Qass f^ <^^^-7 ^^^^^^,HICAL Hisroj,^ -OIF- SHELBY AND AUDUBON COUNTIES, IOWA. Containing Portraits of all the Presidents of the United States from Washington TO Harrison, with accompanying Biographies of each ; Portraits and Biogra- phies OP THE Governors of the State; Engravings of Prominent Citizens in Shelbt and Audubon Counties, with Personal Histories of many of the Early Settlers and Leading Families. A Concise History op the Counties, and the Cities and Townships. W. S. DUNBAR & CO., PUBLISHERS, 7 113 Adams Street, Chicago. 1889. <& ^7 ^■' K^ CONTENTS PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. George Washington 9 John Adams 14 Thomas Jefferson 30 James Madison 26 James Monroe 32 John Quincy Adams 38 Andrew Jackson 47 Martin Van Buren 53 William Henry Harrison 56 John Tyler..' 60 James K. Polk 64 Zachary Taylor 6S Millard Fillmore 72 Franklin Pierce 76 James Buchanan 80 Abraham Lincoln 84 Andrew Johnson 93 Ulysses 8. Grant 96 Rutherford B. Hayes 102 James A. Garfield 109 Chester A. Arthur 113 Grover Cleveland 117 Benjamin Harrison 130 HISTORY OF IOWA. Aboriginal 133 Caucasian 124 Pioneer Life 133 Louisiana Territory 137 Iowa Territory 139 State Organization and Subse- quent History 141 Patriotism 146 Iowa Since the War 151 State Institutions 151 Educational 154 Statistical 157 Physical Features 158 Geology 158 Climate 183 Census of Iowa 164 Territorial Officers 164 State Officers 165 GOVERNORS OF IOWA. Robert Lucas 171 John Chambers 173 -James Clarke 175 Ansel Briggs 179 Stephen Hempstead 183 James W. Grimes 187 Ralph P. Lowe 191 Samuel J. Kirkwood 195 William M. Stone i99 Samuel Merrill 303 Cyrus C. Carpenter 207 Joshua G. Newbold 211 John H. Gear 215 Buren R. Sherman 219 William Larrabee 223 ^^^\*^^ f^isTor^Y OP Shelby (©ounty. CHAPTER I. Introductouy 229 Geology, Topography and Natural History.. 230 CHAPTER II. Early Settlement — The Mormons 232 County Government 235 Organization of Townships 236 First Events 238 CHAPTER IIL Official. Vote of Shelby County 241 County Officers 241 County Seat History 24,') CHAPTER IV. The Great Civil War 249 CHAPTER V. The Newspaper Press 251 CHAPTER VI. VARiona TiiiNos 254 Population in 1885, by Townships 254 Valuation of Properly 354 Agricultural Society 254 Medical Society 255 School Population 255 CONTENTS. The Marriage Record 255 Farmers' Mutual losurance Company 256 The Counly Poor Farm 256 The County Jail 256 Church of Latter-Day Saints 257 Elkhorn— PostoflSce and College 257 Then and Now 258 Defunct Vii-lages 259 Itan 259 Shelbyville 259 Simoda 259 Manteno 260 Present Towns and Villages 260 Harlan 200 Shelby 273 Irwin 277 Defiance 279 Village of Earling 281 Panama 283 Portsmouth 285 Village of Westphalia ... 287 Kirkman 290 Corley 291 Botna 292 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. A. Abbott, S. D 447 Adams, Alex 385 Adamson, James 621 Albers, Claus 552 Albertus, Fred 587 Albertus, F. D 585 Albertus, J. A 453 Allen, D.W 551 Allen, H. H 563 AUoway, G. W 630 Anstine, Theodore 616 Aruientroul, Jacob 629 Armentrout, Philip 629 Armstrong, John 436 Asquilh, T. G 410 Averill, T. E 571 B. Bacon, Thomas 439 Baird, J. F 599 Baird, Wm 618 Bare, John 560 Barr.G.S 428 Barrett, Thos 363 Barrett, W. G 383 Bartlett, L. L 387 Battey, George 490 Baughn, \V. L 405 Beard, Cyrus 363 Beh, J. F 578 Bell, G. 11 445 Benjamin, Daniel 578 Berry, A. J 430 Best, M. V 884 Bigler, E. S 504 Billeter, Sr., P 841 Billeter, Jr., P 344 Birks, liiley 483 Bishop, M. S 409 Black. Alex 496 Boardman. J 481 Bonne, J C 511 Booker. E. B 512 Booth, Nathaniel 461 Bosley, Jacob 575 Bowlin, F. M 372 Byd, H. I 490 Bradford, Bruce 611 Branson, W. S 366 Brindley, J 465 Brock, J. F 374 Brommenscbenkel, P 460 Broomhall, Thos 624 Brown, Gabriel 553 Brown, Japheth 548 Brown, R. C 518 Bnckman, A. N 301 Buckman, J. C 533 Bullard, J 489 Burke, J. T 413 Burwell, John 519 Buss, J. T 621 Byers, H. W 373 C. Caldwell, T.J 633 Campbell, Alex 338 Campbell, M. K 333 Campbell, W. C 469 Carmichel, Neil 372 Chance. W. P 380 Chase, D. W 333 Chalburn, J. \V 297 Christopher, W. F 447 Clark, J. M 612 Clark, J. M. B... 610 Cleveland, W. F 359 Closter, J. O .'i35 Cobb. E. A .306 Colby, G. F 512 Cold, P. F 566 Collins, David 510 Collins, E. A 803 Comstock, Orville 439 Constable, Wm 402 Cook, Thomas 474 Cook, Thomas 625 Cooper, D. C 443 Cooper, W. E 545 Copeland, Abner 631 Cory, J. O ,588 Cosgrove. Thos 511 Cox, W. W 451 Craig, H. W 631 Crandall, George 597 Crique, Joseph 393 Croft, G.S 344 Croft, G. W 531 Crouch, Frank 459 Cullison, G. W 376 Curtis, R. J 633 Custer, B. C 440 Custer, Henry 393 Custer, Henry 487 D. Dagget, Samuel 598 Daley, Daniel 319 Dammand, R. P 331 Darling, Thomas 534 Davis, W. J ^ 315 Deen, David 626 Dent, W. H 539 Dighton, B. B 609 Doughty, G. H .587 Dunham, Fletcher 318 Dunlap, J. M 434 E. Edwards, Garland 568 Edwards. Wm 517 Eokars. George 433 Erickson, EH 560 Escher, H. A 417 Evans, G.R 478 F. Fay, R. G 458 Fish, E. F 585 Fish, G. M 586 Fish, I. J 429 Fish, Mason 582 Fisher, Azariah 826 Fleming. Daniel 613 Ford, Robert ". . 592 Fountain. Pierson 530 French, J. W 362 Fritz, John 606 Fritz, Silas 329 Frost, L. D 423 Fry, Daniel 577 Fry, L. W 460 Fudge M. S 608 CONTENTS. G. Gallagher, Thos 579 Gammon. Warren 394 Gardner, Joseph 561 Garland, H. J 352 Geiger, J. W 353 Gihbs, G. S 353 Gilmore, J. P 438 Gingery, Lewis 317 Gish. David 320 Gooding, Fred 38S Graves, C. E 535 Graves, Z. H GOO Gregg, A. E 493 Green, D. W 5!i6 Groat, A. J 540 Gubbels, Peler 484 Guthrie, J. H 530 H. Hack, H. P 445 Hall, David «17 Hall, J. L 40« Hamdorf, Henry 345 Hammer, Peter 401 Hammes, Michael 595 Handy, \Vm 483 Uarlord, T. N 365 Harrod, H 334 Havens, Mrs. M. M 331 Hawkins. James 304 Hawley, George 452 Hawley, Pierce 473 Heck, G. E 508 Heese, J. C 505 Heglin, G. C 363 Henrickson, H. N 386 Henry, O. T 566 Herkenrath, Peter 489 Higgins, John 479 Hinkle, Jacob 497 Holcomb, H. C 495 Holcomb, H. C 354 Holcomb, O. E 495 Hon, Jesse 543 Hoover, E.E 598 Howlett, Sr., Wm 309 Howlett, Jr., Wm 437 Hummert, J. B 453 I. Ickes, G. W 580 Irwin, Ebenezer 569 Irwin, E.W 364 Irwin, D. S 570 Ivey, James 430 J. Jackson, Alfred 472 Jackson, John 534 Jacobson, Andrew 520 Jacobson, Lorens 459 James, George 591 James, Robert 571 Jarvis, L. L 375 Jenson, L. 384 Jenson, Peter 547 Johnson, Alonzo 435 Johnson, Christian 589 Johnson, Wm 616 Johnson, W.J 624 Jorgenson, James 424 K. Kavanagh, T. A 017 Keairnes, Wm 575 Keairnes, Willson 523 Keehner, Karl 633 Keeney, M. T 351 Kees, H. B 300 Keller, G.F 487 Kellogg, Lewis 607 Kerr, L. M 395 Keyes, C. H 330 Kidd, Charles 515 Kite, R. W 603 Kleeb, Wm 448 Kohl, E.V 416 Kohl, G. D 416 Kohl, S. F 415 Korth, Jacob 594 Korlh, P.J 592 Korth, Peter 593 Kostelecky, Charles 516 Kuhl, J. H 427 Kuhl, M. P 591 L. Lamphere, John 609 Langent'eld, John 466 Larson, M 506 Larson, N 518 Lawrence, J. M 600 Lawson, J. E 548 Ledwich, Thomas 391 Lee, Henry 387 Leinen, Constand 626 Leinen, Matthias 6:^0 Leytham, Richard - 478 Leytham, Thomas 481 Linn, J. B 520 Linn, S. B 382 Loehr, F. W 457 Long, T. A 554 Lorge, John 581 Lorge, N.J 581 Louis, J. H 421 Luecke, H. H 354 M. Macy, N. W 331 Madsen, John 583 Malick, J. M 488 Mansfield, J. C 446 Martinson, Peter 541 Maxwell, Alex 418 McCoid, G. W 597 McCoid, Thomas 596 McCord, Alex 557 McCuskey, H. C 503 McDonald, Thomas 308 McDowell, Luke 535 McDowell, Oliver 524 McGinness, Wm 343 McGorri8k,W. B 341 Mcintosh, J. A 307 McKeever, Anthony 345 McKeig, Wesley 444 McNaughton.F. J 498 Means, Otho 515 Meier, C. W 434 Michaelson, Chris 53d Miller, F. A 590 Miller, G. H 536 Miller, J. J 536 Miller, J. P 414 Miller, Noah 543 Miller, T. J 408 Miller, W. F 559 Mills, J. S 361 Mitchell, Thos 534 Morgan, Jap 516 Morgan, J. W 594 Morris, D. E 517 Muck, R. W 554 Muldoon, H. W 561 Murfleld, D. F 414 Musselman, Daniel 559 Myers, Eliab 611 N. Neff, J. H 595 Neff, Oscar 466 Newberry, A. M 633 Newby, James 319 Newhouse, George 355 Nichols, H. 6 632 Nicolls, H. C 381 Nieman, H.A 531 O. Obrecht, Martin 526 Osborn, A. Q 448 Olson, Jens 546 Olson, Nels '. . . 355 Olson, T. B 451 P. Panian, John 392 Pattee, A. J 374 Patterson, G. K 343 Paulk, C. H 433 Paulk, J. W 410 Paup, George 299 Penniston, Edmund 529 Perry, J. P 544 Peters, Wm 623 Peterson, Andrew 309 Pieffer, J. M 509 Pinney, Harmon 610 Plumb, Francis 409 Plumb, Valentine 551 Poling, Martin 368 Pomeroy, John 502 Pomeroy, R. M 386 Pool, S. G 552 Porter, Robert 618 Potter, H. C 457 Potter, John 400 Potter. J. S 383 Potts, G. W 608 Pratt, J. M 572 Pratt, S. K 480 Pritchard, A 599 Pulver, Harman 356 Pulver, M 533 CONTENTS. R. Kalston, J. N 603 Kamsay, J. O 438 Ramsay, S. J 457 Redfielci, C. C 302 Reed, C. A 497 Reynolds, Miles 406 Riley, A. K 465 Roberts, Wm 424 Roberts, Benj 526 Robinson, Charles 453 Robertson, J. M 532 Roland, J 483 Rorabaugh, A. P 329 Roundy, N.J 509 Roundy, Sarah 471 Roundy, W 310 Runnells, H, J 576 Ryan, T.J 565 S. Salter, J. W 558 Sarvis, G. W. M 645 Saunders, C. A 428 Schafer, Philip 422 Schiltz, John 470 Schouboe, A. A 395 Schnuettgen, A 504 Scutt, Wesley 322 Seymore, Monroe.... 607 Slieller, D. B 333 Shorelt, Lewis 505 SIdener, S. A 576 Silliman, 8. P 4GJ Slates, Samuel 458 Smith, Caleb 543 Smith. Harrison 382 Smith, J. W 405 -Smith, T. H 314 ■ Smith, W.J 407 Snyder, H. L. 492 Snyder, H. M 615 Sontag, Theodore 623 Sorenson, J. P 373 Stanley, J. L 454 Starr, G. W 604 Steen, Robert 313 Stephens, J. R 366 Stephenson, G. R 605 Sunderland, L. D 336 Swain, J. B 580 Swift, C.F 579 Swinehart, George 535 T. Terrill, Dwight 335 Teske, Charles 479 Theile, Frank 589 Thomas, Wm 408 Tingle, A. H 477 Trotter, M. W 437 Truman, Sirs. H. A 374 V. Vandeburg. J. D 604 Vering, Ferdinand 433 Vogt, Nicholas 547 W. Wadkins, Wm 541 Walmer, Q. W 483 Walters, D. B 501 Walters, Jacob 502 Warner, A. B 375 Watterbury, Daniel 440 Watterbury, Edward 646 Watterbury, Lewis 421 Watterbury, Stephen 435 Westrope, T. R 313 Wheeler, W. W 396 Wilcox, A. C 553 Wilfong, Andrew 401 Will, Peter 367 Williams, G. M 480 Williamson, C 491 Willson, W. L 335 Wilson, Daniel 417 Wilson, John 484 Winters, Mrs. A. G. M 305 Wooster, J. C 567 Wright, J. T 415 Wyland, C. J 295 Wyland, DM 346 Wyland, J 337 Wyland, O. P 371 Wyland, T. J 356 Wyland, Wm 335 Wyland, W. W 394 Y. Yackey, Joseph 501 Yoder, Stephen 376 ■^^^^ por^Tr^AiiTS. Armentrout, Philip 628 Baughn, W. L 404 Bosley, Jacob 574 Brindley, J 464 Brown, .1 apheth 549 Burke, J. T 413 Campbell, W. C... 468 Clark, J. M 613 Cleveland, W.F 358 Collins, E. A 303 Cooper, I). C 443 Cullisou,G. W 377 Eokars, Geo 432 Pish, E. F 584 Gregg, A. E 493 Keairnes, Willson 522 Keller, Geo. F 486 Kidd, Charles 514 Kite, R.W 602 Kuhl, J. H 426 Larson, .M . . . . 507 Ledwich, Thos 390 Loehr, Fred 450 McCord, Ale.x 556 Miller, J. J 537 Olson, T. B 450 Penniston, Edmund 538 Perry, J. P ,....544 Porter, Robert 619 Roundy, W 311 Ryan, T. J 564 Sunderland, L. D 338 Sunderland, Mrs. Mary E 339 Tingle, A. H 478 AValters, D. B 500 Watterbury, Lewis 430 Wheeler, W. W 397 Wyland, C.J 294 Wyland, D. M 347 Wyland, O. P 370 Wyland, Wm 324 CONTENTS. History of Audubon Sounty. CHAPTER I. Imtroductost 637 Geology, Topography and General Features. 638 CHAPTER II. Early Settlement and Organization 039 First Events 641 Organization 643 CHAPTER III. CotTNTY Government 645 CHAPTER IV. Election Returns — County, State and Na- tional 651 Liquor Prohibitory Amendment 654 CHAPTER V. Special Events and Other Matters 655 Special Events 655 Assessed Valuation of Property in 1888 656 Marriage Record 656 Population, by Townships, in 1885 (i56 Population at Various Dales 656 CHAPTER VI. The Newspaper Press 657 CHAPTER VII. Various Things 662 Educational 602 Audubon County Soldiers 663 Railroads, the Squatters, etc 603 Stock-raising 665 Agricultural Society 605 CHAPTER VIII. Towns and Villages 667 Record of Village Plats 667 Audubon 668 Exira 675 Brayton 680 Gray 081 Ross 683 Kimballton 683 CHAPTER IX. Crime in Shelby .vnd Audubon Counties 085 The Jellerson Murder and Subsequent Lynch- ing 086 Polk City Murderers Captured and Lynched. 689 Crooked Creek Outlaws 692 Murder of C. H. Kleva 693 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. A. Allen, A. E 794 Allen, F. D 714 Andrews, H. F 701 Armstrong, A. P 798 B. Bagley, Charles 728 Baker, Luke 716 Baker, Robert 795 Bartlett, H. M 730 Bartlett, Washington 805 Bashani, J. H 757 Bauer, Valentine 771 Beason, Silas 802 Beers, 13radley 779 Beers, L. A 771 Bell, J. T 715 Bickelhaupt, Philip 770 Bilharz, Emil 713 Bonwell, J. C 807 Bradley, F. P 804 Brookfield, B. C 814 Brown, I. N 780 Burnside, Wilson 722 C. Cameron, John 821 Cameron, W. G 817 Carpenter, R. C 800 Carpenter, R. M 713 Carper, M. L 751 Carper, R. N 755 Clark, Wm. J 789 Cloughly, J. F 799 Cloughly, Wm 824 Colee, C. A. W 770 Conklin, Henry 782 Conrad, Joseph 777 Consigny, J. F 097 Cotton, G. E 767 Cousins, E. B 703 Crane W. A 724 Creveling, R. J 740 Cunningham, Bernard 731 Curtis, Joseph 779 Curtis, Wm 763 D. Davidson, R. H 822 Davis, Wm. E 739 Detwiler, A. N 809 Doak, J. B 723 Donaldson, S. F 780 Dubois, G. M 757 E. Eddy, A. J 752 F. Fancher, Amos 784 Ferguson, David 732 Fiscus, Elias 788 Fiscus, Wilson 823 Foreman, B. G 783 Frahm, J. H •. . . . 751 CONTENTS. Francisco, O. B 820 Freeman, E. J 698 G. Gardner, 8. M 810 Garratt, Jacob 775 Garroutte, Frank 823 Gault, Richard 735 Gifford, M. K 732 Gillespie, G. W C 797 Graves, D. D 785 Gray, George 800 Green, H.J 795 Griggs, J. M 758 H. Hall, James 789 Halloclt, I. P 696 Hamlin, Nathaniel 709 Hanna, H. W 717 Hansen, H.P 812 Hardenbrook, George 759 Hays, Samuel. — 734 Henderson, Robert 820 Hendricks, D. W 770 Hensley, F. M 734 Hensley, J. J 748 Hensley, L. M 778 Hensley, VVm. E 777 Hicks, J. A 749 Hill, Jacob H 781 Huffman, Charles 774 Holliday, James 756 Holmes, J. D 711 Houston, A. B 721 Houston, O.J 803 Howald, B. F 750 Huffman, F. P 810 Hutchinson, J. J 808 I. Ide, O. F 739 J. Jarman, John 714 Jeffries, G. C 761 Jenkins, I. H 763 Jenkins, J. T 718 Jensen, Jesper 825 Johnston, Wra 811 Jordan, Samuel 733 K. Kilworth, T. H 763 L. Lacy, R. H 787 Lancelot, W. J 819 Lass, D. G 723 Lewis. Josephus 765 Littlefield. A. F 727 Luse. J. F 754 M. Mallory.Wm 728 Mason, G. S. D 768 McAnulty, D. A 781 McCain, George 801 McClure, Wm. H 824 McFadden, Joseph 725 McLachlin, G. J 813 McLaughlin, F. R 815 McLeran.Wm 791 Miller, Robert 742 Morey, N. L . 738 Myers, T.F 797 N. Nash, John 792 Nash, John A 790 Newell, Joseph 782 Newell, Wm. J 812 O. Oelke, August 764 Overholtzer, J. A 772 P. Phelps, B. S 704 Poulson, W. M 727 Powers, D.W 721 R. Reed, LW 773 Reynolds, J. M 805 Ridpath, Joseph 753 Riley, John 719 Roberts, A. H 710 Roberts, O. H. P 764 Rodgers, A. F 760 Ross, G. M 785 Russell, G.B 798 S. Sampson, C. H 742 Sanborn, A. L 735 Scott, Wm. H 729 Seyller, Lawrence 784 Shaugur, D. E 761 Shingledecker, Jerome 724 Sibson, Richard 818 Sickles, Wm. W 763 Sizer, Robert 769 "Smith, Charles 737 Statzell, L L 760 Steere, R. A 698 Strahl, M. P 793 Stuart, Wm.G 754 Swaney, Wm. L 816 T. Taylor, M.D 813 Te'akle, Amos 774 Thomas, Isaac 726 Thornisch, J. P 749 V. Van Gorder, Charles 695 Van Gorder, H. W 738 Vail,C. H 699 W. Walker, Thomas 716 Walker, Wm 744 Walker, Wm. J 768 Walkup, V. A 729 Waycoff, J. D 796 Webster, H. Z 816 Weeks, C. H 731 Wever, A. L 717 Whitted, P. I 741 Willcutt, C. F 730 Willox, James 737 Winters, Thomas 712 Wiseman, F. P 815 Witthauer, Otto 720 Wood, G. W 775 Y. Young, Edgar 778 -^*^ »#mi^mai Hamlin, Nathan Hamlin, Mrs. Margaret. .707 I Walker, William 746 .706 1 Wilker, Mrs. Nancy J 747 A> GEORGE n'ASHfNGTON. EORGE WASHING- TON, the " Father of his Country" and its first President, 1789- '97, was born Febru- ary 22, 1732, in Wash- ington Parish, West- t^X'1^% morelaiid Cou nty, Virginia. \^^M;y^^ His father, Augustine Wash- «!y^|^^ ington, first married Jane But- if®''?'^'5^\ ler, who bore him four chil- ld*i3 J ^''*^"' ^^'^ March 6, 1730, he married Mary Ball. Of six children by his second mar- riage, George was the eldest, the others being Betty, Samuel, John, Au- gustine, Charles and Mildred, of whom the youngest died in infancy. Little is known of the early years of Washington, beyond the fact that the house in which he was born was burned during his early child- hood, and that his father thereupon moved to another farm, inherited from his paternal ancestors, situated in Stafford County, on the north bank of the Rappahannock, where he acted as agent of the Principio Iron Works in the immediate vicinity, and died there in 1743. From earliest childhood George devel- oped a noble character. He had a vigorous constitution, a fine form, and great bodily strength. His education was somewhat de- fective, being confined to the elementary branches taught him by his mother and at a neighboring school. He developed, how- ever, a fondness for mathematics, and en- joyed in that branch the instructions of a private teacher. On leaving school he re- sided for some time at Mount Vernon with his half brother, Lawrence, who acted as his guardian, and who had married a daugh- ter of his neighbor at Bclvoir on the Poto- mac, the wealthy William Fairfax, for some time president of the executive council of the colony. Both Fairfax and his son-in-law, Lawrence Washington, had served witii dis- tinction in 1740 as officers of an American battalion at the siege of Carthagcna, and were friends and correspondents of Admiral Vernon, for whom the latter's residence on the Potomac has been named. George's inclinations were for a similar career, and a midshipman's warrant was procured for him, probably through the influence of the Admiral ; but through the opposition of his mother the project was abandoned. The family connection with the Fairfaxes, how- ever, opened another career for the young man, who, at the age of sixteen, was ap- pointed surveyor to the immense estates of the eccentric Lord Fairfax, who was then on a visit at Bclvoir, and who shortly after- ward established his baronial residence at Green way Court, in the Shenandoah Valley. PRES/DEATS OF TUB UNITED STATES. Three years were passed by young Wash- ington in a rough frontier life, gaining ex- perience which afterward proved very es- sential to him. In 175 1, when the Virginia militia were put under training wiih a view to active service against France, Washington, though only nineteen years of age, was appointed Adjutant with the rank of Major. In Sep- tember of that year the failing health of Lawrence Washington rendered it neces- sary for him to seek a warmer climate, and Ge irge accompanied him in a vo3'age to B?.: ladoes. They returned earl3' in 1752, and '-awrence shortly afterward died, leav- ing h. 5 large property to an infant daughter. In his will George was named one of the executors and as eventual heir to Mount Vernon, and by the death of the infant niece soon succeeded to that estate. On the arrival of Robert Dinwiddle as Lieutenant-Governor of Virginia in 1752 the militia was reorganized, and the prov- ince divided into four districts. Washing- ton was commissioned by Dinwiddle Adju- tant-General of the Northern District in 1753, and in November of that year a most important as well as hazardous mission was assigned him. This was to proceed to the Canadian posts recently established on French Creek, near Lake Erie, to demand in the name of the King of England the withdrawal of the French from a territory claimed by Virginia. This enterprise had been declined by more than one officer, since it involved a journey through an ex- tensive and almost unexplored wilderness in the occupancy of savage Indian tribes, either hostile to the English, or of doubtful attachment. Major Washington, however, accepted the commission with alacritj- ; and, accompanied by Captain Gist, he reached Fort Le Boeuf on French Creek, delivered his dispatches and received reply, which, of course, was a polite refusal to surrender the posts. This reply was of such a character as to induce the Assembly of Virginia to authorize the executive to raise a regiment of 300 men for the purpose of maintaining the asserted rights of the British crown over the territory claimed. As Washing- ton declined to be a candidate for that post, the command of this regiment was given to Colonel Joshua Fry, and Major Washing- ton, at his own request, was commissioned Lieutenant-Colonel. On the march to Ohio, news was received that a parly previously sent to build a fort at the confluence of the Monongahela with the Ohio had been driven back by a considerable French force, which had completed the work there be- gun, and named it Fort Duquesne, in honor of the Marquis Duquesne, then Governor of Canada. This was the beginning of the great " French and Indian war," which con- tinued seven years. On the death of Colonel Fry, Washington succeeded to the com- mand of the regiment, and so well did he fulfill his trust that the Virginia Assembly commissioned him as Commander-in-Chief of all the forces raised in the colony. A cessation of all Indian hostility on the frontier having followed the expulsion of the French from the Ohio, the object of Washington was accomplished and he re- signed his commission as Commander-in- Chief of the Virginia forces. He then pro- ceeded to Williamsburg to take his seat in the General Assembly, of which he had been elected a member. January 17, 1759, Washington married Mrs. Martha (Dandridge) Custis, a young and beautiful widow of great wealth, and de- voted himself for the ensuing fifteen years to the quiet pursuits of agriculture, inter- rupted only by his annual attendance in winter upon the Colonial Legislature at Williamsburg, until summoned by his country to enter upon that other arena in which his fame was to become world wide. It is unnecessary here to trace the details of the struggle upon the question of local dEORGE WASHINGTON. It self-government, which, after ten years, cul- minated b)' act of Parliament of the port of Boston. It was at the instance of Virginia that a congress of all the colonies was called to meet at Philadelphia September 5, 1774, to secure their common liberties — if possible by peaceful means. To this Congress Colonel Washington was sent as a dele- gate. On dissolving in October, it recom- mended the colonies to send deputies to another Congress the following spring. In the meantime several of the colonies felt impelled to raise local forces to repel in- sults and aggressions on the part of British troops, so that on the assembling of the next Congress, May 10, 1775, the war prepara- tions of the mother country were unmis- takable. The battles of Concord and Lex- ington had been fought. Among the earliest acts, therefore, of the Congress was the selection of a commander-in-chief of the colonial forces. This office was unani- mously conferred upon Washington, still a member of the Congress. He accepted it on June 19, but on the express condition he should receive no salary. He immediately repaired to the vicinity of Boston, against which point the British ministry had concentrated their forces. As early as April General Gage had 3,000 troops in and around this proscribed city. During the fall and winter the British policy clearly indicated a purpose to divide pub- lic sentiment and to build up a British party in the colonies. Those who sided with the ministry were stigmatized by the patriots as " Tories," while the patriots took to them- selves the name of " Whigs." As early as 1776 the leading men had come to the conclusion that there was no hope except in separation and indepen- dence. In May of that year Washington wrote from the head of the army in New York : " A reconciliation with Great Brit- ain is impossible When I took command of the army, I abhorred the idea of independence ; but I am now fully satis- fied that nothing else will save us." It is not the object of this sketch to trace the military acts of the patriot hero, to whose hands the fortunes and liberties of the United States were confided during the seven years' bloody struggle that ensued until the treaty of 1783, in which England acknowledged the independence of each of the thirteen States, and negotiated with them, jointly, as separate sovereignties. The merits of Washington as a military chief- tain have been considerably discussed, espe- cially by writers in his own country. Dur- ing the war he was most bitterly assailed for incompetency, and great efforts were made to displace him ; but he never for a moment lost the confidence of either the Congress or the people. December 4, 1783, the great commander took leave of his offi- cers in most affectionate and patriotic terms, and went to Annapolis, Maryland, where the Congress of the States was in session, and to that body, when peace and order prevailed everywhere, resigned his com- mission and retired to Mount Vernon. It was in 1788 that Washington was called to the chief magistracy of the nation. He received every electoral vote cast in all the colleges of the States voting for the office of President. The 4th of March, 1789, was the time appointed for the Government of the United States to begin its operations, but several weeks elapsed before quorums of both the newly constituted houses of the Congress were assembled. The city of New York was the place where the Congress then met. April 16 Washington left his home to enter upon the discharge of his new duties. He set out with a purpose of traveling privately, and without attracting any public attention ; but this was impossi- ble. Everywhere on his way he was met with thronging crowds, eager to see the man whom they regarded as the chief de- fender of their liberties, and everywhere PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. he was hailed with those public manifesta- tions of joy, regard and love which spring spontaneously from the hearts of an affec- tionate and grateful people. His reception in New York was marked by a grandeur and an enthusiasm never before witnessed in that metropolis. The inauguration took place April 30, in the presence of an immense multitude which had assembled to witness the new and imposing ceremony. The oath of office was administered by Robert R. Livingston, Chancellor of the State. When this sacred pledge was given, he retired with the other officials into the Senate chamber, where he delivered his inaugural address to both houses of the newly con- stituted Congress in joint assembly. In the manifold details of his civil ad- ministration, Washington proved himself equal to the requirements of his position. The greater portion of the first session of the first Congress was occupied in passing the necessary statutes for putting the new organization into complete operation. In the discussions brought up in the course of this legislation the nature and character of the new system came under general review. On no one of them did any decided antago- nism of opinion arise. All held it to be a limited government, clothed only with spe- cific powers conferred by delegation from the States. There was no change in the name of the legislative department; it still remained "the Congress of the United States of America." There was no change in the original flag of the countr^'.and none in the seal, which still remains with the Grecian escutcheon borne by the eagle, with other emblems, under the great and expressive motto, " E Pluribus Unum." The first division of parties arose upon the manner of construing the powers dele- gated, and they were first styled " strict constructionists" and " latitudinarian con- structionists." The former were for con- fining the action of the Government strictly within its specific and limited sphere, while the others were for enlarging its powers by inference and implication. Hamilton and Jefferson, both members of the first cabinet, were regarded as the chief leaders, respect ively, of these rising antagonistic parties, which have existed, under different names, from that day to this. Washington was re- garded as holding a neutral position between them, though, by mature deliberation, he vetoed the first apportionment bill, in 1790, passed by the party headed by Hamilton, which was based upon a principle construct- ively leading to centralization or consoli- dation. This was the first exercise of the veto power under the present Constitution. It created considerable excitement at the time. Another bill was soon passed in pur- suance of Mr. Jefferson's views, which has been adhered to in principle in every ap- portionment act passed since. At the second session of the new Con- gress, Washington announced the gratif}'- ing fact of " the accession of North Caro- lina" to the Constitution of 1787, and June I of the same j'ear he announced by special message the like " accession of the State of Rhode Island," with his congratulations on the happy event which " united under the general Government" all the States which were originally confederated. In 1792, at the second Presidential elec- tion, Washington was desirous to retire; but he yielded to the general wish of the countrjr, and was again chosen President by the unanimous vote of every electoral college. At the third election, 1796, he was again most urgently entreated to consent to remain in the executive chair. This he positively refused. In September, before the election, he gave to his countrymen his memorable Farewell Address, which in lan- guage, sentiment and patriotism was a fit and crowning glory of his illustrious life. After March 4, 1797, he again retired to Mount Vernon for peace, quiet and repose. CEORGE IVASf/fJVGTOAr. n His administration for the two terms had been successful beyond the expectation and hopes of even the most sanguine of his friends. The finances of the country were no longer in an embarrassed condition, the public credit was fully restored, life was given to every department of industry, the workings of the new system in allowing Congress to raise revenue from duties on imports proved to be not only harmonious in its federal action, but astonishing in its results upon the commerce and trade of all the States. The e.xports from the Union increased from $19,000,000 to over $56,000,- 000 per annum, while the imports increased in about the same proportion. Three new members had been added to the Union. The progress of the States in their new career under their new organization thus far was exceedingly encouraging, not only to the friends of liberty within their own limits, but to their sympathizing allies in all climes and countries. 01 the call again made on this illustrious chief to quit his repose at Mount Vernon and take command of all tlie United States forces, with the rank of Lieutenant-Gcnerai, when war was threatened with France in 1798, nothing need here be stated, except to note the fact as an unmistakable testimo- nial of the high regard in which he was still held by his countrymen, of all shades of po- litical opinion. He patriotically accepted this trust, but a treaty of peace put a stop to all action under it. He again retired to Mount Vernon, where, after a short and severe illness, he died December 14, 1799, in the sixty-eighth year of his age. The whole country was filled with gloom b)- this sad intelligence. Men of all parties in poli- tics and creeds in religion, in every State in the Union, united with Congress in " pay- ing honor to the man, first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his country- men." His remains were deposited in a family vault on the banks of the Potomac at Mount Vernon, where they still lie entombed. '^^^i >4 PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. M^y OHN ADAMS, the second President of the United States, 1797 to 1 80 1, was born in the present town of Quincy, then a portion of Braintree, Massachu- setts, October 30, 1735. His father was a farmer of mod- erate means, a worthy and industrious man. He was a deacon in the church, and was very desirous of giving his son a collegiate educa- tion, hoping that he would become a minister of the gospel. But, as up to this time, the age of fourteen, he had been only a play-boy in the fields and forests, he had no taste for books, he chose farming. On being set to work, however, by his father out in the field, the very first day con- verted the bo}' into a lover of books. Accordingly, at the age of sixteen he entered Harvard College, and graduated in 1755, at the age of twentv, highly esteemed for integrity, energy and ability. Thus, having no capital but his education, he started out into the stormy world at a time of great political excitement, as France and England were then engaged in their great seven-years struggle for the mastery over the New World. The fire of patriotism seized young Adams, and for a time he studied over the question whether he should take to the law, to politics or the ami}'. He wrote a remarkable letter to a friend, making prophecies concerning the future greatness of this country which have since been more than fulfilled. For two years he taught school and studied law. wasting no odd moments, and at the early age of twenty-two years he opened a law office in his native town. His inherited powers of mind and untiring devotion to his profession caused him to rise rapidly in public esteem. In October, 1764, Mr. Adams married Miss Abigail Smith, daughter of a clergy- man at Weymouth and a lady of rare per- sonal and intellectual endowments, who afterward contributed much to her hus- band's celebrity. Soon the oppression of the British in America reached its climax. The Boston merchants employed an attorney by the name of James Otis to argue the legality of oppressive tax law before the Superior Court. Adams heard the argument, and afterward wrote to a friend concerning the ability displayed, as follows : " Otis was a flame of fire. With a promptitude of classical allusion, a depth of research, a rapid summary of historical events and dates, a profusion of legal authorities and a '/nu yOHN AOA/tlS. '7 prophetic glance into futurity, he hurried awa}' all before him. Atiifrican independence was then and there born. Every man of an immensely crowded audience appeared to me to go awa}', as I did, ready to take up arms." Soon Mr. Adams wrote an essay to be read before the literary club of his town, upon the state of affairs, which was so able as to attract public attention. It was pub- lished in American journals, republished in England, and was pronounced by the friends of the colonists there as " one of the very best productions ever seen from North America." The memorable Stamp Act was now issued, and Adams entered with all the ardor of his soul into political life in order to resist it. He drew up a series of reso- lutions remonstrating against the act, which were adopted at a public meeting of the citizens of Braintree, and which were sub- sequently adopted, word for word, by more than forty towns in the State. Popular commotion prevented the landing of the Stamp Act papers, and the English author- ities then closed the courts. The town of Boston therefore appointed Jeremy Grid- ley, James Otis and John Adams to argue a petition before the Governor and council for the re-opening of the courts; and while the two first mentioned attorneys based their argument upon the distress caused to the people by the measure, Adams boldly claimed that the Stamp Act was a violation both of the English Constitution and the charter of the Provinces. It is said that this was the first direct denial of the un- limited right of Parliament over the colo- nies. Soon after this the Stamp Act was repealed. Directly Mr. Adams was employed to defend Anseil Nickerson, who had killed an Englishman in the act of impressing him (Nickerson) into the King's service, and his client was acquitted, the court thus estab- lishing the principle that the infamous royal prerogative of impressment could have no existence in the colonial code. But in 1770 Messrs. Adams and Josiah Quincy defended a party of British soldiers who had been arrested for murder when they had been only obeying Governmental orders ; and when reproached for thus ap- parently deserting the cause of popular liberty, Mr. Adams replied that he would a thousandfold rather live under the domina- tion of the worst of England's kings than under that of a lawless mob. Next, after serving a term as a member of the Colonial Legislature from Boston, Mr. Adams, find- ing his health affected by too great labor, retired to his native home at Braintree. The year 1774 soon arrived, with its fa- mous Boston " Tea Party," the first open act of rebellion. Adams was sent to the Congress at Philadelphia ; and when the Attorney-General announced that Great Britain had " determined on her system, and that her power to execute it was irre- sistible," Adams replied : " I know that Great Britain has determined on her sys- tem, and that very determination deter- mines me on mine. You know that I have been constant in my opposition to her measures. The die is now cast. I have passed the Rubicon. Sink or swim, live or die, with m}^ country, is my unalterable determination." The rumor beginning to prevail at Philadelphia that the Congress had independence in view, Adams foresaw that it was too soon to declare it openly. He advised every one to remain quiet in that respect; and as soon as it became ap- parent that he himself was for independ- ence, he was advised to hide himself, which he did. The next year the great Revolutionary war opened in earnest, and Mrs. Adams, residing near Boston, kept her husband ad- vised by letter of all the events transpiring in her vicinity. The battle of Bunker Hill I8 PRESIDENTS OF THE US'ITED STATES. came on. Congress had to do something immediately. The first thing was to choose a commander-in-chief for the — we can't say " army " — the fighting men of the colonies. The New England delegation was almost unanimous in favor of appoint- ing General Ward, then at the head of the Massachusetts forces, but Mr. Adams urged the appointment of George Washington, then almost unknown outside of his own State. He was appointed without oppo- sition. Mr. Adams offered the resolution, which was adopted, annulling all the ro3'al authority in the colonies. Having thus prepared the way, a few weeks later, viz., June 7, 1776, Richard Henry Lee, of Vir- ginia, who a few months before had declared that the British Government would aban- don its oppressive measures, now offered the memorable resolution, seconded by Adams, " that these United States are, and of right ought to be, free and independent." Jefferson, Adams, Franklin, Sherman and Livingston were then appointed a commit- tee to draught a declaration of independ- ence. Mr. Jefferson desired Mr. Adams to draw up ihe bold document, but the latter persuaded Mr. Jefferson to perform that responsible task. The Declaration drawn up, Mr. Adams became its foremost defender on the floor of Congress. It was signed by all the fifty-five members present, and the next day Mr. Adams wrote to his wife how great a deed was done, and how proud he was of it. Mr. Adams continued to be the leading man of Congress, and the leading advocate of American inde- pendence. Above all other Americans, he was considered by every one the prin- cipal shining mark for British vengeance. Thus circumstanced, he was appointed to the most dangerous task of crossing the ocean in winter, exposed to capture by the British, who knew of his mission, which was to visit Paris and solicit the co-opera- tion of the French. Besides, to take him- self away from the countrj- of which he was the most prominent defender, at that critical time, was an act of the greatest self- sacrifice. Sure enough, while crossing the sea, he had two ver}' narrow escapes from capture ; and the transit was otherwise a stormy and eventful one. During thc- summer of 1779 he returned home, but was immediately dispatched back to France, to be in readiness there to negotiate terms of peace and commerce with Great Britain as soon as the latter power was ready for such business. But as Dr. Franklin was more popular than he at the court of France, Mr. Adams repaired to Holland, where he was far more successful as a diplomatist. The treaty of peace between the United States and England was finally signed at Paris, January 21, 1783; and the re-action from so great excitement as Mr. Adams had so long been experiencing threw him into a dangerous fever. Before he fully re- covered he was in London, whence he was dispatched again to Amsterdam to negoti- ate another loan. Compliance with this order undermined his physical constitution for life. In 1785 Mr. Adams was appointed envoy to the court of St. James, to meet face to face the very king who had regarded him as an arch traitor! Accordingh' he re- paired thither, where he did actually meet and converse with George III.! After a residence there for about three years, he obtained permission to return to America. While in London he wrote and published an able work, in three volumes, entitled: '' A Defense of the American Constitution." The Articles of Confederation proving inefficient, as Adams had prophesied, a carefully draughted Constitution was adopted in 1789, when George Washington was elected President of the new nation, and Adams Vice-President. Congress met for a time in New York, but was removed to Philadelphia for ten years, until suitable JOHN ADAMS. 19 buildings should be erected at the new capital in the District of Columbia. Mr. Adams then moved his family to Phila- delphia. Toward the close of his term of office the French Revolution culminated, when Adams and Washington rather S3'mpathized with England, and Jefferson with France. The Presidential election of 1796 resulted in giving Mr. Adams the first place by a small majority, and Mr. Jeffer- son the second place. Mr. Adams's administration was consci- entious, patriotic and able. The period was a turbulent one, and even an archangel could not have reconciled the hostile par- ties. Partisanism with reference to Eng- land and France was bitter, and for four years Mr. Adams struggled through almost a constant tempest of assaults. In fact, he was not truly a popular man, and his cha- grin at not receiving a re-election was so great that he did not even remain at Phila- delphia to witness the inauguration of Mr. Jefferson, his successor. The friendly intimacy between these two men was interrupted for about thirteen years of their life. Adams finally made the first advances toward a restoration of their mutual friend- ship, which were gratefully accepted by Jefferson. Mr. Adams was glad of Jiis opportunity to retire to private lite, where he could rest his mind and enjoy the comforts of home. By a thousand bitter experiences he found the path of public duty a thorny one. For twenty-six years his service of the public was as arduous, self-sacrificing and devoted as ever fell to the lot of man. In one im- portant sense he was as much the " Father of his Country " as was Washington in another sense. During these long years of an.xiety and toil, in which he was laying. broad and deep, the foundations of the greatest nation the sun ever shone upon, he received from his impoverished country a meager support. The only privilege he carried with him into his retirement was that of franking his letters. Although taking no active part in public affairs, both himself and his son, John Quincy, nobly supported the policy of Mr. Jefferson in resisting the cncroachm.ents of England, who persisted in searching American ships on the high seas and dragging from them any sailors that might be designated by any pert lieutenant as British subjects. Even for this noble sup- port Mr. Adams was maligned by thou- sands of bitter enemies ! On this occasion, for the first time since his retirement, he broke silence and drew up a very able paper, exposing the atrocity of the British pretensions. Mr. Adams outlived nearly all his family. Though his physical frame began to give way many 3'ears before his death, his mental powers retained their strength and vigor to the last. In his ninetieth year he was gladdened by the popular elevation of his son to the Presidential office, the highest in the gift of the people. A few months more passed away and the 4th of July, 1826, arrived. The people, unaware of the near approach of the end of two great lives — that of Adams and Jefferson — were making unusual preparations for a national holiday. Mr. Adams lay upon his couch, listening to the ringing of bells, the waftures of martial music and the roar of cannon, with silent emotion. Only four days before, he had given for a public toast, " Independence forever." About two o'clock in the after- noon he said, "And Jefferson still survives." But he was mistaken by an hour or so; and in a few minutes he had breathed his last. PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. *i ^ Iff - . .^- - , '^' m. Ei/j , dd.r'.r'r'., c rr'i^-r^^ a [HOMAS JEFFER- son, the third Presi- dent of the United States, 1801-9, was born April 2, 1743, the eldest child of his parents, Peter and Jane (Randolph) Jef- ferson, near Charlottes- ville, Albemarle Count}', Virginia, upon the slopes of the Blue Ridge. When he • was fourteen years of age, his father died, leav- ing a widow and eight children. She was a beau- tiful and accomplished a good letter-writer, with a fund of humor, and an admirable housekeeper. His parents belonged to the Church of England, and are said to be of Welch origin. But little is known of them, however. Thomas was naturally of a serious turn of mind, apt to learn, and a favorite at school, his choice studies bemg mathemat- ics and the classics. At the age of seven- teen he entered William and Mary College, in an advanced class, and lived in rather an expensive style, consequently being much caressed by gay society. That he was not ruined, is proof of his stamina of character. But during his second year he discarded ladi society, his horses and even his favorite violin, and devoted thenceforward fifteen hours a day to hard stud}', becoming ex- traordinarily proficient in Latin and Greek authors. On leaving college, before he was twenty- one, he commenced the study of law, and pursued it diligently until he was well qualified for practice, upon which he entered in 1767. By this time he was also versed in French, Spanish, Italian and An- glo-Saxon, and in the criticism of the fine arts. Being very polite and polished in his manners, he won the friendship of all whom he met. Though able with his pen, he was not fluent in public speech. In 1769 he was chosen a member of the Virginia Legislature, and was the largest slave-holding member of that body. He introduced a bill empowering slave-holders to manumit their slaves, but it was rejected by an overwhelming vote. In 1770 Mr. Jefferson met with a great loss ; his house at Shadwell was burned, and his valuable library of 2,000 volumes was consumed. But he was wealthy enough to replace the most of it, as from his 5,000 acres tilled by slaves and his practice at the bar his income amounted to about $5,000 a year. In 1772 he married Mrs. Martha Skelton, a beautiful, wealthy and accomplished tyZ'W^^ THOMAS JEFFERSON. n young widow, who owned 40,000 acres of land and 1 30 slave? ; yet he labored assidu- ously for the abolition of slavery. For his new home he selected a majestic rise of land upon his large estate at Shadwell, called Monticello, whereon he erected a mansion of modest yet elegant architecture. Here he lived in luxury, indulging his taste in magnificent, high-blooded horses. At this period the British Government gradually became more insolent and op- pressive toward the American colonies, and Mr. Jefferson was ever one of the most foremost to resist its encroachments. From time to time he drew up resolutions of re- monstrance, which were finally adopted, thus proving his ability as a statesman and as a leader. By the year 1774 he became quite busy, both with voice and pen, in de- fending the right of the colonies to defend themselves. His pamphlet entitled : " A Summary View of the Rights of British America," attracted much attention in Eng- land. The following year he, in company with George Washington, served as an ex- ecutive committee in measures to defend by arms the State of Virginia. As a Mem- ber of the Congress, he was not a speech- maker, 3'ct in conversation and upon committees he was so frank and decisive that he always made a favorable impression. But as late as the autumn of 1775 he re- mained in hopes of reconciliation with the parent country. At length, however, the hour arrived for draughting the " Declaration of Indepen- dence," and this responsible task was de- volved upon Jefferson. Franklin, and Adams suggested a few verbal corrections before it was submitted to Congress, which was June 28, 1776, only six da^s before it was adopted. During the three days of the fiery ordeal of criticism through which it passed in Congress, Mr. Jefferson opened not his lips. John Adams was the main champion of the Declaration on the floor of Congress. The signing of this document was one of the most solemn and momentous occasions ever attended to by man. Prayer and silence reigned throughout the hall, and each signer realized that if American independence was not finally sustained by arms he was doomed to the scaffold. After the colonies became independent States, Jefferson resigned for a time his seat in Congress in order to aid in organizing the government of Virginia, of which State he was chosen Governor in 1779, when he was thirty-six years of age. At this time the British had possession of Georgia and were invading South Carolina, and at one time a British officer, Tarleton, sent a secret expedition to Monticello to capture the Governor. Five minutes after Mr. Jefferson escaped with his family, his man- sion was in possession of the enemy ! The British troops also destroyed his valuable plantation on the James River. " Had they carried off the slaves," said Jefferson, with characteristic magnanimity, " to give them freedom, they would have done right." The year 1781 was a gloomy one for the Virpfinia Governor. While confined to his secluded home in the forest by a sick and dying wife, a party arose against him throughout the State, severely criticising his course as Governor. Being very sensi- tive to reproach, this touched him to the quick, and the heap of troubles then sur- rounding him nearly crushed him. He re- solved, in despair, to retire from public life for the rest of his days. Yor weeks Mr. Jefferson sat lovingly, but with a crushed heart, at the bedside of his sick wife, during which time unfeeling letters were sent to him, accusing him of weakness and unfaith- fulness to duty. All this, after he had lost so much property and at the same time done so much for his country! After her death he actually fainted away, and re- mained so long insensible that it was feared he never would recover ! Several weeks H PRES/DE.VTS OF THE UXfTED STATES. passed before he could fully recover his equilibrium. He was never married a second time. In the spring of 1782 the people of Eng- land compelled their king to make to the Americans overtures of peace, and in No- vember following, Mr. Jefferson was reap- pointed by Congress, unanimousl}' and without a single adverse remark, minister plenipotentiary to negotiate a treaty. In March, 1784, Mr. Jefferson was ap- pointed on a committee to draught a plan for the government of the Northwestern Territory. His slavery -prohibition clause in that plan was stricken out by the pro- slavery majority of the committee; but amid all the controversies and wrangles of poli- ticians, he made it a rule never to contra- dict anybody or engage in any discussion as a debater. In company with Mr. Adams and Dr. Franklin, Mr. Jefferson was appointed in May, 1784, to act as minister plenipotentiary in the negotiation of treaties of commerce with foreign nations. Accordingly, he went to Paris and satisfactorily accomplished his mission. The suavity and high bearing of his manner made all the French his friends; and even Mrs. Adams at one time wrote to her sister that he was " the chosen of the earth." But all the honors that he received, both at home and abroad, seemed to make no change in the simplicity of his republican tastes. On his return to America, he found two parties respecting the foreign commercial policy, Mr. Adams sympathizing with that in favor of England and himself favoring France. On the inauguration of General Wash- ington as President, Mr. Jefferson was chosen by him for the office of Secretary of State. At this time the rising storm of the French Revolution became visible, and Washington watched it with great anxiety. His cabinet was divided in their views of constitutional government as well as re- garding the issues in France. General Hamilton, Secretary of the Treasury, was the leader of the so-called Federal party, while Mr. Jefferson was the leader of the Republican party. At the same time there was a strong monarchical party in this country, with which Mr. Adams sympa- thized. Some important financial measures, which were proposed by Hamilton and finally adopted by the cabinet and approved by Washington, were opposed by Mr. Jefferson ; and his enemies then began to reproach him with holding office under an administration whose views he opposed. The President poured oil on the troubled waters. On his re-election to the Presi- dency he desired Mr. Jefferson to remain in the cabinet, but the latter sent in his resignation at two different times, probably because he was dissatisfied with some of the measures of the Government. His final one was not received until January i, 1794, when General Washington parted from him with great regret. Jefferson then retired to his quiet home at Monticello, to enjoy a good rest, not even reading the newspapers lest the political gossip should disquiet him. On the Presi- dent's again calling him back to the office of Secretary* of State, he replied that no circumstances would ever again tempt him to engage in anything public! But, while all Europe was ablaze with war, and France in the throes of a bloody revolution and the principal theater of the conflict, a new Presidential election in this country came on. John Adams was the Federal candi- date and Mr. Jefferson became the Republi- can candidate. The result of the election was the promotion of the latter to the Vice- Presidency, while the former was chosen President. In this contest Mr. Jefferson really did not desire to have either office, he was " so weary " of party strife. He loved the retirement of home more than any other place on the earth. THOMAS JEFFERSON. 25 But for four long years his Vice-Presi- dency passed joylessly away, while the partisan strife between Federalist and Re- publican was ever growing hotter. The former party split and the result of the fourth general election was the elevation of Mr. Jefferson to the Presidency ! with Aaron Burr as Vice-President. These men being at the head of a growing party, their election was hailed everywhere with joy. On the other hand, many of the Federalists turned pale, as they believed what a portion of the pulpit and the press had been preach- ing — that Jefferson was a " scoffing atheist," a "Jacobin," the " incarnation of all evil," " breathing threatening and slaughter ! " Mr. Jefferson's inaugural address con- tained nothing but the noblest sentiments, expressed in fine language, and his personal behavior afterward exhibited the extreme of American, democratic simplicity. His disgust of European court etiquette grew upon him with age. He believed that General Washington was somewhat dis- trustful of the ultimate success of a popular Government, and that, imbued with a little admiration of the forms of a monarchical Government, he had instituted levees, birth- days, pompous meetings with Congress, etc. Jefferson was always polite, even to slaves everywhere he met them, and carried in his countenance the indications of an ac- commodating disposition. The political principles of the Jeffersoni- an party now swept the country, and Mr. Jefferson himself swayed an influence which was never exceeded even by Washington. Under his administration, in 1803, the Lou- isiana purchase was made, for $15,000,000, the " Louisiana Territory " purchased com- prising all the land west of the Mississippi to the Pacific Ocean. The year 1804 witnessed another severe loss in his family. His highly accomplished and most beloved daughter Maria sickened and died, causing as great grief in the stricken parent as it was possible for him to survive with any degree of sanity. The same year he was re-elected to the Presidency, with George Clinton as Vice- President. During his second term our relations with England became more com- plicated, and on June 22, 1807, near Hamp- ton Roads, the United States frigate Chesapeake was fired upon by the Brit- ish man-of-war Leopard, and was made to surrender. Three men were killed and ten wounded. Jefferson demanded repara- tion. England grew insolent. It became evident that war was determined upon by the latter power. More than 1,200 Ameri- cans were forced into the British service upon the high seas. Before any satisfactory solution was reached, Mr. Jefferson's Presidential term closed. Amid all these public excitements he thought constantly of the welfare of his family, and longed for the time when he could return home to remain. There, at Monticello, his sub- sequent life was very similar to that of Washington at Mt. Vernon. His hospi- tality toward his numerous friends, indul- gence of his slaves, and misfortunes to his property, etc., finally involved him in debt. For years his home resembled a fashion- able watering-place. During the summer, thirty -seven house servants were required ! It was presided over by his daughter, Mrs. Randolph. Mr. Jefferson did much for the establish- ment of the University at Charlottesville, making it unsectarian, in keeping with the spirit of American institutions, but poverty and the feebleness of old age prevented him from doing what he would. He even went so far as to petition the Legislature for permission to dispose of some of his possessions by lottery, in order to raise the necessary funds for home expenses. It was granted ; but before the plan was carried out, Mr. Jefferson died, July 4, 1826, at 12:50 1'. M. 26 PRESrOEXTS OF THE UXITED STATES. SSSS®? i imm^ ?M®fii®E "ii^~^i^~"^'e'e •=5iV AMES MADISON, the fourth President of the United States, iSog-'i/, was born at Port Con- waj-. Prince George County, Virginia, March i6, 1751. His father. Colonel James Madison, was a wealthy planter, residing upon a very fine estate called " Montpelier," only twent3'-five miles from the home of Thomas Jefferson at Monticello. The closest personal and political at- tachment existed between these illustrious men from their early youth until death. James was the eldest of a family of seven children, four sons and three daughters, all of whom attained maturity. His early edu- cation was conducted mostly at home, under a private tutor. Being naturally in- tellectual in his tastes, he consecrated him- self with unusual vigor to study. At a very earl}' age he made cf)nsiderable iirf)ficiency in the Greek, Latin, French and Spanish languages. In 1769 he entered Princeton College, New Jersey, of which the illus- trious Dr. Weatherspoon was then Presi- dent. He graduated in 1771, with a char- acter of the utmost purity, and a mind highly disciplined and stored with all the learning which embellished and gave effi- ciency to his subsequent career. After graduating he pursued a course of reading for several months, under the guidance of President Weatherspoon, and in 1772 re- turned to Virginia, where he continued in incessant study for two years, nominall)* directed to the law, but really including extended researches in theology, philoso- phy and general literature. The Church of England was the estab- lished church in Virginia, invested with all the prerogatives and immunities which it enjoyed in the fatherland, and other de- nominations labored under serious disabili- ties, the enforcement of which was rightly or wrongly characterized by them as per- secution. Madison took a prominent stand in behalf of the removal of all disabilities, repeatedly appeared in the court of his own county to defend the Baptist nonconform- ists, and was elected from Orange County to the Virginia Convention in the spring of 1766, when he signalized the beginning of his public career by procuring the passage f)f an amendment to the Declaration of Rights as prepared by George Mason, sub- stituting for "toleration" a more emphatic assertion of religious liberty. % /ax-^^'-^ ■^^ oo-^^^ y.lMES MAD/SOtf. 49 In 1776 he was elected a member of the Virgmia Convention to frame the Constitu- tion of the State. Like Jefferson, he took but little part in the public debates. His main strength lay in his conversational in- fluence and in his pen. In November, 1777, he was chosen a member of the Council of State, and in March, 1780, took his seat in the Continental Congress, where he first gained prominence through his energetic opposition to the issue of paper money by the States. He continued in Congress three vears, one of its most active and influential members. In 1784 Mr. Madison was elected a mem- ber of the Virginia Legislature. He ren- dered important service by promoting and participating in that revision of the statutes which effectually abolished the remnants of the feudal system subsistent up to that time in the form of entails, primogeniture, and State support given the Anglican Church ; and his " Memorial and Remon- strance" against a general assessment for the support of religion is one of the ablest papers which emanated from his pen. It settled the question of the entire separation of church and State in Virginia. Mr. Jefferson says of him, in allusion to the study and experience through which he had already passed : " Trained in these successive schools, he acquired a habit of self-possession which placed at ready command the rich resources of his luminous and discriminating mind and of his extensive information, and rendered him the first of every assembly of which he afterward became a member. Never wan- dering from his subject into vain declama- tion, but pursuing it closely in language pure, classical and copious, soothing al- ways the feelings of his adversaries by civili- ties and softness of expression, he rose to the eminent station which lie held in the great National Convention of 17S7; and in that of Virginia, which followed, he sustained the new Constitution in all its parts, bearing off the palm against the logic of George Mason and the fervid declamation of Patrick Henry. With these consummate powers were united a pure and spotless virtue which no calumny has ever attempted to sully. Of the power and polish of his pen, and of the wisdom of his administration in the highest office of the nation, I need say nothing. They have spoken, and will for- ever speak, for themselves." In January, 1786, Mr. Madison took the initiative in proposing a meeting of State Commissioners to devise measures for more satisfactory commercial relations between the States. A meeting was held at An- napolis to discuss this subject, and but five States were represented. The convention issued another call, drawn up by Mr. Madi- son, urging all the States to send their dele- gates to Philadelphia, in May, 1787, to draught a Constitution for the United States. The delegates, met at the time ap- pointed, every State except Rhode Island being represented. George Washington was chosen president of the convention, and the present Constitution of the United States was then and there formed. There was no mind and no pen more active in framing this immortal document than the mind and pen of James Madison. He was, perhaps, its ablest advocate in the pages of the Federalist. Mr. Madison was a member of the first four Congresses, i789-'97, in which lie main- tained a moderate opposition to Hamilton's financial policy. He declined the mission to France and the Secretaryship of State, and, gradually identifying himself with the Republican party, became from 1792 its avowed leader. In 1796 he was its choice for the Presidency as successor to Wash- ington. Mr. Jefferson wrote: "There is not another person in the United States with whom, being placed at the helm of our affairs, my mi-nd would be so completely at 3° PRESrOE.YTS OF THE UNITED STATES. rest for the fortune of our political bark." But Mr. Madison declined to be a candi- date. His term in Congress had expired, and he returned from New York to his beautiful retreat at Montpelier. In 1794 Mr. Madison married a young widow of remarkable powers of fascination — Mrs. Todd. Her maiden name was Doro- thy Paine. She was born in 1767, in Vir- ginia, of Quaker parents, and had been educated in the strictest rules of that sect. When but eighteen years of age she married a young lawyer and moved to Philadelphia, where she was introduced to brilliant scenes of fashionable life. She speedily laid aside the dress and address of the Quakeress, and became one of the most fascinating ladies of the republican court. In New York, after the death of her husband, she was the belle of the season and was surrounded with admirers. Mr. Madison won the prize. She proved an invaluable helpmate. In Washington she was the life of society. If there was any diffident, timid young girl just making her appearance, she found in Mrs. Madison an encouraging friend. During the stormy administration of John Adams Madison remained in private life, but was the author of the celebrated " Reso- lutions of 1798," adopted by the Virginia Legislature, in condemnation of the Alien and Sedition laws, as well as of the " report" in which he defended those resolutions, which is, by many, considered his ablest State paper. The storm passed away ; the Alien and Sedition laws were repealed, John Adams lost his re-election, and in 1801 Thomas Jef- ferson was chosen President. The great re- action in public sentiment which seated Jefferson in the presidential chair was large- ly owing to the writings of Madison, who was consequently well entitled to the post of Secretary of State. With great ability he discharged the duties of this responsible office during the eight 3'ears of Mr. Jeffer- son's administration. As Mr. Jefferson was a widower, and neither of his daughters could be often with him, Mrs. Madison usually presided over the festivities of the White House; and as her husband succeeded Mr. Jefferson, hold- ing his office for two terms, this remarkable woman was the mistress of the presidential mansion for sixteen years. Mr. Madison being entirely engrossed by the cares of his office, all the duties of so- cial life devolved upon his accomplished wife. Never were such responsibilities more ably discharged. The most bitter foes of her husband and of the administra- tion were received with the frankly prof- fered hand and the cordial smile of wel- come; and the influence of this gentle woman in allaying the bitterness of party rancor became a great and salutary power in the nation. As the term of Mr. Jefferson's Presidency drew near its close, party strife was roused to the utmost to elect his successor. It was a death-grapple between the two great parties, the Federal and Republican. Mr. Madison was chosen President by an elec- toral vote of 122 to 53, and was inaugurated March 4, 1809, at a critical period, when the relations of the United States with Great Britain were becoming embittered, and his first term was passed in diplomatic quarrels, aggravated by the act of non-intercourse of May, 1810, and finally resulting in a decla- ration of war. On the i8th of June, 181 2, President Madison gave his approval to an act of Congress declaring war against Great Brit- ain. Notwithstanding the bitter hostility of the Federal party to the war, the countr}' in general approved; and in the autumn Madison was re-elected to the Presidency by 128 electoral votes to 89 in favor of George Clinton. March 4, 1817, Madison yielded the Presi- yAMES MAD/SON. 31 deticy to his Secretary of State and inti- mate friend, James Monroe, and retired to his ancestral estate at Montpelier, where he passed the evening of his days surrounded by attached friends and enjoying the merited respect of the whole nation. He took pleasure in promoting agriculture, as president of the county society, and in watching the development of the University of Virginia, of which he was long rector and visitor. In extreme old age he sat in 1829 as a member of the convention called to re- form the Virginia Constitution, where his appearance was hailed with the most gen- uine interest and satisfaction, though he was too infirm to participate in the active work of revision. Small in stature, slender and delicate in form, with a countenance full of intelligence, and expressive alike of mildness and dignity, he attracted the atten- tion of all who attended the convention, and was treated with the utmost deference. He seldom addressed the assembly, though he always appeared self-possessed, and watched with unflagging interest the prog- ress of every measure. Though the con- vention sat sixteen weeks, he spoke only twice ; but when he did speak, the whole house paused to listen. His voice was feeble though his enunciation was very dis- tinct. One of the reporters, Mr. Stansburv, relates the following anecdote of iVfr. Madi- son's last speech: " The next day, as there was a great call for it, and the report had not been returned for publication, I sent my son with a re- spectful note, requesting the manuscript. My son was a lad of sixteen, whom I had taken with me to act as amanuensis. On delivering my note, he was received with the utmost politeness, and requested to come up into Mr. Madison's room and wait while his eye ran over the paper, as com- pany had prevented his attending to it. He did so, and Mr. Madison sat down to correct the report. The lad stood near him so that his eye fell on the paper. Coming to a certain sentence in tiie speech, Mr. Madison erased a word and substituted anotiicr ; but hesitated, and not feeling satisfied with the second word, drew his pen through it also. My son was young, ignorant of the world, and unconscious of the solecism of which he was about to be guilty, when, in all simplic- ity, he suggested a word. Probably no other person then living would have taken such a liberty. But the sage, instead of reoarding such an intrusion with a frown, raised his eyes to the boy's face with a pleased surprise, and said, ' Thank you, sir ; it is the very word,' and immediately in- serted it. I saw him the next day, and he mentioned the circumstance, with a compli- ment on the young critic." Mr. Madison died at Montpelier, June 28, 1836, at the advanced age of eighty-five. While not possessing the highest order of talent, and deficient in oratorical powers, he was pre-eminently a statesman, of a well- balanced mind. His attainments were solid, his knowledge copious, his judgment gener- ally sound, his powers of analysis and logi- cal statement rarely surpassed, his language and literary style correct and polished, his conversation witty, his temperament san- guine and trustful, his integrity unques- tioned, his manners simple, courteous and winning. By these rare qualities he con- ciliated the esteem not only of friends, but of political opponents, in a greater degree than any American statesman in the present century. Mrs. Madison survived her husband thir- teen years, and died July 12, 1849, in the eighty-second year of her age. She was one of the most remarkable women our coun- try has produced. Even now she is ad- miringly remembered in Washington as " Dolly Madison," and it is fitting that her memory should descend to posterit)' in company with thatof the companion of her life. 3-' PRESIDENTS OF THE UN/TED STATES. ?)€(^^>tr^t^j(?,'.v^n'rj(^t^^^ P J^liM^ Ml^MME ma ^^' f^t^f^i^fS?t^(^?^(i ^ AMES MONROE, the fifth President of the United States, 1 817-25, was born in Westmoreland County Virginia, April 28, 1758. He was a son of Spence Monroe, and a descendant of a Scottish cavalier fam- ily. Like all his predeces- sors thus far in the Presi- dential chair, he enjoyed all the advantages of educa- tion which the country could then afford. He was early sent to a fine classical school, and at the age of six- teen entered William and Mary College.. In 1776, when he had been in college but two years, the Declaration of Independence was adopted, and our feeble militia, with- out arms, amunition or clothing, were strug- gling against the trained armies of England. James Monroe left college, hastened to General Washington's headquarters at New York and ennjlled himself as a cadet in the army. At Trenton Lieutenant Monroe so dis- tinguished iiimself, receiving a wound in his shoulder, that he was promoted to a Cap- taincy. Upon recovering from his wound, he was invited to act as aide to Lord Ster- ling, and in that capacity he took an active part in the battles of Brandy wine, Ger- mantown and Monmouth. At Germantown he stood by the side of Lafayette when the French Marquis received his wound. Gen- eral Washington, who had formed a high idea of young Monroe's ability, sent him to Virginia to raise a new regiment, of which he was to be Colonel; but so exhausted was Virginia at that time that the effort proved unsuccessful. He, however, received his commission. Finding no opportunity to enter the army as a commissioned officer, he returned to his original plan of studying law, and entered the office of Thomas Jefferson, who was then Governor of Virginia. He developed a very noble character, frank, manly and sincere. Mr. Jefferson said of him: "James Monroe is so perfectly honest that if his soul were turned inside out there would not be found a spot on it." In 1782 he was elected to the Assembly of Virginia, and was also appointed a mem- ber of the Executive Council. The next year he was chosen delegate to the Conti- nental Congress for a term of three years. He was present at Annapolis when Wash- ington surrendered his commission of Com- mander-in-chief. With Washington, Jefferson and Madison he felt deeply the inefficiency of the old Articles of Confederation, and urged the formation of a new Constitution, which should invest the Central Government with something like national power. Influenced by these views, he introduced a resolution y /^-Z.^?-^ 2^^ ^^^ yAAfES MONROE. 3S that Congress should be empowered to regulate trade, and to lay an impost duty of five per cent. The resolution was refer- red to a committee of which he was chair- man. The report and the discussion which rose upon it led to the convention of five States at Annapolis, and the consequent general convention at Philadelphia, which, in 1787, drafted the Constitution of the United States. At this time there was a controversy be- tween New York and Massachusetts in reference to their boundaries. The high esteem in which Colonel Monroe was held is indicated by the fact that he was ap- pointed one of the judges to decide the controversy-. While in New York attend- ing Congress, he married Miss Kortright, a young lad\' distinguished alike for her beauty and accomplishments. For nearly fifty years this happy union remained un- broken. In London and in Paris, as in her own country, Mrs. Monroe won admiration and affection by the loveliness of her per- son, the brilliancy of her intellect, and the amiability of her character. Returning to Virginia, Colonel Monroe commenced the practice of law at Freder- icksburg. He was very soon elected to a seat in the State Legislature, and the next year he was chosen a member of the Vir- ginia convention which was assembled to decide upon the acceptance or rejection of the Constitution which had been drawn up at Philadelphia, and was now submitted to the several States. Deeply as he felt the imperfections of the old Confederacy, he was opposed to the new Constitution, thinking, with many others of the Republi- can party, that it gave too much power to the Central Government, and not enousfh to the individual States. In 1789 he became a member of the United States Senate, which office he held acceptably to his constituents, and with honor to himself for four years. Having opposed the Constitution as not leaving enough power with the States, he, of course, became more and more identi- fied with the Republican party. Thus he found himself in cordial co-operation with Jefferson and Madison. The great Repub- lican party became the dominant power which ruled the land. George Washington was then President. England had espoused the cause of the Bourbons against the principles of the French Revolution. President Washing- ton issued a proclamation of neutralit}' be- tween these contending powers. France had helped us in the struggle for our lib- erties. All the despotisms of Europe were now combined to prevent the French from escaping from tj'ranny a thousandfold worse than that which we had endured. Colonel Monroe, more magnanimous than prudent, was anxious that we should help our old allies in their extremity. He vio- lently opposed the President's procla- mation as ungrateful and wanting in magnanimity. Washington, who could appreciate such a character, developed his calm, serene, almost divine greatness by appointing that ver}^ James Monroe, who was denouncing the polic)' of the Government, as the Minis- ter of that Government to the republic of France. He was directed by Washington to express to the French people our warm- est sympathy, communicating to them cor- responding resolves approved by the Pres- ident, and adopted by both houses of Congress. Mr. Monroe was welcomed by the Na- tional Convention in France with the most enthusiastic demonstrations of respect and affection. He was publicly introduced to that body, and received the embrace of the President, Merlin de Douay, after having been addressed in a speech glowing with congratulations, and with expressions of desire that harmony might ever exist be- 36 PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. tween the two nations. The flags of the two republics were intertwined in the hall of the convention. Mr. Monroe presented the American colors, and received those of France in return. The course which he pursued in Paris was so annoying to Eng- land and to the friends of England in this countr}' that, near the close of Wash- ington's administration, Mr. Monroe, was recalled. After his return Colonel Monroe wrote a book of 400 pages, entitled " A View of the Conduct of the Executive in Foreign Af- fairs." In this work he ver^^ ably advo- cated his side of the question; but, with the magnanimity of the man, he recorded a warm tribute to the patriotism, ability and spotless integrity of John Jay, between whom and himself there was intense antag- onism ; and in subsequent years he ex- pressed in warmest terms his perfect veneration for the character of George Washington. Shortly after his return to this country' Colonel Monroe was elected Governor of Virginia, and held that office for three years, the period limited by the Constitu- tion. In 1802 he was an Envoy to France, and to Spain in 1805, and was Minister to England in 1803. In 1806 he returned to his quiet home in Virginia, and with his wife and children and an ample competence from his paternal estate, enjoyed a few years of domestic repose. In 1809 ^I'"- Jefferson's second term of office expired, and many of the Republican party were anxious to nominate James Monroe as his successor. The majority were in favor of Mr. Madison. Mr. Mon- roe withdrew his name and was soon after chosen a second time Governor of Virginia. He soon resigned that office to accept the position of Secretary of State, offered him by President Madison. The correspond- ence which he then carried on with the British Government demonstrated that there was no hope of any peaceful adjust- ment of our difficulties with the cabinet of St. James. War was consequently declared in June, 1812. Immediately after the sack of Washington the Secretary of War re- signed, and Mr. Monroe, at the earnest request of Mr. Madison, assumed the ad- ditional duties of the War Department, without resigning his position as Secretary of State. It has been confidentl)^ stated, that, had Mr. Moni-oe's energies been in the War Department a few months earlier, the disaster at Washington would not have occurred. The duties now devolving upon Mr. Mon- roe were extremely arduous. Ten thou- sand men, picked from the veteran armies of England, were sent with a powerful fleet to New Orleans to acquire possession of the mouths of the Mississippi. Our finan- ces were in the most deplorable condition. The treasury was exhausted and our credit gone. And yet it was necessary to make the most rigorous preparations to meet the foe. In this crisis James Monroe, the Sec- retary of War, with virtue unsurpassed in Greek or Roman story, stepped forward and pledged his own individual credit as subsidiary to that of the nation, and thus succeeded in placing the city of New Or- leans in such a posture of defense, that it was enabled successfully to repel the in- vader. Mr. Monroe was truly the armor-bearer of President Madison, and the most efficient business man in his cabinet. His energy in the double capacity of Secretary, both of State and War, pervaded all the depart- ments of the country. He proposed to increase the army to 100,000 men, a meas- ure which he deemed absolutely necessary to save us from ignominious defeat, but which, at the same time, he knew would render his name so unpopular as to preclude the possibility of his being a successful can- didate for the Presidency. yAMES MONROE. 7,-r The happy result of the conference at Ghent in securing peace rendered the in- crease of the army unnecessary; but it is not too much to say that James Monroe placed in the hands of Andrew Jackson the weapon with which to beat off the foe at New Orleans. Upon the return of peace Mr. Monroe resigned the department of war, devoting himself entirely to the duties of Secretary of State. These he continued to discharge until the close of President Madison's administration, with zeal which was never abated, and with an ardor of self-devotion which made him almost for- getful of the claims of fortune, health or life. Mr. Madison's second term expired in March, 1817, and Mr. Monroe succeeded to the Presidency. He was a candidate of the Republican party, now taking the name of the Democratic Republican. In 1821 he was re-elected, with scarcely any opposition. Out of 232 electoral votes, he received 231. The slavery question, which subsequently assumed such formidable dimensions, now began to make its appearance. The State of Missouri, which had been carved out of that immense territory which we had pur- chased of France, applied for admission to the Union, with a slavery Constitution. There were not a few who foresaw the evils impending. After the debate of a week it was decided that Missouri could not be admitted into the Union with slav- ery. This important question was at length settled by a compromise proposed by Henry Clay. The famous "Monroe Doctrine," of which so much has been said, originated in this way: In 1823 it was rumored that the Holy Alliance was about to interfere to prevent the establishment of Republican liberty in the European colonies of South America. President Monroe wrote to his old friend Thomas Jefferson for advice in the emergency. In his reply under date of October 24, Mr. Jefferson writes upon the supposition that our attempt to resist this European movement might lead to war: " Its object is to introduce and establish the American system of keeping out of our land all foreign powers; of never permitting those of Europe to intermeddle with the affairs of our nation. It is to maintain our own principle, not to depart from it." December 2, 1823, President Monroe sent a message to Congress, declaring it to be the policy of this Government not to entangle ourselves with the broils of Eu- rope, and not to allow Europe to interfere with the affairs of nations on the American continent; and the doctrine was announced, that any attempt on the part of the Euro- pean powers " to extend their system to any portion of this hemisphere would be regarded by the United States as danger- ous to our peace and safety." March 4, 1825, Mr. Monroe surrendered the presidential chair to his Secretary of State, John Quincy Adams, and retired, with the universal respect of the nation, to his private residence at Oak Hill, Lou- doun County, Virginia. His time had been so entirely consecrated to his country, that he had neglected his pecuniary interests, and was deeply involved in debt. The welfare of his country had ever been up- permost in his mind. For many years Mrs. Monroe was in such feeble health that she rarely appeared in public. In 1830 Mr. Monroe took up his residence with his son-in-law in New York, where he died on the 4th of July, 1831. The citizens of New York conducted his obsequies with pageants more imposing than had ever been witnessed there before. Our country will ever cherish his mem- ory with pride, gratefully enrolling his name in the list of its benefactors, pronounc- ing him the worthy successor of the illus- trious men who had preceded him in the presidential chair. PNES/DENTS OF THE UN /TED STATES. i JOHN ^UINCr ADAMS. no clients, but not a moment was lost. The second year passed away, still no clients, and still he was dependent upon his parents for support. Anxiously he awaited the third year. The reward now came. Cli- ents began to enter his office, and before the end of the year he was so crowded with business that all solicitude respecting a support was at an end. When Great Britain commenced war against France, in 1793, Mr. Adams wrote some articles, urging entire neutrality on the part of the United States. The view was not a popular one. Many felt that as France had helped us, we were bound to help France. But President Washington coincided with Mr. Adams, and issued his proclamation of neutrality. His writings at this time in the Boston journals gave him so high a reputation, that in June, 1794, he was appointed by Washington resident Minister at the Netherlands. In July, 1797, he left The Hague to go to Port- ugal as Minister Plenipotentiary. Wash- ington at this time wrote to his father, John Adams: " Without intending to compliment the father or the mother, or to censure any others, I give it as m}' decided opinion, that Mr. Adams is the most valuable char- acter we have abroad; and there remains no doubt in my mind that he will prove the ablest of our diplomatic corps." On his way to Portugal, upon his arrival in London, he met with dispatches direct- ing him to the court of Berlin, but request- ing him to remain in London until he should receive instructions. While waiting he was married to Miss Louisa Catherine John- son, to whom he had been previously en- gaged. Miss Johnson was a daughter of Mr. Joshua Johnson, American Consul in London, and was a lady endowed with that beauty and those accomplishments which fitted her to move in the elevated sphere for which she was destined. In Jul}', 1799, having fulfilled all the pur- poses of his mission, Mr. Adams returned. In 1802 he was chosen to the Senate of Massachusetts from Boston, and then was elected Senator of the United States for six years from March 4, 1804. His reputation, his ability and his experience, placed him immediately among the most prominent and influential members of that body. He sustained the Government in its measures of resistance to the encroachments of Eng- land, destroying our commerce and insult- ing our flag. There was no man in America more familiar with the arrogance of the British court upon these points, and no one more resolved to present a firm resist- ance. This course, so truly patriotic, and which scarcel)' a voice will now be found to condemn, alienated him from the Fed- eral party dominant in Boston, and sub- jected him to censure. In 1805 Mr. Adams was chosen professor of rhetoric in Harvard College. His lect- ures at this place were subsequently pub- lished. In 1809 he was sent as Minister to Russia. He was one of the commissioners that negotiated the treaty of peace with Great Britain, signed December 24, 18 14, and he was appointed Minister to the court of St. James in 181 5. In 181 7 he became Secretary of State in Mr. Monroe's cabinet in which position he remained eight years. Few will now contradict the assertion that the duties of that office were never more ably discharged. Probably the most im- portant measure which Mr. Adams con- ducted was the purchase of Florida from Spain for $5,ooQ,ooo. The campaign of 1824 was an exciting one. Four candidates were in the field. Of the 260 electoral votes that were cast, Andrew Jackson received ninety-nine; John Quincy Adams, eighty-four; William H. Crawford, forty-one, and Henry Clay, thirty-seven. As there was no choice by the people, the question went to the House PRESIDENTS OF THE UN /TED STATES. of Representatives. Mr. Clay gave the vote of Kentucky to Mr. Adams, and he was elected. The friends of all disappointed candidates now combined in a venomous assault upon Mr. Adams. There is nothing more dis- graceful in the past history of our country than the abuse which was poured in one uninterrupted stream upon this high- minded, upright, patriotic man. There was never an administration more pure in prin- ciples, more conscientiously devoted to the best interests of the countrv, than that of John Quincy Adams; and never, perhaps, was there an administration more unscru- pulously assailed. Mr. Adams took his seat in the presidential chair resolved not to know an)' partisanship, but onlj' to con- sult for the interests of the whole Republic, He refused to dismiss an}' man from of- fice for his political views. If he was a faith- ful officer that was enough. Bitter must have been his disappointment to find that the Nation could not appreciate such conduct. Mr. Adams, in his public manners, was cold and repulsive; though with his per- sonal friends he was at times very genial. This chilling address very seriously de- tracted from his popularit)'. No one can read an impartial record of his administra- tion without admitting that a more noble example of uncompromising dignitv can scarcely be found. It was stated publicly that Mr. Adams' administration was to be put down, " though it be as pure as the an- gels which stand at the right hand of the throne of God." Many of the active par- ticipants in these scenes lived to regret the course they pursued. Some years after, Warren R. Davis, of South Carolina, turn- ing to Mr. Adams, then a member of the House of Representatives, said: " Well do I remember the enthusiastic zeal with which we reproached the admin- istration of that gentleman, and the ardor and vehemence with which we labored to bring in another. For the share I had in these transactions, and it was not a small one, I hope God will forgive vie, for I shall never forgive myself." March 4, 1829, Mr. Adams retired from the Presidency and was succeeded by An- drew Jackson, the latter receiving 168 out of 261 electoral votes. John C. Calhoun was elected Vice-President. The slavery question now began to assume pretentious magnitude. Mr. Adams returned to Quinc}', and pursued his studies with una- bated zeal. But he was not long permitted to remain in retirement. In November, 1830, he was elected to Congress. In this he recognized the principle that it is honor- able for the General of yesterda}- to act as Corporal to-day, if by so doing he can ren- der service to his country. Deep as are our obligations to John Quincy Adams for his services as embassador, as Secretary of State and as President; in his capacity as legislator in the House of Representa- tives, he conferred benefits upon our land which eclipsed all the rest, and which can never be over-estimated. For seventeen j-ears, until his death, he occupied the post of Representative, tow- ering above all his peers, ever ready to do brave battle for freedom, and winning the title of " the old man eloquent." Upon taking his seat in the House he announced that he should hold himself bound to no party. He was usually the first in his place in the morning, and the last to leave his seat in the evening. Not a measure could escape his scrutiny. The battle which he fought, almost singly, against the pro-slavery party in the Government, was sublime in its moral daring and heroism. For persisting in presenting petitions for the abolition of slavery, he was threatened with indictment by the Grand Jury, with expulsion from the House, with assassina- tion; but no threats could intimidate him, and his final triumph was complete. yOHN ^U/NCr ADAMS. 43 On one occasion Mr. Adams presented a petition, signed by several women, against the annexation of Texas for the purpose of cutting it up into slave States. Mr. How- ard, of Maryland, said that these women discredited not only themselves, but their section of the country, by turning from their domestic duties to the conflicts of po- litical life. "Are women," exclaimed Mr. Adams, " to have no opinions or actions on subjects relating to the general welfare ? Where did the gentleman get his principle? Did he find it in sacred history, — in the language of Miriam, the prophetess, in one of the noblest and sublime songs of triumph that ever met the human eye or ear? Did the gentleman never hear of Deborah, to whom the children of Israel came up for judg- ment ? Has he forgotten the deed of Jael, who slew the dreaded enemy of her coun- try ? Has he forgotten Esther, who, by her petition saved her people and her coun- try? " To go from sacred history to profane, does the gentleman there find it 'discredita- ble ' for women to take an interest in politi- cal affairs? Has he forgotten the Spartan mother, who said to her son when going out to battle, ' My son, come back to me with thy shield, or upon thy shield ? ' Does he remember Cloelia and her hundred com- panions, who swam across the river under a shower of darts, escaping from Porsena ? Has he forgotten Cornelia, the mother of the Gracchi? Does he not remember Por- tia, the wife of Brutus and the daughter of Cato ? " To come to later periods, what says the history of our Anglo-Saxon ancestors ? To say nothing of Boadicea, the British heroine in the time of the Cccsars, what name is more illustrious than that of Eliza- beth ? Or, if he will go to the continent, will he not find the names of Maria Theresa of Hungary, of the two Catherines of Prussia, and of Isabella of Castile, the pa- troness of Columbus ? Did she bring ' dis- credit ' on her sex by mingling in politics? " In this glowing strain Mr. Adams si- lenced and overwhelmed his antagonists. In January, 1842, Mr. Adams presented a petition from forty-five citizens of Haver- hill, Massachusetts, praying for a peaceable dissolution of the Union. The pro-slavery party in Congress, who were then plotting the destruction of the Government, were aroused to a pretense of commotion such as even our stormy hall of legislation has rarel}' witnessed. They met in caucus, and, finding that they probably would not be able to expel Mr. Adams from the House drew up a series of resolutions, which, i( adopted, would inflict upon him disgrace, equivalent to expulsion. Mr. Adams had presented the petition, which was most re- spectfully worded, and had moved that it be referred to a committee instructed to re- port an answer, showing the reason why the prayer ought not to be granted. It was the 25th of January. The whole body of the pro-slavery party came crowd- ing together in the House, prepared to crush Mr. Adams forever. One of the num- ber, Thomas F. Marshall, of Kentucky, was appointed to read the resolutions, which accused Mr. Adams of high treason, of having insulted the Government, and of meriting expulsion; but for which deserved punishment, the House, in its great mercy, would substitute its severest censure. With the assumption of a very solemn and mag- isterial air, there being breathless silence in the audience, Mr. Marshall hurled the care- fully prepared anathemas at his victim. Mr. Adams stood alone, the whole pro-slav- ery party against him. As soon as the resolutions were read, every eye being fixed upon him, that bold old man, whose scattered locks were whit- ened by seventy-five years, casting a wither- ing glance in the direction of his assailants, 44 PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. in a clear, shrill tone, tremulous with sup- pressed emotion, said: " In reply to this audacious, atrocious charge of high treason, I call for the read- ing of the first paragraph of the Declaration of Independence. Read it ! Read it! and see what that says of the rights of a people to reform, to change, and to dissolve their Government.' The attitude, the manner, the tone, the words; the venerable old man, with flash- ing eye and flushed cheek, and whose very form seemed to expand under the inspiration of the occasion — all presented a scene over- flowing in its sublimity. There was breath- less silence as that paragraph was read, in defense of whose principles our fathers had pledged their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor. It was a proud hour to Mr. Adams as the}' were all compelled to listen to the words: " That, to secure these rights, govern- ments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed; and that whenever any form of government becomes destructive of those ends, it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it, and to institute new government, laying its foundations on such principles and organizing its powers in such form as shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness." That one sentence routed and baffled the foe. The heroic old man looked around upon the audience, and thundered out, " Read that again ! " It was again read. Then in a few fiery, logical words he stated his defense in terms which even prejudiced minds could not resist. His discomfited assailants made several attempts to rally. After a conflict of eleven days they gave up vanquished and their resolution was ig- nominiously laid upon the table. In January, 1846, when seventy -eight years of age, he took part in the great de- bate on the Oregon question, displaying intellectual vigor, and an extent and accu- racy of acquaintance with the subject that excited great admiration. On the 2 1 St of February, 1848, he rose on the floor of Congress with a paper in his hand to address the Speaker. Suddenly he fell, stricken by paralysis, and was caught in the arms of those around him. For a time he was senseless and was conveyed to a sofa in the rotunda. With reviving consciousness he opened his eyes, looked calmly around and said, " This is the end of earth." Then after a moment's pause, he added, " / am content." These were his last words, and he soon breathed his last, in the apartment beneath the dome of the capitol —the theater of his labors and his triumphs. In the language of hymnology, he " died at his post; " he " ceased at once to work and live. " ANDREW JACKSON. 47 NDREW JACKSON, the seventh President of the United States, i829-'37, was born at the Waxhaw Settle, ment, Union Coun- Z'i"^ ty, North Carolina, March i'6, 1767. His parents were Scotch-Irish, natives of Carrickfergus, who came to America in 1765, and settled on Twelve-Mile Creek, a trib- utary of the Catawba. His father, who was a poor farm laborer, died shortly before An- drew's birth, when his mother removed to Waxhaw, wliere some relatives resided. Few particulars of the childhood of Jack- son have been preserved. His education was of the most limited kind, and he showed no fondness for books. He grew up to be a tall, lank boy, with coarse hair and freck- led cheeks, with bare feet dangling from trousers too short for him, very fond of ath- letic sports, running, boxing and wrestling. He was generous to the younger and weaker boys, but very irascible and over- bearing with his equals and superiors. He was profane — a vice in which he surpassed all other men. The character of his mother he revered; and it was not until after her death that his predominant vices gained full strength. In 1780, at the age of thirteen, Andrew, or Andy, as he was called, with his brother Robert, volunteered to serve in the Revo- lutionary forces under General Sumter, and was a witness of the latter's defeat at Hang- ing Rock. In the following year the brothers were made prisoners, and confined in Camden, experiencing brutal treatment from their captors, and being spectators of General Green's defeat at Hobkirk Hill. Through their mother's exertions the boys were exchanged while suffering from small- pox. In two days Robert was dead, and Andy apparently dying. The strength of his constitution triumphed, and he regained health and vigor. As he was getting better, his mother heard the cry of anguish from the jjrison- ers whom the British held in Charleston, among whom were the sons of her sisters. She hastened to their relief, was attacked by fever, died and was buried where her grave could never be found. Thus Andrew Jackson, when fourteen years of age, was left alone in the world, without father, mother, sister or brother, and without one dollar which he could call his own. He 48 PHESIDESTTS OF THE UNITED STATES. soon entered a saddler's shop, and labored diligently for six months. But gradually, as health returned, he became more and more a wild, reckless, lawless boy. He gambled, drank and was regarded as about the worst character that could be found. He now turned schoolmaster. He could teach the alphabet, perhaps the multiplica- tion table; and as he was a very bold boy, it is possible he might have ventured to teach a little writing. But he soon began to think of a profession and decided to study law. With a ver)' slender purse, and on the back of a very fine horse, he set out for Salisbury, North Carolina, where he entered the law office of Mr. McCay. Here he remained two years, professedly studying law. He is still remembered in traditions of Salisbury, which say: " Andrew Jackson was the most roaring, rollicking, horse-racing, card-playing, mis- chievous fellow that ever lived in Salisbury, He did not trouble the law-books much." Andrew was now, at the age of twenty, a tall young man, being over six feet in height. He was slender, remarkably grace- ful and dignified in his manners, an exquis- ite horseman, and developed, amidst his loathesome profanity and multiform vices, a vein of rare magnanimity. His temper was fiery in the extreme; but it was said of him that no man knew better than Andrew Jackson when to get angry and when not. In 1786 he was admitted to the bar, and two years later removed to Nashville, in what was then the western district of North Carolina, with the appointment of so- licitor, or public prosecutor. It was an of- fice of little honor, small emolument and great peril. Few men could be found to accept it. And now Andrew Jackson commenced vigorously to practice law. It was an im- portant part of his business to collect debts. It required nerve. During the first seven years of his residence in those wilds he traversed the almost pathless forest between Nashville and Jonesborough, a distance of 200 miles, twent)'-two times. Hostile In- dians were constantly on the watch, and a man was liable at any moment to be shot down in his own field. Andrew Jackson was just the man for this service — a wild, daring, rough backwoodsman. Daily he made hair-breadth escapes. He seemed to bear a charmed life. Boldl)', alone or with few companions, he traversed the forests, encountering all perils and triumphing over all. In 1790 Tennessee became a Territory, and Jackson was appointed, by President Washington, United States Attornej^ for the new district. In 1791 he married Mrs. Rachel Robards (daughter of Colonel John Donelson), whom he supposed to have been divorced in that year by an act of the Leg- islature of Virginia. Two years after this Mr. and Mrs. Jackson learned, to their great surprise, that Mr. Robards had just obtained a divorce in one of the courts of Kentucky, and that the act of the Virginia Legislature was not final, but conditional. To remedy the irregularity as much as pos- sible, a new license was obtained and the marriage ceremony was again performed. It proved to be a marriage of rare felic- ity. Probably there never was a more affectionate union. However rough Mr. Jackson might have been abroad, he was always gentle and tender at home; and through all the vicissitudes of their lives, he treated Mrs. Jackson with the most chival- ric attention. Under the circumstances it was not un- natural that the facts in the case of this marriage were so misrepresented "by oppo- nents in the political campaigns a quarter or a century later as to become the basis of serious charges against Jackson's moral- ity which, however, have been satisfactorily attested by abundant evidence. Jackson was untiring in his duties as A.VO/fKir JACKSON. 49 United States Attorney, which demanded frequent journeys through the wilderness and exposed him to Indian hostiHties. He acquired considerable property in land, and obtained such influence as to be chosen a member of the convention which framed the Constitution for the new State of Ten- nessee, in 1796, and in that year was elected its first Representative in Congress. Albert Gallatin thus describes the first appearance of the Hon. Andrew Jackson in the House: " A tall, lank, uncouth-looking personage, with locks of hair hanging over his face and a cue down his back, tied with an eel skin; his dress singular, his manners and deport- ment those of a rough backwoodsman." Jackson was an earnest advocate of the Democratic part}'. Jefferson was his idol. He admired Bonaparte, loved France and hated England. As Mr. Jackson took his seat, General Washington, whose second term of office was just expiring, delivered his last speech to Congress. A committee drew up a complimentary address in reply. Andrew Jackson did not approve the ad- dress and was one of twelve who voted against it. Tennessee had fitted out an expedition against the Indians, contrary to the policy of the Government. A resolution was intro- duced that the National Government should pay the expenses. Jackson advo- cated it and it was carried. This rendered him very popular in Tennessee. A va- cancy chanced soon after to occur in the Senate, and Andrew Jackson was chosen United States Senator by the State of Ten- nessee. John Adams was then President and Thomas Jefferson, Vice-President. In 1798 Mr. Jackson returned to Tennes- see, and resigned his seat in the Senate. Soon after he was chosen Judge of the Su- preme Court of that State, with a salary of $600. This office he held six years. It is said that his decisions, though sometimes ungrammatical, were generally right. He did not enjoy his seat upon the bench, and renounced the dignity in 1804. About this time he was chosen Major-General of militia, and lost the title of judge in that of General. When he retired from the Senate Cham- ber, he decided to try his fortune through trade. He purchased a stock of goods in Philadelphia and sent them to Nashville, where he opened a store. He lived about thirteen miles from Nashville, on a tract of land of several thousand acres, mostly un- cultivated. He used a small block-house for a store, from a narrow window of which he sold goods to the Indians. As he had an assistant his office as judge did not materially interfere with his business. As to slaver}', born in the midst of it, the idea never seemed to enter his mind that it could be wrong. He eventually became an extensive slave owner, but he was one of the most humane and gentle of masters. In 1804 Mr. Jackson withdrew from pol- itics and settled on a plantation which he called the Hermitage, near Nashville. He set up a cotton-gin, formed a partnership and traded in New Orleans, making the voyage on flatboats. Through his hot tem- per he became involved in several quarrels and " affairs of honor," during this period, in one of which he was severely wounded, but had the misfortune to kill his opponent, Charles Dickinson. For a time this affair greatly injured General Jackson's popular- ity. The verdict then was, and continues to be, that General Jackson was outra- geously wrong. If he subsequently felt any remorse he never revealed it to anyone. In 1805 Aaron Burr had visited Nash- ville and been a guest of Jackson, with whom he corresponded on the subject of a war with Spain, which was anticipated and desired by them, as well as by the people of the Southwest generally. Burr repeated his visit in September, 1806, when he engaged in the celebrated 5° PREJIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. combinations which led to his trial for trea- son. He was warmly received by Jackson, at whose instance a public ball was given in his honor at Nashville, and contracted with the latter for boats and provisions. Early in 1807, when Burr had been pro- claimed a traitor by President Jefferson, volunteer forces for the Federal service were organized at Nashville under Jack- son's command; but his energy and activ- ity did not shield him from suspicions of connivance in the supposed treason. He was summoned to Richmond as a witness in Burr's trial, but was not called to the stand, probabl}- because he was out-spoken in his partisanship. On the outbreak of the war with Great Britain in 1812, Jackson tendered his serv- ices, and in January, 181 3, embarked for New Orleans at the head of the Tennessee contingent. In March he received an or- der to disband his forces; but in Septem- ber he again took the field, in the Creek war, and in conjunction with his former partner, Colonel Coffee, inflicted upon the Indians the memorable defeat at Talladega, Emuckfaw and Tallapoosa. In May, 1814, Jackson, who had now ac- quired a national reputation, was appointed a Major-General of the United States army, and commenced a campaign against the British in Florida. He conducted the de- fense at Mobile, September 15, seized upon Pensacola, November 6, and immediately transported the bulk of his troops to New Orleans, then threatened by a powerful naval force. Martial law was declared in Louisiana, the State militia was called to arms, engagements with the British were fought December 23 and 28, and after re-en- forcements had been received on both sides ,t;;,,. ;.,, ;>,r-,^,t;-»,r;^;^^ ffi^<:,'':V(C'i^;'(^''t*T:''i"t.''t'y r^^*^ I, Maaaj-g i^^i-pman^-^T^^^^i^^^ ^-^^ma|^3s i '*G^ BU- eighth ARTIN VAN REN, the President of the United States, 1837- '41, was born at Kin- derhook, New York, December 5, 1782. His ancestors were of Dutch origin, and were among the earliest emigrants from Hol- land to the banks of the Hudson. His father was a tavern-keeper, as well as a farmer, and a very decided Democrat. Martin commenced the study of law at the age of fourteen, and took an active part in politics before he had reached the age of twenty. In 1803 he commenced the practice of law in his native village. In 1809 he removed to Hudson, the shire town of his county, where he spent seven years, gaining strength by contending in the courts with some of the ablest men who have adorned the bar of his State. The heroic example of John Quincy Adams in retaining in office every faithful man, without regard to his political preferences, had been thoroughly repudiated by Gen- eral Jackson. The unfortunate principle was now fully established, that " to the victor belong the spoils." Still, this prin- ciple, to which Mr. Van Buren gave his ad- herence, was not devoid of inconveniences. When, subsequently, he attained power which placed vast patronage in his hands, he was heard to say : " I prefer an office that has no patronage. When I give a man an office I offend his disappointed competi- tors and their friends. Nor am I certain of gaining a friend in the man I appoint, for, in all probability, he expected something better." In 1812 Mr. Van Buren was elected to the State Senate. In 181 5 he was appointed Attorney-General, and in 1816 to the Senate a second time. In 1818 there was a great split in the Democratic party in New York, and Mr. Van Buren took the lead in or- ganizing that portion of the party called the Alban)^ Regency, which is said to have swayed the destinies of the State for a quarter of a century. In 1 82 1 he was chosen a member of the convention for revising the State Constitu- tion, in which he advocated an extension of the franchise, but opposed universal suf- frage, and also favored the proposal that colored persons, in order to vote, should have freehold property to the amount of $250. In this year he was also elected to the United States Senate, and at the con- clusion of his term, in 1827, was re-elected, but resigned the following year, having been chosen Governor of the State. In March, 1829, he was appointed Secretary of / ^ \- ^ O 1 lyi""^ .i'^--^^.l^-^^ fr--- MARTIN VAN BUREN. 55 State by President Jackson, but resigned in April, 1831, and during the recess of Congress was appointed minister to Eng- land, whither he proceeded in September, but the Senate, when convened in Decem- ber, refused to ratify the appointment. In May, 1832, Mr. Van Buren was nomi- , nated as the Democratic candidate for Vice- President, and elected in the following November. May 26, 1836, he received the nomination to succeed General Jackson as President, and received 170 electoral votes, out of 283. Scarcely had he taken his seat in the Presidential chair when a financial panic swept over the land. Many attributed this to the war which General Jackson had waged on the banks, and to his endeavor to secure an almost exclusive specie currency. Nearly every bank in the country was com- pelled to suspend specie payment, and ruin pervaded all our great cities. Not less than 2 54 houses failed in New York in one week. All public works were brought to a stand, and there was a general state of dismay. President Van Buren urged the adoption of the independent treasury system, which was twice passed in the Senate and defeated in the House, but finally became a law near the close of his administration. Another important measure was the pass- age of a pre-emption law, giving actual set- tlers the preference in the purchase of public lands. The question of slavery, also, now began to assume great prominence in national politics, and after an elaborate anti-slavery speech by Mr. Slade, of Ver- mont, in the House of Representatives, the Southern members withdrew for a separate consultation, at which Mr. Rhett, of South Carolina, proposed to declare it expedient that the Union should be dissolved ; but the matter was tided over by the passage of a resolution that no petitions or papers relating to slavery should be in any way considered or acted upon. In the Presidential election of 1840 Mr. Van Buren was nominated, witliout opposi- tion, as the Democratic candidate, William H. Harrison being the candidate of the Whig party. The Democrats carried only seven States, and out of 294 electoral votes only sixty were for Mr. Van Buren, the re- maining 234 being for his opponent. The Whig popular majority, however, was not large, the elections in many of the States being very close. March 4, 1841, Mr. Van Buren retired from the Presidency. From his fine estate at Lindenwald he still exerted a powerful influence upon the politics of the country. In 1844 he was again proposed as the Democratic candidate for the Presidency, and a majority of the delegates of the nominating convention were in his favor ; but, owing to his opposition to the pro- posed annexation of Texas, he could not secure the requisite two-thirds vote. His name was at length withdrawn by his friends, and Mr. Polk received the nomina- tion, and was elected. In 1848 Mr. Cass was the regular Demo- cratic candidate. A schism, however, sprang up in the party, upon the question of the permission of slavery in the newly- acquired territory, and a portion of the party, taking the name of " Free-Soilers," nominated Mr. Van Buren. They drew away sufficient votes to secure the election of General Taylor, the Whig candidate. After this Mr. Van Buren retired to his es- tate at Kinderhook, where the remainder of his life was passed, with the exception of a European tour in 1853. He died at Kinderhook, July 24, 1862, at the age of eighty years. Martin Van Buren was a great and good man, and no one will question his right to a high position ainong those who have been the successors of Washington in the faithful occupancy of the Presidential chair. ee PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. WILLIftM HENRY HflRHISDN at hi LI AM HENRY HARRISON, the ninth President of the United States, I 84 I, was born February 9, 1773, in Charles County, Berkeley, the resi- ts father, Governor Benjamin Harrison. He studied at Hampden, Sidney College, with a view of entering the med- ical profession. After graduation he went to Philadelphia to study medicine under the instruction of Dr. Rush. George Washington was then President jf the United States. The Indians were committing fearful ravages on our North- western frontier. Young Harrison, either lured by the love of adventure, or moved by the sufferings of families exposed to the most horrible outrages, abandoned his med- ical studies and entered the army, having obtained a commission of ensign from Pres- ident Washington. The first duty assigned him was to take a train of pack-horses bound to Fort Hamilton, on the Miami River, about forty miles from Fort Wash- ington. He was soon promoted to the rank of Lieutenant, and joined the army which Washington had placed under the command of General Wayne to prosecute more vigorously the war with the In- dians. Lieutenant Harrison received great commendation from his commanding offi- cer, and was promoted to the rank of Captain, and placed in command at Fort Washington, now Cincmnati, Ohio. About this time he married a daughter of John Cleves Symmes, one of the fron- tiersmen who had established a thriving settlement on the bank of the Maumee. In 1797 Captain Harrison resigned his commission in the army and was appointed Secretarv of the Northwest Territorv, and ex-officio Lieutenant-Governor, General St. Clair being then Governor of the Territory. At that time the law in reference to the disposal of the public lands was such that no one could purchase in tracts less than 4,000 acres. Captain Harrison, in the face of violent opposition, succeeded in obtaining so much of a modification of this unjust law that the land was sold in alternate tracts of 640 and 320 acres. The Northwest Territory was then entitled to one delegate in Congress, and Cajv tain Harrison was chosen to fill that of- fice. In iSoo he was appointed Governor ^ J^/9c i^2-'Z-'^^rH_-- WILLTAM HENRY HARRISON. 59 of Indiana Territory and soon after of Upper Louisiana. He was also Superin- tendent of Indian Affairs, and so well did he fulfill these duties that he was four times appointed to this office. During his admin- istration he effected thirteen treaties with the Indians, by which the United States acquired 60,000,000 acres of land. In 1804 he obtained a cession from the Indians of all the land between the Illinois River and the Mississippi. In 1812 he was made Major-General of Kentuck)' militia and Brigadier-General in the army, with the command of the Northwest frontier. In 1813 he was made Major-General, and as such won much re- nown b)' the defense of Fort Meigs, and the battle of the Thames, Octobers, 181 3. In 1 8 14 he left the army and was employed in Indian affairs by the Government. In 1816 General Harrison was chosen a member of the National House of Repre- sentatives to represent the district of Ohio. In the contest which preceded his election he was accused of corruption in respect to the commissariat of the army. Immedi- ately upon taking his seat, he called for an investigation of the charge. A committee was appointed, and his vindication was triumphant. A high compliment was paid to his patriotism, disinterestedness and devotion to the public service. For these services a gold medal was presented to him with the thanks of Congress. In 1 8 19 he was elected to the Senate of Ohio, and in 1824, as one of the Presiden- tial electors of that State, he gave his vote to Henry Clay. In the same year he was elected to the Senate of the United States. In 1828 he was appointed by President Adams minister plenipotentiary to Colom- bia, but was recalled by General Jackson immediately after the inauguration of the latter. Upon his return to the United States, General Harrison retired to his farm at North Bend, Hamilton County, Ohio, six- teen miles below Cincinnati, where for twelve years he was clerk of tiie County Court. He once owned a distillery, but perceiving the sad effects of whisky upon the surrounding population, he promptl}^ abandoned his business at great pecuniary sacrifice. In 1836 General Harrison was brought forward as a candidate for the Presidency. Van Buren was the administration candi- date; the opposite party could not unite, and four candidates were brought forward. General Harrison received seventy-three electoral votes without any general concert among his friends. The Democratic party triumphed and Mr. Van Buren was chosen President. In 1839 General Harrison was again nominated for the Presidency by the Whigs, at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Mr. Van Buren being the Democratic candi- date. General Harrison received 234 elec- toral votes against sixty for his opponent. This election is memorable chiefly for the then extraordinary means employed during the canvass for popular votes. Mass meet- ings and processions were introduced, and the watchwords " log cabin " and " hard cider " were effectually used b)' the Whigs, and aroused a popular enthusiasm. A vast concourse of people attended his inauguration. His address on that occasion was in accordance with his antecedents, and gave great satisfaction. A short time after he took his seat, he was seized by a pleuris^'- fever, and after a few days of violent sick- ness, died April 4, just one short month after his inauguration. His death was universally regarded as one of the greatest of National calamities. Never, since the death of Washington, were there, throughout one land, such demonstrations of sorrow. Not one single spot can be found to sully his fame; and through all ages Americans will pronounce with love and reverence the name of William Henry Harrison. 