cabin on the Big Sioux. He had rolled a few logs together at the mouth of Perry creek and broken up a little land by which to hold his claim. Leonais bought him out for $100. This claim may be described as 160 acres of land bounded by the Missouri river, Perry creek, Seventh and Jones streets of to-day. When Leonais was asked if he knew Robert Perry he replied: “Oh yes, when I was going to Bruguier’s to buy my claim, I saw the blue smoke curling up from between the trees growing about his cabin, which was about where-Smith’s greenhouse is now (corner of Ninth and Pear] streets). I went to see him, but he could not talk much French and I but little English. He made me understand that he had raised some potatoes, turnips and corn, and that Sioux Indians had stolen all he raised. He seemed greatly alarmed about Indians. He was a very strange man, somewhat crazy I believe. He lived in his cabin for a year after I settled in mine, then gave me what corn he had left, about five tons of hay, loaded his household goods on a little sled, hitched his pony to the sled and went down the valley. I never saw or heard of him afterward.” Leonais built his cabin on Second street, near Water street, and put in a small store and traded with the Indians. The Santee Sioux were more numerous than other Indians here then. This old pioneer raised three crops of corn in 1852, 1853 and 1854 on his land, which came down as far as Pearl street. In the spring of 1855, he sold his claim to Dr. John K. Cook and Capt. Ryder, for $3,000. They told him they wanted the land for an orchard, all of which pioneer Leonais did not believe, but thought $3,000 a good sum and closed the trade. David Dodson was one of the few “squatters” of 1855; he 54 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. claimed land where now stands the Krumann dairy. He was a North Carolinian by birth, but moved here from Bloomfield, Iowa. He located early in March, 1855. Charles, his son, the first child born within the limits of the present plat of Sioux City, was born April 17, of the same year. The father, a few years later, 1857-58, was selected to locate the Santee Indians on their reservation near ‘“Dod- son’s Landing,” a hundred miles or so above Sioux City. There the family remained several years, and were engaged as Indian post trad- ers. From that point Mr. Dodson went back down the river and was among the -pioneers at Covington, Neb. He died in Sioux City in 1880. The mother now lives at Buffalo Gap, Wyo. Her son Charles, the first-born of this city, has been a western traveler, speaks four Indian dialects, has been engaged on the Sioux City police force for the past seven years, and is now city poundmaster. The first white woman was Mrs. Sangster, a sister of Leonais and the widow of Mr. Lapore, who came from Canada in 1854 and joined her brother at Sioux City. In an interview with her it was learned that she found it quite lonesome with no white ladies near. She opposed her brother in selling his claim to Cook & Ryder, and Cook promised her a house and lot if she would allow the trade to go on. She says she never got the promised property, however. When asked about Indians she said they were very numerous, but behaved well, except that they would steal whenever they could. She relates that their dead were placed on scaffolds on ‘“‘ Prospect Hill.” The bodies remained there until the birds first, and afterward the wolves, had a pick at them, leaving nothing but the bones to remind the passer-by of the human form. Mrs. Sangster (then Mrs. Lapore) married Mr. Charles Sangster March 12, 1856—this being the first wedding in Sioux City. Febru- ary 15, 1857, a son was born to them, named Charles, which by many. is thought to be the first white male child born here, but this is not correct, as Charles Dodson was born April 17, 1855. The next white woman to come to Sioux City was Mrs. 8. H. Cass- ady, who was the mother of the first female child, born April 25, 1856. She grew to womanhood, married, and died at Council Blufts in 1877. The Rowe Affair.—Mrs, Sangster said: “I want the following to go into history, as a false idea has got out regarding the early French WOODBURY COUNTY. 55 settlers. Young Rowe had a claim on the Floyd river, just above the present mill property. He engaged a half-breed to live on his claim while he went east. When he came back the half-breed would not give up the land, and Rowe built another claim cabin on the same tract. He was in love with a very pretty half-breed girl by the name of Victoria, but she sided with the half-breed who was trying to get Rowe’sclaim. Rowe was boarding at Austin Cole’s hotel in town, and We-Washeta, an Indian girl who waited on the table, was persuaded by a friend of the half-breed to pour poison in his coffee. As the person who persuaded the girl to do this told me long years afterward, a vial was given We-Washeta, with the poison—some Indian drug— in it. The girl had the vial in her sleeve and poured it in Rowe’s coffee. It did not kill him at once, but made him insane. He was taken east to his homé and died. It would be very unjust to charge this to the French people, who were always friendly to the Ameri- cans.”’ Wild Game.—In interviewing pioneer Leonais he remarked, when asked about wild game: “I have seen the bluffs black with buffalo, turkey and deer. Elk were plenty, and bears had dens in ‘ Prospect Hill,’ and lived on choke-cherries and wild pears that grew on the bluff-side. The beavers had a dam across the Floyd river, just east of town. Otter crossed the Missouri from the Nebraska side, and there never was a better country for game until the winter of 1856-57, when the snow was over four feet deep on the general level, with a sharp crust on top. At that time-much game starved to death. The deer would break through the crusted snows, and if they were chased it cut their legs to the bone. The wolves killed a great many, and the settlers had no trouble in killing them with clubs. From that date forward settlement was more rapidly made and game grew scarcer.” Canadian-#rench—Here, as in most if not all the great valleys west and south of the lakes, the Canadian-French were the earliest pioneers. At Vincennes, Dubuque, Detroit, St. Louis, Vermillion, Kaskaska and Fort Benton they planted the first settlements in the states in which these cities are found. Their Mackinaws (boats) were on every navigable river, their trail on the prairie, and their trading post in the shelter of the bluff, long before the English-speaking settlers came to claim the glory of being the first. Hardy, hospitable, simple, peaceful, just as Longfellow 56 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. pictures them in his “Evangeline,” the Acadians of Grand Pre, these countrymen of Evangeline have been the forerunners of civilization and usually the first actual settlers. Pioneer OC. K. Smith’s Recollections.—In an interview with Pio- neer C. K. Smith, regarding the first settlement in and near Sioux City, it was learned that Mr. Smith came with Dr. Cook——not upon Cook’s 1854 trip, but in 1855. His party when he first came, consisted of George Chamberlain (who laid claim to the quarter section coming south to Seventh street, who was killed during a cyclone up Perry creek, July, 1881, having but little Sioux City property when he died), Frank Chappel, and men named Rowe and Ruth. It was claimed that Rowe was poisoned. [See account elsewhere. | When Mr. Smith arrived he found Joseph Leonais just on the east side of the mouth of Perry creek. His cornfield was upon the bot- tom, the center near where the vinegar works were afterward located. He had bought the Jand from Bruguier. Mr. Traversee lived on what later was known as the Spalding farm, east from the Floyd on the road to Sergeant’s Bluff. St. Onge lived on the Floyd east of the brickyard afterward owned by Woodley; and Kirkie (‘* Wild French- man’’) lived farther up the Floyd in the grove opposite the Tredway farm. Thompson lived east of the Floyd at the foot of Floyd’s Bluff, and was the only American settler anywhere near when Dr. Cook first came in with his surveying party. Farther down, in Lakeport township, George Murphy had claimed Jand, and two miles north of Onawa a man named Ashton had named a town site after himself. This constituted all the settlement until one came to the Little Sioux river, an account of which settlement will be found in the various township histories within this volume. There was but little settlement, however, away from the Missouri bot- tom, except here and there on the Maple and Little Sioux streams. The Mormons had effected a settlement at Council Bluffs in 1849, and extended out into the fertile valleys, both north and south. Mr. Smith also states that the making of a real city here has wrought many topographical changes in this locality. The “bench” was then from Fifth or Sixth streets north, and rose about eight feet pretty abruptly. It was very wet and marshy on the bottom, just at the foot of the bench, and near the corner of Fourth and Jackson streets there was a wide pond of water standing for years. Between WOODBURY COUNTY. 59 Perry creek and Prospect Hill there was a big grove of native timber, with many wild grapevines of big proportions. There is where the early picnics and Fourth of July celebrations were held. At the time the United States soldiers were camped here, this fine grove was nearly all cut down and ruined. Therewas a wagon road up the west side of Perry creek, The stream has long since cut its channel in there and taken the spot where Liege Robinson built the first brick house in Sioux City. Robinson there burned the first brick, a part of which went into his own house and a part toward the construction of Schuster’s store, the oldest brick business house in the city. At first there was no trouble on account of Indians. Gen. Har- ney came down with his troops from beyond the Big Sioux, in 1854. The Sioux tribe followed him as far as that stream, stopping at Sioux Point timber. There they were thick enough, but did not attempt hostilities on this side of the river. Indeed they could gain nothing by coming over, as nearly all the droves of buffalo were on the west side, while elk and deer were plenty on either side of the Big Sioux river. It may be said in this connection, that Dr. John K. Cook, the founder of Sioux City, was a practicing physician, and the only one here for some time. Cook was agent for, and member of, the town- site company. The firm was known as Henn, Williams & Cook. Henn and Williams lived at Fairfield, Iowa. Henn was in congress and, aided by Gen. Jones, of Dubuque, and Ger. Dodge, of Burling- ton, United States senators, was successful in getting the government land office established at Sioux City. Gen. Lyon, the brave soldier of the Civil war, who fell at Wilson’s creek, was also a land owner here, and was connected with the early operations hereabouts; also Hiram Nelson and Marshall Townsley. During the month of December, 1854, Dr. John K. Cook com- menced to plat Sioux City. He was of a government surveying party and was charmed by the advantages seen in this locality. At the mouth of Floyd river he found encamped, many Indians, including Smutty Bear, their chief, who ordered him to desist from the work of surveying, under threats of violence upon the part of his warriors, whom he would summon from the “upper country.” Dr. Cook replied (through a French interpreter), that if he were not peaceable he would go at once for white men of sufficient numbers to exterminate his tribe. Being thus intimidated the savages struck their teepes and departed. 60 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Dr. Cook having faith in the natural location for a city, claimed land here, as did several of his party and at once begun laying out what has come to be the “Corn Palace City.” The weather being delightful, work progressed rapidly and was completed January 9, 1855. So mild was the winter that men drove stakes, in their shirt sleeves, and the Missouri river was frozen over but eleven days during the winter. The next spring Dr. Cook purchased the Joseph Leonais quarter section, and upon it laid out Sioux City’s “East Addition.” In the early settlement of Sioux City, the Indians were somewhat troublesome, and the citizens were several times ordered to leave the county by the chiefs of the Yankton Sioux Indians, but no bloodshed occurred, to speak of. Large parties of Indians passed through the town with war-paint upon their dusky faces, and their war-whoop was not unfrequently heard, accompanied by the scalp dance of the sav- ages. In the spring of 1855 there were two log cabins where now Sioux City stands. A post-office was established in July, and a United States land office established in December, but was not open for the transac- tion of business until 1856. In June, 1856, the first steamboat freighted for Sioux City landed, bringing provisions and ready-framed houses. The population increased that year to about 400, and about ninety buildings were erected. Great excitement for western land prevailed, real estate commanded high prices, and the land office did an immense business. The county seat of Woodbury county was removed from “Thompsontown” (Floyd’s Bluff), by popular vote that year. Early in 1857 Sioux City, by a special act of the general assembly, became an incorporated town. It was also in 1857 that Seth W. Swiggett started the first newspaper—the ‘‘Sioux City Iowa Eagle;” the first number appearing July 4, 1857. A complete file is now in the city library. [See press chapter. | A great portion of the early settlement treated on thus far, in this chapter, relates more especially to that effected by the French-Cana- dians. The subjoined will serve to show those who chiefly formed the first American settlement at Sioux City. They are given under the sub-heading of years in which they effected settlement, except in a few exceptions in the 1855 list, in which case, some came prior, but were here in that year. WOODBURY COUNTY. 61 John K. Cook (deceased, 1854). 1855.* Paul Pacquette (deceased). George W. Chamberlain (deceased, 1854). LL. Letiller. Theophile Bruguier (1849). George Weare. M. F. Moore. A. W.. Hubbard (deceased). A. M. Hunt (deceased). Joseph W. Stevens. John C. Flint (deceased). Luther C. Sanborn. G. L. Tackett. J. L. Follett. John Powleson. L. H. Desey (deceased). William B. Tredway. Charles Kent (deceased). 8. T. Davis (deceased). John Hittel. T. J. Kinkaid. R. W. Powleson. Ulrick Jarvis. Dr. William Remsen Smith. D. T. Hedges. Charles E. Hedges (deceased). J. ©. C. Hoskins. John P. Allison. William F. Faulkner (deceased). F. J. Lambert (deceased). John Fitzgibbon. James Hutchins. John Gertz. Samuel Krumann. A. Groninger. William Reinke. John Donavon. P. W. Pritchard. James A. Sawyer (removed). Joshua Lewis (removed). James E. Booge. Charles P. Booge (deceased). Isaac Pendleton. George W. Kingsnorth. Joseph Leonais. George Murphy (1854). Gustave Pecaut (1852). 1856. J. J. Ogg (removed). J. J. Saville (removed). Gottleib Hattenbach (deceased) O. Lamoreaux (deceased). N. W. Pratt (deceased). John H. Charles. Charles K. Smith. A. J. Millard. G. R. McDougall. John Currier (deceased). John Hagy. Thomas J. Stone. A. R. Appleton (deceased). James Dormidy. Adam Falk. Charles K. Poor. Charles Collins (removed). 1857. Newell Sawyer (removed). E. R. Kirk. J. M. Collamer (removed). H. M. Sharp (deceased). John Beck. Jerry Kelley. R. W. McElhaney (deceased). Joseph Brittingham (deceased). L. B. Atwood. Daniel R. Hartnett (deceased). Patrick Gossen. John Schlupp (deceased). J. Kinney. W.L. Joy. O. C. Tredway. John W. Lewis. 1858. John W. Allen (removed). William Freney (removed). Matthew York. Joseph Borsch. * Many years ago an attempt was made to organize an old settlers reunion society, and at that time the above was complied by the pioneers themselves and is doubtless correct. 62 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Fred Munchrath. Daniel Kelley (deceased). Samuel Cameron (deceased). John Golwey (deceased). John Doss. William Lubbert. Fred Doss (deceased). Charles Launsbach. Christian Doss (removed). Jacob Schlawig. Of the ninety-three pioneers who settled at Sioux City up to the autumn of 1858, the present whereabouts are as follows: Twenty-four are now dead; ten have removed to other parts and fifty-nine are still residents of Woodbury county. And among them may be found some of Iowa’s most wealthy, highly-esteemed and public characters. Prominent among such men are A. W. Hubbard, who became judge, and finally held a seat in several terms of the United States congress, the Hedges and Booges, Weare Allison, Dr. William R. Smith, who have all come to be wealthy citizens through their enterprise and good busi- ness qualifications. William L. Joy and Isaac Péndleton have long since won high legal standing; E. R. Kirk is the present efficient postmaster of Sioux City, while many of the remainder are leading, active business men of to-day, or else retired with a handsome com- petency. In this connection it may be well to state that Sioux City, a frontier town, and now the “Corn Palace City,” has always been ad- vanced by a genuine business tact, with considerable capital to oper- ate on from an early day. The following is exhibited to substantiate this assertion, and was taken from the internal revenue reports as found in the United States census, and bears date of 1868. NAMES, INCOME. NAMES. INCOME Allisony Js Pe acsexcavenacmsweion $ 3,763 Faulkner, William F.............§ 4,188 Appleton; — evocws snes anaes oees 4,715 Follett, Judson L................. 8,050 Bray; "Te Nescarwasd saa ees comnas 1,829 Golwey, John.................4.. 1,500 Bacon, J. Misasises xen cane saws ya 4,747 Gertz, John.............02 005 eee 1,440 Brown, Ua: Movsses sce xawes yoke ve ea 2,898 Goldie, Robert.................05 1,165 Beck; JOH. sia sacs seus awa aes 1,726 Gore, Mablon..................6. 2,076 Buckwalter, —— ........0..000 ee 1,120 Groninger, A..................... 6629 Booge, James E...............4.- 16,000 Hutchins, James................. 2,057 Booge, JOMD Liccsc save ccera vere ey 1,821 Hoskins, J. ©. C...... cece eee 2,781 Cole, Ris "Wx. teres auns setsasess 2,700 Hunt, Andrew M................. 1,500 Collamier, Dy. EL. ccccss scien aiscesosu.e ove 2,800 Haviland, 8S. W...............05. 2,592 Collamer; Sle WE < cvs sians sinensis 1,728 Hedges, D. T. and............... Cleghorn, John............6. 0.00 4,109 Hedges, C. B........ cee eee e ees 6,520 Currier; JODD 6s gaaenc seciaaee 1101 Hittel, Johitsss5an sees war deesicanen 1,340 Charles, John H.................. 0,412 Holman, Ws, Picaas cnussinvawas enw 1,887 Doss, Christian................2.. 1,440 Howard). C. Kivcwswuwaewaencecawa s 2,000 PGMS stele: Nee hediers Avarays aianawin oncaeid oa 1,816 ‘Holinan;,. ©: Jiu coins scnnnd canoes 1,837 Heli; Gi Waasicenswocuacue ss aanwews L38li DOF, Wit Licsncassa see nsawes wae 8,806 WOODBURY COUNTY. 638 NAMES. INCOME, NAMES. INCOME. Kinkaid, “Gis 5 cas sauces caaewesn 1,200. ‘Smith; Bi Piccowaawesass ecaceces 1,800 Kingsnorth, G. W...........- . 1,390 Smith, William R................ 4,027 Kent, Charles..............--000% 1,846 Sawyer, Col. J. Av... cc. cece eee ee 4,200 Kirk By Riese eiidda ele on iahecnts 2,700 Skinner, Li, ED x. cavecee coerce cas 1,500 Lawrence, Jac. .......-..c. ewes 14,000 Sharp, H. M...................... 1,776 Livingstone, W. H............... 1,800 Sanborn, L. C.................0.. 7,250 Lambert;, By Jussi ceees ce suas aivaree 1282.4 Selzer WR, eos oscars sepicedeiesclas ae 1,625 Millard, As Decsedevain Seen cucu , 2850! Smith, Cy Kase Jsgenislec tens sine s 1,500 Maloney, James................-. 2,550 Spalding, J. D.................... 1,820 MeCarthyg Discncctani adsnye ceeds: 2,075 Spalding, Bu B. .. wo. cccaescac sence 1,607 McDougall, G. R...... 0.0.0... 1,850 Stites, D. W...................64- 1,250 Magoun, J. A...... ce eee eee eee 2,510 Stone, Thom. J................... 8,104 McElhaney, R. W........ «2.2.8. 1,200 Turner, R. F.................005. 1,210 McKewen, James...............0- 1,500 Wortman, W.H.................. 1,218 Powleson, R. H............ 22... 1,550 Woodford, Luther................ 2,384 Parmer, L. D ............ 00000 4100 Wright, A.R... oo... eee eee 2,415 Pendleton, Isaac.............. 6. 2,605 Webster, E. P................2005 8,745 Peavey,. Fs. Hiscevcsantscesnte sons 3 1,120 Weber, John... ... .... .....08. 2,267 Neti, Pisi.ysayae weancsione.cesaes E300 “Wise, Mcgee acins 84 aca ateae es 1,713 Rupyany Jews snes sgeaccaeceres 1,600 Weare, George...............6. . 3,763 Beabold, Biss sxe4 sinew sie 4 wees 1,428 Vinton, Allen.................... 1,400 In the spring of 1856, Sioux City contained 150 people; two stores, one in a log-mud hut and the other kept in a tent, near the banks of the river. The same spring, by a vote of fourteen majority, the county seat was removed from Floyd’s Bluff to this point. The Ist of July, a steam-mill was put in for the cutting of native lumber, near the mouth of Perry creek. July 5, 1856, the survey of the Dubuque & Pacific railway was commenced from Sioux City, running east, in accordance with an act of congress approved May 20, of the same year. During the year, fifteen steamboats landed at Sioux City. Karly in 1856, during the winter of 1855-56, the Indians, who were encamped three miles above Smithland, discovered some un- husked corn under the deep snow in a field below the settlement, and set the squaws to gathering it. As they passed through the settle- ment, carrying the corn in blankets slung on their backs, they were accused of stealing it from cribs. Messrs. O. B. Smith and John Howe procured switches and began whipping the squaws, who dropped their burdens and ran to the camp, pursued and punished all the way by the aforesaid gentlemen. This so aroused the ire of the Indians that they began to kill the settlers’ cattle in revenge. The whites 64 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. now assembled and surrounded the Indian camp—most of the bucks being absent in pursuit of game—and took away all the guns found in the teepes. This was more than the vengeful redskins would brook, and, instead of going down the river to visit the Omahas as they had intended, they at once broke camp and started up the stream. This expedition, marked by depredations from the time they left Woodbury county, culminated in the Spirit Lake massacre. During 1858, 1859 and 1860, the Santee Sioux Indians became very troublesome to the settlers of the northwest. They made fre- quent raids on the settlers, stealing their most valuable stock, and not unfrequently murdering some unoffending citizen. So frequent and alarming were such depredations, that, in the spring of 1861, it was thought necessary to use military force to awe the savages into sub- jection. Accordingly a company of “home guards” was formed, a full history of which will be found under its proper heading within this work. Sioux Criry’s Inrancy. *A Reminiscence By S. P. Yeomans.— The location of Sioux City was rather accidental. Sergeant’s Bluff was already an established town, well known, and having the sup- port of men of influence and means. Floyd’s Bluff was also so much of a success as to have secured the honor of being the county seat. The former was conceded to be a desirable and attractive location, hence efforts were made by those having interests there, to concentrate all business matters at that point. These efforts failed for the reason that Dr. Crockwell, Clark, and others, were so sanguine of success that they refused to make amicable division of their interest in the town site. This failure resulted in determination to start a rival town, the friends of which, secured the location of the land office, and this alone enabled them to speedily distance all competition. Sioux City then owes its birth to the short-sighted policy of the proprietors of the ground where Sergeant’s Bluff and Floyd’s Bluff were located, and its success to the aid rendered by Gen. Dodge and Gen. Jones, together with Bernhart Henn, who gave the town the benefit of all the favors congress could grant, and ever continued the firm friends of the youth- ful aspirant for city fame. * * * * I reached Council Bluffs on my way to Sioux City in October, »S, P. Yeomans was the first register of the United States land office at Sioux City, and con- tributed this article to the Siour City Journal in 1881. WOODBURY COUNTY. 65 1855. I found there a largenumber of mail pouches filled with blanks and documents for the Sioux City land office, and learned upon in- quiry that there was no public conveyance north from the bluffs. However, I prevailed upon the stage company to send up a coach, in which I was the only passenger. We were two days in making the trip, stopping the first night at Ashton, and I think this was the first stage that ever entered Sioux City. The post-office had been estab- lished and Dr. John K. Cook appointed postmaster, and it was said that what few letters he received at first, he carried in his hat, giving them out as he chanced to meet the parties to whom addressed. No contract had as yet been let for carrying the mails, but the same was sent by any person who chanced to go that route. The appearance of the town at that time was very unpromising. There were but two cabins on the plat, and the town site was pretty much covered by a large encampment of Indians. In the tree tops at the mouth of Perry creek, were lashed a number of dead Indians, while upon scaffolds upon the summit of the bluffs west of town, were a number more sleeping the long sleep that knows no waking. The eating was all done at Dr. Cook’s table, and I trust no offense will be taken, at this late day, if Iexpress the opinion that the cuisine of his establishment did not measure up to the standard of Delmon- ico’s; he did as well as any man could have done without supplies, and I don’t know but the bill of fare was as good as that served at the “Terrific” and other early-day Sioux City hotels. The land office was opened in the fall of 1855, I being the first to take charge of it. , There were repeated Indian alarms at that early day, and many were much disturbed by apprehensions of danger. William Tredway will remember the arrangement at the Hotel de Cook whereby it was understood that an attack was to be announced by the prompt military order, ‘“‘ Every man to his pants!” The first sermon was preached at Sioux City by a presiding elder in the Methodist Episcopal church, from Mount Pleasant. I think his name was Lathrop. The first Methodist preacher assigned to the work was Rev. William Black, a young man, who if not a brilliant preacher, was full of zeal and courage. He is now alawyer. * * The first practicing attorney at Sioux City was John Currier. He was a good lawyer and a native-born gentleman. He had the one 66 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. failing which has ruined many another promising attorney. Among the early members of the bar were Isaac Pendleton, S. T. Davis, O. C. Tredway and Hudson & Joy. The first regularly practicing physician was Dr. A. M. Hunt; Dr. Cook only prescribed and practiced for a time among his near friends. An epidemic occurred that was very fatal, and that troubled the med- ical gentleman. In these days it would be termed diphtheria. We also had an epidemic of cerebro spinal meningitis that proved quite fatal. A Mr. French, it was though, lost his life through fright and I could name another who was scarcely less frightened, and for whom I prescribed tablespoonful doses of a solution of asafoetida, and thus tided him over a peril that might have made the number of your pres- ent Sioux City bankers one less! The first real estate firm was Cassady & Moore, who were soon followed by George Weare, Bigelow, Chamberlain & White and Charles & Stutsman. I look back over those early days with much pleasure, and feel a personal pride in the prosperity of Sioux City, for the reason that I was closely identified with everything connected with the first part of her history. I rejoice at the success of those who have well-nigh fought the battle of life there. They have used well the small means they took there, and have achieved a noble victory. [Signed.] 8. P. Yzomans. Life in the Fifties.—An “Old Settler” is responsible for whatever of information, as well as laughter, there may be in the following: Our resources for locomotion in those early days, were the dugout, scow ferry, steamboat, stage coach and Indian ponies, which latter used to be fed in winter on what now might not be considered a very nutritious article of food, viz.: cottonwood limbs; though we have al- ways maintained its advantages over the post and rink feed, not un- common in these more degenerate days. Sometimes when there was no bottom to our rich and inexhaustible soil, our stage coach would dwindle down to a large dry-goods box placed on the axle and two wheels of the common wagon; about which Pioneer Pizey, of Dakota City, who was known far and near as “ Old Reliable,” could give many incidents. We shall never “ forget to remember” the time in those early days when he brought us in his dry-goods box a bright, dapper, span new WOODBURY COUNTY. 69 school teacher (who came clear from Pennsylvania), when the mud upon our highways was all the way from six inches to two feet deep— the look of utter blank and profound astonishment which stole over the countenance of the landlord of the old Sioux City hotel, and some twenty or more guests, gathered around him, when on the arrival of the teacher he asked the landlord if he couldn’t have his boots blacked. The request seemed to be flying in the face of Providence. Our good teacher, however, and he proved to be a good one, lived to do good service for his country, with the rank of captain, enlisting at Council Bluffs. There was a time in the history of Sioux City when her denizens were blessed with a great deal of leisure, and hence, it is said, were pre-eminently distinguished for their social qualities. It was then that some of them completely mastered the art of resting! For an example: One of the early settlers was sent by his spouse down town to get some butter, and on his way home indulged his social instincts to such an extent that when he arrived home his better-half, greatly to the souring of her amiability, discovered that, under the magic of a hot sun, the butter had all melted and run off the plate, scarcely leaving a respectable grease spot as an evidence of her husband’s errand down town! The merchants in those days were sociable beings—a band of brother traders, always on the alert for each other’s (and their own) interests. Every morning they would mingle together to consider how much their goods should be marked up until the next consign- ment was received. They were men of clear heads and understood the tricks of their calling. For illustration we need only speak of their manner of selling fried and boiledeggs. Fried eggs were fifteen cents a piece and boiled ones ten cents. The reason assigned for the great difference was, that fried eggs had to be good, U. e., like Cesar’s wife, above suspicion, while boiled eggs were sold at the risk of the purchaser. In this connection it is certainly befitting to speak of the scratch- ing habits of the old settlers. It is said that custom breeds a habit in man. The “prairie digs,” in those times, generated a universal habit of pioneer scratching. The stoic may bear pain without flinching, the philosopher misfortune without signs of grief, but no one can help scratching when they itch. The reader may have heard of the lady 4 70 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. who was sick and longed to be poor that she might have the “itch,” on account of the solid comfort, not to say downright luxury, of scratch- ing. Had she lived in Sioux City in the “ fifties” she could have en- joyed herself right famously! Besides, the “prairie digs” is no vul- gar disease, it is quite an aristocratic affair, as much so as the gout, and being such it would not be at all wonderful if it should make its advent as one of the aristocratic events among our new settlers. In this degenerate day it is anything and everything for style. The Ongie War.—The “‘Ongie War,” as termed by early settlers, grew out of a determination of the Claim Club to enforce their con- ception of right and justice, with reference to claims. A pre-emption of 160 acres of land was regarded as a very fair thing, but was wholly insufficient for an old settler to ‘spread himself on,” so under the superior ruling of the Claim Club, he appropriated 360 acres for that commendable purpose, and woe to the unlucky wight who presumed to violate this supreme law of the land. A land law of congress that presumed to conflict with an old settler’s notion of things, was at once practically squelched so far as he was concerned. Any one who ig- norantly violated the law of the Claim Club was at once waited upon, and in the name of the Great Jehovah invited in true Arkansas style, to “git!” If the offender did not “git,” war was at once declared. A man named Rowe, whose name occurs in one account of the early settlers, took a claim across the Floyd river, not far from the present Exchange flouring mills. He became enamored of a beautiful half- breed maiden, known as “ Prairie Flower,” but whose true name was Victoria Ongie. To have his charmer near him, Rowe invited her father and his whole family to take up their abode in his humble cabin, which they did. He loved well, but alas not wisely; at any rate he became insane and died. His mother did not enter into her son’s ro- mantic ideas of matrimony with a hearty zest, and after his death she came on, and sternly invited the Ongie family to betake themselves to other quarters. Her cause was espoused by the Claim Club. The eagerness to wreak vengeance on the Ongies might have found solution in the possible fact that some of the “clubbers” were rejected lovers of Victoria. Be that as it may, an attack was projected, and in the course of a few hours, after the plans were matured, those gallant sons of right and justice might have been seen deployed in true skirmish style, ad- WOODBURY COUNTY. 71 vancing on the ill-fated Ongies. They placed themselves in position for a final and successful assault. Two lawyers characteristically took up a position on the side of the cabin, where there were no openings, and hence where there could be no danger from a return fire. The Ongies having sniffed the battle from afar, were making preparations for defense, and by accident discharged one of their guns. At this, the aforesaid legal gentlemen, forgetting the safety of their well-chosen position, found safety in their heels, with Victoria, the ‘“ Prairie Flower,” in close pursuit. She overtook them and by her wiles and smiles, succeeded as an intermediator between the Ongie forces and the club in bringing about a cessation of hostilities, and thus ended the Ongie War. One of the brave (?) lawyers, who ran away, lived to fight another day, and by many gallant deeds as a Union officer placed himself among the honored of history, and died as governor of Wash- ington territory. The Fur Trade.—The fur trade of Sioux City at an early day, was an item of no small commercial importance, as will be seen by the single local paragraph extracted from the “‘ Sioux City Eagle” of 1857: In addition to the large number of buffalo robes and skins brought to this place by friendly Indians, immense quantities are brought here by Mackinaws (small boats). Messrs. Frost, Todd & Co. are the heaviest dealers in furs. During one week in June (1857) they received, by steamboat, from the head-waters of the Missouri and Yellowstone, furs and skins to the value of many thousand dollars, one consignment alone containing 7,567 buffalo robes (tanned); 739 beaver skins; 32 elk skins; 14 bear skins; 1 moose skin, and 35 pelt packages. Sioux City Market Report—1857.—The subjoined was copied from the “ Eagle” of August 14, 1857: Hour per Bol yess och cies Satake Washed eae $12 00 Meal. |" Bush@hsesed cctenincctasn cane pebinwaeon teed ew eae 250 Corn ‘ SE) ia natant eitiaeid. aud a laced oe eaten Mebho ners aivithaser eras om Sone 200 Beans ‘‘ FE + eeahatniny “eins e Rate aO NEAR OMe eA 4 APE Sr ape A arose 6 00 Dried Apples per lb. icc cocaiesen cau cin oa dker cn Ranete sama ones were 25 Prime Brown Sugar........ . Dis Aa Pea Nas Ga moaunamnein Mundas Sentara 20 White(eruslied):. <5 sissies Gand ae eee day atk ble oeatineat Ste 25 PLOAPD ER 1 Dic, chaiesras susees Sicaurainincnasara venus etna daar omen anor 75 to 1 25 TRACE ee EO og speck 8 Sa Lied tl OS: avalon dend Mage Bm arched BG Aaa SU Se aI A 123 Btar- Candles per [Desicncs sicccsvacdavg eesiinie. rcanuiaws gis cavonavas 35 Soap: per Wii saaasateicasewaeetiiawintauieeetagen hedas seeds 12 72 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Bitten 8 ogee eens Mee tay | SER ee eG Ray eke 40 TBR AO Oe sicke euine Sie ny wale w atia oR era Ee Maha A aaaiS Oe 8 25 Side Meat per lb.. sibs 4 eich ees te aces ae es ae ane 19 Best Pina Lamnber per ‘{housand,. {eae teva rene eee 300200 Cottonwood “ as ns sa G aes pines pinata < Reale BUS wicree acre 80-00 Lath SEY Cheat srinaiedcnals siaaeaventoicee! Valens 12 00 Whiskey per gallon.......... cess cece ence cece nner ne seeerenens 40 An odd advertisement appeared in the “ Eagle” in 1859, at least it would seem odd to-day. It was the advertisement of Charles P. Booge & Co., general dealers, and contained the following: Headquarters, St. Louis, Mo. Branch House, Sioux City, Jowa. + oe * Sugar, Molasses, Hams, Corn, Rio Coffee, Codfish, Tobacco, Soap, Candles, Whiskey, Brandy, Gin, Beer, Wine, Powder, Shot, Caps, Gun Wadding, Indigo, Glass and Nails all cheap, but cash must come before delivery. And now, after this somewhat broken history, we drop the thread, which might be of interest to trace out into farther detail, were it not for the fact that the township historian will visit each subdivision of the county, and from the oldest remaining pioneers, gather early settle- ment facts for the various civil townships as now constituted. As much will be gleaned upon this subject as can be, from all reliable sources; however, as one attempts to grasp the whole and reduce it to a few pages, it widens and expands, growing in importance and mag- nitude. Though yet comparatively new, a complete history of Wood- bury county, its growth from the beginning, a mention of its heroes, living and dead, would fill a vast valinte, Very exact and patient of research must he be who can do justice to all and fully perpetuate the memory of every event, even for the brief period which has trans- pired since the first settlement in 1848. The township histories will carry it to a later date than this chapter. WOODBURY COUNTY. 73 CHAPTER IV. ORGANIZATION OF THE COUNTY. THE LOcATION—COUNTY-SEAT COMMISSIONERS—FIRST OFFICERS—TERRITORY EMBRACED—COUNTY-SEAT HISTORY—COUNTY BUILDINGS—RENTING OF- FICES — PRESENT COURT-IIOUSE—THE Poor FARM—FIRST AND EARLY EVENTS. ° OODBURY COUNTY is situated on the western border of the state of Iowa, with the Missouri river flowing along the south- western border, and the Big Sioux on the northwest. It contains twenty-four civil townships, and nearly twenty-five congressional town- ships of six miles square each. It is, consequently, one of Iowa’s four “big” counties: Pottowattomie, Kossuth, Woodbury and Plymouth. For the subdivision of the county into township organizations, the reader is referred to the chapters on township history in this work. One can scarcely realize the fact that all western Iowa was one vast prairie wilderness forty years ago, but such is true. Five years after Iowa was admitted to the Union, the territory now known as Woodbury county, was established and named Wahkaw. The south- ernmost tier of townships was at one time a part of Benton county, and the remainder was included in Buchanan. An act approved January 12, 1853, provided for the organization of the county from and after March 1. Charles Wolcott, of Mills county; Thomas L. Griffey, of Pottowattomie county and Ira Perdue of Harrison county, commissioners appointed to locate the county seat, were to meet July 2. Thomas L. Griffey was made organizing sheriff, and the name given to the new county seat, by the same act of the Fourth general assembly was “ Floyd’s Bluff.” Prior to this time, this territory had been included in Polk, for revenue, election and judicial purposes. The above act was to go into effect upon its publication in the ‘‘ Western Bugle.” On the same day another act was approved, which changed the name of the county to Woodbury. It was named in honor of Hon. Levi Wood- 74 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. bury, of New Hampshire, an eminent man of his time, who succeeded Judge Story on the supreme bench. At that date the laws of Iowa provided that any organized county might petition the county judge of the nearest organized county, and, by his authority, become attached thereto as a civil township, for judicial purposes. Hence it was that Woodbury took in all northwestern Iowa, each county being a civil township. Cherokee county was the first to be set off and organized, in 1857, as a county by itself, Plymouth fol- lowing a year later. Marshall Townsley was the first county judge. Judges Smith, Cook, Campbell and Allison, each serving prior to 1861, when the office of supervisor was created, had much to do with the organizing of the county. Under their guidance the first civil townships were created; the first highways, bridges and schools were all founded by the wise administration of these pioneer county judges. The County Seat.—The county seat commissioners, before named in this chapter, selected a part of section one, township eighty-eight, range forty-eight, as the place for the seat of justice. It was styled on the plat books as Floyd’s Bluff, and there the first official acts in and for Woodbury county were performed. William B. Thompson and a few other pioneers, named elsewhere, intended to build up a city at that point, but when Dr. John K. Cook came to these parts, in 1854, to survey lands in northwestern Iowa, he saw that near this point, some day, would stand a great commercial center, hence he formed a town site company, platted Sioux City, and, through the aid of Iowa congress- men, succeeded in having the United States land office established at the new town. ‘This naturally brought hundreds of men from all directions, some of whom were impressed with the location, and be- came citizens and hearty supporters of all measures regarding the advancement of the new town, including the establishment of a post- office in 1855. This caused the former lively interest in the town site at Floyd’s Bluff to slacken somewhat. About three miles farther down the bank of the Missouri river, another town was platted in 1857, known as Sergeant’s Bluff City, which was located on the same quarter-section with another plat styled Sergeant’s Bluff. April 2, 1855, a vote had been taken, however, upon the question of the county seat being removed to that point. There were twenty-four votes, all of which were cast in favor of re- moval. ag 4 & hk WOODBURY COUNTY. 75 In March, 1856, the county judge was presented with a petition, headed by George Weare and others, praying to have the county seat removed to Sioux City. At the same time a remonstrance, headed by T. Elwood Clark, J. D. M. Crockwell and many others who were directly interested in the future well-being of Sergeant’s Bluff City, was placed on file. At the April (1856) election, there were one hundred and sixteen votes polled, seventy-one of which favored the removal of the county seat to Sioux City, and forty-five of which opposed it, and as a conse- quence the April term of county court was held at the new seat of justice. County Buildings.—The first county officers, of necessity, had to oceupy the rude log houses in which they lived. Magnificent struct- ures were the last things thought of by the pioneers. Upon the final location of the county seat at Sioux City, in 1856, there were various opinions regarding the propriety of erecting a court-house. It is found by the minute book of the county judge, that Judge John K. Cook, whose portrait adorns the frescoed walls of the beautiful court room in the Temple of Justice to-day, in Sioux City, was pre- yailed on in June, 1857, to award the contract of laying the foundation of a court-house, to John Fitzgibbon, for the sum of $850. This building was to be located on the public square. In 1858, Judge Campbell was petitioned by G. W. F. Sherwin, A. Leech, F. M. Ziebach, 8S. P. Yoemans and over one hundred others, to build a county jail. The question being submitted to a vote of the people in June, the same year, the measure prevailed, and the contract was let to J. W. Bosler for the sum of $14,800. It was a block-house enclosed in brick work, and was located on lot eight, block forty-seven. In April, 1859, Judge Campbell made a contract with S. H. Cas- sady for a large brick building and a part of lots one, two and three, in block thirty-four, of the middle addition to Sioux City. The price contracted for was $25,000 in bonds and five-year warrants. This contract, however, was canceled, and the county rented offices in various business houses, one officer being in one part of town and others in another part. In 1874 Weare & Allison made a proposition to the supervisors, to erect a building for the use of the county. It was to be on the corner of Fourth and Douglas streets, and the county was to pay them $4,000 a year for the use of the same. This 76 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. proposition, however, did not meet with approval, and the people having become tired of paying rent and having no home to call their own, a vote was taken on this question at the October election in 1875. The vote stood largely in favor of erecting a court-house at a cost of $75,000, the fund to be raised by bonding the county. In accordance with that vote, the supervisors at once commenced looking about for plans for the building. The report of their building com- mittee will be found in the “board proceedings” elsewhere in this work, The Poor Farm.—For matters concerning the Woodbury county poor-farm and poor-house, situated near Sergeant’s Bluff, the reader is referred to the “ Acts of the Board of Supervisors,” elsewhere. First and Other Early Events.—Under this heading is given a number of the more important events that transpired in Woodbury county and Sioux City, in the earlier years of their history: The first actual settler in Woodbury county was William B. Thompson, who located at Floyd’s Bluff in 1848. The first town site platted was Floyd’s Bluff, known as ‘‘Thompson- town.” Itwas made the county seat until 1856, although only one log house ever graced the spot. The first election for county officers was held August 1, 1853, at the house of William B. Thompson, the first settler in Woodbury county, when sixteen votes were polled. The first bill against the county was made payable to Judge Thomas L. Griffey, for the amount of $18, for services in locating the county seat. It was dated January 27, 1854. The first post-office in the county was established at Sergeant’s Bluff in 1855, with Leonard Bates as postmaster. J. W. Retz brought the mail (not by government contract) from Council Bluffs, as did also Gibson Bates, in an ox wagon, collecting and distributing mail matter along the road to persons whom they knew. The first saw-mill was constructed at Sergeant’s Bluff in 1855, by Thomas Robes, and commenced operations early in September. There was quite an excitement over the event, and a struggle to obtain the first board sawed, and for a long time it was exhibited by its possessor, as being the pioneer saw-cut board made in Woodbury county. The first foreigner to become naturalized, in Woodbury county, was Clement Lamoreaux, February 4, 1856. Sa pr Pore "PART ee UEC ae Hi A j t tI Hey | a WOODBURY CO. COURT HOUSE, SIOUX CITY, IOWA. WOODBURY COUNTY. 719 The first presidential election held, was in the month of Novem- ber, 1856, during the Fremont-Buchanan campaign. The first steam ferry was operated at Sioux City in 1857, the boat being the ‘‘ Lewis H. Burns.” The first flouring-mill was run in connection with a saw-mill, by Bedard & Roesch. The saw mill-was commenced in 1859, and the flouring-mill, a small concern, in 1860, near the mouth of the Floyd. The first wagon bridge over the Big Sioux was built by the gov- ernment in 1866-67. The first railroad bridge to span the waters of the Missouri, was built by the Chicago & Northwestern railroad company in 1887. Sioux City was platted by John K. Cook, in the autumn of 1854, and the work completed early in January, 1855. The first white man to locate on the plat was the French Canadian, Theophile Bruguier, in 1849. The first hotel was conducted by the founder of the city, Dr. John K. Cook, in 1854-55. Austin Cole came next. The Terrific and Severe were early hotels, about which many of the old timers now talk, giving many laughable experiences connected therewith. Cassady, Myers & Moore started the first bank at Sioux City, in October, 1855. The first attorney was M. F. Moore, who came in 1855. John Cassady came about the same time. ; The first regular frame house in the place, was erected from a ready-made frame shipped up the river for the tin shop of J. C. Flint and his partner, Daggett,in 1856. John K. Cook had, however, erect- ed what might be termed a ‘claim shanty,” a rough board struct- ure, the year prior to this. The first brick house was that of Liege Robinson, who burned the brick for his own, and enough more to build the Schuster building— the first brick business house. The first marriage was that of Mrs. Lapore to Mr. Charles Sang- ster in March, 1856. The first female child was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. 8S. H. Cassady, born April 25, 1856. She was born on the original plat, while Charles Dodson was born up the Floyd river, and not then in town. ; The first general election was held in the land office building in August, 1856, 80 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. The first Fourth of July celebration was held in 1857, at the foot of Prospect Hill, within a little clump of native timber. The pioneer school was taught in 1857 by Miss Wilkins, now of Omaha. Yankton, Dak., was platted in 1859, by a company partly made up of Sioux City men. It was first spelled in all newspapers and record matters as ‘Yancton, Dacotah, Ty.” The first account of “picture taking” at Sioux City was in the “Eagle” in 1858, in the way of an advertisement as follows: ‘““AMBROTYPES— Go to the City Gallery and ‘secure the shadow ere the substance fades.’ Slade & Dunbar, at the residence of J. R. Sanborn.” The art of pho- tography was not developed until about 1863, and ambrotypes were all the rage in Sioux City homes, and they now form antique curiosities, of which this generation know but little. CHAPTER V. COUNTY GOVERNMENT, ETC. THE First ELECTION—COUNTY COURT—REMOVAL OF THE COUNTY SEAT— SEVERAL NORTHWESTERN IOWA COUNTIES SET OFF—ACTS OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS—THE JAIL—THE Poor FarM—THE CourRT-HousE— A. DEFAULTING TREASURER—MARRIAGE RECORD—POPULATION OF COUNTY BY TOWNSHIPS—RECORDED VILLAGE PLATS OF COUNTY. HEN Woodbury county was organized in 1853, the local gov- ernment was vested in what was termed the ‘“‘county court,” which consisted of the county judge, the district clerk and the sheriff. The judge had supreme control of matters which can now be brought before the district court, as well as those financial matters now in the hands of supervisors. His office was one of much importance and ofttimes abused. At the general election of August, 1853, at William Thompson’s house, seventeen votes were cast and the following officers elected: Marshall Townsley, judge; Hiram Nelson, treasurer and recorder; Eli Lee, coroner; Joseph P. Babbitt, district clerk. WOODBURY COUNTY. 81 County Court.—The first pages of ‘“ Minute Book A,” the official record of the county court, contain but little, except entries of the amounts of small bills allowed for sundry items, and generally for service rendered by some one of the county officials. The year 1854 was not eventful, and the county court had little else to do than issue petty warrants, and canvass the election returns. In 1855 a petition, signed by twenty-six names, was presented to the county judge, O. B. Smith, calling for a vote on the question of removing the county seat of justice to Sergeant’s Bluff City. In March, 1856, George Weare ° and others petitioned the court to submit the question of removing the county seat to Sioux City. A remonstrance was also presented by T. Elwood Clark, J. D. M. Crockwell and others. In May, 1857, acting upon proper petition, the county judge organized Dickinson county. July 7, 1857, the few freeholders then residing in what is now Cherokee county, petitioned to the Woodbury county authorities to be set off and duly organized. 8. T. Davis was then acting judge. March 17, 1858, a ferry license was granted, by Judge J. L. Camp- bell, to C. Gagnon, to operate a ferry-boat across the Big Sioux river. April 10, the same year, license was granted to Paul Pacquette, to operate another ferry at another point on the Big Sioux. The minute book of the early county court was, in fact, principally filled up with marriage licenses, description of warrants issued and road notices. June 5, 1858, Ida county was set off and duly organized by Judge Campbell. In October, the same year, Plymouth county was set off and duly organized. Clay county was organized at about the same date, and thus rapidly the great domain originally in Woodbury county began to assume separate county organizations. In October, 1858, Buena Vista county was organized and an election called. In September, 1859, Hon. John A. Kasson was allowed $500 for his legal services in behalf of Woodbury county. Nothing of marked historic importance is found recorded in the county judge’s book for the year 1860. The close of that year marked a new erain the government of every county in Iowa, for it was at this time that the law was changed; doing away with many functions of the county judge’s office, the same being transferred to the newly created board of supervisors, made up, at that time, by one member from each township. Acts of the Board of Supervisors.—January 7, 1861, was the day 82 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. fixed upon by act of the general assembly, for the first board of county supervisors to meet. The first to hold such office in Woodbury county were: Samuel Cameron, chairman, A. 8. Bacon, John House- holder and Elijah Adams. Their business during the four regular sessions held in 1861, was principally routine work, laying out roads, auditing accounts, levying taxes, ete. A complete list of the boards will be found in the “ political chapter.” In 1862 the supervisors let the contract to build a bridge across the Floyd river. At the October session of 1864 the following members were serv- ing: Luther Woodford, chairman; Samuel Cameron, John 8S. Ed- wards and A. B. Griffin. The minutes of that session present the fol- lowing: Resolved, That a sufficient tax be levied on all taxable property in Woodbury county topay the sum of three hundred dollars to each soldier who has or may enter the Union army to fill the required quota under the last call of President Lincoln for 300,000 more troops; this to also include those who may be drafted into service. Such fund, when raised, to be known as the ‘‘ Special Bounty Fund.” To bring this about a ten-mill tax was levied. The board of 1865, the last year of the Civil war, was composed of the following named gentlemen: Luther Woodford, chairman; Thomas J. Kinkaid, W. O. Slyter and A. 8. Bacon. At their January meeting they voted to pay a bounty of $300 to men who would fill up the quota required under Lincoln’s call for 300,000 more men, in county warrants drawing six per cent interest. The county funds were then at a very low ebb, and money was scarce. From 1865 to 1867 but little of an eventful character transpired on the board of supervisors. In October, 1870, the board, which then consisted of William B. Tredway, William P. Holman, William Mathers, Rufus Beal, Eli Lee, F. W. Davis, L. Yokey and M. J. Rogers, investigated the poor- farm question, and finally purchased of W. Clark, for $1,150, the northwest quarter of the northwest quarter of section thirty-three, township eighty-eight, range forty-seven, situated a mile and one-quar- ter from Sergeant’s Bluff depot. On this land, which was all well fenced, was a fair house, good outbuildings, and the whole was under a good state of .cultivation. At the January session, 1871, the board appropriated (under the WOODBURY COUNTY. 83 laws of Iowa) the sum of $1,000 to the Woodbury Agricultural So- ciety. The same year, in June, the board organized and set off the territory known as Osceola county. In July, 1871, an appropriation from the ‘“ poor-farm fund” was made to the amount of $175 to erect an addition to the poor-house. In June, 1873, Woodbury county was still without a court-house, for the board paid a bill of rent to Booge & Spalding, amounting to $225, for the quarter ending June 10, that year. In June, 1874, the board voted unanimously to bond the county (under a recent law allowing it) for the purpose of paying off its in- debtedness. In September, 1874, Weare & Allison proposed to rent a business block, then being contemplated, on the corner of Fourth and Douglas streets, to be used by the county for offices and court purposes, at $4,000 per year, but the proposition was not accepted. In June, 1875, James Y. Kennedy, J. L. Follett and James Hor- ton were appointed from the board as a committee to build a brick poor-house, not to exceed $4,000 in cost. At the October session the board canvassed the election returns, including the vote on the court-house question (the proposition being to build a court-house at a cost of $75,000), also the question of bond- ing the county for said amount. The canvass proved that a majority favored the building as well as the bonding. At the same meeting James A. Sawyer’s building, on Pearl and Second streets, was re- leased, at $2,500 a year, until the new court-house should be ready for occupancy. The court-house bonds were made payable before ten years, at ten per cent interest. The board, at their October session, 1875, selected a committee on court-house and jail as follows: J. L. Follett, James S. Horton and Norman Patterson. At the January term, 1876, the following were seated as members: James 8. Horton, J. Follett, Ed. Haakinson, Norman Patterson and P. C. Eberley. Their first official act was to appoint William P. Hol- man overseer of the poor-farm for 1876. The court-house and jail committee then reported in substance as follows: We have visited the stone quarries of Minnesota and believe the Kasota stone the best for our purpose. We went to Milwaukee to view their court-house, and were not favorably impressed with the structure. We then visited Freeport, Iil., Chicago, and other points in Illinois and Iowa. We now recommend the plans shown us at Des Moines by Architect William L. Foster. 84 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. The plans referred to were finally adopted. At their March session, 1876, the board appointed J. L. Follett to obtain the stone for the foundation, the same to be on the court-house site by April 25. ‘April 6, 1876, “Centennial year,” a contract was awarded to Charles E. and D. T. Hedges, for the erection of the court-house, which now adorns the public square. The contract price was $74,700, and the plans and specifications spread upon record in Minute Book D, cover twenty-three closely written pages, but the record shows that about $4,800 extra was expended before the superstructure was fin- ished. The building was to be completed on or before January 1, 1878. The jail in the basement is comfortable and secure, while each office in the superstructure is spacious and well planned. The various vaults are fireproof and well suited for the preservation of public records. ‘The court-room is of a modern design and beautifully fres- coed. The symmetrical dome, which adds beauty to the building, is surmounted by a life-size statue of Justice, whose womanly form is facing the west, emblematic of the “Star of Empire.” During the January session of 1879, the board authorized the attorney, then in the employ of the county, to settle a claim for dam- ages asked by one L. D. Wellington for injuries sustained through a defective bridge near Smithland. ‘The limit they allowed him to pay was $500. At the same session John P. Allison was appointed to fill the unexpired term of Charles Kent as county treasurer, and gave bonds to the amount of $100,000. The board settled the salary of sheriff at $100 with fees; and that of county treasurer at $1,500. They also appropriated $100 toward constructing a 1,000 barrel cistern near the court-house as a fire protection. At the February session, 1880, the board settled with the bonds- men, the case of county treasurer, Charles Kent, a defaulter, by their paying the sum of $17,000. The same session a petition was sent to Hon. C. C. Carpenter, then in congress, urging him to work for the holding of United States courts at Sioux City. During the years 1881 and 1882 the board appropriated $200, each year, toward the Agricultural Society. During 1884 the board passed resolutions canceling all the odds and ends of delinquent taxes over which there could be any legal question. Some of these claims ran back to 1855, and the resolution WOODBURY COUNTY. 85 covered all between 1855 and 1877. In 1884, also, the county aided the Agricultural Society to the amount of $300. The points touched on in the “ proceedings of the board of super- visors” as above given, were but a small percentage of their work, but cover the chief public interests, suitable for a record of county his- tory. The thousands of bridges and well-planned highways built since 1861, have all been fostered and managed by these various boards of supervisors. Marriage Record.—The first marriage recorded in the marriage books of Woodbury county is dated April 30,1854. The contracting parties were V. 8S. Slagar and Elizabeth Aurah, and the ceremony was performed by his Honor, J. M. Townsley, county judge. There may have been, quite likely were, other marriages in the county prior to that date, for the early marriage records in all western counties were not preserved in a very excellent manner. There were, moreover, a few united in marriage prior to the organization of the county, but those were mostly half-breeds or cases where Frenchmen married Indian women. In 1854, also, there was one other marriage in the county, Francis Bercia and Mary Lasharitie, who were made man and wife by County Judge Townsley, May 24. The next marriage recorded was that of Zachariah G. Allen and Harriett Shook, May 5, 1855. Four marriages occurred in 1856: Louis Benoist married an Indian lady, June 4; Joseph W. Stephens and Nancy Mozier, were married August 10; Finley B. Denham and Elizabeth Courtney, September 24; Henry Paschall and Anna Kasberg, December 26. The following shows the total marriages from 1854 to August 1, 1890, by years: 1890 (to August 1.)..... ..........4.. 160 ADOUE os csoraind caearertaeu: Gaeagaensds Od 86 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Population of the County.—The following gives the population for the entire county, at different dates: Tn 1854 the county had a population of 170; in 1856, it had in- creased to 950; in 1860 the population was 1,078; in 1863 it was 1,106; in 1865, it had 1,291; in 1867, it had 1,969; in 1869, the population was 4,000; in 1870 it had 6,119; in 1873, the number was 6,946; in 1875, 8,518. The census of 1880 (U.S.) gave the county, 14,785, while the State census of 1885 gave the total of Woodbury county as 32,289. The subjoined table shows the population by townships, for 1885: 1885. 1885. ATE M saieiniins sexoe dae os SoS ees Be 861 Movil: scurcscreasdivens roadeves 1216 Banner.......c.ceccceeeccccccecce © 226 Rock... ..e cece cece eee ee cece 487 Concord...cecccceccceccccsccceeees 408 Rutland. 0.0... cece ee cee eter ee cees 524 Floyd... cece ee eee cere teeee eee ese 808 Sioux City... eee ceee eee eee ees 611 Grange... ccee ccc e cece c eee re eee es 186 Sloan... ss eee eee ee rece ee eee eee eees 652 GER E os sans oeaceawederwesamarsaew B20) Untoblece.c vise wesseeenacsersiegs 1841 Kedrotissccceccesssseacedvessevcece 485 West Fork..cccccvcss ccs ceeeens O81 VAKEPOT nwa cscs 25 aR TNES #68) “Willows l/4} 2/6/85 |2°|s |S?) & e°| an |8/é & 1858...| Pilly mouth | Cojunty | orgalnizled. 1859...) 1) 0 Ff Oth tes DEN aa | cass so) gh aeey | aM atoll Sk ele Ill ome 1860...; 2} O| 8] O| 2] 24] 2] 14 14/196} 2] 0) O|g 146.75 1861. .| 8] 0 3] 0 4] 24] 2 2 15 | 3.68 paler 890.00 1862... 3) 0 3) 0 2| 8.5] 2 2 13 | 3.10 Qh xs 490.00 1863...| 2} 0 2] 0 2) 3.3) 0 4 11 | 2.04 Ness 467.00 1864,../ 2) 0 2] 0 2) 45] 0 2 15 | 1.60 2 las 222.06 1865...} 2] 0 2] 0 2) 3.1] 0 2 31 | 2.00 Qo I-5 220.00 1866,..} 2] 0 2) 0 2) 3. 2 2 26 | 1.92 OL sya 821.00 1867...} 2] 0 2) 0 2) 3.5] 2 2 27 | .96 O | 3 432.00 1868,..| 4] 0 4/ 0 6| 5.5] 6 1 63 | 1.72 3] 1] 0 885.00 1869...| 4] 0 5| 0 6| 7.7) 8 1 91 | 2.32 6] 1| 0} 2,878.00 1870...) 2) 0 9) O| 17) 5. |12] 11 141 | 2.60} 11] 1]. 5,943.00 1871...) 2} O| 15] O} 20] 6 |12] 19 117 | 1.82) 15] 1]. 5,671.00 1872.../10| 0} 40] 2] 42] 6 |16] 29 283 | 2.48} 25] 1]. 18,857.00 1873.../14! 0} 57] 2] 57 ?)24] 46/No re-lport.| 48]..]. seg he yes 1874...) 14] 0 57| 2 ? 7) 2 ? ¢ ? ? eh Mite eae 1875...;14; 1} 68] 2} 71] 69/86] 58] 1,123] 5.73] 70] 1/..| 38,042.00 1876...;16; 1) 72] 2] 80) 7.4150) 64 763 | 4.838} 67)..]..| 45,800.00 1877...116| 1] 77} 2] 84] 7.65/55| 69] 1,198] 2.61| 80]..] 1] 43,800.00 1878...117) 1] 77! 5} 84| 76165] 85] 1,093] 3.96] 78 1| 42,247.00 1879...)19] 1] 78} 6] 98] 72/64] 88} 1,087] 4.01| 88 1| 51,770.00 1880...;20] 1] 85] 8| 95) 7.1)76! 86] 1,184] 3.35} 88 1] 36,320.00 1881...)20/ 1} 90] 8; 98) Noj rejport. 2 2 2 .. | No report 1882,..;22/ 1] 98]11] 102] 7. | 42] 107] 1,886] 4.07] 97 1| 47,446.00 1883...) 23} 8) 109/16] 110] 6.6 |45) 182] 1,651 | 3.21] 106 2} 62,000.00 1884...) 24) 3] 118/21] 117] 6.98/54] 156] 2,072 | 3.05] 116 3| 77,800.00 1885...| 24] 8] 121/23] 125) 7.5164] 160 88% | 2.97} 122 3] 78,381.00 1886.../ 23) 4] 127/22] 127] 7.5 166] 170] 2,189 | 2.64] 180 | 8] 72,578.00 1887...) 23) 4] 127/27} 181] 8. | 42] 126] 8,071 | 2.10] 185 3| 71,000.00 1888,..}23| 4] 182/26) 141] 8 |42] 185] 2,545 | 2.81] 142 2] 75,802.00 1889...) 231 41 184/27] 144] 8.8 |384] 140] 2,943 | 2.00] 146 21 75,800.00 PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 461 The subjoined gives the chief factors of the present (1890) pub- lic-school system in and for Plymouth county: Bie | 8 |) 6. || *e DISTRICT TOWNSHIPS. Z a Z Ks 4 ae os 2 Sg Bo ae Bl 2s] | a | 28 Avner Ga ovatonead. ap ccheai duce ic: Selon etaeet ty a iene we 5 5 140 40 BBL sperns cevaecsinns Gea. sas Pee EETAA Gite BE Coat Hie re 9 8]. 180 49 PAGE Re oe ava ad cede ON oo BORE RT RSS HE EPR eR Ew a 6 6 142 50 Bred Onids. .ic.ce0% 6: sews vanes wae sa wee ee He eGR S gig 7 7 204 50 GaN Ecos cede ie Bees 8 PemneaN 6 gine eine Sale ew BB KIND ie 8 8 190 75 Garfield. ck eitoossend ec ciad otsietnwaieds Gene eeeyaad — q 7 130 25 Henry ai 6 6 130 20 Hungerford 8 7 Ny 160 16 Hancock ses 4 4 57 80 Johnson. ae 6 6 145 29 Liberty ... ae 5 5 174 38 Lincoln............ se 6 6 168 45 MG ad OWE scaycaescesaceitis tna lope soa, mistsas aera ot Aeeoersebon $2 6 6 144 45 MAT ODiiscs cvsssan sc derternen e tatewe ee eisdta eae SaaS e4 4 4 200 25 Preston we q q 170 25 Portland is et 8 300 50 POL yin. c.ctieetaws i Arata Te eee Vesmedanes mand 4 be 6 6 100 30 Plymouth is 5 5 181 20 RemMBONi< 2 2 acaeietaeeeravawl ed: lo pleas sete -odhnatseweee at Se 5 4 93 36 BlIOUK sey aawsisecsiocstbins slshun ¥ dees Oe wecace ee rae Ee aes oo 4 4 41 50 Stanton sigs couse cstee hls ese easy a whaos sean mens i q 7 238 45 UDO N a ss.8 as chaw ada se On daw sievinds ce bas a tere mowers zs 6 6 140 45 Washington sissies sreikice oii oe 8468. tew Naiiariing Gems] eck 6 6 155 320 Westfield... saveccaarcia cima ayaseielaagy © art:bsedn dobininieraidigiese she a 4 4 90 450 Independent district Le Mars. ..............50000- 1 ge 2}; 1,010 200 Independent district Kingsley.....................{ 1 1 180 100 Independent district Remsen ..................065 1 3 185 150 Totals, «vied eae s eseme tenis sx aa eee eee e eae 38' 148! 148' 4,947 2,108 462 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. CHAPTER VII. RAILROADS. THE VALUE OF RAILROADS—RAILROAD LAND GRANTS—THE First GRANT— First Roap BUILT—HINDRANCES—THE CIVIL AND INDIAN War—THE MINNEAPOLIS & OMAHA LINE—THE CHICAGO & NORTHWESTERN SyYS- TEM—THE MILWAUKEE & ST. PAUL—THE Sioux City & NORTHERN — ToTAL MILEAGE IN COUNTY. N general and special terms, no internal improvement has accom- plished as much for Plymouth county as has the construction of its railway lines. Indeed, the locomotive, the printing press, aud the electric current move the whole globe. Up to within the memory of this present generation, new countries had to be opened up and developed by the toil of hardy pioneers. The soil and mineral wealth had to be developed by this class before capital would invest in building an iron highway, but now railways outstrip civilization and wind their way on into the great prairie plains of the ever changing west, and are finally lost in the darkness of some long mountain tunnel in the “ Rockies.” Then commences the settlement. Railroad Land Grants.—It was early realized that without rail- roads the public lands in the great northwest—an empire in extent, of inexhaustible fertility, and rich in its undeveloped resources—would continue comparatively valueless, and long remain unsettled. To insure the speedy construction of railroads,and at the same time harmonize their cost with the benefits conferred, on principles of justice to the public, was a problem to which the attention of congress was earnestly directed. The whole theory of our system of govern- ment forbade their construction by the United States, from appropria- tions made out of the national treasury, while it was evident that without government assistance of some sort, the railroads could not be built for a number of years, if ever. Influenced by these considera- tions, congress finally settled upon a plan of granting one-half the lands, being the odd numbered sections within certain specified limits, PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 463 to aid in the construction of designated lines of railroad on them, at once doubling the price of the remaining lands, thus giving aid to the roads during the time they might be expected to be non-paying, and at the same time protecting the public land interest of the country. This was a well-solved problem—one which both parties coincided in and were responsible for. Indeed with all that demagogues may say during campaign times, pro and con, it was 4 wise piece of congres- sional legislation. It was, in fact, an act to civilize the entire west and cause the fertile prairie Jands to become the grain garden of the world. The First Grant and the First Railroad.—The first grant made to the state of Iowa to aid in the construction of railroads was approved May 15,1856. One of the lines designated was to run from the city of Dubuque, across the entire state,to a point near Sioux City, Iowa. The lands thus granted were conferred on the Dubuque & Pacific railroad company, but finally fell to the corporation known as the Dubuque & Sioux City company. So much of this land as was included in the grant on account of the construction of the line from Towa Falls west to Sioux City, was transferred to the Iowa Falls & Sioux City company, by contract executed by and between that company and the Dubuque & Sioux City company, January 7, 1868, and legalized and confirmed by the Iowa legislature April 7, the same year. To the people of Plymouth county, what few settlers there were, a railroad seemed a needed blessing. The original survey planned to continue on a line running through Correctionville, thence into Sioux City, but the survey of the Sioux City & St. Paul (present ‘Minneapolis & Omaha” line) brought a change in matters. The Lowa Falls & Sioux City saw that they could run a line from near Fort Dodge to where Le Mars is now located, and at said point form a junction with the road surveyed from Sioux City to St. Paul, and thus save building a line from Le Mars to Sioux City. Again, the Iowa Falls company saw the great prospective field for a paying line from Le Mars on west across the Big Sioux river at Akron—then “ Portlandville””»—to Yankton, Dak., which, in 1864, came into great prominence through what was known as the Yankton colony from western New York. Hence they determined to connect at Le Mars and use a road-bed on into Sioux City, in common with the Sioux City & St. Paul. As it terminated, however, the Illinois Cen- tral got control of that part of the line, and now lease to the Minne- apolis & Omaha. 464 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. But the pioneer must needs wait still another period, and depend upon Sioux City for markets and mail outlets. The railroad, s0 much spoken of in the late fifties, on account of the dark Civil war cloud which hovered over the nation from 1861 to 1865, silenced every farmer’s hope, and finally the whole railroad promise was looked upon by pioneers as a gigantic farce, and the people calmly submitted to being shut up in a little isolated republic by themselves. Emigrants and land seekers seldom thought of and never visited the domain, so fair and beautiful, now known as Plymouth county, as it was north from the old direct state road and mail route to the Missouri river. In 1863 the passage of the homestead act once more shot a new ray of light and hope into the pioneers’ hearts, but then came the fearful Indian massacre at New Ulm, Minn., near the Iowa line. This sent a thrill of horror to every heart, and seemed to fix the final destiny of the little band of settlers in Plymouth county. The blood-stained visions of Spirit Lake haunted the old settlers, and afear that the inde- scribable horrors of an Indian war were about to break upon them, paralyzed the shattered remnants of a once hopeful settlement, nestled along the Big Sioux and Floyd valleys. However, the Indian trouble culminated in the rightful hanging of thirty-eight Sioux Indians at Mankato, Minn., in the fall of 1863. The Civil war closed in 1865, leaving a free and united country. Business again looked up, money sought new channels for investment in railroads as well as general improvements throughout the great northwest. From that date on the railroad problem was only a matter of time in which to build the long-looked-for railroad from Lowa Falls to Sioux City. During the year 1869 the work of building was pushed with a vigor, making busy times all along the line. The withdrawal of lands from cash-entry fee checked speculation, while the homestead act gave the country a goodly number of men who came to remain and make for themselves homes. In October, 1869, the road was finished from Sioux City as far east as Meriden, Cherokee county, while the line from Iowa Falls had pushed through to Webster City. The spring of 1870 was one of unusual activity; immigration set in, and July 27, 1870, the eastern and western sections of the present Illinois Central road met near Storm Lake, which gave Sioux City a connection with the great PHOTO DY GENELLI, Leo. bee blogy PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 467 eastern market world by rail, thus ushering in a new and golden era to all western Iowa. Soon after completion the road was leased for a term of ninety-nine years (conditional at the end of twenty years), to the Illinois Central company. As soon as it could be brought about, stations were made in Plymonth county at Remsen, Oyens, Le Mars, Merrill, Hinton and James, thus giving settlers a chance to ship what they raised and receive in exchange lumber and building materials. The Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha R. R. was com- pleted from Worthington to Le Mars in the autumn of 1872, with stations located at Seney, in Elgin township, and at Le Mars, at which point it made junction with the Illinois Central road, using the same line into Sioux City, by right of a lease. This has come to be the best paying road of any in Plymouth county. Solid trains run over this “royal route” from Omaha to St. Paul and Chicago, and a vast tonnage of freight goes and comes annually. More pounds of freight were shipped from Le Mars by this road, in 1889, than over the Illinois Central. Itis a popular road, well managed, and is a part of the Chicago & Northwestern Railway system. Its grain and lum- ber shipments are immense. At the present time, July, 1890, there are fourteen passenger trains passing through Le Mars daily over this line and the Illinois Central. Sioux City Branch of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Rail- road.—This line, over which there has been no little litigation from time to time, owing to the land grants and non-compliance of contracts in regard to the same, was completed through the northwest corner of Plymouth county, in 1874 and 1875, with station points at Akron, in Portland township, and Westfield, in Westfield township. This road’s completion, however, did not increase actual settlement much, for the lands were claimed by the government, and also by the railroad com- pany, and, being in litigation until about 1882, but few settlers came in. So it is that this portion of the county is now comparatively thinly settled. Yet theroad has been a valuable adjunct in settle- ment, and has come to be a highly-prized highway to the northwest. Kingsley Branch of the Chicago & Northwestern Railway.—This road, a part of the great Northwestern system, enters this county on the east line of Garfield township, traverses that township from east to west, and runs through a part of Elkhorn township, thence on into Woodbury county, its terminal now being at Moville. 24 468 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Its objective point is Sioux City, however. This railroad was com- pleted in 1883, in time for the fall business, and has been of great help to the speedy settlement of the southeastern part of Plymouth county, providing an outlet for stock and grain to the Chicago and St. Louis markets. This road crosses the Sioux Falls branch of the Illinois Central road at Correctionville. The town of Kingsley is the only station within the limits of Plymouth county. The Sioux City & Northern Railway.—This is the last iron high- way built in Plymouth county, and but few roads in America have been planned, surveyed, graded, ironed and equipped with rolling stock in so short a space of time. The road was conceived of in the fertile minds of a few enterprising business men of Sioux City, who believed that their own city might gain a better, cheaper freight rate to the far-off seaboard, by having an independent line of their own, run- ning to the northward, connecting with the Great Northern (Manitoba) system, touching the vast Red River valley of the north, and connect- ing with water transportation at Duluth. Hence it was that in the autumn of 1889, a home company was formed and the line projected and built a hundred miles to the north, now terminating at Garretson, S. Dak. The line parallels the Illinois Central road from Sioux City through Woodbury and Plymouth counties as far as Merrill. From that point it diverges to the north, missing Le Mars—some say intentionally—only about three miles, establishing a station called Dalton, just west of Le Mars. The company maintains stations at James, Merrill, Dalton and Struble in Plymouth county. The entire work was executed, and the road open for business, early in the spring of 1890, and to-day it is one of the best-paying roads entering Sioux City. It is operated in connection with the Great Northern route, and while only a few months have elapsed since its last rail was spiked down, yet it has caused a cut in freight rates, north and east, never heard of before. The following gives the mileage of railroads in Plymouth county, June 1, 1890: Chicago & Northwestern (Kingsley division), thirteen miles; Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul (Sioux City division), fifteen miles; Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha, ten miles; I[linois Central (D. & §. C. line), thirty-five miles; Sioux City & Northern, twenty-eight miles; total mileage, 101. PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 469 CHAPTER VIII. AGRICULTURE AND STOCK RAISING. RICHNESS OF THE SorIL—“ King” Corn—“ KING” WHEAT—COMMENCEMENT OF Stock GROWING—THE ANNUAL Crop PropucT—FIGURES FROM THE CEN- sus REPORT—THE COUNTY FAIR—ITS SOCIETY AND OFFICERS—EXTRACT From REPORT TO SECRETARY OF STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY— ETC. HE wealth of Plymouth county, in common with nearly all western Iowa, is found in the extreme richness of the soil, and needs only frugal and painstaking management upon the part of the farmer to bring it forth in great abundance. To him who has been reared midst ‘the rocky sections of one of the New England or even middle states, this county is indeed areal wonderland. The summer season, though very short, gives ample time for the planting, cultivation. and final reaping of a bountiful harvest of everything that tends to support a prosperous people. Wheat and Corn.—Here one finds corn and wheat, crowned kings. A single six-mile-square township (of which Plymouth boasts of twenty-four) is capable of producing more bushels of grain, more bushels of corn, more pounds of pork and beef and more wagon loads of vegetables than half of all the counties east of the Alleghany mount- ains will average. Nor is the end yet reached, for this county still has a mine of agricultural wealth, not one-half developed, but which, with the march of time, must inevitably become more and more valuable. Early in the history of Plymouth county, wheat was the main crop grown, but now corn surpasses all other products grown, both as regards acreage and value. And along with the conquest made by corn over wheat, in this locality, has sprung up another industry, that of successful stock- raising, in which the most money is made to-day. Other Products.—To give the reader a clearer understanding of the county’s agricultural growth, it is deemed best, in this connec- tion, to introduce some of the officially compiled comparative statis- 470 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. tics of the county. In 1840 the United States census gave the follow- ing crop product for the entire state of Iowa: Bushels of Indian corn raised, 1,406,241; wheat, 154,693; oats, 216,384; rye, 3,792; barley, 728; buckwheat, 6,212. In Plym- outh county alone, in the year 1884, the following was produced: Indian corn, 105,722 acres,fproducing 2,455,401-bushels; wheat, 45,599 acres, producing 670,706 bushels; oats, 35,941 acres, producing 996,- 641 bushels; rye, 733 acres, producing 11,714 bushels; barley, 2,860 acres, producing 48,236 bushels; buckwheat, 47 acres, producing 693 bushels; sorghum, 55 acres, producing 755 gallons; acres of native timber, 920; acres of planted timber, 3,820; bearing apple trees, 3,471; acres of timothy, 2,803; acres of flax, 5,997; number of cattle sold to slaughter, 4,743; nnmber of hogs sold to slaughter, 24,033; number of sheep on hand, 1,987; average size of farms, 188 acres; improved land, 195,204 acres; unimproved land, 111,641 acres; culti- vated land, 145,460 acres; pasture land, 24,480 acres; farms rented, 512; farms operated by owners, 1,276. It will be observed that Plymouth county produced as much, and of some products more, than did the whole state of Iowa, in 1840— fifty years ago! The County Fair.--Seeing the advantages to be gained by an annual exhibit of farm products of Plymouth county, her citizens organized what was known as the “Plymouth County Agricultural Society,” in June, 1873. A meeting was held at the court-house, and the following officers were elected: A. E. Rea, president; K. H. Shaw, vice-presiden t,and Dr. Hilbert, secretary. The board of direct- ors were: Robert Steele, N. Redmon, Robert Ramsey, George Reeves, T. D. Romans, George Small, L. Koenig, F. J. Porter, J. J. Madden, W. Wingett, George W. Chamberlain, Andrew Wilson, and William Asbury. At a meeting in July, the same year, articles of incorporation were adopted. The subjoined gives the president and secretary for each yéar until the society was abandoned—merging into the present Trotting Park Association: 1874—President, H. 8. Payn; secretary, Dr. Hilbert. 1875— President, H. 8. Payn; secretary, Dr. Hilbert. 1876-—President, H. S. Payn ; secretary, Dr. Hilbert. 1877—President, G. W. Chamber- lain; secretary, H. C. Parsons. 1878-—President, G. W. Chamber- PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 471 lain; secretary, Dr. Hilbert. 1879—President, I. D. Smith; secre- tary, O. W. Bennett. 1880-—President, B. F. Betsworth; secretary, Dr. Hilbert. 1881—President, C. P. Woodard; secretary, Dr. Hilbert. 1882--President, C. P. Woodard; secretary, Dr. Hilbert. In 1881 the society erected an amphitheatre costing $750, built Floral hall, Vegetable hall, suitable stock sheds, etc., upon their grounds, southwest from the city of Le Mars, on the southeast quarter of the southeast quarter of section seventeen, township ninety-two, range forty-five, comprising forty acres. They provided a half-mile race track, and had the grounds inclosed. During the whirlwind of 1882 their buildings were totally destroyed. The amphitheatre, how- ever, was rebuilt, but the other structures were not. The society became indebted to W. H. Dent, who finally, to make good the amount, had to take the property, which was soon conveyed to the Trotting Park Association, now a part of the Northwest Iowa Circuit. It is now used for racing, base-ball games, polo, etc. The present president of the Park Association is W. H. Dent, and the secretary is George E. Loring. The Agricultural Society held several most excel- lent and profitable annual fairs, but the same old story, found in many parts of Iowa, existed here. There seemed to be one faction of stock- holders who opposed such premiums as were paid to the fast horse- men, while the sporting and stock men refused to co-operate with the farmer element. Hence the failure of the once flourishing society, which should by all odds, be again reorganized, as Plymouth can not afford to be without a county fair. The first annual fair was held in the autumn of 1873, at Young & Corkery’s stock yards, about two miles from Le Mars. A large new barn served as a floral hall. Much enthusiasm was the result of a premium offered to the best looking baby born in the county, not over two years or under six months of age. Dr. M. Hilbert, who was secretary of the Agricultural Society at that time, included the following in his report to the secretary of State Agricultural Society: “Three hundred condemned horses from Chicago were sold on time, to our homestead farmers, at an average price of $75. “The loss by grasshoppers in this county the past season, was, on wheat, fifty-five per cent; on oats, seventy-five per cent; on corn eighty- five per cent; on barley, sixty-six per cent; on potatoes, fifty per cent. “There are no bearing apple trees here, except a few crab apple. 472 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. * * No fences, save a small amount of wire and board pasture lot fence. “One township of Plymouth county contains forty acres of cotton- wood, box elder and poplar timber. In the entire county 206 acres of timber came under the exemption act. ‘We have three mills and have received and shipped the following during the past year, 1873: From Merrill station, shipped out 16,400 bushels of wheat; 1,600 bushels of barley; 4,800 bushels of oats and 120,000 pounds of home-made flour; received, sixty cars of lumber; twelve cars of coal. At Le Mars, shipped out, two cars of cattle and two cars of hogs; wheat, 690 cars; received at Le Mars, eighteen cars of grain; 505 cars of lumber; 1,204 cars of coal; sixty- four cars of farm implements; ninety-two cars of live stock, and 4,886,408 pounds of merchandise.” The above shows Plymouth county was indeed yet a new country in 1873. CHAPTER IX. THE BENCH AND BAR. THE PROFESSION OF THE LAW—THE JUDICIARY—THE BAR—DIFFERENT . Law FIRMs. N reviewing the history of the bench and bar—the judges and at- torneys—it must be borne in mind that as the prosperity and well- being of every community depends upon the clear and well-inter- preted meaning of the law, it follows that a record of the members of the bar forms no unimportant part in the history of a county. Upon a few principles of natural justice is erected the whole superstructure of civil law tending to meet the desires and requirements of the masses. The business of the lawyer is not to make laws, but, rather, to apply them to the every-day affairs of common life. The laws of yester- day do not meet the requirements of to-day, for the former relations do not now exist. New and satisfactory laws must needs be enacted and established. Hence, a lawyer is a man of to-day, and his capital is his ability and pure individuality. Every lawyer is in a sense debtor to PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 473 his profession. If worthy, it gives him an honorable calling. The good lawyer loves and prizes his chosen sphere. The “bench and bar” of Plymouth county have many things connected with their history, since the organization of the county, to the present time, of interest. It is not claimed for her that she has had abler judges or a more brilliant constellation of lawyers than many other counties of the state. Yet one thing may be said of her judges and lawyers which can not be said of some parts of the state— a splendid good-natured, harmonious feeling has always existed be- tween both. The Judiciary. Judge Isaac Pendleton, who was its first judge, was at that time a young lawyer, beginning his legal career at Sioux City, Iowa. He was an able lawyer and kind to all, good-natured and universally loved by all who came in contact with him. He was judge of the district court at a time, when in the early days, Plymouth county was attached to Woodbury county for judicial and political purposes. The first election for judge of the district and circuit court of the Fourth judicial district of Iowa occurred in 1874, at which election Hon. Henry Ford of Harrison county was elected district judge and Hon. Addison Oliver was elected judge of the circuit court, Fourth judicial district, and Hon. C. H. Lewis, of Cherokee county, was the first district attorney for the Fourth judicial district. At an early day and about 1870 the Fourth judicial district com- posed more than twenty-six counties of the northwest part of the state, extending as far south as the south line of Harrison county, and as far east as the east line of Buena Vista county. So far as the his- tory of Plymouth county is concerned, touching the bench and bar, its judges and district attorneys were similar to those of Woodbury county and many other counties of the state, all being in the then Fourth judicial district. Hon. Henry Ford, who was presiding judge of the district court when the writer came to Plymouth county, was a man of fine bearing, polished, cultured and possessing a peculiarly fine and well-balanced legal mind. He had a rare capacity for grasping the most intricate legal questions, and his decisions were rarely reversed by the supreme court of the state. Hon. Addison Oliver, of Monona county, was the first circuit judge of Plymouth county. To see him as he went about quietly by 474 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. himself, one would at once say that he possessed no rare qualities of any kind, and a mental capacity only the most ordinary. He has, many times, while on the bench, and while member of congress, been taken for the plainest sort of a western farmer. But when you came to look him square in the face to converse with him, he would brighten up, and intelligence beam from every feature, As a jurist he was able; as a man he was scrupulously honest and true. No more honest and truthful man ever lived, nor one who was truer to his friends. On the bench his decisions were quick, accurate and sound. He was a great favorite of the young members of the bar, was always ready to give them advice, or help them out of an embarrassing position in the trial of acase. He commanded the respect and confidence of all who knew him. He was called the “Granger judge.” He was unpretentious, yet deep, able and possessed a.wonderfully active brain, and a mind capable of dealing with the most knotty legal question. As a politi- cian he was a prodigy. Somehow when a man pledged him his sup- port he was sure to getit at the polls, in caucus or convention. Judge Henry Ford was succeeded on the bench as district judge by Hon. C. H. Lewis, of Cherokee, who had been for a number of years district attorney under Henry Ford. Hon. C. H. Lewis has now been on the bench as district judge for fourteen years, and since Judge Ford retired in 1874. Judge Addison Oliver resigned his position as circuit judge to go to congress, to which position he was elected in 1874. He was suc- ceeded on the bench as judge of the circuit court by Hon. J. R. Zuver, of Harrison county. Judge C. H. Lewis was born a natural -judge, and for his usefulness and efficiency as district judge he has been kept on the bench to the present time, with a good prospect of continuing in the same position for years to come. He has a number of times been presented to the republican state convention for nomination as supreme court judge. Hon. J. R. Zuver continued judge of the circuit court of the Fourth judicial circuit from 1874 till about 1881 or 1882, when failing health compelled him to resign. Judge Zuver was a man of strong conviction, and would not swerve an inch from what he thought was right as he saw it. He was able and possessed a good legal mind—was really calculated for a trial lawyer, and before going on to the bench was a grand success as a trial and jury lawyer. PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 475 Judge Zuver was succeeded on the bench by Hon. D. D. McCol- lum, of Osceola county, who held such position until the legislature of the state abolished the circuit court. At the general election of 1886, Hon. C. H. Lewis, Hon. George W. Wakefield and Hon. 8. M. Ladd were elected judges of the district court for the Fourth judicial district, and at the present time continue to hold such positions. Hon. S. M. Ladd presiding, by assignment of the three judges, over this, Plymouth county. The Bar of Plymouth County.—The first attorney, so far as we know, who lived and practiced his profession in Plymouth county, was A.V. P. Day, who came to the county from the state of Ohio in about 1869. His office was on the streets, on the prairies, and in the saddle. While “Andy,” as he was familiarly called, did notclaim tomake a specialty of the law, nor claim to be very profound, by reason of not giving his entire time to the profession, yet we may now say, Day was a born lawyer, possessed a keen intellect, and was much safer to obtain counsel from, than many who professed much more. He was whole-souled, generous and kind-hearted, and had many splendid impulses. He removed from Plymouth county in the year 1878, going to Wyoming. H. C. Curtis, F. H. Clarke, G. W. Argo, James H. Struble, I. S. Struble and A. H. Lawrence, all members of the bar, came to Plym- outh county at about the same time. The first two arrived from Independence, Iowa, in October, 1871, and formed the firm of Clarke & Curtis. They continued in the practice from 1871 to 1879. Mr. Clarke having been fatally attacked ;by consumption, Mr. Curtis con- ducted the business of the firm for one year, when he bought out Mr. Clarke just prior to the latter’s death, and in 1880 sold a half interest to A. W. Durley, who had, four years before, settled in Le Mars, com- ing from Hennepin, Ill. Curtis and Durley were partners from 1880 to 1888, when Mr. Curtis sold his one-half interest in the business to A. W. Durley, who is still in the practice. * The firms of Clarke & Curtis and Curtis & Durley were good, solid, fighting firms of attorneys, were fairly successful, and hada good paying practice. No one ever questioned the integrity of either firm. Mr. F. H. Clarke possessed one of the finest legal minds * [NoTE—Owing to the fact that Mr. Curtis kindly furnished this chapter—a valuable part of this volume—the publishers relieved him of making personal mention of himself; this part of the chap- ter is accordingly gleaned from other members of the bar.] 476 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. of the bar of the state—was polished and scholarly, broad and deep. Mr. Curtis was a hard student; would work all night, if necessary, to win a case, and if he did not win the case for his client it was not his fault. Mr. Curtis probably made and saved more money than any other member of the bar of the county. While in the practice he had a rare tact for collecting what money he earned. G. W. Argo may be said to be a self-made man and lawyer. He usually has been successful, and has a large practice, both civil and criminal. He makes a specialty of criminal law, and when a case is put. in his hands he goes to the bottom of it and fights tremendously to win. He is remarkably successful as a trial lawyer. He has continued in the practice from 1871 to the present time. Mr. Argo is nota great scholar, nor polished, but he is a keen judge of human nature, and really ingenious in the trial of a case, and always makes an able and convincing argument to a jury. A. H. Lawrence began practice here i in 1871-72, but soon branched off into the land and collection business and loaning money, and has. continued in such business to the present time. He has been senator, and is a man well educated and competent to transact most any kind of legal business, his counsel is safe and his integrity unques- tioned. Hon. I. 8. Struble, now representing the Eleventh congressional district in congress, and his brother, James H. Struble, came to Plym- outh county and began the practice of the law early in the spring of 1872. The former came from Illinois; the latter from Tama county, in this state. Hon. I. S. Struble continued in the practice until 1882, when he was elected to congress. He has been elected four successive times, and it is understood is now a candidate for the fifth term, with good prospects of renomination. Until about 1878, I. S. and J. H. Struble were in partnership in the law and collection busi- ness, and during the time from 1872 to 1878 madea strong and relia- ble law firm. Both are men of honor and of good ability and perfect integrity. J. H. Struble is still in the practice and doing a good business. A. W. Durley has been in the practice of the law here since 1876. Mr. Durley is not an active practicioner at the bar in the trial of jury cases, but is more nearly an equity lawyer. While a partner of Hon. H. C. Curtis, he was in the strictest sense an office lawyer, doing the PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 477 equity practice of the firm and office work. He is clear-headed, accurate, and a splendid judge of law, and probably no better counsel can be found in northwest Iowa. As an office lawyer he ranks high, and it may be said there is no better in the state, so that he was invaluable as a co-worker for eight years with H. OC. Curtis, who tried nearly all jury cases. Mr. Durley is in every sense a gentleman and a polished scholar, being a graduate of Amherst College. Col. Frank Amos came to Plymouth county in 1875, from Jackson county, Iowa. He carries a withered arm from the effects of a gun- shot received while leading his men to battle before Atlanta, Ga., July, 1864. He was a brave soldier, and though getting gray and old, and partly helpless from the wound received, his mind is clear; and although he has not had a large practicesince coming here, he isa man of good ability, possessing good reasoning powers. He is socia- ble with every one, and if he has an enemy in the county no one knows it. E. W. Meeks, a prominent and brilliant attorney, came here in 1876, from Indiana, and was for a time associated with G. W. Argo in the practice. Mr. Meeks, while in Plymouth county only a short time, made many friends and was a clean-cut gentleman of intelligence and honor. For some reason he returned to his native state, after remaining here about two years. Joseph C. Kelly came to Plymouth county with T. L. Bowman and C. Haldine in 1877, from Carroll, Iowa. Joseph C. Kelly was a splendid type of our brave soldier boys, losing an arm in the famous battle of Shiloh. Soon after coming to the county he associated him- self with G. W. Argo, and was his partner in the law business until 1886 and up to the time of his death. He was able, possessed high ability as a lawyer, and was a man of integrity and honor. I. J. McDuffie came to Plymouth county from Green county, Iowa, and took the place of J. C. Kelly in the law firm of Argo & Kelly, about four years ago. Argo & McDuffie make an able law firm and do a good business. Mr. McDuffie is a genial gentleman, a good scholar and lawyer, a splendid judge of law, and a good practitioner. P. S. Rishel, of the law firm of Struble, Rishel & Hart, came to the county in 1883 from Cambridge, Ill. He at once became the part- ner of I. 8. Struble and has since continued as a member of such firm. Mr. Rishel is a live and able practitioner, a good trial lawyer, and 478 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. thoroughly skilled in his profession. No member of the bar possesses more personal honor or greater integrity than he. C.H. Hart, the junior member of the firm above named, came to Le Mars from Wisconsin in 1884, and for a short time was the junior member of the law firm of Curtis, Durley & Hart. Soon after he withdrew from such firm and became a member of the law firm of Struble, Rishel & Hart. Mr. Hart is a young man of good ability, and is strictly honest and reliable. Heisat present manager of the West- ern Investment company of Le Mars, Iowa. I. T. Martin, Frank Gainor, F. M. Roseberry, J. W. Sammis, John Adams, Charles Schmidt, G. C. Scott, T. M. Zink, Sam Hussey and G. W. Harper have come to Le Mars or been admitted here since about 1886. They are all honorable men, and doing fairly well in the pro- fession. Martin and Gainor are old practitioners and constitute a strong firm. J. W. Sammis and John Adams read law, and were ad- mitted to the bar, under the instruction of Curtis & Durley, and seem to be pushing to the front rapidly as lawyers, both doing a fine busi- ness. Many others have come and gone since the organization of Plym- outh county. Among them R. E. W. Spargur, A. K. Webb, C. Gotts- chalk and many others. D. W. Wood and T. B..S. O’Day and a number of others have been in the practice at Kingsley since the organization of that town, which is in the southeast part of the county. Mr. O’Day is at present a member of the bar of Woodbury county, and is a man of good ability. Mr. Wood still remains at Kingsley, is enjoying a very good practice, and is a man of more than ordinary ability. Mr. Farrell is the present county attorney of Plymouth county, and makes an able prosecutor; he is honest and devoted to his clients; is affable and genial, and will in time make a strong lawyer. F. M. Roseberry was, until recently, in the practice at Remsen, Iowa, is now a fixture at Le Mars. Mr. Roseberry came here from New Jersey, and while he is young in the profession, he is working up a good practice, and is in every way honorable and trusty, and devoted to his clients. PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 479 CHAPTER X. THE MEDICAL PROFESSION. USEFULNESS OF PHYSICIANS—HONOR OF THE FRATERNITY IN PLYMOUTH CouNnTY—HARDSHIPS ENDURED—PHYSICIANS OF LE MARS—PRESENT Doc- TORS—REMSEN PIlYSICIANS—A KRON PHYSICIANS—KINGSLEY PHYSICIANS— OTHER Docrors. N health we care but little for doctors and their formulas or pre- scriptions, but there is sure to come a time when the brow becomes feverish and when our vital organs refuse to perform their regular functions, a time when life’s thread seems abraded and almost snapped asunder. At such a time we seek after the best medical man —the successful physician. We are anxious that the “good doctor” watch by our bedside, lest the grim messenger, Death, make his appearance and call us hence. In all ages of the world’s history, among civilized as well as uncivilized nations, the art of healing has been held in high esteem. Whether it be the learned professor, who, perchance, has studied all branches of the science of medicine, or the “oreat medicine man” of the untutored savages, who, from actual experience, has made discoveries of the healing powers of herbs and roots, honor awaits him upon every hand. The weary patient, lying upon a bed of pain, and the no less anxious watchers by his side, wait for the coming of the doctor, and on his arrival, his every move- ment and expression of countenance is watched for a single ray of hope. The medical fraternity of Plymouth county has been an honor to the profession it claims to be master of, and has ever been ready to respond to the call of duty, amid summer heat or the chilling frosts and severe winds of winter. Its members have been compelled to cross the trackless prairies, to face ‘‘ blizzards” from the icy north- west, often, too, with no hope of reward, but only to relieve, if possible, those who pleaded for their coming and their counsel. All these things have been encountered by the physicians of this county, and that without a complaint. When the names of the pioneer physicians, 480 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. with those of a more modern day, are mentioned in this connection, it is hoped and believed that the hearts which perhaps now beat in robust health will be touched, and at least all of the early settler readers, who, with their doctors forded the same unbridged streams in summer and plowed through the same snow-drifts in winter, will heartily respond ‘“‘ May God bless them!” Physicians of Le Mars.—The first to practice in a regular way in Le Mars was Dr. Earl, who was not a regular graduate, but seemed fairly successful for the time he remained here. The town was very small, the county thinly settled and not much was required except the administering of simple remedies, such as that class of doctors were conversant with. The following came to Le Mars in the order in which they are here given, or nearly so: Dr. Stanley, Dr. Wiggins, Dr. Jenkens, Dr. Hil- bert; last named soon left off the practice of medicine and engaged in other business. He has held county and city official positions, and is now an honored citizen, engaged in the real estate and abstracting business. The next to practice medicine here was Dr, Xanten, a regu- lar school graduate of the State University at Iowa City. Then came George W. Foster, M. D. (regular. ) Dr. W. H. Ensminger located at Le Mars in February, 1877. He came from Ottawa, I]l., where he had practiced for several years. Prior to that he had practiced in Putnam county, Ill. He is a gradu- ate of Jefferson College, Philadelphia, and is now the oldest practitioner in Le Mars, having been here thirteen years, during which time the profession has undergone many changes. Dr. W. B. Porter, a graduate of Rush Medical College, Chicago, came in about this time. He was associated for a time with Dr. Lind- ley. Porter got into personal difficulty here, was shot in the neck by one of the citizens, and was finally convicted of a dastardly crime and served several years in state prison. He subsequently removed to Sioux City, where he died some years ago. Dr. C. J. Hackett came here from Sioux City in 1878. He is a “regular” and graduated from the Medical College of Virginia in 1860, and from the University of the City of New York in 1861. He is one of the present successful physicians and surgeons of Le Mars, and one who stands high in his chosen profession and is a constant student in all that pertains to medicine. Through his influence and rapidly PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 481 growing practice, Dr. J. W. Hines, a graduate of 1861 from the Uni- versity of Virginia (regular), came to Le Mars and became his part- ner—the same relation still existing. He had practiced in Virginia and West Virginia until he came here about 1880. He, too, is a credit and honor to his fraternity, being a thoroughly posted physician and surgeon. The next to open an office and offer his services to the people in this section of the county, was Dr. Paul Brick, a graduate from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Chicago. He had practiced here some time prior to his obtaining his diploma, in 1890. Next was Dr. A. W. La Rue, a graduate of Starling College, Ohio. He is now deceased. Dr. Lee was the next physician to locate at Le Mars. Dr. W. O. Prosser, a graduate of McGill University, Canada, and one of the successful practitioners of to-day at Le Mars, was the next to enter the field. He is from a thorough college, which has fitted many hundreds of able physicians and surgeons, not a few of whom are now practicing in Iowa. Dr. Bennett and wife, both of the home- opathic school, practiced at Le Mars about two years. Another physi- cian, who remained only a short time, was an old gentleman named Warren. He was a “ regular,” and had practiced for a time at Sheldon, Towa. Dr. Richey was the next to locate here. He is a graduate of two most excellent medical colleges in Kentucky. He is still in practice at Le Mars, where he gets a good patronage, and is successful in the same, A homeopathic physician, named Dr. H. P. Bowman, came in next, and is one of the honored members of the Plymouth county medical fraternity. Following him came Dr. Garisch, who was county physi- cian several years. He was from an eastern college of the regular school. Dr. Clark, of Rush Medical College, Chicago, came in next. He afterward removed to Colorado. Dr. Peter Schwind, of the State Uni- versity at Iowa City, was next to locate here; he is still practicing at Le Mars. Dr. J. C. McMahan, a graduate of the St. Paul Medical College, of the class of 1885, first practiced in Michigan, where he made rapid progress and was eminently successful for a young practitioner. He came to Le Mars and located in the spring of 1887, and is now num- bered among the good physicians and surgeons of his town and county. He is at present county coroner, and county and city physician. His is a genial, whole-souled nature, and his manner, as well as his knowledge 482 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. of medicine, is always certain to achieve for him success in any com- mounity. Dr. ©. M. Hillebrand, a native of Germany, came to America when a mere lad, in 1855, and grew to manhood in Freeport, Ill., where he received a good education. He then went to Prussia and studied medicine, finally graduating from the University of Berlin in 1868. He then entered the practice of his profession at Freeport, Ill., where he was very successful for many years. He was injured in a railway wreck near that city, and was obliged to give up his practice for sev- eral years, but finally regained his health sufficiently to commence again. He removed to Le Mars in January, 1890, having been impressed with the place and surrounding country some time before. He is now fast gaining a large practice. The next to enter practice at Le Mars was Dr. Mary Breen, who located here in the spring of 1890. Her practice but proves that woman has a useful sphere among the highest of pro- fessions, and that proper training makes a lady master of science,as well as her brothers, who, not many years ago, were supposed to have a sort of God-given monopoly of the science of medicine. Physicians of Remsen.—The first physician to practice at the village of Remsen was Dr. Arbuthnot. He was a graduate from the Keokuk (Iowa) Medical College. He came to Remsen in the early spring of 1883, practiced a few months, and then removed to Nebraska. Dr. Henry Jay Brink, a graduate from the University of the City of New York, commenced practice at Remsen May 27, 1883, having practiced a short time at Warren, I]. He is a skillful doctor, and has already won a large and lucrative practice in the entire northern and eastern portion of Plymouth county. Dr. James T. Mars- den, of Utica, N. Y., located at Remsen about January 1, 1884, where he continued to practice about eleven months, after which time he removéd to Denver, Colo. He was a graduate from the medical depart- ment of the University of the City of New York, in the class of 1882. Dr. Seigel came to Remsen from Des Moines, Iowa, May 25, 1888, and practiced four months. He was a graduate from the Eclectic College, of Cincinnati, Ohio. Not liking the town he located at another point. Dr. Jenkens, a graduate of the Omaha Medical College, came to Remsen about June 1, 1888, and remained for five months. Dr. George Ropke and Dr. H. J. Brink are the only physicians now practicing at Remsen. Physicians of Akron.—The physicians who have practiced in and PHOTO BY GENELLI. PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 485 about Akron are as follows: R. D. Clark, M. D., from Rush Medical College, Chicago, Ill. (regular), practiced for a time in Wisconsin, and during the month of May, 1876, located at Akron. He is a man possessed of a broad mind, is skillful in his profession and an hon- ored member of society throughout the Big Sioux valley, in which section, for the past fourteen years, he has been steadily building up a large and successful medical practice. G. V. Ellis, M. D., is a part- ner of Dr. Clark. He graduated from the Omaha Medical College, first practiced at Calliope and Hawarden, Iowa; he located at Akron, April 22, 1888. John Tremaine, M. D. (eclectic), came from Dakota in 1886, and practiced for a short time. Dr. A. M. Cross (homco- pathic), a graduate of the medical department of the Iowa State Uni- . versity, at Iowa City, practiced at Missouri Valley, Iowa, a while, then a short time at Akron. The writer has been unable to get further par- ticulars regarding these physicians. * “ Physicians of Kingsley.—The first to practice medicine at Kings- ley was Dr. J. W. Walcutt, a graduate from Louisville (Kentucky) Medical College. He located at Quorn, and when the business was moyed to Kingsley he became the pioneer at that point. He still prac- tices. Dr. R. D. Mason, a most estimable gentleman and skillful practi- tioner of the regular school, is one of Kingsley’s most trustworthy and successful physicians and surgeons. He came to the place in the autumn of 1888, from Delaware county, Iowa, where he had practiced. He is a graduate of the class of 1887 at the State University at Iowa City, Iowa. Dr. J. J. Wilder, a graduate of the Keokuk (Iowa) Med- ical College, located at Kingsley a little prior to 1888, and is still one of the successful practitioners of to-day in this locality. Dr. E. H. Banks, a graduate of one of the Ohio medical colleges, also practices here, and is proprietor of a drug store at Kingsley. At Merrill, a Dr. Jenkins, a new comer, is the only physician at present. At Hin- ton, Dr. Henry Nigg, who graduated at Iowa City in 1888, practiced for a time, but is now engaged in the drug business at Merrill. 25 486 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. CHAPTER XI. PLYMOUTH COUNTY NEWSPAPERS. Tue POWER OF THE PRESS IN DEVELUPING THE COUNTY—LIBERAL PATRONAGE —HISTORICAL VALUE OF NEWSPAPERS—THE SENTINEL THE FIRST PAPER —BUCHANAN A FEARLESS WRITER—IOWA LIBERAL—THE DEMOCRAT—THE GLoBE—THE HEROLD—PEOPLE’S FRIEND—THE MIRROR--THE LEADER— THE SuN—DESPATCH — RECORD — PORTLANDVILLE BLADE--PLYMOUTH County RECORD—THE DELTA--KINGSLEY TIMES—REMSEN BELL—DAILY GLOBE, ETC. LYMOUTH COUNTY has had an abundant opportunity of test- ing the value of the newspaper press as an aid in building up and making better known the county’s resources to the great world at large. Its civilizing influence has been almost unlimited, and, usually speaking, the people of this county have been liberal in their support of all respectable newspaper enterprises that have, from time to time, been inaugurated in their midst. It must truthfully be said that in dispensing their patronage to the local press, they have, indeed, been tolerant and magnanimous, as they have been reasonably gen- erous to journals of all parties and various political principles. Especially is this true of all that honorable class of men who have worked for the common good and the general upbuilding of the county, with its numerous towns and hamlets. In every community there are shriveled souls whose participation in the benefits of enter- prises is greater than their own efforts to promote public welfare. There are the men who will never subscribe for a newspaper, but will ever be on the alert to receive gratuitously the first perusal of their next-door neighbor’s paper. These persons are the chronic croakers, who predict evil and see disaster in every public undertaking. With but few exceptions Plymouth county has never been over-cursed with such drones and dead-heads. As records of current history, the local newspaper should be highly prized and carefully preserved. These papers are a repository wherein are stored away the facts and the events, the deeds and sayings, the undertakings and final accomplish- PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 487 ments, that eventually go to make up history. One by one these things are published in the paper and bound (or should be) into volumes of local, general and individual history, to be laid away imperishable. The volumes, thus collected, are rifled by future his- torians, and the result is a forthcoming and almost invaluable record ready for the library. As a general rule not enough attention is paid to keeping files of local papers, even at the publisher’s office; still by diligent research and much inquiry, enough data have been gleaned to supply a tolerably accurate record of the press in this county; but should any inaccuracies, or possibly, omissions, occur in this chapter, they must be charged to the lack of complete files of the various journalslissued from the first to the present time. The first attempt at journalism in Plymouth county was the founding of the Le Mars “ Sentinel,’ February 3, 1871, by J. C. Buchanan. Its first form was an eight-column folio, half home print, and was run on a hand press until 1878, when the office demanded a change, and placed in operation a Campbell power press. The “Sentinel” was then one of Iowa’s most truly radical repub- lican journals. Mr. Buchanan was not only an excellent but most fearless writer. He was not at all times just correct, but in the main was a grand party exponent, and he became widely known. He ever worked, voted and wrote for the solid upbuilding of Plymouth county. He had a novel and sensational way of attracting his readers’ atten- tion by striking headlines. At the time of the Black Hills (Dakota) excitement he came out with a vindication of his own county, as against that mountain wilderness, which he had headed in big black type as follows: “GOLD! GOLD!! GOLD!!! “ The Black Hills for Catamounts and Red Skins—FOR US, Gold Edged Furrows of Plymouth County Soil—Immense Excitement at the ‘ Gateway City,” Where Half a Million Dollars has just been In- vested in the Development of the Gold Placers Between Cherokee County and Dakota—Room for 10,000 more men, and the one altogether lovely—Save Your Scalp by Staying Here.” Every issue of his paper had some similar, flaming captions—a real typographical curiosity and wonderful word-picture of sentiment. “Buck” (as every one called him) was always trying to break the 488 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. county “ring.” In this he made himself popular to one class, and to an- other class very unpopular. In his style of putting things, he was not any too choice in his language, and often resorted to vulgarisms, not quite in keeping with true, dignified journalism. The editorial controversy which was for many months carried on between the “ Sentinel” and the Okolona “States,” a radical southern paper, edited by Will Kernan, gave great demand for both papers—north and south. The articles were rampant, fire-eating editorials, full of sense (and also nonsense). They finally became personal and extremely abusive. Wishing to be nearer his antagonist, Mr. Kernan removed to Le Mars, and associated himself with the ‘‘ Democrat” for a time. Perhaps no one newspaper war was ever carried to such extremes in all the country, and the files of the “ Sentinel” show comments from hundreds, if not thousands, of papers, some applauding, others crying, ‘Give us a rest!” The great issues of the Civil war, long since passed, as well as recon- struction acts, were by these articles rehashed, and thoroughly con- tested again. The “bloody shirt” was the sign by which both sought to conquer. In May, 1883, Mr. Buchanan sold the “Sentinel” to G. H. Rags- dale, who again revived the daily, which Buchanan had started and run for a short time. In January, 1884, it was cut down to a semi- weekly, which is its present issue. Its former proprietor, Buchanan, drifted into Springfield, Ill., where he purchased a third interest in the “Tllinois State Republican,” but the stockholders soon “froze him out,” and he finally started a small weekly journal in Kansas. In 1888 Mr. Ragsdale was made state printer, and, being compelled to be away, he took as his partner E. D. Chassell, formerly of the “‘ Osage News,” who now has full control of the paper, and is counted one of northwestern Iowa’s best newspaper writers. He is a young man, full of energy, possessed of good morals and a thorough republican. His friends are indeed “legion.” Mr. Chassell was made secretary of the republican state commit- tee, in 1890, an important position which he well fills. From the time Mr. Ragsdale bought this paper and commenced to edit its columns, it assumed a higher moral standing than it ever had achieved before. It worked for the best interests of the county, was strongly a party organ, yet handled politics in a political way, never stooping to many of the low personalities so frequently indulged in by party organs. PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 489 Perhaps no Iowa weekly paper ever became so widely known among the masses as the ‘“ Sentinel.” In the spring of 1887 Mr. Ragsdale added a large book-binding establishment to his printing plant. He secured the services of J. M. Ainslie, of Ft. Dodge, together with part of a job office and bindery, which he (Ainslie) had been connected with at that point. Under Mr. Ainslie’s foremanship the ‘“‘Sentinel” bindery and job de- partments have ranked high among the offices of the northwest. The “Iowa Liberal,” an independent, weekly republican journal, was established in 1871, by John Curry, at Le Mars. It was a six- column paper printed on a Washington hand press. In 1875 it be- came the property of Col. J. M. Emery, who conducted it for two years, then leased it to C. F. Leidy. Not long thereafter it was sold to Leidy & Phippen, who conducted it until Mr. Ragsdale bought the plant and consolidated it with the Le Mars “Sentinel.” The “ Liberal” was a popular journal, well edited and cut a wide swath in the Lowa journalistic field, and was quoted by a large ex- change list throughout the west, generally. The ‘“‘ Democrat” was founded in 1882 by Kelley & Hopkins and edited for a time by the noted Will Kernan, of the Okolona “States.” The “ Democrat” was finally sold to G.W. Hunt, who came here from Fonda, Iowa; he conducted it until about 1884, when it suspended— the material going into the Globe Printing company’s outfit. G. W. Hunt removed to Sioux City, and his son and daughter are now con- ducting a society paper at that place. The. “Globe” (daily and weekly) was established by the Globe Printing company, Vol. I, No. 1, being dated October 2, 1884. It was a democratic paper—a six-column quarto in size and form, and printed on a Prouty power press. W. H. Clark edited it for a time. On the second year of its publication it was sold to Mat. Wurth, who still owns and operates the paper. In February, 1886, the daily edition was dropped, and since that time a semi-weekly has been printed. It is now printed on a Campbell power press propelled by a gas engine. W. A. Simpkins, who has been connected as foreman and otherwise, since the founding of the paper, was made its editor and manager, in January, 1890. The subscription is $2 per annum and its days of issue, Tuesdays and Fridays. It is all home print. The “ Herold,” a seven-column quarto paper, printed in the Ger- 490 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. man language, and democratic in politics, was founded at the same time as the ‘“‘Globe” and is now owned by Mr. Wurth. ‘tis pu lisned Thursdays ata subscription price of $2. About.200 »pies go to Europe to German friends. The plant was moved to its present quarters—the city hall building, in 1887. This paper is generally taken by the large body of intelligent German citizens of Plymouth county. The ‘“Volksfreula” (People’s Friend), a German publication, was established by Prof. Alexander, in 1883. It was suspended after about one year’s trial, and the material it used was transferred to the “Globe” office. Prof. Alexander, subsequently died at Sioux City. The paper was a six-column folio, printed entirely in German. A part of the time, the presswork was executed at Sioux City, but later at the ‘“‘ Democrat” office at Le Mars. The “Mirror” was a paper launched by Charles E. Hunt, at Le Mars, in the “eighties.” It lived for only about six months. The “ Leader” was established in 1887 by George Brockway, who stood the storm about a year and discontinued it. He ran a daily a few months, but found he had over-estimated the capacity of Le Mars’ people to devour so many local papers each. week, so he left the field. His material finally went toward making up the outfit employed in the publication of the “Sunday Sun.” The “Sun” is a weekly paper, published every Thursday by Rich- ard Goldie, the first numbers of which appeared as a Sunday paper, December 30, 1888, with McCurdy & Kroesen as proprietors, and so continued until the latter retired from its publication in April, and the former in July, 1889, since which date it has been conducted under a lease by Mr. Goldie. It is a six-column quarto, independent in politics. The “ Despatch” was founded (on the sands) by J. C. Buchanan, who had for years run the “ Sentinel,” but sold the same to Mr. Rags- dale, with the express understanding that he would not engage in the newspaper business in the county again. To avoid this contract, the paper was run under the name of J. W. Buchanan, son of J. C. However valid in law the scheme was, the business men of Le Mars would not give it their support, hence “it went the way of all the earth.” The Merrill ‘ Record” was founded in August, 1890, by the Mer- rill Publishing Company. It is a five-column quarto. PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 491 The Portlandville “ Blade” was established at Portlandville (now Akron) in 1878 by J. W. Sheppard. It was a five-column folio paper, independent in its politics. It continued its issue only about one year, when the plant was removed to St. Helena, Neb. The Plymouth county “ Record,” which followed the ‘‘ Blade” at Akron, was established in 1881 by F. T. Sheppard, a brother of the other editor. It wasa six-column folio sheet, printed on a Washing- ton hand press. It was republican in politics. Mr. Sheppard con- ducted the paper a year, then sold it to W. H. Clark, who operated it a short time and then moved it to Le Mars. In afew weeks Mr. Shep- pard founded the ‘Western Delta” at Akron. This was in June, 1882. Atpresent itis in its eighth volume. Mr. Sheppard owned and edited this paper a year, then sold it to G. W. Peck. He sold out to J. C. Button, after whom came J. J. Clifton, who changed the name to the “Sioux Valley Journal.” From his management the plant drifted into the hands of W. F. Wade, then on to Smith & Rob- ertson, and finally, March 1, 1890, back into the hands of its original founder, F. T. Sheppard. He changed the name back to the “ West- ern Delta.” It has always been a republican sheet, with the excep- tion of the three weeks, when conducted by Mr. Clark. The paper is now well edited, contains much live local matter each week, and en- joys a fair advertising patronage. Its publication day is Thursday, ‘and its subscription price is $1.50. The Kingsley “Times” was established in 1883 at Quorn—the rival old village of Kingsley. It was at that time known as the Quorn “ Lynx.” It was a six-column folio, independent republican in politics, and was edited by Frank Calhoun. In a few months the plant moved over to Kingsley. F. L. Gregg managed it four months and then Charles Brandon until December, 1889. It was then leased to Howard C. Tripp, who, March 11, 1890, purchased the office and is still con- ' ducting it. It is now an eight-column folio, published every Thurs- day, and the subscription rate is fixed at $1.50. It is read by all in- terested in the growth of Kingsley and vicinity. Its present editor is peculiarly well adapted for editing a live, racy, first-class local jour- nal, free from all slang and bitter, personal grievances. It is a clean, pure sheet. The Remsen “ Bell” is the name of a good local joutnal, represent- ing the sentiments of the people around Remsen. It was established 492 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. in December, 1887, by J. P. Kieffer, as a seven-column folio with an eight-page supplement. It is democratic in political faith and teach- ings. It is published each Friday at the subscription price of $1.50 per year. It may be said it is a paper within a paper, as the “ Bell” is printed in English, while the same subject matter is also set up and printed in German and styled the Remsen ‘“‘Glocke.” This issue comes forth for the large German population of Plymouth county, as well as a large circulation sent to friends in the Fatherland. It now has 1,100 subscribers. Its editor founded the ‘“ Herold” at Le Mars in the fall of 1884, and was also stockholder and former editor of the “Daily Globe” at Le Mars. He is a forcible, ready writer on all topics, and stands high in the esteem of his patrons. CHAPTER XII. ELGIN TOWNSHIP. DESCRIPTION—ORGANIZATION—RAILROADS-FIRST SETTLEMENT-FIRST EVENTS —VILLAGE OF SENEY—POST-OFFICE—CHURCHES—SCHOOLS—STRUBLE STA- TION. HE part of Plymouth county now known as Elgin civil township was taken from territory once included in America township. It is described as congressional township ninety-three, range forty- five, west. Being six miles square, it contains 23,010 acres of land, than which there is no finer tract in the limits of any county in Iowa. It was detached and organized through an act of the board of supervisors, June 8, 1870. Its boundaries are Sioux county on the north, Fredonia township on the east, America on the south, and Grant, on the west. The Floyd river meanders through several sections of the southeast corner of the territory; the West Fork of Floyd river courses its way continuously through the western portion. Wil- low creek also is another stream found in the south and eastern parts. These streams and their many small feeders provide the township with an ample supply of water for stock purposes, and, also, give a thor- ough and natural drainage system, which pre-eminently fits the soil PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 493 for the bountiful crops so frequently harvested in this part of Plym- outh county. The Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha railway crosses this township diagonally from northeast to southwest, while the Sioux City & Northern railroad crosses the north and west portions of the town- ship. The villages of this township are Seney, on the former named railroad, and Struble, a station on section five, along the line of the recently constructed Sioux City & Northern railroad. In 1885 Elgin township had a population of 600, which was made up of 400 American born and 200 foreign born, the greater per cent of whom were either German or English. The present census returns ‘will certainly show a marked increase in population, as well as in valuation of property. The First Settlers.—Around the first cluster of pioneer settlers who venture out in advance as vanguards to civilization, there is always connected more of interest and curiosity than about those of a subsequent coming. The first to invade the wild prairie lands of Elgin township was Jacob Rubel who came from Philadelphia, Penn., and went to Omaha, Neb., in 1867. At that time he could have pur- chased almost any lot in what has now come tobe the great central city and railroad hub of the Missouri valley, for $300 or $400. He went north to Sioux City, then a small town, and from there he walked to where Le Mars now stands, and stopped over night with Capt. Bets- worth, who lived, ** monarch of all he surveyed,” in a log cabin on the east bank of the river. Mr. Rubel finally claimed, as his homestead, the west half of the southwest quarter of section thirty-four. This was October 3, 1867, and he at once moved to his place, and is still an honored and well-to-do farmer, now possessing 240 acres of as fine land as the county, or even the state of Iowa, affords. The greater portion of his excellent farm is located in America township, but joins his homestead, which is across the line in Elgin. This first settler, a German—relates much of interest, showing the hardshipsand priva- tions of a prairie frontiersman. To show that all was then wild and like a wilderness, it needs only to be stated that even two years after his coming he found many droves of elk and deer. In the winter of 1868-69 he found a drove of over 100, which had been run down, and were so wearied by their chase for life, that they could easily be approached, and Mr. Rubel was able to get within a few feet of them, 494 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. and after looking them all over finally drew his old-style musket and killed a fine one. He quartered it and surprised the family upon his return, with plenty of fresh meat. After having killed the animal, however, he had great difficulty in finding his way home over the trackless prairie, which was then mantled in deep snow. The next settler to take a homestead in Elgin township was Robert Taylor, who settled on section thirty-four, in the month of December, 1867, finished his claim shanty on Christmas day, but moved from the township in 1871. Cassa Boyes was next to claim a homestead upon Elgin’s fertile soil. He came in 1868 and settled on the north- east quarter of section thirty-six, where he is still a prosperous farmer. Stephen Reeves settled on the southwest quarter of section thirty- six, in 1868. He was one of a large number of persons who came from near Elgin, Il., and in honor of their old home this township was named, in place of the time-honored custom, in many localities, of naming after the first settler, which, in this case, would have been Rubel. Mr. Reeves is still a resident of Elgin township and one of its most highly esteemed citizens. In company with him, came his son, Samuel Reeves, who claimed the north half of the northeast quarter of section twenty-six. About 1880 he removed to Nebraska. George and John Reeves, brothers of Stephen, came about the same time, from the same part of Illinois. John died early in the eighties. John Trigg, who is still a resident of the township, came in and claimed land, in 1868, on the south half of the northwest quarter of section twenty-four. Henry Dougherty, who came from Illinois in 1868, settled on a homestead, taking a part of section twenty-six, which he still owns. A Swede named Charlie Johnson came in 1868, to section thirty, where he still resides. He was also from Tlinois. Two brothers, named Wood, emigrated with the Illinois company, in 1868-69, and settled on section twenty-eight. K. O. Wood settled on the northeast quarter of the section and remained until 1885, when he removed to Sioux county, Iowa. His brother, Savilian, generally known, as “Jack,” went to the Black Hills at the time of the first great gold excitement, and was killed by the Indians. James Haviland and sons came from Illinois in 1868 or 1869, and home- steaded on section twenty-eight. The entire family removed to Washington territory early in the eighties. The north half of the southwest quarter of section twenty-six was homesteaded by Harry - PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 495 Hammond in 1869. He proved up after the five-year limit, and then sold out. He now lives on the farm of Capt. Betsworth, his father-in- law, in America township. George Darvill came from Illinois in 1868 and homesteaded the northeast quarter of section twenty-six, where he still resides. James Aldison, who was a New Zealander by birth, had seen much of the globe, but finally concluded this the place he wanted to make a home in, and consequently claimed land on section twenty-six in 1868. He remained until 1885 and then removed to California. He is a single man, living on the money he has made. U. B. Keniston was another settler of 1868. He homesteaded the west half of the southwest quarter of section twenty-four. Ina few months he became homesick, and sold his claim to Mr. Reeves. He finally relocated elsewhere in the township, but is now living in Akron village. A man by the name of Elder Dacons settled, in 1868, on the above-named Keniston farm. C. B. Hobart was an early settler of 1869. He came from Illinois and purchased land on section twenty- four and also homesteaded some. He removed several years later to Kansas, but still retains his lands in Elgin township. John Detloff, another settler from Illinois, settled about 1869, on section seventeen. Joseph Obermaier came early in the seventies and claimed land on section seventeen, where he still resides. G. J. Balsinger came to this township from Illinois in 1870, and took land on section thirty- four. Heis a native of Switzerland and is among the highly honored men of Elgin township. Another settler of 1870 was F. A. Wood, who also came from Illinois, and located on section thirty-three, where he still resides. George Wright came in 1870 and claimed land on section twenty-eight as his homestead right. He moved away many years ago. First Events.—The first house was built by Jacob Rubel of cotton- wood lumber, which cost him $28 per 1,000 feet in Sioux City, and he remarks that it cost nearly as much more to get nails with which to hold the boards from warping off the farm. This building stands as a curious wooden monument of what homestead life was at an early day in Plymouth county. The first child bornin Elgin township was Joseph S. Rubel, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Rubel. He was born July 21, 1868, and is now living in Chicago, an enterprising young man, who is an honor to his parents and his native township. 496 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. The first death in the township was that of Mrs. Taylor, wife of William Taylor, a pioneer homesteader. She died in 1870. The first marriage within the township was that of Mr. W. S. Clark and Miss Anna McGulpin, about 1870. It proved an unhappy marriage on account of rum, which has ruined and blasted so many an otherwise fair home. The first school-house was erected in 1871 on section twenty-four. The first term of school taught was private, and kept by the seventeen- year-old daughter of Pioneer Stephen Reeves, Miss Elsie, now the es- timable wife of George Darvill. This term was taught in 1870, with only a few children, but the teacher was good and faithful—even as she is to-day—a model woman, who has since that time seen many hardships. Village of Seney.—Seney is a station on the Omaha railway line, platted December 7, 1872, on section twenty-three, of Elgin township. While it is but a mere hamlet, yet it serves well its purpose, as here are general stores and grain markets sufficient for the convenience of the surrounding farmers, who find it too far to go to Le Mars, eight miles to the southwest. The first to engage in any sort of trade at this point, were Reeves Bros., who dealt in grain and lumber, in the autumn of 1873. In 1874 I. 8S. Small opened up a general store, principally groceries. He sold out to George Reeves, and soon the firm was Reeves & March; next, March Bros.; then, V. B. March; then, HE. March. Thestore property burned while in the last-named person’s hands—in 1886. A general store was also opened in 1878 by J. T. Reeves & Co., which later ran as J. T. Reeves alone. He sold in 1887 to I. E. Eldredge, who still conducts the business in a successful manner. In addition to the above general store, there is a grocery and hard- ware combined, operated by E. March, which was opened in Septem- ber, 1889. ; The present blacksmith of the place is S. A. Aukerman, who also does wagon repairing. The grain business, in 1890, is in the hands of F. H. Peavy & Co. and A. W. Gilbert. The live-stock interests are represented by I. E. Eldredge, who buys and ships large numbers of hogs and cattle. A post-office was first established at Seney in 1873, with S. J. Howe as postmaster. In 1874 he was succeeded by I. S. Small; then PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 497 followed George Reeves, and next, Mr. March. From him the com- mission fell upon J. T. Reeves, and in 1887, after eight years, it passed from him to his successor in trade, I. E. Eldredge, who took the office June 1, 1887. It became a money-order office July 1, 1884. . The first order was issued to J. T. Reeves, for the amount of $1, pay- able to W. N. Davidson, Luverne, Minn. The business is increasing. The last serial number of money order, granted June 4, 1890, was 646, while there have been issued 941 ‘postal notes.” The Methodist Episcopal church of Seney had its commencement by the formation of a class in 1870, which numbered about thirty souls, all faithful, self-sacrificing men and women, with Stephen Reeves as their leader. They assembled at Mr. Reeves’ house, where many precious meetings were held for worship. Upon the comple- tion of the school-house on section twenty-four, in 1871, they met there until the school-house was built at Seney, in 1876, Here they met until they erected a church edifice ata cost of $1,600, in1880. Itis a frame building, twenty-eight by forty feet, will seat 175 people, and is provided with a 760-pound bell. The work was done by Mr. Mar- sters, and the lots, two in number, were donated by the railroad com- pany. A parsonage, which cost $450, was built prior to the church edifice. The present membersbip of the church is forty-five. A good Sabbath-school, which averages fifty-five pupils, is a great aid to the church proper. W. C. Lancaster is the superintendent. The follow- ing have served as pastors at this point: Rev. J. T. Walker, Rev. H. D. Brown, Rey. Thornberg, Rey. Bachelor, Rev. (‘ Prof.”) Binks, Rev. Edgar, Rev. Pendel, Rev. Edgar, Rev. Parfitt, Rev. Rigby, Rev. Allnutt, Rev. Benedict, Rev. Delano and the present pastor, Rev. King. The society wish to have it made a matter of record in history that they have not always been favored with the most spiritual or talented clergymen, and in consequence of this, as much as any one thing, the society to-day is not in a prosperous condition. One of the earliest pastors, it is related, was actually so lazy that he used to sit in his chair, with his coat off, in the warm summer days of the early seventies, and preach to his people, instead of mustering enough ambi- tion to stand for thirty minutes, while the congregation suffered what he had to give them. One old pioneer tells us that this preacher missed his calling, because he was too lazy to hear the call, while 498 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. another says he had understood the Scriptures to mean “laziness (instead of cleanliness) is next to Godliness.” The officers of this society in 1890 (present year), are; Pastor, Rev. King; stewards F. A. Wood, Walter Darvill, John Lancaster, Thomas Smith, Wat Freeman, Henry Darvill; recording steward, John Lancaster. Struble Station—This is one of the last villages platted in the county, and dates from the fall of 1889. When the Sioux City & Northern railroad was built, this became a station on section five. It was also made a post-office about March 1, 1890, with O. D. Laird as postmaster. The only business found here now is a general stock, kept by Eldredge & Laird, who embarked in merchandising and grain shipping in February, 1890; a hardware and implement store, by Ritter Bros.; live stock shippers, Isaac Speer and Peacock & Sons. A blacksmith shop completes the list to June, 1890. CHAPTER XIII. ELKHORN TOWNSHIP. DESCRIPTIVE—ORGANIZATION—FIRST SETTLEMENT—SCHOOLS—FIRST EVENTS —A BiG WHEAT FARM—VILLAGE OF QUORN—FIRST RAILROAD—PIONEER NEWSPAPER—HOMESTEADERS. : RRESees TOWNSHIP is that portion of Plymouth county -/ described by congressional township ninety and range forty-four west. It is on the south line of the county, with Garfield township to its east, Union on the north and Lincoln on the west. Not unlike the remainder of Plymouth county, this township is noted for its excellent land and fine natural drainage system, formed by numerous creeks and rivers, among which may be mentioned the West Fork of the Little Sioux river, in the south and western portion; also Muddy creek, in the western part, leaving the territory from section four; Jobn’s creek is another small prairie stream. These principal water courses are each supplied with many lesser feeders. Elkhorn township was constituted a separate civil organization, by an act of the board of county supervisors, dated September 3, PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 499 1877. Prior to that time it was included in what was styled Lincoln township. The population, which now numbers about 500, in 1885 was only 300, 240 of which were American born. The village plat of Quorn, on section twenty-five, was platted in September, 1880, but owing to the building up of the railroad town of Kingsley, a mile to the east, it is now defunct, virtually. First Settlement.—In going about, along well-improved highways, with excellent farms on either hand attracting the attention of the passer by, the question naturally arises, to-day, “Who was the first to claim land and build for himself a home in this goodly territory ?” By careful research among the pioneers, it is learned that in 1876 Charles Bullis came from Franklin county, Iowa, and purchased land in the autumn of that year, on section twenty-six, township ninety and range forty-four, which now constitutes Elkhorn civil township. At that date there was not a house of any description to be seen in Elkhorn’s eastern neighboring township of Garfield. Mr. Bullis said, in an interview with the collector of this his- torical matter, that the settlement, in general was made as follows: Four members of a family named Higday settled in the northwest corner of the township. One moved away; two are deceased; and one, named Joseph, is still a resident. Nearly all the pioneers of this township made homestead entries, George Evans locating on the southwest quarter of section seventeen. John and “Mike” Trow claimed land on the southeast of section seventeen. The former is still living there; his brother, Gresh, who located on section nine, is now dead. A Mr. Mann settled along the west line of the township, and remained until about 1886. Hugh Mason, who is still an honored resident, effected a settlement on sec- tions thirty-one and thirty-two. J. J. Edwards settled on section twenty-nine, but subsequently removed to another county. P. J. Ward was one of the very earliest settlers, and is still a resident of this township. He settled on section twenty-four, where he now enjoys the fruit of his labors, in the possession of a most valuable farm, up- on which is situated a magnificent grove, planted and cultivated by his own hands. S. North settled on the north half of the southwest quarter of section fourteen. He is now deceased. Henry Addington located on a part of section twenty-four, but soon removed. A man named Cain settled on the northwest of section thirty-two; and one 500 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. named Bruseau on section twenty. They subsequently removed to California. From about 1877 settlement was made more rapidly. In 1876 the township had about twenty voters within her borders. Schools.—The first term of school was taught in 1868, at the Hig- day school-house by Al. Higday. The first school-houses were erected on section thirty-two and section six—both built the same year. As the settlers increased, new sub-districts were made, and provided with good frame buildings, until to-day the township has six sub- districts, each having a good school edifice. The total enrollment of pupils in 1889 was 142. The schools are in an excellent condition, and keep pace with new educational methods in all respects. First Events.—The first marriage in what now comprises Elkhorn, was that of Arthur Dufty, in 1872. The first religious services were held at the Higday school-house, by Rev. C. W. Batchelor (Methodist), in 1868. The first death was that of Sarah North, in 1877, aged sixty-seven years. The first child born was Emma Kane, in 1872. A Big Wheat Farm.—In August, 1881, the subjoined item was published in the ‘“Sentinel:” “The Paullin Brothers’ great wheat farm of Elkhorn township contains 4,000 acres, one-half of which is now under cultivation. The farm is managed by Hudson Mickley. Last spring 785 acres were put into wheat and the last of it was cut last Monday. Four celebrated Walter A. Woods’ twine-binders were employed, which, aided by a few men, placed an average of forty-five acres per day into the shock. They begin threshing next week. The Nichols & Shepard steam thresher will have to hum lively for fully three weeks, as there are about 7,000 bushels of last year’s crop to thresh, besides this year’s. The same men also have a 400-acre field in O’Brien county, besides 1,200 acres of flax in one body.” Village of Quorn.—October 2, 1880, there was platted by the Close Brothers, a village named Quorn, located on section twenty-five of Elkhorn township. It was expected that the Chicago & Northwest- ern railway line would eventually be constructed through its limits, but the company, not liking the Johnny Bull methods of inducing railways to their embryo towns, finally platted Kingsley, one mile to the east, which fact forever blighted the fair hopes of Quorn and its projectors. However, before this much had transpired, the village had PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 503 commenced to thrive and put on western city airs. Several general stores were being operated; a post-office was petitioned for and granted, and John Gaspar was the first to hold the office of postmaster. A roll- er-mill was built and operated by Heacock Brothers, and still does a paying business. Gaspar Brothers, Rathbun & Ireland and Mr. Var- ner all conducted good stores, from which general goods and hardware were sold. A newspaper, known as the Quorn “Lynx,” was estab- lished at this point in 1883 by Frank Calhoun, who subsequently re- moved it to Kingsley, and gave it the title of ‘‘ Kingsley Times.” With the oncoming of immigration, and the push which always cen- ters around a new railroad town, the village of Quorn was left out in the cold, and now may justly be classed among the defunct places of the county. But while there remains nothing save the old mill and a few foundation stones, together with a few residences, to remind the passer-by of a town-site, yet, so long as memory is theirs, the old settler —the early pioneer of long-ago days—will often refer to Quorn and think of the good time fully come, when they could get flour to eat and mail matter, including a home paper to read, within that half-deserted plat—the villageof Quorn. : CHAPTER XIV. FREDONIA TOWNSHIP. LocaTION—ORGANIZATION—TOPOGRAPHY—EARLY SETTLEMENT—THE HoOmE- STEADERS—THE CHANGE WROUGHT IN TWENTY YEARS—HIGH WATER— Harp WINTER—FIRsT EVENTS—SCHOOLS—ACCIDENTS—FIRST RELIGIOUS SERVICES. NREDONTIA is the second civil subdivision from the eastern line of the county, and lies on the county’s north line. It comprises congressional township ninety-three, range forty-four west, thus con- taining thirty-six even sections. Sioux county bounds it on the north, Meadow township on the east, Marion on the south and Elgin on the west. Its territory formerly belonged with that of Elgin township, but, by an act of the board of county supervisors, June 5, 1871, it 26 504 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. was made a separate civil township. It is a most excellent agricult- ural section, and has come to be well improved throughout. Among its citizens may be found many of the well-to-do people of the county. The soil is famous for its great productiveness, and all the grains, grasses and fruits common to this latitude are grown in abundance, with seldom a failure of a crop. The water courses of Fredonia are Willow creek, which flows from the northeast to the southwest part of the township, while the Floyd river is found in the northwest corner. Both of these streams have several lesser tributaries, which afford good drainage as well as water. In 1885 the state census gave Fredonia a population of 562 peo- ple, 336 being American born, while the greater part of the remainder were German and English. The forthcoming census (1890) will doubtless show that the township contains several hundred more people, as five years have wrought many changes, and it is reasonable to conjecture that this goodly section of Plymouth county has received her share of increase by immigration. Early Settlement.—To give the reader of local history an intelli- gent understanding of the section to be written about, much labor and painstaking research must be had, in first establishing the fact as to who it was that first claimed the location as his home—who was the first actual settler. In this township the hongr, for such it is, belongs to a man named Elder Dacons, who entered a homestead on a part of ’ section six, in the autumn of 1868. He removed to Elgin township about 1875, and now lives in Cherokee county. Prior to his coming, a claim had been taken by a man named Romans, who selected lands in the summer of 1868. The second settler in Fredonia township, as now constituted, was William Jackson, who came from Oconomowoc, Wis., in the fall of 1868, and took up land on section eighteen. He built a house and improved his land, and is still an honored pioneer of the county, now living at the village of Seney. Next came two cousins, Web and Watt Freeman, who came from De Kalb county, Ill.; they landed here March 4, 1869, the day of Gen. U.S. Grant’s first inaugural, which historic fact impressed the date of their coming indelibly upon their minds. They entered home- steads on section eight, which they still retain. Web was a single man at that time, and in the fall of 1882 he was elected county re- PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 505 corder, and served acceptably for four years. He then returned to his farm, remained until January, 1890, when he engaged in the drug business at Le Mars. Other early homesteaders in Fredonia were Wallace Winslow, now a resident of Le Mars, who claimed a part of section eight, as did George Darville. William and C. K. Sweetzer settled on section four; they later sold and moved to Oregon. Mrs. N. W. Knowlton home- steaded on section four. She remained there until her death, in 1884 or 1885. E. D. Gould settled on section eighteen. Milton and Morgan Coolbaugh, two brothers, settled on section twenty, where they still reside. KR. M. Varnum came from Canada in the fall of 1869, and selected lands on section four, where he now re- sides, an honored and thrifty farmer. Henry Heide came from Illinois, in 1870, and claimed a portion of section four, which he still lives upon. Other early comers will be mentioned in the biographical depart- ment of this work, as well as much concerning those already mentioned. Great has been the change since the first few homesteaders squat- ted upon the broad trackless prairies of Fredonia, in 1869, and the present time. Then there was no sort of improvement or mark of civilized life between this township and the settlement near Mankato, Minn. These first few settlers were compelled to draw their supplies from Sioux City. The roads were in a bad condition, few bridges were in the county, and the whole aspect was anything but cheery to the pioneer’s heart, which, however, bravely endured all, and many have succeeded in “pulling through,” and are now in comforta- ble circumstances, and surrounded by railroads, schools and churches. The people of to-day know but little of the days of hard winters and high-water marks in this county. It is a law of nature and philosophy that the older and more improved a country becomes, the greater the rainfall, but the streams we term rivers and creeks become correspondingly diminished, as the upturned soil absorbs the moisture instead of serving to convey .it to the larger streams, and, eventually, to the ocean. It is the opinion of Mr. Freeman, one of the first homesteaders of Fredonia, that the highest water-mark along the streams of this por- tion of Plymouth county, since its settlement at any rate, was in the spring of 1870. Many places the water was several miles wide. On one occasion Mr. Freeman attached his wagon-cover to his tight-jointed 506 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. wagon-bos, and sailed several miles across the bottom lands along the Floyd river. The most noted winter for deep and long-continued snow storms was that of 1880-81, which was nearly as bad as the famous winter of 1856, which settlers in Cherokee and Ida counties tell so much of. The pioneers of Fredonia speak of valleys and ravines fifty feet in depth being filled to the level, and then crusted so as to enable teams to pass over them, while all the tall native trees were beneath them. The following spring every bridge across the Floyd river, except the big iron bridge at Sioux City, was swept away, at great loss to the county. First Events.