6o PRESIDENTS OF THE UN/TED STATES. l^^^y^^^-ii^^l JHHHH '^S^^'^^^f^i^^"^^ BH2g; OHN TYLER, the tenth President of the United States, was born in Charles City County, Virginia, March 29, 1790. His father. Judge John Tyler, possessed large landed estates in Virginia, and was one of the most distinguished men of his da\-, filling the offices of Speaker of the House of Delegates, Judge of the Su- preme Court and Governor of the State. At the early age of twelve entered William and Mary graduated with honor when but seventeen jears old. He then closely applied himself to the study of law, and at nineteen years of age commenced the prac- tice of his profession. When only twenty- one he was elected to a seat in the State Legislature. He acted with the Demo- cratic party and advocated the measures of Jefferson and Madison. For five years he was elected to the Legislature, receiving nearly the unanimous vote of his county. When but twenty-si.x years of age he was elected a member of Congress. He advo- cated a strict construction of the Constitu- tion and the most careful vigilance over young College John and State rights. He was soon compelled to resign his seat in Congress, owing to ill health, but afterward took his seat in the State Legislature, where he exerted a powerful influence in promoting public works of great utility. In 1825 Mr. Tyler was chosen Governor of his State — a high honor, for Virginia had many able men as competitors for the prize. His administration was signally a successful one. He urged forward inter- nal improvements and strove to remove sectional jealousies. His popularity secured his re-election. In 1827 he was elected United States Senator, and upon taking his seat joined the ranks of the opposition. He opposed the tariff, voted against the bank as unconstitutional, opposed all restrictions upon slavery, resisted all projects of inter- nal improvements by the General Govern- ment, avowed his sympathy with Mr. Cal- houn's views of nullification, and declared that General Jackson, by his opposition to the nullifiers, had abandoned the principles of the Democratic party. Such was Mr. Tyler's record in Congress. This hostility to Jackson caused Mr. Tyler's retirement frojn the Senate, after his election to a second term. He soon after removed to Williamsburg for the better education of his children, and again took his seat in the Legislature. r \ xJCn-'iyri JOHN TYLER. 63 In 1839 he was sent to the National Con- vention at Harrisburg to nominate a Presi- dent. General Harrison received a majority of votes, much to the disappointment of the South, who had wished for Henry Clay. In order to conciliate the Southern Whigs, John Tyler w^as nominated for Vice-Presi- dent. Harrison and Tyler were inaugu- rated March 4, 1841. In one short month from that time President Harrison died, and Mr. Tyler, to his own surprise as well as that of the nation, found himself an occupant of the Presidential chair. His position was an exceedingly difficult one, as he was opposed to the main principles of the party which had brought him into power. General Harrison had selected a Whig cabinet. Should he retain them, and thus surround himself with councilors whose views were antagonistic to his own? or should he turn against the party that had elected him, and select a cabinet in harmony with himself? This was his fear- ful dilemma. President Tyler deserves more charity than he has received. He issued an address to the people, which gave general satisfac- tion. He retained the cabinet General Harrison had selected. His veto of a bill chartering a new national bank led to an open quarrel with the party which elected him, and to a resignation of the entire cabinet, except Daniel Webster, Secretary of State. President Tyler attempted to conciliate. He appointed a new cabinet, leaving out all strong party men, but the Whig members of Congress were not satisfied, and they published a manifesto September 13, break- ing off all political relations. The Demo- crats had a majority in the House ; the Whigs in the Senate. Mr. Webster soon found it necessary to resign, being forced out by the pressure of his Whig friends. April 12, 1844, President Tyler concluded, through Mr. Calhoun, a treaty for the an- nexation ol Texas, which was rejected by the Senate ; but he effected his object in the closing days of his administration by the passage of the joint resolution of March i 1845- He was nominated for the Presidency by an informal Democratic Convention, held at Baltimore in May, 1844, but soon with- drew from the canvass, perceiving that he had not gained the confidence of the Demo- crats at large. Mr. Tyler's administration was particu- larly unfortunate. No one was satisfied. Whigs and Democrats alike assailed him. Situated as he was, it is more than can be expected of human nature that he should, in all cases, have acted in the wisest manner ; but it will probably be the verdict of all candid men, in a careful review of his career, that John Tyler was placed in a position of such difficulty that he could not pursue an}' course which would not expose him to severe censure and denunciation. In 1813 Mr. Tyler married Letitia Chris- tian, who bore him three sons and three daughters, and died in Washington in 1842. June 26, 1844, he contracted a second mar- riage with Miss Julia Gardner, of New York. He lived in almost complete retire- ment from politics until February, 1861, when he was a member of the abortive " peace convention," held at Washington, and was chosen its President. Soon after he renounced his allegiance to the United States and was elected to the Confederate Congress. He died at Richmond, January 17, 1862, after a short illness. Unfortunately for his memory the name of John Tyler must forever be associated with all the misery of that terrible Re- bellion, whose cause he openl)- espoused. It is with sorrow that history records that a President of the United States died while defending the flag of rebellion, which was arrayed against the national banner in deadly warfare. 64 PKES/DENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. AMES KNOX POLK, the eleventh President of the United States, 1845- '49, was born in Meck- lenburg County, North Carolina, November 2, 1795. He was the eldest son of a family of six sons and four daughters, and was a grand-nephew of Colonel Thomas Polk, celebrated in connection with the Meck- lenburg Declaration of In- dependence. In 1806 his father, Samuel Polk, emigrated with his fam- ily two or three hundred miles west to the valley of the Duck River. He was a sur- veyor as well as farmer, and gradually in- creased in wealth until he became one of the leading men of the region. In the common schools James rapidly be- came proficient in all the common branches of an English education. In 18 13 he was sent to Murfrcesboro Academy, and in the autumn of 181 5 entered the sophomore class in the University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill, graduating in 1818. After a short season of recreation he went to Nash- ville and entered the law office of Felix Grundy. As soon as he had his finished legal studies and been admitted to the bar, he returned to Columbia, the shire town of Maury County, and opened an office. James K. Polk ever adhered to the polit- ical faith of his father, which was that of a Jeffersonian Republican. In 1823 he was elected to the Legislature of Tennessee. As a " strict constructionist," he did not think that the Constitution empowered the Gen- eral Government to carry on a system of internal improvements in the States, but deemed it important that it should have that power, and wished the Constitution amended that it might be conferred. Sub- sequently, however, he became alarmed lest the General Government become so strong as to undertake to interfere with slavery. He therefore gave all his influence to strengthen the State governments, and to check the growth of the central power. In January', 1824, Mr. Polk married Miss Mary Childress, of Rutherford Count}', Ten- nessee. Had some one then whispered to him that he was destined to become Presi- dent of the United States, and that he must select for his companion one who would adorn that distinguished station, he could not have made a more fitting choice. She was truly a lady of rare beauty and culture. In the fall of 1825 Mr. Polk was chosen a member of Congress, and was continu- T 3/0. ■^ VCL .XI yAMES K. POLK. 67 ously re-elected until 1S39. He then with- drew, only that he might accept the gubernatorial chair of his native State. He was a warm friend of General Jackson, who had been defeated in the electoral contest by John Quincy Adams. This latter gentleman had just taken his seat in the Presidential chair when Mr. Polk took his seat in the House of Representatives. He immediately united himself with the opponents of Mr. Adams, and was soon regarded as the leader of the Jackson party in the House. The four years of Mr. Adams' adminis- tration passed away, and General Jackson took the Presidential chair. Mr. Polk had now become a man of great influence in Congress, and was chairman of its most important committee — that of Ways and Means. Eloquently he sustained General Jackson in all his measures — in his hostility to internal improvements, to the banks, and to the tariff. Eight years of General Jack- son's administration passed away, and the powers he had wielded passed into the hands of Martin Van Buren ; and still Mr. Polk remained in the House, the advocate of that type of Democracy which those distinguished men upheld. During five sessions of Congress Mr. Polk was speaker of the House. He per- formed his arduous duties to general satis- faction, and a unanimous vote of thanks to him was passed by the House as he with- drew, March 4, 1839. He was elected Governor by a large majority, and took the oath of office at Nashville, October 14, 1839. He was a candidate for re-election in 1841, but was defeated. In the mean- time a wonderful revolution had swept over the countrj-. W. H. Harrison, the Whig candidate, had been called to the Presiden- tial chair, and in Tennessee the Whig ticket had been carried by over 12,000 majority. Under these circumstances Mr. Polk's suc- cess was hopeless. Still he canvassed the State with his Whig competitor, Mr. Jones, traveling in the most friendly manner to- gether, often in the same carriage, and at one time sleeping in the same bed. Mr. Jones was elected by 3.000 majority. And now the question of the annexation of Texas to our country agitated the whole land. When this question became national Mr. Polk, as the avowed champion of an- nexation, became the Presidential candidate of the pro-slaver}' wing of the Democratic party, and George M. Dallas their candi- date for the Vice-Presidenc)'. They were elected by a large majoritv, and were in- augurated March 4, 1845. President Polk formed an able cabinet, consisting of James Buchanan, Robert J. Walker, William L. Marcy, George Ban- croft, Cave Johnson and John Y. Mason. The Oregon boundary question was settled, the Department of the Interior was created, the low tariff oi 1846 was carried, the financial system of the Government was reorganized, the Mexican war was con- ducted, which resulted in the acquisition of California and New Mexico, and had far- reaching consequences upon the later fort- unes of the republic. Peace was made. We had wrested from Mexico territory equal to four times the empire of France, and five times that of Spain. In the prose- cution of this war we expended 20,000 lives and more than $ioo,ooo,(XX). Of this money $15,000,000 were paid to Mexico. Declining to seek a renomination, Mr. Polk retired from the Presidency March 4, 1849, when he was succeeded by General Zachary Taylor. He retired to Nashville, and died there June 19, 1849, in the fifty- fourth year of his age. His funeral was at- tended the following day, in Nashville, with every demonstration of respect. He left no children. Without being possessed of extraordinary talent, Mr. Polk was a capable administrator of public affairs, and irre- proachable in private life. 58 PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. r(^?r«^«^»^'^«^«^«^3t ACHARY TAY- LOR, the twelfth President of the United States, 1 849-' so, was born in Orange County, Virginia, Septem- 1784. His father, Richard Taylor, was Colo- nel of a Virginia regiment in the Revolutionary war, and removed to Kentucky in 1785 ; purchased a large plantation near Louisville and became an influential cit- izen ; was a member of the convention that framed the Constitution of Kentucky; served in both branches of the Legislature ; was Collector of the port of Louisville under President Washington ; as a Presidential elector, voted for Jefferson, Madison, Mon- roe and Clay; died January 19,1829. Zachary remained on his father's planta- tion until 1808, in which year (May 3) he was appointed First Lieutenant in the Seventh Infantry, to fill a vacancy oc- casioned by the death of his elder brother, Hancock. Up to this point he had received but a limited education. Joining his regiment at New Orleans, lie was attacked with yellow fever, with nearly fatal termination. In November, 1810, he was promoted to Captain, and in the sum- mer of 18 1 2 he was in command of Fort Harrison, on the left bank of the Wabash River, near the present site of Terre Haute, his successful defense of which with but a handful of men against a large force of Indians which had attacked him was one of the first marked military achievements of the war. He was then brevetted Major, and in 18 14 promoted to the full rank. During the remainder of the war Taylor was active!}' employed on the W^estern frontier. In the peace organization of 1815 he was retained as Captain, but soon after resigned and settled near Louisville. In May, 1816, however, he re-entered the army as Major of the Third Infantry ; became Lieutenant-Colonel of the Eighth Infantry in 1 8 19, and in 1832 attained the Colonelcy of the First Infantry, of which he had been Lieutenant-Colonel since 1821. On different occasions he had been called to Washington as member of a military board for organiz- ing the militia of the Union, and to aid the Government with his knowledge in the organization of the Indian Bureau, having for many years discharged the duties of Indian agent over large tracts of Western ~7x^,^:>/i<:=?o-'ryy,^^ ZA CHA R 2' TA YL GR. 7i country. He served through the Black Hawk war in 1832, and in 1837 was ordered to take command in Florida, then the scene of war with the Indians. In 1846 he was transferred to the com- mand of the Army of the Southwest, from which he was relieved the same year at his own request. Subsequently he was sta- tioned on the Arkansas frontier at Forts Gibbon, Smith and Jesup, which latter work had been built under his direction in 1822. May 28, iS-ij, he received a dispatch from the Secretary of War informing him of the receipt of information by the President " that Texas would shortly accede to the terms of annexation," in which event he was instructed to defend and protect her from " foreign invasion and Indian incur- sions." He proceeded, upon the annexation of Texas, with about 1,500 men to Corpus Chnsti, where his force was increased to some 4,000. Taylor was brevetted Major-Gencral May 28, and a month later, June 29, 1846, his full commission to that grade was issued. After needed rest and reinforcement, he advanced in September on Monterey, which city ca- pitulated after three-days stubborn resist- ance. Here he took up his winter quarters. The plan for the invasion of Mexico, by way of Vera Cruz, with General Scott in command, was now determined upon by the Govenrment, and at the moment Taylor was about to resume active operations, he received orders to send the larger part of his force to reinforce the army of General Scott at Vera Cruz. Though subsequently reinforced by raw recruits, yet after pro- viding a garrison for Monterey and Saltillo he had but about 5,300 effective troops, of which but 500 or 600 were regulars. In this weakened condition, however, he was destined to achieve his greatest victory. Confidently relying upon his strength at Vera Cruz to resist the enemy for a long time, Santa Anna directed his entire army against Taylor to overwhelm him, and then to return to oppose the advance of Scott's more formidable invasion. The battle of Buena Vista was fought February 22 and 23, 1847. Taylor received the thanks of Congress and a gold medal, and " Old Rough and Ready," the sobriquet given, him in the army, became a household word. He remained in quiet possession of the Rio Grande Valley until November, when he returned to the United States. In the Whig convention which met at Philadelphia, June 7, 1848, Taylor was nomi- nated on the fourth ballot as candidate of the Whig party for President, over Henry Clay, General Scott and Daniel Webster. In November Ta3'lor received a majority of electoral votes, and a popular vote of 1,360,752, against 1,219,962 for Cass and Butler, and 291,342 for Van Burcn and Adams. General Taylor was inaugurated March 4, 1849. The free and slave States being then equal in number, the struggle for supremacy on the part of the leaders in Congress was violent and bitter. In the summer of 1849 California adopted in convention a Consti- tution prohibiting slavery within its borders. Taylor advocated the immediate admission of California with her Constitution, and the postponement of the question as to the other Territories until they could hold conven- tions and decide for themselves whether slavery should exist within their borders. This policy ultimately prevailed through the celebrated " Compromise Measures" of Henry Clay ; but not during the life of the brave soldier and patriot statesman. July 5 he was taken suddenly ill with a bilious fever, which proved fatal, his death occur- ring July 9, 1850. One of his daughters married Colonel W. W. S. Bliss, his Adju- tant-General and Chief of Staff in Florida and Mexico, and Private Secretary during his Presidency. Another daughter was married to Jefferson Davis. PRESIDENTS OF THE UMTED STATES. »$^. '^0^^-^'Ml^^0^^^^ mw^^^mm w^^ikm^m '" 1 ' 'f '.nni,' II, Uil tM.IJtV't.^f.'l ^' '. f.l '11 'Vl,' W,' ! ^ ' 'f.VH U.MM l/.tiUil.MM'^ |^*£ n't irTFrMt'lt'iifi^yiWr^ii'f w'trrriy'^t'ytf't « »Wiiry>'^'t>'«l'|ytif'rT^fy N ^ I LLARD FILL- MORE, the thir- st,' teeiith President of the United States, i850-'3, was born in Summer Hill, Cayuga County, New York, Janu- ary 7, i8oo. He was of New England ancestry, and his educational advantages were limited. He earl\- learned the clothiers' trade, but spent all his leisure time in study. At nineteen years of age he was induced by Judge Walter Wood to abandon his trade and commence the study of law. Upon learning that the young man was entirely destitute of means, he took him into his own office and loaned him such money as he needed. That he might not be heavily burdened with debt, young Fillmore taught school during the winter months, and in various other ways helped himself along. At the age of twenty-three he was ad- mitted to the Court of Common Pleas, and commenced the practice of his profession in the village of Aurora, situated on the eastern bank of the Cayuga Lake. In 1825 he married Miss Abigail Powers, daughter of Rev. Lemuel Powers, a lady of great moral worth. In 1S25 he took his seat in the House of Assembl\- of his native State, as Representative from Erie County, whither he had recently moved. Though he had never taken a very active part in politics his vote and his sym- pathies were with the Whig party. The State was then Democratic, but his cour- tesy, ability and integrity won the respect of his associates. In 1832 he was elected to a seat in the United States Congress. At the close of his term he returned to his law practice, and in two years more he was again elected to Congress. He now began to have a national reputa- tion. His labors were very arduous. To draft resolutions in the committee room, and then to defend them against the most skillful opponents on the floor of the House requires readiness of mind, mental resources and skill in debate such as few possess. Weary with these exhausting labors, and pressed by the claims of his private affairs, Mr. Fillmore wrote a letter to his constitu- ents and declined to be a candidate for re- election. Notwithstanding this communi- .^y^^-AX/./j.^c-^ t/^^C^'i,<.^'. Only four States — \'ermont, Massachusetts, Ken- tuck}' and Tennessee — cast their electoral votes against him. March 4, 1853, he was inaugurated President of the United States, and William R. King, Vice-President. President Pierce's cabinet consisted of William S. Marcy, James Guthrie, Jefferson Davis, James C. Dobbin, Robert McClel- land, James Campbell and Caleb Cushing. At the demand of slavery the Missouri Compromise was repealed, and all the Ter- ritories of the Union were thrown open to slavery. The Territory of Kansas, west of Missouri, was settled by emigrants mainly from the North. According to law, they were about to meet and decide whether slavery or freedom should be the law of that realm. Slavery in Missouri and other Southern States rallied her armed lesfions, marched them into Kansas, took possession of the polls, drove away the citizens, deposited their own votes by handfuls, went through the farce of count- ing them, and then declared that, by an overwhelming majority, slavery was estab- lished in Kansas. These facts nobody denied, and yet President Pierce's adminis- tration felt bound to respect the decision obtained by such votes. The citizens of Kansas, the majority of whom were free- State men, met in convention and adopted the following resolve : "Resolved, That the body of men who, for the past two months, have been passing laws for the people of our Territory, moved, counseled and dictated to by the demagogues of other States, are to us a foreign body, representing only the lawless invaders who elected them, and not the people of this Territory ; that we repudiate their action as the monstrous consummation of an act of violence, usurpation and fraud iniparalleled in the history of the Union." The free-State people of Kansas also sent a petition to the General Government, im- ploring its protection. In reply the Presi- dent issued a proclamation, declaring that Legislature thus created must be recog- nized as the legitimate Legislature of Kan- sas, and that its laws were binding upon the people, and that, if necessary, the whole force of the Governmental arm would be put forth to inforce those laws. James Buchanan succeeded him in the Presidenc}^ and, March 4, 1857, President Pierce retired to his home in Concord, New Hampshire. When the Rebellion burst forth Mr. Pierce remained steadfast to the principles he had always cherished, and gave his sympathies to the pro-slavery party, with which he had ever been allied. He declined to do anything, either by voice or pen, to strengthen the hands of the National Government. He resided in Concord until his death, which occurred in October, 1869. He was one of the most genial and social of men, generous to a fault, and contributed liberally of his moderate means for the alleviation of suf- fering and want. He was an honored communicant of the Episcopal church. PJfliSIDENTS OF THE UXITED STATES. 'AMES BUCHANAN, the fifteenth President of the United States, i857-'6i, was born in FrankHn Count y, Pennsylvania, April 23, 1791. The place where his father's cabin stood was called Stony Batter, and it was situated in a wild, romantic spot, in a gorge of mount- ains, with towering sum- mits rising all around. He was of Irish ancestry, his father having emigrated in- 1783, with very little prop- erty, save his own strong arms. James remained in his secluded home for eight years enjoying very few social or intellectual advantages. His parents were industrious, frugal, prosperous and intelli- gent. In 1799 his father removed to Mer- cersburg, where James was placed in school and commenced a course in English, Greek and Latin. His progress was rapid and in 1801 he entered Dickinson College at Carlisle. Here he took his stand among the first scholars in the institution, and was able to master the most abstruse subjects with facility. In 1809 he graduated with the highest honors in his class. He was then eighteen years of age, tall. graceful and in vigorous health, fond of athletic sports, an unerring shot and en- livened with an exuberant flow of animal spirits. He immediately commenced the study of law in the city of Lancaster, and was admitted to the bar in 181 2. He rose very rapidly in his profession and at once took undisputed stand with the ablest law- yers of the State. When but twenty-six years of age, unaided b}' counsel, he suc- cessfully defended before the State Senate one of the Judges of the State, who was tried upon articles of impeachment. At the age of thirty it was generally admitted that he stood at the head of the bar, and there was no lawyer in the State who had a more extensive or lucrative practice. In 1812, just after Mr. Buchanan had entered upon the practice of the law, our second war with England occurred. With all his powers he sustained the Govern- ment, eloquently urging the rigorous pros- ecution of the war; and even enlisting as a private soldier to assist in repelling the British, wlio had sacked Washington and were threatening Baltimore. He was at that time a Federalist, but when the Con- stitution was adopted by both parties, Jefferson truly said, " We are all Federal- ists; we are all Republicans." The opposition of the Federalists to the war with England, and the alien and sedi- tZ^y/zf^ ^^ 71^-^^^ ■^^^ '\ JAMES BUCHANAN. 03 tion laws of John Adams, brought the party into dispute, and the name of Federalist became a reproach. Mr. Buchanan ahnost immediately upon entering Congress began to incline more and more to the Repub- licans. In the stormy Presidential election of 1824, in which Jackson, Clay, Crawford and John Quincy Adams were candidates, Mr. Buchanan espoused the cause of Gen- eral Jackson and unrelentingly opposed the administration of Mr. Adams. Upon his elevation to the Presidency, General Jackson appointed Mr. Buchanan, minister to Russia. Upon his return in 1833 he was elected to a seat in the United States Senate. He there met as his associates, Webster, Clay, Wright and Calhoun. He advocated the measures proposed by Presi- dent Jackson of making reprisals against France, and defended the course of the Pres- ident in his unprecedented and wholesale removals from office of those who were not the supporters of his administration. Upon this question he was brought into direct col- lision with Henry Clay. In the discussion of the question respecting the admission of Michigan and Arkansas into the Union, Mr. Buchanan defined his position by saying: " The older I grow, the more I am in- clined to be what is called a State-rights man." M. de Tocqueville, in his renowned work upon " Democracy in America," foresaw the trouble which was inevitable from the doctrine of Stale sovereignty as held by Calhoun and Buchanan. He was con- vinced that the National Government was losing that strength which was essential to its own existence, and that the States were assuming powers which threatened the perpetuity of the Union. Mr. Buchanan received the book in the Senate and de- clared the fears of De Tocqueville to be groundless, and yet he lived to sit in the Presidential chair and see State after State, in accordance with his own views of State rights, breaking from the Union, thus crumbling our Republic into ruins; while the unhappy old man folded his arms in despair, declaring that the National Consti- tution invested him with no power to arrest the destruction. Upon Mr. Polk's accession to the Presi- dency, Mr. Buchanan became Secretary of State, and as such took his share of the responsibility in the conduct of the Mexi- can war. At the close of Mr. Polk's ad- ministration, Mr. Buchanan retired to pri- vate life; but his intelligence, and his great ability as a statesman, enabled him to exert a powerful influence in National affairs. Mr. Pierce, upon his election to the Presidency, honored Mr. Buchanan with the mission to England. In the year 1856 the National Democratic convention nomi- nated Mr. Buchanan for the Presidency. The political conflict was one of the most severe in which our country has ever en- gaged. On the 4th of March, 1857, Mr. Buchanan was inaugurated President. His cabinet were Lewis Cass, Howell Cobb, J. B. Floyd, Isaac Toucey, Jacob Thomp- son, A. V. Brown and J. S. Black. The disruption of the Democratic party, in consequence of the manner in which the issue of the nationality of slavery was pressed by the Southern wing, occurred at the National convention, held at Charleston in April, i860, for the nomination of Mr. Buchanan's successor, when the majority of Southern delegates withdrew upon the passage of a resolution declaring that the constitutional status of slavery should be determined by the Supreme Court. In the next Presidential canvass Abra- ham Lincoln was nominated by the oppo- nents of Mr. Buchanan's administration. Mr. Buchanan remained in Washington long enough to see his successor installed and then retired to his home in Wheatland. He died June i, 1868, aged seventy-seven years. «4 PUBaiDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. B R A H A M LIN- COLN, the sixteenth President of the United States, i86i-'5, was born February 12, 1809, in Larue (then Hardin) County, Kentucky, in a cabin on Nolan Creek, three miles west of Hudgensville. His parents were Thomas and Nancy (Hanks) Lincoln. Of his an- cestry and early years the little that is known may best be given in his own language : " My parents were both born in Virginia, of un- distinguished families — second families, per- haps 1 should say. My mother, who died in m}' tenth year, was of a family of the name of Hanks, some of whom now remain in Adams, and others in Macon County, Illinois. My paterna' grandfather, Abra- ham Lincoln, emigrated from Rockbridge County, Virginia, to Kentucky in 1781 or 1782, where, a year or two later, he was killed by Indians — not in battle, but by stealth, when he was laboring to open a farm in the forest. His ancestors, who were Quakers, went to Virginia from Berks County, Pennsylvania. An effort to iden- tify them with the New England family of the same name ended in nothing more defi- nite than a similarity of Christian names in both families, such as Enoch, Levi, Mor- decai, Solomon, Abraham and the like. My father, at the death of his father, was but six years of age, and he grew up, liter- ally, without education. He removed from Kentuck)' to what is now Spencer County, Indiana, in m)' eighth year. We reached our new home about the time the State came into the Union. It was a wild region, with bears and other wild animals still in the woods. There I grew to manhood. " There were some schools, so called, but no qualification was ever required of a teacher beyond ' readin', writin', and cipher- in' to the rule of three.' If a straggler, sup- posed to understand Latin, happened to sojourn in the neighborhood, he was looked upon as a wizard. There was absolutely nothing to excite ambition for education. Of course, when I came of age I did not know much. Still, somehow, I could read, write and cipher to the rule of three, and that was all. I have not been to school since. The little advance I now have upon this store of education I have picked up from time to time under the pressure of necessity. I was raised to farm-work, which tzP^- a-i (2^,,/X^Z'-'>-x-Ct -^ ABRAHAM LINCOLN. 87 I continued till I was twenty-two. At twenty-one I came to Illinois and passed the first year in Macon County. Then I got to New Salem, at that time in Sangamon, now in Menard County, where I remained a year as a sort of clerk in a store. "Then came the Black Hawk war, and I was elected a Captain of volunteers — -a suc- cess which gave me more pleasure than an}' I have had since. I went the campaign, was elated ; ran for the Legislature the same year (1832) and was beaten, the only time I have ever been beaten by the people. The ne.xt and three succeeding biennial elections I was elected to the Legislature, and was never a candidate afterward. " During this legislative period I had studied law, and removed to Springfield to practice it. In 1846 I was elected to the Lower House of Congress ; was not a can- didate for re-election. From 1849 to i854. inclusive, I practiced the law more assid- uously than ever before. Always a Whig in politics, and generally on the Whig elec- toral tickets, making active canvasses, I was losing interest in politics, when the repeal of the Missouri Compromise roused nie again. What I have done since is pretty well known." The early residence of Lincoln in Indi- ana was sixteen miles north of the Ohio River, on Little Pigeon Creek, one and a half miles east of Gentryville, within the present township of Carter. Here his mother died October 5, 1818, and the next year his father married Mrs. Sally (Bush) Johnston, of Elizabethtown, Kentucky. She was an affectionate foster-parent, to whom Abraham was indebted for his first encour- agement to study. He became an eager reader, and the few books owned in the vicinity were many times perused. He worked frequently for the neighbors as a farm laborer ; was for some time clerk in a store at Gentryville; and became famous throughout that region for his athletic powers, his fondness for argument, his in- exhaustible fund of humerous anecdote, as well as for mock oratory and the composi- tion of rude satirical verses. In 1828 lie made a trading voyage to New Orleans as " bow-hand " on a flatboat ; rejnovcd to Illinois in 1830; helped his father build a log house and clear a farm on the north fork of Sangamon River, ten miles west of Decatur, and was for some time employed in splitting rails for the fences — a fact which was prominently brought forward for a political purpose thirty years later. In the spring of 185 1 he, with two of his relatives, was hired to build a flatboat on the Sangamon River and navigate it to New Orleans. The boat " stuck " on a mill-dam, and was got off with great labor through an ingenious mechanical device which some years later led to Lincoln's taking out a patent for "an improved method for lifting vessels over shoals." This voyage was memorable for another reason — the sight of slaves chained, mal- treated and flogged at New Orleans was the origin of his deep convictions upon the slavery question. Returning from this voyage he became a resident for several years at New Salem, a recently settled village on the Sangamon, where he was successively a clerk, grocer, surveyor and postmaster, and acted as pilot to the first steamboat that ascended the Sangamon. Here he studied law, inter- ested himself in local politics after his return from the Black Hawk war, and became known as an effective "stump- speaker." The subject of his first political speech was the improvement of the channel of the Sangamon, and the chief ground on which he announced himself (1S32) a candi- date for the Legislature was his advocacy of this popular measure, on which subject his practical experience made him the high- est authority. Elected to the Legislature in 1834 as a 88 PRES/DENTS OF THE UN /TED STATES. " Henry Clay Whig," he rapidly acquired that command of language and that homely but forcible rhetoric which, added to his intimate knowledge of the people from which he sprang, made him more than a match in debate for his few well-educated opponents. Admitted to the bar in 1837 he soon established himself at Springfield, where the State capital was located in 1839, largely through his influence; became a successful pleader in the State, Circuit and District Courts; married in 1842 a lady be- longing to a prominent family in Lexington, Kentucky; took an active part in the Pres- idential campaigns of 1840 and 1844 as candidate for elector on the Harrison and Clay tickets, and in 1846 was elected to the United States House of Representatives over the celebrated Peter Cartwright. During his single term in Congress he did not attain any prominence. He voted for the reception of anti-slavery petitions for the abolition of the slave trade in the District of Columbia and for the Wilmot proviso ; but was chiefly remem- bered for the stand he took against the Mexican war. For several years there- after he took comparatively little interest in politics, but gained a leading position at the Springfield bar. Two or three non- political lectures and an eulogy on Henry Clay (1852) added nothing to his reputation. In 1854 the repeal of the Missouri Compromise by the Kansas-Nebraska act aroused Lincoln from his indifference, and in attacking that measure he had the im- mense advantage of knowing perfectly well the motives and the record of its author, Stephen A. Douglas, of Illinois, then popu- larly designated as the " Little Giant." The latter came to Springfield in October, 1854, on the occasion of the State Fair, to vindi- cate his policy in the Senate, and the " Anti- Nebraska" Whigs, remembering that Lin- coln had often measured his strength with Douglas in the Illinois Legislature and be- fore the Springfield Courts, engaged him to improvise a reply. This speech, in the opinion of those who heard it, was one of the greatest efforts of Lincoln's life ; cer- tainly the most effective in his whole career. It took the audience by storm, and from that moment it was felt that Douglas had met his match. Lincoln was accordingly selected as the Anti-Nebraska candidate for the United States Senate in place of General Shields, whose term expired March 4, 1855, and led to several ballots; but Trumbull was ultimately chosen. The second conflict on the soil of Kan- sas, which Lincoln had predicted, soon be- gan. The result was the disruption of the Whig and the formation of the Republican party. At the Bloomington State Conven- tion in 1856, where the new party first assumed form in Illinois, Lincoln made an impressive address, in which for the first time he took distinctive ground against slavery in itself. At the National Republican Convention at Philadelphia, June 17, after the nomi- nation of Fremont, Lincoln was put for- ward by the Illinois delegation for the Vice-Presidency, and received on the first ballot no votes against 259 for William L, Dayton. He took a prominent part in the canvass, being on the electoral ticket. In 1858 Lincoln was unanimously nomi- nated by the Republican State Convention as its candidate for the United States Senate in place of Douglas, and in his speech of acceptance used the celebrated illustration of a "house divided against itself" on the slaver)' question, which was, perhaps, the cause of his defeat. The great debate car- ried on at all the principal towns of Illinois between Lincoln and Douglas as rival Sena- torial candidates resulted at the time in the election of the latter ; but being widely cir- culated as a campaign document, it fixed the attention of the country upon the ABRAHAM LIMCOLN. 89 former, as the clearest and most convinc- ing exponent of Republican doctrine. Early in 1859 he began to be named in Illinois as a suitable Republican candidate for the Presidential campaign of the ensu- ing year, and a political address delivered at the Cooper Institute, New York, Febru- ary 27, i860, followed b)' similar speeches at New Haven, Hartford and elsewhere in New England, first made him known to the Eastern States in the light by which he had long been regarded at home. By the Re- publican State Convention, which met at Decatur, Illinois, May 9 and 10, Lincoln was unanimously endorsed for the Presi- dency. It was on this occasion that two rails, said to have been split by his hands thirty years before, were brought into the convention, and the incident contributed much to his popularit}'. The National Republican Convention at Chicago, after spirited efforts made in favor of Seward, Chase and Bates, nominated Lincoln for the Presidency, with Hannibal Hamlin for Vice-President, at the same time adopt- ing a vigorous anti-slavery platform. The Democratic party having been dis- organized and presenting two candidates, Douglas and Breckenridge, and the rem- nant of the " American" party having put forward John Bell, of Tennessee, the Re- publican victory was an easy one, Lincoln being elected November 6 by a large plu- rality, comprehending nearly all the North- ern States, but none of the Southern. The secession of South Carolina and the Gulf States was the immediate result, followed a few months later by that of the border slave States and the outbreak of the great civil war. The life of Abraham Lincoln became thenceforth merged in the history of his country. None of the details of the vast conflict which filled the remainder of Lin- coln's life can here be given. Narrowly escaping assassination by avoidii^g Balti- more on his way to the capital, he reached Washington February 23, and was inaugu- rated President of the United States March 4, 1 86 1. In his inaugural address he said: " I hold, that in contemplation of universal law and the Constitution the Union of these States is perpetual. Perpetuity is implied if not ex- pressed in the fundamental laws of all na- tional governments. It is safe to assert that no government proper ever had a pro- vision in its organic law for its own termi- nation. I therefore consider that in view of the Constitution and the laws, the Union is unbroken, and to the extent of my ability I shall take care, as the Constitution en- joins upon me, that the laws of the United Stages be extended in all the States. In doing this there need be no bloodshed or vio- lence, and there shall be none unless it be forced upon the national authority. The power conferred to me will be used to iiold, occupy and possess the property and places belonging to the Governmeni, and to col- lect the duties and imports, but beyond what may be necessary for these objects there will be no invasion, no using of force against or among the people anywhere. In your hands, my dissatisfied fellow-countr)'- men, is the momentous issue of civil war. The Government will not assail you. You can have no conflict without being your- selves the aggressors. You have no oath registered in heaven to destroy the Gov- ernment, while I shall have the most sol- emn one to preserve, protect and defend it." He called to his cabinet his principal rivals for the Presidential nomination — ■ Seward, Chase, Cameron and Bates; se- cured the co-operation of the Union I3emo- crats, headed by Douglas; called out 75,000 militia from the several States upon the first tidings of the bombardment of Fort Sumter, April 15; proclaimed a blockade of the Southern posts April 19; called ah extra 90 P/iESIDENTS OF THE UN/TED STATES. session of Congress for July 4, from which he asked and obtained 400,000 men and $400,000,000 for the war; placed McCIellan at the head of the Federal army on General Scott's resignation, October 31; appointed Edwin M. Stanton Secretary of War, Jan- uary 14, 1862, and September 22, 1862, issued a proclamation declaring the free- dom of all slaves in the States and parts of States then in rebellion from and after January i, 1863. This was the crowning act of Lincoln's career — the act by which he will be chiefly known through all future time — and it decided the war. October 16, 1863, President Lincoln called for 300,000 volunteers to replace those whose term of enlistment had expired ; made a celebrated and touching, though brief, address at the dedication of the Gettysburg military cemetery, November 19, 1863; commissioned Ulysses S. Grant Lieutenant-General and Commander-in- Chief of the armies of the United States, March 9, 1864; was re-elected President in November oT the same year, by a large majority over General McCIellan, with Andrew Johnson, of Tennessee, as Vice- President; delivered a ver)' remarkable ad- dress at his second inauguration, March 4, 1865; visited the army before Richmond the same month; entered the capital of the Con- federacy the day after its fall, and upon the surrender of General Robert E. Lee's army, April 9, was actively engaged in devising generous plans for the reconstruction of the Union, when, on the evening of Good Fri- day, April 14, he was shot in his box at Ford's Theatre, Washington, byjohn Wilkes Booth, a fanatical actor, and expired early on the following morning, April 15. Al- most simultaneousl)^ a murderous attack was made upon William H. Seward, Secre- tary of State. At noon on the 15th of April Andrew Johnson assumed the Presidency, and active measures were taken which resulted in the death of Booth and the execution of his principal accomplices. The funeral of President Lincoln was conducted with unexampled solemnity and magnificence. Impressive services were held in Washington, after which the sad procession proceeded over the same route he had traveled four years before, from Springfield to Washington. In Philadel- phia his body lay in state in Independence Hall, in which he had declared before his first inauguration "that I would sooner be assassinated than to give up the principles ot the Declaration of Independence." He was buried at Oak Ridge Cemetery, near Springfield, Illinois, on May 4, where a monument emblematic of the emancipation of the slaves and the restoration of the Union mark his resting place. The leaders and citizens of the expiring Confederacy expressed genuine indignation at the murder of a generous political adver- sary. Foreign nations took part in mourn- ing the death of a statesman who had proved himself a true representative of American nationality. The freedmen of the South almost worshiped the memor}' of their de- liverer ; and the general sentiment of the great Nation he had saved awarded him a place in its affections, second only to that held by Washington. The characteristics of Abraham Lincoln have been familiarly known throughout the civilized world. His tall, gaunt, ungainly figure, homely countenance, and his shrewd mother-wit, shown in his celebrated con- versations overflowing in humorous and pointed anecdote, combined with an accu- rate, intuitive appreciation of the questions of the time, are recognized as forming the best type of a period of American history now rapidly passing away. > (■^^ "^TV^^^ue^^t^ YJ^z-r- A NDUE W JOHN soy. 95 >tf5 tion at an end, and that " peace, order, tran- quility and civil authority existed in and throughout the United States." Another proclamation enjoined obedience to the Constitution and the laws, and an amnesty was published September 7, relieving nearly all the participants in the late Rebellion from the disabilities thereby incurred, on condition of taking the oath to support the Constitution and the laws. In December Congress refused to confirm the removal of Secretary Stanton, who thereupon resumed the exercise of his of- fice; but February 21, 1868, President Johnson again attempted to remove him, appointing General Lorenzo Thomas in his place. Stanton refused to vacate his post, and was sustained by the Senate. February 24 the House of Representa- tives voted to impeach the President for " high crime and misdemeanors," and March 5 presented eleven articles of impeachment on the ground of his resistance to the exe- cution of the acts of Congress, alleging, in addition to the offense lately committed, his public expressions of contempt for Con- gress, in " certain intemperate, inflamma- tory and scandalous harangues" pronounced in August and September, 1866, and there- after declaring that the Thirty-ninth Con- gress of the United States was not a competent legislative body, and denying its power to propose Constitutional amend- ments. March 23 the impeachment trial began, the President appearing by counsel, and resulted in acquittal, the vote lacking one of the two-thirds vote required for conviction. Tlie remainder of President Johnson's term of office was passed without any such conflicts as might have been anticipated. He failed to obtain a nomination for re- election by the Democratic party, though receiving sixty-five votes on the first ballot. July 4 and December 25 new proclamations of pardon to the participants in the late Rebellion were issuec*, but were of little effect. On the accession ol General Grant to the Presidency, March 4, 1869, Johnson returned to Greenville, Tennessee. Unsuc- cessful in 1870 and 1872 as a candidate re- spectively for United States Senator and Representative, he was finall}- elected to the Senate in 1875, and took iiis scat in the extra session of March, in which his speeches were comparatively temperate. He died July 31, 1875, and was buried at Green- ville. President Johnson's administration was a peculiarly unfortunate one. That he should so soon become involved in bitter feud with the Republican majority in Congress was certainly a surprising and deplorable inci- dent; yet, in reviewing the circumstances after a lapse of so many years, it is easy to find ample room for a charitable judgment of both the parties in the heated contro- versy, since it cannot be doubted that any President, even Lincoln himself, had lie lived, must have sacrificed a large portion of his popularity in carrying out atiy pos- sible scheme of reconstruction. 'fi PJiLSIDENTH OF THE UNITED STATES. UiLYSSES S.,;ERRNT. ^■v^«^-••<^*s^-»>^5«-•' * ■■ ■ ■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■ j*t , . ; .. a . jii ;. . i » ; .i . . i .t..j> ^ -= 1 11 II 1 1 11 11 II II H II 11 I I ■■ ■■ ■■ i ^ ff^*|« Md^^^^ S^' LYSSES SIMPSON GRANT, the eight- eenth President of the United States, i?>6g-'jj, was born April 27, 1 822, at Point Pleasant, i^ Clermont Count}', Ohio. His father was of Scotch descent, and a dealer in leather. At the age of seventeen he en- tered the Military Academy at West Point, and four years later graduated twentj'-first in a class of thirty-nine, receiving the commission of Brevet Second Lieutenant. He was assigned to the Fourlli Infantry and re- mained in the army eleven years. He was engaged in every battle of the Mexican war except that of Buena Vista, and received two brevets for gallantry. In 1848 Mr. Grant married Julia, daughter of Frederick Dent, a prominent merchant of St. Louis, and in 1854, having reached the grade of Captain, he resigned his commis- sion in the army. For several 3ears he fol- lowed farming near St. Louis, but unsuc- cessfully ; and in i860 he entered the leather trade with his father at Galena, Illinois. When the civil war broke out in 1861, Grant was thirtv-nine years of age, but en- tirely unknown to public men and without any personal acquaintance with great affairs. President Lincoln's first call for troops was made on the 15th of April, and on the igth Grant was drilling a company of volunteers at Galena. He also offered his services to the Adjutant-General of the arm}', but re- ceived no reply. The Governor of Illinois, however, employed him in the organization of volunteer troops, and at the end of five weeks he was appointed Colonel of the Twenty-first Infantry. He took command of his regiment in Jiuie, and reported first to General Pope in Missouri. His superior knowledge of military life rather surprised his superior officers, who had never before even heard of him, and they were thus led to place him on the road to rapid advance- ment. August 7 he was commissioned a Brigadier-General of volunteers, the ap- pointment having been made without his knowledge. He had been unanimously recommended by the Congressmen from Illinois, not one of whom had been his personal acquaintance. For a few weeks he was occupied in watching the move- ments of partisan forces in Missouri. September i he was placed in command of the District of Southeast Missouri, with headquarters at Cairo, and on the 6th, with- out orders, he seized Paducah, at the mouth of the Tennessee River, and commanding tlie navigation both of that stream and oi ^y'^.^..z:t^ ^l/LrSSES S. GRANT. 99 the Ohio. This stroke secured Kentucky to the Union ; for the State Legislature, which had until then affected to be neutral, at once declared in favor of the Govern- ment. In November following, according to orders, he made a demonstration about eighteen miles below Cairo, preventing the crossing of hostile troops into Missouri : but in order to accomplish this purpose he had to do some fighting, and that, too, with only 3,000 raw recruits, against 7,000 Con- federates. Grant carried off two pieces of artillery and 200 prisoners. After repeated applications to General Halleck, his immediate superior, he was allowed, in February, 1862, to move up the Tennessee River against Fort Henry, in conjunction with a naval force. The gun- boats silenced the fort, and Grant immedi- ately made preparations to attack Fort Donelson, about twelve miles distant, on the Cumberland River. Without waiting for orders he moved his troops there, and with 15,000 men began the siege. The fort, garrisoned with 21,000 men, was a strong one, but after hard fighting on three successive days Grant forced an "Uncon- ditional Surrender" (an alliteration upon the initials of his name). The prize he capt- ured consisted of sixty-five cannon, 17,600 small arms and 14,623 soldiers. About 4,- 000 of the garrison had escaped in the night, and 2,500 were killed or wounded. Grant's entire loss was less than 2,000. This was the first important success won by the national troops dirring the war, and its strategic re- sults were marked, as the entire States of Kentucky and Tennessee at once fell into the National hands. Our hero was made a Major-General of Volunteers and placed in command of the District of West Ten- nessee. In March, 1862, he was ordered to move up the Tennessee River toward Corinth, where the Confederates were concentrat- ing a large army ; but he was directed not to attack. His forces, now numbering 38,- 000, were accordingly encamped near Shi- loh, or Pittsburg Landing, to await the arrival of General Buell with 40,000 more; but April 6 the Confederates came out from Corinth 50,000 strong and attacked Grant violently, hoping to overwhelm him before Buell could arrive ; 5,000 of his troops were beyond supporting distance, so that he was largely outnumbered and forced back to the river, where, however, he held out until dark, when the head of Buell's column came upon the field. The next day the Confederates were driven back to Corinth, nineteen miles. The loss was heavy on both sides; Grant, being senior in rank to Buell, commanded on both days. Two days afterward Halleck arrived at the front and assumed command of the army. Grant remaining at the head of the right wing and the reserve. On May 30 Corinth was evacuated by the Confederates. In July Halleck was made General-in-Chief, and Grant succeeded him in command of the Department of the Tennessee. September 19 the battle of luka was fought, where, owing to Rosecrans's fault, only an incom- plete victory was obtained. Next, Grant, with 30,000 men, moved down into Mississippi and threatened \'icks- burg, while Sherman, with 40,000 men, was sent by way of the river to attack that place in front ; but, owing to Colonel Murphy's surrendering H0II3' Springs to the Con- federates, Grant was so weakened that he had to retire to Corinth, and then Sherman failed to sustain his intended attack. In January, 1863, General Grant took command in person of all the troops in the Mississippi Valley, and spent several months in fruitless attempts to compel the surrender or evacuation of Vicksburg; but July 4, following, the place surrendered, with 31,- 600 men and 172 cannon, and the Mississippi River thus fell permanently into the hands of the Government. Grant was made a PRESJDENTH OF IHH UNITED STATES. Major-General in the regular army, and in October following he was placed in com- mand of the Division of the Mississippi. The same month he went to Chattanooga and saved the Army of the Cumberland from starvation, and drove Bragg from that part of the country. This victory over- threw the last important hostile force west of the AUeghanies and opened the way for the National armies into Georgia and Sher- man's march to the sea. The remarkable series of successes which Grant had now achieved pointed him out as the appropriate leader of the National armies, and accordingly, in February, 1864, the rank of Lieutenant-General was created for him by Congress, and on March 17 he assumed command of the armies of the United States. Planning the grand final campaign, he sent Sherman into Georgia, Sigel into the valle}- of Virginia, and Butler to capture Richmond, while he fought his own way from the Rapidan to the James. The costly but victorious battles of the Wilderness, Spottsylvania, North Anna and Cold Harbor were fought, more for the purpose of annihilating Lee than to capture any particular point. In June, 1864, the siege of Richmond was begun. Slierman, meanwhile, was marching and fighting dail}' in Georgia and steadily advancing toward Atlanta ; but Sigel had been defeated in the valley of Virginia, and was superseded by Hunter. Lee sent Early to threaten the Na- tional capital ; whereupon Grant gathered up a force which he placed under Sheridan, and that commander rapidly drove Early, inasuccessionof battles, through the valley of Virginia and destroyed his army as an organized force. The siege of Richmond went on, and Grant made numerous attacks, but was only partially successful. The people of the North grew impatient, and even the Government advised him to abandon the attempt to take Richmond or crush the Confederacy in that way ; but he never wavered. He resolved to " fight it out on that line, if it took all summer." By September Sherman had made his way to Atlanta, and Grant then sent him on his famous " march to the sea," a route which the chief had designed six months before. He made Sherman's success possi- ble, not only by holding Lee in front of Richmond, but also by sending reinforce- ments to Thomas, who then drew off and defeated the only army which could have confronted Sherman. Thus the latter was left unopposed, and, with Thomas and Sheri- dan, was used in the furtherance of Grant's plans. Each executed his part in the great design and contributed his share to the re- sult at which Grant was aiming. Sherman finally reached Savannah, Schofield beat the enemy at Franklin, Thomas at Nash- ville, and Sheridan wherever he met him; and all this while General Grant was hold- ing Lee, with the principal Confederate army, near Richmond, as it were chained and helpless. Then Schofield was brought from the West, and Fort Fisher and Wil- mington were captured on the sea-coast, so as to afford him a foothold ; from here he was sent into the interior of North Caro- lina, and Sherman was ordered to move northward to join him. When all this was effected, and Sheridan could find no one else to fight in the Shenandoah Valley, Grant brought the cavalry leader to the front of Richmond, and, making a last effort, drove Lee from his entrenchments and captured Richmond. At the beginning of the final campaign Lee had collected 73,000 fighting men in the lines at Richmond, besides the local militia and the gunboat crews, amounting to 5,000 more. Including Sheridan's force Grant had 1 10,000 men in the works before Petersburg and Richmond. Petersburg fell on the 2d of April, and Richmond on the 3d, and Lee fled in the direction of Lynch- burg. Grant pursued with remorseless l/LrSSES S. GRANT. energy, only stopping to strike fresh blows, and Lee at last found himself not only out- fought but also out-marched and out-gen- eraled. Being completely surrounded, he surrendered on the 9th of April, 1865, at Appomattox Court-House, in the open field, with 27,000 men, all that remained of his army. This act virtually ended the war. Thus, in ten days Grant had captured Petersburg and Richmond, fought, by his subordinates, the battles of Five Forks and Sailor's Creek, besides numerous smaller ones, captured 30,000 men in actual battle, and received the surrender of 27,000 more at Appomattox, absolutely annihilating an army of 70,000 soldiers. General Grant returned at once to Wash- ington to superintend the disbandment of the armies, but this pleasurable work was scarcely begun when President Lincoln was assassinated. It had doubtless been in- tended to inflict the same fate upon Grant ; but he, fortunately, on account of leaving Washington early in the evening, declined an invitation to accompany the President to the theater where the murder was com- mitted. This event made Andrew Johnson President, but left Grant by far the most conspicuous figure in the public life of the countrv. He became the object of an en- thusiasm greater than had ever been known in America. Every possible honor was heaped upon him ; the grade of General was created for him by Congress; houses were presented to him by citizens ; towns were illuminated on his entrance into them ; and, to cap the climax, when he made his tour around the world, "all nations did him honor " as they had never before honored a foreigner. The General, as Commander-in-Chief, was placed in an embarrassing position by the opposition of President Johnson to the measures of Congress ; but he directly man- ifested his characteristic loyalty by obeying Congress rather than the disaffected Presi- dent, although for a short time he had served in his cabinet as Secretary of War. Of course, everybody thought of General Grant as the next President of the United States, and he was accordingly elected as such in 1868 "by a large majority," and four years later re-elected by a much larger majority — the most overwhelming ever given by the people of this country. His first administration was distinguished by a ces- sation of the strifes which sprang from the war, by a large reduction of the National debt, and by a settlement of the difficulties with England which had grown out of the depredations committed by privateers fit- ted out in England during the war. This last settlement was made by the famous " Geneva arbitration," which saved to this Government $15,000,000, but, more than all, prevented a war with England. "Let us have peace," was Grant's motto. And this is the most appropriate place to remark that above all Presidents whom this Gov- ernment has ever had, General Grant was the most non-partisan. He regarded the Executive office as purely and exclusively executive of the laws of Congress, irrespect- ive of " politics." But every great man has jealous, bitter enemies, a fact Grant was well aware of. After the close of his Presidency, our General made his famous tour around the world, already referred to, and soon after- ward, in company with Ferdinand Ward, of New York City, he engaged in banking and stock brokerage, which business was made disastrous to Grant, as well as to him- self, by his rascality. By this time an in- curable cancer of the tongue developed itself in the person of the afflicted ex- President, which ended his unrequited life July 23, 1885. Thus passed away from earth's turmoils the man, the General, who was as truly the " father of this regenerated country" as was Washington the father of the infant nation. PJiESIDENlS OF THE UNITED STATES. UTHERFORD BIRCH- ARD HAYES, the nine- teenth President of the United States, i877-'8i, was born in Delaware, Ohio, Oc- tober 4, 1822. His ancestry can be traced as far back as 1280, when Hayes and Rutherford were two Scottish chieftains fighting side by side with Bahol, William Wallace and Robert Bruce. Both fami- lies belonged to the nobility, owned extensive estates and had a large following. The Hayes family had, for a coat of-arms, a shield, barred and surmounted by a flying eagle. There was a circle of stars about the eagle and above the shield, while on a scroll underneath the shield was inscribed the motto, "Recte." Misfortune overtaking the family, George Hayes left Scotland in 1680, and settled in Windsor, Connecticut. He was an industrious worker in wood and iron, having a mechanical genius and a cul- tivated mind. His son George was born in Windsor and remained there during his life. Daniel Hayes, son of the latter, married Sarah Lee, and lived in Simsbury, Con- necticut. Ezekiel, son of Daniel, was born in 1724, and was a manufacturer of scythes at Bradford, Connecticut. Rutherford Hayes, son of Ezekiel and grandfather of President Hayes, was born in New Haven, in August, 1756. He was a famous black- smith and tavern-keeper. He immigrated to Vermont at an unknown date, settling in Brattleboro where he established a hotel. Here his son Rutherford, father of Presi- dent Hayes, was born. In September, 1813, he married Sophia Birchard, of Wilming- ton, Vermont, whose ancestry on the male side is traced back to 1635, to John Birch- ard, one of the principal founders of Nor- wich. Both of her grandfathers were soldiers in the Revolutionary war. The father of President Haj'es was of a mechanical turn, and could mend a plow, knit a stocking, or do almost anything that he might undertake. He was prosperous in business, a member of the church and active in all the benevolent enterprises of the town. After the close of the war of 1812 he immigrated to Ohio, and purchased a farm near the present town of Delaware. His family then consisted of his wife and two children, and an orphan girl whom he had adopted. It was in 1817 that the family arrived at Delaware. Instead of settling upon his Ou/L^C^^A' KlyV^C^j-^ RUTHERFORD B. HAYES. «o5 farm, Mr. Hayes' concluded to enter into business in the village. He purchased an interest in a distillery, a business then as re- spectable as it was profitable. His capital and recognized ability assured him the highest social position in the communitj'. He died July 22, 1822, less than three months before the birth of the son that was destined to fill the office of President of the United States. Mrs. Hayes at this period was yery weak, and the subject of this sketch was so feeble at birth that he was not expected to live beyond a month or two at most. As the months went by he grew weaker and weaker so that the neighbors were in the habit of inquiring from time to time " if Mrs. Hayes's baby died last night." On one oc- casion a neighbor, who was on friendly terms with the family, after alluding to the boy's big head and the mother's assiduous care of him, said to her, in a bantering way, "That's right! Stick to him. You have got him along so far, and I shouldn't won- der if he would really come to something yet." " You need not laugh," said Mrs. Hayes, " you wait and see. You can't tell but I shall make him President of the United States vet." The boy lived, in spite of the universal predictions of his speedy death; and when, in 1825, his elder brother was drowned, he became, if possible, still dearer to his mother. He was seven years old before he was placed in school. His education, however, was not neglected. His sports were almost wholly within doors, his playmates being his sister and her associates. These circum- stances tended, no doubt, to foster that gentleness of disposition and that delicate consideration for the feelings of others whicli are marked traits of his character. At school he was ardently devoted to his studies, obedient to the teacher, and care- ful to avoid the quarrels in which many of his schoolmates were involved. He was always waiting at the school-house door when it opened in the morning, and never late in returning to his seat at recess. His sister Fannie was his constant companion, and their affection for each other excited the admiration of their friends. In 1838 young Hayes entered Kenyon College and graduated in 1842. He then began the study of law in the office of Thomas Sparrow at Columbus. His health was now well established, his figure robust, his mind vigorous and alert. In a short time he determined to enter the law school at Cambridge, Massachusetts, where for two years he pursued his studies with great diligence. In 1845 he was admitted to the bar at Marietta, Ohio, and shortly afterward went into practice as an attorney-at-law with Ralph P. Buckland, of Fremont. Here he remained three years, acquiring but limited practice, and apparently unambitious of distinction in his profession. His bachelor uncle, Sardis Birchard, who had always manifested great interest in his nephew and rendered him assistance in boyhood, was now a wealthy banker, and it was under- stood that the young man would be his heir. It is possible that this expectation ma}' have made Mr. Hayes more indifferent to the attainment of wealth than he would otherwise have been, but he was led into no extravagance or vices on this account. In 1849 he removed to Cincinnati where his ambition found new stimulus. Two events occurring at tliis period had a pow- erful influence upon his subsequent life. One of them was his marriage to Miss Lucy Ware Webb, daughter of Dr. James Webb, of Cincinnati; the other was his introduction to the Cincinnati Literary Club, a body embracing such men as Chief Justice Salmon P. Chase, General John Pope and Governor Edward F. Noyes. The marriage was a fortunate one as every- body knows. Not one of all the wives of io6 PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. our Presidents -.vas more universally ad- mired, reverenced and beloved than is Mrs. Hayes, and no one has done more than she to reflect honor upon American woman- hood. In 1856 Mr. Hayes was nominated to the office of Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, but declined to accept the nomina- tion. Two years later he was chosen to the office of City Solicitor. In 1861, when the Rebellion broke out, he was eager to take up arms in the defense of his country. His military life was bright and illustrious. June 7, 1861, he was appointed Major of the Twenty-third Ohio Infantry. In July the regiment was sent to Virginia. October 15, 1 861, he was made Lieutenant-Colonel of his regiment, and in August, 1862, was promoted Colonel of the Seventy-ninth Ohio Regiment, but refused to leave his old comrades. He was wounded at the battle of South Mountain, and suffered severely, being unable to enter upon active duty for several weeks. No- vember 30,. 1862, he rejoined his regiment as its Colonel, having been promoted Octo- ber 15. December 25, 1862, he was placed in com- mand of the Kanawha division, and for meritorious service in several battles was promoted Brigadier-General. He was also brevetted Major-General for distinguished services in 1864. He was wounded four times, and five horses were shot from under him. Mr. Hayes was first a Whig in politics, and was among the first to unite with the Free-Soil and Republican parties. In 1864 he was elected to Congress from che Sec- ond Ohio District, which had always been Democratic, receiving a majority of 3,098. In 1 866 he was renominated for Congress and was a second time elected. In 1867 he was elected Governor over Allen G. Thur- man, the Democratic candidate, and re- elected in 1869. In 1874 Sardis Birchard died, leaving his large estate to General Hayes. In 1876 he was nominated for the Presi- dency. His letter of acceptance excited the admiration of the whole country. He resigned the office of Governor and retired to his home in Fremont to await the result of the canvass. After a hard, long contest he was inaugurated March 5, 1877. His Presidency was characterized by compro- mises with all parties, in order to please as many as possible. The close of his Presi- dential term in 1881 was the close of his public life, and since then he has remained at his home in Fremont, Ohio, in Jefferso- nian retirement from public notice, in strik- ing contrast with most others of the world's notables. i yAA/ES A. GARFIELD. 109 -i^'I4iLii 4. ^^Mli¥^®.^=^ % .aaa^g^^j^^s^-iiR^^^^mf - t^^' ?^as^ iS^i^i^^S'c^\^^?^(i% s^<&«^«§=!jt^«!^«^>^t^'s^ AMES A. GARFIELD, twentieth President of the United States, 1881, was born November 19, 1 83 1, in tlie wild woods o f Cuyaiioga Count)', Ohio. His parents were Abram and EHza (Ballon) Garfield, who were of New England ancestry. The senior Garfield was an in- dustrious farmer, as the rapid improvements which appeared on his place at- tested. The residence was the familiar pioneer log cabin, and the household comprised the parents and their children — Mehetable, Thomas, Mary and James A. In May, 1833, the father died, and the care of the house- hold consequently devolved upon young Thomas, to whom James was greatly in- debted for the educational and other ad- vantages he enjoyed. He now lives in Michigan, and the two sisters live in Solon, Ohio, near their birthplace. As the subject of our sketch grew up, he, too, was industrious, both in mental and physical labor. He worked upon the farm, or at carpentering, or chopped wood, or at any other odd job that would aid in support of the family, and in the meantime made the most of his books. Ever afterward he was never ashamed of his humble origin, nor for- got the friends of his youth. The poorest laborer was sure of his sympathy, and he always exhibited the character of a modest gentleman. Until he was about sixteen j'ears of age, James's highest ambition was to be a lake captain. To this his mother was strongl)^ opposed, but she finally consented to his going to Cleveland to carry out his long- cherished design, with the understanding, however, that he should try to obtain some other kind of employment. He walked all the way to Cleveland, and this was his first visit to the city. After making many ap- plications for work, including labor on board a lake vessel, but all in vain, he finally engaged as a driver for his cousin, Amos Letcher, on the Ohio & Pennsyl- vania Canal. In a short time, however, he quit this and returned home. He then at- tended the seminary at Chester for about three years, and next he entered Hiram In- stitute, a school started in 1850 by the Disciples of Christ, of which church he was a member. In order to pa}' his way he assumed the duties of janitor, and at tmies taught school. He soon completed the cur- riculum there, and then entered Williams College, at which he graduated in 1856, taking one of the highest honors of his class. PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. Afterward he returned to Hiram as Presi- dent. In his youthful and therefore zealous piety, he exercised his talents occasionally as a preacher of the Gospel. He was a man of strong moral and religious convic- tions, and as soon as he began to look into politics, he saw innumerable points that could be improved. He also studied law, and was admitted to the bar in 1859. November 11, 1858, Mr. Garfield married Miss Lucretia Rudolph, who ever after- ward proved a worthy consort in all the stages of her husband's career. They had seven children, five of whom are still living. It was in 1859 that Garfield made his first political speeches, in Hiram and the neighboring villages, and three j'cars later he began to speak at county mass-meetings, being received everywhere with popular favor. He was elected to the State Senate this year, taking his seat in Januar}-, i860. On the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion in 1861, Mr. Garfield resolved to fight as he had talked, and accordingly he enlisted to defend the old flag, receiving his commission as Lieutenant-Colonel of the Forty-second Regiment of the Ohio \^oIun- teer Infantry, August 14, that year. He was immediately thrown into active service, and before he had ever seen a gun fired in action he was placed in command of four regiments of infantr)' and eight companies of cavalry, charged with the work of driv- ing the Confederates, headed by Humphrey Marshall, from his native State, Kentucky. This task was speedily accomplished, al- though against great odds. On account of his success, President Lincoln commissioned him Brigadier-General, January 11, 1862; and, as he had been the youngest man in the Ohio Senate two years before, so now he was the youngest General in the army. He was with General Buell's army at Shi- loh, also in its operations around Corinth and its march through Alabama. Next, he was detailed as a member of the general court-martial for the trial of General Fitz- John Porter, and then ordered to report to General Rosecrans, when he was assigned to the position of Chief of Staff. His mili- tary history closed with his brilliant ser- vices at Chickamauga, where he won the stars of Major-General. In the fall of 1862, without an)' effort on his part, he was elected as a Representative to Congress, from that section of Ohio which had been represented for sixty years mainly by two men — Elisha Whittlesey and Joshua R. Giddings. Again, he was the youngest member of that body, and con- tinued there by successive re-elections, as Representative or Senator, until he was elected President in 1880. During his life in Congress he compiled and published by his speeches, there and elsewhere, more information on the issues of the day, espe- cially on one side, than any other member. June 8, 1880, at the National Republican Convention held in Chicago, General Gar- field was nominated for the Presidency, in preference to the old war-horses, Blaine and Grant ; and although many of the Re- publican party felt sore over the failure of their respective heroes to obtain the nomi- nation, General Garfield was elected by a fair popular majority. He was duly in- augurated, but on Juh' 2 following, before he had fairly got started in his administra- tion, he was fatally shot by a half-demented assassin. After ver\' painful and protracted suffering, he died September 19, 18S1, la- mented by all the American people. Never before in the history of this country had anything occurred which so nearly froze the blood of the Nation, for the moment, as the awful act of Guiteau, the murderer. He was duly tried^ convicted and put to death on the gallows. The lamented Garfield was succeeded by the Vice-President, General Arthur, who seemed to endeavor to carry out the policy inaugurated by his predecessor. / CHESTER A. ARTHUR. "3 HESTER ALLEN ARTHUR, the twen- ty-first Chief Execu- tive of this growing republic, i88i-'5, was born in Franklin County, Vermont, October 5, 1830, the eldest of a famil}- of two sons and five daughters. His father, Rev. Dr. William Arthur, a Baptist clergyman, immigrated to this countr}^ from Count}-^ Antrim, Ireland, in his eighteenth year, and died in 1875, in Newton- ville, near Albany, New York, after serving many years as a successful minister. Chester A. was educated at that old, conservative institution. Union Col- lege, at Schenectady, New York, where he excelled in all his studies. He graduated there, with honor, and then struck out in life for himself by teaching school for about two years in his native State. At the expiration of that time young Arthur, witli $500 in his purse, went to the city of New York and entered the law office of ex-Judge E. D. Culver as a student. In due time he was admitted to the bar, when he formed a partnership with his intimate friend and old room-mate, Henry D. Gar- diner, with the intention of practicing law at some point in the West ; but after spend- ing about three months in the Westeri; States, in search of an eligible place, they returned to New York City, leased a room, exhibited a sign of their business and al- most immediately enjoyed a paying patron- age. At this stage of his career Mr. Arthur's business prospects were so encouraging that he concluded to take a wife, and ac- cordingly he married the daughter of Lieu- tenant Herndon, of the United States Navy, who had been lost at sea. To the widow of the latter Congress voted a gold medal, in recognition of the Lieutenant's bravery during the occasion in which he lost his life. Mrs. Artnvir died shortly before her husband's nomination to the Vice-Presi- dency, leaving two children. Mr. Arthur obtained consideiable celeb- rity as an attorney in the famous Lemmon suit, which was brought to recover posses- sion of eight slaves, who had been declared free b}' the Superior Court of New York City. The noted Charles O'Conor, who was nominated by the " Straight Demo- crats" in 1872 for the United States Presi- dency, was retained by Jonathan G. Lem- 114 PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. nion, of Virginia, to recover the negroes, but he lost the suit. In this case, however, Mr. Arthur was assisted by William M. Evarts, now United States Senator. Soon afterward, in 1856, a respectable colored woman was ejected from a street car in New York City. Mr. Arthur sued the car company in her behalf and recovered $500 damages. Immediately afterward all the car companies in the city issued orders to their employes to admit colored persons upon their cars. Mr. Arthur's political doctrines, as well as his practice as a lawyer, raised him to prominence in the party of freedom; and accordingly he was sent as a delegate to the first National Republican Convention. Soon afterward he was appointed Judge Advocate for the Second Brigade of the State of New York, and then Engineer-in- Chief on Governor Morgan's staff. In 1861, the first 3'ear of the war, he was made In- spector-General, and next, Quartermaster- General, in both which offices he rendered great service to the Government. After the close of Governor Morgan's term he resumed the practice of law, forming first a partnership with Mr. Ransom, and subse- quently adding Mr. Phelps to the firm. Each of these gentlemen were able lawyers. November 21, 1872, General Arthur was appointed Collector of the Port of New York by President Grant, and he held the office until July 20, 1878. The next event of prominence in General Arthur's career was his nomination to the Vice-Presidency of the United States, under the influence of Roscoe Conkling, at the National Republican Convention held at Chicago in June, 1880, when James A. Gar- field was placed at the head of the ticket. Both the convention and the campaign that followed were noisy and exciting. The friends of Grant, constituting nearly half the convention, were exceedingly persist- ent, and were sorely disappomted over their defeat. At the head ol the Demo- cratic ticket was placed a ver}' strong and popular man ; yet Garfield and Arthur were elected b}' a respectable plurality of the popular vote. The 4th of March following, these gentlemen were accordingly inaugu- rated ; but within four months the assassin's bullet made a fatal wound in the person of General Garfield, whose life terminated September 19, 1881, when General Arthur, ex officio, was obliged to take the chief reins of government. Some misgivings were entertained by many in this event, as Mr. Arthur was thought to represent espe cially the Grant and Conkling wing of the Republican party ; but President Arthur had both the ability and the good sense to allay all fears, and he gave the restless, critical American people as good an ad- ministration as they had ever been blessed with. Neither selfishness nor low parti- sanism ever characterized any feature of his public service. He ever maintained a high sense of every individual right as well as of the Nation's honor. Indeed, he stood so high that his successor. President Cleve- land, though of opposing politics, expressed a wish in his inaugural address that he could only satisfy the people with as good an administration. But the day of civil service reform had come in so far, and the corresponding re- action against "third-termism" had en- croached so far even upon "second-term" service, that the Republican party saw fit in 1884 to nominate another man for Presi- dent. Only by this means was General Arthur's tenure of office closed at Wash- ington. On his retirement from the Presi- dency, JVIarfli, 1885, he engaged in the practice of law at .New York City, where be died November 18, 1886. ^^_. ^ i». ■*S .«f<5%. ^'^^^:^^^;^^:^^:^^^:^^^:^^:S'^:^^s^^f^i^^ HISTORY OF IOWA. „^^ % p jj^^^^^^^^rJr^TTTTrTT^l^T^TrTrTl ^ S3^' ^^^ H16TORr OF IOWA. •!»^ Mj I I n 1 ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■ ■ ■! ■■ " '» ■» ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ « ■■ ■■ »i ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■■ n ■■ n »^|^-|> A@C»RI@ISi&&. (HE race or races who occupied this beau- tiful prairie country before the advent of the whites from Eu- rope had no litera- ture, and therefore have left us no history of themselves. Not even tra- ditions, to any extent, have Jj|^3^ 'L been handed down to us. 1 kviffij II Hence, about all we know of the Indians, previous to explorations by the whites, is derived from mounds and a few simple relics. The mounds were erected by a people generally denominated Mound Builders, but whether they were a distinct race from the Indians is an unsettled ques- tion. Prof. Alex. Winchell,of the Michigan State University, as well as a number of other investigators, is of the opinion that those who built mounds, mined copper and iron, made elaborate implements of war, agriculture and domestic economy, and built houses and substantial villages, etc., were no other than the ancestors of the present Indians, who, like the ancient Greeks and Romans, were more skilled in lO the arts of life than their successors during the middle ages. Most people have their periods of decline, as well as those of prog- ress. The Persians, Hindoos and Chinese, although so long in existence as distinct nations, have been forages in a state of de- cay. Spain and Italy do not improve, while Germany, Russia and the United States have now their turn in enjoying a rapid rise. Similarly, the Indians have long been on the decline in the practical arts of life. Even since the recent days of Feni- more Cooper, the " noble " red men have degenerated into savages, despite the close contact of the highest order of civilization. Nearly all modern authorities unite in the opinion that the American continent was first peopled from Eastern Asia, either by immigration across Behring's Strait or by shipwrecks of sailors from the Kamt- schatkan and Japanese coast. If mankind originated at the north pole, and subse- quently occupied an Atlantic continent, now submerged, it is possible that the American Indians are relics of polar or Atlantic races. The ancient race which built the towns and cities of Mexico and the Western United States is called the Aztec, and even of them is scarcely anything known save HTSTORT OF IOWA. what can be learned from their buried structures. The few inscriptions that are found seem to be meaningless. Indian mounds are found throughout the United States east of the Rocky Mountains, but are far more abundant in some places than others. In this State they abound near the principal rivers. They vary in size from a few to hundreds of feet in diameter, and from three to fifteen or more feet in height. They are generally round, or nearly so, but in a few notable exceptions they bear a rude resemblance in their outline to the figure of some animal. Their contents are limited, both in quantity and variety, and consist mainly of human bones, stone implements, tobacco pipes, beads, etc. The stone implements are axes, skinning knives, pestles and mortars, arrow points, etc. The human bones are often found in a mass as if a number of corpses had been buried together, and indicate that their possessors were interred in a sitting posture. Judge Samuel Murdock, of Elkader, this State, who has made this subject a special study for many years, is of the opinion that these remams are not of subjects who were inhumed as corpses, but of persons who, under the influence of a savagfe relieion, voluntarily sacrificed themselves by under- going a burial when alive. CAUCASIAN. The first member of this race to discover the Mississippi River was Ferdinand De Soto, a Spaniard, who explored the region of the Lower Mississippi in 1541, but came no farther north than the 35th parallel. He founded no settlements, nor was he ever followed by others of his country to make settlements, and hence Spain lost her title to the country which she had earned by discovery through her subject, De Soto. At a subsequent period a Frenchman re- discovered the realm, took possession of it iij tne name of France, and his fellow countrymen soon followed and effected actual settlements. Accordingly, in 1682, France claimed the country, and, accord- ing to the usage of European nations, earned a proper title to the same. The re- sult was a collision between those two na- tions, success finally crowning the efforts of France. In a grand council of Indians, on the shore of Lake Superior, they told the Frenchmen glowing stories of the " Father of Waters " and of the adjacent country, and in 1669 Jacques Marquette, a zealous and shrewd Jesuit missionary, became in- spired with the idea of visiting this re- gion, in the interests of civilization. After studying the language and customs of the Illinois Indians until 1673, he made prep- arations for the journey, in which he was to be accompanied b}- Louis Joliet, an agent of the French Government. The Indians, who had g.ithered in large numbers to wit- ness his departure, endeavored to dissuade him from the undertaking, representing that the Indians of the Mississippi Valley were cruel and bloodthirsty. The great river itself, they said, was the abode of terrible monsters which could swallow men, canoes and all. But the shrewd missionary, already aware of Indian extravagance in descrip- tion, set out upon the contemplated jour- ney May 13. With the aid of two Miami guides he proceeded to the Wisconsin River, and down that stream to the Mis- sissippi. Floating down the latter he dis- covered, on the 25th of June, traces of Indians on the west bank, and landed. This was at a point a little above the mouth of the Des Moines River, and thus a Euro- pean first trod the soil of Iowa. After re- maining a short time and becoming ac- quainted with the red man as he then and there exhibited himself, he proceeded down to the mouth of the Illinois, thence up that river and by Lake Michigan to the French settlements. HISTORY OF IOWA. »2S of warriors was estimated at only 1,050 men. Of these about 250 were Twightwees, or Miamis proper; 300 VVeas, or Ouiate- nons; 300 Piankeshaws and 200 Shocke3's; but their headquarters were along the Maumee River, in Indiana and Ohio. From 1688 to 1697 the wars in which France and England were engaged re- tarded the growth of their American colo- nies. The efforts made b)' France to connect Canada and the Gulf of Me.xicoby a chain of trading posts and colonies nat- urally excited the jealousy of England and gradually laid the foundation for a struggle at arms. The crisis came and the contest obtained the name of the French and Indian war, the French and Indians combining against the English. The war was termi- nated in 1763 by a treaty at Paris, by which France ceded to Great Britain all of North America east of the Mississippi, except the island on which New Orleans is situated. The preceding autumn France ceded to Spain all the country west of that river. In 1765 the total number of French fami- hes within the limits of the Northwest Ter- ritory did not probably exceed 600. These were in settlements about Detroit, along the river Wabash and the neighborhood of Fort Chartres on the Mississippi. The colonial policy of the British Government opposed any measures which might strengthen settlements in the interior of this country, lest they should become self- supporting and consequently independent of the mother country. Hence the settle- ment of the Northwest was still further retarded. That short-sighted policy con- sisted mainly in holding the lands in the possession of the Government, and not allowing it to be subdivided and sold to those who would become settlers. After the establishment of American indepen- dence, and especially under the administra- tion of Thomas Jefferson, both as Governor of Virginia and President of the United Nine years later, in 1682. Rene Robert Cavelier La Salle descended the Missis- sippi to the Gulf of Mexico, and in the name of the King of France took formal posses- sion of all the Mississippi Valley, naming it Louisiana, in honor of his king, Louis XIV. The river itself he named Colbert, in honor of the French minister. Soon afterward the Government of France began to en- courage the establishment of a line of trad- ing posts and missionary stations through- out the West from Canada to Louisiana, and this policy was maintained with par- tial success for about seventy-five years. Christian zeal animated both France and England in missionary enterprise, the former in the interests of Catholicism and the latter in favor of Protestantism. Hence their haste to pre-occupy the land and prose- lyte the aborigines; but this ugly rivalry' dis- gusted the Indians an J the^' refused to be converted to either branch of Christianity. The traders also persisted in importing whisky, which canceled nearly every civ- ilizing influence that could be brought to bear upon the savages. Another character- istic of Indian nature was to listen atten- tively to all that the missionary said, pre- tending to believe all he preached, and then offer in turn his theory of the world, of re- ligion, etc.; and, not being listened to with the same degree of attention and pretense of belief, would depart from the white man's presence in disgust. This was his idea of the golden rule. Comparatively few Indians were perma- nently located within the present bounds of the State of Iowa. Favorite hunting grounds were resorted to by certain bands tor a time, and afterward by others, subject 10 the varying fortunes of their little wars. The tribes were principally the Illinois, lovvas, Dakotas, Sioux, Pottawatomies and finally the Sacs and Foxes. In 1765 the Miami confederac)' was com- posed of four tribes, whose total number !26 lilSTORY OF IOWA. States, subdivision of land and giving it to actual settlers rapidly peopled this portion of the Union, so that the Northwest Terri- tory was formed and even subdivided into other Territ(3ries and States before the year 1820. For more than 100 years after Marquette and Joliet trod the virgin soil of Iowa and admired its fertile plains, not a single settle- ment was made or attempted ; not even a trading-post was established. During this time the llhnois Indians, once a powerful tribe, gave up the entire possession of this " Beautiful Land," as Iowa was then called, to the Sacs and Foxes. In 1803, when Louisiana was purchased by the United States, the Sacs, Fo.xes and lowas pos- sessed this entire State, and the two for- mer tribes occupied also most of the State of Illinois. The four most important towns of the Sacs were along the Mississippi, two on the east side, one near the mouth of the Upper Iowa and one at the head of the Des Moines Rapids, near the present site of Montrose. Those of the Foxes were — one on the west side of the Mississippi just above Davenport, one about twelve miles from the river back of the Dubuque lead mines and one on Turkey River. The principal village of the lowas was on the Des Moines River, in Van Buren County, where lowaville now stands. Here the last great battle between the Sacs and Foxes and the lowas was fought, in which Black Hawk, then a young man, commanded the attacking forces. The Sioux had the northern portion of this State and Southern Minnesota. They were a fierce and war-like nation, who often disputed possessions with their rivals in savage and bloody warfare ; but finally a boundary line was established between them by the Government of the United States, in a treaty held at Prairie du Chien in 1S25. This, however, became the occa- sion of an increased number of quarrels be- tween the tribes, as each trespassed, or was thought to trespass, upon the other's side of the line. In 1830, therefore, the Govern- ment created a forty-mile neutral strip of land between them, which p(jlicv proved to be more successful in the interests of peace. Soon after the acquisition of Louisiana by our Government, the latter adopted meas- ures for the exploration of the new terri- tory, having in view the conciliation of the numerous tribes of Indians by whom it was possessed, and also the selection of proper sites for military posts and trading stations. The Army of the West, General Wilkin- son commanding, had its headquarters at St. Louis. From this post Captains Lewis and Clarke, in 1805, were detailed with a sufficient force to explore the Missouri River to its source, and Lieutenant Zebulon M. Pike to ascend to the head of the Missis- sippi. August 20 the latter arrived within the present limits of Iowa, at the foot of the Des Moines Rapids, where he met William Ewing, who had just been appointed Indian Agent at this point, a French interpreter, four chiefs and fifteen Sac and Fox war- riors. At the head of the rapids, where Montrose now is, Pike held a council with the Indians, merely for the purpose of stat- ing to them that the President of the United States wished to inquire into the needs ot the red man, with a view of suggesting remedies. On the 23d he reached what is supposed from his description to be the site of Bur- lington, which place he designated for a post ; but the station, probably by some mistake, was afterward placed at Fort Madi- son. After accidentally separating from his men and losing his way, suffering at one time for sixda3's for want of food, and after many other mishaps Lieutenant Pike over- took the remainder of the party at the point now occupied by Dubuque, who had gone on up the river hoping to overtake him. At that point Pike was cordially received by HI STORY OF IOWA. 127 Julien Dubuque, a Frenchman who Iield a mining claim under a grant from Spain, but was not disposed to publish the wealth of his possessions. Having an old field-piece with him, however, he fired a salute in honor of the first visit of an agent from the United States to that part of the country, and Pike pursued his way up the river. At what was afterward Fort Snelling, Minnesota, Lieutenant Pike held a council with the Sioux September 23, and obtained from them a grant of 100,000 acres of land. Januar}' 8 following (1806) he arrived at a trading post on Lake De Sable, belonging to the Northwestern Fur Company, whose field of operations at that time included this State. Pike returned to St. Louis the fol- lowing spring, after making a successful expedition. Before this country could be opened for settlement by the whites, it was necessary that Indian title should be extinguished and the aboriginal owners removed. When the Government assumed control of the country by virtue of the Louisiana purchase, nearly the whole State was in possession of the Sacs and Foxes, at whose head stood the rising Black Hawk. November 3, 1804, ^ treaty was concluded with these tribes by which they ceded to the United States the Illinois side of the great river, in consider- ation of $2,234 worth of goods then de- livered, and an annuity of $1,000 to be paid in goods at cost ; but Black Hawk always maintained that the chiefs who entered into that compact acted without authority, and that therefore the treaty was not binding. The first fort erected on Iowa soil was at Fort Madison. A short time previously a military post was fixed at what is now Warsaw, Illinois, and named Fort Edwards. These enterprises caused mistrust among the Indians. Indeed, Fort Madison was located in violation of the treaty of 1804. The Indians sent delegations to the whites at these forts to learn what they were do- ing, and what they intended. On being " informed " that those structures were merely trading-posts, they were incredu- lous and became more and more suspicious. Black Hawk therefore led a party to the vicinity of Fort Madison and attempted its destruction, but a premature attack by him caused his failure. In 1812, when war was declared between this country and Great Britain, Black Hawk and his band allied themselves to the British, partly because they were dazzled by their specious promises, but mostly, perhaps, be- cause they had been deceived by the Amer- icans. Black Hawk said plainly that the latter fact was the cause. A portion of the Sacs and Foxes, however, headed by Keo- kuk ("watchful fox"), could not be per- suaded into hostilities against the United States, being disposed to abide by the treaty of 1804. The Indians were there- fore divided into the "war" and the " peace " parties. Black Hawk says he was informed, after he had gone to the war, that his people, left on the west side of the river, would be defenseless against the United States forces in case they were at- tacked ; and, having all the old men, the women and the children on their hands to provide for, a council was held, and it was determined to have the latter go to St. Louis and place themselves under the " American" chief stationed there. Ac- cordingly they went down, and were re- ceived as the " friendly band " of Sacs and Foxes, and were provided for and sent up the Missouri River. On Black Hawk's return from the British army, he says that Keokuk was introduced to him as the war chief of the braves then in the village. On inquiry as to how he became chief, there were given him the particulars of his having killed a Sioux in battle, which fact placed him among the warriors, and of his having headed an ex- pedition in defense of their village at Peoria. liS HISTORY OF IOWA. In person Keokuk was tall and of portly bearing, and in speech he was an orator. He did not master the English language, however, and his interpreters were never able to do him justice. He was a friend of our Government, and alwaj's endeavored to persuade the Indians that it was useless to attack a nation so powerful as that of the United States. The treaty of 1804 was renewed in 1816, which Black Hawk himself signed; but he afterward held that he was deceived, and that that treaty was not even yet binding. But there was no further serious trouble with the Indians until the noted " Black Hawk war" of 1832, all of which took place in Illinois and Wisconsin, with the expected result — the defeat and capture of the great chief, and the final, effectual and permanent repulsion of all hostile Indians to the west of the great Mississippi. Black Hawk died October 3, 1838, at his home in this State, and was buried there ; but his remains were afterward placed in the museum of the His- torical Society, where they were accident- ally destroyed by fire. More or less affecting the territory now included within the State of Iowa, fifteen treaties with the Indians have been made, an outline of which is here given. In 1804, when the whites agreed not to settle west of the Mississippi on Indian lands. In 181 5, with the Sioux, ratifying peace with Great Britain and the United States; with the Sacs, a treaty of a similar nature, and also ratif3'ing that of 1804, the Indians agreeing not to join their brethren who, under Black Hawk, had aided the British ; with the Foxes, ratifying the treaty of 1804, the In- dians agreeing to deliver up all their prisoners ; and with the lowas, a treaty of friendship. In 1816, with the Sacs of Rock River, ratifying the treaty of 1804. In 1824, with the Sacs and Foxes, the latter relin- quishing all their lands in Missouri ; and that portion of the southeast corner of Iowa known as the " half-breed tract " was set off to the half-breeds. In 1825, placing a boundary line between the Sacs and Foxes on the south and the Sioux on the north. In 1830, when that line was widened to forty miles. Also, in the same year, with several tribes, who ceded a large portion of their possessions in the western part of the State. In 1832, with the Winnebagoes, ex- changing lands with them and providing a school, farm, etc., for them. Also, in the same year, the "Black Hawk purchase" was made, of about 6,000,000 acres, along the west side of the Mississippi from the southern line of the State to the mouth of the Iowa River. In 1836, with the Sacs and Foxes, ceding Keokuk's reserve to the United States. In 1837, with the same, when another slice of territory, comprising 1,250,000 acres, joining west of the forego- ing tract, was obtained. Also, in the same 3'ear, when these Indians gave up all their lands allowed them under former treaties ; and finally, in 1842, when they relinquished their title to all their lands west of the Mississippi. Before the whole of Iowa fell into the hands of the United States Government sundry white settlers had, under the Spanish and French Governments, obtained and oc- cupied several important claims within our boundaries, which it may be well to notice in brief. September 22, 1788, Julien Du- buque, before mentioned, obtained a lease of lands from the Fox Indians, at the point now occupied by the city named after him. This tract contained valuable lead ore, and Dubuque followed mining. His claims, however, as well as those to whom he after- ward conveyed title, were litigated for many years, with the final result of dis- appointing the purchasers. In 1799 Louis Honori obtained a tract of land about three miles square where Montrose is now sit- uated, and his title, standing through all the treaties and being finally confirmed by HISTORY OF IOWA. lid the Supreme Court of the United States, is the oldest legal title held by a white man in the State of Iowa. A tract of 5,860 acres in Clayton Count}' was granted by the Lieutenant-Governor of Upper Louisiana in 1795 to Basil Girard, whose title was made valid some time after the preceding case was settled. Other early settlers were : Mr. Johnson, an agent of the American Fur Company, who had a trading-post below Burlington. Le Moliere, a French trader, had, in 1820, a station at what is now Sandusky, in Lee County, si.K miles above Keokuk. During the same year Dr. Samuel C. Muir, a sur- geon of the United States army, built a cabin where the city of Keokuk now stands. His marriage and subsequent life were so romantic that we give the following briet sketch : While stationed at a military post on the Upper Mississippi, the post was visited by a beautiful Indian maiden — whose native name unfortunately has not been preserved — who, in her dreams, had seen a white brave unmoor his canoe, paddle it across the river and come directly to her lodge. She felt assured, according to the super- stitious belief of her race, that in her dreams she had seen her future husband, and had come to the fort to find him. Meeting Dr. Muir she instantly recognized him as the hero of her dream, which, with childlike innocence and simplicity, she related to him. Her dream was, indeed, prophetic. Charmed with Sophia's beauty, innocence and devotion, the Doctor honorably mar- ried her, but after a while the sneers and gibes of his brother officers — less honorable than he, perhaps — made him feel ashamed of his dark-skinned wife, and when his regi- ment was ordered down the river to Belle- fontaine, it is said that he embraced the opportunity to rid himself of her, and left her, never expecting to see her again, and little dreaming that she would have the courage to follow him. But, with her in- fant child, this intrepid wife and mother started alone in her canoe, and after many days of weary labor and a lonely journey of 900 miles, she at last reached him. She afterward remarked, when speaking of this toilsome journey down the river in search of her husband, " When I got there I was all perished away — so thin !" The Doctor, touched by such unexampled devotion, took her to his heart, and ever after until his death treated her with marked respect. She always presided at his table with grace and dignity, but never abandoned her na- tive style of dress. In i8i9-'20 he was stationed at Fort Edward, now Warsaw, but the senseless ridicule of some of his brother officers on account of his Indian wife induced him to resign his commission. He then built a cabin as above stated, where Keokuk is now situated, and made a claim to some land. This claim he leased to Otis Reynolds and John Culver, of St. Louis, and went to La Pointe (afterward Galena), where he practiced his profession for ten years, when he returned to Keokuk. His Indian wife bore to him four children — Louise, James, Mary and Sophia. Dr. Muir died suddenly of cholera in 1832, but left his property in such a condition that it was soon wasted in vexatious litigation, and his brave and faithful wife, left friendless and penniless, became discouraged, and, with her two younger children, disap- peared. It is said she returned to her peo- ple on the Upper Missouri. The gentleman who had leased Dr. Muir's claim at Keokuk subsequently em- ployed as their agent Moses Stillwell, who arrived with his family in 1828, and took possession. His brothers-in-law, Amos and Valencourt Van Ansdal, came with him and settled near. Mr. Stillwell's daughter Margaret (afterward Mrs. Ford) was born in 1 83 1, at the foot of the rapids, called by the Indians Puckashetuck. She was prob- '3° HISTORY OF IOWA. ably the first white American child born in Iowa. In 1829 Dr. Isaac Gallaud made a settle- ment on the Lower Rapids, at what is now Nashville. The same year James S. Lang- worthy, who had been engaged in lead- mining at Galena since 1824, commenced lead-mining in the vicinity of Dubuque. A few others afterward came to that point as miners, and they soon found it necessary to hold a council and adopt some regulations for their government and protection. They met in 1830 on the bank of the river, by the side of an old cottonwood drift log, at what is now the Jones Street Levee in Dubuque, and elected a committee, consisting of J. L. Langworthy, H. F. Lander, James Mc- Phetres, Samuel Scales and E. M. Wren, who drafted a set of rules, which were adopted by this, the first " Legislature" of Iowa. They elected Dr. Jarote as their officer to choose arbitrators for the settle- ment of difficulties that might arise. These settlers, however, were intruders upon In- dian territory, and were driven off in 1832 by our Government, Colonel Zachary Tay- lor commanding the troops. The Indians returned and were encouraged to operate the rich mmes opened by the late white occupants. But in June of the same year the troops were ordered to the east side of the Missis- sippi to assist in the annihilation of the very Indians whose rights they had been protecting on the west side ! Immediately after the close of the Black Hawk war and the negotiations of the treaty in September, 1832, by which the Sacs and Foxes ceded the tract known as the " Black Hawk Purchase," the settlers, supposmg that now they had a right to re-enter the territory, returned and took possession of their claims, built cabins, erected furnaces and prepared large quantities of lead for market. But the prospects of the hardy and enterprising settlers and miners were again ruthlessly interfered with by the Government, on the ground that the treaty with the Indians would not go into force until June i, 1833, although they had with- drawn from the vicinity of the settlement. Colonel Taylor was again ordered by the War Department to remove the miners, and in January, 1833, troops were again sent from Prairie du Chien to Dubuque for that purpose. This was a serious and per- haps unnecessary hardship imposed upon the miners. They were compelled to aban- don their cabins and homes in mid-winter. This, too, was only out of respect for forms ; for the purchase had been made, and the Indians had retired. After the lapse of fifty years, no very satisfactory reason for this rigorous action of the Government can be given. But the orders had been given, and there was no alternative but to obey. Many of the settlers re-crossed the river, and did not return ; a few, however, re- moved to an island near the east bank of the river, built rude cabins of poles, in which to store their lead until spring, when the>' could float the fruits of their labor to St. Louis for sale, and where they could re- main until the treaty went into force, when they could return. Among these were the Langworthy brothers, who had on hand about 300,000 pounds of lead. No sooner had the miners left than Lieu- tenant Covington, who had been placed in command at Dubuque by Colonel Taylor, ordered some of the cabins of the settlers to be torn down, and wagons and other prop- erty to be destroyed. This wanton and inexcusable action on the part of a subordi- nate, clothed with a little brief authority, was sternly rebuked by Colonel Taylor, and Covington was superseded by Lieutenant George Wilson, who pursued a just and friendly course with the pioneers, that were only waiting for the time when they could repossess their claims. The treaty went formally into effect June, HISTORY OF IOWA. »3« 1833, the troops were withdrawn, and the Lang^worth}' brothers and a few others at once returned and resumed possession of their homes and claims. From this time must date the first permanent settlement of this portion of Iowa. John P. Sheldon was appointed superintendent of the mines by the Government, and a system of permits to miners and licenses to smelters was adopted, similar to that which had been in operation at Galena since 1825, under Lieutenant Martin Thomas and Captain Thomas C. Legate. Substantially the primi- tive law enacted by the miners assembled around that old cottonwood drift log in 1830, was adopted and enforced by the United States Government, except that miners were required to sell their mineral to licensed smelters, and the smelter was required to give bonds for the payment of 6 per cent, of all lead manufactured to the Government About 500 people arrived in the mining district in 1833, after the Indian title was fully extinguished, of whom 150 were from Galena. In the same year Mr. Langworthy assisted in building the first school-house in Iowa, and thus was formed the nucleus of the populous and thriving city of Dubuque. Mr. Langworthy lived to see the naked prairie on which he first settled become the site of a city of 15,000 inhabitants, the small school-house which he aided in construct- ing replaced by three substantial edifices, wherein 2,000 children were being trained, churches erected in every part of the city, and railroads connecting the wilderness which he first explored with all the eastern world. He died suddenly on the 13th of March, 1865, while on a trip over the Du- buque & Southern Railroad, at Monticello, and the evening train brought the news of his death and his remains. Lucius H. Langworthy, his brother, was one of the most worthy, gifted and influ- ential of the old settlers of this section of 11 Iowa. He died greatly lamented by many friends, in June, 1865. The name Dubuque was given to the settlement by the miners, at a meeting held in 1834. Soon after the close of the Black Hawk war in 1832, Zachariah Hawkins, Benjamin Jennings, Aaron White, Augustine Horton, Samuel Gooch, Daniel Thompson and Peter Williams made claims at Fort Madison. In 1833 General John H. Knapp and Colonel Nathaniel Knapp purchased these claims, and in the summer of 1835 they laid out the town of " Fort Madison." Lots were ex- posed for sale early in 1836. The town was subsequently re-surveyed and platted by the United States Government. The popu- lation rapidly increased, and in less than two years the beautiful location was cov- ered by a flourishing town, containing nearly 600 inhabitants, with a large pro- portion of enterprising merchants, mechan- ics and manufacturers. In the fall of 1832 Simpson S. White erected a cabin on the site of Burlington, seventy-nine miles below Rock Island. During the war parties had looked long- ingly upon the " Flint Hills" from the op- posite side of the river, and White was soon followed by others. David Tothers made a claim on the prairie about three miles back from the river, at a place since known as the farm of Judge Morgan. The following winter the settlers were driven off by the military from Rock Island, as intruders upon the righfs of the Indians. White's cabin was burned by the soldiers. He returned to Illinois, where he remained during the winter, and in the following summer, as soon as the Indian title was ex- tinguished, returned and rebuilt his cabin. White was joined by his brother-in-law, Doolittle, and they laid out the town ol Burlington in 1834, on a beautiful area of sloping eminences and gentle declivities, enclosed within a natural amphitheater ■3^ HISTORY OF IOWA. formed by the surrounding hills, which were crowned with luxuriant forests and presented the most picturesque scenery. The same autumn witnessed the opening of the tirst dry-goods stores by Dr. W. R. Ross and Major Jeremiah Smith, each well sup- plied with Western merchandise. Such was the beginning of Burlington, which in less than four years became the seat of government for the Territory of Wisconsin, and in three years more contained a popu- lation of 1,400 persons. Immediately after the treaty with the Sacs and Fo.xes, in September, 1832, Colonel George Davenport made the first claim on the site of the present thriving city of Davenport. As early as 1827, Colonel Davenport had established a flat-boat ferry, which ran between the island and the main shore of Iowa, by which he carried on a trade with the Indians west of the Missis- sippi. In 1833 Captain Benjamin W. Clark moved from Illinois, and laid the founda- tion of the town of Buffalo, in Scott Count)', which was the first actual settlement within the limits of that county. The first settlers of Davenport were An- toine Le Claire, Colonel George Davenport, Major Thomas Smith, Major William Gor- don, Philip Hambough, Alexander W. Mc- Gregor, Levi S. Colton, Captain James May and others. A settlement was made in Clayton County in the spring of 1832, on Turkey River, by Robert Hatfield and William W. Wayman, No further settlement was made in this part of the State until 1S36. The first settlers of Muscatine County were Benjamin Nye, John V^anater and G. W. Kasey, all of whom came in 1834. E. E. Fay, William St. John. N. Fullington, II. Reece, Jonas Pettibone, R. P. Lowe, Stephen Whicher, Abijah Whitney, J. E. Fletcher, W. D. Abernethy and Alexis .Smith were also early settlers of Musca- tine. As early as 1824 a French trader named Hart had established a trading-post, and built a cabin on the bluffs above the large spring now known as " Mynstcr Spring," within the limits of the present cit)'^ of Council Bluffs, and had probably been there some time, as the post was known to the emplo\es of the American Fur Company as " La Cote de Hart," or " Hart's Bluff." In 1827 an agent of the American Fur Company, Francis Guittar, with others, encamped in the timber at the foot of the bluffs, about on the present location of Broadway, and afterward settled there. In 1839 '^ block house was built on the bluff in the east part of the city. The Pottawat- omie Indians occupied this part of the State until i846-"7> when the\- relinquished the territory and removed to Kansas. Billy Caldwell was then principal chief. There were no white settlers in that part of the State except Indian traders, until the arri- val of the Mormons under the lead of Brig- ham Young. These people on their way westward halted for the winter of i846-'7, on the west bank of the Missouri River, about five miles above Omaha, at a place now called Florence. Some of them had reached the eastern bank of the river the spring before in season to plant a crop. In the spring of 1847 Brigham Young and a portion of the colony pursued their journey to Salt Lake, but a large portion of them returned to the Iowa side and settled mainly within the present limits of Pottawatomie County. The principal settlement of this strange community was at a place first called " Miller's Hollow," on Indian Creek, and afterward named Kanesville, in honor of Colonel Thomas L. Kane, of Pennsyl- vania, who visited them soon afterward. The Mormon settlement extended over the county and into neighboring ccjunties, wherever timber and water furnished de- sirable locations. Orson Hyde, priest, law- yer and editor, was installed as president HISTORY OF rOWA. '33 of the Quorum of Twelve, and all that part of the State remained under Mormon con- trol for several years. In 1847 they raised a battalion numbering 500 men for the Mexican war. In 1848 Hyde started a paper called the Frontier Guardian, at Kanesville. In 1849, after many of the faithful had left to join Brigham Young at Salt Lake, the Mormons in this section of Iowa numbered 6,552, and in 1850,7,828; but they were not all within the limits of Pottawatomie County. This county was organized in 1848, all the first officials be- ing Mormons. In 1852 the order was pro- mulgated that all the true believers should gather together at Salt Lake. Gentiles flocked in, and in a few years nearly all the first settlers were gone. May 9, 1843, Captain James Alien, with a small detachment of troops on board the steamer lone, arrived at the site of the present capital of the State, Des Moines. This was the first steamer to ascend the Des Moines River to this point. The troops and stores were landed at what is now the foot of Court avenue, arid the Captain re- turned in the steamer to Fort Sanford to arrange for bringing up more soldiers and supplies. In due time the}' too arrived, and a fort was built near the mouth of Rac- coon Fork, at its confluence with the Des Moines, and named " Fort Des Moines." Soon after the arrival of the troops, a trad- ing-post was established on the east side of the river by two noted Indian traders named Ewing, from Ohio. Among the first settlers in this part of Iowa were Ben- jamin Bryant, J. B. Scott, James Drake (gunsmith), John Sturtevant, Robert Kin- zie, Ale.xander Turner, Peter Newcomer and others. PIONEER LIFE. Most of the early settlers of Iowa came from older States, as Pennsylvania, New York and Ohio, where their prospects for even a competency were very poor. They found those States good — to emigrate from. Their entire stock of furniture, implements and family necessities were easily stored in one wagon, and sometimes a cart was their only vehicle. After arriving and selecting a suitable location, the ne.xt thing to do was to build a log cabin, a description of which ma}' be interesting to many of our younger readers, as in some sections these old-time struct- ures are no more to be seen. Trees of uniform size were chosen and cut into logs of the desired length, generally twelve to fifteen feet, and hauled to the spot selected for the future dwelling. On an appointed day the few neighbors who were available would assemble and have a " house-raising." Each end of every log was saddled and notched so that they would lie as close down as possible; the next day the proprietor, would proceed to " chink " and " daub " the cabin, to keep out the rain, wind and cold. The house had to be re-daubed ev- ery fall, as the rains of the intervening time would wash out a great part of the mortar. The usual height of the house was seven or eight feet. The gables were formed by shortening tlie logs gradually at each end of the building near the top. The roof was made by laying very straight small logs or stout poles suitable distances apart, and on these were laid the clapboards, somewhat like shingling, generally about two and a half feet to the weather. These clapboards were fastened to their place by " weight- poles" corresponding m place with the joists just described, and these again were held in their place by " runs " or " knees " which were chunks of wood about eighteen or twenty inches long fitted between them near the ends. Clapboards were made from the nicest oaks in the vicinity, by chopping or sawing them into four-foot blocks and riving these with a frow, which was a simple blade fixed at right angles to »34 HISTORr OF IOWA. its handles. This was driven into the blocks of wood by a mallet. As the (row was wrenched down through the wood, the latter was turned alternately over from side to side, one end being held by a forked piece of timber. The chimney to the Western pioneer's cabin was made by leaving in the original building a large open place in one wall, or by cutting one after the structure was up, and by building on the outside, from the ground up, a stone column, or a column of sticks and mud, the sticks being laid up cob house fashion. The fire-place thus made was often large enough to receive fire-wood six to eight feet long. Sometimes this wood, especially the " back-log," would be nearly as large as a saw-log. The more rapidly the pioneer could burn up the wood in his vicinity the sooner he had his little farm cleared and ready for cultivation. For a window, a piece about two feet long was cut out of one of the wall logs, and the hole closed, sometimes by glass but gener- ally with greased paper. Even greased deer- hide was sometimes used. A doorway was cut through one of the walls if a saw was to be had; otherwise the door would be left by shortened logs in the original building. The door was made by pinning clapboards to two or three wood bars, and was hung upon wooden hinges. A wooden latch, with catch, then finished the door, and the latch was raised by any one on the outside by pullmg a leather string. For security at night this latch-string was drawn in, but for friends and neighbors, and even stran- gers, the " latch-string was always hanging out," as a welcome. In the interior over the fire-place would be a shelf called " the mantel," on which stood a candlestick or lamp, some cooking and table ware, possi- bly an old clock, and other articles; in the fire-place would be the crane, sometimes of iron, sometimes of wood; on it the pots were hung for cooking; over the door, in forked cleats, hung the ever-trustful rifle and pow- der-horn; in one corner stood the larger bed for the " old folks," and under it the trundle-bed for the children; in another stood the old-fashioned spinning-wheel, with a smaller one by its side; in another the heavy table, the only table, of course, there was in the house; in the remaining was a rude cupboard holding the tableware, which consisted of a few cups and saucers, and blue-edged plates, standing singly on their edges against the ' back, to make the display of table-furniture more conspicu- ous; while around the room were scattered a few splint-bottom or Windsor chairs, and two or three stools. These simple cabins were inhabited by a kind and true-hearted people. They were strangers to mock modesty, and the traveler seeking lodging for the night, or desirous of spending a few days in the community, if willing to accept the rude offering, was always welcome, although how they were disposed of at night the reader might not easily imagine; for, as described, a single room was made to answer for kitchen, dining-room, sitting-room, bed-room and parlor, and many families consisted of si.\ or eight members. The bed was verj' often made by fixing a post in the floor about six feet from one wall and four feet from the adjoining wall, and fastening a stick to this post about two feet above the floor, on each of two sides, so that the other end of each of the two sticks could be fastened in the oppo- site wall; clapboards were laid across these, and thus the bed was made complete. Guests were given this bed, while the fam- ily disposed of themselves in another cor- ner of the room or in the loft. When several guests were on hand at once they were sometimes kept over night in the fol- lowing manner: When bedtime came the men were requested to step out of doors while the women spread out a broad bed H/sronr of iowa. «3S upon the mid floor, and put themselves to bed in the center; the signal was given, and the men came in and each husband took his place in bed next his own wife, and single men outside beyond them again. They were generally so crowded that they had to lie "spoon" fashion, and whenever anyone wished to turn over he would say " spoon," and the whole company of sleep- ers would turn over at once. This was the only way they could all keep in bed. To witness the various processes of cook- ing in those days would alike surprise and amuse those who have grown up since cooking stoves and ranges came into use. Kettles were hung over the large fire, sus- pended with pot-hooks, iron or wooden, on the crane, or on poles, one end of which would rest upon a chain. The long-hand- led frying pan was used for cooking meat. It was either held over the blaze by hand or set down upon coals drawn out upon the hearth. This pan was also used for baking pancakes, also call flapjacks, batter- cakes, etc. A better article lor this, how- ever, was the cast-iron spider, or Dutch skillet. The best thing for baking bread in those days, and possibly even in these latter days, was the flat-bottomed bake kettle, of greater depth, with closely fitting cast-iron cover, and commonly known as the Dutch oven. With coals over and under it, bread and biscuits would be quickly and nicely baked. Turkey and spare-ribs were sometimes roasted before the fire, sus- pended by a string, a dish being placed underneath to catch the drippings. Hominy and samp were very much used. The hominy, however, was generally hulled corn — boiled corn from which the hull or bran had been taken by hot lye, hence sometimes called lye hominy. True hom- iny and samp were made of pounded corn. A popular method of making this, as well as real meal for bread, was to cut out or burn a large hole in the top of a huge stump, in the shape of a mortar, and pound- ing the corn in this by a maul or beetle suspended by a swing pole like a well- sweep. This and the wellsweep consisted of a pole twenty to thirty feet long fixed in an upright fork so that it could be worked " teeter" fashion. It was a rapid and sim- ple way of drawing water. When the samp was sufficiently pounded it was taken out, the bran floated off, and the delicious grain boiled like rice. The chief articles of diet in an early day- were corn bread, hominy or samp, venison, pork, honey, pumpkin (dried pumpkin for more than half the year), turkey, prairie chicken, squirrel and some otiicr game, with a few additional vegetables a portion of the year. Wheat bread, tea, coffee and fruit were luxuries not to be indulged in except on special occasions, as when visit- ors were present. Besides cooking in the manner described, the women had many other arduous duties to perform, one of the chief of which was spinning. The big wheel was used for spinning yarn and the little wheel for spin- ning flax. These stringed instruments fur- ' nished the principal music for the family, and were operated by our mothers and grandmothers with great skill, attained without pecuniary expense, and with far less practice than is necessaiy for the girls of our period to acquire a skillful use of their costly and elegant instruments. But those wheels, indispensable a few 3'ears ago, are all now superseded by the mighty fac- tories which overspread the country, fur- nishing cloth of all kinds at an expense ten times less than would be incurred now by the old system. The traveler always found a welcome at the pioneer's cabin. It was never full. Although there might be already a guest for every puncheon, there was still " room for one more," and a wider circle would be made for the new-comer at the big fire. If 136 HISTORY OF IOWA. the stranger was in search of land, he was doubly welcome, and his host would vol- unteer to show him all the " first rate claims in this neck of the woods," going with him for dav's, showing the corners and advan- tages of every " Congress tract " within a dozen miles of his own cabin. To his neighbors the pioneer Was equally liberal. If a deer was killed, the choicest bits were sent to his nearest neighbor, a half-dozen miles away perhaps. When a pig was butchered, the same custom pre- vailed. If a new-comer came in too late for " cropping," the neighbors would sup- ply his table with just the same luxuries they themselves enjoyed, and in as liberal quantity, until a crop could be raised. When a new-comer had located his claim, the neighbors for miles around would assemble at the site of the proposed cabin and aid himin " gittm " it up. One party with axes would cut down the trees and hew the logs; another with teams would haul the logs to the ground; another party- would "raise" the cabin; while several of the old men would rive the clap-boards for the roof. By night the little forest domicile would be up and ready for a " house-warming," which was the dedica- tory occupation of the house, when music and dancing and festivity would be enjoyed at full height. The next day the new-comer would be as well situated as his neighbors. An instance of primitive hospitable man- ners will be in place here. A traveling Methodist preacher arrived in a distant neighborhood to fill an appointment. The house where services were to be held did not belong to a church member, but no matter for that. Boards were collected from all quarters with which to make temporary seats, one of the neighbors volunteering to lead off in the work, while the man of the house, with the faithful rifle on his shoulder, sallied forth in quest of meat, for this truly was a "ground hog" case, the preacher coming and no meat in the house. The host ceased not to chase until he found the meat, in the shape of a deer; returning he sent a boy out after it, with directions on what " pint " to find it. After services, which had been listened to with rapt atten- tion b}' all the audience, mine host said to his wife, "Old woman, I reckon this 'ere preacher is pretty hungry and 3'ou must git him a bite to eat." " What shall I get him ? " asked the wife, who had not seen the deer, " thar's nuthen in the house to eat." " Why, look thar," returned he, " thar's a deer, and thar's plenty of corn in the field; you git some corn and grate it while I skin the deer, and we'll have a good supper for him." It is needless to add that venison and corn bread made a sup- per fit for any pioneer preacher, and was thankfully eaten. Fires set out by Indians or settlers some- times purposely and sometimes permitted through carelessness, would visit the prai- rie every autumn, and sometimes the for- ests, either in autumn or spring, and settlers could not always succeed in defending themselves against the destroying element. Many interesting incidents are related. Often a fire was started to bewilder game, or to bare a piece of ground for the early grazing of stock the ensuing spring, and it would get away under a wind and soon be beyond control. Violent winds would often arise and drive the flames with such rapidity that riders on the fleetest steeds could scarcely escape. On the approach of a prairie fire the farmer would immedi- ately set about " cutting off supplies " for the devouring enemy by a " back fire." Thus by starting a small fire near the bare ground about his premises, and keeping it under control next his property, he would burn off a strip around him and prevent the attack (jf the on-coming flames. A few furrows or a ditch around the farm were in some degrees a protection. H/STOHr OF IOWA. m An original prairie of tall and exuberant grass on fire, espcciall^'at night, was a mag- nificent spectacle, enjoyed only by the pioneer. Here is an instance where the frontiersman, proverbially deprived of the sights and pleasures of an old community, is privileged far be3-ond the people of the present day in this country. One could scarcel}' tire of beholding the scene, as its awe-inspiring features seemed constantly to increase, and the whole panorama unceas- ingly changed like the dissolving views of a magic lantern, or like the aurora borealis. Language cannot conve)-, words cannot express, the faintest idea of the splendor and grandeur of such a conflagration at night. It was as if the pale queen of night, disdaining to take her accuctomed place in the heavens, had dispatched myriads upon mvriadsof messengers to light their torches at the altar of the setting sun until all had flashed into one long and continuous blaze. One instance has been described as follows: '• Soon the fires began to kindle wider and rise higher from the long grass; the gentle breeze increased to stronger currents, and soon formed the small, flickering blaze into fierce torrent flames, which curled up and leaped along in resistless splendor; and like quickl)- raising the dark curtain from the luminous stage, the scenes before me were suddenly changed, as if by a magi- cian's wand, into one boundless amphithea- ter, blazing from earth to heaven and sweeping the horizon round, — columns of lurid flames sportively mounting up to the zenith, and dark clouds of crimson smoke curling away and aloft till they nearly ob- scured stars and moon, while the rushing, crashing sounds, like roaring cataracts, mingled with distant thunders, were almost deafening; danger, death, glared all around; it screamed for victims: \et, notwithstand- ing the imminent peril of prairie fires, one is loth, irresolute, almost unable to with- draw or seek refuge. I.OUISI.\N.\ TERRITORV. As before mentioned, although Dc Soto, a Spaniard, first took possession of the Mis- sissippi Valle}' for his Government, Spain did not establish her title to it by following up the proclamation with immediate settle- ments, and the country fell into the hands of France, bv whose agent it was named " Louisiana." By the treaty of Utrecht, France ceded to England her possessions in Hudson's Bay, Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, but retained Canada and Louisiana. In 171 1 this province was placed in the hands of a governor-general, with headquarters at Mobile, for the purpose of applying a new policv for the settlement and development of the country. The very next year ano- ther change was made, placing all this ter- ritory in the hands of Anthony Crozat, a wealthy merchant of Paris, but this scheme also failed, as Spain continued to obstruct the efforts of an}' Frenchman to establish trade, by closing the ports against him. In 1717 John Law appeared on the scene with his famous " Mississippi Company," as the Louisiana branch of the Bank of France ; and as his roseate scheme promised to do much in raising crippled France upon a surer footing, extended powers and privi- leges were granted him. He was to be practically a viceroy, and the life of his charter was fixed at twenty-five years. But in 1720, when the '• Mississippi bubble" was at the height of its splendor, it suddenly collapsed, leaving the mother country in a far worse condition than before. Heretofore Louisiana had been a sub- ordinate dependence, under the jurisdiction of the Governor-General of Canada. Early in 1723 the province of Louisiana was erected into an independent Government, and it was divided into nine districts, for civil and- military purposes. Characteristic of human nature, the peo- ple were more excited with prospects of 138 HISTORY OF IOWA. finding enormous wealth ready at hand, if they should continue to scour the country, which they did in places as far west as the Rockv Mountains, to the neglect of their agricultural and domestic interests. A habit of roaming became fixed. At the same time their exposed condition was a constant temptation to Indian rapine, and the Nat- chez tribe in 1723 made a general assault upon the whites. At first they were re- pulsed, but about five years afterward, aided by the Chickasaws and others, they fell upon the French village of St. Catha- rine and massacred the whole male popu- lation. Two soldiers, who happened to be in the woods, alone escaped to New Or- leans, to bear the news. The colonies on the Yazoo and the Washita suffered the same fate. Maddened by these outrages, the whites turned upon the Natchez and in the course of three years exterminated them. They were probably the most in- telligent tribe of Indians north of Mexico. During the fifteen years from 1717 to 1732 the province increased in population from 700 to 5,000, and in prosperity to a wonderful degree. It remained under royal governors until 1764, the end of the French dominion. Most of this time the Indians were troublesome, and in 1754 began the long "French and Indian war" with Eng- land, which resulted in favor of the latter, that Government obtaining all of New France, Canada, and the eastern half of Louisiana. This province did not suffer by being the scene of battle, but did suffer a great deal from a flood of irredeemable paper money. In the meantime the western portion, or residue, of this province was secretly promised to Spain ; but before either of the foreign powers had opportu- nity to rejoice long in their western posses- sions, a new power on earth, the United States, took independent possession of all the country except Louisiana and Florida, which it has maintained ever since. During the seventy years of French control the province of Louisiana increased in popula- tion from a few destitute fishermen to a flourishing colony of 13,540. St. Louis, Missouri, was started in 1764. Don O'Reilly, the new Governor of Loui- siana in 1764, ruled with a despotic hand, yet for the general advantage of the peo- ple. His successor, Don Antonio Maria Bucarelly, was mild, and he was succeeded January i, 1777, by Don Bernard de Gal- vez, who was the last Governor. He sym- pathized with American independence. The British, with 140 troops and 1,400 Indians, invaded Upper Louisiana from the north by way of the Straits of Mackinaw, and in- vested St. Louis, Missouri, in 1780, but were driven oft. When the Indians saw that they were led to fight " Americans" as well as Spaniards, they found that they had been deceived, and withdrew from the British army, and thus General George R. Clark, in behalf of the Americans, easily defended St. Louis, and also all the new settlements in this western country. After the Revolutionary war the country began again to prosper. Governor Galvez, by a census, ascertained that Louisiana had in 1785 a population of about 33,000, exclu- sive of Indians. In the summer of the latter year Don Estavan Miro became Governor/w tent, of the Spanish possessions in this country, and was afterward confirmed as such by the king. During his administration a vain attempt was made by the Catholics to establish the inquisition at New Orleans. He was succeeded in 1792 by Baron de Carondelet, and during his term the Spanish colonies grew so rapidly that their Govern- ment became jealous of the United States and sought to exclude all interference from them in domestic affairs ; but all efforts in this direction were ended in 1795 by the treaty of Madrid, which, after some delay and trouble, was fully carried out in 1798. HISTORY OF IOWA. "39 Under the leadership of Livingston and Monroe, the United States Government, after various propositions had been dis- cussed by the respective powers, succeeded in effecting, in 1803, a purchase of the whole of Louisiana from France for $11,250,000, and all this country west of the great river consisted of the "Territory of Orleans" (now the State of Louisiana) and the " Dis- trict of Louisiana " (now the States of Ar- kansas. Missouri and Iowa, and westward indefinitely). The latter was annexed to the Territory of Indiana for one year, and in 1805 it was erected into a separate Terri- tory, of the second class, the legislative power being vested in the Governor and judges. Before the close of the year it was made a Territory of the first class, under the name of the " Territory of Louisiana," the Government being administered by the Governor and judges. The first Governor wasjames Wilkinson, and he was succeeded near the close of 1806 by Colonel Meri- weather Lewis, the seat of Government be- ing at St. Louis; and during his adminis- tration the Territory was divided into six judicial districts or large counties — St. Charles, St. Louis, St. Genevieve, Cape Girardeau, New Madrid and Arkansas. In 1810 the population of Louisiana Territory was 21,000, five-sevenths of whom were in Arkansas. In 1812 the State of Louisiana was ad- mitted into the Union, and then it was deemed expedient to change the name of the Territory. It was accordingly given the name of " Missouri Territory," which it retained until the admission of the State of Missouri in 1821. IOWA TERRITORY. Although the " Northwestern Territory" — carved out of Virginia and now divided into the States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin — never included Iowa, this State was in 1834 incorporated into the "Territory of Michigan," and thus became subject to the ordinance of 1787; and two years later it was made a part of " Wisconsin Territory," and two years still later, in 1838, the "Territory of Iowa" was formed independently, with sixteen counties and a population of 23,000. In 1833, at Dubuque, a postofifice was established, and some time prior to 1834 one or two justices of the peace had been appointed. In 1834 the Territorial Legis- lature of Michigan created two counties west of the Mississippi — Dubuque and Des Moines — separated by a line drawn west- ward from the foot of Rock Island. These counties were partially organized. John King was appointed " Chief Justice" of Du- buque County, and Isaac Leffler, of Bur- lington, of Des Moines County. Two associate justices in each county were ap- pointed by the Governor. In October, 1835, General George W. Jones, of Du- buque, was elected a delegate to Congress. April 20, 1836, through the efforts of Gen- eral Jones, Congress passed a bill creating the Territory of Wisconsin, which went into operation July 4, that year. Iowa was then included in that Territory, of which General Henry Dodge was appointed Gov- ernor. The census of 1836 showed a popu- lation in Iowa of 10,531, of which 6,257 were in Des Moines County and 4,274 in Dubuque County. Ths first Legislature assembled at Bel- mont, Wisconsin, October 25, 1836; the second at Burlington, Iowa, November 9, 1837 ; and the third, also at the latter place, June I, 1838. As earl}' as 1837 the people of Iowa be- gan to petition Congress for a separate Territorial organization, which was granted June 12 following. Ex-Governor Lucas, of Ohio, was appointed by President Van Bu- ren to be the first Governor of the new Territory. Immediately upon his arrival he issued a proclamation for the election of 140 HISTORY OF IOWA. members of the first Territorial Legislature, to take place September 10. The following were elected : Council. — Jesse B. Brown, J. Keith, E. A. M. Swaze}', Arthur Ingram, Robert Ralston, George Hepner, Jesse J. Payne, D. B. Hughes, James M. Clark, Charles Whittlesey, Jonathan \V. Parker, Warner Lewis, Stephen Hempstead. House. — Wm. Patterson, Hawkins Tay- lor, Calvin J. Price, James Brierly, James Hall, Gideon S. Bailey, Samuel Parker, James W. Grimes, George Temple, Van B. Delashmutt, Thomas Blair, George W. Beelet, Wm. G. Coop, Wm. H. Wallace, Asbury B. Porter, John Frierson, Wm. L. Toole, Levi Thornton, S. C. Hastings, Robert G. Roberts, Laurel Summers, Jabez A. Burchard, Jr., Chauncey Swan, Andrew Bankson, Thomas Cox and Har- din Nowlin. At the session of the above Legislature Wm. W. Chapman was elected delegate to Congress. As the latter body had given the Governor unlimited veto power, and as Governor Lucas was disposed to exer- cise it arbitrarily, the independent " Hawk- eves " grew impatient under his administra- tion, and, after having a stormy session for a time, thev had Congress to limit the veto power. Great excitement also prevailed, both in the Legislature and among the people, concerning the question of the loca- tion of the seat of Government for the State. As they knew nothing concerning the great future development and extent of the State, they had no correct idea where the geographical center would or should be. The Black Hawk purchase, which was that strip of land next the Mississippi, in the southeastern part of the State, was the full extent and horizon of their idea of the new commonwealth. Hence they thought first only of Burlington or Mount Pleasant as the capital. Indeed, at that time, the Inaians had possession of the rest of Iowa. But a few of the more shrewd foresaw that a more central location would soon be further to the north at least, if not west, and a point in Johnson County was ulti- mately decided upon. Commissioners, appointed by the Gov- ernor, selected the exact site, laid out a sec- tion of land into a town, sold lots and proceeded to erect the public buildings. The capitol was commenced in 1840 and Iowa City became thenceforward the capi- tal of the State. The fourth Legislative Assembly met at this place December 6, 1 841, but not in the new capitol building, as it was not yet ready. Being somewhat difficult to raise the necessary funds, the building was not completed for several years. The early Territorial Legislatures of Iowa laid the foundation for a very just and liberal Government, far in advance of what had ever been done before by any State. About this time a conflict arose between this Territory and Missouri concerning the boundary line between them. There was a difference of a strip eight or ten miles wide, extending from the Mississippi to the Missouri rivers, which each claimed. Mis- souri officers, attempting to collect taxes within the disputed territory, were arrested and confined in jail by Iowa sheriffs, and the respective Governors called out the militia, preparing for bloodshed. About 1,200 Iowa men enlisted, and 500 were act- ually armed and encamped in Van Euren County, ready to defend their Territory, when three prominent and able men were sent to Missouri as envoys plenipotentiary, to effect, if possible, a peaceable adjustment of the difficulty. Upon their arrival, they found that the county commissioners of Clark County, Missouri, had rescinded their order for the collection of the taxes, and that Governor Boggs had dispatched messen- gers to the Governor of Iowa proposing to submit an agreed case to the Supreme HISTORr OF IOWA. 141 Court of the United States for the settle- ment of the boundar}- question. This prop- osition was declined; but afterward, upon petition of Iowa and Missouri, Congress authorized a suit to settle the controversy. The suit was duly instituted, and resulted in the decision that Iowa had only asserted " the truth of history," and she knew where the rapids of the Des Moines River were located. Thus ended the Missouri war. " There was much good sense," sa3'S Hon. C. C. Nourse, "in the basis upon which peace was secured, to-wit: ' If Missourians did not know where the rapids of the river Des Moines were located, that was no suffi- cient reason for killing them off with powder and lead; and if we did know a little more of history and geography than they did we ought not to be shot for our learning. We commend our mutual forbearance to older and greater people.' " Under an order from the Supreme Court of the United States commissioners surveyed and estab- lished the boundary. The expenses of the war, on the part of Iowa, were never paid, either by the United States or the Territo- rial Government. STATE ORGANIZATION AND SUBSEQUENT HISTORY. The population having become, by the year 1844, sufficient to justify the formation of a State Government, the Territorial Leg- islature of Iowa passed an act, approved February 12, that year, submitting to the people the question of the formation of a State Constitution and providing for the election of delegates to a convention to be called together for that purpose. The people voted upon this at their township elections in the following April, giving the measure a large majority. The elected delegates assembled in convention at Iowa City, October 7, 1844, and completed their work by November i. Hon. Shepherd Leffler, the President of this convention. was instructed to transact a certified copy of the proposed Constitution to the Dele- gate in Congress, to be submitted by him to that bodv at the earliest practicable day. It also provided that it should be submitted, together with any conditions or changes that might be made by Congress, to the people of the Territory, for their approval or rejection, at the township election in April, 1845. The Constitution, as thus prepared, ti.xed the boundaries of the State very differently from what were finally agreed upon. Ma}' 4, 1846, a second convention met at Iowa City, and on the i8th of the same month another Constitution, prescribing the boundaries as they now are, was adopted. This was accepted by the people, August 3, by a vote of 9,492 to 9,036. The new Constitution was approved by Congress, and Iowa was admitted as a sovereign State in the American Union, December 28, 1846. The people of the State, antici- pating favorable action by Congress, held an election for State officers October 26 which resulted in Ansel Briggs being de- clared Governor; Elisha Cutler, Jr., Secre- tary of State; Joseph T. Fales, Auditor; Morgan Reno, Treasurer; and members of the Senate and House of Representatives. The act of Congress which admitted Iowa gave her the i6th section of every township of land in the State, or its equiv- alent, for the support of schools; also seventy-two sections of land for the pur- pose of a universit)'; also five sections of land for the completion of her public build- ings; also the salt springs within her limits, not exceeding twelve in number, with sec- tions of land adjoining each; also, in con- sideration that her public lands should be exempt from taxation by the State, she gave to the State five per cent, of the net proceeds of the sale of public lands within the State. Thus provided for as a bride with her marriage portion, Iowa com- 143 HISTORY OF IOWA. menced " housekeeping' " upon her own account. A majority of the Constitutional Conven- tion of 1846 were of the Democratic party; and the instrument contains some of the peculiar tenets of the party at that day. Ail banks of issue were prohibited within the State. The State was prohibited from becoming a stockholder in any corporation for pecuniary profit, and the General As- sembly could only provide for private cor- porations by general statutes. The Consti- tution also limited the State's indebtedness to $100,000. It required the General As- sembly to provide public schools through- out the State for at least three months in the year. Six months' previous residence ol any white male citizen of the United States constituted him an elector. At the time of organization as a State, Iowa had a population of 1 16,651, as appears by the census of 1847. There were twenty- seven organized counties in the State, and the settlements were rapidly pushing to- ward the Missouri River. The first General Assembly was com- posed of nineteen Senators and forty Rep- resentatives. It assembled at Iowa City, November 30, 1846, about a month before the State was admitted into the Union. The most important business transacted was the passage of a bill authorizing a loan of $50,000 for means to run the State Gov- ernment and pay the expenses of the Con- stitutional conventions. The great excite- ment of the^ session, however, was the attempt to choo.se United States Senators. The Whigs had a majority of two in the House, and the Democrats a majority of one in the Senate. Aftci- repeated attempts to control these majorities for caucus nom- inees and frequent .sessions ol a joint con- vention for purposes of an election, the attempt was abandoned. A school law was passed at this session for the organization of public schools in the Slate. At the first session also arose the ques- tion of the re-location of the capital. The western boundary of the State, as now determined, left Iowa City too far toward the eastern and southern boundary of the State; this was conceded. Congress had appropriated five sections of land for the erection of public buildings, and toward the close of the session a bill was introduced providing for the re-location of the seat of Government, involving to some extent the location of the State University, which had already been discussed. This bill gave rise to much discussion and parliamentary ma- neuvering, almost purely sectional in its character. It provided for the appointment of three commissioners, who were author- ized to make a location as near the geo- graphical center of the State as a healthy and eligible site could be obtained; to select the five sections of land donated by Con- gress; to survey and plat into town lots not exceeding one section of the land so se- lected, etc. Soon after, by " An act to locate and establish a State University," approved February 25, 1847, the unfinished public buildings at Iowa City, together with ten acres of land on which they were situated, were granted {<.^\■ the use of the Universit}', reserving their use, however, b}' the General Assembly and the State ofificers, until other provisions were made by law. When the report of the commissioners, showing their financial operations, had been read in the House of Representa- tives, at the next session, and while it was under consideration, an indignant member, afterward known as the eccentric Judge McFarland, moved to refer the report to a select committee of five, with instructions to report " how much of said city of Mon- roe was under water, and how nuich was burned." The report was referred with- out the instructions, but Monroe City never became the seat of Government. By an HISTORY OF IOWA. »43 act approved January 15, 1849, the law by which the location had been made was re- pealed and the new town was vacated, the money paid by purchasers of lots being re- funded to them. This, of course, retained the seat of Government at Iowa Cit)', and precluded for the time the occupation of the building and grounds by the University. After the adjournment of the first Gen- eral Assembly, the Governor appointed Joseph Williams, Chief Justice, and George Green and John F. Kinney, Judges of the Supreme Court. They were afterward elected by the second General Assembly, and constituted the Supreme Court until 1855, with the exception that Kinney re- signed in January, 1854, and J. C. Hall, of Burlington, was appointed in his place. At this session Charles Mason, William G. Woodward and Stephen Hempstead were appointed commissioners to prepare a code of laws for the State. Their work was finished in 1850 and was adopted by the General Assembly. This "code" con- tained among other provisions a code of civil practice, superseding the old common- law forms of actions and writs, and it was admirable for its simplicity and method. It remained in force until 1863, when it was superseded by the more complicated and metaphysical system of the revision of that year. The first Representatives in Congress were S. Clinton Hastings, of Muscatine, and Shepherd Leflfler, of Des Moines County. The second General Assembly elected to the United States Senate Au- gustus Caesar Dodge and George W.Jones. The State government, after the first ses- sion, was under the control of Democratic administrations till 1855. The electoral vote of the State was cast for Lewis Cass in 1848, and for Franklin Pierce in 1852. The popu- lar vote shows that the Free-Soil element of the State during this period very nearly held tlie balance of power, and that up to 1854 it acted in the State elections to some extent with the Democratic party. In 1858 Lewis Cass received 12,093 votes, Zachar}' Taylor 11,034, and Martin Van Buren, the Free-Soil candidate, 1,226 votes, being 167 less than a majority for Cass. In 1852 Pierce received 17,762 votes, Scott 15,855, and Hale, Free-Soil, 1,606, being for Pierce 301 votes more than a majority. The question of the permanent location of the seat of government was not settled, and in 185 1 bills were introduced for the removal of the capital to Pella and to Fort Des Moines. The latter appeared to have the support of the majority, but was finally lost in the House on the question of order- ing it to its third reading. At the next session, in 1853, a bill was introduced in the Senate for the removal of the seat of government to Fort Des Moines, and on first vote was just barely defeated. At the next session, however, the effort was more successful, and January 15, 1855, a bill re-locating the capital within two miles of the Raccoon Fork of the Des Moines, and for the appointment of commissioners, was approved by Governor Grimes. The site was selected in 1856, in accordance with the provisions of this act, the land being donated to the State by citizens and property-holders of Des Moines. An asso- ciation of citizens erected a building for a temporar)- capitol, and leased it to the State at a nominal rent. The passage by Congress of the act or- ganizing the Territories of Kansas and Ne- braska, and the provision it contained abro- gating that portion of the Missouri bill that prohibited slavery and involuntary servi- tude north of 36° 30' was the beginning of a political revolution in the Northern States, and in none was it more marked than in the State of Iowa. Iowa was the " first free child born of the Missouri Compromise," and has always resented the destruction of her foster parent. 144 HI SI our OF iowa. The year 1856 marked a new era in the his- tory of Iowa. In 1S54 the Chicago & Rock Island Raihoad had been completed to the t-ast hank of the Mississippi River, opposite Davenport, in tiie same year tlie corner- stone of a railroad bridge that was to be the first to span the " Father of Waters," was laid with appropriate ceremonies at this point. St. Louis had resolved that the enterprise was unconstitutional, and by writs of injunction made an unsuccessful effort to prevent its completion. Twent}' years later in her history, St. Louis re- pented her folly, and made atonement for her sin by imitating Iowa's example. Jan- uary I, 1856, this railroad was completed to Iowa City. In the meantime, two other railroads had reached the east bank of the Mississippi — one opposite Burlington, and one opposite Dubuque — and these were be- ing extended into the interior of the State. Indeed, four other lines of railroads had been projected across the State from the Mississippi to the Missouri, having eastern connections. May 15, 1856, Congress passed an act granting to the State, to aid in the con- struction of railroads, the public lands in alternate sections, six miles on either side of the proposed lines. An extra session of the General Assembl}' was called in July of this year, that disposed of the grant to the several companies that proposed to com- plete these enterprises. The population of Iowa was now 500,000. Public attention had been called to the necessity of a rail- road across the continent. The position of Iowa, in the very heart and center of the republic, on the route of this great high- way of the continent, began to attract atten- tion. Cities and towns sprang up through the Stale as if b\' magic. Capital began to pour into the State, and had it been em- ployed in developing the vast coal measures and establishing manufactories, or if it had been expended in improving the lands, and in building houses and barns, it would have been well. But all were in haste to get rich, and the spirit of speculation ruled the hour. In the meantime, ever}' effort was made to help the speedy completion of the rail- roads. Nearly every county and city on the Mississippi, and many in the interior, voted large corporate subscriptions to the stock of the railroad companies, and issued their negotiable bonds for the amount. Thus enormous county and city debts were incurred, the payment of which these mu- nicipalities tried to avoid, upon the plea that they had exceeded the constitutional limitation of their powers. The Supreme Court of the United States held these bonds to be valid, and the courts by mandamus compelled the city and county authorities to levy taxes to pay the judgments re- covered upon them. These debts are not all paid, even to this day ; but the worst is over, and the incubus is in the course of ultimate extinction. The most valuable lessons are those learned in the school of experience, and accordingly the corpora- tions of Iowa have ever since been noted for economy. In 1856 the popular vote was as follows: Fremont, 43,954; Buchanan, 36,170, and Fillmore, 9,180. This was 1,296 less than a majority for Fremont. The following year an election was held, after an exciting cam- paign, for State officers, resulting in a ma- jority of 1,406 for Ralph P. Lowe, the Re- publican nominee. The Legislature was largel}' Republican in both branches. One of the most injurious results to the State, arising from the spirit of speculation prevalent in 1856, was the purchase and entry of great bodies of Government land within the State by non-residents. This land was held for speculation and placed beyond the reach of actual settlers for many years. From no other one cause has Iowa suffered so much as from the short-sighted UrSTORr OF lOlVA. US policy of the Federal Government in sollinj^ lands within her borders. The money thus obtained by the Federal Government has been comparatively inconsiderable. The value of this magnificent public do- main to the United States was not in the few thousands of dollars she might exact from the hardy settlers, or that she might obtain from the speculator who hoped to profit by the settlers' labors in improving the country. Statesmen should have taken a broader and more comprehensi\e view of national economy, and a view more in har- mony with the divine economy that had prepared these vast fertile plains of the West for the " homes of men and the seats of empire." It was here that new States were to be builded up, that should be the future strength of the nation against foreign invasion or home revolt. A single regi- ment of Iowa soldiers during the dark days of the Rebellion was worth more to the nation than all the money she ever exacted from the toil and sweat of Iowa's early settlers. Could the statesmen of forty years ago have looked forward to this day, when Iowa pays her $1,000,000 annually into the treasury of the nation for the ex- tinction of the national debt, they would have realized that the founding of new States was a greater enterprise than the re- tailing of public lands. In January, 1857, another Constitutional Convention assembled at Iowa City, which framed the present State Constitution. One of the most pressing demands for this con- vention grew out of the prohibition of banks under the old Constitution. The practical result of this prohibition was to flood the State with every species of " wild- cat" currency. The new Constitution made ample pro- visions for home hanks under the super- vision of our own laws. The limitation of the State debt was enlarged to $250,000, and the corporate indebtedness of the cities and counties was also limited to 5 percent, upon the valuation of theii' taxable property. The judges of the Supreme Court were to be elected by the popular vote. The per- manent seat of governtnent was hxed at Des Moines, and the State University lo- cated at Iowa City. The qualifications of electors remained the same as under the old Constitution, but the schedule provided for a vote of the people upon a separate propo- sition to strike the word " white" out of the suffrage clause, which, had it prevailed, would have resulted in conferring the right of suffrage without distinction of color. Since the early organization ol Iowa there had been upon the statute book a law pro- vidinof that no nejjro, mulatto nor Indian should be a competent witness in any suit or proceeding to which a white man was a party. The General Assembly of i856-'7 repealed this law, and the new Constitution contained a clause forbidding such disquali- fication in the future. It also provided for the education of "all youth of the State" through a system of common schools. This Constitution was adopted at the ensuing election by a vote of 40,31 1 to 38,681. October 19, 1857, Governor Grimes issued a proclamation declaring the city of Des Moines to be the capital of the State of Iowa. The removal of the archives and offices was commenced at once and continued through the fall. It was an undertaking of no small magnitude; there was not a mile of railroad to facilitate the work, and the season was unusually disagreeable. Rain, snow and pfher accompaniments increaseci the difficulties; and it was not until Decem- ber that the last of the effects, — the safe of the State Treasurer, loaded on two large " bob sleds " drawn by ten yokes of oxen, -—was deposited in the new capitol. It is not imprudent now to remark that -luring this passage over hills and prairies, across rivers, through bottom lands and timber, the safes belonging to the several depart- 146 HISTORY OF IOWA. merits contained large sums of money, mostl)- individual funds, however. Thus Iowa City ceased to be the capital of the State, after four Territorial Legislatures, six State Legislatures and three Constitu- tional Conventions had held their sessions there. By the exchange, the old capitol at Iowa City became the seat of the university, and, except the rooms occupied by the United States District Court, passed under the immediate and direct control of the trustees of that institution. Des Moines was now the permanent seat of govern- ment, made so by the fundamental law of the State, and January 11, 1858, the Sev- enth General Assembly convened at the new capitol. The citizens' association, which built this temporary building, bor- rowed the money of James D. Eads, Super- intendent of Public Instruction, and leased it to the State. In 1864 the State pur- chased the building. At the session of the General Assembly in 1858, James W. Grimes was elected United States Senator as successor to George W. Jones. ^ During the years i858-'6o, the Sioux Indians became troublesome in the north- western part of the State. They made fre- quent raids for the purpose of plunder, and on several occasions murdered whole fami- lies of settlers. In 1861 several companies of militia were ordered to that portion of the State, to hunt down and expel the thieves. No battles were fought. The Indians fled as soon as they ascertained that systematic measures had been adopted for their punishment. PATRIOTISM. The Presidential campaign of i860 was the most remarkable and exciting of all in the history of Iowa. The fact that civil war might be inaugurated and was threat- ened, in case Mr. Lincoln was elected, was well understood and dulv considered. The people of Iowa indulged in no feeling of hatred or ill-will toward the people of any State or section of the Union. There was, however, on the part of the majority, a cool determination to consider and decide upon our national relations to this institu- tion of slavery, uninfluenced by any threat of violence or civil war. The popular vote of Iowa gave Mr. Lincoln 70,409; -Stephen A. Douglas, 55,011; Breckenridge, 1,048. The General Assembly of the State 01 Iowa, as early as 1851, had by joint resolu- tion declared that the State of Iowa was " bound to maintain the union of these States by all the means in her power." The same year the State furnished a block of marble for the Washington monument at the national capital, and by order of the Gen- eral Assembly there was inscribed upon its enduring surface the following: " Iowa: Her affections, like the rivers of her borders, flow to an inseparable Union." The time was now approaching in her history when these declarations of attachment and fidelity to the nation were to be put to a practical test. The declaration of Mr. Buchanan's last annual message, that the nation possessed no constitutional power to coerce a seced- ing State, was received by a great majority of our citizens with humiliation and dis- trust. Anxiously they awaited the expiring hours of his administration, and looked to the incoming President as to an expected deliverer that should rescue the nation from the hands of traitors, and the control of those whose non-resistance invited her destruction. The firing upon the national flag at Sumter aroused a burning indigna- tion throughout the loyal States of the re- public, and nowhere was it more intense than in Iowa; and when the proclamation of the President was published, April 15, 1861, calling for 75,000 citizen .soldiers to "maintain the honor, the integrit)', and the existence of our national Union, and the perpetuity of popular government,' HISTORY OF IOWA. '47 the good people of Iowa were more than willing to respond to the call. Part\' lines gave way, and for a while, at least, part}' spirit was hushed, and the cause of our common country was supreme in the affections of the people. Peculiarly fort- unate were the citizens of Iowa at this crisis, in having a truly representative man, Samuel J. Kirkwood, as executive of the State. Within thirty days after the date of the President's call for troops, the first Iowa regiment was mustered into the service of the United States, a second regiment was in camp ready for the service, and the General Assembly of the State was con- vened in special session, and had by joint resolution solemnly pledged every resource of men and money to the national cause. The Constitution of Iowa limited the State debt to $250,000, except debts con- tracted to " repel invasion, suppress insur- rection, or defend the State in war." The General Assembly authorized a loan of $800,000 for a war and defense fund, to be expended in organizing, arming, equipping and subsisting the militia of the State to meet the present and future requisitions of the President. Those in power looked to the spirit rather than to the letter of the Constitution, and acted upon the theory that to preserve the nation was to pre- serve the State, and that to prevent in- vasion was the most effectual means of repelling it. A few, however, in both branches of the General Assembly were more careful of the letter of the Constitu- tion. Three votes in the Senate and sev- enteen in the House were cast against the loan bill. These bonds were at 7 per cent, interest. Only $300,000 were ever issued, rmd they were |niichased and held chiefly by our own citizens. At this crisis James W. Grimes and James Harlan were in the United States Senate, and General Samuel R. Curtis and General V'andeverin IS the House of Representatives. During the first year of the war, Iowa furnished sixteen regiments of infantry, six of cavalry and three batteries, — in all, 22,000 soldiers. Iowa had no refuse population to enlist as " food for powder." Her cities contained none of that element found about the pur- lieus of vice in the great centers of popu- lation. Her contribution to the armies of the republic was a genuine offering of manhood and patriotism. From her fields, her workshops, her counting-houses, her ofifices, and the halls of her schools and colleges, she contributed the best muscle, sinew and brain of an industrious, enter- prising and educated people. The first regiment of Iowa soldiers fought the bat- tle of Wilson's Creek after their term of enlistment had expired, and after they were entitled to a discharge. They were citi- zen soldiers, each of whom had a personal interest in the struggle. It was to them no question of enlistment, of bounty or of pay. When the gallant General Lyon placed himself at their head, and told them that the honor of Iowa and of the nation was in their hands, he addressed men who knew what the appeal meant, and to whom such an appeal was never made in vain. At the fall election of i86i, party spirit had revived; and the contest for the control of the State administration was warm and earnest. Dissensions arose in both parties but the election resulted in a majority of 16,600 votes for Kirkwood, who was thus retained as Governor of Iowa. In 1863 the Republicans elected their candidate for Governor, William M. Stone, by a ma- jority of 29,000. Meanwhile the General Assembly had passed a law authorizing the "soldiers' vote," that is, citizens of the State in the volunteer military service of the United States, whether within or without the limits of the Stale, were authorized to open a poll on the day of the election, and to make re- 148 HISTORY OF IOWA. turn of their votes to the proper civil au- thorities. In the Presidental contest of 1864 the popular vote at home was as follows: Lincoln, 72,122; McClellan, 47,- 703. The soldier vote returned was: Lin- coln, 16,844; McClellan, 1,883. The General Assembly did all in its power to encourage enlistment and to pro- tect the soldiers in the field and their fami- lies at home. Statutes were enacted sus- pending all suits against soldiers in the service, and all writs of execution or attach- ment against their property; and county boards of supervisors were authorized to vote bounties for enlistments, and pecuni- ary aid to the families of those in the serv- ice. The spirits of our people rose and fell, according to the success of the Union armies. One day the bells rung out with joy for the surrender of Vicksburg, and again the air seemed full of heaviness be- cause of our defeats on the Peninsula; but through all these dark and trying days, the faith of the great majority never wavered. The Emancipation Proclamation of the President was to them an inspiration of a new hope. In the Adjutant's department at Des Moines are preserved the shot-riddled col- ors and standards of Iowa's regiments. Upon them, by special authority, were inscribed from time to time during the war the names of the battle-fields upon which these regiments gained distinction. These names constitute the geographical nomen- clature of two-thirds of the territory latel}' in rebellion. From the Des Moines River to the Gulf, from the Mississippi to the Atlantic, in the Mountains of West Virginia and in the valley of the Shenandoah, the Iowa soldier made his presence known and felt, and maintained the honor of the State, and the cause of the nation. They were with Lyon at Wilson's Creek; with Tuttle at Donelson. They fought with Sigel and with Curtis at Pea Ridge; with Crocker at Champion Hills; with Reid at Shiloh. They were with Grant at the surrender of Vicksburg. They fought above the clouds with Hooker at Lookout Mountain. They were with Sherman in his march to the sea, and were ready for battle when Johnston surrendered. They were with Sheridan in the valley of the Shenandoah, and were in the veteran ranks of the nation's deliverers that stacked their arms in the national cap- itol at the close of the war. The State furnished to the armies of the republic, during the war, over 70,000 men, and 20,000 of these perished in battle or from diseases contracted in the service. We append here a brief notice of each regiment : The First Regiment was organized under the President's first call for three-months volunteers, with John Francis Bates, of Du buque, as Colonel. It comprised various independent military companies that had been organized before the war, who ten- dered their services even before the break- ing out of hostilities. Thej- were mustered in May 14, and first saw service under General Lyon in Missouri. Second Infantry ; Samuel R. Curtis, of Keokuk, Colonel. This was the first three- years regiment, and made a most distin- guished record throughout the South, go- ing with Sherman to the sea, returning through the Carolinas, etc. After the battle at Fort Donelson, the unenthusiastic General Halleck pronounced this regiment " the bravest of the brave." Third Infantry ; Nelson G. Williams, of Dubuque County, Colonel. Veteranized in 1864, but before the new officers received their commissions the regiment fought itselt out of existence at the battle of Atlanta ! Fourth Infantry ; G. M. Dodge, of Coun- cil Bluffs, Colonel. Engaged in the prin- cipal battles of the South. Fifth Infantry ; William H. Worthington, of Keokuk, Colonel; 180 veteranized in HISTORY OF IOWA. 149 1864 and were transferred to the Fifth Cavalry. Sixth Infantry ; John A. McDowell, of Keokuk, Colonel. Engaged faithfully in many of the prominent battles. Seventh Infantry ; J. G. Lauman, of Bur- lington, Colonel. It lost 227 at the single battle of Belmont. Eighth Infantry; Frederick Steele, of the^ regular army. Colonel. Most of this com- mand suffered in rebel prisons for eight months. Was on duty in Alabama nearly a year after the collapse of the Rebellion. Ninth Infantry ; William Vandever, of Dubuque, Colonel. Was in almost every Southern State, traveling altogether 10,000 miles ; marched more than 4,000 miles ! Tenth Infantry ; Nicholas Persczel, of Davenport, Colonel. Fought mainly in Mississippi ; losing half its number at the battle of Champion Hills alone ! Eleventh Infantry ; A. M. Hare, of Mus- catine, Colonel. Served mainly in the in- terior of the South, doing as valiant service as any other regiment. Twelfth Infantry ; J. J. Wood, of Maquo- keta, Colonel. In rebel prisons eight months. Veteranized January 4, 1864, a larger proportion of the men re-enlisting than from any other Iowa regiment. Served for several months after the close of the war. Thirteenth Infantry; M. M. Crocker, of Des Moines, Colonel. Fought in the South- ern interior and made the famous round with Sherman to the sea, being the first to enter Columbia, South Carolina, where se- cession had its rise. Fourteenth Infantry; William T. Shaw, of Anamosa, Colonel. Nearly all captured at Shiloh, but were released after a few months. Engaged in some of the severest contests. Fifteenth Infantry; Hugh T. Reid, of Keokuk, Colonel. Served three and a half years in the heart of the Rebellion. Si.Kteenth Infantry; Alex. Chambers, of the regular army. Colonel. Bravely served throughout the South. Seventeenth Infantry; John W. Rankin, of Keokuk, Colonel. Served in the in- terior of the South. Eighteenth Infantry ; John Edwards, ot Chariton, Colonel. Much of its time was spent in garrison duty. Nineteenth Infantry ; Benjamin Crabb, of Washington, Colonel. Served mainly in Mississippi. Were prisoners of war about ten months. Twentieth Infantry, comprising five com- panies each from Scott and Linn counties, who vied with each other in patriotism; William M. Dye, of Marion, Colonel. En- gaged mainly on the Gulf coast. Twenty-first Infantry ; ex-Governor Sam- uel Merrill, Colonel. Distinguished in val- iant service throughout the South. See Twenty-third Regiment. Twenty-second Infantry ; William M. Stone, of Knoxville, since Governor of the State, was Colonel. Did excellent service, all the way from Mississippi to old Virginia. Twenty-third Infantry ; William Dewey, of Fremont County, Colonel. Its services were mainly in Mississippi. At Black River but a few minutes were required in carry- ing the rebel works, but those few minutes were fought with fearful loss to the troops. The Twenty-first also participated in this daring assault, and immediately after the victory was gained General Lawler passed down the line and joyfully seized every man by the hand, so great was his emotion. Twenty-fourth Infantry ; the " Iowa Temperance Regiment," was raised by Eber C. Byam, of Linn County. Engaged mainly in the Lower Mississippi Valley. Twenty-fifth Infantry ; George A. Stone, of Mt. Pleasant, Colonel. " To the sea." Twenty-sixth Infantry ; Milo Smith, of Clinton, Colonel. Took part in many great battles. 'SO HISTORY OF IOWA. Twenty-seventh Infantry ; James I. Gil- bert, of Lansing, Colonel. On duty all the way from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. Twenty-eighth Infantry ; William E. Miller, of Iowa City, Colonel. Service, in the region of the Lower Mississippi. Twenty-ninth Infantrv ; Thomas H. Ben- ton, Jr., of Council Bluffs, Colonel. Sta- tioned in Arkansas. Thirtieth Infantry; Charles B. Abbott, of Louisa County, Colonel. In the thickest of the war, coming home loaded with honors. Thirty-first Infantry ; William Smyth, of Marion, Colonel. Returned from its man}' hard-fought battles in the interior of the South with only 370 men out of 1,000 en- listed. Thirty -second Infantry ; John Scott, of Nevada, Colonel. Engaged in a number of battles. Thirty-third Infantry ; Samuel A. Rice, a popular politician of Central Iowa, Colo- nel. Served from Arkansas to Alabama. Thirty-fourth Infantry; George W.Clark, of Indianola, Colonel. Traveled 15,000 miles in its service ! Thirty-fifth Infantry ; S. G. Hill, of Mus- catine, Colonel. Served bravely in a dozen battles, and traveled 10,000 miles. Thirty-sixth Infantry ; Charles W. Kitt- redge, of Ottumwa, Colonel. Suffered a great deal from sickness— small-pox, measles, malaria, etc. Thirty-seventh Infantry, the " Gray- Beard Regiment," being composed of men over forty-five years of age, and was the only one of its kind in the war. Garrison and post duty. Thirtj-eighth Infantry; D. H. Hughes, of Decora h. Colonel. Most unfortunate of all in respect of sickness, 300 dying during the first two j-ears. Thirty-ninth Infantry; H. J. B. Cum- mings, of Winterset, Colonel. One of the most distinguished regiments in the field. Fortieth Infantry- ; John A. Garrett, ot Newton, Colonel. Forty-first Infantry was not completed, and the three companies raised for it were attached to the Seventh Cavalr\-. There were no regiments numbered Forty-second or Forty-third. Forty-fourth Infantry for 100 days; Stephen H. Henderson, Colonel. Garrison dutv in Tennessee. Forty-fifth Infantry, ior 100 days; A. H. Bereman, of Mt. Pleasant, Colonel. Garri- son dut}' in Tennessee. Fort)-sixth Infantry, for 100 days; D. B. Henderson, of Clermont, Colonel. Garri- son duty in Tennessee. Forty-seventh Infantry, for 100 days ; James P. Sanford, of Oskaloosa, Colonel. Stationed at the sickly place of Helena, Arkansas. Forty-eighth Infantry (battalion), for 100 days; O. H. P. Scott, of Farmington, Lieu- tenant-Colonel. Guarded prisoners on Rock Island. First Cavalry ; Fitz Henry Warren, of Burlington, Colonel. Served for three years, mainly along the Lower Mississippi. Second Cavalry ; W. L. Elliott, a Cap- tain in the Third Cavalry of the regular army. Colonel. Fought faithfully in many important battles in Tennessee and Missis- sippi. Third Cavalry- ; Cj'rus Busscy, of Broom- field, Colonel. Distinguished in war. Fourth Cavalry ; A. B. Porter, of Mt. Pleasant, Colonel. Participated with zeal and judgment in the hottest of battles in Tennessee and Mississippi. Fifth Cavalrv, onlv in part an Iowa regi- ment ; William W. Lowe, of the regular army. Colonel. Distinguished in the hotlj' contested battles of Tennessee and vicinity. Sixth Cavalry; D. S. Wilson, of Du- buque, Colonel. Served against the In- dians. Seventh Cavalry ; S. W. Summers, of HISTORV OF IOWA. I5« Ottumwa, Colonel. Served against the Indians. Eighth Cavalry ; Joseph B. Dorr, of Du- buque, Colonel. Served faithfully in guard- ing Sherman's comniunications, etc. Ninth Cavalry; M. M. Trumbull, of Cedar Falls, Colonel. Scouting, guard and garrison duties in Arkansas. First Battery of Light Artillery ; C. H. Fletcher, of Burlington, Captain. Served in Arkansas and Tennessee. Second Battery ; Nelson I. Spoor, of Council Bluffs, Captain. Engaged at Farm- ington, Corinth and other places. Third Battery ; M. M. Hayden, of Du- buque, Captain. Engaged at Pea Ridge, and in other important battles. Fourth Battery ; on duty most of the time in Louisiana. Iowa Regiment of Colored Troops ; John G. Hudson, of Missouri, Colonel. Garrison duty at St. Louis and elsewhere. Northern Border Brigade ; James A. Sawyer, of Siou.K City, Colonel. Protected the Northwestern frontier. Southern Border Brigade ; protected the southern border of the State. The following promotions were made by the United States Government from Iowa regiments : To the rank of Major-General — Samuel R.Curtis, Frederick Steele, Frank J. Herron and Grenville M. Dodge ; to that of Brigadier-General — Jacob G. Lauman, James M. Tuttle, W. L. Elliott, Fitz Henry Warren, Charles L. Matthies, William Van- dever, 1\I. M. Crocker, Hugh T. Reid, Samuel A. Rice, John M. Corse, Cyrus Bussey, Edward Hatch, Elliott W. Rice, William W. Belknap, John Edwards, James A. Williamson, James I. Gilbert and Thomas J. McKean ; Corse, Hatch, Belknap, Elliott and Vandever were brevetted Major- Generals ; brevetted Brigadier-Generals — William T. Clark, Edward F. Winslow, S. G. Hill, Thomas H. Benton, S. S. Glasgow, Clark K. Weaver, Francis M. Drake, George A. Stone, Datus E. Coon, George W. Clark, Herman H. Heath, J. M. Hed- rick and W. W. Lowe. IOWA SINCE THE WAR. The two principal events of political in- terest in this State since the war have been the popular contests concerning woman suffrage and the liquor traffic. In the popular electi(jns the people gave a ma- i jority against the former measure, but in favor of prohibiting the sale or manufact- ure of intoxicating liquors. A list of State officers to date is given on a subsequent page. The last vote for Governor, October 9, 1883, stood as fol- lows: For Buren R. Sherman, Republican, 164,141 ; L. G. Kinne, Democrat, 140,032, and James B. Weaver, National Green- back, 23,093. STATE INSTITUTIONS. The present capitol building is a beauti- ful specimen of modern architecture. Its dimensions are, in general, 246 x 364 feet, with a dome and spire extending up to a height of 275 feet. In 1870 the General Assembly made an appropriation, and pro- vided for the appointment of a board of com- missioners to commence the work of build- ing. They were duly appointed and pro- ceeded to work, laying the corner-stone with appropriate ceremonies, November 23, 1 871 . The structure is not yet completed. Wlien finished it will have cost about $3,500,000. The State University, at Iowa City, was estahlished there in 1858, immediately after the removal of the capital to Des Moines. As had already been planned, it occupied the old capitol building. As early as Janu- ary, 1849, two branches of the university were established — one at Fairfield and one at Dubuque. At Fairfield, the board of directors organized and erected a building at a cost of $2,500. This was nearly de- stroyed by a hurricane the following year, HISTORY OF IOWA. but was rebuilt more substantially by the citizens of Fairfield. This branch never received any aid from the State, and Janu- ary 24, r853, at the request of the board, the General Assembly terminated its rela- tion to the State. The branch at Dubuque had onh' a nominal existence Bv act of Congress, approved July 20, 1840, two entire townships of land were set apart in this State for the support of a university. The Legislature of this State placed the management of this institution in the hands of a board of fifteen trustees, five to be chosen (by the Legislature) every two years, the superintendent of public instruction to be president of the board. This board was also to appoint seven trus- tees for each of the three normal schools, to be simultaneously established — one each at Andrew, Oskaloosa and Mt. Pleasant. One was never started at the last-named place, and after a feeble existence for a short time the other two were discontin- ued. The university itself was closed dur- ing i859-'6o, for want of funds. The law department was established in j June, 1868, and soon afterward the Iowa Law School at Des Moines, which had been in successful operation for three \'ears, was transferred to Iowa Cit}' and merged in the department. The medical d epartment was established in i86g; and in 1874 a chair of military instruction was added. Since April 11, 1870, the govenmient of the university has been in the hands of a board of regents. The present faculty comprises forty-two professors, and the attendance 560 students. The State Normal School is located at Cedar Falls, and was opened in 1876. It has now a faculty of nine members, witii an attendance of 301 pupils. The State Agricultural College is located at Ames, in Story County, being established by the legislative act of March 23, 1858. In 1862 Congress granted to Iowa 240,000 acres of land for the endowment of schools of agriculture and the mechanic arts. The main building was completed in 1868, and the institution opened the following year. Tuition is free to pupils from the State over sixteen years of age. The college farm comprises 860 acres, of which a major portion is in cultivation. Professors, twen- ty-two; scholars, 319. The Deaf and Dumb Institute was estab- lished in 1855, at Iowa City, but was after- ward removed to Council Bluffs, to a tract of ninety acres of land two miles south of that city. In October, 1870, the main build- ing and one wing were completed and occupied. In Februarv, 1877, fire destroyed the main building and east wing, and dur- ing the summer following a tornado par- tially demolished the west wing. It is at present (1885) manned with fifteen teachers, and attended by 292 pupils. The College for the BHnd has been at Vin- ton since 1862. Prof. Samuel Bacon, himself blind, a fine scholar, who had foimded the Institution for the Blind, at Jacksonville, Illinois, commenced as earl V as 1852 a school of instruction at Keokuk. The next year the institution was adopted by the State and moved to Iowa City, with Prof. Bacon as principal. It was moved thence, in 1862, to Vinton. The building was erected and the college manned at vast expenditure of money. It is said that $282,000 were ex- pended upon the building alone, and that it required an outlav of $5,000 a year to heat it, while it had accommodations for 130 in- mates. At present, however, they have accommodations for more pupils, with an attendance of 132. There are eleven teach- ers. The annual legislative appropriation is $8,000, besides $128 per year for each pupil. The first Iowa Hospital tor the Insane was established by an act of the Legislature approved January 24. 1855. It is located at Mt. Pleasant, where the building was com- HISTORY OF IOWA. IS3 pleted in i86i, at a cost of $258,555. Within the first three months 100 patients were ad- mitted, and before the close of October, 1877, an aggregate of 3,684 had been ad- mitted. In April, 1876, a portion of the building was destroyed by fire. At this in- stitution there are now ninety-four superin- tendents and assistants, in charge of 472 patients. Another Hospital for the Insane, at Inde- pendence, was opened May i, 1873, in a building which cost $88,114. The present number of inmates is 580. in the care of 1 1 1 superintendents and employes. The Soldiers' Orphans' Home is located at Davenport. It was originated by Mrs. Annie Wittenmeyer, during the late war, who called a convention for the purpose at Mus- catine, September 7, 1863, and uly 13 fol- lowing the institution was opened m a brick building at Lawrence, Van Buren County. It was sustained by voluntary contributions until 1866, when the State took charge of it. The Legislature provided at first for three " homes." The one in Cedar Falls was organized in 1865, an old hotel build- ing being fitted up for it, and by the follow- ing January there were ninety-six inmates. In October, i86g, the Home was removed to a large brick building about two miles west of Cedar Falls, and was ver)'^ prosper- ous for several 3'ears; but in 1876 the Leg- islature devoted this building to the State Normal School, and the buildings and grounds of the Soldiers' Orphans' Home at Glenvvood, Mills County, to an institution for the support of feeble-minded children, and also provided for the removal of the soldiers' orphans at the Glenwood and Cedar Falls homes to the institution at Davenport. The latter has now in charge 169 orphans. The Asylum for Feeble-Minded Children, referred to above, is at Glenwood, estab- lished by the Legislature in March, 1876. The institution was opened September i. following, with a few pupils ; but now the attendance is 215, in the care of four teach- ers. This asylum is managed by three trus- tees, one of whom must be a resident of that county. Mills. The first penitentiary was established in 1 84 1, near Fort Madison, its present loca- tion. The cost of the original building was $55,934, and its capacity was sufficient for 138 convicts. At present there are at this prison 364 convicts, in charge of forty-three employes. The penitentiary at Anamosa was estab- lished in 1872-3. It now has 239 convicts and thirty-four employes. The boys' reform school was permanently located at Eldora, Hardin County, in 1872. For the three years previous it was kept at the building of the Iowa Manual Labor In- stitute at Salem, Henry Count)'. Only boys between seven and sixteen years of age are admitted. Credit of time for good conduct is given, so that occasionally one is discharged before he is of age. There are now (1885) 201 pupils here. The "girls' department" is at Mitchell- ville, similarly managed. Inmates, eighty- three. The State Historical Society is in part supported by the State, the Governor ap- pointing nine of the eighteen curators. This society was provided for in connection with the University, by legislative act of January 28, 1857, and it has published a series of valuable collections, and a large number of finely engraved portraits of prominent and early settlers. The State Agricultural Society is con- ducted under the auspices of the State, and is one of the greatest promoters of the welfare of the people among all the State organizations. It holds an annual fair at Des Moines, and its proceedings are also published annually, at the expense of the State. The Fish-Hatching House has been sue- «S4 HISTOnr OF IOWA. cessfuUy carrying on its good work since its establishment in 1874, near Anamosa. Three fish commissioners are appointed, one for each of the three districts into which the State is for the purpose divided. The State Board of Health, established in 1880, has an advisor)^ supervision, and to a limited extent also a police supervision, over the health of the people, — -especially with reference to the abatement of those nuisances that are most calculated to pro- mulgate dangerous and contagious diseases. Their publications, which are made at the expense of the State, should be studied by every citizen EDUCATIONAL. The germ of the free public school sys- tem of Iowa, which now ranks second to none in the United States, was planted by the first settlers, and in no other public measure have the people ever since taken so deep an interest. They have expanded and improved their original system until now it is justly considered one of the most complete, comprehensive and liberal in the country. Nor is this to be wondered at when it is remembered that humble log school-houses were built almost as soon as the log cabins of the earliest settlers were occupied, and school- teachers were among the first im- migrants to Iowa. Schools, therefore, the people have had every where from the start, and the school-houses, in their character and accommodations, have kept fully abreast with the times. The first school-house within the limits of Iowa was a log cabin at Dubuque, built by J. L. Lang worthy and a few other miners, in the autumn of 1833. When it was com- pleted George Cabbage was employed as teacher during the winter of 1833-4, thirty- five pupils attending his school. Barrett Whittemore taught the next school term, with twenty-five pupils in attendance. Mrs. Caroline Dexter commenced teaching in Dubuque in March, 1836. She was the first female teacher there, and probably the first in Iowa. In 1839 Thomas H. Benton, Jr., afterward for ten years Superintendent of Public Instruction, opened an English and classical school in Dubuque. The first tax for the support of schools at Dubuque was levied in 1840. At Burlington a commodious log school- house, built in 1834, was among the first buildings erected. A Mr. Johnson taught the first school in the winter of i834-'5. In Muscatine County, the first school was taught by George Bumgardner, in the spring of 1837. In 1839 ^ I0& school-house was erected in Muscatine, which served for a long time as school-house, church and public hall. The first school in Davenport was taught in 1838. In Fairfield, Miss Clarissa Sawyer, James F. Chambers and Mrs. Reed taught school in 1839. Johnson County was an entire wilderness when Iowa City was located as the capital of the Territory of Iowa, in May, 1839. The first sale of lots took place August 18, 1839, ^""^ before January i, 1840, about twenty families had settled within the limits of the town. During the same year Jesse Berr}' opened a school in a small frame building he had erected on what is now College street. In Monroe County, the first settlement was made in 1843, by Mr. John R. Gray, about two miles from the present site of Eddy ville ; and in the summer of iS44alog school-house was built by Gray, William V. Beedle, C. Renfro, Joseph McMullen and Willoughby Randolph, and the first school was opened by Miss Urania Adams. The building was occupied for school pur- poses for nearly ten years. About a year after the first cabin was built at Oskaloosa, a log school-house was built, in which school was opened by Sam- uel W. Caldwell, in 1844. HISTORY OF IOWA. 'SS At Fort Des Moines, now the capital of tiie State, the first school was taught by Lewis Whitten, Clerk of the District Court, in the winter of i846-'7, in one of the rooms on '• Coon Row," built for barracks. The first school in Pottawattamie County was opened by George Green, a Mormon, at Council Point, prior to 1849; 'i"*^ until about 1854 nearly all the teachers in that vicinity were Mormons. The first school in Decorah was taught in 1855, by Cyrus C. Carpenter, since Gov- ernor of the State. In Crawford County the first school-house was built in Mason's Grove, in 1856, and Morris McHenry first occupied it as teacher. During the first twenty years of the his- tory of Iowa, the log school-house pre- vailed, and in 1861 there were 893 of these primitive structures in use for school pur- poses in the State. Since that time they have been gradually disappearing. In 1865 there were 796; in 1870, 336; and in 1875, 121. In 1846, the year of Iowa's admission as a State, there were 20,000 scholars out of 100,000 inhabitants. About 400 school dis- tricts had been organized. In 1850 there were 1,200, and in 1857 the number had in- creased to 3,265. In March, 1858, upon the recommenda- tion of Hon. M. L. Fisher, then Superin- tendent of Public Instruction, the seventh General Assembly enacted that " each civil township is declared a school district," and provided that these should be divided into sub-districts. This law went into force March 20, 1858, and reduced the number of school districts from about 3,500 to less than 900. This change of school organization resulted in a very material reduction of the expenditures for the compensation of dis- trict secretaries and treasurers. An effort was made for several years, from 1867 to 1872, to abolish the sub-district system. Mr. Kissell, Superintendent, recommended 14 this in his repoit of January i, 1872, and Governor Merrill forcibly endorsed his views in his annual message. But the Legislature of that year provided for the formation of independent districts from the sub-districts of district townships. The system of graded schools was in- augurated in 1849, 'I'ld "^^^ schools, in which more than one teacher is employed, are universally graded. Teachers' institutes were organized early in the history of the State. The first offi- cial mention of them occurs in the annual report of Hon. Thomas H. Benton, Jr., made December 2, 1850, who said: "An institution of this character was organized a few years ago, composed of the teachers of the mineral regions of Illinois, Wisconsin and Iowa. An association of teachers has also been formed in the county of Henry, and an effort was made in October last to organize a regular institute in the county of Jones." No legislation, however, was held until March, 1858, when an act was passed au- thorizing the holding of teachers' institutes for periods not less than si.x working days, whenever not less than thirty teachers should desire. The superintendent was authorized to expend not exceeding $100 for any one institute, to be paid out 'by the county superintendent, as the institute may direct, for teachers and lecturers, and $1,- 000 was appropriated to defray the expenses of these institutes. Mr. Fisher at once pushed the matter of holding institutes, and December 6, 1858, he reported to the Board of Education that institutes had been ap- pointed in twenty counties within the pre- ceding six months, and more would have been held but the appropriation had been exhausted. At the first session of the Board of Education, commencing December 6, 1858, a code of school laws was enacted, which retained the existing ])r(^visions for teachers' institutes. In March, i860, the 156 HISTORY OF IOWA. General Assembl)' amended the act of the board by appropriating " a sum not ex- ceeding $50 annually for one such institute, held as provided by law in each county." In 1865 the superintendent, Mr. Faville, re- ported that " the provision made by the State for the benefit of teachers' institutes has never been so fully appreciated, both by the people and the teachers, as during the last two years." Under this law an in- stitute is held annually in each county, under the direction of the county superin- tendent. By an act approved March 19, 1874, nor- mal institutes were established in each county, to be held annually by the count}' superintendent. This was regarded as a very decided step in advance by Mr. Aber- nethy, and in 1876 the General Assembly established the first permanent State Nor- mal School at Cedar Falls, Black Hawk Count}^ appropriating the building and property of the Soldiers' Orphans Home at that place for that purpose. This school is now " in the full tide of successful ex- periment." Funds for the support of the public schools are derived in several ways. The sixteenth section of every congressional township was set apart by the General Govefnment lor school purposes, being one thirty-sixth part of all the lands of the State. The minimum price of these lands was fixed at $1.25 per acre. Congress also made an additional donation to the State of 500,000 acres, and an appropriation of 5 per cent, on all the sales of public lands to the school fund. The State gives to this fund the proceeds of the sales of all lands which escheat to it ; the proceeds of all fines for the violation of the liquor and criminal laws. The money derived from these sources constitutes the permanent school fund of the State, which cannot be diverted to any other purpose. The pen- alties collected by the courts for lines and forfeitures go to the school fund in the counties where collected. The proceeds of the sale of lands and the 5 per cent, fund go into the State Treasury, and the State distributes these proceeds to the several counties according to their request. In 1844 there were in the State 4,339 school districts, containing 11,244 schools, and employing 21,776 teachers. The aver- age monthly pay of male teachers was $32.50, and of female teachers $27.25. There were 594,730 persons of school age, of whom 431,513 were enrolled in the public schools. The average cost of tuition for each pupil per month was $1.62. The expenditures for all school purposes was $5,129,819.49. The permanent school fund is now $3,547,- 123.82, on which the income for 1881 was $234,622.40. Besides the State University, Agricult- ural College and Normal School, described on preceding pages, ample provision for higher education has been made by the different religious denominations, assisted by local and individual beneficence. There are, exclusive of State institutions, twenty- three universities and colleges, and one hundred and eleven academies and other private schools for the higher branches. All these are in active operation, and most of them stand high. Amity College, located at College Springs, Page County, has eight instructors and two hundred and forty-five students. Burlington University, eight instructors and forty-three pupils. Callanan College, at Des Moines, has eighteen in the faculty and one hundred and twenty students enrolled. . Central University, at Pella, Marion County, is under the auspices of the Baptist church, and has eleven in the faculty and one hundred and two students. Coe College, at Cedar Rapids, has a faculty of ten, and an attendance of one hundred and ninety-nine. f/rSTORT OF IOWA. 1 57 Cornell College, Methodist Episcopal, at Mt. Vernon, Linn County, has eighteen members of the faculty and four hundred and seventy-nine scholars. This is a strong institution. Drake University, at Des Moines, has thirty instructors and three hundred and t\vent3'-five pupils. Griswold College, at Davenport, is under the control of the Episcopal church, and has seven instructors and seventy-five stu- dents. Iowa College, at Grinnell, is permanent!}- endowed. Has fourteen instructors and three hundred and eighty-four students. Iowa Wesleyan University (Methodist Episcopal), at Mt. Pleasant, has si.x mem- bers of the faculty and one hundred and seventy-five students. Luther College, at Decorah, Winneshiek Count}', has a faculty of ten, and one hun- dred and sixty-five pupils. Oskaloosa College has a faculty of five, and one hundi'ed and tiiirty-five students. Penn College, at Oskaloosa, has a faculty of five members, and one hundred and forty- pupils in attendance. Simpson Centenary College, at Indianola, Warren County (Methodist Episcopal), has a faculty of seven and an attendance of two hundred. Tabor College, at Tabor, Fremont County, modeled after the Oberlin (Ohio) College, has twelve members in the facult}' and an attendance of two hundred and ten scholars. Universit}- of Des Moines has five in- structors and fifty pupils. Upper Iowa University (Methodist Epis- copal), located at Fayette, in Fayette County, has eleven instructors and three hundred and fifty students. Whittier College, at Salem, Henry County, is under the auspices of the Friends. There are two instructors and sixty pupils. STATISTICAL. When Wisconsin Territory was organ- ized in 1836, the entire population of that portion of the Territory now embraced in the State of Iowa was 10,531. The Terri- tory then embraced two counties, Dubuque and Des Moines, erected by the Territory of Michigan in 1834. Since then the counties have increased to ninety-nine, and the population in 1S80 was 1,624,463. The following table will show the population at different periods since the erection of Iowa Territory : Year. Population 1S3S 22,589 18+0 43. '15 1S44 ys.'s^ 1S46 97,588 1847 116,651 1849 152,988 1850 191,982 1851 204,774 1852 ...230,713 1854 326,013 1856 519.055 Year Population '859 638,77s i860 .. 674,913 '863 701,732 '865 750,699 1867 902,040 1869 1,040.819 1870 1,191,727 '873 1,251,333 1875 1 366,000 1880 1,624463 The most populous county is Dubuque — 42,997. Polk County has 42,395, and Scott, 41,270. Not only in population, but in everything contributing to the growth and greatness of a State, has Iowa made rapid progress. In a little more than thirty-five years its wild but beautiful prairies have advanced from the home of the savage to a highly civilized commonwealth. The first railroad across the State was completed to Council Bluffs in Januarv, 1 87 1. The completion of three others scon followed. In 1854 there was not a mile of railroad in Iowa. Within the succeeding- twenty years, 3,765 miles were built and put in successful operation. The present value of buildings for our State institutions is as follows : Sta;e Capitol $2,500,000 State University. 400,000 Agricultural Col. and Farm 300,000 Inst, for the Blind 150,000 Institution for the Deaf and Dumb 225,000 Institutions for the Insane $1,149,000 Orphans' H>me.. 62,000 Penitentiaries.... 408,000 Normal School . . 50,000 Reform School. . 90,000 ijS HISTORr OF IOWA. The State has never levied more than two and one-half mills on the dollar for State tax, and this is at present the consti- tutional limit. Iowa has no State debt. Whatever obli- gations have been incurred in the past have been promptl}' met and fully paid. Many of the counties are in debt, but only four of them to an amount exceeding $100,000 each. The bonded debt of the counties amounts in the aggregate to $2,592,222, and the float- ing debt, $153,456; total, $2,745,678. In the language of Judge C. C. Nourse, we feel compelled to say : " The great ulti- mate fact that America would demonstrate is, the existence of a people capable of at- taining and preserving a superior civiliza- tion, with a government self-imposed, self- administered and self-perpetuated. In this age of wonderful progress, America can exhibit nothing to the world of mankind more wonderful or more glorious than her new States — young empires, born of her own enterprise and tutored at her own political hearth-stone. Well may she say to the monarchies of the Old World, who look for evidence of her regal grandeur and state, 'Behold, these are my jewels!' and may she never blush to add, ' This one in the center of the diadem is Iowa !' " PHYSICAL FEATURES. Iowa, in the highly figurative and ex- pressive language of the aborigines, is said to signify " The Beautiful Land," and was applied by them to this magnificent section of the country between the two great rivers. The general shape of the State is that of a rectangle, the northern and southern boundaries being due east and west lines, and its ea.stern and western boundaries de- termined by southerly flowing rivers — the Mississippi on the east and the Missouri and the Big Sioux on the west. The width of the State from north to south is over 200 miles, being from the parallel of 43° 30' to that of 40° 36', or merely three degrees; but this does not include the small angle at the southeast corner. The length of the State from east to west is about 265 miles. The area is 55,044 square miles, nearly all of which is readily tillable and highly fer- tile. The State lies wholly within, and com- prises a part of a vast plain, and there is no mountainous or even hilly country within its borders, excepting the bluffs of the larger rivers. The highest point is near Spirit Lake, and is but 1,200 feet above the lowestf which is in the southeast corner, and is 444 feet above the level of the Gulf of Mexico. The average descent per mile between these two points is four feet, and that from Spirit Lake to the northeast corner of the State, at low-water mark of the Mississippi, is five feet five inches. It has been estimated that about seven- eighths of Iowa was prairie when the white race first settled here. It seems to be a set- tled point in science that the 'annual fires of the Indians, prevented this western country from becoming heavily timbered. GEOLOGY. Geologists divide the soil of Iowa into three general divisions, which not only possess different physical characters, but also differ in the mode of their origin. These are drift, bluff and alluvial and be- long respectively to the deposits bearing the same names. The drift occupies a much larger part of the surface of the State than both the others. The bluff has the next greatest area of surface. All soil is disintegrated rock. The drift deposit of Iowa was derived to a consider- able extent from the rocks of Minnesota; but the greater part was derived from its own rocks, much of which has been trans- ported but a short distance. In Northern and Northwestern Iowa the drift contains more sand and sfravel than elsewhere. In HIS TOR r OF IOWA. '59 Southern Iowa the soil is frequently stiff and cla\-ey. The bluff soil is found onl}' in the western part of the State, and adjacent to Missouri River. Although it contains less than i per cent, of clay in its com- position, it is in no respect inferior to the best drift soil. The alluvial soil is that of the flood plains of the river valleys, or bot- tom lands. That which is periodically flooded by the rivers is of little value for agricultural purposes ; but a large part of it is entirely above the reach of the highest flood, and is very productive. The stratified rocks of Iowa range from the Azoic to the Mesozoic, inclusive ; but the greater portion of the surface of the State is occupied by those of the Palseozoic age. The table below will show each of these formations in their order : r o n 1 W S" GO ■o < n o ■> 3 C/3 5' r: 3 c O a- o 3_ o B 13 i' o 3 o (m 3 5 3^=: I"! 73 C cr 3 o o r c 3- 5" o o ." X D. a " ^ a> -I re -I »3q N 3 3 M ■-- Q, rti -: S»i 2.3 § 3 » 3 e. " 5- » 3 rt ." dc 3 — 3 C » ~ O p o -> ^ 3 rl?rP o 3 n Cfl3 =• /t ^ 3* re 3 V. o aj S£. re o 3 reO S. 3 re i^ 3 O re : : re 3 7!Cd 3-^ ci- 3; n 3 3- era §1 re g 'S5S^5-o re o : 3 ■ re . O ° S ^rre 3-t:^ ™ 1 = re re :s2- » a, O. re ^ cr a. a. o 2. 3 o " 3 B re 3 W OOCOOOOOOVi O^Ot^ O O O O O O ti) •< > 2 H n M Cfl S CA Q c M •5 » "1 w TJ 2 u > H S! _w H •/. 5 pt 7! H w en The Sioux quartzite, in the azoic system, is found exposed in natural ledges only upon a few acres in the extreme northwest corner of the State, upon the banks of the Big Sioux River, for which reason the specific name of Sioux quartzite has been given them. It is an intensely hard rock, breaks in splinter)' fracture, and of a color varying, in different localities, from a light to deep red. The process of metamorphism has been so complete throughout the whole formation that the rock is almost every- where of uniform texture. The dip is four or five degrees to the northward, and the trend of the outcrop is eastward and west- ward. The Potsdam sandstone formation is ex- posed only in a small portion of the north- eastern part of the State. It is only to be seen in the bases of the bluffs and steep valley sides which border the river there. It is nearly valueless for economic purposes. No fossils have been discovered in this for- mation in Iowa. The Lower Wagnesian limestone has but little greater geographical extent in Iowa than the Potsdam sandstone. It lacks a uniformity of texture and stratification, ow- ing to which it is not generally valuable for building purposes. The St. Peter's sandstone formation is remarkably uniform in thickness through- out its known geographical extent, and it occupies a large portion of the northern half of Allamakee County; immediately be- neath the drift. With the exception of the Trenton lime- stone, all the limestones of both Upper and Lower Silurian age in Iowa are magnesian limestone. This formation occupies large portions of Winneshiek and Allamakee counties, and a small part of Clayton. The greater part of it is useless for economic purposes ; but there are some compact, even layers that furnish fine material for window caps and sills. f6o HISTORY OF WWA. The Galena limestone is the upper for- mation of the Trenton Group. It is 150 miles long and seldom exceeds twelve miles in width. It exhibits its greatest develop- ment in Dubuque County. It is nearly a pure dolomite with a slight admixture of silicious matter ; good blocks for dressing are sometimes found near the top of the bed, although it is usual!)- unfit for such a purpose. This formation is the source of the lead ore of the Dubuque lead mines. The lead region proper is confined to an area of about fifteen miles square in the vicinit}' of Dubuque. The ore occurs in vertical fissures, which traverse the rock at regular intervals from east to west ; some is found in those which have a north and south direction. This ore is mostly that known as galena, or sulphuret of lead, very small quantities only of the carbonate being found with it. The surface occupied by the Maquoketa shales is more than 100 miles in length, but issingularlv long and narrow, seldom reach- ing more than a mile or two in width. The most northern exposure ^et recognized is in the western part of Winneshiek County, while the most southerly is in Jackson County, in the bluffs of the Mississippi. The formation is largely composed of bluish and brownish shales, sometimes slightly arenaceous, sometimes calcareous, which weather into a tenacious cla}' upon the sur- face, and the soil derived from it is usually stiff and clayey. The area occupied by the Niagara lime- stone is forty and fifty miles in width and nearly 160 miles long from north to south. This formation is entirel}' a magnesian lime- stone, with a considerable portion of sili- cious matter, in some places, in the form of chert or coarse flint. A large part of it probably affords the best and greatest amount of quarry rock in the State. The quarries at Anamosa, Le Claire and Farley are all opened in this formation The area of surface occupied by the Hamilton limestone and shales, is as great as those by all the formations of both Upper and Lower Silurian age in the State. Its length is nearly 200 miles, and width from fort}- to fiftv. Portions of it are valuable for economic purposes ; and, having a large geographical extent in the State, is a very important formation. Its value for the pro- duction of hydraulic lime has been demon- strated at Waverlv, Bremer Count}-. The heavier and more uniform magnesian beds furnish material for bridge piers and other material requiring strength and durability. A coral occurs near Iowa Cit3% known as " Iowa City marble" and " bird's-eye mar- ble." Of the three groups of formations that constitute the carboniferous, viz., the sub- carboniferous, coal measures and Permian, only the first two are found in Iowa. The Subcarboniferous group occupies a very large area of surface. Its eastern border passes from the northeastern part of Winnebago Count}-, with considerable di- rectness in a southeasterly direction to the northern part of Washington County. It then makes a broad and direct bend nearly eastward, striking the Mississippi at Mus- catine. The southern and western bound- aries are to a considerable extent the same as that which separates it from the real field. From the southern part of Poca- hontas County it passes southeast to Fort Dodge, thence to Webster City, thence to a point three or four miles northeast of El- dora, in Hardin Countv, thence southward to the middle of the north line of Jasper County, thence southeastward to Sigour- nev, in Keokuk County, thence to the north- eastern corner of Jefferson County, thence sweeping a few miles eastward to the south- east corner of Van Burcn County. Its arc is about 250 miles long and from twenty to fifty miles wide. The most southerly exposure of the Kin- HISTORY OF IOWA. i6i derhook beds is in Des Moines County, near the mouth of Skunk River. The most northerly now known is in the eastern part o( Pocahontas County, more than 200 miles distant. The principal exposures of this formation are along the bluffs which border the Mississippi and Skunk rivers, where they form the eastern and northern bound- ary of Des Moines County ; along English River, in Washington County ; along the Iowa River, in Tama, Marshall, Hamlin and Franklin counties, and along the Des Moines River, in Humboldt County. This formation has a considerable economic value, particular!}' in the northern portion of the region it occupies. In Pocahontas and Humboldt counties it is invaluable, as no other stone except a few boulders are found here. At Iowa Falls the lower division is very good for building purposes. In Marshall County all the limestone to be obtained comes from this formation, and the quarries near Le Grand are very valu- able. At this point some of the la)^ers are finely veined with peroxide of iron, and are wrought into both useful and ornamental objects. In Tama County the oolitic mem- ber is well exposed, where it is manufact- ured into lime. Upon exposure to atmos- phere and frost it crumbles to pieces ; consequently it is not valuable for building purposes. The Burlington limestone is carried down by the southerly dip of the Iowa rocks, so that it is seen for the last time in this State in the valley of Skunk River, near the southern boundary of Des Moines County ; it has been recognized in the northern part of Washington County, which is the most northerly point that it has been found ; but it probably exists as far north as Marshall Count3\ Much valuable material is afforded by this formation for economic purposes. The upper division furnishes excellent com- mon quarry rock. Geologists are attracted by the great abundance and variety of its fossils — crinoids — now known to be more than 300. The Keokuk limestone formation is to be seen only in four counties : Lee, Van Buren, Henry and Des Moines. In some localities the upper silicious portion is,known as the Geode bed ; it is not recognizable in the northern portion of the formation, nor in connection with it where it is exposed, about eighty miles below Keokuk. The geodes of the Geode bed are more or less masses of silex, usually hollow and lined with crystals of quartz ; the outer crust is rough and unsightl}', but the crystals which stud the interior are often very beautiful ; they vary in size from the size of a walnut to a foot in diameter. This formation is of great economic value. Large quantities of its stone have been used in the finest structures in the State, among which are the postofifices at Dubuque and Des Moines.' The principal quarries are along the banks of the Mississippi, from Keokuk to Nauvoo. The St. Louis limestone is the uppermost of the subcarboniferous group in Iowa. It occupies a small superficial area, consisting of long, narrow strips, j'et its extent is very great. It is first seen resting on the Geode division of the Keokuk limestone, near Keo- kuk; proceeding northward, it forms a narrow border along the edge of the coal fields in Lee, Des Moines, Henry, Jeffer- son, Washington, Keokuk and Mahaska counties; it is then lost sight of until it appears again in the banks of Boone River, where it again passes out of view under the Coal Measures, until it is next seen in the banks of the Des Moines, near Fort Dodge. As it exists in Iowa, it consists of three tolerably distinct sub-divisions : The mag- nesian, arenaceous and calcareous. The upper division furnishes excellent material for quicklime, and when quarries are well opened, as in the northwestern part of Van Buren County, large blocks are obtained. The sandstone, or middle division, is of 1 62 HISTORT OF IOWA. little value. The lower, or magnesian di- vision, furnishes a valuable and durable stone, exposures of which are found on Lick Creek, in Van Buren County, and on Long Creek, seven miles west of Burlington. The Coal Measure group is properly divided into three formations, viz.: The Lower, Middle and Upper Coal Measures, each having a vertical thickness of about 200 feet. The Lower Coal Measures exist eastward and northward of the Des Moines River, and also occupy a large area west- ward and southward of that river, but their southerly dip passes them below the Middle Coal Measures at no great distance from the river. This formation possesses greater economic value than any other in the whole State. The clay that underlies almost ever}' bed of coal furnishes a large amount of ma- terial for potter's use. The sandstone of these measures is usually soft and unfit, but in some places, as in Red Rock in Marion County, blocks of large dimensions are ob- tained, which make good building material, samples of which can be seen in the State Arsenal, at Des Moines. The Upper Coal Measures occupy a very large area, comprismg thirteen whole counties, in the southwestern part of the State. By its northern and eastern bound- aries it adjoins the area occupied by the Middle Coal Measures. The next strata in the geological series are of the Cretaceous age. They are found in the western half of the State, and do not dip, as do all the other formations upon which they rest, to the southward and west- ward, but have a general dip of their own to the north of westward, which, however, is very slight. Although the actual ex- posures of cretaceous rocks are few in Iowa, there is reason to believe that nearly all the western half of the State was originally occupied by them ; but they have been removed by denudation, which has taken place at two separate periods. The Nishnabotany sandstone has the most easterly and southerly extent of the cre- taceous deposits of Iowa, reaching the southeastern part of Guthrie County and the southern part of Montgomery County. To the northward, it passes beneath the Woodbury sandstones and shales, the latter passing beneath the chalky beds. This sandstone is, with few exceptions, valueless for economic purposes. The chalky beds rest upon the Wood- bury sandstone and shales. Thev have not been observed in Iowa except in the blufifs which border the Big Sioux River in Wood- bury and Plymouth counties. They are composed almost entirely of calcareous ma- terial, the upper portion of which is exten- sively used for lime. No building material can be obtained from these beds, and the only value they possess, except lime, are the marls, which at some time may be use- ful on the soil of the adjacent region. Extensive beds of peat exist in Northern Middle Iowa, which, it is estimated, contain the following areas: Cerro Gordo County, 1,500 acres; Worth, 2,000; Winnebago, 2,- 000; Hancock, 1,500; Wright, 500; Kos- suth, 700; Dickinson, 80. Several other counties contain peat beds, but the peat is inferior to that in the northern part of the State. The beds are of an average depth of four feet. It is estimated that each acre of these beds will furnish 250 tons of dry fuel for each foot in depth. At present this peat is not utilized ; but owing to its great distance from the coal fields and the absence of timber, the time is coming when its value will be fully realized. The only sulphate of the alkaline earths of any economic value is gypsum, and it may be found in the vicinity of Fort Dodge in Webster County. The deposit occupies a nearly central position in the county, the Des Moines River running nearly centrally through it, along the valley sides of which the gypsum is seen in the form of ordinary HISTORY OF IOWA. «63 rock cliff and ledges, and also occurring abundantly in similar positions along both sides of the valleys of the smaller streams and of the numerous ravines coming into the river valley. The mo'st northerly known limit of the deposit is at a point near the mouth of Lizard Creek, a tributary of the Des Moines River and almost adjoining the town of Fort Dodge. The most southerly point at which it has been exposed is about six miles, by way of the river, from the northerly point mentioned. The width of the area is unknow'n, as the gypsum be- comes lost beneath the overlying drift, as one goes up the ravines and minor valleys. On either side of the creeks and ravines which come into the valley of the Des Moines River, the gypsum is seen jutting out from beneath the drift in the form of ledges and bold quarry fronts, having al- most the exact appearance of ordinary lime- stone exposures, so horizontal and regular its lines of stratification, and so similar in color is it to some varieties of that rock. The principal quarries now opened are on Two Mile Creek, a couple of miles below Fort Dodge. Epsomite, or native Epsom salts, having been discovered near Burlington, all the sulphates of alkahne earths of natural origin have been recognized in Iowa, all except the sulphate of lime being in very small quantity. Sulphate of lime in the various forms of fibrous gypsum, selenite and small, amoi- phous masses, has also been discovered in various formations in different parts of the State, including the Coal Measure shales near Fort Dodge, where it exists in small quantities, quite independently of the great gypsum of deposit there. The quantity of gypsum in these minor deposits is alwa^'s too small to be of an)' practical value, usually occurring in shales and shaly clays, associated with strata that contain more or less sulphuret of iron. Gypsum has thi^ IS been detected in the Coal Measures, the St. Louis limestone, the Cretaceous strata, and also in the dead caves of Dubuque. Sulphate of strontia is found at Fort Dodge. CLIMATE. The greatest objection to the climate of this State is the prevalence of wind, which is somewhat greater than in the States south and east, but not so great as farther west. The air is purer than either east or south, as indicated by the bluer sky and conse- quent deeper green vegetation, and is therefore more bracing. By way of con- trast. Northern Illinois has a whiter sky and a consequent more yellowish green vegetation. The prevailing direction of the wind is from the west. Thunder-storms are somewhat more vio- lent here than east or south, but not so furious as toward the Rocky Mountains. The greatest rainfall is in the southeastern part of the State, and the least in the north- western portion. The increase of timber growth is increasing the amount of rain, as well as distributing it more evenly through- out the year. As elsewhere in the North- western States, easterly winds brino- rain and snow, while westerly ones clear the sk}'. While the highest temperature occurs here in August, the month of July averages the hottest, and January the coldest. The mean temperature of April and October nearly corresponds to the mean temperature of the year, as well as to the seasons of spring and fall, while that of summer and winter is best represented by August and Decem- ber. Indian summer is delightful and well prolonged. Untimely frosts sometimes oc- cur, but seldom severely enough to do great injury. The wheat crop being a staple product of this State, and not injured at all by frost, this great resource of the State continues intact. 164 HISTORT OF IOWA. CENSUS OF IOWA. COUNTIES. Adair Adams Allamakee.. . Appanoose . . Audubon. . . . Benton Black Hawk. Boone Bremer Buchanan . . . Buena Vista.. Butler Calhoun Carroll Cass Cedar Cerro Gordo. Cherokee. . . . Chickasaw Clarke Clay Clayton Clinton Crawford Dallas Davis Decatur Delaware Des Moines.. , Dickinson. . . , Dubuque , Eminett Fayette Floyd , Franklin Fremont Greene Grundy Guthrie Hamilton Hancook Hardin Harrison Henry Howard Humboldt. . . . Ida Iowa Jackson Jasper Jefferson Johnson Jones Keokuk Kossuth Lee Linn Louisa Lucas Lj'On Madison Mahaska Marion Marshall Mills 1850 777 3.131 672 '35 735 S"7 3,94' 709 3,873 2,822 854 7.26^ 965 1,759 12,988 i860. 10,841 82s ■.244 8,707 7,210 1,280 9-904 4,472 3,007 4,822 1 8,86 1 .S.444 4,939 47' ','79 5989 5.482 338 1870. 984 '.533 12,237 ",93' 454 8,496 8,244 4,232 4,915 7.906 57 3,724 '47 281 1,612 12,949 940 58 4.336 5,427 52 20,728 18,938 383 5,244 13,764 8,677 11,024 19,611 iSo 31,164 105 '2,073 3,744 ',309 . 5,074 ',374 793 3,058 1,699 '79 5,440 3.621 ■8,701 3,168 332 43 8,029 18,493 9,883 '5,038, '7-573 13,306 13,27 416 29.232 18,947 '0,370 S.766 7,339 14,816 16 813 6,015 4,481 3-982 4,614 17,868 '6,456 1,2 22-454 21,706 '4.584 12,528 ' 7-034 '-585 9,95' 1,602 2,451 5,464 '9.73' 4,722 1,967 10, iSc 8.735 ',5-'3 27,771 35,357 2,530 12,019 15,565 12,018 '7.432 27.256 ',389 38,969 ',392 '6,973 10,768 4,738 ",174 4,627 6,399 7,06 6.055 999 '3,684 8,931 21,463 6,282 2,596 22b 16,664 22,619 22,1:6 17,839 24,898 19,731 '9434 3,35' 37,210 28,852 '2,877 10,388 221 '3,884 22,508 24,436 '7,576 8,718 1880. COUNTIES. 11,199 11,188 19.791 16,636 7.448 24,888 23 9'3 20,838 14,081 18,547 7,537 '4,293 5 ■.595 '2.35' 16.943 18937 1 1,461 8,240 '4,534 ",5'2 4.248 28,829 36,764 12,413 18,746 16,468 15.336 '7.952 33.099 1,901 42,997 1,550 22,258 14,677 10,248 '7,653 '2,725 12,639 ■4,863 '1,252 3,453 17,808 16,649 20,826 10,837 6,341 4,382 19,221 23.77' 25,962 17.478 25.429 21,052 21.259 6.179 34.859 37.235 13.146 '4.530 1,968 '7.225 25,201 25,111 23,752 14.1.3s Mitchell Monona Monroe Montgomery. . . Muscatine... . O'Brien Osceola Page Palo Alto Plymouth . . . . Pocahontas. . . . Polk Pottawattamie. Poweshiek Ringgold Sac Scott Shelby Sioux Story Tama Taylor Union Van Buren. . . . Wapello Warren Washington. . . Wayne Webster Winnebago. . . . Winneshiek Woodbury Worth..." Wright 1850. i860. 5.731 551 4,5 '3 7,828 615 5,986 8 204 12,270 8,47' 961 4,957 340 3,409 0^32 8,612 1.256 16,444 8 546 Total I 192,214 4,419 132 148 103 11,625 4.968 5,668 2923 246 25,959 818 10 4.05 5.2S5 3,590 2,012 17,081 14,518 10,281 '4,235 6,409 2,504 16S '3,942 1,119 756 653 1870. 1880. 9,582 3.654 '2,724' 5,934, 21,688 715 9,975 '.336 2,199 1,446 27.857 16,893 15.581 5,691 1,411 38,509 2.S49 570 11,651 16,131 6,989 5,986 17,672 22,346 17,980 18,952 11,287 10,484 1,562 23-570 6,172; 2,892 2,392' 14,361 9,055 ■3,7'9 15,895 23,168 4, '55 2,219 19,667 4,'3i 8,567 3-713 42,.395 39.846 18,936 12,085 8,77+ 41,270 12,696 5,426 16,966 2 1, .585 'S.635 14,980 1 7,042 25,282 19.578 20,375 16,127 15.950 4,917 23.937 ■4,997 7.953 5.062 674-913! 1.191.792 1,624,463 TERRITORIAL OFFICERS. Gmiernors. — Robert Lucas, 1838-41; John Chamber, i84i-'45 ; James Clark, 1845. Secretaries. — Wra. B. Conway, 1838, died 1839; James Clark, 1839-41; O. H. \V. Stull, 1841-43; Samuel J. Burr, iS43-'45 ; Jesse Williams, 1845. Auditors. — Jesse Williams, 1840-43; Will- iam L. Gilbert, 1843-45; Robert M. Secrest, 1845. Treasurers. — Thornton Bay lie, 1839-40; Morgan Reno, 1840. Judges. — Charles Mason, Chief Justice. 1838; Joseph Williams, 1838; Thomas S. Wilson, 1838. Presidents of Council. — Jesse B. Brown, i838-'49; Stephen Hempstead, i839-'40; M. Bainridge. 1840-41; J. W. Parker, i84i-'42; John D. Elbert, 1842-43 ; Thomas Cox, HISTORY OF IOWA. '6S i843-'44; S. Clinton Hasting, 1845; Stephen Hempstead, i845-'46. Speakers of tlie House. — William H. Wal- lace, i838-'39; Edward Johnson, 1839-40; Thomas Cox, i840-'3i ; Warner Lewis, 1841-42; James M. Morgan, i842-'43; James P. Carleton, i843-'44; James M.Morgan, 1845 ; George W. McLeary, 1845-46. STATE OFFICERS. Governors. — Ansel Briggs, i846-'5o; Stephen Hempstead, i85o-'54; James W. Grimes, i854-'58; Ralph P. Lowe, 1858- '60; Samuel J. Kirkwood, i86o-'64; Will- iam M. Stone, i864-'68; Samuel Morrill, 1868-72; Cyrus C. Carpenter, i872-'76; Samuel J. Kirkwood, i876-'77;J. G. New- bold, 1877-78; John H. Gear, 1878-82; Buren R. Sherman, i882-'86; William Lar- rabee, 1886. Lieutenant-Governors. — Oran Faville,i858- '60; Nicholas J. Rusch, i86o-'62; John R. Needham, i862-'64; Enoch W. Eastman, i864-'66; Benjamin F. Gue, i866-'68 ; John Scott, 1868-70; M. M. Walden, i870-'72 ; H. C. Bulls, 1872-74; Joseph Dysart, i874-'76; Joshua G. Newbold, i876-'78; Frank T. Campbell, 1878-82; Orlando H. Manning, 1882-85 ; John A. T. Hull, 1886. This office was created by the new con- stitution Sept. 3, 1857. Secretaries of State. — Elisha Cutter, Jr., i846-'48; Joseph H. Bonney, i848-'5o; George W. McCleary, i850-'56; Elijah Sells, i856-'63; James Wright, 1863-67; Ed. Wright, i867-'73 ; Josiah T. Young, i873-'79; J- A. T. Hull, i879-'85 ; Franklin D. Jackson, 1885. Auditors of State. — Joseph T. Fales, i846-'50; William Pattee, i85o-'54; Andrew J. Stevens, i854-'55 '. John Pattee, i8S5-'59; Jonathan W. Cattell, i859-'6s ; John A. Elliott, 1865-71 ; John Russell, i87i-'7S ; Buren R. Sherman, i875-'8i ; Wm. V. Lucas, 1881 ; John L. Brown, i882-'83 ; J. W. Cattell, acting, i885-'86. Treasurers of State. — Morgan Reno, i846-'5o; Israel Kister, i8So-'52 ; Martin L. Morris, i852-'59; John W. Jones, i859-'63 ; William H. Holmes, i863-'67; Samuel E. Rankin, 1867-73; William Christy, 1873- '77 ; George W. Bemis, 1877-81; Edwin H. Conger, i88i-"85 ; Voltaire Twombiy, 1885. Attorney-Generals. — David C. Cloud, i853-'56; Samuel A. Rice, i856-'6o; Charles C. Nourse, i86o-'64; Isaac L. Allen, 1865- '66; Frederick E. Bissell, i866-'67; Henry O'Connor, i867-'72; Marcena E. Cutts, 1872-76; John F. Mcjunkin, i877-'8i ; Smith McPherson, i88i-'85 ; A. J. Baker, 1885. Adjutant-Generals. — Daniel S. Lee, 1851- ■55; George W. McCleary, i855-'57; Eli- jah Sells, 1857; Jesse Bowen, i857-'6i ; Na- thaniel Baker, i86i-'77; John H. Looby, 1877-78; W. L, Alexander, i878-'84. Registers of tlie State Land-Office. — Anson Hart, i855-'57 ; Theodore S. Parvin, 1857- '59; Amos B. Miller, i859-'62 ; Edwin Mitchell, i862-'63; Josiah A. Harvey, i863-'67; Cyrus C. Carpenter, i867-'7i ; Aaron Brown, i87i-'75 ; David Secor, i875-'79; J. K. Powers, i879-'82.* Superintendents of Public Instruction. — James Harlan, i847-'48; Thos. H. Benton, Jr., i848-'54; James D. Eads, i854-'57, Joseph C. Stone, 1857; Maturin L. Fisher, i857-'58; Oran Faville, iS64-'67 ; D. Frank- lin Wells, 1867-68 ; A. S. Kissell, i868-'72; Alonzo Abernethy, i872-"76; Carl W. Van Coelen, i876-'82; John W. Akers, i882-'84. This office was created in 1847 and abol- ished in 1858, and the duties then devolved upon the secretary of the Board of Educa- tion; it was re-created March 23, 1864. State Printers. — Garrett D. Palmer and George Paul, i849-'5i ; William H. Merritt, i85i-'53; William A. Hornish, 1853 ; Den- ♦Offlce abolished January 1, 1883, and duties devolved on tlie Secretary of State i66 HISTORY OF IOWA. nis A. Mahoney and Joseph B. Dorr, 1853- '55 ; Peter Moriarty, i855-'57 ; John Tees- dale, i8S7-'6i ; Francis W. Palmer, 1861- '69; Frank M. Mills, iSeg-'/i ; G. W. Ed- wards, i87i-'73 ■. Rich. P. Clarkson, 1873- '79; Frank M. Mills, !879-'8i : Geo. E. Roberts, 1881. State Binders. — William M. Coles, 1855- '58; Frank M. Mills, i858-'67 ; James S. Carter, i867-'7i ", J. J- Smart, i87i-'75; H. A. Perkins, i875-'79; M^itt. Parrott, 1879- '85; L. S. Merchant, 18S5. Secretaries of Board of Education. — T. H. Benton, Jr., i859-'63 ; Oran Faville, i863-'64. This office was abolished March 23, 1864. Presidents of the Senate. — Thomas Baker. i846-'47; Thomas Hughes, 1847-48; John J. Selman, 1848-49; Enos Lowe, i849-'5i ; Wm. E. Leffingwell, i85i-'53; Maturn L. Fisher, i853-'55 ; Wm. W. Hamilton, 1855- •57. Under the new Constitution the Lieuten- ant-Governor is President of the Senate. Speakers of the House. — Jesse B. Brown, i846-'48; Smiley H. Bonham, i848-'5o; George Temple, i850-'52 ; James Grant, i852-'54; Reuben Noble, 1854-56 : Samuel McFarland, 1856-57; Stephen B. Sheledy, i857-'59; John Edwards, i859-"6i ; Rush Clark, i86i-'63; Jacob Butler, 1863-65; Ed. Wright, i865-'67; John Russell, i867-'69; Aylett R. Cotton, i869-'7i ; James Wilson, 1871-73; John H. Geer, i873-'77; John Y. Stone, 1877-79; Lore Alford, i88o-'8i ; G. R. Struble, 1882-83: Wm. P. Wolf, 1884; Albert Head. 1886. Chief Justices of the Supreme Court. — Charles Mason, 1847; Joseph Williams, 1847-48; S. Clinton Hastings, i848-'49 ; Joseph Williams, i849-'55 ; George G. Wright, i855-'6o; Ralph P. Lowe, i86o-"62; Caleb Baldwin, i862-'64; George G. Wright, i864-'66; Ralph P. Lowe, 1866- '68; John F. Dillon, 1868-70; Chester C. Cole, i870-'7i ; James G. Day, i87t-'72; Joseph M. Beck, 1872-74; W. E Miller, i874-'76; Chester C. Cole, 1876; Wm. H. Seevers, i876-'77; James G. Day, i877-'78; James H. Rothrock, 1878-83 and '84; Joseph M. Beck, i879-'8o and '85 ; Austin Adams, i88o-'8i and '86; Wm. H. Seevers, 1882. Associate Justices. — Joseph Williams, held over from territorial government until a successor was appointed ; Thomas S. Wil- son, 1847; JohnF. Kinney, iS47-'54; George Greene, i847-'55; Jonathan C. Hall, 1854- '55; William G.Woodward, 1855 ; Norman W. Isbell, 1855-56; Lacon D. Stockton, i856-'6o; Caleb Baldwin, i86o-"64; Ralph P. Lowe, i860; George G. Wright, i860; John F. Dillon, i864-'7o; Chester C. Cole, i864-'77; Joseph M. Beck, 1868; W. E. Miller, 1870; James G. Day, 1870. United States Senators. — Augustus C. Dodge, 1 848-' 5 5 ; George W. Jones, 1848- '59; James Harlan, i855-'65 ; James W. Grimes, i859-'69; Samuel J. Kirkwood, 1866; James Harlan, i867-'73 ; James B. Howell, 1870; George G. Wright, 1871- 'yj; William B. Allison, i873-'79; Samuel J. Kirkwood, 1877-81; Wm. B. Allison, i879-'85; James W. McDill. 1881 ; James F. Wilson, 1883. Present State Officers (^1886). — Governor, William Larrabee ; Secretary of State, Frank D. Jackson ; Auditor of State, J. W. Cattell, acting ; Treasurer, Voltaire Twom- bly; Superintendent Public Instruction, John W. Akers ; Printer, George E. Rob- erts ; Binder, L. S. Merchant ; Adjutant- General, W. L. Alexander ■ Librarian, Mrs. S. B. Maxwell. Supreme Court. — William H. Seevers, Chief Justice, Oskaloosa; James G. Day, Sidney, James H. Rothrock, Tipton, Joseph M. Beck, Fort Madison, Austin Adams, Dubuque, Judges; A. J. Baker, .Mturney- General. Qouerijors o^ |ou/a. ■Jf=Jr==ir==lfr=^r==ij^:ir=ir=J^3^^^ ^3r=ilj=ir==ir=l r=Jr==ur=Jr=Jr=- J r=Jr=J7S: JrT:^f=^r==j[=JF =Jn3 E ^RT-'^J^ir^ V^i S^K^iSM •-j«>^ JiilxxSTi t x t j c xxt xxt^tixt ixr.ixir t rt:t rrrrrxm rr i tttx' „ ^. ,j;^? ^-<^'" ^0^^*-<^^- ROBERT LUCAS. 