—The first man to claim land in Fredonia township was Mr. Romans, who came in 1868. The first actual settler was Elder Dacons, who came in the fall of 1868 and built the first house, the lumber for which was brought from Sioux City. In all probability the first person born in this township was George Varnum, son of Mr. and Mrs. R. M. Varnum. The first death was that of Herbie Sweetzer, in 1872. The first three marriages were those of William Elsworth, James Haviland and Charles Sweetzer. The first voting done by citizens from this township (when it was yet included in America), was at the special election in February, 1870. It was held at the log school-house, known as the Redmon school-house, located two miles south of Le Mars. The first term of school was taught in a granary building belong- ing to Watt Freeman, on section eight. It was in 1870. In 1872 the frame school-buildings in districts Nos. 1 and 2 were erected. The first religious services in the township were also held in the granary of Mr. Freeman in the spring of 1870. It was conducted by the Methodist people. After the school-houses were erected services were held in them. There are no church buildings in the township. Among the accidents which proved fatal in this township may be mentioned that which befell a young German, who was instantly killed by lightning while in a cellar, to which he had gone for refuge from a terrible thunderstorm, some time in the seventies. About the same time Frank Kass had two sons—young men—killed in a barn during a cyclone. Schools.—At this date, 1890, the schools of Fredonia township are in a flourishing condition. There are now seven sub-districts, each PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 507 having a good frame school building. The total enrollment of pupils, according to the county superintendent’s last annual report, was 204. The best of teachers, mostly female, are engaged to teach after improved and advanced‘methods. CHAPTER XV. GARFIELD TOWNSHIP. ORIGIN OF NaME—How LocaTED—WHEN ORGANIZED—FIRST SETTLEMENT— EARLY EVENTS—VILLAGE OF KINGSLEY—ITs INCORPORATION, BUSINESS AND SOCIAL INTERESTS—POST-OFFICE HISTORY. ARFIELD, a fine township in Plymouth county, which was ~ named in honor of one of the presidents of the United States, is the southeast corner township, and comprises congressional town- ship ninety, range forty-three west. At one time this subdivision was embraced in what was known as Elkhorn civil township, but since September 6, 1882, it has had a separate organization. It is bounded on the east by Cherokee county, on the south by Woodbury county, on the west by Elkhorn township, and on the north by Henry township. The enterprising village of Kingsley, located on section thirty, is a thriving station on the Kingsley spur of the great Chicago & Northwestern railway system. This is a magnificent agri- cultural district, and at this time is among the most thoroughly prosperous in all Plymouth county. The chief stream meandering through the fertile prairie lands of Garfield is the West Fork of the Little Sioux, which runs southwest through the territory. In 1885 the population numbered about 400, of which 300 were American born, and 100 foreign—mostly German and English. First Settlers.—Toa man named C. Gard, belongs the historic honor of being the first to make an actual settlement in what is now known as Garfield township. He located on the southwest quarter of section thirty-four in 1878. Close brothers (Englishmen) took a large body of land next, and the same year they came in, they broke a large amount of land, erected 508 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. thirty-six farm-houses, and rented most of their lands out. The fol- lowing constituted the first settlers: OC. Gard, Mr. Mickley (section thirty-two), J. J. Heacock and the Close brothers in 1878, S. Ham- mer, Hiel Heald, F. Amos, Henry Cook, I. A. Fish (1879), L. H. North (1880). Early Events.—The first school was ingen in 1881 ina building erected on section fourteen. The first regular preaching services were conducted in 1883 at Kingsley and at the school-house, section fourteen, Rev. G. W. Kliner of the Methodist church officiating. The first religious services in the township were held by the United Brethren people, S. V. King officiating. The first birth was that of Frankie Amos. The first birth in the village of Kingsley was Kingsley Bowen, in 1883. The first death in the township was that of a child of Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Heacock, in 1878. The first marriage was that of Percy Clarke to Catharine Cloeman in October, 1880, L. H. North, a justice of the peace, officiating. Kingsley.—This is an incorporated town, located on section thirty, of Garfield township, and was platted June 4, 1883. It is the chief town in the south half of Plymouth county, and furnishes a grain and stock market for an immense territory, and hence is one of the most thoroughly prosperous towns in the county. Its streets are daily filled with farm teams, and the merchants are usually busy. It has a popu- lation of about 800 people, nearly all of whom are Americans. Kings- ley has the merited name, far and near, of possessing the most enter- prising and best class of merchants and tradesmen to be found in this section of Iowa. The town depends upon the Chicago & Northwestern railroad for its shipping facilities. At present, 1890, there are over sixty busi- ness houses, all doing a flourishing business. There are two good banking houses, several churches, a live local paper—the “ Kingsley Times ”’—and one of the best public schools, outside of Le Mars, in the entire county. The town is beautifully situated on rolling, high ground, with broad well-kept streets. The first attempt at business at this point was in the summer of 1883, when the railroad was com- pleted. The old town, post-office and trading point for this vicinity, as has been stated, was Quorn, which was platted in 1880, by Close’ Brothers, with whom the railroad company had some misunderstanding, PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 509 and as a result they changed their route and located what is now known as Kingsley. The few dealers at Quorn at once removed to the newly platted town, about a mile to the east. The first to engage in trade in Kingsley was Gaspar Bros., with a general store. They moved from Quorn in August, 1883. J. F. Var- ner, who was also a pioneer at Quorn, moved his stock at about the same date. The first house erected was built for saloon purposes. The first hotel was the Curtis House, built by John Curtis. The first hardware was sold by Rathbun & Ireland, who removed from Quorn. The first to deal in agricultural implements were Rathbun & Ireland. The first lumber dealers were Lewis & Brockman. The pioneer grain dealers were Herron Bros., who still operate in that line. They also bought the first live stock shipped from Kingsley. The first to deal in furniture was C. H. Loring. The first blacksmith to pound and weld by his glowing forge in Kingsley was Charles Bowers. The first wagon shop was conducted by M. A. Oberholser. The first to engage in the harness trade at this point was M. A. Condon. The drug business was first represented by Marshall & Banks. The vil- lagers were .first supplied with meat by Scott Bros. The pioneer liverymen were Hamil Bros. Kingsley soon saw the necessity of becoming an incorporated town, and so the step was taken in the spring of 1884. The names of the mayors and recorders for each year are here subjoined: 1884—Mayor, J. S. Ellis; recorder, John T. Ireland. 1885— Mayor, G. A. Garrard; recorder W. R. Savage. 1886-——-Mayor, G. A. Garrard; recorder, I. S. Knowles. 1887—Mayor, ©. B. Oldfield; recorder, I. 8. Knowles. 1888—-Mayor, ©. B. Oldfield; recorder, I. 8. Knowles. 1889—Mayor, C. B. Oldfield, recorder, I. 8. Knowles. 1890—Mayor, F. R. Robinson; recorder, J. A. Ingalls. The incorporation government has always been of the best, most enterprising type, and good order has ever prevailed. Much atten- tion is paid to public improvements, including the building of side- walks, etc., all of which tend to make the town a desirable place in which to live. The first post-office in this section of Plymouth county was at Quorn (but was subsequently transferred to Kingsley), which office was established in 1880, with Peter Gaspar as postmaster. He was succeeded by C. E. Ireland, and he was followed by M. L. Marshall. 510 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. From his hands the office passed to those of F. A. Winchel, and then back to those of Peter Gaspar, who was succeeded by the present incumbent, O. D. Heald, April 1, 1890. It was made a money-order office in August, 1884. The first money order was issued to John 8. Ellis, for the sum of $1.80, payable to J. E. Simpson, Dubuque, Iowa. There had been issued, up to May 29, 1890, 2,922 money orders, and 7,426 postal notes. The office has been kept in different store build- ings until this season, when the present postmaster erected a neat frame building on North Second street, to which he moved May 20, 1890. Noother business is transacted therein, and it gives greater satisfaction to the general public. ‘Star routes” run from Kings- ley, to and from Le Mars, via O’Leary and Neptune. The mail from points east and west comes over the Northwestern railroad. Commercial Interests, 1890.—Kingsley has come to be an excellent town, surrounded by an unequaled rural district. While it is in the newest portion of the county, it is well developed, and accounted as a fine business point for all trades and professions. The men who conduct the several commercial and professional callings to-day are as follows: Attorneys—J. M. Wormley, John A. Dewey, D. W. Wood. Agricultural implements—S. A. Tennant, Knowles & Smaltz, Law Bros. Banks—Bank of Kingsley, Kingsley Bank. Blacksmiths—Charles Bowers, Charles Price, C. C. Schneider, F. A. Barns. Boots and Shoes—John Gasper. Coal Dealers—D. Joyce, M. A. Moore. Drugs—Martland & Banks, J. J. Wilder, Wilson Bros. Furniture—C. H. Loring. Grocers—Clarence Wood, M.S. Snider, C. Stortz & Co., Gaspar Bros., J. F. Varner, J. J. Filson. Grain—Cathcart Bros. General dealers—William Rieke & Bros., W. F. Howard, M. C. Evans, Martin Kalbfleisch, W. H. Miller. Hardware—S. A. Tennant, Knowles & Smaltz, Law Bros. Harness shops—M. A. Condon, H. Rhode. Hotels—Georgies, Stowell Hotel. Jeweler—C. E. Smith. PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 511 Lumber—D. Joyce, M. A. Moore. Livery—Trotter Bros., James Grieve, D. W. Peer. Miiler-—J. J. Heacock. Photograph gallery—George A. Fox. Press—-The “ Kingsley Times.”’ Physicians—Drs. J. J. Wilder, E. H. Banks, R. D. Mason, J. R. Walcutt Real estate—J. 8. Ellis, J. M. Wormley. Stock-dealers—Herron Bros. Saloons—Three “ Holes in the Wall” (unlicensed saloons). Veterinary——Peter Elliott. Wagon shop—M. H. Oberholser. Churches.—No better index can be given of the morality of a town than the church spires pointing heavenward. It leads one to believe, though an entire stranger in the land, that he has come among a God-fearing people, with whom itis indeed good to dwell. At Kingsley the Christian element predominates to a good degree, as may be evinced by the fact that here one finds a Methodist, Congre- ' gational, Catholic and Baptist church, one of which, the Methodist Episcopal, numbers about 200 members. The Methodist Episcopal church of this section of the county was at first formed by a class at Quorn, and belonged to the Le Mars cir- cuit. In 1883 it was organized at Kingsley, as soon as the plat was surveyed, almost. At first they occupied unfinished buildings as places for worship, but in 1885 a neat frame building was erected, at a cost of $2,500. It is thirty by sixty feet and seats 300 persons, eomfortably. Opera chairs are provided for a part of. the seats. The church tower has a bell which cost $115. A neat parsonage was erected for the society in the fall of 1887, at an expense of $600. It stands alongside the church building. Hugh Mason was class leader at Quorn. The following have served as pastors of this church: Rev. G. W. Kliver, one year; Rev. C. ©. Stire, one year; Rev. J. W. For- syth, one year; Rev. A. J. Beebe, one year; Rev. F. EH. Drake, Rev. D. M. Beams, Rev. G. W. Klepper, six months; Rev. Hugh Hay, the present pastor. The present membership of this church is 200. The well-managed Sabbath-school averages an attendance of about sixty- six. Its superintendent is W. F. Smith. The 1890 church officials are: R. H. Lacy, class leader; J. F. Varner, recording steward; J. S. 512 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Ellis, district steward. In Kingsley, as in most new towns, the Meth- odist people have been first on the ground, and have worked with heart, hand and money to further the glorious gospel tidings. The first Congregational church of Kingsley was formed February 14, 1886, by the following charter members: W. C. Bundy and wife, F. J. Laude and wife, Mrs. C. E. Stowell, George R. Willhoite and wife, Mrs. Cassiday, Mrs. Moulton and J. D. Buckingham. At first the society assembled in Loring’s hall, but in the summer of 1887 they erected a frame building, thirty-four by forty feet, which cost. $2,200, and seats about 150 persons, comfortably. It stands on the corner of Main and Third streets, and was dedicated December 18, 1887, Revs. Walter A. Evans and T. O. Douglass officiating. Six hundred dollars was raised and pledged on the day of dedication. The pastors who have served are as follows: Rev. D. E. Skinner, a short time; Rev. M. T. Rainer, about three years, and Rev. J. W. Chaffin, the present pastor. The present membership is about thirty- three. At one time the society had a larger membership, but on ac- count of removals was lessened to the above. An excellent Sabbath- school of thirty-five pupils is of great help to the society. Its super- intendent at present is Dr. R. D. Mason. The first church officials of this society were: Dr. W. C. Bundy and George R. Willhoite, deacons. The last named was church clerk. The present officials are: John Norris, A. E. Gosting, deacons; R. D. Mason, clerk; E. J. Norris, treasurer; D. A. Oltman, F. J. Laude and R. D. Mason, trustees. 3 The first Baptist church at Kingsley was organized November 7, 1886, with ten constituent members, with appropriate ceremonies con- ducted by Rev. CO. E. Higgins (now deceased), missionary, Iowa Bap- tist State convention. In response to letters, a council composed of representatives and delegates from sister churches, of like faith, con- vened in Kingsley, September 9, 1887. Deacon J. D. Gates, of Cher- okee, Iowa, was chosen moderator, and Deacon S. D. Holden, of Correctionville, Iowa, was chosen clerk. The result of that meeting was the reorganization of a regular Baptist church. Rev. W. H. Breach, of Cherokee, Iowa, preached the sermon and Rey. A. J. Pat- terson, of Kingsley, offered the prayer; Rev. Breach gave the charge to the new church, and J. B. Henderson, of Cherokee, extended the hand of fellowship, on behalf of the council. PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 513 The society is as yet compelled to worship in rented buildings, but the matter is being discussed regarding the erection of an edi- fice—a fit temple in which to worship. The present membership is twenty-four, and upon an average each has contributed $35 during the past year, 1889, toward church support. Help has been solicited from abroad with which to build, but thus far the fund has not yet been paid over to the Kingsley church; considerable, however is now in the hands of the state association. Perhaps no more worthy, devout, self-sacrificing Christian men and women can be found in Iowa than the members of this church, and may the next county historian be able to record the erection of a house of worship at this point. The St. Michael’s Roman Catholic church at Kingsley was formed in 1889, with eighteen families, by Rev. Father M. M. Tierney. The present membership is twenty-eight families. The church building was erected in 1889 at a cost of $1,600; its dimensions are twenty-four by sixty feet. The parsonage was also built the same year, at an ex- pense of $1,000. The society purchased five acres of land, in Kings- ley, for church purposes, and the buildings are on the corner of Second and Brandon streets. Father Tierney had to begin from the foundation at Kingsley, there having been no Catholic work at the place prior to his coming. He is entitled to great credit for the zeal manifested and the good work performed thus far. Besides his work at Kingsley, he has to attend to that of St. Joseph’s church in Lincoln township, a congregation numbering forty families; also one in Woodbury county, numbering twenty families. At the last named place he has built a church the present season. America boasts of free schools and religious liberty, hence here in Plymouth county, with a greatly mixed foreign and American popula- tion, one finds many different church spires, representing various denominational faiths and creeds, yet all pointing to the same heaven above, while their devotees exercise the untrammeled right to worship the true and living God after the dictates of their own consciences and in keeping with the religious training of their forefathers. Civic Societies.—As a general rule, in almost all American com- munities where culture, morality and refinement prevail, one finds well-sustained secret societies, which are not, as supposed by some narrow-minded people, anti-Christian in their tendency. At Kings- ley there are the following orders represented: The Masonic, Knights 514 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. of Pythias, Odd Fellows and a post of the Grand:Army of the Re- public. The A. F. & A. M., known as Cosmos Lodge, No. 470, worked under dispensation, in January, 1885. The following were charter members: I. B. Southwick, W. F. Howard, M. R. Hammer, E. H. Banks, Daniel Whitney, Blair Severins, S. A. Laude, W. McElrath, N. J. Brockman, L. H. North, A. M. Hutchinson, R. H. Lacy, D. P. Mower, Jesse Moulton. The first chief officers elected were: I. B. Southwick, W. M.; W. F. Howard, S. W.; M. R. Hammer, J. W. The present chief elective officials are: I. B. Southwick, W. M.; L. Conklin, 8. W.; N. J. Brockman, J. W. At one enrollment this lodge numbered fifty-one, but its present membership is thirty-seven. Their first place of meeting was over Wilson’s drug store, on Main street. At this time they, in company with other civic orders, occupy the hall over Howard’s store, to which place they moved in 1887. The pres- ent condition of the lodge is good. Knights of Pythias, Plymouth Lodge, No. 141, was instituted June 14, 1884, by the following charter members: J. R. Walcutt, M. M. Carraher, L. V. Cassady, S. L. Hammer, D. W. Wood, E. F. Mil- ler, W. R. Savage, W. Rieke, C. H. Loring, C. B. Oldfield, J. D. Buckingham, M. L. Marshall, W. E. Benson, M. R. Hammer, F. L. Martlam, E. H. Banks, J. C. Gearhart, J. F. Varner, J. H. Ander- son, F. Robinson, J. P. Gaspar, A. W. Patridge, H. G. Mansel, W. H. Miller, W. H. G. Vernon. The first elective officers were: D. W. Wood, C. C.; J. H. Anderson, V. C.; J. F. Varner, M. at A.; W. B. Ammerman, K. of R. 8.; A. W. Patridge, M. of F.; M. L. Marshall, M. of E.; M. Marshall, I. G.; J. D. Buckingham, O. G. The highest membership has been an enrollment of thirty-five. The present con- dition of the order is good and growing, with a membership of twenty- nine. The lodge at first met over Wilson’s drug store, but now meets in the hall over W. F. Howard’s dry-goods store, in the same room used by all orders of Kingsley at present. The officers of 1890, the present year, are: William Rieke, C. O.; William Stevens, P. C.; C. Schneider, V. C.; J. J. Wilder, P.; C. Schneider, M. of E.; E. D. Trotter, M. of F.; Sherm Bell, M. at A.; H. J. Trotter, K. of RB. S8.; 8. C. Myers, I. G.; J. Mattison, O. G. Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Kingsley Lodge, No. 204, was instituted March 12, 1889. The charter members were as follows: PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 515 O. G. Arnold, J. L. Conady, D. Henderson, Lee Johnson, J. A. In- galls. The first elective officers were: J. A. Ingalls, N. G.; Lee Johnson, V. G.; H. C. Tripp, secretary; J. L. Conady, treasurer. The highest number ever belonging at any one time to this lodge was twenty-seven. At present it is composed of twenty-five members. They first met at the hall over Howard’s store, where they are still located, occupying rooms with the Masonic fraternity and Knights of Pythias order. The lodge is in a good working condition—a band of noble men, with “ Friendship, Love and Truth” for their motto and their worldly guide. General Bell Grand Army Post, No. 332, was organized in the spring of 1885, by about fifteen members—soldiers who wore the loyal, Union blue from 1861 to 1865. The first commander was D. W. Wood. At present this post has a membership of forty-three com- rades, who meet at the Skating Rink building. The present com- mander is L. Dean; adjutant, H. A. Dawes; quartermaster, R. B. Too- good. The post has a number of guns, several swords, flags, a martial band outfit, and upon all public days—especially on Decoration day, May 30—they take charge of the ceremonies and help to strew flowers over the graves of departed comrades. Commander Woods served but a short time, when he was succeeded by Oliver D. Heald, who held the position several terms in succession. As the years shall, one by one, steal away, the object of this post will be more and more ap- preciated, alike by both soldier and citizen, until at last their sons shall sing, ‘‘ Cover them over with flowers—those dead heroes of ours.” 516 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. CHAPTER XVI. GRANT TOWNSHIP. LocaTIoN—FERTILITY OF SOIL—EARLY SETTLERS—HOMESTEAD Days—THEN AND Now—ANn Eccentric GENIUS—How HE LiveD AND DIED—First AND EARLY EVENTS—EDUCATIONAL—GERMAN LUTHERAN CHURCH. RANT is situated in the north tier of townships in Plymouth county, and is the third in number from the western border. It comprises congressional township ninety-three, range forty-six west. It is south of Sioux county, west of Elgin township (Plymouth county), north of Washington township, and east of Preston. It was formerly included in the territory known as Washington, but by an act of the county supervisors, June 5, 1872, it was created into a dis- tinct civil township. It is a wonderfully fertile tract of land, with but few streams to mar the even prairie surface. The Mink creek is the only stream of any note, and courses its way through the domain from north to south, leaving a lovely valley on either side, in which one finds to-day a rich farming district, which, if not fortunately sur- rounded by nearly as good land, in all directions, would claim more attention than it does. If situated in rugged old New England, this township would be termed a real garden spot, worth visiting. But even as it is, it may well be termed a garden within a fertile field, un- surpassed in northern Iowa. In 1885 the last state census gave Grant township a population of 608 people, of whom 364 are American born. Early Settlement.—Like most other townships of Plymouth county, Grant was first settled by homesteaders, who saw the beauty of nature untouched, unclaimed. That great privation and real hardship was the lot of Grant’s early pioneers, scarcely need be here mentioned, when one considers that they were away from markets, away from any kind of timber, away from school, and away from everything to remind oneofhome. Yet these brave hearts—men and women, too—self-sacri- ficing and full of true courage, saw, in their fancy, the beautiful homes PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 517 which they have finally come to possess. And the fact of their hav- ing come up through great tribulation, through the scourges of prairie fires and grasshopper raids, besides many another plague, which is only known to an Iowa homesteader, makes these people now appre- ciate their present pleasant surroundings; and well they may, for the transformation is wonderful. Let the reader wander back in thought to 1868 and 1870, when the surface of this section was unbroken by the plowshare; at a period when tall prairie grass, perfumed with dainty wild flowers, made up the landscape scene. Think of the eye of the first settler peering out over this great sea of grass. The birds which sang were but the wildest, ugliest species, such as love not civilized life. No groves fringed the few scanty water courses, and fuel had to be procured from points many miles distant. Indeed, it took hearts, stout and brave, to stem that scene, when the wintry winds commenced sweeping down from the cold northwest. It was then that thoughts of old eastern homes thrilled the heart, and not unfrequently bedimmed the eye of a wife and mother. But some one must needs venture out and set the first stakes. The record should here be made that “Geo” Dailey was the first man to sleep within any sort of a habitation in Grant township. Mr. Dailey came from eastern Iowa, it is probable from Jones county, and entered his claim on the west half of the northeast’quarter of section eighteen. He was a “grass-widower,” and had lived in Iowa when it was yet a territory. A man of marked ability, he was eccentric, but had many friends; because of his education, tact and true gentlemanly manners and wonderful kindness, all were ‘“ Uncle Geo’s” friends. He proved up his homestead and remained there until the time of his death, about 1880. He seldom left the place, and always lived alone. His house, the first constructed in the township, was made of prairie sod. It was indeed a curiosity shop. There he cooked in a clay oven, slept, and perused his reading matter. He quarried two rough bowlders from the bed of the Sioux river, which he fashioned into mill-stones, which he ground corn on, by means of a home-made wind-mill, the shaft of which entered his sod shanty. The second settler was a Welshman, named Davis, who, together with his family, came from Pennsylvania, but remained only a short time. Other Welsh families were “Little” Jeremiah, who came from Pennsylvania and settled on section thirty; Jones, from the same state, 518 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. came in 1870, and settled on a homestead in the southwest part of the township. In May, 1870, James and Joel Andrews came in as homesteaders on section eight, Joel, having been a soldier, claimed a quarter section, while his brother could only hold eighty acres. James proved up and sold out, and ran a saloon at Le Mars for a time, and Joel went to Sioux City. Henry Taylor, to whom the writer is indebted for much concern- ing the first settlement of this township, came from Fond du Lac, Wis., and formerly from Pennsylvania. The family, consisting of Mr. Taylor and his son-in-law, A. H. Millard, and wife, came in covered wagons, in which they lived from early in the month of May until August, 1870, while they were building a house and improving their land. They came via Dubuque and Fort Dodge. They now have one of the finest placesin the north part of the county. They claimed land on section ten. In September, the same year, 1870, came William Benton from Connecticut. He homesteaded the south half of the southwest quar- ter of section four. He died in 1874, but the family are still resi- dents of the place, which is now owned by his son, George 8. The next to make a settlement was a man named Scholars, who came in from eastern Iowa and pre-empted land on section four. He soon sold. J. Kinks pre-empted the southeast quarter of section four in 1870. He sold, the same year, to George W. Stillman. Jacob Oler homesteaded land on section four in the fall of 1870. He came from Jones county, Iowa. After he proved up, at the expiration of the five-year term, he sold and went west, where, some years later, he died. Almon Wood came from Michigan in 1870, and pre-empted land on section ten. He soon sold, however, and returned to Michigan. Mathias Wood came at the same time, from the same place, and settled on the west half of section ten. He also sold and went back to his old home in Michigan, thinking that this country would never amount to anything. S. Lane was an 1870 homesteader on the west half of the southwest quarter of sectionten. He remained until 1876, proved up his claim, and then returned to Michigan. Sylvester Bradford, formerly from Michigan, claimed the southeast quarter of section ten as a homestead. He finally sold and removed to Waterloo, Iowa. William Van Cleve came to the township in 1870 and homesteaded PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 521 eighty acres—the south half of the northeast quarter of section ten. After proving up he sold and went on west. In 1870 James McDougall came out from Wisconsin, and home- steaded and bought all of section two—that is, the family did—for he had a son and several daughters. They still reside there, all well-to- do and highly respected farmers. Nelson Ralston came from Jones county, Iowa, and homesteaded on section eighteen. After he proved up he sold, and bought land on section four. He now lives in Dakota. John Albers came, early in the seventies, from Jackson county, Iowa, and settled on section twenty-two, where he still farms. H. E. Wilcox and his son, H. W. Wilcox, were early settlers on section twenty-one. The former is now in Florida and the latter is engaged in the hard- ware trade in Le Mars. G. W. Sheeley homesteaded the northwest quarter of section twenty, in 1870 or'1871. He came from Mary- land, and is now living in Kansas. First Events.—The first township election was held in the spring of 1870. The first death, as now remembered, was that of William Benton in May, 1874. The first religious services were held by Methodist Episcopal peo- ple, at the house of Almon Wood, on section ten, in 1871. Preaching was planned for, but as the clergyman did not arrive, a prayer meet- ing was held. The first child born in Grant township was that of Mr. and Mrs. William Van Cleve, in July, 1871. It survived only a few months. The first child born (now living) was Henry H. Millard, born April 26, 1872. The first school-house in Grant township is what is now styled No. 9. It was erected in 1872 on the southwest quarter of section twenty- nine. The first term taught in this school-house was in 1873, by James A. Harroun. Eiducational.—At the very earliest period the homesteaders of Grant township began to lay the foundation for a good system of public schools. In the winter of 1870-71, what few children were then old enough, gathered together at the sod claim-shanty of uncle “Geo ” Dailey, and there, in that little tucked up and dirty place, the first lessons were taught by Mr. Dailey, who received whatever the parents felt like donating him in the way of fuel, provisions, etc. In the 27 522 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. summer of 1872 or 1873, Sally Parsons, wife of Alfred Parsons, taught, at public expense, in a frame house on section four. She had but seven pupils, but she made a good and faithful instructor. What is now No. 9 school-house was originally built on the south- west quarter of section twenty-nine, in 1872, and was the pioneer school building of Grant township. To-day the township is well supplied with all the country school advantages. It has eight sub-districts, and each is provided with a good building. The enrollment in 1889 was 190 pupils. Seventy-five shade trees adorn the various school grounds of the township. German Lutheran Church.—This is the only regularly organized religious body in Grant township. The Methodists have held occa- sional services here, but owing to the German element, which is nearly all Lutheran, no attempt to organize has ever been made. The German Lutherans organized their church in 1872. At first they held meetings at the school-house, but in 1878 they erected a frame church on the southwest quarter of section twenty-one, which cost them $600. This served quite well until 1889, when a larger build-. ing was demanded by the rapidly growing congregation. So the present fine structure was reared at a cost of $4,950, besides decorat- ing work of $300 additional. A good parsonage was built in 1879. The old church building is now used for the parochial school, which is taught by the pastor, Rev. F. 8. Buenger. The first pastor’s name was E. Beck, who served for two years and was succeeded by the present pastor. The present voting membership of the church is sixty, while the congregation numbers over 400. A forty-acre tract of land was purchased by this society, at an early day, and on it the church, parsonage and school, together with the burying ground, are situated. The tillable land is rented to first one member and then another, and the proceeds all go toward the general support of the society. In the southern and western portions of Grant township the Ger- mans predominate largely. This church’s membership is made up from farmers living both in Grant and Preston townships. A more moral, religious and truly industrious people can not be found in Iowa, than those identified with this congregation. PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 523 CHAPTER XVII. HANCOCK TOWNSHIP. SIZE AND DESCRIPTION—FORMATION IN 18883—EARLY SETTLEMENT—FRENCH SQUATTERS — EARLY EVENTS — ELECTION — BIRTH — DEATH — SCHOOLS— FaTAL ACCIDENTS—GRASSHOPPER SCOURGE OF 1868 AS SEEN BY PIONEER JOSEPH LA BERGE. HIS is the least in size of any of the twenty-four civil townships of Plymouth county. It comprises seventeen full sections and several fractional parts of sections of congressional township ninety, range forty-eight west. The area and irregular shape is occasioned by the boundary line on the west, between Jowa and South Dakota, being the Big Sioux river, the course of which is very meandering. At one time Hancock was a part of Perry township, but was set apart as a separate organization on April 3, 1883. It is situated on the west line of the county and state as well. Sioux township is on its north, Perry on the east and Woodbury county on the south. It contains about 18,000 acres of land. Broken Kettle creek passes through the north- western portion of its territory, and has its confluence with the Big Sioux river on section nine. Topographically, this township is extremely rough and hilly, almost mountain-like. In 1885 its population was 150, with only thirty of foreign birth. Early Settlement.—Let the reader turn his thoughts from the present, and view, in his most vivid fancy, the territory embraced in this part of the county, as it might have been seen prior to 1854, during which year Surrell Benoist, a Frenchman who had married asquaw, by whom a family was reared, found his way up the Missouri river to this spot, and took a squatter’s claim, as this was before the land had been sur- veyed by the government. For years this was the only inhabitant of the township. The place he claimed is the fine botiom farm now owned by Joseph La Berge, on section thirty-five, township ninety, range forty-eight. It is in the most romantic and picturesque portion of the famous Big Sioux valley, at a point about seven miles northwest of Sioux City. This French- 524 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. man looked upon the fertile valley just as it had been left by the sav- age Indian tribes, that had recently made it their hunting and fishing ground, but who had caught the faint but certainly increasing echo of civilization, with its steady tramp of conquest, and hence sought a still more secluded home, farther to the northwest. Upon this tract was built a log cabin, which stood on the exact spot where now a portion of Mr. La Berge’s farm-house stands. Although more than a third of a century ago this pioneer cabin was reared, yet some of the logs are about the premises, in a fair state of preservation, having been made use of in the first dwelling built on the place by Mr. La Berge, who came to the locality during the month of May, 1867, and became the second squatter on the same place, Benoist, the first settler, having abandoned it. It was in 1857 that a man named Verrigutt squatted on section twenty-seven and remained until about 1863. When Joseph La Berge became a settler of the township, he found John Hardin, who came from Pennsylvania, living on section twenty- seven, where he had pre-empted his land, and where he remained until 1878, and then removed to Washington territory. Section fifteen had for its occupants old Mr. Conley, who was Hardin’s father-in-law, with his three sons, John, Richard and Allen. B. B. Sutton, another settler in the north part of the township, lived on Broken Kettle creek, and was a conspicuous figure in the first organization of the county. He finally sold and moved to Kansas. Section three was settled by Ezra Carpenter, who came from Dakota about 1865. He afterward removed to Arkansas. In 1868 Joseph Benoist (French) made a settlement on the south- east quarter of section twenty-three, where he lived about five years. Section thirty-six was settled on by Timothy Harrington, who took advantage of the homestead act. He now resides in Sioux City. Henry Multhoup was another early homesteader to claim land on section thirty-six. He is also in Sioux City at present. Mr. Wood located on section twenty-three in 1869, but only remained a short period. J. H. Cowell bought lands on section fifteen about this time. He is still aresident of the township. W. D. Carlisle settled on section twelve in 1870. He is still there, and is a prosperous and honored citizen. Frank West, another pioneer settler of section twelve, proved up on his homestead and sold to Dun- can Ross, now a prosperous farmer of Dakota. PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 525 In 1878 T. Fursee homsteaded a portion of section twelve. In 1879 came James Daily. He came from Sioux City, and lived on what is now known as the Marks farm. He removed in 1881. He also purchased land on section twenty-three. Other early pioneers were Messrs. Lamoureaux, Easton and Denisten. From 1873 on, until after the grasshopper plague had passed away, in 1877, but few, if any, came in as settlers. The , greater part of the township being extremely uneven, in some places rough and hilly enough to be called mountainous in this prairie country, other parts of the county were settled first. Early Events.—The first election in what is now Hancock town- ship was held in the school-house on section ten, known as the ‘Massey school,” in 1883. The first death in the township was that of Richard Connolly, who was killed by an early settler named Benoist, a Frenchman, with whom he had a difficulty in February, 1872. On the ground of partial self-defense the man was sent to state’s prison for one year. The first birth within Hancock township was that of George, a son of Donzitte Lamoureaux, born in October, 1869. The first marriage was that of Abe Sutton, son of B. B. Sutton, who was married not later than 1867. Schools, Hic.—The first school in this township was taught in 1868, at the private residence of Pioneer B. B. Sutton, by an old gen- tleman named Carrons. A school building was erected on section twenty-six, in 1869, by Joseph La Berge, who says he paid $6 per 1,000 for the shingles used, and as much in proportion for all the lumber. At present the township is divided into four sub-districts, each having comfortable buildings. The total enrollment of pupils in 1889 was fifty-seven. Great care is used in and about the school grounds, and the same have been ornamented by eighty beautiful shade trees. Accident.—Among the fatal accidents which have occurred in the township, may be mentioned the death of Pioneer Knapp, who was killed by lightning, during a slight hurricane, about 1875. It is related that he, in company with others, had sought shelter by a granary or barn, and that while there they saw an out-building blown over, which sight provoked laughter from Mr. Knapp, and that at that instant he was stricken dead by the lightning, and that so sudden was 526 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. the shock, that even for hours after death, his face wore a smile, ter- rible as it was for friends to behold. Grasshoppers.—Pioneer “Jo” La Berge fixes the date of the first coming of the grasshoppers in his section of the country, as August 27 1868, at eleven o’clock, a. m., when the sun was darkened, as if by a heavy snow storm filling the atmosphere. The fine prospect for crops was entirely removed before sunset that eventful day, as all vegetation was destroyed. CHAPTER XVIII. HENRY TOWNSHIP. TERRITORY EMBRACED— WHEN CONSTITUTED—TOPOGRAPHY—EARLY SETTLE- MENT—PIONEER EVENTS—GROWTH OF THE TOWNSHIP—SCHOOLS—EARLY MARRIAGES—FIRST BIRTH—F IRST ELECTION, ETC. ONGRESSIONAL township ninety, range forty-three west, since June 6, 1882, has been known as Henry civil township. Prior to that it was included in what was styled Union. Henry is south of Remsen township and west of the Cherokee county line, north of Gar- field township and east of Union township. It contains over 22,200 acres, the greater part of which is valuable farming land. Whiskey ereek and Rathbun creek are the principal streams. The former runs from north to south, through the eastern portion of the territory. In 1885 the state census gave the population as 260, 183 being of foreign birth. Early Settlement.—The first pioneer who came into Henry town- ship is still a resident and an active citizen, and to him the writer is indebted for much of the information contained in this early-settle- ment review. D. S. Rathbun broke the first land in what is now Henry township, in 1876, having taken a “tree claim” on the northeast quarter of section eighteen. He sold out to J. W. Hawkins, who was the first actual settler to locate in the township. He builta house, which forms a part of his present residence, in the spring of 1879. Mr. Haw- PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 527 kins now owns the north half of the section, and is a progressive farmer. He emigrated from the southern states soon after the close of the Civil war, in which he took an active part. The first land he purchased cost him $5 per acre. One of the next to effect settlement in this township was Col. James Fenton, who located a fine stock ranch in 1881, on section eleven, known as the Karlton stock farm, which contains 1,000 acres of highly improved land. Next came Henry Schuett and Henry Breiholtz. The former bought the northeast’ quarter of section seventeen, in 1881, and still resides there upon a well-tilledfarm. Breiholtz bought and improved the northeast quarter of section nine, the same year. Then came in John Toothman and Mrs. A. CO. Peebles. Toothman bought and im- proved the northwest quarter of section thirty-one, in 1882, and Mrs. Peebles the south half of section thirty-two, the same season. Herron Brothers bought and improved all of section nineteen, in 1882-83. It is now known throughout this section as the Herron Bros. stock ranch. Henry Mundt and Emil Boehmke came into the territory next, settling on sections five and six, respectively, where they now possess two of the finest farms in Plymouth county. Daniel Arbuthnot settled, in 1882, on the northwest quarter of section seventeen, where he remained until 1888, then sold to H. J. Rolfs for $25 per acre, and moved to Los Angeles, Cal. He is the only one of the first settlers to remove from Henry township. In 1883 came William Treptow and his son, C. W., and located on the south half of section thirteen. The father died and left the property to his son, C. W. A. F. Pfaffle also took land that year on section thirteen. In 1884-85 Thomas Healey, N. L. Hixson and Gerhart Fokken settled on sections thirty-one and thirty-two, where they still remain. Early Events.—Henry township was organized and named in 1882 by J. W. Hawkins. It had been called East Union. The first election was held at the house of Henry Schuett, where the first officers were elected as follows: Henry Schuett, Daniel Ar- buthnot, John Moellers, trustees; J. W. Hawkins, justice and assess- or; J. H. Herron, clerk; James Peebles, constable. Mr. Hawkins, making an efficient officer, has held the position ever since, having been elected four times in succession. 528 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. The first school-house was erected in 1883, on the northwest quarter of section eight; it is termed ‘‘ Hawkins” school-house, and the first teacher was Miss Mary A. McCartney, of Union township. The first marriage in the township was that of Henry Mundt to a lady from the east. The next was A. F. Pfaffle to Miss Huldah Treptow. The first birth was a son to Mr. and Mrs. Mundt. The growth of Henry township has been very rapid. At the first election twenty-four votes were polled—four republican and twenty democratic. At the present date, 1890, the assessor’s books show 120 voters, 104 of whom are subject to military duty. Schools._-As already stated, the first school was taught in 1883. As settlement increased, due attention was paid to school matters, and according to the school superintendent’s annual report for 1889, Henry township had six sub-districts, each provided with a hand- some frame building. The school attendance was then 130 pupils. CHAPTER XIX. HUNGERFORD TOWNSHIP. PRESENT TERKITORY—WHEN ORGANIZED—LOCATION—RAILROADS—POPULA- TION—N AME— PIONEER SETTLEMENT—EARLY EVENTS—HINTON STATION— VILLAGE OF JAMES—CHURCHES—SCHOOLY, ETC. Y government survey, Hungerford would be described as town- ship ninety, range forty-six west. It at one time was embraced in the civil townships of Lincoln and Plymouth, but by an act of the supervisors it was constituted a separate organization, April 7, 1875. Hungerford is located on the south line of the county, with Lin- coln township to its east, Plymouth to its north, and Perry to its west. The line of the Illinois Central and Minneapolis & Omaha (consoli- dated) traverses this township from north to south, with stations known as James and Hinton. The Sioux City & Northern road runs parallel. It is a well-developed agricultural district, with signs of thrift and prosperity on every hand. Its population is mixed—American, Ger- man and Canadian—and in 1885 numbered about 600, but at this time \\ \ \\ \ < \ \ \ PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 529 has come to be much larger. Jt was named in honor of an early settler, E. 8. Hungerford. The Floyd river meanders from section three to section thirty-one, while Carter creek takes its source from section twenty-four, and flows northeast, having confluence with the Floyd on section four. A half- dozen smaller streams add to the beauty, fertility and value of the township. Pioneer Setllement.—The first attempt to settle this goodly town- ship was in 1856, when a colony of immigrants came in from Ogle county, Ill., in the month of July. John and Henry Schneider, of the large family of Schneiders, settled in Hungerford, while the balance of the family located in Plymouth township. Henry was a mere boy, but John pre-empted a part of section four, where he still resides, a well-to-do farmer. Most of the party came by team, but John Schneider walked the en- tire distance, coming via Dubuque, then a small town. Morgan Staf- ford came the same time, and pre-empted land on section four, where he remained until 1863, and then removed to Kansas. Mr. Carter pre- empted land on section two, in 1856, moved to his place in 1857, and during war times he sold and moved farther west. A. E. Rea came about 1857, settled on section ten, was a prominent man in county affairs, was elected treasurer and recorder, but removed to another part of the state a few years since. E. S. Hungerford (for whom the township was named) came in from Illinois in 1856, and settled on section thirty-two. He was county supervisor for many years, and died in this township in 1889. C. E. Sheetz settled in 1856. He was county surveyor, and held many of the early offices. He had every chance for becoming a wealthy man, but through some lack of management never prospered. In 1887 he moved to Kansas. Philip, Fred and Erhard Held all came in prior to 1861, and made land purchases. Philip and Erhard still live in the township; Fred was accidentally killed by a horse, in 1886. There were no other settlers until long after the close of the Re- bellion, up to about 1868-69, when many flocked in and claimed lands, prior to the completion of the Illinois Central road. Early Events.—The first mill in the county was built on section nine of this township. It is on the Floyd river, and was first a buhr mill, but now has a “roller” system, which produces flour second to none in Iowa. It was built in 1867-68, by Hoese Bros. 580 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. It seems probable that the first person to die within Hungerford township was the wife of a man named Verrigut. She died during the war, and was buried on section four—a place where all the early dead were laid away to rest. The spot has long since been abandoned asa cemetery. The first marriage in the township was that of Morgan Stafford to Miss Catharine Schmidt. The first school was taught on section sixteen, in war times. The first religious services were held by the Baptist people, at the house of Pioneer Sheetz. No societies have ever been organized in this township, except those at James station. Hinton Station.—This is a small hamlet, a station of not much business importance, on the Illinois Central railroad, and is situated on section eight. The first general merchandise store at this point was conducted by A. C. Davis, in 1883. A post-office was estab- lished in 1883, with Samuel Davis as postmaster. He was followed by James Davis; then came H. 8. Hubbard, and in turn B. F. Bo- genrief who served until September 7, 1889, when G. W. Sheetz was commissioned. The only traffic of Hinton to-day is transacted at the general stores of Bogenrief & Co. and G. W. Sheetz. The first- named firm handles grain also. H. E. Jenkins is the blacksmith of the hamlet. Mrs. H. E. Winters conducts a sort of hotel, where the traveler is well provided for. Village of James.—James is a station on the Illinois Central, Omaha and Sioux City & Northern railroads, located on section thirty. It was platted May 26, 1876, by the railroad company. Fred- erick Prust built the first house on the plat in the summer of 1872. J. & H. Schindel put in the first general store in the building bought from Mr. Prust, in 1875. A post-office was established in the fall of 1874, with one of the Schindels as postmaster. He was succeeded by A. W. Clancy in 1886. He held it until his death, in October, the same year, when Fanny Clancy was appointed, and still holds the office. The Schindels dealt in general merchandise, grain, coal and stone. Peter Peterson conducted the hotel, and sold groceries and coal. James Fulton, the pioneer blacksmith, is still an honored work- man of the village, who attends to blacksmithing, pump and well- drilling work. He came to James in June, 1875. The Methodist Episcopal church at this point was formed in the spring of 1889, with twenty-three members, which is also the present PLYMOUTH COUNTY. 5381 number. The present pastor is Rev. G. Griggs. The average of Sabbath-school attendance is about eighty. : 0 M7 Ne RPE Mela BESO CIES 23 SER O GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. Dr. Joan K. Coox (deceased), known as the founder of Sioux City, was an Englishman by birth, and was educated in his native country, and grad- uated in medicine at London. He came to America at an early age and set- tled at Carlinville, Macoupin county, Ill., from which place he moved to Council Bluffs, Iowa, where he was several years before coming to Sioux City in 1854. He was a government surveyor, and in the summer of 1854 was instructed by a syndicate, of which Congressman Henn and Senators G. W. Jones and N. C. Dodge were members, to select a favorable location for atown. He first located on a quarter section of land on the west bank of Perry creek, but in the following spring purchased eighty acres of Jo- seph Leonais, paying him therefor the sum of $3,000. He moved his family here in 1855, and at first lived in a log house on Water street near the corner of Second, then built on Second street, and later on Nebraska street, between Third and Fourth streets, where he lived until he removed with his family to St. Louis in 1879. He was postmaster from 1855 to 1857, when he turned the office over to C. K. Smith. His demise occurred in St. Louis, November 16, 1885. Further reference to Dr. Cook will be found in the historical part of this work. AsaHEL W. Hupparp (deceased), ex-judge, Sioux City. The early settlers in Sioux City were men of foresight as well as energy. The map indicated that this was a very important point, and that here must some day be a city, the size of which would be determined in part by the number of enterprises centering here. Among these early settlers was Judge Hubbard, a man of great force of character and that kind of industrious nature, which, if wisely applied, rarely fails. He located here when the village of Sioux City was but two years old, and when it had perhaps five hundred actual white settlers. He lived to see the number largely increased, and to see railroads enter the town, and was the chief promoter of these various enterprises. Asahel Wheeler Hubbard was born January 18, 1819, at Haddam, Middlesex county, Conn. His parents were Simeon and Esther (Wheeler) Hubbard, both of Puritan stock. His father was a farmer, and the son re- mained at home until sixteen, working in the summers and attending school during the winters. The first summer he drove a team hauling stone to the 624 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Connecticut river, following it with another winter term of school in his father’s district. The next summer he worked in a stone quarry seven months at ten dollars per month, devoting the money thus earned to attend- ing a select school in Middletown, Conn. The summer following he cut stone at sixteen dollars per month, and then following the same business a few months longer, he received thirty dollars per month and boarded himself. At nineteen we see him wending his way to Indiana as a book agent, locating before the end of the year at Rushville, in that state, where he taught school for six months and then entered a law office. He was admitted to the bar of the district court of Rush county, in January, 1841, where he practiced for sixteen years, and then moved to Sioux City. Here his talents soon made themselves apparent, and his fitness for certain positions made it almost im- possible, whatever his own taste and inclination might be, to remain in pri- vate life. While in Indiana, as early as 1847, Mr. Hubbard was elected to the state senate from Rush county, and served three years, after which he declined to be a candidate for re-election. He had been in Iowa only one year when he was elected judge of the Fourth judicial district, at that time embracing at least thirty counties in the northwestern portion of the state. He served four years, and was then, in 1862, elected to congress, continuing there for six years. Among the committees on which he served were those on foreign affairs, public expenditures, and Indian affairs. Representing a frontier dis- trict, living in proximity to the red men, and conversant with their habits and methods of dealing with them, the placing of him on the last named committee was eminently fitting, and on it he did especially good service. He was very attentive to his duties while in congress, and served his constitu- ents and the state with unqualified satisfaction. Whatever responsibilities he assumed, either as a government official or private citizen, he discharged with the utmost faithfulness. He was a whig until the party ceased to exist, and was thereafter a republican. Judge Hubbard attended the Presbyterian church, but was not a communicant. On October 10, 1849, he married Miss Leah Pugh, of Rushville, Ind., a near relative of the late Senator Pugh, of Ohio. To them were born four children, only one of them, a son, now living. He is practicing law in Sioux City. His first wife died in 1854. In January, 1862, Judge Hubbard mar- ried Miss Leah Swift, of Rushville, the result of the latter marriage being five children, all living but one. Judge Hubbard aided in organizing the First National bank of Sioux City, and was president for a number of years. He was interested in railroads, and in every enterprise which increased the prosperity of Sioux City, and developed the wealth of the upper Missouri Valley. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 625 Among the enterprises with which he was connected toward the end of his life were the Sioux City & Pembina railroad company, now developed into the Dakota system of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul railroad com- pany, and the Covington, Columbus & Black Hills railroad, now a part of the Nebraska system of the Chicago & Northwestern railroad. In 1878, becoming interested in mines at Leadville, Colo., while attending to his business there, he contracted rheumatism, and was obliged to return to his home in 1879. The disease continued to develop, and at length involved the heart, and on September 22, 1879, he died, at his home in Sioux City, of acute rheumatism of the heart. His grave is in Floyd cemetery, where his resting place is marked by a massive column of granite, bearing upon it this inscription: “Erected by his fellow-citizens, in memory of a faithful public servant, a self-sacrificing citizen, a true man.” Tuomas Jerrerson Stone was born at Royalton, Niagara county, N. Y., August 13, 1825, his parents being Isaiah P. and Mercy (Sawyer) Stone. Thomas worked upon his father’s farm until he was fifteen years of age, attending the district school three or four months each year; he then went to Oberlin college, intending to take a full course, but while in the freshman year his health failed, and he abandoned his intention of prosecuting his literary studies further, except in the high school at Mount Vernon, Ohio. He came farther west and spent some time in surveying in Wisconsin and Iowa, pursuing this business at times until 1856. During this period he spent four years in the office of the treasurer of Linn county, Iowa, going into the field occasionally with chain and compass, doing considerable gov- ernment surveying. For a short time before leaving Marion, the county seat of Linn county, he was in the banking business with other parties, the firm being Smyth, Stone & Co. In May, 1856, Mr. Stone removed to Sioux City, and engaged largely in the real-estate business, continuing it up to 1874. For many years he paid taxes for over one thousand persons, and did more as land agent and otherwise in entering up the government lands in northwestern Iowa than any other man. During the early part of his resi- dence here, he was a clerk in the county treasurer’s office, and was very careful and efficient in this work as in everything else to which he has put his hands. In 1867 Mr. Stone opened a private bank in connection with his land operations, and continued it for three years; then, in 1870, he organized the First National bank, and for a number of years was its cashier, but is now president, while his son holds the position of cashier. For a number of years he has paid little attention to real estate, giving his undivided at- tention and energies to the bank, which is a very popular institution, and to his various other interests, he being the owner of inside real estate in every 626 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. part of the city, including a number of the best business buildings. In 1861 Mr. Stone was elected treasurer and recorder of Woodbury county, holding that double office three years, and then the office of treasurer alone for the same length of time. Mr. Stone was a whig when that party was in existence, since which time he has always voted with the republican party. On May 12, 1852, he married Miss Alice A. Heathcote, of Mount Vernon, Ohio, and they have two children—a son and a daughter. The son is a graduate of Yale college and stood high in his collegiate studies; his daughter is now the wife of George P. Day, cashier of the Merchants National bank at Sioux City. Mr. Stone is emphatically a business man. He has done clean, thorough and honorable work all his life, and his friends accumulate with his years. He has seen his sixty-five winters, but has taken the best of care of himself, and the burdens of life have not hurt his tall and symmetrical figure an iota. He lost his first wife in 1882, and in 1886 married Mrs. Frances A. Flint, with whom he‘is now living very happily in their beautiful home. Wittiam Leonarp Joy, who has been a resident attorney of Sioux City since May 5, 1857, stands out conspicuously as a pioneer in Woodbury county and the leading lawyer in northwestern Iowa, where, through a legit- imate and honorable practice of his profession, together with prudent invest- ments, he has made a financial success; and be it said to his credit that he uses his means for none other than the true purpose for which a goodly competency is given tomen. He is not only an able lawyer, bearing the esteem of the bar of his state, but an active, public-spirited man, well repre- senting the true type of American citizenship. Full of candor and being possessed of a kindly nature, he draws to himself many friends and admirers. Before speaking of his career in latter days something should be said con- cerning his early career. He was born at Townshend, Vt., August 17, 1829, making him sixty-two years of age at this time. His parents were William H. and Hetty (Leonard) Joy. His paternal grandfather was a Revolutionary soldier. The father of our subject was a farmer and owned milling property. William L. remained at home assisting his father in business most of the time until twenty years of age, fitting himself for college meanwhile at Leland seminary in his native town. He entered at Amherst in his twenty-first year and graduated in the class of 1855, teaching school three winters while in his college course. Mr. Joy taught a few terms in the Leland seminary while studying law with Judge Roberts; was admitted to the bar early in the spring of 1857 and started immediately for the west, reaching Sioux City, Iowa, his present home, on the fifth of May. Here he formed a partmership with N. C. Hudson, and the firm of Hudson & Joy was continued until 1866. After PHOTO BY GENELUI, GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 629 practicing alone for two years Mr. Joy took a partner, C. L. Wright, and the frm of Joy & Wright was the leading firm in Woodbury county for twenty years. These gentlemen were the local attorneys for the Mlinois Central railroad company, and the general attorneys for the Sioux City & Pacific, the Dakota Southern, the Covington, Columbus & Black Hills rail- roads and for the Iowa Falls & Sioux City Railroad Land company. Mr. Joy has always had a large, law business both in the state and federal courts, and has accumulated a large property; he has managed his affairs with prudence and success. He was a member of the lower house in the eleventh and twelfth sessions of the general assembly, and probably did as much im- portant work in the service of his constituents as any member of the legis- lature in 1864 and 1866. He was sent especially to look after the railroad interests of northwestern Iowa, and succeeded in carrying through the measures for which he was sent. Having accomplished this work he has steadfastly refused to be a candidate for any office. Mr. Joy was a member of the board of capital commissioners for two years. He has been connected with the Baptist church for more than forty-five years, and is one of the most prominent laymen in that denomination in the state. Mr. Joy is and has been a stanch republican. His political friends have frequently urged him to be a candidate for judge of the district and circuit courts and the supreme court; he has peculiar fitness for such a position, but has never encour- aged such movements. Pecuniarily he would suffer by going on the bench. October 10, 1859, he was united in marriage to Miss Frances A. Stone, of Westmoreland, N. H., and they have two children; the elder, a son, is a member of the firm of which his father is senior member. Mr. Joy is a strong pleader before a jury, but is best known as a court lawyer, and as such has but few equals in the state. The partnership of Joy & Wright was dissolved in 1888, and he is now the senior member of the firm of Joy, Hudson, Call & Joy, one of the most prominent law firms in the state. Mr. Joy has always been deeply interested in school matters, and for more than twenty-five years was a member of the school board of the Independent district of Sioux City. He gave the benefit of his large business experience and much valuable time to the district. To him and his co-laborers, who comprised some of the most prominent citizens of the place, is due the excellent con- dition of the public schools of the city, and most of the property the district now owns. Mr. Joy is president of the Sioux National bank, and a stockholder and director in the Iowa Savings bank, and the Union Loan & Trust company, and is largely interested in real estate, and takes an active interest. in-all public enterprises for the improvement of the city. He is a strong man physically, mentally and morally, and the various institutions with which he has been connected bear the impress of his ability. Sioux City was fortu- nate in having such a man among her early settlers. 33 630 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Pror. J. Wernui. A short sketch of the life of this man is given for the purpose that others, and especially those who are commencing life, may see what can be accomplished, under the most difficult circumstances, if a man unites an untiring energy with ordinary mental and physical strength and for a noble purpose. Jacob Wernli was born in Thalheim, Canton Aargan, Switzerland, July 18, 1828. His father was a small, well-to-do farmer, diligent, careful, and prosperous in all his work. His mother, a woman of rare natural talents and goodness of heart, assisted her husband in all those labors in which the wives of the farmers in that country gener- ally take part. The little boy also learned to work as soon as he was capa- ble, and soon became a practical farmer. In the common district school he developed such talents that the leading citizens and the minister of the vil- lage prevailed upon his parents to give him the necessary preparatory instruction for admission into the State Normal school. This preparation was given him by his kind pastor free of charge. In 1847 he passed the examination of admission into the normal school, when out of seventy-five applicants forty were rejected. Under the tuition of an excellent corps of teachers, of whom the renowned Dr. Augustin Keller, one of the greatest men of Switzerland, was the president, he received most careful instruction and training for a teacher. In the spring of 1850 he graduated, and was chosen teacher in his native county; but in the fall of 1851 he was called to the position of principal of the schools of a manufacturing town in a neigh- boring county, with greatly increased pay. As he had natural abilities for his profession he taught a great deal better than he knew himself. In 1853, while conducting his school successfully, the letters of Henry Bossard, a Swiss traveler in the United States, fell into his hands. The glowing descriptions of the farming lands of the west, and the success of the Swiss settlers in this new country, caused the “emigration fever,” which can be cured only by emigration. Thus the honorable position, the flattering pros- pects of the near future, the wishes of dear parents, sisters and brothers, the dangers of the voyage, the difficulty of the new language to be mastered and the unwonted labor to be done in the strange land, were not sufficient causes to keep him in his beautiful and beloved fatherland. His intention was to return home in about ten years, or as soon as he had saved about five thousand dollars, at those times a large amount of money in Switzer- land. On the first of May, 1855, after a trip of two months, he landed at Osh- kosh, Wis. The state of Wisconsin was then regarded as the paradise of the emigrants. With him, united in spirit and purpose, was his young wife. In that little city they began a new life. The long and tedious voyage had nearly exhausted their means. Only eighty-eight gold dollars were left— GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 631 too little to begin farming with. The two now began to labor at anything that was honest. Mr. Wernli did not divulge the secret of his profession. His former training as a farmer was now a blessing to him. Thus they worked, he as journeyman, farm hand, teamster, etc., his good wife sewing, washing, ironing, etc., for about eighteen months, in the meantime buying a small home. They then sold their lot and little house with profit, and with a cash capital of $500 went to Waupaca county, Wis., where, in the spring of 1857, they bought eighty acres of wild land for $300, and commenced farming. No house, no cattle, no farming implements, no seed, no provisions; but $200 in cash and two young persons ready to do anything, and to submit to any hardships to accomplish their purpose—to cultivate a farm and have a free home. Hundreds and thousands worked their way through; so did these two. From the time of his arrival in America Mr. Wernli commenced the study of the English language, using every opportunity offered him—the talk of children, the primary readers, the church meetings, and political assemblies. A thorough knowledge of the German and French languages assisted him, and his continued study, although without a teacher and with- out losing a day’s work, resulted in a partial mastery of the English lan- .guage, more especially in reading and writing the same. In 1858 he was elected clerk of his school district. His duties were to visit the schools. He found schoolhouses without apparatus, teachers without knowledge, methods, system, purpose and life. “‘You must go back to your profession,” his con- science told him, and he made up his mind to obey. In the spring of 1859 he commenced teaching at $20 per month, and taught summer and winter until 1861. In the fall election of 1861 he was elected county superintend- ent, and re-elected in 1863. His work and reforms became known all over the state. In 1864 he was called to the position of principal of the Second Ward school of Milwaukee; in 1866 to the position of assistant principal of the First State Normal at Platteville; and in 1868 as principal of the Northwestern German and English Normal school in Galena, Tl. His flat- tering advancement was the result of his great success as a teacher. But this continual hard labor without vacation broke down his health, and after five years’ toil in Galena he was forced to resign. He then went into busi- ness in Chicago as a partner of H. Enderis, who had a flourishing book and stationery business. Yet the turmoil of Chicago, the incessant running after the almighty dollar, did not suit this man. During the summer months he went to conduct teachers’ institutes, and in 1875 he parted from the giant city and went to Le Mars, where for two years he worked as principal of the public schools, and established a book store, which was conducted by his sons. Resigning his position as teacher in 1877, he spent most of his time 682 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. in conducting teachers’ institutes, receiving applications from all over the state of Iowa and from Dakota. In the fall of 1881 he was elected county superintendent, which office he held four years, when he refused a re-election in order to visit once more his aged mother in Switzerland. In 1887 he established the Northwestern Normal school and Business col- lege at Le Mars, with the purpose and hope that it would be converted by the Legislature into a state normal, and thus train teachers for the northwest. Here he spent his remaining strength and a great part of his means in pur- chasing and furnishing a beautiful building and maintaining a school accord- ing to his own heart. The institution grew and prospered. His own name and work brought in students from Iowa, Minnesota and Dakota. After nearly four years’ hard labor in teaching and managing the school, he, tired and old, looked for a successor, and in his own assistant, Prof. J. F. Hirsch, and in the renowned Prof. A. W. Rich, from Decorah, Iowa, he succeeded in securing men who are carrying on the work which he had begun and con- tinued for years, to ultimate success. Mr. Wernli, a foreigner, so gained the esteem and good-will of his American fellow-citizens that they offered his name twice to state conventions for the nomination of state superintendent, and for many years he was a member of the educational council. Having now retired from the regular school work, he writes for educa- tional journals, and spends his days in planting and cultivating his orchards, gardens and vineyards. His family enjoys the blessings of a good education and a training to industry. His oldest son, William J., has a thriving farm- ing implement business; the second, Gottlieb L., is cashier of the First Na- tional bank, of Le Mars; Charles A. is head book-keeper in the Plymouth Roller Mills; George D. is a member of the firm of Wernli & Kluckhohn, real estate and loans, while the younger members of the family are either commencing to enter business, or attend the school, and assist in the work at home. One of his daughters, who was a public teacher for years, is now the wife of C. E. Haas, of the firm of Haas & Huebach, in Le Mars. While Mr. Wernll’s path of life has not been without reverses, and misfortune has dark- ened his days sometimes, while he lost his faithful wife just when the days of prosperity began to dawn, and she could not harvest on earth that which she .so richly deserved, yet new ways and opportunities were always offered him, and higher and more lasting happiness was granted him in the faith of his Redeemer. He lives now with his second wife and family on his beautiful homestead at the city limits of Le Mars. Switzerland lives in his memory. He loves it dearly, but America is his and his children’s home. They are Americans. Will they ever do as much for America as he has done? Thou- sands of teachers were instructed and inspired by him, and he lives in his busy and happy age, enjoying the scenes of the present and the memories of GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 633 the past. By living and working for others he really lived for himself, at least it was his only method of enjoying life. Jupce Cartes Henry Lewis was born October 17, 1839, in Collins Cen- tre, Erie county, N. ¥. His parents, Oren and Elizabeth (Nichols) Lewis, were natives of Connecticut, descended from English ancestors. When he was but nine months old the family moved to southern Wisconsin, where they remained for two years, and thence went to Boone county, Ill, where they made their home until 1851, when they moved to Iowa, arriving at Inde- pendence, October 8, 1851. Three years later the father moved to Quasque- ton, Buchanan county, this state, where he remained until his death, which occurred in 1884, the mother having died when the subject of this sketch was but four years of age. Judge Lewis’ early life was spent upon his father’s farm, save for a little time when he was employed in the furniture factory operated by the father at Independence. At the age of nineteen he began a close student's life at Cornell college, Mount Vernon, Iowa. His father being poor and unable to give financial assistance, the son remained in the school during spring, summer and fall terms, and taught school dur- ing the winters. In this manner three years were spent, until 1862, when he left the school and enlisted in the army, entering the service as a private soldier in Company H, Twenty-seventh Iowa infantry. For a year he served as a private soldier, was then made sergeant-major of the regiment, and held that position for one year, when he was then promoted to first lieutenant and appointed and commissioned adjutant of the regiment, which position he filled until the war closed and the regiment was mustered out of service. He served three years and five days in the regiment, and during all that time was never absent from the regiment and was off duty but three days, during which three days he was on the sick list. The war closing he returned to his old home in Buchanan county and soon engaged with his brother and another in the milling and mercantile business, which he pursued for a little time. He then entered the law department of the State university, and graduated therefrom in the summer of 1869. He at once removed to Cher- okee, Iowa, arriving there May 29, of that year, and formed a partnership with his father-in-law, H. C. Kellogg. They were the first lawyers in the county, and their practice was soon extensive and lucrative. In 1870 Mr. Lewis was nominated district attorney of the Fourth judicial district of Iowa, the district then embracing twenty-two counties in northwestern Iowa. He was elected by a large majority, running far beyond his ticket. He entered upon the work of district attorney January 1, 1870, and served as such until January 1, 1875. In 1878 two counties were dropped from the Fourth dis- trict, leaving twenty counties in the district. So well had Mr. Lewis per- formed his duties as district attorney that in the summer of 1874 he was 634 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. nominated for district judge, and at the fall election in 1874 he was elected by a large majority, and greatly in excess of his ticket, to that position. He entered upon the duties of that office January 1, 1875. In two years there- after the district boundaries were so changed that there were left in the dis- trict nine counties. In the fall of 1878 Judge Lewis was renominated by acclamation to succeed himself, and at the fall election was chosen for another term by an increased majority. He served two terms more of four years each in that capacity, being re-elected by increasing majorities at each election, showing the appreciation the people have of his talents and his fit- ness for the office which he held up to January 1, 1891. He has been firm in the enforcement of the law, and has justly earned a reputation of being one of the best judges who ever presided over any court in Iowa. In the first trial of what was known as the “Haddock Case,” he presided, and won the favorable opinion of all loyal and manly citizens. He had presided over nearly all the hotly contested legal battles growing out of the temperance legislation and agitation in so far as the same have had hearing in northwest- ern Iowa, and in all matters he has given excellent satisfaction. He is prob- ably stronger with the masses of the people to-day than at any former period. On March 31, 1866, Mr. Lewis married Emma E. Kellogg, who was born in Rutland, Vt. They have four children, all at home, viz.: Florence Ger- trude, Edward Oren, Burton Kellogg and Ida Sophia. When Judge Lewis left the bench, January 1, 1891, he at once entered upon the practice of the law, and is still so engaged at his home in Sioux City, Iowa. Joun Horyicx, wholesale druggist and capitalist, Sioux City. In the opening up of any new country there are always two classes to effect settle- ment—those who come with the determination of staying, and those who in- tend to play the role of pioneer as long as they can speculate at the expense of those less fortunate. Again, of the first-named class, there are but few who, twenty years later in life, can be looked upon as financial successes. Indeed, it would seem that financiers, like poets and artists, are born, not made by training. It takes men of good judgment, good health and strong will power to become a settler in an undeveloped country, and obtain any considerable competency; and as a rule no one can achieve success without the confidence of his fellow-citizens. All of these goodly traits are found in the person of Mr. John Hornick, of whom this sketch is written. John Hornick was born on November 21, 18438, in Old Ross, county Wex- ford, Ireland, that country beyond the sea that has produced many of earth’s noblemen. His parents were Peter Hornick and Anna Jekyll Hornick, of the county of Wexford. In 1851 the family immigrated to America and located as very early settlers, near Ottawa, La Salle county, Ill, where the father died in August, 1854. The mother survived until July, 1888, dying GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 635 at Emerson, Neb. The family consisted of eight sons and two daughters. John worked at farm labor until the breaking out of the Civil war, when he enlisted in Company EH, Twenty-sixth Illinois infantry, entering the service of the Union army in August, 1861, at Ottawa, Ill, with his brothers Ed- ward and Thomas. Edward died in front of Corinth, Miss., in May, 1862; Thomas died near Vicksburg, Miss., in September, 1863. John participated in twenty-eight hard fought battles. He was wounded in Missouri, during the month of March, 1862, and at Corinth, Miss., October, 1863. John S. Lothrop, now of Sioux City, was captain of his company. After serving his country faithfully until the close of that terrible conflict, Mr. Hornick engaged in business at Memphis, Tenn., continuing until January, 1867, when he sold out and came to Sioux City, since which time he has been prominently identified with the wonderful growth and best interests of the “Corn Palace City.” Mr. Hornick, for his integrity, persistent devotion to the welfare of Sioux City, for his indomitable persistence in upbuilding its interests, has won a lasting place in the confidence and respect of the people. His history is inseparably interwoven with the history of Sioux City, and he is justly regarded as one of its first and best citizens. The town of Hornick, in Woodbury county, bears his name. In the autumn of 1876, after several unsuccessful attempts had been made to open up the Black Hills country, Mr. Hornick, with Fred. T. Evans, of Sioux City, fitted out a wagon freight train for Deadwood. The party consisted of about forty teamsters, herders, and about five hundred yoke of cattle. They left for Deadwood via Pierre, in August, 1876, arriving at destination in October. One night, while en route, during the temporary absence of the men, the camp was attacked by a band of about twenty-five Sioux Indians, but Mr. Hornick, with the assistance of his colored cook alone, bravely repulsed them. He, later on, sold his interest in the freight business to his partner, Fred. T. Evans. Since 1880 he has been engaged in the wholesale drug business, and is president of the Hornick Drug Co. Mr. Hornick has been very successful in every business undertaking he has entered, and is to-day one of the well-to-do men of the northwest. In 1889, in company with A. S. Garretson, D. T. Hedges, James E. Booge and Hd. Haakinson, he organized and constructed the Sioux City & Northern railroad (which they still own), mentioned at length elsewhere in this volume. In the various public enterprises Mr. Hornick has ever been a will- ing, liberal worker. In 1890 he was president of the famous Corn Palace, which attracted visitors from ocean to ocean, and its great success came largely through his untiring energies and good judgment. He is also presi- dent of the Sioux City Jobbers’ and Manufacturers’ association. He is a living example of what men with business tact and good habits can accom- 636 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. plish under our form of government. Coming to Sioux City many years ago with but small means, he has steadily increased his property, and to-day ranks high, both financially and socially, among the business men of the great and growing northwest. Mr. Hornick was united in marriage December 18, 1873, at Richland Center, Wis., to Miss Jennie Humbert. Mr. Hornick is a member of Land- mark Lodge and of Columbia Commandery, Knights Templar. In the great freemasonry of friendship, however, whose password is an ever kindly greet- ing, and whose rule a hearty interest in one’s fellow-men, no one stands higher than John Hornick. From this order, still greater than the conven- tional brotherhood of which he is an honored member, comes the highest praise a man can receive. G. R. Bapezrow is of French and Scotch extraction, his great-great- grandfather having emigrated from France to America in the early part of the last century, and settled in the old colony of Pennsylvania. On the out- break of the Revolutionary war of 1775, his great-grandfather took an active part on the side of the patriots, and at the close of the war married Miss Gordon, sister of Major Gordon, of the British army. Martin Bad- gerow, father of the subject of this sketch, was born in the state of New York in 1808, and in the following year was taken to Upper Canada, his parents settling on a farm in the county of York, near Toronto. He con- tinued to reside there, and in later years established woolen mills, which he carried on in connection with his farm, until his demise in 1878. He was married to Elizabeth Harrington and reared a large family, of whom Mr. Badgerow is the youngest. He was a man widely known and highly re- spected for his progressive spirit, strong common sense, and the sterling uprightness of his character, qualities imparted in a liberal measure to his son. Gordon Ralph Badgerow was born December 25, 1847, in the township of Scarboro, near Toronto. He grew to early manhood on the farm, attend- ing the public school in the winter months, and during the summer working in the factory and about the farm. For years he stood at the head of the school in mathematics, and was always depended upon by the teacher to sustain the reputation of the school in the contests which were in vogue at that time. He attended college in London, Canada, and afterward taught school one year in the county of York, but having learned of the growing and liberal west, in the summer of 1868 came to Dubuque, Iowa, and read law under the present United States district judge, O. P. Shiras. In the fall of 1869 he crossed the state in a wagon, coming as far west as Cherokee, the Illinois Central railroad not being completed beyond Fort Dodge at that time. He finally located at Emmetsburg, and there entered some land, and GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 637 in the following summer surveyed the swamp lands of Palo Alto county. His friend, Judge White, had recently returned from Lyon county, where he had been locating lands for the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul railway company, and was eloquent in his praise of the beauty and fertility of that region, which was at that time unorganized territory and attached to Wood- bury county. In the early fall, having finished his contract of surveying the swamp lands, he started on horseback for Doon, at the forks of the Rock river, over what was known as the “Old Norwegian trail,” running through the counties of Dickinson, Osceola and Lyon. Osceola had no settlers with- in its border at that time. It was nearly sunset of a beautiful autumn day, after a hard ride of over sixty miles, with no signs of civilization in sight, when he reached the high plateau overlooking the valley where the three streams mingled their waters together, and as far as the eye could reach the streams were fringed with timber and the valleys covered with long waving grass. A tiny column of smoke could be seen rising from the log cabin of the only settler at Doon. He was charmed with the peace and promise of this fair land, and determined to go no farther. He commenced at once to purchase land and improve the same, selling to settlers as they began rapidly pouring into that section of the northwest. The first two years he was compelled to go sixteen miles for his mail. All the supplies were freighted in from Sioux City, seventy-five miles distant, and no bridges spanned the streams. The green cottonwood lumber used in building his first home was brought by wagon from a saw mill on the Missouri river near Elk Point, taking five days to make the trip. He has a vivid remembrance of leaving his load, about twelve o’clock one night, in the middle of the Big Sioux river, riding his horses to land and taking refuge for the night in the cabin of a settler, two miles distant from the ford. November 19, 1872, he mar- ried Adella S. Rogers, of Berlin, Wis. They commenced housekeeping one mile from any neighbor, and the nearest physician lived thirty miles away. An incident portraying the perils of the pioneer occurred about that time. In the early spring he had left his home in the morning on horseback, cross- ing the Rock river on the ice. It was ten o’clock that night when he reached the bank of the river on his return. Although inky darkness prevailed, he knew by the rush and roar of waters that the gorge above had broken dur- ing the warm day, and the ice was sweeping past on the swollen river. He could see a light in the window of his little home a half mile distant, and near that light he knew an anxious heart was beating. A moment’s hesita- tion and into the angry flood he spurred his faithful horse. Just as he had cleared the channel where the waters ran the swiftest, an immese cake of ice was whirled past, and had he been a second later the other shore would never have been reached. Five children have been born to them, three of 638 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. whom are living: Egbert M., Ralph J. and Harvey G. But when hope was the brightest there came an unlooked-for scourge in the form of grass- hoppers, and after years of devastated crops, he removed to Sioux City, in the fall of 1876. He was admitted to the bar, but never practiced, as he received an appointment in the internal revenue service shortly afterward. He had great faith in the future growth of Sioux City, and backed his judg- ment by liberal investments. He is the largest individual owner of Fourth street property, having nearly five hundred front feet in the best part of this thoroughfare, and has erected several fine brick blocks thereon. He is also largely interested in inside property in Tacoma, Wash., being among the heaviest tax-payers in that city. He was the first secretary of the Jobbers and Manufacturers association, filling the place at considerable personal sacrifice until the association, which has proved to be of so much value to Sioux City, became a strong and vigorous body. He has always been one of the foremost of public-spirited citizens in helping to build up the material interests of the city, and it is to such progressive, pushing men as he, that the city owes, in a large measure, the great prosperity it now enjoys. He was one of the founders of the first Unitarian church of Sioux City, and is credited with a large share of the financial success which has marked the growth of this liberal church. In politics he is a republican. Joun Bartey, physician, Sioux City, was born at Ticonderoga, Essex county, N. Y., and when a boy, with his parents removed to Dane county, Wis., where he completed his literary education and read medicine with Dr. Bowen at Madison. He attended Cleveland Medical college at Cleveland, Ohio, from which he graduated March 1, 1861, and began practice at Sun Prairie, remaining there until June, 1865, when he entered the service as hospital steward and remained during the war. Upon his return to Madison, at the close of hostilities, he resumed practice, and remained there until 1869, when he moved to Sioux City, his present home, and where he has since been engaged in the practice of his profession. He married Emily E. Cor- lie, and they have one child, a boy. They are members of the Congrega- tional church, and he is a member of the F. & A. M., and an entered appren- tice to the thirty-second degree. Samuzt Tarr Davis. Among those active and progressive citizens whose faith in and zeal for the growth of Sioux City have led to its permanent establishment, the subject of this sketch stands foremost. But few preceded him in date of settlement here, and none have been more active or successful in fostering the city’s welfare. Born at Meadville, Pa. he is the son of George and Eliza (Reichard) Davis, the father of Irish and the mother of German extraction. He inherited in a marked degree the disposition of industry and the prudent husbanding of resources which characterize both GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 639 nationalities, together with a sturdy adherence to the principles of justice and fairness. His native shrewdness and conservative forethought have enabled him to confer great benefits upon the city of his home, while reap- ing a personal benefit and the enjoyment conferred by the successful prose- cution of public-spirited enterprises. Up to the age of ten years Samuel dwelt with his parents at Meadville, attending an academy during part of that time, and they then removed to Mercer county, Pa., where the son spent the time till twenty-one years old in helping to clear a farm in the timber of that region. Here he attended the rude pioneer schools, and later engaged in teaching. He had a strong desire for knowledge, with an espe- cial aptitude for mathematics, and frequently solved problems by working them out on the moldbéard of his plow, using pencils of soapstone which were found on the farm. He entered Allegheny college, at Meadville, and took an irregular course, pursuing such branches as seemed to him most essential in fitting him for a practical life. He left the institution while in the sophomore year, in 1852, and followed teaching for some time. He became principal of Greenville academy, Pa., and in two years brought that institution up from a state of decline to a most flourishing condition. He began the study of law with Hon. David Derrickson, of Meadville, and was admitted to the bar of Mercer county in the autumn of 1855. His col- legiate and legal education were wholly obtained with means earned by his own efforts. After spending a few months in exploring Wisconsin and Iowa, our young attorney settled in Sioux City, arriving February 29, 1856. The city was then composed of six log cabins and two tents, and there was very little legal business to occupy an attorney. Mr. Davis was among the first of that profession on the ground. He had paved the way for other business by becoming a partner in the firm of Parker, Gray & Davis, land agents. The first work done by him was chopping wood for a few hours for a rival firm, the result of a banter between them. Before the job was finished he was called upon to survey a claim for a settler, who took his place in wielding the ax, while the survey was being made. With the growth of the town, clients soon multiplied, and Mr. Davis continued to make investments in realty, and now for many years has abandoned the practice of law to look after his extensive real-estate interests. He has platted several additions to the city, and all his grounds have been made a source of profit. The great- est improvement conceived and carried out by his genius is the straightening of the channel of Floyd river, within the city limits, on sections twenty-two and twenty-seven, township eighty-nine, range forty-seven. After the mat- ter had been agitated for a year and a half the city council of 1890 agreed in August to pay $15,000 damages to the owners of a mill whose water power was destroyed by this improvement, Messrs. W. L. Joy and §8. T. 640 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Davis agreeing to straighten the channel at their own expense. By this means over three miles of stagnant channel was obliterated, conferring untold sanitary benefits on the city, and at the same time avoiding an expense of at least $50,000 for bridge building, to say nothing of the enhanced cost of making the improvement after the lands were more generally occupied, as they are bound to be in the near future. This action reflects great credit upon the prudence and foresight of all parties concerned, good business sense on the part of the city council, and most liberal public spirit on the part of Messrs. Joy and Davis. But it is in the building of her railroads that Sioux City owes most to Mr. Davis. It was his activity and acumen that secured the building of the main lines now operated by the Illinois Cen- tral to Sioux City, instead of Onawa. John I. Blair, who had secured con- trol of this line in 1868, remarked, in the hearing of Mr. Davis, that he would build on the original survey to Sioux City if the hostile legislation known as the “Dond Amendment” could be repealed. Mr. Davis at once put this agreement in writing, and it was signed by Mr. Blair. Mr. Davis and others then traveled over the state, visiting the several members of the legislature, and secured a pledge that the relief asked for would be granted. As a consequence the road was at once built to Sioux City. Soon after the completion of the Sioux City & Pacific railroad, Mr. Davis suggested to Mr. Blair the importance of extending it to connections north and south, making a trunk line from the British possessions to the Gulf of Mexico. The rail- road magnate agreed that he and his friends would build northward if Sioux City would organize a company and do the preliminary work. Mr. Davis helped to organize and incorporate the Sioux City & Pembina railroad, and assisted largely in securing the local aid which helped to start the enterprise and get it on the way for final completion. But the financial panic of 1873 discouraged capitalists, and they failed to furnish the funds. The road was finally built by 8. T. Davis, A. W. Hubbard and John H. Charles, from a junction with the Dakota Southern to Akron, and now forms part of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul line to Sioux Falls. This secured to Sioux City the trade of a large region which had previously gone to Le Mars. The building of this line caused a loss of $20,000 each to the builders, and Mr. Davis was compelled to sacrifice some of his most valuable holdings to meet the obligation. He drew up the articles of incorporation and helped organize the Sioux City & St. Paul road, of which company he was made secretary and director, and secured its construction to the state line, where it met a Minnesota road, in spite of much opposition. It was his forethought and prompt action that secured the shops of this line for Sioux City. Mr. Davis was one of the corporators and projectors of the North Nebraska & Dakota Southern, and organized the Sioux City & Columbus, GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 641 whose progress is a matter of history and treated in this volume. It is im- possible in the limits of this article to describe the struggles of Mr. Davis and his confreres to secure local aid in the building of roads that now form parts of great systems, and which the modern citizen is likely to suppose were built by their present owners. In political affairs Mr. Davis has displayed the same interest in the public welfare as in matters above related. Previous to the firing on Fort Sumter he had affiliated with the democratic party, but in his support of the national government in its crusade against slavery and rebellion he was led to unite with the republicans. He has recently opposed the latter party in its prohibition movement in this state, but with that exception has remained steadfast for thirty years. He was elected prosecuting attorney in the fall of 1856. At the city election in 1871 he was elected mayor by a handsome majority, and his inaugural address to the council was quoted by the press at home and abroad as a model of sound business teaching for the conduct of a city government. His practical enforcement of ideas during the term largely improved the city’s credit and rid the town of many undesirable char- acters. He was repeatedly urged to again run for mayor, served several terms as city attorney, was offered the nomination of state senator, after having filled an unexpired term, and was favorably mentioned by the press for the position of district judge, but his increasing business cares led him to decline all such honors. He has, however, contributed much with his pen to the conduct of campaigns and the interests of a pure civil service. Mr. Davis sustains the Episcopal church, which his family attends. In addition to his real-estate interests, Mr. Davis is a stockholder in the following banks: State Savings (being also vice-president), Sioux City Savings, Security Na- tional and Home Savings bank. At one time his fortunes were wrecked by the failure of local railroad schemes, and he was forced to return to the practice of law. At present he is rated as one of the eight millionaires whose fortunes have been made in Sioux City, and his success is the result of his own foresight and perseverance. On the Yth of February, 1859, Mr. Davis was married to Miss Jane A. Putnam, of Sioux City, who passed away in 1877. Six children came to bless this union, of whom five are now living, viz. : Stella (Mrs. William Gordon), Mary (Mrs. H. M. Bailey), Florence (wife of William C. Hutchins), George (merchant), and Ross, a student at Peekskill military academy, New York. October 13, 1881, Mr. Davis was again married, the bride being Miss R. C. Smith, of Nantucket, Mass. A son, John Allen, now six years old, is the fruit of this marriage. The home of this prosperous and happy family is on one of the most beautiful sites, on a gentle slope, commanding a view of the Missouri, the heart of Sioux City and that part of Nebraska lying adjacent. 642 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Epwarp Topp (deceased), one of the pioneer residents of Woodbury coun- ty, was born November 15, 1821, in Oswego county, N. Y., the son of Eras- tus and Polly (Rice) Todd, the former a native of Meriden, Conn., and the latter a daughter of Asa Rice, who was the first white settler in Oswego coun- ty, coming there with an ox team from Connecticut, his ancestors being of Welsh descent. Our subject’s early education was very limited, having been taken from school at the age of twelve years to help his parents on their farm. He remained thus employed until nineteen years old, putting in his leisure hours at study. The last eight years the family lived in Cass county, Mich. At nineteen years of age Mr. Todd went to Vandalia, Ill., where he worked at farming for his brother-in-law for three years. September 17, 1848, he was married to Mary Parmelee, of Hillsboro, Tll., where he bought eighty acres of land and began housekeeping. He remained there until 1847, when he sold out and removed to Jefferson county, Iowa; four years later he came to Council Bluffs, where he continued farming on a 160-acre homestead. In 1853 he moved to Magnolia, Harrison county, Iowa, where he took part in or- ganizing the county, being elected justice the following fall. He performed the first marriage ceremony in the new county. In 1856 he again moved, this time to Smithland, Woodbury county, from which place he came to Sioux City, where he engaged in various occupations for the following four years. In 1869 he went into the dairy business, remaining at this four years; then began moving and raising houses, which he continued to do until 1889, when he sold out and opened a real-estate office with Hopkins & Co. Seven chil- dren complete the family circle, viz.: Harriet, Caroline, Eunice, Ellen, Clara, Leona and Sarah. Mr. Todd was a republican in politics and a member of the M. E. church. Mr. and Mrs. Edward Todd, when visiting their daugh- ter, Clara Slayton, in Minneapolis, Minn., while in the act of boarding a train, December 10, 1890, were run down by another train, and instantly killed, to- gether with their daughter. One of the remarkable features of the family was that during the period of forty-seven years of married life there had been no deaths in the family, and this sudden visitation came upon the children with great severity. They had the sympathy of the entire neighborhood, and the funeral, which was a very lengthy one, was attended by many friends and old citizens. Witiiam R. Surry, M. D. Unlike the man who has slipped noiselessly through this life, unseen and unheard by his fellow-men, Dr. Smith, with his life of energy, mental force and truly noble aspirations, has touched every thread in the warp and woof of human accomplishments within the circle of his acquaintance. He has been a potent factor, not alone in the realm of his chosen profession, but broader and higher has been his field of action. Every branch of industry, every social relation, every work of charity, to- GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 643 gether with whatever goes toward making men and women happier and better, has felt the kindly touch of his heart of sympathy and been rightly influenced by his superior intellect. Coming to Iowa nine years after it was admitted to the Union, when this great Missouri valley slope was all one vast but fertile wilderness, that had just been vacated by the Indians, Dr. Smith has been socially and profes- sionally connected with the comings and goings of each pioneer settlement hereabouts. He has called upon the sick, facing the blinding storms, as far east as Cherokee; and gone from thirty to fifty miles in Dakota and Nebraska. A further mention of the Doctor’s professional career may be found in that portion of this work referring to “Early Physicians.” The Doctor’s genial ways have not changed during these long eventful years; and while time has left its inevitable marks upon his person, the once black hair which adorned his head having taken on a silvery hue, yet, like the warm autumnal sun, shedding its light down over the fields just harvested, does this estimable gentleman’s kindness and sunshiny nature reflect backtthe truly praiseworthy deeds of a well-spent life. He has retired from professional duties, and his saddle-bags are seen no more; he has entered into a new era of life, so the object of this notice will be to make some record of his accomplishments, from his boyhood to this date. William Remsen Smith was born at Barnegat, Ocean county, N. J., De- cember 30, 1828. His father, Daniel Smith, a wheelwright by trade, died when the son was seven years old, and the boy spent the next eight years of his life with his grandfather, alternating between labor on a farm and a little mental work in the school-room. His mother’s maiden name was Elizabeth Bonde. At sixteen William went to New York city to learn the saddlery and harness-making trade, but before he had completed it he followed a venerated mother and his step-father, James Collins, a prominent member of the Society of Friends, to Macon, Mich. There Mr. Smith spent three years in working at his trade and teaching. About the time he was of age he re- turned to New York city, studied medicine under Dr. Wm. Detmold, attend- ed three courses of lectures at the old college of physicians and surgeons, and then returned to Macon. There he practiced three years, in partnership with Dr. Joseph Howell, an experienced physician and a most estimable man. In 1856 Dr. Smith removed to Sioux City. Here he practiced medicine very diligently for eleven years, when not absent from home, building up a good reputation and a wide practice, often having more and longer rides than he desired. In those early days in the history of this frontier settlement, duty often called him to other than his professional labors. In the spring of 1861, when there were Indian troubles in this vicinity, Dr. Smith was appointed first lieutenant of a company of mounted riflemen, serving until relieved the 644 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. following autumn by a company of United States soldiers. About this time he was appointed government surgeon, holding that position until 1863. When the Indian outbreak occurred in Minnesota in August, 1862, sending a thrill of terror among the residents on the frontier, he was made chairman of the vigilance committee for protection, and gave whatever time necessity required to the duties arising from this cause. The following winter he was ‘sent by Gov. Kirkwood, in connection with the late Dr. Brooks, of Des Moines, on a sanitary tour of inspection among the Iowa troops, in which mission he visited the army then lying in front of Vicksburg, and afterward did his best to emphasize that general and strong appeal for vegetables, so indispensable for the relief of our suffering soldiers. As would be naturally supposed, a man so full of; progress and public spirit as our subject, has held many important public positions. In March, 1863, he was elected mayor of Sioux City, and two months later was appointed: surgeon of the board of en- rollment of the Sixth congressional district, serving in the last named capac- ity until December, 1864. Several years after the Rebellion closed he was examining surgeon for the pension bureau. He was again elected mayor in 1881. July 15, 1865, he was appointed receiver of public moneys of the United States land office at Sioux City, which position he held until the office was abolished in 1878, except for a short time during Andrew John- son’s administration. His appointment having been renewed four times, shows the character of the man, as viewed by those in government authority. During one year he had charge of over a million dollars in money received on land sales. But-few men having so great an amount of business passing through their hands have come through unscathed and with a correct record of their official proceedings. Dr. Smith was one of the incorporators of the First National bank of Sioux City and of the Sioux City & St. Paul and Sioux City & Pembina railroads. In educational matters he has ever maui- fested great interest, and was a member of the local board for many years, and is now; was vice-president of the first Sioux City Building association, and has served as director of the State Horticultural society. In most enter- prises calculated to promote the interest of his city and state, the Doctor has been vigilant and untiring. In 1878 he was appointed by Governor Gear as one of the honorary commissioners of the state of Iowa to the Paris Eixposi- tion. He accepted, and during his tour made extensive travels throughout Europe, and his final report was well received and found place in many Amer- ican and European newspapers and periodicals. In 1880 he was made an honorary member of the “ Cobden Club,” and two years later took an active part in that part of American politics, which he himself styled “ Tariff Re- form” and which has been a living issue ever since. -In 1884 the Doctor and his family visited Europe, as they did again in 1889. ‘During his stay there GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 647 in 1884, he was made an honorary member of the Reform club, while in London. This was at the instance of James Howard, M. P., of Bedfordshire, and seconded by the great commoner, John Bright. In 1885 he was one of the movers in the organization of the Unity church at Sioux City, was presi- dent of the board, and perhaps, with a few others, was instrumental in estab- lishing this society here and in rearing its edifice. Up to 1886 the Doctor lived on an eighty-acre farm within the corporate limits of the city. It was well stocked with fruit, planted with forest and ornamental trees, situated on a high tract of land overlooking the city and affording a fine view of the picturesque bluffs of the Missouri river, but at the above date he platted his farm into town lots, recording the same as ‘“‘ Smith’s Villa,” which to-day has come to be one of the most charming resident spots in the city. Magnificent residences are completed, and others in course of erection, here and there, all over the tract that but a few yearsago was farmed. In 1890 the Doctor and his family moved out of the old house into the new, where he and his estim- able family are enjoying the comforts and blessings of home. Of his more domestic and personal relations it may be added that Dr. Smith is a repub- lican in politics, but averse to that unreasoning partisanship which places party fealty above principle. He was united in marriage, July 12, 1859, to Miss Rebecca Osborne, of Macon, Mich., who is a true helpmeet and a most excellent, exemplary lady. They are the parents of eight sons, three of whom are living: Milton P., Remsen and R. H. Burton. Whether one looks upon the subject of whom we have written in the light of a competent, skillful physician, a generous type of Sioux City pioneers, socially, publicly and pri- vately, or in a pure business sense, in each and every avenue of his well- rounded life we see inscribed by the very facts, the words, “True Success.” Dr. Smith’s great ancestry on his fathers’ side, John and Mary Smith, came to New York from England in 1670. Afterward they bought a plantation in Middletown, 'N. J., the warrant of which is dated 1676. Jobn Smith’s will bears date December 29, 1714, and enumerates seven children, William being the eldest and chief heir. His son, the second William Smith, was married in 1728, and died in 1770. Among his ten children was the third William Smith, the great-grandfather of the subject of this memoir. He lived during the war of the Revolution; and among other deprivations, the records state suffered a loss of £138 16s 6d. His son, Daniel Smith, was born in 1768 and died in 1850, and this Daniel Smith’s son, Daniel Smith, Jr., the father of William R. Smith, was born in Middletown township, Mon- mouth county, N. J., June 2, 1801, and died in Middlesex county, N. J., April 28, 1836. His ancestry on his mother’s side, who were of Scotch de- scent, came to America quite early, as it is understood, for taking a too active interest in the claim of one of the “Pretenders” to the throne of England. 34 648 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. They and their descendants settled and became large owners of the sandy tract of country which now constitutes Long Branch and adjacent localities in New Jersey. He had one brother, the late John Milton Smith, of Peotone, Tll., who died in January, 1869, leaving a family of five children, who came to Iowa to reside with their uncle, their mother having died one year previous. J.C.C. Hosxins. Autobiographical sketch. Iwas born under the western shadow of the White mountains, at Lyman, Grafton county, New Hampshire, on the 18th day of January, 1820. My father was Samuel Hoskins, a reputable country physician of large practice and very small income; my mother was Harriet Byron, daughter of Caleb Cushing, Esq., of Orange, N. H., who late in life removed to Charles- town, in Maine, where he died in 1855. On both sides my ancestors were among the earliest settlers of New England, only two—a Scotch Presby- terian from Ireland, and a Huguenot lady—having arrived later than 1700, and they came before 1750, so that I am by descent a veritable Yankee of the Yankees. Of my ancestors in the direct line, the Hoskins family were at Scituate in 1634, and the Cushings at Hingham in 1635, as were also the Hanks and the Lincoln families; the Reeds were in Boston in 1628; the Cobbs at Wey- mouth and on Cape Cod before 1640, and John Drake came over with Win- throp; the Cottons were in Boston; the Sawyers at Beverly and near New- buryport; the Wainwrights and Ambroses in Essex county before 1660; and after careful research I find no progenitor except my great-grandfather, John Church, the Presbyterian elder, and my great-great-grandmother, the Huguenot, Dolly Pinneo, famous to this day among her descendants for her personal beauty and her magnificent golden hair, that arrived in New Eng- land from the old world subsequent to the year 1700. Through these numerous families I inherit a common blood with all New England people whose ancestors migrated from England previous to the Revolutionary war, and, wherever family histories have been preserved, I have no difficulty in tracing the blood relationship with all such, at least within the eighth degree, and I find them generally, like myself, proud of their descent. William Hoskins, my ancestor in the eighth degree, was at Scituate in 1634, a freeman of Plymouth colony in 1638, was an esquire in 1642, and presumably, therefore, a respectable and religious man and well-to-do in the world. He, as well as John Reed and John Drake, was a member of the colony that purchased Bristol county from the Indians and settled at Taun- ton, from which place his numerous descendants have spread far and wide over the northern and middle states. He came from Norfolkshire, in Eng- land, and was by trade a wheelwright. His descendants down to my grand- GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 649 father (as tradition reports, of his ancestors also), have been mechanics or -farmers of the middle class. Few of them have been needy, fewer have been rich, few of them ignorant but not many college bred, very few mer- chants or lawyers, and fewer clergyman or physicians, much disposed to have their own way, tolerably ready to hear argument and be led by reason, but quick to kick against any show of assumed authority; in every conflict for individual freedom, since the days of Henry VIII at least, they have fought against prerogative and oppression. None of the family have held important public office, but many have been locally honored, and most of them respectable’ and influential in their neighborhoods. My maternal ancestor in the eighth degree, Matthew Cushing, with a numerous family, some of whom were already adults, came also from Nor- folkshire. He settled at Hingham, Mass., in 1635. The Cushing family was old and wealthy in Norfolk, and had large landed possessions there. Their history is well known far back into the fifteenth century, and there (as in this country since) they were men of education and influence and wealth. The descendants of Matthew Cushing had, previous to the year 1800, fur- nished more than thirty graduates to Harvard college, and a more consider- able number of very eminent clergy and lawyers and judges, than in any other New England family. Among them history especially commemorates Thomas and John Cushing, who took very prominent parts in bringing on and prosecuting the war of independence, and William Cushing who, already associate justice of the United States court, declined the chief justiceship when tendered to him by President Washington. Nor has the Cushing fam- ily lacked men of distinction in the present century. Witness Caleb Cush- ing, of Newburyport, Judge Cushing, of Boston, and the late chief justice of the state of New Hampshire. My parents reared a family of eight—tive sons and three daughters—all of whom exemplified the character of their paternal ancestry by a respectable mediocrity of ability, so far as the accumulation of wealth and extended in- fluence go, and their maternal ancestry by a considerable fondness for read- ing and literature, which doubtless led to the college education of the writer hereof. Three of the sons—all that were physically able— also proved that the family hatred of oppression retained its ancient strength, by enlisting at the very outset of the war against slavery, and fighting for freedom until all were free. So in the revolutionary war my grandfather Hoskins and four brothers fought from beginning to end; and so I pray God my descendants may hereafter do if any like occasion arise. My father led a hard life in a hard country among the granite outlyers of the White mountains, but he was always honored and respected by all that 650 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. knew him, and when he died, in 1873, at Chelsea, Mass., where he went to live in his old age, he was much mourned through the whole circle of his ac- quaintances. Not less beloved or less widely mourned was my mother, who, after her husband’s death, came to Sioux City, where she had a home with her son, J. D. Hoskins, till she died, in August, 1882. In my boyhood there was not much money in my father’s house, what fees he collected from his farmer patients—the community was entirely agri- cultural—were paid in the products of the farm, a bushel of wheat or corn or rye, a cow or a colt in extreme cases—these were the fees when any at all were received. So I, with an earnest desire for books and a college edu- cation, like most New England boys, had a poor show for success in a career that seemed to me as far off and as much to be desired as heaven itself. It would be too long to narrate the story of my success, but succeed I did. By working on the farm in summer vacation, and teaching school in the winter, and some aid from home, I worked my way through college and at the age of twenty-one found myself possessed of a diploma as bachelor of arts of Dartmouth college, and liberty to go out into the world and see what I could do with it. I gave my note to my father for $600, payable on demand. I had one decent suit of cloths, clad in which I applied for the position of principal of an academy at Lebanon, N. H., which had then recently fallen into the hands of the Universalist denomination and been christened “The Lebanon Liberal Institute,” and my application being accepted and the salary fixed at the munificent sum of $400 per annum, I went to work on the first of September, 18-41. It would be nonsense in these days of five hours’ labor five days in the week, and high salaries, for me to dwell on the twelve to sixteen hours’ labor six days in the week, and the difficulties attendant on securing an increase of salary, first to $450, finally to $500 per year. It is enough to say that I was a success as a teacher, as witness the considerable number of college professors, clergymen of note, and even one U. 8. senator who fitted for col- lege under my tuition. The school was prosperous during my continuance at its head, and I paid my way and paid my note. In 1846 my health broke down and I gave up school-teaching for civil engineering which became my profession for life. My first employment was on the construction of the Cochituate water works at Boston, Mass. I began with the preliminary surveys in June, 1846, and remained on this work till it was completed in the fall of 1848. I had charge of the Newton and Brookline tunnels till they were well under way, and was then deputed to make the survey for what is now the old Brookline reservoir, and when the survey was approved I took charge of the construction, and remained in charge GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 651 until its final completion, and my name may now be seen last on the marble tablet in the gatehouse which commemorates the completion of the entire work. From this work in 1849 I went with my friend and superior, Thomas S. Williams, who had been appointed superintendent of the Sullivan R. R. in N.H. Iwas his assistant, and, he being soon after appointed superintendent of the Boston & Maine R. R., I remained some months as acting superintend- ent of the Sullivan road, and then rejoined him in Boston. I was on the B. & M. R. R. until June, 1850, when an engineer on the Baltimore & Ohio R. R. came north, seeking men who had some experience in driving tunnels through rock. Such men were very scarce in those days, but I had some experience on the water works, and was eagerly employed at what seemed to me very high wages—$60 per month and all expenses paid, except food and clothing. So the middle of June, 1850, found me at the western end of the great Baltimore & Ohio railroad near the Monongahela river. I was soon deputed to relocate a portion of the western division, my only instructions being to get as good a line as I could, to get as near the southwestern corner of Pennsylvania as I could, but not to touch it by any means. My location proved satisfactory, and I was deputed to take charge of the tunnel division. When this work was well under way I was transferred to the preliminary survey of the N. W. V. R. R., which is now the main branch of the B. & O. R. R., crossing the Ohio river at Parkersburg, W. Va. At that time there had been no work so difficult undertaken in the United States. In 100 miles there were twenty-two tunnels, and the ruling grade was eighty feet per mile. On these surveys, with a corps of sixteen men, I worked hard for near- ly six months, covering a broad extent of rugged country, mostly dense forest with a perfect network of lines. I located sixty-five miles of this road, and superintended the construction of thirty-seven, including the central and most difficult portion. The work was begun in the summer of 1852, and the first train was run to the Ohio river on Christmas day, 1856. There was no cessation of work. Doubtless with the improved knowledge and implements and methods of to-day much less time would now be required, but any one passing over the road to-day must notice the extraordinary difficulties overcome and the thoroughness and completeness with which the work was done. I left this work at the close of January, 1857. July 10, 1856, I married Clarissa Virginia Bennett, of Weston, Lewis county, Va., the second daughter of Hon. James Bennett, a respectable and influential lawyer, who had often represented his district both in the lower and upper house of the Virginia legislature. The Bennett family was very 652 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. numerous and very prominent in that region. A brother of my father-in- law, the Hon. Jonathan M. Bennett, was president of a bank, a director of the N. W. V. R. R., and for many years, continuing until the end of the civil war, he was auditor of the state of Virginia. My father-in-law and his brother, and their connection generally, be- lieved in state rights, and though regretting and condemning slavery per se, were very indignant at northern people for their so-called interference with southern institutions, and so they were quite prominent among the early: promoters of secession. I had been bred in very different principles, and so, despite a most liberal offer from a Texas railway, I determined to seek a home in the far west. I had been much interested in the Kansas war for liberty, and determined to go out there and see that country for myself. So, March 7, 1857, we started on our great journey. We went to Park- ersburg, Va., took a steamer and arrived in St. Louis on the fifteenth—eight days’ journey, where now one only is required. On the seventeenth I left my wife with cousins in St. Louis, and went by rail to Jefferson City, thence by steamer to Lexington, Mo., Kansas City, Leavenworth, Weston, St. Joseph, Omaha and Council Bluffs, arriving at Sioux City on the fifth day of May, 1857. At all the places mentioned I stopped some hours or a day, and gained such information as I could. At Kansas City we took on board Gen. Price, Capt. Young, Col. Nelson, John Wilson and others more or less connected with the Kansas difficulties, and I learned from them that Kansas had virtually settled her own troubles, and would doubtless be a free state, I expected to settle there, but my cousin, the late John C. Flint, had written me at St. Louis insisting that I should come to Sioux City before locating permanently. So I came to Sioux City, met my cousin, looked over the town and country, considered its prospects, and bought lots and a house and shanty on Nebraska street just below the corner of Seventh, and here has been my home ever since. The first day I was in Sioux City I thought everybody was crazy. People here now know nothing of booms if they were not here then. No com- munication except by river, fourteen days from St. Louis, no railroad within 300 miles. Across the river Indian territory, no settlements of any account east of us for more than 100 miles, none north this side Pembina, none west nearer than Utah, a few people on the Missouri bottoms between here and: Council Bluffs, a thousand or so people here, living in log cabins, board shanties and tents, and yet lots in town were veritably higher than in 1875, some almost as high as now, and every piece of land for many miles out covered with claims so that no land could be had for pre-emption without first: paying four or five times the government price to get rid of some fas- cally claimant whose only intention was to extort money. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 653 However, in two or three days I was as crazy as any of the wildest, and went down to St. Louis for my wife. We arrived June 5, and having brought some supplies, anda few floor boards, a window and a door, we set up housekeeping on Nebraska street, just below Seventh, in a log cabin, and there, and on the corner of Nebraska and Sixth, we lived until we sold out last summer. There on Nebraska street our eight children—two boys and six girls—were born; and thence three little ones were carried to their rest- ing place across the Floyd. After coming to Sioux City, I led a very busy life until 1878, since which time I have had no regular occupation. My last work in my profession was done in the autumn of 1866, when I made the preliminary surveys for the Sioux City & St. Paul railroad, of which I was the first president and chief engineer. This road was sold to parties in St. Paul, and is now that part of the C. St. P. M. & O. railroad lying within the state of Iowa. I have been honored with various positions of trust, showing the confi- dence and friendliness of my fellow-citizens, for which I have ever felt grateful and thankful. In 1858 I was chosen township assessor, and I think my neighbors did not want me again, but I gave better satisfaction as city surveyor, for I was continued in office till 1871, and I made the profiles and advised the street grades which were adopted in 1858, and revised and re-adopted in 1871. I have held the office of sheriff, and city mayor, both by appointment to fill vacancies. I have been a member of the school board for three terms, and was postmaster for nearly sixteen years, ending with the spring of 1878. I aided in founding the two oldest and most prosperous of Sioux City’s National banks, was a director of one of them for several years, was president of the Sioux City Building fund association for many years, and aided in settling up its affairs when it closed its most successful career. I was also the founder, in 1864, of the oldest commercial business in the city, the J. M. Pinckney Book and Stationery Co., in which I still retain an inter- est, though giving it little of my time. I find a great many “T’s” in this paper but “I” could not avoid them in autobiography. I suppose this paper must come to a close, so also must my life, now very soon. I hope it has not been altogether useless. I wish it had been better and of more worth to the world. One more egotistic paragraph and I have done. We are getting old, my wife and I, and our children are grown, and have left or soon will leave us and take their place in the great world’s work. We have done what we could to fit them to do more and better work than we have done. The issue is with God, but I hope and earnestly pray, that like their father, they may love their fellow-men, may love the city and state of their nativity, and, above all, look upon the United States as a Narion that is 654 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. the grand hope of the future, the very flower and fruitage of all past ages, for whose welfare, prosperity and freedom no necessary sacrifice, even the laying down of life itself, can be too great. Ransom Jay Cuasz was born in Unity, N. H., March 28, 1840, and is a descendant of a very old New Hampshire family. His grandfather, Jacob Chase, died in that state in 1863, at the age of ninety-six years. His father, who bore the same name, died from the effects of exposure, at the age of sixty-eight, in November, 1865. His mother, Sarah (Marshall) Chase, also descended from an old New Hampshire family, is now living at La Crosse, Wis., aged eighty-five years. When seven years old our subject moved with his parents to Nashua, N. H., where they remained for ten years. He attended the Nashua Literary institute, a well-known academy, but gained most of his education by private study. In 1857 the family removed to Sterling, Vernon county, Wis., where Ransom taught school during the winter seasons and labored on the home farm in the summer time. At the time of the outbreak of the Civil war he was reading lawin Viroqua, Wis. In November, 1861, he enlisted as a private in Company C, Eighteenth Wis- consin volunteer infantry. He was made a corporal while in camp at Mil- waukee, and arrived with his regiment at Shiloh on the eve of the battle at that point, and took part in that memorable engagement. He participated in the series of operations against Corinth, and was promoted to first ser- geant in June, 1862, for gallant and meritorious service. About this time he was recommended by his superior officers for appointment as second lieu- tenant in a new regiment then forming. The appointment was made by ° Gov. Lewis, but before the commission reached him, he was promoted to the same position in his own company, with which he preferred to remain. His next battle was that of Iuka, September 19, of the same year. He com- manded Company I, in the battle at Corinth, October 3 and 4, losing one- third of his command in killed or wounded. With his regiment, he assisted in the pursuit of Gen. Price, during which he commanded Companies C and I. On November 3, 1862, he was sent to the field hospital at Corinth, hav- ing become debilitated by hardships endured, and was stricken with bilious fever. Upon the abandonment of Corinth, he was removed to a hospital at La Grange, Miss., and thence to Memphis. Here he resigned, and arrived home March 1, 1863, his weight then being but ninety-six pounds. After a few months’ recuperation on the home farm, he again took up the study of law, with Gregory & Pinney, at Madison, Wis. He was admitted to the bar in November, 1863, and continued his studies with H. W. and D. K. Tenney. In August, 1864, he once more entered the military service, as cap- tain of Company B, Forty-second Wisconsin volunteer infantry, a regiment recruited about Madison and his home in Vernon county. The regiment GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 657 proceeded to Cario, IIl., where its colonel was made post commander. Capt. Chase soon proceeded with his company to Springfield, Tll., where he filled the position of provost-marshal, with his company as provost-guard, and in addition to these duties he acted as judge advocate on military commissions and courts martial. In April, 1865, he was sent to Rock Island, IL, to act as judge advocate for a general court martial. He remained there until June 20, following, when he was mustered out with his company. By virtue of his position at Springfield, he had charge of the remains of President Lincoln, till they were laid away in the cemetery. In September, 1865, he began the practice of his profession, as a member of the firm of Griswold & Chase at Madison, Wis. This connection lasted one year when it was ter- minated by the disqualifying illness of Mr. Griswold. A year thereafter the firm of Carpenter & Chase was formed, which enjoyed a large and remuner- ative practice, until the spring of 1873, when Capt. Chase was compelled by failing health to abandon his practice, and he removed to Sibley, Iowa. In the fall of 1874, after a restful period of more than a year, he opened an office in Sioux City, and at once took a leading position among the attorneys of northwestern Iowa. Naturally of comprehensive views and analytical mind, his inclination as a lawyer has been toward the consideration of those fundamental principles that are always so important in framing the judicial policy of a state; and his marked success in the trial of important cases has been largely due to the fact that he has contended for controlling principles rather than technical points. Asa result of his ability in these fields of forensic discussion, a lasting record has been made by the impress of his thought upon the judi- cial history of the three great states whose borders meet at Sioux City. In the spring of 1883 he retired from the active practice of his profession, but has continued to act as advisory counsel for many of the large corporate interests, including those of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul railway com- pany, which he had represented as an attorney, and with many of which he has been personally associated. Since his retirement from the practice he has devoted a large portion of his time to the founding of new institutions and assisting in the development of the material resources of Sioux City, in which field he has shown the same ability and judgment which characterized his professional career. His work in this line has not only been crowned with that degree of success implied in the fact that he is one of the millionaires of the city, but that success is enhanced by the fact that it has been achieved in enterprises which have been in line with the progress and prosperity of the whole city, and that he stands in the foremost rank of those whose far-sighted and public-spirited policy has given to Sioux City its peculiar reputation for push and enter- prise. 658 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. He is a Knight Templar Mason, member of the G. A. R., Loyal Legion and Society of the Army of the Tennessee. He belongs to the Unitayian church, together with his family. Politically he is a republican, but he has never been an office seeker. At one time his name was brought before the nominating convention for state senator in this district, but he was defeated on the 778th ballot by one vote. In 1866 Capt. Chase married Miss Mary M. Baker, of Providence, R. 1, and they have five children living, to wit: Leora M., Lucius K., Effie A., Ransom J. and Millie M. The eldest son is a student in the Military academy at Faribault, Minn. The eldest daughter is the wife of V. C. Sherman, Esq., who is engaged in the practice of the law at Sioux City. Gerorce Wasnineton WAKEFIELD, district judge, Sioux City, was born in De Witt, De Witt county, Ill, November 22, 1839. His father, Orin Wake- field, was born at Watertown, N. Y., August 27, 1808, and died at De Witt, TIL, May 3, 1885, having engaged in farming. His grandfather, Joseph Wakefield, was born at Amherst, N. H., October 7, 1779, and died at Water- town, N. Y., May 6, 1842, also a farmer. His great-grandfather, Joseph Wakefield, was born at Reading, Mass., May 9, 1752, and died at Windsor, Vt., June, 1827, a Revolutionary soldier and farmer. His great-great-grand- father, Thomas Wakefield, was born in Boston, August 5, 1727, and died at Amherst, N. H., in 1791, a carpenter and farmer. His great-great-great- grandfather, Joseph Wakefield, was born in Massachusetts in 1701, and died in 1732. His great-great-great-great-grandfather, John Wakefield, was born in Massachusetts in 1668, and died in 1738, a shipwright. His great-great- great-great-great-grandfather, John Wakefield, was born in 1640, and died in 1708, a shipwright, and resided in Boston. His great-great-great-great- great-great-grandfather, John Wakefield, shipwright and boatman, resided in Boston, and died in 1667. George W. Wakefield’s ancestors for several generations were farmers, and his home was upon the farm in Illinois until the winter of 1868, when he came to Sioux City. His life was the usual one of a farmer’s boy, attend- ing the country school in winter and working early and late upon the farm the rest of the year. In his eighteenth year he entered the preparatory de- partment of Lombard university at Galesburg, Ill. He remained in school one year, and thereafter attended an occasional term, taking an elective course, giving special prominence to mathematics, in which branch he had a reputation for excelling. On July 27, 1861, he enlisted in Company F, of the Forty-first Illinois infantry, as a private soldier, and on August 7, 1861, was mustered into the United States service with the rank of corporal. Oc- tober 9, 1861, he went to the hospital with a severe attack of fever, from which he did not recover in time to join his regiment until the latter part of GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 659 February, 1862. Thereafter he remained with his regiment until mustered out, August 20, 1864, with the rank of first sergeant. He participated among others in the battle of Shiloh, the sieges or Corinth, Vicksburg and Jackson. He was wounded in the charge of Lauman’s brigade at Jackson, Miss., July 12, 1863. After his discharge from service he attended Lombard university one year. He taught two or three terms of country school, and read law upon the farm, going twice a month to the county seat and reviewing his studies with Hon. Henry 8. Greene, and at the end of two years’ study was admitted to practice by the supreme court of Illinois, in January, 1868. In February he started to Sioux City, with the fixed intention of making it his home, arriving in Sioux City March 6, 1868, since which time he has been a resident of this, his chosen city. Having no office experience, he secured a desk in the office of Judge Pendleton, and devoted himself to his chosen pro- fession. In 1869 he was elected auditor of Woodbury county, and re-elected in 1871. During the years 1874 to 1884, inclusive, he was engaged in the practice of law. In 1884 he was elected circuit judge for the second circuit of the Fourth judicial district, and in 1886 he was elected district judge, which office he now holds. October 29, 1873, he married Kate Pendleton, who died in 1880, aged about thirty-six years. There were born to this union three children, named Albert Orin, Hiram Pendleton (deceased, 1882) and Bertha. Epwin Haaxinson, pork and beef packer, Sioux City, was born in Ring- sager, Hedemarken, Norway, January 4, 1844, and lived there till he was ten years old. In 1854, with his parents, Haakin and Ellene Amundson Haakinson, he came to America. The family settled in Winchester, Winne- bago county, Wis., and our subject finished his education in the common schools of that region. In September, 1861, he enlisted in the First Wis- consin heavy artillery, Company ©, with which he served four years, being discharged in September, 1865. He took part in the battles of Chickamauga, Lookout Mountain, Missionary Ridge and Knoxville, thus seeing much hard service while yet a boy. After recovering from an illness brought on by ex- posure (his frame was always slender), he was detailed as orderly on the staff of Gen. Lester, and while his command was stationed at Strawberry Plain, he acted for six months as courier and mail carrier. In the spring of 1865, while carrying dispatches between his post and Gen. Thomas, at Warm Springs, N. C., he was surrounded by eight guerrillas, on a lonely mountain trail. Knowing that his life was the stake, he seized a moment when his captors, who relied on their number, were not alert, and urged on his thoroughbred horse, whose speed alone saved: the. rider’s life. On delivering his dispatches to Gen. Lester, that officer complimented him on his skill in saving himself and the papers. Returning to Wisconsin, Mr. 660 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Haakinson found employment in a ship-yard at De Pere, and subsequently took sub-contracts in ship building at Fort Howard. In 1870 he came to Woodbury county and opened a general store at Sloan. He at once took up a quarter section of land, and by purchase afterward became the owner of three additional farms. While conducting these he continued the mercan- tile business and engaged in the purchase of all kinds of produce and live stock, which he marketed in Chicago. Being successful in all his enter- prises, he soon felt the need of a larger field of operations. In 1883 he removed to Sioux City, and at once proceeded to organize the Union Stock Yards company, of which he has ever since been secretary. This was incor- porated during the following winter, and up to January 1, 1889, Mr. Haakinson was its superintendent. To this enterprise, founded by Mr. Haakinson’s foresight and superior business capacity, Sioux City owes much of her present and prospective greatness. Three large pork-packing plants and immense beef-canning and sausage-making plants have been established by this means, and more are coming. March 1, 1889, the Haakinson pack- ing house began business, and one year later Mr. Haakinson became its sole owner. On the first of July, 1889, the beef-canning department was sold to the Sioux City Dressed Beef and Canning company, of which Mr. Haakinson is director, treasurer and manager. This has a capacity of 1,500 beeves, and the pork houses have an annual capacity of half a million hogs. These plants occupy ten acres of ground, of which the main buildings cover more than three acres. Mr. Haakinson is now the owner of 1,000 acres of Nebraska lands, and 480 acres within the limits of Sioux City. He is one of the five men who organized and incorporated the Sioux City & Northern railroad company, and who built and now own one hundred miles of railroad under that name, which has proved a great advantage to Sioux City. He is also a managing director of the University of the Northwest, and a director of the Sioux City Rapid Transit Co. (Elevated road). Mr. Haakinson attends the Congrega- tional church with his family. He is a member of the G. A. R., and a straightforward republican in politics. While resident at Sloan, he served as township clerk, secretary of the school board, and resigned the post- mastersbip, which he had held six years, on his removal to Sioux City. In 1885, he was elected county treasurer, which position he filled through the two-succeeding years. In 1870 Mr. Haakinson married Miss Carrie Han- son, a native of Norway, who was brought by her parents to Wisconsin when an infant. This couple have been blessed with five sons and a daughter, the second of whom is deceased, named respectively: Emil H., Oscar, Carl E., William H., Frank A. and Ella Edvina. Joun Perry Axzison, banker, Sioux City, was born in Peterboro, N. H., July 28, 1831, his parents being John and Abigail Perry Allison, the former ‘ GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 661 a native of Dunbarton, and the latter of Rindge, N. H. He was prepared for college at Phillips Exeter academy and graduated at Harvard college in the class of 1854. In the fall of that year he entered the law office of Wells & Bacon at Exeter, N. H., and remained there till the spring of 1857, when he came to Sioux City and was admitted to the Sioux City bar soon after arriv- ing. He entered the bank of Henn, Williams, Cook & Co. as clerk, taking charge of same till they retired from business, when, forming the firm of Means, Allison & Co., they succeeded to the business of his late employers till 1860, when the firm consolidated with John H. Charles in the same busi- ness, under the firm name of Allison & Charles. On September 6, 1860, Mr. Charles retired, and Mr. Allison united with George Weare, who was conducting the only other banking and agency business in Sioux City, under the firm name of Weare & Allison, who have conducted a private banking business since. He was elected county judge of Woodbury county in the fall of 1859, and acted as such till January, 1861. He was appointed treasurer of Wood- bury county in the fall of 1859, and elected for three successive terms, clos- ing his service in January, 1886. He was a member of the school board for many years. He was a candidate on the democratic electoral ticket in 1880, and a candidate for congress on the democratic ticket in 1882 and again in 1890. May 20, 1858, he married Miss Lizzie A. Thyng, a native of Brentwood, N. H., and four daughters have been born to them: Fannie A., wife of E. Myron Ferris, of Bozeman, Mont.; Mary Olive, who died at the age of about one year; Hattie, and Mabel A., wife of A. J. More, of Sioux City. Orvitte J. Taytor, attorney at law, Sioux City, is numbered among the self-made men of this city of enterprising growth and phenomenal develop- ment. Born at Cuba, Allegany county, N. Y., he is the son of Jesse and Ephia (Bayles) Taylor, the former a native of Tunbridge Wells, England, and the latter of Vermont. When our subject was four years old, his par- ents removed to Middleton, Dane county, Wis., where they settled on a farm. There the son passed the next ten years of his life, and at the age of four- teen entered the State university at Madison. He worked his own way through the collegiate course of this institution, and graduated in 1871. A year later he graduated from the law department, and for the two years suc- ceeding, served as superintendent of schools for the western district of Dane county. In 1875 he came to Sioux City, and was associated with Capt. R. J. Chase for eight years in the practice of law. His firm enjoyed a very large practice, which was conducted with signal ability and success. Mr. Taylor was associated for a time with Mr. G. B. Healy, and later the firm became Taylor, Healy & Sherman. Since 1889 Mr. Taylor has been practic- 662 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. ing alone. For the last eight years he has been the attorney of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul railroad company. He is an extensive real estate holder here and in Minnesota, California, Washington and Tennessee, and is interested in numerous Sioux City enterprises of magnitude and value. He organized the American National bank, of which he was for two years presi- dent, and is now a director, and is president of the National Bank of Sioux City, the largest bank in the state, also of the Iowa Safe Deposit and Trust company, and treasurer of the Northern Fire Insurance company. Mr. Tay- lor organized the Sioux City Street railway company, in which he held the controlling interest for some time, and later secured the charter of the Sioux City Electric railroad company, of which he is one of the incorporators. He is interested in a large wholesale and retail hardware establishment at Tacoma, Wash., and in a number of banking institutions in the county adja- cent to Sioux City, and manages to keep his numerous concerns in prosper- ous condition. Few men at his age have achieved such marked success. Mr. Taylor is a member of the Hawkeye club, a social organization, entertains liberal religious views and adheres to the anti-prohibition wing of the repub- lican party. October 23, 1878, he was married to Miss Eleanor S. Harris, who was born in Columbus, Wis. Three sons: King, Lewis and Orville, and an infant daughter comprise their offspring. Gerorce West Beaes, physician and surgeon, Sioux City, is of mixed English, Irish, Scotch and German ancestry, and a son of Rev. 8. R. Beggs, author of “Early History of Methodism in the West,” and the first sta- tioned preacher in Chicago, Ill. He was born in Plainfield, Will county, Tl, May 17, 1837. After passing three years in the Northwestern Univer- sity at Evanston, Il., and receiving the degree of A. M., he studied medicine in Rush Medical college, Chicago, Ill., and graduated in 1862. He located in Naperville, Du Page county, Ill, but in 1866 removed, and settled in Sioux City. In his practice, which embraces surgery as well as medicine, he has performed many of the more important operations with success. He is a member of the Sioux City Medical society, of the Fox River Medical society, of the Iowa State Medical society, and the American Medical asso- ciation. His contributions to medical literature consist of papers on “‘Influ- enza,” “Progress of Medicine,” etc., read before the county and state socie- ties, and a paper on “ Meteorology and Epidemic Disease,” published in the transactions of the State Medical society. During the war of the Rebellion he was surgeon of the One Hundred and Fifth Tlinois volunteer infantry, and was promoted three times, and was with Sherman in his march to the sea. In 1865 he married Lilla A., daughter of J. Sims, Esq., of Plainfield, Ill. Grorcz W. Fett is a son of George W. Felt, a merchant of Boston, Mass., and was born at Concord, N. H., July 27, 1888. He was educated in GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 663 the Boston schools, finishing at the English high school. When sixteen years of age he shipped before the mast and made a voyage to San Fran- cisco, Cal., and from there to points in South America. In 1855 he went to Galena, Ill, and found employment as a clerk in the large wholesale house of L. 8. Felt & Co., with whom he continued until the war of the rebellion broke out, when he enlisted as a private in Company G, Third Missouri cav- alry volunteers, Col. Glover commanding. With this regiment he saw much service of a minor kind, until it was removed from northeast Missouri to the southern border of the state. Meanwhile he had advanced through the lesser grades of rank, and was a first lieutenant and had passed through his first important engagement, Hartville, Mo. He was at the capture of Little Rock, and in the series of engagements preceding it, and in the long list of actions under Steele in his vain efforts to make a junction with Banks. Upon the muster out of his company he again took a position with L. 8. Felt & Co., and remained with them until 1868, when he came to Sioux City and engaged in business. Mr. Felt enlarged his operations and established himself on the frontier, having large trading-posts among the Indians at various points on the Missouri river, at which he bought immense quantities of furs, pelts, buffalo robes and hides. During all this time Sioux City was really the center of his thought, and he was satisfied that there was a brill- iant future for it both from its situation and its men. He acquired, in 1881, about twenty-seven acres of land on the Floyd, now known as “ Felt’s Addi- tion,” and the investment gave him large return, for it soon began to develop as choice railroad property. Meanwhile, Sioux City was growing rapidly, and its mercantile interests began to assume large proportions. There was a clamor for manufactories, as it was claimed that a permanent prosperity could not be looked for simply from the expansion of mercantile interests. Without stopping to debate the question, Mr. Felt, who was then the owner of a full section of land, remarkable for its beauty and level surface, aided in forming a syndicate, now known as the Leeds Improvement & Land Com- pany, which has taken upon itself the duty of encouraging and locating manufacturing interests in Sioux City. Mr. Felt retained a large interest in the company, and is now a director in it, and by his efforts and personal influence aided materially in securing the Daniel E. Paris stove works. This was a grand move in the interest of Sioux City, and to facilitate the trans- actions Mr. Felt purchased the country seat of Mr. Paris on the Hudson river. Mr. Felt was united in marriage, November 15, 1865, to Miss Anna E. Crooks, of Lexington, Ky., and has two children living: Anna E. and Ethel Adelia Felt. He is a member of the Presbyterian church, and a Mason of Knight Templar degree. The subject of this sketch has passed through many vicissitudes in his life, but is a man well preserved, and his 664 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. active brain is yet likely to organize many movements of great benefit to the city of his home, ; : Hon. Wiitiam Hamttton Dent, banker, Le Mars, son of George and Com- fort (Ijams) Dent, was born at Magnolia, Putnam county, Ill, in 1848. His parents were of English, Welsh, Irish and Scotch extraction, and his father, the late Hon. George Dent, held many positions of honor and trust, covering a period of forty years, and among others was at one time a member of the Illinois legislature. His grandfather, John E. Dent, was also a prominent politician of Virginia, and the father and grandfather of Mrs. Dent also fig- ured conspicuously as politicians of Maryland. W. H. Dent received an academic education in Illinois, and afterward passed several years in his brother’s law office in Chicago, but not seeing so much promise of success in professional as in business life, and finding the office work too confining, we find him, in 1866, in connection with another brother, Henry Clay Dent, dealing in grain and stock at Leland and Minonk, Ill. December 6, 1871, he married Miss Cora, daughter of the late Silas W. Cheever, of Ottawa, Ill, and grand-daughter of the late Jeremiah Strawn, also of Ottawa, and early in 1872 he became a member of the firm of Meir- hofer, Dent & Co., manufacturers of agricultural implements at Ottawa. In 1875, however, he removed to Le Mars, purchased of William Rymers his banking interests, and became a private banker. In 1876 he erected the Dent block, now occupied by the Le Mars National bank, which was incor- porated in 1883, and of which Mr. Dent was made, and is still, president. In 1886 he was elected to the Twenty-first general assembly, and in 1887 he was, by acclamation, tendered the nomination to congress, a position he de- clined, and in the following year declined nomination to the Twenty-second general assembly. The senatorial convention was held later, and notwith. standing it was known he was to be in California throughout the campaign he receivedythe nomination, and although there was a republican majority of 1,000 to overcome he was defeated by but a few votes, and had he expressed any desire for election, or had he been on the field the result would easily have been changed. In 1889 he was nominated by the democrats of Plym- outh county as candidate for state representative, and had a majority of 940, over avery wealthy and well-known farmer. He is interested in various enter- prises, and feels a lively interest in all matters of local importance. His busi- ness life having been successful, he is a cheerful and liberal contributor to everything having for its object the future growth and prosperity of his chosen place of residence, and the worthy poor find in him a friend and one whose sympathies do not end in wordy nothings. He has been, urged by his friends to allow them to use his name as a candidate for congress, but has steadily declined, as his private business and his position as president of the Le Mars GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 667 National bank demands his entire time. He was not an applicant for the position of commissioner to the World’s Columbian Exposition, at Chicago, but had the honor given him by Gov. Boies as a personal compliment, and because of his known capability. Mr. and Mrs..Dent have had two daughters born to them, namely: Harriette C., born February 7, 1878, and Edythe C., born April 1, 1875. In political matters Mr. Dent is a firm believer in the democratic doctrines, and has done much for that party. He is a Thirty- second degree Mason, and although not a member of any church, contributes regularly to the support of the Episcopal church in Le Mars. Grorcr WearE is a direct descendant of Meshach Weare, one of the early governors of New Hampshire, and was born in Derbyline, Vt., De- cember 3, 1834. His parents, John and Cynthia (Ashley) Weare, were both natives of New Hampshire. In 1886 they moved to Allegan, Mich., and twelve years later to Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Here our subject began his com- mercial life as clerk in a store, at two dollars per month. He arrived in Sioux City, December 26, 1855, as representative of the land and banking firm of Greene, Weare, Graves & Co., in which his elder brother, the late John Weare, of Cedar Rapids, and himself are partners. This concern was dissolved after the panic of 1857, and the business was continued by George Weare, and on September 6, 1860, the present banking house of Weare & Allison was established. They first occupied the northeast corner of Sixth and Douglas streets, and subsequently moved across Douglas to the site of the city library. In 1862 they located at Third and Pearl, and twelve years later occupied their present building, on Pearl above Fourth street. Mr. Weare has the reputation of being a sound and conservative business man, and gives close attention to his own affairs. He was a member of the first city council and served as one of the early mayors. In politics he has always been an outspoken democrat. He is a member of the Masonic order and sustains the Episcopal church, in which his family are communicants. In 1857 he married Mary, daughter of Gabriel Carpenter, a pioneer settler of Cedar Rapids. A son and three daughters have blessed this union, namely: ‘Henry G., Susan H., Kittie C. (Mrs. John H. Nason) and Mary E. (Mrs. Howard G. Peirce). The son is engaged in cattle raising in Wyoming, with headquarters at Spearfish, 8. Dak. Wituiam T. Craia, retired farmer, Sioux City, was born in Bracken county, Ky., January 24, 1818. Heisason of Whitfield Craig, who was a farmer of Virginia. His grandfather, Lewis Craig, was a Baptist minister and came to Kentucky in 1781. William T. spent his young days in his na- - tive state and was reared on a farm, and agriculture has always been his principal occupation. He married Martha L., daughter of Thomas and A. W. (Whip) Worthington, of Mason county, Ky. To this union were born 35 668 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. four children, one only now living (Mrs. C. C. Orr). Mr. Craig came to Sioux City in January, 1880. In 1883 he purchased his beautiful home and since then has added many conveniences to the already fine residence. He is a member of the Baptist church. In politics he is a democrat. Nicuozas Trepemay, retail groceryman, Sioux City, was born in Holstein, Germany, October 29, 1842, and is a son of Henry and Margarethe (Nagle) Tiedeman. The father died when our subject was but two years of age. The mother still resides in Germany. Mr. Tiedeman’s education was received in the common schools at home, and he assisted his father at farming until he was twenty-three years of age. When he came to America, in the spring of 1866, he farmed for a year in Scott county, Iowa, then removed to Wood- bury county, taking up a government homestead in Moville township, where he remained for six years, then came to Sioux City, and for one year he worked at common labor, after which he ran a hotel for a year. He then engaged in the grocery business, in connection with F. W. Anthon, which partnership existed for ten years, at the end of which time he purchased the interest of Mr. Anthon, and carried on the business alone. March 22, 1874, he married Anna Bremer, a native of Germany, whose parents are both deceased. To this union were born three children: Henry, deceased in infancy, born in 1875; John Albert, born January 9, 1877, and Edmund Henry, born December 38, 1879. Mr. Tiedeman’s family attend the English Lutheran church. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. Lodge, No. 282, and an A.O. U. W. He wasa member of the city council for one term, and politically, gives his support to the democratic party. Cuartes Gitmore Conver, merchant, Sioux City, was born near Cam- bridge, Washington county, N. Y., October 8, 1840, and is the ninth of the twelve children of Nathan and Eliza (Gilmore) Culver, whose ancestors were Scotch-Irish. He remained until sixteen years of age on the home farm, attending the country schools and those at Cambridge, and then went to Sandwich, Il, where he was employed as clerk in a dry goods store until the outbreak of the Civil war. On the day succeeding President Lincoln’s first call for troops, our subject, then in his twenty-first year, enlisted as a private soldier. His company was the first to report for duty at Chicago, and was assigned to the Highth regiment, under Col. Dick Oglesby. This regiment was stationed at Cairo, and mustered out at the end of three months, the period for which it was enlisted. On September 2, 1862, Mr. Culver again entered the service, as second lieutenant, Company H, 105th I- V. IL, and on December 17, following, he was promoted to first lieutenant, and was made captain of Company C, in the same regiment, August 3, 1863. With his command he was mustered out June 7, 1865. Capt. Culver served with his regiment in the first brigade, Third division of the Twentieth army corps, GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 669 under the command of Gen. Benj. Harrison, in the army of the Cumberland. He was in command of part of the foragers who furnished the subsistence for Gen. Sherman’s army in its famous march from Atlanta to the sea. It will thus be seen that Capt. Culver bore no inconsiderable part in securing the success of a hitherto unprecedented military achievement—that of sus- taining a large army in the midst of a hostile people, with no established base of supplies. Among the engagements in which our subject figured may be mentioned those of Dug’s Gap, Buzzard’s Roost, Resaca, Cassville, Ack- worth, Culp’s Farm, Kenesaw, Lost Mountain, Peach Tree Creek, Atlanta, Savannah, Lantonville, Averysboro, Bentonville, Goldsboro and Raleigh. He was present at the surrender of Gen. J. E. Johnston and army, at the grand review in Washington, and was discharged at Chicago, June 13, 1865. Returning to his former home at Sandwich, in September, 1865, Capt. Cul- ver opened a dry goods store, which he conducted for three years, then sold out and removed to Watseka, Ill., where he engaged in the same business for ten years, during which time he served as a member of the board of county supervisors and also as member of the republican'state central com- mittee from the Eighth congressional district. As a member of the state militia he was quartermaster of the Ninth regiment, I. N. G., which position he resigned in 1880, on his removal from the state. In the last named year he became a resident of Sioux City, and engaged in the retail dry goods business on a large scale. In social and business life Capt. Culver is no less distinguished than as a soldier, and now occupies the finest store of its kind in Sioux City. He is one of the three to whom belongs the honor of having originated the Corn Palace idea, the outgrowth of which has already caused four of these “world wonder” exhibits to be erected in Sioux City, asa direct result of which the city has not only been given the name of the ‘Corn Palace City,” but has also induced a large per cent of the capital required for the erection of the many magnificent business structures here, to come hither from Boston and other eastern money centers. He is a member of Tyrian Lodge, A. F. & A. M., Hancock Post, G. A. R., and Iowa Command- ery, Loyal Legion. With his family he attends the Episcopal church, and continues his allegiance to the republican party. On July 18, 1865, Capt. Culver was married, at Sandwich, Ill, to Miss Marie, daughter of Ely Barnes, a descendant of an old French family, and to this union has been born one child, a son, Howard F. Auten ArmsTrone (deceased), prior to his death, was one of the leading educators of the northwest. He was born in Belleville, Richland county, Ohio, July 21, 1838. The ancestors of our subject have lived in America about a century and a half, having originally come from Scotland, and his immediate ancestors and family, especially an uncle, were very prominent in 670 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. the educational world. The early education of Allen was conducted in Plymouth, Ohio, where his father and mother, George and Elizabeth Arm- strong, then resided. Graduating from the high school there in his sixteenth year he taught school for a time, after which he resumed his studies, and graduated from the State Normal school, at Lebanon, Ohio, and from Bald- win university, where he took a classical course. During the time of his normal course he was called home by the death of his father, where he re- mained for a year or two assisting his mother in settling his father’s busi- ness, he being the eldest of eight children, six of whom were then living. He then taught school in several places in Ohio, among them being Blanchester, Cadiz, Ripley, Columbus and Springfield, at which latter place he was super- intendent of the public school two years. One of the principal lady teachers under him at Springfield was Miss Mary Harrison, to whom he was married August 19, 1868, and with his bride he came west to Council Bluffs, where he assumed the superintendency of the public school, and his wife filled the position of one of the leading teachers. They remained there until 1876, at which time Sioux City, being in demand of a capable instructor, sent a committee in the persons of J. P. Allison and Dr. J. M. Knott, to seek such an one. One of the places visited by them was Council Bluffs, where they met our subject, and upon their return to Sioux City they sent him an invi- tation to come there. Mr. Armstrong accepted this position and filled it until his death, which occurred November 21, 1888. In Cincinnati, in 1858, the first meeting of the National Educational association was held, it having been organized in Philadelphia in 1857. Mr. Armstrong was in &t- tendance, and was absent from but few meetings of that association, being present in Chicago in 1887, and feeling keenly disappointed that ill health prevented his going to San Francisco in 1888. He became a life member of the association in Baltimore, in 1876, and was one of the number who met on the Centennial grounds in Philadelphia, in 1876, and enrolled themselves under the name “The International Educational Association.” From the proceedings and addresses of the association at the meeting held at Nash- ville, Tenn., in the year 1889, under the head of Necrology, we take the fol- lowing: “Mr. Armstrong was ever ready to perform faithfully and earnestly every duty imposed upon him by the association or its officers, and those of us who knew him so well, can testify that it was his highest and greatest ambition to have all his work well and thoroughly done, and no man ever possessed a keener dislike for superficial work. He was ready at all times to raise his voice, in his plain but emphatic manner, against everything that even in the slightest degree verged upon professional discourtesy. The National Educational association has indeed lost a true friend, an earnest educator, and one of its most valuable members.” Mr. Armstrong was a GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 671 member of the Congregational church, and an ardent republican. He had no children, leaving only a widow to survive him. He was at one time presi- dent of the Iowa State Teachers’ association, and during his twenty years’ residence in Iowa, never failed to attend their meetings but once, and that was because it would have taken him from his family on Christmas day. Howarp OC. Tripp, editor of the Kingsley “Times,” was born in Plano, IL, April 4, 1861, the son of Charles and Fannie (Foster) Tripp, both na- tives of New York. The father is by occupation a farmer, and is engaged in farming in Stanton township, Plymouth county, Iowa, having moved from Steward, Ill, in 1881. Politically he is a republican. Howard C. Tripp was reared on a farm near Plano, and received his early education at the district schools, completing it at the Iowa ‘State Normal school, which he attended two terms, after which he taught for five years. He learned the printer’s trade at, Cedar Rapids, and has been either associate editor or managing ed- itor of five successful country newspapers. March 11, 1889, he purchased the Kingsley “Times,” which he has been conducting ever since. Politically he is an independent republican, and is well known and has the respect of all his associates. August 26, 1890, he married Miss Isabelle M. Steele, of King- sley, Iowa, Miss Steele was principal of the Kingsley high schools. Howard Carlton Tripp is also a poet and novelist, having published “Legends of Lemars,” and “Ballad Blossoms,” two volumes of poetry, and “ The Grass- hopper Granger,” a humorous novel. He is also a contributor, both in prose and poetry, to many leading literary periodicals, and is said to be, by those competent to judge, a writer of more than ordinary ability. The lines given below were by his pen: ‘ THE ENCHANTED HILL. An ancient legend, good or ill, Describes a fair, enchanted hill Whose summit, reaching to the skies, Contained a very precious prize For him who would ascend to find, Yet did not cast a look behind; One backward glance, aye, one alone, Would change the climber into stone! And he forever more would be A stony statue fair to see, And evermore in seeming pride Adorn the hill’s enchanting side, A guiding star in future time For those who did attemp to climb— But all who tried the prize to find Somehow would cast one look behind. 672 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Upon that hillside did a throng Of sirens sing an endless song. Its groves were beautiful to see, With shady dells, fair as could be; With blossoms that did charm the eyes Of all who clambered for the prize; With flowing streams like rills of wine, And fruits of Paradise divine. And many did attemp to climb, So says the tale of olden time, Until the hillside grew more fair With lifeless statues standing there, With lifeless statues gazing back Upon a former place or track, Where some fair siren in disguise Had tried to win them from the skies. Life is that fair enchanted hill, And heaven the prize, for good or ill, We climb the realm of God to find. Our vices make us look behind. Our vices are the sirens fair Who woo us backward to despair, Unto the sin-joys we have known, Till death shall change us into stone! Kinsey, Iowa. Dr. Franxiin Wixon was born in Steuben county, N. Y., January 1%, 1833, his parents, Daniel and Deborah Wixon, having located in that vicin- ity at aw early date. His early education was received in both private and public schools, and he entered college at Cleveland, Ohio, in the fall of 1852, graduating in the medical course in 1854. He returned home immediately, but remained for a brief time only, then came west, locating on the site that now is North Sioux City. In connection with his profession he carried on the real estate business, carrying on this business and his practice of medi- cine until 1863, during which period he was a regular contributor to the Sioux City “Register” and some monthly periodicals. From the spring of 1863 until the spring of 1864 he was engaged during an Indian outbreak as army surgeon in Company B, First Dakota cavalry volunteers, under Brig.- Gen. Sully. His marriage to Mary I. B. Burnham, December 31, 1857, was the second marriage ceremony that was performed in Sioux City. In 1878 Mr. Wixon was appointed physician to the Rose Bud Indian agency at Yankton, Dak. He accepted this position, but a year later resigned on account of failing health, but returning, remained at Yankton until 1881, when he was taken seriously ill, and on May 14 he fell into that dreamless sleep from which there is no awakening on this earth. There were left to survive him a GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 673 widow and two daughters: Minnie, now of Chicago, IIl., and Flora, of Mis- soula, Mont. He always took a very active part in politics, being a very stanch democrat, and his name is very prominently connected with the early official history of Sioux City, and with the development of the Masonic lodge there, in which he took a great interest. Georce Dovetas Perxtins, editor of the Sioux City “Journal,” was born in Holley, Orleans county, N.Y., February 29,1840. He is a son of John D. and Lucy F. (Forsyth) Perkins, natives, respectively, of Connecticut and New York, and descendants of old New England families. The father was an attorney by profession, and came west on account of failing health when George was six years old. After spending a year in Indiana and two years in Milwaukee, he located at Baraboo, Wis., where he died in 1850. From this time on George began to exert himself for his own support, in the mean- time attending the public schools and receiving some private instruction. When sixteen years old he started to learn the printing business, his first work at that trade being on the Baraboo “Republic.” In 1860 George and his brother, Henry, removed to Cedar Falls, this state, where they established the “Gazette.” In August, 1863, George enlisted as a private soldier, and be- came a member of Company B, Thirty-first Iowa infantry. At Helena, Ark., he was taken violently sick, and from the hospital there he was transferred to Jefferson Barracks, Mo., where, on January 12, 1864, he was discharged. The doctors said he was only going home to die. An abscess on the liver turned out to be his complaint, and he was long in recovering his health. In 1866 the brothers sold out the ‘‘ Gazette” at Cedar Falls, and removed to Chicago, where George D. served for nearly three years as agent of the North- western Associated Press. In April, 1869, he bought the “Journal” of Mah- lon Gore, and removed to Sioux City, taking possession of the office on May 1 of that year, and he has been continuously its editor since. In 1870, George D. having been joined by his brother Henry, established the “Daily Journal.” The firm of Perkins Bros., with the exception of two years from the summer of 1876, when George D. conducted the business alone, was contin- ued up to the time of the death of H. A., in November, 1884. The business was then transferred to a stock company, under the name of Perkins Bros. Co., with George D. as president and manager. He was elected to the state senate in 1878, and served one term. In 1890 he was elected by nearly 1,000 plurality over the democratic, independent and prohibition candidates, to represent the Eleventh Iowa district in congress. During Gov. Gear’s administration he was made commissioner of immigration, which office ex- pired by limitation of statute at the end of two years. He was appointed United States marshal for the Northern district of Iowa by President Arthur, and he was removed from that place by President Cleveland under a charge 674 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. of “offensive partisanship.” Mr. Perkins was a delegate at large from this state to the national republican convention in Cincinnati in 1876, to the national convention at Chicago in 1880, and again to the national conven- tion at Chicago in 1888. He has been an active worker in the republican party since the Fremont campaign in 1856, and cast his first vote for presi- dent for Mr. Lincoln in 1864. He began business for himself when he was twenty years of age, and has been thus employed since that time. He was six years with the Cedar Falls “Gazette,” and is now in his twenty-second year with the Sioux City “Journal.” Mr. Perkins is a member of the G. A. R., and sustains the Congregational church, with which members of his family are united. In 1869 he married Louise E. Julian, a native of New York city. They have five living children, namely: Florence, Samuel, Clara, William and Thomas. Joun Haey. The youth of our subject was spent in the rural districts of old Virginia, where his parents, Joseph and Susan (Warren) Hagy, were farmers in Washington county. John was born in that county August 15, 1822, and at an early age was put under bonds to serve an apprenticeship of five years to a joiner. After the expiration of his term of service he worked at his trade in the immediate vicinity of his home until 1845. In the spring of that year he moved to Mahaska county, Iowa, and followed his trade there until 1855, when he came to Sioux City. In the summer of 1856 he returned to Mahaska county to get his family, having decided to make his home per- manently in Sioux City. They reached Sioux City in September of that year, and at once commenced to run a hotel, which they named the Hagy house. He conducted this until 1865, when he was elected to the position of sheriff, which he filled for the next two years. Upon the expiration of his term of office he opened a private boarding house on Pierce street, near Fourth. Here he remained until 1887, when he sold out, built a neat and comfortable home on the same street between Twelfth and Thirteenth streets, and settled down to enjoy the fruits of his labors. Mr. Hagy was married in Pella, Marion county, Iowa, October 30, 1851, to Miss Mary Post, a native of Toronto, Canada. Five children have been born to them, namely: Char- lie (deceased), William, Matilda (deceased), Amelia (deceased) and Georgie. Mr. Hagy is a member of the Masonic Lodge, the I. O. O. F., and affiliates with the democratic party. In his religious views he believes the Baptist church, of which he is a member, to be the best exponent of Christianity. Cuartes K. Surru, state oil inspector, Sioux City, and one of the pioneer settlers, was born in Fort Plain, Montgomery county, N. Y., February 15, 1835. He is the son of Moses and M. (Klock) Smith, natives of New York. Our subject attended the common schools in his native place until sixteen years of age, when he was sent to Governor Lawrence academy, where he re- GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 675 mgined two years. He then engaged in the hardware business with his father until twenty years old when he went to Rochester, N. Y., and worked in a hardware store a year and a half. He then remoyed to Council Bluffs, Towa, where he stayed until November, 1855, when he went to Sioux City, and there served as postmaster through James Buchanan’s administration, having in connection with the postoffice a hardware store. He continued the hardware business until 1864, when he sold out and built a hotel, which he ran until 1871, when he sold that and moved to Merrill, where he built an elevator and store, which he operated until 1873. In that year he disposed of his holdings here and removed to Le Mars, where he was in business two years and a half, after which he returned to Sioux City, entering into the real estate and insurance business, which he still continues. He was ap- pointed state oil inspector under Governor Boies. Mr. Smith was married in August, 1860, to Miss Annie, daughter of John and Abigail Kimball, natives of New York. Three children have been born to this union: Lizzie, Fred and Frank. In 1862, during the Indian troubles here, he formed an artillery company of twenty men, of which he was captain, to protect the frontier, and did very valuable service for the city as well as the state. In politics Mr. Smith is a democrat, and has served as mayor of Sioux City. He is identified with the Masonic fraternity. Gerorce Henry Scuusrer was born in Callstadt, Rhenish Bavaria, Ger- many, February 26, 1818, the son of John and Helen (Kisel) Schuster, the former a native of Callstadt, and the latter of Weinheim, Baden, Germany. Early in life he devoted himself to the study of English, German and French, in all of which he is a very advanced scholar, but as years advanced he found it necessary to engage in some mercantile pursuit, so his study of literature was abandoned and he engaged in business as a grocer. He followed that business for some time, then went as clerk in a wholesale drug house. After clerking for a year he was engaged by the same firm as a traveling salesman, which position he held for about three years. He was then called upon by the German government to take his place in the army, but after serving thirty days he hired a substitute, paying him a sum equivalent to $300 of United States money, to serve four years, while he was again engaged as a clerk. In 1844 he had a desire to see some of the world outside his native land, so he took passage for Africa. While he was there, there was a call for men to join the French army, as that nation was then struggling for pos- sessions in Africa, so he enlisted and served until 1849, during which period he was wounded three times. He returned to Germany and it being the time of the revolution, he took part and was a major on the revolutionists’ side. During an encounter he was dangerously wounded, and was taken to a hospital in France. During his confinement there he received word that 676 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. the government had forbidden his return to Germany, so, immediately upon convalescing, he set sail for America and settled in St. Louis, where he en- gaged in the fancy goods trade. He remained there until 1857, when he sold out and came to Sioux City, and in company with his brother-in-law, opened a general store. December 25, 1859, they were burned out and lost about $11,000, but at once rebuilt, putting up the first stone, and brick in Sioux City, and their store being ready the coming fall, they put in a stock of general merchandise. In 1882 he sold the stock and rented the store, and is now enjoying the fruit of his labors. In 1855 he married Radelina Maras, of St. Louis, and to them have been born five children, namely: Helen, Tilda, Mary, George and William. Witu1am B. Trepway is a grandson of David Tredway, a Connecticut farmer. His father, Bela R. Tredway, born in Colchester, Conn., went to New York, where he married Philatheta Marshall, a native of that state, and settled in Warren, Herkimer county. Late in life he engaged very success- fully in the practice of law. Our subject was born January 27, 1835, in Warren, and fitted for college at Oxford academy. He did not enter col- lege, however, but at the age of sixteen years went to De Kalb county, IIL, where he taught school and read law. The second day of January, 1856, found him at Sioux City, and in that year he pre-empted the southwest quarter of section eleven, township eighty-nine, range forty-seven, now a part of the city. Together with his brother and T. Bruguier, he engaged in freighting upon the Missouri river. The Tredway brothers accumulated 1,000 acres of land in the vicinity of William’s pre-emption, which they used as a ranch for their cattle till 1866, when William settled thereon and engaged in farm- ing. He continued there until 1881, when, having acquired the Bruguier homestead at the mouth of the Big Sioux, now a part of Riverside Park, he moved to that location and continued farming till 1887. He then sold out and moved to Douglas street, near Eleventh, where he built a handsome residence in 1890. The sale of his real estate holdings netted a handsome competence, and he now enjoys the fruit of his industry and foresight. Mr. Tredway served several terms as county supervisor in early days, and was for two terms a member of the state agricultural board, having charge of the state college at Ames. He has always affiliated with the democratic party, and sustains the Episcopal church, of which his wife is a member. He is not himself connected with any kind of society. In 1872 he married Miss Thalia B. Bishop, of Bristol, Conn., and they have one son, Ralph B., now a student in school. "Jams Horcatns, Sioux City. The subject of this sketch was born in Bath, Somerset, England, November 19, 1831, and is the second son of James and Elizabeth (Manns) Hutchins, the former a native of the same county, and GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 677 the latter a native of Wiltshire, England. He can trace his ancestors back to his grandparents on the paternal side. Their names were William and Edith Hutchins. His father was born in county Wilts, and baptized in the diocese of Sarem, March 2, 1788. Our subject’s education was very limited, his school days ending at the age of eleven years, when he was put under the charge of a tailor, with whom he was to serve an apprenticeship until eight- een years old. With him he remained’ until September, 1851, when he set sail for America, landing at New York, where he engaged as a clerk for a clothing house and served until 1855. In that year he came west, with his brother, to Dubuque, Iowa, where his brother accepted a position as cutter, while James continued traveling until he reached Winona, Minn. Ter., where he took a position as cutter with Messrs. Shattuck & Newman. There he stayed until the following spring, when he took the first boat to Dubuque, where he remained but a short time, then went to Sioux City, where he took up his old trade as a tailor, and opened the first supply of cloth and tailor’s trimmings in Sioux City, by a tailor. He pursued this business for some years, and sold out and engaged in the stove and hardware business, under the name of Collamer & Hutchins. He afterward sold out to Mr. James M. Bacon, since which he has not been actively engaged in business. October 22, 1861, Mr. Hutchins was married to Rebecca H. Dennis, a native of New Jersey, of German-English descent. Her early life was spent in Ohio and Indiana, and she came to Sioux City with T. J. Kinkaid and family. Mr. Hutchins is a member of the Masonic fraternity and of the lodge at Sioux City, and belongs to the Presbyterian church. In politics he is and has been a re- publican, and was one of Sioux City’s first aldermen. He was also township clerk and assessor at an early day, and served in the fire department for over ten years, until the department was changed from a volunteer to a paid service department. Tuomas Parke Gere, civil engineer, Sioux City, at present, 1890-91, junior member of the firm of Hubbard & Gere, and manager of the Sioux City Linseed Oil Works, first visited Sioux City in 1871, as locating engi- neer of the Sioux City & St. Paul railway, and in 1881 was stationed here as superintendent of the Sioux City division of the Chicago, St. Paul, Min- neapolis & Omaha railway company. He became impressed by the com- mercial advantages manifest in the location of the city, and upon retiring from railroad service as an occupation, located in Sioux City in 1883, and with Mr. R. D. Hubbard, began the construction of the large plant known as the Linseed Oil Works. This construction was completed in 1884, under Mr. Gere’s direct supervision, and he has since resided here as manager of the business. While in no way connected with real estate investments, he has usually 678 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. been in the councils of the men who have, during these years, been the prin- cipal promoters of the enterprises to which is attributed so much of the growth and advancement of the city, notably, the securing of additional rail- road facilities; and he directed in their order, the engineering operations on the Sioux City & Des Moines (which resulted in the construction of the Manilla line of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul, and the extension to Onawa of the Maple River branch of the Chicago & Northwestern), the Sioux City & Denver (culminating in the Pacific Short Line), and the Sioux City & Northern railroad lines. The subject of this sketch was the youngest son of George Morgan and Sarah Champlin (Parke) Gere, and was born at Wellsburg, Chemung county, N. Y., September 10, 1842. On his father’s side, the descent is traced to George Gere, born in the county of Devon, England, in 1621, who, with a brother two years younger, arrived in Boston in 1635, and who was also one of the early settlers of New London, Conn., where, in 1658, he married Sarah Allyn. Captain Rezin Gere, great-grandfather of Thomas, was killed at Wyom- ing, Pa., in the war of the Revolution. The mother’s family was descended from Thomas Parke, of Wisbeck, in Cambridgeshire, England, 1618. Richard Parke settled in Cambridge, Mass., in 1636, where he owned 640 acres of land upon which Harvard col- lege now stands. Benjamin Parke, great-grandfather of Mr. Gere, was killed in command of a company at the battle of Bunker Hill. His son, Thomas Parke, with his wife, Eunice Champlin (a descendant of the Cham- plin family of Newport, R. I.), was the first settler of Dimock township, Susquehanna county, Pa., and their daughter, Mr. Gere’s mother, was the first child born in that township (1802). Mr. Gere’s father, with his family, removed successively to Dimock town- ship, Pa. (October, 1842), Waukegan, Ill. (May, 1850), Allens Grove, Wis. (March, 1851), Winona, Minn. (July, 1852), and Chatfield, Minn. (July 1854). Thomas attended such public schools as were available on the frontier, and was, later, a student six terms at the Chatfield academy, pay- ing for his tuition with money earned as a flagman in a surveying party sub- dividing government land on the headwaters of the Des Moines river, at the age of sixteen. Having finished the course afforded at that institution, he continued his studies at home until the breaking out of the war in 1861. Volunteering three times, before gaining the consent of his parents to his enlistment, he was mustered into the service as a private in Company B, Fifth regiment, Minnesota volunteers, January 17, 1862, at Fort Snelling, Minn. He was appointed first sergeant, March 5, 1862; second lieutenant, March 24, 1862. His company was stationed at Fort Ridgely during the GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 679 succeeding summer and lost thirty-two men, including its captain, in the Sioux Indian outbreak of that year. He joined the regiment in December, 1862, at Oxford, Miss., and participated in the subsequent campaigns of the Fifteenth and Sixteenth army corps, Army of the Tennessee. Lieut. Gere was appointed first lieutenant, August 20, 1862; regimental adjutant, March 20, 1863; brigade adjutant, March 7, 1864. He was slightly wounded at the battle of Nashville, Tenn., December 15, 1864, but captured a rebel battle-flag in the engagement of the following day, and was presented by the congress of the United States, through the Secretary of War, with a medal of honor, February 22,,at Washington, D. C. He was mustered out of serv- ice April 5, 1865, by reason of expiration of term. Returning to Minne- sota he resumed his studies, in the fall of 1865 accepting a position in an engineering party engaged in ‘surveying lines for a railroad from St. Paul down the Mississippi valley, now the River division of the Chicago, Mil- waukee & St. Paul, and his mind thus being directed naturally toward civil engineering, his studies from this time were most diligently directed to the acquirement of this profession. In the following April, 1866, he engaged as a leveler on the Northern division of the St. Croix & Lake Superior railroad, and in the fall of the same year, as assistant under General G. K. Warren, on the U. S. survey of the Mississippi river from Fort Snelling, Minn., to Hannibal, Mo. During the months of January and February, 1867, he was enrolling clerk of the house of representatives of the state of Minnesota. On May 1, 1867, he engaged as‘assistant engineer in the service of the St. Paul & Sioux City, then Minnesota Valley railroad, serving in that capacity during location and construction of the main line and branches, until January 1, 1878, when he was appointed chief engineer and placed in full charge of maintenance of way and structures. After holding this position seven years, on January 15, 1880, his duties were increased by his appointment as assistant superintend- ent. Upon the consolidation of the St. Paul & Sioux City and West Wis- consin roads, under the title of the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha railway, he was, October 1, 1880, made superintendent of the St. Paul division. On June 1, 1881, he was appointed superintendent of the Sioux City division, with headquarters at Sioux City, and on January 16, 1882, was transferred to the superintendency of the Eastern and Northern divisions, again returning to St. Paul. In December of that year he was notified of his appointment as assistant general superintendent of the entire line, but upon the acquirement by the Chicago & Northwestern railway company of the ownership of the road, and the retirement of Mr. H. H. Porter from the presidency, the general superintendent, Mr. Chas. F. Hatch, also vacated his position, and Mr. Gere tendered his resignation, which was accepted to take effect April 1, 1883. 680 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Believing that equal industry and attention applied to commercial busi- ness promised better results than could be obtained by salaried service for a corporation, Mr. Gere formed a partnership with Mr. R. D. Hubbard, of Mankato, Minn., and as above stated, commenced business in Sioux City in the summer of 1883. Mr. Gere, in addition to the private business in which he is engaged, is president of the Sioux City & Northern railroad company, vice-president of the Sioux City Terminal & Warehouse company, and a member of the board of directors of the Corn Exchange National bank. Mr. Gere married, January 1, 1868, at Howardsville, fll., Miss Florence I. Howard; who died May 12, 1871. On September 16, 1874, he married Miss Mary Emma Shepard, at Mankato, Minn. They have two daughters and two sons. Luruer Wooprorp, §r., farmer, Sergeant’s Bluff, was born in Hartford county, Conn., in September, 1807, a son of Aseph and Almira (Potter) Woodford, natives of Connecticut, of English and Irish descent, respectively. His father followed his vocation, that of a farmer, until his death. Our sub- ject remained on his father’s farm until he attained his majority, receiving his education at a log schoolhouse in the district. When of age he went through the country selling Yankee notions, but finally devoted himself to selling clocks exclusively, and devoted six years to this, traveling with a horse and wagon through Ohio, Indiana, Tennessee, Missouri, Illinois and Iowa. Upon reaching Agency City, Iowa, he engaged in merchandising there, and remained a year, when he sold out, and in the spring of 1855 came to Woodbury county and entered 1,600 acres of land, in what is now section thirty-two, Woodbury township, paying $1.25 an acre. He erected a log house, having a dirt roof and ground floor, and lived there a year, dur- ing which time the land office was opened and Sioux City was laid out, and many of the people who came stopped with him over night. The next spring he built a house of hewed logs, which he lived in four years, then he had Marcus Coombs build the house he now livesin. Mr. Woodford settled in Woodbury county when there was but one other settler there, Mr. Crockwell, and has seen the wonderful development of the county and the transactions that have taken place since its organization, as recorded in the earlier part of this work. In 1833 he married Nancy Bell, and to them have been born eight children, viz.: Almira, Charles, Olive, Frank, Luther, Eli, Nancy and Mary. He and his four sons own about 1,400 acres, all adjoining and under a good state of cultivation. Mr. Woodford is a member of the I. O. O. F., a charter member of the Masonic Lodge at Sioux City, and in politics a republican, having been a whig when that party was in existence. He and his wife are both members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Lurner C. Sanzory, retired lumber merchant, Sioux City, was born in Chester, N. H., April 28, 1827. He is the son of Rufus and Betsey (Fitts) GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 681 Sanborn, the father being a native of and a farmer in New Hampshire. Both parents were of English extraction. The father was engaged in farm- ing and operated a mill to quite an extent, and was very successful in that enterprise. He died at the age of seventy-four years, and his wife at seven- ty-nine years. Luther C. was one of a family of six children—four sons and two daughters. His early days were spent on his father’s farm, where he remained until twenty-seven years of age. As soon as old enough he began assisting his father in his work in the mill. He received a liberal education in the district schools and at the academy at Hampton Falls. It was in Feb- ruary, 1856, that he left his native state and came to Sioux City, then a town consisting of two boarding houses and about twenty people. He first worked here as a day laborer, but in April assisted in surveying the town, and later on was engaged by the Town Site company. He then leased a saw-mill, and formed a partnership with Joseph B. Flag, which continued up to the spring of 1857, when Mr. J. L. Follett succeeded Mr. Flag. For the first few years they engaged ‘entirely in the saw-mill business, but during the con- struction of the Sioux City & Pacific railroad they began purchasing foreign lumber and owned the first lumber yard in the town. The firm still exists and looks after their business interests, but retired from active work in 1888. In the year 1861 Mr. Sanborn returned to his native state and married Augusta, daughter of Thomas Woodbury, of Summerville, Mass. To them were born two children, one of whom, Woodbury, is now a clerk in the Iowa Savings bank. Mr. Sanborn’s first wife dying, he took for his second wife, Mary Helen, daughter of George Green, of Waltham, Mass. One child, now deceased, was born to them. Mr. Sanborn was a member of the first city council for eight or ten years, having first been appointed: to fill a vacancy caused by the death of a member, and for ten years was a member of the school board. He is a deacon in the Episcopal church. In politics he is a democrat. Jupson L. Fouert, retired lumber merchant, of the firm of Sanborn & Follett, Sioux City, was born in Chenango county, N. Y., February 18, 1831. ‘He is a son of Uzial Follett, who was a successful farmer of that county. He was married to Fannie Miller, and to them were born three sons, all liv- ing and of whom our subject is the eldest. Both his brothers are residents of New York state, one being a judge in the courts of the state and the other residing on the old homestead. Our subject spent his early life on his father’s farm until twenty-one years of age. His educational advantages were confined to those afforded by the district schools and an academy. Mr. Follett came west in September, 1851, and taught school near Freeport, Ill, one term in the winter of 1851 and 1852. He traveled in Wisconsin, Towa and Illinois the following spring and summer, then returned to Che- 682 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. nango county, N. Y., in September, and worked a farm on shares and taught school until the fall of 1856, when he came to Iowa, and located in Sioux City, and in the next year engaged in the lumber business with Mr. San- born as a partner. The firm has continued since that time, and, although retired from active business, are still engaged in settling up many affairs, naturally incurred after a long and successful business career. Although engaged chiefly in the lumber business, this firm has been very successful in the buying and selling of real estate. In 1867 Mr. Follett was married in New York to Viola Wilkwin, of Hamilton, N. Y. Their family consists of two children, J. L. Follett, Jy., and Mary. Mr. Follett’s success can be attributed to his practical knowledge of the lumber business and constant application thereto. He has held the office of mayor of Sioux City, having been elected on the republican ticket. <2 W. H. Livineston is the oldest dry goods merchant of Sioux City. He was born in Grundy county, Mo. His young days were spent in his native county, and in 1860 he came to Sioux City. The following year he began business at this place, then a small village of 400 souls. His stock consists of a general line of dry goods . and carpets. He now occupies a very fine four-story building and gives employment to some thirty or- forty clerks. My. Livingston has also dealt i in real estate. He jis the. father of two sons, William H., Jr., and Harry. He is an adherent of democracy. Epwin *ineaaty Kirk, postmaster, Sioux City, is a native of Ottawa county, Ohio, and was born April 17, 1834. His parents, Nathan and Catherine (White) Kirk, were natives of Cecil county, Md., descended from the early Quaker residents of that county and Chester county, Pa, the former of Irish and the latter of English extraction. Our subject remained on the home farm until seventeen years old, attending the common schools and academy at Port Clinton. He was then employed in a store, at $100 per year and board, and at the end of two years this salary was doubled. He continued with the same employer till-his pay was increased to $400 per year. He then took a course of book-keeping and was tendered a professor- ship in a business college, but preferred private employment and entered a wholesale book house at Buffalo, N. Y., as book-keeper. After casting his first presidential vote for J. C. Fremont in 1856, he started for Iowa to join the famous John Brown expedition to Kansas. Being delayed en route by illness, he failed to overtake the party, and located at Strgeant’s Bluff, where he engaged in farming and building. He removed to Sioux City in 1858, and engaged in mercantile business here till 1873, with the exception of the four years of civil war, during which time he was sutler of the Twenty- ninth Iowa regiment in the field. In 1873 he organized the first paid fire department of the city, of which he was chief for two years. He was deputy Phoia. by Eenellr. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 685 county treasurer three years, and then served as deputy United States revenue collector until his appointment as postmaster in 1878. He served nearly eight years in this capacity, until removed by President Cleveland for partisan reasons, and was reappointed by President Harrison in September, 1889. He served one term in the city council, during which he was presi- dent pro tem. Mr. Kirk is a member of the Masonic order, of Knights Templar degree. He was married in 1859 to Mary P. Sawyers, a native of Giles county, Tenn. They have four living children, viz.: William A., Hd- win L., Frank R. and Mary. Charles E., the third child born to them, is deceased. Witiiam P. Homan, farmer, Sergeant’s Bluff, was born in Union town- ship, Tolland county, Conn., February 20, 1813, and is a son of Rufus and Lucy -(Eddy) Holman, both natives of Tolland county, but of English descent. Rufus Holman was a farmer while in Connecticut, but in 1833 he removed to Vermont, where he lived about ten years, and carried on the cooperage busi- ness, but upon his return to his native state he retired from active work. William P. Holman was reared on the farm in Connecticut, and received his education in the district school, the building being of logs, and the benches of slabs. At the age of eighteen he started to learn the blacksmith trade, which he followed four years. While in Vermont he went into the tan- ning and shoemaking business, which he followed four years. Upon returning to Connecticut, he followed the trade of a painter for about fifteen years. In the fall of 1855 he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, making the trip by rail as far as Illinois, and from there to Independence, Iowa, by stage coach. At the latter place he bought horses and a wagon and started across the country to look for a good location. He located in Sergeant’s Bluff, and erected, that fall, the first frame house built in the county. He returned to Connecticut, and in April, 1856, moved his family to their new home, and commenced keep- ing hotel and a stage station for the line of stages between Council Bluffs and Sioux City, operated by that pioneer company, the Western Stage company. He continued to keep this as a hotel until the railroads came through. At the same time he was conducting the hotel, he was engaged in farming and deal- ing in live stock, he having sold the first fifty steers that were shipped from his county to Chicago. He has seen the Indians, as well as the deer, elk, buffalo and wolves driven out to make way for civilization, as he was among the first nine or ten settlers in the western half of the county. He has wit- nessed the wonderful growth of Sioux City, as well as the whole county; since his settling here the railroads have been laid, the telegraph and elec- tric cars have been introduced, and the factories have been built and oper- ated, and he has done much toward making the county what it now is. In 1837 he married Lois B. Grant, and of their five children three are now liv- 36 686 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. ing: Charles J., Albert M. and Ella. His first wife died in July; 1856, and in September, 1857, he married Caroline Mattison, and they have two children: Milton P. and Edward H. In politics Mr. Holman is a republican, and has held all the township offices. He was county supervisor four years, and was one of the three who were instrumental in buying the court-house site. He and his wife are both members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Masor J. T. Cueney, real estate dealer, is a native of New Hampshire, and was born in 1830. He is of purely American nationality, both parents, Person and Annie W. (Morrison) Cheney, being thoroughly American. He was educated at Newbury college, Vermont. In 1856 he left his native state, and settled in Dixon, Ill, and made his home there until 1877. In 1861, at his country’s call he enlisted in Battery F, First Illinois artillery, and in 1863 was promoted to major, and in 1864 to lieutenant-colonel. In 1865 he left the field, having gone through the Atlanta campaign, and served through the entire war. He then returned to Dixon, where he re- “mained until 1877, when he came to Sioux City. For a number of years Mr. Cheney was identified with the Merchant’s hotel, but is now half owner in the Booge hotel. In 1882 he purchased land at Morning Side, and has four additions in that suburb: Cheney’s First Addition, Cheney’s Second Addition, Morning Side Villa and Lakeport. He is married and has two children, and owns a beautiful home at Morning Side and 200 acres of land. He has been very successful through life, which success was due alone to his own integrity, honesty and labor. Mr. Cheney ranks among the ener- getic, pushing, business men of Sioux City. He is a member of the Uni- tarian church, the Masonic order and the G. A. R.; a republican in politics. Captain AnpREW Jackson Mintarp was born in Saratoga county, N. Y., May 23, 1834, and hence is fifty-seven years of age. His father’s name was Daniel. His mother’s maiden name was Henrietta Miller. Mr. Millard was the only issue of this union. His mother died when he was fourteen years old. He was educated in Saratoga county, where he resided until he was twenty-two years old, when he came to Sioux City, arriving here November 22, 1856. During three years of his life in New York, he was a sailor on board the ocean fore-and-aft schooner, John Wesley, Capt. C. T. Sweet, aris- ing from able seaman to the honorable position of second mate. After these three years of life on “the wild waste of waters,” Capt. Millard went to Ballston Spa, N. Y., where he learned the trade of carpenter and joiner with his uncle, James M. Miller, a noted builder. After the expiration of his term of service, and after becoming a thorough mechanic, young Millard worked at his trade at Saratoga Springs, N. Y., from whence he moved west- ward, halting at Sioux City, as above stated. He has resided. here, except the four years that he carried arms in defense of his country, ever since. He GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 687 enlisted in the state service, under Capt. Tripp, in the autumn of 1861, and served one year on the frontier. Then Judge Hubbard (under a special act of congress) ordered Capt. Millard to raise a company for a service of three years. In less than four weeks he had enlisted a full cavalry company, 103 men, and was unanimously chosen captain, which position he maintained until the close of the war. He was honored with the command of his depart- ment about nine months and until relieved by Gen. John K. Cook, of Spring- field, Il., who was superseded by Gen. Alfred Sully. Capt. Millard, during his service, had command of his troops while engaged in the fight at White Stone Hill, D. T., and had the high honor of leading the soldiers who acted as special body-guard for Gen. Sully, his command including two companies _and a battery of five guns. During this campaign Capt. Millard captured 136 Indian prisoners, including the noted Sioux chief, “Big-Head” (the famous chief who committed the outrage upon the miners’ “ flat-boat,” and who was one of the most blood-thirsty Indians known during the war). He helped to build Fort Sully, and drove the first stakes. In the fall of 1863 the Captain returned to Sioux City. In the spring of 1864 still another expedition was fitted out against the Sioux. The command of this expedition was entrusted to Gen. Sully, who named Vermillion, D. T., as his headquarters, from whence all military orders were issued. Capt. Millard was in command of the northwestern district. When Gen. Sully returned, Capt. Millard’s command was mustered out, although the Captain himself, through some oversight, was not formally discharged. He then returned to Sioux City and re-established himself in his present business, that of under- taker and embalmer, at 822 Pearl street, residence 823 Douglas street. He came from a patriotic stock, a worthy son of worthy sires. His grandfather, Daniel Millard, was under the command of the famous Benedict Arnold, who led the terrible charge against the British troops in the battle of Bemis’ Heights, commonly called the battle of Saratoga, wherein the British lines were broken and their army annihilated. The brother of Capt. Millard’s grandfather, Basilie Millard, was captured with Ethan Allen at Ticonderoga, taken to England, and returned with his old commander, cov- ered with honors. In his domestic relations Capt. Millard has been singu- larly fortunate. October 22, 1864, he married Miss Mary Elizabeth, daugh- ter of John and Margaret Reeves, of Fort Edward, N. Y. The only living child of this happy union is Miss Annie C., who was born in Sioux City, August 13, 1875. The Captain is still engaged in the business of undertak- ing at his place, 822 Pearl street, and welcomes his friends with a cordiality that comes straight from the heart. It is needless to add that the old pio- neer is universally respected, and that he has no enemies. He was made a Mason in 1861, and has attained the thirty-second degree, Scottish rite. He 688 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. has served four times as master of his lodge. For nearly thirty-five years he has been an Odd Fellow, and is also a member of the Knights of Pythias. Tuomas Jerrerson Kinxarp (deceased), whose pioneer life in Sioux City dates back among the fifties, was born in Monongalia county, W. Va., August 12, 1825. He was the youngest of eight children that made happy the home of David and Frances (Bowen) Kinkaid, natives of Ireland. His early education was received in the public schools of Monongalia county, which he attended until fifteen years of age, when he was left an orphan by the death of both of his parents. He was taken to the home of an uncle, where he remained one year and six months, then came to Zanesville, Mus- kingum county, Ohio, and stayed there four years, during which period he worked at the carpenter’s trade and attended evening school. In the sum- mer of 1845 he came to Cincinnati, where he continued at his trade but a short time, then entered a large business house, where he served as clerk until the spring of 1856, when he came to Sioux City. Here he started Sioux City’s first lumber yard, bringing lumber by way of water from Cin- cinnati. He also had four frame houses so constructed in Ohio that when they arrived in Sioux City all that was necessary to make them ready to live in was to put them together. These were the first frame houses here, and are still to be found among the many residences that have been built in this most rapidly growing city. He continued business until 1869, when he sold- out and lived a partly retired life until his death, which occurred April 2, 1891. He has been connected with many other enterprises that have done their share toward the upbuilding of the town. He also dealt largely in real estate, having at one time upward of 2,700 acres in this vicinity, four of which are now in the heart of the town. Mr. Kinkaid was united in marriage, March 5, 1846, to Miss Mance Bowers, of Ohio, whose ancestors have lived in this country some generations. Three children were born to this union, namely: Francis and Susan, both deceased, and David N. Mrs. Kinkaid died December 11, 1887. Amos R. Appieron (deceased). Among the names of those who were connected with the early history of Sioux City and vicinity few were more highly esteemed or better known than that of Amos R. Appleton. He was born, December 23, 1819, in Elizabeth, N. J., a son of William and Margaret Appleton, both natives of the same state. His early years were spent in Geneseo, Livingston county, N. Y. and Toronto, Canada, at both of which places he attended school. His father died before they left New York state, and when he was about nineteen years of age he lost his mother, and was then obliged to abandon his studies and assist his elder brother in providing for the younger children. They moved to Michigan, where he took up the trade of a carpenter, at which he worked for the next six or seven years. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 689 He then went to Toledo, Ohio, where he worked at ship-building for three years, then went to Peru, Ind, where he worked as contractor and builder until the fall of 1857. In September of that year he married Hannah Sar- ville, of Peru, and they settled in Sioux City, where he opened a drug and book store, which business he carried on until the spring of 1861, having been postmaster, as well, the last year. In the spring of 1862 he entered into the service of his country as a sutler, which position he retained until June, 1865, when he received his discharge and returned home. He engaged in the dry goods business, but carried that on for a year only, when he sold out and built the Floyd flour mills. This was the nucleus for Sioux City’s large flouring mills and grain elevators of the present day. In the fall of 1868 he was elected a member of the Iowa legislature on the republican ticket, so he sold his holdings here to Hedges Bros. and went to Des Moines, where he worked hard for his party. At the expiration of his term of office he returned to Sioux City, where he lived a retired life until 1876. He then went to Philadelphia and spent two months at the Centennial exhi- bition. His health being somewhat impaired he spent the winter in Florida. Upon his return to Sioux City in the spring he opened a commission house, which he continued until January, 1879, when he was taken sick with malarial fever. This brought on other diseases, from which his death oc- curred June 29, 1880. His wife survives him, and has devoted herself to the care of their three children: Oliver, Maggie and Sarville. In politics Mr. Appleton supported the views of the republican party. Turopuite Brueuier, farmer, P. O. Salix, was the first white man to settle in Woodbury county. He is a son of Madrid and Elizabeth (Keep) Bruguier, and was born in Canada August 31,1818. His father, who passed his life in Canada, was of French descent, and was engaged in farming at the time of his death, about 1839. His mother, who wasof English descent, survived her husband until 1868. Both were members of the Catholic church. Theo- phile Bruguier grew to manhood on the farm in Canada, residing with his parents until twenty years of age, when he left home and started out to make his own living. He started for St. Louis, Mo., on October 14, 1835, and traveling by boat and stages reached St. Louis November 1, there being no railroads there then. On the nineteenth of the same month he was em- ployed by the American Fur Co., of that place, to go to Ft. Pierre, Dak., to trade with the Indians. He remained with this company for two years and a half, then went among the Indians and was engaged trading with them on his own account for the next fourteen years. He got to knowthem thoroughly, and it is said that he is the only living white man that ever dared whip an Indian and yet stay among them. After his fourteen years’ experience on his own account he was engaged by the Fur Company again and remained 690 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. with them two years engaged in trading with the Indians. In 1849 he severed his engagement with the company, and came down to the mouth of the Big Sioux river, about three and a half miles above Sioux City, and took up a claim of 160 acres of land where Sioux City now stands. This he cleared and worked for two years, 1850 and 1851, then, as the population was increasing quite rapidly near him, he gave the land to Joe Leonais, a Cana- dian. He continued to reside on the farm at the mouth of the Big Sioux, engaged in farming for thirty years. He then came to where he now resides, section ten, Lakeport township, and purchased 118 acres of land, to which he has since added 400. This large farm he has under an excellent state of culti- vation, and stocked with a good grade of live stock of all kinds. Mr. Bruguier was twice married, his first wife, who died in 1857, bore him eight children, namely: Eugene, Rosa A., Julia, John, William, Samuel, Mary and Selina. In 1862 he married Victoria Turnott, of St. Louis. Both are mem- bers of the Catholic church. The grand development of the country, the introduction of the railroads, the telegraph, and the wonderful growth of Sioux City, have all been since the settlement here of Mr. Bruguier. He was the first person to build a house in Sioux-City, getting the logs and hewing them himself. In politics he is a stanch democrat. Tuomas Green, brick manufacturer, Sioux City, is a son of Patrick and Ellen (Higgins) Green, and was born in Ireland in the year 1837. He im- migrated to this country with the other members of the family in 1849, and located at Taunton, Mass. His father, who was a farmer in the old country, desiring to get a farm of his own, moved to Dixon county, Neb., and took a claim on South creek, near Ponca, in the spring of 1857, six months before the land was surveyed by the government. The subject of our sketch stayed with the family, helping to open up the new farm, until the following spring when he left home to do for himself, little dreaming that he was bidding a last farewell to his father and mother. He went to St. Joseph, Mo., where he stayed about a year, thence to Natchez, Miss., where he remained another year, working at brickmaking in both places. About this time the war of the rebellion broke out, and, being carried away by the excitement of the times, he was induced to enter the Confederate service, in which he served until taken prisoner at Mission Ridge. The prisoners taken at that time were sent to Rock Island, Ill. There were about 8,000 collected there in a short time, among them many whose sentiments were really with the north, and who never heartily sympathized with the rebellion. From this class was organized a regiment for service on the plains against the Indians, called the Third United States volunteer infantry. Mr. Green was a sergeant in Company B, in this regiment, and served until honorably mustered out in GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 691 the fall of 1865. Early in the following spring he went to Denver, Colo., and resumed his old business of manufacturing brick. He, in partnership with a party named Watkins, made the first brick ever made in Boulder City, Colo. After a varied experience of successes and reverses he came to Sioux City in the spring of 1869, and went into the brick business at the suburb which is now called Greenville. The name was given to the place soon after he located there. May 2, 1876, he married Miss Helena O’Con- nor, daughter of Capt. O’Connor, of Homer, Neb. He has always taken a leading part in the brick business in Sioux City since locating here, being at the present time general manager and treasurer of the Sioux City Brick and Tile Works, the largest works of the kind in the state, and an institution which he was principally instrumental in putting in its present prosperous condition. Mr. and Mrs. Green have been blessed with a family of six children, all of whom are living except one: Ella C., born April 15, 1877; Cornelius F., born July 6, 1879; Thomas W., born September 25, 1881; Charles E., deceased; Catherine M., born April 15, 1886, and Julia L., born September 4, 1888. Mr. Green is a member of the Roman Catholic church, and in his political views upholds the principles of the republican party. ExisHa Wittiams Sxinner, real estate dealer, Sioux City, is numbered among the most successful men of that thriving and progressive city. He was born in Lanesboro, Susquehanna county, Pa., September 8, 1834, and is a son of Jacob and Polly (Winters) Skinner, the latter a native of Susque- hanna county, of English descent. The paternal ancestors of our subject were among the earliest English settlers of Rhode Island. Thence the family spread to Connecticut, and Israel Skinner, grandfather of Elisha, was born in Orange county, N. Y., in 1776. He had an elder brother and other relatives who served as Revolutionary soldiers. Jacob Skinner, above men- tioned, was also a native of Orange county. He was admitted to the bar in Pennsylvania, and removed, with his family, to Palmyra, Wis., in 1847, where he practiced his profession. Thence he removed, in 1858, to Webster City, this state, where he died in 1882, aged seventy-three years. Elisha W. Skinner received his education in the public schools, except one term at the Wisconsin State university. In February, 1849, he entered the Watertown (Wis.) “ Chronicle” office as apprentice, and four years later became owner of a half interest in that journal. In 1855, in company with D. J. Powers, he purchased the Wisconsin “ Farmer,” which they published three years at Madison, raising the circulation from three thousand to eight thousand copies. Mr. Skinner then purchased the Mendota Agricultural works, which he operated for fourteen years, part of the time having a part- ner, for the manufacture of sorghum mills, reapers and other machinery. He established an agency at Sioux City in 1870, and two years later removed 692 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. here with his family. He conducted an extensive machinery trade here till 1878, since which time he has engaged exclusively in real estate operations. He handles only property which he owns wholly or in part. Besides other valuable tracts in city and country, he owns six thousand acres in one body on the Missouri bottoms, lying in Woodbury and Monona counties. In 1890, he opened a ditch one and a half miles long, with an average width of thirty and depth of eight feet, conveying the waters of Wolf creek into the channel of West Fork, thus draining and improving much valuable land. He is a stockholder in Sioux City banks and railroad companies, a director of the Hornick Drug company, and Inter-State Building and Loan Association. For many years he was secretary of the Sioux City Board of Trade, and is a life member of the Wisconsin State Agricultural society and State Historical society, having been long a curator in the latter. Politically he is a repub- lican, and was but once a candidate for office, when he was defeated by four- teen votes for alderman in the first ward of Madison, which then had 150 democratic majority. During the Civil war he was active in caring for soldiers’ families, and in various ways sustaining the national government. In one year he paid over $12,000 in taxes for this purpose. He is a member of the Hawkeye club, and trustee of the First Congregational church. Mr. Skinner was married December 7, 1858, to Miss Clara G. Turner, who was born in Adams, Jefferson county, N. Y., and is a daughter of Hon. Peter H. Turner. The latter settled in Palmyra, Wis., in 1844, and was a member of the first constitutional convention of that state, and a member of its first state senate. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Skinner includes two sons and two daughters, all of whom reside in this county. J essie G., the eldest, is the wife of Will. D. Turner, of Sioux City. Dwight H. married Catherine I, daughter of ex-Lieut. Gov. J. M. Bingham, of Wisconsin, and dwells on the Skinner ranch, in Willow township. Allan W. and Fanny L. reside with their parents, the former being his father’s assistant in business. James P. Watt, contractor and builder, Sioux City, was born in Lowell, Mass., March 14, 1839, and is the eldest son of Thomas and Mary (Sullivan) Wall, natives of Ireland, the former of whom came to America in 1828, and the latter in 1822, she being then but three years of age. Mr. James P. Wall came to Sioux City May 16, 1866, and has ever since been engaged in contracting and building; his first job was laying the foundation of Post- master Kirk’s residence. He did the mason work on the Hotel Garretson, First National bank, Academy of Music, and the residences of Geo. Weare and H. A. Jandt, also on the Silberhorn and Haakinson packing plants. In ten months, beginning June, 1887, he laid fourteen million brick. He built entire the plant of Heller & Sons, and the Sioux City Dressed Beef and Can- ning Factory, also the fine residence of D. T. Hedges. His most difficult PHOTO BY GENELLI, GENEALOGY. AND BIOGRAPHY. 695 contract, as well as his most successful one, was the remodeling of the old Hubbard house, into the present Hotel Booge, without interrupting for a day the business of that hostelry. In 1872 he built the shops of the C., St. P., M. & O. railway. In 1879 he was employed by the government in erecting buildings at Ft. Assinaboine, Mont., and in 1888 his present fine home was erected. In all his extensive operations there has never been an occasion for the intervention of the law in settling his accounts. He is the owner of five houses and numerous lots throughout the city. His success is due to his great industry and skill as a builder. He isa director of the Sioux City & Northern railway, Northern Land company, Rathbun Wheel Scraper Manu- facturing company and Home Savings bank, and has served as township trustee, was seven years amember of the city council and three years chief of the fire department, and takes.a deep interest in all that tends to build up the city. He is a member of the A. O. H., of which he was president four years, and of St. Mary’s Roman Catholic church. Politically he is a repub- lican, despite which fact he served in the council from a democratic ward, and in March, 1891, was elected alderman at large. Mr. Wall was married May 1, 1864, in Pekin, Ill, to Miss Mary Brady, who was born in Ireland, and came to America when eight years old. A son and five daughters have blessed this union, all, save one, now living, viz.: John P., Mary Helen (wife of D. P. Magner), Catherine Louisa (deceased), Hannah Cecelia, Lizzie Vic- torine and Alice. His son is a mason builder, and resides next door to his parents. Mr. Wall has been the architect of his own fortune financially, and politically, few men in Sioux City are more popular than James P. Wall. Morris Leacu Jonss, merchant, Smithland, is one of the earliest settlers resident in Woodbury county, and has been a tax-payer since its first assess- ment list. He was born in Marathon, Cortland county, N. Y., September 4, 1832, and is the third of eleven children born to Thomas and Hannah (Adams) Jones, both natives of Cortland county. The father passed his entire life in Marathon, dying within sight of his birthplace. His grand- father, James Jones, was born within four miles of Boston, and was the son of a Welshman, who settled there at a very early period. The mother of our subject was a descendant of Samuel Adams, of Massachussetts. Morris L. Jones is descended from very long lived families, and of the ten children in his father’s family who grew to maturity, nine are now liy- ing (May, 1890). Soon after attaining the age of eighteen years, young Morris bought his time till his majority of his father, after the custom of those times, and worked eight months on a farm, at twelve and one-half dol- lars per month, to earn the requisite $100 for payment. He spent the winter succeeding his majority in Illinois, and came to Iowa in the spring of 696 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. 1854. After spending the summer on the Missouri, he settled at Smithland. His first farm was in Liston township, and was retained until recently. In 1857 he removed to St. James, Cedar county, Neb., and two years later to Colorado, where he remained eight years, chiefly engaged in farming. For eight years he kept a hardware store at Tamaroa, Perry county, IIL, and returned to Smithland in 1876. He is now operating the largest general store in the town, and is interested in other local establishments, beside be- ing the possessor of valuable lands. He has experienced many hardships of frontier life, and is now enjoying the fruits of his labor. He is a master Mason, and leans toward Universalism in religious faith. He acts with the republican party, and has been called upon to serve the public in various capacities, viz.: town clerk, justice of the peace, and county supervisor. Mr. Jones has been thrice married, and has one child as the result of each union. The first wedding occurred in 1857, the bride being Louise Smith, who died in 1865. Two years later he married Jerusha Spencer, nee Webster, a native of the same township as himself. She died here in 1869. Mr. Jones’ present spouse, to whom he was joined in 1880, was Miss Eva Harris. Fol- lowing are the names of his children: Francis M. (the first white child born in Cedar county, Neb.), Grace and Myra. N. Dzsparors, retired contractor, Sioux City, is of French extraction, and was born in 1845 at Montreal, Canada. His education was received in the public schools of his native city. Mr. Desparois was largely engaged in the construction of railroads until a few years ago. He was engaged on the Northwestern system and on the Fremont, Elkhorn & Missouri Valley. He first came to this place in 1867, but located here permanently in 1872. In 1888 he built the Metropolitan block, one of the handsomest in the city, a six- story brick and terra-cotta structure. Mr. Desparois has been a very suc- cessful man, and has made valuable investments, although they were made with no thought of speculations. In 1876 he married Mary Conlon, of San- dusky, Ohio, of Irish parentage, and to them four children have been born— three sons and a daughter. Mr. Desparoisis a member of the Roman Catho- lic church. Carr. B. F. Bersworrs, Le Mars, was born in Somerset county, Md., May 27, 1817, and was the third child of B. F. and Rebecca (Wilson) Bets- worth. His father was reared in Baltimore and was by trade a shoemaker, and his mother’s people were natives of Maryland and among the pioneers of that state. She was one of eight children—four boys and four girls. Capt. Betsworth received only a limited education, and when seventeen years of age became an apprentice in the ship calker’s trade, and three years later he was engaged principally in the oyster and fruit trade, and was owner of the schooner of which he was captain for fifteen years. His home had been GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 697 at Bergen Point, opposite New York city, but in 1856 he came to St. Charles, Kane county, Ill, and became a farmer, working 353 acres of land. In 1866 he came to Le Mars and became the first settler of what is now the city of Le Mars, broke the first ground, and built the first log house and the first two frame houses, one of which is now owned by David Gibbs and located on Franklin street; the second was built for Amos Marvin, but was destroyed by fire. It was located near where the St. Joseph Catholic church now stands. When the route of the Illinois Central railroad was surveyed through here, Mr. Betsworth owned the southwest quarter of section nine, and was induced by the corporation to exchange his farm for another tract, receiving from them 240 acres in section seventeen, for his 160 acres. He removed to this place, where he remained until 1887, devoting his time and energy to agri- cultural pursuits, but during the latter year he erected a handsome and im- posing residence in Le Mars, which he has since made his home. The Cap- tain also erected the first school house here, and his eldest son was the first teacher in it. December 28, 1839, he married Alvira Dorothy, of Somerset county, Md., and to them fifteen children were born: John, Cinderella (now Mrs. Henry Cummickel), Mary E. (now Mrs. H. Hammond), Gertrude (now Mrs. D. P. Hammond), Joshua, Benjamin, Stephen, Anthony, William, Jas- per, Laura (now Mrs. David Prescott), Lorin (Laura and Lorin were twins), Tra, Allen and Warren. Of these Joshua, Benjamin and Lorin are deceased, while the rest are nicely located and enjoying a fair proportion of this world’s goods. Mr. and Mrs. Betsworth are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and now in their declining years, having by their own energy suc- ceeded in securing to themselves a handsome competency, have retired from active business life, and nothing pleases the Captain more than to recount his early experiences. Wii1am Surrs, justice of the peace, Danbury, is a native of England, born at Newcastle, Underhyne Staffordshire, September 5, 1834. His grand- father, John Smith, was a hatter at Newcastle. In 1848 his parents, Will- iam and Edna (Rowley) Smith, came with their family to America and set- tled in Columbia county, Wis., where the father soon died in his forty-fourth year. His widow passed the balance of her days there, dying in 1884 at the age of seventy-six. Our subject is the second of their five children who grew to maturity. He remained on the farm with his mother till 1856, when he married and began farming on his own account. His wife, Catharine, is a native of Glasgow, Scotland, and a daughter of Francis and Rose (Hoy) O’Neil, of Irish and Scotch birth, respectively. In 1865 Mr. Smith removed to Franklin county, this state, and to Monona county a year later. He took a homestead in Cooper township, and five years later sold this and bought a farm on section twenty-two, Liston township. From 1875 to 1879 he carried 698 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. mail between Danbury and Denison. He was appointed postmaster at Dan- bury under the Cleveland administration in June, 1885, and held that posi- tion till September, 1889. For fourteen years he has served as justice of the peace, being twelve years consecutively in that position. He has also served as secretary of the Liston district school board for many years. He has always affiliated with the democratic party, and is a member of the Masonic order. In religious faith he is a Universalist. Of his thirteen children, nine are living, viz.: William John, Samuel R., Jessie Naomi, Henry Percy, Kate A., Agnes M., Charles A., Eylfa Maud and Ruth. The second, Rose E., died at the age of nineteen, and Frank, the fourth, at seventeen. O. C. Trepway, attorney, Sioux City, son of R. R. Tredway, was born at Warren, Herkimer county, N. Y., in 1829. His father was a large land holder and practiced law in the lower courts, and his son naturally adopted the legal profession. O. C. Tredway received a common-school education in Herkimer county schools, after which he attended the Oxford academy in Chenango county, N. Y. He graduated from Union college at Schenectady, N. Y., in 1853. Among the corps of instructors were many of the noted educators of the day, and he read law with Judge Graves and Charles A. Burton, the latter of whom was associated in the practice of law with Ros- coe Conklin, Francis Kernan, Philip Gridley and others of a national repu- tation. He was admitted to the bar in January, 1855, and practiced at Her- kimer till 1857. In the spring of that year he moved to Sioux City, arriv- ing, May 4, at his present home, where he has since been engaged in the practice of his profession. He received in one case the largest fee ever paid an attorney in Iowa, $87,000, it being a contest over a quarter section of land. He was also chief counsel in the Haddock-Ormsdorf case, one of the most important ever tried in Iowa, and he won his client’s case against the combined power of church and state. He is one of the pioneers of Sioux City, and feels much interest in all pertaining to its prosperity. He is closely identified with the Sioux City Automatic Refrigerator company, and is interested with W. H. Livingston in the dry goods business. On December 24, 1862, he married Elizabeth, daughter of Homer Bishop, of Cedar Rap- ids, one of the founders of that city, and at one time owner of one-third of the town. A. V. Larimer, ex-judge and capitalist, was born in Bellefonte, Pa., in 1829. He attended Allegheny college, read law with ex-governor Curtin of Pennsylvania, and attended Judge McCartney’s Law school at Easton, Pa., for one year, being admitted to the bar in 1852. He removed to Council Bluffs, Iowa, in March, 1854. In the fall of 1854 he was elected prosecuting attorney, and upon the resignation of the county and probate judge became judge for two years. In 1857 he was elected to the state leg- GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 699 islature and practiced his profession at Council Bluffs until 1876, when he engaged in the stock business in Wyoming territory. In 1886 he invested _ in Morning Side real estate, at Sioux City, with A. M. & J. A. Jackson, also in West Sioux City property with F. T. Evans. Mr. Larimer is now a resi- dent of Sioux City. He belongs to the Masonic order, and has always been a democrat in polities. Hon. H. C. Curtis, president of the Security bank, Le Mars, was born on a farm near Albion, Orleans county, N. Y., on the fifth day of December, 1841, a son of Newman and Maria Curtis, the former of Scotch and the lat- ter of Dutch descent. He was reared a farmer’s boy, and lived and worked on a farm until he was about twenty-seven years old. When he was twelve years of age he came with his parents and the other members of the family to Iowa, settling on a farm in Buchanan county, near Independence. His father died in 1859, and Mr. Curtis, then having a very meager education, had to go to work on a farm by the month to get money with which to go to college and educate himself. In the fall of 1860 he began school at the Fayette university, in Fayette county, Iowa. In order to pay his way, he rang the college bell for $12 per term, chopped wood nights, mornings and Saturdays, and in this way could barely meet his bills and continue his education. In September, 1861, while at the university, he enlisted in Company C, Twelfth Iowa regiment, to go to the front and help put down the rebellion. He continued in the war, re-enlisting as a veteran, from that time till he was mustered out in February, 1866. During the war he was a private, and was among the prisoners at Shiloh. He, with his company and regiment, partic- ipated in many of the great battles of the war, from Fort Donelson to Span- ish Fort. After the war Mr. Curtis resumed school at Fayette university, continuing farming during the summers, till the spring of 1868, when he began reading law with Senator Hart of Independence. He showed an apt- ness and remarkable talent for the law, especially in the preparation and trial of jury cases. Soon after beginning to read law, he was very successful in the trial of cases, winning on an average three out of four cases. In the spring of 1870 he was admitted to the bar of the state by Sylvester Bagg, pre- siding judge of the then circuit court in and for Buchanan county. After his admission to the bar he went into practice, where he was admitted, and con- tinued in practice there until May, 1872, when he came to and began the practice of his profession at Le Mars, Plymouth county, Iowa. He contin- ued a successful practitioner of the law there till the fall of 1888, when, on account of failing health, he was compelled to give up a large and lucrative practice. Mr. Curtis is what may be called a self-made man, and has been most. suc- 700 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. cessful in every undertaking of life. He is and has been a persistent and determined worker, full of courage, ambition and hope. Honest to a penny, but wanting his own, a man of splendid judgment, keen foresight, he is a great judge of men and human nature. It is said that from 1874 to 1886, he worked in his law office and out of it, on an average of fifteen hours per day, and many times until twelve o’clock at night. He would sacrifice everything for a client. In politics he is a conservative republican, has held the posi- tions of county attorney and member of the house of representatives of his state, and has been quite prominent in politics for many years. He has been financially successful; has made money and saved it. He is one of the largest land-owners in his county. He is president of the Security bank, of which institution he is a half owner. On November 14, 1872, Mr. Curtis married Addie Griffith, and to them was born one child, Florence M. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Joun 8. Exuis, an old settler now residing in Kingsley, Plymouth county, Iowa, was born in Clinton county, Penn., May 80, 1828, and is a son of John and Ann (Strawbridge) Ellis. Both parents were natives of Pennsylvania, the father of French descent, and the mother of English descent. The father was by occupation a miller, but spent the latter part of his life in farming, which pursuit he followed in Clinton county, Iowa, having moved there from Pennsylvania in 1856. He died in 1865, and: his wife in 1876; both were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. John 8. was born and reared in Clinton county, Pa., where he received a common-school education. When he left home he went to Jefferson county, Pa., where he engaged in the tailoring business, and later was appointed sheriff of. the same county, which office he held three years. He continued to reside there until 1855, when he came to Iowa, and located in Clinton county, where he engaged in farming, grain and mercantile business until 1872, when he came to Woodbury county, and resided in Correctionville until 1883, when he came to Kingsley, his present residence. Mr. Ellis is now engaged in the real estate, loan and insurance business. He married Margaret Barr, of Brookville, Pa., December, 1848, and they have had eight children born to them, five of whom are living: Ann (wife of J. F. Varner, merchant, Kingsley); Robert B., Kingsley; Augustus L., attorney, Gettysburg; Minnie (wife of Rev. George W. Kliver, who resides in North Dakota); Thomas H., and three deceased—an infant, Mary and Willie. Mr. Ellis and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and are well known and respected by all. He was the first mayor of Correctionville. Politically, he isa republican. He was a member of the I. O. O. F., of Brookville, Pa., and also of a lodge at De Witt, Iowa. He is a justice of the peace, which office he has held since January, 1889, and to which he was re-elected in 1890. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 701 J. Heyry Morr, the first notary public of Plymouth county, was born June 8, 1832, in Nanikon, Canton Zurich, Switzerland, and is a son of Con- rad and Elizabeth (Pfister) Morf, of the parish of Uster. He was reared on a farm, attending the schools of his native parish till eighteen years old, when he went to the city of Zurich to finish his education. In 1854 he came to America, and after spending two years in southwestern Wisconsin, he was employed for two years as a store clerk in Chicago. Thence he proceeded to St. Louis, St. Joseph and Omaha, and arrived in Sioux City June 17, 1860. Here he accepted any employment that offered until October, 1861, when he enlisted in Capt. A. J. Millard’s independent company, which was after- ward attached to the Seventh Iowa cavalry as Company I, and with this com- pany he served over three years in defending the northwestern frontier from Indian attacks, holding the rank of company sergeant. On his return to Sioux City, Mr. Morf opened a store, and in the fall of 1867 he removed his business to Melbourne, Plymouth county, where he was the first postmaster. In the last named year he was elected treasurer of Plymouth county, which position he filled for six years, and during the last four years of this time he also held the office of recorder. In the spring of 1869 he removed to Plym- outh Center, where he was also the first postmaster. This place was one mile above Merrill. Here he built a large residence, which was burned, through a defective chimney, December 19, 1873. The following spring he moved to Merrill, where he had previously built a grain elevator, and here he conducted a grain and coal business till the fall of 1880, when he sold out and retired to his large farm west of Merrill. In 1888 he removed to Seattle, Wash., where he made investments and now resides. He still owns, at this writing (October, 1890), eleven hundred acres of valuable land in Plym- outh county. When he arrived in Sioux City, he was poor and friendless, and his prosperity and personal popularity are the result of his own persever- ance and integrity. Mr. Morf has always been a straightforward business man and an independent thinker. He retains his membership in the church of his fathers—Evangelical—and affiliates with the republican party politic- ally. He was a charter member of Floyd Valley Lodge, No. 208, 1. 0. O. F., at Melbourne, of which he was the first N. G., and was also a charter mem- ber in the Masonic lodge at Le Mars. He isa member of the I. O. O. F. En- campment and Royal Arch Masonic Chapter in Sioux City. While a resi- dent of Merrill he served as postmaster and retained his notarial commission throughout his residence in Plymouth county. In October, 1865, Mr. Morf married Miss Bridget Gaugharn, a native of Ireland and member of the Roman Catholic church. Their six children, all residents of Seattle, Wash., are named in order of birth as follows: Mary E. (Mrs. W. J. Alden), John H., William R., Charles J., Milton J. and Leopold Gottlieb. 702 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Freperick Crarx Hinzs, general manager of the Sioux City & Northern railroad company, was born in Bethersden, county of Kent, England, January 22, 1842, and came to America with his parents in 1849. They settled in Oneida county N. Y., stopping for a short time at Oriskany and Whitesboro, but the following year located at Vernon, where his parents have since died and are both buried. His father, James Hills, was a resident of Tenterden, and his mother, Harriett Tappenden, of Kennington, when married, March 2, 1835. They were both descendants of families of those names, who trace their genealogies many generations back in Kent, England. F. C. received an academic education in the Vernon academy, working on the home farm until fifteen years of age, when he served a regular appren- ticeship at the carriage trimmer’s trade, after which, and while working at his trade in Rome, N. Y., he took a commercial course in the Rome Commer- cial college, following his trade until 1862. At the first call for 3,000,000 men, the Gansevoort Light Guards of Rome, of which he was a member, de- cided to volunteer but being recommended to enlist in new regiments then forming, most of them did so, Mr. Hills enlisting in Company E, One Hun- dred and Seventeenth New York infantry, under Col. William R. Pease, and was appointed second sergeant of that company. The regiment was sent to Washington at once, but within three months he was discharged at Ft. Alex- ander for physical disability. March 19, 1864, he married Lucy C. Rippey of Spafford. Onondago coun- ty, N. Y., and came to Sioux City the same spring, driving from Marshall- town, the end of the railroad, with a yoke of cattle, and went to Yankton and Bon Homme, Dak., but returned to Marshalltown, Iowa, in July the same year, and commenced working for the Chicago & Northwestern railway pil- ing wood in the woodshed, but soon after accepted a clerkship in an office at the west end of the road at Colorado, moving to Nevada in August, 1864, where he was appointed cashier by D: C. Dodge, vice-president of the Den- ver & Rio Grande railroad, who was at that time pioneer agent for the Chi- cago & Northwestern railway. He moved to Boone, Iowa, July 15, 1865, when the road was opened to that point, and when extended beyond was appointed local agent. Mr. Hills was sent to Missouri Valley Junction to open that station for business in December, 1866, and after serving as pioneer agent for one month, was sent to Denison, Iowa, and appointed agent at that sta- tion. All the freight for Sioux City was hauled by wagon from Denison at that time. When the Sioux City & Pacific railroad was completed to Sioux City, March 7, 1868, Mr. Hills was appointed station agent, and served in that capacity until September, 1870, when he was appointed general freight agent of the company, and in June, 1871, general ticket agent, afterward, was also appointed superintendent, and later on the titles were consolidated PHOTO BY GEwzLr1, eh Fo Gpienicde GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 705 under the head of general traffic manager. Mr. Hills resigned this office August 31, 1881, on account of ill health. During the time he was with this road it constructed and operated the F. E. & M. V. “railroad” to O'Neill City, Neb. From 1881 to April, 1888, Mr. Hills was engaged in the hardware busi- ness in Sioux City, but at the latter date he sold out his business and accept- ing a position with the new railroad organization in the interest of Sioux City, and resigned the position of assistant to General Manager Donald Mc- Lean of the Wyoming Pacific Improvement Co., constructing the Pacific Short Line, in October, 1889, to accept his present position of general manager of the Sioux City & Northern railroad, which was organized in 1887, and of which company he has been secretary since its organization. Mr. Hills has served three years as a member of the school board, one year to fill vacancy in city council, belongs to the Grand Army and Masonic orders, having been master high priest, and commander of the different bodies, and is a thirty-third degree member of the Scottish Rite. He isa republican in polities. Horacz Newert Marvin, M. D., Sioux City, is the son of a physician, Dr. Harvey Marvin, a native of Vermont, who was educated in the old school and became one of the first homeeopathists in America. Dr. Harvey Marvin practiced chiefly in Buffalo, and removed in 1866 to Whitehall, Mich., where he died in 1872, aged sixty-six years. His widow, Aurelia Marvin, nee Tall- man, still survives at the age of seventy, and resides in Grand Rapids, Mich. She is a descendant of Roger Williams, who was banished from the Plym- outh colony. Her father, Elijah Tallman, removed in 1812 from Connecticut to New York, and served in the war which broke out in that year. Dr. H. N. Marvin was born in Wellsville, Ohio, September 17, 1845. He was educated in the Buffalo schools and Fredonia academy. After assisting his father in the care of 300 small-pox patients he turned his attention to medicine. He began practice in Erie county, N. Y., in 1866, and in 1868 entered Hahnemann Medical college, Chicago, from which he graduated two years later. He came to Sioux City in 1878, where he has a successful prac- tice. He is a member of the Hahnemann Medical association of Iowa, and the. Woodbury County Homeopathic society, and contributes to the ‘‘ Medical Courant,” “Era” and “Investigator.” He entertains liberal theological views, and is a republican politically. In 1868 he married Hannah, daugh- ter of John Fletcher, a prominent figure in the Canadian Patriot war. Dr. and Mrs. Marvin have two sons: Harvey and Howard. Gipson Batzs, the first settler in Liberty township and among the first in Woodbury county, now engaged in farming and stock-raising on section two, was born in Windsor county, Vt., in January, 1835, and is a son of Moses 37 706 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. and Rose Ann Bates, both natives of Vermont, the former of English or Scotch descent, and the latter of Irish descent. Moses Bates was a farmer, and came to Indiana, thence to Black Hawk county, Iowa, in 1849, where he farmed until his death, in 1854, his wife having died in Indiana. : Gipson Bates was born and brought up on a farm, and received his edu- cation at the district schools. He continued to reside with his parents until their death, and in February, 1855, came to Woodbury county, and located in Sergeant’s Bluff, where he built a log house and a blacksmith shop, which he worked in until the fall of the same year, when he came to where he now resides in Liberty township and built a cabin. The following year he entered 320 acres of land. He continued to live in the log cabin and worked to get his land under cultivation until 1866, when he erected a large dwell- ing, and now has his farm all under a good state of cultivation and well improved. The first year he had to drive to Council Bluffs, a distance of one hundred miles, with oxen, to do his trading and milling. In 1856 a store was started in Sergeant’s Bluff. Mr. Bates has been identified with the county since its infancy, has witnessed all the improvements in it, and has seen the growth of Sioux City from the first building; has seen all the wild lands cleared and transformed into fertile farms and comfortable homes. He has witnessed everything that will be found in the historical chapters of this work. His business has been farming and stock-raising and practicing medi- cine for about twenty years. Politically he is a republican and has held several of the township offices. He is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance, and both he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. In 1860 Mr. Bates was married to Elizabeth Clarke, of Woodbury county, and their children are Nancy J., Maggie, Rosie, Willie, Lena, Flora, Nellie, Smith, Lizzie and Robey. W. E. Hieman. Among the thoroughgoing business men of Sioux City, none stand higher in point of excellence and general public favor than the gentleman of whom we now write. He is a leader, not alone in the financial circles of the place, but also of the society in which he moves. Ever since he has been a resident of the city, he has manifested a well-disposed interest in all that goes toward the upbuilding of the social, moral and religious ele- ments, as well as the secular and purely financial interests. Such a man is a blessing to any city. Mr. Higman first became identified with Sioux City in 1880, and before going into further detail regarding his career as a prom- inent business man here in the West, it man be well to touch briefly on some of his earlier life, his ancestors, etc. He isa native of Corning, Steuben county, N. Y., born June 5, 1846. His parents were John and Clarissa Hig- man, natives of England and America, respectively. Our subject’s father followed farming for a livelihood, and educated W. E. in the common schools GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 707 of his native town. His first business experience was that of banking. From that calling he drifted into the wholesale grocery business, which he followed at Sioux City from 1880 to 1884. He then engaged in the real estate busi- . ness, in which calling he was quite successful. In 1890 he was one of the organizers of the National Bank of Sioux City, and was at once elected its president. When one considers that this is the largest banking house in Towa, and has a capital of one million dollars, it will be readily understood that the position that Mr. Higman holds, as its chief officer, is one of no small importance, responsibility and trust. Indeed none but good men can occupy such positions. Though still a young man, Mr. Higman, per force of his character, ranks high in business and social circles of the great north- west. Inthe line of real estate he is well known, owing to the fact that he has made nine additions to Sioux City, viz.: ‘ Higman’s Addition,” “Higman’s Second Addition,” “Higman’s Pierce Street Addition,” “‘Higman’s Park Addi- tion,” “Vine Place,” “Lowell Addition,’ “Grand View Addition,” ‘“Hig- man’s Boulevard Addition” and “Higman’s Second Boulevard Addition.” Mr. Higman was united in marriage September 15, 1873, to R. Adel Hoke, of Chemung county, N. Y. Her parents were Dr. Geo. E. and Adeline Hoke, natives of New York. Mr. and Mrs. Higman are the parents of six children: William E., Anna C., Nellie A., Brown, Jerome M. and Margaret H. Polit- ically Mr. Higman is a firm believer in and supporter of the republican party. Both he and his estimable wife are consistent members of the First Baptist church, and he is an active worker in the Y. M. C. A., of which he is now president. SeuireE Woop Havitanp (deceased) resided on section thirty-four, Liberty township, and was a native of New York city, born in September, 1829. He removed to Chicago, Ill, at the age of twenty, where he engaged in the livery business until 1855, when he came to what was then a little hamlet in Woodbury county, Iowa, but which is now Sioux City, and there engaged in the livery business, also buying and selling stock. He also did butchering business and furnished meat for the steamboats. He, in com- pany with others, purchased some land north of Sioux City in the valley, and stocked it up. During the winter the river, gorged with ice, overflowed and killed all the stock, the men barely escaping with their lives. This mis- fortune stripped Mr. Haviland of every cent he had. He then took employ- ment for about three years, when he again engaged in butchering in Sioux City until 1868, when he purchased 160 acres of land where his widow now resides. He farmed and raised live-stock, and owned 360 acres of land, all under a good state of cultivation, at the time of his death. Politically he was a democrat, and took an active part in politics, serving one term in the legislature. In 1867 Mr. Haviland was united in marriage with Mary C. 708 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Beers, of Monona county, Iowa. Of the six children born to them, two are deceased; those living are Squire Beers, Mary, Edna and Henry W. The father of these children was called to his final rest November 8, 1887, and was interred in the cemetery at Salix, Woodbury county, Iowa. Mrs. Havi- land still resides on the homestead, which her husband provided for her, and continues to have the farm operated. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Haviland was identified with the history of the county from its infancy, was a public-spirited man, and did much toward the upbuilding of the county in which he lived. He was a member of the Masonic order. ApELBERT J. WeExs, M. D., also a dealer in drugs and a prominent man now residing in Correctionville, was born in Wyoming county, N. Y., October 6, 1845, and is a son of Joseph and Fidelia (Brayton) Weeks, both natives of New York. Joseph Weeks was by occupation a miller, which pursuit he followed in Michigan, having moved there in 1855. In 1873 he moved to Chicago, where he resided until 1885, when he came to Iowa, and spent the remainder of his days with his son Adelbert J., and died in February, 1889. His wife is still living and resides with her daughter at Fremont, Neb. Nine children were born to this couple, five of whom are living, viz: Eugene, liv- ing in Chicago; Nellie, wife of Rev. L. Bradford, of Huron, Neb.; Jennie, wife of H. Campbell, who was a member of the Kansas legislature in 1885, and resides at Great Bend, Kas.; Adelbert J., our subject; Frances, wife of Charles Beveridge, of Fremont, Neb. Adelbert J. received his education at the University of Michigan. He enlisted in 1862, at the age of sixteen years, in Company H, Merrill’s Horse regiment, Michigan battalion. He served three years with the exception of eighteen days. He participated in the Red River expedition, and in the battles at Iron Mountain and Little Rock, also several minor battles. He faithfully discharged his duties and received an honorable discharge at Nashville, Tenn., September 19, 1865. He then returned to Battle Creek, Mich., and began the study of medicine with Smith Rogers, with whom he remained until 1867, when he commenced his first course of lectures at the University of Michigan, and graduated in March, 1869. He practiced medicine in Battle Creek, Mich., until the fall of 1871, when he moved to Correctionville. In 1873 he purchased a drug-store and has conducted the business ever since, in connection with his practice. Dr. Weeks owns considerable real estate in town, including a nice residence. He has been quite successful in life, which is due to his own efforts. December 1, 1870, he married Jerane E. Rogers, of Battle Creek, Mich.; their first child, Nellie, is living at home, the second died in infancy. Politically he is a republican, and has always supported the principles of that party. He is at present alderman of Correctionville, which position he has held about GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 709 nine years, or four terms. In 1880 he was elected a member of the county board of supervisors, for three years, and during the last year he was chair- man. He was coroner of Woodbury county for three terms, and has served as a member of the school board several terms. He is a member of the fol- lowing fraternal societies: Masons, I. O. O. F., K. of P. and G. A. R. —— Avevust RicHarp Genpreat, retired farmer, was the first resident settler in Correctionville. He was born in Cap St. Ignace, Islet county, district of Quebec, Canada, August 28, 1825, and is a son of Charles and Constance (Fournien) Gendreau, also of Canadian birth and French extraction. His father was a carpenter, and died from the effects of a fall from a building, at which time August was nine years old. On reaching the age of twenty- three years, our subject set out for the United States, and worked eight years for a farmer near Chicago. In 1855 he came to Iowa, spending a year in Franklin and Hardin counties. In 1856 he came to Sioux City, and next year settled on section six, Rock township, where he has ever since fol- lowed farming. His residence is in the town of Correctionville, to which he has made two platted additions. He has served as township trustee, and was many years school treasurer; has always adhered to the democratic party, and the church of his fathers—the Roman Catholic. Mr. Gendreau has been twice married, the first time at Eldora, in January, 1858, to Elizabeth Huntley, a native of New York. She died in 1870, leaving four daughters and two sons, of whom five are living, viz.: Eugenia Janette (wife of T. B. Ross), Luella (Mrs. Mike Cabeen), Harriet (wife of George Workman), Amy (Mrs. William Barto), and Richard. Charles, the second, died at the age of two years. His present wife is Elbertena (Risner) Gendreau, of German descent. He has three children by the last wife, viz.: Lova, Nora and Eugene. C. C. Orr, capitalist, Sioux City, was born in the northern part of Ireland and was educated in his native country. He came to America when nineteen years of age and settled in Louisville, Ky., where he remained for fifteen years. He then removed to New Orleans, and remained there five years, and came to Sioux City in 1857. Ambitious and persevering, Mr. Orr, while beginning at the foot of the ladder, worked his way upward and met with great financial success. He at one time owned 50,000 acres of land, lying in sixteen counties of Iowa, four counties in Nebraska and three in Missouri. He was joined in marriage to Carlotta, daughter of William T. Craig, of a fine, hospitable southern family, now a resident of Sioux City. One son, William C., was born to this union, who makes his home with his parents in Sioux City. They are members of the Baptist church. Mr. Orr has now retired from active business. J. S. Lynew, retired contractor, Sioux City, is a native of Peterboro county, Canada, and was born in 1844. He was educated in his native 710 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. county, and came to the United States in 1866, and located in the Pennsyl- vania oil regions. In 1867 he came to Iowa, and for a number of years was em- ployed as a contractor on the Sioux City & Pacific railroad, the Fremont, Elkhorn & Missouri Valley railroad, the Chicago & Northwestern and its branches, and the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul railroad. He has resided in Sioux City permanently since 1869, and is now engaged in buying and selling real estate. He is a member of the Roman Catholic church, and a democrat in politics. Mr. Lynch was married at Council Bluffs, Iowa, April 7, 1875, to Miss Isabel Carlow, a daughter of George and Anna (Car- veth) Carlow, the former a native of Ireland and the latter of England. Our subject’s family consists of the following children: James C., Albert J., Walter C., William G. and Edith L. Hon. Georcz W. Kettoae, attorney at law, Sioux City, was born on a farm near Oberlin, Lorain county, Ohio, June 6, 1835. He isa self-made man, having received only a common-school education, and removed with his parents at the age of eighteen years to Dubuque county, Iowa, where he continued to labor on a farm for ten years longer. June 6, 1859, he mar- ried Miss Elinor E. McMillan, of Farley, Dubuque county, Iowa, and in 1863 removed with his wife and two children to Sioux City. His earthly possession then consisted of a cow, a yoke of oxen and a wagon. In October of that year, he settled on a piece of government land seven miles from Sioux City, in Union county, D. T. He built a cabin of logs, which was covered with poles, hay and dirt, making a comfortable, if not an architecturally imposing shelter. In the fall of 1864, he was elected on the democratic ticket, to the house of representatives in the territorial legislature, and was re-elected in 1865 and 1866. In 1867 he was elected for two years to the territorial council or senate. In 1868, at the: request of a legislative committee, Mr. Kellogg wrote an article on the products and resources of Dakota territory, and his forecast for that fruitful region has been amply fulfilled, a testimonial of his sound judgment and foresight. In 1870 he was elected territorial auditor by a large majority, and served two years with credit to himself and constituency. He was again offered the nomination for auditor in 1872, but refused to accept. On November 18, 1872, he was caused to mourn the loss of his wife, leaving him with six children, three of whom died the following year. On March 14, 1874, he married Mrs. Mary A. Lent, of Yankton, D.‘T., and as a result of this happy union, two bright little girls were added to his prosperous home. In the fall of 1877 he was elected district attorney of Union county, D. T., for the term of two years, and retired from politics at the close of his term. He had commenced reading law in 1865 and was admitted to the bar in 1870. For tifteen years he has given his attention chiefly to the GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 711 practice of his profession and the care of his farms. He is the owner of a large tract of valuable land in Union county, S. D., alsoa valuable piece of Sioux City real estate, on which he moved in 1882, and on which he now resides. In 1886 Mr. Kellogg was retained as one of the attorneys in defending John Arensdorf, who was charged with the murder of Rev. George C. Haddock, August 8, 1886, in Sioux City. After a hard legal fight, in which Mr. Kel- logg distinguished himself, his client was acquitted. Asa gentleman, Mr. Kellogg is noted for his honesty and integrity, and socially he is congenial and affable. Rozert Orrret Major, retired merchant, Sioux City, was born in Memel, Prussia, October 19, 1824, and is a son of Robert Alexander and Louise (Von Oertel) Major. His father was the eldest of eight sons of John’ Major, of Gloucestershire, England, and became a merchant at Memel, where our subject was,educated. The mother was a native of Ansbach-Beireuth, Ger- many, and was educated in St. Petersburg, Russia, being a classmate of Queen Louise, of Prussia, who was her friend. Robert A. Major’s mother was a daughter of Admiral Forsyth, of the British navy, and both families have been long established in England. In 1841 R. O. Major, then a youth of eighteen, was sent, on account of his delicate health, to Naples, Italy, where he became thoroughly proficient in the silk industry in the establishment of an uncle. After residing ten years in Italy, he went as the representative of a large silk-house to Shanghai, China. It was the intention to teach the Chinese the Italian method of producing silk, but this was abandoned on account of the hostility of the Chinese gov- ernment, and Mr. Major became a public silk inspector, and later, an extensive silk merchant. He was twice in action during the Tasping rebel- lion, fighting, against overwhelming odds, the Chinese imperial army in defense of the English settlement at Shanghai. After ten years’ residence in the Orient, he retired from business and went to England, where he built a fine residence between Tunbridge Wells and Eastbourne, in Sussex. He became a member of the Reform club, the liberal political club of England, and spent twenty years of leisure in the land of his fathers. He was a liberal supporter of the established church until the high church tendencies drove him from it. By the American panic of 1878, he suffered great losses on his railroad securities, and at the same time his Chinese interests under- went a great depreciation, and he resolved to remove to the new world to recuperate his fortunes. Having disposed of his English property, he crossed the Atlantic in 1881, and came at once to Sioux City. He purchased a sec- tion of land in West Fork township, and shortly built three houses on Pierce street, at Twenty-second. One of these houses he still retains, and in addi- tion to the land above mentioned, which is now a finely improved farm, he 712 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. holds 560 acres in Perry, Plymouth county. In 1889 he built the handsome block bearing his name at 1010 Fourth street. The appreciation in value of this property, which is clear of incumbrance, has placed him in easy cireum- stances. Mr. Major was married in China, April 29, 1858, to Matilda Martha Vacher, of Bedfordshire, England, of whom death robbed him ten years later. Their only child, Charles Oertel Major, who was born in Shang- hai, is now traveling for the Standard Oil company, with headquarters at Portland, Oregon. Rev. Witmor Wartriextp, D. D., president and chancellor of the Uni- versity of the Northwest, Sioux City, was born in Eastport, Maine, May 9, 1840, a son of Thomas and Rebecca (Rideout) Whitfield. His father was born in London, England, and his mother in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada. His grandfather, John Whitfield, of Lincoln’s Inn Fields, was, in early life, a leading actor in Drury Lane theatre, where he attracted the at- tention of the Prince Regent (afterward George IV.) who became his patron. He was a first cousin of George Whitfield, the celebrated evangelist. His wife, Anna Healy, was descended from ancient English ancestry. Thomas Whitfield, who was a younger son, came to America in 1821, and was em- ployed in book-keeping for some time, after which he taught school. Our subject spent the early years of his life in the east, where he attended school until eighteen years of age, when he went to Ohio to attend Oberlin college. The noted Dr. Finney was then the president of this institution. Mr. Whitfield graduated in medicine in 1861, and went to a small town in Ionia county, Mich., where he practiced for the next three years, serving a short time in the hospitals of the Union army. In 1866 he came to Hardin, Clayton county, Iowa, where he followed his profession until 1868. August 19, of that year, he married Isabel Glass, a native of Ohio, and they then settled in Butler county, Iowa, where he practiced for the succeeding four years. He then gave up the practice of medicine and entered the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal church, as a member of the Northwest Iowa con- ference. He was stationed at Lake City, Calhoun county, for one year, then transferred to Storm Lake, Buena Vista county, where he remained two years. He was then appointed to the First Methodist Episcopal church at Sioux City, over which he presided nearly three years, leaving at the end of that time, that he might take a trip to Europe for rest and recuperation, as well as to visit the scenes of the Holy Land. During his trip, which lasted sixteen months, he visited Rome, Italy and Cairo, Egypt, and Palestine, and returning, much improved in mind and body, he assumed his pastoral duties as presiding elder of the Dakota district, which was soon after con- verted into the Dakota mission conference. This included all the territory in South Dakota, except the Black Hills. He was superintendent here for GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 713 two years, then by his special request was released and appointed pastor of the first M. E. church, at Yankton, Dak. After serving here ten months he was recalled to take the superintendency of the Dakota mission, by Bishop Foss. After fourteen months’ labor here Bishop Simpson called him to be pastor of the First M. E. church at Sioux City. After a year’s pastorate here, Bishop Andrews assigned him to the position of presiding elder of the Sioux City district. This station received his services for the next six years. September 20, 1890, Bishop Fowler, with the consent of the Northwest Iowa conference, appointed him chancellor of the University of the North- west. Mr. Whitfield has had four children, namely: Mabel Jane, Wilmot Gladstone, Robert Glass and George McCabe, all of whom are living except the first named. While not a politician, Mr. Whitfield gives his support to the prohibition party. He was a delegate of the general conference held in New York in 1888, and is a delegate elect to the ecumenical conference of Methodists to be held in Washington, in October, 1891. Dr. Whitfield’s degree of D. D. was conferred by the Northwestern university, of Evanston, TIL, in June, 1890. Gzorcr E:senrravr was born in the rural districts of Coburg, Germany, February 14, 1844, the son of Christian and Eleanora (Kaiser) Hisentraut, natives of Germany. His early education was acquired in the town schools of Koenigsberg, in Coburg, which he attended until his fourteenth year, when he commenced to work for his father on the farm. In the spring of 1860 he came to America, settling in St. Louis, from there he went to Chester, Ill, where he engaged in cigar making. He remained there until the fall of 1861, when he enlisted in the Twentieth Tlli- nois regimental band, and served with them about six months, when they were disbanded. April 5, 1862, he returned to Chester, Ill, where he re- mained until 1863, where he removed to Jackson county, Iowa, and engaged in mercantile business, and later on went to Idaho and spent four years among the mountains engaged in various occupations. He then returned to Iron Hills, Jackson county, Iowa, where he carried on the mercan- tile trade until 1870, when he took up 160 acres as a homestead in Wolf Creek township, Woodbury county, on which he carried on farming and gen- eral stock-raising until 1890, at which date he left his farm, and moved to Sioux City, so as to enable his children to enjoy a better opportunity of receiving a thorough education. He has built a beautiful home in Sioux City’s most delightful suburb, Morning Side, where the University of the Northwest is located, and of which he is a director. When fourteen years of age he united with the Lutheran church. He and his wife both joined the M. E. church in 1870. In 1879 Mr. Eisentraut became greatly interested in Sunday-school work, and has been secretary of the County Sunday-school 714 HISTORY OF- WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. association most of the time since its organization, and this work, which has been of great benefit to his soul’s happiness, has caused him to be Inown throughout the county as a Sunday-school worker. Mr. Eisentraut was united in matrimony with Miss Eliza Oberholtzer, a native of Welton, Clinton county, Iowa, April 5, 1869, and to this union six children were born, of whom four are living. Their names are Laura Irene, Bernhard (died September 7, 1873), Jacob, Dora Alice, Emma Frances, and Ralph Harry (died January 24, 1886). Every one of the family are members of the M. E. church, of which the father has been Sunday-school teacher for the past twenty years. In his politics he is a republican, and by this party was elected to several offices in the township from which he recently moved. Bensamin Franxuin Ausricut, farmer, P. O. Le Mars, is descended from the early German colonists of Pennsylvania. He is the eighth of fourteen children born to Emanuel and Catharine (Watts) Albright, and was born in Greenwood, Juniata county, Pa, January 18, 1835. After spending a year in Ohio, and another in Whiteside county, Ill., his parents settled in Lyons, Clinton county, Iowa, about 1842. Here our subject attended the common school, and remained at home until of age. He has always engaged in farming, and came to Plymouth county in 1871, taking a homestead on section thirty, Grant township, where he now resides. The estate now includes 320 acres, and he gives much attention to stock-raising, his specialty being Polled Angus cattle. He has been a life-long democrat, and has served as school director (having organ- ized the first school in the township), justice of the peace, town clerk and trustee, being now in the third term of the last office. He entertains liberal religious views, while his family is associated with the Roman Catholic church. In 1858 he married Mary, daughter of Peter and Julia Sophy, of French and Irish extraction. The father and mother of Mrs. Albright were born in Ontario, Canada, which was her native place. Mr. Albright’s chil- dren are named in order of birth: Ann Jennette, John Franklin, Minnie T. and Edwin Peter, all save John at home. Exrrnater B. Crawrorp was born in Yates county, N. Y., May 20, 1830, ason of Benjamin and Laurena (Hatch) Crawford, and is a direct descend- ant of Lord John Crawford, of Ayrshire, Scotland. Our subject attended the common schools in Yates county, N. Y., until he was twelve years old, then for the succeeding four years he went to the public schools in Waterloo, Seneca county, N. Y. When sixteen years old he entered-as an apprentice to a tailor, and worked with him until 1852, when he moved to Madison, Wis. Here he established himself in the clothing business, which he con- ducted until 1869, when he sold out and came to Sioux City, and here opened GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 715 the largest clothing house in the state, known as the Oak Hall clothing house. In 1885 he was appointed postmaster by President Cleveland, so he sold out his business that he might give his entire time and attention to the office. He served as postmaster until 1888, and since then has been in no active business, though occasionally investing in real estate. The following clip- ping from Collins’ History and Directory of the Black Hills for 1878 and 1879 may be of interest to his many friends. “About this time (1871) Mr. E. B. Crawford, a prominent clothing merchant of Sioux City, had just returned from a visit to the Whetstone Indian agency, and while at the lat- ter place had been shown several fine specimens of gold quartz, by J. M. Washburn, then Indian agent there, stating that he had received them from the Indians of his agency, who claimed to have found them among the Black Hills, Dakota. Of these several specimens, three were presented to Mr. Craw- ford, who brought them to Sioux City, where he had them on exhibition in his store. Mr. Collins, then editor of the “Times,” with the permission of Mr. Crawford, took them to Washington and showed them to the Secretary of the Interior, explaining to him their history, hoping that he might receive some help from the government in making further discoveries. These were the first specimens of gold-bearing quartz from the Black Hills ever shown in the east or west. As soon as their history was made known, there immediately went from Sioux City, Iowa, Chicago and other points, men in search of the valuable metal, this being the opening of the Black Hills, and ever since, the developments have been astonishing, making that region one of the most prominent in the west.” December 15, 1850, Mr. Crawford married Pamelia F. Graves, a native of New York, and to them have been born two children: Laurena and Lilly. In politics he is a democrat. James ALEXANDER Sawyers. Among the prominent early residents of Sioux City, who have moved onward with the star of Empire, the subject of this sketch stands foremost. He was born near Pulaski, Giles county, Tenn., December 16, 1824, and is a son of Allen and Martha L. (Stinson) Sawyers, the former a native of Rockbridge county, Va., and the latter of North Caro- lina. He remained on the home farm until twenty years old, when he en- listed as a soldier and served one year in the Mexican war, then came to Towa, settling in Davis county, where he engaged in mercantile business. In 1857 he visited Sioux City and built a store, and the following spring he brought his family and opened up business, and in the fall entered into partnership with E. R. Kirk. In 1861 he enlisted in the Sioux City cavalry, and was in the United States army for three years. He was elected first lieutenant by the members of the company, and served in that capacity until 716 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. the Minnesota massacre. He then resigned upon the request of Gov. Kirk- wood, and took charge of the Northern Border brigade, and built a line of stockades from Sioux City to Chain Lakes, Minn. He subsequently became associated with D. T. Hedges in the cattle and freighting business. In 1865 and 1866 he was engaged in building the wagon road for the government, between Sioux City and Virginia City, Montana, known as the Niobrara route. Afterward he built the ferry-boat, Undine, which was the first steam ferry at Sioux City, with the exception of the temporary use of an old river boat. Later he built the steamboats Sioux City, and Tiger. The Undine is still doing service at Yankton, 8. D. September 5, 1848, Col. Sawyer married Miss Margaret E. Woods, who passed from earth in 1869. In 1870 he married Miss Jennie E. Bell, of Ne- braska City, Neb., and in 1878 they moved to Leadville. In 1887 they went to Oregon, where they remained until 1890, when they settled in Santa Cruz, Cal., where they still reside. F. J. Lampert (deceased) was born in Saarbricken, Prussia, April 10, 1829, at which place he received a common-school education, after which he removed to Metz, where he received a thorough college education in all its branches. He came to America in 1848, taking up his abode in Cleveland, Ohio, at which place he remained two years, and then returned to his old home across the sea; but the American spirit had captured him more completely than he had thought, and he shortly returned to Cleveland, where he estab- lished himself in the dry goods business, in which he continued until 1856, when he started west. In July, 1853, he was united in marriage with Christine Reich, whom he won while in the Ohio city. To them were born three children: Laura, Charles and Louis, all of whom, with their mother, survived him at his death, which occurred February 23, 1888. He had been a continuous resident of Sioux City since his first arrival here, which was in May, 1857. He brought his family here by boat, journeying from St. Louis via the Missouri river, and the boat on which they traveled sank before reaching this port, depriv- ing them of everything except the clothes they wore. He was a congenial and kind-hearted man, and it was not long before he was known as one of the most popular men in the county. His first occupation here was to act as clerk in the United States land office, then under the supervision of Mr. Cassady. In 1859 he was elected sheriff of this county, which office he held until 1864, when he resigned to succeed Joseph N. Field in the offices of clerk of the courts and county auditor. After three terms of service in these offices he acted as deputy recorder under A. Gruninger. He was afterward connected with the treas- urer’s office, and later placed most of his possessions in the Citizens’ National GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 717 bank, and when that institution went to the wall (which was about three years after the organization of the same), the greater part of his wealth was swept away in the disaster. He then became township assessor, also filled a term or two as township clerk, after which he was elected to the office of city assessor, which office he held up to the time of his death. Hon. Tuomas L. Grirrzy, more familiarly known as Judge Griffey, one of the earliest pioneers of the Upper Missouri valley region, has won, through his forty years’ eventful career, a place in the history of Woodbury county, especially as he was appointed by the legislature to organize the county, which he did, and also located the county seat. Having been conspicuous in early county matters, his name appears throughout the history proper; but some personal mention should be made of one who has not slipped noiselessly through the years, but on the contrary has been an active and thoroughgoing member of the legal profession. He was born June 28, 1827, in Campbell county, Ky., the son of Will- iam and Elizabeth Griffey, who were of Scotch, English and Welsh extrac- tion. The father of our subject was a successful farmer and horse dealer. Thomas L. was one of a family of four sons and four daughters. He ob- tained the most of his education in the county of his nativity, and left home at the age of sixteen years, coming to Kanesville, lowa (now Council Bluffs), in 1850. He remained in that vicinity until 1852, when he came to Wood- bury county. Five years later he took government land in Floyd valley, which is now within the limits of Sioux City. In 1857 he transferred his interests, and a year later removed to Dakota county, Neb., where he still owns several thousand acres of the finest, most valuable farming lands in the country. He made his home across the Missouri until the spring of 1889, when he again took up his residence in Sioux City. While he has for many years been an extensive land owner, and gained a liberal competency from the products of his well-improved farms, he has followed his chosen profession, that of a practicing attorney, in which he has been successful. His good judgment, knowledge of the law, and general popularity, caused him to be elected to several public positions, among which may be mentioned the following: He served as a member of the terri- torial council of Nebraska two terms; was United States commissioner for many years, and in 1875 was elected as judge of the district court in the Sixth (or Northern)district of Nebraska. He filled all these positions to the entire satisfaction of his constituents, by reason of his sound judgment and unpredju- diced mind, which seldom fails to be duly appreciated in the selection of public officers. Being of a patriotic turn, he served in both the Mexican and Civil wars. Politically he is a democrat, and well posted on all the great issues a 718 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. that have been before the country. In religious faith he isa Methodist. He is an honored member of the Royal Arch degree of Masonry. He was married to Mary I. Brown, August 7, 1853, at Council Bluffs. By this union four daughters were born, only one of whom survives, and is the wife of Will S. Jay, of Sioux City. His wife died in 1885, and for his second wife he married Mrs. Tealie Barklay. They were married October 28, 1888, at Joplin, Mo. Coming to this section while the Indians were yet occupants, and before a mile of railroad or telegraph line had been constructed west of Chicago, he is thoroughly posted regarding pioneer hardships and successes back in the fifties. Being a close observer and great reader, he is quoted as au- thority on many historic matters in the three states cornering at Sioux City —TIowa, Nebraska and Dakota. In his manner he is easy, full of friendship and a most excellent conversationalist, and impresses one with the thought that he is in the presence of a true gentleman, both by nature and cultivation. Daviv Mitan Mitts was born in Dunbarton, Merrimac county, N. H., December 31, 1832, and was the youngest of the eleven children born to John and Hannah (Church) Mills, both natives of New Hampshire, the former born in Dunbarton and the latter in Weare. When our subject was quite young his parents moved to Barry county, Mich., and there he attended the common schools until he was fifteen years of age, at which time he took one term at the Ann Arbor college. When nineteen yearsold he went to San Fran- cisco, where he remained a year, then went to Santa Rosa, where, as superin- tendent of a ranch, he spent another year. Then he took a trip to South America, visiting many important places, including the Sandwich Islands, spending eight months on the trip. Upon his return he remained in Santa Rosa until the spring of 1855, when he went to Champaign, Ill, where hfe spent one year with a brother. On March 15, 1856, he started for Sioux City, where he remained for two years, and during which time he took a 160-acre pre-emption claim in Sioux township, Plymouth county, on which he moved and remained one year, and which is part of his present farm. He next went to Dakota and took a claim of 320 acres, and built a house upon it, and this was the first house built on ground now within the city limits of Sioux Falls. He remained here but seven months, when he sold out and returned to Sioux City, where he remained until 1858, when he returned to his pre-emption in Sioux township. After spending a year there he moved on a 160-acre farm which he had bought, and which adjoined his on the east. In 1864 he moved to Elk Point, Dak., and there was elected a member of the legislature, which position he held for two years, when he resigned to take a position as collector of internal revenue. He held that position three GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 719 years then was landlord of the American hotel which he conducted for two years. In 1871 he returned to his farm in Sioux township, on which he has since lived, carrying on farming and stock-raising on his farm, which now contains 1,140 acres. In June, 1861, he married Sarah, daughter of John Robinson, of Elk- hart, Ind. To them were born six children: Alice, Flora and Agnes, who are deceased, and David, Frank and George. My. Mills was twice married. His first wife died in 1881, and in 1884 he married Jennie, widow of a Mr. Homer, of Tipton, Iowa. George was drowned in the Sioux river in April, 1890. Mr. Mills is a strong democrat and his religion is comprised in the golden rule, ‘‘Do unto others as you would that others should do unto you.” Aaron Hauseru, contractor, Sioux City. The rapid growth of Sioux City has necessitated much building, and consequently has brought many contractors here. Among the more successful and prominent ones is Aaron Halseth. He was born in Norway, in 1845, and came to America in 1869. In the same year he came to Sioux City and engaged in his trade, carpenter- ing and contracting. Mr. Halseth had the contract for the Union Depot, the High school, the Haakinson residence, John Pierce’s residence, the Lerch block, the Unitarian church, the Baptist church, the Schulein block, James Spaulding’s, M. L. Sloan’s, Ed. Spaulding’s and M. B. Davis’ residences, the Silberhorn pack- ing houses, the Union Stock Yards, the Exchange bank, and many other buildings throughout the county and state, giving constant employment to forty men. Mr. Halseth is sole proprietor of the Sioux City Fuel company, and is president of the Sergeant’s Bluff and Sioux City Terra Cotta, Tile and Brick company. He is also president of the Scandia Building and Loan Association. Mr. Halseth has met with success in his business career. He was marrief@l in Sioux City, October 15, 1870, to Miss Sigri Hoxeng, a native of Norway, and to this union eight children have been born, six of whom are now living, viz.: Mary, Hakon, Inga, Oscar, Simon and Amelia; the youngest child bears the same name as a deceased child. Mr. Halseth is a member of the I. O. O. F., the F. & A. M., the K. of P. and Druids. He and wife are members of the Lutheran church. Politically he has always affiliated with the democratic party. . J. F. Peavey, president of the Sioux City Street railway company, Sioux City, was born at Eastport, Maine, December 15, 1856. His father was Albert D. Peavey, who was a ship-chandler and broker of that city. Our subject was but three years old at the time of his father’s death. He was educated at the public schools of Eastport. He came to Sioux City in 1871, and with his brother, F. H. Peavey, en- 720 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. gaged in the agricultural implement business until 1881, when he entered into the wholesale hardware business, in which he remained until 1888. In that year he became the purchaser of the entire interest of the Sioux City Street railway company. For a young man Mr. Peavey has been very suc- cessful in his business undertakings. He is a director of the Corn Exchange bank, president of the Chamber of Commerce, and a director of the Dubuque & Sioux City railroad company. He is a member of the organization of the Knights of Pythias. James E. Booes, Sioux City. The original spelling of this name was Booge, pronounced with the sound of o as in move, but is now generally spelled Bogue, with the long sound of “o” and always with the “g” hard. It was not until 1828 that a change was made in the spelling of the name. Aaron Jordan Booge, who was the oldest son of Ebenezer Booge, desired the change in the spelling, owing to the fact that it was so often mispronounced. In this all his brothers agreed except Harris, who, throughout his life, re- tained the original spelling of the name as all of his children also have done. John Booge, the father and ancestor of this family, was a native of Scot- land, and was born and reared in the city of Glasgow. He was a tobacconist by occupation. Being of a religious turn of mind, as well as a man of dis- cernment. and enterprise, in early life he concluded that in the colonies (now the United States) he could enjoy civil and religious liberty, and at the same time possess landed property, thereby enabling him to better lay a founda- tion for the support of himself and family. In the year 1680 he came to the colonies and settled in Connecticut, in the town of Haddam, now called Hadlyme. He was the fifth settler in this town, and five years passed before a yoke of oxen even was owned in the place. When a church was organized in this village he was chosen elder, in which capacity he served throughout his life. When the town became en- titled to a representative in the legislature, he was frequently chosen as one of the representatives. Such was his good conduct that throughout the colony he was known as “Goodman” Booge. He was joined in marriage to Rebecca Walkley, and seven sons and three daughters were born to this union: John, William, Richard, Daniel, Stephen, James, Ebenezer, Sarah, Hannah and Rebecca. Ebenezer Booge, of whom our subject, James E. Booge, is a descendant, was the seventh son born to John and Rebecca Booge. Bound out at the age of fourteen years to learn the carpentering trade, he served his appren- ticeship. He was married to Damaris Cook, of Wallingford, Conn., and five sons and two daughters were the result of this union. Oliver, grandfather of our.subject, was the third son of this marriage. He.was a farmer by occupation, which calling he followed throughout his PHOTO BY GENELLI, GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 723 life. He was a Revolutionary soldier, as were many of his brothers. He was married to Lucy Derrin, who became the mother of eleven children. Harris, their third son, father of James E. Booge, was born in Connecti- cut in 17847 When but four years of age, his parents removed to Pittsford, Vt., where he grew to manhood and where he remained until 1843. He was married to Laura Hubbell, of Connecticut, and to them were born thirteen children. In 1848, with his wife and family, Harris removed to Canada. He was a farmer by occupation. He was a man of fine ability and generous disposition, and a leader among his fellow-citizens in the town of Pittsford, and was familiarly called “Captain Harry” by them. He died in 1856. James E. Booge, our subject, was born in Pittsford, Vt., April’ 14, 1833, and there he remained until his parents moved to Canada, were he spent the next six years of his life. The following six years were passed in Indiana. His education was obtained in his native state, in Canada, and in Indiana, but on account of the inferiority of the school of that time, it was necessarily limited. He began life as a farmer, assisting his father in the summer and taking his ax into the woods in the winter, helped to clear the forests. In 1854 he went to California, and there engaged in mining until the spring of 1858, when he removed to St. Louis, Mo., and was there employed as a solicitor for the Wabash railroad, until he came to Sioux City, which was on October 11, 1858. He came to Sioux City on a boat laden with flour, apples and whisky. Sioux City was then a western village of 500 in- habitants. He at once entered into the mercantile business here, in which he remained twenty years. In the meantime he also engaged in the pork- packing business in a building eighteen by- thirty feet, at the rear of the building now occupied by Ludlow & Clark, on Fourth street. During the first year he was engaged in the pork-packing business 870 hogs were killed, and were sold throughout the surrounding country. He then erected a building on Perry creek, which he occupied two years, during which time 5,000 hogs were killed. In 1873 he built a three-story building, fifty by one hundred and ten feet, at the corner of Fifth and Water streets, and at first killed from 12,000 to 13,000 hogs per year, but the number since in- creased to 128,000 per year. Feeling the need of a more commodious build- ing, in 1881 Mr. Booge erected his present pork-packing houses, covering ten acres of land, and the killing capacity has now reached 1,600 per day in winter, 800 per day during the summer months. One-half the products of the business are sold in the Liverpool and London markets, and the balance in the United States. He was one of the corporators, and is vice-president, of the Union Stock Yards company; was a corporator and is director of the National bank of Sioux City, and is a director of the American National. He was a cor- 38 : 724 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. porator of, and is one of the five men who built and own, the Sioux City & Northern railroad. Mr. Booge was twice married, his first wife being Annie M. Hubbell, and by her were born two sons: Harris D. and James F., both of wom own one quarter interest in the business, the firm name being James E. Booge & Sons. They are both promising young men with fine business capacities, thoroughgoing and reliable. Miss Lucy B. Robinson is the second wife, and to this union were born two daughters: Laura E. and Josephine H. Mr. Booge’s success in life has been due to his integrity, perseverance and judgment. He has not at any time aspired to political honor, but is a prom- inent citizen, and has always been ready and foremost in furthering any interests for the upbuilding of Sioux City. In his prosperity Mr. Booge does not forget the unfortunate and poor, and is a very benevolent and char- itable man. He is a democrat in politics, and, while not a member of any church, he contributes largely to the support of the Unitarian church, of which his family are members. Grorce Wurreriutp Young, ice dealer, Sioux City, was born in Medford, Mass., April 2, 1846. He attended the common schools of the time, attend- ing only eight years then, but in 1861-62 he took a further course of study at the Mount Carroll seminary, in Carroll county, Ill., having moved with his father to Will county, IIL, in the fall of 1851. August 3, 1863, he en- listed as a private in the Sixteenth United States infantry, Capt. Crofton commanding. He served until mustered out, August 3, 1865, when he re- turned to Will county, Ill, where he remained but one year, then moved to Sioux City, where he spent thesnext year. October 17,:1869, he married Miss Julia A., daughter of Prof. J. W. and Amanda M. Earle, of Sioux City, and they removed to Le Mars, where he engaged in business, handling lumber and agricultural implements, besides conducting a livery business. The same year he erected the first dwelling- house built in that city. He continued in business there until 1872, when he returned to Sioux City, where he engaged in expressing, and also ran a general dray line. He continued in that business until 1882, when he suc- ceeded his father in the ice business, in which he has made quite a pro- nounced success. He contemplates removing his ice plant to the banks of the Big Sioux river in the spring of 1891, that he may perfect his plans for procuring purer ice. He says that Le Mars received its rather odd name in quite an unique way. A number of ladies were invited to take a ride over the new railroad, which was constructed in 1869, and upon their arrival at the embryo city, the question of a name came up, which was settled by taking an initial from each lady’s name. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 725 E. D. Cuasszrz, editor and manager of the Le Mars semi-weekly “ Sentinel,” was born at Holland Patent, N. Y., in 1858, where he lived until 1867, when he came to Iowa Falls, Iowa, with his parents, William and Frances A. (Jones) Chassell, who still reside there. Mr. Chassell is of Scotch descent on his father’s side, his grandfather, the Rev. David Chassell, D. D., for many years principal of Fairfield seminary at Fairfield, Herki- mer county, N. Y., having been born in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1788. He came to America with his parents in 1796 and located in Vermont, and received his education at Dartmouth college early in the present century. Mr. E. D. Chassell was reared amid pioneer scenes on a wild prairie farm, and began teaching at the early age of nineteen. In 1882 he graduated from the Iowa State Normal school, at the head of his class of thirty-two. He became principal of the schools at Stacyville, and later at St. Ansgar in Mitchell county, remaining two years, when he became identified with the Osage “News” at Osage, Iowa, and soon became editor and business man- ager, besides being one of the proprietors. In 1888 he was elected assistant secretary of the Iowa senate, serving one term. He bought a half interest in the Le Mars semi-weekly “ Sentinel” of State Printer Ragsdale, as well as the bindery and job printing office con- nected therewith, in February, 1889, and has since been its editor and man- ager. Politically he is an active republican, and in 1890 became secretary of the state central committee. He is a Knight Templar Mason, being a member of Coeur de Leon Commandery, No. 19, K. T., of Osage, Iowa, also a charter member of Occidental Chapter, Royal Arch Masons, of Le Mars, and a Knight of Pythias, belonging to Zeus'Lodge, of Le Mars. Grorce H. Puers, president of Kingsley bank, was born in Crown Point, Essex county, N. Y., May 4, 1833. He is a son of Harvey and Martha (Peabody) Phelps, both natives of New Hampshire and of English descent. Harvey Phelps was a large lumber dealer in New York and also operated a saw-mill. He owned a large amount of land in Essex county, which he had operated as a farm with hired help, besides attending to his lumber interests, which he carried on until his death in 1843. His wife lived until 1880. They were both members of the Congregational church. George H. completed his education at the Shoreham academy, Vermont. After the death of his father he engaged in farming and various occupations, including boating on Lake Champlain. In 1865 he came to Illinois and farmed in Ogle county until 1867, when he came to Iowa and was employed on a farm in Cedar county two years, thence going back to Vermont, where he engaged again in boating for two years. He then came to Red Oak, Montgomery county, Iowa, where he shipped grain one year, and then farmed quite extensively in Cedar county until 1883, when he located in Plymouth 726 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. county, where he purchased 352 acres of land in Garfield township, which he proceeded to cultivate. He also owns 240 acres in different parts of the county. When Kingsley was platted he purchased lots, and engaged in the lumber and coal business until 1888. In April of the following year, he purchased a half interest in the Kingsley Bank, which he has conducted ever since. In July, 1854, Mr. Phelps married Mary M. Brooks, of Crown Point, N. Y., a daughter of John and Phoebe (Reynolds) Brooks, the former a native of New Hampshire and the latter of Vermont. Mr. Phelps and wife are the parents of four children: Ellen P., Alice M., John B. and Frank G. (deceased). John Brooks was a farmer in the early part of his life, and the latter part was spent in loaning money in Crown Point, N. Y., where his death occurred May 17, 1888; his wife is still living at the old home in Crown Point, N. Y. Mr. and Mrs. Phelps are supporters of the Congregational church. The principles of the democratic party are the ones that seem the nearest right to him. Ricuarp Henry Lovcxs, druggist, Danbury, is a grandson of John Loucks, a Revolutionary soldier of German descent, and was born in Little Falls, N. Y., May 10, 1841. His father, Adam Loucks, was born in the same house at Little Falls. His mother, Jane M. Loucks, was a daughter of Richard Collier, also a soldier in the Revolution, who came of English ancestry. In 1846 Adam Loucks removed to Michigan, and nine years later to Albion, Iowa. He engaged in farming and brick-making, and still resides at Albion. Richard was educated in the Albion seminary. In August, 1866, he came to Smithland, and taught school in the Maple valley the following win- ter. In 1867 he became a partner of Dr. R. C. Rice in the drug business at Smithland, and sole proprietor in a little over three years. He continued in business until 1873, he then sold out. He settled in Danbury in 1878, opened up a drug store, and is still in business. He has dealt in real estate successfully, and is still the owner of land and lots in both Iowa and Ne- braska. Mr. Loucks holds the faith of the Congregational .church, and has always affiliated with the democratic party. He is now a member of the Danbury school board. November 21, 1872, at Smithland, he married Margie Ann, daughter of Alexander Buchanan, of Scotch-Irish descent. Mrs. Loucks isa native of Indiana. Her living children are named Alice, Grace and Richard Collier. Anprew Brack, one of the oldest settlers in Plymouth county, now resid- ing on section six, Garfield township, was born in Scotland, August 10, 1830. His parents were William and Mary (Riddle) Black, both natives of Scot- land, who came to America in 1832, and were 114 days in making the pas- GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 727 sage from Leith, Scotland, to Montreal, Canada. William Black farmed until his death, which occurred February 4, 1882, his wife surviving him until February 11, 1890; both were members of the Presbyterian church. Andrew Black went to Canada with his parents when he was about two years of age, and resided there until he was twenty-one years old. When he attained his majority he went to Michigan, and worked in the freight de- partment of the Michigan Central railroad. In May, 1857, he went to Dodge county, Wisconsin, and engaged in farming. In November, 1858, he went to Minnesota, and purchased a farm in Freeborn county, and was engaged in farming three years. August 18, 1862, he enlisted in Company E, Tenth Minnesota infantry. He was with Gen. Sibley’s expedition against the Sioux Indians during the summer of 1863. In April, 1864, he was promoted to hospital steward of his regiment, and took part in the battles of Tupelo, Nashville and the siege of Spanish Fort, and was mustered out August 19, 1865, at Fort Snelling, Minn. He then returned to his farm in Freeborn county, where he resided until the following year. In June, 1866, he sold his farm in Minnesota, and came to Plymouth county, Iowa, and took up a homestead in America town- ship, where he remained until 1881; he then purchased 177 acres in Gartield township, where he has since been engaged in farming and stock-raising. Mr. Black was united in marriage with Margaret J. McCurdy, October 3, 1867, and they have six children: Mary J., Fannie B., Myra A., William A., Zella E. and Maggie A. In politics he is a republican, and was a member of the board of supervisors of Plymouth county, Iowa, three years; is township trustee, which office he has held four years, and has also been secretary of the district ever since the township was organized, and road supervisor two terms. He is a member of Gen. Bell Post, No. 332, of the G. A. R. Letcuton Wry, cashier of the Iowa Savings bank, Sioux City, is a na- tive of Pennsylvania, and was born in 1833. He was educated at Freemont academy and at the State Normal school at Millerstown. Reared on a farm, it was but natural he should follow his father’s vocation, which he did when young, and also engaged in teaching school. He came to Sioux City in 1868 and engaged in civil engineering and the real estate business. He then removed to Yankton, Dak., where he was engaged in the banking business up to 1883. In that year he returned to Sioux City, and organized the Iowa Savings bank, with Eri Richardson, D. T. Hedges, William L. Joy, A. S. Garretson and himself as directors, starting with a capital of $25,000. Mr. Wynn has occupied the position of cashier of this bank since its or- ganization. The capital of the bank was increased to $50,000 and afterward to $100,000. In 1887 the surplus capital was divided among the stockholders and the capital was increased to $250,000. The surplus capital has now 728 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. reached $60,000. The bank occupies a handsome structure, 75x100 feet, seven stories high, built of Berea (Ohio) stone. Mr. Wynn has been a thorough- going, pushing man, and has been very successful in his operations, and has exercised that judgment and tact necessary to financial success. He is a trustee of the Landscape company, and owns an interest of 400 acres in that company. He is a member of the Baptist church. Water Srranes, dealer in wool, hay, etc., Sioux City, is the son of Al- fred Strange, who was a merchant. Walter Strange is a native of England, and was educated at a private school of that country. It was in 1872 that he came to America. He spent one year in New York city, and another year in Chicago, where he was engaged in buying and selling wool. From there he moved to Des Moines, and remained there two years, and in 1876 came to Sioux City, and engaged in his present business in which he has since con- tinued. Mr. Strange takes large government contracts. In 1883 he received the contract for 13,000 head of cattle for the Indian department of different agencies throughout Dakota, Montana and Nebraska, and supplied a contract for 17,040 tons of hay for Wood Custer, Montana. This is the most exten- sive shipping firm throughout this section of the west, their business amount- ing to $650,000 per annum. The firm name is Strange Bros. Joseph is the eldest and came here in 1876. He now has charge of the firm’s Chicago house. Fred is the youngest, and superintends the outside work. Walter, our subject, has charge of the Sioux City house, and the direct business man- .agement of the firm falls to him. Our subject is county commissioner of Woodbury county. Epwin C. Peters, a capitalist and prominent business man of Sioux City, was born on a farm in Chester county, Pa., October 28, 18386, and is a son of ‘Robert P. and Elmira (Gregg) Peters. He attended the district school and a local academy until fifteen years of age, when he entered the Pennsylvania State Normal school at Millersville, Pa., where he remained for two years, when he commenced the study of law and graduated from the National Law school at Poughkeepsie, N. Y., when but twenty-one years old. He then re- moved to Niagara Falls, and after a year spent in the law office of A. P. Floyd, he engaged in the law and insurance business in partnership with H. N. Griffith, then district attorney. In 1861 he was appointed by President Lincoln, deputy United States marshal, for the arrest and detention of persons of known notorious disloyalty. After a few months Secretary Seward revoked the order for this special service, and he was commissioned deputy collector of customs at Niagara Falls, and held this office until the spring of 1870, when he sold his law and insurance business, resigned his government position, and came to Sioux City, Iowa, GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 729 entering the banking house of Weare & Allison, taking a working interest in their insurance business. About a year and a half later, with George Murphy, he bought out this branch of their business, and in connection there- with organized the first savings bank in the city, of which Mr. Peters became vice-president. A. S. Garretson and his friends, two years later, bought a controlling interest in this bank, and merged it into the Sioux National bank. About this time our subject received an injury to his head which unfitted him for office work for nearly four years. Recovering in 1877 he went to the Black Hills, having been appointed the first treasurer of Pennington county, Dak., and was afterward commissioned probate judge of the county. The second year after coming to Sioux City, he bought a large tract of land about a mile and a half to the southeast of the city limits, and, with others who had come with him from Niagara Falls, started a settlement, to which he gave the name of Morning Side. Upon his return from the Black Hills in 1878, he again made his home at Morning Side, and has devoted much of his time since to furthering the interest of this now beautiful suburb. In 1888 the Sioux City Rapid Transit company was organized and a motor line built, connecting Morning Side with the street-car line of the city, and of this company he became president. In 1890-91 this company constructed a mile and a half of connecting elevated * ailroad, at a cost of about four hundred thousand dollars, thus enabling the company to run from Morning Side to the center of the city. Upon the or- ganization of the University of the Northwest, at Morning Side, Mr. Peters was made vice-president and chairman of the executive committee. He is one of the directors of the Northwestern National bank of this city. November 17, 1864, he was united in marriage with Miss Sarah P., daughter of Benjamin R. and Lucy (Hill) Scott, both of whom were natives of Hornscastle, England. His wife was born in New York city. She isa cousin of Sir Gilbert Scott, who designed the Prince Albert memorial monu- ment. The fruit of this union was ten children, four of whom are living, viz.: Lula White, Merritt Chesbro, Pierre Hugo and Hope Scott. Mr. Peters be- came a Mason at Niagara Falls many years ago, but took out no demit, and has not connected himself with any lodge since coming west. Tuomas Matonsg, retail groceryman, Sioux City, was born in Oneida county, N. Y., August 18, 1846. He is a son of Richard and Mary (O’Don- nell) Malone, who were of Irish extraction. In 1852 the family removed to Dubuque, Iowa, and engaged in farming, and the son remained there until fifteen years of age, attending the public schools and assisting his father on the farm. Atthis time he began learning the trade of blacksmithing at Du- buque, where he remained until 1868, when he removed to Manchester, Iowa, at which place he followed his trade for two years. 