171 OBERT LUCAS, the first Governor of Iowa Ter- ritory, was the fourth son and ninth child of William and Susan- nah Lucas, and was born April i, 1781, in Jefferson Valley, at Shepherdstown, Jefferson County, Virginia, a few miles from Harper's Ferry, where his ancestors settled before the Rev- olution. His father, who was descended from William Penn, was born January 18, 1743, and his mother, of Scotch extrac- tion, was born October S, 1745. They were married about the year 1760, and reared a family of six sons and six daughters. His father, who had served as a Captain in the Continental army during the Revolutionary war, and had distinguished himself at the battle of Bloody Run, emigrated with his family to Scioto County, Ohio, early in the present century. At the time of this removal Robert was a young man. He had obtained his educa- tion chieflv in Virginia, from an old Scotch schoolmaster named McMuUen, who taught him mathematics and surveying. The latter afforded him remunerative employment im- mediately upon his entrance into Ohio. He was married at Portsmouth, Ohio, April 3, 1 8 10, to Elizabeth Brown, who died October 18, 18 12, leaving an infant daugh- ter, who afterward became Mrs. Minerva E. B. Sumner. March 7, 18 16, he formed a second matrimonial connection ; this time with Friendly A. Sumner, who bore to him four sons and three daughters. The first public office held by Robert Lucas was that of County Surveyor of Sci- oto County, the commission from Governor Edward Tiffin, of Ohio, appointing him such being dated December 26, 1803. Decem- ber 16, 1805, he was commissioned by Governor Tiffin justice of the peace for three years. His first militar}' appointment was that of Lieutenant of militia, by virtue of which he was authorized to raise twenty men to assist in filling Ohio's quota of 500 volunteers called for by the President in view of possible difficulties with the Spanish. He was subsequently promoted through all the military grades to Major Gen- eral of Ohio militia, which latter rank was conferred upon him in 18 18. He was a Brigadier-General on the breaking out of the war of 1S12, and had much to do with raising troops. He was appointed a Captain in the regular army, but before his commission reached him he was already in active service, scouting, spying, carrying a musket in the ranks and in other useful capacities. After Hull's surrender he was paroled and returned to Ohio. He was in the course of time made a Lieutenant-Colonel, and then a Colonel, from which position he resigned. He served in numerous civil offices in 172 GOVERNORS OF IOWA. Ohio, and at the time of his second marriage, in 1816, he was and iiad been for some time a member of the Ohio Legislature, serving successively for nineteen years in one or the other branch, and in the course of his leg- islative career presiding over first one and then the other branch. In 1820 and again in 1828, he was chosen one of the Presidential electors of Ohio. In May, 1832, at Baltimore, Maryland, he presided over the first Democratic National Con- vention — -that which nominated Andrew Jackson for his second term as President, and Martin Van Buren for Vice Presi- dent. In 1832 he was elected Governor of Ohio, and re-elected in 1 834. He declined a third nomination for the same office. Under the act of Congress to divide tne Territory of Wisconsin and to establish the territorial government of Iowa, approved June 12, 1838, the subject of this sketch was appointed Governor of tbe new Territory, and he immediately accepted the responsi- bility. A journey from the interior of Ohio to the banks of the Upper Mississippi was then a matter of weeks ; so that, although Governor Lucas set out from his home on the 25th of July, delaying on his route a few days at Cincinnati, to arrange for the selection of the books for a territorial library, it was not till nearly the middle of August that he reached Burlington, then the temporary seat of government. The first official act of Lucas as Gov- ernor of Iowa was to issue a proclamation dated August 13, 1838, dividing the Terri- tory into eight representative districts, ap- portioning the members of the Council and House of Representatives among the nine- teen counties then composing the Terri- tory, and appointing the second Monday in September ensuing for the election of members of the Legislative Assembly and a delegate to Congress. His first message to the Legislature, after its organization, was dated November 12, 1838, and related chiefly to a code of laws for the new com- monwealth. He opposed imprisonment for debt, favored the death penalty' for murder (executions to be in the presence of only the Sheriff and a suitable number of wit- nesses), and strenuously urged the organi- zation of a liberal system of common schools. The organization of the militia was also one of his pet measures. There was a broad difference between the views of a majority of this Legislative Assembly and the Governor, on many questions of public policy, as well as points of authority. This resulted in the sending to the Presi- dent of a memorial, dated January 12, 1839, signed by eight of the council and seven of the Representatives, praying the re- moval of Governor Lucas. In addition to this, a memorial for the Governor's re- moval was passed bv both Hous^, signed in due form by their presiding officers, and transmitted to the President. The charges made were met by a protest signed by eight Representatives, and as a result Gov- ernor Lucas was allowed to remain in office until the ne.xt change of administration. In 1839 and '40 occurred the well-known boundary dispute with Missouri, which was finally settled in favor of Iowa, by the Supreme Court of the United States. No- vember 5, 1839, Governor Lucas announced that the Territory had advanced in improve- ment, wealth and population (which latter was estimated at 50,000) without a parallel in history, and recommended the necessary legislation preparatory to the formation of a State government. This was overruled by the people, however. Among the latest of Governor Lucas's acts was a proclama- tion dated April 30, 1841, calling the Leg- islature to assemble, for the first time, at Iowa City, the new capitol. March 25, 1841, he was succeeded by John Chambers. He lived a private life near Iowa City until his death, February 7, 1853, at the age of seventy-one years. JOHN CHAMBERS. ■73 OHN CHAMBERS, was the second Governor of Iowa Territory. He was born October 6, 1780, at Bromley Bridge, Somer- set County, New Jersey. His father, Rowland Cham- bers, was born in Pennsyl- vania, of Irish parentage. According to a tradition in the family, their remote ancestors were Scotch, and belonged to the clan Cam- eron. Having refused to join in the rebellion of 1645, they migrated to Ireland, where, by an act of Parliament, on their own petition, they took the name of Cham- bers. Rowland Chambers espoused with enthusiasm the cause of American inde- pendence, and was commissioned a Colonel of New Jersey militia. At the close of the war, reduced in circumstances, he immi- grated to Kentucky and settled in Wash- ington, then the seat of Mason County. John, the youngest of seven children, was then fourteen years old. A few days after the fami'y settled m their new home he found employment in a dry-goods store, and the following spring was sent to Transylvania Seminary, at Lexington. He returned home in less than a year. In 1797 16 he became deputy under Francis Taylor, Clerk of the District Court. His duties being light, he applied himself to the study of law. In the spring of 1800 he assumed all the duties of the office in which he had been employed, and in November following he was licensed to practice law. In 1803 Mr. Chambers, who had now entered upon a career of uninterrupted professional prosperity, was married to Miss Margaret Taj-lor, of Hagerstown, Mary- land. She lived but about three years, and in 1807 he married Miss Hannah Taylor, a sister of his first wife. Not long after he engaged in the manufacture of bale rope and bagging for the Southern market. In this he incurred heavy losses. In the campaign of 18 12 he served as aid-de-camp to General Harrison, with the rank of Major. In 181 5 Mr. Chambers was sent to the Legislature, and in 1828 he went to Congress to fill the unexpired term of General Thomas Metcalfe. In 1830 and 1831 he was again in the State Legislature. In 1832 he lost his wife. She was a lady of cultivated mind and elegant manners, and had made his home a happy and attractive one. The same year he was offered a seat on the bench of the Supreme Court of Kentucky, but this he declined. The same office was tendered him in 1835, but before the time for taking his seat, he was obliged '74 GOVERNORS OF IOWA. to resign, out of consideration for his health. From 1835 to 1839 he was in Congress, making for himself a high reputation. Between 181 5 and 1828 Mr. Chambers was, for several years, the commonwealth's attorney for the judicial district in which he lived. He was during that period at the zenith of his reputation as a lawyer and ad- vocate. He met the giants of the Ken- tucky bar in important civil and criminal trials. His well-known high sense of honor, and his contempt for professional chicanery, commanded the respect of his legal com- peers. His appearance and manner were dignified, his tone calm and impressive, and his language singularly direct and vigorous. He closed his congressional career in 1839 with the purpose of resuming the practice of law, but his old friend General Harrison was nominated for the Presi- dency and induced him to aid in the personal canvass General Harrison made through the country. He was urged by President Harrison to accept some office requiring his residence in Washington, but this he declined, though he afterward ac- cepted the appointment of Governor of Iowa. He entered upon the duties of this office May 13, 1841. His success in his administration of the affairs of the Territory was well attested by the approbation of the people, and by the hearty commendation of those in authority at Washington, espe- cially for his management of Indian affairs. During his term of office he found it neces- sary on several occasions to suppress the feuds of the red men, which he did with such firmness and decision that quiet was promptly restored where war seemed im- minent. Governor Chambers was repeat- edly called on to treat with the Indian tribes for the purchase of their lands. In October, 1841, he was commissioned jointly with Hon. T. H. Crawford, Commissioner of In- dian Affairs, and Governor Doty, of Wis- consin, to hold a treat}' with the Sacs and Foxes, which, however, did not result in a purchase. In September, 1842, being ap- pointed sole Commissioner for the same purpose, he succeeded fully in carrying out the wishes of the Government. In 1843 he held a treaty with the Winnebagoes, but in this instance no result was reached. In 1S44, 'lis term of office having expired, he was re-appointed by President Tyler, but was removed in 1845 by President Polk. Shortly afterward, with greatly im- paired health, he returned to Kentucky, where, with skillful medical treatment and entire relief from official cares, he partially recovered. During the few remaining years of his life Governor Chambers's recollec- tions of Iowa were of the most agreeable character. He spoke gratefully of the re- ception extended to him by her people, and often referred with great kindness to his • neighbors in Des Moines County. •His infirm health forbade his engaging in any regular employment after his return to Kentucky, but in 1849, at the solicitation of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, he ne- gotiated jointly with Governor Ramsey, of Minnesota, a successful treaty with the Sioux Indians for the purchase of lands. The latter years of Governor Chambers's life were spent mostly with his children, whose affection and respect were the chief conditions of his happiness. During a visit to his daughter in Paris, Kentucky, he was taken sick at the house of his son-in-law, C. S. Brent, and after a few weeks breathed his last, September 21, 1852, in his seventy- second year. yAMES CLARICE. •75 '^^^-^*f^-^-3>>^<*-i>*:^r-^>t^^^ ^ %^ [HE third and last Ter- ritorial Governor was James Clarke. Sometime in the autumn of the year 1837, when the trees were in the " sear and yellow leaf," a printer boy of slender form and gentle appearance might have been seen crossing the laurel hills of his own State. Behind him rolled the waters of the " Blue Juniata," on the banks of which he had spent, in merry glee, his youthful days. He had heard and read of strange countries that lay far off toward the setting sun, through which broad rivers run, and spreading landscapes unfolded to human e3'es the most rare and magnificent beauty. With his youthful gaze fixed upon that star which never sets, he set forth into the wilds of Wisconsin, a stranger in a strange land, an adventurer seeking his own fortune, de- pending upon his own exertions, with no recommendation save an honest face and genteel deportment. This young man was James Clarke, who afterward became the able, talented and popular Governor of Iowa. He remained in Wisconsin, working at his trade as a printer, until after the organi- zation of the Territory of Iowa, when he removed to Burlington, where the first Legislature of Iowa assembled. After the death of Mr. Conway he was appointed by President Van Buren, Secretary of the Ter- ritory, which office he filled with great credit to himself and satisfaction to the people. During the time he held this office he contributed by his kind, gentle and amiable manner to soften the feelings of hatred and distrust which at one time ex- isted between leading men of the Territory. Whoever had business at his office found him a kind, gentle, quiet, amiable man, al- ways ready and willing to do whatever was desired of him, regretting, at the same time, that he could do no more. During the time he was Secretary he performed a vast amount of labor, but notwithstanding the large amount of business he transacted, he still found time to write for the press, and contributed many valuable articles touch- ing the future greatness of Iowa. After he retired from the office of Secre- tary he again returned to the printing trade, and became the leading editor of the Bur- lington Gazette. To the columns of thi« paper he devoted his whole energies, and by so doing made it the leading Democratic paper of the Territory. In the early sum- mer of 1845 President Polk removed Mr. Chambers, and appointed Mr. Clarke to suc- ceed him as Governor of Iowa. Previous to his appointment he had been elected by 176 GOVERNORS, OF IOWA. the people of his county a deleo^ate to the first convention which assembled to form a Constitution for the State of Iowa. In this convention lie distinguished himself both for his talent and personal demeanor, and contributed to the pages of that Constitu- tion some of the great elementary principles which lie at the foundation of human rights. And although that Constitution was de- feated, he still had the satisfaction of seeing their spirit and meaning transferred to another, and still continued as the funda- mental law of our State. The first Legislature after he received his appointment assembled at Iowa City, '(gS'i^tgg't^ li i.»i..x»»viiEtdiafiffl^psaaf^'»»''™^E^>^<>^**''^*w*'<^*g^*»^<'«"*gg'p'i^wi»Aw.a.\tiaCTt«.^ ? .3^M^^ W |giaaaa^gMas[aBgaaegfc^aEii^(^ M> 4;)<&«^t^'s^<^'^«5i'>i'^! [HE third to fill the of- fice of Governor of Iowa, and whose name deserves a foremost rank among the men whose personal his- :ory is interwoven insepar- ibly with that of the State, ivas James Wilson Grimes. He was born in the town )f Deering, Hillsborough ^ount)-, New Hampshire, October 20, 18 16. His parents — John Grimes, born August 1 1, 1772, and Elizabeth Wilson, born March 19, 1773 — were natives of the same town. Of a family of eight children born to them, James was the youngest. In earl)- childhood he evinced a taste for learning, attending the district school and also studying Latin and Greek under the instruction of the village pastor. He completed his preparation for college at Hampton Academy, and entered Dart- mouth College in August, 1832, in the si-Kteenth year of his age. Upf)n leaving college in February, 1835, he commenced reading law with James Walker, Esq., in Petersburgh, New Hampshire. Being young and adventurous, and wish- ing to carve a fortune for himself, he left 17 his native home in 1836 for the far West, landing in Burlington, then a new town in what was known as the " Black Hawk Purchase." Here he opened an office and soon established a reputation as a rising lawyer. In April, 1837, he was appointed city solicitor ; and entering upon the duties of that office he assisted in drawing up the first police laws of that town. In 1838 he was appointed justice of the peace, and be- came a law partner of William W. Chap- man, United States District Attorney for Wisconsin Territory. In the early part of the year 1841 he formed a partnership with Henrj' W. Starr, Esq., which continued twelve 3-ears. This firm stood at the head of the legal profession in Iowa. Mr. Grimes was widely known as a counselor of supe- rior knowledge of the law, and with a clear sense of truth and justice. He was chosen one of the representatives of Dcs Moines County in the first Legislative Assembl}- of the Territory of Iowa, which convened at Burlington, November 12, 1838; in the sixth, at Iowa City, Decembcr4, 1843: and ill the foiiith General Assembh- of the State, at Iowa City, December 6, 1852. He early took front rank among the pub- lic men of Iowa. He was chairman of the judiciary committee in the House of Rep- resentatives of the first Legislative As- sembly of the Territory, and all laws for the new Territory passed through his hands. iS8 aovERNons of iowa. He was married at Burlington, Novem- ber 9, 1846, to Miss Elizabeth Sarah Neally. In February, 1854, Mr. Grimes was nom- inated by a convention of the Whig party for Governor of the State. It was the largest convention of that party ever held in Iowa, and the last. He was elected, and assumed the duties of the office in Decem- ber, 1854. Soon after his election it was proposed that he should be sent to the United States Senate, but he made it under- stood that he should fill the term of office for which he had been chosen, and he served his full term to the entire satisfac- tion and acceptance of all parties. He was a faithful leader in the political regenera- tion of the State. He introduced liberal measures to develop the resources of the State, and to promote the interests of all educational and humane establish- ments. Up to the time of his election as Governor, Democrac}' reigned supreme in the Territory. The representatives in Congress were allies of the slave power. He, after being elected, gave his whole soul to the work, and it may truly be said that Governor Grimes made Iowa Repub- lican and allied it with the loyal States. January 14, 1858, he laid down his office, only to be placed in another and greater one; for on the 25th he was nominated by the Republican caucus for United States Senator. He took his seat in the Senate March 4, 1859, 'i"d ^^'^s placed upon the committee on naval affairs January 24, 1861, on which he remained during the remainder of his senatorial career, serving as chairman from December, iS6^. Mr. Grimes voted for the Pacific Rail- road bill on June 20, 1862, and for estab- lishing the gauge of the road from the Mis- souri River to the Pacific Ocean, at four feet eight and a half inches, February 18, 1863. January 16, 1864, Mr. Grimes was again chosen United States Senator from Iowa for six years from March 4, 1865, receiving the votes of all but six of the members of the General Assembly in joint convention : 128 out of 134. His council was often sought in matters of great moment, and in cases of peculiar difficulty. Always ready to promote the welfare of the State, he gave, unsolicited, land worth $6,000 to the Congregational college at Grinnell. It constitutes the " Grimes foundation," and " is to be applied to the establishment and maintenance in Iowa College, forever, of four scholarships, to be awarded by the trustees, on the recommendation of the fac- ult}', to the best scholars, and the most promising, in any department, who may need and seek such aid, and without any regard to the religious tenets or opinions entertained by any person seeking either of said scholarships." These terms were imposed by Mr. Grimes and assumed July 20, 1865, by the trustees. He received the honorary degree of LL.D. in 1865 from Dartmouth College, and also from Iowa College. He also aided in founding a public library in Burlington, donating $5,000, which was expended in the purchase of costly books, and subsequently sent from Europe 256 volumes in the German lan- guage, and also contributed 600 volumes of public documents. In January, 1869, he made a donation of $5,000 to Dartmouth College, and $1,000 to the " Social Friend," a literary society of which he was a member when in college. His health failing, Mr. Grimes sailed for Europe April 14, 1869, remaining abroad two years, reaching home September 22, 1871, apparently in improved health and spirits. In November he celebrated his silver wedding, and spent the closing months of his life with his family. He voted at the city election February 5, 1872, was suddenly attacked with severe pains in the region of the heart, and died after a few short hours of intense suffering. V- ^' rc€^t^^ ' RALPH P. LOWE. 191 ~^ ^ %% t KB C Ii I i I II I ; i Sl|» i i» li »rii RRLPH P't-QffiE^ sHE fourth Governor of the State, and the seventh of Iowa without reference to the form of govern- ment, was Ralph P. Lowe. He was born in Ohio in 1808, and lived just three-fourths of a cent- ury. He came to the Territory of Iowa in 1839 or 1840, when he was a little over thirty years old. He settled in Muscatine, where in a short time he became prominent in local affairs and of recognized ability in questions of public policy. While yet residing in that city, he represented the county of Muscatine in the constitu- tional convention of 1844 that framed the rejected Constitution. After this constitutional convention, Mr. Lowe took no further part in public mat- ters for a number of years. He removed So Lee County about 1849 or '50, where he became district judge as a successor to George H. Williams, who was afterward famous as President Grant's Attorney Gen- eral. He was district judge five years, from 1852 to 1857, being succeeded by Judge Claggett. In the summer of 1857 he was nominated by the Republicans for Governor of Iowa, with Oran Faville for Lieutenant - Governor. The Democracy put in the field Benjamin M. Samuels for Governor and George Gillaspy for Lieu- tenant Governor. There was a third ticket in the field, supported by the American or " Know Nothing " party, and bearing the names of T. F. Henry and Easton Morris. The election was held in October, 1857, and gave Mr. Lowe 38,498 votes, against 36,088 for Mr. Samuels, and 1,006 for Mr. Henry. Hitherto the term of office had been four years, but by an amendment to the Consti- tution this was now reduced to two. Gov- ernor Lowe was inaugurated January 14, 1858, and at once sent his first message to the Legislature. Among the measures passed by this Legislature were bills to in- corporate the State Bank of Iowa ; to pro- vide for an agricultural college ; to author- ize the business of banking ; disposing of the land grant made by Congress to the Des Moines Valley Railroad ; to provide for the erection of an institution for the education of the blind ; and to provide for taking a State census. No events of importance occurred dur- ing the administration of Governor Lowe, but it was not a period of uninterrupted prosperity. The Governor said in his biennial message of January 10, i860, re- 192 GOVERNORS OF IOWA. viewing the preceding two years: " The period that has elaps^ed since the last biennial session has been one of great dis- turbing causes, and of anxious solicitude to all classes of our fellow citizens. The first year of this period was visited with heavy and continuous rains, which reduced the measure of our field crops below one-half of the usual product, whilst the financial revulsion which commenced upon the At- lantic coast in the autumn of 1857 did not reach its climax for evil in our borders until the year just past." He referred at length to the claim of the State against the Federal Government, and said that he had appealed in vain to the Secretary of the Interior for the pa}'- ment of the 5 per cent, upon the military land warrants that the State is justly en- titled to, which then approximated to a million of dollars. The payment of this fund, he said, " is not a mere favor which is asked of the General Government, but a subsisting right which could be enforced in a court of justice, was there a tribunal of this kind clothed with the requisite juris- diction." The subject of the Des Moines River grant received from the Governor special attention, and he gave a history of the operations of the State authorities in ref- erence to obtaining the residue of the lands to which the State was entitled, and other information as to the progress of the work. He also remarked " that under the act authorizing the Governor to raise a com- pany of mounted men for defense and pro- tection of our frontier, approved February 9, 1858, a company of thirt}' such men, known as the Frontier Guards, armed and equipped as required, were organized and mustered into service under the command of Captain Henry B. Martin, of Webster City, about the first of March then follow- ing, and were divided into two companies, one stationed on the Little Sioux River, the other at Spirit Lake. Their presence afforded security and gave quiet to the settlements in 'that region, and after a ser- vice of four months they were duly dis- banded. " Late in the fall of the year, however, great alarm and consternation was again felt in the region of Spirit Lake and Sioux River settlements, produced by the appear- ance of large numbers of Indians on the border, whose bearing was insolent and menacing, and who were charged with clandestinely running off the stock of the settlers. The most urgent appeals came from these settlers, invoking again the protection of the State. From the repre- sentations made of the imminence of their danger and the losses already sustained, the Governor summoned into the field once more the frontier guards. After a service of four or five months they were again discharged, and paid in the manner prescribed in the act under which they were called out." Governor Lowe was beaten for the renomination by Honorable S. J. Kirkwood, who was considered much the stronger man. To compensate him for his defeat for the second term, Governor Lowe was appointed one of the three judges under the new Constitution. He drew the short term, which expired in 1861, but was returned and served, all told, eight years. He then returned to the practice of law, gradually working into a claim busi- ness at Washington, to which city he re- moved about 1874. In that city he died, on Saturday, December 22, 1883. He had a large family. Carleton, one of his sons, was an officer in the Third Iowa Cavalry during the war. Governor Lowe was a man of detail, accurate and industrious. In private and public life he was pure, upright and honest. In religious faith he was inclined to be a Spiritualist. <*^>o**<.,«,^ SAMUEL y. KIRKWOOD. ■95 ^^^0^^ "^•C^i^f-* ^^ (§^>f^SAMUEL el. KiRKWOOD, jK-^'jt-j*^^^^^^ /■ 1€ i^^S'^^Sr ^^3» jAMUEL JORDAN KIRKWOOD, the fifth Governor of the State of Iowa, was born December 20, 181 3, in Harford County, Mary- land, on his father's farm. His father was twice married, first to a lady named Coulson, by whom he had two sons, and, after her death, to Mary Alexander, by whom he had three children, all sons, the youngest of whom is the subject of these notes. The father of Governor Kirkwood was a native of Maryland, his ancestors having settled there previous to the Revo- lution ; his mother was born in Scotland, and both parents were strict members of the Presbyterian church. When ten years old young Kirkwood was sent to Washington City to attend a school taught bv a relative named John McLeod. He remained at school four years, when he entered a drug store at Washington as clerk, in which occupation he continued till after attaining his majorit)-, with the excep- tion of about eighteen months spent in teaching in York County, Pennsylvania. In 1835 Samuel left Washington and set- tled in Richland County, Ohio, where he assisted his father and brother (who had re- moved from Maryland there) in clearing a farm. In 1841 he entered, as a student, the law office of Thomas W. Hartley, afterward Governor of Ohio, and in 1843 was admit- ted to the bar by the Supreme Court of Ohio. He then engaged in the practice of law with his former preceptor, Mr. Bartley, forming an association which con- tinued for eight years. From 1845 to 1849 he served as prose- cuting attorney of his county. In 1849 he was elected as a Democrat to represent his county and district in the constitutional convention. In 185 1 Mr. Bartley, his part- ner, having been elected to the supreme judiciary of the State, Kirkwood formed a partnership with Barnabas Barns, with whom he continued to practice until the spring of 1855, when he removed to the West. Up to 1854 Mr. Kirkwood had acted with the Democratic party. But the measures proposed and sustained that 3'ear by the Democracy in Congress, concentrated in what was known as the Kansas-Nebraska act, drove him with hosts of anti-slavery Democrats out of the party. He was be- sought by the opposition in the " Richland district " to become their candidate for Congress, but declined. In 1855 he came to Iowa and settled two miles northwest of Iowa City, entering into a partnership with his brother-in-law, Ezekiel Clark, in the iq6 GOVERNORS OF IOWA. milling business, and kept aloof from pub- lic affairs. He could not long conceal his record and abilities from his neighbors, however, and in 1856 he was elected to the State Senate from the district composed of the counties of Iowa and Johnson, and served through the last session of the Legislature held at Iowa City and the first one held at Des Moines. In 1859 Mr. Kirkwood was made the standard-bearer of the Republicans of Iowa, and though he had as able and popular a competitor as General A. C. Dodge, he was elected Governor of Iowa by a majority of over 3,000. He was inaugurated Januarj' II, 1S60. Before the expiration of his first term came the great civil war. As Gov- ernor, during the darkest days of the Rebell- ion, he performed an exceedingly impor- tant duty. He secured a prompt response by volunteers to all requisitions by the federal Government on the State for troops, so that during his Governorship no " draft " took place in Iowa, and no regiment, except the first, enlisted for less than three years. At the same time he maintained the State's financial credit. The Legislature, at its ex- tra session in 1861, authorized the sale of $800,000 in bonds, to assist in arming and equipping troops. So frugally was this work done, that but $300,000 of the bonds were sold, and the remaining $500,000 not having been required, the bonds represent- ing this amount were destroyed by order of the succeeding Legislature. In October, 1861, Governor Kirkwood was. with comparatively little opposition, re-elected — an honor accorded for the first time in the history of the State. His ma- jority was about 18,000. During his second term he was appointed by President Lin- coln to be Minister to Denmark; but he declined to enter upon his diplomatic duties until the expiration of his term as Governor. The position was kept open for him until that time, but, when it came, pressing pri- vate business compelled a declination ol the office altogether. In January, 1866, he was a prominent candidate before the Legislature for United States Senator. Senator Harlan had re- signed the senatorship upon his appoint- ment to the office of Secretar}- of the Interior by President Lincoln, just before his death, but had withdrawn from the cabinet soon alter the accession of Mr. Johnson to the Presidency. In this way it happened that the Legislature had two terms of United States Sena-tor to fill, a short term of two years, to fill Harlan's unexpired term, and a long term of six years, to immediatel}' succeed this; and Harlan had now become a candidate for his own successorship, to which Kirkwood also aspired. Ultimateh', Kirkwood was elected for the first and Harlan for the second term. During his brief senatorial service, Kirkwood did not hesitate to meas- ure swords with Senator Sumner, whose natural egotism had begotten in him an arrogant and dictatorial manner, borne with humbly until then by his colleagues, in deference to his long experience and emi- nent ability, but unpalatable to an inde- pendent Western Senator like Kirkwood. At the close of his senatorial term, March 4, 1867, he resumed the practice of law, which a few years later he relinquished to accept the presidency of the Iowa City SavingsBank. In 1875 he was again elected Governor, and was inaugurated January 13, 1876. He served but little over a year, as early in 1877 he was chosen United States Senator. He filled this position four years, resigning to become Secretary of the In- terior in President Garfield's cabinet. In this office he was succeeded, April 17, 1882, by Henry M. Teller, of Colorado. Governor Kirkwood returned to Iowa City, his home, where he still resides, being now advanced in years. He was married in 1843 to Miss Jane Clark, a native of Ohio. Ix a /^^^^9ci tV/LUAAf M. STONE. 199 jHE subject of this brief sk^ch was the ninth to hold the position of Governor of Iowa, and the sixth to till the office under the State organization. He held the office four years, from 1864 to 1868. William Milo Stone was born October 14, 1827, a son of Truman and La- vina (North) Stone. His great-grandfather on both sides of the family was in the seven years' struggle for independence. His grandlatlier, Aaron Stone, was in the second war with England. Truman Stone moved to Lewis County, New York, when the son was a year old, and six 3'ears later to Co- shocton County, Ohio. Like many other self-made men, William M. had few advantages. He never attended a school of any kind more than twelve months. In boyhood he was for two seasons a team-driver on the Ohio Canal. At seven- teen he was apprenticed to the chairmaker's trade, and he followed that business until twenty-three years of age, reading law meantime during his spare hours, wher- ever he happened to be. He commenced at Coshocton, with James Mathews, who afterward became his father-in-law ; con- tinued his readings with General Lucius V. Pierce, of Akron, and finished with Ezra B. Taylor, of Ravenna. He was admitted to the bar in August, 1851, by Peter Hitch- cock and Rufus P. Ranney, supreme judges, holding a term of court at Ravenna. After practicing three years at Coshocton with his old preceptor, James Mathews, he, in November, 1854, settled in Knoxville, which has remained his home since. The year after locating here Mr. Stone pur- chased the Knoyi\'\\\e Joicnial, and was one of the prime movers in forming the Repub- lican party in Iowa, being the first editor to suggest a State convention, which met February 22, 1856, and completed the or- ganization. In the autumn of the same year he was a Presidential elector on the Republican ticket. In April, 1857, Mr. Stone was chosen Judge of the Eleventh Judicial District. He was elected judge of the Sixth Judicial District when the new Constitution went into operation in 1858, and was serving on the bench when the American flag was stricken down at Fort Sumter. At that GOVEJiA/OJfS OF IOWA. time, April, 1861, he was holding court in Fairfield, Jefferson County, and when the news came of the insult to the old flag he immediately adjourned court and prepared for what he believed to be more important duties — duties to his country. In May he enlisted as a private ; was made Captain of Company B, Third Iowa Infantr)', and was subsequently promoted to Major. With that regiment he was at the battle of Blue Mills, Missouri, in Sep- tember, 1861, where he was wounded. At Shiloh, the following spring, he commanded the regiment and was taken prisoner. By order of Jefferson Davis he was paroled for the time of forty days, with orders to re- pair to Washington, and if possible secure an agreement for a cartel for a general ex- change of prisoners, and to return as a prisoner if he did not succeed. Failing to secure that result within the period speci- fied he returned to Richmond and had his parol extended fifteen days ; repairing again to Washington, he effected his pur- pose and was exchanged. In August, 1862, he was appointed by Governor Kirkwood Colonel of the Twen- ty-second Iowa Infantry, which rendez- voused and organized at Camp Pope, Iowa City, in August, 1862. The regiment was occupied for several months in guarding supply stores and the railroad, and escorting supply trains to the Army of the Southeast Missouri until January 27, 1863, when it re- ceived orders to join the army under Gen- eral Davidson, at West Plains, Missouri. After a march of five days it reached its destination, and was brigaded with the Twenty-first and Twenty-third Iowa regi ments, Colonel Stone commanding, and was designated the First Brigade, First Divis- ion, Army of Southeast Missouri. April 1 found Colonel Stone at Milliken's Bend, Louisiana, to assist Grant in the capture of Vicksburg. He was now in immediate command of his regiment, which formed a part of a brigade under Colonel C L. Harris, of the Eleventh Wisconsin. In the advance upon Port Gibson Colonel Harris was taken sick, and Colonel Stone was again in charge of a brigade. In the battle of Port Gibson the Colonel and his com- mand distinguished themselves, and were successful. The brigade was in the reserve at Champion Hills, and in active skirmish at Black River. On the evening of May 21 Colonel Stone received General Grant's order for a gen- eral assault on the enemy's lines at 10 a. m. on the 22d. In this charge, which was unsuccessful, Colonel Stone was again wounded, receiving a gunshot in his left forearm. Colonel Stone commanded a brigade until the last of August, when, being ordered to the Gulf department, he resigned. He had become very popular with the people of Iowa, and they were determined to make him Governor. He was nominated in a Republican con- vention held at Des Moines in June, 1863, and was elected by a large majority'. He was brevetted Brigadier-General in 1864, during his first year as Governor. He was inaugurated January 14, 1864, and was re- elected in 1865, his four years in office closing January 16, 1868. His majorit)- in 1863 was nearly 30,000, and in 1865 about 16,500. His dmiinished vote in 1865 was due to the fact that he was very strongly committed in favor of negro suffrage. Governor Stone made a very energetic and efficient executive. Since the expira- tion of his gubernatorial term he has sought to escape the public notice, and has given his time largely to his private business in- terests. He is in partnership with Hon. O. B. Ayres, of Knoxville, in legal practice. He was elected to the General Assembly in 1877, and served one term. In May, 1857, he married Miss Carloaet Mathews, a native of Ohio, then residing in Knoxville. They have one son — -William A. SAMUEL MERRILL. 203 OLONEL SAM- UEL MERRILL, the seventh Governor of the State of Iowa, the successor of Governor Stone, is among the men of the West who have been called from private life to places of trust on account of their peculiar fitness for office. He was born in the town of Turner, Oxford County, Maine, August 7, 1822. He is lish ancestry, being a lant on his mother's side ix Hill, who came from the West of England and set- tled in Saco, Maine (now known as Bidde- ford), in 1653. From this ancestry have sprung the most of the Hills of America. On his fatiier's side he is a descendant of Nathaniel Merrill, who, with his brother John, came from Salisbury, England, and settled in Newburg, Massachusetts, in 1636. Abel Merrill married Abigail Hill, June 25, 1809, in Buxton, Maine. They soon moved to Turner, where they became the parents of eight children, Samuel, the sub- ject of this sketch, being next the youngest, the fourth and youngest son in the family, and in the eighth generation from his Pil- grim fathers. Samuel was married first to Catherine Thoms, who died m 1847, but fourteen months after their marriage. In January, 1 85 1, he was again married, his second wife being a Miss Hill, of Buxton, Maine. To this union there have been born four chil- dren, three of whom died young, the eldest living to be only two and a half years old. At the age of sixteen he moved with his parents to Buxton, where his time was mostly engaged by turns in teaching and in attending school until he attained his majority. Having determined to make teaching a profession, he set out for that purpose toward the sunn}^ South, but, as he says, he was " born too far north " for his political comfort. Suspicion having been aroused as to his abolitionist pro- clivities, and finding the elements not al- together congenial, he soon abandoned the land of chivalry for the old Granite State, where he engaged for several years in farming. In 1847 he removed to Tamworth, New Hampshire, where he embarked in mer- cantile business in company with a brother. In this, as in all his business enterprises, he was quite successful. Not being satisfied with the limited resources of Northern New England, he determined to tr)' his good fortune on the broad prairies of the new and more fertile West. Accordingly, 204 GOVERNORS OF IOWA. in 1856, he turned his face toward the set- ting sun. He made a final settlement at McGregor, Iowa, where he established a branch house of the old firm. During all these years of business Mr. Merrill took an active but not a noisy part in politics. In 1854 he was elected as an Abolitionist to the New Hampshire Legis- lature, at the same time General N. B. Baker, ex-Adjutant General of Iowa, was Governor of the same State. In 1^55 he was returned for a second term to the Leg- islature. In Iowa he was equally fortunate in securing the good will of those who knew him. His neighbors and those who had dealings with him found a man who was honest in his busmess, fair in his deal- ings, social in his relations, and benevolent in his disposition. He took an active in- terest in the prosperit}- of the town and ever held an open hand to all needed chari- ties. These traits of character had drawn around him, though not realized or intended by himself, a host of personal admirers. This good will resulted in his being nomi- nated for a seat in the State Legislature, and he was the only one on his ticket that was elected. The Legislature met in extra session in 1861 to provide for the exigencies of the Rebellion, and in its deliberations Mr. Merrill rendered effective and unselfish service. He continued in business at McGregor until the summer of 1862, when he was commissioned as Colonel of the Twenty- first Iowa Infantry, proceeding immediately to Missouri, where active service awaited him. Marmaduke was menacing the Union forces in Central Missouri, which called for prompt action on the part of the Union Generals. Colonel Merrill was placed in command of a detachment of the Twent}'- first Iowa, a detachment of the Ninety-ninth Illinois, a portion of the Third Iowa Cavalry and two pieces of artillery, with orders to make a forced march to Springfield, he be- ing at Houston, eighty miles distant. On the morning of the nth of January, 1863, they having come across a body of rebels, found them advancing in heavy force. Colonel Merrill immediately made dis- position for battle, and brisk firing was kept up for an hour, when the enemy fell back. Colonel Merrill now moved in the direction of Hartville, where he found the rebels in force under Marmaduke, and from six to eight thousand strong, with six pieces of artillery, while Colonel Merrill had but 800 men and two pieces of artillery. In this engagement the rebels lost several officers and not less than 300 men in killed and wounded. The Union loss was seven killed and sixty-four wounded, five captured and two missing. The regiment performed severe marches and suffered much in sick- ness during the winter. It was assigned to the Thirteenth Corps, General John A. Mc- Clernand ; fought gallantlj' at the battle of Port Gibson; and while the impetuous charge of Black River bridge was being made Colonel Merrill was severely, and re- ported fatally, wounded. The battle of Black River bridge, the last of the series of engage- ments during the campaign of Vicksburg in which the rebels fought without their fortifi- cations, was a short but blood}' combat. While Colonel Merrill was leading his regi- ment in this deadly charge he was wounded through the hips. This brought his mili- tary career to a close. Suffering from his wounds, he resigned his commission and re- turned to McGregor, but was unable to at- tend to his private affairs for many months. In 1867 he was chosen Governor to suc- ceed William M. Stone. He was inaugu- rated January 16, 1868, and served till January li, 1872, being re-elected in 1869. After the expiration of his term of office he returned to McGregor, but as soon as he could adjust his business interests he lo- cated in Des Moines, where he is now President of the Citizens' National Bank. CrjfUS C. CARPENTER. 207 ROM his numerous offi- cial positions, and the abilit}' with which they have been filled, Cyrus C. Carpenter, the eighth Governor of the State of Iowa, deserves to be remembered as one of Iowa's foremost men. He is a native of Sus- quehanna County, Pennsyl- vania, and was born Novem- ber 24, 1829. His parents were Asahel and Amanda M. (Thayer) Carpenter, both of whom died be- fore he was twelve years old. His grand- father, John Carpenter, was one of nine young men who, in 1789, left Attleborough, Massachusetts, for the purpose of finding a home in the " new country." After various vicissitudes they located upon the spot which they called Harford, in Northeastern Pennsylvania, the township in which Cyrus was born. This location at that time was far from any other settlement, Wilkesbarre, in Wyoming Valley, near the scene of the celebrated Indian massacre, being among the nearest, though fifty miles away. Cyrus attended a common school three or four months in a year until 1846, then taught winters and worked on a farm sum- mers for three or four years, and with the money thus raised paid his expenses for several months at the academy which had been established in his native town. After leaving this institution, in 1852, he started westward ; halted at Johnstown, Lickinsr County, Ohio ; taught there a year and a half, and with his funds thus replenished he came to Iowa, loitering some on the way, and reaching Des Moines in June, 1854. A few days later he started on foot up the Des Moines Valley, and found his way to Fort Dodge, eighty miles northwest of Des Moines, from which place the soldiers had moved the previous spring to Fort Ridgely, Minnesota. He now had but a single half dollar m his pocket. He frankly told the landlord of his straightened circumstances, offering to do any kind of labor until something should " turn up." On the evening of his arrival he heard a Government contractor state that his chief surveyor had left him and that he was going out to find another. Young Carpenter at once offered his ser- vices. To the inquiry whether he was a surveyor, he answered that he understood the theory of surveying, but had had no experience in the field. His services were promptly accepted, with a promise of steady 2o8 GOVERNORS OF JOWA. employment if he were found competent. The next morning he met the party and took command. When the first week's work was done he went to Fort Dodge to replenish his wardrobe. As he left, some of the men remarked that that was the last that would be seen of him. He was then of a slight build, jaded and torn by hard work, and, when he left the camp, so utterly tired out it is not surprising that the men who were inured to out-door life thought him completely used up. But they did not know their man. With the few dollars which he had earned, he supplied himself with comfortable clothing, went back to his work on Monday morning and con- tinued it till the contract was completed. The next winter he taught the first school opened in Fort Dodge, and from that date his general success was assured. For the first two years he was employed much of the time by persons having contracts for surveying Government lands. He was thus naturally led into the land business, and from the autumn of 1855, when the Land Office was established at Fort Dodge, much of his time was devoted to surveying, select- ing lands for buyers, tax-paying for foreign owners, and in short a general land agency. During this period he devoted such time as he could spare to reading law, with the view of eventually entering the profession. Soon after the civil war commenced he entered the army, and before going into the field was commissioned as Captain in the staff department, and served over three years, attaining the rank of Lieutenant- Colonel and being mustered out as brevet Colonel. He has served his State in numerous civil capacities. He was elected Surveyor of Webster County in the spring of 1856, and the next year was elected a Represen- tative to the General Assembly, and served in the first session of that body held at Des Moines. He was elected Register of the State Land Office in 1866, re-elected in 1868, and held the office four years, declin- ing to be a candidate for renomination. He was elected Governor of Iowa in 1871, and was inaugurated January 11, 1872. He was re-elected two years later, and served until January 13, 1874. He made an able and popular executive. In his first inaugural address, delivered January 11, 1872, he made a strong plea for the State University, and especially its normal de- partment, for the agricultural college, and for whatever would advance the material progress and prosperity of the people, urg- ing in particular the introduction of more manufactories. At the expiration of his second term as Governor Mr. Carpenter was appointed, without his previous knowledge. Second Comptroller of the United States Treasury, and resigned after holding that office about fifteen months. He was influenced to take this step at that time because another bureau officer was to be dismissed, as the head of the department held that Iowa had more heads of bureaus than she was entitled to, and his resigning an office of a higher grade saved a man who deserved to remain in Government employ. He was in the forty-seventh Congress from 1 88 1 to 1883, and represented Web- ster County in the twentieth General As- sembly. He is now leading the life of a private citizen at Fort Dodge, his chief employment being the carrying on of a farm. He is not rich, which is a striking commentary on his long official service. He has led a pure and upright life. He has been a Republican since the or- ganization of that party. In religious mat- ters he is orthodox. He was married in March, 1864, to Miss Susan C. Burkholder, of Fort Dodge. They have no children, but have reared from childhood a niece of Mrs. Carpenter, Miss Fannie Burkholder. yOSHUA G. NEWBOLD. ^^^^^tmc!i^Vi^z falE^3EEF^^^^^^S3By*^*^^^^^3*^^iy^^^^^MB^B85 'satsati^ii'ggitagit^gii'g^-^g ^^^^p^is^i^^^i^^^. ^l^JOSHUa a KEWIO^E/I). aiPPasiptrf s^^^^i^f^s^^s ^MP^^g^g^ Y&^ ^^^^^"^^5 i€<^'^«j§i'§a"sgii i ie^&#^ ^^i ii ' ji-fi i j. i {» il l j. ii.. im i» i jnn i n mKm t ui in ^^^ <3.}ersi3 m I I II II II 1 1 11 n 11 11 1 1 1 1 II ^^2T!r" " " '^^^ " '■ ^ ' "!l ' '' ■*^^^(5t-[» \H E eleventh to hold the highest official posi- tion in the State of Iowa was John H. Gear, of Burlington. He is yet living in that city. He was born in Ithaca, New York, April 7, 1825. His father was Rev. E. G. Gear, a cler- gyman of the Protestant Episcopal church, who was born in New London, Connecticut, in 1792. .< vy^ When he was quite young >w^'®„\v«* h i s family removed to Pittsfield, Berkshire County, Massachusetts; in i8i6, after being or- dained, he emigrated to New York and settled at Onondaga Hill, near which is now the thriving city of Syracuse. Soon after locating there he was married to Miranda E. Cook. He was engaged in the ministry in various places in Western New York until 1836, when he removed to Galena, Illinois. There he remained until 1838, when he was appointed Chaplain in the United States Army at Fort Snelling, Minnesota. He died in 1874, aged eighty-two years. John H., his only son, in 1843, came to Burlington, where he has since continued to reside. On his arrival he commenced his mercantile career by engaging as clerk with the firm of Bridgeman & Bros. After being with this firm for a little over a year he entered the employ of W. F. Coolbaugh (since president of the Union National Bank, of Chicago), who was even at that early date the leading merchant of Eastern Iowa. He was clerk for Mr. Coolbaugh for about five years, and was then taken into partnership. The firm of W. F. Cool- baugh & Co. continued in business for nearly five years, when Mr. Gear suc- ceeded to the business by purchase, and carried it on until he became known as the oldest wholesale grocer in the State. He is now president of a large rolling mill company at Burlington. Mr. Gear has been honored by his fellow- citizens with many positions of trust. In 1852 he was elected alderman ; in 1863 was elected mayor over A. W. Carpenter, be- ing the first Republican up to that time who had been elected in Burlington on a party issue. In 1867 the Burlington, Cedar Rapids & Minnesota Railroad Company was organized, and he was chosen as its president. His efforts highly contributed to the success of the enterprise, which did much for Burlington. He was also active in promoting the Burlington & Southwest- ern Railway, as well as the Burlington & Northwestern narrow-gauge road. 2l6 GOVERNORS OF IOWA. He has always acted with the RepubHcan party, and in 1871 was nominated and elected a member of the House of Repre- sentatives of the Fourteenth General As- sembly. In 1873 he was elected to the Fifteenth General Assembly. The Repub- lican caucus of the House nominated him for Speaker by acclamation, and after a contest of two weeks he was chosen over his opponent, J. W. Dixon. He filled the position of Speaker very acceptably, and at the close of the session all the members of the House, independent of party affili- ations, joined in signing their names to a resolution of thanks, which was engraved and presented to him. In 1875 he was the third time nominated to the Assembly by the Republican party, and while his county gave a large Democratic vote he was again elected. He was also again nominated for Speaker, by the Republican caucus, and was elected by a handsome majority over his competitor, Hon. John Y. Stone. He is the only man in the State who ever had the honor of being chosen to this high posi- tion a second time. He enjoys the reputa- tion of being an able parliamentarian, his rulings never having been appealed from. At the close of the session he again received the unanimous thanks of the House for his courtesy and impartiality. In 1877 he was nominated for Governor by the Republican convention which met at Des Moines, June 28, and at the election held the following October he received 121,546 votes, against 79,353 for John P. Irish, 10,639 for Elias Jessup, and 38,228 for D. P. Stubbs. His plurality over Irish was 42,193. He was inaugurated January 17, 1878, and served four years, being re-elected in 1879, by the following handsome vote: Gear, 157,571 ; Trimble, 85,056 ; Campbell, 45,439; Dungan, 3,258; Gear's majority over all competitors, 23,828. His second inauguration was in January, 1880. Governor Gear's business habits enabled him to discharge the duties of his office with marked ability. He found the finan- cial condition of the State in a low ebb, but raised Iowa's credit to that of the best of our States. In his last biennial message he was able to report : " The warrants out- standing, but not bearing interest, Septem- ber 30, 1881. amounted to $22,093.74, and there are now in the treasury ample funds to meet the current expenses of the State. The war and defense debt has been paid, except the warrants for $i25,ooo,negotiated by the executive, auditor and treasurer, under the law of the Eighteenth General Assembly, and $2,500 of the original bonds not yet presented for pavment. The only other debt owing by the State amounts to $245,435.19, due to the permanent school fund, a portion of which is made irredeem- able by the Constitution. These facts place Iowa practically among the States which have no debt, a consideration which must add much to her reputation. The expenses of the State for the last two years are less than those of any other period since 1869, and this notwithstanding the fact that the State is to-day sustaining several institu- tions not then in existence ; namely, the hospital at Independence, the additional penitentiary, the normal school, and the asylum for the feeble-minded children, be- sides the girl's department of the reform school. The State also, at present, makes provision for fish culture, for a useful weather service, for sanitary supervision by a board of health, for encouraging im- migration to the State, for the inspection of coal mines by a State inspector, and liberally for the military arm of the Government." Governor Gear is now in the sixty-first year of his age, and is in the full vigor of both his mental and physical faculties. He was married in 1852 to Harriet S. Foot, formerly of Middlebury, Vermont, by whom he has had four children, two of whom are living. (yS* (:/? -/%^^^^^^^ BUREN R. SHERAfAN. 219 ^^v^-^: *-^£ ^^■>^»»j»»-j>tJ>«-j*^>«->^!»3y^^ jHE twelfth Governor of the State was Buren R. Sherman, who held office two terms, from 1882 to 1886. He was born in Phelps, Ontario County, New York, May 28, 1836, and is the third son of Phineas L. and Eve- line (Robinson) Sherman, both of whom were natives of the Empire State. The subject of this sketch received his early educa- tion in the public schools of his native place, and con- cluded his studies at Elmira, New York, acquiring a thorough knowledge of the English branches. At the close of his studies, acting on the advice of his father, who was a mechanic (an ax maker), he ap- prenticed himself to Mr. S. Ayres, of El- mira, to learn the watchmaker's trade. In 1855, with his family, he removed to Iowa and settled upon an unbroken prairie, in what is now Geneseo Township, Tama County, where his father had purchased lands from the Government. There young Sherman labored on his father's farm, em- ploying his leisure hours in the study of law, which he had begun at Elmira. He also engaged as bookkeeper in a neighbor- ly ing town, and with his wages assisted his parents in improving their farm. In the summer of 1859 he was admitted to the bar, and the following spring removed to Vin- ton, and began the practice of law with Hon. William Smyth, formerly District Judge, and J. C. Traer, conducting the business under the firm name of Smyth, Traer & Sherman. They built up a flourishing practice and were prospering when, upon the opening of the war, in 1861, Mr. Sherman enlisted in Company G, Thirteenth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, and immediately went to the front. He entered the service as Second Sergeant, and in February, 1862, was made Second Lieutenant of Company E. On the 6th of April following he was very severely wounded at the battle of Pittsburg Landing, and while in the hospital was promoted to the rank of Captain. He returned to his company while yet obliged to use crutches, and remained on duty till the summer of 1863, when, by reason of his wound, he was compelled to resign and return home. Soon after returning from the army he was elected County Judge of Benton County, and re-elected without opposition in 1865. In the autumn of 1866 he resigned his judge- ship and accepted the office of clerk of the District Court, to which he was re-elected in 1868, 1870 and 1872, and in December, 1874, resigned in order to accept the office GOVERNORS OF IOWA. of Auditor of State, to which he had been elected hy a majority of 28,425 over J. M. King, the " anti-monopoly" candidate. In 1876 he was re-nominated and received 50,- 272 more votes than W. Growneweg(Demo- crat) and Leonard Brown (Greenback) to- gether. In 1878 he was again chosen to represent the Republican party in that office, and this time received a majority of 7,164 over the combined votes of Colonel Eiboeck (Democrat) and G. V. Swearenger (Green- back). In the si.\ years that he held this office, he was untiring in his faithful appli- cation to routine work and devotion to his especial share of the State's business. He retired with such an enviable record that it was with no surprise the people learned, June 27, 1 88 1, that he was the nominee of the Republican parly for Governor The campaign was an e.xciting one. The General Assembly had submitted to the people the prohibitory amendment to the Constitution. This, while not a partisan question, became uppermost in the mind of the public. Mr. Sherman received 133,- 330 votes, against 83,244 for Kinne and 28,- 112 for D. M. Clark, or a plurality of 50,086 and a majority of 21,974. In 1883 he was re-nominated by the Republicans, as was L. G. Kinne by the Democrats. The National party offered J. B. Weaver. During the campaign these candidates held a number of joint discussions at different points in the State. At the election the vote was : Sher- man, 164,182; Kinne, 139,093; Weaver, 23,- 089; Sherman's plurality, 25,089; majority, 2,000. In his second inaugural Governor Sherman said : " In assuming, fur the second time, the office of Chief Magistrate of the State, I fully realize my grateful obligations to the people of Iowa, through whose generous confidence I am here. I am aware of the duties and grave responsibilities of this ex- alted position, and as well what is expected of me therein. As in the past I have given my undivided time and serious attention thereto, so in the future I promise the most earnest devotion and untiring effort in the faithful performance of my official require- ments. I have seen the State grow from infancy to mature manhood, and each year one of substantial betterment of its previous position. " With more railroads than any other State, save two ; with a school interest the grandest and strongest, which commands the support and confidence of all the peo- ple, and a population, which in its entirety is superior to any other in the sisterhood, it is not strange the pride which attaches to our people. When we remember that the results of our efforts in the direction of good government have been crowned with such magnificent success, and to-day we have a State in most perfect ph3'sical and financial condition, no wonder our hearts swell in honest pride as we contemplate the past and so confidently hope for the future. What we may become depends on our own efforts, and to that future I look with earnest and abiding confidence." Governor Sherman's term of office con- tinued until January 14, i886, when he was succeeded by William Larrabee, and he is now, temporaril}-, perhaps, enjoying a well- earned rest. He has been a Republican since the organization of that party, and his services as a campaign speaker have been for many years in great demand. As an officer he has been able to make an enviable record. Himself honorable and thorough, his management of public business has been o"f the same character, and such as has com- mended him to the hearty approval of the citizens of the State. He was married August 20, 1862, to Miss Lena Kendall, of Vinton, Iowa, a young lady of rare accomplishments and strength of character. The union has been happy in every respect. They have two children — Lena Kendall and Oscar Eugene. \ W/LL/AM LARRAhEE. 22j ILLIAMLARRABEE is the thirteenth Governor of this State, and the six- teenth Governor of Iowa, counting from the Territo- rial organization. His ancestors bore the name of d'Larrabee, and were among the French Hugue- nots who came to America early in the seventeenth century, set- tling in Connecticut. Adam Larrabee was born March 14, 1787, and was one of the early graduates of West Point Military Academy. He served with distinction in the war of 1812, having been made a Second Lieuten- ant March i, 181 1. He was promoted to be Captain February i, 1814, and was soon after, March 30, of the same year, severely wounded at the battle of Lacole Mills, dur- ing General Wilkinson's campaign on the St. Lawrence. He recovered from this wound, which was in the lung, and was afterward married to Hannah Gallup Lester, who was born June 8, 1798, and died March IS. 1837. Captain Larrabee died in 1869, aged eighty-two. The subject of this sketch was bom at Ledyard, Connecticut, January 20, 183^ and was the seventh of nine children. He passed his early life on a rugged New Eng- land farm, and received only moderate school advantages. He attended the dis- trict schools winters until nineteen years of age, and then taught school for two winters. He was now of an age when it became necessary to form some plans for the future In this, however, he was embarrassed by a misfortune which befel him at the age of fourteen. . In being trained to the use of fire-arms under his father's direction, an ac- cidental discharge resulted in the loss of sight in the right eye. This unfitted him for many employments usually sought by ambitious youths. The family lived two miles from the sea, and in that locality it was the custom for at least one son in each family to become a sailor. William's two eldest brothers chose this occupation, and the third remained in farm. Thus made free to choose for himself William decided to emigrate West. In 1853, accordingly, he came to Iowa." His elder sister, Hannah, wife of E. H. Williams, was then living at Garnavillo, Clavton County, and there he went first. In that way he selected Northeast Iowa as his charge of the home J24 GOVERNORS OF IOWA. future home. After teaching one winter at Hardin, he was for three years employed as a sort of foreman on the Grand Meadow farm of his brother-in-law, Judge Williams. In 1857 he bought a one-third interest in the Clermont Mills, and located at Cler- mont, Fayette County. He soon was able \o buy the other two-thirds, and within a year found himself sole owner. He oper- ated this mill until 1874, when he sold to S. M. Leach. On the breaking out of the war he offered to enlist, but was rejected on ac- count of the loss of his right eye. Being informed he might possibly be admitted as a commissioned officer he raised a compan)' and received a commission as First Lieu- tenant, but was again rejected for the same disability. After selling the mill Mr. Larrabee de- voted himself to farming, and started a private bank at Clermont. He also, ex- perimentally, started a large nursery, but this resulted only in confirming the belief that Northern lowa^ has too rigorous a cli- mate for fruit-raising. Mr. Larrabee did not begin his political career until 1867. He was reared as a Whig, and became a Republican on the or- ganization of that party. While interested in politics he generally refused local offices, serving only as treasurer of the School Board prior to 1867. In the autumn of that year, on the Republican ticket, he was elected to represent his county in the State Senate. To this high position he was re- elected from time to time, so that he served as Senator continuously for eighteen years before being promoted to the highest office in the State. He was so popular at home that he was generally re-nominated by ac- clamation, and for some years the Demo- crats did not even make nominations. During the whole eighteen years Senator Larrabee was a member of the principal committee, that on Ways and Means, of which he was generally chairman, and was also a member of other committees. In the pursuit of the duties thus devolving upon him he was indefatigable. It is said that he never missed a committee meeting. Not alone in this, but in private and public business of all kinds his uniform habit is that of close application to work. Many of the important measures passed by the Legislature owe their existence or present form to him. He was a candidate for the gubernatorial nomination in 1881, but entered the contest too late, as Governor Sherman's following had been successfully organized. In 1885 it was generally conceded before the meet- ing of the convention that he would be nominated, which he was, and his election followed as a matter of course. He was inaugurated Januar)' 14, 1886, and so far has made an excellent Governor. His position in regard to the liquor question, that on which political fortunes are made and lost in Iowa, is that the majority should rule. He was personall)' in favor of high license, but having been elected Governor, and sworn to uphold the Constitution and execute the laws, he proposes to do so. A Senator who sat beside him in the Senate declares him to be " a man of the broadest comprehension and informatioiv, an extraordinarily clear reasoner, fair and conscientious in his conclusions, and of Spartan firmness in his matured judg- ment," and says that " he brings the prac- tical facts and philosophy of human nature, the science and history of law, to aid in his decisions, and adheres with the earnestness of Jeflerson and Sumner to the fundamental principles of the people's rights in govern- ment and law." Governor Larrabee was married Sep- tember 12, 1 861, at Clermont, to Anna M. Appclman, daughter of Captain G. A. Appelman. Governor Larrabee has seven children — Charles, Augusta, Julia, Anna, William, Frederic and Helen. HISTORY OF Shelby County, Iowa. CHAPTER I. INTRODUCTOKY. I^AOH year, as it rolls its resistless way along the mighty pathway of time, is fast thinning the ranks of the hardy pioneers, who, in their adventurous way, first made the broad pathway of emigration into the bright valley and beautifully rolling prairie land of what is now Shelby County. The relentless hand of death, pursuing his remorseless and unceasing avocation, is cutting down, one by one, the hardy and brave men and women who first dared, into this western wilderness, to cope with the untried realities of a domain unknown to civilization, and un- inhabited, save by the savage, roaming tribes of Indians, who for an unknown period enjoyed their sort of life, even as we do ours now. Within the memory of many now living in this county, the Indian chieftain, with his dusky maiden, was inspired by the scenes of nature on every hand. This to thera was doubtless a sacred spot; here they had liunted and fished; here tliey had wor- shiped the Great Spirit; here they had lived and died, passing away to give place to a truer, better type of humau creatures. No tongue can tell, no pen portray, the hardships and cruel vicissitudes of fortune endured in those early days by the little band of "apostate" Mormons, wlio, for the conscience within themselves, deserted Brie- ham Young and his polygamous devotees, upon reaching the Missouri Eiver. The his- torian of to-day looks into the bedimmed eye of the Latter-Day Saints, observing their weather-beaten form, the furrowed brow, the prematurely hoary locks, and takes them all as evidence that these people have passed through "great tribulation." Besides these Mormons (who formed the majority of Shelby County's first settlers), there were some others among the earliest settlement, who left the comforts of beautiful homes in the far-away East and volunteered here to plow the first fields and reap the first grain. These, too, often endured penury and want while trying to subdue and fully conquer Dame Nature and establish for their families comfortable homes in what, at that date, was a boundless wilderness. Let us hasten, then, to put down the words as they fall from their quivering lips, of the grandly heroic deeds done in those pioneer times, that their actions may find the niche in history which they justly deserve. Let their words and deeds build for them a mon- ument that shall long outlast the stone or bronze which shall ere long mark their last 230 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. resting place. Let there an epitaph be in- scribed, "Thky have builded bettee than THEY KNEW." But before we tate up the history of true, modern liistoric times, let us record a few of the facts concerning this county as it existed " down through the dim and misty vista of time before man was," and see what founda- tions were here builded by an all-wise Crea- tor, in the geological formation, the soil, the forests and the streams. GEOLOGY, TOPOGRAPHY AND NATURAL HISTORY. Shelby County is situated on the Missouri slope, in the fourth tier of counties from the southern boundary line of the State, and is tiie second east from the Missouri River. It is twenty-four miles square, and has an area of 576 square miles. It is bounded on the north by Crawford County, on the east by Audubon County, on the south by Cass and Pottawattamie counties, and on the west by Harrison County. The general surface of the land within the borders of this county is very rolling, and in portions it is quite hilly prairie land, with a few good-sized native groves, of which Gal- land's is the largest. It may be said of the topograpliy of nearly all this portion of Iowa, that its surface reminds one of an irregular checker-board of ridges and intervening val- leys, furrowed out by the great plow of Nature. It is a prairie country, but does not have the usual characteristics of prairie land, as occasional groves and beautiful streamlets relieve the ordinary monotony of a stretch of prairie. Let one, to illustrate, imagine for a moment that at one time in its formation the whole county was in a liquid state, and by a violent wind had been thrown into billowy commotion, resembling the angry ocean wlien storm-driven. Imagine the whole to be cut up into great wave-furrowed sec- tions, and then by some sudden process to be frozen, and this will show about the broken condition of the land in Shelby County. It is excellent for agriculture, as the hillsides have line rich soil and are especially adapted to the growing of the various fruits cultivated in this, latitude. The bottom lands generally slope toward the streams, and along the West Nishnabotna River is one of the finest valleys in all the broad domain of Iowa. All the various valleys in the county possess tlie richest of soil, which is known as "bluff de- posit," washed from the hillsides, throughout the centuries long since passed. Unlike the northern and eastern portion of Iowa, this county has no subsoil of clay to hold the water; hence it is that after a heavy rain storm one may resume the work of farming, never being bothered with plows not clear- ing, or with muddy, impassable wagon-roads. In short, there is no liner soil to work in or travel upon than is found in southwestern Iowa. The principal crops grown are Indian corn and the common grains, all of which spring up quickly, grow rapidly and mature into profitable harvests. The county is exceptionally well watered, for an Iowa county. The West Nishnabotna River flows nearly southwest, through the middle of the territory, receiving from the east the waters of the Middle Nishnabotna River, Whittede and Indian creeks, while the western part is drained by branches of the Missouri and Boyer rivers, including Silver, Mosquito, Pigeon and Picayune creeks. Mill Creek is a small stream in the northwest portion of the county, which flows into the Boyer River in Harrison County, and upon which is located one of Iowa's most charming tracts of woodland, known as Galland's Grove — named from one of the first white men wlio settled in that vicin- ity. It contains about 1,000 acres. There HISTORY OP SHELBY COUNTY. 231 are other beautiful groves throughout the county, along the banks of the numerous streams, too small to call rivers and too large to terra creeks, in the common understanding of the name. These natural groves, planted by Mother Nature, are made up, for the most part, of the different species of oak, elm, ash, hickory, black walnut and bass wood. There are also many thickets of sumach, hazel, thorn-apple, blackberry, gooseberry and kin- dred shrubs. The entire county is supposed, by geolog- ical experts, to be underlaid with a coal de- posit, to a greater or less extent, but is concealed by the post-tertiary deposit, not less than 200 feet beneath the surface. The only stone fit for building purposes is the boulder of the drift formation. Future pros- pecting and delving into the geological strata are quite likely to present a mineral wealth of great financial value. One of the finest features of the natural resources of Shelby County is the excellent quality, as well as quantity, of pure, whole- some water found in its numerous water courses and at easy depth for wells, affording an abundance of living water for stock and domestic purposes. 333 HISTORY OP SHELBY COUNTY. CHAPTER II. EARLT SETTLEMENT THE MORMONS. FO fix locations correctly, names and dates concerning the first settlement of ^' a county, is no small task for the local historian. From the most positive evidence it is now generally conceded that the honor of eflfecting the first actual settlement in Shelby County belongs to Abraham Galland, who located in what is now Grove Township, in the autumn of 1848, building a log cabin in which his son-in-law, William Jordan, and family lived during the winter of 18-48- '49, being the first white family to spend a winter within the county. During the fore part of 1849 came William Felshaw, Solo- mon and Joseph Hancock, Franklin, Rudd and Joseph Roberts. Felshaw removed to Utah Territory, Joseph Roberts moved to eastern Iowa, the two Hancock brothers are both dead, and Franklin Rudd now resides in Dow City, Iowa. Abraham Galland has been dead many years, but William Jordan, the son-in-law, who lived in the first cabin home built in the county, still survives. He lives at Deloit, Crawford County, Iowa, at the advanced age of eighty-seven years. It should here be stated that the ereater portion of the first settlement of the county was from among the vast throng of families who separated themselves from the Mormons, who, under the leadership of Brigham Young, stopped for the winter on the banks of the Missouri River at a point just north of the present city of Omaha, Nebraska. Tiie place was therefore called " Winter Quarters." The Mormons had been driven from their homes at and around the city of Nanvoo, Illinois, and were en route for Utah at the time above mentioned. Up to the time of Joseph Smith (Sr.) being killed in the jail at Carthage, Illinois, there had been no such thing as polygamy taught by that sect, but upon arriving at " Winter Quarters " it was made known by the president of the Mormon church (Brigham Young, who took Joseph Smith's place), that it would henceforth be a religious requirement, and upon this ques- tion alone many thousands separated them- selves, as they would not submit to what they believed to be a great evil. Hence it came about that we have what is known as the " He-onjanised Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.'''' The so-called " Mor- mons " of Shelby Conuty, as well as many of its adjoining counties, are in no sense be- lievers in polygamy, and are as outspoken against its practice as any other religious denomination of people. It is for their posi- tion on this subject that they have been termed as " apostates " by the Utah Mormon church, with whom they have nc affiliations. A large number of this class, when Presi- dent Young proclaimed polygamy an article of faith, sought homes along the eastern banks of the Missouri River, in Iowa and Missouri. The first settlement in Potta- wattamie, Harrison, Crawford, Cass and Shelby counties was effected by this class, commonly known as Latter Day Saints. The reason for their scattering was principally on account of wishing to build up homes in the most suitable location, and of course early HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. 233 settlers always select the land through which running water is found in abundance, as well as because along such sti-eanis the fine nat- ural groves are located, all of which go toward constituting excellent locations for the pioneers. Galland's Grove, consisting of over 1,000 acres of timber land, situated in the extreme northwest part of Shelby Count}', presented charming features to that persecuted band, large numbers of whom entered lands long before any government survey had been made. Among the early settlers at Galland's Grove, including the Latter Day Saints, were Uriah Roundy, John Mcintosh, Alex- ander McCord, Ralph Jenkins, William Vanausdall, John Hawley, Alfred Jackson, Milton Lynch, Benjamin Crandall, Robert Ford, Eli Clothier, Thomas Black. One of the most noted pioneer characters in Galland's Grove, who is still living, at the advanced age of eighty-two years, is John A. Mcintosh, who was born in Kentucky in 1806. He spent the first seventeen years of his life in his native State, then went to Illinois, and from that State to Tennessee, where he was married. But few men survive to relate the circumstances of voting at six- teen Presidential elections, beginning with Andrew Jackson and casting his ballot, this fall (November, 1888), the second time for Grover Cleveland. In 1840 he removed to Lee County, Iowa, where he remained until 1849. He was among the Mormons who separated them- selves from the church on account of the evil practice of polygamy. He spent many years in the South, preaching the Mormon doc- trines, traveling on foot, from place to place. He first came to Shelby County in 1849, when but a few families had settled on J\Iill Creek within Galland's Grove. He located where he is now living. Being a man pos- sessed of sterling qualities, generous and true to all his fellow beings, he made many friends, even among the Indian tribes, which at that time possessed all western Iowa. His pio- neer cabin was erected in a narrow valley, between two great ridges, and was indeed a secluded and out-of-the-way location. His first neighbors were the wild animals and the Indian tribes, including the Pottawatomies and Omahas, who called him " The Mormon Chief," and would never do an act to displease him, on account of his bravery and kindness to them. He relates that in all those early years, living with warlike tribes on every hand, that he does not know of the Indians ever taking any of his property, except one pretty rooster, which was taken by an Indian boy, who was severely chastised by his father. One of the Indian chiefs was overtaken by a band of warriors from another tribe and wounded, so they supposed he would shortly die; however, he made out to crawl on his hands and knees to the cabin door of " Uncle Mcintosh," to whom he gave advice as to his burial. He wanted to be placed in a white man's coffin and buried on Mcintosh's land, all of which was sacredly carried out. A daughter of the hardy old pioneer died and was buried near the grave of the Indian chief, who had such implicit confidence in her father, who was a great peace- maker between the Indians themselves, as well as between the white race and the Indians. Mr. Mcintosh relates many a thrilling incident of frontier life. When he first settled in Shelby County all was new ; everything had to be made from the state in which wild nature had fashioned it. Kanesville (Council Blurt's) was the nearest point at which any family supplies could be obtained, such as flour, groceries, meat and clothing. The streams . were much larger in thoir average flow of water than now, and none of them were 234 EISrORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. spanned by any sort of a bridge. Every few weeks some one or more of the settlers at the "Grove" would go to Kanesville, becoming a sort of "common carrier" for the whole settlement, some sending for a jug of syrup, some for a jug of whisky! and others for the real necessities of life — meat, flour and groceries; and they were lastly cautioned to " be sure and see if we have any mail there! " During Mr. Mcintosh's ministry among the Latter Day Saints, he organized ten or a dozen branch societies. Not until old age had made such inroads on his strength and health that he was unable to get about, did he give up his work preaching the gospel, according to bis conviction. Among the earlier settlers of the eastern portion of the county and within what was known as Round Township, was Jefferson Tague, the first white man to locate in Round Township; he settled at what was called "Watson's Grove. Then came William Hack and his two sons, John B. Hoffman, W. Ing- ham, Mansel Wicks, L. D. Sunderland, Messrs. Heath, Hutchison, Stanton, William McGinnes, Dwight Tirrell, Lon Sweat, Henry Adams, Leonard Bowman, Colonel Dalton, W. W. Lyons, James McConnell, Henry Snider, Samuel Blake, Cyrus Luen, Nelson Ward, Messrs. Roland, Riibendall, Phiefer, Leonker, Miller, Lloyd Jiukins, Adam Cuppy, Dr. Johnston, and a blind man named Barlan. Those who settled in eastern Shelby County had farther to go to market and mill than those at Galland's Grove, and for a number of years saw great hardships, and only sur- vived by having a good degree of pluck and energy. During the hard winter of 1856-'57 the snow was very deep, filling the ravines and valleys to a level and obstructing travel everywhere in the State. At this time Shelby Coimty saw great sufl'ering. The wife of Nelson Ward, the first settler at Kibbey's Grove, ground buckwheat in a common coffee-mill, to the amount of sixteen bushels, from l)ecember on until the snows had melted sufficient to allow her husband to go to mill. On the 18th of March, 1857, the snow meas- ured four feet on the level. A pioneer named George Merrill started from the Grove bear- ing his name, to go across to Galland's Grove, some twenty miles, but owing to a blinding storm he sought refuge within a deserted log- cabin built by Isaac Cuppy. For foiir days he attempted to make his way across to the Grove, but each time failing he returned to the lonely cabin to spend the night; he had no food during these long days and nights. Another incident, connected with that never to be forgotten winter of ^'' fifty -six and seven,'''' will suffice to illustrate what our pioneers had to endure, that the wilderness might finally blossom like the rose! Levi Yeoman came from Council Bluffs late iu the autumn of 1853 and purcliased the claims and cabin of Mr. Cuppy, moving his family to the same. He then returned to his former home and engaged at chopping wood, by which to earn a little ready money to buy the actual necessities of life. He had told his family that he would be home at a given time, but did not come, and as the weather was blustry and getting quite severe, it then being early in December, the wife and mother became alarmed. A son less than eleven years old, named Allen J., seeming to take the whole situation in, started, unbeknown to his mother, in search of a lost father, as he supposed. The distance between their place and where his father was working was about thirty-two miles; the brave son traversed this long, lonesome route alone, facing the cold wind and snow, in an almost miraculous manner; he arrived within three miles of the objective point, when night overtook him. He became HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. 535 confused and lost for the time, and believing all ^^ould end well with one who sought only to do his duty, he crawled into a hollow log and tliere remained until morning, when he resumed his journey and fortunately met his father, loaded down with provisions purchased for the family. This young lad, Allen J., grew to be a man, enlisted into the army and served as Captain of an Indiana company during the Rebellion. His mother, who died in the fall of 1854, was a sister of L. D. Sun- derland. COUNTY GOVERNMENT. Counties, like State and national common- wealths, are only successful and prosperous to the exact degree in which the}' have pru- dent, progressive government. The early history of every county in the "wild West" shows a lack of means with which to do business, as well as none too good educational qualifications for transacting business in an ofMcial capacity. Much experience liad to be gained at the expense of the illy pi-epared tax payers, who in those early days did not find money cropping out upon the side of every budding tree and bush! Prior to 1860 the State itself had imperfect laws. The present code is as good as can be found in any State of theUnion, but it is the crystallized methods of all the earlier settled States, with an occa- sional amendment and improvement over any and all of them; but necessarily this state of perfection could not well be obtained at first. The one-man power of the old county judge system prevailed in all of its imperfection until 1860, when it was changed tothe present (or similar) system of county snpervisorship. Prior to that date Shelby County had issued warrants for mjamy, and settled in the western part of Iowa, refusing to go further than Kanesville (now Council Bluffs) with President Brigham Young. It is now bounded on the north by Crawford County, on the east by Union Township, on the south by Washington Township, and on the west by Harrison County. It is the northwest corner township of Shelby County, was the first one settled, and now comprises congres- sional township 81, range 40, west. Harlan Township is congressional town- ship 79, range 38, west, and was first consti- tuted September 3, 1860. The county-seat is within the township at Harlan, an incor- porated town. It is bounded on the north by Douglas, on the east by Jackson, on the south by Fairview and Monroe, and on the west by Lincoln townships. Jackson Township, which is south of Polk Township, west of Audubon County, north of Clay and Monroe townships, and east of Harlan Township, was constituted September 3, 1860, and now comprises congressional township 79, range 37, west. When organ- ized its population was less than 30 people. Jefferson Township is bounded on its north by Crawford County, on the east by Audubon County, on the south by Polk Township, and west by Greeley Township. It comprises congressional township 81, range 37, west, and was constituted April 8, 1871, at which date it had a population of 117. Lincoln Township comprises congressional subdivision 79, range 39, west, and was con- stituted April 3, 1871, with a population of 129. It is now bounded on the north by Westphalia Township, on the east by Harlan Township, on the south by Shelby and Fair- view townships, and on the west by Cass Township. Monroe Township, bounded on the north by Jackson and Harlan townships, on the east by Clay Township, on the south by Cass County, and on the west by Fairview Town- ship, was constituted January 7, 1873, with a population of about 550 people. It is made of all of township 78, range 38, west. Polk Township is south from Jefferson, west of the Audubon County line, north from Jackson Township, and east from Doug- las Township. It was constituted April 3, 1871, and now comprises township 80, range 37, west, having, when first organized, about 120 people within its border. Shelby Township is bounded, north by Cass and Lincoln townships, east by Fairview Township, south by the Pottawattamie County line, and west by Harrison County. It was 238 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. constituted September 6, 1870, and comprises at present congressional township 78, range 40, west. It had about 190 population in 1870. Union Township is south of Crawford County, west of Greeley Township, north of Westphalia Township, east of Washington I Township. It was constituted September 4, 1871, with a population of 87. Its present limits embrace all of township 81, range 39, west. j Washinoton Township is bounded, north by Grove Township, east by Westphalia Township, south by Cass Township, &nd on the west by Harrison County. Its organiza- tion dates from April 3, 1871, and its present territory embraces all of congressional town- ship 80, range 40, west. At the time it was constituted its population was 163. Westphalia Township comprises all of township 80, range 39, west, and was organ- ized June 2, 1874, with a population of 207 people. It is bounded, north by Union, east by Douglas, south by Lincoln, and west by Washington townships. FIBST EVENTS. Much interest and no little curiosity attaches itself to tlie first es-ents of the set- tlement of any county, and along with it comes a great amount of controversy which not unfrequently baifles the best efforts of the gatherer of local history to establish fully; but after much research in various parts of the county it seems the following are the first events within the limits of the county: The first settlement made within the county was effected at Galiand's Grove, in the northwest part of the county, in 1848, by Abraham Galland, who came in the fall of 1848 and erected a log cabin, which his son-in-law, William Jordan, with his family, occupied the coming winter — being the winter of 1848-'49. The next to locate were Joseph Hancock and his two brothers. The first justice of the peace was Uriah Roundy. The first birth is usually spoken of as Granville Cuppy, but this is a mistake, as he was born in April, 1854, and there were quite a number of children born in Galiand's Grove among the Mormon settlers long prior to this. Mr. Cuppy was probably the first one born in the eastern portion of the county, however. The first death occurred at Galiand's Grove in 1850, it being an unnamed infant. The first marriage was that of John Rudd to Sereldue Jordan, in 1853. The first school taught at the expense of public fund was in the winter of 1857-'58, on section 10 of Douglas Township. The teacher, E. W. Holbrook, was engaged by William McGinnis, who, with a few otlier families, constituted the school patrons. The attendance was twenty -two pupils, who were housed within a rude log cabin for- merly used as a residence. Owing to the fact that School Fund Commissioner Reed had the school money stolen from a trunk in his own house, the director, William McGin- nis, to make good his word of honor to the teacher, had to pay the amount himself, which after a long time was refunded to him. The first physician was a Dr. J. VV^. John- ston, who lived near Harlan until about 1873, when he died while cutting up potatoes in a " cave." The first attorney was James Butler, of whom many good stories are told by pio- neers^among others the one regarding his application to the court for admission to the legal bar. Butler was asked by his honor how many kinds of property there were? He answered three, viz.: Real, personal and mixed. The judge asked him what he des- HISTORY OF 8HELBT COUNTT. 230 ignated as mixed, whereupon he promptly replied — " Mules and jViggers." It may be added he was pronounced a full-fledged attorney! The first goods were sold by Solomon Hancock, at Galland's Grove, in 1853. The first Fourth of July celebration in the county was held in 1855 at the place of Nelson Ward, in what is now Douglas Township. The families present were Wards, Sunderlands, Jinkens and Stantons. It was at what is now styled Kibbey's Grove. The principal features were a ten-gallon keg of " Old Kye " and a flag made from strips of red and white underwear, hung upon the bushes! The first newspaper published in the county was called the J^ew Idea, printed at Simoda in 1858-'59. The first election was held in April, 1854, and an old pioneer remarks that " there was 400 times the interest and excitement over the election of a school officer then than over the attempt to elect Grover Cleveland the second time for President of the United States!" The first religious organization effected, aside from the semi-organization among the Latter Day Saints, was that formed by the Methodist Episcopalians in 1858 in Douglas Township, by Rev. Baker, who formed a church of the families of William McGinnis and his neighbor Jinkens. The first orthodox sermon preached, was delivered by Judge Tarkington, who was somewhat of a Methodist preacher, and would usually dispense the truth of tlie gospel Sun- days, after having presided as judge through the preceding week. The date of this first sermon was in October, 1854, the same being delivered from the open doorway of Mr. Bowman's log house in Bowman's Grove. The congregation was the few neighbors who gathered in and were seated upon rails and " shakes " placed about the yard beneath the forest trees — " God's first temple." The first mill is always hailed in every new country with delight; they have ever gone as vanguards of true civilization and are of great necessity. At an early day — prior to 1860 — the pioneers of Shelby and its adjoininor counties were greatly burdened with the question, " Where would we better go to mill?" " Uncle Billy" McGinnis says he has gone to mill from Dubuque to Council Blufts ! His explanation, however, is, that he has been a pioneer at three different points in Iowa, and has always been obliged to go a long distance in each location to mill, the last time going from a point near Harlan to Council Bluffs. He describes one of these milling trips about as follows: He loaded a few bushels of grain upon his wagon, and started with his ox team for a mill in Mills County — about sixty miles from his home — but upon arriving there found they were two weeks behind in grinding for others, so he went on to " Haymaker's Mills," at the junction of the Nishnabotna branches. Qpon entering the mill (where he had frequently been before) the owner told him he was far behind already, and as he was accustomed to doing so, he would better go on to Pacific City, eight miles away, and that if he failed there to come back. The miller in charge went out and on the sly told him that the proprietor was cranky and did not like his politics — the proprietor being of the class who a few years thereafter were known as rebels. He further advised " Uncle Billy " to go off down in the woods and camp out for a day or two, allowing time enough to go and come to the mill already directed, and then come to the mill as though he had been to Pacific City and failed to get his grinding uo HISTOnr OF SHELBY COUNTY. done. He said then Haymaker would grind for him. This course was followed out, and after a couple of days be drove his load up in front of the mill, when the proprietor hailed him: "Well, Billy, I knew you would finally come back to me." But Mr. McGinnis was only too glad to get bis flour and go home — the trip taking nine days travel over a rough, hilly country, which at that day had no bridges. The writer asked him what the millman took such a course for, and the reply was, '■'■Inborn ciissed- nessf" Such were the obstacles to overcome in going to a mill at an early time, and it is not to be wondered at that the home flouring mill was highly prized by the early settlers of western Iowa. The first flour mill in Shelby County was built at Harlan, on the Nishnabotna River. It was constructed by J. "W. Chatburn, who was the pioneer miller of Harrison County, Iowa, as well. He came to Harlan in Au- gust, 1867, commencing at once to build his mill. He had the mill completed and ready for grinding early in January, 1808. There was no other mill within a great distance, and it was no uncommon occurrence for farmers to come thirty and forty miles to get their wheat floured at this mill. At first it was a common burr-stone mill, but in 1885 the interior was refitted, all the old machin- ery thrown out, and the modern mill appli- ances, including the roller system, were phced instead. The present plant is a ten- roller mill, having a daily capacity of fifty barrels of flour. The power which drives this mill is a seven-foot head of water from the west branch of the Nishnabotna River, which atfords a sufficient power to run the mill throughout the entire year. The mill does both custom and merchant milling. In the early history of this mill the proprietor, Mr. Chatburn, paid §1.25 a bushel for wheat which was hauled many miles, and after being ground into flour was hauled to Dun- lap and there marketed. The owner of this mill has followed the business for forty years, and has the honor of constructing the first mill in Harrison County, as well as in Shelby County. The first saw-mill was hailed with nearly as much delight as the flour-mill, because it was almost useless to try to improve and provide suitable buildings without it. The first saw-mill in Shelby County was built on Mill Creek by W. W. Reed, at Galland's Grove, at a very early date, but in the east part of the county the first mill was built by Jonathan "Wyland in 1857, and was operated by his son "Washington, in company with Isaac Plum. The machinery, including the cast-iron water-wheel, was brought from Iowa City by teams. This mill was situated at Bowman's Grove, and was propelled by the waters of Nishnabotna River. It was the old-time sash saw, and while its up and down motion was somewhat slow, it sliced oft' many a thousand boards which went toward the building of the first houses in Simoda and Harlan. This property was in the hands and operated by many dift'erent persons, including T. J. Stanley, C. J. and T. J. Wyland and Elias Monroe. It was oper- ated until about 1877, when it had outgrown its usefulness and was taken down. HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. 241 CHAPTER III. OFFICIAL VOTE OF SHELBY COUNTY. PKE8IDENT. 1856 — James Buchanan (Democratic) C2 John C. Fremont (Republican) 19 1860— Abraham Lincoln (Kepul)lican) 100 Stephen A. Douglas (Democratic) C4 1864 — Abraham Lincoln (Republican) 78 George B. McClellan (Democratic) 80 1868— U. S. Grant (Republican) 151 Horatio Seymour (Democratic) 1-4 1872— U. S. Grant (Republican) 350 Horace Greeley (Liberal) 145 1%76—Rmherford B. Hayes (Republican) 876 Samuel J. Tilden (Democratic) 631 1880— James A. Garfield (Republican) 1,499 W.S.Hancock (Democratic) 963 James B. Weaver (Greenback) 99 1884— James G. Blaine (Republican) 1,802 Grover Cleveland (Democratic) 1,745 1888 — Benjamin Harrison (Republican) 1,714 Grover Cleveland (Democratic) 1,762 GOVERNOR. 1854— Curtis Bates (Democratic) 33 James W. Grimes (Whig) 19 1857 — Ralph P. Lowe (Republican) (No vote shown). 1859— A. C. Dodge (Democratic) 96 S. J. Kirkwood (Republican) 78 1861— S. J. Kirkwood (I{epublican) 99 Scattering (Democratic) 36 1863— William M. Stone (Kepublican) 80 J. M. Tutlle (Democratic) 82 1865— William M. Stone (I{epublican) 73 T. H. Burton (Democratic) 74 G. 8. Bailey 7 1867— Samuel Merrill (Republican) 107 Charles Mason (Democratic) 109 1869— Samuel Merrill (Republican) 116 George Gillaspy (Democratic) 90 1871 — Cyrus C. Carpenter (Republican) 285 J. O. C. Kn:ipp (Democratic) 177 1873— Cyrus C. Carpenter (Republican) 304 J. G. Vale (Democratic) 228 1875— Samuel J. Kirkwood (Republican) 549 Shephard Leffler (Democratic) 406 J. H. Lozier (Prohibition) 3 1877— J. H. Gear (Republican) 888 John P. Irish (Democratic) 637 1879— John H. Gear (Republican) 1,133 H. H. Trlmlile (Democratic) 794 Daniel Campbell (Greenback) 27 1881— B. R. Sherman (Republican) 1,0.50 L. G. Kinnie (Democratic) 695 D. M. Ciark (Greenback) 103 1883— B. R. Sherman (Republican) 1,593 L. G. Kinnie (Democratic) 1,.533 James B. Weaver (Greenback) 31 1885 — William Larrabee (Republican) 1,544 Charles E. Whiting (Democratic) l.Csg 1887— William Larrabee (Republican) 1,421 J. T. Anderson (Democratic) 1,587 M. J. Cain (Greenback) 301 COUNTY OFFICERS. The first set of county officials served under an appointment of the Governor, the first regular election in the county being held April 3, 1853. No record seems to have been kept of the votes cast, but the county election book shows the following to have been elected : William Vanausdall was elected County Judge at the April election of 1854; W. H. Jordan, County Judge; Milton JVT. Beebe, Slier ifl"; Alexander McCord, Treasurer and Recorder; Adain Cuppy, Drainage Com- missioner; James Ward, Prosecuting Attor- ney; James Perry, Surveyor. The following is a complete list of the various county officials having served in Shelby County, as shown by the county offi- cial election returns, of which the subjoined is a true transcript: COUNTY JODOE. Election Held. August 7, 1854 — Mansel Wicks. (No vote given.) " 6,1855 — David Baughman 41 L. G. Tubbs 31 1857— H. A. Tarkington 47 243 HISTOBT OF aSELBT COUNTY. August, 1857 — David Baughman 56 April, 1859— William Wyland 94 Stephen King 74 October, 1861— Samuel Dewell 183 Mansel Wicks 54 " 1863— Samuel Dewell 1865— Nelson Ward 1866— L. Woods " 1867— Nathan Lindsey 108 P. C. Truman . 107 November, 1868— H. C. Holcomb (Vacancy) 156 J. B. Swain " 25 At this date the ofSce of county judge was abolished, and that of county auditor created. COUNTY AUDITOR. 1869— H. C. Holcomb 180 J. B. Swain 79 1871— John H. Louis 249 H. C. Holcomb 207 1878— J. H. Louis 236 H. C. Holcomb 211 1875— Washington Wyland 516 David Carter 428 1877— J. H. Louis 809 J. W. Stevens 745 1879— J. H. Louis 1,069 William Asquith 856 1881— D.F. Paul 933 J.B.Stutsman 836 1883— J. W. Harrod 1,637 E. Y. Greenleaf 1,533 1885— J. W. Harrod 1,653 H. C. McCusky 1,548 1887— J. W. French 1,660 John R. Davis 1,374 Frank S. Carroll 253 DRAINAGE COMMISSIONERS. The first drainage commissioner of Shelby County was Adam Cuppy, elected at the April election of 1854, and re-elected by a majority of eighteen over J. M. Long. This office was then held as follows: 1859— C. C. Culver 381 Nathaniel Lindsly 75 1861— Mansel Wicks 127 John Hasty 10 1863— W. S. Brown. (No opposition.) 1864— George W. Taylor 76 D. H. Randall 75 1867— William Hewlett, Jr., (No opposition) 101 This office was abolished at the close of the last-named incumbent's term, the board of supervisors having such matters in charge at present. prosecuting attorney. Elected in 1854— James Ward 1856— Nelson Ward 1856— Warren L. Brown 35 J.H.Adams 4 1857— M. P. Bull 65 Nelson Ward 55 At about this time the State judiciary was reconstructed and this office abolished, and that of district judge and district attorney created. SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT. This office was created in October, 1863. Elected in 1858 — David Baughman 86 S. Dewell 8 1859— S. Dewell 90 William Gray 79 1860— F. G. Clark (No opposition) 71 1861— F. Q. Clark 141 William A. Rabb 1 1863 — John Young. (No vote given.) 1865 — James M. Woods. (No vote given.) 1867— Barney Hindsall 106 Thomas Wood 104 1869— P. C. Truman (No opposition) 151 1869— P. C. Truman 178 John Young 78 1871— Caleb Smith 324 B. B. Mastick 175 D. S. Irwin 57 1873— O. N. Buckman 312 Caleb Smith 265 1875 — Aaron N. Buckman 597 John Beck 353 1877— M. D. Bridgeman 858 T. J. Mitynger 688 1879— M. D. Bridgeman 1,145 L. S. Taylor 780 1880— W. W. Qirton (To fill vacancy) 1,279 M. E. Downey " " 1,227 1881— W. W. Girton 1,051 James Canfield 688 James Louis 130 1883— W. K. Colburn 1,764 W. W. Girton 1,373 1885— C. F. Swift 1,558 W. J. Wicks 1,579 HISTORY OF aUELBY COUNTY. 243 1887— C. F. Swift 1,566 A. N. Buckman 1,357 Sirs. M. E. McArthur 264 COUNTY ASSESSOR. 1857— W. L. Brown 68 Adam Brant 31 As the county became settled this office was impracticable, and hence township as- sessors took the place of it. SURVEVOR. 1854 — James Perry Abraham Rubendall. (Vacancy.) 1855 — Abraham Rubendall. (No opposition.) 1857— Samuel Dewel! 75 Abraham Rubendall 34 1859— Charles F. Forbes 85 Samuel Dewell •. 83 1861— Samuel Dewell (No opposition) 123 1863 — Christian Goodyear. (No vote given.) 1864— T. A. Haycock 73 A. Rubendall 57 1865 — Abraham Rubendall. (No vote recorded.) 1867— P. C. Truman 101 A. Rubendall 110 1869— Charles W. Day 158 Samuel Slates 93 1871— W. L. Browu 190 N.J.Sharp 152 R. W. Robins 107 1873— AVashington Wyland 428 W. L. Brown 164 1875— P. C. Truman 541 Frank Reynolds 415 1877— P. C. Truman 833 A. C. Snyder 719 1879— E. Y. Greenleaf 1,048 Emil Flusche 844 1881— E. Y. Greenleaf 1,050 J. D. Walker 707 1883— Washington Wyland 1,643 C. F. Swift 1,509 1885—0. F. Plum 1,560 L. R. Hertert 1,637 1887— C. L. Miller '. 1,294 J. W. Miller 1,518 J. K. P. Baker 264 1889— J. K. P. Baker 1,797 C. L. Miller 1,726 COCNTY TREASURER. [It should be understood that the office of county treasurer and that of recorder of deeds was a combined office until 1864, when each became a distinct office; prior to that date it was known as the office of " Treasurer and Recorder."] 1854 — Alexander McCord. Henry Runnels. (Elected in August.) 1855— William Gedney 43 William Hock 32 1856— William Wyland 65 O. P. Steele 63 1857— William Wyland 53 L. B. Holcomb 43 1858 — George Benjamin 91 Nelson Ward 82 1861 — George Benjamin (No opposition) 130 1863 — George Benjamin. (No abstract of votes cast.) 1864— M. H. Adams 81 William Wyland 76 1865 — M. H. Adams. (No record of votes cast.) 1867— M. H. Adams 113 John H. Louis 101 1869— M. H. Adams 169 Nathaniel Smith 65 1871— C. J. Wyland 343 M. H. Adams 314 A. M. Buckman 9 1873— C. J. Wylaud 418 H. S. Burke 183 1875— Thomas McDonald 493 William J. Davis 399 1877— Thomas McDonald ■ 865 J. D. Coughran 679 1879— J. W. Harrod 973 John L. Long 954 1881— R. M. Pomeroy 903 J.W.Harrod 861 J. T. Burke 97 1883— R. M. Pomeroy 1,574 David Carter 1,570 1885— W. F. Cleveland 1,753 George D. Ross 1,486 1887— W. F. Cleveland 1,705 Chris. Christiansen 1,321 M. Barton 274 COUNTY RECORDER. 1864— M. H. Adams 78 William Wyland 76 1866— John Gish. (No vote recorded.) 1868— Benjamin L Kinsey 133 John H. Louis 18 1870— G. M. CoufTer. (No vote recorded.) 1872— F. A. Holcomb 369 F. 8. White 170 344 HISTORY OP SHELBY COUNTY. 1874— F. A. Holcomb. 517 J. M. Beck 218 1876— A. H. Holcomb 875 A. M. Louis 660 1878— J. E. Benson 715 William Howlett 581 1880— F. E. Benson 1,551 J. W. White 957 1882— B. B. Mastick 1,377 J. P. Miller 1,136 1884— B. B. Mastick 1,796 Lewis Gingery 1,722 1886— A. H. Tingle 1,738 F.J. McNaughton 1,469 1888— A. H. Tingle 1,778 J. H. Kiihl 1,723 W. K. Honeywell 117 SHERIPP. 1854— Miltou M. Beebe 1855— Milton M. Beebe 38 Alexander Ford 36 1857 — Albert Crandall (No opposition) 116 1858— Isaac Wyland 50 Albert Crandall 46 1859— Milton Stanton 88 A. Crandall 82 1861— Washington Wyland 137 C. C. Culver 2 1863 — Washington Wyland. (No vote recorded.) 1864— Albert Crandall 82 W.S.Brown 73 1865 — Albert Crandall. (No vote recorded.) 1867— *Thomas Chatburn 95 L. D. Sunderland 86 James M. Wood 80 1868— Christian Goodyear 128 Daniel S. Bowman 123 1871— William H. Burk 201 T. W. Chatburn 198 C. C. Redtield 59 1878— L. Sweat 323 T. W. Chatburn 278 1875— John D. Long 512 John B. Swain 450 1877— John D. Long 917 Joseph H. Kuhl 623 1870— J. W. Martin 1,0'^8 Elijah Fish 856 * Mr. Sunderland conteeted the election, claiming that, because Chatburn waw not a legal voter, that he had no right to hold the oHlcc, though he had received a majority of the votes cast. Chat- burn argued tliat a man could hold office, if elected, though he had not been iu the county long enough to vote himself. The case wae tried before County Judge Lindsay, who decided in favor of Snnderland, throwing the costs on Chatburn, amounting to about $11.00. 1881— George E. Bennett 933 Lewis Shorett 786 C. W. Potter (Greenback) (To fill vacancy.) 123 1881— H. W. Patterson (Long term) 920 Lewis Shorett 816 C. W. Potter 133 1883— E. J. Trowbridge 1,635 Thomas W. Chatburn 1,467 188.5— George S. Rainbow 1,652 N. W. Sherman 1,573 1887— George S. Rainbow 1,662 J. J. Barter 1,424 Z. H. McCombs 217 COUNTY COKONKR. 1855— Franklin Rudd (No opposition) 75 1857^Lewis Jackson (No opposition) 121 1859 — Lewis Jackson 88 William Hoik 84 1860— D. H. Randall (No opposition) 61 1861—0. E. Holcomb (No opposition) 134 1863 — O. E. Holcomb. (No record of votes cast.) 1864— Ellas Monroe 76 L. D. Frost 72 18C5— L. D. Sunderland 1867— Martin Polland 107 A. Roundy 105 1868— R. M. Smith 152 William Frantz 14 1869— I. W. Winters 146 Aaron Bergstresser 88 1871 — Aaron Bergstresser (No opposition) 174 1873— A. N. Stamm (No opposition) 361 1874— Caleb Smith (No opposition) 258 1875— H. Weeks (No other votes) 2 1877— F. A. Boyer. (No opposition.) 1878— George E. Bennett 745 E. Jarvis 540 1879— George Bennett 1,097 Michael McCabe 753 1881— J. W. Chatburn 1,063 William Blair 695 1883— N. H. Burks 1,587 J. W. Chatburn 1,554 1885— Dr. A. H. Burks 1,724 E. Douglass 1,513 1887— S. H. Waters 1,523 L. D. Frost 1,285 P. H. Hunt 269 COUNTY CLERK. 1854— Vinsan G. Perkins 1855— L. B. Holcomb (V. G. Perkins suspended). . 1855-'56— L. G. Tubbs 41 L. B. Holcomb 80 1857— O. E. Holcomb 44 J.H.Adams 27 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. 245 1859— H. C. Holcomb 89 M. P. Bull 78 I860— H. C. Holcomb (No opposition) 143 18G2— H. C. Holcomb 80 John Young 30 18G4— H. C. Holcomb 82 B. V. Springer 75 1866— A. M. Louis. (No vote recorded.) 1868— H. C. Holcomb 157 J.B.Swain 28 1870— H. C. Holcomb. (No vote recorded.) 1872— G. D. Ross 417 George Gibbs 7 1874— Georse D. Koss 352 C. C. Redfleld 234 J. M. Beck 218 1876— George D. Ross 863 A. D. Tinsly 064 1878— H. C. Holcomb ' 054 J. W. Harrod 642 1880— H.- C. Holcomb 1,574 M. J. Heiress 957 1882— W. J. Davis 1,284 David Carter 1,236 1834— W. J. Davis 1,823 J. H. Louis 1,705 1880— Hugh Harrod 1,641 George F. Keller 1,570 1888— O. P. Wyland 1,870 Hugh Harrod 1,612 Frank Faltonson (Union Labor) 126 In 1857, when the question of prohibiting the sale of intoxicating liquor within the State was voted upon, Shelby County cast fifty-four votes — four for and fifty against. In June, 1882, when the vote was taken to prohibit the sale of liquor in Iowa, by amend- ing the State constitution, Shelby County cast 1,268 votes — 517 for and 751 against the amendment. The vote for and against purchasing land on which to found a poor-farm was taken in 1882, and resulted in 1,399 votes being cast for the measure and 666 iigainst it. In 1885 a vote to determine whether the county should erect a poor-house on the land already purchased, or not, was taken, which resulted in 1,698 for and 416 against the measure. 21 COUNTY SEAT HISTORY. In common with nearly every other county in Iowa, Shelby has had her county-seat con- test, which was indeed a heated strife, the fever of which will not all have passed away until the present generation, thetirst settlers, have all passed from the scenes of earth. From 1837 to 1840 this county was em- braced in Keokuk County. In 1851 it was established under its present name, being partly taken from the temporary county of Pottawattamie. It was duly organized from and after March 7, 1853. Its first election was held in April, 1853. By an order of the court a committee for the purpose of locating a seat of justice was appointed, consisting of L. D. Butler, John E. F. Vails and Marshall Turley, who decided on section 27, township 81, range 40, west, in what is now known as Grove Township. The place was called Shelbyville and became a platted village, and was for a time a thriving pioneer hamlet, but for many years now has only been known and marked out to the stranger by the farmers residing near pointing to several stately cot- tonwood trees whose giant branches long ago saw the village sink into decay, most of the buildings having been removed to other parts of tlie county. Tlio first term of county court was held at tlie farm-house of Milton M. Beebe, July 3, 1854. At an election held in April, 1857, a vote was taken to determine whether or not a court-house should be erected at Shelbyville. Such vote stood three majority against the proposition to build, ninety-one being the total number of votes cast. Another election was soon held to de- cide upon the question of building a $3,000 court-house at Shelbyville. This vote stood thirty-seven for and sixty-five against build- ing. At the April election of 1859 a vote was taken to determine the popular virtue of 240 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. a petition callingfor the removal of tlie county seat to Harlan. There were 175 votes cast; a majority of nine said the county seat should he removed to Harlan. Then came up the ever-vexing question in all new counties, how to provide a court-house. To make this matter perfectly plain it will be well for the reader to know all the circumstances. In the first instance, there were three contend- ing factions among the people. One was that portion who lived in the extreme northwest part of the county, wlio, for the most part — selfish like all human kind — wanted the seat of justice to remain where first located, at Shelbyville. Then there were two other fighting sections in the vicinity of Harlan. The Rock Island & Pacific Railroad had been projected through Iowa, and a land grant given that company, the center of such grant being a line running near or through Har- lan. But designing men — men who came on in advance of the real survey, for the express purpose of laying out towns and selling off the lots — sought to establish the county seat at the now defunct village of Simoda, just east from the present site of Harlan. Samuel Dewell represented such interests, aided by others who held property adjoining the em- bryo town. Then at Harlan there was the other element whose financial interest con- victed them strongly in the belief that Har- lan presented the best surface of country over which to construct a railroad; hence they sought, by every means they could invent, to get the people to vote the building of a costly court-house there, hoping that 'this would forever settle the question of both county seat and railroad point, as well as give them great financial benefit from the sale of prop- erty. The three factions finally combined into two elements, the people in the extreme northwest joining with the Simoda party, mainly on tiie ground that every mile they could shorten a trip to the county seat would be so much gain to them. A contract was finally made by the county judge, April 12, 1859, for the building of a $25,000 court- house, to L. W. Woodruff. The structure was large only in cost ! its size to be 40 x 60 feet, and two stories high, built of brick. Schemers even lived that long ago ! But at a later meeting of those in official authority Judge Tarkington rescinded this visionary plan, to which he had previously assented, on the ground, as his record says, that it ^'^ would operate injuriously against the tax-payers of the county." But the real and only true cause for abandoning the project was the more vital fact that the people outside of Harlan would not submit to the burden of taxes that would thus be laid upon them. And so strong was this feeling that many of the pioneers assembled and vowed they would not submit, but would die at the breech of their gun in resisting such imposition. Usually truth and justice wield a winning sword, hence it was that Judge Tarkington (who of himself was a clever man of good traits) and his scheming party saw fit to withdraw so bad and bold an attempt to bankrupt the new county. In the early part of May, 1859, John Mc- intosh and forty-seven others petitioned the court to remove the county seat to Simoda, but this measure soon "flashed in the pan !" However, it was the occasion of much bad blood, resulting in what was known as the " Simoda war." It seems that upon the ad- journment of the last term of court at Shelby- ville, Judge Tarkington was asked by the acting clerk, Samuel Dewell, what he should do with the books and records of the county in his charge. He replied, "Do as you like with them !"' His interests and choice being for the county seat to be removed to Simoda, very naturally he took them to his home at HISTORY OP SHELBY COUNTY. 247 that point, and insisted on their being kejyt there. So, between tlie two factions pulling and hauling, the judge was kept in a constant state of turmoil ! However, he was quite a court-house builder (?), and consequently in June of 1859 he contracted with Henry Run- nels to erect a $10,000 court-house, to be 35x45 feet, the same to be finished by Au- gust, 1800, and to be paid for in warrants, at par. This was to be erected on block 41, in the village of Harlan. In December of the same eventful year (1859) this scheme was also given up as a bad job! The following summer, however, a contract was awarded to build a court-house of fair size, and to cost $2,500, which was carried nearly to comple- tion, and by some accident, arising from heating a glue-pot, the building was destroyed by fire, at the loss of the contractors. Thus it will be seen Shelby County had a continual round of dire calamity and discord in the matter of providing herself with a " temple of justice." The county judge then entered into agree- ment with J. M. Long and Adam Ault, by which they were to receive $5,000 for a building then in course of erection and known as the "store building," which was situated north from the place where the "City Hotel" now stands. It was a two-story frame house with bricked walls, and was 20 x 40 feet. It jvas accordingly finished up for court-house purposes, and was used for such until about 1876, when the present court-house was com- pleted, the same having been contracted for witli Halstead & Pal freeman, at $4,250. It should, however, here be recorded that a movement was placed on foot in 1873-'74, to build a court-building to cost not less than $30,000 or more than $40,000. The vote on this measure stood 392 against and 192 for. After this failure the board of supervisors took the matter into their own hands and built the present building, having the leoral right, without a vote of the people, to expend $5,000 for such purpose. It may indeed be considered a wise thing that the early meas- ures of erecting large, costly court-houses was always presided over and defeated by better judgment, as the people were in no wise ready to stand such burdens. But with the present advancement, culture, develop- ment and wealth of Shelby County, she can no longer well afford to have her officers housed in such small, dingy quarters as they are at present. Shelby County needs a $40,- 000 court-house, and is now able to pay for the same! notwithstanding her warrants at one time were only worth twenty-five cents on a dollar, and cost the pioneer very dear at that! There were many amusing and thrilling incidents connected with the removal and final location of the county seat ; however, no such bad blood was ever seen as in many other Iowa counties. Among such incidents may be mentioned the determined spirit of persistency manifested upon the part of Will- iam Wyland, who was then treasurer and re- corder of the county. He was ordered by Judge Tarkington (county judge) to return the records in his possession to the county seat, then designated as Shelbyville. Mr. Wyland paid no attention to the order of the court. The judge then declared the oflices held by said Wyland to be vacant, and again ordered him to appear before him with such otticial records as belonged to the county; but he again refused to respond to the court's order, whereupon the judge issued a ^^Tit of replevin for said books of record. The sheriff brought Mr. Wyland, together with his books, before the outraged judge! Wyland claimed the court had no right to demand the surren- der of such books, but the court held con- trary. 