730 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. In 1870 he came to Sioux City, and soon after coming formed a partner- ship with a Mr. McCarty in the blacksmith business, under the firm name of McCarty & Malone. This partnership continued for five years, when Mr. Malone sold his interest to his partner and engaged in the same business for himself, which he conducted the following two years. In 1877, during the Black Hills excitement, he removed to that country and remained there until the fall of 1879, when he returned to Sioux City. From this time until the spring of 1882 he followed his trade, working for Dineen Bros. In 1882 he embarked in the grocery business at 507 Pearl St., which place he has successfully conducted until the present time, 1890. Mr. Malone was elected councilman at large by the democratic party, which party always has his support. He is chairman of the public library committee, and he, as well as his family, are members of the Roman Cath- olic church. January 16, 1871, he was united in marriage with Mary Jane Kevill, whose parents were of Irish extraction, and whose family came here in 1856. Mr. Malone’s family consists of five girls and three boys, viz.: Mary, Nellie, Maggie (deceased in infancy), Annie, John, Thomas, James and Alice. Frepericx F. Beck, contractor and builder, is one of the self-made men of whom Sioux City can boast so many. For the last twenty years he has been engaged in constructing some of Sioux City’s finest public and private buildings, among which may be mentioned the Hotel Gordon, Gilman block, the Marks-Joy block, and the residences of G. W. Wakefield, D. T. Gilman, Ed. Haakinson, C. R. Marks, J. D. Hoskins and many others. He is now constructing the woodwork of the University of the Northwest. F. F. Beck was born at Wisbeach, Cambridgeshire, England, August 8, 1844. His father was a carpenter, and he early began to receive lessons in the art of building. In the summer of 1850 he left his native land and went to Canada, where he remained until 1868. In the last named year he came to Iowa, locating for a time at Dubuque, but in 1870 he settled in Sioux City, and was employed for one year as a journeyman carpenter, but since that time has been engaged in contracting as above indicated. Mr. Beck is a member of the Masonic order, and of the Methodist Episcopal church. In politics he affiliates with the republican party. He is in accord with all progressive ideas, and gives cordial co-operation to every move tend ing to build up his home city, the state and nation. At Fergus, county Wellington, Canada, March 20, 1866, Mr. Beck was joined in the holy bonds of matrimony to Miss Catherine Hughes, who was born in Elora in that county, where her father, a Welshman, still resides. Their family includes five sons and a daughter, namely: Luke Edward, born April 16, 1867, died July 20, 1867; Thomas Richard, born June 7, 1868; Carrie Ann, born PHOTO BY GENELLI. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 733 April 28, 1872; Frederick Hughes, born June 24, 1875; Wilbur Clarke, born October 16, 1880; Ralph Osborne, born October 2, 1885. Thomas R, has charge of the Osmond State bank, at Osmond, Neb. Joun Rocner, brick manufacturer, was born in Germany, December, 1848, and on reaching his majority he immigrated to America and settled at Davenport, Iowa. He came to Sioux City in 1866, and for four years was employed as a day laborer in a brick yard. He then purchased of Col. Sawyers eleven lots on Perry creek, near Eleventh street, upon which he established a brick manufactory. ‘This he has continued to operate ever since, and now gives employment to twenty men, personally superintending every detail of his business. Through his own energy, industry and good management he has achieved more than ordinary success, and commands an exclusively wholesale trade. Mr. Rochel is a member of the Uniform Rank Knights of Pythias, and gives his allegiance to the democratic party. In 1869 Mr. Rochel was married to Miss Mary Anna York, and to them have been born six children, of whom four are now living, viz.: Helen Marie, Amanda Louise, Edmund Andeas and Rosa Antoinette. Mrs. Rochel’s par- ents are Mathias York, a Prussian who has been in this country fifty-four years, and Helen (Geyer) York, a native of Bavaria, who came to America with her father in 1846, being then twenty-two years of age. This couple now reside in Sioux City. Joun Jacos Scuiawie, Sioux City. In the picturesque city of Thuses, Canton of Graubunden, Switzerland, February 27, 1831, there was born to one of the oldest families in that historic country an only son, the subject of this sketch, John Jacob Schlawig. His ancestry was prominently identified with the political history of Switzerland, and took an active part in the de- fense of their land against the invasion of other powers; and a grandfather fell in the gallant defense made against the French army in the battle of Richenan. His early education was acquired among his native hills, where he learned to love the freedom of his Fatherland, and despise the serfdom and oppression of neighboring monarchies. At the age of eighteen he re- moved to Chur, where he learned the trade of a carriage-maker. There he met and wedded, September 20, 1853, Miss Ursula Haag, the daughter of an old citizen of that city. For some years thereafter he followed his trade, but all the while longing for the greater possibilities offered in America to industry and integrity. In 1857 the dream of his youth was realized when he embarked for this country, taking with him his young wife and two children. On reaching America he pushed westward, believing that that region promised better opportunities to willing hearts and ready hands. He first stopped in Du- buque for a few months, then crossed the state overland by team to Sioux City. 1384 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. On this trip the second daughter, a child of two years, sickened and died, which well nigh discouraged him and his young wife, but they journeyed on, reach- ing Sioux City, then a frontier village, September 19, 1857. He immediately set to work to procure for himself and family a home. He erected a crude shop and worked at his trade, making and repairing wagons, and built the first wagon made in Sioux City. At the outbreak of the Civil war he offered himself as a volunteer in the defense of his adopted country, and served from 1861 to 1864 in the Seventh Iowa cavalry, Company I. He was with Gen. Sully in his famous expedition against the hostile Sioux, and took part in the battle of White Stone Hill and other engagements. At the close of hostilities he received his honorable discharge, and re-engaged in the wagon- maker’s trade in this city. In 1875 he was one of the pioneers of the Black Hills, 8. D., country, where he prospected extensively, and located several silver mines at Galena, which he afterward consolidated into the Washington Gold and Silver Min- ing company, of which company he is the principal owner and president. He also owns the Sula mine, at Lead City, 8. D. His mining property is well located, and among the best and richest mines in that wonderfully pro- ductive mineral region. In the summer of 1890 he platted what is known as Sunny Side addition to Lead City, and a large part of which he still owns. His family consists of two sons and three daughters. .The oldest son, John J., is a rising young physician, while the younger, William, is now in college, preparing himself for the practice of dentistry. Two daughters, Anna and Marie, are still at home, the other, Christina, is the wife of Dr. R. E. Conniff, of this city. Mr. Schlawig has always had abundant faith in the future of Sioux City, and has seen it grow from a frontier village to a city of nearly 40,000. He, with other old settlers, endured many of the pri- vations of the early history of Sioux City. His industry and abiding faith in the future of the city have been rewarded by material prosperity, and we find him in his old age surrounded by the comforts of life, and with a compe- tence that places him above want and secures for him that ease that his industry deserves. Mr. Schlawig is still a man in robust health, of a jovial, kindly disposition that makes and keeps friends, and is respected and esteemed by all that know him. Marruias Wourts, proprietor of the Le Mars “ Globe” and the Le Mars “Herold,” was born in Vianden, grand duchy of Luxembourg, January 26, 1842. He lived with his grandparents, in Dippach, Luxembourg, from 1861 until after their death, which occurred in 1872. In March, 1873, he immi- grated to the United States, and came directly to Le Mars. On a trip through Marion and Fredonia townships he decided to locate there, and pur- chased of Stanley & Welliver, land agents for the Iowa Land Co., the north GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 735 half of section twenty-nine in Fredonia, and the same year had 100 acres broken, the next year he became a farmer. In December, 1875, he returned to Germany, and in 1876 married Miss Barbara Wolff, his present wife, and brought her to this country. In 1884 he quit farming, and with his family removed to Le Mars, bought the Le Mars “Herold,” of J. P. Kieffer, who started it in June, 1882. In October, 1884, he, with other leading democrats, started the Le Mars ‘‘ Globe,” daily and weekly, at the time the only democratic organ in the county. Through the effective work of the “Globe” and “Herold” the democrats earned their first victory in Plymouth county, and scored a majority for Grover Cleveland of seventy-five. In 1885 he obtained entire control of the “Globe.” He has had five children—three girls and two boys; the first born, a girl, died soon after birth, and another girl also died in infancy. Those living are John Peter, born May 25, 1879; Nicholas, born July 27, 1881, and Theresa, born August 30, 1887. Joun A. Dewey, attorney, Kingsley, and one of the oldest settlers in Woodbury and Plymouth counties, was born near Rochester, N. Y., January 27, 1847. His parents were Joseph and Maria (Ranney) Dewey, both na- tives of New York, the father being of English and his wife of Scotch- , English descent. Joseph Dewey spent the early part of his life in farming. After acquiring somewhat of a competency, he gave some attention to poli- tics, and has been a member of the N. Y. legislature, a judge on the bench two terms, was also a member of the Excise commission and of the board of supervisors a number of years. He owned a finely improved farm within three miles of Rochester, N. Y., until his death, which occurred February 27, 1890, at the age of eighty-eight years; his wife died in the fall of 1889, aged eighty-seven years. John A. came to Woodbury county, in the spring of 1865, and located in Correctionville, where he taught school. In different localities in Iowa, for the next fifteen years, this was his regular occupation, during which time he commenced to study law. He finally moved to Marshalltown, where he com- pleted his studies and was admitted to the bar, and formed a partnership with Frank Pillsbury, and commenced the practice of his profession in Union, Iowa. After one year’s practice he returned to Correctionville and taught school. He owned a farm in Woodbury county, which he sold, and moved near the Plymouth county line, where he squatted on 160 acres of land. He was sent to Des Moines as a lobbyist, by what was called the Squatters’ Union, to help get the bill passed authorizing the Governor to re- convey 25,000 acres of land in Woodbury and Plymouth counties to the gov- ernment, which he succeeded in doing. He was then sent to Washington to obtain the passage of a forfeiture bill of 85,000 acres, which, through a lack 7386 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. of about three hours’ discussion, failed to pass. The Secretary of the In- terior afterward declared 25,000 acres forfeited. This experience led to quite a large practice before the interior department in contested claims, which line of practice he has since been engaged in. Mr. Dewey was united in marriage with Clara Nelson, of Adams county, IIl., in September, 1870, and there have been five children born to them: Gra, Ruby, Dean, Zo and B. « He formerly was a republican, until the cam- paign of Cleveland and Blaine, in 1884, when he became satisfied that the democratic party was the one he could best sympathize with and give his assistance to. He is secretary of the school board and city assessor, and is a member of the I. O. O. F. Witu1am H. Borys, cornice manufacturer, Sioux City, is the second child of Thomas and Margaret (Rochford) Burns, who were natives of Dublin, Ire- land, and was born in 1850, in Oneida county, N. Y. His parents came to America in 1850, and settled in Oneida county, where his father still resides. His mother died there in February, 1888. Their family consisted of eight children, four of whom are now living. At the age of nineteen our subject had learned the tinner’s trade, which he followed until his removal to Chi- . cago in 1872, where he learned cornice-making. He came to Sioux City in 1876, and was employed in that business for five years by A. Grovinger, and then for three years by the latter’s successor, F. C. Hills. . In 1884 Mr. Burns purchased the business and has since conducted it. His work is shown on the county court-house, A. S. Garretson’s residence, and in the slate and copper work for D. T. Hedges, T. P. Gere and on the Hotel Garretson; also tin and skylight work on the Iowa Savings bank build- ing, the United bank building, Boston Investment company’s building, and several of the other prominent buildings throughout the city. His success is due to the fact that he gives his undivided attention to business. February 17, 1878, he was married at Chicago, to Miss Josie Mullen, whose parents came from Ireland and now reside in Harvard, Ill. This union has been blessed with one daughter, Elizabeth, who was born January 26,1880. Mr. Burns and family are communicants in the Roman Catholic church. He is a utember of the A. O. H., and has always supported the democratic party in politics. L. F. Waxzrtexp, civil engineer, Sioux City, was born in Scott county, Towa, in 1852. His father was a native of Vermont, and his mother of New York state. When quite young he left.his native county and went to Clin- ton. He was educated at Mount Vernon college, this state, and chose engi- neering as his profession. He came to Sioux City in 1880, and for one year was employed by the F. E. & M. V. R. R. Co. In 1882 he opened an office in Sioux City, and for three months was engaged on government work. He GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 737 was appointed city surveyor in 1883, which position he held until the spring of 1887, when he resigned. He was then employed by the Sioux City & Northern railroad company, and afterward by the Pacific Short Line com- pany. Mr. Wakefield was city engineer at the time the water works were built, and deserves much credit for his management of affairs at that time. He was appointed chief engineer of the Sioux City & Northern railroad in Feb- ruary, 1891, and beside his duties on that road is also senior member of the engineering firm of Wakefield, Vincent & Johnson. He was twice married, first to Mary Alice Newbern, October 2, 1880, and she having died, February 14, 1889, he married Jennie Wilson. P. F. Dattoy, banker, Le Mars, son of Matthew and Catherine (Kinney) Dalton, was born in Longford county, Ireland, in 1838, and when a boy of twelve years of age, with his parents, came to America, locating in Livingston county, N. Y., and in 1855 removed to Sandusky county, Ohio, where he remained until 1862, when he enlisted as a private in Company G, One Hun- dred and Eleventh O. V. I. He was promoted to lieutenant in 1864, and at the close of the war, having participated in all battles in which his command was engaged, was mustered out in July, 1865. The family in 1866 removed to Iowa, and in 1873 our subject came to Le Mars, where he became interested in handling coal and grain, and in 1875 became identified with the Plymouth County bank, now known as the First National bank, of Le Mars, it having been organized as such in 1882, and of which he is now president. He is also president of the Plymouth Roller Mill company, and is owner of the Opera house, and interested in the Union hotel, is treasurer of the Western Investment company, and vice-president of the Le Mars Building and Loan company. He was a member of the first city council, and was at one time a candidate for member of the legislature. He is a member of Giblem Lodge, F. & A. M:, No. 3822, and is a Royal Arch Mason. He married Mary, daughter of Paul Tew, an extensive farmer, of Sandusky county, Ohio, and has two children, Edwin and Ralph. Awnprew Lrrrtze Hoatz, retired, Le Mars, was born in Cobleskill, N. Y., April 18, 1796, and is the second and only one living of nine children born to Elisha and Susanna Hogle. His paternal grandfather, John Hogle, was a native of New York, of Dutch descent, and his maternal grandfather, Andrew Little, born in New Jersey and of English ancestry. Andrew Hogle was reared on a farm in Sharon, Schoharie county, N. Y., and attended.the sub- scription schools of his day. July 16, 1817, he married Hannah Reed, daughter of Jesse Reed, who served through the Revolutionary war as a soldier. Soon after his marriage Mr. Hogle settled in Scott, Chautauqua county, N. Y., where he worked five 738 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. years in a saw-mill, and subsequently engaged in farming and other occupa- tions. In 1844 he removed to Potosi, Grant county, Wis., where he bought afarm. In addition to the tillage of his farm, he did some carpenter work and also blacksmithing. His home is now with his youngest daughter in Le Mars, where his wife died February 24, 1890, aged ninety years and four months. During nearly their entire wedded life they were identified with the Free-Will Baptist church. Mr. Hogle was a whig in the days of that party and subsequently voted with the republicans. Of his six daughters, Susan, wife of Abram Vedder, resides in Beetown, Wis.; Lydia (Mrs. Russell Smith), at Pomfred, N. Y.; Betsey (Mrs. Nelson Oleson), Liberty, Grant county, Wis.; Mardana (Crouch), Hettie (Crow), and Hannah Jane (Duncan), Le Mars. The only son and youngest child, Andrew James, died in California in 1864, aged thirty years. JosepHus Duncay, retired, Le Mars, was born in Lawrence county, Tenn., January 14, 1820. His parents, Melcher and Sarah Duncan, were natives of Robertson county, Tenn., and Russellville, Ky., respectively. His paternal grandfather, John Duncan, came from Scotland, and his maternal grand- father, John Irvin, from London, England. In the fall of 1829 our subject removed with his parents to Pike county, Mo., where he was reared on a farm, and where his parents died at the respective ages of eighty-two and eighty-five years. Of their ten children, Josephus is the seventh child. When seventeen years of age he began learning the blacksmith trade. In 1845 he went to Grant county, Wis., and mined lead for four years. He then bought a farm, and besides tilling it worked at building. In October, 1861, he enlisted in Bissell’s regiment of engineers, later known as the Western Missouri engineers. He served eighteen months in the blacksmith detail, and was discharged on account of injuries received in being thrown from a railroad train. He came to Le Mars in 1877, and after farming one year, bought a hotel, which he conducted eight years as the Duncan house. He is a member of the Free-Will Baptist church and the G. A. R., and has always been a republican. In September, 1850, he mar- ried Hannah J., daughter of Andrew Hogles a native of New York. They have three living children, viz.: William James, John Colby and Melcher Jerome. George Alma, the second, died in November, 1881, aged twenty- eight years. JosepH SnowDEeNn SuHovp, superintendent of schools, Sioux City, was born in Freeport, Pa., February 28, 1841. His great-grandfather came from Ger- many and his grandfather, Abram, and father, Henry Shoup, were natives of Pennsylvania. His mother, Ann Jane (McCain) Shoup, was also a native of Pennsylvania, of Scotch-Irish descent, and a daughter of George McCain, of Ireland. In 1852 our subject removed with his parents to Tli- GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 739 nois and passed several years on a farm near Galesburg. He graduated in 1859 at Cherry Grove university, near Abingdon, II. June 21, 1861, he enlisted in Company C, Forty-second Illinois volun- teer infantry, with which company he served as a private three years, subse- quently serving one year in the Forty-seventh Illinois, and was mustered. out September 17, 1865. He served in Fremont’s and Grant’s armies, and was under Gen. Sherman at the battle of Mission Ridge; besides this engage- ment he also participated in those at Belmont, Island No. 10, Farmington, Corinth, Stone River, Chickamauga, Spanish Fort and Fort Blakely. Dur- ing much of his service he was detailed in the adjutant’s office, and per- formed the duties of nearly every officer in the regiment, although only a private. At the close of the war he bought a cotton plantation in Marengo county, Ala., which he owned for several years. He tilled this for a time, when he was elected probate judge, and served one year, resigning this position to accept the principalship of McKinley academy, Alabama, with which he remained one year. In 1870 he came to Iowa, and was elected to an important position in the Council Bluffs high school. He resigned this position at the end of three years to become superintendent of schools at Belleview, Neb., where he remained two years. After a year of school work at Onawa, Iowa, he was for three years principal of the Smithland schools in Woodbury county, subsequently filling the same position at Danbury, until his election, in 1883, to the office of county superintendent; he served four years in this capacity, and after conducting normal classes at Smithland for two years, he was again elected superintendent, his present term beginning with 1890. Prof. Shoup has been a member since its formation of the educational council of the State Teachers’ association. He was president three years, and has always been one of the most active members of the Northern Iowa Principals’ and Superintendents’ Association, and is a member of the board for State Teachers’ reading circle. He is prominent in the State Normal institute work, and is an able writer on educational and other subjects. For the past two years he has published the ‘‘ Woodbury County Teacher,” a practical and popular monthly for the help of teachers. Prof. Shoup is a Royal Arch Mason, and is present senior vice-commander of B. F. Smith Post, G. A. R. He accepts the Presbyterian religious faith and democratic political teachings. In 1867 he married Miss Mittie E. Eaves, a native of Alabama, and a graduate of South Chester college, S. C. They have eight living children, viz.: Lena E. (Mrs. Calvin Dix, of Concord township), Nona Glendenning, Joseph P., Mittie E., Gordinna R., Dick, Mattie Belle and George. Joun Brennan, attorney and real estate dealer, Sioux City, so well and favorably known in all western Iowa, but especially in the vicinity of Sioux 740 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. City, is an illustrious and living example of what the most humble foreigner may achieve, when once he becomes an adopted citizen of the United States. And it may be said that no one more highly appreciates the liberties and benefits of American institutions, than does the man of whom this brief notice is written. Coming as he did from the Old World with its despotic rule, and becoming an influential and prosperous citizen among the people of this country, he perhaps more highly prizes our form of government, as held in contrast with that of England, than does the average native-born American. Mr. Brennan was born at Elphin, county Roscommon, Ireland, July 14, 1845. In his own language: “A full-blooded Celtic Irishman, a Catholic of Catholic stock. ‘Kindly Irish—of the Irish, Neither Saxon, nor Italian,’ the son of a butcher, educated in the national (common) schools of his native town.”” He immigrated to the United States in 1865, worked as a farm hand, porter, railroad grader and ox-team driver, the first four years after coming to America. In 1869 he became a newspaper reporter on the Sioux City “Daily Times,” and has been a resident of this place ever since. He held the position of reporter for five years, was justice of the peace six years, member of the city council one term, and city attorney three years. He was formerly a democrat, but left that party on the free-trade issue, and has since been a strong republican and protectionist, and bore a very conspicuous part in the national campaigns of 1884 and 1888. In 1889 he declined an appointment to Spain, which was tendered him through Secretary James G. Blaine. He is a self-educated man, starting in life as a day laborer; worked as a railroad laborer at the age of twenty-three, and in turn became a successful journalist, politician, lawyer and public speaker. Jaithful to the traditions of his native land and mother church, yet is he passionately:an American in sentiment and practice. In religious matters he is extremely liberal, ready to encourage Catholic schools, but a stanch defender of our American public-school system, ever ready to raise his voice to warn his fellow countrymen against interfering with the school system of this country. Mr. Brennan was united in marriage in January, 1870, to Annie Fleming, at Sioux City, by which union there were no children. After a lingering ill- ness of many months, the beloved wife and companion passed from earthly scenes, her death occurring October 20, 1890. In justice to Mr. Brennan, it needs to be added, that while he is a positive man in all his convictions, yet he has but few personal enemies, and has won a peculiar and universal friend- ship among all classes, who honor him because of his candor and true manli- ness. As a public speaker, journalistic writer and financier, he has made a praiseworthy record, such as it is possible to make only in a country so PHOTO BY GENELLI. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 743 free and ready to acknowledge true worth, regardless of one’s former station, as in our own country—America. Metancrnon Hiuzert, physician, Le Mars, was born in Harrison county, Ohio, July 17, 1841. He came to Iowa at the age of fifteen, and settled at Fairfield, where he lived until July, 1863, when he entered the army as hos- pital steward of the First Arkansas cavalry, in which position he served until January 1, 1865, when he was promoted to second lieutenant and appointed acting adjutant of his regiment, which place he filled until the close of the war. He attended medical college at Ann Arbor, Mich., during the winter of 1865, after which he practiced medicine in Clarke county until the winter of 1869, when he graduated at the Rush Medical college, Chicago, and in the spring of 1870 removed to Le Mars, becoming its first physician, and contin- uing in the practice of his profession there till 1878, when failing health compelled him to abandon his profession. He was elected and served six years as county recorder, during which time he prepared a set of abstract books of his county, and laid the foundation of his present business. He has served as mayor of Le Mars and in other important official positions. Epwarp Coox Parmer, mayor of Sioux City, was born in Gloversville, N. Y., April 25, 1844. His parents, Edward and Melinda (Devereux) Palmer, were natives of that state, of English and French lineage, respectively. Syl- vanus, father of Edward Palmer, and grandfather of our subject, was early left an orphan. He became a preacher in the German Reformed church, and did missionary work nearly all his life among the Indians about Roches- ter and Buffalo. When he first visited those settlements, they contained only six white fam- ilies each. He continued to ride and preach with the aid of an interpreter till eighty-seven years old, and died at the age of eighty-eight. He was widely known and beloved, and his funeral procession was over a mile long. He mastered eight languages, including several Indian tongues. His wife was a member of the Van Rensselaer family, and they reared eleven sons. The last of these, the father of Mayor Palmer, now resides at Clarissa, Todd county, Minn., aged eighty years. In 1847 he moved from New York to Janesville, Wis., where his wife died in 1854. Our subject then entered the store of his uncle, Andrew Palmer, to learn the drug bus- iness. In 1863 he went with his uncle at Janesville, where he continued the occupation of druggist. He came to Sioux City in 1878, and bought the wholesale grocery business of H. D. Booge & Co., which he sold, after con- ducting it nine years, to the Tollerton & Stetson company. For the last three years he has been at the head of the firm of Palmer, Willey & Co., wholesale dealers in dry goods. 39 744 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Mr. Palmer built and is the chief owner of the Sioux City & Nebraska pontoon bridges, and is president of the Citizens’ bank of South Sioux City, and director of the Commercial National bank of Sioux City. He is also extensively interested in several additions to Sioux City and South Sioux City, and is a large land owner in Nebraska, South Dakota and Iowa. In 1890 he grew over 1,700 acres of crops in the last named state. In 1885 he was the democratic candidate for member of congress from the Eleventh district, and was elected mayor of Sioux City in 1890, being the first democrat elected to that office on a partisan ticket. Mr. Palmer is a Knight Templar Mason, and a member of the Protestant Episcopal church, the A. O. U. W., and Hawkeye club. In 1867 he married Miss Louise T. Lightbody, an English lady, who died in 1883, leaving two sons; Charles E., the elder, is assistant city engineer, and William B. is employed in the National Bank of Sioux City. Mr. Palmer was again married in 1885, this time to Mrs. Kate C. Elliott, and the fruit of this union is a four-year old daughter, named Ethel E. Wiiiiam Gorpon, capitalist, Sioux City, is one of the succesful young men whose energy and ability have built a marvelous city on the founda- tions laid by its noble pioneers. He was born in Enniskillen, county Fer- managh, Ireland, on May 24, 1857, and is the son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Parke) Gordon, natives of the same county. His great-grandfather, Will- iam Gordon, also a native of Ireland, was an intimate friend of John Wesley, and one of the fathers of Methodism. Both the Gordon and Parke families went from Scotland to Ireland near the close of the seventeenth century, to settle upon grants made by Cromwell in return for military service. Our subject was reared in his native town, and educated in the National Model school and Portora college. When fourteen years old, he went to Bel- fast, and was employed in the office of William Gregg & Son, extensive iron merchants. After spending a year in Liverpool, in the employ of a large building furnishers’ establishment, Wm. Dawbam & Sons, he went to Lon- don as its representative, and there remained three years, during which time he was very successful, and was advanced very rapidly by his employers. In March, 1882, he came to America, on his way to Australia. After spend- ing some time in New York, and in traveling through the south and west, he decided to settle in America, and resigned his mission to Australia. He came to Sioux City March 25, 1883, and was first employed as book- keeper by Davis & Wann, grain merchants. He was subsequently employed in the Security National bank, and later took charge of the books of F. H. Peavey & Co., grain buyers, at Minneapolis, Minn. In the spring of 1885 he returned to Sioux City, and engaged in the insurance and real estate business, and two years later turned his entire attention to operations in real estate. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 745 He had invested in realty immediately after his arrival in Sioux City, and he very soon became identified with many leading interests and enter- prises. He is secretary of the Sioux City Rapid Transit company, seeretary and treasurer of the Leeds Improvement and Land company, the Daniel E. Paris stove company, and is a director in the Sioux City Land company, and the Northern Land company, and holds an interest in the Sioux City & Northern railroad company. Upon the organization, in February, 1891, of the American Security and Trust company, he was made its president. This institution is incorporated in both Massachusetts and Iowa, with an authorized capital of five million dollars. It represents a controlling inter- est in the stock of several land syndicates in the Floyd valley, and will en- gage in general banking when its land stock is disposed of. This arrange- ment, which bodes so much for the welfare of Sioux City, is largely due to Mr. Gordon’s foresight and executive ability. While he is a naturalized American, Mr. Gordon eschews politics as de- moralizing to a business man. He is a member of the Masonic order, and sustains the Presbyterian church. He was married, June 4, 1884, to Miss Stella Blanche, daughter of 8. T. Davis, whose biography will be found elsewhere in this volume. Two daughters and a son complete Mr. Gordon’s family, named, respectively, Elizabeth, Jeannie and William Davis. Marrsew Lawrence Finn, contractor, Sioux City, was born in Hartland: McHenry county, Ill., June 15, 1849, and is the third of the eleven children of Bernard and Catherine (Mulhall) Flinn, the latter a native of West Mead, and the former of Mead, Ireland. Matthew remained on the home farm till nine years old, when he went to Chicago and attended the city schools for seven years. He was then employed for some time in hotels—the Tre- mont and Briggs—and in 1868 came with his parents to Sioux City, where they now reside. He soon found employment as brakeman on the Sioux City & Pacific railroad, and, while serving the C., St. P., M. & O. road in that capacity, lost his left arm in 1873. He was then employed at the Sioux City shops of the latter road as operator and time-keeper for five years, and two years as chief clerk, having charge of all the accounts. For nearly two years he kept a meat market, and later engaged in the real estate business. In 1888 he took extensive contracts from the city for building sewers and paving streets, and has continued successfully in that line since. Among the streets paved by him are Hast Fourth, Jackson, Pierce, Water, West Third, Sixth, Seventeenth and Twenty-seventh. Mr. Flinn has witnessed the growth of Sioux City, and took an active part, before he thought of contract- ing, in securing its improvement. The plans proposed by him and others in the city council for public improvements met with much opposition, but were finally victorious. As an evidence of his success, it may be mentioned that 746 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. he is the owner of lands in Plymouth and Woodbury counties and in Nebraska and South Dakota, as well as valuable city property. Mr. Flinn and family are communicants in the Roman Catholic church, and he helps maintain the principles of the Democratic party. In 1881 he was elected alderman at large. He has served two years as assessor, was three years chairman of the county board of supervisors, and acted for four years as United States marshal, under President Cleveland. In 1876 Mr. Flinn married Mary Emma Wilkins, a foster daughter of James Puck, whose biography will be found in this volume. Mrs. Flinn is a native of Arkansas, and is the mother of four children, named respectively: Grace Margaret, Frank Matthew, Alice and Edward Bernard. W. I. Bucnanan. The subject of this sketch is a representative type of the younger class of men, who to-day are intrusted with a large share of the commercial and public responsibilities of this country. Fifty years ago none but old men were deemed to have mature judgment enough to hold positions as officers of banks, railroad officials, county and state officers, while to-day the country is operated largely, financially and officially, by young and middle-aged men. In no state-do we find more fitting examples of what: young men can accomplish than in Iowa, whose most brilliant con- gressman is the youngest member of the house. Mr. Buchanan was born September 10, 1858, near Covington, Miami county, Ohio. His parents were George Preston and Mary (Gibson) Bu- chanan, of Scotch jJescent. He spent his early life on his grandfather’s farm near Covington, his parents both dying before he was nine years old. He afterward learned the trade of an edge-tool maker, and worked at that for some years in and near Rochester, Ind., later in life he took up mercan- tile business, which he has followed since. He came to Sioux City in 1882, from Dayton, Ohio, as a member of the firm of J. K. Prugh & Co., jobbers in crockery, and has also managed the Peavey Grand Opera house since its opening, and is known throughout the country among theatrical people. In 1878 Mr. Buchanan married Lulu Williams, an accomplished lady, daughter of the well-known artist, J. Insco Williams, of Cincinnati, Ohio. They have two children, Florence and Donald I. He was appointed by Gov- ernor Boies, in 1890, one of the two commissioners from Iowa of the World’s Columbian commission, and at the second meeting of that body was made chairman of the committee on agriculture, and in December, 1890, was ap- pointed by Director General Davis, as chief of the Department of Agricult- ure of the Columbian Exposition. The Departments of Live Stock and For- estry were both placed temporarily in his charge, and were organized by him. He isan Elk and a member of the Knights of Pythias, and a stanch democrat. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 747 Exit Ricwarpson, retired farmer, Sioux City, was born in New Hampshire in 1827. His father was a farmer of that state and reared a family of ten children—six sons and four daughters—all of whom grew to maturity in their native state. The sons engaged in railroading, and soon after the death of their father all scattered to different and new scenes. Eri, who appears herein, commenced his career in the railroad business with pick and shovel, and by perseverance ended as a contractor. He assisted in the con- struction of the Hudson River railroad. It was about the middle of this century, in 1854, that Mr. Richardson came to Delaware county, Iowa, having previously been married to Eliza Thurston in New Hampshire. To this union were born six children. Mr. Richardson purchased a farm in Delaware county and remained there six years. At the end of that time he removed to Indiana, and afterward to Ohio, where he remained twenty years. During this time he longed to be back in Iowa, and in 1881 came the second time to this state, where he has since remained, being engaged in stock-raising and farming in an extensive way. He is also engaged in the real estate business. Mr. Richardson has met with wonderful success in business. He first came here poor, with an ox team, and by hard labor, frugality and industry, soon began to advance up the ladder of fortune. He is now president of the Iowa Savings bank. He owns 3,000 acres of land in Woodbury and adjoining counties. After a business career of thirty-five years Mr. Richard- son has now retired from active business. He is a member of the Unitarian church. James BirreLtt Nicwouson, farmer, Le Mars, was born at Annan, Scot- land, August 12, 1861, and is a son of Benjamin and Sarah Janet (Birrell) Nicholson. His grandfather, John, was a son of Benjamin Nicholson, all of Dumfrieshire, Scotland. The father of our subject is a large ship builder and lumber dealer at Annan, and is also an extensive railroad owner, his attention being chiefly given to the latter interest. In 1880 he visited Plymouth county, and purchased two sections of land in Washington and America townships, on which the son settled in 1883. The farm is chiefly devoted to the breeding of shorthorn cattle and Poland China swine. James B. Nicholson was educated at a public school in Edin- burg, and was married in 1883 to Georgina Laing, a native of Liverpool, England, and daughter of Scotch parents, George and Ellen Laing. The family affiliates with the Presbyterian church, and includes four children, viz.: Benjamin, Elsie, Sarah Janet and James B. Mr. Nicholson gives strict attention to the cultivation of the farm, and does not trouble himself with public concerns or those of his neighbors. Timoruy P. Murray, attorney at law, Sioux City, ranks to-day among the foremost and most prominent attorneys in the state of Iowa. He was born 748 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. in Boston, Mass., September 28, 1842, and is the son of Timothy and Jerusha (Shattuck) Murphy. Timothy, the father, was born in county Cork, Ireland, and was a-hatter by trade, and came to America in 1826. The mother was born in New Hampshire, and her parents were among the earliest settlers of Massachusetts. Timothy, the subject, was one of the youngest of ten children, and was reared in his native state until four years of age, when with his parents he removed to Waupun, Wis., where they remained eight years. Timothy attended the public schools of Waupun, and had mastered the third arith- metic and fifth reader when his parents moved to this state and located in Iowa county. The father purchased a farm in that county, and remained thereon until his death. Young Timothy worked on his father’s farm during the summer and attended school in winter until 1860, when he entered the State university at Iowa City. He remained there three years, taking an irregular course in sciences and languages, having in view the study of law, that being his own wish as well as his father’s. In 1863 he went to Marengo, Iowa, and studied law for two years with Jeremiah H. Murphy, his eldest brother. He was admitted to the bar Feb- ruary 15, 1865, and a partnership was formed with his brother, which con- tinued from 1865 to 1867, when a branch office was opened at Davenport, Iowa, and Jeremiah took charge of it, while our subject remained at Ma- rengo until 1870, when the partnership was dissolved. For a year Mr. Murphy practiced alone. In 1871 he formed a partnership with Capt. Hedges, who has since become judge of the district court. This partnership existed until 1875. From 1875 to 1880 Mr. Murphy remained in business alone at Marengo. He served as mayor of that place from 1870 to 1876, having been elected on an independent ticket. In 1880 Mr. Murphy came to Sioux City. For the greater part of the time since then he has been practicing alone. For three years he was in partnership with Mr. F.M. Fort, the firm name being Murphy & Fort. Mr. Murphy’s practice has extended throughout many counties of this state. In 1885 he was appointed United States district attorney for the Northern district of Iowa, by President Cleveland, which position he held until Feb- ruary 10, 1890, when he resigned it. Mr. Murphy was married at Davenport, Iowa, June 8, 1870, to Miss Sarah Holcomb, of Illinois. Their family consisted of five children, only three of whom are now living, the oldest child, a son, having died when sixteen months’ old. He is a member of the Order of Elks. While reared in the faith of the Roman Catholic church, Mr. Murphy is not identified with any denomination. Mrs. Murphy is a member of the Congregational church. He is a member of the democratic party, as his father was before him, and GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 749 has taken an active part in politics. Mr. Murphy has devoted his entire life to his profession, and has won merited success. Jacop W. Myers, banker, Le Mars, was born December 15, 1833, in Trumbull county, Ohio, a son of John and Matilda (Warren) Myers. He received a common-school education in Ohio, and completed it at the Alle- gheny college at| Meadville, Pa., after which he located at Detroit, Mich., where he remained four years in the employ of a mercantile firm. In 1855 he was engaged on government land surveys, and the following year was appointed an U. 8. deputy surveyor, with headquarters at St. Paul, Minn. In 1878 he located at Le Mars, Iowa, and became identified with the Plymouth county bank, as its cashier, and when, in 1882, the Plymouth county bank was converted to the First National bank, he was its cashier for several years, and later its vice-president until 1889, when he resigned to take the presidency of the German American Savings bank of Le Mars. In 1858 Mr. Myers married Mary L. Kimberly, daughter of James and Sirphrona (Earl) Kimberly. He has been a consistent republican since the organization of the party. Amos Hatz is a traveling salesman for the wholesale grocery house of Sprague, Warner & Co., of Chicago, Ill. He is fifty-six years old, and for the last twenty years has followed his present occupation. He has the long- est continuous record as a commercial traveler of any man traveling from this city. He came to Sioux City in 1871 as salesman for the wholesale grocery house of H. D. Booge & Co. He is a native of New York, and has had varied experiences in pioneer life in the northwest in its early days. His face is familiar to the grocery trade within a radius of 100 miles of Sioux City, and he is looked upon by the commercial travelers, as the patriarch of their fraternity, in this locality. He is married and has two daughters: Mrs. Willis G. Clarke, and Miss Adaline. How. Wituis G. Crarxe, of Sioux City, was born at Newport, Me., in 1853. He comes of a family which bore an active and honorable part in the American Revolution, and his father was a union soldier. He lived in Min- nesota from 1856 to 1870, and in 1878 graduated from Brown university, Providence, R. I., with the degree of A. B.. Removing to Sioux City he studied law with Judge Isaac Pendleton, and was admitted to the bar in 1881. He was elected justice of the peace the following year, as a democrat, the balance of the party ticket being defeated. In 1884 and 1885 he was ap- pointed county attorney. In June, 1886, he married Lillian F., daughter of Amos Hale, of Sioux City. At the election of November, 1889, Mr. Clarke was elected by nearly 750 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. one thousand majority to represent Sioux City and Woodbury county in the Twenty-third general assembly of Iowa, of which he is now a member. Witiiam SrepHen Fotis, real estate dealer, Sioux City, was born in Du- buque, this state, on New Year’s day, 1847, and is a son of Patrick and Mar- garet (Conway) Follis, natives of county Kilkenny, Ireland. When William was six weeks old the family moved to Prairie Spring township, Jackson county, where they settled on a farm. In 1868 they removed to Sioux City, where the mother now resides, and where the father died March 6, 1888, aged seventy years. He had taken a homestead in Johnson township, Plymouth county, which is still held by the estate. Our subject is the eldest of their four living children. His only schooling was furnished by the district school in Jackson county, which has been well supplemented by the practical experiences of life. In 1868 Mr. Follis took a homestead in Johnson township, Plymouth county, which he still retains, and he is now the possessor of several city lots. For ten years he was clerk of the Sioux City house, conducted by his father, and since 1881 he has en- gaged successfully in the real estate business. He is secretary of the Lincoln Park association, now Lincoln Park company, and of the Julia Mica Mining company, of Custer county, S. D. For the past five years he has been secretary of the Mechanics’ Building association of this city, having previously served three years as director. He was one of the charter members of the Excelsior Hook and Ladder company, the first volunteer company, organized in 1870, and which was the nucleus of the present fire department, and he served as the secretary of the company several years, and also served the longest period of any active member of the company, having served fifteen years, and is now on the honorary roll. He also served as secretary and treasurer of the Sioux City fire department, for the years 1883 and 1884. He is a member of the A. O. H., and of the Roman Catholic church, and in polities affiliates with the democratic party. In 1878 he was elected county recorder and served two years. He served as justice of the peace in 1883 and 1884, and made a satisfactory magistrate, but refused to be again a candidate. In September, 1890, he formed a partnership with J. A. Ber- nard in the abstract of title business for Sioux City and Woodbury county. On June 2, 1885, Mr. Follis married Mary A. Mulady, a native of Sun Prairie, Wis., of Irish descent. They have three sons, named respectively: William Joseph, Lawrence Gregory and Emmett Patrick. A. R. T. Denv, real estate and loans, Le Mars, was born in London, Eng- land, in 1861, a son of “Lady Dent,” 20 Thurloe square, London. He re- ceived his education in England, and graduated from an engineering school. In 1880 he came to America, and located at Le Mars, where he became a GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 751 farmer, at which occupation he continued for four years, after which he spent a year and a half traveling. After his return, he became one of the firm of Chapman & Co., a firm engaged in the real estate, loan and insurance business, and was afterward engaged in the brewery business, but legal complications soon ended the brewery deal, and he was, until lately, associated with Francis Moreton, the firm name being Dent & Moreton, and they gave their time to real estate and loans. In June, 1887, Mr. Dent married Ida M., the second daughter of Mr. and Mrs. N. B. Richards, formerly of Le Mars, but now of Beresford, S. Dak. Mr. Dent casts his vote with the democratic party. E. E. Szzumser & Co., real estate dealers and brokers, Sioux City. Few young men have been more successful in business than Mr. Selmser, of the above firm. Mr. Selmser was born in Johnstown, N. Y., in 1859, and received his early education there, but completed it at New Haven, Conn., where he attended college. He commenced his business life as a clerk, and when he came to Sioux City, which was in 1882, he clerked for Jundt & Tompkins. He was engaged in the boot and shoe business for six years, but seeing the growth of the city of his adoption, he decided to go into the real estate business, which he did two years ago, and the success he has attained bears witness to the wisdom of the move. Heis engaged extensively in buying and selling real estate, and has an office in the Commercial bank building. He is a member of A. F. & A. M., and a Thirty-second degree Mason. Witt1am Kramer, proprietor of Booge hotel, Sioux City, was born in Ohio in 1847. He has lived throughout the west since 1864, having resided in Montana, Dakota, Utah, Idaho and Iowa. He first came to Sioux City in 1867. For the last six years he has been engaged in the hotel business. In 1889 he purchased a half interest in the Booge hotel, and has since been the genial, hospitable proprietor of the same. In politics he is a republican. Jouy J. Lessenicu, proprietor of the Chicago house, Sioux City, is a native of Germany, born in 1826. His parents, Engelbert and Mary Les- senich, died while our subject was quite young. He remained in Germany until 1854, when he came to America, locating in New York state, where he resided for one year. We next hear of him in Illinois, where he remained until his removal to Sioux City in 1867. The same year, he built a two-story frame hotel, twenty-four by forty-eight feet, occupying a quarter of a block, and was proprietor of the same. In 1881 this building burned down, and was replaced by the present brick block, ninety-six by one hundred feet, and two stories high, of which he is still the proprietor. Mr. Lessenich was married, in Geneseo, Ill, in March, 1861, to Miss Mary A. Kuhri, a native of the Province of Alsace. To this ‘union there were born five children: Josephine (Mrs. Selzer), John F., Mary L. (de- 752 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. ceased, 1887), Leonard C. and Emma L. Mr. Lessenich is a member of Landmark Lodge, No. 108, A. F. & A. M., of Western Star, No. 282, I. O. O. F. and the’*Tumer society. Politically he has been a life-long democrat. He has been very successful in the hotel business and is the owner of a large amount of Sioux City and Plymouth county real estate. Hon. A. M. Duvs, real estate and insurance, Le Mars, was born in (Fohl) Schleswig, Holstein, in the year 1849. He came to America in April, 1870, and located at Le Mars, where he engaged as clerk with John Gordon for two years, and in 1872 started a general store at Hospers, Sioux county, which he sold after conducting it for two years, and returned to Le Mars. There he engaged in the machinery and farm implement trade until 1880, at which time he was elected auditor of the county, a position he held until 1886, when he purchased a real estate, loan and insurance business, in which he is at present engaged. In 1888 he was elected a member of the legislature by the democratic party, and served one term, declining a renomination. He is a member of the Giblem Lodge, 822, F. & A.M. In 1878 he married Grace, daughter of U. Wynia, of Sioux county. F. R. Rosrnson, banker, Kingsley, was born in Warwickshire, England, in July, 1848, and is a son of Rev. Gilbert and Frances (Russell) Robinson, both natives of England. His father was vicar in the same parish for forty- two years, or until his death, which occurred in 1884. His mother still re- sides in London. Frederick R. went into the army at the age of nineteen years and re- mained seven years. He received a commission as ensign when he first went in, and was lieutenant at the close of his commission. In the winter of 1873 he took passage on the vessel Weber, and came to America, and located in California, where he ran a sheep ranch about six years, and then located in Plymouth county, Iowa, where he followed farming until the fall of 1884, at which time he went into the banking business at Adrian, Minn. In the spring of 1889 he came to Kingsley, and formed a partnership with U. G. Mueller, in the banking business, which they have carried on suc- cessfully ever since. In September, 1886, Mr. Robinson married EH. Louise Russell, of England, and they have five children: Frances M., Gilbert F., Edward M., Harrold and Margaret. Politically he is a democrat, and at present mayor of Kingsley. James M. Bacon, hardware dealer, and one of the earliest settlers of Sioux City, was born in New Hampshire in 1837, and is the youngest of the nine children of Moses and Mary (Wilson) Bacon, also of New Hampshire. His father was a mechanic. James M. spent his early life in New Hamp- shire and Massachusetts, and received his education at Cambridge, Mass. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 753 He began life as a dry goods clerk, and was afterward employed as a clerk in the Boston post-office. In 1859 he came to Sioux City, where he was subsequently elected jus- tice of the peace, succeeding Judge Allison, and held that position for two years, and was also secretary of the school board. He enlisted in Company A, Dakota cavalry, under Gen. Sully, in the volunteer army, and served three years, during which time he was quartermaster. Returning from the war with the Indians, he located in Sioux City, but had his headquarters in Du- buque. He held the position of ordnance officer of Dubuque district one year. After that he was quartermaster agent for Gen. WiHiam Myers for one year, and then closed up all the government affairs at Sioux City. He then engaged in the hardware business in Sioux City in March, 1867, and has since continued in that business in which he has made a success. In 1855 he was joined in marriage to Helen M. Stewart, of Roxbury, Mass., and to them have been born two children. The daughter, M. Lizzie Bacon, is a very fine musician, having been a pupil of Madame Cappiani. She is the fortunate possessor of a soprano voice of rare excellence, and has quite a brilliant future before her if talent can insure it. Mr. Bacon has held various public positions; has been township trustee and alderman; also mayor of the city. He was the organizer of the Merchants’ Exchange, out of which has grown the Jobbers’ Association, and was president of that organization for two terms, and was unanimously elected for the third term, but declined to hold the position longer. He has been a Mason for many years, and has been master of the Blue Lodge. He is identified with the Episcopal church, and is one of the char- ter members. Mr. Bacon’s whole life has been devoted to the successful prosecution of his business interests, and in that he has been more than suc- cessful. In political matters he holds to the principles advanced by the democratic party. Derwricu A. Otrmann, banker, Kingsley, was born in Rock Island county, Ill, December 26, 1858, a son of Deidrich and Catharine (Herron) Oltmann, both natives of Germany. His father is still living in Rock Island county, where he is engaged in farming. Politically he is a democrat, and he and wife are members of the German Lutheran church. Deidrich A. was born and reared on a farm in the county of his birth. He received his early education at the high schools and completed his studies at the Davenport Business college, after which he remained on the old home- stead with his father two years. He then went to Ida county, where he en- gaged in farming until 1883, when he moved to Kingsley, Plymouth county, and engaged in the banking business, which he has since continued. October 7, 1886, Mr. Oltmann was united in marriage with Flora McClow, 754 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. at Ida Grove, Iowa. They have one child, Annie Fern, born February 16, 1889. Mr. Oltmann supports the democratic party; he was city treasurer of Kingsley in 1884, and is now a member of the city council, which office he has held six years; he is also school treasurer, and trustee of the Congrega- tional church. Jacop X. Branps, Sioux City, was born at Grand Rapids, Wis., Septem- ber 14, 1858. His parents were of Scotch extraction, and it is perhaps to this rugged Scotch blood that a certain element of perseverance, which is noted in his character, is due. Young Jacob, or “X,” as he was from earli- est, boyhood familiarly called, to distinguish him from his father, whose name had been bestowed upon him, lived with his parents at Grand Rapids until he was two or three years of age, when the family removed to Plover, Por- tage county, Wis. He went to school at Plover until 1868. His mother had died when he was seven years of age, and after spending a winter at Mosinee, Wis., the family removed to Moingona, a mining town in central Iowa, where the elder Brands had become actively interested in some mining property. Here “X” went to the public school until 1871, when an incident occurred which, it seems, decided the whole future course of his life. Jacob X. Brands, Sr., was a subscriber to the Boone ‘“ Democrat,” a weekly paper edited at the county seat by Mr. J. Hornstein. The latter made frequent visits to Moingona, in the interests of his business, and on one of these visits mentioned to Mr. Brands that he had never been inside a coal mine, and should like to go through one of the most extensive, in order to give it an intelligent write-up in his paper. Mr. Brands at once volunteered to give him the guidance of “ X,” which was accepted, and although the boy was but thirteen years of age, he proved to be so competent a guide, so bright and intelligent, that the editor took a great fancy to him, and before his return to Boone that evening, an arrangement had been made with the boy’s father, and with his own delighted consent, that he should go to Boone to learn the printer’s trade. His fancy for this business had been aroused when much younger. A relative was publisher of the Plover “Times,” and, boylike, ““X” had been around the office a great deal, and conceived a liking for the trade. He remained in the Boone “ Democrat” office a year, learning rapidly and giving undoubted satisfaction to his employer, and undergoing all the trials and privations which ordinarily fall to the lot of the printer’s devil. The foreman of the “‘Democrat”’ office, Mr. John Stephens, took a great fancy to the boy, and in 1872 they went together to Chicago, where they soon received work in the job office of Mike Cahill, on Halsted street. It was just after the fire, and the printing business was lively in Chicago, but the office was a comparatively small one, and not fully equipped, so after some months the GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 755 two embryo tramps, one old enough and wise enough to be the father of the other, in whom he took a fatherly interest, went to Ottawa, Ill., where they worked in the Ottawa “Free Trader” office. The subject of our sketch had developed unusual taste and skill in press- work, and made himself so valuable to the Ottawa firm of printers that they readily gave him wages almost sufficient for aman. But neither Mr. Ste- phens or young “ X” were of that temperament to enjoy this uncertain and roving method of gaining a livelihood. During their absence from home Means & Downing had bought the Boone County “ Advocate,” published, in Boonesboro, removed it to Boone, and changed its name to the “ Repub- lican.” They wanted Mr. Stephens to take the position of foreman, and the latter consented, taking, of course, his protege with him. Here young Brands, now rapidly developing into manhood, remained nine years, and finally became foreman of the office. On September 3, 1879, he married Miss Carrie Diffenbacher, and soon afterward removed to Chicago, where he began to work in the Chicago News- paper Union’s huge establishment. During the early part of 1884, the Chicago Newspaper Union, in order to properly care for its rapidly increas- ing business in this section of the country, and recognizing Sioux City as a jobbing center of growing importance, decided to locate a branch house here. ; Every man in the Chicago house, through long training in a business which peculiarly requires it, seemed to fit his own niche, and it became a serious problem who should be sent to Sioux City as manager of the new house. Mr. Strong, the general manager, and Mr. Tracy, the superintend- ent, held a consultation, and the latter mentioned that the only man he could suggest was one named Brands, who worked as a “make-up” in the press room. ‘Is he competent?” “I think heis. I was attracted to the excellence of his work when he was foreman of a country paper in Iowa, the Boone ‘Republican.’ It was a typographical beauty, and every detail showed careful attention.” Mr. Strong called the young printer up, and he came, with black hands and smutty blouse and overalls, wondering what wasup. “Did you ever: keep books?” asked Mr. Strong. ‘No Sir.” ‘Ever do any editorial work?” “No Sir.” “Well when you were foreman of that country paper, out in Iowa, you had some book-keeping to do, didn’t you?” “Oh, yes; I used to _keep the job book, and in the illness or absence of the proprietors, I some- times had entire charge.” ‘Well then, you had to do editorial work. Tl tell you what we want. Weare going to start a branch house in Sioux City, Iowa, and want you to take the management.” Mr. Brands was thunder- struck. If this manager of the great Chicago house had told him he was 756 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. wanted as foreman, he might not have been surprised; but “ manager”—he couldn’t mean it. In further consultation, however, no doubt was left as to the exact meaning of the interview. Mr. Brands was taken from the press room, and after afew weeks’ train- ing in the counting room, sent to Sioux City to take the active management of the new house. At first, much of the work, clerical, mechanical and editorial, devolved upon him, and it was that training of which we have en- deavored to give a faithful sketch, by which alone he was selected for this responsible place, and which enabled him to successfully conduct the busi- ness entrusted to him. From printing a few papers at first, the list of the Sioux City house has grown to over 200. A supply department, in which is carried all kinds of paper and printers’ materials, was soon added, and this, too, has grown amazingly. In 1887 the establishment was removed from Douglas street to a building especially erected for it at 212 Pearl street, and the business, now grown to enormous proportions, is still developing at asteady pace. In 1888, Mr. Brands lost his wife, and afterward married her sister, Miss Florence Diffenbacher. He is the father of one child, a boy, who shows many of his father’s characteristics. Jonas M. Crzxanp, attorney, Sioux City, son of George M. Cleland, was born at Jordanville, Herkimer county, N. Y., in 1852. After the completion of his education, he read law with Davenport & Young, at Richfield Springs, and with Hardin & Burrows, at Little Falls. In 1872 he removed to Sioux City, where he read law with Currier & Bolton, and in the fall of the same year was admitted to the bar, and has since been engaged in the practice of his profession. He was elected city attorney, a position he held for eight years, and in 1886, Sioux City was advanced to a city of the first class, and he was elected mayor, which office he held for two terms, and it was during his administra- tion that the plans for paving the streets and the systems of sewerage were inaugurated and successfully carried through. He feels an active interest in all matters pertaining to Sioux City, and is now commissioner of the Job- bers & Manufacturers’ Association. In 1877 he married Louise D., a daughter of Mrs. A. D. Peavey of Sioux City. They have two children. Mr. Cleland and his wife are both members of the Episcopal church. Arruur P. Brown, P. M., Le Mars, son of David L. Brown, was born at Verona, Oneida County, N. Y., in 1888. His father was a contractor, and when the subject of this sketch was quite a boy, his parents removed to Rockford, Tl, where he completed his education. However, in response to his country’s calls for men in 1862, he enlisted as a private in Company K, GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 757 Seventy-fourth Illinois volunteer infantry, and while on the skirmish line near Kenesaw Mountain, Ga., he received a wound, resulting in the loss of his right leg. He received his discharge in October, 1864, having been pro- moted to sergeant. He returned to Rockford, where he was made city collector for two years, and in 1872 the family removed to Le Mars, where he became engaged in the livery business, and during President Harrison’s administration received the appointment of postmaster. In 1887 he was elected justice of the peace of Le Mars. January 18, 1870, he married Josephine, daughter of Walter Warner, of Roscoe, Ill., and has five children: Clifford A., Claude S., Edith A., Mollie E. and Fred W. He and his wife are both members of the Con- gregational church. His father died in June, 1888, while his mother still has her home here. Cou. J. H. Swan, attorney, Sioux City, son of Silas Swan, was born at Sherbrook, Canada, in 1833. His parents were from Vermont, where they were married, but afterward removed to Canada, where they remained until 1835. They eventually moved to Medina county, Ohio, where they were engaged as farmers the rest of their life, and it was there that our subject received his education. He read law with Judge Chetfield, and in 1851 went to Minnesota, where he continued as a student of law, and in 1857 was admitted to the bar. He first practiced at Le Sueur, Minn. In 1861 he enlisted as first lieutenant. in Company I, Third Minnesota, and was afterward made captain, and remained in the service until January 1, 1865. After his return he practiced law at Little Rock, and in 1871 re- moved to Sioux City, where he has since been engaged in the practice of his profession. He married Anna M. Acker, of Grant county, Wis., and they have four children—two boys and two girls: Charles M., Wallace H., Ida (now Mrs. William A. Ripple, of Holstein, Iowa), and Cora J. (now Mrs. Fred Evans, of Sioux City). His eldest son has become associated with him, the firm name being J. H. & C. M. Swan. ©. M. Swan married May Shuster, of Sioux City, and they have two children. Corstanr R. Marks, attorney, Sioux City, son of Almeron and Mary (Phelps) Marks, was born at Durham, Greene county, N. Y., April 11, 1841. His parents were originally from Connecticut, his mother being a descendant of one of those who perished in the massacre at Wyoming. The father of our subject was a lawyer of ability, having located in New York, where he practiced in the courts with such men as Lyman Tremain. In 1848 Almeron Marks was elected to the legislature of the state of New York. His grandfather and great-grandfather were members of the legislature of Connecticut. The great-grandfather of Constant R. was the 758 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. first democrat elected to the legislature from his town. Almeron Marks, father of C. R., continued successfully the practice of law in New York until his decease in 1852, when the family returned to Connecticut, where C. R. made his home with his great-grandfather at Burlington, he having lived there since the Revolution. Constant attended the Connecticut Literary institute (a preparatory school) at Suffield, Conn., until the beginning of the rebellion, when he enlisted in Company K, Eighth Massachusetts volunteer infantry, this being the second regiment to enter the service, and the one with which Ben. Butler opened the way to Washington via Annapolis. While stationed at Fort Mc- Henry he was taken sick and compelled to return to his home, thus terminat- ing his military career. He again resumed his studies, attending the Hud- son River institute at Claverack, N. Y., and in 1863 entered Yale college. While there he was attacked with erysipelas in the head and was obliged to relinquish his educational projects, and received an honorable dismissal from Yale on account of ill health. He then devoted several years to the recovery of his health, and, January 1, 1866, began reading law with E. M. Wood, at Pittsfield, Mass. He attended the Albany Law school at Albany, N. Y., and was admitted to the bar January 1, 1868. Having taken the advice of Horace Greeley, he went to Chicago, remaining there but a short time, and in April of the same year removed to Sioux City, where he has since been successfully engaged in the practice of law. In connection with W. L. Joy he built the Marks-Joy block, known as the Garretson annex. In 1869, the year following his arrival at Sioux City, he was elected member of the legislature of Iowa, but declined further political office. He was a member of the school board nine years, and president of the board three years, retiring in 1889. He was also prominently identified with the construction of the city water works and public library, which were built by a private corporation at the request of the city, he seeing to the legal part. During a vacancy he filled the office of president of the National Bank of Sioux City. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and attends the Episcopal church, of which his wife is also a member. June 27, 1871, he married Josephine, daughter of Russell Kilbourn, of Great Barrington, Mass. They have three children—one girl and two boys. Hon. J. 8. Lawrence, attorney, Sioux City, son of W. S. Lawrence, was “born in Brooklyn, N. Y., in 1854, and after the completion of an academic course there, entered Madison university at Hamilton, N. Y., from which he graduated in 1875. Afterward he studied law with Henry L. Clinton of Brooklyn, and also took a course in the New York Law university, and was = ESN SS SS SSS SSS ‘ . SSS SSCS : S SS GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 761 admitted to the bar in 1877. He began practice in Herkimer county, N. Y., but removed to Sioux City in the winter of 1881, where he followed the prac- tice of his profession. He was elected police judge, but in 1886 resigned, and was elected to the senate in the same year. He is identified with the republican party. In 1875 he married Ima D., daughter of John M. Treadway, of Herkimer county, N. Y., and they have two children. He is stockholder in, and at- torney for, the Sioux City Investment company. He began his political ca- reer as chairman of the County central committee, and is now chairman of the Judicial central committee, and one of the representative men of this rep- resentative city. James BuiancHarp Stoan is the third of eight children born to John and Nancy (Neely) Sloan, the former a native of Ireland and the latter of Bel- mont county, Ohio, He was born April 4, 1847, in Belmont county, Ohio, but his parents left there when he was very young, and moved to Port Clin- ton, Ottawa county, Ohio, where he attended school until his fourteenth year. He was then sent to the Adrian college, at Adrian, Mich., where he remained two years, going from there to Louisa county, Iowa. In March, 1868, he came to Sioux City to open a real estate and loan of- fice, which was his occupation the next four years. He then closed up his real estate business here and bought 320 acres of land in Sioux City town- ship, where he engaged in stock-raising and farming until the fall of 1890, when he sold out and removed to Sioux City, where he is at present living a retired life. Mr. Sloan was united in marriage with Helen E., daughter of George and Adeline Schuster, pioneers of Sioux City, April 24, 1878, and five chil- dren have blessed their home, namely: Charles E., Frank B., James B. Jr., Edwin T. and John 8. He is a republican in polities; socially he belongs to the I. O. O. F. and is a member of the Congregational church. Mrs. S. J. Herron, Le Mars, is a daughter of Peter and Catherine (Fey- man) Gehlen, and was born in Jackson county, Iowa, her parents being among the pioneers of Le Mars. Her father was a farmer and miller in Jackson county and came to Le Mars in 1869, where he engaged in the mill- ing business, which he continued until his death, which occurred in 1879. They had a family of eleven children, of whom nine are now living. The subject of this sketch was married to John Herron in 1874, a gentle- man prominently identified with Plymouth county, having been one of its officials, but he died in 1882, death terminating a successful business career. J. J., M. B. and M. W. are now associated as managers of the City Roller Mill, of which Mrs. Herron is the owner. The mill has a daily capacity of sixty barrels of flour and four car-loads of feed; it is fitted out with thirteen sets of rollers and one double set of feed rollers. 40 762 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Pavi L. Bricx, physician, Le Mars, was born at Colberg, Prussia, in 1846. He graduated from the Louisenstadt college at Berlin in 1864, and then attended the university there. He came to America in 1867, locating at Auburn, N. Y., but removed to Syracuse, N. Y., where he first began the practice of medicine with Dr. M. Bausinger. He afterward removed to Pennsylvania, thence to Illinois and Wisconsin, and to Burlington, Iowa, in 1871, and finally settled in Le Mars, in February, 1880. He is a member of Giblem Lodge, No. 322, F. & A. M., of the Royal Arch Chapter, No. 1, of Burlington, and of the consistory of Cedar Rapids, A. & A. 8. rite. He was made city physician in 1887 and 1888, and in 1890 graduated from the Col- lege of Physicians and Surgeons at Chicago. He married Ida, daughter of William Holdzkom, of Effingham, IIL, in 1871. She died at Burlington in 1874, and in 1877 he married Florence E., daughter of Edward Sniff, of Denmark, Iowa, who died July 7, 1882, leaving two children, Louis and Paul, of whom the latter is deceased. In August, 1890, he married Miss Eva, daughter of Capt. J. E. Braden, of Ligonier, Ind. Heis a member of the Sioux City Medical society, and of the American Medical association. Martin Luruer Sioan was born November 25, 1848, in Belmont county, Ohio, and is the third child born to John and Nancy (Neely) Sloan, the for- mer a native of Ireland, who came to America while still a young child, and the latter a native of Jefferson county, Ohio. Our subject’s parents having moved to Ottawa county, in the same state, while he was a child, it was in the latter county that he received his education. He attended the public schools until eighteen years of age, at which time the family moved to Louisa county, Iowa. He remained there with his parents, who were engaged in farming, until 1870, when he came to Sioux City. Here he was appointed deputy auditor, under Judge G. W. Wakefield, which position he held for seven years. In the fall election of 1877, he was a candidate on the republican ticket for auditor, and was elected to that office. This office he held for the three following terms, and for three years after he served as county supervisor from Sioux City. In 1886 he engaged in his present business, that of groceryman. May 20, 1875, he married Ida M., daughter of O. C. Hill, a native of New York state. Mr. Sloan is a republican, and carries considerable influ- ence in his neighborhood. He is a member of the Congregational church, and has filled all the important offices in the I. O. O. F. and the K. of P. lodges. Rev. Ina N. Parvez, D. D., secretary of the University of the North- west, Sioux City. Among the public men connected with the promotion of the education and religious prosperity of Sioux City, there are none that are GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 763 better known than the Rev. Ira N. Pardee, both as a teacher of the divine law and a financier, the latter being shown in his shrewdness as financial agent of the University of the Northwest, which position he took in April, 1890, when the idea of the building of a university at Sioux City was yet in its infancy. Mr. Pardee was born in Kingston, Ulster county, N. Y., July 29, 1840, and was the eldest of the three children that were born to Captain James B. and Loretta (Van Valkenburg) Pardee, the former a native of Hunter, Greene county, N. Y., and the latter a native of Lexington, Greene county, N. Y. His ancestors are of French extraction. Ira N. Pardee spent his youth in his native county, attending the Kingston academy. In his fourteenth year he entered the Amenia seminary to prepare for college, and there remained three years, then entered Wesley university and finished the course under the direction of a private tutor, Erastus Ladd Prentice, under whose instruc- tion he remained two years. He then taught in the schools of Ulster county, N. Y., one year, then entered the ministry of the M. E. church, for which he prepared by the usual conference course of theological studies, supplemented with the course pursued in the Concord Biblical institution. In 1864 he took charge of his first church, and since then his ministerial life has been uneventful, filling pulpits in Plymouth church, Wyoming Val- ley, Pa., Great Bend, N. Y., Chicago, Ill, Omaha, Fort Dodge and Sioux City. In 1882 he was made superintendent of the M. E. church of Dakota, and served in that capacity and as presiding elder four years. He was mar- ried October 12, 1869, to Mary L., daughter of George and Sarah Winchell, and granddaughter of Lord John Livingston of Scotland. Gorge W. OsrrHourzer, civil engineer, Sioux City, was born in Chester county, Pa., February 24, 1847, the son of Elias Oberholtzer, a native of the same place. His father was a farmer until quite late in life, when he was elected president of the Farmers’ and Mechanics’ National bank, at Phoenix- ville, which position he filled until his death. In tracing his ancestors back, on the paternal side, it is found they origi- nally came from Lower Palatinate, Germany, and settled in Montgomery county, Pa., being among the first German settlers in that vicinity. A por- tion of the family removed to Chester county, after the Revolutionary war. Our subject’s mother was Catharine (Acker) Oberholtzer, a native of the same county. Her grandfather was a Revolutionary soldier, and her father a sol- dier of the war of 1812. Mr. Oberholtzer acquired his early education in the schools of his native county, and at the age of sixteen entered the State Normal school at Millers- ville, Pa., from which he graduated in the scientific course after three years’ hard study. He taught for two years afterward, the first year as principal 764 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. of the high school at Duncannon, Pa., and at the academy of Jamaica, Long Island, one year. He then adopted the profession of civil engineer, taking his degree in 1871, at the Pennsylvania Polytechnic college, Philadelphia, Pa., after which he was employed by the B. & M. railroad, of Nebraska, until 1872. In that year he came to Sioux City, where he made surveys and locations, and had charge of the construction of the Sioux City & Pembina railroad, between Sioux City and Sioux Falls, Dak. In 1873 he was elected city engineer of Sioux City, which position he filled for the next ten years, and was surveyor of Woodbury county four years. In 1883 he entered mercantile business as a wholesale and retail dealer in sewer, well and chimney pipe, fire and pressed brick, hydraulic cement and other building material. Mr. Oberholtzer was married to Miss Rosa M. Allen, a teacher in the Sioux City High school, December 18, 1877. He is a trustee of the Lutheran church and a member of the Unity club, and in politics votes the republican ticket. Mararas Bensamin Trivz, clerk of the district court, Le Mars, is a native of Germany, born in Tuensdorf, Prussia, April 3, 1841. His parents, Adam and Mary (Wagner) Tritz, natives of the same village, immigrated to Amer- ica in 1847, and settled in Tete Des Morts, Jackson county, this state. The mother died there in 1851, aged forty-six years. The father came in 1869 to Le Mars, where he died in December, 1885, at the age of eighty-tive years. _ Of their nine children, Mathias is the seventh. He was reared on a farm and educated in the public and parochial schools. On reaching manhood ‘he engaged in farming till 1870, when he came to Le Mars and opened a gen- eral store. This he conducted seven years, and subsequently engaged in the agricultural implement trade. For five years he was a partner of T. J. Priestley, to whom he sold his interest on his election to his present position, in 1888. From the time of his majority to his removal from Tete Des Morts he served as township clerk, and has served America township in the same capacity. In 1880 he was a candidate on the democratic ticket for county recorder, but was defeated. He is a member of the Roman Catholic church. February 27, 1867, he married Mary Kass, a native of Luxemburg, Ger- many, and they had eight children, of whom seven were sons: Adam, Joseph M., Nicholas, Charles, Frank, John and Mellitus. The oldest is a clerk at Alton, Iowa, and the second is preparing for the priesthood at St. Francis seminary, Milwaukee, Wis. The sixth, a daughter, was’ killed at the age of four by a pile of lumber falling upon her. Ina T. Manrin, attorney, Le Mars, was born in Racine county, Wis., in 1848, and was there educated. He read law with G. T. Crafts, of Cedar GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 765 Rapids, and was admitted to the bar in 1874. He began the practice of law at Cedar Rapids, but removed to Brooklyn, Poweshiek county, where he remained until his removal to Le Mars, which was in January, 1883. There be became engaged in the practice of his profession, and in 1886 he associ- ated with him F. R. Gaynor, the firm name being Martin & Gaynor. In 1863, at the age of fifteen years, he enlisted in Company B, Ninth Iowa cavalry, and served two and a half years. He was wounded in a skirmish at Sercey, Ark. After the war his regiment was engaged in the southwest, along the Rio Grande, in Texas, and in Arkansas until March, 1866. He was city solicitor of Le Mars for two terms, and is a member of Mower Post, No. 91,G.A.R. He married Jennie M., daughter of John Ray, of Peacham, Vermont, in 1876. Craia L. Wrieut, attorney, Sioux City, son of George G. Wright, was born at Keosauqua, Iowa, in 1846. He was educated at Iowa City, and graduated from the university there in 1867. In 1868 he attended a law school at Des Moines, and during that year was admitted to the bar. He returned to Sioux City in September of the same year, and began the practice of law. He was city attorney for two terms. He is a director in the Security bank, the Corn Exchange bank, in both street railroad companies, and also of the Sioux City & Northern railroad. He is a member of the republican party. In 1873 he married Kate P. Van Dyke, of Keokuk, Iowa, and has two children. His business career has been very successful, and he has acquired the reputation of being an able and successful lawyer. Wiiiiam W. McExrars, farmer and grain buyer, Moville, was born in Montgomery county, N. Y., in 1850, and is a son of John and Jane (Jackson) McElrath, the former a native of Scotland and the latter a native of Ireland. John McElrath was a farmer, at which occupation he was engaged in White- side county, Il, at the time of his death, which occurred in 1872, his wife having preceded him about eight days. He and wife came to America in 1849; they were both members of the old Presbyterian church. William W. was brought up on a farm, and moved with his parents to Whiteside county, Ill, when he was four years of age. He continued to re- side with his parents until their death, he being the youngest child of the family. He took charge of the homestead farm, which he carried on until 1881. The last eight years of his residence in Illinois he dealt quite ex- tensively in live stock. In 1881 he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, and purchased 160 acres of land in section nineteen, Arlington township, where he now resides. He erected a house and commenced to break his land, and has continued ever since to conduct his farm. He has since added to his property, and now owns 1,400 acres, all in one piece, where he raises a great number of live-stock of all kinds, besides the regular farm products. 766 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. In 1887 he came to Moville and commenced to buy stock and grain, in connection with his farming interests. Politically he is a republican. Heis at present county supervisor, which office he holds three years, and is also a school director. He is a member of the Masonic Lodge and of the Farmers’ Alliance. In August, 1872, Mr. McElrath married Alice Heathcote, of Morrison, Ill, and there have been born to them nine children: Eva, Edith, Ray, Ralph, Maude, Allie, Willie, Minnie and Alice. Azsatom B. Mituer, farmer, P. O. Anthon, Woodbury county, is a son of George and Hannah Miller, both of Dutch descent, and was born in Lexing- ton, Ky., June 4, 1814. He was educated in a common school in Lexington, until ten years of age, when he moved with his parents to Sidney, Shelby county, Ohio, where he attended school until he was twenty-two years of age. He then bought a stock of groceries and was in business for himself a year. In 1837 he moved to Toledo, Ohio, bought a steam saw-mill, and after running that two years moved back to Sidney and farmed until 1842. He then moved to Jackson county, Iowa, worked in a grist-mill until 1852, and then bought a farm in South Fork township, where he lived until the fall of 1870, when he moved to Kedron township, Woodbury county, and bought the town site of Anthon, where he now resides. In December, 1836, he married Mary, daughter of William and Rebecca Barley. In 1842 his wife died, leaving three children: Margaret A., George and Lucinda. In 1844 he married Jane, daughter of William Bodel, and she has borne him seven children: Albert, Laura, Nettie, William, James, Perry and Mary. He is a member of the Methodist church, and politically is a democrat. Rosert M. McCarter, banker, Moville, was born in Clinton county, Iowa, February 22, 1855, and is a son of Robert and Harriet (Gorham) McCarter, both natives of New York, now residing in Moville, Woodbury county. R. M. McCarter was brought up on a farm in Clinton county, Iowa, where he was born, and where he received his education. At the age of seventeen he left home and went to Sac county, Iowa, where he remained until 1884, when he went to Sioux county, Iowa, and was there engaged in farming for a year. He then returned to Sac county and farmed until 1887, when he went into the bank at Shaller, Iowa, as assistant cashier. In February, 1888, he came to Moville and went into the banking busi- ness with his father, Robert McCarter, which they have continued ever since. In December, 1888, William H. Barto went into partnership with them, and the bank is now known as the Farmers’ bank. Politically he is a republican, a member of the town council and school board. Heisa member of the United Workmen and also the Odd Fellows. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 767 Mr. McCarter was married to Emma M. Palmer July 6, 1874, but she lived until 1876 only. He married again in September, 1877, his second wife being Jeanette L. Waugh, and they have two children: Lester A. and Emma G. Rev. Cuartton Hines Srrickitanp, D. D., pastor of the First Baptist church, of Sioux City, Iowa, the second son of Oliver P. and Henrietta W. Strickland, is a native Georgian, his birthplace being Lawrenceville. Born December 18, 1844, of fine, healthy physique, frank open countenance, pleas- ant manners, and abilities above the average, he bids fair to live a long life of usefulness. When a boy he was remarkably fond of reading, sometimes poring of the pages of his favorite authors through whole nights. He had fully prepared himself for college at the Lawrenceville high school, receiving instruction under a private tutor in the languages and higher mathematics, and, determined upon receiving a thorough classical education, was about to enter college when the war broke out in 1861. Through force of circumstances he entered the army as a volunteer, and with characteristic ardor and faithfulness performed his duties as a soldiev. He rose to the rank of captain of Company C, Third Georgia battalion of sharpshooters, being recommended for promotion by Brigadier Gen. Wofford “for gallantry on the field of Spottsylvania.”’ At the close of the war the sterner duties of life interfered with his desire and purpose to secure a col- legiate education, as indeed was the case with very many southern young men of that period. He was converted in a very unusual manner during a series of meetings held at Hebron, Gwinnett county, in August, 1865. Riding home alone one night, the Holy Spirit enabled him to realize powerfully his lost and undone condition as a sinner; and so overwhelming a sense of contrition took posses- sion of him, that he dismounted, and, in the darkness by the roadside, pleaded for forgiveness, until for him the sun of righteousness rose with healing in his wings. Immediately in the dark and solitary forest, a sweet sense of pardon filled his soul, and sorrow for sin gave place to tears of joy and songs .of praise. He was baptized by his brother, Rev. William H. Strickland, and united with the church at Hebron. In the following October he married Miss M. E. Dunlap, and on Jan- uary 80, 1870, was ordained, having felt constrained to give himself wholly to the Redeemer’s service. He was first pastor of Bethel church, Walton county, and afterward of churches at the following places: Farmington, New Hope, Greene county, Greensboro and Augusta, Ga. Later he became pastor of the First Baptist church, Knoxville, Tenn., where his influence for good produced a most powerful effect. In 1883 he was called as pastor to , the First Baptist church of Nashville, Tenn., which pulpit he occupied until 768 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. 1889, when he received an unanimous call to fill the desk of the First Bap- tist church of Sioux City, Iowa. Here also his power is felt for good. The church, at the time of his taking charge, numbered about 250 members, and after a pastorate of nearly two years, numbers nearly 450 in its membership. He is strongly attached to the people of his charge, and they, in turn, highly appreciate his worth and power as a pulpit orator. Genial and pleasant in the social walks of life, he has many ardent ad- mirers outside of the church over which he presides. Somewhat above the medium size, he is erect in carriage, of commanding appearance, and dig- nified in manner. Unswerving fidelity to duty, united to great gentleness, are perhaps his most prominent characteristics, while he is endowed in an unusual degree with that quality so useful to a pastor—tact, or adaptability. As a preacher, he possesses the gift of oratory far above the mediocrity, seeming to strive for simplicity in manner and language, and for aptness in illustration; and with such earnestness and zeal does he pursuade men to be saved, that his hearers recognize his heart as going with his words. Asa pastor, he creates the strongest bond between himself and his people, by the genuineness of his sympathy, which makes the joys and sorrows of others his own. Both the aged and the young feel him to be their friend, and his kindly feeling toward the sorrowing draws from them the expression, ‘Oh, he knows just what to say and when to say it.” Surely this is a rare gift in a minister. ; He has held and still holds high positions of honor in the societies of Good Templars, Odd Fellows, Knights of Honor, Free Masons and Knights Templar. As a preacher, he studies earnestly and carefully, seeking all the information he can from the Scriptures, from his own well chosen library, and from the book of human nature, until he becomes full of his subject. He then meditates upon it, talks of it, prays over it, and preaches about it. Generally his preaching is blessed by the Spirit to the good of those who hear. The proud eulogy of his native state (while he was yet a young man), we find couched in the following: “He is a son whom the state can not well afford to spare, and we hope for his early recall.” Sioux City has already learned to be proud of Dr. Strickland, not only as a pulpit orator, but as a most estimable citizen. Grorce Motyneux Parpos, attorney at law, Sioux City, was born April 1, 1841, in Elkland township, Sullivan county, Pa. His ancestors came to this country from England and settled in the trackless forests of northern Penn- sylvania soon after the close of the Revolutionary war. On his father’s side the family is said to be of Spanish origin, and of French origin on his mother’s side, being among those who migrated to England during the Mid- dle ages, on account of the religious wars in their own countries. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 769, Mr. Pardoe attended the common schools during the winter months, and worked at farming and lumbering between the school terms, until the begin- ning of the war of 1861, when he joined Company ©, Twelfth regiment of the Pennsylvania reserve corps. During his three years of service he took part in nearly every engagement of that famous division. He was twice slightly wounded and twice taken prisoner, and served a term in Libby prison. He was mustered out of the service in June, 1864. In the fall of that year he entered the Lewisburg, Pa., academy, where he remained one year. He then began the study of law in the office of Broomall & Ward in Delaware county, Pa., and was admitted to the bar in March, 1868. He practiced his profession there until 1878, when he went to the Black Hills, in the then Territory of Dakota, where he remained one year. In June, 1879, he removed to Sioux City, where he has since resided. In October, 1870, Mr. Pardoe married Miss M. Louise Beale Simpson, also of Pennsylvania. They have two children, Robeina Crawford and Joseph William. Mr. Pardoe and wife are connected with the First Presby- terian church, of which Mr. Pardoe is an elder and trustee. He is a member of Western Star Lodge of Odd Fellows, being a past grand of that order, and also a member, and the present commander, of Gen. Hancock post of the Grand Army of the Republic. He is a member of the firm of Pardoe & Talley, title abstracters, and a director and the vice-president of the Ballou Banking company. Joun Crarence Mitts, merchant, Pierson, was born at Hilton, Shropshire, England, March 14, 1849, and is a son of James and Mary Ann (Craik) Mills. ‘In 1850 the family came to America and dwelt eighteen years on a farm near Rochelle, Ill. The father now resides near Woodstock, Ill., the mother being deceased. Of seven sons and one daughter, all of whom are now living, John C. is the fourth. He attended the common schools, and remained on the home farm till 1878, when he engaged in the hotel business, and kept the Rochelle house three years. In 1880 he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, and was employed over four years in a wholesale hardware house at Sioux City. For one year he was superintendent of the Sioux City water works, and in Dezember, 1885, bought a half interest in a general store at Pierson. Since this time the business has been successfully carried on under the name of J. C. Mills & Co. Mr. Mills is a member of the Masonic order, and sus- tains the Methodist Episcopal church. Like his father and all his brothers, he is a republican, and sympathizes with the temperance ‘sentiment of the state. Epwin Daniet Frear, M. D., Sloan, is the eldest of six children born to W. D. and Elizabeth B. (Parish) Frear. He was born in Beaumont, Pa., 710 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. May 3, 1854. His grandparents, Abraham and Betsey (Williams) Frear, were of French Huguenot descent, and came to America in 1620, on account of persecution, and settled on the Hudson above New York city, and his forefathers were among the first who settled in Pennsylvania, and were in all the border warfares which settled the disputes concerning the titles of north- east Pennsylvania. His grandfather was a Methodist Episcopal minister, and his great-grandfather on his mother’s side, Capt. Parish, was commis- sioned captain in the Revolutionary war. Two of his great-grandparents were killed in the Wyoming massacre, and his grandfather Frear was an en- sign in the war of 1812. His father was the ninth in a family of sixteen children. Edwin D. Frear was reared in the town of Beaumont, Pa., and after re- ceiving a common-school education, attended the Monroé preparatory academy. He then taught school, and read medicine under Dr. C. A. Spencer, of Dallas, Pa., for three years, and in 1879 came to Sioux county, Iowa, going subse- quently to Sloan, where he taught, and read under Dr. Ainsworth. In 1880 he attended school at Iowa City, where he graduated in March, 1882, going at once to Salix, where he began to practice and also became interested in the drug store with J. L. Follensbee, and remained there until 1886. He then came to Sloan and practiced with Dr. Ainsworth until January, 1890, since which time he has practiced alone. September 20, 1883, Dr. Frear married Susie, daughter of Arora and Mary (Epps) Clemens, of English descent. They have three children: Edna L., Carrie and Charles E. Our subject is a member of the Masonic fraterni- ty, the Good Templars, and the Presbyterian church; politically he is a re- publican. He is a member of the Woodbury county and State medical so- cieties. O. J. Irisx, cashier of the Sloan State bank, was born in Cortland county, N. Y., October 27, 1850, a son of Elias B. and Almira (Memcey) Irish, who were American farmers. His grandparents, Elias and Catherine (Koon) Irish, were also farmers of this country, though of English ancestry. Our subject was reared on a farm, and after receiving a common-school edu- cation he attended the State Normal, also the academies at Cortland and Homer. At the age of twenty-one he began business for himself, and taught school and farmed until 1880, when he came to Sloan and began dealing in stock, and has at present 2,200 head of cattle, and owns one quarter section of land. At the organization of the Sloan State bank he became cashier, which position he has since filled. In 1870 he married Millie E., daughter of John W. and Betsey L. (Jack- son) Chapin, the former of whom is deceased. To this union is born one child, L. Herman. Mr. Irish is in sympathy with the Congregational church, and politically is a republican. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. T71 James Neton was born in Oswego county, N. Y., in 1845, a son of Den- nis and Mary (Hunt) Nelon, who were natives of Ireland. His opportuni- ties for obtaining an education were somewhat limited. He attended the public schools until sixteen years of age, and then engaged in the service of a ship that was sailing on the lakes. After six years’ service he came west to Sioux City, and worked at the carpenter’s trade. Later, he was elected to the police force, in which he served three years, then went to the Black Hills, but soon returned and engaged in teaming. In 1872 he was returned to the police force; later was made deputy sheriff, but subsequently served as policeman, which he continued until 1885, when he went into business. In the fall of 1889 he was made chief of po- lice, and held this position until March, 1890, when he retired. Since that time he has been engaged in no active business. In August, 1876, Mr. Nelon married Rosemond Dragor, a native of West Virginia. In his politics he is a republican, and is identified with the Roman Catholic church. Rey. Rogert C. Guass, A. M., B. D., dean of the College of Liberal Arts, University of the Northwest, Sioux City, is a man noted for the influence he has had in advancing the religious prosperity of the city. He was born August 2, 1846, in Monroe county, Ohio, a son of Thomas and Jane (Gray) Glass, the former a native of Glasgow and the latter of Edinburgh, Scot- land. His parents were married in Pittsburgh, Pa., but spent some years in Monroe county, Ohio. During our subject’s infancy, they moved back to Pittsburgh, where they remained three years, then moved to Clayton county, Iowa, where Robert attended the district schools until nearly twenty years of age, teaching part of the time. In his twenty-first year he entered the State university at Iowa City, from which he graduated in June, 1873. He then went to Ireland, and attended the Assembly’s college at Belfast a session, then attended the uni- versity at Bonn, Germany, another session. After some traveling, he returned to America in October, 1874, and took a theological course at Boston university, graduating in 1875. May 12, of that year, he was united in marriage with Amy E. Kerr, of Iowa City, and began his ministerial life at Le Mars, Iowa, where he served the M. E. church three years. He then served at Webster City and at Cherokee, being three years at the latter place, then was appointed presiding elder of the Algona district. He was next returned to Le Mars, and while serving here was called to Sioux City, to take the place of the Rev. George C. Haddock, who had been assassinated for assisting in the prosecution of the offenders against the law prohibiting the sale of liquor. While serving at Sioux City, Mr. Glass was instrumental in having the Haddock Memorial church, on the corner of Fifth and Steuben streets built. Ti2 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Upon its completion he became the pastor, and served in that capacity one year. While officiating in that capacity, he had the Grace M. E. church at Morning Side erected, and was in charge there for a year, when he became one of the projectors and managers of the University of the Northwest. He was chosen by the board of regents, as dean of the College of Liberal Arts, and professor of moral and mental sciences, which positions he now holds. He has four children, namely: Amy Luella, Rosabel, Mabel J. and Flor- ence. Mr. Glass was a member of the general conference of the Methodist Episcopal church, which met in Philadelphia in 1884. In political matters he votes the republican ticket. He is a member of the Masonic order, and of the Beta, Theta Pi society. W. D. Bucxtey, attorney at law, Sloan, was born in Otsego county, N. Y., April 6, 1856. His parents, O. E. and Julia (Douglas) Buckley, were American farmers, and his grandparents, William and Elizabeth (Turner) Buckley, were also Americans, the latter being a daughter of Gen. Turner. W. D. was reared on the farm his grandfather cleared of timber, and while there received a good education, after which he attended Unadilla academy, and then took a course in history and literature at Cornell uni- versity. He then studied law in the office of Senator Loomis, of New York, was admitted to the bar, and came to Clinton, Iowa, in 1881, where he remained in the office of Judge Cotton for some time. Mr. Buckley then went to Sioux City, where he formed a partnership with S. J. Quincy in the law practice. In 1882 he came to Sloan and taught school one year, but opened an office in 1883, and here he has since remained. Mr. Buckley was married, in 1884, to Sarah Jeffrey, daughter of James and Georgiana Jeffrey, Scotch farmers, and their union has been blessed with three children: Margaret J., Oliver E. and Julia D. He is a Master Mason, an Odd Fellow, and a mem- ber of the Presbyterian church. In politics he supports the democratic party. Pror. J. M. Jayne was born in Eaton, Wyoming county, Pa, July 8, 1857. His father and mother, Porter and Sophronia (Shoemaker) Jayne, are farmers, and his grandparents, Timothy and Rachael (Evans) Jayne, were also farmers. His ancestors on his father’s side were English and Welsh, and on his mother’s side probably German. His great-great-grandfather, Timothy Jayne, was one of six brothers, five of whom held commissions in the Continental army, and he was a captain at the time of his capture at Flat Bush. On a tombstone, in the Old Puritan burying ground at Setauket, Suffolk county, N. Y., may be seen the following inscription: “‘ Here lyes ye body of William Jayne. Born in Bristol, England, Jan. ye 25, 1618. Died March ye 24, 1714, aged 96 years.” GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 773 John Evans, Rachel Evans’ father, was born in Wales, and came to America, a commissioned British officer of high rank, and settled in Phila- delphia, where he raised a family of fifteen children, Rachel being the youngest. He afterward went to Wyoming county, and there is said to have taught the first school in the county. John Taylor, father of Matilda (Tay- lor) Shoemaker, who is now eighty-three years old, entered the Revolution- ary war at the age of sixteen and served seven years. After receiving an education in the common schools of Wyoming county, our subject attended the Beaumont academy, and at the age of twenty-two went to Nebraska, where he taught school, afterward attending school in Chicago and teaching in Wisconsin, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Iowa, in which latter state he was principal of the Meriden graded schools for two years, 1886-87. Since then he has been engaged as principal of the Sloan graded schools. He was married to Sarah E., a daughter of Fred Wendorf, a German farmer, of Cherokee county, Iowa, in August, 1888. In politics he is a demo- crat, and is identified with the Masonic fraternity. Ricuarp H. Powrzsson. The history of the Powlesson family connects them with the early settlement of New Jersey, and later, with that of Sioux City, but the early history being lost, it becomes necessary for us to com- mence with the father of our subject, Isaac R. Powlesson, a native of Essex county, N. J. Richard H. was born in the same county and on the same farm, August J, 1821. His education was limited, receiving only such as the rural dis- tricts could afford, there being at that time but one school term of three months during the year; the rest of his time was occupied im tilling the soil of his father’s farm. He remained with his parents until he became seven- teen years of age, when he began to learn the carpenter’s trade, working one year under instructions, then was bound as an apprentice to a contractor to serve three years. From 1847 until 1856, he resided in Cincinnati, Ohio, and at the latter date, in company with Thomas J. Kinkaid, came to Sioux City, coming by boat to Council Bluffs, and from there to Sioux City on the steamer Omaha, in the latter part of June, 1856, the first steamer that was specially engaged between these two points. Here he worked at his trade until 1882, having put up many a building here that will be a monument to his memory and ability for many years to come. His brother John, who was born in Essex county, N. Y., January 1, 1825, came to Sioux City, where he still lives, early in May, 1857. He is a plasterer and bricklayer by trade, but has not worked at these vocations for the past twelve or fifteen years. 774 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Mr. Powlesson was married August 31, 1875, to Mary Stutsman, a native of Davis county, Iowa. This union has been blessed with three children: Jennie (deceased), James Speer and John Charles. He is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance, and of the I. O. O. F. Ex: Lez, retired farmer, Holly Springs, was born in Ontario county, N. Y., October 12, 1816. He was reared on a farm and received a common- school education. At the age of twenty-one he removed to Lake county, Til, where he farmed for eight years, and in 1849 drove across the plains to California to seek for gold, and for awhile was quite successful, having made as high as $200 per day with a tin pan. He had the misfortune, while min- ing, of having a number of his bones broken by falling rocks. He took sail for New York, going by the way of the Isthmus of Panama, then came to Council Bluffs, Iowa, and in 1852, to Smithland, Woodbury county, being one of the first settlers in this county. He helped to survey and organize the county, voting at the first election, when only ten votes were cast. He remained in Smithland sixteen years, farming and working at the carpenter’s trade, then homesteaded the place where he has since lived in Willow township. His parents, Benjamin and Annie (Henry) Lee, were American farmers; his grandfathers were both in the Revolutionary war, William Henry being sergeant at Bunker Hill. In 1840 Mr. Lee married Helen Bower, whose parents, Benedict and Elizabeth (Kaile) Bower, were Germans, who came to America in 1830. They have five living children: Elizabeth, Lorenzo B., Aurilla, Alvildice and Annie; Eli, deceased, enlisted at Smithland in the Sixth Iowa cavalry, under Capt. Echer, and died August 12, 1864, at Yellowstone, Dak., of fever, while in the service; Oren lived to the age of two years. Both parents are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Lee is a republican, and has voted at every election held up to date (1891). He has been county coroner, sheriff, supervisor, trustee and school director. Tuomas W. Bunpy, an old settler and a general farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section seven, Sloan township, was born in Geauga county, Ohio, in 1837, a son of Ransford and Polly (Young) Bundy, the father a native of Otsego county, N. Y., of English descent, the mother of Pennsylvania, also of English descent. Ransford Bundy carried on farming in Geauga county, Ohio, until his death in 1887, at the age of ninety-three years; his wife died about 1858; both were members of the M. E. church. Thomas W. was reared in Geauga county and made his home there until 1869. In 1861 he responded to the first call for volunteers, and enlisted in Company H, Seventh Ohio volunteer infantry, and served five months, then re-enlisted in Company B, Forty-first Ohio volunteer infantry, and served eighteen months. He took part in the battle of Shiloh and the siege of Cor- GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 775 inth. He was discharged in 1862 on account of disability and varicose vein in his limb, which has been a burden to him ever since. He had attained the rank of orderly sergeant. He returned home, and as soon as able, worked at farming. : In 1869 he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, and engaged in farming. In 1876 he went overland with about ninety men to the Black Hills and mined about six months, then returned with about thirty others. He then purchased 120 acres of land where he now resides, and has been engaged in farming ever since. He makes a specialty of good horses and cattle, and is a breeder of trotting stock, among them Mazy B., being quite noted. Mr. Bundy was united in marriage with Celia Parish, of Trumbull county, Ohio, in September, 1878. Politically he is a republican, and has been secretary of the school board. He is a member of the G. A. R. Fravivus O. Hunrine, farmer, Sloan, was born in Penobscot county, Me., in September, 1848, his parents, John and Sarah C. (Rollins) Hunting, being farmers, of English descent. His grandfather, John Hunting, was also a farmer, and was in the war of 1812. His great-grandfather, Jonathan, was among the first to land at Plymouth, Mass. Flavius O. lived in Maine until 1863, when he came to Cedar county, Iowa, and in 1867 to Woodbury county, and located on a farm where he re- mained until 1889, when he moved into Sloan, where he now resides. In December, 1873, he married Hannah Hanson, whose parents, Hans and Sapiah (Peterson) Hanson, were Scandinavian farmers. They have six children: John H., William T., Carrie E., Sarah M., Edie O. and Frederick. Mr. Hunting is a member of the Odd Fellows, and also of the Farmers Alli- ance. Politically he is a republican, being at present a county commissioner; he has also held the offices of trustee and justice. Mr. Hunting had two brothers, John and Allen, who died while in service in the late war, one in Louisiana and the other in Florida. Frep Mouncurati was born in Ratengen, Dusseldorf, Germany, July 22, 1832, and is the son of Martin and Josephia (Schmith) Munchrath, natives of the same place. Our subject’s early education was acquired in the schools of this town, attending them until about thirteen years of age, when he be- gan to work at the mason’s trade, which he followed until he came to Amer- ica, in May, 1852, settling in Chicago, where he remained three years. In 1855 he removed to Galena, Ill., where he met and married Gertrude Krudwig, a native of Germany, and at once came to Dubuque, Iowa, where he lived until 1858, when he came to Sioux City, and followed the mason’s trade up to 1873. During this time he worked on many of the largest build- ings in town, building the first brick residence. In 1873 he entered the book and stationery business, which he has since pursued. The family circle in- 776 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. cludes seven’ children, namely: Katie, Fred, Alma, Felix, Freda, Alexander and Gertrude. Mr. Munchrath is a democrat in politics and a member of the Roman Catholic church. Tse Battov Banxine Company. This company is the outgrowth of a business started at Storm Lake, Iowa, in 1870, with J. A. Dean and G. S. Robinson, now one of the supreme judges of Iowa, as partners. The Storm Lake Bank was organized about fourteen years ago. Mr. James Harker was president and Mr. J. A. Dean cashier; these two being the sole proprietors. This bank continued business for seven years, and then went into liqui- dation, for the purpose of organizing the First National bank of Storm Lake, and in connection with it was formed the Iowa Land & Investment company, with J. A. Dean as president. In 1888 the Ballou Banking company was formed, and February 1, 1890, began business at this place. H. S. Ballou, capitalist, is president, and is a resident of Boston. Geo. M. Pardoe, of Sioux City, is vice-president, J. A. Dean, treasurer, and Geo. H. Eastman, who has charge of the company’s business at Storm Lake, and who has been with them for fifteen years, is secretary. A. E. Webb is cashier. He entered the employ of the Storm Lake bank in 1878. Geo. B. Kerlin is the attorney for the company. Its paid-up capital stock is $150,000. D. P. Maener, sheriff, Sioux City, is of Irish descent, but was born in McHenry county, Ill., in December, 1856, and was educated in the public schools there. Mr. Magner studied for an engineer and spent eight years of his life as locomotive engineer. Woodbury county gave President Harrison a majority of its votes, but our subject, though a democrat, waselected sheriff of the county at the next election, by a majority of 1,658 votes, showing how well he stood in the esteem of his fellow-men. Our subject was married February 19, 1889. His father, P. J. Magner, is a railroad man. A. M. Hatzy, machinist, Sioux City, is a son of P. Haley, a farmer of Columbiana county, Ohio. He was born in Pittsburgh, Pa., but when quite a small lad removed to Columbiana county, Ohio, with his parents, where he remained twenty-five years. He began life poor, and was bound out as an apprentice, when he learned his trade, that of a machinist. He then engaged in the boating business and was engaged in engineering, piloting and serving as captain. He came to Sioux City in 1868, and ran the first steam ferry at this place, crossing the Missouri River. He continued his vocation as ferryman here for ten years. He then built a steamboat, carrying freight and passengers all along the river, as far as Fort Benton, Montana. He also transported emigrants to the Black Hills of Dakota. Mr. Haley followed the occupation of a boatman for thirty years, and has run on the Ohio, Cumberland, Ten- PHOTO BY GENELLI, GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 779 nessee, Mississippi and Missouri rivers. During the war he was engaged in government transportation. In 1885 Mr. Haley built the foundry which he now occupies, and which is 100 by 150 feet. He is now engaged in manufacturing all kinds of machinery, steam supplies and mill supplies, giving employment to fifty-two men. He is assisted in his business by three of his sons: T. S., a native of Wellsville, Ohio, born in 1862, educated in the Sioux City schools, is now manager of the business interests; Joseph A., born in 1875, and educated in the Sioux City schools, is superintendent of the works, and George P., is book-keeper. Mr. Haley was married to Emily S. Stevenson, of Wellsville, Ohio, and to this union were born ten children—six sons and four daughters. He is a member of the Episcopal church, and a republican in polities. Cou. Joan H. Kzattey, attorney, Sioux City. The subject of this sketch was born in Centre county, Pa., in December, 1838. After attending the common schools in his native village until he was about twelve years old, he entered a printing office to learn that art. In 1858 he began the study of law with Messrs. Curtin & Blanchard, at Bellefonte, and was admitted to the bar in 1860, the year in which the senior member of the law firm was elected governor of Pennsylvania. Col. Keatley, after being admitted to the bar, went to Blair county to commence practice, but the assault on Fort Sumter occurred a few days after he opened his law office, and that event suspended all thought of the law until peace should be restored. He served with distinction in the One Hundred and Fourth Pennsylvania volunteers, and in the One Hundred Twenty-fifth; and was severely wounded a number of times. While in the military service, in 1863, he was elected district attorney, but the duties of the office were discharged by others until the close of the war. In 1866 he was again elected to the same office, but resigned in the fall of 1867 to make his home in Iowa. He was induced to make his home in Council Bluffs, and succeeded Col. John W. Chapman as editor of the daily “‘ Nonpareil,” of that city, and dis- charged its duties for two years. In 1870 he resumed the practice of law. In 1872 he Greeleyized, and was made chairman of the Liberal Republican State committee. In 1874 he was nominated by the democrats as the candi- date for attorney general, and ran ahead of his ticket more than ten thousand votes in the state. In 1877 he was nominated for the legislature, and was beaten by only three votes, while Pottawattamie county was largely repub- lican. In 1878, against his urgent protest, he was nominated for congress against Col. Sapp, republican, and Rev. Mr. Hicks, greenbacker, and was of course defeated. In 1876 he was elected mayor of Council Bluffs as an in- 41 780 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. dependent candidate. In 1885 he was elected a member of the Iowa house of representatives by a majority of 1,241 votes over Col. Sapp, his republican opponent. When the time came to select. managers on the part of the house to con- duct the impeachment of State Auditor Brown, before the senate, in 1886, Col. Keatley was the only one of the seven chosen who received the unani- mous vote of the house for that position. In the trial, which began May 19, 1886, he made the opening argument, on behalf of the managers, for which he was highly commended. In 1886 he was also nominated as the demo- cratic candidate for congress, by acclamation in the Ninth district, and, though defeated by Maj. Lyman, he carried Pottawattamie county, in which both resided, by almost a thousand majority. He was appointed chief of the law department of the second comptroller’s office at Washington, in August, 1887, and in the early part of July, 1888, President Cleveland sent for him, and urged him to accept the appointment of United States district and circuit judge of Alaska. This he did, and for nearly two years discharged the duties of that office. His resignation, ten- dered to President Harrison, was not at first accepted, because of the fact that the business men of the territory had united, without respect to party, in a protest to the President, against the acceptance of his resignation. Col. Keatley finally insisted upon being relieved, and upon his return to the states, made his home in Sioux City, and has resumed the practice of his profession. For many years, while engaged in the practice of law, he was editor of the daily ‘“‘Globe” of that city. He has also contributed quite freely, in the intervening years, to magazines, some of his articles on indus- trial questions attracting wide attention. He comes of Revolutionary stock, his grandfather, Christopher Keatley, having been an officer of the Revolu- tionary army, under Gen. Wayne, and was severely wounded at the battle of Germantown. Joun Hirrts, city treasurer, Sioux City, is an Ohioan, and was born in 1835. He was educated in his native state and commenced life as a day laborer. In 1856 he came to Sioux City, and was engaged as head clerk and fur buyer for twelve years by H. D. Booge &Co. In 1886 Mr. Hittle was elected city treasurer, being the first treasurer elected after Sioux City had become a city of the first class. He was elected for his first term by a ma- jority of 600, for his second term by a majority of 1,284, and for his third term by 2,300 majority. During his term of office, the city bonds were sold at a premium of $20,000, and by his judgment and tact, Mr. Hittle has made a successful treasurer. For eight years he was engaged in the grocery busi- ness. He was joined in marriage to Harriett Stafford, of Indiana, and they be- o GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 781 came the parents of three sons: John W., deputy city treasurer, Benjamin and William. Mr. Hittle attends the Methodist church with his wife, who is amember. He is a democrat in politics. Auten Crossan, real estate dealer, Sioux City, is one of the enterprising citizens who have done much to build up northwestern Iowa. He was born at Girvan, Ayrshire, Scotland, on the first day of the year 1849, and is a son of Alexander and Fanny (Long) Crossan, natives of the same locality. The parents now reside at Eldora, this state, aged respectively eighty-five and eighty years. In 1852 they came to the United States, and remained in Ohio till 1865, when they settled on a farm near Eldora, which has since been their home. . Allen Crossan attended the common schools, and took a teacher’s course at Albion seminary, Marshall county, Iowa, from which he received a diploma in 1877. In 1870 he took a homestead in Centre township, O’Brien county, which he sold two years later, and has since dealt more or less extensively in farm lands. He taught thirteen terms of school in the course of five years, and in 1886 purchased the Hartley ‘“‘ Record,” which he edited and conducted four years, in connection with his real estate business. In the spring of 1890 he came to Sioux City and established a general real estate agency, which has proved signally successful. He is largely in- terested in Morning Side property, and owns lands in South Dakota, Ne- braska and Iowa. In addition to his own property he handles that of others, and is one of the leaders in Sioux City real estate movements. His success is the result of his own industry and sagacious management. Mr. Crossan is a member of the Methodist church and Masonic order, and affiliates with the republican party in politics. He has been twice married, the first time being on Christmas day, 1878, the bride being Miss Lucretia Irena Beach, a native of Iowa, of English parentage, who died in 1884, leaving a son and daughter: Alexander Cephas and Emma Gertrude. The second marriage occurred in 1886, Miss Carrie O. Baker being the bride. The infant son born to this union is named Leslie. J. 8. Lorurop, attorney, Sioux City, was born in Dover, Maine, October 9, 1836, and was educated in that state. He removed to Illinois with his father’s family in 1852, and worked on a farm continuously until September, 1859. He entered the Chicago Law school in the fall of that year, where he studied law under Prof. Henry Booth until the breaking out of the war, April, 1861. He enlisted as a private in Company I, Eleventh Illinois infantry, and served through his period of enlistment—three months. He re-enlisted in Company E, Twenty-sixth Illinois infantry, August, 1861. He was elected orderly sergeant, and promoted in August, 1861, to second lieutenant. In 7182 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. September, 1862, he was promoted to first lieutenant, and in December of the same year, to captain of the same company, and served as such through the war. Returning home at the close of the war, he engaged in the prac- tice of law at Ottawa, Tl. : July, 1866, he removed to Champaign, Ill. and resided there in practice of law until July, 1884, when he removed to Sioux City, and there engaged in the practice of his profession, and is now living at Sioux City, engaged in the practice of law in company with R. M. Dott, the firm being Lothrop & Dott. September, 1889, he was appointed by President Harrison, collector of internal revenue for the Third district of Iowa, with headquarters at Dubuque, the district comprising forty-nine. counties in the north half of the state, and he is now holding that office. Wiiam F. Tuomas, lawyer, Sioux City, was born January 19, 1848, at Pendleton, Madison county, Ind. His father was Levi Thomas, the son of Dr. James Thomas. William was reared on a farm, and had but the advan- tages of a common-school education. He read law in the office of Hon. M. 8. Robinson, of Anderson, Ind., a part of the years 1868 and 1869, and graduated from the law department of the Michigan university in March, 1871. He was married February 14, 1872, to Miss Margaret J. Nelson, eldest daughter of Daniel Nelson, of Mercer, Mercer county, Pa. To them were born two children: Ida M., December 2, 1873, and Fred N., August 21, 1877, both of whom still live. He came with his wife to western Iowa in April, 1872, settling in Ida county, where they lived until 1884, when he moved with his family to Sioux City, where he has ever since practiced his profes- sion of law, besides dealing in real estate. In religion he is a Baptist, and in politics a republican. G. C. Macuaean, banker, Le Mars, was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1852. A. P. Bowman, physician, Le Mars, was born in Sunderland, Mass., in 1856. His parents, in 1865, removed to Keokuk, Iowa, where he completed his education. In 1872 he went to Chicago, and was engaged in mercantile business until 1875, when he began the study of medicine, and, in 1878, graduated from the Chicago Homeopathic medical college, and began the practice of medicine at Kansas City, but removed to Ottumwa, and later to Ponca, Neb., and to Le Mars in July, 1883, where he is now the only home- opathic practitioner. He is an active worker in the republican party, of which he is a member, and in 1890 was appointed as one of the board for examin- ing pensioners. In 1882 he married Carrie, daughter of Baker Medes, of Keokuk, and they have four children. He is a member of Le Mars Lodge, No. 255, I. O. O. F., of the Modern Woodmen, of Zeus Lodge, K. of P. In 1891 he was appointed health officer of the city of Le Mars. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 783 A. A. Autre, attorney, Le Mars, was born in Washington county, Me., in 1831. After the completion of his education he was engaged in teaching for seven years. In Boston, for a time, he was a speculator, but eventually came to Black Hawk county, Iowa, and to Le Mars in 1872. Having pur- chased a farm here in 1868, he turned his attention to farming, until 1873, when he went into the lumber business. He also studied law and was ad- mitted to the bar in 1876, and was one of the firm of Amos & Alline. He is now doing a land, loan, insurance and law business, being one of the firm of A. M. Duus & Co., and with the exception of two years has been continu- ously justice of the peace, a position he held in Maine and also in Black Hawk county. In 1861 he enlisted in Company G, First Iowa calvary, and was in the service about four years. He is a republican and a member of Giblem Lodge, 322, F. & A. M., and of the Occidental Chapter of Le Mars, No. 114. Micuart Frank Croucsg, retired farmer, Le Mars, is a sonof Walter and Annie Crouch, and a native of Pennsylvania, born in Crawford county, July 26, 1823. His maternal grandfather, Eliphalet Stewart, came of old Amer- ican stock, and his paternal ancestors were probably Dutch. When six months old our subject was taken to Elicott, now the site of Jamestown, N. Y., where he was reared and educated in the rate-schools of that time and region. He has always been a farmer. In 1857 he went to Lancaster, Grant county, Wis., afterward living six years in Boscobel. He came to Le Mars in 1878, and is now the owner of one-half of section thirty-five, Liberty township, Plymouth county, on which he dwelt several years. Both he and his wife are communicants in the Free-Will Baptist church. Mr. Crouch is a republican, having begun political action with the whigs. For two years he served as justice of the peace in Fennimore, Wis., resigning that office on his removal to Iowa. In 1848 he married Mandana, daughter of Andrew Hogle (see his biog- raphy), a native of New York. Their children are Augusta (Mrs. Russell Taylor), Potosi, Wis.; Robert, in Merrill, Iowa; Andrew, Perry township; John, Fennimore, Wis.; James, Liberty township; William, with his parents; Lillian, who married Silas Washburn, died January 10, 1889. W. J. Wernu1, merchant, Le Mars, was born at Oshkosh, Wis., in 1856. He completed his education at the Northwestern Normal school at Galena, Tll., after which he was engaged in the book trade at Chicago. From 1875 to 1886, he was bookkeeper for the Plymouth Roller Mill company, of Le Mars. After severing his connection with that concern he became a dealer in grain and wool at Rapid City, Dak., and in the fall of 1887 became engaged in the agricultural implement business at Le Mars. He isamember of Gib- lem Lodge, 322, F. & A. M., and of Occidental Chapter, 114. 784 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. In November, 1878, he married Belle, daughter of C. P. Stough, of Le Mars, and is the father of two children. He is a member of the Methodist church, and a republican in politics. Cuaries G. Muziuer, stockman, Kingsley, was born in Germany, April 22, 1857, and is a son of Gustavus Mueller, consul general of the Kingdom of Belgium, and Louise Mueller, both natives of Germany. He received his education in the college at Berlin, and afterward took a law course at the University of Bonn, and was admitted to the bar in 1880. He entered the army in 1878, in the King’s Hussars regiment, and served later on in the Queen’s Cuirrassiers, in which regiment he still holds a commission as “first lieutenant.” In 1880 he was sent by the government to the Imperial German consulate at Cairo, Egypt, where he remained until the breaking out of the war in 1882, when he returned to Germany. In 1887 he came to America and purchased 1,040 acres of land in Elk- horn township, Plymouth county, Iowa, where he has since engaged in breed- ing fine stock. He hassixty head of horses, comprising the most important lot of running horses kept for breeding purposes in the entire state. Heisa member of the German Jockey club, of Berlin, and an honorary member of the Le Mars Prairie club. Cou. James Fenton, an old settler and the largest farmer in Henry town- ship, residing on section eleven, was born near Rochdale, England, in 1836, and is a son of John and Hannah (Owston) Fenton, both natives of England. The father of our subject was a banker in Rochdale until his death, which occurred in July, 1863. He was a man well known, being the first member of Parliament from his district. His wife died in 1879. Both were members of the Congregational church. James Fenton was born and reared near Rochdale, England, and received his education at a private school near London. At the age of eighteen years, he entered his father’s bank and became a partner in 1860. He was con- sidered an expert rifle shot, contesting for the yearly prizes that were offered, and succeded in winning most of the principal ones. He took part in the great international rifle match between Great Britain and America, which occurred at Long Island, September 14, 1877. He continued to reside in England until 1880, when he came to America, and located in Plymouth county, Iowa, where he purchased 640 acres of land where he now resides, and where he has engaged in breeding and raising fine Hereford cattle. When he purchased his land it was all wild prairie. He put out fourteen acres of trees and an orchard, and has erected a large and roomy dwelling, also barns and sheds, a wind-mill, and a large tank which will hold two thousand barrels of water. The farm is now all under a good state of cultivation and well improved. He has made an addition of GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 785 360 acres, which gives him one thousand acres in all. He has 200 head of cattle on his farm, 24 head of horses and 820 head of hogs. Mr. Fenton was united in marriage with Frances E. Owston, in 1860, and they have nine children: James, John, Robert, Harry, Emily, Roger, Arthur, Eustace and Nora. Mr. and Mrs. Fenton are both members of the Episcopal church. Joun W. Hawxrns, general farmer and stock-raiser, and the first settler in Henry township, now residing on section eighteen, was born in Shenan- doah county, Va., November 8, 1849, and is a son of Lorenzo and Matilda (Golladay) Hawkins, natives of Virginia. His father was of English descent, and engaged in farming until the war broke out, after which he practiced medicine until his death in 1872, at his old home in Virginia; his wife is of German descent and still living in Hawkinstown, Va., which place was laid out by our subject’s great-grandfather. John W. was born and reared on a farm in Virginia, receiving his educa- tion in the select schools, and residing with his parents until he was nine- teen years of age. He then left his home and came to Dubuque county, Iowa, in 1868, where he resided, engagéd in milling, until 1877, after which he farmed for two years. In March, 1879, he came to Plymouth county and located in Union township one year, then purchased 176 acres of land on section eighteen, being the northwest quarter of the same. He resided on the northeast quarter of section eighteen, which he purchased in 1886, and this is where he now resides. When he located in Henry township there had never been a furrow turned, the entire township being wild prairie. He had the township sepa- rated from Union, and named Henry township. He has been engaged in farming ever since his residence here, and besides raising his crops he makes a specialty of thoroughbred Poland China and pure bred Ohio Chester hogs, as well as Galway cattle. January 8, 1870, Mr. Hawkins was united in marriage with Margaret Croston, of Dubuque county, and they have two children: Ada and William. Mr. Hawkins’ farm is the oldest improved in the township, is under a good state of cultivation, well watered by running streams and four wells, and also has thirty acres of fine grove. He has a large dwelling house, and has one of the best barns in the county. Politically Mr. Hawkins is a democrat, and is now justice of the peace, which office he has held since the organiza- tion of the township. He has also been assessor of the same ever since its or- ganization, and is also president of the school board, and is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. Euisua Henperson, an old settler of Plymouth county, now residing in Kingsley, was born in New York, in September, 1818, and is a son of Isaac 786 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. and Betsey (Brockway) Henderson. His father was a native of Vermont, of Irish descent, and his mother was a native of New Hampshire. Isaac Hen--: derson was farming in Canada at the time of his death, which occurred in 1865; his wife died in Jones county, Iowa, in 1870; both were members of the Universalist church. Elisha Henderson went with his parents to Canada at the age of nine years. He received a common-school education, and at the age of twenty- seven years engaged in farming for himself in Dundas county, Canada, which pursuit he followed until 1863, when he came to Clinton county, Iowa. He farmed there until 1880, when he went to Correctionville, Woodbury county, and opened a hotel, besides filling the position of justice of the peace. In 1882 he moved to what is known as the old town of Quorn, in Plymouth county, where he carried on a hotel, until the town finally moved to Kings- ley, when he moved his hotel, and was there proprietor, until it was burned in 1886. He was the first mayor of Kingsley; and has been justice of the peace eight years. In March, 1844, he married Fannie Guernsey, of Dundas county, Canada, and they have five children, viz.: Adeline, Julia, Isaac, Amanda and Samuel. Mrs. Henderson is a member of the Methodist Epis- copal church. Mr. Henderson casts his suffrage with the republican party. Dr. E. H. Banks, now residing in Kingsley, was born in Perry county, Ohio, in August, 1850. He is a son of Samuel and Louisa (Hammond) Banks, both natives of Maryland and both of English descent. His father is now seventy-seven years of age and resides in New Lexington, Ohio, hav- ing retired from business; the greater part of his life has been spent in mer- cantile business, which he pursued until 1888, when he closed out his busi- ness, and is now spending the remainder of his days in retirement. His wife died in April, 1888, at the age of seventy-three years; both were mem- bers of the Methodist Episcopal church. Edmund H. Banks received his early education at the common schools, after which he commenced to read medicine, and graduated from the Cincin- nati College of Medicine and Surgery, in June, 1871. He then went to Amesville, Athens county, Ohio, where he practiced his profession five years. In the fall of 1877 he came to Mapleton, Iowa, where he practiced eighteen months, then returned to Ohio in April, and in December of the same year, came back to Mapleton. He practiced three years in Kansas, and in 1883 settled in what is now Kingsley, and opened a drug store, which he has con- ducted ever since, except one year, in connection with his practice. Dr. Banks married Lydia A. McDonald, of Morgan county, Ohio, Au- gust 26, 1871, and to them are born four children: Charles (deceased), Ed- mund, Samuel F. and Louisa. Politically he is a republican; socially, he is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and also the Knights of Pythias. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 787 Dr. Rematpo D. Crarx was born in Cortland county, N. Y., October 8, 1842. His father, William Clark, who was born in Cherry Valley, N. Y., in 1796, married Miss Polly Standish, and to them were born four children, three of whom are living, one having died in childhood. In 1851 they moved to Wisconsin, where their children were reared and received their educations. R. D. Clark enlisted in Company K, Wisconsin regular infan- try, and served with honor to the close of the war. He attended Rush Med- ical college, in Chicago, from which he graduated, after which he practiced a year in Columbia, Wis. In 1876 he married Mrs. Jane A. Davis, and moved to Akron, where for the past fourteen years he has followed his profession, and has a successful and satisfactory practice. He is a republican in politics, and in religion is a member of the Baptist church. Rozgerr Croucs, retired farmer and dealer in stock, was born in New York state in 1847, and is the son of M. F. Crouch, who was also a farmer and a native of New York, but is now a resident of Le Mars, Iowa, and a re- tired gentleman of sixty-seven years. In 1857 the father and mother, with their five children, immigrated to Grant county, Wis., and there the family grew to manhood and womanhood. Our subject, Robert Crouch, was educated in New York state, and Wis- consin schools. When sixteen years of age, in 1864, he enlisted in Com- pany H, Twenty-fifth Wisconsin infantry, and served until the close of the war. He was through the Atlanta campaign, and was with Sherman during his famous march to the sea. He was taken prisoner July 22, 1864, and spent two months in Andersonville prison. It was in 1871 that Mr. Crouch came to Plymouth county, and homesteaded a quarter-section of land, ten miles north of Sioux City, and eighteen miles from Le Mars, and followed farming on that place until the spring of 1890. He now owns a half-section of land and has retired from farming, but is dealing in lumber and coal at Merrill, Iowa. He was joined in marriage, in Grant county, to Miss Maria Fultz. Three children have been born to this couple: Frank W., Lilla M. and Blaine. Mr. Crouch is a member of the G. A. R. of Le Mars, and of the K. of P. He has held numerous township offices, and has won great respect by his judgment and honesty in discharging the duties of office. He is a repub- lican politically, and has always held to the principles of that party and been a political leader in Plymouth county. Freperick A. Hauswatp, farmer, P. O. Le Mars, was born January 26, 1829, at Koenigstein, Saxony, Germany. Here he attended school until fourteen years of age, when he began to learn the cabinet-making trade, which was his occupation in Koenigstein, Hanover and Hamburg till he 788 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. sailed for America in 1856, landing in New York, where he worked two years and a half at his trade. He then moved to Davenport, Iowa, where he remained five years, going thence to Marengo, Iowa, where he resided until 1869. He then came to Johnson township, Plymouth county, and there took an eighty-acre homestead, where he has been a resident ever since. Mr. Hauswald was united in the bonds of matrimony June 26, 1856, to Mary Vander Hyde, of Artlenburg, Hanover, Germany, by whom he has seven children, three of whom are dead and four living. Those living are: Louis; Fred; Caroline, wife of Nick Hauser, of Liberty township, and Au- gusta, wife of Wakefield Collins, of Sioux City. Mr. Hauswald is independ- ent in politics, and has served as township clerk, trustee and school director. He belongs to the Protestant Lutheran church. Rey. Davip L. Mackxenziz. The Mackenzies, who first came to America in 1775, from Enverness, Scotland, settled near Harrisburg, Pa. These were our subject’s great-grandfather and family, which consisted of two children: Mary and John. The father, whose name was Kenneth, engaged in the pro- tection of his adopted country, and in one of the battles was captured by the British army and was never again heard of. The son located near Duncan- non, on Sherman’s creek, Pa., where he took up a homestead, and bought enough land to comprise a farm of 300 acres of heavy timber land. Here he built his house and a blacksmith shop, working at the blacksmith trade, and clearing his land at his leisure. He served as a soldier in the war of 1812. He died at the age of forty-one from a wound received while shoeing a horse. Our subject and his father, John, were both born on this homestead, and his father died there at the age of eighty-two years. David L. made it his home until 1871. He received his education there by attending the district school three months in the year, and studying as he could, working on the farm during the long vacations until seventeen years old, when he taught winters and attended the public school at Bloomfield, Perry county, until the age of eighteen years. He then entered the Normal school at Newville, Cumberland county, and later the Whitehall academy in the same county, and entered the freshman class at the Pennsylvania college of Gettysburg, in 1861. He abandoned his studies, however, in August, 1862, to enter the 138th Pennsylvania volunteer infantry, Company B. In 1864 he was appointed regimental quartermaster, and served in this capacity until the close of the war, taking part in the battles of the Wilderness and Petersburg among others. He was under Sheridan in October, 1864, in the campaign of .the Shenandoah valley, Va., until the destruction of Gen. Early’s army, October 19, 1864, when he returned with his corps, the Sixth, to the south of Peters- GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 789 burg, Va., and participated in the capture of Petersburg, and at the sur- render of Gen. Lee’s army. He was mustered out, after the regiment was re- viewed at Washington, and returned to Gettysburg, in July, 1865, to witness the unveiling of the National monument which was erected in memory of the heroes, who fell on that field. He entered the Pennsylvania college in September of the same year, and graduated in the class of 1868, then entered the Theological seminary at Gettysburg, Pa. and graduated in the summer of 1871. He served the English Lutheran church of Frostburg, Md., seven years, then removed to Van Wert, Ohio, where he was pastor of St. Mark’s church four years. He then removed to Rhinebeck, Dutchess county, N. Y., to take charge of the English Lutheran church, where he remained four years, being sent thence to Sioux City, by the general board of missions of the Evangelical Lutheran church, of the general synod of the United States, to establish an English Lutheran church. Beginning without a member, he now has an established membership of over ninety, and a Sunday-school of over one hundred mem- bers, besides one of the finest houses of worship in the city, being valued at $20,000, and this is the work of only five years. Mr. Mackenzie was united in marriage with Miss Mary L. Stoever, a native of Mechanicsburg, Cumberland county, Pa., and to them three chil- dren were born: Charles, Luther (deceased) and David. In polities he is a republican, and took an active part in the Grant and Garfield campaign, making a number of speeches in Pennsylvania. He is a member of the Phi Psi, a college society, and of the Royal Arcanum. R. A. Broappent, hotel-keeper and lightning-rod agent, Sioux City, son of William and Catherine (Crampton) Broadbent, was born in Lake county, Til, in 1844. His parents were natives of England, where they married. They removed to Illinois, remaining there until 1854, when they moved to Fayette county, Iowa, having been continuously engaged in agricultural pursuits. At the beginning of the rebellion, R. A., with his brothers, en- tered the army. R. A. and one brother enlisted in Company F, Ninth regi- ment I. 8. V. infantry, and remained until the close of the war, after which he returned to his former home, and in 1868 came to Sioux City, and en- gaged in the livery business. July 7, 1870, he married Elizabeth, daughter of William Murray, of Fayette county. In 1885 Mr. Broadbent engaged in the lightning-rod busi- ness, and was one of the first persons in the United States to conduct that business in a straightforward, honorable, business-like way, and by fair deal- ing, and by making no misrepresentations, has not only made a success, finan- cially, but also has a reputation for honesty and integrity which gives him the exclusive control of a large territory, and to-day he has a growing, pop- 790 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. ular and remunerative trade, employing none but men of well-known char- acter and ability. He stands pre-eminently at the head in his line of business. Mr. and Mrs. Broadbent are also proprietors of “‘ The Oxford,” a hotel of Sioux City, noted for its home surroundings, the excellence of its cuisine department, and for the courtesy shown all patrons, especially strangers. Their children are Mabel (now Mrs. T. B. Guernsey, whose husband is cashier of Weare & Allison’s bank), and Nellie, a school girl. He is a mem- ber of Landmark Lodge, No. 303, of the A. O. of F. and A. M.; also of Co- lumbia Lodge, K. of P. In politics Mr. Broadbent is a republican. After the war he was a government contractor for furnishing horses and mules in large numbers. JarED P. Boop, attorney at law, Sioux City, was born in Whitefield, Coos county, N. H., January 18, 1844, a son of Arnold and Lavina (Newton) Blood. The father was born at Acworth, N. H., February 24, 1799, and died at Whitefield, January 21, 1887; the mother was born at Unity, N. H., May 25, 1800, and died at Whitefield, January 3, 1878. In addition to a common- school education, our subject attended the academy at Lancaster, N. H., dur- ing the year 1859, and the academy of West Concord, Vt., during the year 1865. The following year he entered Lombard university, of Galesburg, Ill, and there received his B. A. degree, in the class of 1870, and subse- quently his M. A. degree. In January, 1874, he came to Sioux City, and entered the law office of C. R. Marks as a student, and read law till the following May, when he was admitted to the practice of his chosen profession, the law. Forming a part- nership with one M. 8. Denslow, in the fall of 1874, they continued the practice of law until the winter of 1875, when said firm was dissolved and Mr. Blood entered the employment of the firm of Joy & Wright, the leading attorneys of Sioux City, with whom he remained until November, 1876, when he returned east to visit the Centennial exhibition, and his parents. Returning to Sioux City in January, 1878, he again resumed the prac- tice of law, this time with C. R. Marks, forming a partnership which lasted till December, 1882, at which time he opened an office, which he has since maintained, and has built up a lucrative practice. His practice increased so that he could not attend to it alone, and now he has associated with him Frank B. Robinson, under the firm name of Blood & Robinson. In the year 1864, Mr. Blood enlisted in the First regiment of the New Hampshire heavy artillery, in which he served till the close of the war. He was married in 1870 to Miss Jennie Hewett, of Avon, Ill. No chil- dren have been born to their union. Mr. Blood is a member of Landmark Lodge, No. 103, A. F. and A. M., of Sioux City, having joined the order in GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 791 1868, and is also a comrade of Gen. Hancock Post, No. 396, G. A. R., and a member of his college secret society. Dr. Atten J. Moors, Sioux City, was born in Hamilton county, Ohio, January 19, 1854, the son of Robert and Demaris (Whallon) Moore, natives of the same place. Dr. Moore’s paternal ancestors came to America with William Penn, his great-grandfather being a general in the struggles of 1776. He was killed at the battle of Brandywine, September 11, 1777. Our subject’s early education was received in the district schools of Ham- ilton county, which he attended until fourteen years of age, when he was sent to Piqua, where he attended the high school in preparation for college, which he entered in the fall of 1872 at Hanover, Indiana. He attended this college four years, graduating in June, 1876. He then taught school and followed civil.engineering five years, studying medicine at the same time, and in 1881 entered the Miami Medical college at Cincinnati, Ohio, from which he graduated with honors in 1884. During this period of school- ing he was assistant to Dr. Robert Sattler, in the eye and ear clinic of Miami Medical college. In April, 1884, he came to Vail, Iowa, and opened an office, making the treatment of the eye, ear, nose and throat his specialty. He remained here until April, 1890, when he sold out and spent the summer in the hospitals at Cincinnati. In August, 1890, he came to Sioux City and opened an office as an eye, ear, nose and throat physician. Dy. Moore was united in marriage with Miss Effie C. Woodruff, of Hamilton county, Ohio, March 25, 1884. He has two children: Myrtle Vivien, born March 26, 1885, and Allen Woodruff, born March 18, 1890. He is a democrat in politics. Cuartes A. Brosrrom, president and superintendent of the Sioux City Plow works, was born in Westmanland, Sweden, February 9, 1846, a son of Charles and Mary (Fréman) Brostrom, who were natives of the same local- ity. The education he was enabled to obtain was somewhat limited, as he began at avery early age to work at the blacksmith trade, which was his occupation in Sweden until 1869. In that year he came to America and located at Rock Island, where he worked at his trade until 1880, when he moved to Sioux City. He was one of the corporators and president of a company there a year, then two years at Davenport, after which he returned to Sioux City and was one of the corporators of the Sioux City Plow com- pany, and was elected president and superintendent. October 31, 1868, he married Charlotte Johnson, a native of Sweden, and to them were born seven children, namely: Emma, Ellen, Olive, Lam- bert, Albert, Clara and Rachel. His wife died in February, 1885, and May 4, 1887, he married Martha Ostlund, and to them was born one child, Harry. In polities he sides with the republican party; in religious matters he is a 792 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. supporter of the faith as expounded by the Lutherans, being a member of the First Swedish Lutheran church. James Junk was born in county Derry, Ireland, June 18, 1845. His par- ents, Zachariah and Eliza (Reynolds) Junk, were natives of the same county, immigrating to America when James was yet very young. They settled in New York city, where his mother died when he was about twelve years old, and James came west to Iowa City with a younger brother. He remained here until 1861, when he enlisted in the Fourteenth lowa infantry, Company A, in which regiment he served but a short time, and was transferred to the Forty-first Iowa infantry, Company A, and taken to the Seventh Iowa cavalry, in which he served until 1865, when he received his discharge and returned to Sioux City, where he has been engaged in various occupations until 1884, since which time he has been in no active business. Mr. Junk was married in October, 1868, to Miss Nora Hogan, a native of Ireland. He is a member of the Roman Catholic church and votes the demo- cratic ticket. ALEXANDER Larson, merchant, Sioux City, was born in Sweden in 1847, and remained in that country until he was twenty-one years of age, when he came to America. He settled in Illinois, where he engaged in farming for the next two years, after which he removed to Van Buren county, Iowa, where he was engaged in a cheese factory two years, and afterward moved to Mount Pleasant, Iowa, where he was employed as a clerk for the succeed- ing eight years. In 1881 he came to Sioux City and opened his present place of business, carrying a stock of dry goods, notions, clothing, hats and caps. Besides de- voting his own energies entirely to this business, he employs six clerks. He was joined in marriage November 23, 1876, to Hilda Applegren, now de- ceased, and by her has two children living, Gustave and Frederick. He is a member of the Swedish Lutheran church; in politics a republican. Franx A. Moors, of “Moore’s Trade Palace,” Sioux City, was born in New York state in 1849. His early life was spent in Lockport, N. Y. He moved to Chicago in 1884, where he remained until 1886, when he removed to Omaha, where he was engaged in the wholesale cigar business. Believing that Sioux City afforded better prospects for business than any other west- ern city, he came to this place in 1889 and opened his present place of busi- ness, a Ladies’ Emporium and fancy dry goods and notion store. He em- ploys nine lady clerks, besides being assisted by his wife. He was married to Florence Bushnell, of Lockport, N. ¥Y. Mr. Moore has attained success in business by devoting his entire time and attention to his business interests. F. W. Kimperty, wholesale notion dealer, Sioux City, is a native of Con- necticut, and was born in 1850. He came to Sioux City in 1872, and for GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 798 fourteen years was employed with Livingston & Co., dry goods merchants. In 1886 he entered into the wholesale notion business for himself, and now has a good business of his own, his store being at the corner of Third and Pearl streets. He gives employment to three men besides devoting his own attention and time to the business. Curistian Beck, retired farmer, Leeds, is a native of Germany, where he was born in 1842. He came to America in 1859, locating in Jefferson county, Wis., and there worked on a farm until 1868, when he enlisted in Company ‘A, Brackett?s Minnesota battalion, and was in the war until March, 1866. Mr. Beck settled in Woodbury county, Iowa, in that year, and in 1867 pur- chased a farm of 120 acres, upon which he lived till 1890, when he sold the same to a Sioux City syndicate of real estate men, realizing a handsome profit through the advance in value of his property. He built the Beck hotel at Leeds. In 1866 he married Caroline Stevens, who has borne him six children, all of whom are living. Mr. Beck is a member of the G. A. R., and the Lu- theran church; politically he is a stanch advocate of the principles of the democratic party. Davin Enz, the subject of thissketch, was the first man who pitched his tent at Leeds, which place promises to be a fine manufacturing town, and is but three miles from Sioux City. He was born in Canada in 1846, and his young days were spent in his native country. When twenty-one years of age he came to the United States, and located in Delaware county, Iowa, where he engaged in farming. In 1874 he entered into mercantile and real.estate business in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and took part in the great boom of 1881 and 1882, when he accumulated for himself a large fortune, the greater part of which he lost in the reaction that followed. In 1887 he returned to Iowa and located in Sioux City, where he engaged in the real estate business. In the spring of 1889 he went to Leeds, as agent for the Leeds Improvement & Land Co., and shortly afterward built for himself the first store in this new town. He opened up with a stock of general merchandise, but in 1891 turned it into-hardware exclusively. He was appointed postmaster under President Harrison’s administration in Au- gust, 1890. In the fall of 1875 he married Maggie E. Tuer, of Ontario, Canada, and their family consists of three children: St. Clair, Olive and Ruth. Mr. Ede was the first settler at Leeds, having erected a tent for his family while his house was being built. He belongs to the Masonic order, being a charter member of St. John’s lodge, No. 4, G. R. M. L. E. Sz. Jon, physician and surgeon, Leeds, is a native of Bingham- ton, N. Y., where he was born March 8, 1834, a son of Birchard and Betsy é 794. HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Ann (Burrows) St. John. His father, who was a Quaker, was born in Con- necticut, and was of English and French descent, and his mother, who was born in Cherry Valley, N. Y., was of French descent. He is a graduate in pharmacy and medicine of the Western Reserve college, and has been a practicing physician since 1856. He came here forty years ago, after having been in Monona county, Iowa, for seven years. In June, 1890, Mr. St. John opened a drug store at Leeds, in the Beck building, where he is now en- gaged in business. March 11, 1862, he married Sarah Jane Orr, who was born in Michigan, in 1844, and to them three children have been born: Frank L., fifteen years old; Walter E., ten years of age, and Effie M., aged five. He is an Odd Fellow, and was reared in the faith of the Presbyterian church, his mother belonging to that church. He is a member of the demo- cratic party, and entered largely into politics in Monona county. Le Roy Houser, Sioux City, was born in Illinois, in 1843. When quite young, he removed with his parents to Wisconsin, where his early life was spent. His education was obtained at Mineral Point seminary, in Wisconsin, then a popular school, but not now in existence. In 1862 he enlisted in Company B, Thirtieth Wisconsin infantry, and was out three years, and was detailed to service as clerk at headquarters of the department of the northwest. At the close of the war he returned to Wisconsin. He became interested with his father in the harness business in Wisconsin, and remained there five years. In 1870 he came to Sioux City, where he at once entered into business for himself, and vow occupies a business room within half a block from the room in which he began business twenty yearsago. He employs twenty-five men, and is engaged in manufacturing harness and dealing in saddlery, hardware, leather and hides. He was joined in marriage with Mary E. Gor- ham, daughter of Dr. Gorham, one of the earliest settlers of Milwaukee, Wis. To this union were born six children, all of whom are under the parental roof. Mr. Humbert has been a successful business man. He was a member of the city council for some time. He is a member of the Congregational church, and belongs to theG. A. R. In politics he affiliates with the repub- lican party. Cornetius E. Ostranper, farmer, Climbing Hill, was born in Canada West, township Thurlow, Victoria district, county of Middlesex, January 24, 1827. His parents were Henry and Rachel (Bradford) Ostrander, both of Clinton county, N. ¥Y. His grandfather, Robert Ostrander, came from Hol- land, and his grandfather, Elisha Bradford, came from Edinburgh, Scotland. Mr. Ostrander removed to Fond du Lac, Wis., in 1852, and engaged in coopering. In 1858, he went to Quincy, Ill, and in 1862 to Wabasha, Minn., working at his trade in both places. In 1868 he removed to his present place in Woodbury county, Iowa. we iE NN RE es A aR: NY RY Ltt WN BARN aN ANN RR REE RNR aN SS ‘ SRS AS AS a GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 197 He was married in Canada, October 11, 1846, to Keziah Moore, who was born in township Whiteby, York county, Home district, Canada. Mrs. Os- trander’s parents were Samuel and Abigail (Smith) Moore, both of Canadian birth. Her grandfather, Moore, came from Germany. In Mr. Ostrander’s family have been ten children, of whom six are living: Ural D., born Feb- ruary 19, 1849, married Jennie May, and is the father of six children; Ade- line, born September 38, 1850, married W. H. Olin; Justinian A., born June 13, 1856, married Sarah Carey; Francisca, born January 28, 1858, married Alonzo McClurg, and is the mother of four children; Gabriella, born May 29, 1862, married William Goodrich, and has two children; and George P., a farmer in West Fork township. Mr. Ostrander is a self-made and self-educated man. Born of poor parents, who could not afford to pay for his schooling, a friend paid his tui- tion for three months, but Cornelius was expelled after three days, it being found that he belonged to the lower classes. This was in Canada. Heserved as asoldier in the Fifty-second regiment Illinois volunteers, and was at Fort Henry, Fort Donelson and Shiloh. He was a candidate for sheriff of Wood- bury county in 1885. He is at present engaged in farming, dairying, and shipping stock, from his fine farm of 320 acres, located near Climbing Hill. In polities he is a republican. Arraur H. Tennis, stock-raiser, Climbing Hill, was born in York county, Va., August 8, 1846, a son of John A. and Elizabeth (Dawson) Tennis, both of Virginia. His grandfather came from England. In 1851 the Tennis family removed to Marion county, Iowa, and during the one-hundred-day call, Arthur enlisted in the Forty-seventh Iowa infantry as a private. After the war he made a visit to Kansas, but being dissatisfied returned to Iowa. On February 14, 1870, he married Sarah Harrison, of Indiana. Mrs. Tennis was born November 10, 1848, and her parents, Silas and Kizzie (Moore) Harrison, were of America. Mr. and Mrs. Tennis have five children: Carl, born October 14, 1876; Lula, September 30, 1879; Effie, September 6, 1886; Clyde, August 30, 1888, and Arthur W., July 10,1885. In 1872 Mr. Tennis came to Woodbury county, and in 1878 to his present extensive farm, where he is engaged in raising and shipping stock. He received his educa- tion in the common and high schools and at Pella university. Anprew W. Crovcs, farmer, Sioux City, was born in Chautauqua county, N. Y., February 16, 1849, a son of M. F. Crouch, whose biography will be found elsewhere in this volume. When our subject was nine years old he moved with his parents to Grant county, Wis., where he made his home for the next sixteen years, enjoying but limited educational advantages. In October, 1864, although but fifteen years of age, he enlisted in the first bri- gade of Wilson’s First Wisconsin, and was in the raids through Alabama and 42 798 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Georgia. The first four companies of his regiment were given a reward for the capture of Jefferson Davis. He received his discharge July 25, 1865. September 15, 1871, he married Lena Roesch, a native of Germany, and they moved to Iowa, settling in Plymouth county. To them have been born five children, all of whom are living with their parents: Claudia M. was born February 22, 1876; Oscar W., May 1, 1877; Mabel M., December 3, 1880; Cora A., October 2, 1885, and Frankie I., October 20, 1889. Our subject suffered through the visitations of the grasshoppers, and other troubles inci- dent to the times, but now is justly proud of his fine farm. He is justice of the peace, township trustee and chairman of the township board. He formerly belonged to the Baptist church. Wiriram McConnztt Sempre, clergyman, Merrill, was born in Donag- hadee, county Down, Ireland, November 26, 1848. His ancestry is traced to Rev. James Semple, who migrated from Scotland during the persecution of Protestants, and settled at Kireubbin, Ireland. James Semple, grand- father of William, was a farmer, and his son James, one of twins, was born at Donaghadee, and married Mary Crothers, a native of the same place. He kept a general store there, and died in April, 1890, at the age of ninety-two years. His wife died in June following, aged seventy-seven. Of their nine children, of whom eight are now living—two sons being in Australia—Will- iam is the seventh. He was educated at the national training school for teachers at New- townards, and taught two years at Donaghadee and three years near Belfast. He read the entrance course for the Queen’s college at Belfast, but immi- grated to the United States ‘on reaching his majority. For two years he taught school at New Diggings, Wis., and then began the four years’ con- ference course for the Methodist Episcopal ministry. In the meantime he preached at Montfort one year, and three years on Dane circuit of the West. Wisconsin Conference. After preaching two years at Monticello he returned to New Diggings and taught for two years. In 1880, he came to Iowa, and began farming in Washington township, Plymouth county, and two years later he bought his present farm of 120 acres, his residence being on section thirty-five. He supplied the Merrill circuit from 1885 to 1887, and in the spring of 1890 he returned to the church of his fathers, the Presbyterian, and is now assistant to the pastor at Le Mars, having charge of the Merrill mission. Since becoming a citizen he has sustained the republican party, and has served Washington township as assessor and chairman of the board of trustees. December 15, 1871, he married Susan’ Johnson, a native of New Diggings, Wis., and daughter of Warren and Alzina (Bean) Johnson, of Ohio and Missouri birth, respectively. The children of Mr. Semple and wife are GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 799 named in order of birth as follows: Alzina Mabel, William Emmett, Allen Edgar, Olney Warren, Kitty Belle and Robert Llewellyn. Franx Hunt, real estate dealer, Sioux City, is one to whom the term “a self-made man ” may justly be applied, for he is literally the architect of his own fortune. He was born in St. Louis, Mo., November 7, 1861, his parents being Martin and Sarah Hunt. His father died when Frank was but nine years old, from which time he not only supported himself, but provided for his widowed mother. He came to Sioux City in 1869, and was employed as check-boy on a steamboat running between the city named and Fort Benton, Montana for three years. In 1874 he was employed as night clerk in the old Hubbard house, where he remained two years, when he was made steward and manager of the hotel, serving in these positions five years. He then fur- nished the Merchants hotel and ran that house till the spring of 1887, when he embarked in the real estate business with J. M. Moan as partner. They bought seven hundred acres of prairie land in Nebraska just across the river and opposite Sioux City, the price per acre ranging from $25 to $50. They laid off and platted into lots this property, which is now selling at from $700 to $1,000 per lot, and called the same South Sioux City, the population at the present time (1891) being about 1,500. They have four trunk lines of railway, two banks, and several manufacturing plants. A bridge spanning the Missouri river at this point is being completed, over which an electric line of street railway will pass uniting the two cities. Mr. Hunt is president of the Citi- zens bank of South Sioux City, vice-president of the street railway, and secre- tary and treasurer of the Iowa and Nebraska Bridge company. He is also, in connection with E. C. Palmer, owner of the Floyd View addition to Sioux City. Mr. Hunt has considerable interests in Chicago property, being owner of sixty lots on Cottage Grove avenue; also the proprietor of considerable real estate in Grand Rapids, Mich. He is an energetic, progressive citizen, and is recognized as one of Sioux City’s leading and wealthy business men. Outver D. Heap, postmaster of Kingsley, was born in Mahoning county, Ohio, September 19, 1839, and is a son of Jobn and Eliza (McClun) Heald, both natives of Ohio, the former of English and the latter of Irish descent. John Heald engaged in farming in Ohio until 1849, when he came to Cedar county, Iowa, and followed the same occupation until his death, which oc- curred in 1875; his wife survived him until 1885. Oliver D. Heald was reared on the farm in Ohio, and received his early education in the district schools, finishing at Cornell college, Mt. Vernon, Iowa. While attending college the war broke out, and he enlisted in Com- pany H, Twenty-fourth Iowa regiment, infantry, for three years. He par- ticipated in the Vicksburg campaign, siege of Vicksburg and Jackson, Miss.,» and the Red River campaign, and through the Shenandoah Valley campaign 800 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. under Gen. Sheridan. He participated in all the battles, and went from there to Georgia, to Gen. Sherman’s army at Savannah, and was with Gen. Sherman in front of Johnson’s army near Goldsboro, N. C., at the windup. He participated in the following battles: Grand Gulf, Port Gibson, Ray- mond, Edwards Depot, Champion Hill, Canon Crow Bayou, Sabine Cross Roads and Pleasant Hill, La.; Winchester, Fishers Hill and Cedar Creek, Va., besides a number of skirmishes. He served three years and six months, and was discharged at Fort Macon, in January, 1866, as first: lieutenant. He returned to Cedar county, Iowa, and has lived in Iowa ever since, ex- cept two years in Missouri and one year in Nebraska. In 1882 he moved to Plymouth county, and from there he went to Woodbury county, where he remained five years, then returned to Plymouth county. In February, 1890, he was appointed postmaster of Kingsley. In June, 1866, Mr. Heald married Sadie M. Winans, and they have had nine children born to them, namely; Hermina M., Della M., Ollie (deceased), Harry G., Frank, Ottie, Mabel, Nettie, and one child who died in infancy. Both parents are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Politically Mr. Heald is a republican, and has held about all the township offices. He is a member of the G. A. R., of which he was commander three years. Dr. Jonny J. Wiper, a prominent physician of Kingsley, was born in Tompkins county, N. Y., March 28, 1840. His parents, Thomas and Carrie (Wilder) Hicks, were both natives of New York, but of German descent. His mother died a few days after his birth, and he was reared by foster par- ents, Harry and Bethia Morey, who deserve the credit of having been a kind father and mother to him. He resided with them until he was twenty-two years of age. When he was six years old they removed to Columbus, Wis., where he received his education in the high school. He had assumed the name of his foster parents until in 1870, by an act of the legislature of Minnesota, he was allowed to take the maiden name of his mother, whom he had not been permitted to know and be reared by, but whose memory he desired in this way to cherish. His father died in 1876. Our subject enlisted in Company G, Twenty-third Wisconsin infantry, August 14, 1862, under the name of his foster parents (Morey). He par- ticipated in the battles of Chickasaw Bayou, Arkansas Post, Greenville, and the siege of Vicksburg. During the above campaign he lost his health and was placed on detached service, and remained in that service until his dis- charge, June 26, 1865. He returned to Kilbourn City, and commenced the study of medicine with Dr. George W. Jenkins, with whom he remained three years, and then graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Keokuk, Iowa. He then practiced his profession at Aetna, Minn.; Rio, Wis.; Grand Meadow, GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 801 Minn.; Lexington, Iowa, and came to Kingsley, Plymouth county, in 1885, where he opened a drug store in connection with his practice. Dr. Wilder was married May 20, 1864, to Mida Mead, of Columbus, Wis., and to them have been born two children, both of whom are deceased: Carrie and Maude. He is a republican in his political sentiments, is surgeon of C. & N. W. R. R. and pension examiner. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, I. O. O. F., K. of P., Iowa Legion of Honor, Modern’Woodmen of America, A. O. U. W., Select Knights and the G. A. R., of which last he is past com- mander. Joun F’. Varner, grocer, Kingsley, was born in Spencer county, Ind., Oc- tober 28, 1848, and is a son of Peter and Elizabeth (States) Varner. His father is a native of Virginia and of German descent, while his mother was a native of Pennsylvania, also of German descent. Peter Varner is engaged in farming near Correctionville, but resides in the city; his wife died in the summer of 1852. John F. was born and reared on a farm, and received a common-school education, after which he attended the college at Mount Vernon for two terms. He then engaged in farming in Clinton county, Iowa, during the summer, and taught school in the winter until 1872, when he came to Wood- bury county, where he pursued the same occupations until 1880. He then engaged to E. A. Hall, at Correctionville one year, after which he moved to Plymouth county, and embarked in the mercantile business for himself at Quorn, where he remained for two years and a half, when he moved to Kingsley, where he was in the general mercantile business until 1886. He then disposed of that stock and has since been in the grocery business. Mr. Varner married Miss Anna Ellis, May 15, 1871, and to them have been born six children, of whom two only are living: Charles E. and Nellie. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and are ear- nest workers inthe same. He sides with the republicans in politics, and has been a member of the council, as well as school director two years. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias. Jupson A. Incauus, cashier of the Bank of Kingsley, was born in Jeffer- son county, Pa., May 29, 1852, a son of Adoniram J. and Louisa (Dean) Ingalls, both natives of America. The father of our subject was by occu- pation a sawyer, which business he followed in Pennsylvania until his death in February, 1852; his wife still lives, and resides in Marshall county, Iowa. Judson A. Ingalls was taken to Wisconsin by his mother when he was about one year and six months old, and two years later to Minnesota, where they resided about eleven years, during which time he received his early education. In 1867 he went to Rock Island county, where he resided one 802 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. year, going thence to-Clinton, Wis., where he lived two years. On July 5, 1870, he landed at Union, Iowa, where he engaged in the grain business and held the office of postmaster. He resided there about sixteen years, until in June, 1886, he came to Kingsley, where he soon entered the bank, where he has continued to remain. Mr. Ingalls married Margaret M. Boyer, of Union, November 23, 1871, and they have six children, viz.: Clara D., Carlotta I, Hattie M., Louisa F., Alice E. and Calvin A., while one boy is deceased. The parents are well known in the county, and respected by all. Mr. Ingalls is a republican, and socially a member of the I. O. O. F. Cuartes H. Lorine, undertaker and dealer in furniture, Kingsley, was born in Norway, Me., June 4, 1854. His parents, Asa and Adelia (Patton) Loring, were both natives of Maine, the former was a general insurance agent in Hardin county, Iowa, having moved there in 1868. He died in Omaha about 1880, and his wife in December, 1889; both were members of the Congregational church. Charles H. resided with his parents until twenty-one years old. He came to Plymouth county in 1875, and engaged in a lumber yard for four years, also worked at carpentering about two years. In the fall of 1883 he came to Kingsley and opened a furniture store and undertaking establishment, which he has continued ever since. His was the first furniture store in Kingsley. May 23, 1888, he married Hattie Ayres, of Lyons, Iowa, and their children are Elsie and Harry. Mr. Loring is a member of the I. O. O. F. and the K. of P., and his vote is always cast with the republicans. JosepH J. Heacocz, miller, Kingsley, was born in Stark county, Ohio, July 2, 1841. He is a son of John and Ann (Grewell) Heacock, both natives of Ohio, the father of English and the mother of French descent. John Heacock spent the early part of his life in the lumbering and saw-mill busi- ness, and the latter part in farming in Cedar county, Iowa, where he died in June, 1888, while his wife is still living and resides in West Branch, Iowa; they were both members of the Friends’ church. J. J. Heacock was reared on a farm and received his education at the dis- trict schools. At the age of twenty-two years he left home and engaged in the saw-mill business about three years. He then went to farming, which he continued a few years, building a flouring mill in West Branch, in com- pany with others, which he ran about three years. He then sold his interest, and took a trip through California and Washington territory in search of a location, but returned in a year, and carried on the mercantile business for the following three years, then erected another mill near Rochester, Iowa, but moved it in 1881 to Quorn, and has been engaged in the flouring mill business ever since. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 8038 Mr. Heacock was united in marriage with Mrs. Anna (Stratton) Arm- strong, and they had four children: Loah, Lina, William T. and Myra. The mother of these children died in Cedar county, Iowa, in 1872, and Mr. Hea- cock then married Mrs. Alice Gruwell Talbott, who bore him one child, Alice, adopted by John Williamson, who died in 1875. September 17, 1876, Mr. Heacock married his present wife, Luella Heald, and they have six children: Joseph W., Anna, Margaretta Lorrena, Sarah, Josephine and Grace. Mr. and Mrs. Heacock are members of the Friends’ church; politically he is a re- publican. Rev. G. L. Gries, pastor of the Methodist Episcopal church at Merrill, Iowa (1889-90), is a son of Luther and Fidelia Griggs, of Erie county, N. Y., and was born at Independence, Iowa, February 21, 1859. At the age of twelve years he came with his parents to Sioux City, and attended school till he was eighteen years of age, when he engaged in the music business, at which he was occupied for nearly six years. Health failing him, he purchased an eighty-acre farm in Grange town- ship, Woodbury county, where he very successfully carried on general farm- ing for four years, and fully recovered his health. May 13, 1882, he mar- ried Mary Elizabeth, daughter of William and Elizabeth Sluyter, of New York state. During the winter of 1886-87 he engaged in evangelistic labors in the vicinity of his old home, disposed of his farm the following season, and entered Cornell college at Mt. Vernon, Iowa, in September, 1887, taking up an elective course. In September, 1888, after two years of school and evangelistic work, he entered the Northwest Iowa conference, Smithland being his first place of labor in the regular work, and Merrill his first conference appoint- ment. He was admitted into full connection September 19, 1890, and elected to deacon’s orders and ordained by Bishop Charles H. Fowler September 21, 1890. He lost his wife by death October 7, 1886, at Sioux City. His home is University Place, Sioux City. Frep E. Auprics, merchant and postmaster at Merrill, Plymouth county, was born in Suffolk, England, March 6, 1851, a son of Elias and Emily Aldrich, who were reared in the same vicinity. He attended school until fourteen years old, when he began to learn the wagon-maker’s trade, at which he worked until 1867, when he went to London, where he lived nine months, then returned to his old home. In 1871 he sailed for America, landing at Quebec, and came to Johnson county, Iowa, where he lived at Iowa City one year. He then bought eighty acres of land in Plymouth township, Plymouth county, where he lived until 1884. In that year he removed to Merrill, where he bought out a general store, which he has carried on since. May 23, 1885, he married Euphemia, 804 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. daughter of Donald and Euphemia McIntyre, who were born in Scotland. In politics Mr. Aldrich is a republican, and he is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Wituiam Frost, grain and stock dealer, Merrill, was born at Wallington, Suffolk county, England, February 15, 1855. Ata very early age he began working on a farm, where he remained until thirteen, when he went to Lon- don and engaged in railroading for three years. He was then employed on the police force for four years, and then followed railroading until September 18, 1866, when he started for America. He labored as a farm hand in White- side county, Ill., for seven years, and in 1873 removed to Washington town- ship, Plymouth county, Iowa, where he took up an eighty-acre homestead in section two, where he farmed for ten years. He then rented his farm and moved to Merrill, where he has since engaged as a grain and stock dealer. October 20, 1868, Mr. Frost married Elizabeth, daughter of William and Hannah Stinton, of Washington township, and they are the parents of nine children: Ellen, Louisa, William (deceased), Herbert (deceased), Harry, Hattie, Eva, Albert and Clara. He is a republican and has been township trustee, justice and school director. He is a member of the Presbyterian church. Wittiam Swan McCurpy, farmer, Le Mars, was born in Hempfield, West- moreland county, Pa., December 23, 1816, and is a son of Samuel and Isa- belle (Monroe) McCurdy, natives of Chester and Westmoreland counties, respectively. Both his grandfathers, Samuel McCurdy and Thomas Monroe, were natives of Pennsylvania, and were of Scotch descent. When twelve years of age Mr. McCurdy removed with his parents to Center, now North Butler, Butler county, Pa., where his father engaged in farming. He remained with his parents until the age of twenty-five, when he was em- ployed by the Brady’s Bend iron works, and remained with them twelve years. In 1854 he removed to Council Bluffs, where he engaged in the manu- facture of bricks, in 1857 to Sioux City, where he continued the business until 1863, when he with his eldest son enlisted in the state service, and was stationed at Cherokee, Correctionville and Melbourne. In the spring of 1866 Mr. McCurdy took up a homestead of eighty acres in America town- ship, to which he has since added twenty acres, and where he now resides engaged in mixed farming. In 1841 he married Fanny Freer, who was born in Butler county, Pa., and six children were born to them, three of whom are now living, viz.: Francis, who resides in Plymouth township; Jane (Mrs. Andrew Black) lives in Gar- field township, and Samuel, who lives at home. Those deceased are: One who died in Pennsylvania, aged nine months; Britta Ann, died at home, aged GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 805 twenty-five, and Isabella (McElhaney), died at the age of twenty-four. Mrs. McCurdy’s death occurred in February, 1885, after a lingering illness. In politics Mr. McCurdy is a republican; he is a member of the Presbyterian church. Nevitte Repmon was born in Jackson township, Brown county, Ohio, November 30, 1828, a son of Alfred and Mary (Pickerill) Redmon. His grandfather, Alfred Redmon, was of English descent. Our subject was taken by his parents to Hamilton county, Ind., when he was five years of age, and there received a common-school education. When twenty years of age he learned the carpenter’s trade, which he followed. He went to Fill- more county, Minn., in 1856, and came to America township, Plymouth county, Iowa, in the spring of 1878, and took up a homestead in section thirty-two, where he has since resided. For the last twenty years he has worked at carpenter work. He built the school-house in his own district, and worked on several buildings in Le Mars. Mr. Redmon was married, in 1849, to Nancy Jane Keyst, who died four years later, leaving two sons: Alfred, who lives in Moville, and Lafayette Denis, in Le Mars. He afterward married Lucretia Low Stanton, who bore him nine children: Mary C., George S., Harriet May, Willie N., James G., Delbert Douglas, Allie Etta, Bertha D. and Maud L. Mary C. is the widow of Thomas H. Burt. Harriet Mary married Alfred Demaray, and lives at Spencer, South Dakota. Mrs. Redmon died in June, 1886. Mr. Redmon subsequently married Mary B. Robinson, who was born in Grant county, Wis. He is a member of the Baptist church, his wife being one of the char- ter members. He is a charter member of the Masonic lodge. In politics he is independent, and has been justice of the peace here and in Minnesota. Gzorce Tuompson Freer, farmer, P. O. Le Mars, is a grandson of Francis Freer, a tanner, who came from Dublin to America about 1778. William Freer, son of the latter, married Charlotte Wooderson, who was, like him- self, a native of Pennsylvania. To them was born, in Butler county, Pa., August 23, 1830, the subject of this sketch. William Freer was a shoemaker and his son was early taught the trade. When twenty-one years old he left home and was employed for several years at the Brady’s Bend iron works. ‘Later he was employed at the Red Bank furnace, where he occupied the position of coker. In 1866 he removed to Plymouth county, Iowa, and entered as a homestead eighty acres on sec- tion thirty, America township, on which he has since dwelt. He is now using as a granary the first school-house built in the organized township of America. Mr. Freer married in 1851, Isabelle Ruth, sister of W.S. McCurdy. The following are the living offspring of Mr. and Mrs. Freer: John W., Char- lotte Ann (Mrs. Mathias Krudwig), Le Mars; Mary (Mrs. William Krudwig), 806 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Le Mars; Maria (wife of William Klatt), America township; Isabel E. (widow of Eugene Chown), with parents; Melissa (Mrs. Samuel McCurdy), America township. Mr. Freer affiliates with the republican party, and served as treasurer of the school board four years, and was early elected a justice of the peace, which office he declined. He entertains the faith of the Presbyterian church. Gerorce Wasaineton Irwin, farmer, P. O. Merrill, was born November 26, 1844, and is one of ten children born to Joseph and Elizabeth Irwin, of Pennsylvania. He received a good education and taught school in this vicin- ity until 1869, when he went to St. Paul, Minn., where he resided for one year. In 1870 he took up an eighty-acre homestead in Stanton township, Plymouth county, section eighteen, on which he resided until the spring of 1887, when he sold out and went to live on’ an eighty-acre farm, which he had bought in 1881, in section eleven, Plymouth township. He has since increased his farm to 320 acres, all in this neighborhood. Mr. Irwin was married in September, 1881, ‘to Carrie Reinard, of Penn- sylvania, who departed this life June 22, 1886. He is a believer in the Methodist Episcopal doctrine, a helper in the republican cause politically, and a member of the K. of P. order. He has been a township justice, trustee and school director. DanizL Wuiryey, farmer and stock-raiser, resides on section thirty-one, Garfield township. He was born in Worcester county, Mass., June 22, 1825, and is a son of Timothy and Rowena (Brigham) Whitney, both natives of Massachusetts. The great-grandfather of our subject was buried in 1776, as a tombstone shows in the cemetery at Boylston, Mass. The father of our subject engaged in farming in Massachusetts until his death in 1856; his wife died in 1839. Daniel Whitney lived on a farm until fourteen years of age, when he left home and engaged in brick-making and ship timbering, which he followed for about sixteen years. In 1851 he went to California and worked in the mines until 1855, when he went to Kendall county, Ill, and farmed until August, 1861. He then enlisted in Company E, Thirty-sixth Illinois infantry, and was discharged in February, 1864. He brought back with him a saddle mule, which died in the winter of 1889. He lived in Kendall county, Il, until 1865, when he came to Cedar county, Iowa, where he remained until 1884, at that date coming to Plymouth county and purchasing 174 acres of land, where he now resides. He affiliates with the republican party, and is a member of the Masonic fraternity. Cornetius ANpeErson, farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section twenty- eight, Garfield township, was born in Warren county, N. J., January 12, 1826, and is a son of Amos 8. and Mary (Silverthorn) Anderson, both natives GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 807 of New Jersey. Amos Anderson was by occupation a blacksmith, which trade he carried on in Northumberland county, Pa., until his death, which occurred about the year 1872; his wife died in 1882. Cornelius Anderson was reared on a farm until he was sixteen years of age, and received a common-school education; he then went to Stillwater, N. J., and learned the blacksmith’s trade, and there remained four years. At the age of twenty-one years he enlisted in Company EH, Tenth regiment of United States infantry, to serve in the Mexican war, and took part in the bat- tle of Monterey and served until the close of the war. He then returned to New Jersey and went to blacksmithing, which he continued until 1866, when he went to Kansas and farmed for four years. He then resided in his native state three years, thence going to Pennsylvania. In 1878 he came to Iowa county, Iowa, and farmed there until 1883, when he came to Plymouth county and purchased eighty acres of land where he now resides. January 11, 1851, he married Margaret C. Marsh, of New Jersey, and they have one child, Alma, wife of Willis Lilly, a farmer of Garfield town- ship. Mr. Anderson supports the republican party. Gzorce W. Resp, farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section two, Gar- field township, was born in Vigo county, Ind., October 15, 1836. His par- ents were Hugh and Mary (Miner) Reed, his father a native of Ohio, and his mother of Tennessee. Hugh Reed was a farmer, which occupation he followed in Vigo county, Ind., until his death, which occurred about 1875, his wife having died about 1851. George W. was reared on his father’s farm in Indiana, in which state he received his education in a log school-house. At the age of seventeen years he left home and worked on a farm for about five years. He then farmed for himself in Marshall county, Ill, for fifteen years. He came to Tama county, Iowa, in 1869, and farmed until 1883, when he moved to Crawford county, where he resided until 1885. He then purchased 160 acres of land in Plymouth county, where he now lives, and is engaged in farming and raising stock of all kinds. October 3, 1861, he married Sarah B. Harris, of Putnam county, Ti, and to them have been born eleven children: Lewis, Nellie, Charles, May, Blanche, John, Eva, Maude, Grace, Clyde and Clifford. The mother of these children is a daughter of Nathaniel and Elinor (Greene) Harris, both natives of Kentucky. Her father was a farmer and resided in Putnam county, IIL, until his death, in 1875; his wife died in 1863. Mr. Reed is a democrat, and a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. Samve.t M. Hawxrns, farmer and fruit grower, section sixteen, Garfield township, was born in Summit county, Ohio, June 6, 1836. He isa son of Samuel and Matilda (Bixby) Hawkins, both natives of Vermont and of Eng- 808 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. lish descent. Samuel Hawkins carried on farming and stock-raising in Ohio and Lee county, Ill., dying at the latter place in 1857; his wife died in 1870. Samuel M. resided with his parents until their deaths. After his father’s death he moved to Benton county, Iowa, in 1860, and brought his mother with him. In 1884 he moved to Plymouth county and purchased 820 acres of un- cultivated land. He has improved the place since his residence, until he now has several different kinds of apple trees that are bearing fruit, cherries, tame plums, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, and about two thousand mulberry trees, and currants, gooseberries and elderberries. He raises some stock. He married Ellen J. Scott, of Benton county, Iowa, June 11, 1860, and to them are born five children: James E., George W., Mattie, Bradley S. and Hattie A. He is a republican in his political views. W. G. Livy, city auditor, Sioux City, a native of Kentucky, came to Sioux City in 1879, as commercial agent for the St. Paul & Sioux City railroad company. He was elected to his present office in March, 1886, by a large majority, and has held the position by subsequent elections ever since. He was appointed to the position of city clerk by the city council, and has held it five years. He is a democrat in politics. Frrercuer & Cask Company, manufacturers and dealers in doors, win- dows, blinds, ete., Sioux City. The members of this firm are H. H. Case, secretary and treasurer, and C. W. Fletcher, president and manager. Mr. Fletcher is a native of New Hampshire, and came to Iowa in 1864. He came to Sioux City in 1882, and in 1889 the present company was incorporated. Mr. Case was born in Ohio and came to Sioux City in April, 1884, and has been in the mill business with Mr. Fletcher since 1884. This is one of the most reliable firms of Sioux City, having a capital of $100,000, with $45,000 paid up, and both members are honest, upright men. They are en- gaged in the manufacturing, wholesaling and retailing of doors, windows, blinds, moldings, bank counters, church work, building paper, glass, ete. J. K. Prues & Co., chinaware dealers, Sioux City. This firm was organ- ized in 1881, by J. K. Prugh. W. I. Buchanan, his brother-in-law was ad- mitted in 1882. Mr. Prugh was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1849. His early life, however, was spent in this state, in Burlington and in Ottumwa, where, with his parents, he removed in 1868. He was educated in the Bur- lington high school. He began a mercantile life as errand boy for a queens- ware store. He came to Sioux City in 1881, and opened this business in his present location, his store-room being 25 by 150 feet deep. Mr. Prugh is senior member and business manager of the firm. He is vice-president of the Board of Trade committee, a charter member of the Jobbers’ association, a member of the order of Odd Fellows, and lieutenant GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 809 colonel of the First regiment of the Patriarchs Militant of the I. O. O. F., of Iowa; past commander of Canton Sioux, No. 18, and one of its charter mem- bers. He is liberal in his political views. Guo. H. Howett, furniture dealer, Sioux City, is a native of Brooklyn, N. Y., and was born in 1839. He began his career in business as a clerk in a New York house. He served two years and a half in the Thirteenth New York regiment, and in 1870 entered the employ of the government, as chief clerk of the quartermaster’s department. In 1872 he embarked in the furni- ture business, and in 1889 built his fine business house, 50x135 feet, four stories high, of terra cotta and brick. He deals in furniture, mantels and tile, and his success has been attained through his integrity and industry. _ Rozert E. Sackert, clerk of the district court, Sioux City, was born in Pittsford, New York, in 1852. His parents moved to Michigan in 1854, and he was sent:to the public schools there, and also attended Olivet college in that state. He resided with his parents until 1874, when he came to Iowa, and located in Cedar Rapids, where he was employed in the office of the Iowa R. R. Land Co., and Sioux City & Pacific railroad company. After- ward he located at Denison, where he was with the W. A. McHenry bank; from there he came to Sioux City. He was elected to his present position in the fall of 1888, by the repub- lican party, and assumed the duties of his position in January, 1889. He was re-elected to the same position by the republican party in 1890. 8. B. Jackson was born in Chester county, Pa., in 1842, and was edu- cated at West Chester college. He enlisted in Company L, Seventeenth Pennsylvania cavalry, and was in service during the late war for two years. He began life as a clerk. He came to Sioux City in 1870 and engaged in the real estate business. In 1878 he was elected mayor of Sioux City, and filled that office through- out 1878 and 1879. In 1880 he was elected sheriff of the county, and served two terms very satisfactorily. In the spring of 1887 Mr. Jackson purchased a third interest in the Highland Park property, a suburb of Sioux City. He is now engaged exclusively in the buying and selling of real estate. Tittman Howarp Stevens, lumber dealer, Sioux City, is descended from an old American family of Scotch origin. His grandfather, Jesse Stevens, a native of North Carolina, was a soldier in the war of 1812, and in the Black Hawk Indian war. He was an early settler in Wayne county, Ind., where he located about 1827. His son, Collins 8. Stevens, born in Cincinnati, was then about fifteen years old. Upon reaching maturity he became a farmer and road contractor. He married Margaret Ferrell, a native of Virginia, daughter of Jacob Ferrell, of German descent. Their son, whose name heads this article, was born near Knightstown, 810 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Ind., March 10, 1846. He graduated in the scientific course at Whitewater college, Centreville, Ind., in 1867. In February, 1863, he enlisted in Com- pany I, 124th Indiana volunteers, and served under Gen. Sherman in all the battles of the Atlanta campaign, including Rocky Faced Ridge, Resaca, Dallas, New Hope Church, Kennesaw, Peach Tree Creek, Lovejoy, Rough and Ready, Columbia, Franklin and Nashville, Tenn., Kingston, Fort Anderson and Goldsboro, N. C., and was present at the surrender of Gen. Johnston at Raleigh, N. C. He was mustered out in September, 1865, and resumed his college course, which had been interrupted by his military service. On graduating he went to Kansas, and was employed for some time in contracting for buildings and railroading. In 1878 he engaged in the lumber trade at Anthony, Kas., and later added banking to his occupa- tions, becoming president of the First National bank at that place. For ten years he served as chairman of the board of commissioners of Harper county. In 1887 he sold out his Kansas interests, and, after spending a year in Chicago, he came to Sioux City, and established the Sioux Lumber company, which is a branch of the Inter State Lumber company of Chicago, with which he has been connected ever since. He is one of the incorporators of the Sioux and Metropolitan Investment companies of this city. Mr. Stevens is a member of the A. F. & A. M,, and G. A. R. Politically he has acted with the republican party. In December, 1869, he married Miss Eva Rue, a native of Richmond, Ind., descended from an old American family of French lineage. They have three daughters and a son, namely: Maude, Ruella, Myrtle and Earle, all residing with their parents. A. F. Cox, contractor, Sioux City. Among the leading contractors and builders of Sioux City is A. F. Cox. He is a native of England and was educated in his native country. In 1864 he came to America, and settled in Rochester, N. Y., where he remained until 1880, when he removed to Sioux City. Mr. Cox contracted for the Corn Palace of 1887 and 1888, and re- ceived a gold medal from the committee for merit. shown in the construction of the first Corn Palace of the World. In 1887 he built the Tollerton & Stet- son block, he also built the Sac City court house, Central & Wilkins block, and many handsome houses throughout the city, giving apa to forty men. He built the Corn Palace train that went to Washington for the inaugu- ration of Harrison. Mr. Coxis a practical mechanic and a splendid workman. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, and also of the order of Odd Fellows. He affiliates with the Unitarian church, and in his political views is a republican. Kimpatt & McNamanza, railroad contractors and builders, Sioux City. This firm was organized in 1889. The members are F. W. Kimball, a native of GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 811 Massachusetts, but who came from Austin, Minn., to Sioux City, and associ- ated himself with W. C. McNamara, whois a native of Vermont and has been engaged in railroad building in the west since 1879, but has been in Sioux City since 1861. Mr. Kimball is the senior member of the firm, and has been in Sioux City since 1889. He has been a contractor since 1879, and has been prominent in railroad construction in the west the past twenty years. He has been identified with the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul rail- road company for the past ten years as manager of construction, and assist- ant engineer. The firm is engaged in railroad work through Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, Nebraska, Missouri, Kansas and Dakota, with headquarters in Sioux City. This firm is one of the largest in Sioux City and Iowa, and the members are well known and esteemed as upright business men. They give employment to 1,000 men. Joun Beck, builder and contractor, is a resident of Sioux City, and was born in Somerset county, Pa., March 2, 1833. His father, Nickolas Beck, was born in Germany in 1801. In March, 1831, he came to America with his family, which consisted of his wife and four children, and settled on a farm in Somerset county, Pa., where John was born, being the first born in this country, and the fifth in the family of eleven children—three daughters and eight sons. His mother died in January, 1875, and his father in No- vember, 1879. John’s early life was spent on a farm until twenty years of age, when he learned the carpenter’s trade. He was married March 24, 1857, to Miss Nancy Culbertson and came west, coming all the way from Pittsburgh by: water, and arrived in Sioux City, May 8, 1857, taking one month to make the trip. This was when Sioux City was only a village. He followed his trade as a carpenter for three or four years, then formed a partnership with H. M. Sharp, under the firm name, Sharp & Beck, contractors and builders. They continued contracting for eighteen years, building many prominent business blocks, among which is the Academy of Music, First National bank, Mrs. A. W. Hubbard’s block, also the residences of James KE. Booge, E. R. Kirk and many others. In 1872 they bought and rebuilt the first planing- mill, sash and door factory in Sioux City. At the close of the eighth year, Mr. Beck bought his partner’s interest, continuing the business two years alone. In 1882 he sold to Andrews & Fletcher, now Fletcher & Case Co., and retired from manufacturing. He again resumed contracting and build- ing, and up to the present time has followed his trade for thirty-five years. He was a member of the city council during the two years of 1867 and 1868. Mr. and Mrs. John Beck are the parents of four children, three daugh- ters and one son, William Edmund. Two daughters are at home, and one mar- 812 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. ried to Mr. A. L. Allen, of Canada, but now a resident of Sioux City. Myr. Beck and his family are all members of the Presbyterian church. His success has been entirely through his own efforts and perseverance. He has about retired from active business. Cuar.es P. Ins, Sioux City, one of the pioneer settlers of the city, was born in Germany, October 9, 1842, and is a son of John A. Ibs, who was a prominent stock dealer and farmer in Germany. Charles P., the subject of this sketch, left his native country in 1869 and came directly to Sioux City, where he at once engaged in the meat business, opening up a market, which from a small beginning has gradually increased until his market stands second to none in this flourishing city. November 11, 1878, he married Miss Emma Daling, of Maquoketa, Iowa, who was born October 22, 1852. This union has been blessed with eight children, six of whom are still living, viz.: Bertha M., born March 26, 1875; Alvina M., born February 2, 1878; Minnie M., born April 3, 1880; Huldah A., born January 10, 1884; John A., born April 25, 1886; France, born August 11, 1889. My. Ibs is a member of the Knights of Pythias, I. O. O. F., Northwestern Legion of Honor, and of the mounted division of the Knights of Pythias of Sioux City. Politically he has always worked for the interest and advance- ment of the democratic party. In his religious views he sustains the Lu- theran church. Jonn Tucker, Sioux City, was born in England in 1838, a son of Anthony and Margaret Tucker. His father was engaged in the pottery business and in gardening in England. John worked with his father until fifteen years old, when he engaged in butchering. Mr. Tucker came to America in 1858, and, having traveled throughout different states, he settled in Virginia. He came to Sioux City in 1865, and located here permanently the following year, and has since been engaged in the butchering business. He was married in 1859 to Mattie, daughter of Erby Grimes of Virginia. Three children have been born to them, two of whom, Allen and Ida (Mrs. Speares) are living. He was city marshal for one year. Politically he is a democrat, and is a member of the order of Odd Fellows. He has had a suc- cessful business career. T. S. Marriy, dry goods merchant, Sioux City, is a member of the firm of T. S. Martin & Co., and was born in Galena, Ill, in 1853. He is ason of James Martin. His life, up to fifteen years of age, was spent in his birth- place. At that age he came to Sioux City with his parents. He obtained his education in the schools of Galena and Sioux City. Previous to engag- ing in business in Sioux City, he was engaged in business in Deadwood, 8. D., for two years. He is one of the original members of the firm of T. 8. Martin & Co. The other members are George E. Westcott and J. P. Martin. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 815 Mr. T. 8. Martin has been in the dry goods business for eleven years. This firm have one of the best dry goods stores in Sioux City, and their trade extends throughout the northwest. They deal in all kinds of dry goods, car- pets, drapery and fret work, making a specialty of fine draperies. They give employment to thirty-five persons. This firm contemplate erecting a hand- some and more commodious building on Fourth street, as their business de- mands it. Mr. Martin was married to Miss A. J. Murphy, of Davenport, Iowa, a sister of T. P. Murphy, a prominent lawyer of this place. Their family con- sists of two children.. He is one of the directors of the Security National bank; and has been quite successful in his business career. James Puck, hotel proprietor, Sioux City, was born in Germany in 1835. He came to America in 1853 and settled in Davenport, Iowa, and was there engaged in farming for eleven years. He then removed to Idaho, where he remained four years, and in 1869 came to Sioux City. For a short time he was engaged in filling subordinate positions, and then for two years engaged in farming. In 1872 he entered into the hotel business, and has since been engaged in that pursuit. Mr. Puck has been reasonably successful. He has been proprietor of the Chicago house, the Mountaineer house, and since 1881 of the Davenport house. He was married to Mrs. Wilkins, the result of the union being six children, five of whom are now living. He is a member of the Odd Fellows order, of the Lutheran church, and a democrat politically. Tue Narionat Bank or Sroux Crry, one of the latest financial institutions in the city, was organized in 1890 with a capital of $1,000,000, and is the largest banking house in Iowa. Its officers, now (1891) are: president, O. J. Taylor; vice-president, T. C. Pease; C. Q. Chandler is cashier, and T. C. Beard, assistant cashier. Their place of business is in the Metropolitan block, corner of Fourth and Jackson streets, and the demand for more ready capi- tal in the city, and the large and growing commercial interests here, caused this bank to be organized. Many investors in the east, having unbounded faith in the city, came forward and took a generous amount of the capital stock. Its officers and directors are well known men, and it is assured of a large volume of business. The directors are: A. L. Stetson, wholesale gro- cer; J. E. Booge, packer; D. M. Inman, banker, Vermillion, S. D.; W. H. Fowler, wholesale grocer; C. R. Marks, attorney; W. 8. Woods, president of the National Bank of Commerce, Kansas City, Mo.; O. J. Taylor, T. C. Pease and C. Q. Chandler. Grorce Nzetson Smrru, real estate dealer, Sioux City, is a great-grandson of Zadock Smith, of Sherburne, Vt. Sylvanus, son of the latter, was born in Huntington, Vt., and married Roxie Rich. Their son, Hiram, born in 43 816 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Willsboro, N. Y., now resides in Norwalk, Ohio, aged seventy-seven years. or thirty-five years he was employed as a machinist by the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern railroad company, and patented many hydraulic appliances, some of which are still in use on the railroad. His wife, Mary A. Lincoln, was a native of Rutland, Vt. The subject of this sketch is the third of their six children, and was born in Norwalk July 9, 1847, and educated in the schools of his native city. In the fall of 1865 he took employment as a United States quartermaster’s clerk at Smithland, Ky. Four years later he was transferred to the pay department of the army under Maj. William Smith, now paymaster general. After serving three years in Texas, Louisiana and Florida, he came with Major Smith to Sioux City in 1872. Next year he resigned, and entered the First National bank, with which he remained four years. He then joined Gen. George P. Buell’s expedition to the Big Horn country as quartermas- ter’s clerk, remaining three years at Fort Custer, which was built by this expedition. After trading among hunters and Indians in the Yellowstone Valley for four years he went to St. Paul, Minn., where, in November, 1884, he again entered the United States service as paymaster’s clerk, and, in that capacity, became once more associated with Paymaster William Smith, with whom he remained five years, two years of that time being located in Chicago. In 1889 he returned to Sioux City, and was employed for a year in the Sioux National bank. In the fall of 1890 he opened an office for handling choice real estate, steamship tickets and foreign exchange. He acts as agent for the Sioux City Land company, an eastern corporation which deals in property on a large scale. Mr. Smith is a member of the Presbyterian church, and has always been a republican. In 1874 he married Matilda Hagy, a native of this city, daughter of John Hagy, whose biography and portrait will be found in this volume. Mrs. Smith died in October, 1882, leaving two chil- dren: Kate L. and William Hagy. Grorce Everts, farmer, Correctionville, is one of the pioneers of that place. His parents, Reuben and Clarissa (Dewey) Everts, were natives of Vermont and Connecticut, respectively, and our subject was born in Elbridge, Onondaga county, N. Y., June 5, 1829. When he was seven years old, the family moved to West Springfield, Erie county, Pa., where the father died in 1872, and the mother about 1882. George Everts is the third of eight children born to his parents. He received an ordinary education, and when nineteen years old, left home and took employment at farm labor. Hespent six years in Monroe county, N. Y., and set out from there in the spring of 1854, for the west. The following year he located at Marshalltown, Iowa, and engaged in freighting goods between that point and the Mississippi river. . GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 817 In 1858 he came to Correctionville and continued freighting, his terminal points being Sioux City and Marshalltown. This continued till railroads superseded the business, since which he has been exclusively engaged in farming. He purchased of the government some land in section six, Rock township, but he subsequently sold this, and now owns a farm in Kedron. He helped to organize Rock township, and has served as trustee, school director and justice of the peace. For three years he was county supervisor, and was postmaster at Correctionville,and Discord for fifteen years. He has always acted with the republicans. In September, 1854, in New York, he married Pamelia M. Sherman, a native of New York, and daughter of Chester and Rebecca Sherman, natives of New York, and Vermont, respectively. Almost the entire married life of Mr. and Mrs. Everts has been passed in Iowa, and they have reared six chil- dren, viz.: Charles, Gordon, Neb.; Harlan, Kedron; Lillian (Mrs. Edson Cave), Gordon, Neb.; Jessie (wife of Allen Orner), Correctionville; Olive and Clara, with parents. Norman Parrerson (deceased) was a son of Hugh Bolton and Charlotte (Gilmore) Patterson, of Scotch ancestry, and was born in Chautauqua county, N. Y., in 1836. He died at his home on section four, Rock township, Wood- bury county, in June, 1884, of paralysis, his sixth child, Norman Ray, dying about the same time, of diphtheria. When three years old, he was taken to Smeltzer, Grant county, Wis., and was educated there in the common schools and the State Normal school at Platteville. He became the owner of a small farm there, and was always engaged in farming. September 19, 1865, he married Elizabeth H. Champion, a native of Hazel Green, Wis., and daughter of Bennett and Tirzah (Ivey) Champion, of English birth, and among the earliest settlers of Wisconsin. Mrs. Patter- son was her husband’s faithful helpmeet during his life, and has proved a prudent and successful manager of the estate since hisdemise. In 1872 they removed to that part of Rock township, now called Kedron. Later Mr. Pat- terson sold out and purchased 200 acres in Rock township. This has been tilled by his sons since his death, and they have added 100 acres to the estate. The living children are Merton E., Lucy, Hugh Bennett, George W., Olive May, and Bessie and Bertha, twins. Mr. Patterson served the public as school director, township trustee, and was five years county supervisor. He was a republican, a Free Mason, and with his wife, a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Bengamin Suontz, farmer, Correctionville, was born in Waterloo county, Canada, in 1838. His grandfather, Christian Shontz, was a native of Lan- caster county, Pa., and descended from Swiss ancestors who came to America in William Penn’s time. When sixteen years old Christian Shontz drove a 818 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. supply wagon for Washington’s army. David P. and Sarah (Bean) Shontz, parents of our subject, were born in Pennsylvania, but passed their last days in Canada, the former dying in 1878, at the age of seventy-four, and the lat- ter in 1889, aged seventy-eight years. Of their thirteen children Benjamin is the fifth. He remained on the home farm till twenty-four years old, and received a common-school education. On leaving home he engaged in dressing flax, and owned and operated a flax-mill for several years. In 1874 he came to the United States, and located at Avoca, Iowa, where he sold agricultural implements and lightning rods. For four years he was deputy sheriff and jailer of Pottawattamie county. In 1886 he removed to Correctionville, where he handled agricultural implements, in partnership with his brother, for two years. During 1888 and 1889 he served as deputy sheriff and jailer at Sioux City. He is now residing on section six, Rock township, and is giv- ing special attention to the cultivation of small fruits. He is the owner of 1,040 acres of land in this and Plymouth counties. He is a steadfast repub- lican, and holds the religious belief of his parents—Mennonite. In 1862, in Canada, Mr. Shontz wedded Jane, daughter of William and Jean (Anderson) Collins, all of Canadian birth and Scotch ancestry. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Shontz. The eldest son is deputy county recorder at Sioux City, and the third the wife of Stowell Holden, of _ Sioux City, where the fourth is book-keeper, the others being at home. Their names are Phoebe, Maggie, Minnie, Oscar, Charles, Orpha and Robert. Cyrus WetLIncton Sawyer, banker, Cushing, is a grandson of Joseph Sawyer, a native of Vermont, but of Scotch descent, who was a soldier in the war of 1812. Leander Cyrenus and Lysander Cyreno Sawyer, twin sons of Joseph, now reside at Lee Center, Lee county, Ill, where they settled in 1835. They were born in Ohio, and the former married Nancy Shumway, a native of Pennsylvania, of German descent. The only son of this couple, whose name heads this sketch, was born in Lee Center, October 1, 18438. He remained with his parents on the home farm for forty years, and was educated in the schools and academy of his native place. In 1883 he came to Ida county, Iowa, and settled ona farm of 320 acres in Douglas township. In July, 1889, in connection with the Union Trust Company, of Sioux City. he established the Bank of Cushing, which has since been succeeded by the Cushing Savings bank, with a capital of $25,000, of which he is manager, and two months later removed from the farm to Cushing. Mr. Sawyer attends the Methodist Episcopal church, and sustains the prohibition move- ment, having acted with the republican party until he came to Iowa. in 1876 he married Emma Jane, daughter of Ralph E. and Rhoda Ford, of Lee Center, Lee county, Ill. They have four children, named GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 819 Grace Blanche, Roy Cyrenus, George Ford and Nancy Pearl. In August, 1862, Mr. Sawyer enlisted in the Seventy-fifth Illinois volunteer infantry, Company E, and was discharged inside of five months, on account of being shot through the thigh at the battle of Perryville, Ky. In 1865 he joined the Sixty-fifth Tlinois, Company D, and served four months. Under the first enlistment, he was made fourth sergeant. Siuas H. Srevens, farmer, P. O. Pierson, was for many years actively engaged in the ministry, but for the past twelve years has been farming. He was born in Little Valley, Cattaraugus county, N. Y., April 18, 1838. His grandfather, Elijah, was a native of Vermont, but of Scotch descent, Lucinda Dodge, wife of Elijah Stevens, was also of Scotch descent. Elisha, twin brother of Elijah Stevens, went to Pennsylvania, after the war of 1812, and was lost track of by his relatives. Levi and Nancy (Van Tassel) Stev- ens, parents of the subject of this sketch, were natives of Vermont and New York, respectively, the latter of Dutch descent. 8. H. Stevens was reared on a farm and received a common-school education. In July, 1861, he en- listed as a private in the Sixty-fourth New York volunteers, Company F, and served with the army of the Potomac. At the battle of Fair Oaks he was shot through the neck, but recovered in time to take part in the battles of Antietam, Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville. In June, 1864, he was dis- charged on account of physical disability. Having been converted to relig- ion at the age of sixteen, he began exhorting in the Methodist Prostestant church early in the spring of 1858, and in the fall of the same year he was licensed to preach. In July, 1865, he located in Oakland county, Mich., where, a year later, he united with the Free-Will Baptist church, with which he is still identified. March 5, 1865, he married Angie M. Bassett, who has been his faithful co-worker. In 1874 they came to Correctionville, where they at once or- ganized a Sabbath-school, and Mr. Stevens began preaching the first Sunday after his arrival. He organized the first Free-Will Baptist churches at Sheldon, Aurelia, Cherokee and Le Mars, and preached alternately at those points and also at Correctionville for about three years. He preached two years at Monticello and Green’s Prairie, Green county, Wis., and after spending two years on a farm in Dixon county, Neb., he returned to Wood- bury county, Iowa. In 1880 he bought one-fourth of section thirteen, Rutland township, to which he has since added eighty acres, and is actively engaged in preparing a home for his old age. In early life he acted with the abolitionists, and is now a prohibitionist, but acts politically with the republican party. Mrs. Stevens is a daughter of Dan C. Bassett, of Union Village, Washington county, N. Y., and Abigail Sanborn (Libbey) Bassett, of Epsom, N. H., the : 3 e 820 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. latter born in Persia, Cattaraugus county, N. Y., April 5, 1838. Her sister, Miss Carrie A. Bassett, a former well known teacher and county superintend- ent of this county, is now an ordained preacher of the Free-Will Baptist church in Michigan. Mr. and Mrs. Stevens are the parents of two children: Howard L., a painter in Sioux City, and Mabel Angie, wife of William N. Redmon, of Le Mars, Plymouth county, Iowa. Gerorce C. Morrart, an old settler and retired farmer now living in Cor- rectionville, was born in Jefferson county, N. Y., July 11, 1833, and is a son of Melvin and Altania (Wilson) Moffatt, both natives of New York. Melvin Moffatt was of Scotch-Irish descent, and followed farming in Illinois until 1861, when he retired from active work, and spent the remainder of his days in Woodbury county with his sons. He was a soldier in the war of 1812. The mother of our subject resides with him; her parents were natives of Connecticut and Massachusetts. ' George C. was born and reared on a farm in New York, receiving his education in the district schools there. He went to Illinois in 1853, where he engaged in farming in different parts of the state, until 1867, when he located in Woodbury county, Iowa, taking up a homestead of 160 acres in Union township, where he has engaged in farming ever since, though giving up active work in 1886; since then his son has had the management of the place. August 9, 1862, Mr. Moffatt enlisted in Company C, 104th Illinois infantry for three years, but on account of disability he was discharged Jan- uary 20, 1863, at Bowling Green, Ky. He was united in marriage with Julia L. Harrington, of Adams county, Ill. March 27, 1856, and six children have been born to this couple, four of whom are living, viz.: Ida, wife of Philip Carlin, of Sioux City; Hattie, wife of S. R. Bryant, a farmer of Union township; Frank, at home; and Carrie, wife of Martin McGowen, of Sioux City. Politically Mr. Moffatt is a republican, and has always supported the principles of that party. He was justice of the peace in Union township two terms. He is a member of the G. A. R. Joun M. Freeman, one of the old pioneers now living in retirement in Correctionville, was born December 17, 1814, and is a son of Alexander and .Experience (Adams) Freeman, both natives of Pennsylvania, the father of English and the mother of Irish descent. Mr. Freeman spent the early part of his life in the milling business, coming to Woodbury county, Iowa, in 1860, where he engaged in farming until his retirement from business, hav- ing been identified with the history of the county for thirty years. He mar- ried Lydia Baughman, and they reared a family of nine children, viz.: Mary, Samuel, Martha, Henry, John, Enos, Sarah, Daniel and Amelia. His wife died December 23, 1872. In March, 1879, Mr. Freeman was again married, taking as his wife ¥ GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 821 Louisa M. Hammond, of Palo Alto county, Iowa. This couple are well known and respected by all. By his last marriage Mr. Freeman has one son, Brant Hammond, born June 4, 1882. Politically Mr. Freeman is a repub- lican, and has always supported the principles of that party since its organi- zation, being formerly a whig. He has been justice of the peace of Union township several terms, also township trustee two terms. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, with which he has been identified fifty-six years. Joun Koutuavrr, an old settler of Woodbury county, now residing in Correctionville, was born in Germany, August 27, 1814, and is a son of Mar- tin and Elizabeth (Mork) Kohlhauff, both natives of Germany. His father engaged in farming until his death, in 1876, in America, his wife having died in 1824, before they left Germany. Our subject was born and reared on a farm in Germany, receiving his education at the common schools. He came with his father to America when he was eleven years of age, in the year 1824, and settled in Illinois. In 1856 he went to Missouri, where he resided until 1861, when he came to Franklin county, Iowa, living there until 1864. He then moved to Correctionville and started the first hotel, in a log house, which was the first dwelling-house in the place, outside of the stockade. He also conducted a farm while attending to hotel business, and continued to care for the weary traveler until 1884, when he sold out and retired from active business. He votes the republican ticket and has held all the township offices. He is a member of the Roman Catholic church. Mr. Kohlhauff married Margaret Bunderer, in August, 1849, and two children were born to them: Margaret, wife of John Bacon, now living in Kansas, and Katie, deceased. Mrs. Kohlhauff died April 8, 1884. Lorenzo Hoxmss, a retired farmer residing in Correctionville, was born in Palmer, Mass., March 14, 1818, and is a son of John B. and Demarus (Upham) Holmes, the former a native of Vermont, and the latter a native of Massachusetts. John B. Holmes engaged in farming in Massachusetts until his death, which occurred about 1882, his wife dying in 1855; both were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Lorenzo Holmes spent the early part of his life in Massachusetts, and there received a common-school education. In the fall of 1852 he went to New York, where he resided a year only, going thence to Illinois, where he farmed until 1866, at which date he came to Woodbury county, and took up a homestead in Union township. In 1883, however, he gave up active work, and moved to Correctionville, and purchased a nice residence property, where he has since resided. He continued to have his farm operated until 1889, when he sold out. Mr. Holmes learned the trade of a molder in Lee, Mass. He married Alida Bortle, of Columbia county, N. Y., March 14, 1840, 822 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. and to them were born eight children, two of whom are living: Albert, who is living at Hot Springs, Dak., and Ada, wife of Frank Watson, of Correc- tionville. Mr. and Mrs. Holmes are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, with which they have been identified for over fifty years. He isa republican in politics, and has been trustee of the township two terms, also director, treasurer, and held other township offices. Cuartes Garver, an old settler and retired farmer now residing in Cor- rectionville, was born in Norwalk, Conn., May 15, 1820. He is a son of Charles and Betsey (Newcomb) Garner, both natives of Connecticut. The father was a farmer, which pursuit he followed in Connecticut until his death. The mother died in 1850. Charles Garner was born and reared on a farm in Connecticut, and received his education at the district school. He learned the hatter’s trade, and was employed at the same for nineteen years. He came to Winneshiek county, Iowa, in the spring of 1855, where he engaged in farming till 1866, when he came to Woodbury county, and took up a homestead of 160 acres of land in Union township. Here he farmed until 1884, when he gave up active work and moved to Correctionville, where he has since resided. He still owns 120 acres of the farm, which he rents. Mr. Garner married Emeline Jennings, of Fairfield county, Conn., and they have had six children, only one of whom is living, Emeline A., wife of Samuel Conway, and living in Woodbury county. He and wife have been members of the Methodist Episcopal church for twenty years; politically he is a republican, has always supported that party, and has been road super- visor and trustee of Union township. Aurrep H. Perry, the genial landlord of the “ Hotel Petty,” and an old settler of Woodbury county, was born in Haton Rapids, Mich., February 7, 1843. He is a son of Charles B. and Louisa (Hutchinson) Petty. The father was a native of New York and of French descent, and the mother a native of Ohio, of English descent. Charles Petty was engaged in farming in Michigan until 1864, when he went to Whiteside county, Ill., where he re- sided about three years. He then moved to Clinton, Iowa, and in 1868 to Woodbury county, and took up a homestead, where he engaged in farming until his death, which occurred July 5, 1889. His wife died while on the train going to California, in October, 1888. Alfred H. was born and reared on a farm in Michigan. He received his education at the common school in that state, and in August, 1862, at the age of twenty, he enlisted in Company D, Twentieth Michigan infantry, under Capt. C. B. Grant, who was principal of Ann Arbor college. He par- ticipated in the battles of South Mountain, Antietam, Harper’s Ferry, Horse Shoe Bend, Cumberland Gap, Vicksburg, siege of Jackson, Strawberry Plains, Louden, Campbell Station, siege of Knoxville, and the battle of the GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 823 Wilderness, also Spottsylvania, at which latter place he was wounded in the left arm by a bullet and was taken a prisoner from the field. He was held a prisoner seven months, when he was exchanged. He served till the close of the war and received an honorable discharge June 16, 1865. He returned to Michigan in 1866, then came to Clinton, Iowa, where he remained until 1869, when he located in Woodbury county, and took up a homestead of 160 acres in Kedron township, where he was engaged in farm- ing for thirteen years, when he moved to Correctionville. He there started a hotel, which he has since retained, and has won a wide reputation as a first- class landlord. Politically he is a republican. He was justice of the peace twelve years, and president or secretary of the board of directors for twelve years. He was a charter member of the I. O. O. F., and was the first com- mander of the G. A. R., in Correctionville. In August, 1862, he married Esther A. Perrine, of Eaton Rapids, Mich. Of their twelve chiidren, four only are living: Milton and Millie (twins), the latter the wife of Frank Ash, Hannah and Eddie. DanizL K. Frezman (deceased), late postmaster of Correctionville, and founder of the Sioux Valley “ News,” was born in Johnson county, Iowa, January 30, 1857, a son of John M. and Lydia (Baughman) Freeman, whose sketch may be seen on another page of this work. John K. was born and reared on a farm in Johnson county, Iowa. He completed his studies in the high school at Sioux City, after which he taught school for three years. He then tried the mercantile trade two years and a half. May 25, 1882, he pub- lished the first newspaper in Correctionville, which was called the Sioux Valley “News,” and which is still published under that name, and which Mr. Freeman made a first-class county paper. February 19, 1885, Mr. Freeman married M. Jane Orner, of Correction- ville, and they have two children: John I. and Fred C. Both parents were members of the Methodist Episcopal church, well known in the county, and held in the highest esteem by all. Mr. Freeman, who died August 19, 1890, aged thirty-three years, six months and nineteen days, was a republican in politics, and was appointed postmaster of Correctionville in 1889. He was a member of the I. O. O. F., and had held the offices of school trustee and town clerk. Gzorcs A. Bartey, banker, Correctionville, was born in Litchfield county, Conn., June 21, 1850, and is the second and youngest child of Joseph C. and Laura (Newton) Bailey, and a grandson of Levi Bailey, of old Con- necticut families, of English descent. In 1855 Joseph Bailey came with his family to Iowa, and after spending a year in Carroll county, settled at Des Moines, where he died in 1865, his widow surviving him only a year. George A. Bailey was reared in Des Moines, and made his own way from 824 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. the age of eleven years. His first employment was in a clothing store, and he subsequently spent several years in a book and stationery store. In 1867 he went to Glenwood, Iowa, and was employed as book-keeper and cashier in a private bank. Later he became assistant cashier in the Mills county bank. He left that institution in 1882 to assist in founding the Sioux Valley State bank at Correctionville, of which he has ever since been cashier and resident manager. Mr. Bailey is a member of the Masonic order and a supporter of the Congregational church. Politically he is a republican. His public service has consisted of eight years in the Glenwood city council, and several years as president of the Correctionville school board. In 1870 he married Mary E. Tinkel, a native of Indiana, of German descent. They have two sons, named Edgar C. and George A., Jr. Joun M. McAtuister, farmer, P: O. Sloan, who settled in Woodbury county as early as 1870, is ason of James and Mary (Martin) McAllister, and was born in Berks county, Pa., February 26, 1823. His father, who was of Scotch descent, was a collier up to the time of his death, August 5, 1834. His mother, who died May 380, 1848, was of German descent. John McAllister was born and reared on a farm in Berks county, Pa., receiving a common-school education, and assisting in the farm work until the death of his mother. Being then twenty-four years old, he started out in life for himself, and engaged in a blacksmith shop in his native village, where he worked for two years. He then spent four years in Lebanon county, and fourteen years in Schuylkill county, when, in 1865, he came to Linn county, Iowa, where he was engaged in blacksmithing for five years. Then he came to Woodbury county and located in Sloan township, where he lived three years, then purchased thirty-seven acres of land in section thirty- four, Lakeport township, where he now lives, and which he has since been engaged in farming. In 1873 the Missouri river was a mile distant from his land, but since that time it has cut away its bank so that now it is partly on his farm. November 10, 1847, he married Mary A. Seitzinger, of Pennsylvania, and they were blessed with six children, namely: William T., Reuben R., Ellen R., Elwood M. (died in infancy), James H. and George M. Mr. McAllister suffered a great bereavement September 14, 1890, in the death of his wife. In politics he is a democrat, and has held the offices of trustee, constable and school director. Wittram Ricuarps, farmer, P. O. Sloan, is one of the old settlers of Woodbury county, having purchased 166 acres of land in section twenty-four, Lakeport township, in the year 1869, on which he still resides. He was born in Clark county, Ind., April 19, 1886, a son of George and Martha GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 825 (Williams) Richards, the father of Welsh descent, the mother born in Ken- tucky. His parents were members of the Baptist church, but he and his wife affiliate with the Christian church. Mr. Richards was reared on a farm, receiving such education as was ob- ° tainable in the common schools of the time. The building in which school was held was constructed of hewed logs, the seats being of split logs, having legs stuck in holes bored in the logs with a two-inch auger. He remained at home with his parents, assisting in the duties incident to farm life, until twenty-four years of age, when he started out in life for himself, and worked in various places until 1869, when he settled in Woodbury county, Iowa. June 19, 1860, he married Sarah E. Washburn, of Indiana, and to them have been born five children, as follows: Rosa A., Charles W., Ida M., Bertha A., and Fred M. On his farm he raises live-stock of all kinds, but makes a speciality of Poland China hogs. In politics he is a republican. Lovis G. Drroms, one of the old settlers, and a general farmer and stock- raiser now residing on section nine, Lakeport township, was born in Canada, March 24, 1839, a son of Louis and Rachel (Bruguier) Derome. The father has retired from business and resides in Canada; both he and wife are of French descent and members of the Roman Catholic church. Louis G. was born in St. Paul, Canada, and was there reared. He re- ceived a classical education, and at the age of twenty-one years became a notary public, which vocation he filled for three years. In 1865 he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, and located with Mr. Bruguier, his uncle, where he remained for seven years, then purchased 120 acres of land where he now’ resides, and which he has all under a good state of cultivation. He makes a specialty of Holstein cattle and Poland China hogs. In 1872 Mr. Derome was united in marriage with Evelina Gadbois, of Canada, and to them have been born thirteen children, viz. : Joseph E., Al- cide J., Louis G., Mary A., Joseph A., Josephine M., Theophilus J., Rachel M., Arthur J., Mary E., Thomas J., Anna M. and Gustave L. The parents are both members of the Catholic church. In politics Mr. Derome is a dem- ocrat, and has been justice of the peace and a school director. He is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. JosEPH CHoquetTs, an old settler, general farmer and stock-raiser, now residing on section nine, Lakeport township, Woodbury county, was born in Montreal, Canada, March 23, 1848, a son of Joseph and Thaiss (Lapointa) Choquette. The father is still living and resides near Montreal, but the mother died in 1878; they are of French descent, and members of the Roman Catholic church. Our subject was born and reared on a farm in Canada, and received a common-school education. He resided with his parents until seventeen 826 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. years of age, when he started out in life for himself, going first to Montreal, where he clerked in a store for one year, then went to Vermont and attended an academy one year, after which he returned to Canada and located in ‘Belocil, and engaged in a general store and kept a telegraph office for some time, altogether residing there six years. In 1871 he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, and purchased forty acres of land, and has since added 480 acres, making in all 520 acres, all of which is under a good state of cultiva- tion, with the exception of 100 acres in timber. Mr. Choquette was united in marriage with Malvina Hubert, of Salix, Iowa, January 10, 1874, and to them have been born eight children, viz: Claophis, Romeo, Malvina, Albert, ‘Philip, Joseph, Ernest and Olympia. Both he and wife are members of the Catholic church. In politics he casts his suffrage with the democratic party. Morris Jozt Rogers, Oto, is a son of Joel and Eliza (Eals) Rogers, the former a native of New York state, and the latter from Kentucky, both de- ceased. Our subject was born on January 4, 1820, in the state of New York, and attended public school and helped his father on his farm until 1844, when he left home, and after traveling from one place to another, finally located in Oto township, Woodbury county, Iowa, in 1856, and has remained here since. October 13, 1844, he married Charlotte Livermore, of New York state. Seven children blessed this union, three of whom are still living. Mr. Rogers has taken an active part in political affairs, and bas held such offices as justice of the peace, on the democratic ticket. He is a Congregationalist. Gerorce Foster Warerman, M. D., was born in New York state, October 21, 1836. He is a son of James and Rachel (Raynett) Waterman, the former of Providence, R. I., and the latter of Pennsylvania. He is the eldest of fourteen children, eleven of whom are still alive. In 1858 he went to Glenwood, Iowa, and taught school. In 1862 he was admitted to the bar and. practiced law in the same place. He subsequently graduated from the St. Louis College of Physicians and Surgeons, and in 1882 came to Iowa and located at Oto, where he now has a large practice. He was first married to Eliza Ann Burkett, a native of Pennsylvania, who soon died. He then married Elizabeth Eliza Bradley, a widow, and had three children by this marriage. Dr. Waterman acted as coroner during the renowned Haddock murder case. He is a regular attendant of the Congre- gational church, and in politics votes the republican ticket. Witi1ram Harrison Apams, farmer and stockman, Smithland, is a son of Elijah and Bacon (Button) Adams, among the oldest settlers of Woodbury county. Elijah Adams was born in Nicholas county, Ky., June 15, 1814, and after traveling from one place to another he finally located on 640 acres GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 827 in Oto township, in 1856, and there he remained till his death, September 22, 1889. Our subject was born in Boone county, Ind., December 11, 1843. His early life was spent with his parents, helping them on the farm in summer and attending school in winter. In 1864 he came to Iowa, where he was married to Helen Josephine Smith, daughter of the first settler in the county. Two children blessed this union. Mr. Adams is county supervisor and school treasurer. He votes the democratic ticket. A. L. Witxrnsoy, farmer, Danbury, is ason of William and Jane (Guthrie) Wilkinson, of English and German descent, respectively. The father was in the war of 1812, under Gen. Trimble. A. L. Wilkinson was born in Sanga- mon county, Ill., July 2, 1840. Two years later his parents moved to Jo Daviess county, and here the subject of this article remained until he was nineteen years of age, when he started out to make his own living, having only the advantages afforded by the common schools. In the same year he went across the plains, and back to Jo Daviess county, where he then remained until 1869, when he moved to Stephenson county, and went into the agricult- ural implement business, but this not proving successful, he sold out and went to Boone county, Iowa, in 1875, and located on a farm, where he re- mained until 1879. In that year he came to Danbury and opened up a new farm, on which he still resides. Among the enterprises in which Mr. Wilkinson has taken an active part, is the establishment in 1889, of the Danbury State bank, of which he is sec- retary and adirector. Having had this object in view for a number of years, he worked earnestly for its accomplishment. In February, 1863, he married Myra, daughter of William and Hannah Leet, both Americans, and who ended their days in Illinois, as did Mr. Wil- kinson’s parents. Of the five children born to Mr. and Mrs. Wilkinson, two are living, George and J. Estey; those deceased are Norman, who died in Lisbon, Iowa, while en route to Freeport, Ill., for better medical aid, in No- vember, 1879, at the age of fourteen years; Sherman, at the age of twenty months, and Theron, at two years of age. Mr. Wilkinson has been county commissioner, town treasurer, and justice of the peace. In religion, he is in sympathy with all denominations; in politics, a republican. ALLEN CLINGENPEEL, retired farmer, Danbury, was born in Preble county, Ohio, in 1822, the son of George and Elizabeth (Halleck) Clingenpeel, both of German descent. In 1838 he went to Indiana, where he lived on a farm until 1874, when he moved to Iowa and located in the Maple valley, where he has since conducted a farm and mill. In 1888 he retired from active business and came to Danbury. In 1846 he married Sarah, daughter of James and Annie Curry, and they 828 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. have been blessed with six children, five of whom are still living, namely: George W., married and farming; Annie, married Peter Moore; Mary, de- ceased; James, married and farming; John, who is a miller, also married; and William, the last child, is a farmer and married, all the children having married and gone to work for themselves. Mr. Clingenpeel is a member of the Campbellite church, and in politics is a democrat. Aaron W. Herrineton, farmer and stock-raiser, Danbury, was born in Luzerne county, Pa., in 1837, came to Illinois with his parents in 1844, and remained there engaged in farming in Ogle and Lee counties for thirty-nine years, having started to work for himself at the age of twenty-three. In 1862 he enlisted in Company H, Ninety-second Illinois infantry, and served under Capt. Nelson and Gen. Sherman; was in the army of the Cumberland, and in several battles, among them being Chickamauga and Lookout Mount- ain, besides being in Sherman’s march to the sea. He was mustered out at Concord, and returned to Illinois, where he worked on a farm until 1878, when he came to Iowa and located on the farm where he now resides. His parents, who were probably French, are both dead. November 11, 1860, he married Eleanor N., daughter of Joseph and Catherine Eakle, both of German descent, and they have eight children: Cora F., Isabella M., Frank E., George E., Katie L., Clarence C., Alice P. and Albert W. Isabella married Bert Rathbun, and lives at Ida Grove, and Cora married William Brady. Mr. Herrington owns 160 acres of land, which is all under cultivation, and upon which is a fine new school-house. He is a member of the Evangelical church. Frank and George are members of the Sons of Veterans. C. F. Szrgotp, merchant, Danbury, is a son of W. F. Seibold, who was born at Stuttgart, Germany, March 31, 1839, and in 1855 came to Peoria, IlL, and worked on a farm. Subsequently W. F. Seibold worked two years and a half at the harness trade in that place, and then engaged in the grain business. In 1882 he came to Danbury, and dealt in lumber and grain, which business he has since followed. He was married in 18638 to Elizabeth, daughter of Jacob and Emma Krise, of German descent, and has six children: Charles F., Fred, Emma, George, Edward and Harry. Charles F. Seibold was married in December, 1888, to Carry Ostrom, and they have one child, Dellie Hope. In his religious views he is in sym- pathy with the Lutheran church, and a member of the Masonic order. He and his brother Fred are engaged in the general merchandise business, which they entered in 1886. They both received their education at Chats- worth and Chicago, Tl. Goprrey Durst was born in Rueti, Canton Zurich, Switzerland, January 31, 1847. His parents, Melchior and Rosina (Schiesser) Durst, were natives GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 829 of Canton Glarus. The mother died in Switzerland, and the father followed his son to America in 1868. Godfrey Durst was reared on a farm and at- tended school till seventeen years old. In 1866 he came to this country and located at New Glarus, Wis., where he took up milling. In 1870 he came to Oto, Woodbury county, Iowa, where he operated a mill, in which he owned a half interest, for two years. In 1873, in company with his brothers, he built the Battle Creek mill, but soon sold out his inter- est. He again secured an interest in the Oto mill, but in 1879 sold out, and built’ his present mill at Danbury, which is said to be the best mill in the interior of the state. It has a capacity of 150 barrels per day, and is oper- ated with power furnished by the Maple river. Mr. Durst is a member of the Masonic order, and a democrat. He holds Zwinglyanistic (so called after one of Switzerland’s reformers, Zwingly) views on matters pertaining to theology. He has served as school director and township trustee and clerk. In 1876 he married Orient, daughter of Henry and Elizabeth Dicus, of Ohio. Mr. Durst’s children are named, in order of birth, as follows: Rosa, Effie and Godfrey. Rev. Trmotay Mzacuer, who has faithfully served the Roman Catholic church in northwestern Iowa, has resided at Danbury since 1883, and is justly entitled to a notice in this connection. Regardless of religious beliefs and nationality, it is a common saying in the vicinity in which Father Meagher lives, that all are his personal friends. Like many another of his fellow countrymen, he not only possesses a large degree of good nature and kindheartedness, but he is also a thorough scholar, a devoted Christian and a strong factor in the church of his choice. America is proud of the many sons of Erin, who have come to our shores full of heart and intellect, with a determination to accom- plish something, not for themselves alone, but for the good of mankind. In time of war, this country appreciated the skill, bravery and loyalty of the Irish people. It has not been forgotten that scores of union army officers, whose names and deeds of heroism adorn the pages of military history from 1861 to 1865, were sons of the Emerald Isle. What is true of military chief- tains is true of the great leaders of the church—they are ever earnest, ever loyal to the best interests of all that is moral, religious and educational. The man of whom we write—Father Meagher—was born at Brambles- town, county Kilkenny, Ireland, in 1855. He lived in the place of his birth until he came to Danbury, Iowa, in 1883. He received his education at St. Kierans college, Ireland. Upon coming to Danbury, he took charge of part of the seven northwestern counties of Iowa. At present, his work is confined chiefly to the parishes at Danbury and Oto. Of his parentage, it should be said that his father was Daniel Meagher, who was married to Ellen Delaney, both of whom were born, lived and died in Ireland. The family they reared 830 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. consisted of eight children—five daughters and three sons. His brother Pat- rick and sister Margaret came to America. The latter became the wife of James Walker, who now resides in Sioux City. Considering the short time our subject has lived and labored in this country, together with his age, there are but few who have been instrumental” in upbuilding the interests of the great church to the extent that he has. Future generations shall feel the effect of the corner-stones placed by the hands of this truly good man, for whom nature and education have done much. Parricx Coxuins, hotel-keeper, Danbury, was born in the parish of Bartholomew, county Cork, Ireland, July 8, 1831. His grandfather, Dennis Collins, was born in the same locality, as were his parents, John and Cath- arine (Curtin) Collins. In 1844 John Collins immigrated with his family to America, and settled at Fort Covington, Franklin county, N. Y., where he engaged in the occupation of his fathers—farming. In 1852 he removed to Dubuque, this state, where he died two years later at the age of fifty-seven. His widow still survives, and resides with her daughter, Mrs. Jeff. Daly, in Oto, Woodbury county. Patrick Collins was the second of twelve children, and received a fair education. In 1860 he visited this county, going on foot from Council Bluffs to Sioux City, and thence to Waterloo. In 1863 he settled on sec- tion two, Oto township, where he owns 200 acres, and engaged in farming till 1885. He bought the Commercial hotel at Danbury in that year, and moved in November, and has conducted that house ever since. He is a lead- ing member of St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic church, and the A. O. H. Po- litically he is a stanch republican, and has been a member of the town council three years. While in Oto he served as township trustee and school director. February 17, 1857, he married Anna McKenna, a native of Fermanagh Parish, county Fermanagh, Ireland. Their children are John, Mary, Pat- rick Henry, Margaret Ellen and Susan Honore. The last is the wife of Michael O’Gorman, of Norden, Neb. Josu. H. Humpureys, farmer, Battle Creek, was born at Ogdensburg, N. Y., September 11, 1841. At the age of five years he was taken to London, Canada, and in 1855 he went to Detroit, Mich. He received part of his edu- cation in Canada and part in Michigan. He also was in the United States secret service for three years. In 1865 he began teaching, and taught for twenty-four years in the states of Michigan, Illinois, Ohio and Iowa; was principal of the Wayne schools, Michigan. He came to Iowa in 1880 and located on a farm where he still remains. His father, John, died at the age of one hundred and five years, and his grandfather, John, lived to the age of GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 8381 one hundred and seven years, while his mother, Jane (Warren) Humphreys, still lives. His father was an English seaman, and of Welsh descent. Our subject was married in 1870, to Emma A., daughter of Valentine A. and Sophia (Taft) Lake, of American birth. They have three children: Frederick L., Minnie N. and Frank W. He is a member of the Method- ist Episcopal church and of the Masonic fraternity. In politics he is a republican. Narsanret Enaar, farmer, Smithland, was born in Columbia county, Pa., October 21, 1821, and is the eldest of fourteen children born to Moses and Mary Edgar. Of this large family four are now known to be living. Na- thaniel, father of Moses Edgar, was a native of England, but bore many sears received in the struggle for American independence. Frederick Win- ner, father of Mary Edgar, was of German birth. He, whose name heads this sketch, was reared in Northumberland county, Pa., at a time when there were no free schools there, and is wholly self-edu- cated. He is recognized as a well informed and valuable citizen. In 1844 he married Eliza Hill, a native of Northumberland county, daughter of Daniel and Margaret Hill, of English and German descent, respectively. In 1845, with their first-born, and the father of Mrs. Edgar, who died on the way, they set out with teams for Wisconsin. After two months’ travel, they arrived in Green county, Wis., and located near Albany, where Mr. Edgar was engaged in farming operations until 1865, when he removed to Iowa. After two years’ residence at Smithland he bought a farm near by in Monona county, which he tilled twelve years. Since 1879 he has lived in Little Sioux township, the last six years being in Smithland, and has owned various properties. He is a supporter of churches and a republican in politics. Following are the names and location of his children: Charles, Charlotte (Mrs. J. C. Ruthroff), Luke J., Emma Jane (wife of T. B. Harris), Smithland; William H. and Ida May (Mrs. J. H. Belden), Rodney, Monona county, Iowa. Danizt Pomeroy Biiuines, clergyman, Smithland, has been for over thirty years identified with religious work in and near Woodbury county. He is a son of Daniel and Sally (Stewart) Billings, and was born in North- ampton, Mass., in 1830. His ancestors were German, and were kin to the Guelph family, the present royal family of England. Their first settlement in this county was in Vermont, and Barnabas Billings, grandfather of our subject, removed in early life from Hardwick, in that state, to Northfield, Mass., where Daniel, his son, was born. Our subject received his early education in the academy at West Brat- tleboro, Vt., and finished at Troy Collegiate institute, Charlotteville, N. Y. In the spring of 1857 he removed to Iowa, arriving in Sioux City in April. 44 832 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Two years later he began preaching in the Methodist Episcopal church, his first charge being at Smithland. He was twice subsequently returned by the conference to the same charge, and has also ministered at Algona, Alden, Sac City, Correctionville, Sloan and Charter Oak, having organized the work at the latter place. Being possessed of a farm near Smithland, that became his permanent abode, and not being able to accept some of the ideas main- tained by his brethren, he withdrew from their communion, and is now preaching to three Congregational societies: at Oto, Climbing Hill and Red- ing district, south of Correctionville. _ Mr. Billings is earnest and zealous in his work, and has refused some flattering financial offers, because he preferred to continue his work here. Politically he has always sustained the republican party. He was married at Smithland, October 7, 1859, to Mary Ann Van Zandt, a native of Cincin- nati, Ohio, and daughter of Jacob and Sarah Van Zandt, of German descent. Three children blessed this union, the eldest, Walter Pomeroy, being born at Alden, Hardin county, and the others, Ben Kirk and Nellie Mary Edith, at Smithland. The second died at the age of eleven years. Dr. Cuartes AsHworts, Smithland, was born in Northfield, Vt., May 21, 1828, the son of Robert and Rosina (Bishop) Ashworth. His father was born in Lancashire, England, in 1794, was a manufacturer of woolen goods, and was the father of six children, two of whom are still living. Dr. Charles Ashworth was reared in Northfield, Vt., untilhe was ten years old, at which time his parents removed to Worcester, Mass., where he lived many years, engaged in different kinds of business. In 1846 he went to Manchester, N. H., where he spent two years, one of these years engaged in the study of medicine, in the office of Dr. W. W. Brown, then a leading phy- sician in Manchester. From Manchester he removed to Chicago, where he commenced the practice of medicine. He afterward took the three years’ course in the Chicago Medical college, and graduated from that school in 1869. In the great Chicago fire of 1871, he lost very heavily. In 1876 he removed to Fort Worth, Tex., where he established a good practice in his profession, and had the honor of being elected president of the Tarrant County Medical Society, and also president of the Northwest Texas Medical and Surgical Society. In consequence of failing health, the Doctor removed to Smithland, Iowa, in 1881, where he married Elizabeth Sheldon Scribner, a native of Sheldon, Franklin county, Vt. He is a repub- lican in politics, and is now (1890) mayor of Smithland, and president of the school board. Joun -Rawtines, miller, Smithland, is an Englishman, having been born in Cornwall, England, January 9, 1839. He is the son of John and Mary (Tamlin) Rawlings, and is next to the youngest of their children. He came GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 833 to America with his father in 1850, and located in Racine county, Wis., where they remained two years, farming. They then removed to Grant county, Wis., where they remained eight years, and there the father died, in Platteville, in 1864. March 5, 1862, our subject married Margaret Tarary, in Platteville, Grant county, Wis., his wife’s birthplace. They settled in Nevada, where they re- mained until 1866, when they moved to Monona county, Iowa, where they lived for five years, moving to Smithland in 1871, where they are now located. He is the father of seven children—all girls—and all of whom are living, three of them being married. In political matters he is a stanch democrat. He has been trustee of the township for the past thirteen years, and is quite prominent in business circles. Henry Harvey Hitt, stock-breeder, Smithland, was born in Manchester, N. H., April 14, 1841, and is a son of Simon B. and Mary Hill, natives of Mt. Vernon and Manchester, N. H., respectively. John Hill, grandfather of Henry, dwelt in New Hampshire, and was a Revolutionary soldier, as was also Jonas Harvey, his maternal grandfather. Sir John Harvey, the father of Jonas, was one of the first settlers at Manchester, and his English lineage is made plain by his name and title. Simon B. Hill served through the Mexican and Civil wars, and is now living, at the age of eighty-three years (1890). He was a locomotive builder, and is now depot master at Spring street station, West Roxbury, on the Providence railroad. The father of John Hill was of Scotch and French extraction. The time of his settlement in New Hampshire is unknown. Henry H. Hill was educated in the Manchester schools. When nine years old, he left home, and worked several years for a farmer, for his board and winter’s schooling. His first wages was six dollars per month. For more than twenty-five years, beginning at the age of fourteen, he was employed by a lumber dealer at Manchester, having charge of the yards and mills for many years. In 1881, while filling the place of an absent man, he had all the fingers of his right hand severed by a saw. In 1884 he came to Iowa and purchased a farm near Smithland, which he tilled two years, and has since sold. Since 1886 he has dwelt in the village of Smithland, and devotes much attention to the breeding of registered Berkshire, Poland and Victoria swine. April 22, 1861, Mr. Hill enlisted in Company C, Second New Hampshire in- fantry volunteers, and served four years and nine months as a soldier. He took part in the battles of Bull Run, Williamsburg, Fair Oaks, Seven Pines, Bermuda Hundred, Second Bull Run, South Mountain and Gettysburg. He was three times wounded, being shot in the foot at the first battle, through the hips at Second Bull Run, and through the left hand, crippling that mem- 834 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. ber, at Williamsburg. On account of his hip wounds, he was unable to march, and was transferred to the invalid corps, with which he remained till the close of the war. Mr. Hill takes an active interest in politics, working with the republicans, and March 2, 1891, was elected mayor of Smithland. He served five years in New Hampshire as selectman, and was four years in the city council of Manchester. In religions views he is a Methodist. He has been twice married, first in 1869, to Betsey Matterson, who died in 1878, leaving two children, Leora and George Washington, and in June, 1880, to Helen Aldrich, who bore him a son, Bertie. Mrs. Hillis a daughter of Liberty and Helen Maria (Barse) Aldrich, of Vermont, and was born in Troy, that state. Liberty Aldrich served nearly a year during the Civil war, in a Vermont regiment, and is now deceased. Isaac Priveron, farmer, Oto, is the eldest of the seven children of Rich- ard and Elizabeth (Wiett) Pridgeon, of Lancashire, England, now deceased. Here our subject was born October 24, 1824, and, when old enough, worked with his parents, farming until August 5, 1856, when he sailed on the Isaac Bell for America, landing at New York. September 6 he went to Canada, and followed brick-laying until the war, when he enlisted in the Twenty- third Illinois regiment under Col. Mulligan. He was at the battle of Cedar Creek, and several skirmishes. After the close of the war he went to IIli- nois, remaining there until 1867, when he came to Miller township, Wood- bury county. Mr. Pridgeon married Nancy A. Wilcox, and of their fourteen children eleven are still living. Mr. Pridgeon holds the position of road supervisor, and votes the republican ticket. James Scorr Mituer, farmer, Oto, was born in Tippecanoe county, Ind., January 4, 1830. His education was sadly neglected. In 1837 he came to Clinton, Towa, but remained only a short time and then went to Illinois in 1839. He returned to Iowa, and after shifting from one county to another, he finally located on his present place in Miller township, in 1855, being one of the first settlers in this county, and has many interesting experiences to tell of the early settlement. He was married to Ellen Collins, a native of Ireland, in 1853. Fifteen children blessed this union, thirteen of whom are still living. His parents, Samuel and Margaret (Scott) Miller, are Americans by birth, the former born in Indiana, and the latter in Ohio; both are deceased. Mr. Miller is not a believer in religion, in politics he votes the republican ticket. Georce Peter Hitter, retired farmer, Anthon, was born in Germany, April 25, 1820, a son of Nicholas and Helen (Miller) Hiller, of Germany. In 1836 he came to America, and landed in New York city June 19, and worked at the shoemaker’s trade there till September 15, 1837, when he went to Ohio, GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 835 where he followed his trade for eight years. He went to St. Louis in 1844, where he followed his trade for a short time, then, in 1845, came to Iowa, and located in Dubuque. May 20, 1871, he moved to Woodbury county, where he was engaged in farming. April 25, 1848, he married Elizabeth McNear, and six children blessed their union. Mr. Hiller is a man of good intellect and judgment; while not radical in polities, he will take either side and argue with any man, and is considered well posted on the vital questions of the day. He attends the Catholic church. Epwin Hatt, farmer, Anthon, was born at what was formerly called Hanford’s Landing, where Rochester, N. Y., now is, August 27, 1833. In 1853 he came west to Chicago, and worked at the carpenter’s trade until 1857. He came to Humboldt county, Iowa, in 1858, remaining there only until the fall of the same year, when he came to Woodbury county, in the Little Sioux valley. He built a saw-mill, the first water-mill in the county, and lived on the ground which is now called Oto, till 1866, when he located. where he now is, in Miller township. April 15, 1865, he married Sally Livermore, and six children have heen born to this union, two of whom are dead. Mr. Hall was one of the first set- lers in the county, and tells many experiences of pioneer life. In politics he is an independent. His parents, who were American-born people, were Nathaniel and Lucy (Walker) Hall, of Vermont, both of whom are now de- ceased. Cuartes J. Houtman, senior member of the firm of C. J. Holman & Bro., dealers in general merchandise, live-stock, also manufacturers of Sergeant’s Bluff brick, is a son of William P. and Louise B. (Grant) Holman, and was born in Vermont, March 1, 1840. His parents removed to Rockville, Tolland county, Conn., when he was but eighteen months old, and he lived with them there until he was sixteen years old, and attended the high school there. He then came to Woodbury county, where his parents moved in March, 1856. In the spring of 1858, he, in company with others, went in the interest of his father, to speculate in town sites in Dakota, and took a claim of 320 acres where the town of Yankton now stands. In October of that year the Indians burned their cabin and drove them across the river. He returned home, but in the next year he started with his uncle for Pike’s Peak overland. They reached Omaha safely, but there they met so many returning from their objective point, that they gave up the trip and went to Kansas City, where they remained until the spring of 1860. They then went up the Arkansas river, making their way to the mines at South Park, Colo. From there they went to the Blue River mines, and were engaged in mining for three seasons at Gold Run, French Gulch and Delaware Flats. In the fall of 1862 he 836 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. returned home, making the trip overland. The following spring he filled a wagon with provisions at Council Bluffs, and started for the mines with a team of oxen. The trip took him twenty-three days, but he sold his load of provisions and returned for another, continuing this business the entire season. During his trips he had several narrow escapes from the Indians, having to corral his teams and wagons, and drive them off at times. In the winter of 1864 he took a load of fresh pork overland from Council Bluffs to Denver, and in returning experienced some very cold weather, having to sleep in his wagon. In 1865 he started farming, living with his father at Sergeant’s Bluff, but the grasshoppers took his entire crop, so the following spring he engaged in the cattle business with his father, which they have continued aver since. In 1868 he erected a small store building and put in a stock of general merchandise, the first day’s receipts being but $1.55. In 1870 he formed a partnership with his brother, Albert, and in 1872 they built the large brick store they now occupy. In 1867 he commenced to manufacture bricks, and has continued that business ever since, the business having increased to such an extent that it requires his entire attention, and gives employment to from forty to fifty men. Besides making some tiling, they turn out 5,000,000 brick annually, shipping to all stations within a radius of 200 miles. Mr. Holman has been identified with the county since its earliest history, and has done much to aid its growth from wild prairie land to its present state of prosperity. The Holmans own about 1,000 acres of land, and have handled and sold over 6,000 acres. : In 1872, at Cedarville, N. Y., he married Meda E. Cole, who died in 1874, leaving one child, a daughter, Clara, who died at the age of nine years. In 1879 he married again, his second wife being Kittie M. Carpenter, of Bridgewater, N. Y., who has borne him four children: Arthur P. (deceased), Alice M., Clarence J. and Helen J. He and his wife are both members of the Congregational church. In politics he is a republican, having voted that party’s ticket since casting his first vote, which was for Abraham Lincoln. Laraverte Foster, farmer, P. O. Sergeant’s Bluff, is one of the oldest settlers in Woodbury county. He resides on section five, Liberty township, and was born in Litchfield county, Conn., July 23, 1824, a son of Albert and Clarissa (Maxson) Foster, the father a native of Massachusetts and the mother a native of Rhode Island. His great-grandfather was born in Scotland. His father was a farmer, and was engaged at that occupation until his death, which occurred in New York about 1875, his wife preceding him one year; both were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Lafayette Foster moved from Connecticut to New York with his parents, GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 837 and located in Columbia county, N. Y. He received his education at the academy at Homer, Cortland county, N. Y. He continued to reside with his parents on the farm until 1864, when he came west with seventy families to Dakota, where he remained until September, 1864, when he came to Wood- bury county, and purchased forty acres of land in Woodbury township. He worked the land in summer, and taught school in Sergeant’s Bluff and vicinity several years. He remained there until 1871, when he purchased 120 acres of land where he now resides, which he has succeeded in getting under a good state of cultivation, and here he raises a general crop of farm produce, and gives considerable attention to live stock, such as Holstein cat- tle, Berkshire hogs and good horses. When he came to Liberty township there were about three settlers here. He has witnessed all the improvements in the county from its infancy, and the entire growth of Sioux City. Politically he is a democrat, and has held all the offices of the township. He is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. September 23, 1830, he married Sarah J. Ripley, of New York, and they have three children: Albro, Emma and Ernest. Mr. and Mrs. Foster are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. James ©. Currizr, banker, Salix, the senior member of the firm of Cur- rier & Sons, also a farmer and stock-raiser in section two, Lakeport township, was born in Thompson, Orange county, Vt., May 2, 1830, and is a son of Moses and Mary (Carter) Currier, both natives of New Hampshire. Moses Currier was a farmer in Orange county, Vt., until his death, in 1845; his wife lived until about the year 1875, when she died, aged eighty-eight years, a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. James ©, was born and reared on a farm in Vermont. At the death of his father he started to learn the carpenter’s trade, which he followed about twenty years, thirteen years of which he carried on business in Northampton, Mass. The last contract he took was to build the Memorial Hall at North- ampton, at a cost of $60,000. He then engaged in the mercantile trade at Pittsfield, Mass., for five years, and in 1878 came to Woodbury county, ‘Towa, and purchased 320 acres of land in Lakeport township. He has added to it since, and now owns 500 acres of land, all under a good state of cultivation. In 1886 he erected a building in Salix and engaged in the banking busi- ness. In 1887 he also engaged in the lumber business. Politically he is a republican, and has been township trustee about four years. Mr. Currier was married in 1853 to Sarah C. Harriman, and they have two children: Ethan B. and James W. ‘Both he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Joun B. Benrracs, farmer, Sergeant’s Bluff, is a son of Robert and Ann (McLellan) Belfrage, natives of Scotland, but who lived in London, England, 888 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. the latter part of their lives. Robert Belfrage was a cabinet-maker and up- holsterer, and had the contract for fitting up Buckingham Palace, the Queen’s London residence, so moved to London, taking his wife with him. He died there November 5, 1846, and his wife remained near London until her death, which occurred January 23, 1869. Both were members of the Congrega- tional church. John B. Belfrage was born in Cairngorm, Scotland, June 16, 1837, and was only two years old when his parents moved to London. There he re- ceived his education at Maitland Park, also attending Christs Hospital college. He afterward engaged in surveying and the study of architecture, and drew the working plans of the Pompeian Court in the present Crystal Palace at Sy- denham, near London, England. July 14, 1855, he took passage for America, and went to nearly all the larger cities in the east, looking for employment in his line, working in various places until the breaking out of the war, when he enlisted for one hundred days in the Thirteenth Illinois volunteers, and afterward enlisted in the 105th Illinois infantry. He was in the battles of Shiloh, Resaca, Dallas, Cassville, Kenesaw Mountain, Culp’s Farm, Golgotha Church, Ezra Church, New Hope Church, Peach Tree Creek, At- lanta, Lawtonville, Averysboro, and Bentonville. He was wounded at the battle of Shiloh. June 7, 1865, he was discharged, at Washington, D. C., and returned to Kane county, Ill, where he was when he enlisted. In 1866 he went to Iowa county, Iowa., and was there eight years, farm- ing. He then went to Guthrie county, where he remained two years, and in 1876 came to Woodbury county, and purchased 100 acres of land in section seventeen, Liberty township, where he has resided ever since. He was one of the early settlers here, and has held many of the township and county of- fices. He is secretary of the Soldiers Relief Commission, and was member of the legislature from Woodbury county in 1880. He is at present senior vice-commander of G. A. R. Post, No. 22, (B. F. Smith), at Sioux City, a member of the Farmers’ Alliance, and in politics a republican. November 21, 1865, he married Elizabeth J. Jones, of Kane county, IIL, and they have six children: Anna S., Jennie A., Wilfred L., Evan M., Mary A. and Thomas L. JoszrH Davis, an old settler and farmer now residing on section thirteen, Liberty township, was born in Adams county, Ohio, August 7, 1819, and is a son of William and Nancy (Zumalt) Davis. His father was engaged in farming in Polk county, Iowa, at the time of his death, which occurred in 1875. His mother died in 1887; both parents were of Welsh descent and members of the Church of Christ. Joseph Davis was born in Adams county, Ohio, and received a common- school education in a log school-house in Rush county, Ind. He remained GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 889 with his parents until twenty-four years of age, when he started out in life for himself. He went to Allen county, Ind, and engaged in farming, pur- chased 160 acres of land, and resided there about ten years. His next loca- tion was in Lucas county, Iowa, where he purchased eighty acres of land, having sold his farm in Indiana. - He resided on this farm about nine years, then went to Madison county, Iowa, and resided there five years. In 1869 he came to Woodbury county and purchased 231 acres of land, where he now resides. Mr. Davis has seen this wild, uncultivated land trans- formed into fertile farms and comfortable homes, and has witnessed the in- troduction of the railroads, telegraphs, electric cars, and the growth of Sioux City from its infancy. Politically he is a democrat, and has held the office of school director. March 5, 1843, he was united in marriage with America Hood, of Indi- ana, and to them have been born seven children: Caroline, Arthur, Elias, Katherine, Parmelia, Emeline and McClellan. The parents are both mem- bers of the Church of Christ. Mr. Davis enlisted in the war in 1862, in Company G, Thirty-fourth Iowa infantry, and was honorably discharged in March, 1863, when he returned to his home in Lucas county, Iowa. JoszrH B. Surru, one of the old settlers of Moville township, Woodbury county, and a farmer and stockman now residing on section nine, was born in Edgar county, Ill, March 10, 1834. His parents, James and Artamesia (Edwards) Smith, were natives of Washington county Tenn., the former of English and the latter of Welsh and German descent. His father farmed in Illinois until his death, which occurred about 1876, while his mother lived until July 3, 1889; both were members of the Baptist church, Joseph B. was reared on a farm in Edgar county, Ill, and received his education at the district schools. He resided at home until he was twenty- two years of age, when he went to farming in Clark county, Tll., where he remained until 1879. He then moved to Woodbury county, Iowa, and pur- chased 200 acres of land, where he now resides, the land then being in a wild state. There were about thirteen families in the township when he came, and he has seen all the wild land transformed into fertile farms and com- fortable homes. He did his milling at Sioux City, twenty miles away, which then had but about 5,000 inhabitants. He has succeeded in getting 440 acres of his land under a good state of cultivation and well improved. Polit- ically he is a democrat; is school treasurer, also trustee, while socially he is a member of the Masonic lodge. In 1859 he married Millie A. Ullery, of Clark county, Ill, and they had three children: Calvin H., Amanda A. and Elizabeth B. The mother died January 7, 1866, and April 6, 1870, Mr. Smith married again, taking for his second wife, Sarah J. Lee, of Clark county, Ill. They have five children: Era, Delia, Leona, Robert and Opal Ola. 840 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Atonzo Deves, farmer, Sioux City, was born in Vigo county, Ind., June 20, 1836, and is a son of Morgan and Delilah Depee, the former of French and the latter of English descent. He received his education in the common schools of Fayette township, Vigo county. In 1856, when but nineteen years of age, he left home, settling in Richland county, Wis., where he purchased a large farm and worked it until the spring of 1869. He then sold his prop- erty and came to Iowa, locating in Concord township, Woodbury county, where he now resides. He married Lucinda Jane, daughter of Lemuel and Martha Joseph, No- vember 11, 1860. He enlisted in Company A, Forty-sixth Wisconsin volunteer infantry, February 14, 1865, and received his discharge in October of the same year. Mr. Depee is numbered among the leading farmers and most pro- gressive citizens of Woodbury county. He supports the democratic party, is a strong prohibitionist, and isa member of the Baptist church. JosepH Varuey, the first butcher in Moville, now engaged in general merchandising there, was born in England in 1889, and is a son of James and Eliza (Gillard) Varley, both natives of England. His father died there about the year 1870, and his mother about 1860. Joseph lived in England until he was twenty-eight years of age. He received his education in the common schools, and worked under his father as a weaver of fine cloths until he was twenty-one years of age. He was then employed as foreman, which position he held until 1867, when he came to America and located in Dale City, Guthrie county, Iowa, where he acted as foreman in a woolen factory for eleven years. From there he went to Audubon county, Iowa, and pur- chased a farm, where he resided four years. In 1882 he came to Woodbury county, and purchased a farm in Arlington township, and farmed until May, 1887, when he rented his farm and moved to Moville, and opened the first meat market there, which he continued six months, then went into the grocery trade, which he has continued ever since, now carrying a stock of general merchandise under the firm name of Varley & Son. Politically he is a democrat, and has held the position of school director. In 1860 he married Susan Scott, of England, and they have three chil- dren: Eliza H., Samuel L. and John W. Mr. and Mrs. Varley are members of the United Brethren church. CuristorHer A. Bzarp, now running a meat market in partnership with _E. E. Paris, at Moville, was born in Jackson county, Towa, in 1852. Heisa son of Edward and Elizabeth (Armitage) Beard, the father a native of Mary- land, of German descent, while the mother was born in Ohio, and is of Ger- man and English descent. His father was farming in Clinton county, Iowa, at the time of his death, which occurred in 1880. His mother is still living, and resides on the old homestead in Clinton county. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 841 C. A. Beard was born and reared on a farm, receiving his early education in the district schools. He continued to reside at home until he was twenty- one years old, during which time he engaged in teaching school in the winter time. He went to Elwood, Clinton county, and bought live stock and grain there until 1882, when he went to Cedar county and farmed until the spring of 1887, when he came to Woodbury county, and located in Sioux City, but in the fall of the same year, he came to Moville and opened a meat market, which he has continued ever since. Politically he is a democrat. Tn the spring of 1890 he was elected mayor of Moville. He has been constable two years, and was a member of the council in 1889. Socially he is a member of the Masonic and Odd Fellows orders. In 1878 Mr. Beard was married to Roseltha Elwood, of Jackson county, Iowa, and this union has been blessed with three children: Edith, Esther and Herbert. B. E. Boyp, manager of the Alliance store, and postmaster at Moville, Woodbury county, was born in Susquehanna county, Pa., in 1855, and is a son of John H. and Sarah A. (Tooker) Boyd. The father was a native of New York, of Scotch-Irish descent, the mother a native of Pennsylvania, of English and German descent. His father’s occupation was that of a farmer, at which he was engaged in Crawford county, Wis., when he enlisted in Company H, Thirty-sixth Wisconsin volunteers. He served until March, 1864, when he died, at City Point, Va., from chronic diarrhoea. His wife is still living, and resides at Westfield, Plymouth county, Iowa, and is a mem- ber of the Methodist Episcopal church. - Barton E. Boyd was born and reared on a farm, until he was six years of age. He received acommon-school education, and at the age of sixteen years came to Sioux City, and secured a place in the dry goods store of E. R. Kirk, where he remained about eighteen months. In 1877 he went to Smithland, Woodbury county, and clerked three years. He then went into the mercan- tile business for himself, which he continued until 1880. He then came to the old town of Moville, and was in the mercantile business, besides being postmaster for three years. He then sold out, and farmed in Monona county, Iowa, two years. In 1887 he came to what is now Moville, and opened the first store, where he continued in business until June, 1890, when he sold out to the Farmers’ Alliance, and has since managed the stock for them. Politically, he is a republican. November 20, 1889, he was appointed post- master; he was one of the first councilmen of Moville. July 14, 1879, he married Tabitha L. Fox, of Smithland, Iowa, and they have four children: Ethelyn R., Beatrice E., William E. and Zermah G. Mr. and Mrs. Boyd are members of the Congregational church, and Mr. Boyd is a member of the I. O. O. F. Joun W. Davis, an old settler, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Ohio, 842 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. April 10, 1821. He is ason of Jeremiah and Patience (Ware) Davis, both of whom are deceased. The father was a native of Pennsylvania, and was engaged in farming in Ohio at the time of his death. The mother was a native of New Jersey, and a member of the Methodist church. John W. Davis was born on a farm in Ohio, and received a common- school education. He resided with his parents until twenty-three years of age, when he started out for himself. In 1869 he came to Madison county, Iowa, and engaged in farming there until he came to Woodbury county in 1876, and purchased a farm of 160 acres of land in section twelve, Arling- ton township, on which he now resides. In 1864 he enlisted in Company H, Forty-seventh Ohio infantry, and participated in Sherman’s march to the sea, the battles of Atlanta, Bentonville and Columbia. He was honorably discharged May 29, 1865. ‘ He was twice married, his first wife being Rachel Johnson, by whom he had seven children: Caleb, Elizabeth A., Hiram, Charles, George, Lucy and Amanda. This wife dying in 1862, he married Nancy Armstrong, August 30, 1864, and they have one child, Lawrence. His wife is a member of the Methodist church. Mr. Davis is a member of the G. A. R., in politics isa republican, and has held the office of president of the school board for five years. Exias Suearrer, farmer, residing on section fourteen, Arlington township, was born in Pennsylvania, October 4, 1827, a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Albright) Sheaffer, both of whom are deceased. Henry Sheaffer was a farmer of Lancaster county, Pa., at the time of his death, and both he and wife were of Dutch descent. Elias Sheaffer was born on a farm, and did not have the advantage of schooling, and therefore did not get a literary education. He resided with his parents until he was eight years of age, and then was put out among strangers, with whom he resided until fifteen years old, when he went to Perry county, Pa., and resided there with an uncle until twenty-two years of age. He then went to Darke county, Ohio, and engaged in farming for six years, at the expiration of which time he enlisted in the army, Company E, Fortieth Ohio infantry, and participated in the battle of Peach Creek and others. He was honorably discharged in September, 1864, and returned to Darke county, Ohio, where he continued farming for eight years more. He then came to Madison county,. Iowa, and resided eighteen months, and thence moved to Woodbury county in 1874, and purchased eighty acres of land in section fourteen, Arlington township, where he now resides. Mr. Sheaffer was married in 1850 to Mary Boyd, and they have eight children: Mary E., Sarah L., Annie L., Ellen, George H., Rhodie K., Jo- seph C. and Thomas J. Both he and wife are members of the United Breth- ren church, and Mr. Sheaffer votes the republican ticket. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 843 Anpverson T. Wricut, an old settler and farmer, was born on the Tippe- canoe river, in Indiana, October 18, 1833, and is a son of Moses and Matilda (Barnes) Wright. His parents are both dead. The father was a native of Kentucky, and was engaged in farming for twenty-five years, and then went into the brick-making business, which he continued until his death. The mother was a native of Tennessee, and a member of the Methodist church. Anderson T. was born and reared on a farm in Indiana, and received his education in the common schools. He remained with his parents until twenty-one years of age, and then came to Iowa county and commenced farming, and resided there until 1870, when he came to Woodbury county, and located in Arlington township. He lived on that property until 1880, when he moved on section twenty, and remained there until 1890, when he located on section twenty-nine, his present home, where he has built him a fine house with all modern improvements, which is surrounded with forty acres of land in a good state of cultivation. Mr. Wright has held the office of school director, and is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. Politically he is a republican. Mr. Wright was united in marriage with Martha Brown, but she died in 1870, leaving four children: John, Charlie, Raphael and Arretta. He was again married in 1872, taking as his wife Rosie O’Connor, who bore him three children: Anderson T., Matilda and Enos. His second wife died in 1887, and he married his third wife, Mary Smith, in 1888, and they have one child, Edna. Mr. Wright came to this county when it was all wild prairie, and has shot the elk, deer and wolf, and has helped to cultivate a good share of this township. Rozert J. ANDERSON, farmer and stock-raiser, now residing on section thirty- five, Arlington township, was born in Canada, July 1, 1855, and is a son of William and Alice (Lieper) Anderson. The father was engaged in farming at the time of his death. The mother is still living and resides in Ontario, Canada. They were of Scotch descent, and both were members of the Presbyterian church. Robert J. was born and reared on a farm in Canada, and received a com- mon-school education there. He resided with his parents until fifteen years of age, when he left home and started out for himself. He first spent five years sailing on the lakes, after which he lived four years in Canada, engag- ing in lumbering; thence he went to Minnesota, where he was engaged in lumbering six years. He came to Woodbury county in 1886 and commenced farming, purchasing 160 acres of land where he now resides. He aims to keep a good grade of stock, and the farm is also under a good state of culti- vation. Politically he is a republican. In 1888 he was united in marriage with Nellie Irish, and they have two children: Addie C. and Robert J. 844 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Wituram H. Barto, banker, Moville, is interested in the Farmers’ bank, in connection with R. M. McCarter. He was born in Perry county, Pa., April 6, 1859, and is a son of Isaac and Frances (Shellenberger) Barto, both natives of Pennsylvania, the father being a farmer in Montgomery county, Iowa, having moved to Iowa from Pennsylvania in 1875. Isaac Barto and wife are members of the Dunkard church, and the former is a republican in politics. William H. Barto resided with his parents in Perry county, Pa., until he was sixteen years of age, when he came with them to Iowa, where he resided until twenty-one years old. He then went to Sac county, Iowa, and was engaged in farming until the fall of 1888, when he moved to Woodbury county, and located in Moville, where he has since been engaged in the banking business. In 1879 Mr. Barto married Amanda M. McCarter, and they have two children: Irvin and Ida May. In politics he is a republican. A. B. Tuarcuer, editor of the Moville ‘Mail,’ was born in Kalida, Put- nam county, Ohio, August 14, 1860, a son of John T. and Jane (Dicus) Thatcher (a sketch of the former appears on another page of this work). Almon B. Thatcher came with his parents to Woodbury county in 1860, and resided with them in Wolf creek township until he was twenty-one years of age. He attended the public schools, and at the age of sixteen years he commenced to teach during the winters, and continued this until he was twenty-two years of age, at which time he started a newspaper at Lucky Valley, Woodbury county. From there he moved to Sloan, and pauline the Sloan “Star” for six years, which paper he founded. In 1889 he came to Moville, and took charge of the Moville ‘Mail,” on the first of August, and there he is still engaged. He was the first recorder in Moville, and was appointed justice of the peace for Arlington township in March, 1890, to which office he was re-elected in the fall of 1890, for a term of two years. In politics he is a republican. Socially, he is a member of the 1.0.0. F. August 28, 1881, Mr. Thatcher married Annie M. Ashby, and they have a family of four children: Harold, Llewellyn, Mabel and Grace. W. G. Harcourt Vernon, banker, Sioux City, was born in England, in October, 1860, and is the son of E. H. H. Vernon. He received his educa- tion at Uppingham school. In 1883 he left his native country for America, and upon his arrival here, located at Kingsley, Iowa, where he began the bank- ing business. He came to Sioux City in 1889, and holds the position of vice- president of the Corn Exchange National bank. In December, 1884, he married Helen Rebecca, daughter of J. W. Traer,: of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and they have issue, Evelyn Maude, born November 5, 1887. Mr. Vernon is a Free Mason, and belongs to the Episcopal church. Grorcs P. Day, cashier of the Merchants’ National bank, Sioux City, was born in Mona, Iowa, in 1860. He was sent to the University of Iowa to be GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 845 educated. For three years he held the position of book-keeper in the First | National bank, and was afterward teller for four years, until 1888. In that year the Merchants’ bank was organized as a private bank, and Mr. Day was made cashier. In 1890 the bank was reorganized under the name of the Merchants’ National bank, with E. W. Rice, president; E. B. Spaulding, vice-president; George P. Day, cashier; G. N. Swan, assistant cashier, and E. G. Burkam, William Wells, N. Tiedeman, Alexander Larson and T. J. Stone as directors. H. M. Baitey, president of the State Savings bank, Sioux City, was born among the hills of Vermont, at Rutland. His education was acquired at a New Haven (Conn.) Scientific school, from which he graduated at the age of twenty-one. His education ably fitted him for the banking business, into which he entered, holding the position of assistant cashier of the Security National bank of Sioux City, Iowa. November 1, 1889, the State Savings bank was organized) and Mr. Bailey was made president of this institution, with S. T. Davis, vice-president; D. L. Pratt, Jr., cashier; and Charles F. Haines, D. L. Pratt, Jr., Jeff. H. Cul- ver, C, C. Thelander, C. C. Wales, 8. T. Davis, and our subject, as directors. Rey. Timorny Tracy is a native of Ireland. He was educated at Water- ford, Ireland, at Milwaukee, Wis., and Dubuque, Iowa. In September, 1880, he graduated from St. Joseph’s seminary, Dubuque, and was ordained by Bishop John Hennesy,on the above date, and after seven years’ pastorate at Maquoketa, Iowa, came to Sioux City in October, 1887, and presides over St. Mary’s Catholic church at this place. W. A. Kirer, county treasurer, Sioux City, is a son of David Kifer, who was a farmerand miller. W. A. was born in Washington township, near Dubuque, Iowa, August 7, 1860, where he received his instruction in the public schools. He chose as his occupation telegraphy, and held a position as operator on the Pennsylvania Central R. R., for five years, and after that came to Sioux City. He was elected to the position of county treasurer in 1889 by the democratic party, of which he is a member. He belongs to the Ancient Order of United Workmen, the Masonic and Royal Arcanum orders, and is an elder in the Grace Reformed church. May 2, 1889, he married Miss Lula B. Camp, and they have one little girl, named Hattie. E. R. Surrs, secretary and treasurer of the Union Loan & Trust Com- pany, Sioux City, is anative of Indiana. He was educated in Sioux City, to which place he came in 1866 when but a boy. He was one of the corpor- ators of the Union Loan & Trust Company, and was elected secretary and treasurer of the company, and has held the position ever since. This company has a capital of $1,000,000. The officers are George L. Joy, president; A. S. Garretson, vice-president; our subject, secretary and 846 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. treasurer, with George L. Joy, J. W. Ellis, William L. Joy, A. 8. Garretson and subject as directors. He is a member of the order of Knights of Pythias, also of the First Baptist church. In 1885 he married Angie E. Whit- ney, of Altoona, Ill., and they have one child, Zellah, now three years old. Towa Loan & Improvement Company, Sioux City. The president of this company is Mr. C. 8. McLaury, of Sheldon, Iowa, well known as a very shrewd financier. He is president of the First National bank and the Em- pire Loan and Investment company, of Sheldon, and holds the same position in two Lyons county banks. Mr. H. G. Fowler, of Hartford, Conn., is vice- president of this organization. The active management of affairs devolves on the secretary, John F. Ford, of Sioux City. Mr. Ford is a native of Ross county, Ohio, and came to Sioux City in 1887, and engaged in the real estate business. November 1, 1889, he was made secretary of the Loan & Improvement company. He is a member of the Masonic order and is an Odd Fellow. The capital of this company is $500,000, and they are engaged in negotiating farm loans, municipal bonds, and other first-class securities, and in buying and selling real estate in Sioux City. A. D. Hattocx, commercial agent for the Illinois Central railroad, Sioux City, was born in Port Jervis, Orange county, N. Y. He first entered the railroad business as a clerk at Waterloo, Iowa, in December, 1869, and he remained there six years. At the end of that time he removed to Le Mars and there served as agent for one year. He then removed to Cedar Falls, continuing in that place three years, and then for the same length of time was stationed at Fort Dodge. In 1883 he came to Sioux City as local agent, and while there was appointed by the Illinois Central railroad com- pany, as commercial agent for the road. December 14, 1875, he married Olivia Inman, and to them have been born four children—three girls and a boy. Mr. Hallock is a member of the Uni- tarian church, a Mason, member of the Chapter and Commandery, and also belongs to the K. of P. and A. O. U. W. A republican in politics. Austin I. Barcuetper, attorney at law, Sioux City, son of Hon. Ira D. and Anna W. Batchelder, natives of America, was born at Beverly, Mass., in 1864. He is a graduate of Harvard and Yale Law schools, and was admit- ted to the Connecticut bar in 1889. He practiced ten months in his own state and then removed to Sioux City in 1890. He is engaged in the prac- tice of law, making a specialty of patents and patent litigation exclusively. Cuartes A. Lampert, harness dealer, Sioux City, was born here January 28, 1858, a son of F. J. Lambert, who was a notary public in this place. He was one of the first white boys born here, and his entire life has been spent in Sioux City. He had the educational advantages afforded by the GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 847 public schools. When quite young he learned the harness-making trade, and has been in business for himself twelve years. Mr. Lambert stands among the best harness manufacturers of Sioux City, and gives employment to three men besides his own labor. In 1889 he was married to Mina, daughter of Christian Schultz, of this city. Cuartes E, Gorrz, assistant postmaster, Sioux City, is of German origin, and was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1849. His father was Adam Goetz, a lumber dealer of that city. Our subject was educated in the eastern part of Iowa, and commenced his business career as a merchant. In 1869 he came to Sioux City, and followed the mercantile business until 1871. During the spring of 1871 he removed to Beloit, Lyons county, Iowa, and there opened a store, with Thomas Thorson as partner, and remained at that place eight years. In the same year (1871) he was elected county auditor, and was married .to Miss Gora Thorson, April 14, 1874. For eight years Mr. Goetz held the position of station agent for the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul R. R., at Beloit, Iowa, and Canton, 8. Dak., and while at the latter place was a mem- ber of the board of education five years, and a member of the city council two years. In 1888 he returned to Sioux City from Canton, S. Dak., and was engaged in the real estate office of McFaul & Co. In September, 1889, he was appointed assistant postmaster of Sioux City, which position he now holds, he having filled the office of postmaster at Beloit for five years. He is a member of the Masonic Blue Lodge Chapter. In politics he is a repub- lican. He is a believer in the doctrines held by, and is a member of, the Con- gregational church. A. Hour, manager of the Sioux City Plow company, forms the subject of this notice. Nine years ago this company was organized, the original found- ers being Andrew Peterson, Oloff Hult, N. G. Osterman, A. O. Berg, C. A. Brostrom, August Hult, L. C. Johnson, Andrew Jackson and A. H. Brown. The ground site of the building occupied by this company is 200x150 feet. The building is a two-story brick structure, the main room being sixty by eighty feet, and the smaller one forty by sixty feet. They are engaged in manufacturing plows, cultivators and harrows, employing twenty-five men. This business has steadily increased since its organization, and their trade extends over western Iowa, South Dakota, northern and eastern Nebraska and Minnesota. Five gentlemen now constitute the board and stockholders. A» Holt, secretary, treasurer and manager of this company, is a native of Illinois, where he remained until twenty years of age. He was educated in the public schools, and began his career as a railroader. He afterward en- gaged in the lumber and hardware business. Mr. Holt came westward to Yankton, Dak., in 1875, and then removed to Sioux City in 1878. He has 45 848 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. been employed two years and a half by this company, and is also interested in the lumber business in Dakota. He belongs to the Masonic order H. C. McNert & W. E. Powe xt, real estate and insurance agents, Sioux City. Mr. Powell is a native of Covington, Ky., and came to Sioux City about fifteen years ago. At that time he was engaged in dealing in stock and mercantile business. He has been engaged in the insurance and real estate business with Mr. McNeil for five years. Their insurance business extends over Nebraska, Dakota and Iowa, and throughout Sioux City, and they are actively engaged in buying and selling real estate. Mr. Powell has been.a member of the city council since 1882. He be- longs to the Masonic order, and is democratic in his political views. The companies which this firm represent are the Insurance Company of North America; Liverpool, London and Globe; Home; Royal; Phoenix; Commer- cial Union; Norwich Union; Traders; Franklin; Western; Farmers; Mil- waukee Mechanics; American; City of London; Peoples; Security and Fi- delity and Casualty. Dr. 8. C. Hatcs, dentist, Sioux City, is a native of Vermont, and was born in 1854. After attending the regular schools of his native state, he determined to become a dentist, and commenced the study of that profession in 1878. In 1880 he came to Sioux City and opened an office here, where he has since remained. He is a member of the Hawkeye club, and has been initiated into the secrets of the Knights of Pythias, and the Order of Elks. W. L. Honprt, druggist, Sioux City, was born in Olpe, Germany, in May, 1858. In 1871 he left his native land, and, coming to this country, attended the Chicago College of Pharmacy, from which he obtained his diploma in 1878. The following year he moved to Sioux City, having spent the intervening time as clerk in Chicago. In 1884 he embarked in the drug business for himself, and has made such a success of his venture that he now has four men in his employment. He is an excellent chemist as well, and received a medal for proficiency in that science, while attending the Chemical college. E. E. Wicurman, dentist, Sioux City, was born in Ohio in 1857. When but sixteen years of age he entered a dentist’s office, and since that time has devoted his whole life to that profession. He began the practice of his pro- fession in Ohio, and moving westward was engaged in practice in Chicago for a year and a half. He then moved to Iowa in 1878, and located in Clarence. From there he moved to Monroe, Iowa, and from there to Huron, Dak., where he remained until 1887, when he came to Sioux City, and has been engaged in the practice of his profession at this place since that time. He belongs to the Masonic order. Aveusr Anpersen, of foreign ancestry, was born in Sweden, July 5, 1854. He came to America in 1870, and came at once to Sioux City, where for nine GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 849 years he was engaged in railroading. After that he engaged in stock-rais- ing a short distance out of Sioux City. In 1883 he commenced his present business enterprise, that of furniture dealing, and now occupies three floors, 50x150 feet deep, of the fine new block known as the Massachusetts building, corner of Fourth and Jackson streets. He is the oldest member of the Swedish Augustana church in Sioux City. J. J. Jorpan, county auditor, Sioux City, son of Jeremiah and Anna Jor- dan, of Irish descent, was born September 12, 1857, and was elected to the official position which he holds in Woodbury county, by his democratic friends in November, 1887. He filled the position with such satisfaction that the party re-elected him in 1889. He was born in Schenectady, N. Y., but received his education in La Porte and Elkhart, Ind. He is a machinist by trade, but has had quite a varied business career. He selected Sioux City as his home, and settled there in 1881, and September 8, of the same year, married Mary Reilley. F. X. Basvus, contractor, Sioux City, was born in Canada in 1842. He received an, education at Brothers college, Montreal. After serving his apprenticeship in New York, he began contracting in Springfield, Mass., twenty-five years ago. Mr. Babue came to Sioux City in 1875, and has since resided here. He had the contract for the construction of the Peavey Grand Opera house, the Metropolitan block, the Major block, Krumann block, Badgerow block, Tacoma block, Hampton block, Merchants Club house, Toy building, and other buildings throughout the city. Mr. Babue gives employ- ment to some forty men. EH. C. WakeFIELp, contractor, Sioux City, a son of Jonathan and Calista Wakefield, is a native of New York state, where he was born in Essex county, but when a child of five years came with his parents to Scott county, Iowa. He received his education in the public schools. When nineteen years of age he learned the carpenter trade, and for ten years was a ship carpenter. For five years he lived in Dubuque, where he had charge of the construction of bridges and buildings for the railroad company, having in the meantime continued house carpentering. After leaving Dubuque he followed farming for two years, and in 1880 left that occupation and came to Sioux City and took charge of the construc- tion of bridges and buildings for the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha railroad company, and built the first two winter bridges across the Missouri river. He remained in their employ for a year and a half, and then began contracting for himself. He built the Linseed Oil Mill, the Water Works building, Planters house, Martin block, Hogan building, Hills build- ing, and many residences in the city. He also built the Minnekota hotel at Hot Springs, Dak., and Congregational church, Sioux City, and superin- tended the building of the Hotel Garretson of this city. 850 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. He then formed a partnership with D. W. Townsend, and with him was engaged in building the Security National bank, Haakinson Packing house, the trestle work of the approach to the Missouri bridge, and many of the finest residences throughout the city. Mr. Wakefield is now engaged on the stone work of the Bay State and Boston blocks, and has contract for the Public Library building. November 30, 1871, he married Sadie E. Hen- thorn, who passed from this life January 7, 1886. Frank Cuarg, contractor, Sioux City, a son of William B. and Sarah A. Clark, was born in New Hampshire, January 24, 1856. He learned the carpentering trade when but fifteen years old. He has been a contractor for six years. Mr. Clark came to Sioux City in 1880, and has built many fine buildings, among them being the Bolton block, the Commercial bank build- ing, the Tremont block, and many handsome private residences. He is now engaged on the work for the Stove works at Leeds. June 14, 1888, he mar- ried Anna J. Falkenhainer. Joun A. Swanson, contractor and builder, Sioux City. In the life of our subject can easily be traced those qualities that go so far to make up the strength of this nation—pluck, industry and uprightness, combined with busi- ness sagacity. He was born at Asheda, near Vexid, Sweden, December 7, 1858, and there remained until 1879, when he came to America to better his condition. He arrived in Sioux City without a dollar, and later on, when he married, he borrowed money with which to buy his furniture. Twelve years later we find that he ranks among Sioux City’s leading con- tractors and builders, as the following monuments to his skill will amply testify. He was the contractor for N. C. Sorlie’s building, Rice & Cochran block, Peter Kappes block, F. C. Thompson block, Lerch block, City Water Works building, G. D. Perkins’ residence, Bank Exchange block, John Hori- gan’s block, Sioux City & Pacific railroad passenger depot, express building and the freight house for same company, the Electric street railway power house, Schenkberg wholesale grocery block, Trinity English Lutheran church, Bancroft school building, F. H. Hogan building, Friendship hotel, Hose house for city fire department, Sergeant’s Bluff school building, Close Brothers block, at Sibley, Iowa, Calumite hotel at Pipe Stone, Minn., and many beauti- ful residences throughout Sioux City, besides the mason work and plastering on residences too numerous to mention, and his own brick residence at the corner of Eleventh and Jackson streets. He was one of the corporators of the Seiuaantiy Bluff & Sioux City Terra Cotta, Tile & Brick Co., and the treasurer and manager of the same for three years; one of the corporators of the Scandia Loan & Trust Co., and one of the board of directors, and an executive, and is also vice-president and a director of the Scandia Building association, an organization that has GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 851 proved itself the best paying of any in this part of the country, and which has been the means whereby many thousand families in this city have pro- cured their own homes. Mr. Swanson was married February 25, 1881, to Miss Annie Thompson, anative of Norway, who came to America in 1879 with ber parents. Her father, Lars Thompson, died in 1881, but her mother is still living. Mr. Swanson’s father resides in Stockholm; his mother is dead. Our subject’s family now consists of two children, viz.: Algoth W. L. and Emil Romanus. In 1887 they had the misfortune to lose three children with diphtheria. Mr. Swanson is a member of the I. O. O. F. and K. of P., and is a democrat in politics. He and his wife take an active part in the Lutheran church, of which they are members. Hans Leaner, city assessor, Sioux City, is a native of Sweden, and was born March 8, 1846. He came to America in 1872, and in that same year came to Sioux City. For ten years Mr. Leander was employed as foreman by the St. Croix Lumber company, and for the same number of years was a carpenter. He was married to Betsey Larson, and to this union were born six chil- dren: Nellie, Emily, Jennie (deceased), Luther Nathaniel, Serphey, Sophia (deceased). Mr. Leander has been assessor for the city for the past three years, and is now serving the fourth, which position he ably fills. He is also, at the present time, contractor for water mains. He is a member of the order of Odd Fellows and Knights of Pythias, and belongs to the English Lutheran church. It has been entirely through his own efforts that our subject has met with success in business. Henry Mierxe, was born in Prussia, in 1834. He came to this city from New York city in 1863. After settling here, Mr. Mielke engaged in farm- ing for fifteen years, and for eight consecutive years the grasshoppers de- stroyed his entire crops. He then engaged in the hotel business for eight years. For the past two years Mr. Mielke has been dealing in musical in- struments, in partnership with his son-in-law, Mr. Pelle, but has now retired. He fought against the Indians in the early days of this country, under Gen. Sully. He was joined in marriage to Caroline Gulouff, who was born in 1840, and to them were born seven children: Charles, Lydia, Julia, Mary, Edward, George (now in Chicago) and William. His success in life has been through his own perseverance and industry. He is a member of the Unitarian church; a democrat in politics. J. J. S. Minuspaves, laundryman, Sioux City, was born in Middletown, Orange county, N. Y., in 1852. He began his business career in Kansas City, Mo., and remained there three years. He was then employed by a 852 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. railroad company until 1880, when he came to Sioux City, and August 15, 1885, opened the Millspaugh steam laundry, and has since continued in that business. He purchased the James Lynch building for his laundry work, and receives a liberal patronage. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias and the Railroad Conductors organization, and is a republican, politically. Jenzinson Bros., brick contractors, Sioux City. This firm consists of three brothers: William, Edmund and Albert. They are all natives of Canada, and Edmund is the youngest. They came to Sioux City in 1872. This firm has had charge of the brick work of the Peavey Grand Opera house, Ballou block, the Hotel Gordon, the Krumann block, the Wales block, the Lexington block just completed, the tile works, the Leeds Stove works, and other prominent buildings. Edmund and William are members of the Masonic order. Syverson & Jounson, contractors, Sioux City. Both members of this firm are natives of Norway. Mr. Syverson was born in 1852, and Mr. John- son in 1850. The former has been thirteen years in America, and came to Sioux City in June, 1885. Mr. Johnson came to Sioux City in November, 1871, and was employed by Mr. Halseth for eight years. Mr. Syverson built and rebuilt the Union Stock Yards and Packing houses, and superintended the entire work, and Mr. Johnson was foreman of the construction of the Silberhorn packing house. Mr. Syverson, in 1889, had the contract for building Mr. Garretson’s ranch barns for cattle, etc. These were 40x320 feet, and 60x575 feet, corn crib 386x180, and a two-story mace house 24x54 feet. This partnership was formed in 1890, and July 28, 1890, they were given the contract for the Corn Palace of 1890, which was the largest and finest that had yet been built. They have also built some of the finest resi- dences in the state. D. P. Cueney, hotel proprietor, Sioux City, was born in New Hampshire, July 27, 1841. His early life was spent in his native state, until at the age of twenty-one, he enlisted in the Federal army, in Company E, Twelfth New Hampshire volunteers, and was in the service three years, having fought in all the engagements on the Potomac, James river, and in Virginia. He re- turned to New Hampshire with his regiment. He then removed to Dixon, IIl., and took charge of a hotel, and from that place removed to Sioux City, in May, 1878. He became proprietor of Cheney’s Depot hotel, and has since re- mained such. He was married to Miss Henrietta Rowell March 3, 1864, and to them were born three children, only one of whom, Berenice, is now living. The wife and mother died September 28, 1889, from the effects of nervous pros- tration, produced by the falling of Rock river bridge at Dixon, Ill., where forty-two persons were drowned. He is a member of the G. A. R., anda republican in polities. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 853 - C. Borman, proprietor of the Colwmbia hotel, Sioux City, was born in the Fatherland in 1826. He came in America in 1854 and located at Johns- town, Pa., where he followed his trade, that of a shoemaker. He came to Sioux City in 1868, and worked at his occupation until 1870, when he built the Columbia house, and has been its proprietor ever since. He was mar- ried to Fredericka, daughter of Charles Keller, in 1854, and they became the parents of five children: Lena, Mena, Ellis, Charlotte and O.C. As- sisted by his wife, Mr. Borman has been quite successful. He is a member of the German Lutheran church, while he takes the democratic side in polities. Payette & Comean, contractors and carpenters, Sioux City. Joseph Payette, the senior member of this firm, was born in Canada in 1845. He came to America in 1863, and located in Troy, N. Y., where he engaged in carpentering. In 1866 he removed to Sioux City, where he entered into partnership with Mr. Babue, a contractor. This partnership lasted eight years, previous to which partnership Mr. Payette was engaged in contracting by himself. M. A. Comean, the junior member of this firm, is also a native of Canada, where he was born in 1848. He came to America in 1865, and settled in Massachusetts. In 1878 he came to Sioux City. Mr. Comean has been en- gaged as a contractor for ten years, and has built a number of school-houses about Sioux City, and many handsome residences throughout the city. This partnership was formed in March, 1890, and, with such enterprising men as members, is certain to meet with success. J. F. Gzaren, plumber, Sioux City, was born in Chicago in 1857. At the early age of sixteen years he learned the plumbing trade. In the fall of 1880 he came to Sioux City, and for seven years was employed as a journey- man plumber. Inthe spring of 1887 he began business for himself. He has a liberal share of the plumbing business of the city. He executed the plumb- ing work for the St. Joseph hospital, D. T. Hedges’, J. H. Nason’s, and Mr. Fletcher’s residences, besides that of many other prominent buildings. Mr. Gearen gives employment to thirteen men, and gives his own entire time and attention to his business. In 1885 he married Miss Mina Griffin, of this county. He is a member of the Roman Catholic church, and a liberal democrat in politics. Ben Davinson, Sioux City, was born in September, 1858, in Sluzk, Rus- sia. In 1880 Ben Davidson resided in a Russia town named Kovno, where he held a position as chief clerk with a rich concern, which had large gov- ernment contracts. The merit of his work soon brought about jealousy with the other employes, and Ben was discharged. He knew what he could do if he had an opportunity, and at once prepared to come out to this great country, 854 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. and take the chances of success. On June 28, 1880, he landed in New York, friendless, and without a dollar, but at once set out to find work, and three days later he found employment in the India rubber comb factory, in Col- lege Point, Long Island. He worked hard for sixty to seventy-five cents a day, but he was learning the ways of the people of the new country, and felt satisfied, but not for very long, as he heard of the west, and decided to try it, and work his way up. He procured a quantity of tinware, and peddled these goods from town to town, until he reached Omaha, where he was taken sick, and had to stop. After a three months’ illness, he started out again, with $8 worth of the same stuff, and on July 10, 1881, he reached Sioux City, where he decided to make his home, as the kind city mayor, W. Z. Swartz, had given him per- mission to peddle without license, and F. H. Peavey, then in the wholesale hardware business, had given him a small credit, but the main thing was that he was attracted with the city, so he resolved to anchor here, and make his mark, if such a thing were possible. For two years he sold merchandise from house to house, then he bought a horse and wagon, and started out in the neighboring country, where he made large acquaintances and lots of friends. He saved the nickles and dimes, and soon found dollars. Mean- while, he sent after his brother Dave and sister Sippe, and in August, 1883, he rented a little storeroom, eight by twenty, on the corner of Fourth and Jennings streets, where he displayed the goods he was carrying around, and started out in the American way. He had hand bills printed, and gave them to everyone that passed the store, and scattered them all around the city, and in two months the store was too small, and he was compelled to move into larger quarters, at the corner of Fourth and Jackson ‘streets, in a room twenty by forty, where he enjoyed a very big trade. The room became too small again, and in May, 1884, he removed to the corner of Fourth and Nebraska streets, where at first he occupied the corner, 25x100, but six months later he took in the next room, 25x100 more, and twelve months later he took the second floor and basement, and Davidson’s corner was the most popular store of any in the city. The immense room, all in one, got to be too small for the business, and in January he rented the store at the corner of Fourth and Pierce streets, 40x100, and leased the ground back of the building, the same amount of space, and on this he erected a building, remodeled the one on the corner, and April 16, 1891, the great store of Davidson Bros. is not only the finest, but is the most popular, and central shopping place of Sioux City. On July 16, 1888, Ben Davidson married Miss Ida Frank, daughter of A. H. Frank, of this city, a girl of eighteen, and to-day Ben, Ida and the two-year old, beautiful, little Thressa are as happy a family as there is in Sioux City. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 855 The Sioux City Daily “Times,” of April 16, 1891, had in an editorial the following to say: Truth is stranger than fiction. The “Times” has the history of at least a dozen Sioux City men, the tales of whose lives would make absorbing books, if the general reader could be- lieve them. We have given a brief account of the Davidson Bros., Ben and Dave. The “Times” has no hesitation in calling attention to its remarka- ble success and statement, for they are true. Right here we have an illus- tration of the boundless opportunities which this country, especially the west- ern part, offers energetic young men. Just think of a man coming to Sioux City ten years ago, a foreigner, unable to speak our language, and com- pletely ignorant of the ways of the country, with a pack on his back, who is to-day one of the leading merchants of the leading city of the state, and whose success seems ephemeral, but has been proved. It reads like a fairy tale, but it is simply a story of hard work and native ability. Frep Kyzerss, horse shoer, Sioux City. Few men in this business have become so proficient as Mr. Kneebs, and throughout the city and county, he is recognized as the most reliable man in the city engaged in his business. He is a native of England, born fifty-three years ago. In 1855 he settled in Wisconsin, then moved to Iowa, and as early as 1870 came to Sioux City. At the age of fourteen he learned his trade, and has made a specialty of horse- shoeing. He married Mary Bright, of Wisconsin, who bore him three chil- dren: Elva, Mary and Nettie. Through hard work and perseverance Mr. Kneebs has been able to build up a lucrative practice, and is the owner of a fine home in the city. M. W. Srarxs, photographer, Sioux City, was born in Bradford, Lee county, Ill., in December, 1851; a son of Charles F. and Rachel (Hulbert) Starks, who were natives of Pennsylvania. In 1872 he engaged as an ap- prentice in photography, which business he has since followed. In October, . 1888, he came from St. Louis to Sioux City, and opened the Genelli gallery, and has been successful in building up the largest trade in the city, and has a reputation for fine work throughout the adjoining towns. Mr. Starks was married in January, 1884, to Miss Hattie I. Harvey, daughter of Leonard and Cornelia (Whittlesey) Harvey, living in Kendall county, Ill. One son, Henry Harvey, born June 138, 1887, is their only child. Mr. Starks is a member of Sioux Lodge No. 14, K. of P. Joun F. Means, proprietor of the Pearl steam laundry, Sioux City, was born in Indiana, December 28, 1855, a son of Otho and Catharine (Crouse) Means. His grandparents on his father’s side were of Scotch descent, and on his mother’s they were Pennsylvania Germans. He came to Woodbury gounty, Iowa, in 1880, and December 25, 1884, married Alice Hose, of Dal- 856 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. las Center, Iowa. They have one child, Samuel Otho, born in Danbury, in 1885. His wife’s grandparents were of French and German descent. Mr. Means came to Sioux City in 1888, and a short time since became identified with the Pearl steam laundry, which was the first of the kind in Sioux City, and until one year ago, the only one having mangle machinery. Besides giving his own energies to the business, he has twelve persons in his employ. He has made this laundry rank with the best in Sioux City. He belongs to the Masonic order, being a member of the Due Guard Lodge, No. 384, Danbury, Iowa. Freperick Spencer, boiler-maker, Sioux City, is a native of England, having been born there in county Sussex, in 1837. When fifteen years of age, he went to work in the dock yards of the British government, to learn the trade of a boiler-maker. He worked at this occupation in that country until 1867, when he came to America, settling in Dubuque, where he re- mained seven years. In 1882 he came to Sioux City, and was employed as foreman of the boiler-makers, in the shop of the Sioux City Foundry and Machine company. When this company moved their works to Leeds, Mr. Spencer severed his connection with them, and entered into business for him- self. He built all the lard tanks for the packing-houses, and the greater number of the large boiler plants in the city. In 1857 he married Emma, daughter of John Bagshaw, master rope-maker in one of her Majesty dock yards, England. Mr. Spencer is a member of the Knights of Pythias. Louis Kerrizson, plumber, Sioux City, was born in Denmark in 1848. He was educated in his native country, and when fourteen years of age com- menced the study of mechanical engineering, and this has been his occupa- tion for twenty-two successive years. In 1870 he came to America, and located in Chicago, where he remained until 1874, when he moved to Sioux City. For five years after coming here he was employed by the Sioux City Foundry and Machine Co. as a journeyman, then was appointed foreman, which position he held for seven years. He then entered into business with R. E. Purslow & Co., which partnership existed three years. April 15, 1889, he started in business for himself, doing mechanical engineering and a general steam heating and plumbing business. He was appointed superintendent of the construction of the Water Works plant. In religious faith he affiliates with the Lutheran church, of which denomination he is treasurer; votes with the republican party, and is a member of the Odd Fellows. Isaac Newron Srone was born in Madison county, N. Y., July 20, 1839, being the second of five children born to Anson and Cornelia (Adams) Stone, natives of Madison county, N. Y. They left there in 1844 and moved to Fort Atkinson, Wis., where Isaac received his entire education, attending the GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 857 public schools until twenty years of age, when he engaged in teaching in connection with the nursery business for the following ten years. He then abandoned the profession of teaching, and gave his entire time to his nursery. Mr. Stone originated and introduced the famous Stone’s Hardy blackberry and the encouragement he received from it, and his general nurs- ery business, kept him there until the spring of 1884, when he took a trip of investigation to Sioux City. Being well satisfied with the future outlook of this place, he at once engaged in the same business here, and in the following year returned to Fort Atkinson, disposed of his possessions there, and returned with his family to Sioux City to attend to his already well-established business. Here he has been engaged ever since, each year bringing him an increased patronage. At present his intent is that of disposing of his nursery and entering into the real estate business. Mr. Stone was married September 23, 1862, to Susan L., daughter of E. P. and Lavina Dye, of Madison county, N. Y. Both are members of the First Baptist church. Mr. Stone votes the repub- lican ticket. Joun E. Topp was born in Montgomery county, Ill., May 5, 1850, and is the son of Willard and Emeline (Dryer) Todd, who were among the pioneer settlers of the above named qounty. His early education was received in the public schools there, which he attended until eighteen years of age, pre- paring for college. He entered the Ashby university at Greencastle, Ind., but after one year’s attendance he abandoned his studies in order to satisfy a ‘western fever,” and came to Sioux City, where he worked at the car- penter’s trade for the following six years. He then engaged in the service of W. E. Caton, as contractor, and went to Rosebud Agency, Neb., where the firm was putting up a government building; later on he returned, and in the spring of 1879 he engaged as a bridge foreman in the service of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul railroad company, with which he remained four years, then returned to Sioux City to engage in his present occupation, that of house mover. His work has not only given him a reputation in Sioux City second to none, but his serv- ices are in demand in the surrounding towns. Mr. Todd was united in marriage May 5, 1877, to Miss Florence E. Haw- ley, of Sioux City, and this union has been blessed with five children: Mabel, Clarence, Arthur, Ray and Ethel. The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Todd is identified with the Masonic fra- ternity, and votes the republican ticket. Frep Muncnrats, Jr., hotel-keeper, Sioux City. Of the twenty-one children born to Fred and Gertrude (Krudwig) Munchrath, our subject is one of the seven who are living. He was one of the first children born in 858 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Sioux City, his parents having settled here in 1858. He attended the pub- lic schools of the time until sixteen years of age, when he began to earn his living, working at lathing and plastering until 1884. January 27, 1885, he married Mary Fortman, a native of Germany, and they immediately engaged in the hotel business and took the Tremont hotel, which he now runs. Although a young man, Mr. Munchrath shows great ability as a landlord, as is well attested by his hotel, which at all times has all the guests for whom he has accommodations. Cuartes J. CHAMBERLIN is a son of George W. and Martha Chamberlin, and was born in Sioux City, August 18,1858. His parents were both natives of Vermont. His father came to Sioux City in 1854, with Dr. John K. Cook, on a government survey, and was killed by a cyclone in 1881. Our subject ‘attended the high school until seventeen years of age, when he accepted a position with the First National bank, where he remained five years. For the following two years he was employed by the Weare Cattle company in Montana, and on his return to Sioux City in September, 1887, bought out George E. Westcott’s livery stable, which he still owns, and which is con- sidered one of the finest stables in the northwest. Politically he is a demo- crat. Erastus D. Aten is a son of Amzi and Flizabeth (Johnson) Allen, na- tives of Morris county, N. J., and was born January 7, 1845, in that county. When about four years old they moved to Walnut Grove, where our subject’s early education was obtained, and where he attended school until sixteen years old. He then worked one year on the farm for his parents, then left home and came to Morristown, N. J., where he served three years’ appren- ticeship to a sign painter and decorator. He remained with him until 1866, then went to St. Louis, Mo., where he served one year under the instruction of a very skillful decorator; he then returned to Morristown and established himself in business, which he con- ducted until 1879, when he sold out to accept a position in a trade school, which the government was contemplating establishing at the Rose Bud In- dian agency in Dakota, but which never materalized. This is said to be the only appointment of a mechanic ever proposed by the government, coming through the work of Carl Schurz, then secretary of the interior. The following year he returned to Morristown and engaged in business again, remaining there until the fall of 1882, when he established himself in business in Sioux City. Since his residence here he has done the decorat- ing of the finest buildings in the city, his skill being so pronounced that it led to his being selected to do the decoration on the first Corn Palace in 1887, and also the one of 1888, which was much larger and finer than the first. In 1889, at the installation of President Harrison, a train of cars was GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 859 fitted out at Sioux City, decorated entirely with corn, under his direction. This train visited all the important cities in the east, and everywhere was pronounced the most novel and finest decorated train ever attempted. When the people of Ft. Worth, Tex., were seeking an artist to do the decoration of the Spring Palace in 1889, our subject was chosen. In 1890 another, which was nearly twice the size of the one preceding it, was built, and Mr. Allen did the work on that also. In 1890, when Sioux City’s third Corn Palace was contemplated, he was again chosen to do the work. This was the grandest and finest of any ever erected. The peculiarity of this work has reached such a high artistic standard, that it has made his name famous throughout the world. November 7, 1866, Mr. Allen married Almira Louisa Valentine, a native of New Jersey, and two children have been born to them: Minnie and Ed- ward. Mr. Allen is a member of the M. E. church, and is known as a very prominent Mason, having filled for five terms the office of worshipful master of his lodge, one in New Jersey, and four successive years in Sioux City, besides offices in the chapter and commandery of Knight Templars. Davip A. Wrut1ams, hotel proprietor, Sioux City, is a son of Daniel and Margaret (Reese) Williams, natives of Wales, where their ancestors have lived for a great many years. David was born in Pennsylvania, September 27, 1846, but while he was yet an infant his parents moved to Pittsburgh, where he attended the public schools until he was eleven years of age. He then went to Iowa, and there enlisted in Company D, of the Ninth Iowa cavalry, in which he served two years and a half. When he received his discharge he returned to Iowa and engaged in stock- raising for the next three years in Marshall county. He decided to engage in the hotel business, so sold out his stock, and after running hotels in several places in the state, finally located in Sioux City, where he built the hotel Garretson, one of the finest hotels in the state. On October 1, 1878, he mar- ried Miss Lizzie H. Martin, of Columbus, Ohio. He is a member of the G. A. R., K. P., and a Thirty-second degree Mason. Micuazt J. Ditton, hotel proprietor, Sioux City, was born in county Clare, Ireland, May 17, 1852, where his father, Martin, prior to his coming to America, was engaged in farming. They immigrated to America in the spring of 1853, settling on a farm near Dayton, Ohio, in which city the edu- cation of our subject was conducted. In the spring of 1870 he came west, settling at Sioux City. The first three years of his residence here he was engaged in several pursuits, but principally in railroading and steamboating on the Missouri river. ‘In the fall of 1873 he abandoned railroading, with a view to farming, and took up a homestead in Canton county, Dak., where he remained but one season, then sold his right, and again returned to Sioux City. 860 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. In 1881 he bought out the Central house, and conducted this hotel for four years. Wishing to improve his location, he sold out, and bought the Planter house property, of which place he is still manager. In June, 1873, Mr. Dillon married Miss Annie C. McKenny. To this union have been born five children, namely: Mamie, Joseph, Michael, Annie and Robert. Mr. Dillon and family are members of the Roman Catholic church, and in polit- ical views he sides with the democratic party. CuarLes Bornscuien was born in Saxony, Germany, July 7, 1846, where his parents, Carl and Louisa (Dackert) Bornschien, were farmers. He at- tended the schools there until fifteen years old, when he went to Leipzig, Saxony, where he worked in a hotel three years, then went to Bremen, Ger- many, and Hesse, Prussia, remaining at‘each place but a short time. Later on he went to Hanover, where, after working one year in a hotel, he was called back to his old home, to serve his time in the service of the German Army. His father being an ex-army officer, he was able to get our subject mustered out before his time had expired, in order that he might accompany the family to America, where they landed June 28, 1866, and immediately went to Davenport, Iowa, where he remained until 1878. In that year he removed to Sioux City and did general labor for some time, then kept a private boarding house, and later on engaged in the hide and fur business, which he conducted until 1882. He was city assessor for a time, and was employed in various ways until 1888, when he established him- self in a billiard hall, which he has conducted ever since. On June 19, 1868, Mr. Bornschien married Miss Frederica Clauson, of Germany. Seven children were born to this union, viz.: Charles, Mary, Freda, Lillie, Ida, Fred and Willie. The family are members of the Ger- man Lutheran church. Mr. Bornschien is a member of the K. of P. lodge, and in politics is a democrat. Exzert H. Huszarp, attorney at law, Sioux City, was born August 19, 1849, at Rushville, Ind., and is the son of Judge A. W. Hubbard, whose biography and portrait will be found elsewhere in this volume. He gradu- ated at Yale college in 1872, and soon after came to Sioux City, where he read law and was admitted to the bar in 1874. He is now a member of the firm of Wright & Hubbard, and commands an extensive and lucrative prac- tice. He served as a member of the lower house in the Nineteenth general assembly of Iowa, having been elected on the republican ticket, and dis- charged his duties with credit to himself and his constituency. On June 6, 1882, Mr. Hubbard married Miss Eleanor H., daughter of Nathaniel R. and Charlotte Kirtland Cobb. Mrs. Hubbard’s parents were respectively from Massachusetts and New York. Mr. Hubbard’s family includes two sons and a daughter, viz.: Elbert H., Charlotte and Lyle. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 861 Joun Apams Magovn, retired dairyman, Sioux City, was born January 19, 1828, in Somerville, Middlesex county, Mass., receiving his education there. In 1863 he came on a prospecting tour to Iowa, and returned in 1864 for his family and removed to Sioux City, where he opened a paint shop, the first of the kind in the city or Woodbury county. He continued this business for three years, then engaged in the dairy business, which he carried on from 1870 to 1890. He then sold his interest and since that time has lived a re- tired life. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M., having joined the order at Sioux City in 1868. He married Miss Ella C., daughter of Thomas and Martha W. Woodbury, of Somerville, Mass., December 12, 1853. By this union there were three sons and one daughter, two of whom are still living, John A., Jr., and Har- riet A., the latter, wife of Wm. Smith of Sioux City, and the former, assistant cashier in one of the principal banks of Sioux City. Mrs. Magoun died April 16, 1884, at Sioux City. Later, Mr. Magoun married Miss Elizabeth Muel- bach of Sioux City, by which union there is one son, Walter C. Joun Franxuin ALBRIGHT, county treasurer, Le Mars, is a native of Iowa, having been born in Charlotte, Clinton county, December 6, 1861. His fa- ther, Benjamin Franklin, and his grandfather, Emanuel Albright, were born in Juniata county, Pa., of German descent. His mother, Mary Albright, is a native of Ontario, Canada, of French and Irish parentage. The parents now reside in Grant township, this county, where they settled in 1871. John Albright is the second of their four children, and was in his tenth year when they came to Plymouth county. He was educated in the common schools, and gave his attention to farming, till his election to his present of- fice in 1889. He had previously served Grant township as assessor, and as- sumed his present duties in January, 1890. Mr. Albright has always affili- ated with the democratic party, and is a member in good standing of the Roman Catholic church. In June, 1890, he was married at Sioux City, to Miss Susie Pierce Mallon, a native of Dubuque county, this state. Henry Ricuarpson, farmer, P. O. Kingsley, residing in section seventeen, Elkhorn township, was born in Westmoreland county, England, December 23, 1832, a son of John and Mary (Hornsby) Richardson, both natives of England. The father was a farmer and gardener, which business he followed until his death. Our subject resided with his parents until 1857, when he took passage for America, and located near Buffalo, N. Y., and worked on a farm for a short time. In the spring of 1858 he went to Pennsylvania, and worked in the lumber mills one year, and in 1859 went to Lafayette county, Wis., and engaged in mining until 1864. About this time gold was discov- ered in Montana, so he went there and mined until 1868, then went to Mis- souri, and thence to Illinois. 862 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. In 1869 he returned to his former home in Lafayette county, Wis., and in 1880 came to Plymouth county, Iowa, and purchased eighty acres, whereon he now resides. Since then he has added 200 acres to his farm, and now keeps a good grade of stock in connection with his farming. Politically he is a republican, and is at present a trustee of Elkhorn town- ship, and has been school director four years. He is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance, of which he was the first president. Mr. Richardson married Ann Winskill, March 28, 1861, in Shelby county, Ill., and they have six children: Albert W., Joseph H., Sarah A., Walter W., Newton and Mary J. Mrs. Richardson has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal church since 1854. In 1889 she united with the United Brethren, but as there is now a Methodist Episcopal church convenient in Union township, she and five of the children have united with the Methodist Episcopal church. James McDouaatt, farmer, P. O. Struble, was born in Scotland, March 2, 1818, a son of Alexander and Margaret (Graham) McDougall. He was reared in Scotland, and received his education in the public schools of that place. He learned the carpenter’s trade early in life, but never made it his permanent occupation. He has been engaged in various lines of busi- ness, and has met with financial success. In 1832 he came to Canada, and in 1837 he went to Cincinnati, Ohio, and the same year to St. Louis, Mo., and engaged in railroading. In 1839 he went to La Salle county, Ill., and pur- chased eighty acres of land near Troy Grove, and remained there until 1846, when he went to Iowa county, Wis., and engaged in farming. In 1870 he came to Iowa, where he now owns 160 acres of land in sec- tion two, Grant township, ten miles from Le Mars. Besides owning a good farm in Grant township, he owns one of the best buildings in Le Mars, which is now occupied by the Security bank. In 1840 he married Annie Adeline Howard, of American birth, and they are the parents of six children: ‘Alexander, Matilda, Mary, James, Sarah and John. Politically he is a re- publican. Srias Suoemare, farmer, P. O. James, one of the prominent men of Hun- gerford township, Plymouth county, was born in Jackson county, Ohio, March 18, 1841, and is a'son of Parkason and Abigail (Null) Shoemate natives of Virginia. He was reared on a farm, attending the district school, and has made farming his business. March 12, 1868, he married Elizabeth, daughter of Samuel Yeager, of German origin. Their children are Stella J., Francis, May, Edgar, Adolphus, Clarence, Wallace, Rosie, Walter and Lillie. Mr. Shoemate is a republican in politics, and has been justice of the peace and trustee of Hungerford township. Jacos Rusrt, farmer, Le Mars, one of the pioneers of Plymouth county, was born at Baden, Germany, April 17, 1836, a son of Joseph and GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 863 Mary Rubel, who were born in about the same vicinity. He attended school there until he was about sixteen years of age, when he came to America, lo- cating at Newark, N. J., where he remained until 1867. He then removed to Elgin township, Plymouth county, Iowa, where he took up an eighty-acre homestead, in section thirty-four, where he has carried on general farming ever since. During the time that he has lived here, he has added to his farm, having at present 280 acres. Mr. Rubel was united in the bonds of matrimony with Miss Margaret, daughter of Maleo and Jane Clark, and four children have blessed their home: Joseph, William, George and Henry. Mr. Rubel is a member of the Catholic church, and in politics a democrat. Duncan McAuuster, farmer, P. O. Hinton, the fifth of eleven children born to James and Sarah McAllister, was born in Kings county, New Bruns- wick, Canada, November 14, 1823. His father was a native of Ireland, hav- ing been born in Belfast, while his mother was born in New Brunswick, where our subject was reared and received his education, attending school until he was fifteen years of age. He then commenced to learn the carpen- ter’s trade, which, with farming, was his occupation until November, 1867, when he removed to Council Bluffs, Iowa; remaining there but a short time, he went to Honey Creek, where for the winter he was engaged in falling timber. In the spring he went to Sioux City, where he followed his trade, that of a carpenter, until March, 1869, at which time he came to Plymouth county, and took a homestead of eighty acres in Liberty township. Here he carried on: general farming until about 1881, when he rented his farm and went to live with his son-in-law, who is a farmer in the same township, and now occupies his time at the carpenter’s trade. In December, 1845, he married Ann, daughter of William and Eleanor Madden, of New Brunswick. This union has been blessed with eight chil- dren, six of whom are still living. The names of their children, in the order of their birth, are John, Margaret, Sarah, Duncan (deceased), Eleanor, Will- iam, Mary, and a baby that died. In political questions Mr. McAllister takes the views advocated by the democratic party. He is a member of the Roman. Catholic church. Ourver Kine, farmer, Adaville, Johnson township, is one of the old pio- neers of this district, and was born at Mt. Vernon, Ohio, February 5, 1843, a son of Samuel and Ruth King, of Whiteside county, ll. He received his early education in the district school in Whiteside county, and when the war broke out enlisted in the Eighth Illinois cavalry, with which he served eighteen months. After his discharge he worked on the farm for his father, until the fall of 1867, when he attended the Illinois Soldiers’ college for nine months. 46 864 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. January 1, 1867, he married Olive Ann Heaton, of Whiteside county, where they lived on a farm until the following spring, when they came to Liberty township, Plymouth county, and took up 160 acres of land, in the northeast corner of section six, where he still carries on general farming. He has since added eighty acres to his farm from Johnson township. Mr. and Mrs. King have been blessed with nine children, eight of whom are now living: Ruth, Alfred, Samuel, Warren, Frank (deceased), Abraham, Blaine, Vernon and Bessie. In politics he is a republican, and has been trustee and school director in Liberty township for six years, and in Johnson township was school director one year. He is a member of the G. A. R. Frans M. Roseserry, attorney, was born September 19, 1857, at Belvi- dere, N. J. He completed his literary education at Princeton college, New Jersey, from which he graduated in 1881. He afterward entered the law department of the State University at Iowa City, Iowa, and graduated there- from in 1883. He was then admitted to the bar, and began the practice of law at Le Mars, Iowa. He is an active member of the republican party, and a member of the K. of P. September 16, 1885, he married Della M., daughter of L. L. Page, of Plymouth county. E. D. Brower, dentist, Le Mars, was born in Leesville, Carroll county, Ohio, January 15, 1858. In 1872 his parents removed to Ackley, Iowa, where he completed his literary education, and in 1881 he graduated from the dental department of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, with the class of that year. In the same year he began practice at Le Mars. He is a member of the State Dental Society, and is one of the State Board of Dental examiners, a member of the Knights of Pythias, and is a past chancel- lor, and was representative to the Grand Lodge in 1888. November 26, 1884, he married Jessie C., daughter of Capt. A. C. Stebbins, of Le Mars. W. S. Freeman, druggist, Le Mars, was born in Chittenden county, Vt., June 6, 1848, and is a son of Samuel and Elmira (Stephens) Freeman, who were natives of Vermont. He left Vermont with his parents at a very early age, and came to Genoa, Ill, where he attended school until sixteen years of age, when he enlisted in the Highth Illinois cavalry, Company B, in which he served until July 22, 1865, taking part in every engagement in which that celebrated regiment was engaged during his term of service. He received his discharge in July, 1865, and returned to his old home. Here he re- mained until March 1, 1869, when he removed to Le Mars, Iowa, taking up an eighty-acre homestead in section eight, Fredonia township, where he car- ried on general farming until the fall of 1882. At that date he was elected county recorder on the republican ticket, which position he held four years, when he was defeated by the democratic candidate, Mr. W. Winslow, by two votes. He then returned to farming, which pursuit he followed until 1889, GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 865 when he rented his farm and removed to Le Mars, where he bought Hoff- man’s drug store, and now carries on the drug business. He was married September 2, 1875, to Josephine, daughter of William and Nancy Knowlton, of Iowa, by whom he had one child. His wife died in 1882, and October 18, 1884, he married Mary, daughter of John and Char- lotte Adams, of Le Mars, and by this marriage has one child also. Politically he is a republican, and is a member of the Masonic and Knights of Pythias orders. Cuarence Woop, a merchant of Kingsley, was born in Clarke county, Va., in 1860. He isa son of Joseph and Rebecca L. (Shepherd) Wood, both natives of Virginia, and of English and Scotch descent. Joseph Wood was a farmer, which occupation he followed in Jones county, Iowa, until his death, which occurred July 3, 1884; his wife still lives, and resides on the old homestead in Jones county. Clarence Wood was brought up to assist his father on the farm, and at- tended school regularly until he had passed through the district schools, when he went to Lenox college, at Hopkinton, Delaware county, Iowa. He also took a course in the Dubuque Business college. For four years after- ward he worked on his father’s farm in the summer time, and taught school during the winters. In the spring of 1884 he engaged in the grocery busi- ness, which he has continued ever since. Later he combined with his grocery stock, a line of boots and shoes. Politically he is a republican, and has al- ways supported the principles of that party. M. C. Evans, a dry goods merchant of Kingsley, was born in Jackson county, Iowa, December 8, 1859, and is a son of William and Agnes (Hip- shen) Evans, both natives of Germany. William Evans’ occupation was that of a farmer, which he followed in Jackson county, Iowa, until his death, which occurred there February 3, 1891, having come to America in the fifties. His wife died about the year 1878. Michael C., our subject, was born in a log house on the farm in Jackson county, and assisted with the work on the farm, attending school meanwhile, until he reached the age of eighteen or nineteen years. He then attended the college at St. Donatus, Iowa, for two terms, after which he taught school three terms. He then went to Bellevue, Iowa, where he clerked in astore for Michael Attfilisch, about a year, going thence, in 1880, to Le Mars, where he clerked for his brother, N. C. Evans, three years. He then formed a partnership with N. Kilburg, and carried on the mer- cantile trade at Ireton, Iowa, for two years, at the end of which time he sold out to his partner, and started on a prospecting tour through different states. In 1885 he came to Kingsley and erected a store building, in which he opened up a general stock of dry goods, clothing, boots and shoes. Mr. Evans mar- 866 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. ried Lizzie, a daughter of Peter Kass, of Bellevue, Iowa, April 22, 1883, and they have three children: Odie N., Julian P. and Gilbert W. They are members of the Roman Catholic church, and in political questions Mr. Evans votes the democratic ticket. Curis. Stortz, of the firm of C. Stortz & Co., merchants of Kingsley, was born in Kendal! county, Ill, November 29, 1862. His parents were Michael and Elizabeth (Wentz) Stortz, both natives of Germany. He was born and reared on a farm, during which time he received a common-school education at the district schools, completing his studies at the Academy of Blairstown, Iowa, after which he came to Remsen, Plymouth county, Iowa, and clerked in a store three years. He then came to Kingsley and engaged in the gro- cery business in partnership with Marion Doan, which he carried on one year, when he purchased the interest of Mr. Doan, and the firm is now known as C. Stortz & Co. Mr. Stortz married Mattie Lilly, of Remsen, Iowa, Oc- tober 27, 1885, and they now have two children: Lillie and Pearl. Polit- ically Mr. Stortz is a democrat, and he and wife are supporters of the Roman Catholic church. Wittiam Rigs, dry goods dealer of Kingsley, was born in Lake county, Ind., January 29, 1863. His parents were Frederick and Dena (Prussner) Rieke, both natives of Germany. Frederick Rieke died in November, 1890, on his farm in Kankakee county, Ill, where his wife still resides and is a member of the Evangelical church. William Rieke was born on a farm and helped his father in the preformance of the duties incident to farm life. He attended the district schools, but finished his education at Bailey’s Business college, of Dubuque, Iowa. He came to Le Mars in 1880, and clerked in a general store, where he remained until December, 1883, when he came to Kingsley and opened a general dry goods store, in partnership with Charles H. Kluckhohn, of Le Mars, which he continued until 1886. Since then the firm has been known as Rieke & Co., until 1890, when the name was changed to Rieke Brothers, he having taken his brother, Charles C., into partnership with him. September 25, 1887, Mr. Rieke married Miss Carrie S. Unz, of Reddick, Tll., by whom he has one son named Ray. Mr. Rieke usually attends the Methodist Episcopal church, of which his wife is a member. In politics he follows the lead of the republican party. He is at present (1890) presiding officer of the K. of P. Levi H. Jounson, one of the most prominent farmers of Plymouth coun- ty, residing on section twenty-seven, Garfield township, was born in St. Jo- seph county, Ind., January 7, 1850. He is a son of Robert and Carrie (Young) Johnson, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of Ohio. Robert Johnson is engaged in farming in Marshall county, Iowa, having GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 867 moved there in 1859. Politically he is a republican. He has reached the age of seventy-two years, and his wife that of seventy years. Levi H. came with his parents to Iowa in 1859. He assisted on the farm until he was twenty-one years old, in the meantime having attended the*dis- trict and high schools. He then engaged in farming in Marshall county for himself, about ten years, after which he sold out, and entered the drug busi- ness at Ida Grove, which he carried on two years. He then purchased 335 acres of land in Plymouth county, where he now resides. He deals quite ex- tensively in cattle and hogs. Mr. Johnson was united in marriage with Amanda Kennedy of Marshall county, September 23, 1872, and they have two children: Harry and an infant. In politics he is a republican. Socially he is a member of the I. O. O. F., of which he is past grand, and is also a member of the Legion of Honor. Catvin R. Wiseman was born February 1, 1843, in Lawrence county, Ind. His father died when our subject was quite young, and, his mother marrying again, he, at the age of seven years left home and went to live with Mr. E. B. Chitty, a relative. With him he remained until he was about fourteen years of age, moving with him from Indiana to Whiteside county, Tl. He then went to Lee county, Ill, where he worked on a farm until 1862, when he moved to Carroll county, same state, and farmed until February 3, 1864, when he enlisted in Company A, Thirty-fourth Illinois infantry. He par- ticipated in the battles from Chattanooga to Atlanta, and from there he was in Sherman’s march to the sea. He lost his health through exposure, and has never fully recovered. He was mustered out at Louisville, Ky., July 19, 1865, and returned to Carroll county, where he was engaged in farming until 1872, when he went to Carroll county, Iowa, and farmed until the fall of 1875, when he took charge of a hotel for one year. He then returned to Carroll county, IIL, and farmed until 1885, when he again came to Iowa and purchased 160 acres of land in section twenty-one, Garfield township, Plymouth county, where he has since resided, and has been engaged in farming and stock-rais- ing. He was married December 31, 1869, to Mary A. Deuel, of Carroll county, Ill, and they have two children: Ira J. and Theodore S. Mr. Wise- man is a member of the G. A. R., and the Iowa Legion of Honor; a repub- lican in politics. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Epis- copal church. Joun Grirve, farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section twenty-three, Garfield township, was born in Scotland in March, 1834, and is a son of John and Elizabeth (Robinson) Grieve, both natives of Scotland. He came to America with his parents when ten years of age, and resided with them in Scott county, Iowa, until twenty-one years old. He then went to farming 868 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. for himself in the same county, where he remained until 1883, when he came to Plymouth county and purchased 320 acres of land in Garfield township, where he now resides. October 13, 1859, he married Georgina Murrison, of Scotland, and to them have been born eight children: Isabella J., Ellen, Georgina, Elizabeth, Annie, Agnes, Jessie and Lundy L. All the members of the family belong to the Christian church. Mr. Grieve is a republican, and has always sup- ported the principles of that party. Mrs. Grieve is a daughter of William and Isabella (Gordon) Murrison, both natives of Scotland, who came to America in 1851. The father engaged in farming in Scott county, Iowa, and from there moved to Poweshiek county, where he farmed until his death in 1875; his wife died in the same county in 1886. Witiiam Grieve, a farmer and stock-raiser, resides on section thirty-five, Garfield township, Plymouth county. He was born in Scotland in 1841, a son of John and Elizabeth (Robinson) Grieve, both natives of Scotland. When he was but three years of age his parents came to America, and set- tled in Scott county, Iowa. Here he remained with them assisting in the farm work and receiving his education, until he was twenty-seven years of age, when he started to farm on his own account, in the same county in which his father was located. This he conducted until 1883, when he came to Plymouth county, and purchased 320 acres of land in section twenty-six, Garfield township, which he farmed two years, and then leased his land and moved to Kingsley, where he engaged in the livery business four years. He then purchased 320 acres of land in section thirty-five, where he now resides, and erected a large dwelling-house and a good barn, and now has it well improved. He still retains 160 acres of his first purchase of land, which gives him 480 acres in Garfield township. He also owns 240 acres of land in Beadle county, Dak. On his home farm he keeps a good grade of stock. He married Elizabeth Gilmour, of Canada, and they have five chil- dren: Nettie, Minnie, Willie, Olive and Roy. Mr. and Mrs. Grieve are mem- bers of the Christian church. Politically he is a republican. He has been trustee of the township, and was amember of the council four years, during his residence in Kingsley. He is a member of the K. of P. Perrer Sreere, farmer, P. O. Le Mars, is a son of John and Mary (Clark) Steele, natives of Scotland, and was born in that country, June 13, 1840. His father, who was a farmer, came to America in 1856, and settled in Scott county, Iowa, where he engaged in farming up to the time of his death, 1870. Our subject was but sixteen years old when he left Scotland with his father. He stopped in Canada and engaged in farming and lumbering until 1865, when he came to Scott county, where he farmed until 1870, at that date coming to Plymouth county and taking up a homestead of eighty GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 869 acres in section thirty, Union township, where he has since resided. He planted trees, broke ground and has been continually improving his land since. December 20, 1870, he married Agnes Hendry, of Iowa City, Iowa, and to them have been born nine children, as follows: John H., Mary J., Agnes H., Harry P., Frank J., George R., Flora A., Allen R. and Maggie M. In politics Mr. Steele is an independent, choosing his candidates from the men, not from the party. He has been school.director, road supervisor and treas- urer of the school board. Gzoree W. Srverance, a general farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section twenty-eight, Union township, was born in Kane county, Ill, May 22, 1844, a son of Franklin and Hannah (Winslow) Severance, both natives of Massachusetts. Franklin Severance was a farmer, which occupation he followed until 1869, when he retired from active work and moved to Hinck- ley, De Kalb county, Ill., where he resided until his death in 1888; his wife died in May, 1848; both were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. George W. Severance was reared on a farm in Kane county, Ill, and continued to reside with his parents until their retirement, when he pur- chased the old homestead, where he lived until 1876, when he moved to De Kalb county, where he lived two years. He then purchased 320 acres of land in Union township, Plymouth county, where he now resides, engaged in farming and stock-raising, having increased his farm to 480 acres of land. He feeds about one hundred head of cattle every year, also deals in Montana horses and Poland China hogs. October 20, 1869, he married Mary A. Moore, of Aurora, Ill, and to them have been born three children: Albert, Edith and Bertha. Mrs. Sever- ance is a daughter of William and Anna (Prentice) Moore, both of whom reside in Le Mars, the father a native of New York state and of Irish descent, the mother a native of Erie county, Pa. James Morean Howzs died July 19, 1890, in Washington township, Plymouth county, where he had settled in 1868. He was a grandson of James, and son of Thomas Howes, of London, England, where he was born May 21,1812. After serving some years in the British army, he came to America about 1840, and in 1842 settled in La Fayette county, Wis., where he engaged in lead mining till his removal to Iowa. He took a homestead on section twenty-six, Washington township, in March, 1868, and settled thereon with his family the same year. He served as trustee, and usually acted with the republican party. In religious views he adhered to the tenets of the Episcopal church. At Cincinnati, Ohio, October 31, 1841, he married Mary, widow of Robert J. Betts, known before her first marriage as Miss Battle, of the same nativity as himself. She died in 1879, aged sixty-seven. 870 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Their children all reside in this county: John R. B. is in Washington town- ship; Ann Eliza Chandler (Mrs. Wm. R. Kidd), in Portland township; A. J. and George T. in Washington. The second, Mary Ann (wife of John Russell Smith), died in 1875, at the age of thirty years. Algernon James Howes was born in Benton township, La Fayette county, Wis., April 26, 1851, and was in his seventeenth year when he came to Iowa, and was at an early age employed at farm labor, and is an intelligent farmer and citizen. He took a homestead on section twenty-six, and is now pos- sessed of 200 acres, which he cultivates in mixed farming. He is at present a township trustee, and has always upheld the republican party in politics. In religion he embraces the faith of his fathers: In 1875 he married a native of Will county, Ill, Miss Emily Jane, daughter of Alexander and Minerva (Jennings) Calhoon, of Scotch and English descent. They have six chil- dren, as follows: Edwin Algernon, William Alexander, George Henry, David James, Mary Ellen and Walter Russell. Witiiam L. Sanporn, grain buyer, Moville, was born in Winnebago county, Ill, in 1865, and is a son of George W. and Grata N. (Emery) San- born, the father a native of Vermont, and the mother of Canada. His father also deals in grain and resides at Pecatonica, Ill. His mother is a member of the Universalist church. W. L. Sanborn was born in Pecatonica, Tll., where he was educated at the high schools, but afterward attended business college at Rockford. Sub- sequently he bought grain for his father, and was employed by him keeping books. In the fall of 1887 he came to Moville, and erected a large elevator, since which time he has been engaged in buying and shipping grain quite extensively. He was one of the first aldermen of Moville. In politics he is a republican. He is a member of the I. O.O. F. Mr. Sanborn was married in August, 1887, to Isabelle V. Sloan, of Pecatonica, Tll., and to them have been born two children: G. Clifford and Florence A. W. #H. Les, merchant, Moville, was born in Clark county, Ill, January 10, 1856, a son of Levi and Nancy J. (Randal) Lee, the father a native of Craw- ford county, Ill, and the mother of Kentucky. His father was a farmer, at which occupation he was engaged at the time of his death, which occurred in Clark county, Ill., April 11, 1881. His mother died September 20, of the same year. Both were members of the Baptist church. William H. Lee was born on the farm in Clark county, Ill, receiving his education at the district schools, and assisting his father on the farm until he was twenty-two yearsof age. He then engaged at farming for himself until 1884, when he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, where he farmed until June, 1888, when he moved to Moville, and went into the mercantile trade, which he has carried on ever since. Politically he is a democrat, and is a member of the I. O. O. F. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 871 January 19, 1879, Mr. Lee married Lida J. McCrory, a daughter of Wash. and Eliza (West) McCrory, the former a native of Indiana, and of Irish descent, and the mother a native of Kentucky, and of Scotch descent. Wash. McCrory is now farming in Clark county, Ill, and both he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Politically Mr. McCrory is a republican. Ropert M. Mewzizs, merchant, Luton, was born in Ontario, Canada, Feb- ruary 19, 1858, a sonof John and Mary (McFarlane) Menzies. The father is county registrar of Lanark county, Providence, Ontario. The mother died March 6, 1888; both were members of the Presbyterian church, and of Scotch descent. Robert M., our subject, was born and reared in the town of Almonte, Ont., and attended college in the city of Guelph two years. He resided with his parents until twenty-two years of age, then went to Grand Forks, Dak., and resided there four months, and from there went to Sheldon, Iowa. Here he resided one year, then, in 1887, came to Woodbury county, and located at Luton, where he is now doing business. He is a member of the Odd Fel- lows lodge. He was united in marriage with Eliza Pike, of Guelph, Canada, April 30, 1888, and they have two children: John G. and Robert M. Mr. Menzies is a member of the Presbyterian, and his wife of the Episcopalian church. H. C. Wiytsrrinasr, farmer, P. O. Peiro, was born in Knox county, Ohio, November 16, 1838, and located in Iowa as early as 1850, and has since lived in this state. His parents, John and Sally (Byram) Winterringer, both de- ceased, were farmers in this country. Our subject was reared on the farm occupied by his parents in Ohio, assisting in the farm work and attending the common school. In the fall of 1850 he came to Iowa, and located at Tipton, Cedar county, where he lived for ten years, then came to Woodbury county and spent the next ten years inthe Sioux valley. When he first came here there were plenty of Indians, and deer, and wild turkeys in abundance. He next went to Kansas, but returned to Iowa the same season, and bought a man out on Wolf creek, and homesteaded the farm whereon he now lives. He has since added to his farm, on which he raises all kinds of grains, and has also a fine grove of eight acres. In 1857 he married Catherine, daughter of Nathan Cerfing, of German descent, and they have had ten children, five of whom only are living, namely: John N., Alie V., Ervin Boog, R. B. Hayes and Thomas H. Har- rison. Those deceased were named Aurila, Oliver, Jessie, Mattie and Nellie. Of the children living, the two younger ones are the only ones living at home, the others having grown up, married, and gone to work for themselves. Mr. Winterringer votes the republican ticket, is a member of the Farmers’ 872 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Alliance, and, with his wife and three oldest children belongs to the M. E. church. September 21, 1889, he had his leg broken, which has disabled him so that he will be unable to do any hard work for the balance of his life. Prarr Suir Hatt, farmer and stockman, is a son of Isaac Cook and Jane Elizabeth (Livermore) Hall, the former of Vermont, and the latter of Ohio. He was born in Jackson county, Iowa, January 28, 1850, and in 1856 moved with his parents to Woodbury county, and at that time there were about ten Indians to one white man there. Here, in Grant township, he has remained ever since, and says he expects to end his days here. He was mar- ried to Catharine A. Gillett, December 30, 1869, at Smithland, Iowa. Seven children have blessed this union, six of whom are still living, and at home. Our subject is one of the earliest settlers of Grant township, and is a man highly esteemed by his neighbors. He is a republican, and attends the Methodist church. Bensgamin W. Luss, farmer and stockman, Moville, was born in Mercer county, Pa., March 3, 1852, a son of O. Perry and Mary E. (Hoobler) Luse. On his father’s side, he is of Irish, and on his mother’s of German descent. In 1855 the Luse family went to Grant county, Wis., and in 1865 to Jack- son county, Iowa, where Benjamin engaged in farming. In September, 1882, he came to his present place. He was married in Jackson county, to Clara Matthews, by whom he had two children, one living, named Jessie May, born April 12, 1881. Mr. Luse’s second marriage took place in Clinton county, to Retta Estey, daughter of C. B. and Lucinda (Pulcifer) Estey. To this union are born two children, viz.: William Arthur, January 18, 1884; and Frank Elmer, April 14, 1886. Mr. Luse holds the positions of justice of the peace and trustee of the township. He is a member of the Masons, Odd Fellows, Good Tem- plars and the Farmers’ Alliance. He received his education in Lenox col- lege, Delaware county, Iowa, and has taught school in Jackson and Wood- bury counties. He has a farm of 440 acres, and is engaged in farming, stock-raising and the breeding of Englishshire and Norman Percheron horses. JoszrH Law, one of the oldest settlers of Banner township, a farmer and stock-raiser residing on section thirty-two, was born in Yorkshire, England, December 16, 1826, and is a son of Isaac and Mary (Grayson) Law, both natives of England. The father was by occupation a shoemaker, which he followed until he died, in England, in 1877, the mother dying the following year; both were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Joseph Law was born and reared in England, where he was educated. At the age of twenty-four years he came to America, and located in Greene county, IIl., where he engaged at his trade, that of tailoring, which he had learned in England. He resided there two years, then went to Minnesota GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 873 and pre-empted some land, which he resided on seven years, then returned to Illinois, where he remained four years, and returned to Minnesota again. In 1877 he came to Woodbury county, and purchased 140 acres of land, where he now resides; since then he and his sons have purchased 260 acres, making 400 acres in all. The land is all under a good state of cultivation and has a fine grove of ten acres, which he planted himself. Mr. Law has witnessed the wild lands transformed into fertile farms and comfortable homes. In politics he is independent. At present he is township clerk and school treasurer, and has been township trustee. He is a member of the Masonic order, also the I. O. O. F., and the Farmers’ Alliance. July 12, 1848, Mr. Law married Mary A. Chapman, of Yorkshire, England, and to them have been born four children: Martha, Isaac, Joseph C. and Mary A. Freperick W. Provry, farmer and stock-raiser, now residing on section thirty-two, Banner township, was born in New York, in 1848, a son of Galen and Sarah (Russell) Prouty, both natives of Massachusetts. The father was by occupation a farmer, at which occupation he was engaged until he entered the mercantile business at Oneida, Ill., where he continued until his death in 1876. The mother died seven weeks previous to her husband’s death; both were members of the church. Frederick W. was born in New York, and came with his parents to Ohio when he was six years of age; there he resided eight years, then went with them to Knox county, Ill, where he was educated in the public schools, finishing in Ohio. He continued to reside with his parents until 1865, when he enlisted in Company K, Seventh Illinois cavalry, and served until August of the same year, when he was discharged on account of disability. He re- sided home two years, then went to Kansas, and from there to Texas for his health. He returned to Illinois in eighteen months, and six weeks later went to Monroe county, Iowa, and weighed and shipped coal for a mining com- pany about five years. He was also a telegraph operator in connection with his other work. In 1879 he came to Woodbury county, and located on section thirty-two, where he now resides, and has continued farming ever since. Politically he is a democrat, and is now secretary of the township, which office he has held eleven years; he was justice of the peace two years and road superintendent. He is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. In 1873 Mr. Prouty married Eleanor Prosser, and they have eight children: Albert, Frank, Estella, Arthur, Walter, Emery, Frederick and Eva. Joun Law, an old settler and general farmer and stock-raiser, residing now on section twenty-eight, Floyd township, was born in England, April 8, 1824, and is a son of Isaac and Mary (Grayson) Law, both of English de- scent, and members of the church of England. He was born and reared in 874 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Yorkshire, where he received his education, and remained with his parents until twelve years of age, at which early age he commenced work on a farm by the year. He continued to farm until twenty-seven years of age, when he, in 1851, came to America and located in Greene county, Ill. He hired out by the year to a farmer, and there worked for three years, then rented farms in Morgan and Cass counties, until 1865, when he came to Woodbury county and located on the Little Sioux. In 1874 he purchased 160 acres of land, where he now lives, and has since added 240 acres, making his farm now one of 400 acres. In 1856 he mar- ried Jane Murphy, of Greene county, Ill, who died September 30, 1882, leaving him six children: Annie J., John F., Julia, David D., Isaac W. and Benjamin. Both he and wife are members of the Christian church. Polit- ically he is a republican, and has held the office of school director and trustee. He is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance, of which he has been treasurer. Apert M. Homan, of the firm of C. J. Holman & Bro., dealers in gen- eral merchandise, Sergeant’s Bluff, was born in Rockville, Conn., March 25, 1845. He is a son of William P. Holman, whose sketch will appear on another page of this work. Albert Holman lived in his native place until eleven years of age, when he came with his parents to Woodbury county, Towa, in 1856. He received his education in such schools as the county afforded in an early day. In 1865 he went to Montana territory, where he engaged in merchandising and mining for three years. He then returned to his home and engaged with his father and elder brother in dealing in stock. In 1872 they erected their large brick store building and put in a general stock of merchandise. They also started the manufacture of brick in 1867, which they have con- tinued since. They turn out about 50,000 a day, and employ forty to fifty men. W. P. Holman & Sons own about 1,000 acres of land, 800 of which is in Woodbury township, and 200 in Sloan township; 600 acres of it is under a good state of cultivation. In 1875 our subject erected a large and com- modious brick dwelling with fine improvements. He has been identified with the county from its infancy, coming here with his parents when there were scarcely half a dozen settlers. He has seen all the wild land trans- formed into fertile farms and comfortable homes, the entire growth of Sioux City, and the introduction of the railroads, etc. Politically he is a repub- lican, and has always taken an active interest in the success of his party. In 1889 he received the nomination for representative to the legislature from Woodbury county, but was defeated, with the entire republican county ticket. Mr. Holman was one of sixty-five men who went with Col. James A. Sawyers’ expedition that crossed the plains from Sioux City to Virginia City, Montana, the object being to open up a wagon road. They suffered a great many GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 875 privations and hardships on the plains during their trip of seven months, besides being compelled to fight the Indians, several of the company being killed by them. In June, 1872, he was united in marriage with Emma Webster, of Woodbury county, and to them have been born four children: Edna, Mabel, Abbie and Webster. Mr. Holman is a member of the Masonic lodge, and is a thirty-third degree Mason. His wife and children are mem- bers of the Congregational church. Bensamin P. Yeomans, is a son of Prentice and Margaret (McKenney) Yeomans, and was born July 15, 1828, in Herkimer county, N. Y. His parents, both of whom are now dead, were brought up in the Presbyterian faith, the father of English and the mother of Irish descent. Our subject remained on the farm with his parents, until he attained his majority, when he went to Oregon, crossing the plains with an ox-team. After a year’s stay there, he went to California and worked in the gold mines at Indian Creek. He remained two years in California, then after visiting Crescent City, San Francisco, San Juan, Virgin Bay, Castilo Rapids and Greytown, he took passage at the latter place for New York, aboard the “Northern Light,” which touched only at Key West, Fla., on the trip. He went to Chicago, from there to Burlington, and finally to his home at Lowell, Henry county, Towa, reaching there October 20, 1855. In the following year he located on section twenty-four, Woodbury town- ship, Woodbury county, buying 130 acres, where he now lives. It was mostly wild land at that time, and the Indians were quite numerous in the locality then too. January 31, 1856, he married Elizabeth Smith, of Agency City, and they have seven children: Nellie, Fannie, James A., Charles P., William T., Flora M. and Bessie. Mr. Yeomans, who is one of the oldest settlers, is a republican in politics, and has held the office of assessor and trustee. He is also a trustee in the Methodist Episcopal church, to which both he and his wife belong. Davip M. Resp, an old settler and a general farmer and stock-raiser, now residing on section thirty-six, Woodbury township, was born in Washington county, Vt., October 2, 1819, a son of David and Rhoda (Goodwin) Reed. His father was engaged in farming in Vermont, at the time of his death, which occurred in January, 1869, his mother dying about three weeks later. They were of English descent and members of the Baptist church. David M. was born and reared on a farm in Vermont, and received a common-school education. At the age of nineteen, he commenced to teach school in Vermont, and taught for eleven terms. At the age of twenty-one he started out for himself, and worked at various occupations, and finally came to Bureau county, Ill., and engaged in farming, which he continued there for sixteen years. In 1869 he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, and purchased 390 acres, where he now resides. 876 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Mr. Reed was united in marriage with Dolly A. Welch, of Vermont, No- vember 21, 1850, and they have a family of five children: Rhoda L., Frank M., Minnie D., Albert D. and Herbert O. Mr. Reed came to this county when it was nearly all wild prairie, and has done his share of work in help- ing to cultivate it into fertile land, as we now see it. He has hired many an Indian to hoe and gather in his corn for him, and do other work around the farm. In 1884 Mr. Reed met with a bad accident, as a railroad train ran into his wagon, and he was thrown ten feet in the air, and about three rods off, and when picked up he was insensible and was taken to the Central house, and he lay there three weeks before he could be moved home, where he soon recovered. Politically he is a republican, and has held the office of justice of the peace. He is a member of the Baptist church, and his wife of the Methodist Episcopal church. James A. Tart, merchant and postmaster, Sergeant’s Bluff, was born in Rochester, N. Y., in 1846, and is a son of James V. and Elizabeth G. (Fair- child) Taft, the father a native of Vermont and the mother of New York. His father was a merchant and carried on business until his death, which oc- curred at Dansville, N. Y., in 1853. His mother is still living and resides at West Exeter, N. Y., and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Atthe age of four years our subject removed with his parents to Dans- ville, N. Y., where he received his early education, completing it at West Exeter, N. Y. He continued to reside with his mother, his father having died, until 1862, when he enlisted in Company F', One Hundred and Twenty- first New York infantry. He participated in the first and second battles of Fredericksburg, the battles of Antietam, Gettysburg, the Wilderness, Spott- sylvania, Cold Harbor, Winchester, Cedar Creek, siege of Petersburg and Sailors Creek, and remained in the army until the close of the war, when he was discharged, July 9, 1865, as second lieutenant, having been promoted from a private. He then returned to his home and remained there until 1868, when he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, and purchased 200 acres of land in Wood- bury township, and engaged in farming about three years. He then went to the depot at Sergeant’s Bluff as station agent, and three years later com- menced clerking in a store, which he continued until 1881, when he went in the cheese business. In 1884 he purchased a stock of merchandise in Ser- geant’s Bluff, and has continued in business there since that time. Politic- ally he is a republican, and has been township clerk. In December, 1889, he was appointed postmaster of Sergeant’s Bluff, having held the office be- fore from 1884 to 1886. Mr. Taft was united in marriage with Josie H. Huntley, of West Exeter, N. Y., in 1867, and they have one child, Laura G. Mrs. Taft is a member of the Congregational church. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 877 Neuemian WELCH was born in Benton county, Iowa, March 15, 1860, and is a son of Robert F. G. and Anna I. (Spaulding) Welch, the father a native of Vermont, of Welsh descent, and the mother of German-Irish descent, born in Sandusky, Ohio. His father is now engaged in farming in Cherry coun- ty, Neb.; his wife died in South Dakota, July 2, 1879, a member of the First Baptist church. At the age of six years our subject was taken by his parents to Boone county, Iowa, thence to Arkansas, where they remained two years, and then returned to Benton county, Iowa. In the spring of 1871 they moved to Clay county, 8. Dak., where he remained with them until twenty- one years of age, during which time he received a part of his education. In the spring of 1881 he left home and came to Woodbury county, Iowa. He worked in the summer, attended school in the winter, and saved enough money to go to Keokuk, and take a business course in the college there. He then went to Sioux City, where he was employed in the accounting depart- ment of the Illinois Central freight office eighteen months, also for one year for the C. M. & St. P., going thence to Harrison county, where he engaged in the mercantile business one year, after which he sold out and engaged in the newspaper business at Missouri Valley six months. In March, 1887, he came to Sergeant’s Bluff and engaged in the butchering business. There being no barber in the village he learned the trade, and in 1889 gave up the butchering business and opened a good barber shop, also put in a good. stock of confectionery, which business he has carried on ever since. Politically he is a democrat, and in the fall of 1888 was elected township assessor, in the fall of 1889 was elected justice of the peace, and the same year was appointed notary public. He also places insurance of all kinds, loans money, and does general collecting. He is now preparing to take a course in law at Sioux City. He isa member of the K. of P., L O. O. F. and Knights of Labor. ‘ Ernest E. Hunter, merchant, Salix, is postmaster, and a dealer in gen- eral merchandise, grain and live stock. He was born in Otsego county, N. Y¥., August 5, 1861, and isa son of Calvin and Olive (Huntley) Huntley, both natives of New York. His father was a farmer in New York until 1872, when he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, and located at Sergeant’s Bluff, where he resided until his death, in 1879. His mother is still living, and resides at Sergeant’s Bluff; she is a member of the Congregational church, and the father was a deacon of the same. Ernest E. Huntley was born in New York, where he lived with his par- ents until he was twelve years of age, when he came with them to Iowa, and resided with them at Sergeant’s Bluff. He there received his early educa- tion, completing his studies at Iowa college, Iowa City. He then engaged as clerk for one year, after which he moved to Omaha, where he engaged as 878 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. book-keeper in a wholesale house for three years. He subsequently pur- chased an interest in a general store at Sergeant’s Bluff, but sold out two years later, and moved to Salix, where he erected a store building, and put in a stock of general merchandise, and here he has been engaged in the mer- cantile business ever since. He also deals in grain and live stock quite extensively, and has recently built a grain elevator there, to facilitate his already extensive business. Politically, he is a republican, and is now school treasurer. October, 1889, he was appointed postmaster, and is also notary public. Socially, he is a member of the I. O. O. F. Mr. Huntley was united in mar- riage with Anna Giacomini, November 2, 1887, and to them have been born two children: Olive L. and Mabel A. D. Srerting Wenvex, farmer, Oto, was born in Luzerne county, Pa., March 23, 1833, a son of John Conrad and Mary (Rathborn) Wendel. He remained at home until the outbreak of the war, in 1861, when he joined the Second Iowa cavalry. He was taken prisoner near Ripley, but was shortly exchanged, and took part in the battles at Corinth, which lasted three days, Coffeeville, Booneville, the West Point raid, and many other engagements and skirmishes. At the close of the war, he went to Jackson county, Iowa, and rented a farm, remaining on it three years, when he moved to Little Sioux township, Woodbury county, by ox team, and bought 160 acres, where he is now living. February 12, 1867, he married Martha Gordon, in Jackson county, Iowa, and three children have been born to them, all now living, Mr. Wendel is a Methodist, and is liked by all who know him. He casts his suffrage with the republican party. His father, John C. Wendel, a native of Germany, came to America in 1825, and during the war in this country was a tailor for the soldiers. His death occurred in 1865. Mr. Wendel’s mother is now living in Woodbury county, at the advanced age of eighty-one years. Wittiam A. Dunuap, farmer, Oto, was born in Clay county, Mo., May 26, 1887, and is a son of James and Rachel Dunlap, and the first of their four children. He was born and reared on his father’s farm, and was educated in the public schools. At the age of eighteen he went to California, and en- gaged in mining. In December, 1857, he came to Iowa, and November 24, 1859, he married Miss Sarah A. Lewis. Five children were born to this marriage. His first wife died December 31, 1870, and December 15, 1872, he was married to Mrs. Martha L. Rimel, of Nodaway county, Mo. Six children have been born to this last marriage. Mr. Dunlap is a well-to-do farmer, owning 200 acres of land in Little Sioux township, Woodbury county. Berrick Bennett, farmer, Smithland, is one of nine children born to Alvah and Charlotte (Wilson) Bennett, natives of New York state, both de- GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 879 ceased. He was born in Illinois, February 16, 1846, remaining at home with his parents until 1868, when he came to Iowa, and has remained here since. He was married at Smithland, October 12, 1870, to Laura McDonald. They have four children, one deceased. Mr. Bennett votes the republican ticket and attends the Methodist Episcopal church. He is a man of good judg- ment and well liked by his neighbors. Dorzteans Warner, farmer, P. O. Smithland, was born in Noble county, Ind., in 1848, a son of Erastus and Malvina Warner, who are now residents of Smithland. When six years old his parents decided to go west and grow up with the country, so they moved to Bremer county, Iowa, and until he was twenty-one years old he remained with his father, helping him on the farm. He then thought he would try the world for himself, and finally set- tled in Mills county, where he rented a farm and remained on it two years. He then bought eighty acres of land in Pottawattamie county, where he lived five years, and then moved to Little Sioux township, Woodbury county, where he purchased his present farm of 240 acres. While in Mills county Mr. Warner married Emma Christo, daughter of a sailor in the British navy, whose family came to Mills county, Iowa, from La Fayette county, Wis. Two children have blessed this union: Alverzo E., a boy of twelve years, and Ambertes Ray, a boy eight years of age. Mr. Warner is a republican, and is a man of good standing. Joun Ricuarp Opis, hotel-keeper, Smithland, was born in London, Eng- land, March 17, 1852, and is a son of Frederick Augustus and Mary Ann (Pheasant) Oldis, also natives of London. John, father of Frederick Oldis, was of Irish birth, as were his ancestors for many generations, while the Pheasant family came of ancient English lineage. In 1853 F. A. Oldis brought his family to America and spent two years in Chicago, engaged in mercantile business and auction and commission. There and in Peoria and Jacksonville, he pursued his occupation of paper-hanger and decorator at times. In 1864 he came to Iowa, and engaged in mercantile business for eighteen years in Kennebec township, Monona county. John R. Oldis was twelve years old when he came to Iowa, and has fol- lowed farming most of the time since. In 1886 he established a livery busi- ness at Castana, and two years later removed to Smithland. In April, 1890, he opened the St. George hotel, which he conducts in addition to the livery business. For many years he was a member of the I. O. G.T., and still maintains his temperance principles. Politically he is a republican, and has served as constable and school director in Monona county. In August, 1889, he married Susie A. Foster, who was born at Saxonville, Mass., and is a daughter of William and Susan A. (Tibbetts) Foster, natives of Germany and New Hampshire, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Oldis have a daughter named Susan Elizabeth. 47 880 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. A. Livermore, farmer, Oto, was born in Jackson county, Iowa, in 18384, and is ason of Abraham William Livermore. In his early life he worked for his father on the farm until the outbreak of the war, when he enlisted in Company L, Iowa infantry. He participated in the battles at Columbia and Macon, Ga., and the three days’ siege at Tupelo. He was wounded in three places, and had three horses shot from under him. After the close of the war he came home and bought the place where he now lives, in Little Sioux township, Woodbury county. August 9, 1866, he married Anna Wetherman, of Jackson county, and seventeen children were born to them, sixteen of whom are living. Mr. Livermore is living in the first frame house built in Woodbury county. The shingles were cut by his father with a draw-knife. He votes with the demo- cratic party. Wittiam Harrison Nicxoxs, farmer, Smithland, was born in the state of New York, January 1, 1820. He is a son of Simon and Polly (Gleason) Nichols, both deceased. Simon Nichols was married four times, our subject being the child of his second union. William H. did not locate in this county until 1875, as, being of a roving disposition, he kept moving back and forth through Pennsylvania, Minnesota and Iowa. He married Mary Squires, April 28, 1840, and six children blessed this union, five of whom are living. In politics he votes the democratic ticket. He is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. Joun Maruers, one of the oldest settlers of Woodbury county, and a general farmer and stock-raiser, now residing on section twenty-eight, Liber- ty township, was born in Suffolk, England, in 1827. He isa son of William and Ann (Mathers) Mathers, the father a native of England and the mother of Ireland. William Mathers came to America in 1848, and settled in Wood- bury county in 1865, where he engaged in farming and stock-raising until his death, November 2, 1886; his wife died November 12, 1880; both were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. John Mathers came with his parents to America, and resided with them until he was seventeen years old. In 1865 he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, and has been engaged in farming ever since. He purchased 323 acres of land where he now lives, which is well improved. Politically he is a democrat, and has been justice of the peace. Mr. Mathers was married in June, 1859, to Honore Smith, of Jackson county, Iowa, and to their union have been born twelve children: William A., Mary A., John, Jane, Thomas, Lizzie, Annie, Joseph, Rebecca, Kate, Edwin and George. Mr. Mathers is one of the old settlers here, and has witnessed the development of the county from almost a wilderness to the present time, and has done much for the im- provement of it. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 881 Aniet T. Bicetow, farmer, Salix, is a son of Aholiab and Rebecca (Brey) Bigelow, who were natives of Massachusetts and Maine, respectively. Aho- liab Bigelow was of English descent, by trade a carpenter, in which line he was employed in Bureau county, Ill. He died in 1855. His wife was of Spanish and Welsh descent. Her death occurred in 1880. Both were mem- bers of the Baptist church. A. T. Bigelow was born in Maine, in 1840, where his parents remained until he was eleven years old, when they moved to Bureau county. He resided with them, and upon the death of his father, took charge of the family, which he supported by farming. In 1862 he moved to Monona county, Iowa, and for four years he had charge of a hotel in Onawa, in connection with which he had a livery and sale stable. In the fall of 1869 he moved to Woodbury county, and located in section thirty-three, Liberty township, on the farm where he now resides, which he had purchased in the spring, consisting at that time of 200 acres, but which he has added to until he now owns 1,600 acres all in one body, and all well cultivated. He planted corn on 700 acres this year (1890). He has built tenant houses on some of his land, and rents part of it out. He has been a very heavy sufferer by fire, having lost about $30,000 during the last seven years. He makes a specialty of raising fine carriage horses and shorthorn cattle. Mr. Bigelow is essentially a self-made man, as he started in life with his mother and sisters to support, but by perseverance and energy he has steadily worked his way, up until he is now one of the largest farmers in the county. In politics he is a democrat; socially, a member of the Masonic order. In 1863 he married Sarah E. Beers, of Onawa, and they have a fam- ily of nine children: Rose, Charlie H., Warren, Belle, George, Fannie, Laura, Madge and Nettie. Micuart Harrineron, an old settler now residing in Salix, Woodbury county, was born in Ireland about 1842, a son of Michael and Mary (Egan) Harrington, both natives of Ireland. Michael Harrington, Sr., died about 1849 in Massachusetts; his widow is still living and resides near Fort Dodge, Iowa; both were members of the Roman Catholic church. Our subject came with his parents to America when he was five years of age, and resided with his mother until he was twenty-two years old. He received a high-school education, and attended college in Wisconsin one year. He then engaged in teaching school about two years, after which he took contracts for railroad work for seven years. He built part of the railroad between Salix and Sergeant’s Bluff. In 1877 he moved to Sioux City, where he resided three years, then moved to Salix, where he has remained ever since. He owns 200 acres of improved land in Liberty township, which he has rented; he also loans money. Politically he is independent in his views; he is a member of the 882 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Farmers’ Alliance. Mr. Harrington married Jane O’Connor in 1879, and to this union were born four children: Thomas M., Mary, Agnes T. and Ignatius. Both he and wife are members of the Roman Catholic church. September 26, 1876, Mr. Harrington was admitted to the bar to practice law. Prrer Iverson, farmer, P. O. Sergeant’s Bluff, is one of the old settlers of Woodbury county, and resides on section eight, Liberty township. He was born in Denmark in 1845, a son of Thompson and Anna M. (Simpson) Iverson, both natives of Denmark. His father, who died in 1856, was a farmer in Denmark, and his mother died in 1851; both were members of the Lutheran church. Peter Iverson was born and reared on the farm in Denmark, where he received a common-school education, and resided with his parents until their death, after which he lived with his grandparents until he was seventeen years of age. He then worked on a farm three years, and came to Amer- ica in 1865, and located in Dane county, Wis., where he worked on a farm about nine months; then went to Omaha, where he remained about five months. He worked at teaming on the railroad between Little Sioux and Sioux City for a time, and then, in the winter of 1868, worked for Hurlburt Brower, in Woodbury county, until the following spring, when he rented a farm on which he resided six years. In 1874 he purchased eighty acres where he now resides, since which time he has added to it, and now owns 340 acres of land in Liberty town- ship, twenty of which is in timber. He has succeeded in getting his land all under a good state of cultivation, and has a good grade of stock of all kinds. He has witnessed all the improvements that have taken place in the county. Politically he is independent in his views, and is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. April 2, 1869, he married Sarah E. Brower, and to them have been born ten children: Frank C., Mary L., Albert B. and Hurlburt P. (twins), Car- rie A., Willie P., Sarah E., Nellie G., George T. and Wood C. Mr. and Mrs. Iverson are members of the Methodist church. E. O. B. Cuapwics, druggist, Salix, was born in Eaton county, Mich., May 6, 1847, a son of Jonathan and Lucia (Allard) Chadwick, the father a native of New Hampshire, of English descent, the mother of Vermont, of French descent. Jonathan Chadwick was a farmer in Eaton county, Mich., until his death, which occurred April 9, 1890, while his wife’s death occurred just a week before; both were members of the Baptist church. E. O. B. Chadwick was born and brought up on a farm in Michigan, and received a common-school education. He resided with his parents until he was twenty-two years of age. March 1, 1865, though but eighteen years of age, he enlisted in Company I, Twenty-fourth Michigan infantry, and served GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 883 until discharged, August 1, 1865. In April, 1869, he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, and purchased 144 acres of land in Kedron township, and en- gaged at farming five years. He then sold out and purchased eighty acres of land in Grange township, which he farmed until 1884, when he moved to Salix and entered the dry goods business with E. E. Huntley, which he con- tinued five years, then purchased the drug store he now owns. Mr. Chad- wick affiliates with the democratic party, has been justice of the peace, and also assessor of Kedron township. He and his wife are identified with the Methodist Episcopal church, and he is a member of the Masonic order. Jan- uary 1, 1869, he married Libbie A. Perrine, of Ingham county, Mich., and to them have been born five children, three of whom are now living, namely: John B., George E. and Emery O. W. Joun W. Ritz, one of the oldest settlers of Woodbury county, a general farmer and stock-raiser, resides in Sergeant’s Bluff, while his son operates his farm, which is in Liberty township. He was born in Lancaster county, Pa., December 21, 1819, a son of Jacob and Susan (Wagner) Ritz, both natives of Lancaster county, Pa. of German descent. The father was by occupation a farmer, which vocation he followed in Lancaster county until his death, which occurred about 1860. He and his wife, who died about 1872, were both members of the Presbyterian church. John W. Ritz was born and reared on a farm, and received his early edu- cation in the district schools, completing it at the seminary. He remained with his parents until he was twenty-one years of age, then engaged in teach- ing school about nine years, in different places in Maryland, Ohio and Iowa. In 1855 he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, and built the first house that was made of lumber sawed in the county. He entered 640 acres of land in what is now Liberty township, and one year later he moved to his farm and resided there a year, then rented and moved to Harrison county, Iowa, and taught school two years. Afterward he settled in Sergeant’s Bluff, where he has resided ever since. Mrs. Ritz owns eighty acres of land, all under a good state of cultivation. In politics Mr. Ritz isa republican, and has held several of the township offices, and was postmaster in Sergeant’s Bluff for nearly ten years. He married Carrie Morrison, near Cincinnati, Ohio, July 26, 1851. They have five children: John A., Charles W. (the first boy born in the western part of Woodbury county), Philip E., George E. and Willie M. Mrs. Ritz is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Davip Tangeman, grain dealer, Danbury, was born in Hanover, Germany, October 27, 1827, and is the second child of a family of eight. His parents were John G. and Adeline (Morman) Tangeman, both natives of Germany. They came to America in 1832, and located on a farm in Auglaize county, Ohio. John G. Tangeman was a farmer and general tradesman. In 1848 884 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. he moved to McGregor, Iowa, and opened up a new farm. David started out to work for himself when he was nineteen years of age, and lived on a farm for fourteen years, then he went to Allamakee county, Iowa, and went to milling on the Yellow river. In 1878 he sold a half interest in the mill, and came to Crawford county, and again located on a farm, which he re- tained but three months, when he traded it for an office and lumber yard in Danbury, where he now is. In 1882 he sold the yard and turned his entire attention to buying and shipping grain. In 1842 he married Minnie, daughter of Henry Wheeler, who was a German, and of a very long-lived family. This couple had four children: Louisa, Fred, Annie and August. All these children are married and in business for themselves. ‘Louisa married E. Mensing, and is the mother of six children; Fred and August each have one child. Mr. Tangeman’s first wife died in 1856, and in 1858 he married a second time, his wife being Mary Radeneker, who bore him five children: Edward, Elsford, Mahony, Minnie and Attle. The eldest is married and lives on a farm. Elsford deals in live stock. In 1889 Mr. Tangeman went to Texas and purchased an entire sec- tion of land. In religious belief he is a Lutheran; in politics a democrat. Gerorce Nicnoxas Caste, hotel-keeper, Danbury, is a grandson of John Castle, a Bavarian architect, who superintended the building of the fortifica- tions of his native kingdom for many years. George, son of John Castle, is a cooper and builder. He married Catharine Deitzer, and in 1845 they came to America and located at Rosendale, Ulster county, N. Y., where George N. Castle was born to them April 6, 1848. In 1867 they settled on a farm in Maple township, Monona county, this state, and now reside with their son at Danbury. The latter received most of his education in the schools of Louis- ville, Ky., and New York city. He took a homestead in Monona county, which he sold in 1879, and then bought the hotel which has been known as the Castle house ever since. In November, 1871, he married Almira, daughter of Benjamin and Sally Ann Smith, all of Pennsylvania birth and German descent. They have three children living, viz.: Josephine, Mack and William. Three boys died of diphtheria within one week. Mr. Castle’s parents were reared in the Roman Catholic church, but joined the Methodist in this country. He is a man of liberal mind. He was formerly a republican, but is now a democrat, on ac- count of the tariff issue. When a candidate on the democratic ticket for county recorder, he was defeated by only thirty-four votes. He has served twice as mayor of Danbury. -He is scribe of the Masonic chapter at Maple- ton, and an active member of his home lodge. Isaac B. Sanres, cashier of the Danbury State bank, was born in Monon- galia county, W. Va., March 7, 1852, and was educated at the State univer- GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 885 sity at Morgantown, W. Va., but afterward graduated from the Iron City commercial college, at Pittsburgh, Pa. He then came to Illinois and man- aged a general store for I. B. Santee & Co., and afterward traveled about one year, for Boyes, Fay & Conkey, of Chicago. In 1888 he come to Danbury to manage a general store for Shepard, Field & Cook, where he gave five years’ faithful work, and afterward accepted the position as cashier of the Danbury State bank, which has a paid-up capital of $40,000. His father, Andrew J., and mother, Lucy (Shriver) San- tee, were native Americans. He was married, June 16, 1877, to Addie M., daughter of James and Mary (Anthony) Gibson. Mr. Santee is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and votes with the democratic party. Cuartiz C. Coox, merchant, Danbury, is a grandson of Philander Cook, of New York, probably of Dutch descent. His parents, Wells and Caroline F. (Williams) Cook, were also natives of New York, the latter being a de- scendant of Roger Williams, of Providence colony. C. C. Cook was born at Java Lake, Wyoming county, N. Y., July 28, 1855. He is the second of four children, and received his education in the schools of Eau Claire, Wis., to which city his parents moved when he was eight years old. When fifteen years of age he went to Lacon, IIl., and found employment with a railroad surveying party. Three years later he went to Council Bluffs, and began traveling as a salesman for a wholesale dry goods house. In 1882, with two partners, constituting the firm of Shepard, Field & Cook, he opened a gen- eral stock of merchandise at Danbury, and two years later he retired from the road and gave his whole attention to the store. In 1886 Shepard & Cook bought out Field, and two years later Mr. Cook became sole proprietor of the stock, which is a large one. Politically Mr. Cook is a democrat, and entertains liberal religious views. He was mar- ried at Council Bluffs, in 1880, to Maud Knepper, of German descent, and they have a son seven years old, named Adelbert. . Joun Hoxtmes Ostrom, attorney, Danbury, is a grandson of John Ostrom, of Dutch descent, who moved from Dutchess county, N. Y., to Canada. Here was born Andrew Ostrom, who married Joan, daughter of John Holmes, of English descent. They located at Castile, N. Y., where was born to them the son whose name heads this article. In 1838 they removed to Illinois, and settled on a farm near Galesburg. Andrew Ostrom was a shoe- maker and also a plasterer, and plastered the first house in Galesburg. John H. Ostrom attended the country schools, and spent a year in Lombard university at Galesburg. When twenty years old, he went on the road, sell- ing lightning rods, and later returned to the farm. August 6, 1862, he enlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Second Illinois volunteer infantry, and served in the army of the Tennessee. 886 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Throughout the Atlanta campaign, he was under fire nearly every day, from June to September, but escaped any injury. Immediately following his discharge, June 15, 1865, he came to Iowa, and remained four years on a farm near Victor. He then sold out and went to Brooklyn, Poweshiek county, Iowa, and read law a year, and was admitted to the barin April, 1870. After practicing at Brooklyn four years, he went to Colorado and spent six years in mine prospecting and kindred pursuits. Since 1880, he has been engaged in law practice and the real estate busi- ness at Danbury. Mr. Ostrom is a member of the Masonic order, and has always been a republican. He has been school treasurer four years, and is now serving his second term as mayor of Danbury. In theological matters he is inclined to fatalism, believing that whatsoever is, is for the best. May 24, 1866, he was married to Lydia A., daughter of William Korns, both of Pennsylvania birth and German ancestry. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Ostrom are named Stella, Ernest, Carrie and Elmer. The younger daugh- ter is the wife of C. F. Seibold, of Danbury, and the elder son is editor of the Danbury “ Criterion.” Jort B. Laxs, farmer, Battle Creek, was born in Winnebago county, IIl., in 1852, where he remained until twenty-eight years of age, during which time he made a trip to Nevada, where he prospected for a year, and also came to Polk county, Iowa, but did not locate. In 1880 he came to Woodbury county, and located on a farm in Morgan township, where he has since re- mained. He was educated in his native county, and attended high school at Rockton, Ill. His father, V. A., is deceased, but his mother, Sophia (Taft) Lake, still lives; the former was a grain and stock dealer at Rockton. Mr. Joel Lake was married in 1880, to Eva, daughter of Philip and Lou- isa (Gleasman) Gebhard, of German descent, and has one child, Roy P., now eight years old. In politics Mr. Lake is a republican; a member of the - Masonic fraternity, and in sympathy with the Methodist Episcopal church. J. H. Smrrx, farmer and stockman, Battle Creek, was born in Lawence county, Pa., March 9, 1837, a son of John and Sarah (Right) Smith, of Ger- man and Trish descent, repectively, both of whom are dead. His grand- fathers, Philip Smith and Alexander Right, were both soldiers in the Rovolu- tionary war, while his two older brothers lost their lives in the late war. Mr. Smith was married in 1858, to Miss E. J. Harbison, by whom he had four children: Addison, Amelia, Joseph and William C. His wife died in 1879, and he was again married in 1884, this time to Mrs. Etta Warner, whose maiden name was Smith; she had two children by her former husband, Frank and Cora, and they have two children, Harry and B. Mr. Smith is in sympathy with the Presbyterian church, in politics is a republican, and a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. His farm consists of 240 acres, all of which is under cultivation, and he deals quite extensively in stock. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 887 Prrer Pavuzson, farmer, Danbury, was born in Schleswig, Denmark, April 14, 1852, and there he was educated and afterward learned the tinner’s trade. In 1869 he came to America, and for two years followed the peddling trade in Chicago. He then went to California, where he was engaged handling brick, and also handled lumber in Washington. In 1874 he returned to Chi- cago, where he worked at his old trade until 1884, when he came to Wood- bury county, Iowa, and located on a farm in Morgan township, where he now resides. His father and mother, John P. and A. (Kastisen) Paulson, were Danes, and he is the fifth of twelve children, six of whom are in America, He was naturalized and became an American citizen in 1876. In 1871 he married Elizabeth, daughter of Matthew and Dorothea Muss, of German descent. They have eight children: Mary, John, Emma, Christ., Henry, Paul, Anthony and Hettie. Mr. Paulson is an Odd Fellow, and he and wife are members of the Lutheran church. He is one of the substan- tial farmers of this section, having a farm of 400 acres, 300 of which he cultivates, besides handling cattle and hogs extensively. Joun G. Bitter, M. D., a prominent physician of Correctionville, was born in Kent county, Ontario, March 6, 1859, and is a son of David and Ellen (Atkins) Biller, the former a native of Germany, and the latter of Canada; both are still living in Ontario. He was reared in Ontario, where he received his early education. At the age of twenty-two he commenced the study of medicine, attending the University of Michigan, and graduated from the Detroit Medical college in 1884. He commenced the practice of medicine in Hillsdale county, Mich., in the fall of 1884. He went to Washta, ‘Iowa, where he practiced until April, 1887, when he came to Correction- ville, where he has since been engaged at his profession, and has gained a good reputation as a physician. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. In 1884 he married Caroline Gleason, and they have four children: Howard, Nettie, Edward and Minnie. Txomas Frazizr, farmer, P. O. Rock Branch, is a pioneer of Rutland township. He was born in Salt Creek township, Muskingum county, Ohio, December 27, 1819, and is a son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Dew) Frazier, natives of Pennsylvania and Maryland, respectively. His grandfather, Will- iam Frazier, was a native of Pennsylvania, and was the son of a Scotchman, who came from Inverness, and served as a colonial soldier during the Revolu- tion. A brother of this soldier was at the same time a colonel in the British army. Our subject was reared on a farm, receiving a limited education, as there were no free schools in his time. In July, 1841, he married Martha Ward, a native of Perry county, Ohio. and daughter of William and Sarah (Drennan) Ward, of English descent. In 1842 they removed to Missouri, and the next year to Pike county, II1., 888 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. where they remained four years. After living twenty-one years on a farm in Jackson county, Iowa, they settled on section thirty-six, Rutland township, in 1868, where they still reside. In 1850 Mr. Frazier made an overland trip to California, where he remained nearly three years, engaged in moderately successful mining. He secured the organization of Rutland township as soon as it had suf- ficient population, and has served as clerk, assessor and justice of the peace. He is an uncompromising democrat, and sympathizes with the Evan- gelical church, of which his wife is a member. He was many years an Odd Fellow, and is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. Following are the names and residences of his children: Almira (Mrs. B. L. Flathers), Philena (widow of J. J. Woods), Wolf Creek township; Mary (wife of Thomas Beckon), Rut- land; Martha (Mrs. Alfred Bryant), Moville; Alice (Mrs. Sidel), Wolf Creek; Thomas B., at home. J. C. Foutry, stockman, Climbing Hill, was born in county Down, Ireland, in the year 1834. His parents’ names were Matthew and Elizabeth (Cope- land) Foley, both of Irish nativity. Mr. Foley was married in England, May 27, 1865, to Rosena Cleland, of Irish birth and parentage, a daughter of Robert and Elizabeth Cleland. In the same year Mr. Foley immigrated to America, and engaged in farming in Wisconsin. He went to England on a three years’ visit, returning to Wisconsin, from whence he went to Kansas, remaining five years, and returning again to Wisconsin. In 1877 he came to Sioux City, and engaged in the dairy business until 1887, when he came to his present place, the Glenview stock farm, West Fork township, where he is engaged in farming and the breeding of trotting and French draft horses. Mr. and Mrs. Foley have six children—four girls and two boys, viz. : Elizabeth, aged twenty-four years, a milliner in Sioux City; Mary, aged twenty-three years, principal of one of the Sioux City schools; Sarah, aged twenty-one years, a teacher in Sioux City; Grace, aged nineteen, milliner at Sioux City; William, aged seventeen, attending business college in Sioux City; and Johnny, aged thirteen, at school in Sioux City. Pror. N. E. Patmer was born in Sullivan, Ashland county, Ohio, Novem- ber 26, 1838. His parents were Thomas M. and Aldis (Ladd) Palmer, both of whom were from Vermont. His grandfather’s name was Thomas, and his great-grandfather was a soldier in the Revolution. He is of English descent on his father’s side, and a mixture of German on his mother’s. In 1844 the Palmers moved to Noble county, Ind, and in 1852 to Wisconsin. Here the Professor received his education, graduating in the scientific course of the Point Bluff academy. Here he engaged in teaching and in the lumber busi- ness, and held the position of clerk of the board of supervisors of Adams county. In 1869 he came to Sioux City, walking from Fort Dodge, and GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 889 worked for his board, until he secured a position as teacher, and afterward taught in different parts of the county. For three terms, including the years 1879 to 1883, and 1887 to 1889, he ably filled the position of county superintendent of schools. While in office he graded the normal institute of the county, and compiled the first syllabus for institute work used in the county. He has been closely connected with the school work of the county for more than twenty years. He was the candidate for the republicans in 1883 for representative, but was beaten by a small plurality. Mr. Palmer was married October 31, 1877, to Miss Amelia Gillett, who was born in Clinton county, Iowa, in January, 1858, a daughter of Henry and Sarah (Sleeper) Gillett. Three children have blessed the union, namely: Hertha Edite, born April 30, 1882; Bessie May, born January 19, 1885; Edna Mabel, born August 16, 1888. When fifteen years old, Mr. Palmer lost his right arm by the accidental discharge of a gun, but even with this disability is making quite a success of farming on his half section, near Peiro, where he is at present located. Wiiiam T. Worts, farmer, P. O. Climbing Hill, was born in Morgan county, Tll., April 28, 1844, a son of David B. and Margaret (Eades) Worth. On his father’s side he is of German, and on his mother’s, of English ancestry. He came to Marion county, Iowa, in 1846, and engaged in farming there until 1880, when he came to his present place in West Fork township. He married, in Marion county, Iowa, November 28, 1868, Miss N. J. Gifford, who was born February 6, 1845. Her father, Manly Gifford, was a member of the legislature for Polk and Jasper counties, when the capital of Iowa was at Iowa City. Her mother’s name was Sarah E. Davis. Mr. and Mrs. Worth have four children, viz.: Manly, born October 26, 1869; Minnie, born October 2, 1878; Elvan, born November 21, 1883; and Floy, born September 23, 1886. Mr. Worth enlisted, August 10, 1862, in Company H, Fortieth Iowa infantry, and was in the battles of Prairie D’ Anne and Jen- kins Ferry. He owns property in Sioux City, and has 200 acres of land in his farm. He is engaged in farming, stock-raising and horticulture. The many varieties of apple, grape, evergreen and forest trees that Mr. Worth has on his place, demonstrate the capabilities of northwestern Iowa’s soil. In politics Mr. Worth is an independent. Rey. Carotins A. Basserr was born in Cattaraugus county, N. Y., in the year 1841. At the early age of fifteen years, she commenced her labors as a teacher, and by careful economy and industry, saved enough to enable her to attend the State Normal school of Albany, where she graduated with honor in 1862. In 1868 she resigned her position as principal of the Gowanda Union school and came to Correctionville, Iowa. Shortly after reaching the state, 890 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. she was engaged as principal of the Onawa school, which position she held for one year. At the close of the spring term she was appointed by the state superintendent to conduct the Monona County institute, it being the first teachers’ institute ever conducted by a lady, and so successful was she that her services were sought in many of the counties of the state, and in Dakota, conducting their Territorial institute in December, 1873. In 1870 she was appointed principal of the grammar department of the public schools of Sioux City. In the fall of 1870, she was elected by the people of Woodbury county, to the office of county superintendent of schools, which office she held for two years, retaining her place, however, in school, until the close of 1873, when she resigned to devote herself more fully to the duties of the office, and institute conductor. Under her superintendency, edu- cational conventions were held at Correctionville, Smithland and Sioux City. These consisted of lectures, discussions, papers and illustrated lessons. Besides these conventions, two institutes were held in Sioux City—the first commenced October 7, 1872, and continued one week, conducted by Prof. James Johonnot, of the Warrensburg Normal school, Mo., and Miss Helen Potter, of New York. A normal institute was held, commencing November 17, 1878, and continued two weeks, in charge of Miss Bassett, assisted by Mrs. Randall Diehl, of New York, and the teachers of the county. In 1871, at a celebration in Correctionville, she won the honor of being the first lady to deliver a fourth-of-July oration. Miss Bassett was promi- nently connected with all the educational interests of the state. In August, 1872, she presented a paper at the State Teachers’ association at Iowa City, upon “ Normal Training in the High School.” She presented “ Reading and Elocution” at the first State Normal held in Des Moines, and a paper before the same institute at Clear Lake. She also established an educational bureau at Des Moines. In January, 1874, Miss Bassett entered the University at Evanston, Iil., for a theological course, but receiving an injury from a fall, she was unable to complete the course. In 1878 she assisted in a normal institute at Sioux City. Miss Bassett is at present pastor of the Free Baptist church of Lisbon, Mich.,-having been ordained by that denomination in June, 1881. She is also state superintendent of Sunday-school work in the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union. Lorenzo D. Wetiineron (deceased) was a son of Ashley and Sarah (Ford) Wellington, of German and Irish descent, and was born in Erie county, N. Y., June 11,1824. He was reared on a farm, and resided with his parents until twenty years of age, when he started out to earn his own living. He worked in different localities until 1857, when he came to Woodbury county and pur- chased 160 acres of land in section twenty-nine, West Fork township, where GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 891 his family now reside. January 1, 1857, he married Elizabeth Lee, of Illi- nois, and to them were born eleven children, namely: Charles A., Sarah H., Loretta A., David E., Elmer L., Chester M., Nellie J., Florence L., Gracie, Willie A. and Ida L. In polities Mr. Wellington was a republican, and held the office of constable, and belonged to the Engineers’ Association. He and his wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. His death oc- curred April 15, 1885. He had his farm under a good state of cultivation, and well stocked with a good grade of horses, cattle and hogs. Cuaries Brown, an old settler and general farmer, now residing on sec- tion fourteen, Grange township, was born in Berkshire county, Mass., Janu- ary 28, 1833, a son of Samuel and Susan (Joslyn) Brown. Samuel Brown was engaged in farming in this county at the time of his death, January 7, 1879; his wife died on the same farm, October 5, 1890, at the age of eighty- five. They were of English descent, and true Christian people. Our subject resided with his parents until twenty-six years old. He came to Woodbury county, Iowa, in 1864, and located at Sioux City, but the following year went to Smithland, where he lived three years. He then purchased eighty acres of land where he now lives, which he has under a good state of cultiva- tion. He has seen the wonderful development of the country and the growth of Sioux City from its infancy. The first school meeting of the three town- ships, Willow, West Fork and Grange, was held at his house. In 1857 he married Minerva West, of Pennsylvania, and to them have been born six children: Viola, Emma, Alice, Rachel, Samuel and Tillie. Viola, the eldest child, died October 26, 1875. In politics Mr. Brown is a republican. He has a record of his family extending back through five generations in Amer- ica, and through six generations prior, while they were in England. Cuartes B. Nevpaver, farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section sixteen, Moville township, was born in Austria, February 8, 1855, and is a son of Charles and Gabriella (Badstuber) Neupauer, both natives of Austria. His father is the owner of large estates in Austria, comprising between three and four thousand acres of land, and raises a large amount of grain, besides being engaged quite extensively in stock-raising. Charles B. received a first-class education in his native land, attending the University at Prague two years, and graduating from Magyar Ovar in Hungary, and subsequently from the University of Halle,Germany. After completing his collegiate studies, he engaged in farming in Austria two years, and in 1882 sailed for America. He located in Plymouth county, Iowa, where he remained until 1889, when he purchased 320 acres of land in Moville township, Woodbury county, where he now resides, engaged in farm- ing. He also superintends land which belongs to gentlemen in the old coun- try. He is a member of the Roman Catholic church. 892 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Partey Morais, farmer, P. O. Oto, was born in New York state, June 14, 1830, and is the only living child of six children born to John and Dorcas (Webb) Morris, the former of Connecticut, and the latter of Vermont. He remained at home with his parents until 1844, when he went to Ohio, and worked out at farming until he became of age, then went to Wisconsin and engaged in the lumber business, remaining until 1856, when he came to Iowa. He located on his present farm in Grant township in 1864, and has remained here since. April 26, 1865, he married Jane Elizabeth Livermore a widow. She had three children by her first marriage, but Mr. Morris has no children of his own. In politics he is a republican. Cuartes A. Hatt, farmer, P. O. Oto, was born April 25, 1859, in Jack- son county, Iowa, and is a son of Isaac and Jane (Livermore) Hall, both of whom are deceased. He received a good college education, and, after mov- ing from one place to another until 1881, he located on his present farm of 120 acres of choice land, where he raises the best of crops. He is well liked and highly esteemed by hisneighbors. Mr. Hall married Josie Greener, and three children have blessed this union. In politics he is a republican. Patuer Haut, farmer, Smithland, was born in Jefferson county, N. Y., July 22, 1831, and is a son of Thomas and Lida (Palmer) Hall, natives of New York. His father was a Whig, and followed farming. Of their two children, our subject was the elder. He was reared on a farm in Jefferson county, N. Y., and attended school until he came west in 1856. He married Elizabeth Jane Adams, who was born October 9, 1839, in Boone county, Ind., March 4, 1858. His farm consists of 405 acres, situated in the Little Sioux valley, three miles northeast of Smithland, 130 acres being under cultivation, 130 acres in pasture, 70 acres meadow, and the remainder in timber. He also has an orchard of one and one-half acres of apple trees and various kinds of small fruit. The buildings and orchard are protected on the north by a grove of three acres, consisting of cotton wood, black walnut, maple and red cedar. To Mr. Hall and wife were born eight children, namely: William Wal- lace, born December 25, 1858, married November 7, 1889, to’ Miss Mary A. Fox, now residing in Smithland; Thomas Adams, born March 13, 1861, died November 3, 1886, from the effects of a fall from a horse; Bertha Rebecca, born August 7, 1863, was married to O. G. Buntin, November 13, 1884, and removed to Carroll county, Mo., where she now resides; Louis Napoleon, born April 5, 1867; Edith Florine, born March 16, 1870; Harry Elijah, born October 4, 1878; Nellie Viola, born August 26, 1878; Fred Parmer, born February 5, 1882. Mr. Hall and family attend the Methodist church, and he is a democrat in politics. Nicuoras Gass, farmer, Smithland, was born September 10, 1833, at Remling, canton de Volmuster, department de la Moselle, Lorraine, France. ci GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 893 He received a thorough education in the public schools, and speaks French, German and English fluently. September 5, 1855, he came to America and landed at New York city. He went to Ohio, from there to Wheeling, W. Va., where he worked in a tannery till the spring of 1856, when he went to Ohio and carried on the tanning and currier business till February 15, 1865, when he sold out and came to Woodbury county, Iowa, and on March 20 of the same year, he settled on the land where he nowlives. January 10, 1857, in the Catholic church at Miltonsburg, Monroe county, Ohio, he married Maria Bauer, and eleven children have blessed their union, nine of whom are still living. Mr. Gambs votes the democratic ticket. His parents are Nicho- las and Barbara (Wack) Gambs, the former a native of Lorraine, France, the latter a Bavarian. Our subject was raised as a Roman Catholic, but is a free believer, his motto being, do unto others as you wish others to do unto you. He holds that one religious belief is not any better than another. He prefers to judge a man by the manner in which he conducts himself, rather than by his religious belief. James Simon Horton, miller, Oto, was born in Canada, January 4, 1836, and is the elder of the two children born to Elias and Mary (Fross) Horton, natives of England. He learned the mason’s trade, at which he worked until he came to Iowa in 1869, when he located on a farm in Oto Township. In 1875 he went into the milling business and has since been working at that. He married Julia Anna Sherwood, who died leaving him a family of ten chil- dren. February 5, 1886, he married again, his second wife being Alice Mor- rison, of Galena, Ill. Mr. Horton was one of the earliest settlers of this county and relates many interesting incidents of its early time. He votes the democratic ticket. Tsomas Herpert, farmer, Oto, was born in England, January 10, 1828. He remained at home working with his parents, James and Sarah (Clatara- tion) Herbert, until 1853, when he came to Canada. He remained there a short time working at blacksmithing, and then removed to Ohio, where he stayed until the outbreak of the war. He joined the One Hundred and Fifteenth Ohio volunteers, and remained in the army till he was wounded in the leg at Stone River by a rifle ball, when he was discharged. After the close of the war he went to Ohio, but soon after removed to Iowa, where he is still living. He was married to Elizabeth Rettnan in 1837, and has a family of three children. He supports the democratic party. Bensamin Franxuin Beiuows, architect and builder, Oto, was born March 17, 1842, in Canada. He is the second of the seven children of Moses Brown and Fanny M. (Pierce) Bellows, the former of New Hampshire, born August 11, 1808, and the latter of New York, born April 4, 1819. Our subject learned the carpenter’s trade, and worked at it until 1861, when he went to 894 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Nebraska, and joined the First Dakota cavalry, Company A, under Sully. In 1876 he came to Oto township, Woodbury county, and located, remaining here since. He was married to Hannah E. Ross, at Sioux City, January 8, 1874. Three children blessed this union, two of whom are deceased. In politics Mr. Bellows is a republican. Nicuotas Kertazs, farmer, P. O. Oto, was born in the village of Nothum, canton Wiltz, grand duchy of Luxemburg, May 9, 1882, and is the son of John Baptist and Susan (Mersh) Keitges. His father, who was born on the home farm which the family had owned for 200 years, immigrated to Amer- ica in 1866. He was born in 1804, but as the farm was divided among all the children, according to the laws there, he thought best to sell his share and come to America. The family came to Iowa, and purchased an improved farm of 160 acres, near Independence, Buchanan county. There they lived until. the father died, March 29, 1878. The mother died on the homestead in the old country, in December, 1864. Nicholas Keitges is the eldest of their six children, and was well edu- cated in the French and German languages before he came to this country. He was of a roving disposition, and did not settle down at once. February 27, 1868, he married Margaret Hottua, and five children have been born to them, three of whom are living. He lived in Iowa four years, most of the time in Buchanan county, though in November, 1869, he made a trip to Kansas, looking for land, but the grasshoppers were so bad that it did not look favorable to him. He owned some land in Nebraska, and was there from the fall of 1871 until July 1, 1875, and the grasshoppers having de- stroyed his crops there four years in succession, he was obliged to move or starve, so he left that state, and moved to Harrison county, Iowa, where he bought 140 acres, and lived eight years, and where his wife died, February 16, 1877. In 1883 he sold out, and went to Oregon with his family, and spent two months looking for land, but he was not satisfied there, and re- turned to Iowa, and located on his present place in Oto township. He is a member of the: Roman Catholic church, and in political matters votes the democratic ticket. Witiiam C. Mitzer, attorney at law, Correctionville, was born in Free- port, IlL, April 21, 1863, and is a son of E. W..and Catharine (Devore) Miller, natives of Bedford county, Pa., of German descent. The parents now reside in Rutland township, this county, where they settled in 1883. For twenty years they dwelt on a farm in Montgomery county, Mo., where our subject was reared. He attended the common schools till seventeen years old, when he entered the Missouri State university at Columbia. He taught school and practiced stenographic writing, and in 1884 was appointed court reporter for the then Fourteenth judicial district of Iowa, taking up his residence at GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 895 Ida Grove. When the present Sixteenth district was formed he continued in the same capacity, filling the position for nearly three years in all. In 1886 he was examined by the Supreme court and admitted to practice. For the next two years he practiced in partnership with E. D. Wigton at Sioux City, settling at Correctionville in 1889. In October, 1890, he formed a partnership with Earl Edmunds for the practice of law. He is a Knight of Pythias, and acts with the republican party. In May, 1889, Mr. Miller mar- ried Miss Lou E., daughter of M. B. and Jenny (Layson) White. Mrs. Mil- ler is a native of Missouri, and her parents of Kentucky and Missouri, respect- ively. Exxis Hoevs, an old settler in Woodbury county, and a retired farmer living in Correctionville, was born in Lawrence county, Pa., and is a son of Jonathan and Jane (Walton) Hogue, both natives of Pennsylvania, and both of Scotch-Irish descent. Jonathan Hogue was by occupation a farmer, and died in June, 1886, at the age of eighty-six years; his wife still resides in Warren county, Pa.; both were supporters of the church and esteemed by all. Ellis Hogue was reared on a farm, and received his education in the dis- trict schools of the neighborhood. March, 1864, he enlisted in Company I, 142d Pennsylvania infantry. He was wounded at the battle of the Wilder- ness and was sent to the hospital, afterward going home on furlough. He subsequently returned to the army, and was discharged in June, 1865. Mr. Hogue then sold out in Pennsylvania and moved to Ohio, where he farmed three years, then came to Woodbury county, Iowa, in the fall of 1868, and settled on 160 acres of land in Rock township, which he had previously pur- chased. He engaged in farming there until March, 1890, when he gave up active work and retired, selling his farm and purchasing property in Cor- rectionville. October 20, 1853, he married Elizabeth West, of Venango county, Pa.; both he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. He is a republican, and was trustee of Rock township thirteen years, and school treasurer three years. ‘ Wituiam M. Waiaeur, a prominent druggist now doing business in Cor- rectionville, was born in Washington county, Iowa, January 17, 1855, and is a son of John and Isabelle (Clarke) Wright, the former a native of Ireland, but the latter a native of Pennsylvania, of German antecedents. John Wright is by occupation a farmer, and also deals in fine stock, in which business he is now engaged, being located in Washington county, Iowa. William M. Wright was born and reared on the farm in Washington county, Iowa, and received his early education in the common schools, but completed his studies in the Washington academy. He then engaged as clerk in a drug store, in the same county, where he remained four years. He 48 896 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. then went to What Cheer, Iowa, and went into the drug business for him- self, where he remained a short time only, when he moved his stock to Wood- bury county, and opened a store in Correctionville. This was in 1882, and he has continued in business there ever since, his business growing so large that on December 1, 1889, he was obliged to move into a larger store-room, and now has the finest store in Woodbury county outside of Sioux City. He is a republican in politics, and is a member of the council, which office he has held for four years. He was treasurer two terms. He holds member- ship in the Masonic, I. O. O. F. and K. of P. societies. Mr. Wright married Molly Moses, of Keota, Iowa, in June, 1882, and they have one child, Pearl. He and wife are well known in the county, and hold the respect and esteem of all their friends and acquaintances. Joun A. Lampert, an old settler now residing in Correctionville, was born in Tennessee, December 8, 1831, a son of Adam and Hannah (Crouse) Lam- bert, both natives of Tennessee and of German descent. Adam Lambert engaged in farming in Winneshiek county, Iowa, from 1857, when he moved there from Madison county, Ind., until his death, which occurred in 1881; his wife survived him only until the following spring. John A. was born and reared on a farm, and resided with his parents until twenty-one years of age, when he engaged in farming for himself in Madison county, Ind. In 1857 he moved to Winneshiek county, Iowa, and in 1868 to Woodbury county, and took up a homestead in Union township, where he farmed until 1885; since then he has rented out his farm and lived in Correctionville. January 11, 1854, he married Susan Neal, and they have had eight children, all of whom are living: Florence L., wife of James Crowther, living in Nebraska; Mary L, wife of T. J. Wright, of Nebraska; William W., who is at present living in Washington; James L., living in Plymouth county, Towa; Estella, wife of George Wilson, living in Wood- bury county; Martha B., wife of William Wazler, living in Kingsley; Omer and Milbert G., both living in Correctionville. Mrs. Lambert passed to her final rest March 11, 1890, a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and an earnest Christian woman. In politics Mr. Lambert votes the republican ticket, and has been trustee of Union township about five years, and also held the office of school director. Cuatapua G. Goss, a leading merchant of Correctionville, was born in Keokuk county, Iowa, March 1, 1858, and is a son of Wesley and Elizabeth (Evans) Goss. Wesley Goss was born in Washington county, Ohio, March 16, 1815, and is a son of Solomon and Mary C. (Devall) Goss, his father be- ing of English descent, and his mother of French descent. He engaged in farming in Hardin county, Ohio, until 1839, when he came to Iowa and set- tled in what is now Keokuk county, and entered 240 acres of land. He farmed GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 897 there for twenty-two years, when he sold out and moved to Mahaska county, Iowa, where he resided six years, going thence to Clay county, where he con- tinued farming until 1882. He then retired from active work, sold his farm, and settled in Correctionville, Woodbury county, where he has resided ever since. ‘When he came into the state of Iowa there were about three tiers of counties west of the Mississippi river, and these were sparsely settled. He has been identified with the history of Iowa for about fifty years, and has seen the wild lands cleared and transformed into fertile farms and comforta- ble homes, has witnessed the introduction of railroads, the telegraph, num- berless factories, and has beheld the church and school-houses erected, and the whole state filled with a happy and prosperous people. He has seen the Indians in their wigwams, and wild game of every description that lived in the woods and on the prairies of the great state of Iowa. He married Elizabeth Evans, March 17, 1836, and they have reared a family of eleven children, viz.: Eliza A., James G., Mary A., Charles W. (who was killed in the battle of Iuka, Miss.), Lucy, Elizabeth, Solomon M. (who was drowned while bathing in Skunk river), Olive A., Harlan, Chalapha and Ella R. Both parents are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, with which. they have been identified fifty-six years. They are well known in Woodbury county, where they are held in the highest esteem by all. Politically Mr. Goss is a republican, and has supported the principles of that party ever since its organization. He was formerly a whig. He is also a member of the Masonic fraternity. C. G. Goss was born and reared on a farm, and received his early educa- tion in the district schools, completing his studies in the Onawa high school. He then taught school about five years, was employed in a store until 1882, and then came to Correctionville, where he embarked in the mercantile busi- ness for himself. He is now doing a prosperous business, in a handsome brick building, which was erected by Goss & Co. He is a member of the Masonic order and of the K. of P., and politically is a republican. Jamrs O. THompson, an enterprising citizen of Correctionville, was born in Oshkosh, Wis., January 7, 1852, a son of Olden and Mary J. (Westgate) Thompson. Olden Thompson was a native of Vermont, of Scotch-Irish descent, and spent a part of his life sailing on the Atlantic and Southern seas; the latter part of his life was spent in farming in Fayette county, Iowa, where he re- sided at the time of his death, which occurred in March, 1886; his wife was of German and English descent, a native of New York, and survived her husband but ten days. Hight children were born to this couple, five of whom are yet living: Ellen, wife of 8. Stevenson, of Sturgeon Bay, Wis.; James, our subject; Myron E. and Mary E., twins; and Carrie. Both par- ents were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. 898 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. James O. was born and reared on a farm, and received his early educa- tion in the common schools, but completed his studies at the University of Fayette county, Iowa. He engaged in farming in the same county until 1876, when he moved to Woodbury county, and engaged in farming there until 1886. He then moved to Correctionville and took charge of his livery and sale stable which he and his brother, Myron E., are at present carrying on. They also own 340 acres of land in Woodbury county, which they hire men to operate. Myron E. owns 120 acres in Fayette county. Politically they are both republicans. James O. is at present a member of the council, and both he and brother are members of the K. of P. Our subject was united in marriage in Fayette county, Iowa, December 25, 1873, to Julia E. Dewey, born in Ohio, but who had moved to Iowa when quite young. Myron E. married Clara B. Roberts, in February, 1884. They have three children: Cecil, Myron and Pearl. Jacop ArrHur Bunny, farmer, Correctionville, is a native of Birkham- stead, England, as were his father James, and grandfather, John Bunn. His mother, Mary Ann (Seabrook) Bunn, was also born there, but now makes her home with Jacob. The latter was six years old when his parents came to America and located at Brooklyn, now a part of Cleveland, Ohio, where the father followed his trade, blacksmithing. In 1871 he settled on a farm in Douglas township, Ida county, this state, where he died in August, 1885, aged sixty-nine years. He had previously dwelt sixteen years at Worthing- ton, Dubuque county. Following are the names, with residence, of his chil- dren: Isaac, Ida Grove, Ida county; Jacob A., Woodbury county; Galeb, who was in the First Iowa cavalry, Company I, three years, Silver township, Cherokee county; Sarah E. (Vanderver), Sioux Falls, 8. Dak. ; John and James Alfred, Washta, Cherokee county. Jacob A. Bunn was born January 1, 1844, and remained with his parents until twenty years old, when he began working with a fence gang on the IIli- nois Central railroad. In 1864 he joined Company A, Forty-fourth Iowa infantry volunteers, and did Garrison duty at Memphis, Tenn., La Grange, Miss., and other points till the close of the war. In 1869 he bought land in Douglas, Ida county, on which he dwelt eight years. Selling out, he bought land in Union township, Woodbury county, where he now has 576 acres. He raises and buys many cattle, usually feed- ing two car loads through the winter. He entertains liberal religious views, and affiliates with the republican party. He has served as school director and township trustee during his residence in Union. In September, 1871, he married Frances A. Pearson, a native of Livingston county, Ill. Their children are Mary Jane, Cora May, George Grey and Bird Florence. Mrs. Bunn’s parents, Moses and Jane (Pindle) Pearson, were among the first set- GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 899 tlers at Correctionville, coming there in 1855, and remaining in that vicinity until 1861, when they removed to Cherokee county. They are natives of New Hampshire and Ohio, respectively, and of English descent. Wituiam T. McNzaz, confectioner, now doing business in Correctionville, was born in Shelbyville, Ill, October 9, 1830, and is a son of Matthew and Maria (Sandusky) McNear, the former born in the District of Columbia, and the latter in Kentucky. Matthew was a miner by occupation. He came to Woodbury county in 1868, and here resided until his death, which occurred in 1885, at the age of eighty-four years; his wife died in 1883. William T. was born in Shelbyville, Ill., and moved with his parents to Dubuque in 1836. He remained in Dubuque until 1878, when he purchased 280 acres of land in Miller township, Woodbury county, where he engaged in farming until 1888. He then moved to Correctionville, where he opened a restau- rant, which he has carried on ever since. October 1, 1878, he married Esther L. Morton, of Dubuque, Iowa, and they have three children: Mabel L., Jessie W. and Mary L. Politically Mr. McNear supports the democratic party. Lewis Goutp Ricuarpson, farmer, Pierson, was born in Marietta, Ohio, May 22, 1840, and is the sixth of the eight children of Reuben and Eliza (Fletcher) Richardson, natives of Boston. Henry, father of Reuben Richard- son, was a Frenchman, and served as a colonial soldier during the Revolu- tion. The Fletcher family is also of French descent. iL. G. Richardson was reared on a farm, and received an ordinary education. When fourteen years old he went with an elder brother to Minnesota, and settled on the present site of Northfield. Returning to Ohio, he was employed on a river steamer, and came up the Mississippi, from New Orleans to Cairo, in May, 1861. He again went to Minnesota and bought a farm in Dakota county. In 1865 he enlisted as a recruit in the First Minnesota regiment, and wit- nessed the surrender of Gen. Lee’s army. Next year he sold his farm and came to Union township, Woodbury county, where he took the southwest quarter of section four, as a homestead. He has since added 180 acres to his farm, and is known as a progressive farmer. He has served as school director nearly all the time of his residence here. Politically he is a democrat, and is a Universalist in religious faith. In the spring of 1864 he married Mary Ellen Sargent, a native of Corinna, Me., and daughter of Jobn W. and Abigal (Clark) Sargent, also natives of Maine. Mrs. Richardson’s grandfather, Joseph Sargent, was born in Vermont, probably of English descent, as were her maternal grandparents, who were born in Bath, Me. Mr. Richardson’s living children are as follows: Martha _ (wife of Samuel Payne, Breckenridge, Colo.); Lulu (Mrs. Erastus Graves, Conrad, Iowa); Guy, at home; Frank, Conrad, Irene, Nellie, Milford, Lottie and Jessie, with parents. 900 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Henry Lanpon, farmer, Pierson, was born in Salisbury, Conn., October 80, 1821, and is a son of Allen and Sally (Sedgwick) Landon, also natives of Salisbury. His grandfather, James Landon, was a large farmer and mer- chant of Salisbury, and was probably born in the same township, of English ancestry. Henry Landon was reared on a farm and attended the common schools. Since he was nineteen years old he has sustained himself chiefly in farming. For some years he was a puddler in the iron works of Salisbury. In 1857 he came to Iowa, and dwelt ten years near Decorah. He then took a homestead on section five, Union township, where he now resides, and fol- lows general farming. In religious faith he is a Methodist, and has usually supported the democratic party in politics. In.1845 he married Almeda, daughter of Charles and Betsey Dean, all of Canaan, Conn. Following are the names, with residence, of Mr. Landon’s children: Ellen (wife of Lorenzo Dean), Kingsley; Jennie, with parents; Addie (Mrs. Edwin Lent), Correc- tionville; James and Alice, at home; Kate (wife of Arthur Baker), Union township. Quincy A. Curisty, a real estate and loan agent, now residing at Correc- tionville, and justice of the peace of Kedron township, was born in Wayne county, Iowa, June 11, 1858. He is a son of Josiah M. and Hannah B. (Cloyed) Christy, the former a native of Ohio, born near Rising Sun, and of Scotch-Irish descent, and the latter born in Wayne county, Ind., of Scotch- English descent. Josiah Christy moved to Wayne county, Iowa, in 1848, and is now engaged in farming. He passed through Chicago in 1833, when that place contained but fifteen houses, besides the Fort Dearborn bar- racks. Politically he is a republican, and has supported the principles of that party since its organization, but in the early days wasa whig. He and his wife are both members of the Methodist church, and are well known and respected by all. Quincy A. was born and reared on a farm in Wayne county, Iowa. He left home at the age of fifteen years, and worked on a farm during the sum- mer and taught school in the winter, until he was twenty years of age. In October, 1882, he came to Woodbury county, where he worked in a store until 1888, when he went into the real estate and loan business, which he has since continued. Being a republican, he was appointed to fill a vacancy in the office of justice of the peace, which occurred in September, 1888, and in November, following, he was elected to fill the same office. He was united in marriage with Lova Furgeson, of Correctionville, May 1, 1884. They are both members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and Mr. Christy is amem- ber of the I. O. O. F. Dustin Henry Rossins, farmer, Correctionville, was born at Nashua, N. H., June 2, 1834, and is a son of Levi and Sarah (Hazelton) Robbins, also ANONUN GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 901 natives of New Hampshire, as was his grandfather, Ezra Robbins. The lat- ter was the son of a Scotchman who settled in that state. The Hazelton family was also established there by a Scotchman about the same time. When seven years old our subject went with his parents to Woodstock, Vt., where he was reared on a farm, receiving a common-school education. In 1854 he came to Winneshiek county, this state, where he continued to own land till he came to Union township in 1866. He took a homestead on sec- tion fifteen, which he still retains and makes his home. He helped to organ- ize the Methodist society of his neighborhood, in which he is now a trustee, a handsome church having been erected in 1888. Politically he is a republican, and has served as justice of the peace four- teen years. In September, 1860, he married Martha, daughter of William and Mary Coe, all of English birth. Mrs. Robbins was four years old when her family came to America. Following are the names of her children: William, Franklin, Albert Perry, Mabel, Martha, Paul, Henry, Reuben and Clyde. On the fourth of July, 1888, Mr. Robbins lost his house, library and all furniture by fire, the family being absent. James F. Suantey, chief of police, Sioux City, is a native of Massachu- setts, and was born in 1860. He is a son of John Shanley, of Ireland, who was inspector for the government for a number of years. He began life as a bootblack, and from that position he rose to messenger boy for the govern- ment. He then became C. S. for United States attorney, T. C. Sullivan, and then was clerk and afterward store-keeper. He remained in the employ of the government until ten years ago. He was employed by the city as watch- man, then as superintendent of the city markets, then as deputy marshal, and finally as city marshal, which office he held two terms. In March, 1889, he was appointed chief of police, which position he now holds. He isa mem- ber of the Roman Catholic church, and takes the democratic side in politics. Lyyn & Suturvay, lawyers. The senior member of this firm is Mr. Lynn, a native of Missouri, who was born March 6, 1857. He received a common- school education, and began the study of law in 1878. He came to Sioux City in 1885, and was admitted to practice at this bar. For six years he held the position of district attorney in his native town in Missouri. Mr. Sullivan, the junior member, is a graduate of the Albany Law school, having graduated from that institution in 1884. He is a native of Albion, N. Y., and was born May 20, 1862. In January, 1890, the firm of Lynn & Sullivan was formed. They are both democrats in politics. L. L. Ketioee, manager of the Sioux City Electric Light Co., was born at Haverhill, Ohio, in 1856. At the age of fifteen he took a position as office boy with the Ironton Gas Co., Ironton, Ohio, and, step by step, was advanced, until he was elected superintendent of the company, in which position he 902 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. remained until 1883, when he resigned to take the position with McMillin & Wilson, gas works owners and lessees. While in their employ he rebuilt the gas works at Galena, Ill.,and Nebraska City, Neb. He came to Sioux City in 1885, to take the position of superintendent and treasurer of the Sioux City Gas Light Co., and in February, 1889, he was elected manager of the Sioux City Electric Light Co. also, thus placing the entire lighting interests of the city under one management. During the past three years the gas works have been entirely rebuilt, and new and modern apparatus added. In addition to furnishing gas for lighting, the company pushes the fuel branch of their business for cooking purposes. The Electric Light Co.’s business consists in furnishing are and incandescent light, and during his management the company has built an entirely new station, equipping it with the most modern apparatus. In 1884 he married Miss Lizzie Prichard, of Ironton, Ohio, and they have one child. Lurz & Szars, attorneys at law, Sioux City. W. G. Sears is a native of Tllinois, and for the past ten years has been a member of the bar. He isa graduate of the Iowa Law school. Eugene Lutz is a native of Switzerland, and a graduate of the University at Berne, Switzerland... He came to Amer- ica in 1874, and spent nine years in West Virginia, and has been seven years in Sioux City, engaged in the practice of law. This firm has been in exist- ence for three years, and is engaged in the practice of general law, more than criminal. Dr. G. Brascu, Sioux City, was born in Hamburg, Germany, and re- ceived his education in his native land. In 1885 he came to Sioux City, and has been engaged in the practice of his profession since that date. He is a graduate of the Iowa State university. J. E. Nason was born in Davenport, Iowa, in 1855, a son of J. P. and Elizabeth Nason. He has followed the occupation of general contractor fif- teen years, and is a practical mechanic. He came to Sioux City in 1885, and was the builder of the Howell block, Hoyt’s Vinegar works, Palace Park hotel, and Judge Wilson’s, Mrs. Clarke’s and C. F. Hoyt’s residences, be- sides many others. He has had a very successful business career, and now owns a large cattle ranch in Plymouth county, covering an entire section of land. He isa member of the Knights of Pythias. October 12, 1878, he married Lydia E. Parks, of Grant City, Iowa, and they have three children. Srepaen W. Jounston, contractor, Sioux City, was born in Canada in 1859. His early life was spent in Ohio, where he was educated in the public schools. He came to Sioux City in 1884. Mr. Johnston is a brick mason by trade. He was the contractor and builder of the Metropolitan block, T. J. Stone’s residence, Howell’s furniture store, W. E. Higman’s fine residence, the Times building, Tacoma block, Badgerow block, tenement house for GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 9038 Mr. Higman, Plymouth block, Massachusetts block, Major block, Hampton block, and many other public buildings and residences in the city. JouN GILLESPIE, stone cutter and contractor, Sioux City, is a native of Scotland, where he was born in 1852. He came to America in 1872, and was in New York city and vicinity for ten years. During that time he was en- gaged in working at his trade, stone cutting. Mr. Gillespie came to Sioux City in September, 1888. He built the stone work of the Evans block and Merchants’ Club house, Dr. Marvin’s residence and R. J. Chase’s residence, besides many other buildings, and is going to commence the new City Li- brary building. October 31, 1886, he married Ida A. Hurd, in Lincoln, Neb. He is a member of the Presbyterian church, and a republican in politics. Haron H. Jounson, mason contractor and builder, Sioux City, was born in Norway in 1860, where he remained until 1879, at which time he con- cluded that America offered better inducements to a young man, wishing to better his condition, than his native land did. Upon his arrival in the United States he came at once to Sioux City, where he has since made his home. For the first few years Mr. Johnson worked as a journeyman at his trade, but in 1887 began contracting. Four of Sioux City’s fine school buildings are monuments of his suceess, as also the Evans block and other buildings. At the spring election of 1891, Mr. Johnson’s republican friends testified their appreciation of his worth by placing him in nomination for the position of alderman in the fifth ward, and, notwithstanding that this ward is democratic, he was elected. Mr. Johnson is a member of Columbia Lodge, No. 13, K. of P., also Modern Woodmen of America. January 4, 1883, he was married to Miss Annie O. Johnson, a native of Norway, who came to this country with her parents in 1872. Hanson Bros., stone contractors, Sioux City. Christian and William Hanson are the members of this firm. Christian is the senior member. He came to this country from Denmark in 1880, and was joined by his brother two years later. For five years after coming to Sioux City they were engaged as employes. Their first contract work was the foundation of F. C. Hill’s hardware store. They had charge of the stone work of the Metro- politan block, the Peavey Grand Opera house, the Iowa Savings bank build- ing, Eri Richardson’s residence, the Leeds Stove works, two buildings for the Boston Investment company, foundations for all the packing-houses, the Evans block, and many more fine buildings throughout the town. C. C. Tueranver, druggist, Sioux City, was born in Sweden in 1859. He came to America in 1869, and received his education at Dixon, Ill. In September, 1884, he came to Iowa, and was employed as a clerk for three years, and for a year and a half has been engaged in business for himself in Sioux City in the Wales block. Mr. Thelander is not a college graduate, but 904 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. passed a creditable examination before the state board of examiners. He is a practical druggist, having had an experience of thirteen years. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias. O. T. Burryess, Sioux City, is a son of T. H. Burtness, a farmer. He was born in Wisconsin in 1856, and received his education in the public schools. In May, 1883, he came to Sioux City, and was employed in the butchering business by Mr. Wales. He entered into business for himself November 12, 1888, and occupies one entire floor and half of the basement. Mr. Burtness purchases cattle from the stock yards, which he himself kills, and ships the dressed meat to different points. He is an unmarried man; takes the republican side in politics. J. L. Boor has been in Sioux City since 1885. He was born and reared on a farm, and for some time engaged in farming. He came to this place from Kansas, and opened a meat market. He buys his stock direct from the farmers of the adjoining country, and gives employment to three men, and devotes his entire time and energy to his trade. He is a member of the Episcopal church. Grorce Cremansky, Sioux City, was born in Germany in 1860. He came to America in 1876, and remained in New York city during that year. In 1877 he removed to Milwaukee, and was there employed in butchering. He came to Sioux City from Milwaukee in 1882, and was engaged as an employe until 1885, when he engaged in meat business for himself, and has since continued in the same. He was joined in wedlock to Lena Wagner. He is a member of the Odd Fellows, and is a democrat in politics. J. F. Younauove, contractor and builder, Leeds, Iowa, was born in Wis- consin in 1857, a son of George G. and Caroline M. Younglove, natives of New York. In 1882 he came to Sioux City, and has been engaged at his business here since, doing a general contracting business in Leeds, also fur- nishing sand for all building purposes, having purchased a tract of twenty acres, two miles east of Leeds. In 1884 he married Augusta, daughter of Joseph and Harriet C. Gard, of Milton, Ind., and to them have been born four children, all of whom are living. Mr. Younglove and family attend the Congregational church. Grorce Hawson, contractor, Sioux City, was born in Yorkshire, England, in 1848. He came to America July 4, 1870, and settled in New Jersey, where he remained four years, having learned the carpentering trade during six years of employment in that line, before leaving his mother country. He then went back to England, and remained two years, and while there, built two blocks of stores and several residences, when he returned again to Amer- ica, and remained another four years in New Jersey. At the end of that time he made another trip to England, and while there got married. Upon GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 905 his return he again settled in New Jersey. Upon again going over to Eng- land, his wife died, January, 1883. Upon returning, in May, 1883, he came to Sioux City, and for a time was an employe of Mr. F. F. Beck, but is now in business as a general contractor and superintendent. He superin- tended the construction of the United Bank building, the Sioux City Engine works and the Evans block, and was the contractor for the residences of J. C. French, and Dr. W. R. Smith, at Smith’s Villa, the Pecault residence, the Sampson block, now known as Unity place, and numerous buildings through- out the city. Heis a member of the order of Odd Fellows, and also a Mason. Mr. Hawson is a widower, and has one daughter in England, where his mother is also still living, in Yorkshire. Crements A. ScuarsTaLL, cigar manufacturer, Sioux City, was born in Indiana, in 1854. When but fourteen years of age he learned his trade. He also learned the blacksmith’s trade, and followed that for three years. He left Indiana in 1869. In 1883 he settled in Sioux City, and in the same year was married to Tillie Duerr, of McGregor, Iowa. Their family consists of two children. Mr. Schafstall entered into partner- ship with Joseph Hutterer, October 1, 1889. Both are practical cigar man- ufacturers, and give employment to eleven men, besides their own labor. Mr. Schafstall is a democrat, politically. W. C. Davenport, deputy United States marshal, Sioux City. This young, spirited and courageous official is a native of Ohio, born in 1861. His father was a merchant for a number of years, W. C. being a clerk in the store. He came to Sioux City in 1881, and for six years was deputy sheriff for McDonald and Magee. In 1889 he was appointed to his present posi- tion, that of deputy United States marshal, for the western division of the northern district of Iowa. This young officer of the law possesses every qualification necessary for the position he holds, being gentlemanly and kind, yet knowing no fear. Ep. Netson, contractor, Sioux City, is a member of the firm of Wieners & Nelson, a native of Norway, and was born in 1854. When sixteen years of age he learned the carpentering trade, and in 1882 came to America. He has been a contractor three years and a half, and during that time has been in partnership with Mr. Wieners. He was the contractor for the Evans block, several school-houses, and many private dwellings throughout the city. He was married to Miss Mary Davidson, of Norway, in Sioux City, in 1884, and to them were born four children. Mr. Nelson has met with quite a fair degree of success in his business efforts. Louis C. De Guipert. As far back as the ancestry of this family has been traced, it has always been found that the eldest son was named Louis, thus leaving our subject the eldest son of Louis A., and grandson of Louis 906 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. A., a native of St. George, Normandy, France, who was a captain under the celebrated Napoleon, and who was with him at the burning of Moscow, the battle of Alexandria, and numerous other important battles. Being a mem- ber of the nobility, he was at last compelled to leave the land of his birth, and came to America, settling in Woodford county, Ill, where he engaged in farming. Here our subject was born, July 21, 1860, and attended school until twenty years old, when he graduated in the classical course, then en- tered the law department at the Washington university, of St. Louis, gradu- ating the following year. He then came to Sioux City, and opened a law and real estate office, and has continued this business since. Mr. De Guibert was married July 21, 1880, to Mary Ingels, a native of La Fayette, Stark county, IIL, and they have been blessed with two children: Undina Lavergne Elizabeth and Diveda Rosa Gwendoline. In his politics he is a democrat, and has been city alderman and assessor. He is a member of the First Christian church. Tuomas C. Prescotr was born November 16, 1837, in Strafford, N. H., and his early life was passed on the farm where he was born. He was edu- cated at the Pittsfield (N. H.) academy, and the New London institute. In 1857 he went to Wisconsin, and taught school three years, returning to New Hampshire in the fall of 1860. At the breaking out of the war, he enlisted in the Eighth New Hampshire regiment, as a private soldier, and later went to New Orleans, under Gen. Butler. By meritorious services he received all the company promotions, and was adjutant of his regiment at the beginning of the Red River expedition. For commendable conduct during that ardu- ous campaign, he was promoted to a captaincy, in May, 1864. He was trans- ferred to the post and defenses of Natchez, as adjutant-general on the staff of Gen. Brayman, in which position he served until mustered out, in 1865. At the close of the war he came to Iowa, and settled in Durant, engaging in mercantile business. There he held town and school offices, and served two terms on the board of county supervisors from his district. He was elected clerk of the courts for Cedar county in 1876, and served two terms in that capacity, his failing health preventing longer service. While resid- ing at Tipton, he was a member of the town council, and president of the school board. He was cashier of the Cedar County bank, and was also engaged in mercantile business there. In 1885 he came to Sioux City, and entered the real estate business, in which he is extensively engaged. In politics Capt. Prescott has always been a republican. October 23, 1868, he married Jennie A. Washburn, a native of New York state, and four children have been born to them, two only of whom, Bertha C. and Lee Washburn, are now living. Rey. Mary Aveusra Sarrorp, pastor of the First Unitarian church, Sioux City, is a daughter of 8. S. Safford and Louisa (Hunt) Safford, the former a GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 907 native of New Ipswich, and the latter of Peterboro, N. H. Our subject was born at Quincy, Ill, December 23, 1851, but removed from there when very young to Hamilton, Ill, where she received her early education under private tutors and in public schools. After teaching a year she entered the Iowa State university, where she pursued an elective course. She was then engaged for some years in teaching, during which she further pursued her studies. She was ordained to the ministry in 1880, at Humboldt, Iowa, and remained in charge of the church there for five years. She then came to Sioux City, and began her labors with her present charge, September 1, 1885. Rev. Oscar Clute had effected a business organization the previous March, but Miss Safford organized the church and was its first regular minister. She is an ardent worker, and her efforts have been crowned with success, the church society now having about 300 members, while a beautiful church building has been erected. She is a contributor to current literature, and gives much thought and effort to humane work. Rey. Exiyor Exizapeta Gorpon, assistant pastor of Unity church, Sioux City, was born in Hamilton, Ill, October 1, 1852. Her father, Samuel Gor- don, was a native of Peterboro, N. H., of Scotch-Irish descent. The first of her ancestors who came to the United States arrived in 1745, settling in Boston, Mass. Her mother, Permelia (Alvord) Gordon, was bornsin Warren county, Pa., of English lineage. Miss Gordon was reared on an Illinois farm, and attended a private school until fifteen years old, when she entered the high school at Hamilton. At the age of seventeen she taught school for one year, and in the fall of 1871 entered the State university of Iowa. After pursuing a special course for one year, she resumed teaching, filling the posi- tion of assistant principal at Centreville, Iowa. She was principal of the Humboldt schools for five years. In 1885 she came to Sioux City with Miss Safford to engage in church work. After studying at Boston and Cornell university, she was ordained to the ministry, May 8, 1889, and assumed her present office September 1, of the same year. A. Guenruer, dealer in toys, notions, etc., Sioux City, was born in Ger- many in 1861, where he lived until 1880, when he came to America, and located in Milwaukee. From that place he removed to Sioux City in 1883, and opened a retail toy and fancy goods store. In 1885 he started a whole- sale business in the same line, and now employs fourteen persons and three traveling salesmen. Besides occupying five rooms, he has his warehouses and storage-rooms elsewhere. He is a member of the Sons of Hermann and the Turners’ organization. He is identified with the Unitarian church, and in politics is a democrat. Fowier & Simms, dealers in confections, fruits, nuts, etc., Sioux City. The members of this firm are G. W. Fowler and F. P.Simme. G. W. Fowler 908 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. is a native of New York state, and came west three years ago, but has been a resident of Sioux City for only a short time. He purchased his present business place of Harry Hall, in July, 1890. He was formerly engaged in the banking business in Nebraska. F. P. Simme is also a native of New York state. He had been in Sioux City for five years, as book-keeper for the clothing firm of Pixley & Co., until going into business with Mr. Fowler. This firm gives employment to nine men, and is known as one of the best fruit and confectionery stores in the city. In connection therewith they have a bakery and a restaurant. Martens Bros., millers, Sioux City. Martin and August Martens, pro- prietors of the Sioux City mills, are natives of Germany, and came to Amer- ica in 1869 and 1874, respectively. August Martens was born in 1847, and is the one who has charge of the business. Upon coming to America he set- tled in Wisconsin, and there engaged in milling for eleven years, following the vocation that his father before him had been engaged in. He came to Sioux City in 1885, and with his brother purchased the Sioux City mills, using the patent roller process, and turning out 15,000 to 20,000 barrels of flour peryear. In 1874 August was married to Miss Willner. Their family consists of three children. He is a member of the Odd Fellows. H. R. Brown, photographer, Sioux City, was born in 1853, in Chenango, N. Y. His early life was spent in New York state, where he was reared on a farm, where educational advantages were those afforded by the public schools of Norwich, N. Y. He learned the photographer’s art when eighteen years of age, and followed that business in St. Lawrence county, N. Y., and in Missouri Valley, Iowa. He came to Sioux City in 1885, and in Septem- ber, 1889, entered into business for himself. His establishment requires the labor of six men besides his own undivided attention. He executes all kinds of crayon, pastel and India ink work, besides photography. He was mar- ried to Lilla B., daughter of ex-Postmaster E. B. Crawford, of this place. He is a democrat in politics. F. A. Rarssun, superintendent of the Rathbun Manufacturing Company, Leeds, was born in Tioga county, Pa., thirty-six years ago. He is a son of Norris Rathbun, who was a farmer of Pennsylvania. The early life of F. A. was spent on his father’s farm, and upon the immigration of his parents to Kansas, he accompanied them. At the age of twelve years he commenced the trade of a machinist, having at that age built a miniature engine. He went to Chicago, and there finished his trade as a machinist, and since that time has followed his natural occupation throughout many cities of the United States. He has been many times a patentee, the most noted article of which was ‘The Rathbun Wheel Scraper,” which has assumed such development, from which “The Rathbun Manufacturing Company” has grown. This GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 909 company was organized December, 1888, with F. W. Kimball, president; J. B. Keefe, secretary and treasurer, and F. A. Rathbun, vice-president and superintendent. In May, 1890, this company located at Leeds, where they erected a two-story brick structure, where the manufacture of Mr. Rathbun’s patent will be extensively carried on. F. A. Maaitt is a native of Pennsylvania and came to Sioux City in 1884. He was admitted to the bar of his native county in June, 1883, and has been engaged in the practice of the English common law ever since he came here, with the exception of criminal law. For the past five years Mr. Magill has also engaged in the real estate business, and owns farming land and city property. Cuartzs P. Brown, was born in the old historical city of Salem, Mass., on the sixteenth day of March, 1855. Having a decided taste for artistic work, he selected architecture as his profession, and learned the rudiments of this art in his native city. During the course of his earlier studies in this line, his health became impaired to such a degree that a sea voyage was deemed necessary. A year or so was spent upon the ocean, and in visiting some of the noted cities of the eastern continent, when he returned re- cruited in health and ready for the arduous duties of the office. Upon his return he decided to make Boston the field for his labors, and there he patiently worked to attain the goal in his profession, but just as it seemed within his grasp the great financial crash of 1875 came, and this obliged him seek other fields of ‘labor. He went west and entered the employment of E. E. Myers, of Detroit, where he worked for some time, after which he obtained a lucrative position with Wilson Bros. & Co., of Philadelphia, architects and engineers of the Pennsylvania railroad. Here he remained six years, devot- ing his entire time to his work, and solid study, and he obtained a valuable experience in all work appertaining to iron construction, trusses, engineer- ing, ete. August 28, 1886, he moved to Sioux City, where he opened an office for the practice of his profession, and in which he has achieved a great success. Notable among his works are the Security National bank, the Metropolitan block, the Massachusetts building, the Lexington block, Geo. H. Howell’s furniture warehouse, Y. M. C. A. building, the Swedish Lutheran E. V. church, Krummann building, Evans bank building, occupied by the Union Trust Company, Sioux City public library building, business blocks for Wm. Lerch and Mrs. Dorcas Hampton, and a great’ many of the finest residences in the city. He was also the architect of the celebrated Sioux City Corn Palace of 1890 and the magnificent Coal Palace at Ottumwa, Iowa, also in 1890, being the recipient of a beautiful gold medal received in competition for the best design for said Coal Palace. 910 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Mr. Brown was married April 12, 1881, to Nannie A. T. Briggs, who was born in Salem, Mass. Two children are the result of this union, one of whoni is now living. E. M. Dowatpson, banker, Sioux City, was born near Atchison, Kas., July 19, 1858. He was reared on a farm in central Kansas, and obtained such education as he could in the public schools of the state. He comes of good sturdy parentage, his father of Scottish, his mother of Dutch descent. He has prospered well in all his business transactions, and holds many posi- tions of trust, among them that of secretary of the Union Trust company, of Sioux City, Iowa, president of the First National bank of Ida Grove, Iowa, vice-president of the First National bank of Marion, Kas., and cashier of the Northwestern National bank, Sioux City. In November, 1882, he mar- ried Minnie F. Spees, and they have two children: Estelle E., born in May, 1887, and Erle H., born in May, 1890. J. L. Kennepy, attorney at law, Sioux City, was born in Jackson county, Towa, in 1862. He prepared himself for the study of law at the Iowa uni- versity, and commenced to study law in 1885. He was admitted to the bar in 1887. In 1890 he was elected city attorney by a republican majority of 226, and was the only republican elected to a city office at that time. In In 1883 he was made assistant postmaster, which position he held four years. N. J. Brockmann, manager of the lumber yard at Kingsley, was born in Germany, in April, 1853, and is a son of Claus and Abl (Stewart) Brockmann, both natives of Germany. His father followed farming and raising live stock in Germany until his death, which occurred in 1863, his wife surviv- ing him nearly nineteen years. Nicholas J., our subject, was reared on a farm in Germany, during which time he received his education at the com- mon schools. At the age of seventeen he left his native land and came to America. He settled in Davenport, Iowa, and there engaged to work on a farm for a short time, going thence to Tama county, where he entered the mercantile trade, in which line he remained for four years. In 1884 he came to Kingsley and worked at the lumber business for two years; then worked for Cathcart Bros. in a hardware store until the spring of 1888, when he was employed to manage the lumber yard established in Kingsley by D. Joyce, of Lyons, Iowa. Mr. Brockmann was united in marriage with Bertha Gebauer, of Lyons, January 16, 1883, and they have one child, Roy. He was a mem- ber of the council of Kingsley one year, having been elected on the demo- cratic ticket. He is a member of the Masonic order. Dr. R. D. Mason, now residing and practicing in Kingsley, was born in Toledo, Tama county, Iowa, August 8, 1859. He is a son of Abijah and Mary D. (Dodd) Mason, both of English descent, the former of New York, and the latter of Ohio. Abijah B. Mason was a dealer in real estate in GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 911 Toledo until his death in 1865; his wife is still living and resides with her son in Kingsley, a member of the Presbyterian church. Dr. Mason can trace his ancestry on his father’s:side back for seven generations, to a Capt. Hugh Mason, who was born in England‘in 1606, and who is supposed to be a brother to John Mason, the celebrated Indian fighter of colonial days, who was instrumental in subduing and exterminating the Pequot tribe. Dr. Mason received his literary education at the high school of Toledo, and at the age of eighteen years began to teach school, which he continued for some time. He afterward entered the Iowa State university, where he studied medicine, and graduated in the spring of 1887, after which he went to Delaware, Iowa, and practiced medicine until the fall of 1888. He then came to Kingsley, where he has since engaged in the practice of his profession. October 16, 1884, he married Helen Stone, of Early, Iowa, and they have one child, Florence. Both parents are members of the Congregational church, and Dr. Mason votes the republican ticket. StrerHen Creasey, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Columbia county, Pa., July 15, 1839. He is a son of John and Margaret (Deitrich) Creasey, both natives of Pennsylvania, his father of English and his mother of German descent. John Creasey carried on farming in Columbia county, Pa., until his death, August 14, 1845, his wife surviving him until September, 1872. Stephen Creasey was reared on the farm where his father died, and was but five years of age when this occurred, but as he grew up he helped his mother and brothers on the farm, where he remained until twenty-four years old. In 1869 he went to Michigan, and there farmed until 1881, when he moved to Mills county, Iowa, living there two years, going thence to Ida county, where he lived the same length of time. In 1885 he came to Plymouth county, and purchased 320 acres of partly improved land in section four, Garfield township, where he has been engaged in farming and stock-raising ever since. November 16, 1865, Mr. Creasey married Adelaide Collver of Three Rivers, St. Joseph county, Mich., and there were four children born to them, three of whom are living: Margaret, wife of A. T. Thomson resides in Henry township; William H.; A. Smith, and Alva E., deceased. Mrs. Creasey is a daughter of Peter and Margaret (Morgan) Collver. Both her parents were natives of New York, the father of Dutch descent, and the mother of Scotch and Welsh descent. Peter Collver spent the early part of his life in farming, and the latter part in retirement. He died at Three Rivers, Mich., in April, 1888, and his wife in 1872. Politically Mr. Creasey is a greenbacker. He is a member of the Masonic order. Joun R. McCracken, a prominent farmer and stock-raiser, section four, Garfield township, was born in Maryland in October, 1856. His parents 49 912 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. were William and Margaret (White) McCracken, both natives of Ireland; the father was a farmer until his death, which occurred in Marshall county, Iowa, in 1882; the mother died in 1860, in Maryland. John R. resided in Balti- more, Md., until twelve years old, and there received a high-school education. He came with his parents to Marshall county, in 1867, and remained with them until 1879, when he farmed for himself until 1883. He then came to Plymouth county, and in 1885 purchased 160 acres, which he has continued to operate ever since. He is one of the most progressive farmers in his town- ship, and keeps a good grade of stock on his farm, paying most attention to hogs. He married Elenora Hotopp, of Marshall county, in 1879, and four children have been born to them: Agnes, Elizabeth, Dora and Clinton. He supports the democratic party, and is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. Frep J. Laupz, a general farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section twenty-seven, Garfield township, was born in New York, July 18, 1846, and is a son of Peter and Mary A. (Roux) Laude, both natives of France. Peter Laude was by occupation a farmer, and died in Garfield township, June 28, 1890; his wife died in 1874; both were members of the Presbyterian church. Fred J. Laude came with his parents to Iowa when but four years of age, and resided with them in Dubuque county until he was twenty-two years old. He worked at various occupations until 1875, when he engaged in farming on the old homestead in Dubuque county, where he remained until 1884, when he came to Plymouth county, and purchased 160 acres of land where he now resides. He makes a specialty of fine hogs and chickens, blooded horses, and a good grade of cattle. February 2, 1875, he married Elizabeth Bachler, of Dubuque county, Iowa, but a native of Switzerland. Their family consists of seven children: Ida M., John H., Maggie, Harvey L., Vincent L., Elizabeth and an infant. Both parents are members of the Congregational church. In polities Mr. Laude sympathizes with the repub- lican party, and has held the office of school director. He is a trustee of the Congregational church and has been a deacon in the same two years. Ira Z. Patterson, an old settler of Plymouth county, Iowa, now residing in Kingsley, was born in Springboro, Crawford county, Pa., February 5, 1846, and is a son of Samuel and Catharine (Coon) Patterson. The father is a native of Springboro, Pa., and is of English and Scotch descent; his wife was a native of New York and of German descent. Samuel Patterson was a ship builder in the early part of his life, and during the latter part has been engaged in house building. He now resides with his son Ira in Kingsley, at the ripe old age of seventy-seven years; his wife died January 21, 1872; both were members of the Baptist church. - Ira Z. Patterson lived in Pennsylvania until he was nine years of age, “ when he accompanied his parents to Waverly, Bremer county, Iowa, where GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 913 he resided eleven years. He received his education at the high school of Waverly, after which he served an apprenticeship at the harness-maker’s trade, which business he followed until 1868. He then returned to Spring- boro, Pa., and worked in a hardware store and at various occupations, until 1878, when he returned to Waverly and engaged as a clerk in a grocery store, remaining there until 1884, when he came to Kingsley, Plymouth county, and engaged in business in the grocery trade with Clarence Wood, with whom he hassince continued. Mr. Patterson married Lodoiska E. Hill, of Springboro, Crawford county, Pa., August 18, 1868, and of the five chil- dren born to them none are now living. He and wife are members of the Baptist church, and he is identified with the Masonic lodge, the Legion of Honor and United Workmen. He casts his suffrage with the republican party. W. H. Mixer, a prominent merchant of Kingsley, was born in Canada, November 14, 1862. His parents are Henry and Maria (Steiss) Miller, both natives of Germany. Henry Miller is one of the leading merchants of Le Mars, having moved there in 1885. William H. was born and reared in Canada, receiving his early education in the common schools, but he after- ward attended the British North American Business college at Toronto. After completing his studies he came to Kingsley, Iowa, in 1882, and man- aged a half interest in a general store for C. H. Kluckhohn, of Le Mars, until 1885, when he opened a general store for himself, and has continued in the mercantile trade ever since. Mr. Miller married Emma Meyer, of Ode- bolt, Iowa, in 1885, and they have three ehildren, viz.: Maude, Paul and Kathleen. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics he is a believer in the democratic doctrine. Cuay W. Witson, a druggist of Kingsley, was born in Canada West, October 1, 1863, and is a son of Ira and Olivia (Wilson) Wilson, both natives of Canada West. Ira Wilson is by occupation a farmer, and is now engaged in that pursuit in Greene county, Iowa, having moved there in 1874, though he came to the state four years previous. He and his wife aré both mem- bers of the Baptist church. Clay W. was born and reared on a farm, having assisted his father while. attending the district schools and the Scranton high school. He left home at the age of nineteen years, and entered into the drug business in Sac county, Iowa, where he remained until 1885, when he came to Kingsley and opened a drug and book store, which he has continued ever since. He graduated from the Chicago College of Pharmacy in 1888. January 6, 1886, he was united in marriage with Ella Pressnell, of Scranton, Iowa, and they have two children, Helen and Ralph. The parents are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, are well known in the county, and held in the highest 914 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. esteem by all. Mr. Wilson is a member of the Masonic and Odd Fellows’ orders, and votes the republican ticket. Witu1am F. Surrs, agent for the C. & N. W. R. B., at Kingsley, was born in Defiance county, Ohio, July 20, 1858. His parents were Nathaniel and Ruth V. (Spurrier) Smith, both natives of Ohio, the latter of Welsh and German descent. Nathaniel Smith farmed in Ohio until the war broke out, when he enlisted in Company E, Twenty-first Ohio infantry, and went to the war; he was wounded in the battle of Stone River, and died in the hospital seventeen days later; his wife is still living, and resides in Nevada, Iowa. William F. was born and brought up on a farm, and received a com- mon-school education at the district schools. At the age of seventeen years he began teaching school in the winters, and working on the farm in the summers. This he continued until he was twenty-one years of age, when he went to Edgerton, Ohio, and learned telegraphy, after which he worked for the L. 8. & M.S. RB. R. for atime. He then went to Chicago, and after serving a short time in the private office of H. H. Porter, president of the C., St. P., M. & O. R. R., he came to Iowa, and was employed by the Cc. & N. W. R. R., with which company he has worked ever since. He came to Kingsley and took charge of the office in 1888. December 27, 1882, he married Nellie Mooers, of Quarry, Iowa, and they have two children: Eva May and Bernard Orrice. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are members of the Meth- odist Episcopal church. Politically he is a republican; socially a member of the LO. O. F. ' JonatHan M. Hiaerns, proprietor of George’s hotel, Kingsley, was born in Clinton county, Iowa, June 15, 1861, and is a son of Israel and Han- nah (Daniels) Higgins. His father is a native of New Jersey, and his mother of Virginia, and of English descent. Israel Higgins is a grain dealer and also deals in stock extensively, being located at De Witt, Iowa, having moved from Flemington, N. J., to Illinois, thence to Clinton county, Iowa, .- in 1858. Politically he is a republican, and is a member of the I. O. O. F. and A. O. U. W. He and wife are both members of the Congregational church. Jonathan M. completed his studies at the Davenport Business college. During his early life he assisted his father in buying stock and grain, but at the age of twenty-two years, he took possession of his father’s farm, which he operated two years. In the fall of 1883 he came to Plymouth county, and purchased a farm of 160 acres in Gartield township, on which he lived three years, when he leased it and moved to Kingsley, and ran the hotel known as the Curtis house for six months, when he started in the draying business, which he has continued ever since, running two drays. April 28, 1890, he took charge of George’s hotel, which he is now conducting, besides running GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 915 his drays and his farm. He also owns the ice-house there, and retails ice in connection with his other business. He married Mary F. McCarl, of Clinton county, Iowa, August 18, 1881, and they have one child, Florence E. He is a republican in politics, and was elected marshal of Kingsley, for one year, in the spring of 1889. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and K. of P. Perer Evuiorr, a veterinary surgeon, residing on section thirteen, Gar- field township, Plymouth county, was born in England, May 16, 1833. His parents, Peter and Alice (Taylor) Elliott, were both natives of England. His father died in England, January 1, 1854, and his mother also died in Eng- land, about the year 1887. Peter Elliott came to America in 1866, and set- tled in Bureau county, Ill., where he followed his profession, having gradu- ated at North Derby, England, and served seven years’ apprenticeship. He went to Moline and stayed two years, thence to Cass county, Iowa, where he remained thirteen years, practicing his profession. In 1882 he came to Plym- outh county, Iowa, and purchased 160 acres of land in Garfield township, where he engaged in farming. His-:son now operates the farm, while he has his office in Kingsley and attends to his veterinary practice. He also owns eighty acres of land in section fourteen, Garfield township, and his son owns eighty acres in section fourteen, township ninety-three, range forty. In 1867 he married Jane Turner, and of their eight children two only are living: Peter and Joseph. Mrs. Elliott died in October, 1879. He is a good worker for, and a believer in, the principles of the democratic party. He is road super- visor, also assessor, of Garfield township, which latter office he has held two years. Bensamin Hassrovcr, farmer, P. O. Le Mars, came to Plymouth county and entered eighty acres of land in section four, Union township, in 1868, when the land was yet unbroken prairie, and the home of the deer, elk and wolves. He set out trees on sixteen acres of his land, and they have grown so nicely that they now have the appearance of a natural grove. He was born in New York state, in February, 1840, a son of Abel and Pruda (Hoyt) Hasbrouck, both of whom were natives of New York, of German descent. Our subject was brought up on the farm in New York, and remained with his parents until twenty-five years of age, when he went to Vernon county, Wis. He remained there but a short time, then in 1868 came to his present home. He has since added 240 acres to his farm, giving him now 320 acres of well improved land. February 7, 1865, he married Sophia Devall, and to them have been born five children, as follows: Bertha, Josephine, Burton, Effie and Roe. In politics Mr. Hasbrouck is a republican, and has held the office of justice of the peace two years, township trustee four years, and has held about all the township offices. His wife is a member of the M. E. church. 916 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Rozert Boa, a son of William and Helen (Clapperton) Boa, was born in Canada in 1834. The uncle, Hugh Clapperton, is mentioned in history as one of a party who went from Scotland, his native land, on an exploring expedi- tion to Africa. The parents of Robert Boa, who were natives of Scotland, were members of the Presbyterian church. The father was engaged in farm- ing in Canada until 1879, when death cut short his earthly labors. Robert, who was with his parents until nineteen years of age, thought he would pre- fer another line of business than farming, and in 1856 came to the United States, and was in Monroe, Wis., for a year, then went to Minnesota, where he remained two years, after which he went to Green Bay, Wis., and engaged in lumbering, which business he followed with considerable success for fifteen years. The cyclone which devastated the adjoining country, and swept the town of Pensaukee out of existence, destroyed property of his to the extent of $12,000, and left him penniless. He made a start again, trying lumbering in Virginia for a year, but at the end of that time he came to Iowa, locating at Clinton, where he followed the same business for the next ten years. In the spring of 1889 he came to section twenty-four, Union township, Plymouth county, where, in 1885, he had bought a farm of 160 acres. Here he built a nice dwelling, good barns and cribs, and devoted his time to farm- ing and stock-raising. He has among his stock, an imported, thoroughbred Clydesdale stallion. On September 7, 1874, he married Susan D. Chapman, of Ellington, Conn., and to them have been born three children, Carrie A., Milton C. and Susie A. Mr. Boa, though having received only a common- school education, can read and write both English and French. In politics he is a republican, and is president of the Farmers’ Alliance in Union town- ship. He and wife are members of the Congregational church. Wittram Lappusaw was the second settler in Union township, Plymouth county, where he now resides on a farm of 320 acres in section four. He is a son of John and Ruhama (Shannon) Laddusaw, and was born in Dearborn county, Ind., in 1837. His parents are both living and reside with him. His father is a native of Indiana, of French descent, and his mother of Ohio, of English descent. When he was seven years of age his parents moved to Henry county, Iowa, where they remained eight years, then moved to Decatur county. At these two places our subject received his education in the public schools. In 1862 he enlisted in Company I, Thirty-fourth Iowa infantry, and took part in the battles of Chickasaw Bayou, Arkansas Post, Vicksburg, Missionary Ridge and with Grant through the wilderness and was in the fight of Washington City. He received his discharge October 16, 1865, and returned to Decatur county, where he remained until 1869, when he moved to Plymouth county and entered 320 acres, which he has since been engaged farming, together with raising live stock of all kinds. He married Miss Mary GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 917 Wood in 1859, and to them have been born seven children, namely: Rohanna, John, Sherman, Thomas, Columbus, Samuel and Joseph. His wife died in 1875. In political matters he sides with the republicans. Atansan L. Henry, a general farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. O’Leary, residing on section twenty-seven, Union township, was born in Chenango county, N. Y., June 7, 1847, ason of William and Sarah (Close) Henry, both natives of New York. William Henry was of English descent, and traced his ancestry back to the time of Patrick Henry, the first of the name to immi- grate to America. He was farming in Kane county, IIL, at the time of his death; his widow is still living, and resides in De Kalb county, Ill., a mem- ber of the Methodist Episcopal church. A. L. Henry, our subject, was reared on a farm and received a common- school education. He came with his parents from New York to Illinois when ten years of age. On the death of his father he took charge of the family, and remained with them until thirty-two years of age. He then engaged in farming for himself, and in 1884, purchased 160 acres of land in Plymouth county, where he has since resided. He keeps a good grade of stock. Polit- ically he is a stanch republican, and has served as school director; is also a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. Mr. Henry married Maria L. Jones, of Utica, N. Y., January 23, 1880, and to their marriage are born four children, viz.: Charles R., Margaret H., La Motte and Sarah A. Mrs. Henry is a member of the Methodist Episcopal * church. : Joun W. Warner, farmer, P. O. Kingsley, residing on section twenty-six, Union township, was born in Lake county, Ill., September 1, 1852, a son of Chase and Melinda (Pearce) Warner, the father a native of New York state, of Welsh descent, and the mother born in Ohio, of Irish descent. Chase Warner was a farmer, and resided in Lake county, Ill, at the time of his death, which occurred in 1877; his widow is still living, and resides with our subject. John W. Warner was born and reared on a farm until eighteen years of age. He then left home and worked at various occupations until 1875, when he came to Plymouth county, and purchased 160 acres of land in Henry township. He farmed in various parts of Union township until 1882, when he purchased his present farm of 160 acres, afterward adding eighty acres, making 240 in all. He makes a specialty of shorthorn cattle, also good grades of horses and hogs. Politically he is a republican, and has held the office of town clerk for eight years, and is at present secretary of the school board. He is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. In May, 1889, he was united in marriage with Effie Cope, and they have a young son named Harry. The wife is a member of the Episcopal church. 918 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. J. T. Manrin, farmer, of Kingsley, was born in England, in 1842, a son of John and Frances (Tyzzer) Martin. His father, John, who was an en- gineer, came to America, bringing our subject with him, in 1855, and, after staying a few months with a brother in Racine county, Wis., located at New Diggings, La Fayette county, Wis., where his wife died, in 1879, he surviv- ing her but a year. Both were members of the M. E. church. James was twelve years of age when brought to America, and resided with his parents until twenty-one. He then commenced to work in the mines of Wisconsin, which he continued until 1863. In the fall of that year he went to Living- ston county, Ill., where, after a hard struggle, he was admitted to the Miners’ Union, and was duly installed in the coal mines, where he remained until the spring of 1864; then he, with adventurous spirits, organized a small com- pany to cross the plains for the gold mines. Leaving Fairbury, Tl, about April 1, with horse teams, they reached Omaha, Neb., May 1. Omaha at that time was the limit of civilization. They traveled with a company of California emigrants as far as Fort Laramie. The Indians in that year be- ing decidedly hostile, at Laramie they joined a company, consisting of one hundred and forty wagons, who were to travel a new route to the then newly discovered gold mines of Montana. After encountering considerable hard- ships and numerous adventures, they reached Virginia City, M. T., and July 15, Alder Gulch, probably the best placer mining camp ever discovered in Montana. In February, 1865, after meeting with fair success, our sub- ject left Alder Gulch, and stampeded to Last Chance, 140 miles distant. Helena City of to-day is on discovered claim of Last Chance Gulch, consist- ing at that time of one miner’s cabin and a small log bakery. Mr. Martin con- tinued to mine for three years, owning several claims, but was never very lucky. Thinking stock-raising a safer business, he entered into that line of business, which he continued until the fall of 1873. He then sold his busi- ness, and returned to Wisconsin. The spring of 1874 found him in Hough- ton county, Mich., where he followed engineering, having learned the craft from his father in earlier years. The Black Hills gold excitement breaking out in 1877, Mr. Martin went there, but, to his disgust, he found the placer mines as nothing compared with the Montana mines. After remaining a short time, he went to Denver, Colo., and in a few months he again returned to Wisconsin, this time to engage in mining, with somewhat better success than usual. In 1881, the mines fail- ing, he moved tothe Fort Dodge coal mines. At the end of about two years, finding the work unprofitable, he moved to Morton county, Dak., on the Northern Pacific railroad, and stayed there about eighteen months, often earning $135 per month for hard work. Tiring of the mines, he came to Plymouth county, Iowa, and settled on 160 acres of land in section twenty- « GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 919 three, Union township, which he had purchased in 1880, and where he now resides. In 1878 he married Lizzie A. Raine, of Benton, Wis., and they now have a family of six children, as follows: May F., Carrie L, Gertie E., James B., Gracie J.and Nina E. In politics Mr. Martin is independent, and is an earnest member of the Farmets’ Alliance. Davip Otmstzap Marcuant, farmer, P. O. Le Mars, was born in Cather- ine, now Schuyler county, N. Y., September 11, 1841, and is a son of Arlo J. and Eliza Ann (Olmstead) Marchant, natives of New York. Arlo Mar- chant died in 1851, in Winnebago, Ill., whither he had come from New York the year previous. His widow died August 7, 1890, in Rockford, Iowa, at the age of eighty-six years. Of their seventeen children, the subject of this sketch is the twelfth. Two died in childhood, three died while serving as sol- diers in the Civil war, and the rest are living. Of the thirteen sons, eleven were soldiers. Just before reaching his majority, August 9, 1862, D. O. Marchant enlisted in Company C, Seventy-fourth Illinois volunteer infantry. With the army of the Cumberland he was in twenty-one battles, beginning with Perrysville, Ky., and closing with the capture of Atlanta. During the siege of the latter city he was ninety days under fire, but in all his service was never struck except by spent balls. He was discharged June 10, 1865, and returned to Winnebago, where he engaged in farming. November 7, 1868, he married Hattie M., daughter of Peter Mabie, of German descent. They have two daughters, Carrie E. and Alice H. In 1871 he came to Stanton township, and took a homestead on section ten, where he has ever since dwelt. His wife died November 10, 1890, after twenty-two years of happy married life. He is a member of the G. A. R., and an earnest republican. He has served the township as justice of the peace, and is at present constable. Henry Nassaw Newet., farmer, Le Mars, was born in North Dorchester, Middlesex county, Ontario, November 8, 1855, and is the eldest of nine chil- dren of Alexander and Lorena (Demaray) Newell, who now reside on a farm in Adelaide, Ontario. The mother, born at Whitby, was descended from early French settlers of Quebec (province). James Newell, of Armagh, Ireland, came to Canada in 1832, having been preceded one year by his son, Robert. The latter, born in Armagh, July 1, 1805, is the grandfather of our subject, and is still living. James Newell, with his nine children, settled on the Ot- tawa river, and many of his descendants now reside in the western part of Ontario. Henry Newell received an ordinary education, and is an intelligent citi- zen. On reaching his majority he came to the United States, and in March, 1879, he bought the southeast quarter of section four, Stanton township, on which he has dwelt since, engaged in general farming. He has served as justice of the peace, and for seven years as school director, having been presi- 920 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. dent of the board, and for the last three years secretary. In October, 1879, he married a second cousin, Eliza, daughter of Richard and Ann Jane (Mc- Neil) Demaray, of Canadian and Irish birth. Mrs. Newell was born in Vic- toria county, Ontario, and is the mother of two children: Melvin Cecil and Armina Arvilla. Joun M. C. Eastman was born in North Gower, Carleton county, Ontario, February 18, 1837, and is the eldest of the five children of Almon and Matilda (McCarter) Eastman, also of Canadian birth. The father is still living at North Gower, aged seventy-seven years. Matilda Eastman died in 1850, at the age of thirty-five. Samuel, father of Almon Hastman, was a native of Canada, of English descent. John Eastman was put to work at an early age, and had no educational advantages. In 1857 he left home and went to Fari- bault, Minn., where he was employed for three years in a livery stable. He then went to New Diggings, Wis., where he engaged infarm labor. Au- gust 10, 1862, he enlisted in Company CO, Thirty-third Wisconsin infantry volunteers, and served till August 9, 1865, with the army of the Tennessee. He was in the following battles and campaigns: Coldwater, siege of Vicks- burg, Jackson, Meridian expedition, Pleasant Hill Landing, Centreville, Cane River, Bayou Balf, Marksville, Tellow Bayou, Tupelo, Nashville and Spanish Fort. After his discharge he engaged in teaming and farming in Benton, La Fayette county, Wis., till 1878, when he came to Plymouth county and pur- chased land on section thirty-four, Washington township, where he is now the owner of 200 acres, and carries on mixed farming. He is a member of the M. E. church, as are the members of his family. He is an active temper- ance advocate, and adheres to the republican party in politics. In March, 1866, he married Mary Johnson, a native of New Diggings, and daughter of Warren and Alzina (Bean) Johnson, of New York and Missouri birth, respectively. A son and daughter complete the family of Mr. Eastman, namely: William Warren and Florence Belle. Wituiam Stinron (deceased) was born in Cambridgeshire, England, De- cember 24, 1823, and was a son of Robert and Mary Stinton, of the same locality. His opportunities of acquiring an education were very limited, as at a very early age he was obliged to assist his father with the work always at hand on a farm. He remained on his father’s farm until he came of age, when he married Miss Hannah Andus, and commenced to work at day labor. He continued to earn his living in this manner until the spring of 1851, when he came to America. Landing in New York city, he went to Staten Island and was there two years, farming, but learning of the opportunities in the west he moved to Iowa, and bought eighty acres of land near Deep Creek, in Jackson county, and there he remained until 1873. In that year he sold GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 921 his farm and came to Washington township, Plymouth county. January 28, 1879, he was hurt by being caught under a crotch of a falling tree, from which death resulted on the fifth of the following month. His first wife, who died in November, 1855, left him two children: Lizzie and Frank. November 18, 1864, he married his second wife, Hannah, widow of George Tutton, of Lyons, Clinton county, Iowa. By her first marriage she had three children: Henry, Sarah and Emily, and by her second hus- band, the subject of this memoir, she bore eight children, namely: Fred, Mary, William, Nettie, Ira, George, Robert and Walter. In politics Mr. Stinton supported the principles of the republican party; in religion he was a member of the United Brethren church. CuarLes Jerrerson Youne was born April 2, 1835, at Cicero, Onondaga county, N. Y., a son of Christian and Bulah Young. When he was seven years old his parents moved to West Bend, Washington county, Wis., where he received his education. After leaving West Bend, at fourteen years of age, he led. a wandering life, traveling through the southern, central and west- erm states until the breaking out of the Civil war, when, in response to the call for men for the three months’ service, he enlisted in the First Iowa in- fantry, and afterward re-enlisted in the Eighth Iowa, was taken prisoner at Shiloh, remained in prison six months, then re-enlisted in the Thirty-third Illinois, and at the end of the war received an honorable discharge. Upon leaving the army he went to Scott county, Ill, where he stayed five years, after which he moved to Christian county, where he remained until 1872. In that year he came to Washington township, Plymouth county, Iowa, and purchased 120 acres of land in section one, and there carried on general farming until 1879, when he moved one and a half miles east of Le Mars. Here he remained two years, then moved back to the old home in Washing- ton township, where he now resides. April 10, 1864, he married Sarah Guthrie, by whom he has two children: George Adelbert and William Grove. He is a member of the M. E. church; in politics a republican; has been school director six years and township clerk one term. Grorcr E. Kine, merchant, Le Mars, son of Henry King, was born at Galena, IIL, in 1860. He received his education there, and in the winter of 1880 and 1881, came to Le Mars and engaged in the grocery business, which he continued until 1888, when he sold out and was an employe in the post- office at Le Mars until January 1, 1890, when he purchased a stock of goods of A. B. Steiner & Co., now known as “ King’s Palace Book Store.” While in business during the year 1887, a disastrous conflagration destroyed his place of business and stock, entailing a heavy loss upon him, but, with perse- verance characteristic of the man, we find him now behind the desk, manager of one of the important institutions of Le Mars. He is a member of Giblem 922 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Lodge, No. 322, F. & A. M., and No. 502, I. O. O. F., and a member of the fire company. He served five years in the Iowa State guards, stationed at Le Mars, receiving an honorable discharge in 1889, for having served the term of his enlistment. June 15, 1889, he married L. L., daughter of C. F. Jaquith, of Cedar Falls, Iowa. Atrrep C, CoLLepGz, successor to Chapman & Co., is an investment broker, pays taxes for non-residents, does a real estate, loan, insurance and collection business. He was born in 1860, and received his education in England. In 1880 he came over to America and located at Le Mars, Iowa. He is a member of the Episcopal church. In his vicinity he represents the following insurance companies: The Liverpool & London & Globe, the London Assurance, the Phoenix Assurance of London, the London & Lancashire, the Firemans Fund of California, the Des Moines, also the Travelers Life & Accident insurance company of Hart - ford, Conn. Franx W. Burns, miller, Le Mars, was born at Milford, Hillsboro county,. N. H., in 1844. His father removed to Rutland, La Salle county, Ill, in 1856, where he was in the real estate business, but later removed to San Diego, Cal., where he died. Frank W., after the completion of his educa- tion, engaged in the milling business, and in 1862 enlisted in Company I, 104th Illinois volunteers, remaining until the close of the war. He was wounded at Hartsville, Tenn., on one of Morgan’s raids. He was division postmaster of the First division, Fourteenth-corps, under Gen. Thomas, and afterward under Gen. Jefferson C. Davis. After attending school, following the close of the war, he went into the milling business with his brother, Fred W. Burns. He, however, had become interested in business at Le Mars in 1876, and two years later removed to that place and erected the old mill (which was de- stroyed by fire in 1884), it having a daily capacity of 250 barrels of flour and eight car-loads of feed. Immediately following ‘the fire, he constructed the Plymouth Roller mills, with capacity of 300 barrels of flour and twelve car- loads of feed. It has twenty-eight sets of rolls, and is known as the Plym- outh Roller Milling Company’s mill. C. H. Kiucknoun, merchant, Le Mars, was born in Lake county, Ind., in 1854, and began his business career at Le Mars in 1875. He purchased a building and became a dealer in general merchandise. His place was de- stroyed by fire, and in 1887 he erected the Kluckhohn block, and occupied double stores for business purposes. This property he sold in 1888, and be- came associated with Herman Kerberg, the firm name being Kluckhohn & Kerberg, dealers in general merchandise, and in 1890 they bought the prop- erty back. Mr. Kluckhohn devotes his time principally to land, loan and insurance business, he having become one of the firm of Wernli & Kluckhohn. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 923 He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, of Le Mars Lodge, No. 255, I. O. O. F., and is a republican in polities. J. H. Wivcuzt, Le Mars, is a son of John H. Winchel, and was born at Dubuque, Dubuque county, Iowa, in 1857. His father came to Iowa about the year 1820, and was one of the pioneers in that part of the state. He and Dr. Ketler cleared the brush on what was the military road from Dubuque to Cascade, and lived near what is now Cascade. He took up 1,200 acres of land from the government near Whitewater, and between that town and Cascade. During the early period in which he lived he was quite a prominent man. He died in 1864 leaving two children: Sarah (now Mrs. C. W. Wells, of Mar- shall county, Iowa, whose husband is one of the prominent stock-growers of the state) and J. H., our subject. Their father purposed to leave them quite a large estate, but many years of litigation have left them but very little. In 1879 our subject came to Remsen, and lived in a covered wagon one summer, engaged in breaking prairie. He helped organize the township, there being but few families there, and the county being in a primitive state. He finally bought a farm, and erected the first building at Remsen, and in addition to farming, became a dealer in coal, grain and stock, which he con- tinued until 1883, when he moved to Le Mars. He sold his lands and was engaged in selling agricultural implements. For a time he was on the road as manager of northwestern Iowa for the Champion Machine company, but in January, 1890, he severed his connection with that well-known firm, and is now engaged in the real estate, loan and collection business, and is proprietor of the Le Mars Water and Light Works. In 1883 he married Emma K., daughter of H. W. Alline, of Hawarden, formerly of Plymouth county, of which county he was one of the earliest settlers. Mr. Winchel is a member of Giblem Lodge, No. 322, A. F. & A. M., and of the Chapter. In politics he is a republican. H. J. Moreton, assistant cashier of the Le Mars National bank, Le Mars, is a son of Capt. R. and ©. C. (Dunlop) Moreton, and was born at Leicester- shire, England, in 1862. He was educated there, and with his parents came to America in 1880, locating at Le Mars, and being among the first arrivals of those who constituted the English colony here. Captain Moreton became extensively engaged in farming, remaining here until 1885, when he removed. to Illinois and since then to Canada. Our subject is one of a family of three boys and two girls. He was for a time engaged with his father on the farm, but in November, 1888, entered the Le Mars National bank as assistant cashier. In June, 1889, he married the widow of Col: Ball. He is a democrat, and a member of Giblem Lodge, No. 322, F. & A. M., and of the Chapter. J. U. Samuis, attorney, Le Mars, was born at Polo, Ill, in 1863. He graduated from the high school at Oregon, Ill., in 1881, after which he at- 924 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. tended Bailey’s Business college at Dubuque, Iowa. He was, for a period of several years, engaged as book-keeper in that city. He, however, removed to Le Mars, where he studied law with Curtis & Durley, afterward becoming a partner with Mr. Durley, the firm being Durley & Sammis, but they eventually dissolved, since which time Mr. Sammis has been engaged in the practice of his profession. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, Mod- ern Woodmen and Masons. He married Miss Fannie, daughter of L. D. Randall, of Dubuque, Iowa, in 1888. In politics he is a member of the re- publican party. Joun C. Hickey, brick manufacturer, Le Mars, was born in county Clare, Treland, in 1850. In 1863 he came to America with his parents, and located at Taunton, Mass., where they remained until 1875, when they came to Le Mars. John C. Hickey bought property, and engaged in the manufacture of brick, having the only plant of the kind here, and which has a capacity of 25,000 daily. He has made the brick for nearly every block in Le Mars, and finds a ready sale in this locality for all his output. Both he and his wife are members of the Roman Catholic church. Ayruony Tuomas, merchant, Le Mars, son of John and Mary (Hoffman) Thoma, was born in Luxemburg, Germany, in 1858. With his parents he came to America in 1863, and located at Aurora, Ill, where they engaged in farming, remaining there four years, when they removed to Jackson county, Iowa, and in 1879 retired from active work. Their children were John, Peter A., Anthony, J. P., Maggie, Annie, and five others deceased. Anthony first began business for himself in the fall of 1879, but had previously at- tended St. John’s university, at St. Joseph, Stearns county, Minn., from which he graduated in 1879. He was for a time with Franz Miller & Co., grocers, but August 7, 1881, he went into the grocery and crockery trade. In 1886 he added dry goods, and in 1888, boots and shoes, and took a part- ner, Peter Mich, the firm name being Thoma, Mich &Co. They have a large and remunerative trade. Mr. Thoma is a democrat and a farmer, as well as a merchant, growing from twenty to thirty acres of potatoes annually, find- ing market for them in the west and south. He married Annie, daughter of Nicholas Hoffman, of Le Mars, in 1881, and has four children: Mary, John, Joseph and Peter F. He is a member of the Roman Catholic church. Rozert Fenner, mechanical engineer, and superintendent for the con- struction of water-works systems, was born in Connecticut, August 29, 1833, and is of English descent. He began at a very early age to assist his father, who was a machinist, and was employed for many years in a lock factory in New Haven. For eight years he made his home in Des Moines, having charge of the steam department of the glucose works, which consisted of a battery of six boilers, two engines (one a double upright engine, the other a GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 925 horizontal one), seven steam pumps and three injectors. Later on he was again in charge of a steam department at the Atlas distillery, where he had under his supervision six boilers, one large vertical engine and ten steam pumps. He assisted in putting in two new pumping outfits for the Des Moines water works. The water-works plant for the town of Victor, Iowa, was also put in by him. Among other works done under his supervision, was the erection of a steam plant for the machine shop, foundry, and barb-wire factory at South Hutchinson, Kas. He went to Le Mars in 1888, and superintended the con- struction of the water-works system there. After its completion he was re- tained in charge of its operation. Mr. J. H. Winchel is its present pro- prietor. Mr. Fenner is a patentee for an apparatus for removing all impurities of the feed water, and also heating it before it enters the steam boilers, thus keeping them clean and free from mud and scales, and has invented several other valuable improvements. He entertains very liberal religious views, and is independent in politics. He is a member of the Masonic order. In 1863 he married Sarah, the daughter of George and Margaret Grove, of Ohio, and of French and German descent. Two daughters complete Mr. Fenner’s family: Margaret and Edith. Margaret, the elder, graduated from the East Des Moines high schools, with highest honors of the class of 1886, and is now teaching in the public schools there. Edith resides with her parents. Grorce Epwarp Pew, dealer in machinery, Le Mars, is a son of Francis and Ann Pew, and was born at Omro, Wis., July 4, 1850. His grandfather, Patrick Pew, came from Ireland and settled in St. Lawrence county, N. Y., very early in the history of that region. Here both of our subject’s parents were born. His maternal grandfather, John Hogarty, left Ireland when fif- teen years old, and subsequently served as a United States soldier in the war of 1812. Having been stationed at Fort Howard, Wis., he settled there on leaving the army. His daughter, now Mrs. Pew, made several journeys to St. Louis when there were no white inhabitants in interior Wisconsin. Mr. and Mrs. Francis Pew now reside in Oshkosh, Wis. Of their eleven children nine are now living, George being the fifth of these. He was educated in the common schools of Omro, and when twenty years old went to Blue Earth county, Minn., where he engaged in farming. In 1873 he went to Nobles county, in the same state, and two years later he came to Le Mars. For two years he was employed by H. W. Van Sickel, a dealer in hardware and machinery. With L. G. La Rue he then bought out the business, and the firm of Pew & La Rue continued until the latter died in 1881. In February, 1882, Mr. Pew associated with himself his brothers, Michael A. and Frank, the business being continued under the style of Pew Brothers. They handle hardware, agricultural implements, harness and 926 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. buggies. Mr. Pew has served three terms in the city council, and also as county supervisor. He affiliates with the democratic party, and embraces the faith of the Roman Catholic church. In 1878 he married Belle, daughter of Thomas and Catherine Burrows, all natives of Connecticut. Two children complete the family of Mr. Pew, viz.: George Vincent and Gladys Marie. Nicuortas B. Katszr, shoe dealer, Le Mars, was born in the city of Lux- emburg, Germany, August 15, 1833, and is a son of Laurens and Anna (Feuren) Kaiser, natives of the same city, and his grandfather was mayor of the city. When fourteen years old Nicholas began to learn the shoemaker’s trade. In 1853 he came to America, and during the same year opened a shoe store at St. Ignatius, Jackson county, Iowa. He continued there until 1875, when he removed to Le Mars, and in the fall of that year, built the brick block on Main street, which he now occupies. He had previously pur- chased land in Plymouth and Sioux counties, and now has his home on a fine farm adjoining Le Mars. His father came to America in 1869, and died in Le Mars, July 20, 1885, aged ninety-eight years. The mother died in Ger- many in 1853. Nicholas is the youngest of their four children. He is a member of St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic church, and politically is a demo- erat. In 1857 he married Annie Knabel, a native of Germany, and they have three children: Katie, Mary (Hanson) and Margaret (Nimmerts). Gzorce Haytocr, general store keeper, Merrill, was born in the parish of Rumburgh, Suffolk county, England, January 6, 1844, and is a son of James and Rebecca Haylock, of the same place. His early education was very limited, and at an early age he began to learn the engineer’s trade, which he followed in England for fourteen years. In the spring of 1879 he started for America, landing in Quebec, Canada. He came through to Iowa City, Iowa, where he remained ten months, then homesteaded eighty acres in Plym- outh township, Plymouth county, where he carried on general farming until September, 1885. He then rented his farm and came to Merrill, where, in partnership with Mr. Aldrich, he went into the general merchandising business. October 20, 1861, Mr. Haylock married Betsy, daughter of George and Hannah Hencer, of Suffolk county, England. He is a member of the Episcopal church, and in politics is a democrat. Avotra Wirt, farmer, P. O. Remsen, residing on section four, Henry township, was born in Germany in 1855, a son of John and Annie (Delfs) Witt, both natives of Germany. His father is a representative man in Ger- many, and holds the office of inspector of foreign goods; he is a member of the Lutheran church. His mother died in 1866. Adolph Witt was born and reared in Germany, and received a good education. At the age of fifteen years he left his native land and came to America, locating in Scott county, Towa, where he worked on a farm until 1880. He then went to Pottawat- GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 927 tamie county, where he resided three years, and in 1884 came to Plymouth county and purchased eighty acres of land where he now resides. He has since added eighty acres, making 160 acres in all, which he now farms. No- vember 10, 1887, Mr. Witt married Mary Harnack, of Plymouth county, Iowa, and they have one child, John. The parents are supporters of the Lutheran church. Politically Mr. Witt is a democrat, and is trustee of Henry township. Joun Biewert, farmer, P. O. Kingsley, residing on section fifteen, Henry township, was born in Cornwall, England, August 14, 1825, and is a son of John and Jane (Date) Blewett, both natives of Cornwall, England. His father was a farmer, and came to America in 1845; he resided in Taylor ° county, Iowa, at the time of his death, which occurred in August, 1881, his wife having died two years previously. John Blewett was born and reared in Cornwall, England, and received a common-school education. At the age of twenty years, he came to America with his parents, and resided with them in Wisconsin four years, then went to farming for himself in La Fayette county, Wis., where he resided until 1884, when he came to Plymouth county, Iowa, and purchased 160 acres of land, where he now resides. Mr. Blewett was married to Mary Ann Hind, of England, April 9, 1849, and there have been ten children born to them: Hannah, John, Jane, Rich- ard, George, Charles, Albert, Henry, Emma and Joseph. Politically, Mr. Blewett is a democrat, and is now trustee and road supervisor of Henry township. Henry Mounprt, farmer, P. O. Remsen, residing on section five, Henry township, was born in Germany, in 1854, and is a son of Peter and Annie (Lutt) Mundt, both natives of Germany. His father still resides in Ger- many, but his mother died in 1888. Our subject lived with his parents until sixteen years old, when he left his native land, and came to America, arriv- ing in New York April 25, 1870. He came west, located in Benton county, Iowa, where he worked on a farm three years. He then farmed for himself, and in 1883 came to Plymouth county, and purchased 160 acres of land, which he subsequently sold, but now leases. He keeps a good grade of stock, such as hogs and shorthorn cattle. In 1883 he married Caroline Sage, of Tama county, and they have three children: Arthur, Annie and Johnnie. Politically, Mr. Mundt is a democrat; is now constable, town clerk and secre- tary of the school board. Josep Srinron, farmer, P. O. Adaville, is a son of Robert and Mary Stinton, of Cambridgeshire, England, and was born February 14, 1826. He attended school until ten years old, when he began to work on his father’s farm, where he remained until he was married, in the fall of 1846, to Esther, daughter of John and Mary Fletcher, of the same place. He then began 50 928 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. to peddle peat, which he did until he sailed for America, in the spring of 1852. He landed at New Orleans, then took a boat up the Mississippi river to Davenport, Iowa, where he took a train for Lyons, Clinton county; at that place he resided seven years, going thence to Elk River, where he lived until 1873, at that date coming to Johnson township, Plymouth county, where he bought 160 acres in section thirty-four. In 1889 he removed to section twenty-eight of the same township, where he now resides. By his first marriage Mr. Stinton was the father of six children: Alfred, Esther, Emily, George, and Silas and Urias (twins). Mrs. Hsther Stinton, died in the fall of 1867, and Mr. Stinton then married, in England in the following spring, Sophia, sister of his first wife, and widow of James Hough- ton. She was the mother of three children by her first marriage: Mary, James and John, who returned with Mr. Stinton. Mr. Stinton and wife are the parents of five children: Sylvester, Josiah, May, James and Telitha. He votes with the republican party, and is a member of the United Brethren church. T. Warp Lewis, farmer, P. O. Akron, was born in Whiteside county, IIL, December 4, 1849, ason of Ward P. and Susan Lewis. He attended a com- mon school until eighteen years of age, when he began work on his father’s farm, where he remained until 1876. He then moved to Liberty township, Plymouth county, Iowa, and there bought a homestead right of John Wade; where he lived until the winter of 1887, when his house was burned to the ground. In the following spring he built in Johnson township, where he now lives. Mr. Lewis was married in the summer of 1873, to Hattie E., daughter of Charles F. and Harriet Bevins, of Warren county, N. Y. The happiness of their home has been increased by the birth of six children: Ola B., Le Roy W., Edna M., Guy A., Maud S. and Harry Lee. Edna M. and Guy A. died in infancy. Mr. Lewis is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance and belongs to Freedom Lodge, No. 484, A. F. & A. M., Akron, Iowa. Atrrep Fiercuer, farmer, P. O. Adaville, was born January 16, 1845, at Isleham, Cambridgeshire, England, a son of John and Mary Fletcher, who were born near the same place. He attended school there until about eight years old, when he began helping his father. In 1855 he set sail for Amer- ica, and landed in New Orleans, where he took a boat up the Mississippi river to St. Louis. At that point the river became so solidly frozen that they were delayed six weeks; when they reached Davenport he hired a team and came overland to Lyons, Clinton county, Iowa, where he remained one year, then moved to Whiteside county, Ill. He lived in the latter place with a cousin seven years, then located in Johnson township, Plymouth county, Iowa, where he took up an eighty-acre homestead, and added, the same year, eighty acres. Five years later he bought 120 acres in Liberty township. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 929 Mr. Fletcher was married February 14, 1867, to Mary Ann, daughter of Elijah and Esther Stinton, of Whiteside county, Ill, by whom he has seven children: Ella, Ada, Minnie, Sarah, Clara, Mary and Mabel. In politics he is a republican, and has been township trustee ten years, and school director for some time. Anprew Witson, farmer, P. O. Le Mars, was born at the home of his parents, William and Margaret Wilson, of Venango county, Pa., October 19, 1836. He attended school till about ten years of age, when he began to earn his own living, which he did by helping his neighbors on the farm, until twenty years of age. He then came to Jackson county, Iowa, where he farmed until 1862, when he enlisted in the Thirty-first Iowa volunteer in- fantry, Company K, and served three years. After receiving an honorable discharge he returned to Jackson county, where he resided until 1870, at which time he took up a homestead on section twenty-two, Johnson town- ship, where he now carries on general farming. Since then he has added 160 acres to his farm. Mr. Wilson was married, December 27, 1858, to Ellen, daughter of Warren and Esther Doty, of Johnson township. He is a repub- lican in politics, and has filled the offices of township clerk, trustee, school director, and has been a member of the board of supervisors. He is a mem- ber of the Masonic order. Narnanrex McArruur, farmer, Seney, was born in Scotland, July 29, 1828, and is a son of Duncan and Sarah McArthur. He worked on his father’s farm until he was twenty-seven years old, and received a moderately good education. May 11, 1855, he married Miss Fanny, daughter of John and Mary McKerlie, of Wellington, Canada, and in 1874, he came to the United States, and settled in Jackson county, Iowa, where he remained until 1886. Then he moved with his family to Seney, Plymouth county, and purchased 400 acres of land in Elgin township, in sections eighteen and four- teen. Mr. McArthur has made farming the vocation of his life, and has made a financial success of it, which is entirely due to his industry and economy. His children are John, Daniel, William, Alexander, Duncan, Sarah and Mary. He is a member of the Presbyterian church, and politic- ally a republican. Wiitiam Manpexxow, farmer, P. O. Struble, is a son of John and Mar- garet Mandelkow, and was born in Germany, January 9, 1846. There he attended school till he was fifteen years of age, when he started as an ap- prentice'to a wagon-maker, which occupation he followed till the fall of 1876, when he came to America, landing at New York city, but proceeded at once to Bloomington, Ill., where he stayed till the spring of 1877, when he moved to Le Mars. He bought 240 acres of land in section twenty-eight, Grant township, om which he resided till 1886, when he sold out and moved to El- 930 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. gin township, and bought 640 acres in section eight, where he now carries on general farming. Mr. Mandelkow was married to Minnie’ Detloff, of Germany, in 1865, and this union has been blessed with four children, viz.: Minnie, William, Elmer and John. He holds the political views of the democrats, and is a member of the German Lutheran church. Luxe WHEELER was born in Barnstead, Belknap county, N. H., Septem- ber 7, 1838, and is the fifth of the eight children born to Hazen and Jane (Jewett) Wheeler, both natives of New Hampshire, the former born at Salem, and the latter at Barnstead, where she still resides at the ripe old age of ninety-two years. Our subject attended the public schools until fifteen years of age, after which he spent six months at the academy at Pittsfield, and the same length of time at Gilmanton. He then went to Muscatine county, Iowa, where he was engaged in farming for two years and a half, after which he returned east, going to Boston, Mass., where he was engaged in the produce business until September 19,1881. At that date he came again to Iowa and settled at Westfield, where for the next five years he was engaged in buying and selling stock. He then opened a general store which he has been con- ducting ever since. February 22, 1865, he married Angie M., daughter of James and Betsy N. Hodgdon, of Barnstead, N. H. Mys. Wheeler has been postmistress at Westfield for the past seven years. Mr. Wheeler always votes the repub- lican ticket, and in religious matters is a member of the Congregational church. Witi1am Micarist, attorney, Sioux City, was born on the Isle of Man in 1846, but came to America with his parents when he was but one year of age, and located in Peoria county, Il. His parents soon removed to Stark county, Tll., where he received his education. He studied law with his brother and attended law school at Chicago, and was admitted to the bar in 1875. He first began practice at Storm Lake, Iowa, and in 1887 removed to Sioux City, where he now has a reputation as an able and industrious attorney. He isa Mason and a member of the Chapter. Lone & Lonr, attorneys at law, Sioux City. These rising young attorneys, successors to the firm of Wigton & Lohr, are brothers, sons of Peter and Anna E. (Apel) Lohr, who migrated from Blankenheim in the electorate of Hesse Cassel, in 1851 and 1852, respectively, and removed to Osage, Mitchell county, Iowa, in May, 1856, where the father was, until May, 1890, a furni- ture dealer, when he was succeeded by another son, Frank S. Lohr, born November 13, 1862. William F. is the senior member of the firm, and was born August 25, 1854, at Norwalk, Ohio. He is a graduate of the eollegiate and law depart- ments of the State university, and was admitted to practice by the supreme court of Iowa, in June, 1888, and entered into the practice of his profession GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 931 in December of that year, at Sioux City, Iowa, and has since continued, hav- ing been in partnership at first with E. D. Wigton. Frederick W. Lohr, the junior member, was born at Osage, Iowa, Janu- ary 23, 1866. He is also a graduate of the State university, having finished his course in the collegiate department in June, 1888, and in the law depart- ment in June, 1890. He began practice in August, 1890, entering into part- nership with his brother at that time. They are both young men of ability, and will persevere in their chosen profession until success is theirs. W. F. Lohr entered the State university in 1874, but owing to failing health was not graduated with his class. He spent some time in Dakota on account of his health, and was in the government service nearly four years, at Washing- ton and elsewhere. He re-entered the University in January, 1887, and was graduated from both departments in June, 1888. They have two brothers, George C. (born August 2, 1856), and Charles H. (born February 27, 1859), in the drug business at Estelline, South Dakota, the firm name being also Lohr & Lohr. George C. is postmaster, and Charles H. is one of the county commissioners of Hamlin county, 8. Dak. H. F. Hoaay, plumber and gas-fitter, Sioux City, is a native of Ireland, and came to America with his parents when seven years old. They settled in Chicago, and our subject was reared in that city, where he commenced to learn the plumbing business when twelve years of age. He came to Sioux City in 1872, and was the first plumber here. He was married in this city to Ellen T., daughter of John Kelly. Mr. Hogan has been successful in his line of business, and this success is due to his own efforts. He owns consid- erable property here and also in Chicago. He is a member of the Roman Catholic church, and an independent democrat in politics. V. C. SHerman, attorney at law, Sioux City, is a nativeof Wisconsin. He was born in 1862. He received a liberal education in his native state, and began the study of law in Sioux City in 1883, with Mr. O. J. Taylor. He was admitted to the bar in 1885, and has since been engaged in the practice of his profession. He entered into partnership with L. M. Kean in 1889, January 20, 1891, he married Miss Leora M., daughter of Capt. and Mrs. R. J. Chase, of Sioux City. Srurcres Bros., harness manufacturers, Sioux City. These brothers, E. F. and C. L. Sturges, are natives of Illinois, and came west with their par- ents, settling in Cedar county, Iowa. At the age of thirteen years they learned the harness trade of their father, who is at present mayor of Me- chanicsville, Iowa, and who has been in the harness business for thirty years. Of a family of six sons all followed the vocation of their father, and are engaged in the manufacture of harness. E. F. came to Sioux City in 1885, and was employed as agent for L. Humbert. His brother joined him here 932 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. later, and they entered into business for themselves. They employ two men and give their own time and labor to their trade. Grorce Marty, contractor, Sioux City, was born in New York state, April 23, 1838. At the age of twenty-three years he learned the carpenter- ing trade, which he followed for eleven years at Le Mars, Cedar Falls, and different places throughout the state of Iowa. He came to Sioux City in May, 1887. He has built the Booge tenement house, the Hess residence and many other buildings throughout the city. Mr. Martin has been twice mar- ried, his first wife having been a New York lady. The second time he mar- ried a Sioux City lady, by whom was born one child, a daughter. Mr. Martin has been quite successful in business, and has been in constant demand for building since he came to Sioux City. J. A. Harris, plumber, agent for Spence hot water heater, Sioux City, son of Jobn A. and Mary (Pressinger) Harris, was born in Newark, N. J., in 1848. His father was a native of London, England, and his mother of New York. At the age of fifteen he became an apprentice to the plumbing and gas fitting business and has followed that vocation since that time. He first engaged in business for himself in Newark, N. J., in 1880, and two years later removed his business to Orange, N. J. He came to Iowa in 1887 and settled in Sioux City in 1889. He was married in 1870 to Susie Edwards (now deceased). Five children were born to them—three sons and two daughters. The eldest daughter died at the age of three months. His sons are members of the Baptist church. He is a member of the order of Odd Fellows; politically he is a republican. He is an exempt member of the fire department of Newark, N. J. H. H. McLavry, attorney at law, Sioux City, son of H. W. and Anna A. McLaury, is a native of New York state, where he was born in 1856. He received an academic education, and was admitted to practice at the bar in O’Brien county, Iowa, in 1884. In 1889 he came to Sioux City. Ever since its organization Mr. McLaury has been with the Iowa Loan & Improvement company as attorney. He practices general law, and was admitted to the practice of law in New York. He has been engaged in teaching, farming and the newspaper business. He is a member of the U. P. church, the Knights of Pythias, and votes the republican ticket. Grorce A. Miuusr, contractor, Sioux City, is a native of Illinois, and was born in Stark county, that state, in 1856. He received his education at La Salle and Marshall, Ill. He came to Sioux City in January, 1888, and was for a time engaged with Mr. Cox. With him he assisted in the con- struction of the Corn Palace of 1888, the Tollerton & Stetson building, the Sack county court-house, and aided in building and decorating the Corn Pal- ace train that went to Washington at the time of Harrison’s inauguration. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 933 Mr. Miller is now in business alone. Among other buildings he has con- structed are W. A. Keifer’s residence, Byam & Jackson Tile Works, and the buildings at Riverside Park. T. A. Tuompson, treasurer of the Reliance Trust company, is a native of Elgin, Ill, where he was born in 1859. He was educated at Ann Arbor, Mich. For the past eight years he has been identified with the northwest, and in 1888 came to Sioux City and organized the Reliance Trust company, which represented a capital stock of $100,000, but has since been increased to $250,000, prominent eastern capitalists being largely interested in the business. Mr. Thompson is a thorough business man, a gentleman in every respect, calculated to make a success out of the already prosperous business, of which he is the head. J. Hermann, physician and surgeon, Sioux City, was born in Dubuque, Iowa. He was reared in Chicago, and attended various schools. He grad- uated from a Chicago Homeopathic college, and practiced first in Quasque- ton and Waterloo, Iowa, and for one year in Chicago. He came to Sioux City in 1889, and has rooms in the Metropolitan block. Dr. Hermann is of the homeopathic school of physicians, and has received a fair patronage from the people of Sioux City. Aveust Eacrrs, physician and surgeon. Among the prominent young physicians of Sioux City is Dr. Eggers, a native of Norway, and born in 1862. His parents were August Ditlew and Cato (van Kervel) Eggers, na- tives of Norway, where the former died, in 1888. He graduated from Chris- tiania university, in Norway, in December, 1889, and then came to America, landing here February 2, 1890. He first practiced his profession here, hav- ing, according to the laws of his native country, studied seven years. He began the practice of his profession in Sioux City in April, 1890. Dr. Eggers is the only Norwegian physician in Sioux City. : Dr. Witt1am Jerson. Among the young physicians of Sioux City who have come prominently to the front in the practice of their profession is Dr. William Jepson. He was born at Aarhus, Denmark, June 29, 1868, and is the eldest of three living children of a family of nine. His eldest brother, George, is at present a practicing attorney and justice of the peace in Sioux City, while his younger brother, Christian, is in college. At the age of seven he came with his parents to America, settling at Seymour, Iowa. When ten years of age his father died, leaving his education to the fostering care of his mother and his own endeavors. At the age of seventeen he began the study of medicine with Dr. Earnest, of Seymour. After studying in the office of that gentleman for two years, he entered the medical department of the State university of Iowa, where he attended lectures during the winter sessions for three years, the summer 984 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. months being spent in study with Dr. Middleton, of Davenport, Iowa. Dur- ing his second year at this university, he was honored by being appointed assistant to the professor of physiology, while during his third year he was assistant demonstrator of anatomy. ., In March, 1886, he graduated from this institution, after which he im- mediately located in Oakland, Neb., where he began his professional career with much success, but being desirous of larger fields for work, at the end of six months he moved to Sioux City, where he has since resided. In September, 1890, he went to Philadelphia to perfect his studies in the hospitals of that city, remaining there until May, 1891. At the commence- ment of the Jefferson Medical college, in April, 1891, the degree of doctor of medicine was again conferred upon him by that institution, and the Uni- versity of Pennsylvania conferred the same degree upon him at its commence- ment in May, 1891. Dr. Jepson is professor of anatomy, and assistant in clinical surgery, and secretary of the medical faculty of the University of the Northwest. He is also visiting surgeon to St. Joseph’s hospital, as well as coroner of Woodbury county. He is a member of the Sioux City Medical, Missouri Valley Medical and the State Medical societies. December 21, 1886, he married Miss Beatrice Baker, of Le Mars, Iowa, and three children have blessed this happy union, two of whom are now living. F. E. Git, attorney at law, Sioux City, a son of Joseph and Mary Gill, was born at Philadelphia, Pa., in 1865, but when only a year and a half old his parents moved to Manchester, Jowa. He is a graduate of the State university of Iowa, having finished the curriculum of that institution in 1889. In August, 1889, he came to Sioux City, and is engaged in the practice of general law. Mr. Gill, who is a leader in politics, is a republican and a fine speaker. Kripier & Frac, hardware dealers, Sioux City. The members of this firm are W. H. Kridler, of Tlinois, and John D. Flack. The latter was born in Germany, in 1865. He came to Sioux City in November, 1888, and opened the present place of business. For five years Mr. Flack clerked in a clothing store, and afterward was employed in the hardware business. Our subject superintends and manages the entire business of the firm. He has been very successful for a young man, and is straightforward and honest in all his business transactions. He is a member of the Turners organization. C. H. Marrry, dealer in pianos and organs, Sioux City, was born in cen- tral Ohio. He came to Sioux City in 1886, as manager, at Sioux City, of a branch of Lyon & Healy’s music house, Chicago, and served in that capacity till 1889, at which time he purchased the business from Lyon & Healy, and is now proprietor of his “Steinway Hall” music house, in the Jandt & Tomp- kins block, and is the principal dealer in pianos and organs in Sioux City, GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 935 and is sole agent for Steinway, Weber, A. R. Chase, Fischer, Decker, Newby & Evans, and Martin pianos, and Clough & Warren, and Story & Clark organs. He is president of the C. H. Martin Co., of St. Paul, Minn., which company was organized August 1, 1890. He is the patentee and manufact- urer of the celebrated Martin Piano Trucks, with a factory located at Sioux City. He employs the “K. P.” band three months, or during the summer season, to give open air concerts in front of Steinway Hall, which entertain- ments are greatly appreciated by the people. RaenvaLtpD Krertine, chemist and druggist, is a native of Norway. He was educated in Norway university and in Germany, and graduated from the University of Christiana. He came to Sioux City in November, 1887, and began business in his present location February 4, 1888. He employs three men. Mr. Krefting is a practical chemist, having had practical experience in that branch since he was fourteen years old, and he has had sixteen years’ experience in the drug business. L. P. Kyos, druggist and chemist, Sioux City, is a native of Sweden, and was born December 26, 1859. He was educated in his native country, and commenced the study of pharmacy in 1875, and in 1880 graduated at Stock- holm, Sweden. He came to America in 1881, and located in Des Moines, and was examined and passed by the Board of Pharmacy, of Iowa. Mr. Knos came to Sioux City in 1888, and was engaged one year as a clerk, and then took possession of his present business place, corner of Pearl and Sixth streets. He is a member of the Lutheran church. L. M. Keay, attorney at law, Sioux City, is a native of Albemarle county, Va.: He was born January 11, 1856. He received his academic education at the private school of Dr. C. L. C. Minor and at the Episcopal high school of Virginia, near Alexandria, and at the University of Virginia. He is also a graduate of the law department of the University of Virginia, having graduated in 1877. He practiced his profession at Lynchburg, Va., from July, 1877, until October, 1887, in partnership with his father, R. G. H. Kean, a prominent member of the Virginia bar. Mr. Kean came to Sioux City in October, 1887, and in February, 1889, formed a partnership with Mr. V. C. Sherman, which is still in existence. He is engaged in the practice of corporation and commercial law. Carter & Brown, attorneys at law, Sioux City. John R. Carter is a native of the state of New York. He graduated from the Boston University School of Law in 1885, and removed to Sioux City in the fall of the same year. He was admitted to the bar in Iowa in 1886, and commenced practice with J. P. Blood, of the firm of Blood & Carter. In April, 1887, he entered into partnership with A. D. Tollefson, of the firm of Tollefson & Carter. In August, 1889, the firm was changed to Tollefson, Carter & Brown, and in 936 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. July, 1890, the firm became Carter & Brown, the present firm, Mr. Tollefson retiring. J. M. Brown is a native of Wayne county, Ind., and came to Iowa with his parents when three years of age, and has lived in the state ever since. He graduated from the academical department of Simpson college at Indian- ola, Iowa, in 1877, and two years later was admitted to the bar at the same place, and went to Guthrie county, same state, where he practiced his pro- fession for six years. In the fall of 1886 he removed to Sioux City, and for atime was a member of the law firm of Magill & Brown. Afterward he formed a partnership with J. R. Carter, and is now a member of the firm of Carter & Brown, engaged in a general law practice. Ranpatt & Newcomp, civil engineers, Sioux City. The individual mem- bers of this firm are C. D. Randall, of Flint, Mich., and J. N. Newcomb, of Winnipeg, Canada. Mr. Randall came to Sioux City in 1885, and Mr. New- comb in 1888. Mr. Newcomb is a graduate of Royal Military college, Kingston, Ont., and has been engaged in engineering since 1888. The firm are engaged in general engineering business. T. F. H. Sprena, physician, Sioux City, is a native of Ohio. He was educated at Northwestern college, Naperville, Ill., and commenced the study of medicine in 1877. In 1879 he graduated from Hahnemann Medical col- lege, Chicago, and from March, of that year, to March, 1880, he was house physician and surgeon to the Hahnemann hospital, Chicago, and the three succeeding years he was the associate of Prof. A. E. Small, M. D., president of the Hahnemann Medical college and hospital. He afterward practiced in Buchanan, Mich., for five years, and came to Sioux City in 1889, and ranks with the best physicians of the city. He is a member of the American Institute of Homeopathy, a member of the Hahnemann Medical Society of Iowa, and is, at present, its vice-president, and is president of the Woodbury County Homeeopathic Medical Society. He is a member of the order of Knight Templars, and belongs to the Congregational church. Wituram W. Sovts, attorney at law, Sioux City, is a son of Charles 8. and Ellen Frances Soulé. Mr. Soulé’s ancestors, who were natives of Maine and New York at the time of the Rebellion, took part in that war, and the war of 1812. This rising young lawyer was born at Beaver Dam, Dodge county, Wis., in 1861. He was educated at the public schools, and attended Coe college, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and began the study of law when a boy, being admitted to the bar September 6, 1883. He studied under J. W. Taylor, of Canton, Dak. For two years and four months Mr. Soulé held the position of police judge of this city. He is among the foremost of the young lawyers of the city, and takes an ardent interest in the doings of the demo- cratic party, and was chairman of the county central committee when twenty- GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 937 one years of age. In June, 1886, he married Miss Marion E. Frisbie, of Sioux City, and they have two children—a son four years of age, and an in- fant daughter. Howarp 8. Baker, born June 20, 1861, is among the enterprising and successful young men of Sioux City. He isa native of Syracuse, N.Y. He came to Sioux City about six years ago, and engaged in the drug business, retiring in 1888, after which he was one of the organizers of the American National bank, of Sioux City. Mr. Baker is engaged in the mortgage and loan business in the Chamber of Commerce building; he is also a member of the Chamber of Commerce. June 10, 1886, he married Mary G. Childs, of Syracuse, N. Y. In political matters he is a republican. C. Frep Goutp is a native of Massachusetts, and was born in 1863. He was educated in Philadelphia, and graduated from the College of Pennsyl- vania, in 1886. As his grandfather, father and uncle had all been dentists, Mr. Gould followed in their footsteps, and fitted himself for that profession. He came to Sioux City in July, 1889. Mr. Gould is a rising young dentist, and has an exceedingly large practice. W. E. Bossuarp, druggist, Sioux City, was born in Wisconsin in 1863. He attended Wisconsin college at La Crosse, and first engaged in the drug business at Elroy in 1883. He came to Sioux City in 1888, and opened his present place of business in the Opera House block, in partnership with Mr. Burdin. This partnership existed for a year and a quarter, when Mr. Boss- hard bought out his partner, and is now conducting the business alone, with the assistance of three men who are employed by him. While not a college graduate, Mr. Bosshard is a careful, practical, thoroughgoing druggist and business man. C. B. Frenca, Jz., son of C. B. and Maria L. French, is a native of Illi- nois, and was born in 1862. He is a nephew of A. Z. French (deceased), a prominent early pioneer of this state, and a large land owner. Our subject was educated at Oberlin, Ohio. He immigrated to the west in 1887, and engaged in the banking business in Wayne county, Neb., and was assistant cashier of the bank there, but has since become president, and is principal stockholder in the Winside State bank, of Winside, Neb., a thriving bank, with a capital of $30,000, in a good town. Mr. French was assistant cashier in the National Bank of Sioux City, which has a capital of $1,000,000, but has recently sold his interest. His brother, B. T. French, is in the real estate business. C. B. French owns considerable city property in Sioux City. In 1888 he married Minnie F. Skeel, of Hennepin, Ill., and they have two children. U. G. Wurryey, attorney at law, Sioux City, was born in Hardin county, Towa, in 1864. He was educated in the common schools, and was then sent to Cornell college, Iowa. He entered law school in the fall of 1889, and 988 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. graduated at Drake university, at Des Moines, in the spring of 1890. He is engaged in the practice of general law. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias organization, and attends the Congregational church. Mr. Whitney is among the rising young lawyers of Sioux City, and is held in high esteem by all who know him. Politically he is a republican. Inperenpent Lumber Company, Sioux City. This company is a new one, having located here in the year 1889. The members are S. Barrow and J. H. Valleau. The lumber belonging to this firm is sold by car-load lots, and consists of lumber from the Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa forests. Although a new organization, this firm has received a goodly patronage, and with its enterprising members, success awaits it. C. H. Crarx, proprietor of the Northwestern Business college, Sioux City, is a native of New York state, but his early life was spent in Illinois. He was educated in the public schools of Woodstock and the Normal school at Danville, Ill. He graduated in penmanship and completed the business course at Quincy, Ill For two years he was in San Antonio, Tex., one year in Missouri, and also at Quincy, IIL, as instructor in penmanship and book- keeping. As a penman Mr. Clark stands high in his profession. At the International Fair’ association, San Antonio, Texas, 1889, he won the gold medal, which gave him the honor of being the finest penman in the south. Mr. Clark was married to Miss Bessie Smallwood, of San Antonio, May 17, 1890, and took charge of the Northwestern Business college the follow- ing June. He is a member of the Baptist church and the Y. M. C. A. Dr. Guy C. Ric, Sioux City, was born at Saratoga Springs, N. Y., in 1861. After completing his course in the common schools, he utilized the advantages afforded by the high school of his native town, and in 1880 began the study of dentistry. In 1882 he graduated from the Pennsylvania college of Dental Surgery. In the meantime he had been studying medicine, and after finishing his course in dental surgery, he entered Jefferson Medical college at Philadelphia, from which he graduated in 1885. From 1885 to 1887 he was engaged in practicing his profession at Mount Sinai hospital, New York city. He came to Sioux City in 1889, where he is engaged in practicing his profession, and is a prominent young physician. Politically he is a republican. H. Weser, dealer in meats, Sioux City, was born in Germany, August 4, 1849. He isason of Henry and Elizabeth Weber, the former a farmer. Our subject was left an orphan at six years of age, and remained in Germany until nineteen years old (spring of 1868), at which time he came to America. He worked on a farm near Davenport, Iowa, and remained there nine months. He then went to Lansing, Iowa, where he remained nineteen years. He came to Sioux City in 1888, and entered into the meat market business. In GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 939 1874 he was joined in marriage to Elizabeth Ofterdinger, and one child, Bertha, has been born to them. Mr. Weber has been successful in his busi- ness. He is a member of the order of United Workmen, and is democratic in his political views. Sims Brotuers, editors of Leeds “Leader,” Sioux City. This firm con- sists of two brothers, H. F. Sims and W. W. Sims. The former was born in Illinois in 1865. For ten years he has been a resident of Iowa, but came to Woodbury county in July, 1890. He has been in the newspaper business eleven years, and was formerly editor of the Monona county “ Gazette,” published at Onawa, Iowa, and afterward of the Hartington “Herald,” Neb. W. W. Sims was born in Alabama in 1859, and has been in this branch of business for two years. They are the proprietors of the Leeds “Leader,” a weekly paper with a circulation of 1,000. It was started at Leeds, July 17, 1890, and with such enterprising young men at its head, success awaits it. Both are members of the K. of P. Tue Hanrorp Propuce Company, Sioux City, was incorported May 9, 1890, representing a capital stock of $50,000, A. S. Hanford being president, John Stough, vice-president, W. D. Hanford, secretary, all of whom are directors, as is also Alexander Day, of Holyoke, Mass. A. 8. Hanford, the founder of this company, built the present building in Sioux City in the fall of 1888, having branch houses at Centerville and Correctionville, Iowa, and Mankato, Minn. Some fifty to seventy-five men are employed by this company to carry on its business, buying and selling butter, eggs and poultry, the mar- kets for which are in the east and west. L. J. Herzoc, the ‘Royal Tailor,” is a native of Austria. He came to America in 1879. Since the early age of fourteen years, he has been em- ployed in the tailoring business, and is a graduate of Mitchell’s Cutting school of New York. Mr. Herzog came to Sioux City a year ago, and occu- pies the Badgerow building. He gives employment to some twenty men, employing two cutters besides himself. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias. Grorce A. SrarBLER was born in Le Mars in 1861. He is a contractor of ten years’ experience. He was joined in marriage to Maggie Hann, of Le Mars, and one child, Rosa, has been born to them. He is a member of the Evangelical church, and belongs to the Odd Fellows order. He gives his en- tire time and attention to his business interests, which are principally at Leeds. _ Rev. E. W. Fowrsr is a native of St. Louis, Mo., and was born October 23, 1860. He was educated at the St. Louis university, until reaching the age of fifteen years, when he entered St. Charles university, at Baltimore. He afterward attended college at Niagara Falls, and then took a seminary course 940 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. at St. Francis, Milwaukee. His first appointment was as assistant to St. Patrick’s church, Dubuque. He was afterward appointed pastor of a church in Osage, Iowa, where he labored four years. From there he came to Sioux City in June, 1890, and took charge of St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic church. This church is a handsome brick structure, erected at a cost of $40,000. E. H. Gitmors, of the firm of Gilmore & Co., proprietors of ‘The Fair,” Sioux City, has been identified with the business interests of this place since September 18, 1889. They are located at 320 Fourth street. E. H. Gilmore has been a prominent salesman for many years, and is superintendent and general manager of the company in Sioux City, and its success is, to a large extent, due to his business tact and honest dealing. Pror. Ernest T. Besr is a son of Ernest and Laura (Rishpler) Behr, and was born in Dresden, Saxony, September 22, 1861. At an early age he be- gan to follow the profession of his father—fresco painting—so his father sent him to a school of arts, from which he graduated in his twentieth year. At that time he went to Austria-Hungary, thence to Germany and Prussia, visit- ing various important places of art, spending five years and four months in these and other European countries. He then came to America, located in Chicago, engaged in the service of the Phillipson Decorative company, and was sent by them to do historical and decorative painting on the capitol at Springfield, Ill, and did finishing work on the best theaters and churches in Chicago. He also did work in the cathedrals at Dubuque, Iowa. He came to Sioux City in 1886, and opened an office, and during the period that he has been a resident here, has done work on many of Sioux City’s handsomest houses and business blocks, among them the Iowa Sav- ings bank, the First National bank, Northwestern National bank, the Massa- chusetts block, the residences of A. S. Garretson, James A. Jackson, Joseph Sampson, T. J. Stone, L. Desparois and many more. He is a member of the Unitarian church, the Lieder-Kranz and the K. of P. order. For more than two years he has been connected with the late Conservatory of Music and School of Art of this city, where he taught drawing and painting. Herzert ©. Jounson, inspector of sewer construction, Sioux City, was born in Delaware county, N. Y., October 26, 1850, and is a son of Griswold and Mary (Cook) Johnson, the former a native of Connecticut, and the latter of England, who came to this country when twelve years old; both are still living in New York state. Mr. Johnson received his education in the com- mon schools of Delaware county, and at Delaware Literary institute. Graduates from the latter institution were permitted to enter college in the sophomore class. In 1876 Mr. Johnson left his native state, and settled at Norway, Benton county, Iowa, where he remained for three years, then re- moved to Storm Lake, Idwa, where he resided until his removal to Sioux GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 941 City in 1887. During his residence in Storm Lake he followed various oc- cupations, among which were general merchandise for two years, served as deputy sheriff and wrote some insurance. Since coming to Sioux City he has been employed by the city as above stated. Mr. Johnson is a member of the A. F. & A. M., and politically gives his support to the republican party. In 1874 he was united in marriage, at Franklin, N. Y., to Miss Ger- trude Rikard, a native of that county. This union has been blessed with the following children: Stanley M., Leone, Ray (deceased) and Neva. ALExanDER Fyrrz, foreman of the Sioux City engine works foundry, was born April 15, 1852, in the county of Forfarshire, Scotland. At the age of fourteen years he was apprenticed to the Cox Brothers Co., which had foundry works at Dundee, Scotland. There he served for six years at his trade. In 1872 he left Scotland for America, and settled in Ottawa county, Canada, where he worked as journeyman for two years, then crossed over to Detroit, Mich., where he worked for one year. He remained in northern Michigan until 1880, then went to Chicago, IIL, and engaged with Fraser & Chalmers (foundrymen), where he worked for six years. He then established business in his own name at the corner of Center avenue and Fifteenth street, Chicago, where he conducted work for two years, but finding competition too sharp, closed business, sold out, and removed to Des Moines, Iowa, taking charge of the Eagle Iron works conducted by the Perkins Co., but soon was offered the position of foreman of the Sioux City Engine works foundry, which he prompt- ly accepted, some time in 1888. He married Miss Nyda, daughter of Frank Kennedy, of Jackson, Mich. He is a member of the A. O. U. W., which order he joined at Sioux City, January 1, 1891. M. Extis Witsoy, secretary of the Boston Real Estate and Trust Com- pany, Sioux City, was born April 20, 1864, in Wayne county, Ohio, a son of L. Wilson, who was a native of the same state, and Sarah (Miller) Wilson, a native of Pennsylvania, who were married January 1, 1863. Our subject, who was their only child, after attending the public schools, entered the Baldwin university at Berea, Cuyahoga county, Ohio. Here he remained one year, then entered Duff’s Commercial college, Pittsburgh, Pa., gradu- ating in the class of 1885. He then engaged with Fox Brothers, of Hayesville, Ohio, in general merchandising, but after six months he made up his mind to try his fortune in the west, so, in 1886, removed to Storm Lake, Buena Vista county, Iowa, where he engaged with H. 8. Ballou & Co., the prede- cessor of the Ballou Banking Co. In April, 1887, this firm opened a branch in Sioux City, and in 1889 Mr. Wilson removed to Sioux City, where he has since been. In April, 1890, a number of the stockholders of the Ballou Banking Co. organized the Boston Real Estate & Trust Co., and Mr. Wilson was chosen as secretary. 942 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. James H. Mzays, dealer in agricultural implements, Moville, was born in Kosciusko county, Ind., December 9, 1858, and is a son of Otho and Catha- rine (Crouse) Means, the father being a native of Virginia, of Scotch-Irish descent, while the mother was a native of Pennsylvania, of German descent. The father is now living in retirement in Shelby county, Iowa, his wife hav- ing died in January, 1885; both were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. James H. lived in Indiana until twelve years of age, when he came with his parents to Johnson county, Iowa, in 1865, and resided with them until he was twenty-two years of age. He then purchased a farm in Potta- wattamie county, Iowa, on which he resided about five years, then went into the implement business at Shelby, Iowa, which he continued four years, when he came to Woodbury county in 1885. He purchased 480 acres of land in Moville township, which he farmed until the spring of 1890, when he rented his farm and went into the implement business in Moville. In pol- itics Mr. Means affiliates with the republican party, and has been school director, also township trustee. He is a member of the Masonic order. Francis B. Atzan (deceased) was a farmer and stock-raiser on section four, Moville township. He was born in Pittsburgh, Pa., in 1830, a son of Robert and Anna (Leslie) Allan, both natives of Scotland. The father was by occupation a weaver, but spent the latter part of his days in retirement in Westmoreland county, Pa., where he died about 1875. His mother is still living and has reached the age of ninety years. Both parents were members of the Covenanter church. Francis B. was reared in Pittsburgh, and there received a common-school education. He went with his parents to Westmoreland county when they moved, and there resided with them until 1856, when he engaged in farming for himself, following that pursuit in that county until 1884, when he came to Woodbury county, Iowa. He purchased 294 acres of land on section four, Moville township, where he continued farming until his death, which occurred November 22, 1889. November 27, 1859, Mr. Allan married Sarah Pace, and to them were born six children: Margaret P., Robert, George J., Anna B., Mattie M. and Clara E. He was a member of the United Presbyterian church, as is also his wife. Upon his death the-son Robert took charge of the farm, which he still continues to operate. He is a republican in politics, secretary of the school board, and a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. Mrs. Allan is a daughter of David and Margaret (Woods) Pace, the former a na- tive of England and the latter of the north of Ireland. Her father was by occupation a gardener and fruit grower, which business he carried on in Allegheny county, Pa., until his death, in March, 1879; his wife died in 1864. Mr. Pace came to America in 1822, and soon after, located in Allegheny county. Both he and wife were members of the United Presbyterian church. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 948 Joun F. Burrers, farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section thirty-six, Moville township, was born in Jackson county, Iowa, May 10, 1846, and is a son of John S. and Eunice (Grace) Butters. His father was a native of New York, of Scotch descent, and his mother was born in Pennsylvania, of Ger- man descent. John 8. Butters farmed in Jackson county, Iowa, until his death, which occurred in 1878, having come to Iowa about the year 1841; his wife is still living, and resides at Algona, Kossuth county, Iowa, a mem- ber of the Christian church, as was her husband. John F. Butters was born and reared on a farm, receiving his education at the district schools. He continued to reside with and assist his parents on the farm until the spring of 1864, when he enlisted in Company I, Twelfth Iowa regiment. He took part in the battles of Tupelo, Miss., Nashville, Spanish Fort, and Blakely, La. He was wounded in the battle of Tupelo, and honorably discharged January 26, 1866. He then returned home, where he remained two years, then engaged in farming for himself until 1869, when he moved to Jones county, Iowa, and farmed there until 1880; at that date he located in Wood- bury county, and resided for two years in Grant township, then purchased 400 acres of land in Moville township, where he has since lived. Mr. But- ters makes a specialty of fine Galloway cattle, and has sixty head on his farm at present, and also keeps a good grade of horses and hogs. March 26, 1868, he married Louisa Moyer, and to them have been born four children: Osce, Elsie, Stella and Anna. He is a republican, a member of the I. O. O. F. and Farmers’ Alliance. Mrs. Butters is a daughter of Levi and Sophia (Moyer) Meyers, whose names were afterward changed to Moyer. Both parents were natives of Ohio, and of German descent. Levi Moyer engaged in farming, excepting the years 1851, 1852 and 1853, until his death, which occurred at Galena, Ill, in 1856, the result of an accident. His wife is still living, and resides at Maquoketa, Iowa. In March, 1851, he went to California and was engaged in prospecting and gold mining until May, 1854, when he returned to Ohio, then moved with his family to Jack- son county, Iowa, in 1855. He was a member of the Presbyterian church, and his wife is a member of the Baptist church. Witsvr 8. Mercatr, farmer, residing on section twenty-seven, Moville township, was born in Steuben county, N. Y., in 1854, a son of Mendel L. and Rachel (Munks) Metcalf, the father a native of New York, of English descent, the mother of Pennsylvania, of German and Irish descent. His father was a farmer in West Fork township, Woodbury county, having come to the county in 1855; his death occurred in 1884, his wife having died in 1871; both were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Wilbur S. came from Steuben county, N. Y., to Woodbury county with his parents when one year old, and remained with them until twenty years of age, receiving 51 944 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. such an education as was to be had in the district schools. At the age of twenty he engaged in farming for himself. In 1875 he went to Washington territory, where he resided two years, working at clearing timber land and logging. In June, 1877, he returned to Woodbury county and purchased eighty acres of land, where he now resides, having since added eighty-five acres, all of which wus in a wild state, but which he has now well improved. He casts his suffrage with the republican party, and has been road super- visor, school director and secretary. In 1880 he married Hattie E. Baker, and they have four children: Joanna B., Harlin P., Maria P. and Thomas W. Mr. and Mrs. Metcalf are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. A. J. Varvet, farmer, P. O. Correctionville, is a son of Daniel and Mar- garet Varvel, and was born in Jones county, Iowa, July 11, 1842. His father was a native of Kentucky and his mother of New York. He attended the common schools of Jones county until nineteen years of age, when he finished his education in a college in Delaware county, where he was in school one year. In 1862 he went to Wisconsin, where he worked in the pineries one year, after which he went to Denver, Colo., where he engaged in freighting groceries from Omaha. He then came back to Jones county and farmed for his father until the spring of 1869, when he moved to Kedron township, Woodbury county, where he now resides. September 5, 1868, Mr. Varvel married Nellie, daughter of Seth and Eliza Peck, and to them is born one child, named Minnie. Politically Mr. Varvel is a democrat and a strong advocate of prohibition. Lronarp Koente, one of the leading farmers of Plymouth county, was born in Germany, February 28, 1827, a son of Ulrich and Mary Koenig, also of Germany. He attended school there until ten years of age, when he came with his parents to America, settling in Baltimore, Md., where he en- gaged in gardening until 1869. He then removed to Plymouth township, Plymouth county, Iowa, where he bought eighty acres of land, and has since carried on general farming. He has added to his farm, and now owns 750 acres of land. Mr. Koenig married Miss Mary, daughter of Russell Strickstra, of Germany, in February, 1850, and they are the parents of nine children: Annie, William, Dora, Sarah, John, Matilda, George, Philip and Henry. In politics he is a democrat, and was elected by that party to the board of county commissioners, which position he has held six years. He has also filled the offices of township trustee and school director. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and the Evangelical church. Auexanper Exuiort, farmer, Sioux City, is a son of Robert and Sarah (McLeon) Elliott, and was born in Ireland, August 14,1828. His parents were of Scotch descent and members of the Presbyterian church. His father, who was a farmer, died in 1863, and his mother two years later. Alexander GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 945 Elliott is one of the old settlers of Woodbury county, having come here be- fore there was a frame house where Sioux City now stands. The prairie was then nothing but wild land, and the deer and wolves were then roaming all around. Prairie fires did great damage too, our subject alone having had between 3800 and 400 tons of hay swept away by them. He was educated in Ireland, where he remained and assisted his father with the farm work until he attained his majority. In 1850 he came to America and farmed in New York until 1856, when he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, and pur- chased 320 acres of land in section twenty-nine, Floyd township, where he now resides, to which he has since added 1,280 acres, and is engaged ina very extensive manner in farming and stock-raising. February 19, 1863, he married Harriet E. Todd, of Sioux City, and to them have been born nine children, namely: Mary, Carrie H., Eddie R., Sarah, Alexander, John, Harriet, George and Frank. In religious matters Mr. Elliott holds to the faith of the Presbyterians; in politics he is a repub- lican, and has been treasurer, trustee and school director. Epwin P. Wesster, an old settler, farmer and stock-raiser, now residing on section twenty-one, Woodbury township, was born in Albany, N. Y., March 7, 1838, a son of Joshua and Eliza (Phillips) Webster. The father had retired from active work at the time of his death, which occurred September 9, 1878; he was of Welsh and the mother of English descent, the latter a member of the Congregational church. Edwin P. was born and reared in New York, and received a common-school education. He resided with his parents until 1856, when he came west, stopping in Omaha one year, and in Nebraska for three years. He came to Woodbury county about 1860, and located in Sioux City, residing there seven years, and then came to Woodbury township, where he bought 1,010 acres of land. May 14, 1876, he married Ellen Davis, of New York, and they have one child, Florence. Mr. Webster affiliates with the republican party, and has held the office of school director, and now holds that of treasurer of the district. Mrs. Webster is a member of the Congregational church. James 8. Crarx, one of the old settlers, farmers and stock-raisers, now residing on section thirty-three, Woodbury township, was born in Lawrence county, Pa., October 21, 1841, a son of James and Margaret (Brown) Clark, both deceased. James Clark was a farmer of Irish descent, and both he and wife were members of the Union church. James 8. was born and reared on a farm in Pennsylvania, and received a common-school education. He came to Woodbury county in 1860 with his parents, and resided with them until their death. He then took charge of the farm of eighty acres, and has since added 240 acres, making in all 320 acres of land. When Mr. Clark came to this county it was all wild prairie, and he has done his share in helping to 946 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. build it up. September 23, 1889, he married Annie Johnson, of Sioux City. Politically, Mr. Clark is a republican, and has held the office of supervisory He is identified with the Methodist Episcopal church. Joun T. Scuwarrz, Jr., farmer, Sergeant’s*Bluff, is a native of Iowa, hav- ing been born in Linn county, June 23, 1855. His parents, who are now residing in Sioux City, are John and Charlotte (Laflesh) Schwartz, the former of Dutch and the latter of French descent. The father is operating a large farm, which he owns, and which is north of Sergeant’s Bluff. John T. was reared on a farm, receiving such an education as he could obtain at the pub- lic schools. His parents moved to Woodbury county, when he was nine years of age, and he resided with them there until he was twenty, when he bought eighty acres of land, broke it for farming, and built a houseonit. He after- ward sold that and purchased the twenty acres he is now living upon, and which, being within a quarter of a mile of the corporate limits of Sioux City, has a value of not less than $7,000. In 1876 he married Nettie Streeter, of Harrison county, and to them three children have been born: Gertie M., Merton A. and Ervie M. The country around here was wild land when Mr. Schwartz came, and he has seen the deer and wolf running wild, and even some Indian wigwams dotting the prairies. Even Sioux City was a small place, containing only six or seven stores, and he has helped to transform this wild country to one of well culti- vated farms, and has seen the extraordinary growth of Sioux City. In polities he is a democrat. Grorcz H. Dura, farmer, Sergeant’s Bluff, is a son of Alfred and Eliza- beth (Watkins) Dula, of English and Scotch-Irish descent, respectively. His mother died in 1877 and his father was an invalid from then till the time of his death in 1879. George H. was born on a farm in Wilkes county, N. C., October 17, 1840, and when seven years old, went to live with some relatives in Caldwell county, same state, and there he was educated and remained until 1860, when he went north, and in 1861 enlisted at Anderson, Ind., in Company K, Indiana infantry. He was in the battles of Rich Mountain, Va., Pea Ridge, Champion Hill, the siege of Vicksburg, and the surrender at Mobile, Ala. In May, 1864, he was honorably discharged, and then went to McLean county, Ill, and taught school in different localities for a number of years. In 1868 he came to Woodbury county, and purchased forty acres of land in section thirty-one, Woodbury township, where he now resides. He married Mary A. Woodford, September 22, 1879, and has five chil- dren: Bertha A., Addie, Lucy, Woodford and Mary. Mr. Dula, who served nearly four years in the army, and was a commissioned officer, now draws a pension, as he was badly broken down in health, from the long and severe service. He and his wife are both members of the Methodist Episcopal GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 947 church; in politics he is a republican, and has held the office of justice of the peace and school director, and is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. Joun Cartes Rururorr, undertaker, Smithland, is a native of Bavaria, Germany, born at Bamberg, April 9, 1846. His parents were Henry and Margaret (Reider) Ruthroff, who set out with their family for America in 1849. They settled in Chicago, where both died of cholera in 1857. At the age of thirteen, John C. Ruthroff began learning the carpenter’s trade, to which he subsequently added cabinet-making. In 1861 he came to Smith- land, and in the spring of 1863 he enlisted in Company L, Fourth Iowa cavalry, serving till June, 1865, in the western army. He was in the battles of La Grange, Jackson, Meridian, Guntown, Tupelo, Tallahatchie Creek and Oxford. At Tupelo he received a shell wound in the right hip. While in camp at Gravel Springs, Ala., he was detached for band duty (the only caval- ry band in the service), and received a sunstroke while on duty, in February, 1865, by which he was prostrated for four months, being insensible five days. He was sent to the hospital at Jeffersonville, Ind., and from there discharged. From the effects of this injury he has never fully recovered. Returning to Smithland, he continued building operations till 1879, when he bought out and operated a wagon-repair shop. In 1882 he began under- taking, and to this in 1887 added a furniture stock. He had completed and stocked a store, twenty by forty feet, which was totally destroyed, with a large undertaking stock, by fire in December, 1889. Nothing daunted, he built a small store the following spring, and started in to recover from his crippling loss. In religious views Mr. Ruthroff sympathizes with the Seventh Day Advent church, and is an ardent republican. In 1869 he mar- ried Charlotte, daughter of Nathaniel Edgar, whose sketch will be found in this volume. Mrs. Ruthroff was born in Green county, Wis., and is the mother of thirteen children, of whom the following are living: Josephine, Cora, Charles, Jessie, Florence, Pearl, Fay, Ardilla, Viva and Floyd, Grace, Myrtle and Leroy being deceased. Myron Apert Crarg, real estate dealer, Smithland, was born at Benton Center, Lackawanna county, Pa. August 8, 1859, and is a son of Perry and Ruth E. (Bailey) Clark, natives of Rhode Island. In 1871 the family removed to Woodbury county, settling in Little Sioux township, where they now re- side. Our subject remained on the home farm until he was sixteen years of age, and then taught school until he arrived at his majority. In 1881 he en- gaged in the real estate and loan business, in which he has been very suc- cessful. He is a leading citizen of the town, having served as member of the school board for six years. In 1883 he was married to Tillie Hawkins, of Boone, Iowa, and their family consists of three children, namely: Clyde P., Florence M. and Harrison B. ° Mr. Clark takes a leading part in the coun- cils of the republican party. 948 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES, Jacop Wetts, merchant, Danbury, was born in Austria, March 16, 1843, and came to America in 1852 with his parents, who located in New Orleans. Two years later they moved to Jackson county, Ill, and here the subject of this sketch was mostly educated, and is able to speak and write both English and German. At the age of eighteen he started out to earn his own living, as a cooper, and went to Guttenberg, Iowa. He worked at his trade in Clinton and Winneshiek counties for about eighteen years, then came to Dan- bury, and opened a general merchandise store. His parents were Joseph and Mariana (Matt) Welte, both Germans, but who spent the latter part of their lives in this country, both having died in Iowa. In 1868 Mr. Welte married Theresa, daughter of Chris and Malburga (Sheable) Warner, and to them have been born nine children: Rosina, John, Joe, Lizzie, Jacob, Mary, Carrie, Frank and Hugo, all of whom are at home. Mr. Welte is a member of the Roman Catholic church. , Marruew Froop, farmer and stock dealer, Battle Creek, was born in county Wexford, Ireland, in 1846, and received his entire schooling in Ire- land. He came to America in 1868, and located in Springfield, Ill, and was naturalized in 1878. After remaining in Illinois eight years, he came to Dallas county, Iowa, and in 1883 to Woodbury county, always engaged as a farmer. His parents, Matthew and Kate (Furlong) Flood, were Irish, and are both deceased. In 1871 the subject of this sketch married Bridget Dis- kin, whose parents, Michael and Mary (Cusic) Diskin, are both dead. He has five children: Mary Ellen, Katie, Maggie, Mattie and John. All are members of the Catholic church. Mr. Flood is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. He has a farm of 320 acres, all under cultivation, on which he raises mostly corn. At the present time (1890).he has 100 head of cattle and 200 head of hogs. Avourxus Hurray, farmer, Anthon, was born in Germany, January 20, 1848, and there attended school. At the age of twenty-three years he came to America and located in Linn county, Iowa, where he remained eight years, then moved to Shelby county, and from there to Woodbury county, in 1883, and located on the farm in Morgan township, where he still resides. His parents, George and Anna Huffman, were Germans, both now deceased. He is the fifth of six children, and with one brother the only ones of his family who came to America. In 1876 he married Barbara, daughter of Godfrey and Annie Irion, who were Germans. They have two children, Fred W. and Charles G., and belong to the Lutheran church. Mr. Huffman’s farm consists of 400 acres, 300 of which he cultivates. He is engaged extensively in buying and selling live stock. CuRISToPHER Camanriaa, farmer, Correctionville, is a native of Switzerland, where he was born June 27, 1837. His father, Flish Camarigg, was born in GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 949 1811; his mother’s name was Dorothy Camarigg. He came to America in 1847, and after spending one year in Burlington, Wis., he settled in Trenton township, Waupun P. O., Dodge county, the same state. In 1875 he moved to Clinton, Iowa, nine years later to Cushing, same state, and soon after bought a farm in section four, Morgan township, Woodbury county, where he now lives. November 8, 1860, he married Miss Katherine Geiger, also a native of Switzerland. Mr. Camarigg is a republican in politics, and a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. He and wife are the parents of six children: Lydia, Walter, Maggie, Katie, Della and Henry. Wester Exr Ossorn, farmer, Danbury, was born in Illinois, November 20, 1861, and is one of seven children (four of whom are living) born to Abel Griffith and Rosanna (Foster) Osborn, both natives of Pennsylvania and of English descent. He is one of five children who are now living, born to his parents, and was reared on a farm, and has always followed farming. In 1884 he bought the farm where he now lives, paying ten dollars per acre then, which consists of one hundred and twenty acres of what is now choice land. It is in section twelve, township eighty-six, range forty-three, Wood- bury county. November 25, 1888, he was married at Danbury, to Eva Jack- son, of this state, by whom he has one child, Clements Abel. Mr. and Mrs. Osborn are both members of the Methodist church. In political matters he is a republican. Samus C. Garper, farmer, Oto, is the youngest of eight children born to Samuel C. and Rebecca (Davis) Garber, the latter of Welsh descent, and was born in Lancaster county, Pa., February 7, 1834. He is of Hessian descent, his great-grandfather having been one of the prisoners captured by Washington at the battle of Trenton, who, when paroled, settled in Lancas- ter county, Pa. At the age of nineteen the subject of this sketch graduated from Franklin and Marshall college, where he was educated with the object of following the medical profession. After reading medicine two years and attending one course of lectures at the medical college of Philadelphia, while assisting at a surgical operation, he was so overcome at the sight of human blood that he concluded to abandon the profession, and then learned the car- penter’s trade. In 1855 he moved to Scott county, Iowa, and went into the stock busi- ness. In the spring of 1861, while on a visit to his old home in Pennsylvania, he enlisted in the Sixteenth Pennsylvania volunteers for ninety days; his term of enlistment expired July 7, but he remained with his regiment till after the first battle of Bull Run, and on being discharged returned to his home in Iowa. In 1863 he again enlisted, this time in Company G, Thirty- fifth Iowa volunteers, for three years; after serving nine months he was dis- charged on account of disabilities incurred during’ his first enlistment. On 950 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. October 28, 1866, Mr. Garber married Hattie A. Bentley, who died August 1, 1878, leaving two children. July 26, 1881, he married Melinda A. Walker. He has 200 acres of good land, a part of which he rents out. He has been a resident of Woodbury county ten years. Politically he is a republican. Joun Manoney, farmer, Oto, was born in the county of Cork, Ireland, and came to America in 18385. He married Ellen Mahoney in his native country, and they have a family of thirteen children. They have a fine farm of 260 acres. Both parents belong to the Roman Catholic church, and Mr. Mahoney supports the democratic party. : Herman Atrrep Curtine, butcher and farmer, Oto, was born in Corydon, N.H., September 21, 1855, the son of Minor and Mary (Lock) Cutting, and is one of eight children. He was married to Mrs. Joseph Wetherman, March 14, 1883, at Sioux City, and then moved to Oto, where he is now located and engaged in the butcher business. He isa man of good education, and has taught school. He supports the democratic party, and attends the Methodist Episcopal church. Bryonr Conrap Bowen, farmer, Smithland, is a son of Henry and Armanda (Conrad) Bowen, who live in New York state, where he was born, December 28, 1839. He remained at home with his parents, working on the farm until he was thirty years of age, when he came to Iowa, and bought his present place of abode in Oto township, Woodbury county. He married Julia Smith, and has a family of seven children. He supports the democratic party, but attends no church regularly. , W. W. Scorr, farmer, Danbury, was born in Clinton county, Iowa, March 24, 1853, and is a son of William and Harriet (Pearsall) Scott, the former of New York state, and the latter of Indiana. He is the fifth in a family of seven children, six of whom are living. He lived near his birth- place until he came to Woodbury county in 1885. He married Emma Hooper, of Clinton county, Iowa, November 30, 1877, and three children have blessed this union: Clyde, Archie and Seth, all of whom are at home. Mr. Scott is not a member of any church, nor does he take an active part in pol- itics, but votes for the best man. He is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. Lemur, Burns, farmer, Holly Springs, was born in Belmont: county, Ohio, April 25, 1835, and there he was reared on a farm and attended the common schools. At the age of twenty-one he came west to Princeton, Ill, and began business for himself, and remained there until 1857, when he went to Minnesota, where he attended select school for one year. In 1860 he turned his attention to farming, but losing his crops by hail, went to Texas, but came back to Mitchell county, Iowa, in 1861. He enlisted De- cember 7, of the same year, in Company H of the Sixteenth Iowa infantry, under Capt. Newton and Col. Chambers. He was in the battles of Shiloh, GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 951 Corinth, Iuka, Vicksburg, Atlanta, and went with Sherman to the sea. He was mustered out at Louisville, August 19, 1865, and was in the review at Washington. After the war he went to Houston county, Minn., where he ran a hotel for three years, then went to Kansas, but returned to Woodbury county, Iowa, where he lived in the town of Smithland for two years, then located on the farm where he now resides. His father, George N., and mother, Eliza (McFarlin) Burns, are deceased; during life they were farm- ers. His grandparents, Ignatius and Basby (Nicholas) Burns, were among the first settlers of Ohio. Our subject was married, November 13, 1866, to Hattie, whose father and mother, David and Harriet (Thompson) Kellogg, were English. They have eight children: Frank B., Gussie E., Ralph C., George F., Don. D., Willie B., Paul E. and Edith M., all at home. Their religious views are liberal. Mr. Burns is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance and a republican. He has held the offices of clerk, school director and trustee. His farm consists of 325 acres, of which 150 are under cultivation. He has been quite successful in feeding cattle and hogs, and also handles graded horses. Rozert Happock, farmer and stock dealer, Holly Springs, was born in Ireland August 18, 1837. At about the age of nine years he came with his parents to America and located in Philadelphia, Pa., and there he received his education. In 1857 he removed to Iowa City, Iowa, where he lived until 1868, when he enlisted in the Twenty-second Iowa infantry, Company G, under Capt. Shocky and served under Gens. Sheridan and Sherman in the Shenandoah valley. He was in the battles of Cedar Creek, Winchester, Fishers Hill, Opequon, and was mustered out at Davenport, in August, 1865. He then went to Dallas county, Iowa, and in 1876 came to Woodbury county, where he had been six years before, and being satisfied with the county, located where he has since lived. At that time the grass was higher than his house, and wolves were his only neighbors. His father and mother, John and Ellen (McBride) Haddock, were Scotch Quakers, linen and carpet makers by trade, the former was naturalized in 1859. His grandparents, John and Agnes (Boyd) Haddock, were descendants of Scotch nobility, and never came to America. May 25, 1862, Robert Haddock married Minerva Baker, daughter of Samuel and Eliza (Lewis) Baker, of Dutch descent, who were living in Cedar county, Iowa. They have eight children: Ella, Robert J., Eliza, Har- vey H., Samuel G., Minerva, Daisy L. and James William. Mr. Haddock is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. Politically he is a republican. His farm consists of 300 acres, 180 under cultivation and a six-acre grove. His crops consist principally of corn, which he feeds to both hogs and cattle, which he raises for shipping. His wife and all his children are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. 952 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Epwin Nexson Sewarp, farmer, P. O. German city, was born in the town of Guilford, Conn., May 7, 1845, a son of Martin N. and Mary E. (Hull) Seward, American farmers. His grandfather, Martin Seward, was a cabinet- maker, in Connecticut. When two years old, Edwin’s parents moved to Jef- ferson county, Wis., where he was brought up and received a common-school education. In 1870 he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, and bought a piece of railroad land, where he proceeded at once to build a home. In Septem- ber, 1878, he married Aurilla F. Metcalf, whose maiden name was Lee, her parents being Eli and Helen (Bower) Lee, the latter of German descent. They have been blessed with four children: Arthur P., Gertrude R., Mar- tin M. and Clarence H. His wife had two children by her first husband: Florence E., who is now married to V. Steel, and Cora M. Metcalf. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Seward now owns a fine farm of 120 acres, seventy of which he cultivates, the rest being in past- ure and hay land, except four acres, which is in a grove and orchard. He handles stock and blooded hogs extensively. In politics he is a republican, and has held the official positions of assessor, clerk, trustee and treasurer. Anprew R, Garpyer, hotel proprietor, Holly Springs, was born November 27, 1856, in Warren county, N. J., a son of Elisha K. and Mary Ann Maria (Raupe) Gardner, the former born in the same county and state, in the year 1880, the latter a Pennsylvanian of German descent, who, as well as her hus- band, was a devoted Methodist. Andrew R. Gardner was born on a farm, and was reared as a farmer’s boy, receiving such education as was obtainable in the public schools. December 31, 1884, he was married to Miss Rose, daughter of Morris P. Metcalf, and to them have been born two children, both boys: Morris L., born January 10, 1887, and Ary Owen, born September 6, 1890. Previous to engaging in the hotel business, Mr. Gardner was engaged in farming, but finding he would make a genial “host” he gave up farming, and is now con- ducting the insurance business, in connection with his hotel, and is also a no- tary public. He has been a life-long democrat, and has served as school director, road supervisor, and at the election in November, 1890, was elected assessor of Willow township, Woodbury county. Waarron D. Urrer, hardware merchant, Sloan, was born in New York in 1833, a son of Daniel and Lydia Utter, both deceased. His grandparents, Elijah and Ann (Chapin) Utter, were of Dutch descent. He grew to man- hood in New York, where he received a common-school education, and began farming for himself at the age of thirty. In 1880 he came to Sloan, where he farmed until 1886, when he retired from business for two years. In 1888 he, with his son, went into the hardware business, in which he is still engaged. He also owns 160 acres of land, which he rents out. In January, 1860, he married Ann B., daughter of Wesley and Betsey (Jackson) Chapin. They GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 9538 have two children, Daniel M. and Ina A. Mr. Utter is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and of the Methodist Episcopal church; politically he is a republican. Georcz D. Montross, druggist, Sloan, was born in Beaumont, Wyoming county, Pa. January 20, 1858. His parents, Elijah and Charity (Casebeer) Montross, were Americans, the former a merchant. His grandparents, Peter and Lovia (Jackson) Montross, were American farmers, and his great-grand- father, Daniel Montross, was a physician. George D. received a common- school education at Beaumont and Tunkhannock, where he remained until he was twenty-one years of age, when he came to Iowa, locating the next summer in Sloan, where he first taught school, and in 1880-81 clerked in a store for J. B. Croford. He then went to Salix, where he, with Frank More- house, opened the first drug store in that place, but subsequently he returned to Sloan, where he has since remained, the proprietor of the only drug store of that place. “Mr. Montross has been a registered pharmacist since January 17, 1883. In 1884 he married Ida A., daughter of F. M. and Mary (Arnold) Corr, and to them have been born three children: Lila, Lloyd G. and Frank, the two latter only, living, Lila having died May 30, 1888, at the age of three years. Mr. Montross is a member of the Odd Fellows, and in religion has liberal ideas. He is a republican in politics, and has held the offices of town- ship clerk, assessor and treasurer of the school board. Georce 8. JEFFrey, cashier of the Farmers’ State bank, Sloan, was born in Simper, Scotland, in 1856, a son of James and Georgiana S. (Narian) Jeffrey, who were farmers of Scotland. His paternal grandfather, James Jeffrey, never came to America, but his parents immigrated here when he was but eighteen months old, and located at Burlington, Iowa, but subse- quently removed to Kirkwood, IIL, and in 1877 to Woodbury county, Iowa. After graduating at the high school at Burlington, George 8. attended busi- ness college, after which he and his father carried on a carriage and wagon shop in Kirkwood until they came to Woodbury county, where they farmed until 1885. In that year Mr. Jeffrey became book-keeper for Chapin Bros.’ bank, and in 1889 joined in partnership with H. H. Clough, and started the Farmers’ bank, which was succeeded by the Farmers’ State bank, of which he is cashier. In 1886 he married Harriet I, daughter of Adam Hannaker, and they have two children: Cecelia I. and Georgiana 8. He is a member of the Congregational church; in politics he is a republican, and a member of the town council. Wherever Mr. Jeffrey is known, he has a reputation for truth and uprightness of which anyone might well be proud. Joun T. Fry, farmer, Sloan, was born in Rush county, Ind., September 21, 1847. Heis of German descent, but his ancestors have been in America 954 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. since his great-grandfather, who was the one to come across the ocean. His grandparents were Thomas and Mary (Care) Fry, who were engaged in farm- ing, as were his parents, Luke and Phebe (Abraham) Fry. When our sub- ject was four years old, his parents moved to Howard county, where he was reared on a farm, and received his education in the common schools. At the age of twenty-one he moved to Illinois and commenced farming for himself. In 1882 he came to Iowa, and farmed for one year in Plymouth county, then moved to the place where he now is and where he owns 160 acres of land, all under cultivation, and on which he raises almost all the cereals indigenous to the state, besides handling considerable stock, all of which is graded. In 1874 he married Martha, daughter of Thomas and Cynthia (Mason) Benning- ton, Americans, who was born July 9, 1849, at Belle Plain, Marshall county, Til. They have two children: Otis G. and Fred A. Mr. Fry is member of the republican party, and is a school director. He and his wife are both members of the Christian church. SamueL P. Bzaver, farmer, Sloan, was born in Pennsylvania in 1823, the son of John and Mary (Berry) Beaver (both deceased), who were farmers, as were his grandparents, George and Susan Beaver, who were of German descent. He was reared on a farm, spending a part of his youth in New York state, but when twenty-one he returned to Pennsylvania, where he remained on a farm until 1854, when he moved to McLean county, IIL, where he farmed and worked at the carpenter’s trade until 1882, when he came to his present location. He owns 160 acres of land, which is well cul- tivated. On his farm he has a nice grove of young maple trees. He gives special attention to raising hogs and cattle. In 1860 Mr. Beaver married Mary, daughter of John and Frances (Thomas) Watson, Americans, of Scotch descent. They have been blessed with five children: Fanny W., Minnie E., Lillie F., Etta B. and Samuel L., the latter living in Nevada, Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Beaver are both members of the Methodist Episcopal church. He is a republican in politics. Wiii1am Wensourne, farmer, Rock Branch, was born in Kent county, England, in 1828. He received only a limited education, and was in the naval service of England for two years, after which time he came to America, and settled in New York, where he remained for only a short time, when he came to Rutland township, Woodbury county, Iowa. William Wenbourne, father of our subject, was born in 1798 and died in 1884; his wife, Mary Wenbourne, was born in 1812, and died in 1878. Our subject was married, in 1858, to Mary Osborn, of Kent county, England. He was an active mem- ber of the order of Foresters for a number of years. Bensamin Hayvtor, farmer, P. O. Kingsley, was born in Marcellus, Onon- daga county, N. Y., in 1840. His parents, William and Harriet Haylor, GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 955 were natives of London, England, the former born in 1814. Our subject came from New York to Tama county, Iowa, in 1865, from there moved to Mills county, thence to Crawford county, and then to Woodbury county, where he now resides. His opportunities to receive an education were fairly good, and he took advantage of every opportunity for improvement, and, being a man of energy, he generally accomplished his end in the shortest possible time. He married Matilda Graves, of Fayette county, Iowa, in 1885. In polities Mr. Haylor votes the republican ticket. JosepH W. Trostiz, minister and farmer, Kingsley, was born in Adams county, Pa., in 1839. He isa son of Michael and Susanna Trostle, both na- tives of Adams county, Pa. and of German descent. His father was a farmer all his life, and was born in 1803 and died in 1888. George, grand- father of Joseph W., was born in Adams county, Pa., in 1778, and died in 1863. Michael Trostle reared a family of seven children, of whom our subject is the second. Joseph W. married Susanna Vannorsdel, of Lee county, Ill, in 1865. She is a daughter of Isaac Vannorsdel, who was born in 1800, and lived until 1887. In 1867 our subject moved to Marshall coun- ty, Iowa, where he followed the carpenter’s trade for sixteen years, when he moved to Woodbury county. Since 1877 he has been working in the minis- try, in the German Baptist or Brethren church. Mr. Trostle is a man of influence in his neighborhood, and feels interested in the welfare of his neighbors. He casts his suffrage with the republican party. JosepH Oxiver Jerman, farmer, P.O. Lucky Valley, was born in Farmers’ Creek, Jackson county, this state, February 6, 1855, and comes of French- Canadian ancestry. Both his grandfathers, Joseph Jerman and Joseph Gothier, were natives of Canada, as was also his father, Oliver Jerman. His mother, Mary E. Gothier, was born in St. Louis, Mo., and is still living. Mr. Jerman received a common-school education, and has always been a farmer. In 1877 he purchased a farm on section thirty-five, Wolf Creek township, where he has dwelt ever since. He is now the owner of 340 acres, and breeds and deals extensively in cattle and horses. He is a director and vice-president of the Anthon State bank, recently organized. He is a mem- ber of the Roman Catholic church, and affiliates with the democratic party. He has served as township trustee, and is now chairman of the county board of supervisors. In 1878 Mr. Jerman married Mary Roark, a native of Cin- cinnati, Ohio, and daughter of Martin and Catharine Roark, of Irish birth. The family of our subject includes five children, viz.: Catharine, Oliver, Wal- ter, Lucy and Ellen. James H. Strona, stock-raiser, and large feeder and breeder of fine horses, Climbing Hill, was born in Streetsville, Wilmot county, Ont., April 3, 1848, a son of James Strong, of Ireland, and Amy (Bolster) Strong, of Vermont. 956 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. His grandfather, Chapin Bolster, was from Vermont. In 1856 Mr. Strong came to Bennington, Vt., and worked in a woolen factory. In 1871 he came to Sioux City, and the following year to West Fork township. He was married, November 3, 1872, to Adeline Bayne, who was born in Switzerland county, Ind., November 29, 1854. Her parents were Henry Bayne, of Ohio, and Elizabeth (Gustin) Bayne, of Indiana. This union has been blessed with eight children, viz.: Alfred, born August 18, 1873; San- ford, June 1, 1875; Elmer, July 22, 1877; Wilfred, December 24, 1879; Carrie, July 1, 1882; Clarence, March 5, 1884; Willie, May 2, 1887, and Earl, May 4, 1890. Mr. Strong received a very limited education in the common schools. He is at present engaged in raising and shipping stock on his extensive farm, known as Crescent Lawn Stock farm, near Climbing Hill. In the great blizzard of 1878, he and two others were in the woods at Lamb Branch, a distance of twelve miles from his home, when the storm commenced, and in a short time the air was so full of snow and ice that one could see nothing. They lost their way, and in order to find the road, one went about ten rods from the team, and another a little farther, and the other man still farther, and then they hallooed to each other. Mr. Strong became so cold and numb that he could not keep up with the others, and then got on his load to die, and let the team go, and would have frozen to death, but for the assistance of his companions. As it was he froze his hands and feet and other parts of his body. In politics he is a republican. Grorce T. Anprews, farmer, Peiro, was born in Carlinville, Ill, May 20, 1857, a son of Thompson and Ellen (Hankins) Andrews. His father was from England, and his mother from New Jersey. His grandfather on his mother’s side, David Hankins, is still living. In 1858 the Andrews family moved to Fort Worth, Tex. During the latter part of the Civil war his father died, and Mrs. Andrews brought her family back to Illinois. In 1864 they went to Nebraska, and three years afterward to Monona county, Iowa. Here George attended the high school at Onawa. In 1869 he came to Wood- bury county, and has been engaged in different parts of the county, farming and stock-raising ever since. He was married, July 4, 1878, toIda R. Camp, who was born in Woodbury county, August 12, 1859. Her parents were G. R. Camp, of Pennsylvania, and Harriet (Smith) Camp, of Canada, Mr. and Mrs. Andrews have been blessed with four children, three of whom are liv- ing: Myrtie I., born September 10, 1879; Effie B., born October 24, 1882, and Jay V., born September 1, 1888. Mr. Andrews has 160 acres in his farm, all of which is cultivated. In politics he is a democrat. Prrer J. Mommens, farmer, Peiro P. O., was born in Hude amt Husum, Germany, July 12, 1839, a son of Claus and Mary (Jacobs) Mommens, both Germans. He came to Davenport, Iowa, in 1864, and worked for farmers. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 957 Coming to Sioux City, he worked at different times in a hotel, brewery and brickyard until 1880, when he came to his present place. He was mar- ried in Sioux City, July 10, 1869, to Miss Anna Volkam, who was born in Suederstapel, near Frederickstadt, October 27,1848. Her parents were John and Margaret (Meyer) Volkam. He has a farm of 320 acres, and is engaged in farming and stock-raising. Perer Corwits, farmer, Peiro P. O., was born at Humus, Germany, No- vember 18, 1840, a son of Claus and Kate (Frahn) Cornils. In 1862 he came to Davenport and engaged in blacksmithing, The following year he enlisted in Company A, Highth Iowa infantry, and was in the battle of Span- ish Fort. In 1868 he came to Sioux City, and the next year moved to his present place. He was married in Belle Plaine, Iowa, to Miss Erker Han- sen, who was born in Germany, May 21, 1842. Her parents were Carson and Mary (Peterson) Hansen. Mr. and Mrs. Cornils have had nine children, seven of whom are living, viz.: Will, born December 5, 1872; Edward, born December 1, 1874; Mary, born November 9, 1876; Kate, born Novem- ber 15, 1878; Lizzie, born June 4, 1880; Agnes, born October 18, 1881; Charley, born November 27, 1884. Mr. Cornils is a member of the Knights of Pythias. He has 360 acres in his farm, and is engaged in farming and raising stock. Mrs. Mary Tapxe was born in Germany, August 12, 1837, a daughter of John Adam LaCamp. The La Camps came to Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1844, where Mary was married to William Tabke, who was born in Germany, August 24, 1834, a son of Charles Tabke. Mr. Tabke and wife came to Sioux City in 1870, and to their present place of residence in West Fork township the following year. From 1885 to 1888 they kept a hotel in Sioux City, but owing to Mr. Tabke’s poor health they returned to the farm in 1888. They were the parents of ten children, viz.: Ernest William, born January 9, 1860, married Josie Larson; Johanna Elizabeth, born November 18, 1862 (married); Antonia Josephine, born January 3, 1864, married Joe Barcal; Mary Elizabeth, born August 27, 1866; August Fern, born August 16, 1869, married Agnes Richardson; Anne A., born September 27, 1871; Rosedene, born April 1, 1874; John Henry, born November 2, 1876; Emma Matalina, horn April 11, 1879; Lauren Augustus, born April 15, 1871. Mr. Tabke died January 14, 1889; and Mrs. Tabke is carrying on the farm of 200 acres. She is a member of the German Catholic church. Witiram R. Girrorp, farmer, P. O. Climbing Hill, was born in Rush county, Ind., August 5, 1842, a son of Manly and Sarah (Davis) Gifford. On his father’s side he is of Scotch-English, and on his mother’s, of German, descent. Two years after the birth of the subject of this sketch, the Gifford family came to Jasper county, Iowa, where William R. was reared and edu- 958 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. cated, and there remained until 1862, when he went to Oregon and engaged in mining and other occupations. He returned to Jasper county in 1866, and was married, October 27, 1867, to Harriet E. Anderson, who was born August 10, 1846. Her parents were William and Mary Ann (Townsend) Anderson. Mr. Gifford went to Kansas in 1868, but removed to Jasper county two years later. Then, at various times he lived in Nebraska, Marion county, Iowa, and Monroe, Jasper county, Iowa. In 1882 he came to his present place in West Fork township, Woodbury county, where he has since been engaged in farming and raising stock. Mr. and Mrs. Gifford have four children, viz.: Alice E. (a teacher), born November 10, 1868; Francis R., born February 25, 1870; Charles H. (a teacher), born November 17, 1871; and Ada E., born April 18, 1885. Mr. Gifford has 120 acres in his farm. In politics he is a democrat. Urnat D. Ostranper, farmer, P. O. Climbing Hill, residing on section nine, West Fork township, was born in Canada, February 19, 1849, and is a son of Cornelius and Kezia (Moore) Ostrander, of German descent, and mem- bers of the Congregational church. The father is engaged in the dairy busi- ness in this county. Ural D. resided with his parents until twenty-one years of age, when he started out in life for himself. He came to Woodbury county in 1868, and worked during the summer of 1870 on a dairy farm. He then engaged at bridge-building and carpentering until 1875, when he purchased 160 acres of land where he now resides. He has since added 160 acres to his farm, making in all 320 acres. He makes a specialty of English shire horses, Holstein cattle and Poland China hogs. December 31, 1874, Mr. Ostrander married Jane W. May, of Sioux City, and they have six children: Herbert H., William C., Marion M., Ural J., Jay E. and Edith F. The par- ents are both members of the Methodist Episcopal church. In 1889 Mr. Ostrander’s house was burned to the ground, and all its contents destroyed, each of the family having to borrow clothes to wear until they could go to town for clothing. Politically he is a republican, and has held the office of school director. He is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance, and of the Ma- sonic order. Davip H. Harris, farmer, Correctionville, was born in Wales, July 25, 1832, and in 1855 came to America and settled in Danville, Montour county, Pa. After living in the last named place two years, he moved to Rock Island, IIL, where he engaged in mining and farming. In 1882 he moved to Correc- tionville, Woodbury county, Iowa, and located in section seven, in Rock town- ship, all of which section he owns. H. Harris, father of our subject, was born in Wales, and was agent for the copper works in his locality; his wife, Mary (Williams) Harris, was born in Wales in 1810. David H. married Martha Morris, October 19, 1857, and of their children one only is living, James D. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 959 His first wife died February 15, 1866, and March 12, 1868 he married Mar- tha Jones, and to this union eight children have been born, namely: Daniel, born February 16, 1869; Mary, born May 17, 1870; Lewis, born February 15, 1872; Henry, born December 16, 1873; Matthew, born October 31, 1875; William, born November 29, 1877; Sadie, born January 19, 1885. and Maud, September 7, 1889. Mr. Harris is a member of the Baptist church, and be- longs to the Masonic order. Politically he is a republican. Beysamin A. Dutamarer, farmer, Correctionville, was born in Claridon, Geauga county, Ohio, in July, 1853. His early life was spent on a farm, and he spent some time in lumbering, living two years in Michigan. In 1878 he came to Sioux City, and soon after, bought the southwest quarter of section eight, Rock township. He built thereon his present residence, the lumber for which he hauled from Sioux City, a distance of forty-three miles. March 23, 1878, he married Ida Peck, a native of Farmington, Trumbull county, Ohio, where her parents, Fletcher and Coresta (Smith) Peck, are now living, Mr. Delamater is a member of the Masonic order, and is a democrat in politics. His father, John Delamater, was a graduate of the Philadelphia Medical col- lege, and practiced medicine in Cleveland. He was of French descent, and his wife, Rosetta (Allen) Delamater, was of English ancestry. Tuomas D. Laxz, Cushing, was born in St. Lawrence county, N. Y., De- cember 17, 1825, a son of Garrett and Phoebe (Walker) Lake, the former of whom was foreman of the Rochester Flouring mills, and the latter was a native of New York of English descent. He entered the Mexican war in 1846, enlisting in Company H, United States infantry, and was under Gen. Scott during the bombardment of Vera Cruz. October 30, 1848, he was dis- charged from service on account of disability at Jefferson Barracks, Mo. In 1849 he removed to De Kalb county, Ill. August 25,1861, he enlisted in the Thirty-fourth Illinois infantry, and served until 1865. He married Sarah I., daughter of Reuben and Jane Skinner. Mr. Lake settled in Woodbury county, Iowa, in 1881. He is a member of the Methodist church, and has been a successful worker in the ministry for about thirty years. He and wife have three children: Emily A., Garrett R. and Phoebe J. In politics he votes the republican ticket. Revsen R. Rogers, druggist, Cushing, was born in New London, Huron county, Ohio, September 14, 1864. Reuben Rogers, father of our subject, married Emily E. Clark, of Huron county, and they were the parents of four children: Upton, Joel §., Reuben R. and Willie H. Reuben R. received a common-school education and lived on his father’s farm until eighteen years of age, when he took up the study of medicine. He was a student of the Chicago College of Pharmacy, from which institution he graduated in 1889, locating the same year in Cushing. Mr. Rogers married Miss Fannie Will- 52 960 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. iams, daughter of John Williams, Jr., and grand-daughter of John Williams, of Indiana. Her mother, Delba (Wendenhall) Williams, was also born in Indiana. Mrs. Rogers is a teacher in the public school of Cushing. Mr. Rogers is a member of the Northwestern Legion of Honor. Mrs. Carrie M. Sparus was born in Trimble, Athens county, Ohio, Sep- tember 13, 1842. She is a daughter of George and Catherine (Smith) Hake, the former a cooper by trade, and the latter a native of Ohio, of German descent. She received a common-school education, and was married to John M. Sparks in 1866. The latter was born in Mifflin, Iowa county, Wis., a son of John and Mary Sparks. He enlisted in Company E of the Thirtieth reg- ulars of Wisconsin, on August 13, 1862. Mr. Sparks moved with his family to Correctionville, Iowa, in 1872, and bought 130 acres of land in section three, Rock township. He was frozen to death on the bleak prairies of west- ern Iowa in 1874, leaving four children: Wesley, William, Nellie and John. Isaac Gurripez, farmer, Correctionville, was born in Eagle township, Brown county, Ohio, February 17, 1827, and is a son of Benjamin and Rachel Gutridge, of Kentucky birth and probably of English descent. His maternal grandfather, Isaac Edgington, was one of the pioneers of Brown county, Ohio. Isaac Gutridge was reared on a farm and’ educated in the subscription schools of the period. In 1849 he went to Livingston county, Til, and was subsequently engaged in farming there and in Ohio. In 1867 he became a resident of Iowa, taking a homestead in the northeast quarter of section three, Union township, where he now lives. His present substan- tial residence was erected in 1879. Mr. Gutridge is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance, and has always been a democrat. In religious faith he coincides with the Disciples. He has served as school director and was elected township trustee, but refused to qualify. In 1851 he married, in Illinois, Sarah Sellman, a native of the same township as himself, and daughter of John and Hannah Sellman, of Welsh and English descent. Mr. Gutridge is the father of four sons (one of whom is dead), and a daugh- ter. Those living are Revilok, Hannah A., James B. and John L., the eldest being a resident of Arlington township, the others being still at home. Syivester Rozinson Bryant (deceased) was born near Greenville, Darke county, Ohio, January 22, 1851, a son of Enos and Sarah Ann (Townsend) Bryant, natives respectively of Butler and Darke counties, same state. His grandfather, David Bryant, was born in New Jersey, and reached the age of eighty-four years, ending his days at Dayton, Mich., in 1886. Enos Bryant and wife now reside at “The Palms,” near Los Angeles, Cal., where they settled in 1885. They came to Woodbury county in 1870, and engaged in farming in Union township. After keeping a store three years at Kingsley, Mr. Bryant removed to California, as above noted. He is an active temper- GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 961 ance worker, and -a member of the United Brethren church. He served as school director while a resident of Union, and affiliated with the republican party in politics. Sylvester R. was the eldest of theif eight children. The others are David, Joseph, Alfred, Wesley, Edward, Eva (Mrs. Frank McDonald) and Emma. Our subject was reared on a farm. and educated in the common schools, finishing at Correctionville. He taught fifteen terms of school in various states. He came with his parents to Union, and on reaching his majority went to Dakota and took a homestead.. He soon disposed of that, and went to Beaver City, Furnas county, Neb., where he owned a quarter- section of land at the time of his death. He also. owned an eighty-acre farm on section seventeen, Union township, where he had dwelt’ since 1882. He embraced the faith of the M. E. church, and was.a republican in politics. While in Nebraska he served as justice of the peace, and in that capacity performed a marriage ceremony. In 1877 Mr. Bryant was married to Miss Hattie, daughter of G. C. Moffatt, whose biography will be found in this volume. They have one son, Rolla Calvin, born April 7, 1881, in Richmond, Neb. August 21, 1890, Mr. Bryant fell a victim to that grim destroyer, Death, an attack of pneumonia causing his decease. His remains were placed in Union Ridge cemetery. His gentleness of manner and purity of life will be long held in remembrance by his acquaintances, which in number were such as a man of his character would attract, and few persons would be more gen- erally mourned than he. He died trusting in the faith of the Lord. Huex Mason, farmer, P. O. Kingsley, residing on section thirty-two, Elk- horn township, was born in Wales in August, 1846, and is a son of John and Mary (Whilding) Mason, both natives of Wales. The father was a black- smith by trade, which occupation he followed in Wales until his death, which occurred in 1852, the mother dying in 1850. Hugh Mason was born and reared in Wales until the age of ten years, when he came with his uncle to America, and with whom he resided in Wisconsin until he was eighteen years of age. In 1863 he enlisted in Company D, First Wisconsin heavy artillery, and served until 1865, when he was discharged and returned to Wisconsin, where he remained until 1869. He then came to Plymouth county and homesteaded 160 acres where he now resides, and has continued farming ever since. He now owns 480 acres of land, and keeps a good grade of stock of all kinds. In June, 1872, Mr. Mason married Susan Trow, and they have four children: William H., John O., Annie G. and Pearl 8S. Mr. and Mrs. Mason are both members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Mason affiliates with the republican party, and has held about all the town- ship offices. He is a member of the G. A. R. and the Farmers’ Alliance. George Evans, farmer, Kingsley, was born in Herefordshire, England, in March, 1850. His parents were both natives of England, where his father 962 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. died when our subject was but one year old. His mother came to America upon the death of her husband, and located in Greene county, Wis., where she remained until her death in 1879. George remained with his mother until he was seventeen years old, when he started out to work ona farm. He continued at this employment until he was twenty-three years old, when he moved to Plymouth county, Iowa, and purchased 160 acres of land in Elk- horn township, which he farmed until the fall of 1888. After a year’s stay in Salt Lake City, Utah, he came back to Iowa, and purchased 120 acres in section thirty-six, Elkhorn township, where he has since been engaged in farming and stock raising. In February, 1878, he married Evangeline Trow, of Albany, Greene county, Wis., and to them have been born two children, Bertha A. and Erma HE. In politics Mr. Evans is a republican, has been township trustee, school treasurer eight years, and after being for five years on the board of supervisors, resigned. His wife is a member of the United Brethren church. ' Pavut J. Warp, one of the oldest settlers of Plymouth county, and a gen- eral farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section twenty-four, Elkhorn town- ship, was born in Indiana in 1842, a son of Samuel J. and Margaret (Doug- las) Ward, the father a native of Virginia of English descent, the mother a native of Pennsylvania of Scotch descent. His parents are both deceased. He was reared on a farm in Tazewell county, Tl August 9, 1862, he en- listed in Company I, Forty-seventh Illinois infantry. He took part in the siege of Vicksburg, went through the Red River expedition, and was in the siege of Spanish Fort. He served until the close of the war, and was dis- charged at Selma, Ala., July 20, 1865. He then returned to his home in Tazewell county, Ill. The following spring he took a team and wagon and passed through southern Iowa, and went down in Missouri, and returned in the fall of the same year, going to Guthrie county, Iowa, where he farmed for two years. In the spring of 1869 he came to Plymouth county, and homesteaded forty acres, subsequently purchased forty more, and there he now resides. His farm at the time of his arrival was wild, uncultivated prairie; deer and elk roamed the prairies, and there was not atree or shrub in sight. He erected a log cabin, the second in the township, and at once commenced the work of improving his land. He set out six acres of trees, which now pre- sent the appearance of natural growth. He has continued farming ever since, except a year and a half, which time he spent with his family on the Pacific coast. His log cabin used to be the headquarters for religious meet- ings, and the preachers always stopped there on their visits. It was the half-way house between Le Mars and Correctionville, and Close Bros. used to make their headquarters with him. Mr. Ward was united in marriage GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 963 with Nancy J. North, January 5, 1869, and they are both members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Politically Mr. Ward is a republican, and was a delegate to the state convention one year. He has taken an active part in prohibition in his section of the country. He is a member of the G. A. R. Joun D. Trow, farmer, P. O. Kingsley, now residing in Elkhorn town- ship, section thirty-six, was born in Wales in 1844, and is a son of James and Martha (Griffith) Trow, both natives of England. When our subject was but three years of age his parents left the old country for America, but his mother died while on the ocean. His father went to Greene county, “Wis., where he was farming until his death, which occurred in 1872. He and his wife were both members of the Methodist Episcopal church. John D. resided with his father in Green county, Wis., until 1873, during which time he received a common-school education. In the spring of 1873 he came to Plymouth county, Iowa, and purchased 160 acres of land in Elkhorn township, and has continued farming, principally, ever since. In October, 1863, he enlisted in Battery D, First Wisconsin heavy artillery, and served till May 18, 1865, when he was discharged. Mr. Trow is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Politically he is a republican, and has held the offices of trustee, town clerk, which latter office he now holds, also secre- tary of the school board. He is a member of the G. A. R., and the Farmers’ Alliance. Haro Otrmanns Dosrrine, farmer, P. O. Le Mars, was born August 9, 1845, in Germany, a son of Albert and Catherine Doering, who were also born in Germany. He attended school until about fourteen years old, when he began to work for his father on the farm, where he remained until he was eighteen years old. He then came to America, landing at New York, where he stayed but a few days, then went through to Dixon, Lee county, IIL, where he engaged in farming, working by the month. He stayed there four years, then went to Monticello, Jones county, Iowa, where he remained five years. He then came to Grant township, Plymouth county, where he bought 160 acres in section twenty-five, where he now carries on general farming. | Since he first came to Grant township he has increased his farm to 700 acres. October 26, 1869, Mr. Doering married Maria, daughter of John and Re- becca Roehris, of Germany, and they are the parents of six children: John H., George H., Albert, Rose, Willie and Henry Otto. In politics he is a democrat, and has been a trustee of the township and school director. He and wife are members of the German Lutheran church. Wituiam Pecxs, farmer, P. O. Le Mars, is one of the pioneer residents of Grant township, and was born May 5, 1834, at Hanover, Germany. He is a son of Henry and Tillie Pecks of the same place. He attended the public schools until about fourteen years of age, when he began to work on a 964 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. farm in his neighborhood. In June, 1857, he started for America, going, upon his arrival, to Lee county, Ill, where he was employed as a farm hand until 1862. He then enlisted in Company C, Fourteenth Illinois volunteers, and served three years, when he received his discharge and returned to Lee county. In a short time, however, he removed to Jones county, Iowa, where he resided until 1870, when he bought eighty acres of land in section thirty- two, Grant township, Plymouth county, where he has since carried on gen- eral farming. He now owns 240 acres in that vicinity. Mr. Pecks married Annie Madde, in 1866, and they are the parents of eight children: Matilda, Minnie, Henry, Frederick, Bennett, Herd, Annie and William. In politics he is a democrat, and is a member of the German Lutheran church. Lyman Wittiams Srpeuey, farmer, Le Mars P. O., is a grandson of Na- than and Rachel (Studley) Sibley, of Massachusetts. His earliest known ancestor was an Englishman, who came to Massachusetts in 1628. Isaac, son of Nathan Sibley, married Mary Burbank, like himself, a native of Mas- sachusetts, and settled in Cuba, Allegany county, N. Y., where was born to them, May 21, 1825, the subject of this sketch. Of their eight children, six of whom grew to maturity, he is the seventh. He was educated in the com- mon schools, and has always engaged in farming. He is possessed of an independent, reflective mind, and makes a progressive citizen. In 1845 he married Mary Hammond, a native of Rushford, Allegany county, N. Y., and daughter of John and Eliza (Butterfield) Hammond, born in New York and Massachusetts, respectively. Mrs. Sibley’s grandparents, Luthan and Mary (Rood) Hammond, were also natives of New York. Mr. Sibley engaged in farming in Cuba till 1864, when he removed to Franklin, Story county, this state, and came thence to America, Plymouth county, in 1872. Here he purchased 240 acres in section thirty-five, and thereon carries on general farming. While enjoying the fruits of a life of industry, he is surrounded by the following children: Floyd B.; Stanton; Ada Rosalia (Mrs. George W. McLain), Le Mars; Clarence Hammond; Evangeline, a teacher, at home; Ruth Elizabeth (wife of Carey G. Williams, America) and Samuel Edward, at home. Politically Mr. Sibley is an independent repub- lican, and religiously a free thinker. He has served as school director and township trustee. Cartes Borys, farmer, P. O. Le Mars, was born in Conarragh, county Wicklow, Ireland, May 29, 1832, a son of Harry and Ann (O’Neal) Burns. His grandfather was Thomas Burns, also of county Wicklow. In 1841 he immigrated with his parents to Canada, shortly after to Ohio, and later to Pennsylvania, where his father died. Of eleven children, Charles was the eldest., He received a very limited education, never attending school in this country. He has been engaged quite extensively in railroad building; helped GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 965 lay the tracks from Pittsburgh to Steubenville; was section foreman for two years, and traveled as such, south, building levees and ditching. He was afterward employed as a farm laborer in Illinois. In 1867 he took up a homestead in section thirty-two, America township, where he now lives. He has added 100 acres to his domain, and follows general farming. Mr. Burns was married in 1865 to Ann Toole, a native of the same place as himself. Their first-born child, Maggie, died at the age of twenty-one, and the fifth, Mary, when two years old; the living are William, Lizzie, James, Charles and Mary. Mr. Burns is a member of St. James Roman Catholic church, Le Mars, and has always been a democrat. Joun Brcrer, farmer, P. O. Le Mars, is the eldest of ten children born to Casper and Elizabeth Becker, and was born April 7, 1849, in Clayton county, Iowa. He attended school until twelve years old, then assisted his father on the farm until sixteen, when he finished his education by taking four terms at the Briggs academy at Garnavillo, Clayton county. He remained in Clay- ton county until the spring of 1874, when he removed to Plymouth county, buying 320 acres of land in section twenty-five, on which he has carried on general farming ever since. January 21, 1878, Mr. Becker married Amelia, daughter of Henry and Clara Niemyer, of Guttenburg, by whom he has five children: Clara, John, Elizabeth, Henry and Emily. In politics he is a democrat, being elected by that party as a member of the board of county commissioners. In religion he is a member of the Roman Catholic church. Nicnoras Freymany, farmer, P. O. Le Mars, was born, February 22, 1854, in Jackson county, Iowa, and is the youngest of six children born to Charles and Mary Freymann, of Luxemburg, Germany. He attended school until fourteen years of age, and worked on the farm for his father until twenty- two years old, when he went to St. Paul, and was engaged as a day laborer until the fall of 1877. He then came to Le Mars, where he was engaged in the City Rolling mills until 1883, when he built on his farm of 220 acres, in section thirty-four, America township, which farm he had bought in 1880, and has lived there since, engaged in farming and stock-raising. He has since added forty acres to the original farm. March 10, 1888, he married Maggie Kleitsch, of Linn county, Iowa, and by her has one child, Charlie. His first wife having died December 15, 1884, September 27, 1887, he mar- ried Lizzie, daughter of Garhart and Kate Wentink, of Port Washington, Wis., and one child, Johnnie, has blessed their union. In politics Mr. Frey- mann is a democrat; he is a member of the Roman Catholic church. Hersert E. Rovunps, miller, Hinton, is a son of Harley and Elizabeth Rounds, of New York state, and was born at Eureka, Winnebago county, Wis., June 27, 1868. He attended school at the latter place until twelve years old, when his parents moved to Clear Lake, Iowa, where they remained 966 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES, until 1885, during which time he attended the public school there. He then moved to Sioux City, where he attended the Northwestern Business college, from which he graduated when in his twentieth year. His father then built a flour-mill at Rock Valley, Sioux county, which Herbert E. had charge of for the following two years, then came to Hinton, Hungerford township, Plymouth county, where he at present runs the Floyd Valley mills, under the firm name of E. A. Rounds & Co., the members of the firm being the widow and children of the late H. M. Rounds, of Sioux City. Grorce Fiercuer, farmer, Adaville, was born in Cambridgeshire, Eng- land, February 17, 1840, a son of John and Mary Fletcher. He has one brother named Alfred. His opportunity for obtaining an education was very limited, as at quite an early age he commenced to assist his father in cutting peat, at which he was occupied until 1852, when, with his father, five brothers and one sister, he came to America, and settled at Lyons, Clinton county, Iowa, where he remained two years. He then went to Whiteside county, Ill., where for ten years he was engaged in farming. He then came again to Iowa, and homesteaded eighty acres in Liberty township, Plymouth county, on which he has lived ever since, carrying on general farming. He has purchased 200 acres, which now gives him a farm of 280 acres. March 4, 1876, he married Elizabeth Whitney, of Plymouth county, and nine chil- dren have blessed their union, namely: ‘Martha, Carrie, Emma, Abbie, John, Samuel, Rose, Hattie and Reuben. Mr. Fletcher is a firm follower of the doctrines advanced by the democratic party. Mitron Cooisauen, farmer, P. O. Seney, was born in Bradford county, Pa., November 29, 1839, a son of Harry and Polly (Bailey) Coolbaugh, who were natives of Pennsylvania, and had grown up near each other. Our sub- ject began at an early age to assist his father with the farm work, and ob- tained such an education as was possible in the common schools of his time. At the age of twenty he worked as a farm hand for the neighbors, continuing at this work until September 17, 1861, when he enlisted in Company C, Fifty-second Pennsylvania volunteers, in which he served nine months, when he was transferred to the Seventh New York light artillery. He remained in the service until honorably discharged in the summer of 1865, and re- turned to his home in Pennsylvania. Here he remained until October, 1869, when he came to Iowa, and took a homestead of eighty acres, in section twenty, Fredonia township, Plymouth county, to which he has since added forty acres, and where he now lives. In 1867 he married Lucy Preston, of Pennsylvania, but she died in 1875, leaving him two children: Charles Lin- coln, who died before his mother, and Edith. He married again, December 24, 1885, taking as his second wife Clara Porter, of Christian county, IIL, who has borne him two children, Blanche and Bessie. In politics he is a republican. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 967 Warson L. Frenman, farmer, P. O. Seney, was born May 20, 1840, in Chittenden county, Vt., and is a son of Walter and Mary Freeman. He was educated in the district schools, and chose farming as his occupation. At the breaking out of the war, he enlisted as a private, August 27, 1861, in Company B, Eighth Illinois cavalry, and participated in several engage- ments. He was married, November 24, 1851, to Barbara, daughter of Joseph and Jane Jackson. In 1869 he moved to Le Mars, Plymouth county, Iowa, and bought eighty acres of land in Elgin township, where he has lived ever since. They are the parents of four children: William J., Mary E., Fred B. and Roy W. Myr. Freeman isa republican in politics, belongs to the Masonic order, and is a member of the Methodist church. James C. Sanrorp, farmer, P. O. Merrill, was born in the township of Cornwallis, King county, Nova Scotia, November 12, 1841, and is the third of the twelve children born to James and Harriet Sanford, who were also born in King county. When twenty years of age he commenced farming for himself, on 157 acres, and was thus engaged until March, 1864, when he sold a part of his farm, and rented the remainder, until he returned, in Au- gust, 1864, from a trip to Boston. He then kept bachelor’s hall until Decem- ber 31, 1867, when he was united in the bonds of matrimony with Annie, daughter of John and Lydia Eaton, also of King county, N. 8. In the spring of 1870 he sold out, and went to Boston, Mass., where he lived until 1874, when he moved to Cass county, Iowa, and rented a farm, on which he lived two years. From there he moved to Caldwell county, Mo., where he stayed only three months, going thence to Boston, Mass., but in the following May he returned to Le Mars, where he engaged in farming one year. He then bought an eighty-acre homestead in Plymouth township, on which he has since lived, having added to his farm 400 acres. Mr. Sanford has the repu- tation, second to none, as a dairyman, and is known quite extensively as the owner of a very fine herd of Holstein cattle. To Mr. and Mrs. Sanford have been born seven children, six of whom are living: Fred, Maud, Clara, Wel- come, Willie (deceased), Florence May and Myrtle Goldey. In politics he is with the republican party. Witx1am Hosss, farmer, P. O. Merrill, was born August 25, 1819, in Germany, and attended school there until fourteen years old, when he began to learn the miller’s trade, which was his occupation until he came to America in the spring of 1856. Landing at New York city, he came through to Dixon county, Neb., where he bought a farm and carried on general farm- ing for eleven years, then removed to Hinton, Hungerford township, Plym- outh county, Iowa, where he ran a flour-mill for five years. He then came to Plymouth township, Plymouth county, and bought 160 acres of land, on which he has lived ever since, and to which he has added until he now has 968 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. 580 acres. Mr. Hoese was married in October, 1851, to Henrietta, daughter of John and Wilhelmina Bandt, of Germany, and four children have blessed this union. Louisa, Clara, Frank and William. Mr. Hoese is a republican in politics, and is a member of the German Lutheran church. Joun McGitivzey was born at Toronto, Ontario, Canada, April 24, 1843, of Scotch parents. When he was two years old, his father died, and his mother moved to Rochester, N. Y., leaving John in the care of his uncle, William Russell, with whom he remained and attended school until twelve years of age, when his mother married again, her second husband being Isaac Hay- green, of Rochester. She then returned to Canada to get her son, and took him to New York state, where they lived two years, then moved to Du Page county, Ill, where they lived only one year, then moved to St. Charles, Kane county, Ill, at which place they lived until the death of his mother, two years later. His step-father then went to Burlington, Kane county, taking John with him. John lived there one year, then returned to Du Page county, where he stayed until the war broke out. He enlisted in Company F. One Hundred and Fifth Illinois volunteer infantry, in which he served three years. On receipt of his discharge he returned to Burlington, and bought a forty-acre farm, on which he lived two years. Selling out, he then moved to Preston township, Plymouth county, Iowa, where he took up a 160-acre homestead, on which he now lives. He has added to his farm since, and now has 440 acres. In 1866 Mr. McGillvrey married Christine Johnson, of Burlington, and they are the parents of ten children: Susan, Emma, John, Laura, Laurn, William, Arthur, Herbert, Christine, and an infant, dead. He lost his wife by death June 16, 1890. In politics he is a republican; he belongs to the Presbyterian church. Lewis SHappineer, the eldest of seven children born to Abraham and Annie Shaddinger, was born March 2, 1836, in Bucks county, Pa., where he attended school until nineteen years of age. He then began to learn the car- penter’s trade, at which he worked in Philadelphia, until the breaking out of the war, when he enlisted in Company A, 104th Pennsylvania volunteers, in which he served three years, then received his discharge. He returned to Bucks county on a visit, remaining eight months, then came west to Chris- tian county, Ill., here he stayed one year, then went to Omaha, Neb., where he also spent one year, then went to Wyoming, where he was two years on the plains in the service of the government, after which he returned to Des Moines, but stayed there only eight months, then went to Sioux City, which - he made his home until 1881, when he went to Le Mars, where'‘he lived five years, after which he located on 160 acres of land in Preston township, Plymouth county, in 1886. Mr. Shaddinger was united in marriage with GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 969 Charlotte McKay, May 5, 1881, and to this union was born one child, Anna- bel. In politics he is a republican; he belongs to the Presbyterian church. J. 8. Hoyt, liveryman, Le Mars, of the.firm of Hoyt & Gondie, was born in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1856. His parents were George OC. and Rosamond (Sears) Hoyt, who eventually removed to Aurora, Ill, where they lived until death called them from this world. J. S. attended school there, and at the beginning of his business life was a farmer in Illinois, but in 1880 removed to Le Mars, and engaged in the livery business. In September, 1889, he became associated with Thomas Gondie, the firm being as above given. Mr. Hoyt married, September, 1876, Sarah E., daughter of Ezekiel Pierce, of Oswego, Ill. Daniet Pearce, one of the old settlers of Union township, Plymouth county, where he resides in section fifteen, was born in Kendall county, IIL, in 1834. He is a son of Daniel and Sarah (Teitsworth) Pearce, the former a native of Maryland, of English descent, and the latter a native of Pennsyl- vania, of German descent. His father was farming in Kendall county until his death, which occurred in 1878. In this county our subject was born and grew to manhood. Brought up a farmer’s boy, he has always adhered to that occupation as a means of livelihood, if not following it actively. In 1865 he moved to De Kalb county, where he farmed for the next ten years. In 1875 he moved to Aurora, and here made his home. He came to Plymouth county, Iowa, the same year, and purchased 160 acres of land, and erected a large dwelling, and has a tenant operate the farm for him, he spending part of his time here, and part in Aurora with his family. He takes much pride in the stock which he raises, and to which he gives his personal attention. In 1857 he married Miss Hellenda L. Bennett, and to them have been born three children: Charles G., Nellie I. and Addie L. Mr. Pearce is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. In politics Mr. Pearce upholds the principles of the democratic party. Isaac B. Crarts, farmer, P. O. Kingsley, is a son of Thomas and Eliza- beth (Blackburn) Crafts, and was born in Ontario, Canada, in 1841. His father was born in Nova Scotia, of Irish descent, while his mother, who was born in Ontario, was of German and Welsh descent. His parents, who were members of the Baptist church, are both dead, his mother having died De- cember 24, 1859, and his father about the year 1870. Isaac B. was brought up to work on a farm, and, upon the death of his father, took charge of the family and resided with them until they were all grown up. In 1882 he sold out and came to Plymouth county, Iowa, and purchased 320 acres of land on section twenty-three, Union township, where he still resides. He is a member of the L. 0. O. F., the Farmers’ Alliance, and the prohibition party in politics. 970 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Joun Coarswortu, farmer, P. O. Kingsley, residing on section twenty- three, Union township, was born in England in 1841, a son of Robert and Susanna (Smedley) Coatsworth, both natives of England. The father was a farmer until his death, which occurred in 1850; his wife died in 1881, a member of the Primitive Methodist church. John Coatsworth was reared. on a farm in England, where he received a common-school education. He resided with his parents until twenty-two years of age, then engaged in min- ing until 1868, when he left England, and located in La Fafayette county, Wis., where he followed the same occupation for awhile. For a few years he then followed the trade of stone mason and plasterer, and in 1886 came to Union township, Plymouth county, and commenced farming, where he now resides. In November, 1863, Mr. Coatsworth married Jane Forrester, and to them are born nine children, as follows: Elizabeth, Robert, Abraham, William, Matthew H., John 8., Susanna J., Oliver F. and Alvin G. Mr. Coats- worth and wife are members of the Primitive Methodist church. Copstey E. Crarxg, P. O. O'Leary, residing on section fourteen, Union township, was born in Green Lake county, Wis., July 31, 1863, a son of John and Ann (Stevens) Clarke, both of English descent. His father is en- gaged in writing for different periodicals; his mother died in 1871, a mem- ber of the Congregational church. He was born and reared on a farm in Wisconsin, receiving a common-school education, and resided with his par- ents until twelve years of age, when he went to Marshall county, Iowa, where he remained two years, then returned to Wisconsin for a year, thence came with his parents to Plymouth county in 1878. After a stay of only four months, he went back to Marshall county, where he remained one year, going then to Michigan in 1879, where he lived a year. In 1881 he located in Plymouth county, where he now resides. December 6, 1888, he married Liz- zie Gannon, and to this union is born one child, Harry 8. Mrs. Clarke is a member of the Roman Catholic church. Politically Mr. Clarke affiliates with the democratic party, and at present holds the office of assessor. He is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. Peter Marxey has been a resident of Plymouth county since 1873. He was born in New Bedford, Mass., November 16, 1851, a son of Bartholomew and Mary (Campion) Markey, the former born in Dorsetshire, England, and the latter in Ireland. When Peter was three years old his parents moved to Du Page county, Ill, where they remained thirteen years and where our subject received his education. When he was sixteen years of age they moved to Kane county, Ill, where they remained until 18738, when they all came to Plymouth county, Iowa, and bought a farm on section seven, Union township, where the father farmed until the time of his death, May 20, 1873. Upon the death of his father, Peter took charge of the farm, which he is still GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 971 conducting, and upon which he raises both grain and live stock. His mother, who is a member of the Roman Catholic church, resides with him. In poli- tics he is a democrat, and has been school director and road supervisor. Gzorce T. W. Howes is a son of James M. Howes (whose biography will be found elsewhere in this work), and was born in Benton, Wis., Sep- tember 26, 1853. He was in his fifteenth year when the family settled in Plymouth county, and has always followed farming, with the exception of brief periods at railroad grading on the Illinois Central, and coal digging at Fort Dodge. He received a common-school education, and is a shrewd bus- iness man. He took a homestead on section thirty, Washington township, where he now has a quarter-section. Since the spring of 1890 he has been buying stock at Merrill, and contemplates the removal of his family to that growing village. He is a steadfast republican, and accepts the creed of the Methodist Episcopal church. July 4, 1876, he married Margaret C. Hoover, a native of Monroe county, Wis. Their living children are named respectively: Alice J., Herbert J., George and Maud M. Mary, the first born, and Annie, the third, died after reaching the age of four years each, and one died in infancy. James and Elizabeth (Johnson) Hoover, the parents of Mrs. Howes, were among the earliest settlers of Washington township, where they settled on a homestead in the spring of 1868, having spent the previous year on the Missouri, above Sioux City. ALExanpER THompson, a pioneer resident of Plymouth county, was born in Blanford, Canada, June 7, 1857. His father, bearing the same name, was born in Paisley, Scotland, and married Grace Craig, of the same nativity. Their golden wedding was celebrated May 13, 1890. In 1858 they removed to northern Michigan, and from there came to Iowa about 1870. Mr. Thompson took a homestead in Grant township, as did his sons, James and Matthew, and daughter, Margaret. In 1885 he sold out and now resides in Webster City, Iowa. Following are the names of their children: Jeanette, John, Ellen, Matthew, James, Margaret, George, Alexander and Mary Jane. The husbands of the daughters, in the same order, are as follows: Donald McLean, Le Sueur, Minn.; William Davis, Marquette, Mich.; Richard Nes- bit, Van Meter, Iowa; William Turner, Dakota. Alexander Thompson, Jr., was early in life employed in the Michigan Iron mines, and received most of his education in this county. For ten years he engaged in farming in Grant township, and sold out in 1885 and bought one-fourth of section thirty-two, Washington township, where he now resides, engaged in mixed farming. He helped build the first Presbyterian church in Johnson, and is still amember of that society. Politically he is an independent republican, as are his father and brothers. November 1, 1882, he married 972 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Mary, daughter of Joseph and Emma Warren, all of English birth. Their children are Grace, Pearl, Mary Jeannette and Sarah Hershel. Joun Horxtns Brown (deceased) was a farmer at the time of his death, though he had also learned the carpenter’s trade. He was born in West Well, Kent county, England, January 18, 1836, but at a very early age came, with his parents, to America. They located in New York state, but remained there only a short time, moving to Sussex, Waukesha county, Wis., where his mother, who is eighty-three years of age, still resides. He at- tended the common schools until old enough to earn his living, and with this end in view, he learned the carpenter’s trade, which he followed until he came to Iowa in 1875. He bought the southwest quarter of section nine, Wash- ington township, Plymouth county. In 1885 he added a quarter of section seventeen to his farm, and this he operated until death ended his earthly labors, October 19, 1889. December 16, 1867, he married Bethiah, widow of Edwin Norten, of Brownsville, Minn., by whom he had two children: Ida Marah and Catherine Elizabeth. Mr. Brown served three years in the Civil war, enlisting in 1861 in the Sixth Minnesota volunteers, second division of the Second brigade. James G. Grizve, proprietor of the Grieve livery barn, of Kingsley, was born in Scott county, Iowa, February 11, 1847. He is a son of John and Elizabeth (Robinson) Grieve, both natives of Scotland. John Grieve was a blacksmith, which trade he carried on in Scotland until 1845, when he came to America and located in Scott county, Iowa, where he carried on the same trade for a few years. He then purchased a farm in the same county, which he worked until his death, in 1875; his wife died in 1865; both were mem- bers of the Campbellite church. James G. assisted his father on the farm until he was twenty-two years of age, when he farmed for himself until 1883 in the same county. He then purchased 320 acres of land in Garfield township, Plymouth county, which he farmed for four years, then rented it and moved into Kingsley, since when he has been engaged in the livery business. December 25, 1878, he married Jeanette Hardie, of Scott county, and they have four children: John, George, Frank and Jeanette. The parents are members of the Christian church, and Mr. Grieve votes the republican ticket. Fintey Hearn, farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section twenty-two, Garfield township, was born in Huntingdon county, Pa., March 28, 1852, and is a son of Thomas and Margaret (Hopple) Hearn, both natives of Pennsyl- vania, and of German descent. Thomas Hearn carried on farming in Penn- sylvania until 1855, when he moved to Scott county, Iowa, where he soon died, while his widow survived him until 1881. Finley Hearn was taken to Scott county by his parents when he was about three years of age. As he GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 9738 grew up he assisted his brothers on the farm, and received his education at the district schools. He remained at home until 1881, when he began farm- ing for himself near the homestead. He remained there three years, until 1884, when he came to Plymouth county and purchased 160 acres in section twenty-four, Garfield township, where he farmed until the fall of 1889, when he traded for 820 acres where he now resides. Mr. Hearn married Isabella Grieve, of Scott county, September 8, 1881, and they have two children: Francis and Thomas. The parents are supporters of the Christian church, the mother being a member. Mr. Hearn casts his suffrage with the repub- lican party. He has been school director, and is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. Eu Perers, farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section eight, Garfield township, was born in Hardin county, Iowa, July 4, 1861, and is a son of John and Rebecca (Van Sycles) Peters, the former a native of Pennsylvania, of German and French descent, and the latter a native of Virginia, and of Irish and Spanish descent. John Peters is engaged in farming in Hardin county, Iowa, where he came in 1854; he has now reached the ripe old age of eighty-one years, and is very active for one of his years. Politically he is arepublican, and has supported the principles of that party since the time of Buchanan. Eli Peters resided with his parents until twenty-one years old. In 1881 he came to Plymouth county and purchased 640 acres of land, where he now resides. The land was in a wild state, but since his residence there he has succeeded in getting it under a good state of cultivation. On his farm can be found a stock of Percheron and Clyde horses, and he also keeps a good grade of cattle and hogs. Politically he is a republican. In the fall of 1888 he was elected supervisor of district No. 4, which includes eight townships. He is a member of the K. of P. Davip Haropis, farmer and stock-raiser, resides on section twenty-four, Garfield township, Plymouth county. He was born in Scott county, Iowa, January 14, 1852. His parents, David and Crawford (Robertson) Hardie, both natives of Scotland, were among the first settlers of Iowa, there being then but two log houses in Davenport. His father was a farmer in Scott county until 1885, when he sold out his interests in this country and re- turned to Scotland, intending to spend the remainder of his days in his native country. His wife, who was a member of the Presbyterian church, died in this country in 1857. David Hardie was born and brought up on a farm in Scott county, attending school in the winters and assisting his father with the work on the farm during the summer seasons. When he was twenty-one years of age he commenced to farm on his own account, and was so engaged until 1885, when he sold his farm in Scott county, and, coming to Plymouth county, purchased 160 acres where he now resides, and which 974 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. he has since farmed. He is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance; in politics he is a republican. January 9, 1879, he married Mary J. Martindale, of Scott county. Both are members of the Christian church. They have one child, Clara E. Henry Ds Lampert, a general farmer and stock-raiser, residing on sec- tion thirty-six, Garfield township, was born in New York, June 12, 1852, and is a son of Joseph and Julia (Prine) De Lambert, the former a native of Canada, of French descent, the latter a native of New York, of German descent. Joseph De Lambert carried on farming until his death, which occurred in Berrien county, Mich., in 1885; his wife died in the same county, in March, 1889. Our subject was taken to Michigan, by his parents, when he was two years of age, and there he received his education in the common schools, residing with his parents until sixteen years of age. He then worked out two years, after which he farmed for himself in Berrien county, until 1885, when he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, where he remained four years. He then purchased 820 acres of land in Plymouth county, where he now resides. He married Maria 8. Lauman, of Berrien county, Mich., De- cember 24, 1874, and they have three children: Claude F., Mabel F. and Burton R. They are both members of the Christian church, and politically he is a democrat. Henry Snyper, farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section twenty-five, Garfield township, was born in Scott county, Iowa, June 3, 1862, the son of John and Catharine (Larkins) Snyder, both natives of Pennsylvania. John Snyder carried on farming, in Scott county, until his death, in 1884; his wife is still living and resides on the old homestead, a member of the Methodist Episcopal church; both were of German descent. Henry Snyder resided with his parents until twenty-one years of age, when he commenced farming for himself in Scott county, which he continued two years. In 1886 he came to Plymouth county and farmed three years, then purchased 160 acres in Garfield township, where he now resides. He married Georgina Grieve, in November, 1883, and they have one child, Clifford J. In politics Mr. Snyder is a republican, and both he and wife are members of the Christian church. Frank Mecunic, farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section twenty-three, Garfield township, was born in Bavaria, Germany, in September, 1850, a son of Anton and Susanna (Schmidt) Mechnig, both natives of Germany, who lived and died there. He was reared and educated in Germany, and came to America in 1872, locating in Tama county, Iowa, where he worked out three years, then purchased a farm and commenced farming for himself. In 1883 he sold out and came to Plymouth county, where he purchased 160 acres of land, on which he now resides, having since added 160 acres to his first purchase. On this farm can be found a good grade of stock of all kinds. 1 GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 975 Mr. Mechnig married Elizabeth Mathern, of Tama county, Iowa, April 19, 1875, and they have four children: Victor K., Elizabeth, Leon and Margaret. Both parents are members of the Roman Catholic church. Politically he is a democrat. James A. Lurnpauas, farmer, P. O. Kingsley, residing on section thirty- one, Garfield township, was born in Maquoketa, Iowa, November 24, 1857, ason of Adam and Elizabeth (Fisher) Leinbaugh. The parents are both living, and the father is engaged in farming in Clinton county, Iowa. They are natives of Pennsylvania, and members of the German Reformed church. James A. resided in Maquoketa until nine years of age. He then went to Clinton county, where he resided some twenty years, when he purchased eighty acres of land in Elwood and farmed until 1888. At that date he came to Plymouth county, where he purchased 160 acres of land where he now lives. He makes a specialty of Red Poll cattle and Poland China hogs. Mr. Leinbaugh married Martha Whitsell, of Elwood, Iowa, in 1881, and to them have been born four children: Laura M., William W., Harry L. and Mattie A. Mrs. Leinbaugh is a member of the Congregational church. Po- litically he is a democrat, and has held the office of constable four years: He is a member of the Knights of Pythias. Uxricn G. Murrzir, banker, Kingsley, of the firm of Mueller & Robin- son, was born in Germany, July 11, 1860. He is a son of Gustavus Mueller, consul general of the kingdom of Belgium, and late president of the Deutsche bank of Berlin, Germany, in which city he died in July, 1889, leaving a very large estate to be divided among four children. Our subject served a few years in the German cavalry, and then went to England, where he was employed in a large London banking house. He came to America in 1887, and located in Plymouth county, Iowa, where he purchased about 1,000 acres of land, and engaged in stock-breeding, which he still carries on. He went into the banking business, in the spring of 1889, with F. R. Robinson. Jacop C. Mruzer, a general farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Kingsley, residing on section thirty-five, Henry township, was born in Washington county, Md., in 1859, a son of Daniel and Mary (Lambert) Miller, both natives of Maryland, the father of English and German descent, and the mother of English descent. The father is by occupation a farmer, and resides in Ogle county, Ill.; both he and wife are members of the Dunkard church. Jacob C. was born and reared on a farm and came to Ogle county, Ill, with his parents when four years of age. He received a common-school education, and resided with his parents until he was nineteen years of age, when he commenced farming for himself in Ogle county. In 1885 he came to Plym- outh county, Iowa, and purchased 320 acres of land, which he farmed two years, then sold out and purchased 160 acres of land where he now resides. 53 976 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. February 25, 1880, Mr. Miller married Amelia Ackert, of Lee county, IIL, and they have two children: Ada M. and Vernon L. In politics he votes the republican ticket. Ourver Miter, farmer, P. O. Merrill, was born in East Vincent township, Chester county, Pa., October 27, 1859, a son of Franklin and Martha Miller. He attended school there until thirteen years of age, and then assisted his father on the farm. When seventeen years old, he came to Plymouth county, Iowa, with his brother-in-law, George Irwin, and bought an eighty- acre homestead claim, in section eighteen, Stanton township, on which he carried on general farming until 1886. He then sold out, and moved to Plymouth township, on a 160-acre farm that he had bought some time be- fore, and’ on which he now resides. Mr. Miller was married in October, 1879, to Angie Irwin, of Chester county, Pa., which place he has visited twice since he has lived here, first in 1881, and again in 1883, the last time to attend the funeral of his father. He votes with the republican party, and is a mem- ber of the Methodist Episcopal church. Wiuuiam Crane, farmer, P. O. Le Mars, is the eldest of four children born to William and Olive Crane, of New York state, and was born in Geauga county, Ohio, May 30, 1848. He left Ohio with his parents when six years old, and moved to Dane county, Wis., where he attended school until eighteen years of age. He then worked on his father’s farm until the war broke out, when he enlisted in Company I, Twenty-third Wisconsin infantry, with which he served one year, then enlisted in Company B, Thirty-sixth infantry, with which he served until July, 1865, when he received an honorable discharge, and returned to Wisconsin. In the fallof 1878 he moved to Plymouth county, Towa, but soon after to Liberty township, Plymouth county, where he bought eighty acres of land on section two, on which he lived two years. He then sold out, and came to Plymouth township, where he bought 160 acres of land, on which he has since lived. March 4, 1872, Mr. Crane married Eliza- beth, daughter of James and Ann Davison, of Dane county, Wis., and their union has been blessed with five children: Olive, Eugean (deceased), Nellie, William and Charles. In politics he is a republican. JosrpH Suerrzon, farmer, P. O. Merrill, was born in Grant county, Wis., May 10, 1848, a son of John and Hannah Sheirbon, who were born near Hull, Wis. He attended school until sixteen years of age, then farmed until twenty-one, when he married Eliza, daughter of William and Mary Smith, of Wisconsin. The following year he moved to Nodaway county, Mo., where he worked as a farm hand one year, then returned to Wisconsin, where he carried on farming in La Fayette county for three years. He then succes- sively teamed in Norway, Wis., threshed in La Fayette county, farmed near Darlington, Wis., and in Gratiot county, Mich., a short time in each GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 977 place. He then went to Jo Daviess county, Ill., where he carried on general farming for four years, after which he went to Plymouth county, Iowa, where he bought eighty acres of land south of Le Mars. After a short sojourn, however, he sold out and bought 120 acres in Plymouth township, Plymouth county, where he now resides. Mr. Sheirbon is the father of six children: Mary Melissa, Willie (deceased), Willis Leroy, Libbie Merilda, Eliza Nellie and Wilber Harrison. In politics he is a republican, and has been president of the Farmers’ Alliance of Plymouth county. He is a mem- ber of the Presbyterian church. James Tuomas Harxer is the eldest of seven children born to John and Alice Harker. His parents were from Arkendale, Yorkshire, England, but were living in Jo Daviess county, Ill., at the time of his birth, September 4, 1854. Two years later they moved to Lafayette county, Wis., and here he was reared and attended school until he was eighteen years of age, when he went to work on a farm, at which labor he was employed until twenty-seven years old. He then came to Plymouth county, Iowa, and worked at farming and blacksmithing in Stanton township for two years, after which he moved to Le Mars, where he stayed another two years, after which he came to Mer- rill, Plymouth township, where, in connection with Max Suther, he opened a blacksmith shop, in which business he has since been engaged. Mr. Harker was united in the bonds of matrimony with Rosina, daughter of Michael and Sarah Holmes. They have a family of five children, namely: Lida, Charley, Frankie, Lillie and Eliza. In political matters Mr. Harker takes the repub- lican side; in religious faith he holds to the views advanced by the Presby- terian church. James R. Knox, farmer, P. O. Le Mars, is a son of James and Lasira Knox of Whiteside county, Ill, and was born October 5, 1859. He attended the Normal school of Valparaiso, Ind., after which he attended the Normal school at Fulton, Ill, for a time. January 15, 1882, he married Cynthia, daughter of Rosseel and Lucinda Lewis, of Whiteside county, Ill., and worked a part of his father’s farm until the following year, when he came to John- son township, Plymouth county, where he bought 120 acres of land in sec- tions twenty-three and twenty-six, where he carried on general farming. In 1886 he went to Yuba county, Cal., for his health, and remained one year, after which he resided in Whiteside county, Tll., for two years before return- ing to Johnson township, Plymouth county. Mr. and Mrs. Knox are the parents of one child, Amy. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and in poli- tics is a republican. Grorce Darvitt, farmer, P. O. Seney, was born near New London, Eng- land, June 7, 1847, and is a son of Henry and Ann (Cartes) Darvill, who came to America in 1854 and settled in Marengo, McHenry county, Ill., and 978 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. engaged in farming. George worked with his father on the farm, and at- tended the common school. In 1870 he moved to Le Mars, Plymouth coun- ty, Iowa, and took a homestead of eighty acres in Elgin township, where he has since lived. September 20, 1868, he married Miss Elsie Reeves, of Ba- tavia, Ill, and they have a family of six children: Bertha L., Mina C., Min- nie M., Abbie M., Gracie M. and Harrison Morton. Mr. Darvill is a mem- ber of the Methodist church, and in politics is a republican. Witt1am Hopeson, farmer, P. O. Kingsley, residing on section nine, Elkhorn township, was born in Durham county, England, in April, 1854, a son of William and Jane (Lowes) Hodgson, both natives of England. The father was a lead miner, which occupation he followed in England until 1872, when he came to America, but died two weeks after his arrival; the wife died in 1877; both were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. William Hodgson was born and reared in England, where he received a common-school education. At the age of eighteen years he came to America with his parents, and located at Fort Dodge, Iowa, and was there engaged in mining coal for five years, thence came to Plymouth county in 1877, and, in company with his brother, purchased eighty acres of land in Stanton town- ship, where he farmed until 1885, when he purchased the eighty acres in Elkhorn township whereon he now resides, and which he has since farmed. Politically he is a republican, and a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. In religion he holds to the views of the United Brethren church. Wittiam Summers, farmer, Kingsley, is a son of George and Jane (Adamson) Summers, natives of England, but who were living in Quebec, “Canada, at the time our subject was born, August 17,1832. His father, who died in 1856, was a farmer in England, but when he immigrated to Canada he commenced teaching in Quebec, where he remained till 1841, when he moved to Ontario and commenced farming near London, which he continued until he died. William Summers remained on the farm with his parents until their death, when he commenced farming for himself near London, Canada. After a few years he removed to Michigan and engaged in lumbering. At this he was engaged for three years, then moved to Dixon, Ill, where he remained for several years, in the employment of Daniel Bovey, a lumber and grain dealer. In 1882 he came to Plymouth county, and purchased 160 acres of land in section three, Elkhorn township, which he has since farmed. He also raises considerable stock and is taking some pains to have it brought to a better grade. In 1880 he married Mary A. Couch, and by her has two children: Charlotte A. and May. He was married twice before, and by his former wives has six children, as follows: Edmond O., Charles H., William R., Emma, Mary J. and George D. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 979 Edmond Summers, the eldest son, was born in Canada in 1858, and came to the United States with his parents when but seven years of age. He has always remained with his father, and now in his declining years and failing health, he takes full charge of the farm, and stands ready to assist his father in every way possible, as he always has done. Herman C. Eaer, farmer, P. O. Kingsley, residing on section thirty-three, Elkhorn township, was born in Germany in 1849, a son of Jacob and Mary (Hegel) Eger, both natives of Germany. THis father, who is now farming in Indiana, is a republican in politics, and both he and his wife are members of the Evangelical church. Herman C. Eger remained in Germany until four- teen years of age, when he came to America with his parents and resided with them until he was twenty-one years of age. He then came to Clinton county, Iowa, and clerked in a store in Clinton five years, then engaged in farming in the same county, at which occupation he continued until 1885, when he came to Plymouth county and farmed there until 1887. At that date he located in Elkhorn township, where he bought 160 acres of land, and has farmed ever since. Mr. Eger married Mary Pearce, of Clinton, Iowa, in 1875. He was formerly a greenbacker in politics, but now supports the democratic ticket. He is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. Mrs. Eger is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Arcuiz Parrerson Dresser (deceased) was born February 5, 1835, in Schuyler county, N. Y., where ‘he was reared, and where such education as he did receive, which was very limited, was obtained. At a very early age he began to learn the harness-maker’s trade, which was his occupation until the breaking out of the war of 1861. He then enlisted as engineer in Com pany M, Fiftieth regiment New York volunteers, with which company he served until June 19, 1865, when he received his discharge at Fort Berg, Va. He returned to his old home to make a visit, then settled in Dubuque county, Iowa, where he worked at his trade until he came to Le Mars. After coming here he was for some time engaged in teaming on the railroads, then started a city dray, which he ran for the next five or six years, then started a railroad eating house. This he conducted until his death, May 27, 1884. May 15, 1870, he married Emma, daughter of Caleb and Elizabeth Reed, of New Hampshire, by whom he had four children: Lottie, Hattie, Josie and Helen. In his political views he was with the republican party. Epwin H. Lowe, of the firm of E. H. Lowe & Co., hardware dealers, now doing business at Salix, was born in Rockingham county, N. H., October 14, 1863, a son of John H. and Mary A. (Wilson) Lowe, both natives of the same county in New Hampshire, the father of English and Irish descent, and the mother of Irish and Scotch descent. John H. Lowe is by occupation a farmer and fruit-grower, in Rockingham county, N. H.; he and wife attend the Presbyterian church. 980 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Edwin H. Lowe was born and reared on a farm in New Hampshire, and received his education at the Pinkerton academy, at Derry,N.H. He resided with his parents until he was eighteen years old, when he went to De Kalb county, Ill, where he lived until 1885, at which date he came to Woodbury county, and worked at various places until 1887. He then purchased a half interest in the hardware store in which he is now doing business. Polit- ically he is a republican. Mr. Lowe married Anna Lawson, December 29, 1889; his wife is a member of the Lutheran church. ALFRED FEsseNDEN (deceased), whose family now reside on section nine- teen, Floyd township, was born in New York, December 2, 1841, a son of William and Rachel (Bowen) Fessenden. His father was a farmer until his death, which occurred in 1887. Our subject was born and reared on a farm in New York, and received a common-school education. He resided with his parents until the war broke out, when he enlisted in Company C, Thirty- second Wisconsin infantry. He participated in the battle of Memphis and several others, and was honorably discharged in 1865. He then went to Green Lake county, Wis., where he purchased 120 acres of land, and com- menced farming for himself. He continued to farm this land for seven years, then traded that farm for one of 160 acres, which he farmed for three years. In 1878 he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, and purchased 200 acres of land, on which he resided until his death, which occurred November 22, 1883. He was united in marriage with Rachel Semple, of Canada, in 1865, and to them were born four children: Clara, Eleanor F., Alfred and Alice. In politics Mr. Fessenden was a republican. Witi1am Turman (deceased) was one of the earliest pioneers of Woodbury county. He was a native of Montgomery county, Va., and was born in 1798, and died May 24, 1876. His parents were John and Rachael Turman, of English and Welsh descent. Mr. Turner was reared on the Big Sandy river in Kentucky, and in 1827 went to Lafayette county, Wis., where he was em- ployed in a lead smelter. Later he returned to Virginia, where he was mar- ried, and in 1836 again went to Wisconsin, where he engaged in farming. In 1853 he removed to Iowa, settling on section fifteen, Little Sioux township, where he remained until his death. His wife survived him nine years, dying in May, 1885, in the eighty-first year of her age. Mr. Turman inclined to the Dunkard faith and was widely respected. He was an active republican, but never sought or accepted office. His six children are all living, viz.: Charles Wesley, La Barge, Wyo.; Anthony M., Oto, Iowa; Mary (wife of Minor Mead), Grant township; Melissa (Mrs. C. W. Shattuck), Smithland, William, 8., on homestead; Sarah Elizabeth (wife of Jesse Hendrick), Mount Coffin, Oregon. Ouiver Cuapman Betz, farmer, Smithland, is a son of Stephen and Mary (Button) Bell, natives of Glastonbury, Conn., and is of Scotch descent. He GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 981 is the younger of two boys, the only children born to his parents, He was born in Portland, Conn., March 15, 1846, and remained at home until 1867, working with his father at stone masonry and farming. He then came to Towa and rented a farm, remaining on it four years, when he bought the 150 acres he is now on in Little Sioux township, Woodbury county. He married, November 4, 1872, Lida Jane Hiett, a resident of Ohio. They have had seven children born to them, all of whom are living at home. Mr. Bell is a repub- lican, but takes no active part in politics. He is highly esteemed among his neighbors, and is a man of good business ability. Epwin Aveust Miter, farmer, Smithland, was born in New Lyne, Ash- tabula county, Ohio, February 21, 1835. He is the eldest of three children of Ersia Beckwith and Sophronia Baldwin Miller, both natives of America. He came to Iowa in 1856, and in 1861 enlisted for the war in Company I, Ninth Iowa infantry, under Julius H. Powers. Mr. Miller was in sev- eral skirmishes, but his company guarded bridges most of the time. At the end of eight months he was taken sick and discharged. He draws a pension now. In 1863 he came west and located in Dakota, remaining there four years. Hach year the grasshoppers completely destroyed his crops. In 1867 he came to Iowa. He was married to Phoebe Ann Bishop, in Pennsyl- vania, December 4, 1854. This unidn has been blessed with nine children, eight of whom still live. Mr. Miller is not a church member, but inclines toward the Seventh Day Adventists doctrine. In polities he is a republican. Apert Ex1 Aupricn, farmer, Smithland, was born in Franklin county, Vermont, October 12, 1851, and is a son of Liberty and Maria (Barch) Ald- rich, natives of New York state. Liberty Aldrich was a farmer, and had a family of five children. Our subject was reared on a farm, attending the public schools in the winter. He was married to Flora Huntly, a native of New York. He came to Iowa in 1880 and bought 160 acres, which he soon after disposed of and bought his present farm, consisting of 120 acres, in 1886. His family consists of five children, all living at home. Mr. Aldrich has held the township office of justice of the peace, being elected on the republican. ticket. Auton J. Waryer, farmer, Smithland, son of Erastus and Melvina War- ner, was born in Bremer county, Iowa, August 4, 1859, where he attended school. and remained at work on his father’s farm until 1882. December 30, that year, he married Ida, daughter of Dennis and Hannah Sanford, and then removed to Little Sioux township, Woodbury county, where he now has a farm of 240 acres. His family consists of three children—one boy and two girls—all living at home. Mr. Warner is a republican in politics. Bensamin Witi1am Wassick, farmer, Smithland, was born in Holland, December 7, 1859, and is the son of John Henry and Anna Gertrude (Gro- 982 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. chen) Wassick, natives of Holland. His father came to America in 1869, and engaged in farming and stock-buying in Wisconsin. The early mem- bers of the family were identified with the Methodist church. Our subject joined the army in Holland, in 1869, but deserted, and came to America. He did odd jobs of work, hiring out asa farm hand, steamboating, and spent two years in the pineries of Wisconsin. In 1876 he came to Pottawattamie county, Iowa, and rented afarm, remaining on it until 1885, when he bought the eighty acres he now lives on, in Little Sioux township. He married Gennette Hiet, of Iowa, December 14, 1876, and to their union are born six children. Mr. Wassick is a democrat, and a member of the Presbyterian church. Witiram Desoar, farmer, Danbury, was born in Holland, July 21, 1850. At the age of two years he was taken by his parents to America, and they first lived two years in New Jersey, and then went to Livingston county, Tl. At the latter place our subject attended the common schools, and at the age of twenty-two years came to Cherokee county, Jowa, where he lived ona rented farm until 1878, at which time he came to Morgan township and squatted on a school section, and in 1882 bought and located on the farm where he now lives. His parents, John and Annie Deboar, are farmers in Illinois. William Deboar was married, in 1873, to Euretia Smith, whose par- ents, James and Emily (Benedict) Smith, were of Irish descent. They have eight children: Horace A., Katie, John, Damie, Walter, May, Melissa and Agnes. Politically Mr. Deboar is a republican, and has liberal views in regard to religion. He was one of the earlist settlers of Morgan township, having helped to organize the same, and has held the position of road supervisor. Frank M. Kzsex, farmer, Danbury was born in the state of Baden, Ger- many, December 28, 1841. In April, 1854, he with his parents came to America and located at Mendota, Ill, where he was engaged as brakesman, night watchman and baggage-master with the Illinois Central railway until 1883, when he came to Woodbury county, and located where he now resides. William Kesel, his father, and Joanna (Roth) Kesel, his mother, were Germans. William Kesel was a mason by trade, and was naturalized in 1857. Our sub- ject was married in 1866 to Marian Geddes, whose father, Robert Geddes, is Scotch. They have nine children: Annie, Lizzie, Frank, Aggie, Maggie, Robert, Charles, William and John (twins). The daughter Annie is married to C. Kelcher, and lives in Danbury, and Lizzie lives with an aunt in Illinois. Mr. Kesel is a member of the Catholic church, and his wife of the Presbyte- rian. Politically he is a democrat, and has held the position of school director. His farm consists of 120 acres of land, and has on it a fine grove. Larayette D. Rossins, farmer, Danbury, was born in Franklin county, Ohio, August 11, 1839. There he attended school, and at the age of eight- GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 983 een moved to Clinton county, Ind., and then, in 1868, came to Crawford county, Iowa, and in 1884 to his present location. He is next to the young- est in a family of six children, two of whom served four years each in the war. His parents, Thomas and Eleanor (Garlinghouse) Robbins, were Americans, and lived on a farm. Both his grandfathers, John Robbins and Thomas Watts, were in the Revolutionary war, and took part in the battles of Bunker Hill, Monmouth, Quebec and Saratoga. Lafayette Robbins was married September 12, 1870, to Amanda Hunt, whose father, Amos A., was killed in the late war, having enlisted in Omaha, Neb., in Company D, of the cavalry. They have five children: Henry, Mary E., Amos A., Levi D., and Charles R. One son, Clay, died in 1886, at two years of age. Mr. Robbins has 160 acres of land under cultivation, with running water, and five acres in a nice grove. He is in sympathy with the Methodist Episcopal church, and politically is a republican. Henry T. Witcox, harness-dealer, Danbury, is a son of Samuel R. and Mary (McDowell) Wilcox, who were of Scotch descent. Henry T. Wilcox is the fourth in a family of nine children, and was born in Allamakee county, Iowa, April 28, 1857. In 1864 he moved, with his parents, to Freeborn county, Minn., where they remained until 1871, when they went to Dixon county, Neb., where he made his home until 1881. He received most of his education in Minnesota, and while in Nebraska served an apprenticeship of two years and a half at his trade. He has traveled over the greater part of Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota and Dakota. In 1888 he married Emma P. Dicks, and they have two children: Eva M. and Bertha. Mr. Wilcox is in sympathy with the Methodist Episcopal church, a republican in politics, and has been through the blue lodge in Masonry. Joun Kampmeyer, merchant, Danbury, is a son of Henry and Mary (Lake) Kampmeyer, and was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, June 28, 1859, where he re- mained until nine years old, when he came to Clayton county, Iowa, with his parents, and there he was educated in the common schools, afterward taking a classical course in the college at Prairie du Chien, Wis. Before tak- ing this latter course of study, he was employed in a store at New Vienna, Dubuque county, for three years, and spent another three years at similar employment immediately after completing his education. In August, 1886, he went into general merchandising on his own account, as a member of the firm of Adams & Kampmeyer, at Danbury, but a year later he bought out his partner, and has since conducted the business himself. His father and mother were both Germans, and came to this country in 1848, and both are still living. Of their nine children our subject was the second. He was married November 16, 1886, to Mary, daughter of Anthony and Margaret (Nihil) Jordan, and has two children: Anthony H. and Mary M. He is a 984 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. member of the Roman Catholic church, one of the city council, and a demo- crat in politics. W. B. Boouer was born in Huntingdon county, Pa., January 16, 1854, and in 1864 came with his mother to Johnson county, Iowa, where his mother died in 1878, and where he received a common-school education, after which, with his brothers and sisters, he went to Shelby county, where he farmed for himself until 1878. He then spent three years working at the carpenter’s trade, and in 1882 came to Danbury and went into the implement business; six months later he added furniture to his stock, and again, in 1887, hard- ware and buggies. His parents were Samuel and Elizabeth (Snyder) Booher, both Americans; his grandfather was Samuel, and grandmother, Hannah Booher. His father died in the Civil war. He had seven children, of whom W. B. Booher was the eldest. Our subject was married in 1885 to Louisa, daughter of John Ehrke, and they have one child, Edith. In his religious views he is in sympathy with the Methodist Episcopal church, in politics, is a republican, and a member of the town council. James Len, farmer, Danbury, was born in London, England, October 18, 1840, and came to America in 1854 with his father, William Lee, his mother, Mary (Rouch) Lee, coming two years later. He attended school in London and Chicago, after which he located on a farm in Marquette county, Wis.; from there he went to Madison, Wis., and attended high school. Returning to the farm he remained one year, and then left home at the age of seventeen, and worked by the month until 1861, when he enlisted in Company H, Eleventh Wisconsin infantry, under Gen. Steele. In July, 1870, he came to Iowa and has farmed ever since. He is of Irish descent, and the fourth of eight children born to his parents. October 10, 1868, he married Edna Smith, and they have seven children: Mary, Will, Steve, Charles, Lillie, George and Ethel. Mary is married to Frank Schrunk, and lives in Wheeler - county, Neb, Mr. Lee isa member of the Seventh Day Adventists, and votes the republican ticket. Joun Herrineron, farmer and stock-dealer, Danbury, was born in Luzerne county, Pa., in 1841, but three years later came with his parents to Illinois. In 1867 he went to Woodbury county, Iowa, where he took a homestead, and has since remained there, now having one of the best farms on the Maple river. His parents, John and Theresa (Townsend) Harrington, probably of French descent, came with him to Iowa, and took up a homestead adjoining him, and there lived seventeen years; both are now deceased. Our subject was married, in 1869, to Mahala Koker. They are the parents of seven chil- dren: Charles, Addie, Merat, Earl, Flossie, Archey and Harvey, all of whom are still at home. Mr. Herrington was asoldier, having enlisted in Company H, Ninety-second Illinois regulars. In religion he favors the tenets of the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics he votes the democratic ticket. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 985 Joun GuLEason was born in county Cork, Ireland, in 1839. In 1848 he crossed the ocean, his father having preceded him five years. They lived in Chester and York counties, Pa,, for twenty years, most of the time on a farm. John attended schools in both counties, and at the age of eighteen started to work for himself, and for a number of years worked out on farms and nur- series. During the war he was engaged as teamster, and was in the front many times. In 1872 he came to Carroll, Iowa, and in 1881 to Woodbury county, locating on a farm near Danbury, where he has since remained. Myr. Gleason was married in 1869 to Catherine E., daughter of Patrick and Mary (McGan) Conley, of Irish descent. They have five children: Frank, Mary E., William, Edward and Thomas M. Mr. Gleason is a member of the Ro- ‘ man Catholic church, and is a republican in politics. James M. CrincenrreL, farmer, Danbury, was born in Indiana, July 18, 1856, and there he lived and attended school until he was eighteen years old, when he started to work for himself, working by the month until 1877; in that year he married Olive, daughter of James White, and has since been farming for himself in Liston township, Woodbury county. To Mr. and Mrs. Clingenpeel have been born three children: Allen L., Lester and Arthur. While not a member of any church, our subject believes in religion. He is a member of the labor party. Witi1am Castiz, Correctionville, was born at Spencer, Tioga county, N. Y., August 25, 1817, and is a grandson of Daniel Castle, of New York. The latter was early left an orphan, and was reared by his maternal grandfather, Samuel Monroe. Samuel Castle, father of our subject, was a native of Dutchess county, N. Y., and was a major in the militia of that state. Lu- cetta (Gridley) Castle, his wife, was of Connecticut birth, both coming of old New England families. In 1836 they removed to Springfield, Erie county, Pa., where William Castle first started in business as a broom manufacturer. In 1856 he came to Iowa, and remained fourteen years in Buchanan county, where he dealt in lands. In 1870 he came to Kedron township, Woodbury county, and bought land. Three years later he settled in Correctionville, and made an addition of twenty-five acres to-the town plat. In 1854 he married Melissa Lewis, a native of Potter county, Pa., who has borne him nine chil- dren. He had previously married Mary Ann Whiting, of Speedville, N. Y., who died, leaving four children. Following are the names of Mr. Castle’s offspring, in the order of their birth: Gridley W., Jane A., Frank W., Laucetta, Luetta, George, Oscar and Orson (twins), Lily, Christine, Cornelia, Nettie, William and Annie. Orson D. Castuz, of the firm of Orson D. Castle & Bro., jewelers, Cor- rectionville, was born December 25, 1860, and is a son of William and Me- lissa (Lewis) Castle. He is a native of Buchanan county, Iowa, and was 986 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. reared on a farm in Woodbury county. He learned the carpenter’s trade, which he followed until 1886, when he went into the jewelry business at Correctionville. In 1889 his twin brother, Oscar D., went into partnership with him and put in a stock, which, with that of his brother, makes one of the largest stocks of jewelry in the county, outside of Sioux City. They are both energetic business men. Politically they are both republicans. Orson is a member of the K. of P. and Oscar of the I. O. O. F. In 1888 Orson D. Castle married Dollie Roby, of Correctionville. Wittram M. Raevzorrom, harness dealer, Correctionville, was born in Ashtabula, Ohio, January 23, 1846, and is a son of Allen and Mary Ann (Potter) Rheubottom, natives of New York, the former of English descent, and the latter of German and English ancestry. Allen Rheubottom was a manufacturer of woolen goods, which business he carried on in Ashtabula, Ohio, until his death in 1848; his wife is still living and resides at Chau- tauqua Lake, N. Y. William M. was born in Ashtabula, Ohio, but was taken to New York by his mother when he was but two years of age. He received a common-school education at the high school of Chautauqua Lake, and at the age of nineteen commenced to learn the harness-maker’s trade, which he continued to follow until 1874, when he moved to Grant county, Wis., where he resided two years. He then moved to Clinton county, Iowa, and remained there until 1884, when he located in Correctionville and opened a harness shop in the following spring. He chose his wife in the person of Miss Annie E. Dearborn, and they were married in March, 1878, and have two children: Cora and Fred. He casts his vote for the nominees on the republican ticket. He is a member of the Masonic and K. of P. societies. Ferrpinanp Spencer, miller, Correctionville, was born in Inspruch, Baden, Germany, August 24, 1841. His parents, Joseph and Theresa (Schemel) Spengler, brought him to America when he was but ten years old. They settled on a farm in Harlem, Stephenson county, Ill, and later moved to Shannon, Carroll county, same state. Here the mother still resides, the father having died in 1886, aged seventy-seven years. Of their fifteen chil- dren, nine grew to maturity, Ferdinand being the fourth. He enjoyed the advantage of both German and English education. When nineteen years old he began to learn the carpenter’s trade, which occupation he followed for several years. In 1863 he came to Iowa, and enlisted in the same year in the Seventh Iowa cavalry, Company K, and served two years on the west- ern frontier. For some time he engaged in farming on section one, Kedron, and then traded his farm for a mill property on section thirty-four, Union township, where he now dwells. For twenty years he has engaged in bridge building in this region, and for twelve years that has been his chief occupa- tion. In 1889 he built fifty-six bridges, wood and iron. Mr. Spengler is GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 987 treasurer of the local Catholic church society, in which his family are com- municants. Politically he is an independent republican, and is a member of the G. A. R. October 17, 1869, he married Lydia Amanda, daughter of Joseph and Mary (Olmstead) Devore, of French and German extraction, respectively. Following are the names of Mr. and Mrs. Spengler’s children: Mary Theresa, Edward Leo, Joseph Benedick, Amire, Victoria May, Tres- ence, John and Emma. The eldest is the wife of Charles Wolff, of Dayton, Towa. Davip B. Ssonrz, machine dealer, Correctionville, was born in Platts- ville, Oxford county, Canada, in 1856. (See sketch of Benjamin Shontz for ancestry.) He was reared on a farm in his native town, and educated in the common schools. When seventeen years old he went to learn the machinist’s trade at Mitchell, and followed that occupation for thirteen years, including four years of apprenticeship. In 1878 he went to Minneapolis, and six years later to Brainerd, Minn., where he was employed nearly three years in the railroad shops. In March, 1886, he came to Correctionville, and engaged in the implement trade in company with his brother. This was succeeded by the hardware trade, which, after two years, he sold out in the spring of 1890. Mr. Shontz is a member of the Masonic order and K. of P., and a steadfast republican. He holds the religious faith of his fathers, and is regarded as an upright and successful business man. In February, 1887, he married Daisy Catherine Paine, who was born in Nebraska. Her parents, William and Annie Paine, are natives of Dublin, Ireland, and now reside in Brainerd, Minn. Two children bless the home of Mr. Shontz, named William Earl and Ethel Geraldine. Joun Tuomas Tuatcuer, farmer, Wolfdale, was born one mile north of Paris, Clinton county, Ohio, July 13, 1829, and is a son of Samuel and Sarah (Matson) Thatcher, of Pennsylvania and Virginia birth, respectively. His grandfather was Elijah Thatcher, probably of English lineage. When John was nine years old his parents moved to Putnam county, Ohio, where he was reared on a farm, receiving such education as the rate schools afforded. He remained with his parents till their death, which took place when he was twenty-six years old. He afterward learned the carpenter’s trade, and be- came the owner of forty acres of land, which he tilled. August 10, 1862, he enlisted in the Ninety-ninth Ohio infantry, Company I, and served in the army of the Cumberland, till discharged for disability March 12, 1863. He was in skirmishes at Paris and Butler Station, and the battles of Perryville, Stone River and Murfreesboro. Recovering as far as possible from his disa- bility, which was a serious rupture of the abdominal skin and muscles, he enlisted for guard duty in January, 1864. He was stationed at Bowling Green, Chattanooga, Knoxville and other points, and was one of the defend- 988 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. ers of Athens Court House, Tenn., also helped build a fort at Clinch Gap, and was a member of the expedition to release prisoners at Salisbury, N. C. In 1867 he left his Ohio home, with a team for Iowa, and in April, 1868, set- tled on his present farm, the southeast quarter of section twenty-two, Wolf Creek, which he secured as a homestead. He helped’ to organize the town- ship, and was one of its first trustees. Previous to his army experience he was a democrat, but has since been a stanch republican. In religious faith he coincides with the Baptists. In October, 1858, he married Rebecca Jane, sister of Henry Dicus. (See sketch of latter for her parentage.) Following are the names, with residence, of Mr. Thatcher’s children: Almon B., Mo- ville; Orlando M., Sioux City; John Sherman, with parents; Cora, wife of Lorenzo Baker, Wolf Creek; Hattie May, wife of Martin Sinkey, the same; Ulysses C., George E., Orin F., Leona R., Samuel and Claude Howard, at home. F. H. Fartey, barber, Sloan, was born in Washington county, Iowa, in 1841, a son of Sylvester and Candace A. (Barnett) Farley. He belongs to a very long-lived family, his great-grandfather, Francis Farley, who went through the Revolutionary war, having lived to the age of one hundred and four years; his grandfather, Edward, died at the age of sixty-eight, but he has four sons over seventy years of age, one of whom, Drewy, was ninety-four. Edward Far- ley’s children were Frank, Silas, Elias (deceased), Drewy (deceased), John (deceased), Edward (deceased), Joseph (deceased), Nancy Parker (in Iowa, aged eighty-six), Jane Hinkell (in Texas), and Sylvester, the father of our subject, who is eighty years old. F. H. Farley grew to manhood on the farm in Washington county, and October 17, 1861, he enlisted in the Thirteenth Iowa and was in the battles of Shiloh, Corinth, Vicksburg, and was taken prisoner, July 22, 1864, during the siege of Atlanta, and was put in Andersonville prison, but after three months’ confinement he was transferred to Florence. He remained there until March, 1865, having been in prison eight months and twenty-three days, when he was let out on parole, and the following June he was mustered ‘out at Davenport, Iowa, at the expiration of service for his regiment, Eleventh, Thirteenth, Fifteenth and Sixteenth, known as Crocker’s Brigade, having made a special record through the entire war. He tried farming and several other businesses after leaving the army, but his health had been too much impaired while in prison to allow him to follow an active business, so in 1880 he went to Pottawattamie county, and learned the barber’s trade, and in 1883 came to Sloan, and has since followed that trade. In 1876 he married Mary Clemins, and they have one child, Rolla, and have adopted a daughter, Susie. Mr. Farley is senior warden and charter member of the Masonic order, Attica Lodge 502, and also belongs to the G. A. R., and the I. O. O. F, In politics he is a republican, and is liberal in religious views. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 989 Henry Brerwitru, farmer, Peiro P. O., was born in Ostrodde, Hanover, February 15, 1832, a son of Conrad and Elizabeth (Barnar) Bierwith, both natives of Germany. In 1857 he came to Plattsmouth, Neb., thence went to Pacific City and St. Mary’s, laboring in each place. In 1860 he went to Pike’s Peak and the Rocky mountains, engaging in mining. Returning to Plattsmouth, he worked in a flour-mill for a short time, and then went to St. Louis, Mo., where he enlisted in Company C, First Missouri regiment, light artillery, serving in the war eighteen months, and taking part in the battle of Nashville. After the war he worked in a brewery at Council Bluffs, and in 1867 came to Sioux City, where he had a cooper shop. In 1877 he came to his present place, where he has farmed and raised stock ever since. He married Mary Cornils, of Sioux City, September 28, 1868. She was born in Schlawig, Germany, September 29, 1832. To their union are born three children: Rudolph, July 10, 1869; Annie, March 15, 1871; Andrew, Janu- ary 1, 1873. Mr. Bierwith has 450 acres in his farm. Perer A. Surtu, farmer, Correctionville, was born in Delhi, Delaware county, N. Y., September 16, 1834, and is a son of William and Polly (Place) Smith, also natives of New York, but of Holland descent. He received a common-school education, and was reared a farmer. In 1855 he moved to Pecatonica, Winnebago county, Ill. July 30, 1864, he enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and Forty-sixth Dlinois volunteer infantry. In 1866 he moved to Fayette county, Iowa, and in June, 1868, to Saline county, Kas., and took a-homestead and proved up on it. In 1874 he moved to Harlan, Shelby county, Iowa, where he remained until 1880, when he came to Cor- rectionville, Woodbury county, and purchased the place he now owns in sec- tion twenty-three, Rock township. He is amember of the Methodist church. April 15, 1869, he married Susan Ashmore. This couple were the parents of five children, two of whom are yet living.. Mrs. Smith died April 25, 1878. In 1882 he married Miss Josephine, daughter of William and Judith (Robinson) McCarty. He votes the republican ticket. Gzorce A. Dewett, farmer, Cushing, was born in Dayton township, Ce- dar county, Iowa, August 17, 1859, and is a son of Nathaniel and Winnie (McHowe) Dewell, natives of Indiana. His ancestors were of French de- scent. His mother’s death occurred in March, 1865, but his father survived until March, 1890. George A. was reared on a farm, and received a com- mon-school education. He has made farming his permanent business, and financially has been successful so far in his life. The farm on which he now resides consists of 120 acres. February 27, 1879, he married Agnes Moore, also of Cedar county, and of English and Irish descent. Mr. Dewell is a republican, and a member of the Methodist church. He and wife have six children: Maud A., Blanche M., Edith, Cora, George and Wilbur. 990 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES® Wituiam A. Bacon, farmer, P. O. Pierson, was born in Cayuga county, N. Y., in 1848, a son of Amos and Achsah (Merrit) Bacon. Amos Bacon was born in Fulton county, N. Y., in 1802, and his wife in Connecticut in 1806. They reared a family of eleven children, of whom our subject is the ninth. William A. received a fair education in his early life in the common schools. In 1864 he married Miss Emma Carson, of Cayuga county, N. Y., and daughter of John and Eliza (Smith) Carson, the latter a daughter of Ward and Mary Smith, of New York. They moved to Whiteside county, Ill., where they lived until 1874, when they moved to Shelby county, Iowa, where they were engaged in farming until they came to Woodbury county in 1883. They settled on the eastern half of section twenty-eight, Rutland township, and have since added to their farm the northern half of the north- east quarter of section eighteen. They have had six children, of whom five are now living: Harry L., born in 1867, died the same year; Charles C., born in 1869; Archa R., born in 1873; Amos A., born in 1876; Myrtle A., born in 1878; Edison C., born in 1881. Mr. and Mrs. Bacon are both mem- bers of the Evangelical association, as are all of the children. In politics he is a republican. Autce J. WricHt, manager of a farm, P. O. Kingsley, was born in Alle- gheny county, Pa., in 1841, but when about two years old her family moved to Washington county, Pa., where she lived with them for about fourteen years. In 1856 she was married to William M. Greenly, of Iowa county, Iowa, to which place they moved and lived for seventeen yéars, and from there she removed to Rutland township, Woodbury county, in May, 1874. She was married, a second time, in 1867, to Enos Wright, of Iowa county, Iowa. She has two children: W. R., who married Mary McKee, of Sioux City, in 1882; and Christina, married to Isaac Hathaway, of Woodbury county, in 1885. Mrs. Wright is a member of the Christian church. Could she cast a vote it would be of assistance to the democratic party, as she thinks the principles of that party are the ones she could best uphold. Thomas J. Elliott, father of our subject, was born in Pennsylvania in 1810, and died in 1844; his wife was born in 1814, and died in 1856. Thomas Elliott, her grandfather, emigrated from Ireland in 1790. Her maternal grandfather, Zephaniah Barnett, was a Scotchman, and married Liddie Pearce; they came to this country in 1785. Puarr Armstrone, farmer, P. O. Pierson, was born in the eastern district of Canada West, a son of Henry and Martha (Guernsey) Armstrong, the for- mer a native of Canada, of Irish descent, and the latter a native of Vermont. Henry Armstrong was born in 1800, and lived until 1874. John Armstrong, the paternal grandfather of our subject, and his wife, Sarah Wolrey, were of Irish and Scotch descent. Samuel Guernsey, his maternal grandfather, was born in Vermont, and married Miss Sally Bull, of Canada. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 991 Mr. Armstrong came to Clinton county, Iowa, in 1854, and lived there twenty-three years, carrying on farming. In 1877 he moved to Sac county, on a farm of 640 acres, and in-1880 bought 200 acres at Wall Lake, and in 1881 laid out an addition to Lake View, on Wall Lake proper. He bought a fine residence in Le Mars the same year, and there resided until 1889, when he moved on his farm near Pierson. He owns 1,306 acres of well-improved land, 720 acres lying in the fertile parts of southern Minnesota. He served three years in the late rebellion, having enlisted in the Twenty-sixth Iowa volunteers. In 1852 Mr. Armstrong married Emelie McCarter, of St. Lawrence county, N. ¥Y. She bore him one child, Alden, born in 1853. His first wife having died in December, 1855, he mar- ried a second time, taking as his wife Amanda McCarter, who bore him the following children: Kimball, born in 1856; Moody L., born in 1858; Rufus, born in 1860; Milly, born in 1862; Guernsey, born in December, 1866, died. in 1868; Nina L., born in 1868, and Lowry, born in 1872. The parents of Mrs. Armstrong, Robert and Amanda (Marshall) McCarter, were natives of Washington county, N. Y., the former born in 1793. Her grandfather, Stephen Marshall, was born in Boston, and married a Miss Cunningham, of the same locality. Her paternal grandparents, Joseph McCarter and wife, were born in Ireland. Mr. and Mrs. Armstrong are “New,” or known as Swedenborgian churchmen in principle and doctrine. He is a repub- lican and a member of the G. A. R. Samvuzt 8. Srroum, farmer, P. O. Pierson, was born in Ohio in 1851, a son of Samuel and Anna E. (Satamen) Strohm, natives of Pennsylvania. His father was born in 1816 and died in 1876; his mother was born in 1880 and died in 1877. His maternal grandfather, Jacob Satamen, was born in Germany. Samuel 8. Strohm received a fair education in the com- mon schools in the early part of his life. He located in Woodbury county in 1876. In 1872 he married Mary E. Goodnow, of Clinton county, Iowa, a daughter of James G. and Elizabeth Goodnow, natives of Vermont. They have a family of six children, all but one of whom are yet alive: Bertha B., born in 1873, died in 1881; Anna G., born in 1876; James W., born in 1879; John A., born in 1881; Curtis G., born in 1887; Flotilla, born in 1889. Mr. Strohm votes with the democratic party. Grorce P. McKenna, farmer, Oto, was born in Dubuque county, Iowa, June 22, 1848, where he remained with his parents, William and Susan (Mulligan) McKenna, until he was of age. In 1870 he moved to Woodbury county, and located in Miller township, where he now resides. He was mar- ried to Millie Follis, of Jackson county, this state, and has six children, all under nine years of age, living at home. Mr. McKenna is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance, votes the democratic ticket, and attends the Roman Cath- olic church. 54 992 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Rozert Tinstey Arnoup, farmer and stockman, Anthon, was born in England, April 7, 1850. In 1851 he was brought to America, and received his education in Illinois, where he remained until 1881, when he came to his present abode in Miller township, Woodbury county. He was married to Anna Cox, of England, February 9, 1871, in Illinois. They are the parents of six children. Mr. Arnold at one time held the office of justice of the peace. He votes the republican ticket, and both he and his wife are mem- bers of the Baptist church. JosepH Matcom, farmer, Athon, is the son of Horatio and Lucina (Streator) Malcom, of Connecticut. He was born April 12, 1835, in New York state, but when three years of age his parents removed to Michigan, where he was reared and educated. At the age of sixteen he went to Illinois, and worked at the shoemaker’s trade till he was twenty-one years old; then he devoted ten years of his life in seeing the west, traveling through Idaho, California, Arizona, and other parts of the west, until 1881, when he came to Iowa and located on the 160 acres he now owns. He married Parmelia A. Payne, in September, 1868. Mr. Malcom is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance, and in politics is a republican. Levi Anperson CreaceEr, farmer, Oto, was born in the state of Ohio, Jan- uary 8, 1824. When three years of age, he removed with his parents to In- diana, and remained there till the outbreak of the Civil war, when he enlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Indiana regiment, Gen. Grant, chief commander. He was not engaged in any pitched battles, but twice was lined up in action. He was in several skirmishes, was discharged, on account of poor health, and now draws a pension. After the close of the war, he removed to Michigan, then to Indiana, and then, in 1882, to Iowa, on his present place. He married Margaret Faulk, who died, leaving him six children. On September 16, 1861, he was again married, his second wife being Harriet Susan Wresler, and this union has been blessed with three children. Mr. Creager votes the republican ticket. Cartes Donery, farmer, Oto, was born in Albany, N. Y., March 81, 1835, where he was reared and educated, and where he remained until of age. He then went to Illinois, but soon moved to Iowa, in 1866. October 5, 1879, he married Mary T. Murphy, a resident of Iowa. They have five children. Our subject’s father was John Donery, of Ireland. Mr. Donery has one of the best farms in Woodbury county. In politics he is a demo- crat, and a member of the Roman Catholic church. Prrer Sorenson, farmer, Anthon, was born in Denmark, May 13, 1857, and when a boy learned the cooper’s trade and worked at it till he came to America, in 1877, and located in Shelby county, Iowa. After farming for a few years, he went to Council Bluffs and engaged in the milk business, and GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 9938 there remained till 1883, when he came to Miller township, Woodbury coun- ty, and bought 160 acres of choice land, which he is now farming. April 18, 1886, he was married, at Danbury, Iowa, to Maggie Johnson, a native of Denmark. His parents, 8. P. and Anna (Christison) Sorenson, natives of Denmark, are both deceased. Davip Low, a farmer and stock-raiser, now residing on section thirty-four, Banner township, was born in Dundee, Scotland, November 25, 1842, a son of James and Eason (Will) Low, both natives of Scotland. His father was engaged in farming in Will county, Ill, at the time of his death, which oc- curred May 12, 1879. His mother died September 27, 1859, a member of the Reformed Presbyterian church, as was her husband. David Low was born in Scotland, and came with his parents to America when he was eighteen months old. He continued to reside with them until he reached the age of twenty-one, when he received.a fracture of the right arm, from which he was a cripple for five years. At the age of twenty-three he commenced school teaching and the manufacture of patent wire window screens, then, at the age of twenty-eight years, he commenced carpentering in Chicago, which occupation he followed seven years. He then took charge of his father’s farm for three years, and in March, 1880, came to Woodbury county, and purchased 160 acres of land in Banner township, where he now resides, and has continued farming ever since. He affiliates with the republican party, and is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance. November 25, 1870, Mr. Low married Miss Agnes B. Davidson, of Glasgow, Scotland. Both he and wife are members of the Presbyterian church. Since their residence in the coun- ty they have been active in Sunday-school and church work, having aided in the building up of some churches, and the organization of others. James Expripez, farmer and stock-raiser, now residing on section thirteen, Banner township, was born in England, June 3, 1887, and is ason of Ben- jamin and Mary (Smail) Eldridge. The father was a contractor of the Illi- nois canal at the time of his death. The mother died in 1859. Both Ben- . jamin Eldridge and wife were of English descent, and members of the Church of England. James Eldridge was born and brought up on a farm in England, where he received his education. He came to America in 1850 and located in Cook county, Ill, where he remained until 1861, when he en- listed in the army, Company B, Eighth Illinois infantry. He participated in the battle of Gettysburg, among others, and was honorably discharged in June, 1865. He then resided in Colorado two years, and in 1870 came to Woodbury county, and purchased 160 acres of land where he now resides, and is one of the oldest settlers. Mr. Eldridge affiliates with the republican party, and has held the office of township trustee. In 1871 he married Ro- setta Lutz. Both he and wife are members of the United Brethren church 994 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. Tuomas James Baxer, farmer, was born in Wisconsin, December 15, 1853, and after receiving a fair education and helping his parents until 1877, he went to Iowa and located in Pottawattamie county, remaining there until he came to Grant township, Woodbury county, in 1882. His parents were both of English birth. He was married to Julia A. Thompson, January 9, 1883, at Edmund, Wis., and two children have come to them. Our subject is the son of Francis and Mary (Dony) Baker, of English descent. Mr. Baker votes the republican ticket. Wiui1am Pater, farmer, P. O. Peiro, was born in Rock Island, Ill., January 25, 1841, and is the son of Benjamin and Albina (White) Palmer, the former born in Indiana, and the latter in Tennessee. He remained on the home farm until 1852, when, in the spring of that year, he came to Council Bluffs, Iowa, and lived with his parents in that state until 1864. After two years in Council Bluffs they moved to Big Grove, where they remained ten years. Our subject then went to New Town, or what is now called Avoca, Iowa. He lived there seventeen years, and in 1881 came to Woodbury county, where he has since resided. August 25, 1864, he married Cora A. Sin Clair, at Avoca, and twelve children have blessed this union, eleven of whom are still living. Mr. Palmer is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance, and votes the republican ticket. Anprew J. Connert, farmer, P. O. Oto, was born in Cass county, Ind., in 1844, a son of Isaac and Margaret (Gillen) Connett, American farmers. His grandfather, Nicholas Connett, came from England, and was somewhat noted there as a soldier. At the age of five years Andrew J. was taken to Jasper county, Towa, where he was reared on a farm. In 1863 he enlisted in the Third Iowa cavalry, and was in Steele’s raid at Little Rock, Ark. He was under A. J. Smith in 1864, and under Gen. Willson in 1865. He was mus- tered out in August, 1865, at Davenport, Iowa, after which he returned to the farm in Jasper county, where he remained two years. He then went to Dakota, where he took up a homestead and farmed until the flood of April 1, 1881, when he lost all he had. He then went to Woodbury county, Iowa, where he opened up a new farm of 160 acres, which is all under cultivation, and on which he raises all kinds of cereals and handles stock. He has a grove of five acres, and a four-year-old orchard, with all small fruits. In 1867 Mr. Connett married Martha E., daughter of John and Rachel Gilbert, of Dutch descent; and this union has been blessed with nine children, eight of whom are living: Gilbert G., Emma, Ellis, Melvin B., Ella, Lottie, Elmer and Roy, and one child, Rosa, who died at the age of fourteen, No- vember 12, 1885. Mr. Connett is a member of the G. A. R.; politically he is a republican, and liberal in his religious views. C. H. Witsoyn, Sioux City, is a native of Illinois, in which state he re- GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 995 ceived his education. For nine years Mr. Wilson has been engaged in the wool, hide and tallow business. He was, until lately, in the employment of H. M. Hosick & Co., having entire charge of the affairs of their office in Sioux City. The house established in Sioux City is one of eight belonging to this firm, and employs seven men here. The entire wages of this company amounts to about $75,000 per annum. Mr. Wilson belongs to the Masonic order. 8. L. Srazpier and his partner, lumber dealers, came to Leeds, Iowa, and commenced business in January, 1890. They have entered into business in quite an extensive manner, their buildings now covering five lots, and their business is already extended throughout Woodbury county. They also handle lime and stucco, and are engaged in buying cattle and hogs. They were formerly of Ontario, Canada. W. A. Dean & Company, music house, formerly at No. 416, Fourth street, Sioux City. This musical emporium was established in Sioux City, in No- vember, 1883, the proprietors being W. A. Dean and W. 8. Stratton. They took rank among the leading business houses in the city, and handled such musical instruments as the Weber, Decker Brothers, Everett and Kimball pianos, Estey, Mason & Kimball organs, and kept a fine stock of all kinds of musical instruments. Their business grew to quite extensive proportions, caused largely through the fair treatment extended to their patrons, but January 1, 1891, they saw fit to dissolve the firm, which was done. H. P. Curstzy, manager of the Union Stock Yards company, Sioux City, was born in New York state in 1855. His early life was spent in railroading, which vocation he followed fifteen years. During that time he was employed in telegraph operating as station agent at several of the most important sta- tions, and as traveling freight agent for the Illinois Central railroad company. In January, 1890, he was appointed to his present responsible position as general manager of the Union Stock Yards company, which position he fills very creditably. In 1880 he married Miss Anna F. Tyson, of St. Paul, Minn. Mr. Chesley is a member of the Masonic order, and of the Unitarian church. Dr. J. M. Heyry is a native of Huntingdon county, Pa., and was born in 1859. He attended Huntingdon university, Pa. In 1884 he entered Balti- more Medical college, and graduated from that institution in 1887. From the time of his graduation until February, 1890, he practiced his profession in Baltimore, but at that time he came to Sioux City. Dr. Henry makes a specialty of the throat, nose and lungs. He receives a liberal patronage of the Sioux City people. He is a republican in politics. E. J. Tosrn was born in Dayton Ohio, in 1868, and graduated from the Cincinnati Law college May 28, 1890. He was admitted to the bar in Sioux City, and began practice here. In politics he is a democrat. : 996 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. M.'"H. Morrison & Co. liverymen, Sioux City. M. H. Morrison is now the sole owner and proprietor of this firm. He is a native of Sibley, Iowa, and has been in Sioux City but a short time. When he first came he en- tered into partnership with W. A. Waldo, who is a native of Wisconsin, and came to Sioux City nineteen years ago, but for the three years previous to August of this year (1890), he was engaged in the livery business in Cali- fornia. This firm entered into business in Sioux City in August, 1890, on Iowa street, opposite the Hotel Gordon. Mr. Morrison has twenty-two head of horses and a fine line of carriages, and gives his entire attention to his business interests. James Lesrer, dealer in light and heavy horses, Sioux City, was born November 17, 1865, in Hamilton county, Canada West. His father, John L., was born in Pennsylvania, and his mother, Eliza (Henitt) Lester, was born in Benbrook county, Canada. To the union of John L. Lester and wife were born six sons and two daughters, of whom four sons and one daughter are still living. John Lester, with his family, removed to Detroit, Minn., in 1877, remaining there until his death, September 6, 1885. He was in early life a shipbuilder at Montreal and Quebec, Canada, but later turned his attention to farming and stock-growing, which business he con- ducted on a large scale up to the time of his death. In 1886 Mrs. Lester, with her family, removed from Detroit, Minn., to Bassett, Neb., where she remained until the following year, when she bought real estate in Sioux City, where she, with her sons, James and Arthur, engaged in the stock busi- ness, making fine horses a specialty. The business interests were divided July 1,1890. James, the subject of the sketch, married Miss Olive, daugh- ter of Milton and Sarah Swalley, of Sergeant’s Bluff, Iowa, July 6, 1890. Joseph Hurrerer, cigar manufacturer, Sioux City, is a member of the firm of Hutterer & Schafstall, and was born in Canada in 1856. He learned his trade when but thirteen years of age, and has followed it ever since, in different, states. He was married in 1883 to Bell Kaiser, and one child has been born to them. He entered into partnership with Mr. Schafstall, Octo- ber 1, 1889. They give employment to eleven men, and are both practical cigar manufacturers. Mr. Hutterer is a member of the Roman Catholic church and a democrat in politics. Gzorcz H. Browy, general manager and treasurer of the Sergeant Bluff and Sioux City Brick company, has charge of the general office of this com- pany at Sioux City. The company makes a specialty of paving bricks. Mr. Brown has been with this firm the past year. A description of the works which he represents appears elsewhere in this book. The above com- pany was reorganized in October, 1890, by Mr. Brown, with a capital of $150,000. Nearly $100,000 has been expended during the past winter in GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 997 erecting a mammoth plant with a capacity for 80,000 brick per day, the plant consisting of the best and most complete machinery which the market affords for the manufacture of paving brick, and of five down draft kilns, lined throughout with fire brick, to burn the product in, these latter costing $22,500. The company’s real estate holdings now consist of 188 acres of clay land, and they are in a position to increase their capacity to 120,000 brick per day at very little expense, should the demand for paving material justify such a course. Puitie Wzzer, farmer, P. O. German City, was born in Menroe county, Ohio, in March, 1838, a son of Henry and Margaret (Yockey) Weber, both deceased. His parents were German farmers, who came to this country from Germany about 1840. He was reared on a farm, and did not receive the ad- vantages of an education. In 1865 he came to Iowa, and lived in Smithland for a short time, then located in Willow township, Woodbury county, where he has since made his home. He was married, in 1860, to Margaret, daugh- ter of Jacob and Elise Stimber, who came from Germany at an early day. They have two children, Arthur Edward and Clement William. Mr. Weber owns 400 acres of land, mostly used for pasture, but which includes four acres in a grove and orchard. He handles hogs and cattle quite extensively. In his political belief he is democratic. Asranam Lincotn Batu, farmer, Rodney, is a son of James and Diana (Howard) Ball, and is of Scotch descent. He was born in Rock Island, IIL, on April 26, 1862, and has followed farming since he was twenty-five years of age. Mr. Ball is aman of good education, and has taught school until the past five years. He came to Iowa in 1872, and lived with his father on the farm he now owns, until 1889, when he bought it, and now is farming 120 acres. He was married, February 15, 1888, to Phoebe Ann Chapman, and has one child, Laura Effil, a baby of eleven months. Mr. Ball is a mem- ber of no particular denomination, but is always ready and willing to sup- port them. Politically he is a republican. Joun C. Scuwasianp, farmer, P. O. Glen Ellen, residing on section thirty-four, Woodbury township, was born in Germany, April 14, 1844, a son of John and Margaret (Keithley) Schwabland. The father was a farmer in Wisconsin at the time of his death, which occurred in 1888; the mother is still living; both were of German descent, and members of the Methodist Episcopal church. John C. was born in Wittenburg, Germany, but came to America in 1851 and located in New York city, where he continued to reside until 1860, when he came to Wisconsin and remained there until 1866. He then went to Minnesota and resided there until 1871, when he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, and purchased 160 acres of land, subsequently sell- ing it, however, and buying 100 acres where he now resides, and which he 998 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. has under a good state of cultivation. He was united in marriage with Ma- linda Aughenbaugh, of Minnesota, in 1868, and they have ten children: John, Frank, Andrew J., Margaret, William T., Benjamin, Wallace, Amanda, Harvey and Eliza. The mother is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Schwabland is a democrat in politics, and has held the office of school director. Jacos Marquart, farmer and stock-raiser, now residing on section twenty- seven, Banner township, was born in Germany, February 15, 1844, and is a son of Philip and Barbara (Cotzimoyer) Marquart. The father is now engaged in farming in Cedar county, Iowa, and both he and wife are mem- bers of the Reformed church. Jacob Marquart was born and reared on a farm in Germany, and received a common-school education. In 1846 he came with his parents to America and located in Ohio, where he resided ten years, and then removed to Cedar county with his parents, where he lived until 1881. At that date he located in Woodbury county, where he now resides, purchasing 160 acres of land, to which he has since added 240 acres, making 400 in all. Politically he is a democrat, and has held the office of trustee for two years. He is a member of the Farmer’s Alliance. In 1878 Mr. Marquart married Mary A. Willer, and to this union have been born three children: Charles F., George A. and Philip H. The family are members of the Reformed church. Henry C. Barrer, a farmer, now residing on section twenty-seven, Ban- ner township, was born in Shelingstadt, Germany, May 22, 1826, and is a son of Christopher and Margaret Bappe, both deceased. The father was a cooper by trade, and was engaged in that occupation at the time of his death. Both he and his wife were members of the Lutheran church. Henry C. was born and reared on a farm, where he received his education. He was but six months old when his father died, and his mother’s death occurred when he was ten years of age, but he resided in Germany until twenty-five years of age, when he came to America (after three years’ service in the Prussian army) and located in New York. He remained there one year only, when he moved to Michigan, and resided there one year, and thence went to Indiana, remaining one year, and from there came, in 1854, to Cass county, Iowa. He farmed there three years, then moved to Page county and farmed three years, then moved back to Cass, where he farmed twenty years, then came to Woodbury county, in 1888, where he now resides, and purchased 240 acres of land. Politically he is a republican. Mr. Bappe married Sarah J. Por- ter, a native of Lawrence county, Ohio, in 1857, and to their union have been born eight children: Henry P., William P., Emma J., Ella R., Sarah I, George T., John E. and Julia E. Mrs. Bappe is a member of the Presby- terian church. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 999 JosrrH Vicars, farmer, was born in Michigan, April 21, 1850. His par- ents were Joseph and Mary (Down) Vigars. The father is engaged in farm- ing in Hardin county, Iowa. The mother is deceased. Both were of En- glish birth and members of the Methodist church. They came to America in 1848, and in 1852 settled in Iowa. Joseph Vigars was born in Copper Har- bor, near Lake Superior, and resided with his parents until he was sixteen years of age, when he started out for himself. He then went to Hardin county, Iowa, and engaged in farming until 1882, when he came to Wood- bury county, and located on section twenty-three, Arlington township, where he now resides. Mr. Vigars was united in marriage with Sarah Hoover, in November, 1872, and they have five children: Effie M., William, Alice, Jen- nie and John. The mother is a member of the Baptist church. Mr. Vigars belongs to the republican party. Ropyey W. Ricz, residing on section eleven, Grange township, was born in Pennsylvania, September 5, 1845, and is a son of Gilbert and Remem- brance (Jones) Rice. His father, who died in October, 1886, was a farmer, while his mother is still living, and resides in Jones county, Iowa. Rodney W. was reared on a farm in Iowa, and resided with his parents until eight- een years of age, when he left home and started out in life for himself. He enlisted for the war in Company H, 31st Iowa infantry, and participated in the battles of Resaca, Dallas, Kenesaw Mountain, Atlanta, Savannah, Ben- tonville and Jonesboro. He was honorably discharged August 5, 1865, and returned to his home in Jones county, Iowa. He went to Omaha, where he resided one year, and then returned to Jones county, and resided there two years, after which he spent a year in Ft. Dodge, then went to Dakota county, Neb., where he resided five years. In 1875 he came to Woodbury county, and lived in Smithland seven years, after which he lived in Sioux City five years. He then purchased a farm of 200 acres of land, where he now resides. April 2, 1872, Mr. Rice was united in marriage with Emma E. Myers, of Jackson, Neb., and to them have been born three children: William, Ed- ward and Charles G. Mrs. Rice is a member of the Catholic church. Polit- ically he is a republican; is a member of the G. A. R., Hancock Post and the Masonic order. W. W. Marprz, who has been among the foremost merchant tailors of Sioux City was born in Chester county, Pa. He has been engaged in mer- chant tailoring for fourteen years. He was in the business at Norfolk, Neb., for eight years, and came from that place to Sioux City quite recently, and opened one of the finest merchant tailoring and gents’ furnishing goods stores in the city, occupying three floors of the Krumann block, and gave employment to fifty men. Mr. Marple also had a branch store in the Black Hills. He was joined in marriage to Miss Ada Ruster, a Missouri lady, and 1000 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. to this union one child, a son, has been born. He belongs to the Masonic order. Tue Corn Patace Lavunpry. The present organization of this prominent Sioux City industry was completed April 14, 1890. The individual proprie- tors are H. C. Miller and W. H. Knowlton, the former a native of Iowa, and the latter of Massachusetts. The location of this laundry is at 415 and 417 Water street, and under the present management has become one of the leading, if not the most reliable laundry, in the city. Mrs. Mary Wexrer, Le Mars, was born in Belgium, August 28, 1852. In 1862 fire destroyed her parents’ home, and five years later she came to America. November 7, 1870, she married Clement Welter, and settled at Waterloo, where they remained until 1871, when they came to Le Mars. Her husband was in the saloon business, and by fortunate real estate invest- ments, secured a competency, consisting of property in Sioux City and Le Mars. He died in 1883. Mrs. Welter inherited his property, and by judi- cious investments, is constantly adding to her wealth. Lovis Prerry, barber and ladies’ hairdresser, Le Mars, was born in the city of Darmstadt, Grossherzogthum, Hessen, Germany, February 17, 1855. His grandfather, Ludwig Petry, was a farmer in Wichshausen, Kreis, or near Darmstadt, where his father, Carl August Petry, was born June 22, 1824. His relations on his father’s side were all Protestants, while his mother and her relatives were Catholics. His mother, Katrina (Faerster) Petry, was born in Nierstein am Rhein, August 7, 1836, but was brought up at Worms am Rhein by an aunt, sister of her mother, named Glock, afterward Gétz, with whom she lived until fifteen years of age, then went to Darmstadt, where she lived with her mother prior to her marriage. Louis Petry’s mother’s father was a carpenter by trade, and died young, also the one brother she had. Carl A. Petry started to learn the barber and hairdresser’s trade at Frankfurt am Main, but afterward entered the German army, as he had an uncle named Petry who was captain of the Hessen army at Darmstadt at that time, and then served thirty-two years in the army, and took part in the revolution of 1848, and the wars of 1866 and 1870-71, retiring with the rank of sergeant-major. He died July 14, 1881, aged fifty-seven years, while his widow survived him three years, when her demise occurred Octo- ber 2, 1884, at the age of forty-eight years. Our subject is the eldest of nine children, eight of whom are still living, one sister, Yeda, having died July 9, 1877, at the age of five years. For eight years he attended school at Worms am Rhein, where the First Hessen regiment, No. 115, infantry, to which his father belonged, had been sta- tioned for eleven years, prior to 1871. At the age of fourteen he began to learn the trade of a barber there, under a prominent barber and hair-dresser GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 1001 named Valentine Lerch, but as his father’s regiment was ordered back to Darmstadt a year later, he went there three months after, and spent the next two years in learning hair-work and ladies’ hairdressing, under W. Shaefer, ladies’ hairdresser and perfumer, at the Royal Theatre. For the next ten years he traveled through Germany, Switzerland and Belgium as a journey- man, anc worked in the cities of Frankfurt am Main, Mannheim, Stutgart, Newschatel, Geneva, Berne, then at Bonn am Rhein, Bad-Kreutznach, Co- logne and Liegé. October 7, 1882, at Nippes, near Cologne am Rhein, he married Eliza Bohné, a native of Brussels, Belgium, born November 30, 1854, and one of sixteen children born to Johann Baptist and Katrina Louise Bobné. Her father was born at Brussels in July, 1830, and her mother at the city of Luxemburg, August 20, 1828. In 1831 she moved with her par- ents to Brussels, where she was married, August 23, 1852, to J. Bohné. The Bohné family moved to Cologne am Rhein, Germany, in the fall of 1867, then to Nippes, near Cologne, where, January 26, 1875, the mother died, the father surviving her five years, when his demise occurred at Cologne, in August, 1880. Of their family, six children only are living, four being still in Cologne, one brother having been a dentist there for the last ten years, the other brother was a soldier, having served three years in the German regiment, No. 99, at Strassburg am Rhein; one sister married and one single. They are a Roman Catholic family. Louis Petry was not an active soldier in the old country, but was in the First class Ersatz reserve infantry. He came to America in October, 1882, landed at Philadelphia with his wife and child, and as he had an aunt, on his father’s side, Mrs. Kehres, afterward Mrs. Miller (widow), whose daugh- ter had married Professor J. Wernli, and who was living at Le Mars, he lo- cated there November 1, of that year. In the following year he started in business with a barber, Charles Shroer, locating under the First National bank. This partnership lasted but four months; in March, 1890, after being there six years, he purchased from A. R. T. Dent the building which he now occu- pies on Sixth street, two doors west of the Union hotel, and follows his trade there, having bath rooms besides. He is a member of the German M. E. church, of the Swiss society, and the I. O. O. F., his wife belonging to the Rebecca degree of that order. They have four children: Fina (Josephina) Louisa, born at Cologne am Rhein, July 9, 1880; Dora Katrina, born at Le Mars, August 17, 1883; Carl August, born February 9, 1886; and Louis Emil, born November 5, 1888. Mr. Petry has three sisters: Anna, Elise and Emilie, and two brothers: Henri and William. His brother William, who is twenty-six years old and unmarried, learned the barber’s trade with him, then worked in Sioux City and Ponca, Neb., and now works with him again in his barber shop; his 1002 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. brother, Henri, who is twenty-three years of age and single, isa machinist in St. Louis, Mo. Two of his sisters, Anna, aged thirty-four years, and Emilie, aged twenty years, both single, are in Sioux City, working for Banker French, while Elise is married to W. Bosek, a machinist, and a native of Shwerin, Germany, who lives in Brooklyn, N. Y. These brothers and sisters came to America from three to six years after he did. He has two other brothers married, living in Darmstadt; one, George, thirty-two years old, a machinist, who was three years in the army, Hess artillery, No. 25, at Darm- stadt, and the other, Carl August, thirty years of age, is employed in the railroad car factory and repair shops there. He has relatives on his side by the name of Shuchmann living in Darmstadt, Blosser at Koenigstadten, Keh- res at Wichshausen, and Faerster at Nierstein am Rhein, Germany, while on his wife’s side there are relatives living in Brussels, Belgium, named Wax- weiler (a brother of her mother), a brother of her father in Bruges, Belgium, and another in Paris, France.’ One brother of Mrs. Louis Petry, Franz Bohné, a cook by trade, about thirty-four years old, has not been heard from for the last twelve years. He started from Brussels in 1877 to travel, and was working in Bad Ems, Germany, in a hotel, the last heard from. It is not known whether he is now alive or not. Jacos GotTiieB Korntc, barber, Le Mars, a native of Germany, is the fourth of eight children of Christian and Elizabeth (Moebus) Koenig, of Hesse-Kassel. He was born in Meimbressen, Hesse-Kassel, March 10, 1840, and attended school till fourteen years old, after which he became a hotel waiter. His grandfather, George Koenig, was a laborer, and his father a shoemaker and musician. In 1858 he came to America, and learned his present trade in Baltimore, Md., where he began business on his own account in 1865. Four years later his parents came to Baltimore, where the father died, in 1889, aged eighty-three years. The mother died, while on a visit to Europe, at the age of seventy-two. In 1871 J. Gottlieb Koenig came to Plymouth county, and bought land in Plymouth township, where he engaged in farming for ten years. He then sold out and moved to Le Mars, and opened his present shop, which he owns, in 1882. He is a member of the German Evangelical church, the I. O. O. F., the Masonic order and Iowa Legion of Honor. Politically, he was a Stephen A. Douglas democrat till 1863, since which time he has acted with the republicans. In September, 1865, he married Mary Elizabeth Gorden, a native of Georgetown, D. C., and daughter of James and Elizabeth Gorden, of American and German parentage. Their living children are Carrie Virginia, Lillian, Ida Cordelia, Florence Estella, Herbert D. Elroy, Jacob G., Jr., and George Walter. The eldest is the wife of Philip Schneider, of Hungerford township. The second, Jacob Merriman, died at the age of thirteen months. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 1003 R. R. Hammonp, veterinary surgeon, Le Mars, was born in Townsend township, Norfolk county, Canada, in 1860, where he was reared and studied veterinary surgery, and began its practice. He had a school at Sincoe, and remained there until 1886, when he removed to Le Mars, where he has an office and enjoys an extensive practice. He is a member of Giblem Lodge, 322, F. & A. M., and of Occidental Chapter 114. In October, 1889, he married Ida Clouse, of Canada. R. J. Cussrer, cigar manufacturer, Le Mars, was born at Suffield, Conn., in 1857, and was reared and educated at Westfield, Mass. He learned the cigar trade, and was in business there as a manufacturer of cigars until he removed to Indiana, and in 1883 to Le Mars, where he is now engaged in the same line, employing four men and making from 160,000 to 180,000 cigars annually. He is a member of the Le Mars Lodge, 1. O. O. F., No. 255. In 1879 he married Nellie Brass. They have four children. Epwin Westzy Lent, blacksmith, Correctionville, is a native of Illinois, born at Naperville in 1855, and is a son of Norman and Matilda (Richmond) Lent, natives of Pennsylvania and New York, respectively. His grandfather, William Lent, was a native of New York, of Dutch descent, while his mother came of English lineage. Edwin Lent was educated in the schools of his native city, and began to learn his trade with his father at the age of eight- een. In 1877 he came to Correctionville, and started in business for himself. He now owns a valuable property, including his shop and residence. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and I. 0.0. F. Politically he is a republican, and has been a member of the town council six years. In 1879 he married Addie Landon, a native of Winneshiek county, this state, and a daughter of Henry and Almeda Landon, of Connecticut. They have three children: Ernest, Ralph and Ila. George Lent, brother and assistant of Edwin, was born in 1862, and joined the latter here in 1880. Aurrep Hoxcoms, farmer and stock-dealer, Correctionville, was born in Mendota, La Salle county, Ill, August 6, 1865. His parents were Warren and Sarah (Livingston) Holcomb. His ancestors were natives of Scotland. His parents moved to Grand Mound, Iowa, March 17, 1879, when he was but fourteen years old, and he lived there until March 1, 1883, when he came to Correctionville, Woodbury county, Iowa, and bought 320 acres of land in section twenty-five, Rock township, which he still occupies as a farm, and for the raising of fine stock. December 16, 1880, he married Elizabeth Alleson, of Grand Mound, Iowa, and they have two children, Robert and Alma. Isaac H. Vannorsvet, farmer, Pierson, was born in York county, Pa., in 1854. His parents, Isaac and Mary (Heighes) Vannorsdel, were of York county, Pa., and of German descent. They reared a family of thirteen chil- dren, of whom Isaac H. is the youngest. He moved to Lee county, IIL, in 1004 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. 1863, and in 1874 to Marshall county, Iowa, where he was quite successful as a farmer for eleven years. In 1883 he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, and settled on the northeast quarter of section four, Rutland township. He married Helen Vanwarn, of Marshall county, Iowa, in 1879, and they have a family of four children: Ethel, born in 1880; Dana, born in 1882; Roy, born in 1885, and Rosco, born in 1887. Mr. Vannorsdel is a republican and a man of good moral character. SamvzeL Curren Boouzr, farmer, Danbury, was born in Huntingdon county, Pa., July 14, 1864, and is one of seven children of Samuel and Elizabeth (Sny- der) Booher, natives of Pennsylvania, both deceased. He has followed farming nearly all his life, having been raised on a farm until about eighteen years of age, when he learned the carpenter trade. He worked at one place and another until 1887, when he bought the eighty acres on which he now lives in Oto township. When work is slack on the farm he now falls back on carpentering. He married Ella Martin, January 2, 1887, and two children have blessed this union: Eva, two years old, and Clayton Ellis, born in April, 1890. Mr. and Mrs. Booher attend the Methodist church. In politics he is a republican. Joseph Montace, farmer, P. O. Ireton, was born in Germany in January, 1836, and is a son of Henry and Clara Montag. He came to America in 1856, landing at Castle Garden, where he remained but a few days, then proceeded to Chicago, where he stayed until the fall of that year, when he removed to Grant county, Wis., and there farmed. August 4, 1862, he en- listed in the Twenty-fifth Wisconsin volunteers, Company I, and served till June 15, 1865, when he received an honorable discharge and returned to Wisconsin. In the spring of 1871 he moved to Le Mars, Plymouth county, where he homesteaded 160 acres on section eighteen, Grant township, on which he moved the same fall, and where he has carried on general farming ever since. Mr. Montag married Miss Catherine Maring, of Wisconsin, in April, 1862, and they have three children: John F., Joseph P. and George D. In politics he sympathizes with the republican party. Parrick Henry Coxiins, farmer, Oto, was born in Dubuque county, Iowa, July 1, 1861. When an infant his parents moved to the place where he now lives, and where he was reared and educated. He remained there until 1886, when he went to Danbury and engaged in the livery business, remaining there until 1890, when he returned to his old home, and now owns and runs the farm. January 7, 1890, he married Maggie Fitzpatrick. Mr. Collins does not mix in politics, but votes for the best man. He is a Roman Catholic. Ocxue OsterpunR is the eldest son of Ockhe and Annie (Albers) Oster- buhr, and was born August 26, 1840, in Germany. He was reared on a farm and received a common-school education. He worked for his father and GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY, 1005 neighbors on farms until October, 1862, when he came to America, landing at New York city. He came right through to Dixon, Lee county, IIL, where he remained but ashort time, going thence to Monticello, Jones county, Iowa, where he resided six years. He then’came to Le Mars, Plymouth county, where he lived but a short time, and then bought 160 acres of land in Grant township, on which he moved and has since lived, carrying on gen- eral farming. Mr. Osterbuhr married Miss Mary Hartman, of Germany, in 1864, and they have six children: Lizzie, Gerdie, Annie, Willie, Otto and Fred. In politics he is a democrat. He is a member of the German Lutheran church. JurcEN Renken, farmer, P. O. Le Mars, was born in Hanover, Germany, November 8, 1850, and is a son of Henry Renken, of the same place. His education was very limited, as his parents were in very humble circumstances, which made it necessary for him to strive for a living for himself at a very early age. He worked for his neighbors until twenty-two years old, by which time he had saved enough money to bring himself and mother to America, his father having died when he was quite young. They landed at New York, and came through to Jones county, Iowa, where he worked on a farm for five years, then moved to Grant township, where he bought eighty acres of land in sections fourteen and fifteen. He has since added 240 acres to his farm. June 26, 1881, Mr. Renken married Miss Augusta, daughter of William Burk, of Monticello, Iowa, by whom he has four children, viz.: Herman, John, Gertrude and Wilhelmina. He is a democrat, and belongs to the German Lutheran church. Maps Wesrap, farmer, P. O. Climbing Hill, was born in Jovik, Norway, April 12, 1858. His parents were Andrew and Margaret (Hubred) Westad. His grandparents, on his father’s side, were named Mads and Martha Westad. He attended the common schools in Norway. In 1867 he came ‘to Monona county, Iowa, where he engaged in farming until 1879, when he came to his present place in West Fork township, Woodbury county. He has 200 acres of fine land, and is engaged in farming and stock-raising. He is a member of the Lutheran church; in politics a republican. Anron Souzere, farmer, P. O. Climbing Hill, was born near Jovik, Nor- way, September 30, 1848. His parents were Ola and Nicollene (Olkytrud) Solberg. In 1866 he came to Dane county, Wis, and engaged in farming until 1868, when he came to Monona county, Iowa, and in 1882 to his pres- ent place in West Fork township. He was married in 1870 to Martha Maria Westad, who was born in Norway. Her parents were Andrew and Mar- garete (Hubred) Westad. Mr. and Mrs. Solberg have had eight children, six of whom are living, viz.: Nettie, born January 25, 1872; Annie, born January 30, 1874; Oscar, born July 12, 1876; Minnie, April 28, 1878; Ed- 1006 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. win, born March 8, 1886; Alma, born September 14,1888. Mr. Solberg has 100 acres of land, and is engaged in farming and stock-raising. He received his education in the schools of Norway. In polities he is a republican. aw C a BEkKOE ne xe i Give. GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 1007 SKETCHES RECEIVED AFTER PRECEDING MATTER WAS IN PRINT, Hon. F. T. Evans was born November 28, 1835, in Geauga county, Ohio. He left the boyhood home in 1855, to seek his fortune in the wild, wild west, making his first stop near Stevens’ Point, Wis. In the fall of 1856, in com- pany with two other young men, he took a skiff and pulled down the river to Davenport, from whence they traveled by rail to Iowa City. From Iowa City the trio walked to Kanesville (Council Bluffs), a then Mormon outfitting post. Barefooted and out of money, they drifted into Omaha in search of work, and through Mr. Evans secured a contract of wood chopping at $1 per cord. Mr. Evans soon found that his companions presumed too much on his superior strength, and were too willing to have him do all the chop- ping, while they did the housekeeping, hence he determined to leave the camp and seek more lucrative employment. This he apparently found in a logging camp, where he spent the winter of 1856-57. When the dial pointed to ’58, he was the sole owner of a fine yoke of oxen. With these he con- tinued the logging business during the year, never losing a day’s time, al- though from frequent attacks of ague his body was often racked with pain. He shook regularly each alternate day, and often had to climb upon the log his trusty cattle were dragging, while his frame was burning with fever. In 1859, in company with a party of eight, he purchased an outfit and started for Pike’s Peak. Rumor reached them that Pike’s Peak was a hum- bug, and after reaching the summit of the Rockies, the parties held a council, and decided to go either to California or to Washington, to decide which, each man cut a pole and stood the pole on the summit, and agreed to take the course indicated by the falling pole. This resulted in five of the party going to the Walla Walla valley in Washington, and three. of the number going to California, Mr. Evans being one of the number that landed in Walla Walla valley. In 1860 he returned with a herd of ponies to Missouri Valley. In 1861 he bought a ranch near Grand Island, Neb. This proved his mascotte. Here he gathered a thousand head of cattle, and was also very successful in raising horses, sheep and hogs, and in general farming. Here he became the first custodian of Hall county’s cash, and, later, represented his county in the Nebraska Territorial legislature. And here too, near the banks of the ever-changing Platte, Cupid first shied an arrow through his great, throb- bing heart, and in the year 1863, when the wild flowers were just peeping 55 1008 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. into life, he took for “better” Miss Theresa M. Beal. Many spring flowers have bloomed and faded, and many dark clouds have hovered so close and heavy as to almost shut out the light, but the lovely Theresa M. (Beal) Evans has ever been the gentle, guiding star that kept hope high, and am- bition unfaltering, until to-day, Mr. Evans is one of the most successful business men in the northwest. In this same fertile valley Fred T. Evans, Jr., the eldest of the four children that added cheer and comfort to this happy union, first saw the light. The scene changes, in 1868, from the valley of the Platte to the valley of the “Big Muddy.” In this year Mr. Evans founded the town of Sloan, Iowa. After making purchase of a large body of land, he platted the town, and established a general store, in addition to his many other enterprises. From his timberland he furnished ties to build the Illinois Central railway from Le Mars to Sioux City, and also furnished lumber for depots and bridges. In 1871 he removed to Sioux City and engaged with Mr. Frank Peavey in the hardware and agricultural implement business. The year 1875 found this man of nerve launched in a new and untried field. This year he organized the Black Hills Transportation company, and here begins a chapter in the career of this truly courageous man, for which time and space only allow the merest mention. Mr. Evans, as superintendent and manager of the Black Hills Transportation company, purchased his out- fit, and made up his party to go gold hunting. The company’s train con- sisted of six four-mule teams. About two hundred men constituted the party, many farmers joining in the procession with their private teams. The freight Mr. Evans’ company had contracted to carry, consisted largely of seventy men and their baggage. Their route lay across Nebraska, through Covington, Creighton, O’Neill, and through the sand hills to Chad- ron. Many little clouds flitted over the bright sky of anticipation of this hopeful company of men who were ever eager for the almighty dollar, but nothing serious occurred until the train reached about the point where Gor- don now stands. On going into camp they noticed a company of United States cavalry headed toward them, but nothing heeded until the camp was surrounded by the blue-coats. Capt. Walker commanding, called for Mr. Evans and informed him that he was under arrest by order of General Sher- man, orders having been given that no white man should cross the Indian reservation. The next morning, vexed, disappointed and weary, the train was headed for Fort Randall as prisoners under conduct of the soldiers. When they came near the crossing of the Niobrara river, Mr. Evans discov- ered that he was not on the reservation, and that Capt. Walker had exceeded his authority. He therefore refused to go farther, after he had posted his men, and had succeeded in taking his mules from the wagons and stamped GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 1009 them up into the sand hills. When Capt. Walker discovered that he had been outwitted and outgeneraled, he was very wrathy, and ordered fifteen soldiers to place Mr. Evans under arrest and take him into the fort. But after a few minutes’ red-hot contest, the captain recalled his order. Mr. Evans succeeded in getting away with two wagons and all of his mules, and returned to Sioux City, and the gallant (?) captain piled up and burned the remaining wagons. The following year Mr. Evans, in company with John Hornick, formed the Evans & Hornick Transportation company, running a steamboat from Sioux City to Pierre, and from Pierre, freighting goods into the Black Hills, with mule and bull trains. Mr. Evans also fitted out the first transportation trains between Chamberlain and the Black Hills. He continued his freight- ing business until the advent of the Fremont, Elkhorn & Missouri Valley railroad into Rapid City, July 4, 1886. During these years of freighting Mr. Evans passed through untold trials and difficulties that only a man of almost superhuman power could undergo. His trains were often attacked by Indians, and often almost buried in black mud. In 1880 his men entered into a conspiracy and general strike. Many knives were whetted for his blood and many “44-calibres” were primed to pierce his heart. Only a man of his undaunted courage could have escaped with his life. Later Mr. Evans was one of the corporators of the Union Stock Yards company at Sioux City; he built and operated Sioux City’s first street rail- way, and assisted in the organization of the Northwestern National bank of Sioux City, of which he is now president. The crowning effort of his life, however, is the development of the Dakota Hot Springs, which promises to be the leading health and pleasure resort in the west. He has twice visited Europe, thoroughly acquainting himself with all important “watering” places, and adopting such ideas as are practical in making his already famed resort the best. Hon. Isaac 8S. Strrusrz, of Le Mars, was born near Fredericksburg, Va., November 3, 1843. His parents were Isaac and Emma (Teasdale) Struble, natives of New Jersey. In 1845 they moved to Ohio, with their family, re- maining there until 1857, when they came to Iowa, and settled on a farm near Iowa City. Mr. Struble’s early education was received in the common schools of Ohio and Iowa, but after the war he attended the Iowa State uni- versity, studied law, and was admitted to practice in 1870, and later was admitted to practice in the United States supreme court. At the age of eighteen he enlisted, in August, 1862, in Company F, of the Twenty-second Iowa infantry, marching in the ranks as a private until after the battle of Cedar Creek, Va., in 1864, when he was promoted to the rank of sergeant. The Twenty-second Iowa was a regiment of fighters, and 1010 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. among Iowa’s distinguished soldiers it holds a proud place. With his regi- ment, Mr. Struble saw hard service, until he was mustered out, July 25, 1865. Besides others of less historic interest, Mr. Struble was a participant in the battles of Port Gibson, siege of Vicksburg, battle and siege of Jack- son, Miss., and Cedar Creek, Va. In 1866 he went to St. Louis, where he remained about a year, as book- keeper in the wholesale house of J. H. Teasdale & Co., his uncle being the senior partner. After admission to the bar, in 1870, he began the practice of law, at Polo, Ill., where he remained until 1872, when he removed to Le Mars. Here he applied himself closely to his profession, and never held any public office until elected to the Forty-eighth congress, in 1882. In 1884, 1886 and 1888, Mr. Struble was renominated by acclamation, having the distinguished honor of being three times returned without oppo- sition in his own party. At his last election, in 1888, he received a majority of 6,259 votes over his democratic opponent. In 1890, on the forty-third ballot, the nomination went to Hon. George D. Perkins, of Woodbury county. Mr. Struble entered actively and vigorously into the campaign which followed, giving unqualified support to Mr. Perkins’ candidacy. Of his career in congress, the congressional record is the best evidence. He was always considered a strong member. Himself a soldier, he devoted much time to the interests of his soldier constituents, as many a veteran will testify. Of his persistency and vigorous efforts in advocacy of measures receiving his personal attention, the Sioux City public building bill, which became a law during the last session of the Fifty-first congress, 1s a good illustration. Mr. Struble occupied prominent positions on several committees, but it was in the committee on Territories that he figured most prominently. During his entire term of service he was a member of that committee. His speech on Oklahoma showed so thorough a grasp of territorial matters that he became authority on affairs pertaining to that and other Territories. He was made chairman of the committee on Territories of the Fifty-first congress, and as such had much to do in shaping legislation in reference to the organization of the Territory of Oklahoma, other important territorial legislation, and the admission of the new states of Idaho and Wyoming. When Mr. Struble returned from congress to settle down to the practice of law, at Le Mars, his neighbors and friends turned out, regardless of party, and gave him a grand reception at the opera house. The following from his home paper indicates the cordial spirit in which this demonstration was made: “ After a man has closed his official career, when he comes home to his neighbors and friends to settle down to private life, and gather up the ends of private business, to make a living for himself and family, then, when GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 1011 postoffices and fat appointments are no longer in his hands to dispense, that is the time when true and unselfish regard and friendship shows itself. That is the time when a public ovation means a sincere endorsement of the man and his work that has been done, rather than an enthusiastic prediction of future greatness, or a bid for future patronage.” During the winter of 1890-91 Mr. Struble received a very strong endorse- ment from the Iowa bar and press, as well as from business men, led by the almost unanimous petition of the Sioux City bar, for his appointment to the vacancy probably to be caused on the U.S. District bench, by the promo- tion of Judge O. P. Shiras. At present he is actively pursuing his profession, and engaged in his duties as president of the Western Investment company, of Le Mars. He was married, June 3, 1874, at Unity, Maine, to Addie E. Stone, daughter of Jonathan and Sarah (Stevens) Stone, of Puritan stock. Their family con- sists of Guy Treat, born June 3, 1875; Dwight Stone, born July 9, 1877; George Freeman, born May 5, 1878; Myrtle Adelaide, born April 8, 1880; and Isaac Irving, born August 18, 1884. Mr. and Mrs. Struble are mem- bers of the Congregational church, and he is an honored member of the Masonic, Knights of Pythias, and Grand Army orders, at Le Mars. Cartes Franxiin Hoyt, capitalist, Sioux City, was born in Tennessee, McDonough county, IIL, November 138, 1842, and comes of old New England stock. His grandfather and father, both of whom bore the name of Jona- than, were natives of New Hampshire, the latter being born in 1808; the former was noted as a very strong man, and often gave exhibitions of his prowess, in carrying great weights, at militia trainings. His wife was Jemima Ford, and both were probably descended from English ancestry. Elizabeth Rowley, mother of Mr. Hoyt, was born in Syracuse, N. Y., in 1819. Our subject was reared on the farm and attended the common schools. In his twenty-second year he set out with two companions for the mining regions of Idaho. They took turns in driving the team so that each walked two-thirds of the distance. Mr. Hoyt spent three years prospecting and mining, in Idaho and Montana, with moderate success, and during this time he became noted for his ability in finding his way over the rugged, snow- capped mountains of that region. He then spent three years in traveling, and during his wanderings he learned the art of photography. In 1870 he came to Sioux City, and soon formed a partnership with J. H. Hamilton, which continued four years, in conducting a gallery. Mr. Hoyt then engaged in the manufacture of vinegar and pickling materials, in which he continued till 1890, being the founder of the Sioux City Vinegar and Pickling works. He was also active in establishing the Sioux City Brick and Tile works, of which: he is president, and is the founder of the Sioux 1012 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. City Stoneware works. He is president of the Sioux Paving Brick company, which is a growing and valuable industry. Mr. Hoyt is largely interested in real estate operations in Sioux City, and is an extensive landholder in Kansas. He laid out Highland, Springdale, Edgewood Terrace and North Riverside, second filing. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and the K. of P. lodges. He entertains liberal religious views, and politically is a demo- crat. He served six years as a member of the city council, and an unexpired term as mayor, to which office he was elected for the succeeding term. In 1871 Mr. Hoyt married Miss Martha Goldie, a native of Leroy, N. Y., and daughter of William “Harris, of England. They have five living children, viz.: Charles L., Frank A., Mattie, Harry and Edna. Ralph, the fourth, died in infancy. ; Tomas Huperr Connirr (deceased) was born, May 19, 1816, in the city of Athlone, Ireland. His early education was acquired in the private schools of his native city, where he lived with his parents until seventeen years old. At that early age he enlisted in the British army, serving in the Highty- eighth infantry. With his regiment he was quartered for some years in the East Indies, during the rebellion of that country. Returning to England, he was chosen one of the body guard that accompanied Lord Durham to Canada when he was made Governor General of that province. While stationed at Niagara Falls his term of service expired, and he crossed to the United States, to make it his future home, settling at Lewiston, N. Y. Here he met and wedded Sarah McSpadden, July 14, 1842, who still survives him. In Lewiston he began the study of law, but gave it up on the outbreak of the Mexican war, and offered himself as a volunteer in the service of his adopted country. He was with Scott’s army that marched from Vera Cruz to the City of Mexico. After the surrender of the army of Santa Anna, he, with his regiment, was stationed at Fort Mackinac, Mich., where he received his discharge, after three years of good and faithful service. He located on a farm near Neenah, Wis., where he remained with his family for five years. Disposing of his interests there he located at Houston, Minn., where he turned his attention again to law. During his residence in Minnesota he was early identified with the political history of the state, holding several public offices at various times. He was a member of the Constitutional con- vention that made Minnesota a state; afterward was a member of the lower house of the general assembly. In 1856 he was elected district attorney, which office he held for three terms. At the outbreak of the Rebellion he was one of the first to offer himself in the service of his country, being at that time colonel of the Second Minnesota guards. He was ordered to the front to engage in the first battle of Bull Run, but was relieved of command on account of age and delicate health, much to his regret. He served as GENEALOGY AND BIOGRAPHY. 1013 recruiting officer during the last years of the war, in which position he did much valuable service. At the expiration of his term of office as district attorney, he moved to Iowa, locating on a farm near Sioux City. Here he lived quietly, taking great interest in educational and political questions, and devoting his time to farming and stock-raising. He died August 6, 1885, after a brief illness, while on a visit to his son and daughter living at Bridgewater, 8. Dak. His aged widow, six sons and three daughters, survive him, as follows: Mrs. J. A. Eberly, of Bridgewater, S. Dak.; Mrs. O. E. Comstock, Hutchinson, Kas.; Mrs. J. A. Blandel, Sioux City; Thomas H., Pierre, S. Dak.; Edwin R., Bridgewater, 8. Dak.; Fred, Denver, Col.; and William, George and Robert, Sioux City. Mr. Conniff was a man whom it was a pleasure to know, possessing a kind and jovial disposi- tion and a knowledge of current events that was remarkable. He always made and kept friends. He was a close student of the political history of the times, engaging actively in politics and educational matters. Davip Kirer, farmer, residing on section fifteen, Floyd township, was born in Westmoreland county, Pa., January 5, 1822, and is a son of Jacob and Mary (Byerley) Kifer, both natives of Pennsylvania, the former of Ger- man descent and the latter of English descent. Jacob Kifer was a stone mason by trade and followed that occupation in Westmoreland county, Pa., until his death, which occurred in 1846; his wife died in 1872. Jacob Kifer was a member of the German Reformed church and his wife of the Lutheran church. David Kifer was born and grew to manhood in Westmoreland county, receiving a common-school education there. He resided with his parents until the death of his father and the re-marriage of his mother, when he started out for himself. He learned the trade of milling, which he followed in Westmoreland county about five years. In the spring of 1850 he came to Dubuque county, Iowa, and six years later built a flouring mill, which he operated about twelve years. He then returned to his old home in Pennsyl- vania and built a mill, which he operated nine years. In 1883 he came to Woodbury county, Iowa, and purchased 640 acres of land, which he has farmed ever since. In 1847 Mr. Kifer married Lucinda Miller, of West- moreland county, and to this union have been born three children: George, William A. (who is county treasurer of Woodbury county) and Mary C. Both he and wife are members of the Reformed church, and he is democratic in politics. 1014 HISTORY OF WOODBURY AND PLYMOUTH COUNTIES. INDEX. PAGE Acts of Boards of Supervisors...............5. 81 Adams, William H........ . 826 Advertisement, Odd............. Jag 02 Agricultural Society (Plymouth Co.). «+. 470 Agricultural Society (Woodbury Co.). . «.. 120 ‘Ainslie, J. iy Ya ese ME eOGa AAR «+. 489 kron.......... . 434, 560 Albright, B. F wgaues 14 Albright, J. F -.. 861 Aldrich, A. E.. «xa O81 ‘Aldrich, Fred E. 554, S03 Allan, Francis P .+. 942 ‘Allan, Robert.... . 942 ‘Allen; E. D.... 5 195, 858 Alline, A, A... = 608, 620, 783 Allison, John P 4 agai 61, ‘4, 93, 151, ‘172, 196, 224, 660 ‘America tovush’p i Plymouth h Co. Dea . 590 American District Telegraph Co.. we. 231 American Fur Company.......... 50 American National Bank.. Amos, Col. Frank Andersen, A......- ‘Anderson, SE asia Anderson, R. J... Andrews, G. T. AMENOD 5. 4(csiaisenjw'sc sae Appleton, Hon. A. R.. eepleon Mrs. H. A. sateen a ee Qwopasnly Ps = Armstrong, Mrs i Armstrong, Platt...... Armstrong, Prof. Allen Arnold, R. 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