218 HI8T0RY OF SHELBY COUNTY. During the "Simoda war," as well as in nearly all other wars, the people became ex- cited and watchful — even were suspicious of each other's every move and action. To illus- trate better this state of aflairs, it may be well to repeat an incident related by one of Shelby County's aged pioneers, whose hair has been made snowy by the three decades of pioneer life — "William ("Bill") McGinnes, whose farm is on section 9 of Harlan Town- ship. He says that while County Judge Tarkington was holding court at Harlan (during the county-seat trouble), that he, together with a few of his neighbors from Simoda, proceeded to the court room to de- mand their pay for the scalps of some wild animals upon which the county had offered a bounty. On their way they stopped and cut some elder sticks for walking-canes, and when seen coming up the road toward the court- house, the guard, who had been set out to protect (!) and guard his "honor" and the county books against any attempted raid by the Simoda faction, imagined they were armed with guns, and so reported to the judge, who for a time seemed quite troubled and alarmed, but when he saw his mistake, laughed it oft as a huge joke, and at once allowed " Uncle Bill " pay for the scalps he produced. HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. 249 CHAPTER IV. THE GREAT CIVIL WAR. IF there is any one thing more than another of which tlie people of the northern States have reason to be proud, it is the bright rec- ord they made during the dark and bloody days of the Kebellion. When this great civil war was forced upon the country the people were quietly pursuing the even tenor of their ways, doing whatever their hand found to do — making farms, cultivating those already improved, erecting homes, founding cities and towns, building shops and factories — in short, the country was alive with industry and buoyant with hopes of the future. While they were immediately surrpunded with peace and tranquillity, they paid but little attention to the rumored plots and plans of those who grew rich from the sweat and toil, blood and flesh of others; aye, even trafficking in their own offspring. But, like a fierce thunder-storm, came the world's greatest war. The last words of Lincoln's proclama- tion calling for men hardly ceased to vibrate along the telegraphic wires before the quota was full — 75,000 men only too ready to defend the Union of States! Patriotism thrilled and pulsated through every heart — the farm, the shop, the office, the store, the factory, the bar, the pulpit — aye, even college and school-room offered their best men, their lives and fortunes, in defense of the unity and honor of their gov- ernment and its flag. Party lines were for the time lost sight of — all with one accord rushed to the rescue, repeating in spirit tlie oath of America's soldier-statesman, "By the Great Eternal, the Union must and shall be preserved." At the time Fort Sumter was fired upon by rebel arms Shelby County had only a population of about 800 people, men, women and children, all poor people who had come hither to build homes for themselves in this then wild, undeveloped country, far from rail- roads and market places. Yet they were not 80 far that they did not hear and heed the call for troops. Out of a population aver- aging during the war about 300 men, she sent nearly fifty to the service. Local history is a record of events, and no better authority for such events can possibly be obtained than those to be found in public records and documents furnished at the time by county, State and national officials. Es- pecially is this true of war records. In preparing a list of those who served as soldiers from Shelby County during the Re- bellion, all possible caution has been exer- cised to publish a complete list; but it should be understood that the local historian has no safer guide to aid him in such long-ago data than the Adjutant-General's reports for Iowa, which contain but few errors. The follow^ ing is extracted from such reports: The Fouktk Infantkv, Companv " B." — Benjamin T. Lakin, lliram Simmons, veteran. William Longcor, Daniel White, James E. Reed (died), Elias Monroe, John E. Knott, James Harwell, William Cuppy (died). The Thirteenth Ineantuy (Unasskinkd). —Charles E. Butterworth, William II. Buck- 250 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. holder, Albert Crandall, Alfred Jackson, Samuel W. Kemp, Milton Lirich, William Frantz, veteran. The Fifteenth Infantry, Company " H." — Henry Frantz. The Twenty-third Infantry, Company " I." — Jesse Casteel, Merriman Carlton, David Duckett, Martin Obrecht, William A. Rigg, Milton H. Stanton, Ed. A. Sweeney, Harvey Inglesbee, H. N. Baughman, Will- iam Frantz, George Castell. The Twenty-ninth Infantry, Company " C." — George W. Hedge, First Lieutenant, Company "C;" Charles W. Oden, Quarter- master; David Komig, William B. Tarkington. The Ninth Cavalry, Company " M." — Harvey Ingelsbe, John Denell, J. N. Wy- land, James G. Kemp, Peter H. Longcor, Joseph A. Bunnell, Daniel S. Bowman, Samuel Cammel, John Fritz, Luther Ingelsbe, Robertson Kairns, James Rhodes, Warren Wicks, Daniel Watesbury, Michael Wliite. The Fourth Cavalry, Company " L." — I. L. Leoney (died). Fourth Cavalry. — Charles C. Rice, Colo nel; Nicholas White. ^m niHTORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. 251 CHAPTER V. THE NEWSPAPER PRESS. ic^HE local press is justly considered as 2?lW among the most valuable institutions of every city, town, village and county. Every community regards its particular paper as of peculiar importance, and this not merely on account of the fact already mentioned, but because these local newspapers are the safe re- positories wherein are stored the facts and events, the deeds and the sayings, the under- takings and achievements, that go to make up final history. One by one these seem- ingly trivial matters are placed in type; one by one these papers are issued and read ; one by one these papers are gathered together and bound into tiles, and then another volume of real and true local history is laid away in an almost imperishable state. The people of each community naturally have a pride in their own home paper. The local press, as a rule nowadays, goes on ahead, coupled with the railway, as vanguard to civilization and refinement. They nearly always reflect the true character of a people by whom they are read, and their advertise- ments are indices to the growth and financial prosperity of a town or city. Judging from this standard, Shelby County has ever had wide-awake, enterprising business men. The first newspaper isfued in Shell)y County was the New Idea, started by Sam- uel Dewell, at the now defunct village of Simoda. Its first issue was dated soon after that place was platted in 1858, and was later known as the Gazette, but, like the embryo town, soon "died in the shell," when another journal representing the interests of Simoda sprang into existence. This was known as the Shelby County Reporter. Volume 1., No. 1, of this pioneer sheet was dated March 5, 1859. It was Democratic in its politics, and was a live local paper, advocating the removal of the county seat to Simoda from Shelbyville. It was edited by Major P. Bull. Its size and form was that of a five-column folio. It carried on a personal and bitter warfare against Judge Tarkington and the people of Harlan, indulging in much slang and personal abuse. Its second issue had the following in bold head-lines; *' Our County a Kingdom Where a Tyrant Doth Rule." Its opponent was the Shelby County Cowrie/", published at Harlan. When the county-seat " Simoda war " had ended both journals sank into oblivion, and were both hard to bring back by the historian. The Shelby County Courier first greeted its patrons January 30, 1859. It was a creditable looking paper, several copies of which are now highly prized by some of the old settlers as mementoes of the long ago. In size and form it was a six-column ^folio, and was independent in its politics. Its editor and proprietor was J. B. Besack, who prior to this had been editor of the Jasper County Express. It was an even match for Major Bull, of the Reporter of Simoda, the rival town, and frequently referred to its editor's writings as " Bull Bellovvings," "Kicked by a mad hull," etc., while in answer the editor of the Reporter styled him 253 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. as " Bees wax drippings," — his name being Besack. In it was publisiied an account of the first agricnltnral society, with a long premium list; the fair, however, never mate- rialized! Its career, like the Simoda paper, found the end of its mission with the county- seat settlement — both living long enough to say very many mean things of each other. The Herald was started December 18, 1874, by Campbell & Musgrave. It was a seven-column folio, and Republican in poli- tics. It only ran a few weeks until a change was made, which has been going on ever since, until its identity was absorbed in what is now the Repnhlican. Campbell dropped out and Mr. Musgrove operated alone until May 6, 1875, when he took in as a partner F. H. Mcintosh, who Musgrave, in intro- ducing him to his old patrons, said through his columns was a man of fine culture, an excellent writer, and with all of an untar- nished character. However, within a few months the young journalist (Mcintosh) stole $30 from his fellow neighbor, H. C. Pratt Bros., which continued untii July 12, 1883, when they sold to W. W. Girton, who soon took W. M. Oungst as a partner. They had both been connected with the Harlan Huh, which was merged into the Herald, and its name changed to the Shelby County Repuhlican — its present name. This change was effected in July, 1886, when Girton sold to C. W. Ilhinesmith. Perhaps no paper in Iowa has had more changes than this plant, considering its age. The Shelby County Record was foundei by E. H. Eaton in July, 1870. It went through several changes in proprietorship. AVoods & Robins conducted it awhile, then Robins sold to Woods, who was connected with it when it was merged, together with the Harlan Hub, into the Shelby County Republican in 1875. The Harlan Hub was established De- cember 9, 1880. It was a Republican paper which advocated tlie prohibitory constitu- tional amendment. Its founder was AV. M. Oungst, who after a year took W. W. Girton Holcomb, and " skipped the town," going to " in as equal partner. The plant was merged Council Bluffs and from there went to Texas. The next change on the paper was in Sep- tember, 1875. After having been closed about a month, G. D. Ross took charge of the plant. He changed the motto of the journal from " Independent in all things — neutral in nothing," to "Republican — -always for t% right." Tiie 17th of July, 1879, Robert W. Robins became proprietor of the paper, with John L. Long as a silent partner. January 22, 1880, a half interest was sold to C. R. Pratt, of Connecticut, when the name of the firm became "The Herald Printing Company." In November of that year C. R. Pratt sold to E. R. Purmelee. January 5, 1882, S. K. Pratt purchased a half inter- est from Parinelee, when the firm was styled into the Herald in July, 1883. Under all these manifold changes the paper has been a live local journal, and well supported by the people of Shelby County. The Harlan Tribune (Democratic) was first launched on tiie sea of journalism June 11, 1879, by A. D. Tinsley and U. S. Brown. It was started as an eight-column folio, and has always adhered to the true democratic principles and been the leading official organ of ShelbyCounty. Tinsley purchased Brown's interest February 18, 1880, and operated it until May 10, 1882, then sold to E. T. Best, of the Chariton (la.) Leader. December 19, 1883, another change was effected, by which Best sold to G. W. CuUison and J. D. Walker; tliey continued as partners until February 27, 1884:, wlien Cullison sold his UISTORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. 353 share to Walker, who conducted the paper alone until January 1, 1885, then sold to the present proprietor, W. C. Campbell, who has made radical changes in the plant, both as to mechanical and general newspaper tone. July 11, 1888, it was enlarged to a nine-column folio, and a Campbell cylinder press was put in at the same time, which gave the paper one of the best outfits owned by any printing establishment in this sec- tion of Iowa. The Industrial American., the latest news- paper publication in Shelby County, was established July 16, 1887, by A. T. and M. B. Cox. It is a six-column quarto, one side home print and the other from the Sioux City Newspaper Union. In April, 1888, H. C. Hanson bought M. B. Cox out — the firm name now being Cox & Hanson. This jour- nal is an advocate of the Union Labor party, and has a large circulation among the various county farmers' alliances. As an advertising medium for the merchants and professional men it has no superior. The political stand- ard which it so faithfully upholds is constantly growing in popular favor. The Shelhij JVews, published at Shelby, is a good local journal, fully up to the times and always found working in a correct man- ner for the village of Shelby and its surround- ing country. It was founded in 1877, its first issue being dated March 22 of that year. Its founder was El. L. Heath, who owned and conducted it until April 8, 1880, when it became the property of John Pomeroy, who is the present pi-oprietor. In politics it is a consistent advocate of Republican principles. It is of a seven-column folio form and printed by a Washington hand-press. At this date one-half of the printed matter is run by the Western Newspaper Union of Des Moines, Iowa. The local department is replete with the latest, spiciest news items, giving its patrons all the comings and goings of their town and county. The Defiance Argus, one of the fixtures of Shelby County newspaper publications, was founded at Defiance, Iowa, In 1882, the first issue being printed on June 10 of that year — the same season the railroad was being constructed through the place. Its present proprietor, F. Bangs, was its founder and has constantly worked for the best interests of the territory in which it circulates. The oflSce met with a misfortune in 1883, by which all was lost in a fire; but it came forth from the ashes brighter and better than ever. It was at first a five-column quarto in size and form, but at present is a seven-column folio. Its local department is well filled each week with every local happening. Politically the Journal stands independent, being a news chronicler, rather than an assumed party organ. It may here be stated that Mr. Bangs has not " amassed a great fortune," but by the aid of his good wife and daughter, who use both brain and muscle on the A7'gus, manages to pay his bills and live. 354 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. CHAPTER VI. VARIOUS THINGS. POPULATION IN 1885 BV TOWNSHIPS. Total. Cass 874., Clay 1,024., Douglas 843., Fairview 800., Greeley 702 . Grove 788.. Harlan Foreign Bom. 144 380 101 250 79 62 .2,564 317 Jackson 834 350 Jefferson 846 95 Lincoln 854 140 Monroe 1,102 459 Polk 584 89 Shelby 1,383 344 Union 1,096 175 Washington 764 149 Westphalia 1,198 491 Total 16,306 3,501 Total, 1854, 826; 1860, 810; 1870, 3,540; 1880, 13,696. VALUATION OF PEOPEBTT. In 1854 the total v.iluation, per assessment of all the taxable property, both real and per- sonal, was only about $20,000. The growth has been gradual and good until in 1887 it is found that the assessed valuation was $4,163,266. There were at this date 36,612 head of cattle, valued at $243,337; 11,268 head of horses, valued at $282,828; 735 mules, valued at $20,919; and 1,022 sheep, valued at $1,022. It may here be added that in 1888 the dog tax amounted to $998. AGRICULTURAL SOCIETi'. The first county fair was a fair one, and was the source of much amusement as well as gratification to the farming and industrial classes of Shelby County. It was held in the beautiful autumn time of 1870. The display of vegetables, grains, etc., was indeed good, considering the short notice given, together with the other important fact that no agri- cultural society had been formed at that time. This pioneer fair was held in and near the old brick school-house which stood where now stands the Methodist church in Harlan. One of the principal and laughable attractions there seen were two babies — Willie, son of A. N. Buckman, and Julia, daughter of J. C. Buckman. Another novel feature was the races, which consisted of various kinds, including a free- for-all trotting race, which brought Thomas Castile cantering into the ring with his trotters attached to a sulky plow, from which the gang of plows had been detached. Next came a man with his team attached to a big farm wagon; the third entry being David Wells with his trotting colt, which he led. Everything being ready, the word Go! was pronounced with no uncertain sound, when pell mell they went. After gaining the first quarter all broke into a dead run, coming in on the homestretch midst great excitement and applause. There seemed to be a vast attendance of dogs who saw the rumpus, when they, too, took a hand by commencing to bark and growl, and finally all became enraged and engaged in a fearful fight. The exact number of people present is now un- known, but all old settlers seem to agree in the opinion that there were Jiftt/ dogs present/ HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. 255 Notwithstanding the dog fight the farmer's team, with the big hiinber wagon, came out ahead, and took the purse of $3! The race- track was just leveled off by good Mother Nature, except tliat a mowing machine had been once or twice around, cutting its clean swathe of grass. The following year the Shelby County Agricultural Society was formed upon the stock company plan. Thirty enterprising men formed the society. The shares were $5.00 each, and every share represented a vote to its owner; 116 shares, amounting to $580, were sold. The first officers were — "William Wyland, President; A. N. Buck- man, Secretary; J. W. Davis, Treasurer. The body was regularly incorporated, and has since operated in a fairly successful man- ner, each season holding its exhibits. In June, 1872, James Long sold the society sixty-five acres of land for $1,100, upon which to establish fair grounds and trotting park. The first annual exhibition was held in the fall of 1872. In 1878 the society seemed to be in good financial standing, and 80 great was the faith of G. D. Ross, who was at that time editing the local paper of Harlan, that he agreed and was granted the right to do all necessary printing for that year, providing the society would give him all over the amount of the previous year's receipts, which was $478. In 1879 the former grounds not being suitable were sold for $350, and forty acres purchased northeast from the business por- tion of Harlan, for which $1,600 was paid. All needed improvements, such as floral hall, stock sheds, etc., were added to the newly bought premises, also a half-mile race- track made for the use of horsemen. In 1885 the receipts were $1,216, and in 1886 reached nearly $1,600. The officers elected for 1889 were: J. H. Louis, President; George Paup, Vice-Presi- dent; M. K. Campbell, Treasurer; L. Gin- gery, Secretary. At the present date (1888) the society are owing about $1,600, but are in possession of a fine property and in good working order. MEDICAL SOCIETY. The Shelby County Medical Society was organized in June, 1887. The charter members were: J. C. Dunlavy, E. A. Cobb, E. J. Smith, J. H. Waite, E. B. Moore, W. T. Branson, W. B. Cotton, A. E. Gregg, N. H. Burks (deceased), S. H. "Walters, N. J. Jones, J. Smiley, C. Tiske. The first officers were: E. A. Cobb, Presi- dent; N. J. Jones, Vice-President: J. C. Dunlavy, Secretary; E. J. Smith, Treasurer. The society is in good working order; it is recognized by the State and National socie- ties, with all of which it is working in unison. SCHOOL POPULATION. Graded Township. Schools. Jefferson 3 . . - Greeley Union 3 . . . Grove Westphalia 2 .. Washington 2 . . , Douglas Polk Jackson Ungraded School Schools. Population of 1888. . .. 9 350 ... 9 211 ... 8 375 ... 9 260 ... 6 382 ... 8 319 . .. 10 359 . .. 9 207 . .. 9 351 Harlan lOdepts.... 8. Lincoln 9. Cass 2 7. Shelby 4 8. Fairview 9. Monroe 9 Clay 9. 835 308 246 430 282 346 321 Totals 25 136 5,588 THE MARRIAGE RECORD. The first marriage certificate issued in Shelby County was granted to John Budd to marry Sereldue Jordan. It is dated April 18, 1853, and the ceremony was performed 256 BISTORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. bj County Judge Vanausdall. The following gives the number of marriages for each year since the time the connty was organized until the present — 1888: 1853 4 1854 3 1855 •• 4 1856 5 1857 7 1858 13 1859 5 1860 13 1861 8 1862 14 1863 4 1864 4 1865 6 1866 13 1867 14 1868 32 1869 24 1870 24 1871 36 1873 45 1873 37 1874 41 1875 55 1876 68 1877 63 1878 74 1879 86 1880 106 1881 143 1882 129 1883 170 1884 200 1885 168 1886 120 1887 210 Total 1,775 FAKMEKS' MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY. This institution found its origin in the "Advance Alliance" of Polk Township, in 1886, through the eflforts of their secretary, H. C. Hanson, and T. B. Olson, their presi- dent. It was, liowever, reorganized at Har- lan, February 12, 1887, by the following in- corporators: A. N. Bucknian, James M. Pratt, H. B. Kees, Jacob Anderson, M. Lar- son and L. D. Sunderland. The first officers under the new organization were: A. C. Buckman, President; H. C. Hanson, Secre- tary. The present officials are: M. Larson, President; L. D. Sunderland, Vice-Presi- dent; A. N. Buckman, Secretary, and J. K. Barber, Treasurer. The concern is managed and directed by nine trustees or directors, who at present are as follows: H. B. Kees, L. D. Sunderland, Jacob Anderson, J. M. Pratt, Henry Niemann, W. H. Townson, Ole P. Erickson, Fred Grobraiaer, P. B. Allen. The prime object of this company is to furnish a good but inexpensive fire insurance on farm property — nothing taken within towns or villages. It is a purely co-operative company, and is doing a good, safe business. THE COUNTY POOE-FAEM. In 1882 the question of the county pur- chasing land and improving the same for a permanent poor-farm, was submitted to the tax-payers of Shelby County. The vote stood 1,399 for and 666 against. The measure having been carried by a good majority, the board of supervisors at once bought 120 acres of land on section 36 of Lincoln Town- ship, paying about $5,000 for the same. In 1886 they let the contract for a poor-house, which, together with the necessary out- buildings, barns, etc., cost the county in round numbers about $6,000. The farm is well improved, and affords the best possible means for taking proper care of the unfor- tunate and helpless people who claim Shelby County as their home. THE COUNTY JAIL. March 2, 1880, the board of supervisors awarded the contract for building a fine brick jail and sheriff's residence combined in one structure. It is a fine two-story building, built of solid brick masonry. The contract for the building proper was let to J. O. Wickersham and II. Knowles, for $4,600. HISTORY OP SHELBY COUNTY. 257 The iron work, including jail cells, was awarded to P. J. Pauley Bros, for $375, making a total outlay of $4,975. Before the construction of this building the county was put to great trouble, as well as useless ex- pense, in taking care of their prisoners, as they were compelled to lodge such characters in the jails of neighboring counties. CHURCH OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS. This is a branch of the Galland's Grove Conference, and was organized October 21, 1859, by Elder E. C. Briggs and Elder Will- iam Blair. The names of the members com- prising the organization were as follows: William Vanausdall, Uriah Koundy, Reua Roundy, John A. Mcintosh, Melinda Mcin- tosh, Alexander McCord, Sybil McCord, Elizabeth J. Williamson, Alexander Hunt, MaryHunt, Lewis Jackson, Elizabeth Thomas and Alexander Black. The first presiding elder was William Vanausdall, and was suc- ceeded as follows: John B. Hunt, Benjamin Crandall, Robert Ford, Ingaert Hansen, Ralph Jenkins, Absalom Huykendall, Eli Clothier, Milton Lynch, John A. Mcintosh, John Hawley and Alfred Jackson. In 1888 the membership was 276. In 1880 the society commenced the erec- tion of a neat edifice, which was finished in 1881, at a cost of $1,300. At first their services were held at private houses, later in a log school-house which was accidentally burned, when they built a log church which served until the new church was built. When the timber land and choice locations in and about Galland's Grove were taken up, the next settlers had to go to the next best locations and select lands. Such settlement was made at Bowman's Grove, in the center of the county, and soon the county-seat mat- ter, with talk of having it removed from Shelbyville to Harlan or Simoda, caused a good many to flock to these places and secure farms and town-site property. In 1860, according to the United States census reports, Shelby County contained a population of 820 people, about equally divided between the two townships then organized — "Galland's Grove" and "Round." Up to this date five villages had been platted, viz.: Shelbyville, Itan, Manteno, Simoda and Harlan. The biographical sketches contained elsewhere in this volume give much of value concerning the settlement, manners, customs, etc., of this county, and may be considered reliable, given as it has been in nearly every case by pioneers or their children. Besides, much of Shelby County's early history will be found in proper place under the heading of "Towns and Vil- lages." ELKHOEN (post-office AND COLLEGE). Elkhorn postoffice is situated in the north- ern part of Clay Township. It was estab- lished about 1882. It is in the midst of the heavy Danish settlement of Audubon, Shelby and Cass counties, and about three miles southeast of Kimballton. January 1, 1889, there was a general store conducted by George James; a blacksmith named Niels Hepenson; Martin Learson, harness- maker; John Darfiler and Jacob Hansen, carpenters. The principal feature of this point is the fact that it is the location of the Danish Lutheran Evangelical College. This institu- tion of learning was founded by the influences of the church in 1878, when a building was erected at a cost of $2,000, to which was soon added another department, costing $1,500. This structure was all destroyed by fire April 21, 1880, the loss being only $1,000, as it had been insured. New buildings were at once constructed. The main building is 26x94 feet, two and one-half stories high. 258 HISTORY OF SUBLET COUNTY. The present value of the college property amounts to about $6,000. The highest number of pupils at any one time has been fifty, the present member- ship being forty-four, each of whom pay $6 per month tuition and $10 per month for board. Among the branches taught are general history, church history. United States history, history of Denmark, Bible studies, physics, Danish composition, English, com- position and grammar, book-keeping, and Greek as a special branch for those who may desire it. Also tlie ordinar}' branches, such as geography, arithmetic, etc. The object and aim of this college is to give the Danish people a chance to master both their own and the English tongue, and to gain a general secular as well as religious education, under the influence of the Danish Lutheran Church. The presidents have been as follows: Rev. O. Kirreberg, from 1878 to 1880; Rev. H. J. Pederson, from 1880 to 1882; Rev. Kris- tian Anker, at present. Four teachers are now employed. Two hours each day are spent in teaching the Eng- lish branches. The total number of pupils who have from time to time attended here is 600. Near the college building stands a neat and tasty edifice, which was erected in 1882, at a cost of $3,000; it is 32x70 feet. The church was organized in 1872, and there are now 160 heads of families belonging to the congregation. The pastors are the same as before named as presidents of the school. Branches from this church are located at Bowman Grove, Shelby County, with a mem- bership of fifty, and also one at Oakhill, Audubon County, of forty members. Rev. Kristian Anker has charge of these two branches, as well as the work at Elkhorn. This church and educational institution is one of great moral and educational value to the Danish people of these western Iowa counties. THEN AND NOW. Great has been the change since Abraham Gallaud first built log cabin No. 1, in what is known, now, as Grove Township, of Shelby County, and the present time — 1888. Then all was just as nature had left it. The deer and elk roamed at will; the wolves made the wintry night hideous by a noise which disturbed no one of a civilized type. The same fertile valleys, now productive of im- mense corn crops, were the hunting and camping grounds of the red man, who was indeed " monarch of all he surveyed." The change has been gradual, but positive. At first there were a few " Mormons," who sought here, amid the native groves, a place of refuge, with the liberty of worshiping as they pleased. The nearest market place at which household supplies could be procured was Council Bluffs, and the real home com- forts were very few. With no saw-mills, the first buildings were of necessity very rough and unattractive, yet served the purpose until better could be afforded. Step by step ad- vancement was made until the Rock Island and Northwestern railroads were constructed across the State to the Missouri River, cen- tering at Council Bluffs; from this time on many of the obstacles were removed and life went somewhat easier, as towns rapidly sprang up, affording much needed in improv- ing the half developed farms. To-day things have changed; tlie whole county is well cultivated and developed, with towns and postofRces on every hand. In 1882 the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad Company constructed its Council Bluffs line through the county, traversing the northwestern part. Upon this line there HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. 259 are four good-sized stations — Defiance, Earl- ing, Panama and Portsmouth. The Kirkmaii branch of the Chicago & Northwestern Rail- road was built through the northeastern part of the county in 1881, to a point seven miles north and east of Harlan, and the village of Kirkinan established. This place, with Irwin in the northeastern township of the county, gives excellent trading places and markets for all that section of country. The present towns and postoffices are as follows: Harlan, with a population of 2,000 Shelby, " " " 600 Defiance, " " " 500 Irwin, " " " 300 Barling, " " " 460 Panama, " " " 250 Portsmouth, " " "... 250 Westphalia, " " " 60 Kirkman, " " " 250 Corley (a siding station) 50 Manteno (postoffice and store) Botna 20 Elkhorn (postoffice in southeastern part of county). According to the State census reports of 1885, Shelby County, June 1 of that year, had a population of 16,306, which in 1888 had increased to nearly 18,000, at which time there were 3,291 dwellings. DEFUNCT VILLAGES. ITAN. Notwithstanding the county plat books do not show this, one of Shelby County's first villages, nevertheless it was staked out by Mansel "Wicks and a man named Dodge. It took its singular name from a town of the same name in South America, where Wicks, one of the proprietors of this embryo village, was cast away by a shipwreck, about 1852. The location of this place was near L. D. Sunderland's home, on section 4, township 79, range 38^ in what is now Harlan Town- ship. A stock of goods was put in there by Jacob Majors. This place was also started with the view of getting the county seat located there, it being near the center of the county; and this, like several other center- ing locations, fell into a dreamless sleep and soon expired! SHKLBYVILLE. This is the oldest village of the county. It was regularly platted October 30, 1854, and was the point designated by the committee, who located the county seat in 1853-'54, as the place for the seat of justice. Its location was section 27, township 81, range 40, west, and in what is now Grove Township. Quite a prosperous village sprang into existence there, but upon the removal of the county seat to Harlan, the vitality of Shelbyville was soon sapped and the numerous residences and business houses erected there were torn down or removed to Harlan and other points. For many years there has been no trace of a village there. In reality it had an existence from 1854 to 1860, but yet it is replete with pioneer incidents now almost lost in the minds of the few remaining old settlers, and scarcely ever spoken of by the younger gen- eration. SIMODA. This was a village platted a mile and a half east of Harlan, in September, 1857, by County Surveyor Samuel Dewell, on land owned by Milton Heath and wife. It was situated on the east half of the southeast quarter of section 8, and the west half of the southwest quarter of section 9, township 79, range 38, west. Its name originated from a character named Som-i-daw, taken from a novel which one of the first settlers of Simoda was reading at the time the village was being platted. The place was started for the purpose of locating the county seat, and also was to be an important station on the tlien proposed Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway, which finally took a more southern 260 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. route through Avoca and Shelby. It was a well-designed plat; the survey shows that the streets were all eighty feet wide, except " Railroad street," which was 100 feet. The depot grounds were surveyed 200 by 720 feet. A paper — the first newspaper in Shelby County — was established at Simoda in the spring of 1859, a history of which appears in the chapter devoted to the newspaper press elsewhere in this book. The place was a rival village of Harlan, and was indeed a beautiful site for a town, situated as it was at the forks of the two branches of the Nishna- botna River, on high, rolling ground. At one time, during 1859-'60, there were about twenty residences and business houses, in- cluding the New Idea printing office and N. W. Merrill's general store. A copy of the first newspaper was recently shown the writer. It contained the following business cards: William Reed, blacksmith, Manteno, la.; A. C. Ford, attorney and counselor at law; Dewell & Holbrook, county surveyors. Quite a spirited warfare was carried on between the people of Harlan and Simoda, known as the "Simoda war," contesting for the location of the county seat, but when by a vote of the people it was finally located at Harlan, Simoda lost its grip and soon went to decay, now only having a name in the musty plats of the county recorder's books and in the memory of the pioneers of Shelby County. The buildings were sold and re- moved to Harlan and to adjoining farms. Thus rose and fell the third village started in the county. MAHTENO. This is among the villages platted in 1859, the same having been filed for record April 19 of that year. It is situated on section 18, township 81, range 40, west, and in what is now known as Grove Township, and is two or three miles from the defunct village of Shelbyville. At one time it was quite a hamlet, but after the county seat was re- moved from Shelbyville to Harlan, and other towns took rank as trading points, Manteno declined. At present there is but little aside from a few shops, a general store and the postoffice, all of which are a great accommo- dation to the surrounding farming commu- nity, who find it too far to go to the railroad towns for the staple goods they may require. PRESENT TOWNS AND VILLAGES. HARLAN- Harlan, the county seat of Shelby County, is situated principally on section 18, township 79, range 38, near the geographical center of the county. It was named in honor of one of Iowa's early and quite distinguished United States Senators, James Harlan. The original plat, however, was located on section 7, of the same township and range — a mile from the present business center. Their first plat- ting was executed by Adam and May Tuttle, and filed for record August 9, 1858. It was on low bottom land near the meanderings of the Nishnebotna River, and only flourished a short time, owing mainly to the fact that the land was not suitable. The next platting was what is known as " Lone's Addition." This was laid out and platted by James M. Long, July 15, 1859, and now constitutes the greater part of Har- lan. However, in the course of a few years, what is known as " Wyland's Addition" and "McDonald's Addition" were laid out and now form part of the place. BEAUTY OF ITS LOCATION. Iowa contains many pretty towns, but very few present to the eye a more charming natural landscape than the flourishing town of Harlan, environed as it is by a beautiful and rolling farming country, with here and HI8T0RT OF SHELBY COUNTY. 2C1 there a good-sized grove of native timber — just sufficient to break the monotony of an otherwise prairie country. It matters not whether one views the town from one of the elevated tracts of land on either hand — whether standing on the bluff looking east, catching now and then a glimpse of that pict- uresque and extremely crooked stream, the Nishnebotna River, the meanderings of which at some seasons of the year look like a silver cord, broken in two, here and there, or whether one views it from an incoming train, from the south — the scene is one calculated to attract one to the place. In midsummer the vast fields of waving grain and corn, with the verdure of the forest trees, both natural and those planted by the hardy-handed pioneer, lend an enticing beauty whicii nature unas- sisted could not produce. Then you should pause a while at Harlan and watch the busy mart, thronged with hundreds of farmers' teams which have come in with various prod- ucts, and soon to return with the goods for which tliey have made an exchange. As one approaches the town from any given direction he is at once pleased and impressed at the sight of the numerous church spires pointing heavenward, as well as the excellent high- school building, with its dome towering high above and over all. These bespeak the cult- ure and social refinement of the populace, in tones unmistakable. " God made the country — man the city," and to the lover of nature no more beautiful location can be found than Harlan, which at this date — 1888 — is three decades old and has a population of 2,000 in round numbers. The first building erected was a small shanty, put up and lived in by Isaac Plum, while he was providing better quarters. He had first located at Simoda, across the river, and when he saw that Harlan was to be the county seat, he made an arrangement with 23 Messrs. Long & Ault, proprietors of the latter place, to remove his effects to their village site. Peter Barnett kept the first boarding-house in Harlan, in 1858. In the fail of 1858, William B. Newton built a house in which was kept the first tavern. The first real hotel built in Harlan was that erected by J. M. Long in 1871; he operated it a short time when it fell into other hands. It was called " The Harlan Hotel." The first harness-maker was Aaron Berg- stresser, who located soon after the close of the rebellion. William A. Gray, who succeeded Harvey «& Woodruff as general dealers, carried the first line of hardware, hollow-ware and stoves, beginning in 1860. The first druggist was Dr. Frest, who came soon after the village was platted. Dr. Eich- ard M. Smith, who came from Newton, Iowa, was the next in the drug trade. The pioneer shoemaker was George M. Couffer. The first furniture was handled by a man named McClaren, who located in 1868. Prior to that date people were compelled to go to Council Bluffs for even a common wooden- bottom chair, or provide one of a home make, which was stronger than it was easy or ele- gant, but style did not reign supreme in those earlier days! A building at Simoda, belonging to Isaac Plumb, was partly up and on a foundation properly made, but Harlan people wanted the new frame house to go up in their place, so a road was cut out through trees and bushes along the river, and the building removed by five teams. Tlie work on this building was commenced April 14, 1858, and was removed and nearly finished before May the same year. Just at this time Harlan began to have a genuine pioneer boqni — the §ound of the 262 EiaTORT OP SHELBY COUNTY. hammer and saw was heard on every hand; lumber was iu great demand; also workmen. The above named building was finally finished off and sold to a firm who sold the first woods in the place; it was composed of Dr. Ault, A. L. Harvey and L. W. Woodruff, later known as Harvey & Woodruff. This store was located on block 5 of the original plat of Harlan. The years 1858-'59 were busy years at Harlan; among the buildings erected were, after those just named, David H. Itandall's, Peter Barnett's, S. A. Sidner's and J.J. Tuck's. Barnett sold a fine yoke of oxen, and with the money purchased his lumber, cut at the new saw- mill. The first blacksmith who stood by an anvil in Harlan was a young man whose name is long since forgotten by the early settlers. He worked, later in the town's history, with D. H. Randall, who came from Clinton County, Iowa, and operated a shop some time. Men named Babb and Johnson were early blacksmitlis. The first meat that was sold in retail way was peddled out at Harlan once a week by Abraham Kniss, who weighed with the old style steelyards, and it is said never allowed the beam to go too high in dealing out his meat, having an eyeevidently to business! The first regular meat shop was started by John Stanley in 1871; he is still in the business, holding a large patronage. The earliest to engage in millinery busi- ness was Mrs. J. W. Sharji, in 1873. The first Fourth of July celebration was held in Harlan in 1858, and the first liberty pole erected that Independence day, on the high ground upon which H. C. Ilolcomb's residence now stands, which was away out of the business part of Harlan. The orator was Stephen Xing, of Harrison County. A dance was held in the evening, at which there was jpuch sport and innocent amusement. The first religious service on the town plat of Harlan was conducted by Judge Tarkington, the county judge, who was also a Methodist preacher. The first denomina- tion to build a ciiurch edifice was the Bap- tist society, who built in 1871, the same serving that people until their present fine church building was presented to them in 1886 by James M. Long, original proprietor of the town proper. The livery business was first represented by George D. Ross, in 1873. A copy of the first newspaper published at Harlan in 1859, spoken of in the Press chapter, has advertisements of L. G. Tubbs, general dealer; William Gay & Co., general dealers and produce and commission; also a card appeared of A. M. Kime & Co., carpen- ters and builders. Another peculiar pioneer trader in general merchandise was one " Mr. " Bates, who rau a general store for one season, having about the premises several clerks, who, together with the community, had all those months been thinking "he" was a. man, when lo! and behold, a Council Bluffs physician was called to attend her in serious sickness, the fact was revealed that " he " was of the truly feminine gender. Upon the disclosure of this the general store of Bates & Co. soon became a thing of curiosity in the past. This peculiar person made frequent trips with the sheriff and other county officials to Council Bluffs and other places, but they never once thought they were bedfellows with other than a man; but such was the case! The first to embark in the jewelry business at Harlan was a man named Gidden, who, about 1870, was sent here to open a branch concern for a dealer at Atlantic named A. D. Hill. Prior to 1867 the people of Harlan bad to go without photographs, or else make a long HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. 363 journey to Council Bluflfs; but in the fall of that year an artist named Gander opened a studio, such as it was, in the upper story of the old court-house. P. B. Hunt was among the earliest lumber dealers, going into business soon after the railroad came. The first elevator was built in August, 1879, by J. S. Murray. It had a capacity of 10,000 bushels. This was destroyed by lire in February, 1882, and rebuilt in June the same year. Cananan & Bechtel built an elevator also in 1879, having a 10,000-bushel capacity. J. M. Mosby erected the third grain ele- vator in 1882, with the same capacity as those above named. M. J! Murray erected a warehouse of 5,000- bushel capacity in 1886. Those handling grain at Harlan in the fall of 1888 were M. J. Murray, J. F. Piatt & Co., Lockwood & Brother. THK TELEPHONE LINE. About 1880 the Hawkeye Telephone Com- pany built a line of telephone to Harlan from Avoca. It soon became known as the Iowa Telegraph and Telephone Company, and from that incorporated into what is now known as the Iowa Union Telephotie Compan}'. In Shelby County it operates an " exchange " at Harlan, Kirkman, Irwin, Defiance and Barl- ing, besides many private lines, some going to farm bouses, allowingdaily market reports from eastern markets. The first banking business transacted at Harlan by a home concern was in 1873, when C. J. & D. M. Wyland, who were engaged in real-estate business, began banking on a small scale in a little lean-to building, where they remained a short time and found a good paying banking business growing on their hands. They were obliged to remove to a frame building, 14 x 16 feet, which then stood on the west side of the public square; but this soon became too small a room, and in 1880 they erected a fine, substantial brick banking room, in which is now operated the Bank of Harlan and a general land and real estate oflice. The Shelby County Bank was incorporated under the laws of Iowa, in December, 1880, with a cash capital of §50,000. W. E. Hazen was the first cashier. It is what is known as a State bank, and has been successful from the commencement. Its present officers are: W. "W. Wheeler, President; B. Kees, Vice- President; M. K. Campbell, Cashier. Its place of business is within its own brick building, situated east from the public square. COMMERCIAL INTERESTS OF 1888. W. H. Axline, drugs. L. Frost, drugs. J. S. Gross, drugs. J. F. Huntzinger, drugs. Mills & Pexton, drugs and books. Daniel Chase, groceries. Cyrus A. Mentzer, groceries. AV. Pitman, groceries. D. W. Crouse, groceries. W. W. Wheeler, hardware. Canfield »te Taylor, hardware. Nathaniel Booth, farm implements. James McConnell, farm implements. E. B. Wicks, boots and shoes. J. H. & J. W. Ramsey, boots and shoes. French & True, general store. Joseph Beh, general store. Blotckey Bros., general store. B. Griffith, general store. George S. Gibbs, general store. George Iloldefer, general store. Eidamiller, general store. William H. Carl, furniture. 364 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. O. F. Graves, furniture. Tinsley Bros., jewelry store. J. F. Brock, jewelry store. Henry Bocken, tailor. K. P. Jorgenson, tailor. H. II. Luecke, clothing. J. H. & J. W. Ramsey, clothing. C. Will Fisher, photographs. R. P. Daminand, photographs. R. Boyd, marble works. J. E. Miller, harness shop. Joseph Crique, harness shop. A. W. Bergstresser, harness shop. "W. C. Campbell, editor Tribune (Dem.) Oungst & Rhinesmith, proprietors Repub- lican (Rep.) Cox & Hanson, proprietors Industrial American (Labor.) B. F. Eshelman, dentist. City Hotel, A. H. Vaughn, proprietor. P. B. Hunt, lumber. M. J. Murry, grain elevator. J. F. Piatt, grain elevator. Lockwood Bros., grain elevator. L. L. Jarvis, livery barn. Frank Crouch, livery barn. Sheller & Phelps, real estate office. Shelby County Bank, M. K. Campbell, Cashier. Harlan Bank, C. J. & D. M. Wyland, pro- prietors. Opera House, C. J. & D. M. Wyland, proprietors. Miss M. Dunnington, millinery goods. Mrs. A. L. Potter, millinery goods. J. L. Stanley, meat market, S. J. Ramsey, meat market. J. W. Chatburn, proprietor roller mills. Cass «fe McArthur, wagon-makers. T. Hanson, blacksmith shop. E. A. Cobb, physician. E. B. Moore, physician. J. H. Waits, physician. E. J. Smith, physician. E. L. Cook, physician. R. S. Kirkpatrick, physician. Smith & Cullison, attorneys. J. I. M., attorney. Piatt Wicks, attorney. Robert P. Foss, attorney. Cyrus Beard, attorney. Gammon & Byers, attorneys. THE POST-OFFICE. A postoffice was established at Harlan in 1858, the first postmaster being William Henderson, who kept the office at his resi- dence, on the left bank of the Nishnabotna River. Among the postmasters who followed him were: William A. Gray, D. H. Ran- dall, II. C. Holcomb, N. W. Babcock, S. P. Kinsey, Sr., B. I. Kinsey. The last named served until April 1, 1888, and was suc- ceeded by Jonathan B. Stutsman. S. P. Kinsey and his son held the office for four- teen years. The office became a money-order office in July, 1874, the first order being issued to J. E. Rockwood, for $1.05, payable to E. S. Tupper, of Des Moines. The full number of money orders issued up to No- vember 27, 1888, was 24,436, or an average of about five per business day for the whole time. THE rUBLIC SCHOOLS. From the earliest date the people of Har- lan have sought for the best educational ad- vantages, never begrudging the money thus expended. The first term of school taught on the present site of Harlan was held by L. W. Woodruff in a log house which stood where now stands the City Hotel. It was in the summer of 1859. The next to teach were Mrs. William Gray and Miss Sue Dunning- ton, who taught in the brick house erected by Isaac Plum, in the summer and fall of 1859. This building was 20 x 24 feet, and HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. 265 stood where the Methodist church now stands, and served as school-house, public hall for church and political gatherings, as well as county fairs. Could this building have recorded its own history ere it fell back to dust, it would have unfolded a story of pioneer days full of thrilling events and happy incidents. As the population in- creased this became too small, hence in 1871 it was torn down and a two-story frame house erected on the original six school lots purchased at an early day. It cost $2,500, and was 25 x 50 feet on the ground. A few years later an addition was made to it of two more school-rooms, which served the district until 1881, when the beautiful high school building was completed. The old frame house was converted into a residence for John Derks, and was destroyed by fire a few years later. The new building was erected by S. Bryan, at a cost of $18,000. It is a three-story building, divided into nine de- partments, and is of most modern design throughout, and is steam heated. One jani- tor, J. B. Swain, has thus far been employed at $40 per month, and through his excellent management the building, engine and heat- ing appliances have been kept in good repair. Ten teachers are employed at this time, the principal receiving $1,200 per year, while eight assistants receive $45 per month, and one $55 per month. The present (1888) en- rollment of scholars is 625, the majority of which reside in Harlan. SOCIETIES. The first secret societies to occupy our attention would naturally be the order of Free and Accepted Masons. The traditions of Freemasonry form a precious heritage. Rightly interpreted, they are as beneficent as they are authoritative. This ancient and hon- orable order rests on a foundation of broad human sympathies. Its objects are by pre- cept and practice to foster virtue, to incul- cate charity, and to bind the members to- gether in enduring bonds of brotherly love. It is a professor and teacher of every moral and social virtue. This institution has its foundation deeply laid in the hopes, aspirations and affections of man, or it never could have come down to us through the ages, evolving and develop- ing with the lapse of time, adapting itself through revolving centuries to the changes of religion, civilization and enlightenment, ever retaining its hold upon the human heart. All political agitation is excluded from its action and consideration. The very charac- ter of its membership is a guarantee not only of its freedom from aught that is harmful, but of its possession of much that is laudable and desirable. Members of the order are to be found in every land and clime; it is not confined to sect, station, people or tongue — neither does it show preference for members on account of wealth or high social stand- ing. Rich and poor, statesman and warrior, scholar and laborer, men from every honest class and honorable profession, meet upon one common level and clasp each other's hands in fraternal grasp. Masonry has grown and flourished to a wonderful extent in Shelby County; it has a very large and active membership, embracing within its fold many of the very best citizens, who are enthusiastic and zealous workers in its glorious cause. Parian Lodge, No. 321, of F. di A. M., worked under a dispensation from Novem- ber 30, 1872, having twelve charter mem- l)ers. Upon July 8, 1873, the lodge was duly instituted, and the following officers elected: John Fritz, W. M.;"W. J. Davis, S. W.; J. II. Louis, .). W.; II. S. IJurke, Treas- urer; William AVyland, Secretary; T. W. 266 BISTORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. Chatbiirn, S. D.; James Lambert, J. D. ; F. A. Barger, S. S. ; Alexander Barr, J. S. ; "William H. Griffith, Tyler. The officers at the present time are: Joseph I. Myerly, W. M.; Cyrus Beard, S. W.; "Wesley Scott, J. W.; D. M. "Wyland, Treasurer; O. P. "Wyland, Secretary: W. C. Campbell, S. D.;Fred. Eidenmiller, J. D.; J. V. Brazie, S. S.; L. M. Kerr, J. S.; W. P. Stone, Tyler. The total membership in December, 1888, was 115, at whicli time the lodge was in a flourishing condition. Olivet Chapter, No. 107, Royal Arch Masons, worked under dispensation, from July 6, 1885, with a charter membership of twelve. The first elective officei-s were: P. B. Hunt, H. P.; P. F. Murray, K.; F. Dun- ham, S. ; J. "W. Latta, Sec. and Treas. ; "W. H. Axline, C. H.; Eev. P. Y. D. Vedder, P. S.; "William "Wyland, R. A. C; Neil Carmichel, G. M. 3 v.; L. H. Lasall, G. M. 2 V.; H. S. Burke, G. M. 1 Y.; "William Stone, Guard. The present officers are: "W. li. Axline, H. P.; D. B. Sheller, K.; W. Scutt, S.; D. "W. Wyland, Treas.; O. P. "Wyland, Sec; J. I. Myerly, C. H.; S. R. Pratt, P. S.; D. B. Sheller, R. A. C; John Fritz, G. M. 3 Y.; Cyrus Beard, G. M. 2 Y. ; "\Y. J. Davis, G. M. 1 Y.; T. 15. Burr, Guard. Total member- ship, eighty-two. Mount Zion Commandery, K. T., No. 4-9, of Harlan, worked under dispensation from July 6, 1886, with a charter member- ship of ten. The first officers were: Sir "William Fiske Cleveland, E. C; Sir Josiah True, G. ; Sir Daniel Crawford Cooper, O. G.; Sir Paroan Brown Hunt, P. ; Sir William Henry Axline, S. W.; Sir Patrick Francis Murray, J. W.; Sir David Madison Wyland, Treas.; Sir Omar Pacha Wyland, Rec; Sir Fred. Eidemiller, Sta. B.; Sir William Colin Campbell, I. B.; Sir Joseph Irving Myerly, W. ; Sir Ephraim Douglas, S. W. The officers serving December 1, 1888, were: Sir William Fiske Cleveland, E. C; Sir David Madison Wyland, G.; Sir Joseph Irving Myerly, C. G.; Sir Cyrus Beard, P.; Sir William Henry Axline, S. W. ; Sir George Sabin Gibbs, J. W. ; Sir William John Davis, Treas.; Sir Lorenze H. LaSall, Sta. B.; Sir Asher Sage Riley, S. B.; Sir Wesley Scutt, Warden; Sir Edward D. Bergstresser, S. W.; Sir Herman John Garland, 1 G. ; Sir Frank- lin Moore Bowtin, 2 G. ; Sir David Byron Sheller, 3 G. Present total membership, sixty-seven. Lebanon Chapter, No. 8, of Eastern Star Order, was instituted at Harlan in March, 1887, with thirty-seven charter members. The first officers were: Mrs. H. G. Garland, Matron; D. B. Sheller, Patron; Mrs. F. M. Bowlin, Treas.; Mrs. D. B. Sheller, Sec. The present membership is some in advance of the charter number. The officers for 1888 were: Mrs. H. J. Garland, Matron; D. B.' Sheller, Patron; Mrs. F. M. Bowlin, Treas.; Mamie Fritz, Sec. The various degrees of the Masonic order meet at Masonic Hall, on the nortii side of the public square. Their place of meeting is indeed an defiant one. Both the lodjje room proper and the banquet hall are furnished in an excellent style. No expense has been spared to provide these rooms with everything for the convenience of the frater- nity, and all of the furnishings have been selected with the best taste. They have rich and costly regalia, each suit having its proper place within a finely finished wood and glass- faced case. The carpets and seats are of an attractive pattern, and the charts, emblems and pictures add much to the appearance of the rooms. The unusual amount of interest that each individual member manifests for HISTORY OP SHELBY COUNTY. 267 the order, tiie large and increasinof member- ship, and the class of men who are so closely identified with these several bodies, speak highly for the intense zeal that permeates the entire Masonic fraternity, and has marked the city of Harlan as one of the leading Masonic cities in the State. The Knights of Pythias, Carthage Lodge, No. 65, was instituted June 30, 1885, with thirty-four charter members, the present membership being sixty-one. The first ofii- cers were: Joseph Stiles, P. C. ; H. M. Neu- meyer, C. C; C. H. Evans, V. C; E. B. Ward, P.; B. F. Eshelman, M. of F.; J. W. Harrod, M. of V.; D. B. Sheller, K. R. S.; J. F. Huntzinger, M. at A.; J. H. Ramsey, I. G.; J. Walton, O. G. The present officers are: E. L. Scofield, P. C; J. F. Brock, C. C; J. S. Miller, D. C.; G. K. Patterson, P.; M. Headley, M. at A.; J. K. Bamsey, K. of R. and S.; J. F. Pexton, M. of F.; H. L. Sco- field, M. ofV.; Gus Dasbach, I. G.; T. U. Hathaway, O. G. They have an excellent lodge room in Wheeler's Block, which they have leased for permanent quarters. The same is well carpeted and furnished, and the members work in a harmonious manner, so that it may be said the " K. of P." at Harlan is in a growing, prosperous condition, fully carrying into practical etfect the object of its order. The Odd Fellows Order. — Harlan Lodge, No. 267, was instituted December 26, 1873, with a charter membership of fifteen. The first officers of this brotherhood were: Samuel Potter, N. G.; N. Booth, V. G.; D. M. Wyland, Sec; W. S. Stutsman, Treas. In 1888 the officers were: W. T. Shepherd, N. G.; D. Z. Ganzer, V. G.; J. W. Jones, R. S.; L. R. Hertert, P. S. ; E. D. Bergstresser, Treas. The total 7neinbership at this date is forty-six. The lodge is in good working condition, and has among its members the best business men in Harlan. Other societies have sprung up and existed for a time and then gone down. Among such defunct societies may be mentioned the Ancient Order of United Workmen, which flourished for a time, but at present most of the members have severed their connection with the order, while a few still pay their assessments to the Grand Lodge, but do not meet in a body. The Legion of Honor at one time was represented here, but finally merged into other mutual benevolent societies. HARLAN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION. This concern was organized May 28, 1888, by the leading business men of the town, for the purpose of " protecting and fostering the commercial interests of Harlan." By-laws and constitution were adopted, to which twenty-six names were signed as charter members, each paying $1 as a membership fee. The following are the officers of the association: W. J. Davis, President; D. M. Wyland and W. W. Wheeler, Vice-Presi- dents; D. B. Sheller, Secretary, and John T. Jack, Treasurer. Committees were appointed on Improvements, Railways, Manufactories, etc. The business men who formed this as- sociation saw the need of organized efl'ort in order to accomplish anything of much value in way of public enterprises. HARLAN GRAND ARMY POST, NO. 197. This is one of Harlan's flourishing socie ties, and comes to be more highly appreciated as the years roll away and the frosts of age begin to whiten the heads of the comrades brave who stood side by side in the great civil war. This post was mustered June 29, 1888, by Comrade Henry Fry, of "Sam Rice Post," Atlantic, Iowa. The charter members and first officers were as follows: T. .1. Robinson, Commander; .1. II. Louis, Vice-Commander; M. K. Campbell, Quarter- 268 HISTOBT OF SHELBY COUNTY. master; George E. Bennett, M. Headley, George D. Ross, Senior Yice-Coinmander; H. D. Lacy, Officer of the Day; Samuel Pot- ter, Thomas A. Long, Quartermaster-Ser- geant; B. I. Kinsey, Officer of the Guard; F. Dunham, Sergeant-Major; J. H. Weeks, , John M. Rodgers, C. L. Drake, Surgeon; D. F. Paul, Adjutant; George Chase, R. L. Tompkins, C. L. Wilder, Thomas Ledwich, Chaplain; T. E. Somers, G. H. Shoemaker. At the time tliis post was mustered, twenty-two comrades joined. At one time eighty-six were enrolled. At this writing there are about fortj' in good standing. The present officers are: J. H. Reynolds, Commander; M. White, Senior Vice-Com- mander; A. J. Corbin, Junior Vice-Com- mander; J. H. Weeks, Surgeon; S. W. Swarts, Chaplain; T. J. Robinson, Officer of the Day; M. Headley, Officer of the Guard; G. D. Ross, Adjutant and Quartermaster; W. II. Erret, Sergeant-Major; John Mead, Quartermaster-Sergeant. In January, 1885, a hall on the west side of the public square was fitted up, which provides a fine head- quarters. The post is out of debt and owns forty stands of regulation arms, and a beauti- ful silk flag costing upward of $70, the finest in Shelby County. Upon Decoration day the post forget not the graves of fallen comrades, but conduct memorial services in an impressive and appropriate manner. Per- haps no man is more entitled to credit for the success of this post than Comrade George D. Ross, who has been an ardent, persistent worker. SONS OF VETERANS. This order, a branch of the Grand Army of the Republic, was organized November 17, 1888, as " Gen. Schofield Camp, No. 162," with a charter membership of thirteen. Its officers are: H. L. Scofield, Captain; B. B. Griffith, Jr., First Lieutenant; Colfax Smith, Second Lieutenant. They meet at the G. A. R. Hall. AVOCA, HARLAN & NORTHERN RAILWAY. In 1878 a company was organized at Har- lan for the purpose of grading and bridging a road bed from Avoca to Harlan, a distance of about thirteen miles. This company suc- ceeded in getting a tax voted in the following townships : Harlan, Lincoln, Westphalia, Douglas and Greeley, at diiferent precincts, owing to the advantage to be derived from the building and operation of such a line of railroad, the per cent, in Harlan Township being four cents on a dollar of taxable prop- erty, while in Greeley it was only one per cent. The officers of such company (formed really for the work of construction) were as follows: Thomas McDonald, President; Piatt Wicks, Secretary; C. J. Wyland, Treasurer; J. M. Long and D. M. Wyland, Directors. The road was to be completed to Harlan on or before December 1, 1878, and by hurrying the work of track-laying the work was accom- plished in time to insure the collection of the taxes voted in its aid. There had been an agreement between this home company and the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific company to the efi"ect that the latter named would iron and tie the road bed, providing the former company would do the other work of con- struction. When finally finished the Rock Island company leased the same for a term of ninety-nine years. It was in this manner that the towns of Harlan and Avoca were united by a line of railway, which givee Harlan an outlet, east and west, over the " great Rock Island route," giving the people nearly all the advantages to be derived from living on the main line. Too much cannot be said in praise of the far-sighted men who organized and carried on this plan for securing HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. 269 a railroad outlet to markets. Upon the ad- vent of the first regular train which ran to Harlan, there was great rejoicing among the people in general, as it virtually opened up a highway to the great commercial center of the country, and marked a new era in the history of Shelby County. From both Harlan and the midway station of Corley there are large shipments of grain and live stock out, as well as vast amounts of merchandise shipped in. It has proven not only a benefit to the people of Harlan, but also to all the surrounding farming com- munity which hitherto had been obliged to go a long distance to market. INCORPORATION. May 2, 1879, Harlan was incorporated in answer to a petition signed by 123 voters. The first mayor elected was William "Wyland, who was succeeded by mayors elected at the April annual election of each year, as follows: William Closson, 1881; R. M. Jameson, 1882-'83-'84; O. F. Graves, 1885; E. J. Smith, 1886; P. H. Hunt, 1887; B. F. Eshel- man, 1888. The latter named, owing to other business calling him away, resigned, and F. M. Bowlan was elected in his place October 1, 1888. The incorporation has always had the best of government; the expenditures for the most part have been only such as the property and safety of the place demanded. Among the city improvements made may be men- tioned THE WATERWORKS, which surpass those of any other town of its population in Iowa. A contract was let and carried out in the spring of 1880 to sink a well for the purpose of supplying water for fire and other purposes, the same being fifty feet deep and six feet (in the clear) in diam- eter. The price paid was $880. The supply is inexhaustible, never yet having been pumped lower than its average water mark, which has always left thirty feet of water in the well. Pipes have been laid to the pub- lic square, where six cisterns or reservoirs were constructed beneath the ground, with two additional ones in the south and eastern part of the place. The total capacity of these several cisterns amounts to 4,000 barrels. A stationary engine within the city building, fired up once a month, pumps the water into these reservoirs at a nominal expense. At first a hand fire engine was employed, but in June, 1885, a fine, large steamer was pur- chased in New York, valued at $4,500. The same weighs over three tons, without its coal and water, and has a capacity of throw- ing 700 gallons of water per minute, it being the second largest fire engine in Iowa. It was named '■'■ James M. Long,^' in honor of one of the proprietors of Harlan. It is what is known as the Silsby, the best now man- ufactured. There are three distinct tire companies — all combined in one — the en- gine company, the hose company and the hook and ladder company. The city owns 1,000 feet of hose and about 100 feet of the most improved ladders. These three companies number sixty men, in whose hands the town has always felt perfectly safe. No disastrous fires have ever occurred since the organization of the fire company. With the inexhaustible flow of water at hand it only remains for the incorporation to lay pipes or purchase more hose in order to pro- tect the entire place from the ravages of flames. CHURCH ORGANIZATIONS. No better index to the character of a people can possibly be had than is afforded by the support given the numerous church societies. Each church spire tells of an 270 HISTORY OF SUBLET COUNTY. advanced Christian refinement which any community should gladly support, and in which it should take a just pride. Iowa is fast coming to be noted for her many excel- lent schools, colleges and churches. The re- ligious element most certainly predominates at Harlan now as in the early history, be- cause it nobly supports the following church organizations: Baptist, Danish Baptist, Con- gregational, Christian, Latter Day Saints, Methodist Episcopal, Adventists and Roman Catholic. The Baptist Society was formed in Jan- uary, 1868, with the following member- ship: A. Blankenship, T. J. Colwell, James Lambert, J. Lambert, Mrs. M. Blankenship, Mary Blankenship, Angeline Blake, Lucinthy Colwell and Caroline Lambert. The differ- ent pastors are as follows: He v. James Lambert, from October to November, 1869; Kev. Joshua Courier, from November, 1869, to December, 1871; Rev. James Lambert, the second time, from March until Decem- ber, 1872; Rev. Joshua Courier, the second time, from January, 1873, to August, 1873; Rev. E. G. O. Groat, from September, 1873, to March, 1874; Rev. J. E. Rockwood, from May, 1874, to August, 1874; Rev. W. A. Darward, from December, 1874, to Novem- ber, 1875; Rev. Gil man Parker, from Jan- uary, 1876, to 1879; Rev. W. A. Welsher, from May, 1880, to May, 1881; Rev. An- thony Jacobs, from December, 1881; Rev. A. H. Post, from 1883 to 1886; Rev. N. A. Reed, from January 1, 1887, to 1888; Rev. J. F. Bryant, present pastor, came from Logan, Iowa, November 1, 1888. At first religious services were held in the court-house, but in 1871 a chapel was fin- ished, which served until 1886, when James M. Long, of Harlan, donated §6,000 toward the erection of their present beautiful brick church, which cost altogether about $7,000. Its donor also gave bis time as superintendent of construction on the same. It is a good sized structure, seating 450 people. It is heated by an improved hot air furnace. Its dedication took place August 22, 1886. Rev. M. D. Bevan, of Atlantic, preached the ser- mon. At one time the membership of this church numbered 130, but at present only enrolls ninety; the decrease is owing to re- movals and deaths. The Congregational Chxirch was organized originally in 1871 by a minister from Avoca. The first members, seven in number, were: James Harvey, Lucy A. Harvey, Sarah E. Davis, Miss Cornelia llolcomb, Mrs. Mary A. "Wood, Mrs. Anna E. Closson, Mrs. Sarah Redfield. This first church held occasional services until 1874, when others were added, and in the fall of 1878 the believers in the Presbyterian church who lived at Harlan, together with the Congregational people, by agreement, formed a reorganized Congrega- tional church, there not being a sufficient number to organize into two distinct socie- ties. For several years this young church drew sufficient support from the Home Mis- sionary Society, but later was unaided. So really the date of the present church at Har- lan was November 10, 1878, when Rev. E. Adams came and organized the new society, whicli adopted their articles of faith and cov.enanted together. Twenty-three united at that time. The services have been unbroken ever since. The early place of meeting was at Long's Hall and in the court-house, but in 1881 they built a commodious house of worship in one of the finest locations of the town, opposite the public school building. Its cost was $2,800. It was dedicated Sab- bath morning, July 23, 1882, at which time all the churches in town omitted services to be in attendance, except the Methodist peo- ple. The sermon was preached by Rev. E. BISTORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. 271 S. Hill, of Atlantic, Iowa. The property was freed from debt before that day. E. W. Davis, of Avoca, had given the gronnd npon which the church stands. The trustees of the society then were C. C. Redlield, T. J. Robin- son and M. K. Campbell. The various pas- tors having served this church, are: Rev. J. G. Sabin, from 1879 to 1881; Rev. E. S. Sherman, from 1881 to 1884; Rev. C. N. Sinnett, from 1884 to 1886; Rev. J. W. Geiger, July 6, 1887, who is still the pastor. He came from Des Moines, Iowa, and is doing much toward the upbuilding of the church at Harlan. The history of the Methodist Episcopal Church of this place dates back to pioneer days. In this county, as in nearly all new countries, the Methodists were the first to herald the truths of the gospel. To Judge Tarkington belongs the honor of first pro- claiming the Methodist faith in this section of Iowa, having preached the first sermon ever heard at Harlan, December 3, 1859, at the first quarterly meeting of Harlan Mis- sion, which was within the limits of the Western Iowa Conference. The first preacher who regularly attended this charge was Rev. Kirkland Card, who came in 1860, and re- ceived $100 for his services. Following him came Rev. N. L. Phillips, in 1861; Rev. James Leslie, in 1863-'64, at which date the Des Moines Annual Conference was estab- lished, making Harlan a regular station, from which time it has been constantly supplied. Those having served as pastors from the above date to the present are as follows: Rev. E. R. Latta, 1865; Rev. T. McK. Stew- art, 1866; Rev. W. T. Smith, 1867; Rev. A. W. Taylor, 1868; Rev. W. E. Hamilton, 1869-'70; liev. Levi Park and Rev. Hanke, 1871; Rev. William Armstrong, 1872; Rev. A. C. Smith, 1873-'74; Rev. C. Ashton, 1875-'76; Rev. G. H. Detwiler, 1878; Rev. D. C. Franklin, 1879-'80-'81; Rev. W. E. Hamilton, 1882; Rev. P. S. V. Vetter, 1883-'84; Rev. W. W. Ramsey, 1885; Rev. J. H. Senseney, 1887, and Rev. W. H. Ship- man, the present (1888) pastor. The first class-leader was P. Springer, who acted in 1859. A church building (part of the present one) was erected in 1874, and dedicated September 27 of that year. Rev. Alexander Burns, D. D., of lodianola, Iowa, preaching the sermon on the occasion, using "Stand fast in the faith" as his te.xt. In connection with these services the amount of $851 was pledged, all of which was paid witiiin one year. In 1882 an addition was built to the original church, giving the present edifice a seating capacity of 350. The society, which now numbers 170, is in a prosperous condition and owns a good-sized parsonage near the church building. Latter-Day Saints Church, of Harlan, is within the Galland's Grove Conference, a branch society of the Grove Township church. It was organized May 23, 1869, with Jonas Wellington Chatburn as presiding elder; Frank Wellington, teacher, and John B. Swain as priest. In 1882 the society erected a neat edifice in which to worship. It is a frame building with seating capacity of about 500. It is provided with pews, is finely carpeted and otherwise furnished. The walls are of hard finish, presenting an even and substantial ap- pearance. The church, exclusive of lots and interior furniture, cost $1,700. At one time the society numbered seventy- five, but owing to removals and other causes it has been reduced to forty-five members. It should here be stated that this sect de- nounce in the strongest terms the doctrine of polygamy as taught and practiced by Brig- ham Young and his devotees. The present officers of the church are: J. 273 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. W. Chatbnrn, Presiding Elder; J. W. Salter, Priest; Nathaniel Boothe, Teacher. The Christian Church was formed Febru- ary 18, 1876, by Elder C. W. Sherwood, with T. V. Berry as first pastor. At one time the church had an enrollment of 125 members; at present it has 110. In 1880 a finely situated house of worship was erected, at a cost of $2,000, the same being dedicated June 27, 1880. It seats comfortably about 275 persons. The first chuTch ofliicials (trustees) were E. Douglas, AV. P. Chance and J. P. "Wyland. Those serving at this time are John Ramsey, G.W. Fall and George Holdefer. The following named have served as pastors: Rev. G. B. Mullis, Rev. J. L. Felter, Rev. D. J. Howe, Rev. D. C. Morris, Rev. J. P. Lucas, Rev. O. H. Truman and Rev. J. R. Cornell. At present there is no pastor, but the church is about to employ one. This society owns one of the best pieces of church property in Har- lan, and its members are a thorough -going class of Christian workers. The Danish Baptist Church of Harlan was organized as a distinct society, independent of the American church, October 30, 1886, with a membership of seventeen. The first minister was F. C. Nelson, who came once in two weeks, iintil the spring of 1887, when arrangements were made with C. Carlson, of Atlantic, who still serves this people every other week. The society now numbers twenty-nine, most of whom reside in Harlan. Their people had worshiped with the Ameri- can church for many years, but preferring to listen to and teach the gospel in their own tongue, they finally organized. Their church building was formerly occupied by the Ameri- can Baptist, who conveyed it to James M. Long, founder of the town, in lieu of the handsome church edifice he erected for them, and he then donated tlie old frame church to the Danish branch. It is a house which was built in 1867 — the first church in Harlan; it is 24x48 feet, and seats between one and two hundred. The Roman Catholic society, consisting of about twelve families, is under the charge of the church at "Westphalia. A chapel was built and dedicated the past season — 1888. In addition to the religious societies already named, may be mentioned the Seventh Day Adventist church, which is about perfected, making in all more church organizations than one seldom finds in a town the size of Har- lan, which fact is a good index of the moral character of her people. SHELBY. This is a thriving place of about 600 population, situated on section 33 of Shelby Township. It is near the beautiful stream known as Silver Creek, and is on the main line of the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad, thirty-two unles from Council BluflFs, in an easterly direction. Its his- tory now covers a period of an even score of years, as it dates from 1868, in which year the railroad passed through to the Missouri River. The only settler, prior to 1868, was James Hawkins, who sold the land on which the town now stands to B. F. Allen, banker of Des Moines, who platted the same in 1868. Hawkins was an old soldier of a very eventful life, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work. He obtained this tract of laud, with others, for services rendered in the Mexican war, the date of his original entry being in 1855. He settled on the banks of Silver Creek in 1866, where he erected a log cabin, in which he lived for many years. The first house built in Shelby proper was the section house of "the railroad company. The next was erected by Alexander Thompson, and is still used as a dwelling. The third house HISTORY OP SHELBY COUNTY. 373 was built by James W. Linn in 1869. Soon after this J. M. Wood came and erected the Slielby House, and opened a general store. In 187-i the property fell into the hands of L. Benliam. The same year Dr. J. W. Camp- bell, now of Old Mexico, started a general store. Other early comers were Harrod Bros., who engaged in general merchandis- ing, but are now in trade at Harlan, Iowa. In 1872 J. D. Cord came from Lucas County, Iowa, and engaged in grain, lumber and stock business, taking John Davis in com- pany with him, in 1873. They continued seven years, when Mr. Cord removed to Ta- coma, Washington Territory. In the fall of 1874, E. C. Clapp came from Iowa City, Iowa, and operated a general store until 1884; he is now one of the banking firm of Davis & Clapp, of the Citizens' Bank. J. D. Cord and John Davis were proprietors of the Shelby County Bank for three years,; dissolving May, 1887, when Davis & Clapp formed their co-partnership as bankers and real-estate dealers. Another man who came to tiie village at an early day was J. P. McEwen, from Davenport, Iowa. He was one of the prominent men of the place, and was noted for activity in all works of public character. He died in 1881, leaving a family, who still reside in Harlan. The railroad depot was built in the fall of 1869. Harrod Bros, came in 1877, and built the store building now used by W. F. Cleveland & Co. The village was incorpo- rated in the fall of 1877, the lirst mayor being John W. Harrod. The place is made up of wide-awake business men of high moral and religious standing. The followitig socie- ties have been organized and still flourish: A Methodist, Presbyterian and German Lu- theran church; Masonic, Odd Fellows, Good Templars, Legion of Honor, and Grand Army Post. The Methodist Episcopal Church a.t Shelby . had its beginning by a service held in the half finished railroad depot, July 3, 1870. Those present were: C. J. McLaughlin and wife, J. W. Linn and wife. Dr. Campbell and wife, Mr. Wood and wife, J. P. McEwen and wife, John Edwards, the railroad agent, and several children. The preacher was a local minister named A. Johnson. The first "class" was duly organized that day, consist- ing of four members — C. J. McLaughlin and wife and J. W. Linn with his wife. The class thus formed was soon attached to Har- lan circuit. The first pastor was W. E. Ham- ilton, now president of Simpson College. The first leader was J. W. Linn; the first steward was C. J. McLaughlin. During the first three years services were held at different private houses. In 1873 a school- house erected in Shelby was used by all the denominations for a time. In 1877 the society built a neat edifice in which to worship. This cost 83,500. C. A. Bunker was pastor at the time. A year later a parsonage was provided, costing about $700. In 1875 Shelby charge was taken from Harlan and added to Avoca, and in 1878 Shelby became a charge of itself. The following pastors have faithfully served the church at Shelbj': Eev. W. E. Hamilton, one year; Rev. Parks, six months; liev. Hauck, six months; Rev. W. Armstrong, one year; Rev. Smith, two years; Rev. Wood, six months; Rev. C. A. Bunker, one year and a half; Rev. Fred Harris, three months; Rev. W. A. Chambers, nine montlis; Rev. W. C. Martin, one year; Rev. W. F. Bartholemew, two years; Rev. J. C. Stevens, one year; Rev. D. C. Franklin, three years; Rev. D. Shenton, present pastor, on his fourth year. The present membership ofthechurch is 173. 274 Ur STORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. The Presbyterian Church was organized February 20, 1880, bj a committee appointed by the Presbytery of Conncil Blufls, Iowa, consisting of Rev. G. M. Lod^e and Elders J. S. Love and George Bergen. The original membersliip consisted of fourteen persons, who gave in letters from various places. After a sermon by G. M. Lodge, the follow- ing ruling elders were elected: William Shiek, K. M. Pomeroy and John Edwards. N. A. Best was chosen deacon. Kev. G. M. Lodge supplied the pulpit for about two years. Rev. T. R. Lewis began his labors at Shelby in June, 1882, and was duly installed pastor of tJie church September 28, 1886. He resigned and removed from Shelby in January, 1888. The church edifice was erected on the corner of Plateau and Center streets in 1885, at a cost of §4,800. It is a beautiful building, with Gothic cathedral glass windows, with a spacious recess for choir purposes, back of the pulpit; also a lecture room in front, with folding doors into the auditorium. It is iinished with cherry ceilings, seated with cherry-colored assembly chairs, is heated by means of a furnace, and lighted with reflectors. It comfortably seats 300 persons. This church was dedicated in March, 1885, by Revs. John lierron, T. S. Bailey and T. R. Lewis. The present mem- bership of the society is eighty-five. Rev. John H. Carpenter was called to the pastorate in the spring of 1888, entering on the duties June 1. In the fall of 1888 the ladies of the church purchased an 800-pound bell, known as the McShane bell, at Balti- more, Maryland. The present (1888) elders are: R. M. Pom- eroy, S. D. Abbott, R. W. Carsou and J. H. Helm. The German Lutheran Church was organ- ized May 20, 1883, in which year the society erected a house of worship with a seating capacity of 300 people. At one time there were 66 members, but now not quite so many. The membership, for the most part, reside on farms in t^ie vicinity of Shelby. Services are now held once a month. Rev. Kaminskie was the first pastor iu charge. The present pastor is Rev. John Peterson, of Minden. The society is out of debt, owning church, parsonage and school building. A wealthy lady of Germany donated $5,000 toward this church enterprise. The Baptist Societrj flourished at Shelby for a short time, but is not an active body at present. SCHOOLS. The intelligence of the population of Shelby has always fostered the best of public schools. The beginning of edcational matters in the village dates back to 18 — . SOCIETIES. Silestia Lodge, No. 371, A. F. & A. M., at Shelby, Iowa, was organized in 1876, with a charter membership of ten persons. The first to serve as oSicers of their lodge were: S. B. Frum, W. M.; A. O. Snyder, S. W.; Silas Davis, J. W.; John Edwards, Treasurer; J. II. Shively, Secretary; J. N. Frum, S. D.; George Tate, J. D. The first to be made a Master Mason at this point was J. D. Cochran. The present membership is fifty-six. The present officers are: S. B. Frum, W. M. ; John Davis, S. W. ; "W. D. Buckley, J. W.; C. R. Benedict, Treas- urer; G. II. Runk, Secretary; J. H. Frum, S. D.; S. C. Eschehnan, J. D.; Silas Davis, Tyler. The present condition of the lodge is excellent in all of its workings. The Odd Feliotos Canopy Lodge, No. ^.01, of Shelby, Iowa, was organized October 21, 1880. The highest number of members up l/ISTOUr OF SHELBY COUNTY. 275 to tl)is date (1888) has been 120. The first officers were: W. F. Howard, N. G.; J. G. AValters, V. G.; Jolin A. Cook, Secretary; D. H. Boget, Treasurer. Those holding official places in 1888 were: B. L. AVatson,'N. G.; A. F. Meier, V. G.; W. F. Christopher, Treasurer, and W. H. Helm, Secretary. The order is active and has a good many of Shelby's best business men among its members. The lodge room, situated over Christopher's harness shop, is well furnished and kept, ranking with any town of its size in Iowa. Rehecca Degree, I. 0. 0. jb^., was instituted October 1, 1886. The charter officers of the society were: John Burwell, N. G. ; Mrs. J. H. Helm, V. G. ; Mrs. A. Jones, Secretary; Mrs. B. Watson, Treasurer. The present officers (1888) are: Mrs. A. Jones, N.G. ; Benjamin Watson, V.G.; John Burwell, Secretary-; M. F. Myers, Treasurer. This order has a membership of forty per- sons, and is in a flourishing condition. The Good Templars Lodge, No. 230, of Shelby, Iowa, was instituted August 1, 1887. The first officers were: J. H. Helm, W. C. ; Mrs. J. P. McEwen, Vice; Ed Abbott, Sec- retary; Mrs. J. H. Helm, Treasurer. Atone time this society numbered seventy members, but at present only enjoys about thirty-five, in good standing. The present officers are: Will Osborn, W. C; Mrs. J. H. Helm, Vice; Mrs. A. Curry, Secretary; Mrs. J. P. McEwen, Treasurer. The Iowa Legion of Honor, Shelby LLodge, No.lO, was instituted August 4, 1881, by J. H. Helm, who lives at Shelby, and is acting as general agent for the Legions of Honor for Iowa, having served in such capacity for four years. The first officers were: W. F. Cleveland, President ; Thomas Chatburn, Vice; George H. Rink, Secretary; J. D. Caughan, Treasurer. Tiie officers now holding are: S. P. Silliman, President; H. W. Helm, Secretary, and JSI. Jasper Jones, Treasurer. Dick Yates Post, Grand Army of the ItepubliG, No. 36^., Shelby, Iowa, was mus- tered October 1, 1884. The charter members were: S. W. Taylor, Commander; D. C. Cooper,Vice-Commander; William H.Brown, Jr. Vice-Commander; L. W. Osborn, Quar- termaster; Otho Means, Chaplain; F. M. Keeney, Adjutant; W. A. Babb, Officer of the Day ; Thomas Brown, Officer of the Guard. The remainder of the charter members were: T. C. Hendricks, George W. Cennedy, J. S. Dee, M. H. Skinner, F. S. Hubbard, C. II. Best, J. D. Cunningham, E. C. Anderson, James Hawkins, J. K. Smith. Atone time the post numbered forty nine, but at present is forty-four. They meet at the Odd Fellows Hall. A drum corps, most of whom belong to this post, are of much service to the order. The officers of 1888 are: W. H. Brown, Commander; Thomas Brown, Senior Vice- Commander; C. H. Best, Junior Vice-Com- mander; F. M. Keeney, Adjutant; Dr. L. Benham, Surgeon; Otho Means, Chaplain; J. L. Buckley, Quartermaster; M. T. Keeney, Officer of the Day; F. S. Hubbard, Officer of the Guard; J. V. Watson, Sergeant-Major; J. S. Dee, Quartermaster-Sergeant. THE POST-OFFICE. The postoffice at Shelby was established in 1869, with J. W. Campbell as first post- master; he was succeeded by James Garmong, H. Harrod, J. H. Shively, who served eight years under Presidents Grant and Hayes. The present incumbent is I. D. Prouty. The first money order issued from Shelby post- office was dated October 1, 1877, by Luther Doty, for the sum of $2.20, payable at Iowa City, Iowa. Up to November 1, 1888, there had been issued 11,384 postal money orders. 270 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. COMMERCIAL INTERESTS OF 1888. Shelby is located in the midst of one of the richest farming sections of Iowa, and enjoys an excellent trade, and is one of the best of markets for grain, corn and live stock. The business interests of the place in 1888 were in the hands of live, energetic men, as follows : Abbott & Cooper, grain dealers. Bank of Shelby. Benedict, C. R., loans. Benham, L., physician. Benham, L. A., proprietor Shelby House. Blotcky Bros., (Joseph and Solomon), gen- eral store. Boune & Morton, furniture. Boyden, C. H., pumps and windmills. Burwell, John, painter. Bushfield, Mrs. T. M., dressmaker. Carline & Buckley, contractors. Central House, M. Graham, proprietor. Christopher, W. F., harness-maker. Cooper, D. C. & Co., hardware. Cox, H., carpenter. Davis & Co., druggists. Davison, Thomas, carpenter. Dee, J. S., live stock. Dow, J. & Co., grain elevator. Esty, John F., painter. Fancher, C. H., attorney. Fancher, Mrs. C. H., music teacher. Foster, H. C, photographer. Gabriel, Rees & Co., lumber. Garmong, W. P., hardware. Heilig, Enoch, blacksmith. Helm, J. H., life insurance. Hills, Ward H., general store. Jones, N. Jasper, physician and surgeon. Keeney, F. M., live stock. Kostelecky, Charles, livery. Loomis, J. F., farm machinery. Ludden, A., apiarist, and boots and shoes. McCombs, Z. H., blacksmith. McCown, W. M., justice of the peace. McDonald, Miss M. L., milliner. Means, O., insurance. Meier, Ferdinand, restaurant. Mickey, T. C, blacksmith. Miller, F. A., live stock. Moore, L. L., barber. Morgan, J., meat market. Penn, C. W., livery. Pickett, A. J., mason. Pomeroy, John, Publisher jVews. Pomeroy & Pierce, general dealers. Reed, H. D., station agent C. R. & P. Ry. Shelby Roller Mills, J. "Wolkey, proprietor. Sieffert & Wiese, lumber dealers. Sievers, H., wagon maker. Smiley, J., physician. Sunier, Emil, baker. Ward, F., dentist. Ward & Campbell, drugs. Watters, P. K., live-stock. Wiese, P., general store. Winters & Morgan, live-stock. Worth, F. A., grocer. The milling interests of the place are in the hands of the proprietor of the Shelby Roller Mills, which is one of the two mills located within Shelby County. Its history dates back to 1878, when J. W. Chatburn, the pioneer miller of southwestern Iowa, came to Shelby and built a burr flouring mill operated by steam-power. It was a large mill, and was completed in February, 1879. In January, 1884, he sold to J. Wolky, who remodeled the plant, and converted it into what is known as a combination mill, having two runs of burrs and five sets of rollers, giving a capacity of seventy-five barrels per day. He managed it in all about tlireeyears, and sold to the present owners, Fred. Craigg, John Lenhard and C. H. Fancher. The original mill cost Mr. Chatburn $16,000. HWTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. 277 IRWIN. Irwin is a flourishing village in Jefferson Township. The plat, which is situated on sections 31 and 32, township 81, range 37, was tiled for record June 6, 1881. It is on the banks of the Nishnabotna River, and is an important station on the Kirkinan branch of the Chicago & Northwestern Eailroad. It is fourteen miles northeast of Harlan, and in 1880 had a population of 250. It was named after E. W. Irwin, whose family were among the lirst people who settled in the northeastern part of the county. Tiie place was first known as Tibbittsville. The first to engage in business was E. J. Kimball & Son, who opened a general store in 1879, two years prior to the coming of the railroad, which was graded in 1880 and completed in 1881. The first to deal in hardware was E. J. Trowbridge, in 1881. The stock passed through different hands, and at present be- longs to E. M. Huntington. The first to deal in furniture was W. Granger & Son, who commenced in the spring of 1882. Harmon & Bumphrey dealt in furniture in 1883 and 1884. The first to deal in agricultural implements was J. H. Dudley, but the stock is now in the hands of E. M. Huntington, in connec- tion with the hardware business. The pioneer lumber dealers were Derrick Brothers & Lainpson, who opened a yard in 1881. They sold to S. II. Bowman in 1883. In 1882 the Green Bay Lumber Company engaged in the sale of lumber, and in 1888 purchased the stock of Mr. Bowman, and are now the sole dealers. The first grain buyer at Irwin was Louis Bechtell, who erected an elevator. Hancock & Company also built and elevator. The second dealer was N. B. Stevens & Co., whose elevator was destroyed by fire in 1884, 28 and rebuilt. This, with the residence of Harry Irwin, which was burned in the fall of 1885, is the only property lost by fire in the village. E. W. Hoyt built a hotel known as the " Ogdeu." This was the first hotel, and was among the first buildings erected. It is now called the Redinon House, and is managed by G. W. Redmon. The first harness-maker in the village was E. A. Bigelow. At present this trade is rep- resented by H. W. Muldoon. The first man to wield the sledge and blow the glowing forge, as a blacksmith, was Charles Franks, who with Polling & McCon- nell are the present blacksmiths; the latter named also do wagon work. The millinery business was first represented by Miss Mary Fogarty. At present it is in the hands of Miss Anna Cooper. The Bank of Irwin was established in the fall of 1884. H. Humphrey is the cashier. The bank does a general loan and insurance business. The first practicing physician was Dr. I. M. Harsh, who located in 1879. The present physicians of Irwin are Dr. S. H. Waters and Dr. W. S. Branson. The first to deal in drugs was J. A. Harmon, who came in 1881, and still con- tinues. Branson & Granger engaged in the drug trade in June, 1883, and are still in trade. Dr. Branson, of this firm, has prac- ticed medicine since 1882. Samuel Kimball started the first livery stable in 1882; it is now operated by Peter Will. THE POST-OFFICE was established at this point in 1879, and first called Tibbettsville, in honor of William Tibbetts. The first postmaster was G. B. Thompson; then came D. S. Irwin, J. C. Pj- 278 HISTOliY OF SHELBY COUNTY. per, W. W. Gibbs, H. D. Lacey, E. J. Trow- bridge and J. A. Harmon, the present incum- bent, who took the office in 1886. It became a money-order office in August, 1882, the first order being granted to Thomas Bras, payable at Chicago, for the amount of $13.75. Tlie full number of orders issued up to No- vember 13, 1888, was 3,711. SCHOOLS AND CHUECHES. The people of Irwin may well be proud of the record they have made in attempting to sustain schools and churches. The town be- ing small, each denomination has found hard work to keep up their distinct organizations in religious affairs, but all have contributed as far as possible toward such work. The first school-house was built at an expense of $500, raised by private subscriptions. This served until 1884, when a public school-house was erected at an expense of about $3,700. It is a two-story frame structure, having four rooms, two of which are now in use. Two capable instructors are employed at present. The religious societies of Irwin are the Campbellites, United Presbyterians and Methodists. The Methodist Society belongs to the Kirkman Circuit, and was organized in 1881, with fourteen members. They have held services at private houses and in the Town Hall. Their present membership is about sixty-five. Rev. Fausett, who resides at Kirkman, preaches once in two weeks at Irwin. The United Preslnjterian Socictxj was formed at an early day, but the organization was perfected in 1885, when a church edifice was erected at a cost of $1,800, which seats about 250 persons. The membership is about thirty. At present they have no regular pastor or services. It is a missionary point, having never made a call for a pastor on their own account. The society owns a neat par- sonage, costing $800. The first who served as minister for this people was Rev. Turner, who remained a year and removed to Kansas. The CampbelUte Society was organized in 1886, with a membership of twenty-four. They now number about thirty. At this date (November, 1888), they have services once a month, the minister in charge at Exira preaching for them. SOCIETIES. The place supports a Masonic, Odd Fel- lows, Legion of Honor and Grand Army Post. Sidius Masonic Lodge, No. 4i4y was in- stituted in the autumn of 1883, with nine- teen charter members. The first officers elected were: AV. W. Gibbs, W. M.; Joel C. Woods, J. W.; G. L. Hall, S. W.; George Dunham, Secretary: M. Reynolds, Treasurer. The lodge now numbers about thirty; they meet in a rented hall. The present officers are: P. J. Brant, W. M.; J. D. Blades, J. W.; W. S. Branson, S. W.; M. Reynolds, Treasurer, and O. L. Russell, Secretary. Ellsworth Odd Fellows Lodge, No. 4-73, of Irwin, was instituted in March, 1883, with a membership of thirty-five, of M-hom the following were first officers: R. P. Roberts, N. G.; E. A. Bigelow, V. G.; D. T. Quinn, Secretary; J. A. Harmon, Treasurer. The number at present is thirty. The society have a well-furnished hall of their own. Butna Lodge, No. 137, of Legion of Honor, was formed in 1881, with a membership of eighteen. E. J. Trowbridge was the first president. At present (1888) A. S. Morey is president. The order now remains about the same in number as when organized. J. B. Slack Grand Army Post, No. J36, was mustered in 1881, with a charter mem- bership of twenty-six; it now numbers twenty- HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. 279 eight, in good standing. They lease a hall and own a dozen stands of arms. E. J. Trowbridge is the present commander. BUSINESS INTERESTS IN 1888. The commercial interests of Irwin in No- vember, 1888, were as follows: T. N. Harord, general stock. Paulsen & Steenhnsen, general dealer. H. R. Allen, general dealer. E. M. Huntington, hardware and farm im- plements. "W. Granger & Son, furniture. Branson & Granger, druggists. J. A. Harmon, druggist. Miss Anna Cooper, milliner. Greeu Bay Lumber Company, lumber dealers. H. W. Muldoon, harness-maker. W. S. Branson, physician and surgeon. S. H. Waters, physician and surgeon. Polling & McConnell, blacksmiths. Chas. Franks, blacksmith. Peter Will, livery stable. H. Humphrey, general insurance. Bank of Irwin, H. Humphrey, cashier. Frank Humphrey, barber shop. D. S. Irwin, attorney at law. Hancock & Co., grain dealers. N. B. Stevens, grain and lumber. Redmon Hotel, G. W. Redmon, proprietor. R. A. Owen, restaurant. DEFIANCE. Defiance is an incorporated town, located on section 13, township 81, range 39, in the civil township of Union. It was originally platted February 20, 1882. It is a station on the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Rail- road, and is situated on the banks of the Nishnabotna River, twelve miles north of Harlan, the county seat of Shelby County. It had a population of 500 in 1885. The first settler was W. J. Williams, who. located on the northeast quarter of section 23. Among the first to engage in trade were W. J. AVilliams, C. M. Robins, Samuel Reams, Joseph McColl and J. B. S. Case. W. J. Williams is still engaged in a gen- eral store; C. M. Robins went out of trade; J. B. S. Case sold his clothing stock to Her- man & Lisle. Easter & Elser, another early firm doing a general business, sold to Easter & Grace. The old firm of Samuel Reams, drugs, has come to be Reams & Son. H. B. Sooy came to the place and engaged in the farm implement trade, January, 1882, and is still engaged in the same. Brain Bros., at the instigation of the railroad company, erected the Clarendon Hotel in 1882, which was run as a railway hotel and eating house until dining cars were placed on this branch of the Milwaukee sys- tem. From that time on the house did not pay its owners. Among those who leased the property were Messrs. Smitli, Burgess aud Whitcomb. The house was closed during the greater portion of 1888, but finally taken by L. B. Densmore, October 1 of that year. The first to deal in grain were Stevens «& Fraese, who built an elevator in 1883. Tlie first lumber dealers were the Defiance Lumber Company, now operating as the Green Bay Lumber Company. The place was incorporated under the laws of the State, in January, 1883. The follow- ing is a list of the mayors to the present date: II. B. Sooy, J. E. Consigney, H. B. Sooy, A. S. Riley, C. M. Robins and J. R. Boyd. THE POST-OFFICE was established in 1881, with C. M. Robins as the first postmaster. The succeeding ones were J. B. S. Case and H. J. Brain, the present incumbent. It was made a money- 2S0 II I STORY OF SUELHY COUNTY. order office Augnst 14, 1882. The first order was granted to E. J. Argotsinger for $1.25. The total number issued to November 8, 1888, was 2,619. SCHOOLS AND CHUKOHES. Defiance has never been beliind her rival towns in point of educational interest. Be- lieving the school-house is of first importance, her people have seen to it that good schools have been provided. In 1883 a public school building was erected. It contains three de- partments, each having a teacher. Upon approaching this tliriving town, by wagon or rail, tiie first object to impress itself on the mind of the stranger is tiie fine school and chnrcli buildings; they are always a true index as to character of a people. The religious element predominates, and is represented by the Methodist, United Brethren, Christian and lloman Catholic societies, each having good-sized, comfort- able and attractive church buildings. The Christian Church was organized at an early day, and many of its membersiiip reside on farms in the vicinity of Defiance. The church proper was formed in 1883. Tlie present year (1888) they have erected a new chnrch building, at a cost of $1,700. Here- tofore services were held in school-houses. The present pastor, Rev. O. II. Truman, lives at Manning and holds services once in two weeks. The church will be dedicated November 25. The first services held by the Methodist Episcopal people were in district school- houses, but in 1883 a neat building was erected at a cost of $1,700, which comfort- ably seats 250 people. The first organiza- tion was made up of six members, but now comprises a membership of about seventy. The first pastor was Rev. Charles Brown; following him came Revs. Coe, Douglas, Hugh Linn, F. T. Beckweth, and the present pastor, F. T. Farrow, who also serves the Methodist people at Earling, Panama and Buck Grove, all of which, together with Defiance, are embraced within the Council Blulfs District of the Des Moiues Confer- ence. At this date the church owes about $200. The United Brethren Society at Defiance was among the earliest organizations. They have a membership of forty-five. An at- tractive church was built in 1888, at a cost of $1,G00, which was dedicated August 1. The structure is 30x50 feet, with a belfry 8 x 10 feet. The present pastor is F. J. Beetley. OTHKK SOCIETIES. Defiance Lodge, No. 99, of Odd Eel-- lows, was instituted October 31, 1884. The original ofiicers were: G. A. Mershon, N. G.; J. C. Trenor, V. G.; A. J. Spencer, Sec- retary; H. B. Sooy, Treasurer. Tliese, together with J. F. Londenslager, constituted the charter membership. The lodge has num- bered forty-four, and is about the same at present. They occupy a hall in common with the Masonic fraternity. The present (1888) ofiicers are: J. R. Wickersham, N. G.; J. M. Miller, V. G.; A. S. Riley, Sec- retary; H. B. Sooy, Treasurer. Guardian Masonic Lodge, No. JfJ^l, was chartered in June, 1884, having worked under dispensation for about two years prior to that date. The following worthy gentlemen compose the charter membership: W. J. Williams, W. M.; Howard Miles, S. W.; C. A. Topping, J. W.; J. F. Massy, Tyler; C. M. Robins, Secretary; E. B. Brown, S. D.; Joseph Yockey, Treasurer; Frank Massy, J. D.; \V. II. Mytinger and Charles Seybold. The present (1888) ofiicers are: "W. J. Will- iams, W. M.; A. S. Riley, S. W.; S. B. II f STORY OF SUE LBV COUNTV. 281 M.-issy, J. W.; W. 1'. Sooy, Treasurer; C. A. Topping, Secretary; Joseph Yockey, S. D. ; John Durkes, J. D.; Ehuer Reams, S. S. ; A. G. Meuller, J. S. A Good Templars Lodge was formed in 1887, having a membership of sixty-five. Like too many such orders, the interest after a few months was not large enough to call it one of great value or prosperity; however, it still holds a place among other societies of Defiance. BUSINESS INTERESTS IN 1888. Bank of Defiance, A. Riley, Cashier. Clarendon House, L. B. Densraore, pro- prietor. H. C. Crawford, hardware. Green Bay Lumber Company. Leroy Densmore, billiards. J. R. Easterly, grocery. James Flaugher, blacksmith. George A. Fry, grain dealer. Fuller & Co., grain dealers. George Gibson, livery stable. T. B. Hobart, farm implements. H. B. Sooy, farm implements, and justice and collections. Warren Reams, meat market. Ream & Son, general store. Adolpli Stepanack, harness shop. Topping & Fry, druggists. Harnen & Lisle, clothing store. Easter & Grace, general store. II. C. Vanduzer, lumber. W. J. Williams, general store. The Arffus, edited and owned by F. Bangs, is a live local sheet, well representing the best interests of the town and surround- ing country. For a full account see the Press chapter elsewhere. VILLAGE OF EARLING. 'J'his is a sprightly village of 500 people, situated twelve miles from Harlan, the county seat of Shelby County. It is on the cast branch of the Mosquito River, and also on the Council Bluffs branch of the great Chi- cago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad. Spe- cifically, it is located on section 5, township 80, range 39, and was originally platted Sep- tember 1, 1882, by the Milwaukee Land Company. Its original name was Marthan, but it soon took the name of Earling. The first to engage in business was Wen- dell Like, who opened a general store during the month of September, 1882. Another early dealer was a Mr. Mason. In October, 1882, B3'ers & Eggen started a general store, and afterward failed. The next to embark in general trade was W. W. Mayseiit & Co., who commenced in JSTovember, 1882. They are still doing a thriving business under the firm name of Maysent Brothers. They carry the largest stock in the place. Another quite early firm was J. Dickey & Son, general dealers, whose stock was destroyed by fire in the autumn of 1884, in which about a dozen other business houses were consumed, badly crippling the business of the new village. The first to handle a stock of general hard- ware were Kuhl Brothers (Joseph and Peter), now owned by Peter Kuhl. August Schunett- gen commenced to handle hardware and fur- niture in 1886 and still continues, having the only stock of furniture in the place. The first to deal in farm implements were Ford & Sou, in 1883; they also carried on blacksmithirig. John Lorge followed in the same line of trade. The pioneer blacksmith of Earling was Frank Naruth, who commenced work at the forge in the autumn of 1882, and is still thus engaged. Fritz Wilkc has been the shoemaker of the village from the time it first had a name. The livery business was at first conducted by B. F. Lawson, who operateil from 1882 niSTORT OF SHE LB r COUNTY. until 1886, M-hen Matt P. Kuhl succeeded him, and is still carrying on the business. Coenen & Mentzer, of Harlan, were the pioneer lumber dealers, and finally sold to Theile & Wilwerding, who are still among the dealers in lumber and coal. Hesse & Hsse engaged in the lumber trade in 1885; they also deal in coal. The first to deal in grain and live stock wereG. H. Doughty & Co., who erected an elevator in 1883. About the same time 1). H. Huntoon also built a grain elevator, and commenced dealing in grain and stock. The firm's name now goes as " The Huntoon Com- pany." In 1888 Ray & Thode engaged in the same business, having a warehouse tlirough which their produce is handled. As soon as the village was fairly started Miss Lizzie Wilwerding opened a millinery shop, which she still manages. She is now the wife of Frank Theile. Among those who have worked at harness business may be named John Lorge, Fred Fass and Robert Ford. John Noonan opened the first meat shop in the fall of 1882, and operated the same for a year or two, when he was succeeded by Wilcox & Koling; their business was de- stroyed in the fatal fire of 1884. Bollerman & Ford then engaged in the same trade, which at present is represented by C. H. Bollerman. The drug trade of Earling was first started in 1883, by Ed C. Brown, wlio in 1886 sold to W. K. Brown. After a time he moved the stock to Council Blutfs, Iowa. The next to deal in drugs was Charles Fhisclie, who op- erated a while and then moved to Westphalia, Iowa, wliere he is still in drug trade. In the autumn of 1888 G. R. Roush put in a good stock and is now the only dealer. Among the various comers and goers in the profession of practicing physicians may be mentioned Drs. McKenna, Cassady, Walters, and the present physician and surgeon. Dr. L. Moser, who came to the place from Coun- cil B]ufi"s in the fall of 1888. The only commercial hotel of the place is the Commercial House, erected in the fall of 1882, and since managed by its proprietor, Frank Hillas, Sr. THE POST-OFFICE was established in the month of October, 1882, with Joseph H. Kulil as postmaster. He served until 1884, and was succeeded by Ed C. Brown, who was postmaster until 1885, when Mr. Kuhl again took the ofiice, having received his commission from President Gro- ver Cleveland, in June of that year, and is still holding the ofiice at this time — Novem- ber, 1888. It was made a money -order office in July, 1884, the first order, for $10.90, be- ing issued to Nicholas Peters, July 27, that year. The total number of money-orders issued up to November 7, 1888, was 3,339 — nearly 1,000 per year. SCHOOLS AND CHUECHES. The educational and religious spirit has ever seemed to be uppermost in this village. The large, commodious frame school building which stands just over the line, in Union Township, is a monument of good sense and an index to the educational interest of this people. It was erected in 1884. It is a two- story frame structure, in which three able teachers instruct in a graded system of pub- lic schools. Various denominations liave used this school-lioHse for a place of religious worship. The most of the population in both Earling and the surrounding country are Roman Catholic, who, in 1887, erected a fine church edifice, including two school-rooms — the second story being used for church purposes. Tlie building cost tlie congregation $3,000, HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. 283 and the excellent and large parsonage, built in 1888, cost §2,200. The rooms are finely finished and are heated by a furnace from below. The first services held at Earling, and for some considerable time, were conducted in John Long's implement house, and in other business rooms. At that time this was within Westphalia charge and was attended by Father Ilummert. It became a congre- gation by itself in 1885. At present the enumeration is eighty-five families. They own a block of land in one of the choicest lo- cations within the plat of Earling, besides two acres used for cemetery purposes, just outside the limits. COMMEKCIAL INTERESTS IN 1888. The following were the firms doing busi- ness at Earling in November, 1888: Maysent Bros., general dealers. Frank Theile, general dealer. Peter Kuhl, exclusive hardware. August Schunettgen, hardware and furni- ture. Lorge Brothers, farm machinery. C. H. Bollerman, meat market. G. R. Roush, druggist. Frank Hillas, " Commercial Hotel." Fritz Wilke, shoe shop. L. Moser, physician and surgeon. Frank Nauroth, blacksmith. Matt P. Kuhl, livery and feed barn. The Huntoon Company, grain and stock. Hesse & Hsse, lumber and coal. Theile & Wilwerding, lumber and coal. G. H. Doughty, grain and stock. Ray & Thode, grain and stock. Robert Ford, harness shop. Dean & Rethlefren, restaurant. Mrs. Frank Theile, millinery. Anton Zender, temperance saloon. John Loeltz, temperance saloon. Joseph H. Kuhl, postmaster and notary public. PANAMA. This is an incorporated town, made such in the spring of 1886. It was originally platted by the Milwaukee Land Company, for railway purposes, May 17, 1882. It is geo- graphically situated on section 23, township 80, range 40, in Washington Township. It is distanced twelve miles northwest of Har- lan, and about the same distance southwest of Defiance, the nearest banking points, aside from Portsmouth, six miles to the southwest. It is beautifully situated, between two quite elevated ridges of land, so common in Shelby County, and cannot be seen until one comes within a few rods of the town plat, reminding one of some of the pretty places in the New England States, except the country is void of timber. The first to engage in commercial calling were Wheeler & Kleeb, who handled a general stock in 1882. The firm was changed first to Kleeb & McCoid, then to Williams & Co., who operated a year or so, and then, in 1885, became the property of George W. McCoid, who still owns it. The next to go into trade in the general line was George Holderfer, who commenced in 1883, remained a year and removed to Harlan. Sale & Lake were another firm, who commenced operations in the spring of 1884; they ran about a year and sold to J. D. Lake & Co., who finally closed out to George W. McCoid ia 1887. Tiie fourth general dealer in Panama was Swenning Bros., who began in the autumn of 1886, and is now known by the title of Nels Swenning. Then came Kleeb & Shoreth, in the summer of 1887, with a general store, which is still in opera- tion. The first to deal in thugs was F. J. Swen- 284 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. Tiing, who located in 1882, and still continues. The other drug store was started by Dr. A. E. Gregg, in 1888; he simply carries anotEce stock of pure drugs, but no general line. The hardware trade was at tirst represented by a Mr. Ebj in 1882, who operated a year or so and then sold to Nels Sw.enning, who still carries on the trade. Another hardware dealer at present is J. M. I'ieffcr, who left his farm in 1888 to enter mercantile business. The furniture trade has been handled by various parties, in connection with other lines, and is now carried on by Nels Swen- ning, together with other general stock. The lirst to deal in grain and live-stock was Louis Shroett. At present D. S. Kin- sella runs an elevator. Lassell «fe Crandall are also engaged in the same business, but only use a warehouse. P. B. Hunt sold the first lumber in Pan- ama. L. II. Lassell bought the stock and handled the same until the fall of 1888, and sold to the Green Bay Lumber Company. The pioneer harness-maker was E. Lowell, who commenced in 1882, but finally quit. T. A. Kavanaugh next embarked in this impor- tant line, and enjoys the sole trade to-day. The first shoemaker, Martin Nager, came in 1883. He is now at Harlan, and Panama has no shoemaker. The first to handle millinery goods was Mrs. W. H. Mytenger. Since then a dozen have come and got rich (!) and left the town. At present the business is well conducted by Misses Kleeb & Franklin. The first hotel was built in 1883, called the Lowell House, after its owner. There have been several so-called hotels from time to time, but at this date the town sup])orts one good house knoM'n as the City Hotel, run by Frank Miller! The livery business was first represented by Kleeb & Chamberlain, but later fell into the hands of Frank Miller, who had the mis- fortune to have his barn destroyed by fire in the fall of 18S6. He only received a hundred dollars insurance, but he rebuilt and is still running. The pioneer blacksmith, who came as soon as the town started, was Martin Kwapis- zewski, a Polander, who is as thorough in his trade as his name is long! He is still pounding away at his glowing forge, a highly respected citizen of Panama. The other black- smith shop of the town is run b}' Fred Konz. The wagon shop of Panama was started in 1882, and is still directed by Casper Oppold, who is an excellent workman. The first to deal in agricultural implements were AVheeler & Kleeb, who sold to W. W. Wheeler. Robert Ford also handled such goods for a time. At present (1SS8) the farm machine business is principally in the hands of George W. McCoid. The first and present barber is R. H. Story. A brick-yard was started in 1886 by L. W. Lantz, who makes an excellent quality of red brick. The town, which was incorporated in 1886, has been under the following mayors: L.«H. Lassell, C. M. AVilder, W. J. Wicks, A. K. Grow and L. H. Thorne. THE POST-OFFICE was established in 1882. The first postmas- ter was J. W. Kleeb, who was succeeded by W. H. Mytenger, in November, 1883. The office became a money-order oftice in August, 1886, the first order being made out for Julia Anderson, payable to the Crj'stal Mills at Council Bluffs, the amount being $23. The total number of orders issued up to Novem- ber 12, 1888, was 1,601. SCHOOLS AND CHURCHES. Up to 1887 the public school was held in adjoining district school buildings and in a HISTORY OF tSHELBT COUNTY. 385 public hall. At that time a line frame build- ing was erected on the high ridge overlook- ing the town from the west. It cost about $2,000. It accommodates two departments, and is the most sightly, commodious build- ing in Panama, and bespeaks the good sense and intelligence of the town. The church organizations are the Roman Catholicand Methodist Episcopal, both having good church edifices. The Methodist ciuirch was built in 1887, at a cost of $2,000. The society was organized in 1885, by Rev. Linn. The Catholic church began operations in Panama in 1885, having formerly belonged to the "Westphalia church. They have a liouse of worship costing $1,600, and have a mem- bershipof twentj-iive families. Father Joseph B. Hummert is the present pastor. The Mormons have quite a settlement in this vicinity, and hold occasional services, but have no regular society. The only civic society in Panama is a be- nevolent order known as the Ancient Legion of Honor, which was formed in 1888. There are about twenty-five members at present. A big flouring mill was moved from De Witt, Iowa, to Panama, in 1883, and was conducted until the autumn of 1888, when it was removed to Darlington, Missouri. The town is made up of live, energetic business men, who never do things by the halves, even to the ratification of a Presi- dential election, as one of the dealers there said when Harrison was elected, "We will paint the town more than red!" This, of course, was from the Republican portion of the place. PORTSMOUTH. Portsmouth is situated ten miles from the county seat, Harlan, directly west, and is on sections 16 and 17, township 79, range 40. The plat was filed August 17, 1882, by the Milwaukee Land Company. Tiie land was originally owned by William Williams, who sold to the railroad or land company. Tlie railroad is the Council Iiluft's branch of the great Milwaukee system, and is the only road through Portsmouth. The first general dealer of the place was P. J. Korth, who sold the first goods in Sep- tember, 1882. About the same time Burtis & Waiters put in a general stock, but sold to J. H. Pingerton in 1886, who finally removed with the stock. The first hardware was sold by O. C Bet- terman in the fall of 1882; he continued until 1887, and sold to Jacob Korth, who still remains in trade, carrying a fine line of hardware and stoves. Tlie first to sell drugs were Kuhl & Dohr- mann, in 1882. They sold to A. O. Mudge. The second drug store was opened afterward by Charles Dohrmann, of the above firm. The first practicing physician was Ur. A. E. Noon, who came in 1882, and who sold his practice or left it with the present physi- cian. Dr. Charles Teske. Other physicians have come and gone. The only furniture dealer is J. C. Pfeifer, who came in 1882, and still follows the same. The pioneer agricultural implement dealer was George Battey, who commenced in 1882. He sold to Korth & Wehr. Sims Bros, next engaged in the same line, but the firm is now Sims & Houghton. Lumber was first sold by Henry Dohr- mann, but he was succeeded by Korth & Wehr. George Battey engaged in grain and live- stock business in 1882, and later on Sims & Houghton. The pioneer harness-maker was George Laffiin, who sold to Ilammess Bros., and in 1886 they to L. F. Kellogg & Co., who still carry on tlie business. 236 BISTORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. The first blacksmith to wield his hammer in Portsmouth was Charles Miller, who later sold to Charles Peck, and he to Max Stolz, who is still one of the two blacksmiths — John Hammer, who came in 1887, being the other. William Strauss, the barber, located in 1884, and is still thus engaged at Portsmouth. Matt Peterson opened the first meat mar- ket in 1883, and sold to Rankin & Co.; this market is now controlled by William Rankin. It may here be recorded that P. J. Korth built the first residence in Portsmouth, in July, 1882. The first to engage in the hotel business vv'ere J. A. Kortli & Co., in 1882. They built what was termed the " Portsmouth House," which was sold in 1883 to James Murtough, who still conducts it. The Bank of Portsmouth was opened in 1884 by D. F. Paul, and is still doing a fine banking business. The first to engage in the livery business were J. F. Adams, who sold to John Leinen, and he to Frank Hammes. The business now belongs to M. Hammes. The pioneer millinery store was opened by Misses Flagler & Harter. At present Mrs. W. C. Strauss transacts this branch of busi- ness. A public hall was built in 1884, during the skating-rink craze, for rink purposes. It is 36 X 80 feet. It was built by J. L. Birk, but now belongs to C. L. Peck. It is used for all public gatherings and is a fine-looking build- ing, nicely sided and painted. The village was incorporated in 1883. The first mayor was A. W. Sims. The present mayor is I. E. Houghton. THE POST-OFFICE was established in 1882 with George Walters as first postmaster. In 1886, lie was suc- ceeded by P. J. Korth, who is the present in- cumbent. It became a money order office in 1886, the first order being issued to S. T. Thompson for $60 payable to Lears Jackson of Story City, Iowa. The full number of orders issued up to November 12, 1888, is 694. SCHOOLS AND CHURCHES. The present condition of the public schools at Portsmouth is very good. A two-story fine frame school building was erected in 1886, having two departments. It cost about $2,500, and is of an excellent style and well furnished. The present principal is U. L. Bailey. The two churches represented in the town by regular organized societies are the Roman Catholic and Methodist Episcopal, each of which has good church property. The Method- ist people, in 1885, erected a neat structure suitable to the size of Portsmouth, costing $500. Its size is 28 x 46 feet. The society is very small, having five members when first organized, and at present it is only double that small number. It certainly speaks well for the " faithful few" who thus seek to uphold the Standard of the Cross. The Roman Catholic Church at this point began its work about 1876, when three fami- lies, named Korth, Herkenraft and Linan, set- tled about two miles east of Portsmouth. In 1878 they built a church, under direction of Father Weber, of Westphalia. It was situ- ated on the sightly ridge, and the place was for a long time known as " Cologne Settle- ment." The congregation was a part of a mission belonging to Neola charge, and was at first attended by Father Kempker. In November, 1885, it received a resident pas- tor — Father Hummert. In the summer of 1886 their church in the country was blown down in a wind storm, after which they erected one in the town of Portsmouth. It HISTORY OP SHELBY COUNTY. 287 is 30x60 feet with an addition. Tbis con- gregation owns three and a half acres of laud and a parsonage with six rooms. The church is valued at $2,200. The congregation now enumerates sixty families. In 1882 an Odd Fellows' lodge was regu- larly instituted and carried on for some time. It had a charter membership of ten and reached as high as thirty, but finally they fell out by the way and are now disbanded. The only destructive conflagration which has ever taken place at Portsmouth was the burning of Mr. Battey's grain elevator in 1887. The same was rebuilt that year. The only man doing a general merchan- dising business in the place, who has been identilied with the town from its beginning to the present, is P. J. Kortli, who has stuck by the old stand, believing in honest dealing; he has built up a fine trade. THE PRESENT BUSINESS. P. J. Korth, general dealer. Purton & Helwig, general dealers. M. J. McHenry, general dealer. Jacob Korth, hardware. Charles Dohrman, hardware. J. C. Pfeifer, furniture. Korth & Wehr, farm machinery. Sims & Houghton, farm machinery. O. W. Mudge, drugs. H. F. Kellogg & Co., harness shop. W. C. Straras, barber shop. C. L. Miller, wagon shop. John Hammerand, blacksmith. Max Holtz, blacksinitii. Korth & Wehr, lumber dealers. George Battey, grain dealer. Sims & Houghton, grain dealers. James Murtaugh, hotel. VILLAGE OF WESTPHALIA. This little village derives its name from the German province of Westphalia, and is situated on section 21 of the township bear- ing the same name. It may well be called the center and headquarters of the German Catholic settlement. A post-office was estab- lished in 1875, with Joseph U. Kuhl as first postmaster. Following him came William Flusche, who served until 1884, and was suc- ceeded by the present incumbent, Michael Wilwerding. The village was platted by Emil Flusche, June 22, 1874. The early history of the place will be found recorded in the subjoined sketch of the German settlement, they being one and the same in fact. The present busi- ness interests of the village of Westphalia are conducted as follows: Michael Wilwerding, general store. Charles Flusche, drugs. John Koliles, general store. Joseph Rossenthel, blacksmitli. F. Hesse, carpenter. W. Hodapp, shoemaker. Peter Emig, temperance billiard hall. The place was platted June 22, 1874, by Emil Flusche. The nearest railroad station is Earlins, abont five miles to the northwest. A stage runs tri- weekly to Harlan, the county seat, also to Dunlap. There are about seventy inhabitants at the present time. It being entirely a Catholic township, the only church edifice is the tine brick building at West- phalia, costing $16,000. The surrounding country is of the richest soil in Shelby County, and is all well imi)roved. THE (JERMAN CATHOLIC SETTLEMENT. One of the most tlioroughly prosperous portions of Shelby County is that territory embraced in Westphalia Township (except the northern tier of sections), and sections 24, 25 and 36 of Washington Township. It is what is known as the German colony, but 288 HISTORY OF SHE LET GOUNTT. more properly termed the German Catholic settlement, the history of which is as follows: On March 1, 1872, A. H. Kettler made a contract with the railroad land company, by which he had full control of all lands within "Westphalia Township, then known as Sum- ner Township. The object, as agreed upon in the terms of said contract, was that a colony be formed at once. Mr. Kettler was to receive 50 cents per acre commission on all lands sold to actual settlers, and an equal amount was to go toward tlie Catholic church, as it was understood that the settlement was to be confined to German Catholics. An- other stipulation was tliat Mr. Kettler was to have forty settlers within the township on or before eighteen months from date of contract. September 1, 1872, Emil Flusche came from Grand Kapids, Michigan, in response to a newspaper advertisement published by the founder of the colony. He built the first house, situated on section 23. The next set- tler was Joseph Flusche, who came from Minnesota, October 14, 1872. About a month later Charles Flusche came from Grand Rapids, Michigan. In November of the same year Herman Schwarte built the second house in the settlement, on section 26. On the 16th of March, 1873, there came from the province of Westphalia, Germany, August Flusche, Emil Zimmerman and John Kueschenberg. Among the next settlers were William Flusche, an elder brother, and their mother and aunt, Clara Foldmann, the bride of Charles Flusche, also John Zimmerman and family, who built the third house, the same being situated on section 22. May 28, 1873, Rev. John Kemker, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, arrived and conducted the first mass service at the residence of Emil Flusche, on section 23. The same day he also blessed the first marriage ceremony in uniting as man and wife Charles Flusche and Clara Feldmann. Other early settlers were Frank Hesse and Richard Schneider, who came from West- phalia, Germany. In the autumn of 1873 a house of worship was provided. It stood where the priest's house now stands. No- vember 6, 1873, the land company, by repre- sentatives, J. L. Drew and a Mr. Van Tyle, came to the settlement and transferred the agency of the colony to Emil Flusche. Among others who came from Germany in 1873 was the family of Mr. Sasse, also that of Mr. Hendichs. In the spring of 1874 came Joseph Blum, Peter Kaufmann and the families of Messrs. Kuhl, Loehr, Frund and others, from Fond du Lac, Wis- consin. On the 13th of April, 1874, the settlers elected as their representatives Joseph H. Kulil, Fred Loehr and Mathias Frund, who perfected the township organization of West- phalia, named after the province of same name in Germany. The same year the first school building was erected on block 8, town plat of Westphalia; the priest's house, 18x36 feet, which is now used as part of the school building, was also built. The first school board was duly elected March 1, 1875- The officers were: Joseph F. Kuhl, Presi- dent; August Kemmerich, Secretary. Mr. Kuhl was the first township clerk, also be- came the first postmaster, his commission dating from 1875. He was succeeded by William Flusche, in 1876, who held the office until 1884, when Michael Wilwerding was appointed and is still holding the office. The first teacher in the settlement was Anton Strueder, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, who is now a priest at, or near, Fort Wayne, Indiana. The first school was opened December 7, 1874, with sixteen pupils present. The first priest was Rev. John Kemker, who came from Council Bluffs once a month. He was fol- lowed by Rev. Henbncher, of the same place. lIISTOUr OF .SHBLBT COUNTY. 280 The third priest was Rev. F. W. Pape. These were all of other charges and supplied this place occasionally. The first resident priest was Kev. Joseph Knepple, who came from Sioux City, Iowa, January 7, 1875. He was succeeded by Kev. Peter Maly, who came April 20, 1877. Following him came Rev. J. A. Weber, of Dubuque, Iowa. lie was a man of unusual success and held the confi- dence of his entire congregation. He went to Germany and remained some months on account of his ill health, during which period Rev. John Cook supplied his place. Rev. Weber returned, served the church awhile, and in 1886 went to Germany, where he still resides. He was succeeded by the present priest, Rev. Peter Brommenschenkel, whose biographical sketch appears elsewhere in this volume. In 1873 the congregation consisted of five persons; in 1874, twenty-four; in 1875, 225; in 1876 it had 396, all living within sixty-eiglit houses. In 1880 the congrega- tion had reached 603 persons, or 112 families. At this time (1888) the settlement consists of 185 families, numbering about 800 persons. Up to March 15, 1876, there had been sold 11,320 acres of land. In the spring of 1881 Emil Flusche went to Westphalia, Anderson County, Kansas, and with his brother founded a similar settlement, the object of which, in both cases, was to provide a good home and make good citizens of all Germans of the Roman Catholic faith who might be induced to settle at this place. Upon leaving for Kansas, Emil Flusche gave the sale of lands in Westphalia Township over to his brother, William Flusche. June 11, 1881, an architect by the name of Uerr, of Dubuque, Iowa, came on and marked out the foundation lines for a new church, and the work of construction commenced June 18, the same year. The building committee was composed of Rev. J. A. Weber, President; Emil P'lusche, Joseph Rueschenberg, Frank Hesse, Nicholas Muhl, Joseph Schmitt and Michael Wilwerding. The structure is of brick and stone, and is of a most beautiful and per- fect design, and is a monument to the good judgment and taste of the gentlemen who had charge of the work. The building, exclusive of furniture, cost $16,000, and seats about 500 people. The total value of church, furniture, lots, etc., is placed at $30,000. Of this amount $4,000 was received from the sale of lands, the remainder provided by the people. The first service was held in the new church Oc- tober 22, 1882, and November 15, of the same year, the church was dedicated by Right Rev. Bishop John McMullen, of Davenport, Iowa. In 1884 Father Weber built the lirst parish school-house, and also the Sister's house, which is still in use, though under- going repairs from time to time. The settlers of this so-called colony are all Germans, formerly living in that country, in various provinces, including Austria, Poland, Bohemia and Switzerland. At present they support six district schools, in which both German and English are taught. To show the industry and frugal management of this people, it need only be said that no township in Shelby County has so few farms mortgaged and less delinquent taxes than Westphalia. The land is already taken up by actual settlers, and ranges from $35 to $50 per acre — higher by far than in most parts of the county. The farmers are well-to-do, and make their money principally from corn and live-stock. A con- gregation of a few families at Harlan belong to this charge also, and are cared for by the priest at Westphalia. The local history of this settlement speaks of the obstacles which the pioneers had to encounter and overcome, among which items it is record that the winter of 1874-'75 was 290 HISTOllY OF SHELBY COUNTY. exceedingly severe, and many cattle were frozen to death; also the grasshopper raid of August, 1876, which destroyed some of the growing crops. Another hard winter was 1880-'81; snow fell in the month of October, and did not melt away until the following April. It is related that when the first house of worship was being built, the country was so new, there were so few houses, roads or other land-marks, that a piece of 2x4 scant- ling was erected on the site where the church was to be built, in order to guide those who were hauling their first load of ilumber, stone or other material for the buildino:. See sketch of the present pastor elsewhere in this work. KIRKMAN. Kirkman is a village, platted in Novem- ber, 1880, situated on section 22, township 80, range 38, in Jefferson Township. It is seven miles northeast of Harlan, the county seat, and is the present terminus of the Kirk- man branch of the Chicago & Northwestern Railway. It is situated on the Nishuabotna River, which is the crookedest stream in all Iowa. The history of this village dates back to 1880-'81, when the railroad was constructed. The first house. built was the ''Kirkman House," erected by Moses Woods, and now managed by James Robins, who purchased it in 1888. The first dealer was J. B. Stutsman, a pio- neer merchant of Council Uluffs, who located at Kirkman in the fall of 1881. He soon became a member of the firm of Kuhl, Much- ler & Stutsman. Another early firm in gen- eral merchandise was Howland & McEwen, who failed in business. Graham Bros, sold the first hardware in the spring of 1883. The firm is now Gra- ham &, Ottawa, doing a general merchandising trade. D. Jessup embarked in the grocery trade in 1884, and finally failed. The first to sell drugs was James French (the present county auditor), who was also the first postmaster. He lost his stock of goods by fire. The present drug dealers are Dr. Palmer and Dr. Guthrie. The first blacksmith of Kirkland was Hans Sanber, who, with Will Sharp, came in 1888; they are the present workmen in that line. Harmon Peacock has followed wagon-mak- ing from the earliest date of the village. A man named Needles bought grain at first. The business then fell to Burk & Gra- ham. An elevator was built by Mr. Fergu- son, who died in 1888, the property passing into the hands of John Schroggs, who still controls it. When the place was first started it had lumber yards. In 1888 the Green Bay Lumber Company absorbed the two yards remaining at that time. THE POST-OFFICE was established in 1881, with James W. French as the postmaster. Following him came David Carter, who succeeded him Janu- ary 1, 1888. It was made a money-order office July, 1884. The first two orders do not appear on the records of the office, but the third one was issued to B. F. Lancaster, for the amount of $20. Up to November 14, 1888, there had been just an even 2,000 money-orders issued from the Kirkland office. The only religious society of the village is that of the Methodist Episcopal Clnirch,which was organized in 1881, with a membership of thirty persons. They now double that num- ber. A good church was built in 1883, at a cost of $1,500. They now have sei vice only once in two weeks, Rev. Fausett dividing his time between Kirkman and Irwin. An excellent school building was erected in 1883, at an expense of $2,200; it is a two- niSrORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. 291 story frame structure, divided at present into two departments, each having a teacher. THE PRESENT BUSINESS. The following were the active dealers op- erating at Kirkman in November, 1888: John Doran & Co., general stock. J. O. Closter, general stock and farm im- plements. Graham & Ottawa, general stock. Dr. Palmer, drugs. Dr. Guthrie, drugs. Green Bay Lumber Comp'y, lumberdealers. John Scroggs, grain elevator. Burks & Graham, grain elevator. James Robinson, proprietor hotel. Mrs. Closter, millinery goods. F. P. Oldfield, barber shop. David Carter, postmaster. David Rodman, harness-maker. Hans Sanber, blacksmith. Will Sharp, blacksmith. Harmon Peacock, wagon- maker. Robert Steen, liveryman. David Coster, meat market. CORLEY. This is a small village, situated on section 9, township 78, range 39, in the civil town- ship of Fairview. It is the only station on the Harlan branch of the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad between Harlan and Avoca, being about six miles south from the former named place. It is surrounded by one of the finest agricultural portions of Shelby County. Its early history is as fol- lows: Thomas McDonald, who afterward served two terms as county treasurer of Shelby County, was a soldier during the civil war, and in 1868 he, together with comrades named James Casey, D. E. Corley, Oen Curren and another gentleman, purchased six hundred acres of land in this vicinity, all in one tract. Later, through various deals, the whole became the property of Mr. McDonald. He was a man of much influence and great public spirit, being one of the prime movers in inducing the Rock Island Railroad Com- pany to construct their Harlan branch, which was completed December 1, 1878. Mr. McDonald purchased and cultivated- 250 acres of his land, commencing in 1868; yet he resided in Harrison County until 1873, when he moved his family to the homestead which they still occupy. He opened the first general store in January, 1881. He was also the first postmaster, having obtained an office as early as 1878. Unfortunately for his family and the people of his county and town, Mr. McDonald was suddenly called from earth, dying at the noontide of manhood, aged thirty-eight years. After his death his wife was appointed postmistress until 1884, when she resigned in favor of Mr. Albers, the present incumbent. Mrs. McDonald had twenty-two acres of her husband's landed estate platted in June, 1883, the same beinw now known as Corley on the plat books. The general store opened by Mr. McDonald, and later controlled by his widow, was finally sold to Albers & Thompson, which after awhile passed into the hands of Mr. Albers, who continued until 1886 and then closed out and opened another general store on the opposite side of the railroad track, where he is still engaged and keeps the post-office. Charles Yogt opened a general store in Feb- ruary, 1888. The first to deal in grain at Corley was Willard Noble, who was manager for a Mr. Somes, of Amboy, Illinois. The business then went into the hands of Noble Brothers, who finally sold to Hodson & Hancock. An- other elevator firm who came when the place was new is Weise & Severs. They built an elevator in April, 1888. F. M. Gillispie sold the first lumber in the '29-i HltSTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. fall of 1882. It is now handled by the Green Bay Lumber Company, who took the business in 1886. D. Rickson erected a boarding house and saloon in 1883, and still conducts the board- ing house, the saloon business going with the advent of the prohibitory law! As a shipping point there are but few towns in Shelby County, if any, that handle more grain and live-stock than does Corley. It being quite near to the county seat (Har- lan) the place has never grown much, farm- ers depending on it only for staple articles. BOTNA. According to the county plat book this place was platted by the Western Town Lot Company, August 21, 1884, and was called " Rochdale," but the post-office name, as well as railroad station, is known as Botna. It is simply a flag station on the Kirkman branch of the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad. There is a post-office and one general store; the proprietor, S. B. Fritz, also buys grain and stock. Its geographical location is the east quarter of the southeast quarter of sec- tion 3, township 81, range 37. ^.Q.Myy<2^/ BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH ^ON. C. J. WYLAND.— We all have a ^M) part to perform in the drama of life. ^M The race is made, the outcome de- termined, our destinies decided, just in pro- portion to our opportunities, endurance and ability. These are the marks that distinguish the successful man from the man tiiat fails and falls. Let us take a glance backward to the year 1851, and picture a train of emi- grant wagons slowly coursing their way through swollen streams and undefined path- ways, destined for Shelby County, Iowa, the land of promise. In this way our subject, together with his brother William and his estimable wife, his three voun^^er lirothers and his youngest sister, made their journey from Elkhart County, Indiana, the father having previously visited Iowa, entering large tracts of land, a portion we mention as being the southeast quarter of section 36, township 80, range 38, near Bowman's Grove. Having leased this land, C. J. Wy- land settled here. In this wild, new country he sought to provide a home for the younger members of his father's family, until they should be old enough to care for themselves. That this plan was well carried out, those younger children, all living but one, can 24 truly testify. Tiie family chain was broken by the death of Jasper N., who died at Du- val's Bluff, Arkansas, in 18G4, while a soldier in the Union army. At the date of Mr. Wyland's coming to Shelby County, the nearest railroad point was Marengo, Iowa County, to which point he made several trips for supplies. That was the most western point on the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific line. On these long, tedious trips he camped out, as there were very few hotels; and had there been many, money was too scarce to be thus Expended. Notwithstanding these trips were often in bad weather, and over trails where thei-e are now well-improved highways, and over swollen streams long since spanned by iron bi'idges, yet the remembrance of tliem still has a pleasing charm, mingled with toil and beautiful romance. While those early days were hard ones, they were not without their joys, for there has ever been something attractive about a new country, and Mr. Wy- land is of that type of manhood which sel- dom broods over toil or even misfortunes, but always sees the bright side on the darkest day. On April 11, 1801, he was unite»J- 5,^.,<[E0RGE PAUP.— It is not often that i. one beholds the spectacle of ambitions, not ignoble, fully-realized, and yet this vision is sometimes vouchsafed to mortals, even in western Iowa. The subject of the fol- lowing biographical sketch furnishes us with one example of this character. George Paup is a native of Pennsylvania, born in York County, May 9, 1833. He is a son of Daniel and Lydia (Clark) Paup, natives of Pennsyl- vania, of German extraction. His early life was spent on a farm and in a mill; his edu- cation was received in the pi-imitive log school- house with slab benches. He resided at hotne until his marriage, which occurred in 1861, to Miss Sarah Ham, a native of Pennsylvania, and a daughter of Jared Ham. Soon after his marriage Mr. Paup, with very limited means, started to Iowa. He came to Cleveland by railroad, thence by lake boat to Chicago. From Chicago he traveled sixty miles by railroad to Savannah, and then by steamer to Bellevue — -the Journey having consumed three weeks. When he landed at Bellevue his capital had diminished to 20 cents. He left this point and started to Andrew, the county seat of Jackson County; there he went to work at 50 cents per day. His wife remained in Andrew, and he woi'ked at farm work all the fall and winter, and took his pay in produce. His first modest desire was to own a farm of eighty acres, and with this in view the weather was never too severe for him to be about his work. In the spring of 1853 he was fortunate to have a yoke of oxen given him by a friend; he then rented ten acres of ground, which he sowed in wheat, the seed being the pay for his fall and winter's work. Besides putting in his crop he worked every day with his team, and when the little harvest was reaped he hauled it to Bellevue and sold the wheat for 25 cents per bushel. This was the first money he had received since coming to the State. If we were to go back to this period of Mr. Paup's life, this is the picture we would see: A mere boy with his young wife hundreds of miles from his native home, liv- ing in a little round-log cabin, with what the pioneer will recognize as a stick and clay chimney, with no floor, except what Mother Earth furnished, struggling to get a home of his own. For two years he rented land from his neighbors, who, Mr. Paup realizes, were 300 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. very generous, and assisted him iu every way possible. In 1854 he made his first purchase of eighty acres of wild land for $100; this he paid for by breaking prairie for other people. Iu the meantime he had traded Lis yoke of oxen for two yokes of steers. By hard work he paid for his land in two years, and by close attention to his pur- suits he was soon able to add to his posses- sions sixty acres more, which he fenced and improved. He then sold out with the inten- tion of going to California, but on reaching Iowa City he changed his mind and engaged in land and live-stock trading until 1853. He then purchased what he has since called his home farm in Clinton County; the nucleus of this home place was eighty acres, and he has added to it until there arc now 460 acres in a high state of cultivation. In 1864, in connection with his agricultural industries, he engaged in shipping stock, which he con- tinued until 1881, and was known as the most successful sbipper in tbat section of country. By his first marriage Mr. Paup had four chil- dren — Leslie, of Kirkman; George, on the old home place in Clinton County; Horatio and Harrison, both of Lincoln Township. His first wife died in 1873, and he was again mar- ried, to Miss Julia Brumbaugh, a native of Pennsylvania. In 1881 Mr. Paup came ta Shelby County, leaving George in charge of the homestead. Leslie purchased a farm fifteen miles from Denison, which was almost in a wild state; he afterward sold out to the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Pailroad, and Manilla now stands on the ground. He then bought the place known as the Kibby farm, of GCO acres, supposed to be the best farm in the county. When he retired from farming Mr. Paup settled in Harlan, where he has a pleasant, comfortable home in which to spend the remainder of his days. Mrs. Panp is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Paup's political inclinations lie very de- cidedly in the direction of the Republican party. From a very small beginning Mr. Paup has increased his property to a fortune of no mean dimensions, besides assisting his sons to excellent homes of their own, and he is an exception to humanity in general in this, that he is well satisfied with the results of his exertions, and is one of the contented few who desire no more. 1^ B. KEES, a native of Venango County, Pennsylvania, was born August 19, * 1835; he is a son of George and JSancy (Benn) Kees; he was reared to farm life and received his education in the common schools and in an academy. When he reached his twenty-first year he came to Iowa, and located at Sabula, Jackson County, Iowa. He resided there five years and learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed during his stay in Jackson County. For ten years after leaving Jackson County, he spent his time in carpen- tering, farming and school-teaching. From Jackson County he emigrated to Clayton County, near the county seat; while there he followed farming and school-teaching. He was married December 25, 1860, to Miss Martha Patterson, daughter of John and Jane Green Patterson. She was born in February, 1838. In 1865 they removed to Boone Coun- ty, Iowa, near Prairie Hill post-otiice. Here he followed carpentering three years, and then engaged in the mercantile business, near Perry, Iowa. He remained at this point two years and tiien went to Perry with his stock of goods; after one year's sojourn in Perry he sold the business and moved on a farm in Greene County, Iowa. He remained here until December, 1881, when he removed to his present home, in section 32, Douglas BIOORAPHICAL SKETCHES. 301 Townsliip. His first purchase was 210 acres of partially improved land; he has since hrought it into a fine state of cnltivation; he now owns 570 acres of improved land in Douglas, Greeley and Polk Townships. Since his residence in Shelby County he has fol- lowed agricultural pursuits alone. When residing in Greene County he was elected to the board of commissioners. He enlisted in the United States service in 1865, but was never mustered into the service. He is a live, energetic man, who labors for the country and the welfare of those around him. He is a liepublican, always taking an active part in the movements of the party. He is presi- dent of the Farmers' Alliance of Shelby County, an association formed March, 1886. He is also vice-president of Shelby County Bank. Mr. and Mrs. Kees are the parents of seven children — George S. resides near Defi- ance, Iowa; Clarence H., at home; Sarah J., deceased; Lettie A., deceased; Lillie M., John F. and Edward, at home. Mr. and Mrs. Kees are worthy and consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Harlan, Mr. Kees being an ordained local deacon in that church. ' 3"S ' |" '»°' N. BUCKMAN comes of Quaker par- entage. He is a native of Philadelphia '* County, Pennsylvania, born January 21, 1838; is a son of William and Sarah (Cooper) Buckman. He was reared in his native place and spent his early life on a farm, receiving his education at the Friends' school at Wrights town until the age of eighteen, when lie entered the State Normal school at Millers- ville, afterward taking a course at Bryant & Stratton's Business College, Philadelphia. A portion of his time since leaving school has been spent in the profession of teach- ing. In May,1861, he enlisted in Company C, Third Pennsylvania Ileserves, under Colonel Sickle, serving until October 1, 1865 ;hc fought in quite a number of battles; among the most noted were the seven days' battle of McClel- lan's army before Ilichmond, the siege of Petersburg, Deep Bottom, Fort Fisher and Bentonville. He enlisted as a private and was promoted step by step until he was made captain, and finally brevetted major of volun- teers by President Lincoln for " gallant and meritorious services in the field." His horse was killed under him at Deep Bottom, where the slaughter far exceeded that at the famous "charge of the Light Brigade;" but there was no Tennyson to immortalize it. Out of eighteen officers in his regiment that went into the fight, thirteen were either killed or wounded within fifteen minutes after the bat- tle began. He lost another horse in the Fort Fisher expedition. After his return from the United States service he settled in Phila- delphia, where he engaged in business for two years; he then came west, spending one year in Nebraska. In 1869 he came to Iowa, locating in section 18, Douglas Township, Shelby County, on the farm he now owns. Here he has made himself a home; he im- proved his land, adding to it until he now owns liO acres, which is chiefiy devoted to grass-raising. He has experimented largely in fruit-growing, and has now an apple or- chard of 400 trees and five acres of grove. Mr. Buckman, since his residence in the county, has devoted himself to farming and teaching. From 1873 to 1877 he was countj' superintendent of schools, holding the first Normal Institute in the county during the first year of his superintendency. He has held most of the township offices, especially those connected with the educational interests of the county. He has had to umlergo must of the hardships incident to pioneer life, com- UISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. ing, as he did, in the early liistory of the county. He was married January 31, 1867, to Emma V., daughter of William Hurst- She was born October 10, 1839, and died May 29, 1882. Four children graced this union; two died in infancy: Willie and Grace are at liome, Grace being a teacher in the public schools. Mr. Buckman married again De- cember 27, 1888, to Amanda T., daughter of W. A. and Mary (Jones) Blane; she was born in Perry County, Pennsylvania, October 16, 1858. Two children have been born of this marriage — Mary (deceased) and Warner. The family are consistent members of the Method- ist Episcopal Church at Kirkman. Mr. Buckman is a member of A. F. & A. M., Parian Lodge, No. 321, and of the G. A. K. Post at Harlan. He is the present secretary of the P'armers' Mutual Insurance Company of Shelby County, Iowa, being one of the active promoters in the establishment of this institution in the county. He also assisted in the organization of the Shelby County Agricultural Society, serving as the first sec- retary, and tilling that office for several years. He is now the president of that association. ►^Mj- IjARLOS C. EEDFIELD, of Harlan, is a native of Connecticut, born in Say brook, April 3, 1837. He is a son of AVilliam and Dency (Chittenden) Redfield, natives of Connecticut, and of English ancestry. Will- iam Iledlield, the father of C. C. Redfield, was the fifth child of Orrin Redfield, who was born at Chestnut Hill, Connecticut, May 31, 1807, and followed farming in his native State. He was married November 26, 1835, to Miss Dency Chittenden, a daughter of Joseph and Dency Chittenden, who was born in North Madison, Connecticut, October 80, 1812; she was of English ancestry. They were the parents of two children: Carlos C, and Ellen Maria, wife of Giles A. Bushnell, of Say brook, Connecticut. William Redfield departed this life July 5, 1876; his widow still survives and resides with her daujihter. Orrin Redfield, the grandfather of Carlos C, was born at Killingworth, Connecticut, on the homestead. Chestnut Hill, June 25, 1779, and was the second and youngest son of Josiah Redfield. He was married in March, 1796, to Miss Rachel Grave, of Killingworth, Connecticut, who was born February 24, 1769. He died December 31, 1861; his wife died April 21, 1850. They were the parents of ten children, six of whom lived to maturity. Josiah Redfield, the great-grand- father of Carlos C, was born at Chestnut Hill, Killingworth, Connecticut, September 6, 1730, and was the seventh son of Theoph- ilus Redfield. He was married December 8, 1757, to Miss Sarah Parmelee, a daughter of Lemuel and Sarah Parmelee, who was born August 19, 1734. He died August 6, 1802, and his wife died August 25, 1808. By this union there were four children. Theophilus Redfield, the oldest son of James Redfield, was born in 1682, probably at S.iybrook, Con- necticut. He was a joiner by trade, and probably settled in Killingworth soon after coming of age. About 1717 or 1718 he purchased 120 acres of land on Chestnut Ilill, North Killingworth, and there estab- lished the Redfield homestead. December 24, 1706, he was married to Priscilla Greenel (or Grinnell), the daughter of Daniel and Lydia Greenel. They were the parents of thirteen children, all of whom lived to be married and have families. He died Feb- ruary 14, 1795, and his wife died January 12, 1770. James Redfield (or Redfin), the only son of William Redfield, was born in 1646. The place of his birth is not known. He was bound to the tanner's trade lor five iA^'^OJ.^ BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 303 years. He resided in various places, and finally settled in Saybrook, Connecticut, in May, 1609. He was married in New Haven, Connecticut, to Miss Elizabeth How, a daugh- ter of Jeremy How, by whom he had three children. She died, and he was again mar- ried, to Deborah Sturgis, by whom two chil- dren were born. William lledtield (or Red- fin) was probably one of the early emigrants from England to the colony of Massachusetts during the decade of years following 1630. He had two children. Carlos C. Redtield was reared on a farm, and received an aca- demic education. He remained with his par- ents until his majority, after which he engaged in steamboating for three years between Hartford and Sag Harbor. At the breaking out of the late civil war the vessel on which he was employed was chartered by the government. This boat carried the mail three times per week, from Fortress Monroe to Cherry Stone Creek, for two years, and exchanged prisoners. Out of a crew of thirty Mr. Redtield and two others were all that came back with the boat. He left the service at Philadelphia, and for a year was unable to do anything on account of disease contracted while in the service; he did not recover from the effects of this for over twenty years. Mr. Redtield engaged with William C. Hough & Co., as bookkeeper in the cotton mill at R.ockville, Connecticut. At the expira- tion of one year he was appointed superin- tendent, which position he tilled for three years. In 1870 he came to Iowa, and settled in Shelby County. He purchased an unim- proved farm in Harlan Township, a portion of the land also lay in Lincoln Township, which he immediately began to put in a state of cultivation. In connection with his farming pursuits he engaged in various avocations, among others was the running of an express line between Harlan and Avoca before the railroad was built. Mr. Redtield served as clerk of Harlan Township fur ten years. He has been appointed deputy sheriff three terms, and for two terms he tilled the office of sherifi" — appointed by the board of super- visors. He was tirst appointed justice of the peace in 1884, and that fall was elected to the office. He was re-elected in 1886 as an independent. He served as secretary of the agricultural association for four or five years. He was appointed assistant commissioner by Commissioner Herbert S. P^airall, to the World's Fair at New Orleans, in 1884. He took great interest in this work, making two trips to New Orleans. In 1880 he took the census of Harlan and Harlan Township. Mr. Redfield was married to Miss Dora King, of Rockville, Connecticut. By this union one son was born — -Clarence. Mrs. Redfield died in 1865 In 1866 Mr. Redfield was again married, to Miss Sarah Buckland, a native of Windsor, Connecticut. By this union one child was born — Elbert B. Mrs. Redtield is a member of the Congregational church. In politics Mr. Redtield is independent. lal III ? » ^ ( i g ^ ^ Hi ia> A. COLLINS was a man of decided character, who, though not one of the ■® earliest settlers of Shelby County, did, by his untiring energy, enterprise, and broad, liberal views, become more closely identified with the people of this county than most men of longer residence. Possessing ample means, he came into the county in 1871, and purchased an excellent tract of land in Shelby Township, brought it to a high state of cul- tivation, made it his home, and took especial pleasure in entertaining a very large circle of friends and acquaintances, who enjoyed his hospitality. Mr. Collins was born in Penn- sylvania, January 31, 1810, being a descend- 304 BISTORT OF SHELBY GOUNTT. ant from the old Pennsylvania Dutch stock. His mother could not speak a word of Eng- lish. He was raised in the mountainous dis- trict of his native State, and being inured to the hardships incident to that period, he grew to manhood possessed of splendid health, and a magnificent physique. He was endowed with a well-balanced mind, and possessed an unusual amount of good common sense. His father died when he was quite young. He was raised by an uncle, who brought him up to the trade of a tanner. November 12, 1833, in his twenty-third year, he was married to Nancy Ann Farkhiser, and there were born to them eight children, four sons and four daughters. Soon after his marriage Mr. Col- lins embarked in tlie tanning business for himself upon rather a small scale. A few years after he formed a partnership with Jesse Grant, father of General Grant, and for twelve years they were associated together in making and selling leather. In the meantime they built a large steam tannery on the Ohio Eiver, and as the western country grew and developed they opened a wholesale store in Galena, Illinois, then the Chicago of the West, for the sale of leather, saddlery, hardware, shoe findings, etc. In 1853 the firm of Col- lins & Grant was dissolved by mutual con- sent, Mr. Collins continuing in the busi- ness with his two older sons, under the firm name of E. A. Collins & Sons; they had branch stores at Marshalltown and Iowa City, and did a very successful business. In 1861 Mr. Collins closed out his business interests and removed to Davenport, Iowa, where he resided about two years. He then removed with his family to Louisiana, and purchased an orange grove in the vicinity of New Or- leans, wliere he resided some years. In 1871 he visited Shelby County, purchased a 1,000- acre tract of land, named it Deer llidge Stock Farm, and devoted his time to improving and developing this place. He stocked it with fine blooded cattle, and for several years farmed it on quite a large scale; at one time he had several head of buffalo and elk on the farm. Here it was that his first wife died, September 24, 1874, after a long continued illness. Mr. Collins married his second wife; Mrs. Maria Conn, in 1880, who still survives him; there were no children by this second marriage. Mr. Collins continued to make tliis farm his home until his death, which oc- curred in April, 1882, at the age of seventy- two years; he left the following sons and daughters — John S. Collins, Omaha, Ne- braska; E. A. Collins, Jr., Yorkshire, Iowa; Mrs. James Franklin, Neola, Iowa, and Mrs. W. F. Cleveland, of this county, since de- ceased. Mr. Collins was highly respected by all who knew him, for his sterling worth and undoubted honesty. When death removes from our midst such a man as E. A. Collins was, the community meet with an irreparable loss, but his life aflbrds us an example worthy of emulation. fAMES HAWKINS, deceased, who was the first man to settle at or near the present thriving village of Shelby, was a native of England, born December 9, 1811. When a young man he went to sea, following the life of a sailor for many years. He visited every port along the coast, both of North and South America. He served through the Mexican war, and also in the civil war of this country. Up to the time of his settling down on the banks of Silver Creek, in Shelby County, Iowa, his career had been an event- ful one, full of stirring scenes and thrilling adventures. He entered his land in Shelby County in 1855, the same being described as section 33, township 78, and range 40, upon BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCnSS. 305 which the village plat of Shelby was surveyed in 1808-'69. Mr. Hawkins caine to this laud to live upon and improve it. In 1865 lie erected a rude log cabin and lived in it until within the past few years, when he built a line farm house which he made his home until overtaken very suddenly by death. He was unmarried and was held in high esteem by every one within the circle of his acquaintance. He was a man of iirm belief in his convictions of right and wrong. In his business transactions he was strictly upright with all. fie died of apoplexy, June 24, 1888. ►>^ !;S. A. G. M. WINTERS.— Angie t Gertrude Michener, a well-known pioneer teacher of Shelby County, was born in Morrow County, Ohio, June 16, 1844. Her father, Daniel Michener, be- longed to the Society of Friends, and was noted for his genial disposition, his integrity of character, and his devotion to the cause of education. Death called liim to the other side when the subject of this sketch was less than two years old. Her mother, Maiy (Havens) Michener, was of good Presby- terian stock, in whose family ministers and physicians predominated. When a child Angie G. Winters and her only sister were taken by their mother to Indiana, which was then considered the wild west, and settlers had to endure many hardships. Sciiools were fejv and very inferior, but the mother, being a woman of unusual ability and liberal education, did much for her children to sup- plement their limited educational advantages. When twelve years old Angie became lame from blood-poisoning. When thirteen years old her parents removed to Tipton, Iowa. Here were better schools, but owing to her lameness, which lasted five years, she could attend school but little. Always a lover of books, she determined not to be left behind in the race for knowledge. Studying at home, with the assistance of her mother, she kept far in advance of other girls of her age, often studying hard to divert her mind during hours of extreme pain. In quite early child- hood Angie determined to be a schoolma'am, and as she grew older she realized more and more the dignity and responsibility resting upon those who mold the plastic minds of youth. During her career as a teacher she was very conscientious, trying to educate the heart as well as the head. Being full of a missionary spirit, she did a great deal of evangelistic work wherever she tanght school. Inheriting a talent for nursing the sick, she was in great demand in cases of sickness and accidents. One time she was called to treat a case of delirium tremens, and another time to stop a serious hemorrhage. In the spring of 1861 she came to Harlan, where she taught her first school in the old brick school-house. The wages received were $10 per month, with the privilege of boarding around, a favor not accepted. No two pupils had the same kind of text-books; new ones could not be procured nearer than Council Bluffs, and most of the patrons were too poor to buy new ones, so the teaching was princi- pally oral. In the fall of 1861 Miss Mich- ener began teaching what was known as the Waterbury school, in Fairview Township; but exposure brought .on rheumatic fever, from which she did not recover until the fol- lowing June. The next ten years found her in the schoolroom. In 1869 Miss Michener was united in marriage to Lorenzo L. Win- ters, a well-known farmer of Clay Township, a genuine Christian gentleman. Being wed- ded to her profession as an educator, Mrs. Winters continued teaching for two years. 306 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. Her husband then went into business in Atlantic, Cass County. Here Mrs. Winters took charge of a class in Sabbath-schooh superintended a Band of Hope, and taught a mission school in her own house. Always a strong advocate of total abstinence and equal sufirage, Mrs. Winters early identified her- self with the woman's temperance move- ment. One of the first fruits of the great tidal wave of temperance that followed the woman's crusade, was the Woman's Christian Temperance Union, in which Mrs. Winters was a leading spirit. A writer of some note, and having contributed to a score or more of papers, a fluent speaker, she now consecrated her talent and much of her time to the tem- perance cause. This she was enabled to do, having j husband in perfect sympathy with her, and having no children with whom to divide her time and attention. In 1882, when the Dakota fever was at its height, Mr. and Mrs. Winters bade adieu to Cass County, Iowa, and journeyed to the land of the Da- kotas. Here they began pioneer life anew, living for a time in a sod shanty on a claim which was called Glen Rose. In less than a month after taking possession, Mrs. Winters bad gathered the children from three fami- lies, constituting the settlement, into a Sun- day-school in her sod house. Fortunately it was a large one, for as the country settled rapidly the Sunday-school grew accordingly, people coming from every direction for miles around. For two years she resumed her place at the teacher's desk. One winter she rode two miles to school, where she would have to wait for a fire to be kindled every morning, with the thermometer often indi- cating twenty-five to thirty-five below zero. During all these years she had not forgotten the temperance cause, but with tongue and pen had done much to advance its cause. Mr. Winters' failing health demanding lighter occupation, the}' left their ranch and took up their residence in Miller, Hand County. Here was an organization of the W. C. T. U., with which Mrs. Winters immediately united. She edited a temperance department of the Hand County Republican, and organized and superintended a Band of Hope. During the local option campaign of 1887, Mrs. Winters and a Mrs. Williams, of Miller, wei"e em- ployed by the County Temperance Alliance to canvass the county in the interests of pro- hibition. Their meetings were successful; besides the regulation campaign speeches, Mrs. Winters gave temperance chalk-talks. Mrs. Williams was a fine vocalist, and this accomplishment added greatly to the interest of the meetings. Soon after Mrs. Winters was appointed lecturer and organizer for the W. C. T. U., a position of more honor than pay. Mr. anl Mrs. Winters, having no chil- dren, have adopted two children, a son and a daughter, and have given them all the ad- vantages possible. Mr. AVinters' health con- tinuing poor, they were advised to seek a milder clime, so they went to tlie Ozark region in western Missouri. In 1888 Mrs. Winters gave some temperance lectures and chalk-talks in Shelby County. At present she divides her time between the care of her husband and evangelistic work, hoping that at the last it may be said of her, " She hath done what she could." "-^S^^i-^^ [LLIOTT A. COBB, physician and snr- I geon, Harlan, has been directly inter- ested in the welfare of Shelby County since 1880, at which time he came to the place. He is a native of Pennsylvania, born in Wayne County, July 1(3, 184:3, and a son of Justus and Eliza J. (Morgan) Cobb; the father was a native of Pennsylvaniaand of English ances- BIOGIiAI'IIICAL SKETCHES. 307 try, and tlie mother was a native of New York and of Welsh descent. Dr. Cobb was only six years old when his parents moved to Sandusky County, Ohio, where his youth was spent in working on the farm and in attend- ing school. At the breaking out of the late war he enlisted in the Fiity-tifth Ohio Vol- unteer Infantry, Company A, going south with his regiment. He participated in many hard-fought battles; among the more promi- nent were McDowell, Cross Keys, Cedar Mountain, Second Bull Run, Antietam, Fred- ericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Lookout Mountain, Charge of Kesaca under General Benjamin Harrison, Burnt Hickory, or Pumpkin-vine Creek, Marietta, Feachtree Creek, and at the evacuation of Atlanta. He served his country faithfully until the close of the war, when he was honorably discharged in the spring of 1865. After the war he returned to his Ohio home and began the study of medicine under the teaching of Dr. John B. Rice, of Fremont, Ohio, as preceptor. He attended lectures at Ann Arbor, Michigan, and graduated from Charity Hospital Medical College, Cleveland, Ohio, in 1868. Dr. Cobb then began practicing at Kingston, Illinois, where he remained one year; then he removed to Richmond, Washingtoti County, Iowa, and remained there until 1878, when he entered Belle vue Hospital Medical College, New York. He graduated from this institution in 1879, and then came to Harlan, where he has built up a large and successful practice. He is a member of the Shelby County Medi- cal Society, the Iowa State Medical Society, and the American Medical Society. Dr. Cobb was first married in 1872, to Miss Martha Foster, a native of Ohio. By this union one child was born — Clyda B. The mother died January 7, 1874. Dr. Cobb was again married, in 1883, to Miss Nettie E. Cunningham, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. By this union three children were born, only one of whom still survives; this child is named Elliott C, the other two died in infancy. The Doctor is a member of the A. F. & A. M., Richmond Lodge, No. 96. Politically he is a Democrat. — | - 3 . T > g .... ffOIIN A. McINTOSH, a native of Logan. I now Todd, Coimty, Kentucky, was born April 14, 1806, and is the son of Cor- nelius and Sarah (Montgomery) Mcintosh, natives of North Carolina; Until heattained his seventeenth year he resided in his native county. He then emigrated to southern Illinois, and thence went to Tennessee, re- maining there three years, in Gibson County, where he met and associated with Davy Crockett. There, in 1826, he was married to Miss Susan Boran, a native of Robinson County, Tennessee. After six years she died leaving three children, one of whom still sur- vives — Cornelius G. About tlie year 1840 Mr. Mcintosh was married to Miss Nancy Mc- intosh, who was born in AVest Tennessee. She died in 1846, leaving two children, one of whom survives — Malinda. In 1852 Mr. Mcintosh married Ids third wife. Miss Ma- linda Hunt, who was born in Kentuckv March 8, 1830. By this marriage ten chil- dren were born — John, William (deceased), Jennie, David, Douglas, Virginia (deceased), Emma (deceased), Fannie, Minnie, Mago-ie. Mr. Mcintosh was reared to farui life, and educated in the common schools. Wlien about fifteen years old he joined the Baptist church, and when he had reached his thirty- second year he united with the church of tlie Latter Day Saints, being baptized, confirmed and ordained. He immediately entered the ministry, and has since devoted his time and attention to this work. He has traveled through Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Arkansas, 308 HISTORY OF SOELBY COUNTY. Kentucky, Tennessee and Nebraska in the interests of the church, and his earnest and zealous labors have been crowned with suc- cess. He came to Shelby County in 1857 and located in Grove Township, on seventy acres of land; there he made his home and reared his family. He organized the society of the Latter Day Saints in Grove Township in 1859 with a small membership, but the church now numbers over 200 members. He has organized several churches in this coun try, having done more in that direction than any other minister now in the society. Mr. Mcintosh has done much to elevate the morals of the community in which he lives, and is a man who is honored and beloved by people far and near; everybody has a kind word for " Uncle John," as he is familiarly called. He has figured very prominently in the political history of the county, having held the offices of county supervisor and justice of the peace for eight or ten years; he also served on the school board, and has tilled other minor offices. He has always been a staunch Democrat. rHOMAS McDONALD.- -Foreign coiin- •M)& tries have bequeathed to America some ^' of her best and most brilliant citi- zens, and the Emerald Isle has not been behind in the quality of her contribu- tion to the strong and vigorous growth of this country. To her Shelby County is in- debted for her greatest benefactor and best beloved citizen, Thomas McDonald, now at rest, the rest won by a life of tireless activity in the interests and welfare of those whose lives touched his; and these were not few, as will be attested by numbers of citizens of western Iowa. Thomas McDonald was a most remarkable man; to meet him was to be at- tracted to him; to know him was to be won as a fast friend, and hearty admirer. He was kind and obliging, and possessed the faculty of adapting himself to all sorts and condi- tions of men, who always found in him the satisfaction of their pressing needs. He had within him a strong public spirit, ever will- ing to sacrifice his own interests to those of the majority. In his home he was all that a wife and children could desire, and only those who have been blessed by the association of such a beautifully rounded and perfect char- acter can know the loss of the family in his death. Thomas McDonald was born in Ban- don, twenty miles southwest of the city of Cork, Ireland, July 20, 1843. His parents came to America when he was four years old. They settled in Massachusetts, but remained there only a year; they then went to La Salle, Illinois, where Thomas resided with his parents until he was nineteen years old, when he enlisted in the army, pledged to defend the flag of his adopted country; he joined the Ninetieth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, of which he was Sergeant- Major. He served through the entire war and was honorably discharged at its close. After the close of the war he joined the famous detective service of Allen Pinkerton, of Chicago; he spent most of his time when in Pinkerton's employ in eastern cities, and gave eminent satisfac- tion. He quit the service upon his marriage, April 24, 18G7, in Chicago, to Miss Mary T. Corley, of Arlington, Bureau County, Illinois. He then came to Iowa and settled in Dunlap, Harrison County, where he resided six years; he then settled on his farm of 600 acres, six miles south of Harlan, and lived there until his death. During his residence in the county he filled various offices of honor and trust. He was elected county treasurer in 1875, and re-elected in 1877. It was due to his untiring energy and good management that the A. H. & N. R. R. was secured to Harlan; B I OOIiAPUlOA A SKETOIJEH. ■im he was president of the company- He laid out the village of Corley, his wife's maideu name, in 1873. His death occurred at his residence in Corlej', December 16, 1881. Mrs. McDonald was born in liochester, New York, and educated in St. Vincent's Academy, La- Salle, Illinois. She is a daughter of Martin and Sarah (Bigelow) Corley. She and four children survive Mr. McDonald. The chil- dren are — Agnes D. Brewer, wife of George D. Brewer; Martin E., Thomas C, and Mar- tina V. If view Township, is one of the old set- l*-^!^ lers, having come to the county in IfsTILLIAM HOWLETT, Sr., of Fair m 1859. He was born in Korfolk County, England, April 28, 1802. He is a son of Samuel and Charlotte (Patterson) Hewlett. William was the eldest of twelve children, seven of whom are living. He was reared on a farm, and worked at bricklaying and plas- tering — occupations his father had followed. He was married in October, 1844, to Miss Susan Egelstone, and sailed for America April 27, 1855. They arrived in New York May 29, 1855. They settled in Chicago, Illinois, for a time, where Mr. Hewlett worked at his trade. His wife died August 22, 1855, and one child, August 24, 1855. Mr. Hewlett moved to Augusta, Illinois, in 1857, and worked at his trade until he came to Shelby County, Iowa. He moved with a team and wagon, and was thirteen days on the road. The first months were spent in Adams County, and the seasons of 1860 and 1861 were spent in Audubon County, farming. In 1862 he came to his pres- ent farm, where he has since lived, first in a log house, and later in a good frame house. He has worked a good deal at his trade, being an expert and experienced work- man. His farm contains ninety-three and a half acres of good land, a portion of it being in timber. There are good buildings for stock and grain. Mr. Hewlett was married the second time, in October, 1860, to Miss Myra Chambers, who was born and reared in Tennessee. By the lirst marriage three sons were born — Samuel, William, Jr., and Lam- bert. The second wife died July 17, 1874. No children were born by the second mar- riage. He was married to his present wife February 17, 1876; she was Mrs. Ruth Peterson, whose husband was Samuel Peter- son; her parents are Hugh and Keliecca (Negley) Leslie. She was born and reared in Alleghany County, Pennsylvania. She came to Davenport, Iowa, when she was fif- teen years of age. By this last marriage one child was born — Phillis Gertrude, who died when one year old. Mr. Hewlett is a Dem- ocrat, and has served as township treasurer, road supervisor, and on the school board. He and his wife are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Pie is a re- spected and valued citizen of the county. ^Tf^^NDREW PETERSON is one of the well-known citizens of Harlan, his res- idence there having begun in 1876. He was born in Denmark, February 14, 1830, and is a sen of Peter and Anna Maria (Chris- tiansen) Anderson. He was given the oppor- tunity to attend school until he was fourteen years eld, and at the age of sixteen he went to learn the tailor's trade, which he has followed the most of his life. Mr. Peterson was married December 26, 1855, to Miss Ilansine Nelson, who died in 1872. In 1873 Mr. Peterson emigrated to America, sailing from Copenhagen, via Liverpool, to New 310 HISTORY OF SIIKLIJY COUNTY. "X York. Mr. and Mrs. Peterson are the par- ents of two children. Nels Peter was born September 14, 1856. He was sixteen years of age wlien he came to America. Before coming to this country lie had received a good common-school education, and after arriving here he attended school in Council Bluifs. For a time he was located in Harlan, and was a popular young business man. At present he is in business in Onawa, Monona County, Iowa. He was msirried in Harlan to Maria Rasmus. The second child of Mr. Peterson is Anna L., born August 27, 1862. She is the wife of J. B. Brock, whose history appears on another page of this volume. iON. WASHINGTON ROUNDY, one of the pioneers of Shelby County, was born in Onondaga County, New York, September 22, 1825. He is the son of Uriah and Polly (Lyons) Roundy, his mother being a cousin of General Lyons, of Connecticut. The father was a native of Vermont, and the mother was born in New York. AVashington was the fourth in a family of nine children, of whom three survive, a brother and sister, both residents in Iowa. When he was about nine years of age his parents came to Ohio, and settled in Cuyahoga County, remaining there one year. They afterwards lived in Clay County, Missouri; Adams County, Illi- nois, and Pike County, Illinois, remaining in the last-named place for thirteen years. Our subject received his education in the common schools, and was reared to farm life. At the a^e of twenty-one years he commenced life for himself, with nothing but pluck and am- bition; however, he was determined to suc- ceed; and success has been his reward. He was married October 31, 1848, to Alvira Williams, daughter of Isaac and Sarah (Colo- man) Williams, natives of Kentucky, who liad removed to Illinois at an early day; there they remained until death. They iiad a family of thirteen children, of whom Alvira was the sixth; she was born in White County, Illinois, December 5, 1832. Mr. and Mrs. Roundy are the parents of eleven children, all of wliom are living — Newton, Polly A., wife of William McCole; Sarah, wife of James Addison; Adda, wife of William Major; Julia, Avife of William Fonts; Rena, wife of James Fonts; Ellen, wife of David Adamson; Fannie, wife of Freeman Van- demark; John W., Mary E. and Adelbert. In the spring of 1850 Mr. Roundy, on account of ill health, attempted to make a trip to California, and pursued his journey as far as Council Blufl's; here he was dis- suaded from continuing the trip, and remained the winter in the Bluff's, then a small village. The following spring he traded one of five yoke of oxen for 160 acres of land in Grove Township; this claim had been taken out b}' Frank Rudd, and a rude log cabin had been erected on it. Here Mr. Roundy and family settled, intending to stay a year or two and then go on to California; they were among the very tirst settlers in the township, only seven other families having located there pre- vious to tiiem. The plan to go to California was abandoned, and they have ever since made tliis their home. They endured all the hard- ships encountered by pioneers in those early days, and have done their share in building up Shelby County from a wild and unbroken prairie, inhabited by wolves, deer and elk, to a fine, prosperous, enlightened community. They have ever extended a hearty welcome to the cold and hungry traveler, and have always lent a iielping hand to the needy. In sick- ness and distress, in joy and health, they are ever the same true friends, and they receive the affection and respect of the entire com- t^C^^ /Ur^^e^y-i^*^^^ BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCUBS. 313 munity. Mr. Ronndy possesses nearly 1,000 acres of land in Shelby County, GiB of which are in his home place. At one time he owned over 1,200 acres in this county. lie has made many valuable improvements, and has one of the finest homes in this part of the county; he has commodious barns for live-stock and grain, and devotes his time to general farm- ing, lie is a staunch Democrat, and strongly advocates the issues of the party. In 1887 Mr. Roundy was elected a member of the Iowa Legislature, and has served with credit to himself and to the satisfaction of his con- stituency. ••« ' "^ ' I i' i * ^ I^OBERT STEEN, a native of Beever M^ County, Pennsylvania, born February 14, 1844, is a son of John and Nancy Steen, both natives of Pennsylvania. He was reared to farm life and received his education in the common schools. Wlieu he was but four years old, he came with his parents to Mahaska County, Iowa, where he spent his life until March, 1879, when he came to Shelby County, Iowa. He located about five miles northeast of Kirkman, on a farm; since that time he has resided in Douglas and Greeley townships on various farms for about seven years; then he removed to Kirkman; since locating here he has engaged in farming quite extensively. He owns and manages the only livery stable in Kirkman, and con- trols the drayage of the town. During the threshing season he follows threshing. He is one of Kirkman's live business men, and is well calculated to fill any branch of busi- ness to which he might be called. He is a man of honor and integrity, and is one of Shelby County's most worthy citizens. He was married P'ebruary 19, 1869, to Sarah A., daughter of John and Lucinda McDowell; as she was born in Poweshiek County, Iowa, June 18, 1852. They are the parents of seven children — Reuben R., Mattie, Lucinda, Latla, Netta, Emma and Mable. Mr. Steen is an active supporter of the Democratic principles. ^'V*^"^^*-'-~ — 1 R. WESTROPE is the proprietor of Pine Valley Stock P^irm, Harlan Township, Shelby County. He is a native of Morgan County, Illinois, born Sep- tember 2, 1825, and is a son of Abner and Sallie (Ashbrook) Westrope. He was live years of age when his parents removed to the wilds of La Fayette County, Wisconsin; here he grew to manhood and was educated in the district school, situated four miles from his home. He was married April 8, 1848, to Miss Sarah Ann Huntsman, of La Fayette County, Wisconsin. In 1849 Mr. Westrope went to California, overland; he was five months on the road, and remained two years engaged in mining; he returned home via the Isthmus of Panama, and New Orleans, making the trip in fifty-si.x days; at that day this was considered rapid travel. Three years later, in 1854, he drove a large number of cattle across the plains to the Pa- cific coast, and remained in California two years. This time he came back via the Nica- raugua River, taking a steamer at Greytown for New York, and going thence to Wiscon- sin. Mr. Westrope resided in Wisconsin until 1871 occupied with farming and stock- raising. At that time he came to Iowa and settled on land in Montgomery County, which he had purchased two years previous. Here he improved 1,000 acres of land and engaged extensively in the breeding of short-horn cattle, in which he was very successful. He gave several of his sons farms in Montgom- ery County, and in 1881 he removed to Shelby 314 HISTORY OF SUELBT COUNTY. County, and settled on Pine Valley Stock Farm, whicli contains 480 acres of rich land well adapted to stock-raising. There is a com- fortable residence, and one of the finest barns in western Iowa, with a stone basement, and stabling for ninety-six head of cattle. It is admirably arranged for the care and handling of cattle. There is also a mill for grinding and cutting feed by horse-power. Pine Val- ley can show sixty-five head of registered cat- tle, second to no herd in western Iowa. Mr. Westrope has received his share of first pre- miums, and his many years of experience in the breeding of cattle justify his reputation as one of the best judges of cattle in western Iowa. He is known as one of the most suc- cessful and reliable short-horn cattle breeders in the northwest. ]\[r. and Mrs. "Westrope have ten children — Maria Jane, Abner J., Perry, T. E., Jr., Orville D., Otis, John G.,W. W^., Almira, Norman S. Three children were lost by death — Mary Ellen died at the age of one year ; George, at the age of eleven years, and Frank, at the age of twenty-three years. Mr. "Westrope is a strong Republican. Al- though on the shady side of sixty he bears Ms years lightly, and is as active as many a man of forty years. Mr. "Westrope is one of Shelby County's leading citizens, and is of the type for which any community is proud. ■■■■ ■^ . Mt . ^ fHOMAS H. SMITH, of the law firm of Smith & CuUison, Harlan, Iowa, was born in Appanoose County, Iowa, Sep- tember 30, 185-i, and is a son of Paris S. and Nancy J. Smith, of Davis County, Iowa. Paris S. Smith was a native of Ohio, and a son of Noah and Elizabeth Smith, also natives of Ohio, who removed from that State and settled in Van Buren County, Iowa, in 1848. Nancy J. Smith, wife or Paris S. Smith, was a Virginian by birth, and a daughter of Jo- seph and Mary Jones, natives of Virginia. When she was quite small her father removed from Virginia, and settled in Ross County, Iowa, remaining there until she was sixteen years old; her father then came to Iowa and settled on a farm in Davis County, within one-half mile of the place where Mrs. Smith now resides. She was married to Paris S. Smith April 1, 1852, and they now reside upon the farm that has been their home for the last thirty years. They are the parents of thirteen children, ten of whom are living; all of the children received a liberal education, and with one exception were teachers. Thomas H. Smith lived upon the farm with his parents until his eighteenth year, assisting with the farm work, and attended the district school. At the age of eighteen years he taught his first school, and continued to teach each win- ter thereafter, until his admission to tlie bar in the spring of 1878. All the education he received, aside from that obtained in the com- mon schools, was in the Troy Academy and the Southern Iowa Normal, at Bloomfield, Ohio, in 1875-"76. His present paitner, G. "W. Cullieon, was one of his instructors. In the spring of 1876 he began the study of law in the office of M. H. Jones, of Bloomfield, Iowa, and was admitted to the bar in 1878, in Bloomfield. Immediately thereafter he located in Harlan, and commenced the practice of his profession. In a few weeks after com- ing to Harlan he formed a partnership with P. C. Truman, under the firm name of Tru- man & Smith; this firm continued until January, 1881, when G. "W. Cullison suc- ceeded to the interests of P. C. Truman, under the present firm name. Smith & Cullison have an extensive and lucrative practice, and a large and well- selected library. Mr. Smith has a fine farm of 295 acres adjoining Irwin, Iowa, and owns one of the finest residences in BIOORAPHIOAL HKErCUES. 315 Harlan. Mr. Sinitli was married June 3, 1880, to Miss Josephine Woim, a daughter of Hon. H. A. Wonn, of Davis County, Iowa. They have three children — Mabel, aged eight years; Orpha, aged six years; and Lois, aged eighteen montiis. Mr. Smith was elected county attoi-ncy of Shelby County, Iowa, in the fall of 1886, and tilled this position with much credit for two years; he refused a re-nomina tion by acclamation at the expiration of his term. Mr. Smith is a close student, an un- tiring worker, and a self-made man in the true sense of the word. All that he is and has was acquired by his own eflorts. OT T- J. DAVIS. — Whenever a new coun- J'l try is opened to settlement, with iTE>5^] '' such attractions of soil and climate, such future prospects of growth and business development as to make it a promising field for the energies of young men, scores and even hundreds flock thither to take tlieir chance in the great and untried race of life. At the start all seem to be on equil footing, but if the reader would pass that way in a quarter of a century, he would find only a few of those who started out in the vigor of their young manhood together. In tiiis connection we do not, of course, refer to those who fell by the way-side and perished, but to those living and active, who have remained from the day of small things. The majority of such settlers do not tarry; a fcvv return to their old homes, while many press forward to other promised lands, or perchance fail of business success. I3ut from out of the mass one will always find that a small, very small proportion have staid where they first landed and set their stakes, e.xhibiting the utmost manly energy and a determination to win in the great conflict of life. Each will, most likely, have earned and saved a handsome competency, besides ob- taining an enviable personal record and good social position in the community. Such seem to be the results in nearly every country, and the history of one is for the most part an epitome of the history of all. About such a proportion win the position and meed of praise due to substantial citizens, while the greater number are seldom heard of amonof their fellow men. Among the vanguard of early settlers in Shelby County, few have borne a more conspicuous, useful and honorable part than W. J. Davis, who first came to the county in the month of April, 1860, and located at Harlan, then a small village of less than a dozen houses. His first labor was that of dropping corn for L. D. Sunderland a few days. The same season he was engaged to teach school for a term of six months, at a point northeast of Harlan ; the first few weeks he taught in a log cabin, formerly used as a residence, but the remainder of the term in a school-house just then finished. Upon com- pleting his school he had but $15 left; but he then taught a three months' school in what was known as the Custer district, followed by a six months' term in the Hactown district. He then moved to Bowman's Grove, where he purchased seventy acres of partly improved land, which he finished improving and culti- vated for four or five years; he then sold the same and purchased a farm near Harlan, known as the long farm, consisting of 200 acres; he farmed this for several years. In 1881 he was elected clerk of the district court, serving for two terms and filling the position with satisfaction to all and credit to himself. So much for the history of a man who has made his own way through the pioneer years of Shelby County. Now to go back to his earlier life and learn something of his youthful days. He is the son of William and Jane Davis, who were natives of Wales. The !!16 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. father was left an orphan when a boy, and the family came to America in 1829; he followed coal-mining for a time in Pottsville, Penn- sylvania, l)ut later moved to Portage County, Ohio, svhere he cleared up a farm out of the big woods, which at that time was little less than a wilderness. lie married Miss Jane Davis,danghter of John Davis, who emigrated from Wales to this country, settling in the great forest lands of Ohio at an early day. Our subject's parents spent the remainder of their days on the farm improved by Mr. Da- vis. The father died in December, 1884, and the mother survived him until April, 1888. W. J. Davis, the subject of this sketch, was born October 3, 1836, in Portage County, Ohio, where he grew to manhood, spending his youth in aiding his father on the farm and attending the district school ; when far enough advanced he entered lliram College, of which the late President James A. Garfield was then president. In 1860 he started out for himself to seek what the world might have in store for him, but little comprehending what was to be overcome and passed through in hewing out for himself a home and a fortune sufficient to keep him in advanced age. Just before coming west he finished teaching a school for which he was entitled to !?106, but he was unable to draw more than half this amount; so he started with the §53 and one suit of clothes. He first took a trip through Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee, with the intention of following teaching, but owing to the laxity of the school-laws in this section he decided to push on west. While in Ken- tucky he visited the farm of the distinguished statesman, CassiusM. Clay. After spending some time in that vicinity, he came to Iowa, via the Ohio & Missouri River line of boats, as at that date tiiere was no line of railroads built farther west than Iowa City, Iowa. Upon getting off the boat at Council Bluffs he had but §4.50 in his possession. He en- tertained the idea that the hotel was but a short distance from the boat landing, and so he started out for a few minutes' walk, which proved a tive-mile tramp; and worse than the walk was the hotel, which he had pictured as one with all the lirst-class appointments of those in the eastern cities; its name was the City Hotel, and he supposed it would be first- class; he was anything but agreeably sur- prised to find a double log house with few accommodations for the pleasure and comfort of a weary traveler, who had been for many days tossed about on a river boat. However, he ate his dinner and set out on foot, going seven miles to a farm-house where he re- mained over night, receiving the kindest at- tention at the hands of the good pioneer farmer and his wife, who in the morning refused to accept any pay from him, for which he was very grateful. From there he pro- ceeded to Eight-Mile Grove, which was a dis- tance of twenty miles, without a solitary house in view, giving naught but wild prairie landscape, upon which his eyes could have a perpetual feast. The first house to which he came was vacant, and the next one seemed to be occupied, but he found no one at home. He was hungry, however, and after searching about the premises, discovered a Dutch oven containing a short-cake, which made him the best meal he had ever eaten. After liaving partaken of this heartily, with perfect satis- faction to the inner man, lie walked on to a house where he remained that night. The next day he arrived at the county seat of Harrison County, in hopes of finding a school to teach, but was seemingly doomed to disap- pointment; so he retraced his steps to the house at which he had stopped the previous night, and the following day came to Shelby County. Here he succeeded in obtaining a school, as first stated in this sketch. Mr. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH B.^. 317 Davis was married in 1863 to Miss Sarah Long, a daughter of James M. Long, one of the founders of Harlan, of whom mention will he made elsewhere in this volume. By this marriage union five daughters were born, two of whom still survive — Marguerite G. and Josephine. In April, 1880, Mr. Davis was greatly bereaved by the sudden death of his wife and three daughters, all of whom were taken from him within five days. They were stricken down by diphtheria and scarlet fever. The first to be taken from the family circle was their bright-eyed little daughter Mary, aged seven years. The next to follow was Susie B., who was just entering the threshold of young womanhood, aged four teen years. Grim death, not yet content, called the baby and pet of the household, Inez, aged five years. In the midst of all this sadness and gloom the wife and mother was also stricken down and died; and had it not been for the true kindness and practical sympathy of Judge Chathburn and his good wife, in all probability the remaining mem- bers of Mr. Davis's family would also have been called from earth. These truly good people took Maggie and Jossie to their own home and cared for them until this terrible destroyer had subsided in the community. In the death of Mrs. Davis, who was a mem- ber of the Baptist church, the community met with a sad loss, as well as in the death of the tliree children, who were indeed fair flowers in life's garden. By nearly thirty years' residence in Shelby County, Mr. Davis has, by his manly, upright course, justly merited and won the confidence and esteem of the entire population with whom he has lived and mingled. He has always taken an active part in politics, being an ardent Re- publican. In 1888 he was chosen one of tlie delegates to the Chicago Convention, which placed in nomination General Harrison for President. He is one of the radical, uncom- promising men who always find the place of leader. He belongs to the Masonic frater- nity, being a charter member of the A. F. & A. M., Parian Lodge, No. 321, and having passed through all the chairs of such lodge. He also belongs to Olivet Chapter, Lodge No. 107, and Mt. Zion Commandery, No. 40. Besides his Masonic connection, he is a wor- thy member of the Odd Fellows' order at Harlan, having passed through all of its de- grees. Nothing better can possibly be said, as a matter of final record of a man's life, than that he always had the confidence of his fellow-men, which is unquestionably true of W. J. Davis. . SmS « | i«-^ tEWIS GINGERY, of Cedar Hill stock farm, is one of the intelligent and enter- prising citizens of Shelby County. He was born in Massillon, Stark County, Ohio, November 1, 1847. His father, Daniel Gin- gery, was a native of Germany, where he was reared, educated and married to Miss Amelia Helena Wilhelmina Stuart. Soon after their marriage they came to America, and stopped for a short time in Baltimore, Maryland, and then ^•ent to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. From Bethlehem they removed to Massillon, Ohio. Daniel Gingery enlisted in the Mex- ican war, and died while in the service of his adopted country; he was buried in Mexico. There were ten sons, six of whom lived to maturity. Lewis was the youngest, and he was thirteen years old when his mother came to Cass County, Iowa, where he grew to man- hood. Mr. Gingery was married December 19, 1869, to Miss Cylinda Howard, a native of Rock Island County, Illinois, and a daughter of William and Mary C. llovvanl. In 1877 Mr. Gingery removed from Cass County to 318 HJSTORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. Shelby County, and settled on the land where he now lives. The land was then wild prairie, and the next six years were devoted to its culti- vation. In 1883 Mr. Gingery rented his farm and removed to Harlan, where, in company with John Lorge, he engaged in the agricult- ural implement business. This he continued for two years, and then returned to his farm. At the end of one year he came back to Har- lan, and engaged in the nursery business until the fall of 1888, when he sold his inter- est in the business and went back to his farm. Cedar Hill Stock Farm contains 200 acres, and is two miles east of Harlan. There is a comfortable residence, pleasantly sit- uated, a good barn, a grove and an orchard. The proprietor makes a specialty of short- horn cattle and Chester White swine. Mr. and Mrs. Gingery are the parents of three children — John C, George Eugene and Mary B. Claudia. Politically, Mr. Gingery is a Dem- ocrat, and has served as township assessor. He and his wife are members of the Congre- gational church, and he is treasurer of the Sabbath-school. He is yet in the prime of life, is honorable in business, and has the confidence and respect of all who know him. n - % M '"■ "^ * 3"S * f LETCHER DUNHAM, of Harlan Town- sliip, has been a resident of Shelby County since 1881. He was born in Steuben County, New York, October 17, 1842, and is a son of Abraham and Susan (Dolph) Dunham. The father's ancestors were sent from England in an early day as missionaries to preach the gospel. The father served in the war of 1812. The mother was of English extraction, and was a relative of General AVolf, who died in the battle of Que- bec. Botli parents were active and zealous workers of the Methodist Episcopal church. and died at Geneva, Kane County, Illinois, in 1860, respected and regretted by all who knew them. Our subject was eight years old when his parents moved to Kane County, Illinois, where he was reared and educated. During the rebellion he went to the defense of the old flag, enlisting, September 7, 1861, at Chicago, in the Seventh Kansas Cavalry, Colonel Jenison's regiment, General James Lane's brigade. The regiment took an active part on the western border until after the battle of Shiloh, and then they were ordered southeast, and took an active part in fighting General Forest's troops. They were also in the first attack on Vicksburg under Gen- eral Grant. Mr. Dunham served his coun- try in a gallant manner, and was honorably discharged in September, 1864, at St. Louis, Missouri. He returned to Kane County, Illinois, where he remained for a short time, and then went to Guthrie County, Iowa. He was married January 23, 1866, to Miss Laura J. Porter, a native of Brown County, Ohio, and a daughter of John J. Porter, who was one of the prominent pioneers of Guth- rie County, Iowa. The mother was Miss Eliza Snell, a daughter of Daniel Snell, who was a small boy during the revolutionary war, and was confined in a fort in South Carolina during that time. Mr. Dunham lived in Guthrie County until 1857, when he removed to Big Grove, Pottawattamie Coun- ty, Iowa, an 1 engaged in the stock business. In 1875 he went to Wyoming, where he engaged in mining and live-stock dealing. He continued this for several years. In 1880 he sold his interests in Wyoming, and re- turned to Big Grove, Iowa, where he remained one year, and then came to Shelby County. Here he bought the Thomas Cald- well farm, excellent land, and well adapted to stock-raising. The farm contains 297 acres. There is a good residence, well furnished, a BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 319 grove, an orchard, and all the conveniences for farming on a large scale. Mr. and Mrs. Dunliain are the parents of three children — Lee H., Van E., and Orah Wyoming. Laura S. died at the age of sixteen months. Mr. Dunham is a strong supporter of Republican principles, and is a member of the G. A. R., Harlan Post, No. 197. He is a member of the Masonic order, Parian Lodge, No. 321; Olivet Chapter, No. 107; Mount Zion Command- ery, No. 49. Mr. Dunham is in the prime of life, and has seen much of tliis country. He is honorable in business, and has the respect and confidence of a wide acquaintance. f AMES NEW BY is a well-known pioneer settler of Harlan Township, having come to the county in 1868. He was born in Pasquotank County, North Carolina, six miles from Elizabeth City, in 1824. He is a son of John L. and Melissa (Perry) Newby, both of whom were born in North Carolina. James Newby was left an orphan at the age of ten years, when he went to live with a half-brother, with whom he remained five years. He was trained to agricultural pursuits, but his lit- erary education was entirely neglected, and he was obliged to work very hard in his youth- ful days. He was married, April 22, 1847, to Miss Julia Stallins, a daughter of Joseph and Sarah (Ward) Stallins, natives of North Carolina, where Mrs. Newby was also reared. She was born February 28, 1822, in Per- quimans County, North Carolina. Our sub- ject remained in his native State until 1860, when he removed to Henry County, Indiana, where he lived four years. He then went back to North Carolina for a short time, and afterward removed to Virginia, where he re- sided four years. His next place of abode was in Carroll County, Indiana, where he lived until 1867, when he came to Mills County, Iowa. In the spring of 1868 he moved to Pottawattamie County, and in the spring of 1869 to this county. In 1871 he came to his present farm, which was then wild land; he has since improved the place until the Newby farm is one of the best in the neighborhood. He has a two-story house, built in good style, and surrounded with shade trees; he has twenty-five acres of fine timber, and an orchard; everything is conveniently arranged for farming in good style. Mr. and Mrs. Newby are the parents of nine chil- dren — John L., Joseph W., Quinten, Ellsberry, William G., Elvira Jane, Alexander and Laura B. James died at the age of eighteen years; he was the sixth child. Mr. and Mrs. Newby are active and consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and the family are among the respected and honored citizens of the township. Politically, Mr. Newby is a Republican. ANIEL DALEY, conductor of the Har- lan branch of the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad, hais been a resident of Shelby County sincfe 1878. He was born in West Stockbridge, Berkshire County, Massachusetts, January 3, 1840. He is a son of Michael and Mary (Morrison) Daley, natives of Cork, Ireland, who emigrated to America immediately after their marriage. They settled in Berkshire County, Massachu- setts, and in 1871 removed to Iowa, and set- tled in Atlantic. When Mi". Daley was seven years old his parents moved to Janesvllie, Wisconsin, where his father carried on farm- ing; here he grew up and received his edu- cation in the common schools. He remained with his parents until his majority, when he entered the employ of the Chicago, Rock Isl- 320 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. and & Pacific Railroad, first working on the section at §1.15 per day. He occupied this position only a short time, and then went on the line as brakeman; while coupling cars his hand was injured, so that he was disabled for six months. He then took the position of baggage-master at Atlantic, which he held for two years, and again took the position of brakeman. He was afterward promoted to the position of yard-master, which he held for five years. When the Harlan branch was constructed Mr. Daley was given the train, and is the only conductor this branch has ever had. Mr. Daley was united in mar- riage, August 8, 1878, to Miss Jennie Grant, a native of Michigan, and a daughter of Robert Grant, now a resident of Adair County. By this union tliree children liave been born — Gracie, John and Roberta. In 1878 Mr. Daley removed to Harlan, where he has as comfortable and pretty a home as one need wish. Mr. and Mrs. Daley are members of the Roman Catholic church. He is a mem- ber of the R. W. Conductors, Des Moines Lodge; the Knights of Pythias, Lodge No. 65, Harlan; the A. F. & A. M., Parian Lodge, No. 321; Olivet Chapter, No. 107, and Mt. Zioii Commandery, No. 49. Mr. Daley's political sympathies are witli the Democratic party. No man in Shelby County is more highly esteemed, or has a more enviable rep- utation, than Daniel Daley, of Harlan. ... . i^ . 3 i» { . | .. ... tR. DAVID GISII was a native of Bote- tourt County, Virginia, and a son of John and Adaline Gish. When about sixteen years of age he went to Greene County, Ohio. His life in Virginia was spent on a farm and in attending the common schools. He was married to Miss Frances Hopping, of Greene County, Ohio. In 1858 he came to Iowa and settled at Greencastle, Jasper County; here he engaged in farming and steam-milling in company with his brother Elijah. He pursued this avocation about one year, and then commenced the study of medi- cine under Dr. Love in Greencastle, and graduated from the Keokuk Medical College in 1863. He commenced the practice of medicine with his preceptor. Dr. Love, in Gi'eencastle, where he continued for one year. He then entered into partnership with Dr. Sheldon, in Story County, and came from this place to Shelby County in 1868, where he continued the practice of his profession until his death, which occurred August 13, 1879. He purchased vast tracts of Shelby County land, which was placed under a good state of cultivation by his own direction. Dr. Gisli had an extensive practice, and was one of the pioneer doctors of the county. He was one of the most prosperous citizens, and at the time of his death was worth a consid- erable fortune. He distributed a good por- tion of his wealth among his cliildren. Di-. and Mrs. Gish were the parents of six chil- dren — Charles; Laura, wife of A. Barton; Harvey, Calvin and John ; one child is not liv- ing. The Doctor was a man that had the respect and esteem of all who knew him, and his acquaintance was an extensive one. C. O. Gish, the son of David and Frances (Hopping) Gish, was born in Greene County, Ohio, September 25, 1853. When he was five years of age his parents moved to Jasper County, Iowa, and remained there about ten years. They then made two other moves, but finally located in Harlan Township. When C. O. Gish had attained his nineteenth year he commenced farming, and has since followed this pursuit. In 1875 he purchased his first piece of ground, it being an eighty- acre tract of wild prairie in section 35, Doug- las Township; he bought it from the railroad BIOGRAPHICiiL SKETCHES. 82t company at a cost of $7 per acre; he placed it under good cultivation, and made many excellent improvements. To this first pur- chase he added other tracts, until he now owns 560 acres of Shelby County land; through his own eflbrts and personal super- vision, this land has been improved, has been taken from the raw prairie and made into one of the best farms in Shelby County; there are a good house, a barn, a grove and all the improvements that go to make a* fine mod- ern farm. Mr. Gish devotes himself to farm- ing and stock-raising quite extensively. He hMS disposed of some of his lands, but now controls 440 acres. He is an active, ener- getic business man, and is deserving of much credit. Although but a young man, he is one of the foremost in agricultural pursuits in Shelby County. He is a strong supporter of the Democratic party, and has been offi- cially identified with the township. He is a member of the Masonic order. Mr. Gish was married November 16, 1876, to Miss Minerva A., daughter of Dwight and Catha- rine (Bowman) Terrill; she was a native of Shelby County. She died in 1882, after a wedded life of six years. Three children re- sulted from this union — Peariie M., Lester D. and Ray. Mr. Gish was again married June 4, 1883, to Miss Mary E., daughter of John and Rebecca East; she was born September 13, 1861, in Indiana. Three children resulted from this union — Maud, Fern and Joseph. '- "^ • 3"t - |" -" jARY MICHENER HAVENS.— In the history of Shelby County no name is more deserving of mention than that of Mrs. Havens. She will lonir be re- membered by the older residents, and there are many living at the present time who were first cradled in her loving, motherly arms, and many more who, under Providence, owe their lives to her skillful medical treatment. Mrs. Havens was born November 28, 1815, in Licking County, Ohio. Had she been a man, or had she made her advent into the world a quarter-century later, when the pro- fessions had been opened to women, she would have undoubtedly made a name, either as a minister of the gospel or as a physician, for she came of a family of ministers on one side, and of doctors on the other. Possessed of a tine mind and liberal education, slie was far in advance of the times, being a firm be- liever in total abstinence, prohibition and woman's sufirage. "Without the means of mental culture now open to the majority, siie improved the opportunity within her reach, and became well versed in general literature, and quite well read in medicine and theology. Of a genial disposition and a good conversa- tionalist, she made many friends, while her poetic vein, wliich enabled her to write verses upon every occasion, from a lover's quarrel to an elegy on the death of a favorite horse, made her exceedingly popular, especially with young people. At the age of sixteen she united with the Presbyterian church, and as long as she lived was a consistent Christian, and an earnest worker in the vineyard of the Lord. P^or eight years she followed the pro- fession of school-teaching, and was eminently successful, controlling unruly pupilsandmain- taining order in what were known as unman- ageable sciiools. In 1839 the subject of tliis sketch, whose maiden name was Mary Mills, was married to Daniel Micliener, of Morrow County, Ohio, who was a perfect specimen of noble manhood. He survived only seven short years after his marriage. After the death of her husband, Mary Micliener suf- fered a long illness, from which she recovered with her hearing much impaired. She then took her two children, Mattie and Angle 332 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. Gertrude, and went to live with her brother at Cohimbia City, Iiidiana. In course of time slie married Lorenzo Havens, a wid- ower with two little girls. In the spring of 1861 they came to Harlan, where they lived several years. It soon became known that Mrs. Havens was not only a skillful ac- coucher, but was remarkably successful in her treatment of all kinds of diseases. At that time there was but one physician in Shelby County, and lie was not in practice; therefore it is not strange that Mrs. Havens should have many calls to visit the sick. She was never very strong, but summer's heat nor winter's cold, beating rain nor howling blizzard, ever hindered her from answering the call of suffering liumanity until there were other physicians to take her place. Owning no conveyance of her own, she was compelled to ride in any kind of vehicle and after any wild and spirited animal that a messenger might bring for her. Although she spent much of her time and strength in this work, it was more a labor of love than anything else, for her charges were not in proportion to the service rendered, but ac- cording to the ability to pay. In 1872 Mrs. Havens was mysteriously poisoned, strych- nine having been put into her quinine bottle, from which she took a dose. Dr. Bayer, of Harlan, was called immediately, and her life was saved. As soon as she was able she was taken to the home of her son-in-law, L. L. Winters, in Clay Township. Here she passed her remaining days with her children, living five years after this attempt upon her life. The five years of suffering were borne with patience, and a cheerful looking forward to her release. Knowing it to be only a matter of time, she prepared her burial clothes with her own hands, speaking frequently of her departure as if she were going on a pleasant journey. In October, 1877, in the sixty- third year of her age, at the home of Mrs. Winters, in Marne, Cass County, her sum- mons came, and she passed to the sleep that knows no waking. Her remains lie buried in the Marne cemetery, but the good she has done will live forever. -. ... .. i^ . ^ ii t . ^ .., ... — LESLEY SCUTT.— Among the promi- nent citizens of Shelby County there are none more worthy of notice in this history than Wesley Scutt. He has been identified with the interests of Shelby County since 1879. He is a native of Columbia County, New York, born January 25, 1843, and a son of Peter and Eliza (Race) Scutt, natives of New York, and of HoUandish ancestry. The family were among the first settlers of eastern New Y'ork, and were de- scended from the Hollanders who settled on the Livingston patent. The father of our subject was a carpenter by trade, but Wes- ley's youth was spent on a farm, where he worked at S6 per month. He resided with his parents until he was nineteen years old, when he came to Iowa, and located in Me- chanicsville. Cedar County, where he re- mained eight years. From that place he moved to Avoca. He was married in No- vember, 1878, to Miss Sophia Sherman, whose father came to Iowa with his wife when Iowa was a territory. Mrs. Scutt was born in Matpioketa, Jackson County, Iowa. Soon after her birth her parents moved to Wisconsin and purchased land where Mil- waukee now stands. Here Mrs. Sherman died, and Mr. Sherman with two little daugh- ters returned to his former home in New Y^ork, where he soon after died. Mrs. Scutt was reared in Wyoming County, New York, and after she was grown to womanhood she went to J>l(>omington, Illinois, where she BIOGRAPHICAL 8KETGIIES. 325 tausht school for some time. From Bloom- ington slie came to Avoca, Iowa. In the spring of 1879 Mr. Scutt came to Ilarlau, \vl)ere he engaged in various occupations until the fall of 1886, when he accepted a position in the Harlan bank. lie is a mem- ber of the A. F. & A. M., Parian Lodge, No. 321; Olivet Chapter, No. 107, and Mt. Zion Commandery, No. 49. He is present junior warden of the Bine Lodge, king of the chap- ter, and warden of the commandery. In politics Mr. Scutt athliates with the Republi- can party. L. WILLSON, a native of Pulaski County, Indiana, born January 1, \ * 1845, is the son of W. L. and Mary (Ingram) Willson. When our subject was seven years of age his parents came to Wash- ington County, Iowa. They settled on an unimproved farm, which they made their home until the death of Mr. W. L. Willson, Sr., which occurred in 1881. W. L. Willson, Jr., spent his early life on a farm in Wash- ington County, occupying his time in farm work and in attending the common schools. It was here he met and married Miss Sarah E. Irwin, January 27, 1809. She is a daugh- ter of Edward and Mary A. (Ilorner) Irwin, both natives of Pennsylvania. She was born in Cambria County, Pennsylvania, January 18, 1847, and came to Iowa in April, 18G5. Her parents settled in Washington County. The second year of their marriage they came to Shelby County, where they rented one year, and then settled on section 20, Douglas Township. They homasteaded eighty acres, and erected a small house. They went to work with the intention of making them- selves a home, and they have succeeded. Tliey now own 300 acres of as line land as lies in the county, and have a comfortable fratne residence, surrounded by three acres of grove. He also has good buildings for stock and grain. He directs his attention to stock-raising and farming, carrying on both quite extensively. After Mr. Willson's father died, he brought his mother, who is quite an elderly person, to Harlan, providing a com- fortable home for her. The parents of Mrs. Willson still reside at Irwin, which place de- rived its name from theirs. Mr. and Mrs. Willson are the parents of six children — Es- tella died in 1877; Howard, May, Maud, Elba and Pearl are living. Mr. and Mrs. Willson take great pride in their family, who are bright and interesting children. Their home is adorned with all the luxuries and comforts of life, and when one wishes to see a happy family, let him look in on the family of Mr. and Mrs. Willson. Qe i j a thorough- going business man, taking a great interest in everything that tends to elevate and benefit the country in general. Mr. Willson is a Democrat. ' 3 " t - S " fUDGE WILLIAM WYLAND, retired farmer, is the second son of Jonathan Wyland, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this book. He was born in Mercer County, Ohio, September 14, 1830; when about two years of age, his parents moved to Indiana, and settled in Elkhart County, where his youth was spent in assisting his father in the woolen mills. He lived with his parents until he grew to manhood. He was married January 3, 1854, to Miss Helen Mary Thomp- son, a native of Elkhart County, Indiana, and a daughter of Mark H. Thompson, who came from southern Indiana to Ellkhart County, April 5, 1829, among the early settlers. Mr. Thompson was a native of Orange County, 326 HISrORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. New York, and of English and Irish descent. In 1855 William "Wyland came to Shelby County with his father, by way of railroad to Dubuque, then by stage to Council Bluffs. He entered 240 acres of land in what is now Harlan Township. He then returned to Indi- ana, and the following year, in company with his brother Isaac and family, removed to this county. He then began the task of improv- ing his farm, and resided on the place until the fall of 1858, when he purchased a share in the Wyland saw-mill, and operated that for one year. In the spring of 1857 he was elected to the office of county treasurer and recorder, and on account of the larger portion of the settlement being at Galland's Grove, he appointed David Baughman as deputy, but when the county seat was moved to Har- lan in 1859 he removed to Harlan and took charge of the offi^, which he held until Janu- ary, 1860. Mr. "Wyland was elected county judge in 1859, and took charge of the office January 1, 1860; this office comprised that of the board of supervisors and the probate business; he held this office one year and then returned to Indiana, with the intention of assisting in the care of his father's business, but before reaching there his father sold out, and he returned with the rest of his family to Iowa, and settled on what is now known as the Wyland homestead, in Douglas Township. He farmed here until 1872, vvheu he returned to Harlan and clerked one year for J. W. & E. W. Davis. In 1874 he engaged in the general merchandise business with Wood & Kobbins, under the firm of William Wyland &Co.; this was continued for three years. Afterward he engaged with Jackson & Gibbs for one year. In 1884 he removed to his present farm, which contains 100 acres ad- joining town; he also owns some town prop- erty. Mr. and Mrs. Wyland are consistent memljers of the i^aptist church, ho holding the position of clerk. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M., Parian Lodge, No. 321 ; Olivet Chapter, No. 107. Politically he affili- ates with the Democratic party. He has served as county supervisor, and was also ap- pointed county treasurer, D. M. Wyland serving as deputy. |ZARIAH FISHER was born Septem- TC ber 9, 1827, in Clinton County, Ohio. At an early age he moved to Tazewell County, Illinois. His immediate ancestors were Quakers, and came from Guilford County, North Carolina. His early life was passed on a farm in the neighborhood of Dillon. On the 6th day of November, 1851, he was married to Malinda Stanley. For a time they lived in Tazewell County, but aft- erward moved to Whiteside County, Illi- nois, and lived a few miles south of Coleta. During the late war they moved to Pleasant Plain, near the line of Jefferson and Wash- ington counties, in Iowa. In 1870 they moved to Shelby County, and in 1871 to Harlan, the county seat. April 20, 1874, Mr. Fisher was killed by the caving-in of a well from which he was removing the curb- ing. He was buried in the cemetery at Harlan. Until his removal to Harlan Mr. Fisher was engaged in farming, but after this he was chiefly engaged in well -digging. He was a man of more than usual intelli- gence. He and his wife were members of the church of the Disciples. Mrs. Fisher was born in Highland County, Ohio, Sep- tember 28, 1834. Her father is Thomas Stanley, a native of Virginia, and her mother is liachel (Hoskins) Stanley, born in Clinton County, Ohio. The Stanleys are of English and the Hoskins of Welsh descent. Both of Mrs. Fisher's parents reside at present in BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 327 Shelby County, Iowa. While a young girl her father moved to Tazewell County, llli- :iois. He remained there but a short time, however, going to Louisa County, Iowa. He attended the first land sale in the State of Iowa, at Burlington. At that time the In- dians were numerous, and would frequently come into Mr. Stanley's cabin to smoke. After several years' residence in Louisa County Mr. Stanley moved to Whiteside County, Illinois, in the Itock River country. To Mr. and Mrs. Fisher were born four children who reached maturity. The first three were born in Whiteside County, Illinois, and the youngest in Jetferson County, Iowa. Their names and the times of their birth are as follows: Ellen, born November 1, 1857; Ellis, born March 9, 1860; Joel Melvin, born August 18, 1862; William Robert, born July 13, 1865. The oldest was married in 1875, and lias four children living — Frank, Mabel, Thomas and Edna Hurless. Bessie and Katy are dead. Mrs. Hurless resides at present in Long Pine, Nebraska. Ellis Fisher is a farmer in Brown County, Nebraska; he is also a brickmason and plasterer, and aided in the construction of most of the brick buildings in Harlan. He was married in December, 1888, to Miss Emma Barr, of Keya Paha County, Nebraska. Joel M. is at tiiis writing astudentof DrakeUniversity, at Des Moines; he is unmarried. William R. is a resident of Douglas Township; he was married March 9, 1887, to Miss Mary Elizabeth Dotson, who was born in Clarke County, Iowa, May 12, 1870. Her father is Pleasant Dotson, born in Tennessee, near the Holston River; his mother belonged to the Shelton family, prominent in that region. Tlie wife of Pleas- ant Dotson was Mary Campbell, a native of Kentucky. Mr. Dotson owns a large farm nearKirkman. Ellis Harl, the one child of Mr. and Mrs. Fisher, was born February 29, 1888. Mr. Fisher is at present engaged in teaching school; he has taught two terms at Kimballton, Audubon County, Iowa; three terms in Jackson Township, Shelby County; a part of one terra near Bowman's Grove, which he was prevented from finishing by sickness; one term at Mount Zion, Audubon County; one term in Brown Count}', Ne- braska; he is now teaching his fourth term at Hillside, Shelby County. Mr. Fisher was for some time a compositor in the office of the Harlan Hub, and of the Shelby County Republican. He spent some time at Eureka College in Illinois, also at Drake University, Des Moines. At the age of eighteen he published a small volume of poems. He has contributed some to literary papers, and is now engaged in writing a book of poems, of which, at this date, December, 1888, 9,000 lines are completed. Tiie work will consist of original poems and translations from the German and Danish-Norwegian lancruages. Malinda Fisher was married February 28, 1875, to William Porter. Mr. Porter is now deceased. Dulciabel Porter was born April 1, 1876; Eleanora Porter was born Septem- ber 23, 1877. fONATHAN WYLAND was born in Pennsylvania, January 1, 1797. His father was Christian Wyland, whose an- cestors came from Switzerland. When our subject was a boy his parents moved to Greene County, Ohio, where they followed farming, having cleared a farm from out the dense forests, a task that would now seem too great to be undertaken by any one. Jonathan learned the cooper's trade and worked at that as well as farming. His first wife was Cath- erine Plum, by whom one child was born, named Washington. His second wife was 328 BISTORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. Elizabeth Van Ausdell, a native of Ohio; her parents moved from New Jersey to Ohio and were from Holland originally. After his second marriage Mr. Wyland moved to Mer- cer County, Ohio, where he remained until 1832 and then moved to Goshen, Elkhart County, Indiana, where his wife died in 1858- They reared a large family of sons and daughters, named as follows — Catherine (de- ceased), Rachel (deceased), William, Isaac P., Mary (deceased). Christian J., Lovina, Bar- bara, Jasper Xewton, who was a soldier from Shelby County, Iowa, member of Company I, Ninth Iowa Cavalry, and who died from wounds received July, 1804, at Duval's Bluif; the other children are — David M., Thomas Jefferson and Elizabeth. In Indiana Mr Wyland followed fanning and milling, own- ing a woolen- mill, Houring mill and saw-mill and carrying on an extensive business iu both. He first came to Shelby County in 1855 with his oldest son, William, and at that time en- tered a large tract of land, including a half section in Shelby County and a full section in Pottawattamie County; he afterward pur- chased 200 acres in that county and a good sized tract in what is now Shelby County, in addition to that entered there. After enter- ing this land he returned to Indiana and re- mained until May, 18G1, when he moved to Shelby County, coming overland, bringing liis effects in three two-horse wagons and driving several cows. The journey consumed three weeks, and, like all journeys of that day, was very tedious as there were no bridges and very little improvement along the way. They crossed the Mississippi at Davenport, Iowa. Mr. Wyland furnished the means with which to build the first saw-mill in the eastern part of the county, the same being erected at Bowman's Grove. It was put into operation in 1857, the machinery being hauled by team from Iowa City. While on his first trip to Iowa our subject received a paralytic stroke from which he had much trouble and which ' finally caused his death, May 28, 1864, while stopping witli one of his daughters on a farm four miles from Goshen, Indiana. He was a man of rugged constitution and full of energy, having always been a hard- worker at what- ever he undertook to accomplish. He was a faithful member of the Dunkard or German Baptist church. He never sought public office, but was one of the Elkhart County, Indiana, commissioners for a term of fourteen years. A number of his children are among the most highly esteemed and public-spirited men of Shelby County at the present time; sketches of them will be found elsewhere in this volume. LEXANDER CAMPBELL, a native of Guernsey County, Ohio, was born April 28, 1849, and is the son of John and Sarah (Luper) Campbell, natives of Ohio. When there was a call for men to defend this nation's flag, John Campbell enlisted in Company I, Eightieth Ohio Volunteer In- fantry, in 1861. He died in 1863, just after the siege of Vicksbnrg. He had risen from a private to the rank of Captain, and three days after his death there came a commission from the President promoting him to the rank of Colonel. Alexander passed his youth in farm work and in attending school. When he was sixteen years old his mother came to Iowa, and settled in Iowa County, where the family resided two years. They then re- moved to Jasper County and lived there until 1880. In February of that year Mr. Campbell purchased eighty acres of land in Jefferson Township, Shelby County, and has since here made his home. He has placed the land, which was then unimproved, under BWaRAl'HlCAL SKErUllEH. ;J29 fine cultivation, and has made many valuable improvements in the way of erecting build- ings and planting groves. He has added to his first purchase until he now owns 200 acres of land. He devotes himself to farm- ing and stock-raising, and is making an efibrt to produce a superior grade of hogs and cattle. He is gradually reaching the summit of his ambition in this direction. Mr. Camp- bell had no capital to begin with excepting his pluck and energy, and these have proved superior in wortli to dollars and cents. He was the second child in a family of seven, and when his father died the burden of the family fell upon him and an older brother, and well did they fill tlie place of protector and care-taker. They educated their brothers and sisters and kept the family together, and much credit is due them for their efforts. Mr. Campbell affiliates with the Republican party, and represents his townsliip officially as justice of the peace, and is now serving his second term. He is a member of the Farmers' Alliance. He was married July 2, 1877, to Miss Emma Rorabaugh, daughter of Israel and Phcebe (McQuillon) Eorabaugh, natives of Pennsylvania. She was born in Clearfield County, Pennsylvania, August 30, 1859. They are the parents of five children — Myrtle, John, Jesse E., Frankie and Eliza- beth G. They were brought up in the faith of the U. P. and U. 13. churches. ... .« .i ^ . i n ; . | K..>H p. KORABAUGH was born in Clear- field County, Pennsylvania, October '* 26, 1857. He is the son of Israel and Phcebe (McQuillin) Rorabaugh, natives of Pennsylvania, wlio are now residents of Jas- per County, Iowa. When our subject was three years old his parents removed to Iowa and settled in Jasper County. Here he was reared to farm life, and educated in the pub- lic schools. He was the seventh son and seventh child in a family of twelve children, of whom nine are still living. When Mr. Rorabaugh had attained his twenty-first year he engaged in farming for himself, coming to Shelby County, where he purchased a tract of 120 acres of wild land in Jefferson Town- ship. Here he has made many valuable im- provements; he has erected a beautiful frame residence,. also barns for stock and grain, and has planted a grove. He devotes himself to agricultural pursuits exclusively, and is a live, energetic man, standing in the front ranks of Shelby County's rising young citi- zens. Politically he affiliates with the Re- publican party. He is a member of the Farmers' Alliance, and takes an active in- terest in the M^elfare and advancement of the community in which he lives. Mr. Rora- baugh was united in marriage, January 3, 1887, to Miss Emma Shafenberg, a daughter of Fred and Elizabetli (Cook) Siiafenberg, natives of Germany. She was born in Elk- hart County, Indiana, March 28, 1863. Mr. Rorabaugh and wife are the parents of one child — Juanetia. -.. go . T - g ..^^ ILAS FRITZ was born in Butler Coun- ty, Pennsylvania, October 16, 1824, and is the son of Martin L. and Mary (Huffman) Fritz, natives of Germany and Pennsylvania, respectively. Until sixteen years of age he lived on a farm in his native State, and attended the subscription schools; at that age he went to Ohio, wliere he re- mained fourteen months, and then went to Indiana, settling in Owen County — making this his home for twenty-eight years. He then removed to Missouri, and in 1870 he came to Iowa and located in Palo Alto *!0 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. County. He next removed to Cass County, and in 1874 he came to Shelby County, since then making liis home in Jackson and Jeffer- son townships. Mr. Fritz was married. May 16, 1848, to Miss Letitia Arthur, daughter of Reuben and Lavinia Arthur, who was born in Kentucky, January 29, 1829. They are the parents of ten children — R. A., M. L., Mary L., Joseph (deceased), S. B., E. M., A. J., W. A., John F., and Sarah J. Politi- cally, Mr. Fritz is a staunch supporter of the Union Labor party. S. B. Fritz, the fifth child of Silas and Letitia Fritz, was born in Owen County, Indiana, February 22, 1857. At the age of twelve years his parents re- moved to Missouri, remaining there one year; then they came to Iowa, locating in Palo Alto County, and afterward lived in Cass and Shelby counties. S. B., the subject of this biography, was reared to farm life, and educated in the common schools. After a residence of two years in Shelby County he went to the Black Hills, Dakota, remaining there until 1881 engaged in mining for gold. On liis return to Shelby County in 1881 he rented a farm in the southern part of the county for one year. At the expira- tion of this time he came to Jefferson Town- ship, and rented a farm for three years, and then came to Botna, engaging in the mercan- tile business; this he operated alone for about one year, when he established a grain market in connection with his mercantile interests. He has done an extensive business in grain, his annual shipments reaching 350 cars. Mr. Fritz is a live, energetic man, and has made his way from the bottom of the ladder to his present position. In the begiiming of his mercantile venture he carried a stock of $500, and gradually increased it, until he now car- ries $5,000 in a well-selected stock of goods. Mr. Fritz has done much toward the building up of Shelby Cownty; he has erected some good buildings and an elevator at Botna, arid has made other improvements whicli have proven a benefit to the county. In January, 1889, he disposed of his mercantile and other interests in Botna and removed to a farm in section 15, Jefferson Township. Mr. Fritz was married May 11, 1884, to Sarah Slisher, daughter of Hero and Johanna Slisher, resi- dents of Shelby County. Mrs. Fritz was born in Peoria, Illinois, January 4, 1855. They are the parents of two children — Helen and Gracie. Mr. Fritz is a member of the I. O. O. F. Politically he is a staunch Democrat. ---<1->>1'%-" H. KEYES, a native of Sangamon County, Illinois, was born February * 4, 1840. He is a son of Gershom and Matilda (Matheny) Keyes, and was reared to farm life, receiving his education in the com- mon schools. At the breaking out of the late civil war, when there was a call for men to defend the flag of this nation, Mr. Keyes responded, enlisting in Company B, Thirty- third Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He was wounded March 28, 1865, near Mobile, Ala- bama, during the investing of Fort Spanish. He was thus disabled for active service dur- ing the remainder of the war. He partici- pated in a number of hard-fougiit battles, and after four years' service was discharged as Sergeant, having entered as a private. After the close of the rebellion he returned to his native county, pursuing his old avoca- tion — farming. He resided in Sangamon and Christian counties until 1869, when he removed to Bourbon County, Kansas; there he lived until 1882, when he came to Shelby County, and settled on section 9, of Greeley Township, liis farm consisted of eighty acres of unimproved land, which he has BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 331 placed under good cultivation. He has made many valuable improvements in the way of erecting buildings and planting groves. He has added to his first purchase forty acres adjoining. He devotes himself to farming and stock-raising. Politically he is a staunch Republican. He is a member of Phelps' Post, No. 438, G. A. R. Mr. Keyes was married August 8, 1871, to Miss Hattie Burt, daughter of H. W. and Mary M. (Stam) Burt. Mrs. Keyes was born in Dodge County, Wisconsin, April 25, 1848. They are the parents of two children — Gertie, born Decem- ber 10, 1874, and Edwin C, born January 25, 1883. They are worthy and consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church. jOBERT PETERSON DAMMAND, ^ photographer, Harlan, is a native of Den- ''^^ mark, born in Horsens, September 6, 1855. He is a son of P. R. and Elizabeth (Anderson) Dammand, natives of Denmark. When he was thirteen years old his father died. He was reared on a farm, and received his education in the common schools of his country, which he attended until he was four- teen years old. After leaving school he went on the farm, and remained a year and a half; then he went to the city of Horsens, where he engaged in various occupations until he came to America in 1873. He landed at I'ortland, Maine, and went from there to Montreal, Canada; he then went to Racine, Wisconsin, where he engaged in a wagon factory. He worked at this for some time, and then went on a farm, where he staid for a year and a half and then returned to his native country. There he worked at the car- penter's trade for three years, and afterward attended school for awhile. At the age of twenty-two he entered the army, according to 26 the requirements of the Danish government, and served for fifteen months. After leaving the army he began the study of the photog- rapher's art, and served an apprenticeship of eight months, when his employer died, and he again returned to his former trade of carpentering. He worked at that until 1880, when he, accompanied by his n)other and sisters, cairie to America and settled in Story City, Iowa. Here Mr. Dammand remained four months, when he went to Des Moines and engaged in photography. Here he re- mained three years, and then went to Hough- ton, Michigan, where he resided one year. January 10, 1885, he came to Harlan and purchased the gallery of F. Reynolds, and has since been doing a profitable and satis- factory business. Mr. Dammand was united in marriage August 11, 1887, to Mrs. Lettie Potter, who was a native of Whiteside County, Illinois, and a daughter of Frederick Ilille. Mr. and Mrs. Dammand are the parents of one child — Vera Lenore. Mrs. Dammand is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and Mr. Dammand is a member of the Danish Lutheran church. Politically he is independent. ►>^ fUDGE NATHAN W. MACY, Harlan, has been identified with the interests of Shelby County since the autumn of 1879. He is a native of Indiana, born in Henry County, March 25, 1848; he is a son of Nathan and Jane (Wilson) Macy, natives of North Carolina. Nathan Macy, Sr., came to Henry County about the year 1830, and was married there; he followed farming until 1862, when he emigrated to Cedar County, Iowa, where he passed the remainder of his days; he died in 1868, aged sixty-five years. The mother died in Indiana in 332 HiarORT OF HUELBY COUNTY. 1857, at the agfe of forty-two years. Na- than W. Macy spent his youth in assisting Ills father on the farm and in attending tlie public schools. At the age of fourteen he came to Cedar County, Iowa, where he at- tended school, and graduated from the Nor- mal and classical department of the State University at Iowa City. In 1873 and 187-i he was principal of the schools at West Lib- erty, Iowa. He began the study of his pro- fession in 1874, and graduated in 1875; he commenced the practice of law in the fall of 1875, in Adel, Dallas County, with the firm of Willard & Calvert; the firm was known as "VVillard, Calvert & Macy. In the fall of 1876 Mr. Macy abandoned his profession on account of weakness of his eyes. For three years he was principal of the schools at West Branch, Cedar County. In the fall of 1879 he came to Harlan, and formed a partnership with Mr. D. W. Smith, the firm being Macy & Smith. After one year Mr. Smith was ap- pointed deputy State treasurer, and withdrew from the firm. In November, 1882, Mr. Macy formed a partnership with Mr. Gam- mon, which continued until Mr. Macy was elected judge of the Fifteenth Judicial Dis- trict, comprising Fremont, Page, Montgom- ery, Mills, Pottawattamie, Cass, Shelby and Audubon counties, when the partnership was dissolved. Mr. Macy was'married October 5, 1875, to Miss Eunice Chambers, a native of Ohio, and a daughter of John Chambers. By this union one child was born, that died in in- fancy, Mr. and Mrs. Macy are members of the Society of Friends. Mr. Macy is a Republican. S - 2 .. I ' | .'->~ jANIEL W. CHASE, grocer, of Harlan, came to Shelby County in the fall of 1879. He is a native of New York, born in Oneida County, November 10, 1849. He is a son of Oliver T. Chase, a native of the same county and a son of Seth Chase, a descendant of William Chase, who was one of three brothers who came from England in 1070 and settled in Brattleboro, Vermont. During the latter part of the last century the Chase family settled in Otsego County, New York. The subject of this sketch is one of the ninth generation. His father, Oliver T., followed farming in New York until he emi- grated to Iowa in 1880. He was married in 1843 to Miss Philena Walling, a native of New York, born in Columbia County. She was a daughter of Ebeuezer Walling. The ancestors of Mr. Chase, on the paternal side, were from England, and from Holland on the maternal side. He and his wife were the parents of three children, all of whom survive — George P., of Dawes County, Nebraska; Daniel W. and Newton II. As before stated, the family came to Harlan in 1879, where the father died March 24, 1882, at the age of sixty-four years. Mrs. Chase still lives in Harlan. They were both members of the Paptist church. Mr. Chase was an old-line Whig, but upon the organization of the Re- publican party he cast his suffrage with that party. Daniel W., the subject of this sketch, was reared on a farm and received his educa- tion in the common schools. Ho lived with his parents until he reached his majority. He was married December 4, 1871, to Miss Malissa Pornt, a native of Otsego County, New York. Py this union one child was born — Etta M. Chase. Mrs. Chase died July 29, 1875. In the fall of 1875 Mr. Chase took a trip through the west. February 8, 1876, he was again married to Miss Nellie Cady, a native of Ypsilanti, Michigan. Py this marriage two children were born — Kitty Pelle and Rosalie. Mr. Chase engaged in the grocery business when he came to Har- lan, and has built up a large and profitable HWOBAPHTCAL SKETCHES. 333 trade. He is the leading grocer of Harlan. Mr. Chase occupies the corner store in the Opera-House Block, and carries a large stock of groceries and queensware. He and his wife are members of the Baptist church. He is a llepublican. — S - i i' i ' S" " " — jAVID B. SHELLEB, of the firm of Sheller & Plielps, real-estate, loans and abstracts, at Harlan, was born in Carroll County, Hlinois, September 6, 1853. He is a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Butterbaugh) Sheller, both natives of Pennsylvania, and of German ancestry. Mr. Sheller was reared on a farm, receiving a common-school education. He resided with his parents until he was twenty-three years old. In December, 1875, he came to Iowa, and accepted a posi- tion in the Dallas Bank, of Dallas Centre, Iowa, where he remained until March 22, 1880; he then came to Harlan and formed a partnership with J. I. Myerly, and engaged in his present business. In Jan- nary, 1882, Mr. J. W. Harrod became asso- ciated with the firm, which was then known as Myerly, Sheller & Harrod. The business was thus continued until the following June, when Mr. Myerly withdrew, and the business was continued by Sheller & Harrod. Jan- uary 25, 1887, Mr. Harrod withdrew, and Mr. Sheller continued alone until tlie follow- ing November, when he took Mr. D. Phelps as a partner. The firm is now known as Sheller & Phelps; they transact a successful business, principally in abstracts, loans and real-estate. Mr. Sheller was married No- vember 6, 1880, to Miss Tiieda Allen, a native of Wisconsin, and a daughter of W. T. and Julia Allen. Mrs. Sheller is a mem- ber and zealous worker in the Congregational church. Mr. Sheller is a.member of the A. F. & A. M., Parian Lodge, No. 321; Oli- vet Chapter, No. 107; Mount Zion Command- ery. No.* 49; and Lebanon Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, No. 8. He has been sec- retary of the Shelby County Agricultural Society since 1885, and is now secretary of Harlan Business Association, and secretary and treasurer of Western Iowa Poultry and Pet Stock Association. „^, f . l , ,t . % .,.^ jIlgkjON. M. K. CAMPBELL, Cashier of the Shelby County Bank. In looking through the histories of the body of re- sponsible men of the country, the men who turn the wheel, we find that the majority of them either lived until early manhood, or else through boyhood, upon a farm. So it will seem that no fault can be found with the influence that early communion with Nat- ure has upon the full years of manhood. M. K. Campbell, the subject of this biography, has been found well equipped and fully equal to the duties that have devolved upon him, and Shelby County has not been the loser thereby; her interests have been identical with his since 1873, when he came to Shelby County to live. Mr. Campbell was born in the Buckeye State, Belmont County, Novem- ber 1, 1837; he is a son of William and Mary (Kerr) Campbell, who were formerly from Pennsylvania, and of Scotch descent. When only a small boy he came to Iowa with Will- iam Ramodge, with whom he made his home until he went into the army. He first set- tled in Jasper County, engaging in various pursuits; he attended the Central University, Pilla, Iowa, and tauglit school for a time. At the breaking out of tiie civil war he re- sponded to tlie call for defenders of our na- tion's flag. He enlisted July 14, 1861, in the Fifth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, Company 334 HISTORY OF SUELBr COUNTY. B. After the regiment was organized at Burlington, they went to Keokuk, and then to Missouri, where they remained until the following spring, when they went sonth. Mr. Campbell participated in the following bat- tles: New Madrid, Missouri, luka, Corinth, and the expedition down the Yazoo Pass; during this march, in the spring of 1863, he contracted a malarial fever, which unfitted him for duty for the rest of his term of serv- ice. He was honorably discharged in Aug- ust, 1864. He returned to Jasper County, and was married September 6, 1864, to Miss Mary E. Currier, a native of Indiana, and a daughter of Rev. Joshua Currier. He en- sased in the mercantile business until he came to Shelby County, in the autumn of 1873; he then settled upon an unimproved tract of land in Lincoln Township, one and a half miles from Harlan, where J. H. Lewis now lives; here he improved a farm of 160 acres, and resided until 1881, when he re- moved to Harlan. He then engaged in the land business for a short time, and in De- cember, 1880, he aided in the organization of one of Shelby County's solid institutions, the Shelby County Bank. He was chosen one of the directors, and in August, 1883, he was elected cashier of the bank, and has since held this position. In 1876 Mr. Campbell was elected by the liepublican party to rep- resent the counties of Shelby, Cass, Adair and Audubon in the Sixteentli General As- sembly, serving one term. Mr. and Mrs. Campbell were the parents of three children, one of whom survives — CarlC, who is being educated at Grinnell College; Gracie died when four years of age, and Fanny, at the age of nineteen years, while attending Tabor Col- lege. Mrs. Campbell was called from her husband and children to her last rest, in Feb- ruary, 1882. She was a worthy member of the Baptist church. Mr. Campbell was united in marriage to Miss Bertha Todd, of Tabor, Iowa, September 27, 1884; she is a daugliter of the Rev. John Todd. Mr. and Mrs. Camp- bell are both active and worthy members of the Congregational church. Politically Mr. Campbell lends his support to the Republi- can party. — ■S - : " : - ^ - - HARROD, ex clerk of the Shelby County Court, has been identitied with ' the interests of the county since his residence here, which began in July, 1871. He was born in Knox County, Ohio, July 12, 1843, and is a son of John and Rachel (Veatch) Harrod, natives of Pennsylvania. The former was born in Washington County, and is a son of Michael Harrod, of English ancestry; the latter was born in Greene County — a daugh- ter of Nathan Veatch, of Scotch descent. John Harrod settled in Knox County, Ohio, in 1814, where he claimed a farm from out the heart of the forest; here he remained to the end of his earthly career, follow- ing agricultural pursuits, tie departed this life May 26, 1879 at the age of seven- ty-two years. He and his wife were the parents of eleven children, nine of whom grew to maturity, and eight of whom still survive. Mrs. Ilarrod still lives on the old homestead, at the advanced age of eighty- three years. II. Harrod, the subject of this sketch, was reared on a fiirm, and received his education in the common schools; he re- mained with his parents uritil his majority. In 1865 lie came to Iowa, and settled on a farm, that was unimproved, in Poweshiek County, where he remained until January, 1871. He then came to Shelby County, and settled in Shelby, engaging in general mer- cantile business; he followed this alone for a year and a half, when his brother became as- BIOGRAPniCAL SKETCHES. 335 sociated with hiin, and tlie firm was known as Ilarrod Brothers. This firm continued until the summer of 1876, when they sold out. II. Ilarrod then occupied hiinself in dealing in stock for about one year, at the end of which time he returned to his home, and cared for his father and the home farm until the death of liis father; he settled the estate, and returned to Iowa in 1884. He purchased 240 acres of improved laud in Lincoln ToM'nship, section 22, and followed farming until he was elected clerk of the court, in the fall of 1886. He has attended to the duties of this ottice in connection with his farm work, directing special attention to stock-raising. Mr. Harrod was married Sep- tember 27, 1868, to Miss Harriet L. Shearer, a native of Pennsylvania, and a daughter of John and Sarah (Snell) Shearer, both of Ger- man descent. They were the parents of four children — Charles E., John Sherman, Mary L. and Ada E. He and his wife are mem- bers of the Christian church. Charles E. and John Sherman are also members of the Chris- tian church. Politically Mr. Harrod affil- iates with the Republican party. When residing in Shelby he was appointed j)ost- master under President Grant's administra- tion, and served for two years. ►>^ jWIGIlT TERRILL, farmer and stock- raiser, section 1, Harlan Township, is the oldest living settler in tlie eastern part of Shelby County, Iowa, having come here in August, 1853. He is a native of Ohio, born in Lorain County, July 8, 1830. He is a son of Horace J. and Minerva (McNeal) Terrill, natives of Connecticut. Dwight Terrill's grandfather was the first set- tler in Ridgcvillo Township, Lorain County, Ohio, and an aunt of his was the first white woman who settled in Ridgeville Town- ship. His parents were reared and married in Lorain County, and there reared their own family of thirteen children, of w^iom eight still survive. Uwight was fourteen years old when his family removed to tlie Territory of Iowa, and settled in Monroe County, where he made a claim; here the mother died. The father died in Sullivan County, Missouri. When thirteen years of age, our subject started out to seek his own fortune; he worked on a farm in Monroe County for two months, and then went to Ray County, Missouri, where he worked on a farm, receiving from $8 to $10 per month for his labor. He then returned to Iowa, and engaged in various occupations until his marriage to Miss Louisa Tinsley, in February, 1853. Miss Tinsley was a native of Indiana, and a daughter of Thomas Tins- ley, who was among the pioneers of Iowa. The following fall Mr. and Mrs. Terrill re- moved to what is now Shelby County, and took a claim, which they purchased at the first government land sale. Mr. Terrill after- ward entered 120 acres more, which he began to improve. Mrs. Terrill died September 23, 1853. Mr. Terrill was again married, No- vember 15, 1854, to Miss Catherine Bowman, a daughter of Leonard Bowman, who was a native of Pennsylvania; he drifted west with civilization, and settled in Iowa; Bowman's Grove is named for him. Mrs. Terrill was born in Elkhart County, Indiana; her father died in June, 1877, at the age of eighty-three years. Mr. Terrill resided upon his farm, which he improved and sold in 1862, and removed to Cass County, Nebraska; here he resided four years. He then went to Taylor County, Iowa, and settled on a farm on the Missouri line, half of the farm lying in Mis- souri ; here he resided for eight years and sold out, and returned to Shelby County. Here he purchased his Iiome farm of 320 acres; it 336 HISTORY OF SUBLET COUNTY. is well-improved and is in a fine state of cul- tivation. Mr. and Mrs. Terrill are the parents of four children, three of whom still survive — Asa, of Tiijlor County, Iowa; Minerva, (deceased), wife o' i ' 2 <*"' — S. GIBBS, dealer in general merclian- dise, is now the oldest merchant in <-'^ Harlan. lie was born in Ypsilanti, Michigan, October 7, 1848, and is the oldest son of O. A. and Elizabeth (Watts) Gibbs. The father was a native of Vermont, born in Kutland County in 1814, of Puritan stock. He Avas reared in Vermont, and came to Michigan when that was first settled. He was married to Elizabeth Watts, who was a native of Norfolkshire, England. When he first came to Michigan, Mr. Gibbs was a sub- contractor of the Michigan Central liailroad. He afterward engaged in farming and lum- bering, which he followed until he came to Iowa. He engaged in farming in Harlan Township in 1869, and continued this pur- suit until his death. Mr. and Mrs. Gibbs were tlie parents of five children — G. S., O. O., Forest, William, and Hattie, wife of Mat- thew Thompson. They were active and con- sistent members of the Methodist Episcopal churcii. Mr. Gibbs was a member of the I. O. O. F., and of the board of supervisors in the years 1870 and 1871. His death occurred in September, 1887. His widow still sur- vives. G. S. Gibbs was reared on a farm, and received liis education in the common schools. He resided with liis parents until they came to Shelby County in 1809. He entered the employ of J. W. and E. W. Davis, as clerk in a general dry-goods store. He served this firm until 1876, when he engaged in business with, Joseph Jackson, under the firm name of Jackson & Gibbs. This firm continued until July 1, 1879, when Mr. Gibbs purchased his partner's interest and continued the business alone. Afterward he became associated with Mr. P. B. Hunt, tlie firm being Gibbs & Hunt. This firm ex- isted until 1887, since which time Mr. Gibbs has carried on the business in his own name. He carries a large stock of dry goods and general merchandise. He was married Janu- ary 21, 1875, to Miss Delia Baughn, a daugh- ter of Charles Baughn, of Council Bluffs, Iowa. She is a native of Ohio, and came to this county when a child. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Gibbs — George S., Jr., Lulu D. and John. Mr. Gibbs served as a member of the board of supervisors, and was the first city treasurer, serving in 1879 and 1880. In 1881 he was a member of the city council, and served until 1885. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., Harlan Lodge, No. 267, and Mt. Sinai Encampment, of which he is the scribe. He is also a member of the A. F. & A. M., Parian Lodge, No. 321 ; Olivet Chapter, No. 107, and Mt. Zion Commandery, No. 49, of which he is junior warden. He is a mem- ber of the Eastern Star. Mrs. Gibbs is a member of the Congregational church of Harlan. lO .' I ' g- -" J. GARLAND, agent for the Chicago, Kock Island ct Pacific Railroad, Har- ^ Ian, has been a resident of Shelby County since 1882. He is a native of Law- rence, Massachusetts, born November 17, 1849. He is a son of J. II. and Louisa C. Garland, natives of New Hampshire, and of Puritan ancestry. The youth of the subject of this notice was spent in attending sciiool. ,31 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETOHEH. 353 III 1872 lie eutereJ the einpluy of the North- ern New Hainpsliire Railroad as an assistant agent, and remained with that company for tliree years. In 1875 he came to Iowa and entered the employ of the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacilic Railroad at Marne, Cass County. He was the iirst agent at that place, and had entire charge of the company's business, acting as ticket, express and freight agent. He tilled this position for six years, when he came to Harlan, where he has since attended to the interests of the railroad and United States Express Company. Mr. Gar- land was married in 1875 to Miss Gara M. Sanborn, a native of New Hampshire. By tliis union six children have been born, four of whom still survive — Rertha May, Edith Lottie, Harrie Sanborn and Walter Rollins. Gara M. Sanborn, daughter of Thomas and Ansina (Rollins) Sanborn, was born in Ca- naan, New Hampshire, where her father now resides, her mother having died when she was fifteen years old. Mrs. Garland is a member of the Congregational church. Mr. Garland is a member of the A. F. & A. M., Parian Lodge, No. 321; Olivet Chapter, No. 107, and Mt. Zion Commandery, No. 49. He is also a member of the A. O. U. W., Marne Lodge, No. 118. lEV. JOHN W. GEIGER.— This his- torical work would not be complete without an extended sketch of one of the foremost preachers in western Iowa, if not of the State. John W. Geiger, pastor of tlie Congregational church at Harlan, Iowa, first saw the light of day amid the green-clad hills of Pennsylvania, near the city of Read- ing, November 7, 1850. He is descended from German, English and Welsh forefathers. On the father's side the Geigers were pal- 87 atine Germans, and the Sands were English. On the mother's side the Wesleys were En- glish, and the Lashes were Welsh. Daniel Wesley, grandson of Solomon* Wesley, who emigrated to America, is still living at the age of ninety-five; he is Mr. Geiger's grand- father. At an early day in his childhood Mr. Geiger's parents settled in the city of Read- ing, where through scliool-life until his mar- riage to Miss Sarah E. Hildebrand, in 1868, he continued to reside. The earlier years of his education were passed in the public schools and Ryan's Academy. In 1867 he graduated in the commercial-scientific course from the People's College — an institution of his native city — of brief but brilliant career. Immedi- ately after his graduation, in keeping with a custom yet in much favor there, he began his theological studies under a private tutor. This work was pursued unremittingly, nearly day and night, for eight years — a part of the time in connection with the heaviest work of a pastorate. Mr. Geiger preached his first sermon in May, 1868, received his prelim- inary license in December, 1869, full license in 1871, and was solemnly ordained Feb- ruary 28, 1875. Feeling tlie need of a better acquaintance witli tlie Greek, Latin and Ger- man languages, as soon as his examinations were finished he set about finding suitable teachers for the study of the same, whicli his pastorate in the larger cities made it easy to do. In January, 1885, he was called to the pastorate of one of the Des Moines churches, in which city he spent two years and a half of hard work. July 1, 1887, a telegram was sent him from Harlan, asking him to spend the following Sabbath with the Congrega- tional church. This invitation was accepted, and July 11 a unanimous call to this pastor- ate was extended and duly accepted, and the work began August 10, 1887. Mr. and Mrs. Geiger have had born to them seven daugh- 354 HISTOliY OF HHELBY COUNTY. ters. Mr. Geiger is an untiring worker; he is possessed of many sterling inlierited qual- ities, and by his own strong force of character he has aroused a deep interest among the members of his congregation, and the regular attendance has been largely increased during Mr. Geiger's pastorate. lie is a ready and fluent talker, and when he becomes deeply interested in the subject of his sermons, he is endowed with a power of eloquence and an earnestness of delivery that bespeak for him a very brilliant future in this his chosen call- ing. Mr. Geiger is a member of Parian Lodge, No. 321, A. F. & A. M.; Olivet Chapter, No. 107, R. A. M., and Mt. Zion Commandery, No. 49, K. T. C. IIOLCOMB came to western Iowa in 1853, arriving at Council BluflFs • " November 22 of that year. He was born January 23, 1823, in Essex County, New York, and is a son of Oliver and Mar- tha Holcorab, natives of Connecticut. The family were of Scotch descent. The parents were married in Granby, Connecticut, and went to Essex County, New York, in May, 1800. May 10, 1829, the mother passed away. Twenty-three years later, in the same month, the father followed her. Mr. Hol- comb was reared in Essex County, New York, and there received in the district schools his education. At the age of twenty he taught his first terra of school, and followed this profession for several years, working on the farm during the summers. In 1853 he came to Council Bluft's, and taught school in Pot- tawattamie and Mills counties until 1857, when he came to Gallaiui's Grove, Shelby County. In April, 1858, he located at Har- lan, and worked at the carpenter's trade until ^1861. In April, 1859, he was appointed clerk of the distVict court, which office he held, except one and a half years, until Janu- ary 1, 1873. The length of the term this office was held by Mr. Holcomb indicates the ability and faithfulness with which he ful- filled his duties. In September, 1877, he was made deputy clerk under George D. Ross, and held this office until January' 1, 1878, when he became clerk, having been elected the October preceding. He filled this office until January 1, 1883. lie also acted as auditor for two years, and as county judge one year. Politically Mr. Ilolcomb is a Re- publican. His first Presidential vote was for Henry Clay in 1844. He was married No- vember 22, 1862, to J\[iss Elizabeth A. Mc- Coy, who was born in Warren County, Ohio, February 22, 1830, and came to Council Bluffs in April, 1853. Three sons were born to them, only one surviving — "William O. Mr. Holcomb helped build the first building put up in Harlan. He and Isaac Plum are the only ones left of those pioneers. — — '^, •;>' ? • j ) "-^ — II. LUECKE, merchant tailor, has been identified with the interests of "^ Shelby County since 1880. He is a native of Lippe-DetuiolJ, Germany, born April 0, 1849. He is a son of Louis and Charlotte (Buddie) Luecke. He was edu- cated in the schools of his native country. When he was thirteen years old he went to learn the tailor's trade, serving as an appren- tice three years. In addition to his service his father was obliged to pay §50 per year to have his son instructed in this trade. After his apprenticeship was ended he traveled about and worked in various places one year. In 18(30 he emigrated with his father's family to America. Two brothers had preceded them. The parents and five sons landed in mOORAPlJlCAL SKETCHES. 355 Js'ew York, and started the same day to Cook County, Illinois, where they remained one year. They then came to Benton County, Iowa, and settled in Blairstown, where the father engaged in fanning. Afterward the family removed to Nebraska, where tlie father died in 1881, at the age of sixty-five years. The mother and brothers arc still living in Nebraska. After the family settled in Ben- ton County, H. 11. Liiccke worked at iiis trade in Belle Plaine for six years; then he went to Carroll, where he worked at his trade until he came to Harlan and opened a tailor shop. This was continued for ten months, when he added a stock of clothing to tlie tailoring department. The partnership with Mr. Coenan lasted for five years, when Mr. Charles Escher bought Mr. Coenan's interest, and the firm was styled Luecke & Escher. This firm transacted business for two years, when Mr. Luecke purchased his partner's in- terest and has since continued the business alone. H. H. Luecke carries the largest stock of clothing and furnishing goods in ilarlan, and does an extensive business in custom work. He was married in 1871 to Miss Sophia Wohlenberg, a native of Lippe- Detmold, Germany, who came to this coun- try in 1870. By this union four children were born, three of whom survive — Emma, Lyda and Clarence. Mr. Luecke is a mem- ber of the I. O. O. F., Ilarlan Lodge, No. 267. Politically Mr. Luecke afiiliates with the Democratic party. He and his wife are members of the Evangelical church. ~*'' | ' I"i ' |" *- |ELS OLSON was born in the western part of Norway, November 21, 1836; here he spent his early life on a farm, and received his education in the common schools. He is the son of Ole and Martha Nelson. He came to America in 1801, and settled in Grundy County, Illinois, where he resided until 1881; he then came to Shelby County, Iowa, locating on an unimproved farm of 320 acres in section 19, I'olk Town- ship, where he has since resided. He has built a beautiful frame-house and barns for grain and stock, and good fencing, making his farm one of the best in the county. He is a man of push and enterprise, as is shown by his surroundings. He takes an active interest in the advancement of educational matters, having served on the board of school directors for two years. He has always sup- ported the Republican ticket until the past two years, when he voted the Union Labor ticket. He is a member of the Farmers' Alliance. He devotes himself to farming. He was married August 19, 1801, to Julia Georgeson, daugh- ter of George and Anna Oleson. She was born in Norway, December 20, 1841, and came to America in 1861. They are the parents of nine children — Ole, George, Mar- tin, Anna (wife of llasmus Anderson, residing in Douglas Township), Samuel, Severt B., and three deceased. The family are all at home except Anna. They are members of the Lutheran church, and Shelby County has no citizens more highly respected. *°* "' (s * S ' * l ' 1 *" *" EOIIGE NEWHOUSE, a native of West- moreland County, Peimsylvania, was born October 25, 1833. He is the son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Ream) Newhouse, both natives of Pennsylvania. The subject of this sketcii passed his early life in tlic county of his birth, on a farm, and received his education in the common schools of the country. When he had reached tiie age of seventeen he came west and located first in Rock Island County, Illinois, where he 350 HISTORY OP SHELBY COUNTY. remained until 1866; he then moved to Washington County, Missouri, M'here he staid three years; he then returned to Rock Island County, Illinois, where he remained until December, 1874, when he came to Iowa. He settled in Shelby County, Doug- las Township, on a partially improved farm of eighty acres. Here he has since made his home, and has made many improve- ments. Having a beautiful frame residence, with barn for stock and grain, he has planted five acres of grove, and all his business is in a thriving condition. He had to undergo most of the hardships incident to pioneer life; the place of marketing was a distance of twenty-two miles, at the town of Avoca, where they were compelled to carry all their prod- uce and grain. But they bravely faced all of those things and well merit the beautiful and comfortable home they have earned. Mr. Newhouse occupies his time in farming and stock-raising. He is a Democrat. He was married June 21, 1863, to Aner Thomas, daughter of Charles and Mercy (Sacket) Thomas. She was born in Darke County, Ohio, March 24, 1837. They are the parents of two children — Charlie and Gracie. Mrs. Newhouse is a member of tlie Methodist Episcopal church, and they are among Shelby County's most tvortliy and respected citizens. ■•♦•■ | ' 3"i ' 3" «~ PIIOMAS J. WYLAND, the son of Jon- athan and Elizabeth Wyland, wiiose sketch will be found elsewhere in this work, was born in Elkhart County, Indiana, February 1, 1849. He lived there until he was twelve years of age. His education was received in the common schools of Indiana, Kansas and Iowa, with one year in the Tabor (Indiana) high-school. He was brought up to farm life, and has always followed this avocation. Whfen twelve years old, in com- pany with three sisters and two brothers, he moved to Kansas, where they intended to make their home; but our subject remained only one year and a half, whert he came back to Iowa with his father and one brother, and located on a farm in section 36, Douglas Township, then Jackson Township; here he made his home until he was married. Tiiis farm was purchased by his father in 1855 or 1856; he bought it in 1873. He had as- sisted in placing it under cultivation and in making the many improvements. He drove four yoke of o.\en in breaking up the ground the first time it was broken. His first pur- chase of land was made in 1871, of 120 acres in section 1, Harlan Township, and forty acres in Douglas Township; this he traded for the home place where he now resides. He has since purchased two tracts in Polk Township, of 128 acres and forty-six acres, and a ten-acre tract in Harlan Township. He now owns 343 acres ot land in Shelby County. He has done much toward the advancement and improvement of the county, and is one of the live, energetic farmers. He is a Dem- ocrat, and held the office of township clerk before the division was made in Jackson Township. He was married April 11, 1870, to Clara Osborn,' daughter of J. F. and Eliza Jane (Dunlap) Osborn, natives of Pennsyl- vania and Ohio. She was born in Wisconsin, October 24, 1849. Tliey are the parents of four children — Ilngh O., Lizzie A., Ilalph W. and Mary. ARMAN PULVER, a native of New York, born July 2, 1837, is a son of Wandle I. and Eleanor (McArthur) Pulver. When he was ten years of age he, with his parents, came to Illiuois, and settled /^^^>7-l7 y^/^^^t^c^i^^^^ci^ .(^?<^^^ t^^^^r^^^^^^^^ BIOOBAPHICAL SKETCHES. 359 in Whiteside County on a farm, where he spent his early life. He received his educa- tion at the common schools; he was one of a family of twelve children. He remained in niinois, in AVhiteside and Carroll counties, until 1878, when he, with his family, came to Iowa, settling in Shelby County, Jackson Township, on a farm of eighty acres, in sec- tions 19 and 20. This farm was but par- tially improved, and he has placed it under good cultivation. In 1884 he sold this land and purchased an eighty-acre tract in section 25, Douglas Township, and has since pur- chased an adjoining eighty acres in section 24. He has a good, comfortable home, hav- ing made many improvements. He is a Democrat, always supporting the issues of that party. He was married November 4, 1860, to Juliann Woods, daughter of M. G. and Euth Ann (Law) Woods, natives of North Carolina and Tennessee. She was born in Whiteside County, Illinois, and died November 11, 1863. They had one child. — Harriet E., wife of Hans P. Nelson, re- siding in Jackson Township, Shelby County. He was married again, September 17, 1868, to Parnaclia Woods, daughter of M. G. and Ruth Ann (Law) Woods. She was born in Carroll County, Illinois, June 16, 1840. By this union three children were born — Minnie E., Sarah and Eola. Mr. Pulver is a man who always takes an active interest in the advancement of the country, and he is one of Shelby County's most deserving and esteemed citizens. -"'i l ' i ii S ' l i'^" ;1LLIAM FISKE CLEVELAND, the present treasurer of Shelby County, is indeed an Ijonored and truly rep- resentative citizen. Unlike most men of these times Mr. Cleveland is in possession of family records showing a complete genealogy on both his father's and mother's side, back as early as 1635. He is a descendant of Moses Cleveland, who emigrated from Eng- land in 1635, and died in January, 1701, at Woburn, Massachusetts. Our subject is the son of Dr. George Washington and Almira (Barrett) Cleveland. The father was born in Westmoreland, Oneida County, New York, June 27, 1808, and died at Water ville. New York, December 4, 1884, aged seventy-six years. When eighteen years old he left the home of his childhood and went to Water- ville, where an elder brother. Dr. William Phelps Cleveland, was practicing his chosen profession. In 1827 he commenced the study of medicine under the instruction of his brother; he completed his medical studies at Fairfield, New York, graduating in July, 1831, receiving his medal and diploma from the State University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, of the western district of New York. After his graduation he practiced a short time in Oneida and Chenango counties. New York; also awhile at Homer, Michigan. In 1836 he permanently located at Watervilie, New York, where he practiced with great success until his last illness, in the latter part of November, 1884, a period of nearly fifty years. Like his older brother, who recently died at the advanced age of eighty-seven years, he was eminently successful, and during the long period of his professional activity enjoyed a large and lucrative practice. To the sick room he always brouglit a genial and hope-inspiring manner wliich was of great value and comfort to those under his treat- ment; he had for an axiom, no man dies until he stops breathing. To the poor he was ever a friend in need, and this class he served faithfully, making no discrimination against even tliose who were unworthy. He took a deep interest in all iiul>lic affairs and often 3(i0 BISTORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. held offices of public trust and honor; he was an active member of the Masonic fraternity and held high rank in it. His wife, mother of our subject, to whom he was married at Springfield, New York, October 10, 1832, was Miss Almira Barrett, daughter of Major Benjamin Fiske and Betsey (Gerrish) Bar- rett, who was born in Wilton, New Hamp- shire, August 27, 1808. She received and finished her education at one of the best schools of her day in New England, the then celebrated school of Miss Prescott, at Gro- ton, Massachusetts, where she spent three years under the instruction of that most ac- complished and successful teacher. She was a lady of many rare accomplishments, of a sweet and cheerful disposition, and was sym- pathetic, gentle and affectionate inher nature. ller long life was one of purity in thought and action, crowned by a Christian belief in the future life; a life as simple as it was pure, giving true friendship to all who came within the charmed circle of her acquaintance. The hallowed influence and blessed memory of her sweet lifeand character are the priceless jewels left by her for her children and friends, richer by far than silver or gold. William Fiske is the youngest of four children. He was born at Waterville, New York, August 30, 1844. He remained in the place of his nativity until he was twenty-one years of age. In 1861 he graduated from the AVaterville Seminary, preparatory to entering college, with the view of becoming a physician and surgeon; this was the wish of his father, who intended to educate one who should rank even hitrher in the profession than he himself. But after a few months' study under his father, having from boyhood been in the family of a physi- cian, he naturally enough saw the hardships and objections to the life of a practitioner, and more than all this his nature did not seem to take kindly to such a profession. So he en- tered the retail dry-goods store of J. Candee & Son, at Waterville, New York, where he served as a faithful clerk for about four years. He then went to Louisville, Kentucky, and from there to Nashville, Tennessee, where he was engaged in the large hat, cap and fur es- tablishment of Greene & Greene. After two years in such capacity he went to New Or- leans, Louisiana, in the spring of 1867, and embarked in the clothing business, remaining till 1876. The next year was spent in gov- ernment employ, under a post-trader, in Wy- oming Territory, and in speculating for him- self. During his stay there he furnished '2,000 tons of hay to the government in one contract. In the autumn of 1877 he came to Shelby County, Iowa, to which place his father-in-law had moved a short time before. In January, 1878, he engaged in the general mercantile trade at Shelby, in which he con- tinued until 1885. In the fall of that year he was elected county treasurer, having re- ceived his nomination by acclamation. Such was his reputation as a business man and such his personal popularity, that he was elected by a very handsome majority, not- withstanding his party was in the minority. After having filled the office to the entire sat- isfaction of all, regardless of party lines, for one term, two years, he was again nunii- nated and re-elected by a largely increased majority. While a resident of Shelby he manifested great public spirit and did much toward the development of that place. He was twice elected mayor of the place; he made a gift of the site where the roller mills now stand; was instrumental in nearly all the internal improvements, including the grading of the streets, etc. He was agent for a great share of the town lots which were sold during his residence in Shelby. Mr. Cleveland was married at the city of Du- buque, Iowa, October 2, 1871, to Miss Kate BIOGRAPniGAL SRBTCIIES. 361 L. Collins, daughter of E. A. Collins and Annie (Purheiser) Collins, formerly of Ga- lena, Illinois. Mrs. Cleveland's father pur- chased and improved a very valuable tract of land in Shelby County, Iowa, containing 1,000 acres. After their marriage they returned to New Orleans and remained until 1876, as before stated. By this marriage union there were two children born — William John and Anna Centennial, the birthplace of both be- ing New Orleans. The former was born August 31, 1872, and died March 11, 1876. The latter was born February 2, 1876, and now lives with her aunt in New York, in the same house in which her father was born. Mrs. Cleveland died of consumption at Per- sia, Iowa, August 24, 1885, and was buried in the cemetery at Shelby. In his political belief Mr. Cleveland, who, by the way, is a distant relative of ex-President Grover Cleve- land, is a staunch Democrat, and is not such because of his father's belief particularly, but because his study and observance of political economy teach him that this party is best calculated to carry out the will of a free and self-governed people. He is a zealous worker in the Masonic fraternity, being a member of Parian Lodge, A. F. & A. M.; Olivet Chap- ter, 11. A. M., and Mount Zion Commandery, K. T. ; he is also a member of the order of the Eastern Star. As a Sir Knight in the commandery Mr. Cleveland was its first and present commander, and takes deep interest and special delight in its welfare. It was really through his persistency and zeal that Mt. Zion Commandery, No. 49, K. T., at Harlan, was instituted and has attained such prominence among the other commanderies of the State. Ilis father was also a zealous Mason, attaining high rank in his lodge, chapter and comnmndery. At the time our subject was made a Mason his father was master of the lodge. It should liere be said tliat few fathers enjoy the pleasure and satis- faction of presiding over the solemn cere- monies which make their own sons members of the mystic order. Among the heirlooms prized most highly by Mr. Cleveland is the Knights Templar uniform once worn by his father. With his pleasing and manly address, his unusual intelligence and business tact, and many other sterling qualities, it is no wonder that all are friends to him. While he has deep-seated convictions, and is firm in his belief, he never forces his opinions upon others. There are few, if any, living in Shelby County who have come to be so uni- versally popular, per force of manly, noble traits of character, as Mr. Cleveland. ►>^ fOHN S. MILLS, of the firm of Mills & Pexton, druggists and booksellers, came to Shelby County in 1877. He is a na- tive of Knox County, Ohio, born August 27, 1857, and is a son of Isaac N. and Ophelia (Sims) Mills, natives of Ohio, and of English descent. He was reared on a farm, and received a common-school education. He resided with his parents until he was seven- teen years old, when he went to Union City, Indiana, and began learning the printer's trade; he worked at this for a short time, and then studied telegraphy in the train dispatch- er's ofKce of the Bee Line Railroad. He re- mained in the office one year, and in the employ of the company, until he came to Shelby County in 1877. He settled in Shelby, and engaged as clerk in the grocery store of J. W. Harrod. He staid there until Jan- uary, 1880, when he came to Harlan, as dep- uty treasurer under J. W. Harrod. Ho filled this office for two years, and then engaged witli (t. S. Gibbs in general jncrchandising, I remaining with Mr. Gibbs and with (iibbstfe 362 EISTORY OF SUELBT COUNTY. Hunt for two years. When J. W. Harrod was elected auditor Mr. Mills was appointed his deputy, and held this office for one year. In December, 1884, he became associated with S. H. Waters in the drug business. The firm purchased a stock of books and sta- tionery from C. L. Drake, and combined the two branches of business under the firm name of Waters & Mills. They continued for one year, when the firm name was changed to Mills & Peyton. They carry a large stock of drugs, books and stationery. Mr. Mills was married July 12, 1880, to Miss Vania Cole, a native of Rock Island County, Illinois, and a daughter of George and Anne (Martin) Cole. The father was a native of Pennsyl- vania and of German descent. Mr. and Mrs. Mills are the parents of three children, two of whom survive — Lilah and Albert, and Gra- cie (deceased). They are both members of the Congregational chiirch. Mr. Mills is a Demociat; he has served as city recorder for two terms. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, Carthage Lodge, No. 65, Iowa Legion of Honor. YRUS BEARD, attorney at law, Har- an, Iowa, has been identified with the interests of Shelby County since 1878. He was born in Venango County, Pennsyl- vania, August 13, 1850, and is a son of Thomas and Mary (McKinley) Beard, natives of Pennsylvania. Our subject lived on a farm in Pennsylvania until 1865, when he with his parents came to Iowa, settling in Washington County. Here the father engaged in farming, Cyrus assisting until he reached his majority. His early education was ob- tained in the district school, and was com- pleted in what is now known as the Wash- ington Academy, at Washington, Iowa. After this he took a cqpimercial course at Buff's College, Pittsburg, Pa. He then engaged in teaching in the winter season, and entered the law office of G. G. Bennett, where he re- mained two years. He was graduated from the law department of the State University, Iowa City, in 1874, and began the practice of his profession in Washington, where he re- mained until he came to Harlan in October, 1878. He then formed a partnership with E. Y. Greenleaf, tlie firm name being Beard & Greenleaf, which continued until Septem- ber, 1882. .^t this time he formed a part- nership with J. I. Myerly, and has since conducted a very successful business under the firm name of Beard & Myerly. This partnership was dissolved November 14, 1888, he remaining in the practice at Har- lan. He was married September 28, 1875, to Miss Nora E. Wilson, a native of Illinois, and a daughter of Captain A. Wilson. By this union five children were born — Mary O., Lawrence L., Clarence C. (died at the age of twenty months), Clara E. and Arthur A. Mr. Beard has held the office of city recorder and city attorney; he is also a member of the school board. He and his wife are members of the Congregational church. He is a Re- publican. Mr. Beard is a member of Parian Lodge, No. 321, A. F. & A. M.; Olivet Chap- ter, No. 107, and Mt. Zion Commandery, No. 49. ■°'- ^ » ? n S ' | '*'^ fW. FRENCH, Auditor of Shelby County, was born in Jasper County, ® Iowa, December 3, 1859. He is a son of T. A. French. When he was six years old he came to Shelby County with his father's family, locating in Jackson Township, where they resided for a time, and then moving into Douglas Township. Tliere the father pur- BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 363 chased a farm, on which the village of Kirk- man now stands. Here our subject grew to manhood. His youth was passed in assisting his father on the farm and in attending the common schools. In 1881 he made his tirst business venture. He opened a drug store in Kirkinan, and carried on a successful busi- ness until he was elected to the office of county auditor. He took charge of the office January, 1888. On May 25, 1884, Mr. French met with a serious loss by tire, in which his building and stock were entirely consumed. The loss was about $2,500. He was appointed postmaster of Kirkman under President Garfield's administration, and held the office until his resignation, upon being elected to that of auditor. He was married November 22, 1882, to Miss Nettie Wood, a native of Pennsylvania, and a daughter of the late George B. and Mary "Wood, of Col- fax, Iowa. By this union one child was born — Gertrude. By close attention to business Mr. French has been highly successful, and by his honorable and upright dealings has won the confidence and esteem of the entire community. He casts his sufl'rage with the Democratic party. 'T*-*^ jEORGE C. HEGLIN, a native of Stav- enger, Norway, was born October 17, 1849. He is a son of Chris and Julia Heglin, and spent his early life on a farm in Norway, and received his education in the common schools. When but seventeen years of age he came to America, and settled in Iowa County, Iowa, where he engaged in farming. He continued his residence in Iowa County until 1881, when he came to Shelby County and located on a farm of 160 acres of wild land in Polk Township. This he has placed under good cultivation, and has planted a grove of two acres and 250 apple- trees. He has also erected a pleasant frame residence, and barns lor stock and grain. All the sur- roundings indicate the energy and econom- ical management of the owner, who is a live, go-ahead farmer. He has held the office of township trustee for four years, and afliliates with the Republican party, taking an active interest in the political affairs of his county. Mr. Heglin was married February 28, 1872, to Miss Malinda Knudson, a daughter of Knute and Martha Knudson. She was born in Norway, January 18, 1852, and came to America in 1871. Mr. and Mrs. Heglin are the parents of six children — Julia M. and Caroline C. (both deceased), Julia, Garfield, Mina E. and Charles C. They are active and co7isistent members of the Lutheran church, and are among Shelby County's most worthy and respected citizens. In the sum- mer of 1871 Mr. Heglin went to Idaho, pros- pecting, and engaged in mining in company with Anson & Co. S - 3 .' I - ^ ' fllOMAS BARRETT, a native of Lin- colnshire, England, born March 6, 1844, is a son of Matthew and Hannah (Naylor) Barrett. He was reared in his na- tive country, spending' his time on a farm, and in attending the common schools. In 1875 he came to America and settled in Clinton County, Iowa, where he resided for five years. The first three years he worked as a farm hand, and at the end of that time he, in company with Henry Richardson, rented a farm, which they cultivated for two years. Mr. Barrett then left Clinton County and came to Shelby County, and settled on a farm of 100 acres, partially improved, in Polk Township. Here he has since made his home, making many improvements; he has jdantcd 364 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. about three acres of grove, erected a comfort- able frame residence, and barns for stock and grain. He devotes himself to agricultural pursuits exclusively. By this industry he has increased the small capital which he brought from Europe until he is to-day one of Shelby County's well-to-do citizens. Politically he is liberal in his views. Mr. Barrett was united in marriage October 11, 1878, to Miss Catharine Seymore, a daughter of Charles and Magdaliue Seymore, born in Sleswick-Hol- stein, Germany, July 25, 1855; she came to America with her parents when she was ten years old. Mr. and Mrs. Barrett are the parents of five children living, and two de- ceased — Florence, George H., Frank, Bruce B. and Thomas W. Mrs. Barrett is a mem- ber of the Lutheran church. • " •■ ^ • i"! ' ! W. IRWIN, a native of Cambria County, Pennsylvania, was born April \'* 7, 1820. He is a son of Edward and Elizabeth (Decker) Irwin, natives of West- moreland County, Pennsylvania. He was reared in his native county, near Johnstown, on a farm, and received a limited education in the subscription schools, in the old log school-house. Not satisfied with such meagre knowledge, he devoted his leisure hours and evenings after his day's work was done to his books, and in this way acquired an edu- cation equal, if not superior, to many college educations at the present day; he is a close observer, and is endowed with an unusually retentive memory, both of which have been of great assistance to him in his self-education. He is the second in a family of five children; liis father died when he was seven years of age, leaving the mother with a family of small children to support; so, as soon as he was able it fell upon him to assist in their main- tenance. When gnly nine years old, a mere child, yet a veritable man in courage and determination, he made his first business venture; he was hired as driver on the tow- path of the Pennsylvania Canal, receiving $8 per month and board for his services. He kept this position for three years — his wages being increased after the first year. At the end of this time he was much gratified at being promoted to the position of steersman, receiving as wages $15 per month. He was held in the employ of the canal and railroad companies until 1849, when the Pennsylvania Central Railroad was being constructed, and he secured work with this company. He re- mained with them as a laborer and contractor until 1865; the last three years and a-half he served as night police, being sworn into the service by the government; in this as well as all other positions he was faithful in the discharge of his duties. In April, 1865, Mr. Irwin started to Iowa, and arriving there, settled in Washington County, on a farm, where he remained until March, 1870. He brought his family, consisting of his wife and seven children, with him. When he came to Shelby County in 1870 he located on the land which is now section 31, Jeiferson Township. The fall previous he had purchased 200 acres of wild land here, and he began the improve- ment of this. Mr. Irwin's brother-in-law, William Constable, came with him to this wild, new country, and their families were the only ones in what is now JeflPerson Town- ship; their nearest neighbor was four miles distant. When moving to the new country, they came to Avoca by rail, and there hired teams to convey them and their efl^ects to their destination; this was not easily done, as teams were scarce and roads were bad in those days. They finally succeeded, and all went well until they reached Harlan, late in the evening. There was but one small hotel. bioohaphical sketohes. 365 and when the emigrating party arrived, con- sisting of twenty-three persons in all, there was mnch wonderment as to how and where they were to be stowed away for the night. Mr. John B. Swain, one of the oldest settlers of the county, was the landlord, and he was C(]iial to the occasion, and soon had everything in ship-shape for his gu^ts. His family, however, were compelled to stay np all night, but that was a small affair in those pioneer days. The next day the travelers continued their journey, and landed safely at their re- spective places of abode. It was spring time, and the waters were soon so high that the families living on opposite sides of the creek were cut off from all communication with each other for three weeks. But Mr. Irwin de- cided to put a stop to this isolation, and im- provised a ferry out of a wagon bed, and by means of a rope thrown across the stream, attached to some bushes, he succeeded in drawing himself across. This is but one of many incidents which might be recounted of the adventures and hardships undergone by the pioneers of the State of Iowa. In 1881 the town of Irwin was laid out, and derived its name from the worthy subject of this sketch, Ebenezer W. Irwin, through whose efforts the town was founded. It is built upon land owned by Mr. Irwin, who gave a good portion of land as an inducement to settlers. Mr. Irwin has served his township in an official capacity since its organization. From the very beginning he has filled the office of trustee and school director with- out a break. lie is a staunch Republican, and has always taken an active interest in the political affairs of the country. Mr. Irwin was married August 25, 1844, to Miss Mary A. Horner, daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth (Beam) Horner, natives of Penn- sylvania. Mrs. Irwin was born in Johnstown, Cambria County, Pennsylvania, October 23, 1824. They are the parents of eleven cliildren — John (deceased), Sarah, wife of L. W. Wil- son; David S., Ruth (deceased), Clarinda, wife of William Kimble; Evalina, wife of Miles Reynolds; Julia (deceased), Lucretia, (deceased), Ellen, wife of Chauncey Randall; Priscilla (deceased), and Etta, wife of W. J. Wicks. Mr. and Mrs. Irwin are worthy members of the Christian church. — ~... ? . ; .. t . ^ -^ — N. HARFORD was born in Wash- ington County, Pennsylvania, March * 19, 1849, and is a son of Thomas and Jemima (Leonard) Harford, natives of Penn- sylvania. Until he was thirteen years old his parents resided in their native State, and then removed to Livingston County, Illinois. His boyhood was spent on a farm and in attending school. At the age of thirteen years he was compelled to abandon school and devote himself to farm duties. He was thus deprived of extensive advantages in ac- quiring an education, but has made up this loss in the cultivation of his unusually keen faculties of observation. When nineteen years of age he commenced life on his own responsibility, having nothing but a team of horses to begin his fortune with. He con- tinued agricultural pursuits in Livingston County and remained there five years. De- cember 19, 1869, he was united in marriage to Miss Eliza Gibson, a daughter of James and Mary (Anthony) Gibson, natives of Ohio, who was born in Ohio, March 8, 1851. In 1873 Mr. Harford entered the employ of AVilliam Streight, of Cornell, Livingston County, Illinois, as clerk, in a stock of gen- eral merchandise. He served in this capac- ity four years and a half, and in the summer of 1879 he came to Harlan and engaged in the mercantile business, where he continned 366 HISTORY OF SIJELBT COUNTY. until 1881; he then came to Irwin, or the spot where Irwin now stands, as his was the first family in Irwin proper. Here he opened a stock of general merchandise, in company with Gibson Brothers — the firm-name being Gibson & Harford. After two years Mr. Harford disposed of his interest in the stock, and entered into partnership with E. J. Trowbridge, in the general merchandise busi- ness. Tliis firm continued three years, and then Mr. Harford sold out to his partner, and bought the stock and location of A. C Allen, where he has since done an extensive business. He is to-day one of Shelby County's most prosperous merchants. He carries a stock of $4,000, and owns two good pieces of property in Irwin. Politically Mr. Harford is an active Republican, taking an active part in the politics of the county. He and his wife are the parents of three children — Mah- lon C., in the employ of the Northwestern Kailroad; James B. and Maud. The family are among Shelby County's most respected citizens. S. BRANSON, M. D., a native of Fulton County, Illinois, was born [® March 1, 1854. He is a son of D. W. and Caroline (Young) Branson, natives of Ohio and New York respectively. His boyhood was spent in attending the gra- ded schools of his native town, Morrison. When he was fourteen years old his parents removed to Marshall County, Iowa, to the town of Lamoille. Here he was occupied with farm work in the summer season, and in the winter he attended school. This he continued for three years, when he entered Ames (Iowa) State Agricultural College for two years; he then taught for seven years in the Iowa schools, at the end of wiiich time he commenced the study of medicine witii Dr. L. L. Bond, at West Side, Crawford County, Iowa. He afterward entered Rush Medical College, Chicago, and graduated from that in- stitution in February, 1882. Immediately after his graduation he came to Irwin, where he has since been engaged in the practice of his profession, wifich has grown to very com- fortable proportions. In June, 1883, Dr. Branson entered into partnership with W. Granger in the drug business, and the firm is doing business at the present time. He was married June 23, 1881, to Miss Nora Harris, a daughter of Benton and Amelia (Scoville) Harris, born in Black Hawk County, Iowa, June 22, 1858. Dr. and Mrs. Branson are the parents of one child — Earl S., born August 21, 1882. The Doctor is an active worker in the ranks of the Republican party, being appointed as chairman of the township committee. He is a member of the State Medical Association, the Missouri Valley Association, and is acting vice-presi- dent of the Shelby County Medical Associ- ation. He is a live, energetic physician, and we bespeak for him a prosperous and useful future. Dr. Branson owns 160 acres of land in the count}', which is under good cultiva- tion. He and his wife are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and are among Shelby County's most respected citi- zens. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M., and of the Legion of Honor. » ... g . 2 . . [ ■ > '" fOHN R. STEPHENS, a native of Parke County, Indiana, was born October 31, 1845, and is the son of Edward and Hettie (Richey) Stephens. Tiie father was a native of England, and the mother of Ohio. When he was about two years old liis mother died. When our subject was ten years old DWQRA PniVAL SKETCHES. 3li7 liis father came to Iowa and settled in War- ren County, about ten miles southwest of Des Moines. He was reared to farm life and educated in the common schools. Mr. Ste- phens was united in marriage, October 21, 186G, to Miss Elizabeth Ham, a daughter of J. E. and Lavina (Stanford) Ham, natives of Indiana and Ohio respectively. She was born in Indiana, February 1, 1848, and was eight years of age when her parents removed to Iowa and settled in Greene County. After his marriage Mr. Stephens engaged in farm- ing in "Warren County for two years, and then removed to Pottawattamie County, where he continued his agricultural pursuits until 1880. He then removed to Gray's Postoffice, Audubon County, and engaged in the grocery business for two years. After this he was employed by Dierks Bros. & Lampson, lutn- ber merchants, as manager of their business at Gray's, where he remained but a short time, and was then sent to Irwin by the same company. He took charge of the business here until the company sold out, and was em- ployed by their successors, the S. H. Baldwin Lumber Company, who sold out to the Green Bay Lumber Company, of Des Moines. Mr. Stephens was retained by this company, and now has control of their business at Irwin. He is well calculated to till this position, as is demonstrated by his retention by each of the firms in succession. Mr. Stephens is an active Republican, and has been identified with the township otiicially as clerk for four years. He is a member of the board of edu- cation, now serving his second term, and is director in the independent district of Irwin. He was appointed one of three, as a soldiers' relief committee, in September, 1888. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., having passed all the chairs, and is a member of the Iowa Legion of Honor and the Grand Army of the Kepublic, J. R. Slack Post, No. 136. Mr. Stephens went to the defense of his country in tiie late civil war, enlisting in May, 1804:, in the Forty-eighth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, Company A, and serving until October 22, 1864. He and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. and Mrs. Stephens are the parents of three chil- dren — E. F. A., Edward E. and Lewis Manly. They are numbered with Shelby County's solid and reliable citizens. ..>^ ? . ; ,, ; ♦ ? ,.«.. lETER WILL emigrated from Germany g to America in 1879. He was born Feb- ruary 1, 1855, and is a son of Henry and Lucy Will. He grew to maturity in his native country, spending his early life in at- tending school and in farm work. At the age of eighteen he was apprenticed to a cabi- net-maker and served two years and a half, when he began work as a journeyman, and continued in this trade until he was twentj'- four years old. He then emigrated to Amer- ica. The first stop he made was in Atlantic, where he remained a few days, and then came to Shelby County, stopping in Harlan for four weeks. He then engaged to work on a farm in Jackson Township for five months for Lewis Buck. After his time with Mr. Buck had expired, he was employed by a neiglibor to assist in the corn gathering, and remained there all the winter. In the spring he went to work for Charles Gish in Douglas Township, where he remained for nine months. He then purchased a team of Mr. Gish, and during the following winter hauled corn for the farmers to Harlan. In the sprint he traded his team for two ponies, and engaged in herding cattle. He followed this occupa- tion for five months, and on Christmas came to Irwin, where he and Peter Graves had purchased two lots. These they divided, and 3«8 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. Mr. Will built a stable and purchased a team of horses and started in the liverj and feed business. In July, 1885, he purchased of S. Kimball the present location of his barn, and now has a well-planned building and two good teams, and is able to accommodate the public with first-class livery. When Mr. Will came to Shelby County he was in debt, but by hard work and close application to his business he has accumulated a good property. He is a live, energetic man, and is among the solid citizens of Shelby County. He affiliates with the Democratic party. Mr. Will was married October 11, 1885, to Miss Maggie Pepper, a native of Germany. They are the parents of two children — Henry and Peter. They are members of the Lutheran church. jjARTIN POLING, Se., is the son of Samuel, Jr., and Elizabeth (Porks) *^^?^ Poling, and grandson of Samuel, Sr., and Sarah Poling, of Pennsylvania. His mother's parents were John and Sarah Porks. Martin was born and reared in Barbour County, West Virginia, his birth occurring January 29, 1819. lie was educated in the subscrip- tion schools of that day, and was trained to a farmer's life. In the fall of 1836 he, with his parents, two brothers and three sisters, came to Ohio and settled in Union County, where he met and married Peree Carpenter, August 4, 1839; she was the daughter of Solomon and Catharine (Hill) Carpenter, and was born in Virginia, August 13, 1819, and died October 7, 1888. Martin and Peree Poling were the parents of ten children — Silas, Cyrena, wife of William Gagle; Totten, Jane, wife of L. C. Westfall; Mary Ett, wife of Elijah Gish; Peree, wife of Jacob Tagnc; Josephine, wife of J. R. AlcConnell; George, Arthur and Martin H. After his marriage Mr. Poling remained in Union County three years, and then removed toVanBuren Countj^, Iowa, where he resided eight years. lie then lived in Mahaska County, Iowa, for seven years, then in Jasper County for eight years, and in 1865 he removed his family to Siielby County, settling five miles east of Harlan. In 1867 he took up a claim of forty acres, which had been abandoned, and afterward purchased an adjoining forty acres, all of which was wild land; here he continued to make his home, making necessary improve- ments. He erected a good frame residence, barns for stock and grain, built fences, and planted three acres of grove. He and his family had many hardships to undergo, but they now have one of the pleasantest homes in the county, and enjoy the pleasures of those who have a consciousness of duty performed, and work well done. Mr. Poling responded to the call for men to defend the Hag of this country, and enlisted in Company B, Thir- teenth Iowa Volunteer Infantry; he served eleven months and was discharged on account of failing health. He has always supported the issues of the Republican party, and has held many positions of trust and honor; he has tilled the otHces of justice of the peace, township trustee and assessor. His tirst vote was cast for William Henry Harrison in 18-10, and he has voted at every presidential election since but one. He joined the church in 1858, and s'nce that time has lived the life of a true, consistent Christian. His worthy wife fol- lowed his e.xample, and they made the journey through life with interests undivided. When Mrs. Poling died, a faithful wife and loving mother passed to her eternal rest. Mr. Poling now makes his home among liis children; he has thirty grandchildren and one great- grandchild. Although he has reached his allotted threescore and ten years, Mr. Poling :gm i '^-'S BIOGRAPHICAL tiKETCHES. 371 is hale and hearty, and carries his age like a man of sixty years. Martin H. Poling, the tenth child of Martin, Sr., and Peree Toling, was born in Jasper County, Iowa, March 27, 1859, and has lived in Shelby County since 18G5. Ills youth was passed on a farm and in attending- school. At the age of seventeen years he commenced to learn the blacksmith's trade with his brother Georn;e at Bowman's Grove; he worked with liim for three winters, and then began farming for himself in Jack- son Township; here he remained for three years, and then removed to Jefferson Town- ship, where he purchased a farm of eighty acres of unimproved land ; here he made many improvements in the way of erecting build- ings and planting trees, lie resided on this place for four years, and then came to Irwin, where he has since made his home. He en- tered into partnership with Charles McCon- nell in the blacksmith and repair business. They are energetic business men, and have built up an extensive trade in their line. Po- litically Ml'. Poling is a Republican. He was married February 4, 1880, to Miss Minerva J., daughter of Ephraim and Phoebe J. (Ward) Tague, who was born in Shelby County, Sep- tember 1, 1862. Mr. Poling and wife are the parents of three children — Vinnie May, Gracie Edna and Guy Hamilton. They are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and are among the respected and hon- ored citizens of the county. ^MAR PACHA WYLAND, Clerk of the courts of Shelby County, Iowa, was born in Elkhart County, Indiana, Au- gust 20, 1855. He is the son of Isaac P. and Julia AVyland, and is one of a family of live sons and one daughter. Although a Hoosier by birth he knows very little of the State of his nativit}', his parents having emi- grated to this State while he was still an infant. In 1856 they settled on a farm in Shelby County, and Omar Pacha and his other brothers were reared to the hard work incident to frontier life. While still quite young he conceived the idea that a good ed- ucation would make life's journey much easier and more satisfactory, so he took advan- tage of every opportunity to gain knowledge. After attending the district school for several winters he entered the Baptist College at Des Moines, and was a student there in 1871, 1872 and 1873. Upon leaving college he tanght school in Polk and Shelby counties for several years. Feeling that with the education he had acquired he was better able to take up the duties of life, and perform them successfully, he went back to the farm. Believing that he was better fitted to make a good, sensible farmer than he had been before, he put in cultivation a farm in section 27, Harlan Township; but in 1877, at their re- quest, he left the farm to accept a position in the land and abstract office of C. J. & D. M. Wyland. He soon developed a marked abil- ity in this line of work, and by close applica- tion mastered the intricacies of tlie business. He was soon placed in charge of the land and abstract business, and still holds that position. In 1875 Mr. Wyland was married to Miss Rachel J. Wallace, a native of Adams County, Illinois, and a daughter of Mr. James A. Wallace. Mr. Wyland was elected treasurer of the independent school district of Harlan in 1879, and has held that office ever since. He has been an active member of the City Council since 1886. In 1888 he was unan- imously nominated to the office of clerk of the courts, and was elected by a large major- ity over a very strong opponent — l)eing the first Democrat ever elected to fill that office in Shelby County. He is an earnest and 373 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. zealous member of the Masonic fraternity; is secretai-y of Parian Lodge and of Olivet Chap- ter, and is recorder of Mt. Zion Commandery ; he is also a member of the order of the East- ern Star. Mr. Wyland is an honest and conscientious Democrat, strong in his convic- tions, yet never forcing his opinions upon others. He is to be envied in the possession of a very even temper; there is a quiet vein of humor running througli his nature that enables him easily to look upon the bright side of life. Always ready with a pleasant word for every one, it is not surprising that he has so many warm personal friends, and that he is so popular with all classes of citizens. Had we more natures like Omar Pacha Wyland's, life's burdens would seem the lighter to bear. SM. BOWLIN, of the firm of Eowlin & Paup, brokers, Harlan, is a native ® of Pennsylvania, born iu Somerset County, January 27, 1855. He is a son of Joseph and Barbara (Ayers) Bowlin. The former was a native of Pennsylvania and of Puritan descent, and the latter was also a native of Pennsylvania, but of German ancestry. The subject of this sketch was sent to school in Summerfield, Pennsylvania, until he was fourteen years old, when the family removed to Iowa, and settled in Ot- tumwa, Wapello County. When he was six- teen years old he engaged in the grocery business, which he followed until 1876. In March, 1877, he, in company' with his brother, came to Harlan and engaged in general mer- cantile trade, which they followed success- fully until 1881 when he sold to his brother. He then engaged in the hardware business, in which he continued until 1886, when he sold out. January 1, 1887, he engaged in his present business. Mr. Bowlin was mar- ried December 14, 1879, to Miss Reppa L. Brazie, a native of New York, and a daugh- ter of Peter Brazie. Mrs. Bowlin is a member of the Baptist church. Mr. Bowlin is a member of the A. F. & A. M., Parian Lodge, No. 321; Olivet Chapter, No. 107; Mount Zion Commandery, No. 49. In the spring of 1888 Mr. Bowlin was appointed mayor of Harlan, and in March, 1889, he was re-elected to fill this office. |EIL CAEMICHEL, deceased, was one of the well-known and respected citi- zens of Shelby County. He was born in Scotland, at Linsmore, October 20, 1840, and was the son of Dugal and Sarah (Kieth) Carmichel. At the age of seven years he came to America with his parents, who set- tled in New York. When he was sixteen years old they removed to Canada, in which country he was reared a farmer. His educa- tion was obtained in the public schools. Six months before the close of the late war he enlisted for three years in the Twenty-first Michigan Volunteer Infantry, Company B, and was with General Sherman on his march from Atlanta to the sea. He was hoi.orably discharged at the close of the war. After the close of the war he came west and en- gaged in railroad contracting for some time. Mr. Carmichel was united in marriage, in Canada, November 15, 1870, to Miss Esther McCallum, a native of the county of Kent, Ontario, and a daughter of Hugh and Sarah (Newcomb) McCallum. The father was born in Glasgow, Scotland, and the mother was a native of Nova Scotia. The year of their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Carmichel came to Iowa and settled in Monroe Township. There they resided fourteen years. Mr. Carmichel BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 373 was engaged in general farming, but gave especial attention to raising and feeding cat- tle, in whicli lie was very snccessful. Before his death he had acquired a valuable estate. Mrs. Carinichel now owns 260 acres of fine farm land, and property in Harlan. Mr. Carmichel was a member of Parian Lodge, No. 321, A. F. & A. M. He was an active business man, and enjoyed the esteem and confidence of all who knew him. Mrs. Car- michel has four children living — Douglas, Sarah Ann, Barbara and Neil. Lilly died since her father passed away. Mr. Carmichel's death occurred November 2, 1885. Mrs. Carmichel now resides in Harlan, and is giving her children the advantages afforded by the public schools. "' "■ ^ ■ 3"S * f, '— ^ fP. SORENSON, proprietor of the Har- lan brick-yards, was born in Denmark, ® May 16, 1831. He is the son of Soren Peterson. He attended school until he was fourteen years old, and then worked on a farm and in the brick -yards for some time. When about twenty years of age lie married Miss Christena Johnson, and in 1869 they came to America and settled at Cuppy's Grove, Shelby County, Iowa. Mr. Sorenson worked on a farm until 1880, and then came to Har- lan and engaged in brick-making, establish- ing the first yard in the county; his yard is one of the largest in the county, having a ca- pacity of 1,000,000 bricks. Mr. Sorenson makes 500,000 brick annually, and employs from nine to sixteen men during the busy season. He has two patent kilns, and drying sheds for 44,000 bricks. There are three and a half acres in the yard, and the clay is well adapted to the work. Mr. Sorenson has had many years' experience in this trade, and has established a good business in Harlan. He as and his wife are the parents of ten children — James G., Mary, Severine, Christina, Alsa, Carrie, Christ, Otto, Nickoly and Julia. The last two named were born in Shelby County, and the others in Denmark. Christ, Carrie and Otto are dead. In December, 1881, Mr. Sorenson, wife and two children, Nickoly and Carrie, made a trip to Denmark, returning the following May. Mr. Sorenson has been influential in bringing many of his country- men to Shelby County. He was the first emigrant landed at Avoca, on the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad, and was the second man from Denmark to land in Har- lan, Mr. Andrew Peterson being the first. In two years, by his advice, several came over, and they have been followed almost every year by others, until probably more than 100 emi- grants have found homes in Shelby County through Mr. Sorenson's influence. lie has given much assistance to these people, and many are indebted to him both for his kind- ness and aid. lot ii.i y » 2 ) l ^« T| iii «a* W. BYERS, attorney at law, Harlan, was born in Richland County, Wis- consin, December 25, 1856. He is the son of Andrew C. and Mary (Holwell) Byers, natives of the State of Pennsylvania. The parents removed from Wisconsin to Hancock County, Iowa, when H. W. was a lad of fourteen years. There he obtained the education afforded by the public schools. In 1886 he began the reading of law with Macy & Gammon, and in 1888 he was ad- mitted to the bar at Des Moines, Iowa. He is well read in law for a man of his age, and has been very successful in liis practice. His office is the same occupied by Judge Macy and Mr. Gammon, on the north side of the public square, Ilarlan. Mr. Byers 374 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. has already won his share of practice, and we bespeak for liim a prosperous future. He was married in May, 1882, to Miss Mary J., daughter of James and Mary (Wyland) Winegar. Tiiey have had born to them two children — ^James C. and Frank. Mr. Byers's political convictions find expression in the Republican party, which he zealously supports. J. PATTEE is the proprietor of one of .. .J the most popular restaurants in Har- '* hui. lie keeps the best grades of goods, is thoroughly experienced, and under- stands the art of managing an establishment of this character successfully. He was born in Germany, July 4, 1855, and is the son of Rudolph and Enstinia (Goulkie) Pattee. When he was seven years old his parents emigrated to America, and settled in Potta- wattamie County, Iowa. There our subject grew to manhood, being trained to the occu- pation of a farmer, and receiving a common- school education. In 1877 Mr. Pattee was married to Miss Emma Iloldman, who died in 1879. He was married again in 1883 to Miss Ella Lytton, of Harlan. They have had born to them three children — Emarilda, Joseph M. and Jessie Alice. Mr. Pattee votes the Republican ticket. He is a mem- ber of the I. O. O. F., No. 267. He is yet in the prime of life, is of a genial disposi- tion, honorable in business, and is among the representative business men of Harlan. fF. B ROCK, watchmaker and jeweler, Ilarlan, has been a resident of Shelby ".County since 1879. He was born in Louisville, Kentucky, March 18, 1854, and is the son of Leland and Amanda (Goddard) Brock, natives of the State of Kentucky. He was left an orphan at the age of six years, and spent most of his youth in Decatur County, Indiana, receiving a common-school education. As before stated, he came to Shelby County in 1879, and in 1882 lie engaged in business with C. C. Olmstead for a time. ' He is now proprietor of one of the leading jewelry stores of Harlan, and is an honorable and experienced jeweler. Hecarries a full stock and a large assortment of goods in his line, and is receiving his share of patron- age. He has been established in his present business since 1885. Mr. Brock was mar- ried in 1881 to Miss Anna L. Peterson, of Harlan, a daughter of Andrew Peterson, whose biography will be found elsewhere in this history. Mr. and Mrs. Brock are the parents of two children — Franklin P. and Ivy G. Mr. Brock is member of the Knights of Pytiiias, No. 65; he is also a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. ;piriarciRS. Harriett a. truman was j'l \/ U born in Dover, England, and is the ^ii0?^ danghterof William and Susan (Laws) Ashman. Until she was thirteen years of age she resided in her native country, receiv- ing excellent instruction and training. She then became companion to Lady Pemberton Knight who had been a schoolmate and inti- mate friend of Mrs. Truman's mother, and who also proved a most loyal friend to her young companion. In the society of this gifted person Mrs. Truman visited all im- portant points of Europe and tlie AVest Indias, obtaining in this way an education superior to that of most people of her day. Mrs. Truman was married in 1865, in Salt Lake City, Utah Territory, to N. M. Dickinson, a man of unusual intelligence and education. BWOHAPHWAL SKETCHES. 375 and a very successful business man ; he was a native of Vermont, and during the late civil war he served his country in the Sixtieth New York Regular Infantry, for three and a half years; he held the office of Lieutei'ant and Adjutant, and was a faithful and efficient officer. After the close of the war he entered the United States postal service at Omaha, Nebraska. From Omaha he came to Harlan, in which place his death occurred March 4, 1875. Mr. Dickinson and wife were the parents of three children — Elena, died at the age of eleven and a lialfyears; George W., died at the age of si.\ and a lialfyears, and Norris M. still survives. Mrs. Dickinson was married in November, 1877, to P. C. Truman, an attor- ney of Harlan. Mrs. Truman owns 240 acres of well-improved land and good residence property in Harlan. She is a woman of in- telligence, culture and education, and is a worthy member of the Baptist church. tL. JARVIS is the owner of the Jarvis livery and sale stables of Harlan, Iowa. * This barn, located near the southwest corner of the square, was built by Downey & Company in 1887, and was sold to Mr. Jarvis June 12, 1888. Good driving teams and car- riages can be found at Mr. Jarvis's, who has built ujj a profitable business. The subject of this sketch was born in Rockbridge County, Virginia, March 21, 1835. His father, James Jarvis, was descended from an old Virginia family, and his mother, Mary Hildreth, was a native of Massachusetts. In 1837 his parents removed to Elkhart County, Indiana, where the father died in 1851; the mother died in Cass County, Michigan, in 1849. L. L. was reared to the occupation of a farmer, and re- ceived the advantages of a common-school edu- cation. In 1853 he went to Kankakee County, Illinois, remaining there one year; he then spent a year in Cass County, Michigan, and at the end of that time went to Piatt County, Illinois. In August, 1862, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry, Company II. While he was in the service he spent seven weeks in the hospital. He was honorably discharged May 9, 1803. In 1864 he went south in the government employ, and in 1805 he canio to Shelby County, Iowa, which has since been his home. In 180G Mr. Jarvis was married to Mary Billeter, and seven children have been born to them — Charles B., Leora, Owen, Frank, Fred- erick, Ella and Jennie. Mr. Jarvis owns one of the best farms in the township; it contains 160 acres, and has a residence in Harlan cost- ing $1,800; he also owns eighty acres in sec- tion 29, Harlan Township. B. WARNER, Principal of the public school of Harlan, is a native of the "^ State of Pennsylvania. He was born April 12, 1855, and is the son of Samuel and Mary E. Warner. When he was ten years of age his parents removed from iievj York, in which State they had lived for several years, to Bowling Green, Pike County, Missouri; there he attended school for some time, and in 1879 graduated from the State Normal School at Kirksville, Missouri. At the age of eighteen he began teaching, and with the ex- ception of the time spent in study he lias since followed this high calling. For four years he had charge of the schools in Aller- ton, Wayne County, Iowa, and in 1885, after an experience of eleven years, he took charge of the Harlan schools. In the profession of teaching he has doubtless found the work for which he is endowed. He is an excellent disciplinarian, and as an instructor has few 37G HISTORY OF HUE LEY COUNTY. equals. Harlan maj well congratulate her- self npon having at the head of her public schools such a man as Mr. Warner. He was married May 24, 1878, to Miss Alice Perry- man, of Princeton, Missouri. They have had born to them three children — Kay, Blanche and Carl. Politically Mr. Warner is a Pro- hibitionist, and believes in free trade and civil- service reform. Mr. and Mrs. Warner are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. -^ "I ' ^ ' S ' I" "^ ITEPHEN YODER has been a resident of Harlan Township since 1881. He was born in Centre County, Pennsylva- nia, January 14, 1821, and is a son of Yost Yoder, a native of Pennsylvania; his father was also a native of Pennsylvania, and they were of German ancestry. The mother of Stephen Yoder was Sarah Yoder, and althou^gh bearing the same name as her husband, was not related to him. Our subject lived in Centre County, Pennsylvania, until he was seven- teen years of age. He was reared a farmer, and received his education in the subscription schools, and by diligent reading at home. In 1838 the family moved to Juniata County, Pennsylvania, where they remained until 1845, when he removed to Wayne County, Ohio. Mr. Yoder was married January, 1846, to Miss Catharine Miller, a native of Ohio. By this union two cliildren were born, one of whom, John O., is living; Jeremiah was drowned in Skunk River, Iowa, when he was fourteen years old. Catharine Yoder died July 12, 1850. Mr. Yoder was married again October 15, 1852, to Miss Margaret Shoemaker, a native of Wayne County, Ohio. By this union ten children were born — Rufus A., Stephen S., Samuel E., Mary Ann, Emma Jane, Joseph P., Sarah F., Maggie A., Ilattie S. and W. Alonzo. Mrs. Margaret Yoder died October 27, J.880. Mr. Yoder was again married February 11, 1883, to Mrs. Sarah Terwilliger, whose maiden name was Erb. She was born in Wayne County, Ohio. Mr. Yoder resided in Wayne County, Ohio, until 1859, when he came to Washington County, Iowa, where he improved a farm and lived until 1881. As before stated, he then came to Shelby County and bought his present farm of Washington Wyland, which is known as Windy Knoll farm; the place contains 160 acres of land, and is one of the best in tlie township. Mr. Yoder has spent 81,400 in making improvements; he has built a good residence, a large barn, and has a windmill and a steam-cooker for food for stock. Po- litically he is independent, and is a strong temperance man. He is a member of the German Baptist church, and he and his son Rufus have charge of the church in this town- ship. Mr. Yoder's membership in the church began forty-one years ago. He has given his children a good education, and three daugh- ters and one son are successful teachers. All enterprises of a religious or educational char- acter have ever found a hearty support in Mr. Yoder. • " "^ ' ?"t ' | lEORGE W. CULLISON, attorney at — law, Harlan, has been identified with the interests of Shelby County, Iowa, since 1880. He is a native of Iowa, born in Henry County, October 6, 1848. He is a son of Elisha and Matilda (McCabe) Cullison. Elisha Cullison was a native of Kentucky, born in 1808, and was a son of Bennett Cul- lison, who was a native of Virginia. He was a son of Rush Cullison, who served in the colonial army during the Revolutionary war, and was present at the surrender of the Brit- ish troops at Yorktown. The father of our vu^ BIOORAPUICAL SKETCHES. 379 subject, Elisha CuUisoii, was reared to the vocation of fanning, and when a young man came to Indiana, where he was married to Matilda McCabe, who was of Irish descent. She was only a child when her father died and she was brought to this country by her Grandfather Baxter, and was reared in Indi- ana. In 1842 Elisha Cullison and his wife came to the Territory of Iowa and settled about one and a half miles east of New Lon- don, Henry County. They squatted on a tract of wild land, and when it came into the market they entered it from the government. He followed agricultural pursuits until 1858, when he moved to Adair County, Missouri. Here he settled on a farm and also engaged in the mercantile business. At the breaking out of the war he boldly declared himself in favor of the preservation of the union at any cost. The county was about evenly divided for and against the union, and great bitter- ness was engendered between the union men and " secesh." Elisha Cullison employed his time during the first year of the war in enlisting men for the union armies and or- ganizing home guards. He, together with two others, Dr. J. W. Lee and Mr. T. J. Ly- can, were so diligent in organizing union troops that the three became very offensive to the rebels who offered a reward of $1,000 each for the capture of them. They were never caught, but the rebel General Martin E. Green captured the little town (Paulville) and robbed the stores of Cullison and Lycan, and tiie office of Dr. Lee, and took all the horses, cattle, chickens, turkeys, hay and grain, and meat, flour and vegetables belonging to Cullison, and left his fainily with nothing to live upon. In 1863 he enlisted as a private in the Missouri State Militia, George H. Boone, Captain, but was soon disciiarged on account of his age. His son, William Rush, served through the entire war in Company A, Fourteenth Illinois Infantry, and now lives in Kansas City, Missouri. The father died February 1, 1865, at the age of fifty-seven. His wife survived him until December, 1872, and died at the age of fifty-four. They were the parents of twelve children, six of whuui lived to maturity and five of whom still sur- vive, four sons and one daughter. George W., the subject of this sketch, was reared on a farm and remained at home until the death of his father. He was little past twelve years old when Sumter was fired on, and during the greater part of the war was the oldest male member of the family left at home. During the war the public schools of the State were destroyed and he had no opportunity to attend school until the war was over. After the death of his father in 1865 he resolved to obtain an education, and on September 13, 1865, he entered college at Monroe, in Mon- roe County, Missouri. He remained there till the spring of 1867, and during that sum- mer he worked on a farm for $20 per month. In September of that year he entered the Normal University of Missouri, and in June, 1870, graduated from the same. -He was considerably in debt at that time to friends who had advanced him money to complete his education. The next week after his gradu- ation he hired out to parties then engaged in building in Kirksville, and was in a short time carrying the hod while a man at the top was doing the work. He continued at this employment till in September of that year he secured a country school. While he was teaching school and during his vacations he studied law under Judge Andrew Ellison. In 1871 he came to Iowa and established an in- dependent school, known as the Troy Normal Scliool. He was engaged in that school for four years, and during that time the school flourished as it never did before, having an attendance of from 100 to 200 students. In 380 niSTORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. 1874 he was selected as principal of the Southern Iowa Normal and Scientific Insti- tute, and placed that institution on such a solid footing that it still is numbered among the prosperous schools of Iowa. He con- tinued his study of the law under Judge H. C. Traverse, of Bloomfield, and in 1876 was admitted by Judge J. C. Knapp to the prac- tice of the law. In 1871, while teaching at Troy, his wife, Mrs. Jennie S. (Gates) Culli- son attended his school. She is a native of Essex County, New York, and was born in 1849, and is a daughter of David Gates and Rusetta (Hough) Gates. Her parents came to Jefferson County, Iowa, when she was a child. After Mr. Cullison was admitted to the bar he practiced his profession and taught school till 1880, when he formed a partner- ship with Mr. T. H. Smith, since which time he has devoted himself exclusively to the practice of law. He is recognized as one of the most thorough scholars in the west and stands among the foremost in his profession. His opinion is recognized as very valuable among his associates at the bar. His firm has the largest practice in the county and it extends to several counties in the district. Mr. Cullison is regarded as a very excellent public speaker. When ho addresses the court it is done in that accurate and scholarly way that makes what he has to say both instruct- ive and entertaining. His addresses to the public are earnest, thoughtful productions, rich in illustration and pleasing in manner. He is a very active, energetic man, and has always been industrious. He manages his business with skill and caution and never permits it to fail. He has never held office except school director, and has never been a candidate but twice. In 1876 he was a can- didate for superintendent of public instruc- tion, and in 1886 was the nominee of his party for judge of the fifteenth judicial district of | Iowa. He was Vjeaten by a small majority after running more than 1,000 votes ahead of his ticket. One of the most pleasing features of Mr. Cullison's life is his domestic relations. He has a pleasant home and family and en- joys it as but few do. He and Mrs. Cullison are parents of six children, five of whom are now living, four girls and one boy — Maggie Lenore, Ollie M., Elizabeth B., Mabel Ella, and Shelby. On May 5, 1889, they lost one little son, Ben Eli, who died after an illness of four weeks of typhoid fever. He was a most interesting cliild, five years, three months and eighteen days old. Mr. Cullison is a member of the I. O. O. F., Harlan Lodge, No. 267. He is a past grand of the order. Politically he is an independent Democrat. P. CHANCE, a Hoosier by birth, and a soldier of the late war, is one ' of the enterprising and successful farmers of Harlan Township, Shelby County, Iowa. He was born in Grant County, Indi- ana, August 13, 1841, and is a son of Will- iam Chance, a native of North Carolina, who, when a boy, came to Highland County, Oliio, where he was reared. He then went to Wayne County, Indiana, where he was married to Miss Jane Potter, a native of New Jersey. He lived there one year. He was among the first settlers in Grant County, Indiana, and it was there that his wife died. After her death the father and children came to Iowa, set- tling near Chariton, Lucas County. William Chance now lives in Ness County, Kansas. W. P. Chance was reared a farmer and re- ceived his education in the common schools. During the late war he was one of the first to go to the defense of his country. Ho enlisted in March, 1862, in the Thirty-fourth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, Company F, and served BIOORAPUICAL SE ETCHES. 381 three years and ten months. He was in the battles of Cliainpion Hill, siege of Vicksburg, and Jackson, Mississippi. He re-enlisted and retnrned home on a furlough, after which he went south again, and was at New Orleans on duty under General Banks for a time. He then went to Texas, and afterward took an active part in the last battle fought in the war. He was honorably discharged in February, 1866, at Brownsville, Texas, and was finally discharged at Indianapolis, Indiana. Mr. Chance then returned to Iowa, and engaged in the more peaceful pursuit of agriculture. He was married December 24, 1869, to Miss Sarah Mellville, a daughter of Andrew and Rachel (Armstrong) Mellville; the father was born in Scotland, and came to Lucas County in 1854; the naother was. a native of Ohio. By this marriage one child was born — Mell- ville C. Mrs. Chance died November 4, 1870. Mr. Chance was married January 11, 1872, to Miss Isabella Mellville, a sister of his first wife; by this union three children have been born — Arthur B., Harry Garfield, and Carrie B. In 1871 Mr. Chance came to Shelby County, and settled on section 19, Harlan Township; later he removed to Harlan where he improved a good piece of property. In 1886 he came to his present farm of 280 acres, which is well improved. He is a mem- ber of the G. A. R., Harlan Post, No. 107, and is a member of the Christian church. ^ENRY C. NICOLLS is* one of the pio- neers of Shelby Township, having set- tled here in 1876. He was born in Morgan County, Ohio, September 20, 1829. He is a son of Israel and Mary (Craig) Nicolls. The father was a native of Vir- ginia, and the mother' of Ohio. They had eleven children. IJenry was the second born, but the oldest to grow to maturity. The parents lived in Ohio until the time of their death, which occurred in Hocking County. Henry C. Nicolls was reared a farmer, and received his education at subscription schools, in primitive log school-honsea with slab seats, and floors made of puncheons. He was six- teen years old when his parents moved to Hocking County, Ohio. He was married September 12, 1850, to Miss Sarah Pratt, who was born in Athens County, Ohio, May 15, 1827. She was the daughter of Elias and Mary (Swain) Pratt. The father died in Athens County, and the mother in southern Illinois. Mr. Nicolls lived in Ohio until 1854, when he removed to Iowa, coming by teams and wagons, and camping on the way. He started October 9, and arrived in Johnson County, Iowa, November 6. He remained here nine years. He enlisted in the late war September 2, 1862, in the Sixth Iowa Cavalry, Company I, and took an active part in the battle of White Stone Hill, with the Dakota and Sioux Indians, and at Cannon-Bail River, near the Bad Lands. He was in other skir- mishes from the Little Missouri Riverthrough to the Yellowstone River, in 1864. He served under General Alfred Sully. They laid out Fort Rice, and built Fort James and Fort Sully. Mr. Nicolls served three years and one month, and was mustered out of the serv- ice at Sioux City as Second Lieutenant, and was discharged at Davenport, Iowa. He then went to Benton County, Iowa, where the family had moved, near Belle Plain. Later they moved near Luzerne, in the same county, where he made bis home until he came to Shelby County. He bought 160 acres of land; there was a rude cabin and 100 acres broken. Here he has since lived, and has made improvements until the Nicolls farm is among the best in the county. Tlierc is a good two-story house, a barn and sheds, an 383 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. orchard, aud a grove of five acres. Mr. N icolls and wife liavefive children — Mary Jane, Amos P. (of Dakota), Sophia Elizabeth, Albert Ben- ton Vinton and Rachel Viola. Mr. NicoUs is a Republican, and has served eight years as township trustee with credit. He is a member of the Masonic order, Lodge No. 371, of Shelby. He was a member of the Grange during its palmy days. He is a man well informed, and is a close observer. Al- though fifty-nine years old, he carries his age lightly. He is kind and genial to all, and has the respect and confidence of all who know him. -*-"' S * 5"S ' |" ">°' PSARRISON SMITH, of Shelby Town- ship, section 22, is one of the promi- nent citizens. He bought land in the township in 1872, and settled there in 1873. He was born in Morgan County, Ohio, Octo- ber 29, 1849, a son of Solomon and Lethinda (Newman) Smith, natives of Ohio. When he was fourteen years old he went to Illinois with an older In-other. Here he spent his time in farming and attending the public schools. In 1868 he removed to Poweshiek County, Iowa. He was married September 10, 1872, to Miss Mary Harrod, a daughter of John and Rachel Harrod, who was born in Knox County, Ohio. Mr. Smith was en- gaged in farming in Poweshiek County until 1873, when he came to Shelby Township and located on his present farm. He first bought eighty acres, but has since bought more till he now owns 320 acres. His farm is one of the best improved in the township. His house, built in 1882, is a large frame build- ing of modern style, well situated on a natural building site, surrounded by a fine grove. His barn is commodious, and he has ohter good buildings for grain and stock. Everything is i;eat and snug, and well ar- ranged for convenience and comfort. He has Hambletonian horses, as fine as can be found in the county. He is a Republican, a mem- ber of the Masonic order, Shelby Lodge, No. 371, and one of the successful early settlers. He has done his share in the improvement of the county. He is cordial to all, honorable in business, and has the esteem and regard of all who know him. ►>4^ ,^^, B. LINN is one of the well-known k^Si^ and honored citizens of Shelby Town- ® ship. He was born in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, February 26, 1836, and is a son of James and Nancy (Booher) Linn, natives of Pennsylvania, the father of Irish and the mother of German descent. The parents reared six sons and one daugh- ter — S. B. was the sixtli child. He was reared on a farm, and received his education in the public-schools. During the great rebellion he enlisted at Lincoln's call for 300,000 men, in the Ninth Pennsylvania Cavalry, Com- pany A. He served until the close of the war and was discharged at Lexington, North Carolina. He took an active part in all the engagements under General Kilpatrick, from Atlanta to the sea. He was discharged, and returned to Huntingdon County, Pennsylva- nia, where he was married to Miss Jane Keagy, who was born in Clearfield County, Pennsylvania. She is a daughter of Abram and Elizabeth (Shoft") Xeagy. Mr. Linn lived in Pennsylvania until 1878, when he came to Shelby County and settled on an eighty-acre tract of land. He now has a fine farm, a good story and a half house, a barn and windmill. Everything shows the energy and prosperity of the proprietor. He now owns 177 acres of tine land. Mr. Linn and BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. wife have four children — Luella V., Mary K., Lizzie N. and Samuel H. They have given their children the advantage of a good education. Their daiighters are all success- ful teachers; two of them are now attending college at Indianola, Iowa. Mr. Linn is a Republican. He has served as township trustee and on the school board. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and has served as trustee of the same. Mrs. Linn and daughters are also members of the church. Mr. Linn is a member of the G. A. R, Dick Yates Post, No. 364. He has always been a liberal supporter of all religious and educational advancement. He is one of Shelby County's most valuable and highly esteemed citizens. James Linn, father of S. B., went as a volunteer in the war of 1812. When he left home his father traveled for two days with liiin; when he left him he said: " My son, be true to your country, and never return with the name of being a coward!" He was honorably discharged in December, 1814, and was married to Nancy Booker, January 31, 1815. Four of their sons an- swered their country's call for men to defend her flag. '°> - ' g - 3 " l -§^"^ fOHN S. POTTER came to Shelby County, Iowa, in 1874. He is a native of Canada, born July 25, 1854, a son of John Potter and Rebecca (Dixon) Potter, natives of England. John S. was thirteen years old when his parents moved to Iowa in 1867, locating at West Liberty, Iowa, where they now reside. He was raised a farmer, and received his education in the common schools. In 1874, before he was twenty-one years old, he came to the county with only 80 cents, and §40 in debt. He lived in tiie vicinity of Cuppy's Grove for a time. In 1876 he bought eighty acres of wild land in Harrison County, and later bought forty acrse more, which he broke and fenced. He lived on a rented farm for two years, and came to his present farm in 1879. He had rented this three years before he bought it. His home farm contains 141 acres, and he owns 120 acres in Harrison County, making 261 acres in all. The home place is well im- proved; there is a good house on a natural building site, a barn, sheds lor stock, a wind- mill, and a grove. Everything indicates thrift and prosperity. Mr. Potter is largely engaged in stock-raising and feeding, in which he is successful. He was married February 28, 1877, to Miss Cora E. Evans, of Musca- tine County, Iowa, a daughter of Jerry and Catharine (Hayward) Evans. She was born in Geauga County, Ohio. They have three cliildren — Catharine Belle, Edwin Hayward and Bessie Rebecca. They have one child dead — John Albert, born December 23, 1877, died December 21, 1878. Mr. Potter is a Democrat. Though but a young man, and coming to the county with no means, he has by industry and good management acquired a good property, and gained a high position in the county. He is one of the solid, relia ble men. ''- "^ • S i' S ' l" "" ILLIAM G. BARRETT is one of the intelligent and leading citizens of Shelby Township. He came to the county in 1877. He was born in Harrison County, Ohio, August 16, 1846, and is a son of J. W. and Sarah (Lavely) Barrett, natives of Ohio. William G. was reared a fartner, and received his education in the common schools and the Bucyrus, Ohio, High School. In 1863 he removed to Mahaska County, Iowa, where he grew to manhood. He was 384 HISTORY OP SUELBT COUNTY. married February 25, 1877, to Miss Alice Hollister, a daughter of Orange and Martha (Lainborn) Hollister, of Mahaska County, Iowa. In 1877 lie came to Shelby Town- ship and bought eighty acres of partially improved land. He has since built a com- fortable house, surrounded by shade and or- namental trees. He has planted an orchard and grove, and has good barns for stock and grain. He owns 200 acres of land, 120 acres lying in the east part of section 2, as fine land as there is. He is a thrifty and enter- prising farmer, as everything on his place indicates. Mr. Barrett and wife have three children — Galen A., Mabel Bertha and Sarah Martha. He is a Republican and a member of the Evangelical church. He is a liberal and active supporter and a trustee. He is a member of the Masonic order, Shelby Lodge. Though comparatively a young man, he has gained a good position in the county, socially and financially. He is an earnest supporter of any enterprise tending to the advancement of religion and education. He is kind, genial and hospitable, and is one of Shelby Town- ship's most worthy and respected citizens. — "^S- S ";-- ;— — C. JENSON, of Shelby Township, is one of tiic successful farmers. He came ® here in 1874. He was born in Den- mark, December 12, 1837, a son of Jens and Anna (Dorothea) Hanson. He attended school seven years, and then worked on a farm for a time; he afterward learned the trade of a locksmith and worked at it for several years. In the spring of 1866 he sailed from Hamburg for New York; he went to Piiiiadeiphia and remained eight mouths; then to Rock Island, Illinois, where he worked at the blacksmith's trade for one year; then he went farther west and worked on the rail- road for some, tjrae. He then went south to Louisiana and Te.xas; he was also in St. Louis. The next move was to California and Oregon; but he returned to Iowa and bought his pres- ent farm. It was wild, unimproved land, and he now has a good farm of 160 acres, a nice house, orchard, grove, stables for stock and cribs for grain. He is a good farmer, and everything indicates good management and prosperity. He was married March 17, 1876, to Tina Anderson, who was born in Denmark and came to America in 1874; she was the daughter of Annis and Bertha Olson. Mr. and Mrs. Jenson have two children liv- ing — Jens Anderson and Anna Dorothea. Three are dead; one called Jens Anderson, Bertha and a baby. Our subject is a Repub- lican. Both he and his wife are members of the Lutheran church; he is an honest and enterprising citizen. "■ g - I ' T - ^- '" BEST is one of the intelligent %\f^kvL and progressive citizens of the town- *^^§?^» ship. He came to the county iu 1873. He was born in Mercer County, Pennsylvania, June 4, 1830, — a son of Rob- ert Best, a native of Butler County, Pennsyl- vania, of German ancestry. His mother was Margaret (Van Horn) Best, a native of New Jersey, of a long line of Dutch ancestry. His father was twice married; by the first marriage three children were born. Our subject is the oldest of nine children born by the second marriage. He was fourteen years old when his parents mossed to Cadiz, Harri- son County, Ohio, in 1844. The father was a cooper by trade, but he learned the trade of coach-making. His education was received in the common schools of Pennsyl- vania and the Cadiz Academy. He was mar- ried January 1, 1852, to Miss Mary Ann BIOGRAPHTGAL SKETCHES. 385 Mercer, born in Belmont County, Ohio, a daughter of Elias and Marj (Randall) Mercer, both natives of Ohio. In 1854 our subject moved to Muscatine County, Iowa, on a farm, where he lived until he came to Shelby County in 1873. lie bought 160 acres of wild land, and built the first house on the prairie where he now lives. He has since improved the farm and put it under good cultivation. He has a good dwelling-house, a line orchard and grove of live or six acres, and barn for stock and grain — all betraying the thrift and enterprise of the owner. Mr. and Mrs. Best have eleven chiHren, seven sous and four daughters — Ella Belle, Sarah Amanda, Jennie Ida, Nissie Ithalbert, Harry Sherman, Archie Mathias, Alvin Stuart, Er- nest Legrande, Frank Clinton, Arthur Mar- shall and Charles Williams. There are two deceased — Martha Belle and Mary Adeliza. Mr. Best is a Republican. He has served as assessor and on the school board. I*Jo man in the township has taken a greater interest in education, or been more active in eleva- ting the standard of the schools. His daugh- ter, Ella Belle, was a successful teacher. He is a member of the Presbyterian church and a deacon of the same. His wife and daugh- ters and one son are all members of the same church. He is well-informed on general topics, cordial and genial to all; is honorable and upright in his business transactions, and has the confidence and respect of all who know him. - "^ ' S"! ' ^" "^ .LEXANDER ADAMS is one of the active and enterprising agriculturists of Shelby Township, who came to the county in 1875. He was born in "Washing- ton County, Pennsylvania, August 12, 1845, a son of William Adams, a native of Ireland, and Abegail (McGowen) Adams, of Wash- ington County, Pennsylvania, who is of Scotch ancestry. There were ten children in the family, of whom our subject was the oldest. His youth was passed in school. Wheii the late war broke out, though but a lad of six- teen, he went to the defense of his country's flag. He enlisted in December and was mustered into service January 1, 1862, in the One Hundredth Pennsylvania Infantry, Com- pany A. He served three years and eight months. He was flrst under fire at the assault on Fort Lookout, James Island, South Caro- lina. He took an active part in the second Bull Run, South Mountain, Antietam, Fred- ericksburg, Vicksburg, Jackson, Mississippi, Campbell's Station, Knoxville, Tennessee, and the Wilderness, where he vas wounded io the right thigh by a gun-shot. He was con- fined to the hospital five months at Wash- ington, Philadelphia and Pittsburg. He rejoined his regiment in front of Petersburg, and was wounded a second time, January 21 1865. He was confined to the hospital three months at City Point, Yirginia. He re- joined his regiment and was honorably dis- charged July 24, 1865. His service was brave and gallant, a credit to any patriotic citizen. He returned to his home and in three weeks removed to Johnson County, Iowa, where he engaged in farming until 1870. He then went to Colorado and en- gaged in prospecting and mining until 1874, when he returned to Johnson County, Iowa. In 1875 he bought 240 acres where he has since lived. He has made many improve- ments, has a good house, a grove, and build- ings for stock and grain. He was married January 1, 1880, to Miss Bessie Gormley, a native of (xlasgow, Scotland, a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Chambers) Gormley. Mr. Adams and wife are the parents of three children — Mary Annette, Nina Elsie and 386 EI STOUT OF SHELBY COUNTY. Harrold Montford. Mr. Adams is a Repub- lican, a member of the G. A. E. Post, No. 364, and a member of the Masonic order. He is a man still in the prime of life, jovial and cordial to all, honorable in business, and one of Shelby's most worthy citizens. i^ANS N. HENRICKSON, one of the successful farmers of Shelby Townsliip, came to this county in 1875. He was born in Denmark, August 29, 1830, a son of Henry Hanson, who died when he was eighty- three years old. He lived in Denmark until he was thirty-seven years old; he went to school until lie was fourteen years old, and then worked on a farm until he was twenty- eight. He then learned the cooper's trade, which he followed for ten years. He was married in 1861 to Miss Bertha Maria Jerik- erson, and in 1868 came to America. They sailed from Hamburg to Liverpool and then to Quebec; from that point to Chicago, and from there they came to Jasper County, Iowa. Mr. Henrickson worked on the railroad for seven years, and in 1875 came to Shelby County and settled on eighty acres of wild prairie land, where he now lives. He has added to this farm until he now owns 300 acres. He has a good house and a large barn for hay, stock and grain. He was twice mar- ried. By the first wife seven children were born — Henry, Ludwig, Hans, Jerkinson, Christena and Thinke, twins, and Martin. Mrs. Henrickson died November 5, 1873. Mr. Henrickson was married to his present wife October 7, 1878. She was Metta Chris- tianson, born in Denmark, and came to this country when she was thirty-four years of age. By this marriage six children were I)orn — Frederick, Mary and Engerbaugh, twins, Doseiia and Andrew. Mr. Henrick- son is a Repubycan. He was road super- visor two years. He is a member of the Seventh-Day Adventists of Fairview. He came to this State with $15 and was §200 in debt, but by industry and good management he has made a good living and accumulated a good property. He is one of the honest, re- liable farmers of Shelby Township. -5«H M. POMEROY was born in Frank- lin County, Pennsylvania, March 24, ® 1849. He is a son of William and Elizabeth (McClay) Pomeroy, both natives of Pennsylvania. The father was of Scotch- Irish ancestry. He was reared in his native county, and received his education in the public schools and an academy. At the age of eighteen he engaged in the mercantile business, which he followed until he came to Iowa in 1872. He settled at Morning Sun, and engaged in the mercantile business until 1875; he then came to Shelby and formed a partnershi]) with J. W. Campbell, a well- known l)usiness man of the town. They established a mercantile business, which con- tinued four years, when Mr. Pomeroy sold his interest to his partner and went into business alone. He built his present store- house and continued alone for four years; at the end of that time taking a partner, George D. Price. This partnership existed until the spring of 1888, when Mr. Pomeroy bought out his partner's interest. His store is one of the leading mercantile houses in the town; he carries a stock of $6,000 and transacts an annual business of $20,000. His long expe- rience in the business, together with his good judgment, has been the foundation of his success. He has also been extensively engaged in stock raising and feeding; he owns a fine farm of 400 acres near Shelby. BfOORAPUICAL SKETCHES. 887 It is well improved, having a fine dwelling and good barns; he also owns a good resi- dence in Shelby. Mr. Pomeroy is a Repub- lican, and has served four years as county treasurer with credit to himself and the best interests of Shelby County. He was elected to this office in the fall of 1881. lie was married November 2, 1876, to Miss Mary McClurkin, of Louisa County, Iowa. By this union four children were born — Elizabeth Is'., William H., Loren M. and Mary C. Mr. Pomeroy is a member of the I. O. O. F., Canopy Lodge, No. 401, of Shelb}'. He is one of the active and working members of the Presbyterian church, and has been since its organization. lie is a man yet in the prime of lif^l^ he is easy in his manner, jovial in his disposition, cordial to all. He is honorable in business, and has made many friends in the county. He has always taken an active interest in religion, and all educa- tional enterprises have found a liberal sup- porter in him.- liENPvY LEE, of Fairview Township, is one of the early pioneers; he came to the county in 1856. He was born in lilount County, Tennessee, September 1, 1821. He is a son of Nathan and Hannah (Dixon) Lee, both natives of North Carolina. Henry was the youngest of seven children; he was eleven years old when his parents came to Wayne County, Indiana, moving with a four- horse team; they remained there three years and then went to Cass County, Michigan; the father died in 1837, and the mother in 1847. Henry was reared on a farm and re- ceived his education in pioneer schools in log school-houses. He was married in Cass County, Michigan, October 31, 1847, to Miss Mary C. McConnell, a daughter of James and Mary (Grose) McConnell; she was born in Botetourt County, Virginia, in 1852. Mr. Lee moved to Elkhart County, Indiana, where he lived for four years. In 1856 he and his wife and five children came to Iowa, moving with an ox-team, one horse and a wagon. The first winter was spent at Bowman's Grove, and one year in Harlan township. He moved on his present farm in 1858, and was one of the first settlers in the township. He has improved his farm well; has a good house and buildings for horses and cattle; the farm is well adapted to stock-raising, being well wa- tered. Mr. Lee has seven children living — James M.; Mary liold, wife of Soren Eold, of this township; Martha J., wife of H. C. Reed, of Monroe Township; Sarah A., at home; Julia Ann, wife of George Larson, of Harrison County, Iowa; Samuel H., of Fair- view Township, and Jolin A., at home. The great loss of Mr. Lee's life was the death of his wife, which occurred August 14, 1886; she was a woman of many virtues, a kind and loving wife, a good and afiectionate mother; she was greatly beloved by all who knew her. Mr. Lee is a Republican; he has served as township clerk for eighteen years and as jus- tice of tlie peace for ten years, with credit to himself and satisfaction to the public. He is a member of the German Baptist church, and a deacon of the same. He has ever taken an active interest in education and religion. He is kind and hospitable to all and has the re- spect and confidence of all who know him. - < - ^ ' ^| ' — tEVI L. BARTLETT, of Harlan Town ship, has been identified with Shelby County since 1870. He was born in Henry County, Virginia, January 11, 1830, and is a son of Thomas Bartlett, a native of West Virginia, who traces his ancestors back 388 HISTORY OP SHELBY COUNTY. to three brothers who came over in the May- flower. One of the descendants of these three brothers was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Tlie ancestors of Thomas Bartlett settled in Virginia at a very early day. Sabrina Hill, the wife of Thomas Bartlett, was a native of Virginia; the rebel General Price and Thomas Jeffer- son are numbered among her relatives. Levi i L., the subject of this biograph}', was two years old when his father removed to Warren County, Indiana. There were twelve chil- dren in the family. Kancy died in infancy and John died at the age of twelve years. Ten grew to maturity — William, Washington, George, Thomas, Levi L., Maria, Sabrina, Elizabeth, Martha J. and Eliza. The father was born in 1791, and lived until his death i in Warren Connty, Indiana, which occurred j in 1862. The mother was born in 1793 and i died in 1866. Thomas Bartlett, in the day of the Whig party, was a Whig; in later times he was a Republican. In religion lie believed in universal salvation. Levi L.grew to man- hood in Warren County, Indiana. He was reared a farmer, and was educated in the com- mon schools. In 1852 he went overland to California with an ox-teara. The first year he was engaged in mining; the second year he embarked in the lumber and lime trade, and after that he freighted goods to the raining camps. In 1855 he returned to the east via the Nicaragua route, remained in Indiana a few months and then came to Iowa and bought some land in Cass County, and went on to Pike's Peak where he engaged in mining for two years ; thence he came to Audubon County, Iowa, where he lived a short time and then returned to Warren County, Indiana, remain- j ing there two years. In 1863 he went to California by water, and after a residence there of two montlis he went to Idaho, where be engaged in mining for three years. He I then retufned across the plains to Audubon County, Iowa, and settled near Brayton, where he was one of the pioneers; here he lived until 1870, when he came to Shelby County. His farm contains 720 acres of well-improved land which is watered by Bartlett Creek; there are all necessary conveniences in the way of buildings, and there are as fine cattle to be seen on this farm as one will find in western Iowa. Mr. Bartlett was married May 9, 1859, to Miss Sarah Jenkins, a native of Kentucky, and a daughter of John Jenkins. By this nnion seven children were born, two of whom died in infancy — Raymond died at the age of two years, and Mary at the age of twelve years; Harrison, Jasper J. and Clar- ence L. are living. Mrs. Bartlett died in 1878. Mr. Bartlett was again married Oc- tober 3, 1880, to Mrs. Victoria Hubbard, whose maiden name was Crouch; she was born in Moultrie County, Illinois, and is a daughter of William F. and Priscilla (Box) Crouch. By her former marriage Mrs. Bart- lett had three children — Irvin R., Burdell and Charles. By his last marriage Mr. Bartlett has one child — Leola. Politically he is a Republican, and served his party officially in Audubon County. He bears his years lightly, is honest and industrious, and is one of the leading citizens of the county. ~* " fe ' S " ! ' ,?) fREDERICK GOODING, of Connecti- cut, was born May 13, 1838. He is a son of Peter and Elizabeth (Uimphill) Gooding, of German and French extraction. When he was sixteen years old he was ap- prenticed to a watch-case manufacturer, with whom he remained until he was twenty years old. He then left the paternal roof and went to Peoria County, Illinois, where he did farm work until his enlistment, August 13, 1862, in BIOORAPUICAL HKETGUES. 301 Company E, Seventy-seventh Illinois Regi- ment of Infantry; he served until July 13, 18(55. Mr. Gooding participated in various engagements — Pleasant Hills, Mississippi, Ciiampion Hills, Black River Bridge, east of Vicksburg, in the rear of Vicksburg, in the charge of Vicksburg and in the siege, which lasted forty-two days. After the sur- render he went to Jackson, Mississippi, where some skirmishing was indulged in; he then returned to Vicksbnrg and camped one month; then he went to Red River, Loui- siana. His first experience in the service was in the pursuit of John Morgan through Kentucky, after which he went into camp at Vicksburg. In the engagement at Sabine Cross Roads he was taken prisoner, and hur- ried away to the stockade at Tyler, Texas, where he was kept in captivity for thirteen months. This inclosure embraced about eight acres, and accommodated 4,700 men; the prisoners daily bill of fare was a cup of water and a half pound of meal and beef. He was paroled at New Orleans, May 13, 1865, and received his discharge at Springfield, Illinois, in July, 1865. Mr. Gooding then returned to his father's home in Illinois. He was married December 20, 1866, to Miss L. M. Chrisman, of Salem, Knox County, Illinois, a daughter of G. P. Chrisman. For three years they lived with the parents of Mrs. Gooding, when they removed to Pella, Iowa; here Mr. Gooding made his first purchase of eighty acres of land, on which he lived two years; he then traded for eighty acres of his present farm; after making this trade, how- ever, he rented land in Jasper County one year, and then settled on his new home in Shelby County, Iowa. He has added to this 320 acres, which he has improved with his own hands. Mr. and Mrs. Gooding are the parents of two sons — W. H. and AlvaG. W. H. has acquired a good education, and is a competent teacher. Mr. Gooding has filled the offices of member of the school board and road supervisor. He is a member of the G. A. R., Harlan Post. Mr. and Mrs. Gooding are members of the Conwree-ational church. Mr. Gooding has made a specialty of raising fine stock, and is one of the prosperous, go- ahead farmers of Shelby County. ~«»i ^ « ; n ; . ^H -^ I^ON. THOMAS LEDWICH.— It is to such characters as the Hon. Thomas Ledwich that Americans are indebted for theii knowledge of the typical descend- ants of the sons and daughters of the Emer- ald Isle, and it is of this type that Ireland may well be proud. Thomas Ledwich was born in Serrington, Lower Canada, Novem- ber 8, 1840. He is the son of Robert and Bridget (Louth) Ledwich, of County Meath, Ireland, who emigrated to America in 1829. In 1843 they moved to Shoreliain, Vermont, and afterward to Moriah, Essex County, New- York. The subject of our sketch was reared on a farm, receiving his education in the public schools, and at the academy in the lat- ter town. At the breaking out of the war in 1861 he answered the call for troops to defend the flag of his country, and enlisted at Al- bany, New York, May 7, 1861, in Company E, Twenty-second New York Volunteer In- fantry. He participated in many hard-fought-' battles, and at the second battle of Bull Run was twice wounded, so that for a time he was disabled from active service. His term of enlistment expired in May, 1863, and he was honorably discharged June 19, 1863. Im- mediately re-enlisting in the Second New York Veteran Cavalry, he was commissioned Second Lieutenant of Company A, and in 1864 he was made First Lieutenant. He took part in most of the battles along the lower Mis- 392 HISTORY OF SHELBT COUNTY. sissippi Kiver, and was in the Ked River cam- paign, commanded by General Banks; during most of this time he was acting Captain in command of the company. After the close of the war, having faithfully served his country for four and a halt' years, he was hon- orably discharged November 8, 1865, at Selma, Alabama. He engaged there for a time in cotton planting, but finding it un- profitable he removed to Louisville, Kentucky, and in 1868 to Victoria, Iowa County, Iowa, engaging there with his brother in the mer- cantile business. In 1869 he engaged in the lumber business at Avoca, Iowa, and became an active member of the business circles of that place. He established the Avoca Delta, the first newspaper published there. He was the first president of the Botna Valley Agri- cultural Society, and was first with his voice and his money to advocate and assist all pub- lic enterprises. In 1878 Mr. Ledwich re- moved to Harlan, Iowa, and established a lumber business, which he continued with suc- cess until his death. He became a leading spirit in every public enterprise that had for its object the upbuilding of the community; he was president of the Shelby County Agri- cultural Society, and did much for its success. He was a member of the town council of Harlan, and served three terms as its mayor. The following story related of Mr. Ledwich gives the index of his character: One morn- ing during his term as mayor, a citizen pass- ing down the street noticed a broken plank in a walk, and called the mayor's attention to it. Two hours later, going that way, he saw a new board in the walk which had been re- paired by Mr. Ledwich's prompt order. Always ready to answer the call of duty, kind, sympathetic, generous, open-hearted, good to the poor, a true friend to all, he was beloved by all who value true manhood. At one time when Mr. Ledwich was a candidate for office it was urged against him that he was too en- terprising, but fortunately for Harlan, the majority approved of this " fault," and it is due to this characteristic that Harlan has made the progress tliat has placed her among the prosperous towns of western Iowa. Mr. Ledwich was a member of Parian Lodge, No. 321, A. F. & A. M.; Olivet Chapter, No. 107, and Ivanhoe Commandery at Council Bluffs, Iowa. He was also a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. March 9, 1869, he was married to Miss Eva G. Henderson, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Faucet) Henderson, of Livingston County, New York. The father was a native of Pennsylvania and the mother of Scotland. Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Ledwich, four of whom survive — Demain, Evelyn, Day and Robert. Elm was killed by the cars at Avoca; May, a twin of Day, died at the age of twenty-one months; Lake died at tho age of two years and eight months, and Bessie, a twin of Rob- ert, died in infancy. The family reside in their commodious residence in the east part of Harlan. Mrs. Ledwich is a member of the Episcopal church. Although not a mem- ber of any church Mr. Ledwich gave freely of his means to the support of religious work. July 8,1885, Mr. Ledwich passed to his eter- nal home. A plain granite monument marks his resting place in the Harlan cemetery. In his death the country lost a patriot, his wife a faithful husband, his children a loving father, and society one of its most usef al members. "" •' ^ • 3"I ' 2 fOHN PANIAN, proprietor of the Buf- falo Shoe Store, Harlan, is the only dealer in boots and shoes exclusively. He carries a large stock of reliable goods, and does a large business. He has been in the trade in Harlan nine years, and by fair BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 393 dealing and unswerving integrity he lias gained the confidence of all his patrons. Mr. Paniau was born in Austria, May 10, 1852, and is the son of John and Mary (Skoft) Panian. He attended school until fourteen years of age, and then went to learn the shoemaker's trade. He served an apprentice- ship of three years, and then at the age of seventeen years he emigrated to America. He worked at his trade in New York City for eight months, then went to Chicago, re- maining there three years. From Chicago he came to Iowa, settling in Clinton. His next place of abode was Erowu Station, in which town he worked two years. Then he went to Dubuque for two years, and then re- turned to Clinton County. He then removed to Shelby County, stopping in Westphalia Township for seven months; thence he came to Harlan. Mr. Panian was married at West- phalia, January 10, 1882, to Miss Tracy Rau, daughter of Anton Ran. They are the parents of four children — Frank, Rosa, Joseph and Charles. Mr. Panian affiliates with the Demo- cratic party. He is a member of the Roman Catholic church. fOSEPH CRIQUE was born in Lockport, Will County, Illinois, March 30, 1859, and is the son of Frank and Barbara (Addelman) Crique. Until he was fifteen years old he attended the public schools. He then began learning the trade of harness- making at Joliet, Illinois, during this time attending evening school. After he had learned his trade he pursued it for a time in Chicago, and in 1877 came to Avoca. He came without money, but possessed of indus- try and pluck. He worked at his trade until 1889, when he went into business for him- self. He now has the largest harness shop 29 '^ in Shelby County, and carries a stock valued at $7,000; and this furnishes another exam- ple of what can be accomplished by determi- nation and industry. Mr. Crique is deservedly popular in the trade. He was married iu 1887 to Miss Minnie Swartz, of Harlan. They have one daughter — Hazel. Mr. Cri(j^ue's political sentiments find expression in the Democratic party, of which he is a staunch member. He owns his store building, which as valuable projjerty. ^3"S ■ S ■^^ - g»i,ENRY CUSTER, Jk., is a genuine pio- neer of Shelby County, having come here in 1853. He was born in Fountain County, Indiana, May 26, 1844, and is a son of Henry Custer, whose sketch will be found on another page of this volume. He was nine years old when his father removed to this county, settling at Custer's Grove; here he grew up on the frontier, spending his youth in driving an ox-team and breaking prairie, both in Iowa and Nebraska. His education was very limited; he attended six weeks of a term of school taught by John Davis. During the late civil war he was one of the first to go to the defense of the nation; he enlisted in the fall of 1862 in the Twenty-ninth Iowa Vol- unteer Infantry; and served ten months. He was in the line of battle at Columbus, Ken- tucky. He was honorably discharged and returned to his home in Shelby County. Mr. Custer was married January 22, 1865, to Miss Catharine Wright, a native of Putnam County, Missouri, and a daughter of Thomas and Mary (Cochran) Wright, natives of Virginia and Kentucky respectively. Thomas Wright set- tled on Honey Creek, in Pottawattamie County, Iowa, in 1851, and died in 1852. His widow came to Shelby County in 1862, and died here in 1865. After his marriage Henry su IIISTORT OF SUELBY COUNTY. Custer lived in Fairview Township one year, and then came to Harlan Township. He set- tled on his present farm in 1881; this place contains IGO acres of land which Mr. Custer lias greatly improved. Mr. Custer and wife are the parents of eight children, two of whom are deceased — Samantha Dewey, Mary, Carl, Leroy, Jesse, Pearl. Jasper N. and Perry are not living. Mr. Custer votes with the Re- publican party, and is a member of the G. A. P., Harlan Post, ^o. 197. He is a member of the Anti-horse-thief Association of Fair- view Township, No. 27. He owns a pair of mules he has worked twenty-one years; one animal is twenty-six years old and the other is thirty- three. Mr. Custer is a wide-awake, energetic farmer, and all his surroundings show his thrift and wise management. He is plain of speech and manner, is a close ob- server, and is honored and respected by all who know him. ►>+f- mam W. WYLAND, Deputy Sheriff of \j l/\| : Shelby County, and Deputy United {•=z^-^ ® States Marshal, was born in Elk- hart County, Indiana, January 18, 1852. He is a son of I. P. Wyland, a well-known pio- neer of Shelby County, now a resident of Dakota. He was four years old when his parents came to Iowa, and here on the frontier he grew to manhood. His youth was passed in assisting on his father's farm and in at- tending the district school. After his school days were over, Mr. Wyland engaged in farm- ing until the year 1880, when he came to Harlan and obtained a position with the Chi- cago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad Com- pany, as assistant freight and ticket agent. Two or three years later he engaged in the real estate business, and at the present time he is serving as deputy sheriff and as deputy United States marshal. He is a faithful and elBcient officer, and is serving the public with much credit to himself. Politically he is a Democrat, and is a strong adherent to the principles of Democracy. He is a member of the Knights of Pytliias, No. 68. Mr. Wyland was married May 6, 1871, to Miss Claritida Stanley, daughter of T. J. Stanley, of Shelby County. Mr. Wyland is yet in the prime of life, is a man of unusually strong physique, a cordial, genial disposition, and has a host of friends in the county. ■■I « iy • 3i i T » ? ii.-iai ARREN GAMMON, attorney at law, Harlan, has been interested in the welfare of Shelby County since 1879. He is a native of Maine, born in New Port- land, Somerset County, January 16, 1846; he is a son of Ancil and Eleanor (Young) Gammon, both natives of Maine, and of Eng- lish ancestry. Warren Gammon was reared on a farm and received his education in the district schools; he resided with his parents until he was eighteen years of age, when he went to Illinois and settled near Pontiac, Liv- ingston County. His father was twice mar- ried; his first wife was Mehitable Young, by whom six children were born, four sons and two daughters. By his second marriage thir- teen children were born, ten sons and tliree daughters. Of the nineteen children, twelve still survive. Six of the sons went out in defense of union and liberty during the late civil war; they served to the close of the war and returned without a wound. The subject of this sketch enlisted September 30, 1864:, in the Thirty-second Illinois Volunteer Infantry, Company D, and served until the closeof the war; he was honorably discharged June 26, 1865. He returned to Illinois and engaged in the horse-detective business, which BIOGRAPHICAL HK ETCHES. y95 lie followed for five years. Iti the fall of 1869 he came to Iowa and located in (xiithrie Cdiintj, where he engaged iu opening up a tract of wild land; here he remained for three years, and then employed his time ill real-estate business, which he followed until 1876, when he entered the law office of J. B. Carpenter and began reading law; he ■was admitted to the bar in Audubon County, His Honor Judge Loofboroiigh presiding. Mr. Gammon practiced his profession for two years in Guthrie County, and in 1879 he came to Harlan. November 24, 1881, he formed a partnership with Judge N. W. Macey, and has built up a lucrative practice. Mr. Gam- mon was married January 15, 1871, to Miss Annie Pickett, a native of Jackson, Michi- gan, and a daughter of Lorenzo and Annie (Graham) Pickett. By this union two chil- dren were born — Arthur L. and Bertie O. Mr. Gammon casts his vote with the Repub- lican party. ►»^ ,OUIS M. KERR has been a resident of Shelby County, Iowa, since 1883. He •^f^ was born iu Hadersleben, in North Schlesvig, Germany, and is the son of Louis and Margaretta Kerr. He attended school in his native country until he was fifteen years of age. He then sailed from Hamburg, via Glasgow, to New York, and thence came directly to Clinton County, Iowa, making this his residence for the next four years. In 1883 he came to Shelby County, and en- gaged as a clerk for Graham Brothers at Kirkman, in a hardware store. The follow- ing year he accepted a position with F. M. Bowlin, who was at that time in the hard- ware trade at Harlan. Later he accepted a position with W. W. Wheeler, of ilarlan, and remained in his employ until February, 1887, when he secured a position in the land office of C. J. & D. M. Wyland. Mr. Kerr is still in the employ of this firm, and dis- charges his duties faithfully and with ability. In political conviction and action Mr. Kerr is a Republican. He is a member of Parian Lodge, No. 321, A. F. & A. M.; Olivet Chap- ter, No. 107, and Mount Zion Commandery, No. 49. He is also a member of the I. O. O. F., No. 267, having filled all the chairs. He is a member of Mt. Sinai Encampment. LBERT A. SCHOUBOE, a resident of Jeff'ersou Township, is a native of Den- mark, and was born May 1, 1850. He is a son of Fritz and Minne (Friis) Schouboe, and was educated at home under the tutor- ship of a private instructor. When he had reached his twenty-first year he sailed to America. He settled on a farm in Ford County, Illinois, and ever since has followed agricultural pursuits. When he landed in this country he had but $20 in money, and was soon taken very ill, so he was compelled to spend all of his money and to dispose of a good suit of clothes. When he recovered he had the magnificent sum of 75 cents upon which to start in life on his own responsibil- ity. He had borrowed $60 to pay his ex- penses to America, and he replaced this the first year he was in this country. His career in America was not begun under the most favorable auspices, but he had pluck and energy and ambition, and these traits of character pay little heed to circumstance. Mr. Schouboe was married February 11, 1879, to Miss Anna E. Launders, a dautrhter of William and Elizabeth (Monroe) Launders, natives of England and Scotland, respectively. Mrs. Schouboe was born in Will County, Illinois, June 17, 1857. They are the parents 39U HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. of live children — Minne E., Arthur F., Leon- ard B., Viola I. and Claudius P. In Jan- uary', 1S81, the family came to Shelby County, Iowa, and settled in Jefferson Town- ship on 120 acres of wild land; here Mr. Schouboe erected a frame residence, and barns for stock and grain, lie has planted a grove of two acres and an orchard of one and a half acres. Mr. Schouboe's family were among the earliest settlers in the eastern part of Jeflerson Township, and the}' endured many hardships during the firbt years of their res- idence in the county. They now own 200 acres of land and enjoy all the comforts of a modern civilization. Mr. Schouboe has always supported the liepublican party until 1888, when he joined the Union Labor party. He was the first member of his famil}' to come to America, but he has since induced his brothers to emigrate to this land of the free and home of the brave. He also brought his mother and sister to America, but his mother died in Harlan in 1885. Mr. and Mrs. Schouboe are worthy and respected members of the United Brethren church. Wpfl of the Shelby County Bank, l*=i^^ of western Iowa's leading h IIJ^ILLIAM W. WHEELER, President and one _ hardware merchants, is one out of a thousand men who, without the aid of others, has by his own na- tive tact and energy become the possessor of a good fortune in almost a phenomenally short period ; he has won through actual merit the good-will and high esteem of both busi- ness and social acquaintance in a wide circle. As will be observed in the following sketch, three traits of character have been prominent in his life — faithfulness, self-reliance and per- severance. His whole career from boyhood has been exemplary and eminently fitted to become a pattern for any youth having an ambition for success in life. He is the second son and fourth child of Norman E. and Har- riet (Lake) Wheeler, natives of Connecticut, and of Puritan ancestry. Mr. Wheeler was born October 4, 185G, at Sharon, Litchfield County, Connecticut. He was reared on his father's farm, where they remained until 1867 and then moved to Millerton, New York, where they engaged in the hotel business, following this until 1870. The mother and one sister died in 1869. From New York the family, with the exception of one sister who was then married, removed to Fulton, Whiteside County, Illinois, where the father still resides. William W. attended the com- mon schools at the different places he had lived, and finally graduated from the high school at Fulton, Illinois, in 1875. After he had entered the high school he left his studies and for about two years worked in a printing office, but being convinced that that art would not be what he cared to follow through life, he left the printer's case and again entered school, with a new ambition to finish his edu- cation and enter some business pursuit. The year prior to his graduation he clerked even- ings and Saturdays in the hardware store of his uncle, Charles N. Wheeler, thus partly paying for his education. He then went to Clinton, Iowa, where he engaged to clerk in the hardware store of George Spencer, with whom he remained until January, 1879. As an evidence of liis self reliance, it may be stated that when his nncle learned that he had hired to work for $5 per week in the Clinton hardware store, he told him that he was miss- ing it, and that he could make more money to go out and work on a farm, as the inexpe- rienced youth was to pay the whole amount of his wages for his board. But having de- termined to become a hardware merchant nothing could turn him from his chosen call- BIOORAPEICAL SKETCHES. 399 ing, 80 he tliankcd his uncle, but used his own judgment, believing his employer would soon raise his wases, which he did the first Satur- day night, lie worked to please and did his work well, hence was amply rewarded from month to month. Ilis brother, E. H. Wheeler, and himself established a grocery business at Maquoketa, Iowa, in 1877; W. W., how- ever, remained at Clinton in the hardware store during the existence of the partnership, which continued eight months there and finally ceased at Prophetstown, Illinois. In December, 1878, he came to Harlan, Iowa, his brother following the succeeding March. The two brothers were again to be engaged in mercantile trade, this time in the hardware business. E. H. bought a business lot and contracted for a frame store building, which they were to occupy in the spring. He then retui'ned to Illinois and remained till Febru- ary, when he shipped in a $5,000 stock and opened it in the building prepared for them, which, together with the lot ujwn which it stood, cost §2,000. The one-half interest in this §7,000 investment had been earned and kept by our frugal subject from the salary he had received during the four years previous to this date, with such amounts as his savings had made him by wise investments in a build- ing association, etc. Mr. Wheeler and his brother came to Harlan the same year in which the railroad was built, and they were theleading hardware firm among three trading in tlie town, which tiien only had a popula- tion of about 600 people. They soon won an extensive and profitable custom, which was the foundation of what has come to be one of the largest institutions in this section of Iowa. On account of his brother's failing health, the partnership was dissolved November 5, 1881, William W. purchasing the other half of the stock and business building. By 1885 his business had assumed such proportions that he was obliged to have larger quarters, and during that year lie erected a fine business house containing three floors. It stands on the nortii side of the public square, and is a model of solidity and convenience; it is 24x120 feet, with two high stories and a deep basement where stoves and iron and heavy hardware are kept. By the use of an eleva- tor the three floors become as easy of access as though on a level. The building and ground upon which it stands cost Mr. Wheeler §10,000. At present he has a large, well- selected stock of goods of all sorts belongitig to the trade, including the finest line of heat- ing and cooking stoves in Iowa, of which he has always seemed to be the leader?" His stove sales amount to §500 per year, while the barbed wire he handles runs upon an average of seven car-loads. As the country develops he keeps adding to his already large stock. In 1882 his sales amounted to the handsome sum of §50,000. In connection with his other affairs he has purchased 1,000 acres of land, situated in Iowa, Nebraska, Dakota and Kan- sas, and twenty town lots in the city of Chi- cago, which is no small estate for a man of thirty-two years of age to possess. He be- came one of the stockholders in the Shelby County Bank at Harlan, and in 1883 was made one of the directors, holding that position until 1887, when he was elected president of the concern, having already purchased the former president's stock, in addition to the above named property. Mr. Wheeler owns considerable town property, including his charming residence, which he built in 1883, on the corner of Victoria and Third streets, at an outlay of §5,000. For a life companion Mr. Wheeler chose Miss Kate Griflith, a na- tive of Bridgeport, Ohio, and the daughter of B. B. (iriffith, Sr., now of Harlan, Iowa. Tiiey were united in marriage September 1, 1880, under the following laughable surprise: 400 BISTORT OF SHELBT COUNTY. A sliort time before the event took place, his brother went to Cliicago to buy goods, and told William W. that he expected to be mar- ried before his return; so in due time wed- ding cards were sent on to Harlan, and as soon as they came, and thus fixed the exact date of the marriage, our subject took the cards to the home of Miss Griffith (to whom he was engaged), handing her the cards sent by his brother, and remarking, why can't we be married the same time here in Harlan? It was agreeable all round, and the ceremony was performed at the same hour in which his brother was being married at Morrison, Illi- nois. Ilis brother telegraphed him to meet them at the train in Harlan, and upon their arrival he introduced him to his bride, and in turn William W. surprised them both by introducing them to his wife! Mr. and Mrs. Wheeler are the parents of one child — Charles Lake. In politics Mr. ^VTieeler is a Repub- lican, but has never been an aspirant to public office, always deeming his own business of more consequence. At present he is a mem- ber of the school board of Harlan independent district, vice-president of the Harlan Business Association, and vice-president of the Harlan Coal and Mining Company. He and his es- timable wife are both members of the Con- gregational church and consistent Christian workers, he having been church trustee for several years. He is also an acceptable mem- ber of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to the A. F. & A. M., Parian Lodge, No. 321; Olivet Chapter, No. 107, and Mount Zion Comniandery, No. 49. The reader must have been impressed with the thought, while tra- cing this most successful business man's career, from his start in the hardware store of George Spencer in Clinton to the statement of his fortune, that he is indeed an exceptional character, possessing in his make-up the finest elements which enter into the composition of a grand and successful life. He has ever been a hard-worker, yet seldom tiring in his labors. Whether in his store midst iron, nails and stoves, whether assisting in the banking- house with which he is connected, whether attending to his lands, whether in public or private life, this genial, whole-souled, Chris- tian gentleman is the same earnest, faithful friend of whom the world has none too many. ►>^ fOHN POTTER was born in Yorkshire, England, March 2, 1835. He is the son of Thomas and Nancy (Thirsk) Potter, and was reared in his native country. His education is purely practical, and was gained through his own efforts by diligent reading and close observation. In 1857 Mr. Potter came to America and resided in Illinois until 1861, when he made a trip to Canada, where he remained two years and then returned to England. Here he was united in marriage to Miss Hannah Pearcy, February 28, 1863; she is the daughter of Marraaduke and Anna (Greene) Pearcy, and was born June 20, 1841, in Yorkshire, England. Immediately after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Potter came to America and settled in Carroll County, Illi- nois, where they resided six years. They then removed to Montgomery County, Iowa, and lived there for six years; thence they removed to Shelby County, Iowa, in March, 1875, where they have since made their home. Mr. Potter bought eighty acres of land in Jeffer- son Township, which he has greatly im- proved. He has planted a grove, in the midst of whichhe has good a frame residence, and barns for stock and grain. He has added to his first purchase until he now owns 240 acres in one body of fine cultivated land. Politically he is a staunch Republican, and has done much toward the advancement of BIOQ-BAPHIOAL SKBTGHES. 401 the country socially and morally, and advo- cates all measures tending to the progress of the conimunity. JNlr. and Mrs. Potter are the parents of four children — Thomas 11., born November 2G, 1867, now attending the West- ern Normal at Shenandoah, Iowa; Libbie A., born October 12, 1870; James II., born Octo- ber •!, 1872; and John A., born January 29, 1880. The family are worthy and respected citizens of the county. iNDREW WILFONG, a native of Wa- bash County, Indiana, was born March 22, 1851, and is the son of Martin and Maria (Harvey) Wilfong. When he was two and a half years old the family removed to Carroll County, Illinois, where they re- sided until he was fourteen years of age. They then came to Tama County, Iowa, where they made their home until 1872. An- drew Wilfong was reared on a farm, that most excellent nursery of our national independ- ence, and was educated in the pnblic schools of Iowa and Illinois. When he had reached his majority he carae to Shelby County and settled on a tract of 147 acres in Jefierson Township as a homestead. However, he was defeated" in this by a scheme concocted by the railroad company to defraud settlers of their improvements. In order to retain the prop- erty upon which he had already expended much time and labor he purchased of the railroad company what he considered his own property by right of pre-emption, paying $18 per acre. Mr. Wilfong was married June 30, 1875, to Miss Parmelia Tibbott, a daughter of William and Elizabeth (Horner) Tibbott, who was born in Ebensburgh, C'am- bria County, Pennsylvania, May 20, 1851. Tiicy are the parents of three children — Ethel, William, and an infant daughter (de- ceased). When Mr. Wilfong came to this county he was seven miles from the nearest improved farm and three miles from tlie near- est neighbor, excepting one, James Lothrop, a brother-in-law, now deceased. Their whole possessions were a team of horses and $50 when they came to this new country, and they had many hardships to contend with, but they faced them bravely and are now reaping their reward. Mr. Wilfong has erected a good frame residence, and barns for stock and grain; he has planted two and a half acres of grove and made numerous improvements. Politically he is a staunch Republican, and has held many positions of trust and honor. Ho has served his town- ship as assessor, road supervisor and as a member of the board of education. Mrs. Wilfong is a worthy and consistent member of the Christian church. These people are a fair example of what can be accomplished by energy and industry, coupled with determi- nation to win. Mr. Wilfong occupies his time exclusively in farming and stock-raising and is a member of the Farmers' Alliance of Botna. ' ^ ■ g . 3ft- >-^ i,ETER HAMMER, of the firm of Son- neland. Hammer & Co., is one of the well-known business men of Harlan. He was born in Germany, October 4, 1864, and is the son of Otto P. and Christina (Stendrup) Hammer. He was given the ad- vantage of a good education, attending school until he was fifteen years old. Like so many other Germans, although fond of the father- land, he desired to tryhisfortunes in America; accordingly, he left family, home and friends, and came to America. After his arrival in this country he came to Iowa, and settled in Shelby County, working on a farm some time. 403 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. In 1883 Mr. Ilaiiimer obtained a situation with Eidamiller Brothers, as clerk in their dry -goods store; there he remained until Eidamiller Brothers sold out, acquiring while in their service a thorough business training. He is now associated with Mr. Sonneland and Mr. Jorgenson in the general dry-goods trade, and they are doing a profitable business. Mr. Hammer was married October 25, 1886, to Miss Ida Nelson, of Harlan, a daughter of Peter Nelson. They have had born to them one child — Fred O. Politically Mr. Ham- mer affiliates witli the Republican party. He was reared in the faith and teachings of the Lutheran church. ..v^. SMt . ? ,♦.,. S^pf ILLIAM CONSTABLE, a native of ,, ,/j) Sussex County, England, was born l^-^^ October 8, 1827, and is a son of Henry and Urania (Wilson) Constable. When he was seven years of age his parents emi- grated to America, and settled in Cambria County, Pennsylvania; here he spent his early life, and his parents passed the remainder of their days. The mother died in February, 1856, but the father survived her manyyears, and passed away at the age of eighty-six years; they were members of the Church of England. William was the fourth child of fourteen children, and his father being a brick-maker by trade, the sons were naturally trained to the same avocation. He was thor- oughly instructed and trained in the art of brick-making, near Johnstown, Pennsylva- nia. His education was acquired wholly out- side the school-room, in the evenings, and during leisure hours, under his father's direc- tion, who likewise was a self-educated man, excepting two terms of night-school. By persistent etlbrt he has gained an education which would be a credit to one having had much superior advantages. Mr. Constable remained with hisparents untilhe was twenty- seven years of age, when he engaged with the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, and re- mained in their employ for live years. After this he worked in the Johnstown, Pennsyl- vania, Iron Works as puddler for five years. He was married August 21, 1856, to Miss Elizabeth Horner, daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth Horner, natives of Cambria County, Pennsylvania. She was born February 13, 1837. Mr. and ilrs. Constable are the par- ents of thirteen children — Le Koy A. J. (deceased); Sophia E., wife of Edwin Rich- ards; William D.; Mary E. (deceased); Le- ander C. (deceased); Anna M., Edward H., Oliver P., Melvin T. B., Franklin H., Clara L., and an infant daughter (deceased), and Nel- son J. After Mr. Constable completed his engagement with the iron works he removed his family to Shelby County, Iowa, and set- tled in Jefferson Township, where lie has since made his home. His first purchase was 200 acres which was partially improved. The only neighbor was his brother-in-law, E. W. Irwin, who came with Mr. Constalile and settled one mile southwest. The family had many hardships to endure during the early days of their residence in the county, but they had courage to face them bravely, and sur- mount all obstacles, and to-day are reaping the benefits. When they came to Shelby County the nearest marketing place was Avoca, to which point they were obliged to haul their produce and grain, and make their purchases. They have seen the country de- velop from a wild, uninhabited prairie to a prosperous, enlightened, agricultural district, and they have done much in bringing about this change, and well deserve the honor and esteem in which they are held. Politically Mr. Constable is a Republican, but is decid- edly liberal in his views. He has Jield many BIOGBAPUICAL SKETCHES. 405 offices of trust and honor; he has been treas- urer of the townsliip for fifteen years, and is at present a member of the boad of education. Mr. Constable now owns 460 acres of hmd in one body in Jefferson Township. ►>4^ PILMOT L. BAUGHN.— Some char- acters are slow of development, and ■sii^rt turn out much better than was ex- pected from the protnise of their cliildhood; and some show their metal from the very first, and are full-grown men and women while yet children in years and physical growth. Wilmot L. Baughn, whose history has suggested the preceding paragraph, was born in Fayette County, Ohio, November 1, 1850, and is a son of Charles and Peucela (i)lue) Baughn. When he was six years old his parents removed to Harrison County, Iowa, where he was reared on a frontier farm and educated in the common schools, which were also, doubtless, frontier in chai'acter. During his boyhood days, when he was eleven or twelve years of age, he and his oldest brother, Harman, broke a tract of land in Harlan Township, Shelby County, which was afterward their liome. In 1806 the family removed to Shelby County and settled on a farm just north of Simoda. When William was fifteen years old, he and one of his brothers freighted to Denver with ox teams, carrying corn for 11 cents per pound. They left August 27, and returned on Thanksgiving Day. William L. drove two yoke of oxen and cooked for seven men on the trip. When eighteen years old lie began the task of im- proving a farm of eighty acres, which he afterward purchased, with the assistance of his father. Soon after he bought forty acres more, adjoining the corporation line of Har- lan. This he has improved and made addi- tions to it, until he has in one body 540 acres. Mr. Baughn also owns a farm of 240 acres in Jefferson Township, and one of 120 acres in Washington Township. In 1870 he shipped his first stock, driving it to Avoca for load- ing. In 1879 he began to ship extensively, and in tlie spring of 1885 made his largest shipment, consisting of eighteen cars, the proceeds amounting to $18,000. He fre- quently uses special trains for his shipments, and has always taken the lead in this branch of business in the couuty. Mr. Baughn was married September 29, 1874, to Miss Urania Adams, a daughter of J. H. Adams, of whom mention is made elsewliere in this volume. Mrs. Baughn is a native of Pottawattamie County. After their marriage tliey resided on their farm for one year, and then moved to Harlan, where Mr. Baughn opened a livery stable, which he managed one year. At the end of this time he traded the livery stable for a farm of 280 acres in Douglas Township, which he has since disposed of, and returned to his farm. In the fall of 1878 he himself husked the first 1,000 bushels of corn that were contracted for in Harlan. He remained on the farm for nearly two years, and then returned to Harlan. In the summer of 1882 he erected his residence, one of the finest in the town, finished with all the modern im- provements. Mr. and Mrs. Baughn are the parents of two children.— Wilmot L., Jr., and Herbert A. Politically Mr. Baughn affili- ates with the Democratic party. »-»|->*^^*- fOim W. SMITH, a native of the Buck- eye State, was born near Cincinnati, November 29, 1851. He is a son of William and Elizabeth (Lawrence) Smith, and oneof a family of seven children. When he was two years of age his parents removed 406 HISTORY OF SUBLET COUNTY. to Jasper County, Iowa, where he passed his early life. He was trained in agricultural pursuits, and received a limited education in the common schools, but is qualified to trans- act any business that may devolve upon him. Mr. Smith was united in marriage, October 21, 187i, to Miss Esther WoUard, daughter of James and Amanda WoUard. She was born in Delaware County, Ohio, September 17, 1856, and was eight years old when her parents came to Iowa and settled in Jasper County on a farm, ■where they still reside. After his marriage Mr. Smith continued farm- ing, and in 1878 he came to Shelby County and settled on a farm of eighty acres of par- tially improved land. Here he built a small frame house, which he has since replaced by aline, large residence. He has erected build- ings for stock and grain, and planted a grove of one acre. His farm is situated in section 2, Jefferson Township, and is a credit to the surrounding country, as everything looks thrifty and prosperous. Mr. Smith is occu- pied exclusively with agriculture and stock- raising, and stands in the front ranks of Shelby County's well-to-do citizens. Polit- ically he affiliates with the Republican party. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have fonr children — Frederick, Hiley (deceased), Oliver and AVill- iam. They are consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church. ~> -fe - 3 .' I - g ^ r>JLES REYNOLDS has been identi- fied with the interests of Shelby County, Iowa, since 1874, when he removed to Douglas Township. He was born in Wyoming County, New York, August 26, 1817, and is the son of Nyrum and Sarah (Veiley) Reynolds, both natives of New York State. He passed his youth in his native State on a farm, and was educated in the common schwols. He is one of a family of eleven children, nine of whom survive. In the year 1868 he left New York and went to Illinois, spending six years in Livingston and Iroquois counties. He then came to Douglas Township, Shelby County, and lived for one year on a farm east of the place on which Kirkman now stands. He then re- moved to Greeley Township, where he had purchased eighty acres of partially improved land. Here he made many improvements and placed the farm under good cultivation. He made additions to the farm until he owned 170 acres, on which he lived for eight years. In 1885 he made an exchange of property, by which he came into possession of thirty-five acres in Jefferson Township. He added ten acres to this tract, which lies in the independent district of Irwin. He has a beautiful home. He was formerly occupied in buying and selling live-stock, and at present does some farming. Polit- ically he affiliates with the Democratic party. He has done much toward the improvement and advancement of the community, and is held in high esteem by all who know him. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M., Lodge No. 444. He was married February, 1854, to Miss Jane Bennett. She was a native of New York, and died in 1857. Mr. Reynolds was married again to Miss Eva, daughter of E. "\Y. and Mary Irwin. She was born in Cambria County, Pennsylvania, June 15, 1851. They are numbered with the reliable people of Shelby County. fAMES L. HALL is a native of Berkshire County, Massachusetts, born July 26, 1837. He is the son of Alvin and Philantha (Yales) Hall, both natives of Mas- sachusetts, who afterward moved to Wiscon- BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 407 sin where they died rather early in life. When James L. was three years old liis parents went to Walworth Connty, Wisconsin, where he grew to manhood. He was reared to farm life, and received a limited education in the common schools; although his opportunities have been few he has made the most of them, and has qualified himself to transact any business that may fall to him. At the age of fourteen he was thrown upon his own re- sources, and since that time he has made his own way in life. Mr. Hall was united in marriage August 16, 1868, to Miss Emeline Williams, daughter of Spotford C. and Mary (Hastings) Williams, natives of Vermont; she was born in Ivutland County, May 29, 1845. They have three children — Hattiei Azubah and Ida. In June, 1875, Mr. Hall came to Shelby County, Iowa, and settled on an eighty-acre tract of wild prairie in Jeff- erson Township. Here he has established a comfortable home, and has one of the best farms in this part of the county. He has .suitable buildings for stock, and has planted a three-acre grove. He devotes himself to agricultural pnrsuits, and deals extensively in live-stock. He has added 160 acres to his first purchase, and now owns 24:0 acres in a body. Mr. Hall has done ranch toward the up-building of Shelby County, and is deserv- ing the esteem and regard in which he is held. Thefirst wages he received were $10 a month, and from this small start he has risen to a position of financial independence. Politi- cally he athliates with the Republican party; he has served faithfully in the various ofiices in his township from the beginning of his residence in the county until the present time. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M., Lodge No. 444, and of the Farmers' Alli- ance. He enlisted October 1, 1861, at the call for men to defend this nation's flag, in Company F, Fifty-second Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He was honorably discharged No- vember 18, 1864, having served his country for three years. He entered the service as a private, but was soon promoted to Sergeant, in which capacity he served most of the time. The most noted battles in which he partici- pated are Fort Donelson, Shiloh, siege of Cor- inth, Lay's Ferry, Resaca, Inka, Altoona, Snake Creek Gap, and Atlanta. He was Avith Sherman on his famous march to the sea, and saw all there was to see, but did not feel all there was to feel, as he escaped without a single wound, and without being taken pris- oner. However, he endured all the privations incident to a soldier's life, and these are not few. He is a member of the G. A. R., Slacker Post, No. 139. J. SMITH was born in Canada, June 19, 1864, and is the son of George ** and Jane (Wadsworth) Smith, na- tives of Ireland. When he was two years old his parents removed to Mercer County, Illinois, where he was reared and spent his early life. He was trained to agricultural pursuits and educated in the common schools. When he was in his twentieth year he be- gan life upon his own responsibility; became to Shelby County and purchased a farm of eighty acres of improved land in Jefferson Township; here he remained and cultivated his farm until three years had passed away. He then traded his farm for another place in the same township, where he lived until 1889. He then exchanged his land for property, and established mercantile trade in partnership with D. AV. Clarke, in liotna. They carry a stock of general merchandise worth $7,000. They are live, energetic young men, and are destined to make their mark in the business circles of Shelby County, and the county is 408 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. to be congratulated upon theacquisition of this firm. Mr. Smith was united in marriage March 5, 1884, to Miss Alice R., daughter of David and Alice (Blakely) Clarke; she was born in Rock Island County, Illinois, Octo- ber 18, 1865. They are the parents of two children — Alice M. and Florence M. Politi- cally Mr. Smith is an active Republican. D. W. Clarke was born in Rock Island County, Illinois, June 2, 1868, and is the son of David and Alice (Blakely) Clarke, natives of Ireland. He was reared in his native county on a farm, and was educated in the public schools of his own county and Cornell Col- lege, Mt. Vernon, Iowa. After leaving col- lege he went to Rotna and engaged as clerk for S. B. Fritz, with whom he remained three months, and then entered into partnership with his brother-in-law, W. J. Smith, they buying the stock of Mr. Clarke's employer. Messrs. Smith & Clarke are dealers in coal, grain and live-stock. «o>-.»| S • 3 > 1 ^ * 'j l*- <»l Ijf J. MILLER has been a resident of Shelby County since 1879. He is a " native of Indiana, born in Putnam County, June 14, 1843. He is a son of Rob- ert and Ann (Hillis) Miller, both natives of Kentucky. The parents were married in Kentucky, and located in Putnam County, Indiana. In 1845 they removed to Illinois, where they remained eighteen months and then came to Jones County, Iowa, where they were early settlers; here they entered governtnent land. Robert Miller died in 1866, and his widow resides in Harlan. T. J. Miller was reared a farmer, and received his education in the common schools. He was married November 3, 1872, to Miss Saniantha Taylor, a native of AVarren County, Indiana, whose parents, James and Minerva (Lindley) Tay- lor, were natives ,of Kentucky and Ohio re- spectively. Miss Taylor had taught school for ten years in Iowa. In 1879 T. J. Miller purchased 160 acres of land, partially im- proved, in Shelby County. He has since added to it until he now owns 240 acres in a fine state of cultivation. He has a comfort- able residence, a good barn, a fine grove and orchard, and a windmill, all indicating the energy and thrift of the proprietor. Mr. and Mrs. Miller are thepnrents of five children — Oral, Lois, Myrta R., Ray R., Hugh H. and Agnes J. They are members of the Christian church in Harlan. Mr. Miller is a member of the Democratic party. He is frank in manner, upright in business, and one of Lin- coln Township's best citizens. - — >-««i g « i M ; . | ..-«~ ILLIAM THOMAS is one of the (| enterprising and successful residents ■£>^S of Lincoln Township. He was born in Germany in May, 1852, and is a son of Peter and Eva (Bukqiiah) Thomas, of French origin. "William was four years old when his parents emigrated to America and settled in Marshall County, Illinois, where they lived until death. Our subject was reared on a farm and educated in the public schools of Illinois. He was married in October, 1874, to Miss Elizabeth Roth, daughter of Joseph and Eve (Fries) Roth. Joseph Roth was a native of France. William Thomas lived in Marshall County, Illinois, until 1877, when he came to Shelby County and bouffht 160 acres of wild land. He now has a comfortable dwelling-house, a grove and an orchard, and all the equipments of cattle-rais- ing and feeding, to which he gives special attention. He is also agent for the Erie windmill, one of the most popular and one of the best makes, and is a very successful JiWOKAI'HIVAL SKETCHES. 409 salesman. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas are the parents of si.\ children — William, Henry, Frank, Leo, Tillie and Joseph; they are members of the Roman Catholic church. Mr. Thomas is in sympathy with the Democratic party. lie is genial in temperament, honor- able in business, and altogether one of Shelby County's solid citizens. ►^^-f- fRANCIS PLUMB, a leading citizen of Lincoln Township, is a native of Eng- ^ land, born in Lincolnshire, February C, 1846. He is a son of William and Mary (Gray) Plumb, natives of England, who had live sons and one daughter. The father died in England, and the mother, with three chil- dren, still reside there, and three of the chil- dren emigrated to America. Francis was reared on a farm and was educated in his native land. For three years he worked in a go%'ernment ship-yard. He was married March 17, 1868, to Miss Grace McKinnon, a native of England, and a daughter of Peter and Grace (McClellan) McKinuon. Mr. Plumb and wife sailed from Liver- pool for New York, April 28, 1868. They went directly to Council Bluffs after landing, and from Council Bluffs to Mills County, where Mr. Plumb had relatives. He worked by the month for three years and then rented for four years ; he then came to Shelby County and bought 120 acres of wild land. In 1875 he settled on this land and has since made it his home. Mr. Plumb has ir.vested his surplus in land, and now owns 360 acres. He has a good comfortable dwelling-house, surrounded with a fine grove, and a barn and yards for cattle. The farm is well watered, and he tnakes a specialty of raising and feeding cattle, in which he has been very successful. Mr. and Mrs. Plumb are the parents of seven children — William V., John, Robert Fracis, Maggie Isabelle, Alfred Alonzo and Florence Grace. Lillian Grace, the fifth child, died September 6, 1873. Mr. Plumb and his wife are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal church, known as the Stevens class. Mr. Plumb is a Repub- lican. He is still in the prime of life, and although he started a poor man, by good management and thrift he has acquired a valuable property. He is one of Shelby County's reliable and honored citizens. "^ S. BISHOP is one of the early set- tlers of Lincoln Township. He was 'W^'^ born November 26, 1839, in Peo- ria County, Illinois, and is a son of Bill Bishop, a native of Canada, who was five years old when his parents removed to New York. Bill Bishop fought in the war of 1812. He was married to Deborah Bishop, a second cousin, and they came to Illinois in 1832. They were among the pioneers of the State. They were the parents of twelve children, of whom M. S. is the si.xth. Our subject was reared on a farm and received his education in the common schools of Illinois. In 1858 the family removed to Henry County, Illinois. During the late civil war M. S. Bishop enlisted at Lincoln's call for 300,000 men, in the One Hundred and Fifty-seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry, Company H. He served six months and was honorably dis- charged, when he returned to Illinois. Mr. Bishop was married in P>ureau County, Illi- nois, December 13, 1804, to Miss Mary Comstock, a native of Chautauqua County, New York. Mr. Bisho]) came to Shelby County in the spring of 1870, he having bought 160 acres of land the previous year. His fartu is now one of the best improved in 410 HISTORY OP SHELBY COUNTY. the county; he has a good two-story frame residence, built in modern style, a good barn, a windmill, a grove and an orchard. All the surroundings show the thrift and excellent management of the owner. Mr. and Mrs. Bishop are the parents of six children — Frank A., Henry N., Warren G., Mabel Maud, Clyde and Charles. Mr. Bishop is a member of the Republican party, and has served as township trustee and on the school board in a creditable manner. He has been elected justice of the peace four times. He is well-to-do in this world's goods, and is one of the highly respected citizens of the town- ship . 4^^-^ fW. PAQLK is one of the most success- ful men in Lincoln Township. He is ' a native of Germany, born January 12; 1851, and a son of Christian and Lucinda (Piper) Paulk. He was six years old when his parents emigrated to America and settled in Morgan County, Missouri, where they lived until 18()5. They then removed to Iowa, and settled in Cedar County. J. W. was reared on a farm and received his educa- tion in the public schools. He was married January 28, 1873, to Miss Elvira Miller, who was born, reared and educated in Jones County, Iowa. She is a daughter of E. V. and Susanna (Granel) Miller, both natives of Oiiio. In 1874 Mr. Paulk came to Shelby County and bought 120 acres of unimproved land in section 19, where he labored and lived for two years and a half. He then sold the place and bought his present farm of Frank Pierce. He has made many improvements and placed his farm in a fine state of cultiva- tion. He has a comfortable house, large and commodious barns, and a grove and orchard of live acres. He now owns 360 acres of as fine land as'lies in Shelby County. He is largely engaged in stock-raising and feeding. Mr. Paulk and wife are the parents of five children — Laura Lucinda, Ida Estella, Emma lone, Gertrude Anna and Charles Everett. Mr. Paulk is a strong supporter of the Dem- ocratic party. He is yet in the prime of life, and has gained an enviable position socially and financially in the community. |HEODOEE G. ASQUITH was born in W- Pennsylvania, near Potts ville, May 4, 1841. He is a son of William and Hannah (Arnold) Asquith, natives of York- shire, England, who came to Pennsylvania in 1838. The family came to Hock Island County, Illinois, where the father and mother both died. Each had previously been mar- ried, and had children by the first marriage. Theodore was reared on a farm in Kock Island County, and attended Davenport Com- mercial College after finishing the common- school course. During the great Eebellion he went to the defense of the old flag, enlist- ing September 2, 1802, in the One Hundred and Second Illinois Volunteer Infantry, Com- pany C. He was a member of tiie First Brigade, Third Division, Twentieth Army Corps. At Ilesaca this brigade took four brass cannons and other arms from the enemy, receiving much credit and praise for their gallant conduct in this battle, which occurred May 15, 18154. He also participated in the battles of Peach-Tree Creek, Burnt Hickory, Averysboro, North Carolina, the most dan- gerous battle being the one in which General McPherson was killed. Mr. Asquith was also with General Sherman from Atlanta to the sea and through the Carolinas, on to lliciimond, Virginia, and then on to Wash- ington, D. C, to the grand review. He was \ BIOORAPUIGAL SKETCHES. 413 honorably discharged June 6, 1865, and mus- tered out of the service at Chicago. He re- turned to Rock Island County, Illinois, and resumed farming. Mr. Asquith was united in marriage, February 24, 1870, to Miss Sarah E. Roth, a native of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania. AVhen she was seven years old her parents, Benjamin and Eliza- beth (Parker) Roth, came to Rock Island County, and later removed to Mercer County, Illinois. In 1881 Mr. Asquith bought his present home, known as the William South- wick farm, which is one of the best locations in the county. Here he has .since resided, and from year to year made many improve- ments. He has a story-and-a-half house, built in modern style, a good barn, a fine grove of five acres, and one of the best orchards in the county. He showed eigliteen varieties of apples and crabs at the county fair, which is a very fine showing for a com- paratively new country. Mr. Asquitii and wife have eight children — Benjamin S., Oli- ver JSf., Lena Mabel, Elizabeth E., Winfield, Guy Theodore, Edith Flora and Alma L. Mr. Asquith casts his vote with the Republi- can party. lie has served on the school board, and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. He takes a deep interest in educational and religious affairs. Mr. Asquith is also a strong temperance man, and believes in prohibition. ►^^4^ fOHN T. BURKE was born June 13, 1811, in Greensburg, Decatur County, Indiana. His parents were Henry S. and Darinda (Spilman) Burke, natives of the Blue Grass State. His youthful days were passed like those of most farm boys, in becoming familiar with farm work and attending the common schools. Upon reaching his majority and having an ambition beyond that of his coun- try associates, he took a l)usiness course at Purdy's Commercial College in Indianapolis; there his desire to engage in something dif- ferent from farming was strengthened, and upon completing his education in 1865 he engaged in the mercantile lumber, grain and coal business at "Wolcott, Indiana. At the end of one and a half years he returned to farm life and stock-shipping, and after one season at "Wulcott determined to seek a home in the west. Accordingly, in 1868 he came to Monona County, Iowa, near Charter Oak, where he was farmingandshippingstock. In 1880 he identified himself with Shelby County, securing at that time 120 acres of land three miles north of Harlan, on the Nishnabotna River. His farm now consists of over 400 acres, and is one of the most de- sirable in the county, being largely made up of bottom lands; a group of four or five ex- cellent springs afibrds an abundant supply of water, which is forced to points where it is needed by hydraulic pi'essure, he having the finest waterarrangementofanyfarm in Shelby County. Being so well adapted to stock- raising, Mr. Burke has availed himself of its natural advantages, and is prominent as a breeder of fine stock. Mr. Burke has not contented himself with managing liis farm, but has been engaged in buying and shipping live-stock and grain from Kirkman since 1883. His grain shipments annually amount to about 400 cars, and he is one of the largest live- stock shippers in the county. Like most men, Mr. Burke has had some rouffh sailinar, but his is not the material easily conquered, and, Phoenix like, he rises from his defeats, and, like Banquo's ghost, " will not down." Mr. Burke was married at Wolcott, Indi- ana, June 28, 1866, to Miss Clara J. Hardy, daughter of Christopher and Elizabeth (Guss) Hardy; she was born in Pennsylvania, July 411 HISTORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. 7, 1847, and is a lady of culture and re- lineinent. She and her daughter Ida are respected members of the Methodist Epis- copal church of Harlan. Their family con- sists of nine children — Clayton H., the efficient and gentlemanly deputy county treasurer; Ida D., Elizabeth G., Haslet P., Christopher F., Alice, Cora, Amy and John W. Politically Mr. Burke trains with the Democrats. He is a member of Parian Lodge, Ko. 321, A. F. & A. M.; Olivet Chapter, No. 107, and Mount Zion Commandery, No. 49. Mr. Burke saw a short war service during the famous Morgan raid across the Ohio River. He enlisted at Wolcott, Indiana, in a regi- ment raised by Colonel Gavin, who had been wounded at Bull Run, was mustered in at Indianapolis, and immediately started in pur- suit of Morgan, who tied into Kentucky. After a service of forty days he was mustered out at Indianapolis. --V^>f-i— lELMER F. MURFIELD,of SpringHill Stock Farm, has been identitied with the interests of Shelby County since 1873. He is a native of the Buckeye State, born in Marysville, Union County, February 4, 1849. He is a son of J. S. and Elizabeth (Bancroft) Murfield, natives of Ohio. When D. F. was yet in infancy the parents moved to Jones County, Iowa, being among the earliest settlers; here they resided until deatli. Our subject was reared on a farm, and received his education in the common schools. He was married June 2, 1870, to Miss Martha Biggart, a daughter of Archibald and Caroline (Siioop) Biwwart, natives of Ohio; Mrs. Murfield was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, and was brought to Iowa when four years of age; her mother died in 1887, and her father still lives in Jones County. As before mentioned, Mr. Murfield came to Shelby County in 1878; his first purchase was forty acres of wild land in Lincoln Township, on which he resided until 1844, when he moved to his present place. He bought more land in section 24, and has added to it as his means increased, until he now owns 240 acres of Shelby County's best soil; he has made all the improvements necessary to a good stock farm. He was one of the first settlers, there being only one house between his home and Harlan. Mr. and Mrs. Murfield are the parents of eight children — Joshua E., Clem, Perrj', Ida Belle, Bessie, Guy, Roy and Gilbert. Mr. Murfield's par- ents were members of the Christian church, and he was reared \\\ this influence. Mrs. Murfield is a member of the Christian church. Politically Mr. Murfield affiliates with the Democratic party. He devotes most of his energies to stock-raising, giving special atten- tion to pure breeds of swine and thorough- bred cattle; he was one of the first in the township to engage in this industry, and he has been very successful. Mr. Murfield can be relied upon as one of tiie solid men of Shelby County. fP. MILLER, proprietor of Bull Rnu Stock Farm, has been identified with * the interests of Lincoln Township since 1872. He is a native of Jones County, Iowa, born April 22, 1851, and is a son of G. W. and Sophia (Pence) Miller, natives of Fair- field County, Ohio. G. "W. Miller and wife are pioneers of Jones County, having come there ..bout the year 1840; they still reside in Jones County. J. P. Miller was brought up on a farm, and received his earlier edu- cation in the coinmon schools. He remained in Jones County until 1872 when he came to Shelby County, and settled on eighty acres of BIOOHAPHICAL SKETCEES. 415 wild land, where he has since made his home, lie has gradually improved the place and has invested his surplus means in land; he now owns.2i0 acres, ICO being in the home place, and eighty in section 14-, Lincoln Township. He has a pleasant house, a barn 64 x 70 feet, with a capacity for 150 head of cattle, and 135 tons of hay. lie has every convenience for handling stock, of which he makes a spe- cialty. He is a stockholder in the Harlan Live Stock Association. For ten years Mr. Miller has made a specialty of Poland -China swine, and has been very successful in this work; he has also had unusual success in breeding short-horn cattle. Mr. Miller was united in marriage December 25, 1875, to Miss Flora J. Bothwell, a daughter of John Bothwell. They are the parents of five chil- dren — George E., Lillie May, Leona S., Gro- ver P. and Chauucey Brady. Mr. Miller ie a strong adherent of the Democratic party, and was the choice of his party for county recorder in 1881, but his party was in the minority. He is a member of the Masonic order, Parian Lodge, No. 321; Olivet Chap- ter, No. 107; Mt. Zion Commandery, No. 49. He is yet in the prime of life, and already has an enviable position socially, politically and financially in the county. ' 3 " £ ' | '« ?T. WPJGHT has been identified with the interests of Lincoln Township since * May, 1875. He was born in Mont- gomery County, Lidiana, June 25, 1845, and is a son of Robert E. and Elizabeth (Evans) Wright. Iiobert E. Wright was a native of Virginia, and came to Indiana when a boy; here he grew to manhood, and married Eliza- beth Evans, a native of Virginia; they re- sided in Indiana until 1856, when they removed to Eock Island County, Illinois. Our subject was one of eleven children, three sons and eight daughters. He was reared on a farm, and educated in the common schools. He lived in Rock Island County, Illinois, until the spring of 1875, when he came to Shelby County and bought 160 acres of prai- rie land. Here he has since made his home, and improved his laud until he has one of the best farms in the neighborhood ; he has a comfortable dwelling, a large barn for stock and hay, and everything conveniently ar- ranged for general farming purposes. He makes a specialty of stock-raising, and has some fine specimens of draft horses on his farm. Silver Creek runs through his place, furnishing an abundance of water for stock. The farm lies three miles from Harlan. Mr. Wright was married December 23, 1875, to Miss J. M. Curtis, of Jackson County, Iowa, a daughter of A. T. and Mary L. (Roper) Curtis. Mrs. Wright was a teacher for several years previous to her marriage; she was born in Ohio, and educated iu Rock Island County, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Wright are the parents of four children — Mamie B., Luella, Jennie and Ahna. Mr. Wright is a Republican, and has served as township clerk for eight years, and for five years has served as secretary of the school board. He is a man well informed, cordial in his disposition, honorable in busi- ness, and one of Shelby County's representa- tive men. F. KOHL, of Lincoln Township, is one of the representative farmers of Shelby ® County. He is a native of Berks County, Pennsylvania, born February 7, 1845,' and is a son of William and Hannah (Fid- dei'ling) Kohl, both natives of Pennsylvania. In 1855 the family removed to Jones County, Iowa. S. F. was reared a farmer, and received 416 UISTORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. his education in the common schools of the county. During the late civil war he went to his country's defense, enlisting in June, 1863, in the Eiglith Iowa Cavalry, and served two years; he participated in tlie battle of Dalton, Georgia, the campaign of Atlanta, returned to the north with General Thomas to Nashville and started with General Wil- son's cavalry toops through Alabama, then was ordered to Macon, Georgia; he was hon- orably discharged at Macon, Georgia. After the war he returned to Jones County, and December 17, 1867, he was united in mar- riage to Miss Louisa Grimm, a native of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, and a daughter of Abraham and Maria (Guise) Grimm, natives of Pennsylvania. In 1869 Mr. Kohl removed to Iowa County where he resided until 1877, when he came to Shelby County. Here he bought his present farm of J. W. Paulk, which is one of the best in the township; he has a good house, a barn, a grove and an orchard. The farm contains 160 acres. Mr. and Mrs. Kohl are the parents of nine children — Albert B., Lewis F., Uosa J., Kitty Ann, Charles O., William Henry, Emma May, Wilbur F. and Francis D. Mr. Kohl is a Republican, and a member of the G. A. E., No. 197, Harlan. He is a member of the Evangelical church. He takes an act- ive part in the religious and educational enterprises of the county. y. KOHL is one of the enterprising and successful men of Lincoln Town- ^'^ ship. He was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, August 29, 1849, and is a son of William and Hannah (Fidderling) Kohl. When our subject was si.\ years of age the family removed to Jones County, Iowa. Here he grew to manhood. He was reared on a fafm, and received his education in the public schools of the county. Mr. Kohl was united in marriage, March 13,1879, to Miss Mary Schrope, a native of Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, and a dangiiter of William and Susan (Shick) Schrope, natives of Pennsylvania. They resided in Jones County until 1880, when they came to Shelby County, and Mr. Kohl bought 160 acres of partially improved land. He now owns 2J:0 acres of land, on which he has made many improvements. He has a comfortable dwell- ing, a good barn, a grove and an orchard, all bespeaking the thrift and wise manage- ment of the owner. Mr. and Mrs. Kohl are the parents of four children — William, Eva Essie, Josie May and Morris Lewis. Mr. Kohl is a strong supporter of the Republican party. He is a member of the Evangelical church. Although he is yet a young man, he has won a good position in the community and is one of Lincoln Townshi])"s representa- tive citizens. •°*^' | ' 2"! ' |" "'~ ;i?^EORGE D. KOHL has been a citizen ^— of Shelby County since 1878. He was born in Berks County, Pennsylvania, January 31, 1851, and is a son of William and Susan H. (Fidderling) Kohl, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German extraction. George D. was but four years old when his parents removed from their native State to Jones County, Iowa, where he grew to maturity. He was reared to that most in- dependent occupation, farming, and was edu- cated in that school which this country provides for all her children, the common public school. Mr. Kohl was married in Jones County, in March, 1875, to Miss Susan Bittle, a daughter of John Bittle, of Penn- sylvania, now a resident of Iowa. On coming BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 417 to Shelby County Mr. Kohl settled in Cass Township, where he resided until 1881, when he came to his present farm. Some of the hind was broken, but there were no improve- ments in the way of buildings. He has since erected a good house, planted a grove and orchard, and fenced the place. He devotes his time to live-stock raisins and the culti va- cs tion of grain. Mr. and Mrs. Kohl are the parents of nine children — Carrie May, Ella Jane, Ina Viola, Gertrude Mabel, George R., Christopher Henry, Irvin Edwin, Pearl Ada- line and Sarah Anna. Mr. Kohl gives his political support to the Democratic party. He and his wife are members of the Evan- gelical church. Mr. Kohl is strictly honor- able in business, his word being as good as his bond, and he is counted among the relia- ble citizens of Shelby County. ^ A. ESCHER, of Pleasant Ridge Farm, Lincoln Township, is anotlier of the I ® responsible men of this county, for whom we are indebted to Germany, where he was born October 3, 1851. He is a son of John M. and Martha (Riesland) Escher, and was but twelve months old when his parents emigrated to America and settled in Berks County, Pennsylvania. Here he was reared and educated. In 1866 his parents came to Iowa. The mother died at Lisbon, Iowa, in 1887, and the father still resides there. They were the parents of three children — Charles, of Harlan; Minnie, wife of S. P. Meyers, and H. A., the subject of this sketch. Mr. Escher was united in marriage, March 20, 1873, to Miss Romancy Granel, of Jones County, a daughter of Simon and Rhoda (Miller) Granel, who were formerly from Ohio. Our subject was engaged in farming in Jones County until 1875, when he came to Lincoln Township, Shelby County, where he had formerly purchased eighty acres of land. This was wild and unimproved, but he put it under a fine state of cultivation and made many improvements, and added 120 acres, which made a farm of 200 jvcres. He sold this place in 1884, and bought his present home from his brother, Charles Escher. This farm is one of the best in the township, and contains 240 acres. In 1876 Mr. Escher erected a residence at a cost of $2,200. There is a beautitul lawn adjoining, and ornamental trees add very much to the attractiveness of the jilace. There are two large barns, affording abundance of room for stock, grain and hay. There is also a wind- mill, furnishing water to the dwelling and barns. Mr. Escher devotes his time to stock- raising and feeding, making a specialty of high grades, which he sends to the markets at an early age. Mr. and Mrs. Escher have six children — Frankie C, Elsie E., Minnie L., Mabel Maud, Myrtle Romancy and Her- bert Ernest. Mr. Escher is a Democrat, and an active worker in his party. He has served as township trustee and as a member of the school board. He and his wife are members of the Evangelical church. Mr. Escher is yet in the prime of life, of a genial disposi- tion, honorable in his dealings, and has won a position in the county of which any man might well be proud. »i > « S i ' S ' A" "-*" ANIEL WILSON has been identified with the interests of Shelby County, Iowa, since 1882, when his residence in the State began. He is a native of New York, and was born in Oneida County, Au- gust 15, 1818. He is son of John and Jeru- sha (Dunbar) Wilson, both natives of Con- necticut. The mother's parents removed to 418 U I STORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. Oneida County wlien she was a child. The parents of the father settled in the western part of the county in the heavy timber dis- trict, where our subject grew to manhood. He passed his youth in assisting to clear the land and in attending the conimon schools. Mr. Wilson was united in marriage October 2G, 1842, in Oneida County, to Miss Jane Ann Crawford, a native of Cavan County, Arva, Ireland. She was born April 16, 1823, and is a daughter of Andrew and Isa- belle (Armstrong) Crawford, who emigrated to America when she was seven years old. They settled in Oneida County, where Mrs. Wilson was reared and educated. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson removed to Shelby County in 1882, where they have three sons residing. Mr. Wilson bought 120 acres of land in sec- tion 1, Lincoln Township, which was under cultivation, but to which he has added many improvements; he has a comfortable dwell- ing, a barn for stock and grain, and all nec- cessary conveniences. The farm lies two miles northwest from Harlan. Mr. Wilson and wife have three sons living, all residing in Lincoln Township— John W., Daniel A. and Charles H. The oldest son, Andrew W., one of the earl}' settlers of the township, died November 20, 1887, leaving a widow and three children. He was an honored and re- spected citizen, and his death was deeply regretted by all who knew him. Politically Daniel Wilson casts his suffrage with the Ivepublican party, as also do his three sons. He and his wife have been worthy and con- sistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church for nearly half a century. When liv- ing in the east he was an active worker in the church, serving many years as class-leader and as Sabbath-school superintendent. His two sons, Daniel A. and Charles IL, are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Daniel Wilson is one of the represent- ative men of Shelby County, and has shown such business qualities and fine social traits that he has won and kept many friends in the home of his adoption. — — 1 - 3 .. ; . ^ ..^ — LEXANDEK MAXWELL is the able and efficient superintendent of the poor ■iff- farm of Shelby County, Iowa. He was born in Scotland, near Glasgow, Jan- uary 12, 1842. He is a son of John and Jenette (Cunningham) Maxwell. He was thirteen years old when thefamil}' emigrated to America and settled in Whiteside County, Illinois; here he worked on a farm and at- tended school. .Mr. Maxwell was married August 27, 1863, to Miss Sarah Ann Swit- zer, a native of Westmoreland County, Penn- syh-ania, and a daughter of William and Katie (Schauley) Switzer, natives of Pennsyl- vania, who removed to Lee County, Illinois, when Sarah was twelve years of age. Mr. Maxwell resided in Whiteside County until 1866, when he removed to Jones County, Iowa; here he lived until 1874, when lie moved to Shelby County and settled on a farm two miles west of Harlan. He lived on this place seven years and then sold it, going to Grove Townshi]i, where he had bought a farm of 200 acres. This land was partially improved, and Mr. Maxwell continued to make improvements until 1886, when he was appointed to the superintendency of the Shelby County Poor Farm. He has made a faithful officer, attending with the strictest fidelity to the smallest details of the business. Everything is in excellent condition, and re- flects credit upon the officer in charge as well as upon the people of Shelby County. Mr. and Mrs. Maxwell are the parents of nine children — Jane, William, Frank, Nettie, Alexander, Sarah, Ed, Estella and Archi- M^ 'r-e.^t/^-vy V BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 431 bald. Politically Mr. Maxwell casts bis vote vvitb tlie Democratic party. He is a member of tbe A. F. 6z. A. M., Parian Lodge, JS'o.321. ^aEWIS WATTERBURY is one of tbe Aw'fi prominent early settlers of tbe county =5F^ in whicb be bas lived since July, 1853. He was born in Onondaga County, New York, December 9, 1838. He is a son of Ste- pben Watterbury, a well-known pioneer of tbe townsliip. Our subject was a lad of eigbt years wben bis fatber came to tiiis country. Iowa was tben a Territory. Tbey lived tbree years in Jackson and Jones counties; tbey tben went to Clayton County, Iowa, wbere tbey lived until 1853, wben tbey came to tbis county, Fairview Townsliip, section 17. There were only four families in tbe town- sbip. Lewis was tben iifteen years old; be was reared as a farmer, assisting to improve tbe homestead, where he grew to manhood. His education was received in the common schools. Mr. Watterbury was married No- vember 4, 1860, to Miss Rachel Watson, a daughter of Abram Watson, a pioneer of tbe county, now a resident of Oakland, Iowa. Mrs. Rachel Watterbury died March 21, 1862. Mr. Watterbury was again married June 11, 1863, to Miss Catharine Custer, daugliter of Henry Custer, whose sketch appears on another page of this volume. By - this union six children were born — Eliza- beth, wife of Jesse McCoy, of Nebraska; Grant, El ma, Elmer, Charles and Isabella (deceased). The mother of these children died in September, 1875. Mr. Watterljury married his present wife December 21, 1879. She was Mrs. Susan Gi-een, a daughter of Jaijbetb and Eliza (Gates) Brown, born in Clermont (county, Oiiio, and roared in Liv- ingston County, Illinois. Air. Watterbury improved a farm of 100 acres in section 16, which be sold in 1881, and bought 240 acres of wild land where he now lives. He has made many improvements; has a good frame bouse, buildings for stock and grain, and everything conveniently arranged for farm- ing and stock-raising. He is a Republican, and cast bis first vote for Lincoln in 1860. He has served as township trustee, assessor, and as county supervisor for three years, filling these ofhceswitii entire satisfaction to the public. He is a member of the Masonic order, Parian Lodge, of Harlan ; and is also a member of the Knights of Pythias, Carthage Lodge. He is president of the Anti-horse- tbief Association of Fairview Township, and has been for several years. lie has ever taken an active and prominent part in poli- tics and all public enterprises. He is a man yet in the prime of life, and lias the respect and confidence of all who know him. ■ g ' 2 " I - H. LOUIS has been identified with tbe interests of Lincoln Township since 1886. He is a native of Snyder County, Pennsylvania, born November 21, 1841, and is a son of Jacob Louis, who was born in France and reared in Pennsylvania. When a youth our sul)ject went to Milwau- kee, Wisconsin, where he remained throe years. He received his education in tbe common schools of Pennsylvania and in tbe Milwaukee Academy. During tbe late civil war be enlisted in August, 1862, in the One Hundred and Thirty-first Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, Company F, and served one year. He took an active part at South Mountain, Antietam, and was wounded at Fredericksburg and discharged on account of disability. Later be recruited a company for tiie Seventy-fourth I'ennsylvania Volunteer 432 HISTOIiY OF SHELBY COUNTY. Infantry, Company D, and served as First Lieutenant, latei- Adjutant, and finally Captain of Company C. He served until the close of the war, his regiment being in Virginia most of the time. After the close of the war he lived in Logansport, Indiana, for a time, and in 1866 came to Shelby County, settling near Cuppy's Grove. Reengaged in farming and school-teaching. While living here he was elected county supervisor under the old law (one from each township), and was one of the first elected under the new law (three in the county). He was elected county au- ditor in the fall of 1871 and served four years. In 1S76 he settled on a farm in Lin- coln Township, where he lived si.x mouths; he then moved on the land now owned by Moses Hoskins, making many improvements. In 1882 he bought his present farm from M. K. Campbell, which contained 160 acres; he owns 140 acres adjoining this tract, so his home-farm contains 300 acres of land. It is one of the best improved places in the town- ship, and is known as Pine Grove Farm. There is a good two-story frame residence surrounded with evergreen and pine trees; there is a large barn, a windmill and all the equipments of systematic farming. Mr. Louis makes a specialty of stock-feeding and raising. His official career has been marked with good judgment, and he has served with credit to himself and satisfaction to the public. Folitically he affiliates with the Democratic party. He is a member of Parian Lodge, No. 321, A. F. & A. M.; Mt. Zion Com- niandery. No. 49, and Olivet Chapter, No. 107: he is one of the charter members of the Blue lodge; he is a charter member of the G. A. R., Harlan Post, and was the second post commander. Mr. Louis was married Jan- uary 22, 1873, to Miss Fannie B. Fetter, of Pottawattamie County, a daughter of J. L. Fetter, l^fr. and Mrs. Louis are the parents of three childrea — John J., Fred a-id Annie. No man has been more prominent in the liis- tory of the county than J. 11. Louis, and none have contributed more to the growth and prosperity than he. "^■ g ':":.>-^ .jjHILLIP SCHAFER, proprietor of agro- eery store on the cast side of the public ^ square, established himself in business January 1, 1889. lie has identified himself with the interests of Shelby County since 1869, at which time his residence there be- gan. Mr. Schafer is an American only by adoption, having been born in Germany, De- cember 14, 1841. He is the son of John and Charlotte H. Schafer, who emigrated to America when Phillip was a youth of fifteen years. He attended school in his native country, which is noted the world over for its fine system of education, until he was four- teen years old. On emigrating to America his parents settled in Holmes County, Ohio, and there he grew to manhood and learned the carpenter's trade. Mi". Schafer was united in marriage in Holmes County, Ohio, Febru- ary 11, 1864, to Miss Mary Ann Baker, a native of Holmes County, and a daughter of Samuel and Sarah Baker. The same year Mr. and Mrs. Schafer removed to Elkhart County, Indiana, remaining there five years. At the end of that time they came to SheII)v Countj^ Iowa, and settled on section 35, Har- lan Township. Their farm consisted of eighty acres of wild land; as soon as possible Mr. Schafer had this under cultivation, and added many improvements to the place. Since his residence in Harlan he rents this place. He is an adherent to the principles of the Demo- cratic party. He and his wife are members of the Baptist church. They are the parents of five children — Henry, Elizal)eth, Ellen, BIOORAPHICAL SKETCHES. 423 Charlotte and John. Mr. Schafer is a thor- ough-going, rclial>le business man, and worthy the respect of his neiglibors and friends. ^HAELES H. PAULK, of Lincoln Town- ship, has been identified with the inter- ests of Shelby County since 1876. He is a native of Germany, born November 15, 1851, and is a son of Christ and Lucinda Paulk. He was three or four years old when his parents emigrated to America and settled in Morgan County, Missouri. Here the family resided in peace and contentment until 1865 when they were obliged to leave on account of the molestations of the rebels; they came to Cedar County, Iowa, where Charles H. grew to manhood. He was reared on a farm and attended the public schools. In 1875 he bought 120 acres of land in Lincoln Town- ship, upon which he settled in 1876; the land was wild and without any improvements. In 1877 he added to his first purchase forty acres, and now owns 160 acres of as good land as Shelby County affords. He has a good residence, pleasantly situated, a large barn, and a windmill. Mr. Paulk pays espe- cial attention to raising high grades of live- stock, and is a success in this industry. His farm is three miles west from Harlan. Po- litically Mr. Paulk is a Republican. He is a genial bachelor, honorable in business, and one of the leading citizens of Lincoln Township. SERDINAND VERING is a well-known citizen of Lincoln Township. Likemany .^ of our most successful farmers, Mr. Vering was born in Germany; his birthday was Septemlier 6, 1853, and he is a son of Henry and Elizabetli (Dirkmann) Vering. He attended school until he was fourteen years of age, and from that time until he was nineteen years old he worked on a farm. He sailed from Bremen on the steamer Strasburg and landed in New Orleans, Louisiana; thence he went to St. Louis, Missouri, and thence to Menard, Illinois, where he engaged to work on a farm by the month. Here he remained until he came to Shelby County, Iowa, in 1878. He first bought 160 acres of land, but he has improved and added to this until be now has 240 acres in a fine state of culti- vation. He has a good residence surrounded with shade trees, buildings for stock and grain, stock-j'ard, stock scales, and all conven- iences for stock-raising and feedingf. Mr. Vering was united in marriage in June, 1881, to Miss Cynthia Rau, of Shelby County, Iowa; she was born in Clayton County, Iowa, and is a daughter of Anton and Mary (Eberhardt) Rau. Mr. Vering and wife have five chil- dren — Katie, Joseph, Mary, Anna and Anton. Mr. Vering is a member of the Democratic party; he has served on the school board and has always taken an active interest in the re- ligious and educational advancement of the county. The family are members of the Roman Catholic church. R. LEWIS DISBROW FROST, the pioneer druggist of Harlan, has been engaged in the business since 1863. He was born in Morrow County, Bennington Township, Ohio, August 23, 1834, and is the son of James and Laura (Knapp) Frost, na- tives of the State of New York. The Doctor was reared and educated in his native county. He was born with a natural gift in healing, and has always been very successful; he is ])ossesscd of a strong and robust constitution which has l)een of great use to him in his iU HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. practice. In the beginning of the great re- bellion he enlisted in a home company in 1861. As early as 1854 Dr. Frost located in Guthrie County, Iowa, and was there engaged in the drug business until he came to Harlan in 1863. Since his residence in the last-named place he has had a large practice and a good trade; his store is on the south side of the public square, and a large stock of drugs aud j)atent medicines can always be found there- Doctor Frost was united in marriage in Mor- row County, Ohio, May 19, 1854, to Lydia Jane Babcock. He is a member of the Har- lan Lodge, I. O. O. F., Xo. 267. ► ^ nS'l"^ rILLIAM ROBERTS has been iden- ,,, ,Ji' tified with the interests of Harlan l^'S^S^ Township since 1878. He was born at Dumfries Bridge, Yorkshire, England, November 3, 1844, and is a son of Joseph and Hannah H. Roberts, honest, hard-working, Yorkshire people. "When old enough Will- iam went to work in a cotton factory, where he was employed several years. In 1870 he left his native land and came to America, in company wiih his brother Benjamin; they came directly to Shelby County, wliere they had an acquaintance, J. W. Chatburn, a miller. William worked for Mr. Chatburn for fourteen months, and then went to Massachu- setts, where he found employment at his old trade in a cotton factory; here he remained five years, and saving his money, made pay- ments on land thathchad purchased in Shelby County. In 1875 he made a trip to England, and remained there for two years, at the end of which time he came back to Shelby County. In 1881 he settled on his present home place, where he owns 160 acres of good land, one and one-half miles from Harlan. The laud is well adapted to the raising of stock and grain, which pursuits M^- Roberts is engaged in. Mr. Roberts was united in marriage May 13, 1866, to Miss Hannah Stock, a native of York- shire, England, and a daughter of George and Mary Stock. By this union six children were born, iiveof whom are living — William, Ben- jamin, Nelly, Lucy and Charles. Sarah Maj' died at the age of ten months and fifteen days. Mr. Roberts was greatly bereaved by the death of his wife, which occurred February 26, 1888; she was a loving wife and a fond mother, and a consistent member of the Latter Day Saints church. Mr. Roberts is yet in his best years, and is an honest, industrious man; although he has seen trouble, he has done the best he could for himself and children. He is one of the highly respected menof the community. • i > < : ■%>■ fAMES JORGEXSON is a member of the firm of Sonneland, nammer& Company, dealers in general goods, Harlan. He was born in Denmark, October 8, 1854, and is the son of Peter and Christina (Jensen) Jorg- enson. Until fourteen years old he attended school in his nativecountry, and there acquired a good education. After leaving school he worked on his father's farm until lie was nineteen years old, when he sailed from Co- penhagen for New York, making the voyage in eighteen days; on arriving at New York he came directly to Harlan, Iowa. For three years he worked on a farm, and at the end of that time he obtained a situation with Eida- miller Brothers, as clerk in their general dry- goods store. Mr. Jorgenson held this position until Eidamiller Brothers sold out their busi- ness; he then entered into partnership with Mr. Sonneland and Mr. Hammer, and they have established themselves in business under the firm name of Sonneland, Hammer & Com- pany. They carry a large stock of dry goods, /O BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 427 boots, shoes, staple and fancy groceries, and are popular young business men. Mr. Jorg- enson, like many of his countrymen, has found a prosperous and pleasant home in the new world, and a chance to further his busi- ness and social interests. fOSEPH H. KLTHL, of Union Township, is one of the many leading and thor- oughly reliable citizens of Shelby County, Iowa, whose ancestors came from Germany. His parents, Mathias H. and Margarette (Gla- son) Kuhl, are natives of the Rhine country, Germany. Mathias H. was brought up on a farm, and follows this occupation at the present time in Mills County, Iowa. When he had been married one year, he and his wife emigrated to America, the land whither so many ambitious sons and daughters of the Fatherland had gone. They are the parents of nine children, of whom Joseph H. is the oldest. He was born in Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin, December 20, 1846, and passed his youth in the midst of agricultural indus- tries. His education was begun in the com- mon schools, and would have been extremely limited had it ended there. Without any in- structor after he had left school he mastered the reading and writing of the German lan- guage, and in every way possible supple- mented tlie narrow opportunities afforded him in his youth. At the age of seventeen years he made a trip across tlie mountains with a herd of cattle, and at the early age of thirteen years he embarked in the threshing business, which he followed almost every season for fifteen years. Mr. Kuhl was united in marriage, January 9, 1870, to Miss Mary Finken, daughter of Mathias and Kathrina (Gans) Finken, natives of Germany, who came to America in 1865. Mrs. Kuhl is also a native of Germany. After his mar- riaf^e Mr. Kuhl rented a farm in Mills County, Iowa, and began a record in his own name. His capital was not wholly tangible, being a large supply of pluck, energy and determination; but these are important fac. tors in any enterprise, and have not proven worthless in Mr. Kuhl's experience. For two years he remained in Mills County, and in 1873 he came to Shelby County and set. tied on eighty acres of wild land in West- phalia Township, in which place he was one of the first colonists. In 1882 he sold his farm, then consisting of 160 acres under good cultivation, and bought 160 acres in Union Township, which has ever since been his residence. He has placed this land under cultivation and made many improvements, having erected a fine two-story frame house, and the buildings necessary for the storage of grain and the 'protection of live-stock. He has planted eight acres of grove, and has thus done his share in the advancement of forestry in the treeless prairies. Mr. Kuhl was one of the prime movers in the organiza- tion of Westphalia Township, and in the estaV)lishment of the Westphalia Colony, one of the most prosperous German institutions in western Iowa. He was the first postmas- ter of Westphalia, and was the first postmas- ter at Earling. He still holds this position at Earling, and on first coining to the place he was engaged in buying and selling of grain in connection with his farming inter- ests. For some years he was in ])artnersliip with his brother Peter in the hardware busi- ness, but since January, 1888, he has devoted himself to his farming, the postottice, and the agency of the Milwaukee Land Company. He has charge of the company's lands from Council Bluffs to Manning, and has been a most profitaljle employe. He was largely in, strumental in the rapid growth of the town 428 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. of Manilla, and has ever served the coinpanj to their best interests. He was elected to the office of county supervisor in the fall of 1881, and served until 1888, with honor to himself and perfect satisfaction to his constituents. He has represented his township in its vari- ous offices almost from the beginning of his residence within its borders. Politically he affiliates with tlie Democratic party, being one of the political leaders of the county. He owns 187 acres of land in the county. Mr. Kuhl is a self-made man, affiible, courteous and public-spirited. For integrity of charac- ter and upright dealing he has no superior in the community. Mr. and Mrs. Kuhl are the parents of seven children — Kathrina, Nicho- las B., John M., Mary A., Michael H., Ed- ward N. and Anna. fEORGE S. BARR, a native of Wash- ington County, Pennsylvania, was born December 4, 1829, and is the son of James and Mary (Helt) Barr, natives of Pennsylvania. When George S. was ten years of age he came with his parents to Kno.x County, Ohio, or what is now Morrow County; here he was reared to farm-life and received his education in the district school, lie is one of eight children, si.x of whom are living. February 2, 1854, Mr. Barr was united in marriage to Miss Efhe M. Brokaw, daughter of John and Caroline (Bush) Bro- kaw, natives of New Jersey. Mrs. Barr was born in Knox County, Ohio, February 26, 1833, and was one of a family of thirteen children, eight of whom are now living. Mr. and Mrs. Barr are the parents of three chil- dren — Wellington, Anna B. (deceased), wife of Charles Hannon, and Andrew J. Mrs. Ilannon left two children — Leora and Well- ington, who reside with their grandparents. After their marijiage Mr. and Mrs. Barr con- tinued their residence in Ohio until 1867, when they came to Iowa, settling in Benton County, and remaining there three years. In 1870 they came to Shelby County and settled on a farm of eighty acres in Greeley Town- ship, which was then Grove Township; there were but few Improvements on this place, a small tract having been broken and a log house erected. An addition has been made to the dwelling, and barns for stock and grain have been built. When the Barr family came to this section there were but three families in the neighborhood. They encoun- tered many hardships, but they did it in true pioneer style. They have assisted largely in the upbuilding of the educational and social interests in the community, and are held in high esteem and respect by all who know them. Mr. Barr and two neighbors, Mallory Morgan and Isaac Fish, erected the first school-room in the northwestern part of Gree- ley Township; it was a small apartment, 12 x 14 feet, but served the purpose for two years. Mr. Barr has been officially identified with his township as trustee and as a member of the board of education. Politically he affil- iates with the Democratic party. Mrs. Barr is a member in good standing of the Meth- odist Episcopal church, being one of the first to have her name enrolled on the class-book in this part of Shelby County. In the be- ginning there were two besides Mrs. Barr in the class — old Mother Brown and Mrs. Charles Brown — -and from this small number the society has grown to its present proportions. ---^^-^i-^f-^ — A. SAUNDERS, proprietor Greeley Stock Farm, Greeley Township, was born in Dane County, AVisconsin, August 4, 1857. He is a .son of Charles and \ BWORAPHWAL SKETCHES. 4S9 LoTiisa (Keeley) Saunders, natives of Eng- land. C. A. grew to manhood in his native county, and in 1873 came to Iowa, settling in Nishnabotna Township, Crawford County, where he remained until 1879. He then purchased forty acres of wild and unim- proved lajid in Greeley Township, Shelby County, where he has since made his home. He has added to his first purchase until he now owns 320 acres in a body. He has placed it all under most excellent cultivation, and has made many valuable improvements in the way of buildings. He was burnt out in 1886. He has done his share toward promoting for- estry, having planted eight acres of grove. Mr. Saunders's farm is located about one mile south of Manilla, where he is engaged in breeding fine horses; he has taken especial care in the propagation of good breeds of live-stock, and has done much to elevate the standard in the county. When he started in life his only capital was energy and pluck, coins always above par in the market. He has risen to a position of wealth and influence in the county, and is a fair example of what a man can accomplish in this country. Mr. Saunders was married May 4, 1877, to Miss Bertha, daughter of John and Anna (Hayes) Theobald, who was born January 1, 1862. They are the parents of seven children — Louisiana, Maud A., John R., Blanche N. (deceased), William B., Charles and Victoria. Politically he gives his support to the issues of the Republican party. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias. ISAAC J. FISH, of Greeley Township, has been identified with the interests of Shelby County since 1870. He was born in Erie County, New York, November 20, 1828, and is the son of Samuel and Catha- rine (Landis) Fish, natives of New York and Pennsylvania respectively. Until eighteen years of age Isaac resided in his native State, being trained to agricultural pursuits, and at- tending the common schools of that day. After leaving home, his first venture was made in the livery business at Toledo, Ohio. Here he remained one year, and then enlisted in Company H, First Regiment Michigan Volunteer Infantry, to serve in the Mexican war. At the close of the war he returned to New York, remaining there two years. He then came west as far as Ohio, stopping there for a short time. Tlie next year he was en- gaged in work on the Northern Indiana & Southern Michigan Railroad, which was then being constructed. His next residence was in De Kalb County, Illinois, at Shabbona Grove, where he remained one year; thence he removed to Dixon, Illinois, where lie re- mained two years. In 1854 he came to Iowa and engaged in the United States mail service, working on various parts of the route as far west as Denver, Colorado. After retiring from the mail service he settled in Jasper County, Iowa, thence removed to Benton County, and in August, 1870 came to Shelby County, settling on a farm of eighty acres in Gi'celey Township, which was then known as Grove Township; the land was then an un- broken tract of wild prairie, and the family have had many hardships to encounter; but they have courageously faced them all, and now have one of the best imj)roved places in the township. Mr. Fish first erected a small frame residence which answered all require- ments until it was destroyed by fire in 1888; he then built a large dwelling which is a comfortable and tasteful structure. At the time of their settling in Shelby County, there were but few nei^J*|^ NDREW J. BERRY, a native of the Ilawk-Eye State, was born in Jasper County, October 8, 1856, and is a son of A. J. and Sarah (York) Berry. The father is a native of the State of Virginia, and the mother was born in North Carolina. Mr. Berry resided in his native county until his sixteenth year, receiving the usual training of a farmer's son, and attending the common schools of the day. When he had reached his sixteenth year his parents removed to Cook County, Texas, and he accompanied them; there they remained one year, and then went to Indian Territory; here our subject remained eight years, engaged in farming and stock- raising. In 1881 he came to Iowa, and set- tied in Shelby County, on a farm of 180 acres in Greeley Township; a part of this farm also lies in Jefferson Township. Here Mr. Berry has a beautiful home, surrounded with all of the comforts and conveniences of modern life ■0^^m^ y^o^^-^ niOa KA PlJl CAL UK ETCHES. 433 He devotes liiinself to general agricultural pursuits, ill which he is uniformly successful. He is a staunch Democrat. Mr. Berry was united in marriage May 13, 1880, to Miss Fannie Clift, a daughter of James and Therza (Cooper) Clift, natives of Alabama and Ten- nessee respectively. Mrs. Beriy was born in Arkansas, October 11, 1859. They are the parents of four children — Andrew J., Ilhoda M., Albert D. and James E. Mrs. Berry is a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal church. — ->-.. ? . ! ■ . r . g ...^ — fEORGE EOKARS.— If the old country had not contributed largely to the pop- ulation of the new, western Iowa would not have readied its present high state of de- velopment. Germany has furuished her full quota of excellent men, and among them George Eokars, a citizen of Shelby County, honored and respected by the whole popula- tion. Mr. Eokars was born in Badeti, Ger- many, June 8, 1838. He is a son of Jacob and Barbara Eokars, who emigrated from Germany to America when he was seven years old. They settled in New York, and here he grew to manhood. He was a carpen- ter by occupation, and followed this trade until his twenty-third year. At the age of eighteen years he left New York and went to New Orleans, working at his trade while in that city. He next went to Panama, and thence to St. Louis, Missouri, spending one winter in the latter place. He spent the fol- lowing year in St. Joe, Missouri, serving as watchman in the freight depot. The winter of 1859 was passed in Salt Lake City, Utah, and the spring of the same year found our subject in the company of six comrades, jour- neying to Colorado for the purpose of en- gaging in mining. • This party camped on the present site of Denver, and Mr. Eokars remained there until 1861, mining and deal- ing extensively in mining stocks. After quitting Colorado he came to Iowa, ami found employment on a farm in Jasper County. Here he remained for some time. Mr. Eokars was united in marriage, Decem- ber 7, 1864, to Julia Piper, daughter of John and Jane Piper. She was born December 2, 1841. Her mother's maiden name was Deweese. After his marriage Mr. Eokars rented a farm for four years, and then pur- chased a farm of eighty acres in Jasper County. He remained on this place but a short time, however, and decided to try his fortunes in Shelby County. He bought forty acres of unimproved land in Douglas Town- ship, and immediately set to work to put it under cultivation. The same autumn he erected a comfortable dwellintr and boucrht another forty acres of wild land. He has continued to buy land until he now owns 650 acres of magniiicent farm land, under a very high state of cultivation. Mr. Eokars deals largely in live-stock, and to-day has one of the most convenient and complete stock farms in western Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Eokars came to Iowa at an early day, and have endured all the privations incident to the pioneer's life. They have by economy and industry sur- rounded themselves with comforts which they may well enjoy, and they have won a jwsition in the county of which they may well be proud. They are the parents of three chil- dren — Mary and Thomas (deceased), and Liz- zie, still living at home. They have taken two children to raise — William Hayes, now fourteen years old, and Hattie Piper, now ten years of age. Politically Mr. Eokars is a Re- publican, and has been officially identified with his township in many offices. He has served as a member of the county board of supervisors with credit to himself and the entire satisfaction of the people. He is an 434 HISTORY OF 8UELBY COUNTY. active member of Parian Lodge, No. 321, A. F. & A. M.; Olivet Chapter, No. 107, R. A. M., and Mt. Zion Commandery, No. 49, K. T., and of the Eastern Star. Mrs. Eokars is also a member of the Eastern Star. Mr. Eokars has been very successful in his deal- ing in live-stock, and a visit to his place will show that he is a thoroughly practical former who understands his calling. fOHN M. DUNLAP was born in Licking County, Ohio, March 16, 183.3. He is the son of John and Margaret (Kobin son) Dunlap, natives of Virginia and Ohio respec- tively. Until lit'teen years of age he lived in his native county, receiving the practical les- sons of a farmer's son. He was deprived the advantage of a literary education, but close observation, supplemented by a good supply of common sense, has more than made up for this lack of opportunity. When he was fifteen years old his parents moved to Peoria County, Illinois, where they lived for three years; thence they removed to Marshall County, Illinois. When our subject reached his ma- jority he started in business for himself, with nothing but pluck and ambition, which liave always remained with him. lie first engaged in the threshing business, which he followed for twenty-three seasons; in connection with this work he also carried on farming. Mr. Dunlap was married March 16, 1854, to Miss Mary J. Doran, a daughter of James and Rebecca (Maxwell) Doran, who was born in New Brunswick, July 13, 1830. They have had born to them twelve children — Augusta 13., wife of Alexander Mitchell; Elizabeth (deceased), George P., William D., Ethan (deceased), Jennie, wife of Wellington liarr; Margaret I., wife of C. Goodner; Laura, wife of Lewis Reed ; Sidney L., John A. (deceased), Louemma an(t Mary A. James Mitchell, a grandson, resides with Mr. and Mrs. Dunlap. In 1873 Mr. Dunlap removed his family to Iowa, settling in Polk County; here he re- mained six years, and in 1879 came to Shelby County, locating on section 1, Greeley Town- ship; his farm contained 240 acres of unim- proved land upon which he resided two years, making many valuable improvements. At the expiration of this time he sold this place and purchased 140 acres in section 24, Gree- ley Township; this land was under good cul- tivation and affords a comfortable home. Mr. Dunlap has held the office of township trus- tee, and affiliates with the Democratic party. He devotes himself to general agricultural pursuits, and makes a success of the most independent calling open to man. -3mH W. MEIER, of Fairview Township, section 17, is one of the prominent i® farmers of the township. He came to the county in 1877. He was born in Ger- many, September 15, 1842, and is a son of Clans and Anna Meier. Air. Meier was reared in his native country, and attended school until he was sixteen years of age. He then learned the trade of cabinet-making, and fol- lowed it for several years in different towns in Germany. In March, 1867, he sailed from Hamburg for New York, via Liverpool. From New York he came to Iowa, and worked in Davenport at his trade for three years. He then went into the salooti business for five years. In 1877 he sold this business and bought 160 acres of land in Shelby County. He has since added to it until he now has 440 acres of as fine land as lies in the county. He has a good house and a large barn, and cribs for grain. All the* surroundings are in good order, and show the industry and thrift BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 435 of tlie owner. Mr. Meier was married July 11, 1874, to Miss Dora Iluskainp, also a native of Germany. They have seven chil- dren — Henry C, Emmos L., Bertha D., Anna M., Delia C, W. C. and Rose. Mr. Meier is a Democrat. He is a man still in the prime of life, honest in business, and one of Shelby County's solid men. iLONZO JOHNSON was born in Onta- rio County, New York, October 27, 1837. He is a son of Eli and Betha- nia (Yates) Johnson, and resided in his native State until he was eighteen years old, when he went to Shiawassee County, Michigan. He was married July 3, 1861, to Martha A. Hart, of Michigan, a daughter of William and Sarah (Barnes) Hart. In February, 1863, Mr. Johnson enlisted in the Fifteenth Michi- gan Volunteer Infantry, Company I, for nine months. He was in the battlesof Grand Junc- tion, Tennessee, Snyder's Bluffs, Vicksburg; Chattanooga and Bridgeport, Alabama. He was taken prisoner in April, 1863, and was paroled by J. B. Montgomery, of Captain Sweet's company, S. C, approved by Gen- eral Chalmer. He was exchanged in three monthg. He was honorably discharged at the expiration of liis term of enlistment. He returned to Michigan where he lived until 1805; he then came to Iowa, settling in Pot- tawattamie County for three years. At the end of that time he came to Shelby County, and has since lived here. Mr. Johnson is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and has been since he was nineteen years old; he is an exhorter, and a licensed preacher in the church, and for many years has taken an active part in his Master's service. lie is a steward, class-teaeherand trustee in the Meth- odist Episcopal church at Avoca. Mr. John- son's political relations are with the Repub- lican party; he has served as assessor for nine years, and as justice of the peace for thirteen years. He is a member of the G. A. R., U. S. Grant Post, of Avoca. He is a member of the Masonic order, and a very prominent member of the I. O. O. F. lodije and en- campment. He served three years as D. D. G. Master, District No. 24, I. O. O. F.; four years as D. D. G. Patriarch, District No. 82, I. O. O. F., and represented the grand lodge of Iowa, I. O. O. F., in 1885 and 1886. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are the parents of six chil- dren — Emma C, Carrie B., Fred H., Charles E., Robert A., Hugh A. Sarah E. died in her eleventh year. Mr. Johnson has ever taken an active interest in educational, religious and political affairs, and is an honored citizen of Shelby County. TEPHEN WATTERBURY, deceased, was one of the old pioneers of Fair- view Township, having come to Shelby County in 1853. He was born in Rensselaer County, New York, March 25, 1814; he was the son of Daniel and Amy (Dickinson) Watterbury, both natives of New York. When Stephen was twelve years old his ])ar- ents removed to Onondaga County, New York, where he grew to manhood. He was reared on a fiirm and received his education in the common schools. lie was married December 15, 1836, to Miss Elizabeth Blaney, born in Rensselaer County, New York, July 14, 1815; she was a daughter of John and Sarah (Finch) Blaney; her parents were born near Albany, New York. In 1842 Steplien and his wife removed to Lee County, Illinois, where they lived for one year; then they moved to Rock Island County, Illinois, and lived there two years; then they came to 436 HISTOliY OF SHELBY COUNTY. Jackson County, Iowa, where they remained one year; they afterward lived in Jones and Clayton counties, and in 1853 came to Shelby County and settled on the place they have since occupied. When they first came to Shelby County they lived in the wagon until a rude log cabin 14 x 16 feet was built; here hospitality was dispensed with a liberal hand. The nearest store and postoffice was Council Bluffs. The bill of fare was corn bread and water, with an occasional piece of venison. In due time the log cabin disappeared and in its place there was a good frame house, at that time one of the best in the county. Mr. Watterbury built all the necessary buildings for successful farm-work- The farm consists of 300 acres of rich land, part in prairie and part in timber. Mr. and Mrs. Watterbury were the parents of seven children — Lewis, Daniel, Francis, Edward, Mary, wife of J. D. Watson of Nebraska; Amy, wife of O. B. Hill, of Omaha, and K. J. Mr. Watterbury was a Republican, and served as justice of the peace for several years. He was Captain of a military camp in New York. He was active in every good cause, made, many friends, and retained them. He was a kind husband and a loving father, and had the confidence of all who knew him. He and his wife lived together for forty-nine years. Mrs. Watterbury still lives on the old home- stead, where she has been for thirty-six years. Her son, li. J., has the management of tlie place. II. J. Watterbury is one of the enter- prising and successful farmers of Fairview Township. He is a son of Stephen Watter- bury, deceased, and Amy Watterbury, who still resides on the homestead. Here our sub- ject was burn March 28, 18G0, and iiere his youth was passed in doing farm-work, and in attending the common schools. R. J. Wat- terbury was united in marriage September 1, 1886, to Miss Lillie White, of Harlan, a daughter of M. White, and one of Shelby County's successful teachers. He now has charge of the homestead. He is an ardent Republican, a member of the Masonic order, Mt. Nebo Lodge, No. 297, Avoca, and of the Knights of Pythias, and although but a young man he has gained a good position in tlie county, and has a prospect for a long and useful life. -^ "(fc - ^ 'S- j) ' -^ fOHN ARMSTRONG, of Fairview Town- ship, is one of the leading citizens of Shelby County. In 1880 lie bought the James Long farm, four and a half miles north of Avoca, where he has since lived. He was born in Wayne County, Ohio, Jan- nary 24, 1838. He is a son of William and Mary (Rose) Armstrong, natives of Pennsyl- vania and Ohio. Of eight children John was the second. The parents lived till death in Wayne County, Ohio. John was reared on a farm and educated in the public schools. He was married December 19, 1861, to Miss Esther Ann Long, a native of Union County, Pennsylvania, born June 11, 1841, and a daughter of Ephraim and Sarah (Snook) Long. Mr. Armstrong lived in Ohio until 1880, when he sold his property and came to Shelby County, Iowa. His farm is among the best in the township; it contains 240 acres, a fine residence, erected at a cost of §2,000 in 1884. He has good buildings for stock, and a windmill that furnishes an abundance of water. Everything about the Armstrong farm shows thrift and energy. Mr. Arm- strong is engaged in farming and stock-rais- ing of a high grade. Mr. and Mrs. Armstrong have six children living — William E., of Holt County, Nebraska; Thomas F., Clarence E., John Sherman, Anabel and Benton Jas- per. Charles G. died at twenty years of age. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 437 Mr. Armstrong is a Republican. He is ge- nial in his disposition, and is one of the leading farmers in Shelby County. Mrs. Armstrong is a woman of refinement, and presides over her home with dignity and kind hospitality, and is a member of the Presby- terian church. Mr. Armstrong enlisted under Lincoln's lirst call for 75,000 men, in Com- pany E, Fourth Ohio, at Wooster, Ohio, but was retained at Columbus until the expi- ration of the time — three months. In 18G3 he again enlisted in the Home Guards, but did not see any active service. WILLIAM HOWLETT, Je.— Shelby County is indebted to England for one of her prominent and enterpris- ing citizens, although America has been his training-school. William Howlett, Jr., was born in Norfolk July 2, 1846, and is a son of William Howlett, Sr. He was nine years old when his father crossed the sea and came to America, and was only twelve years old when he came to Shelby County. His youth was passed at home in farm work and in at- tending school; he also worked at masonry for a time. Mr. Howlett was married De- cember 25, 1870, to Miss Mary E. Leslie, a native of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, and a daughter of Hugh and Rebecca Leslie. In 1872 they came to the farm where the family resided until March 13, 1889, when Mr. Howlett sold and bought adjoining Cor- ley. He and his wife are the parents of four children — F. O., Ord W., Rebecca M., and Jessie E. The great loss of Mr. Howlett's life was the death of his beloved wife, which occurred November 23, 1885. She was a woman of many virtues, a faithful and loving wife and a good mother. She was a consist- ent member of the Presbyterian church. Mr. Howlett is a Democrat, and one of Jlie wheel-horses of the party in the township. He has served as clerk of the township for eight years, and as school-treasurer for thir- teen years, with great honor. He is a mem- ber of the Masonic order. Mount Nebo Lodge, No. 297, Avoca; and a member of the Knights of Pythias of Harlan, No. 65. He is a man yet in the prime of life, and has already gained an enviable reputation in the county. -JM^. W. TROTTER is one of the well- known citizens of Fairview Town- '^WP^^ ship, having come to the county in 1871. He was born in Hendricks County, Indiana, December 27, 1839, and is a son of Wakefield Trotter, a native of Virginia, of an old Virginia family of English ancestry. His mother was Elizabeth Wilson, a native of Kentucky. His parents had four sons and four daughters, and he was the fifth child. He lived in Hendricks County until he was fourteen years old; the family then went to Grreen Bay, Wisconsin, and in 1852 to Jas- per County, Iowa. He was reared a farmer and educated in the public schools. He en- listed in 1861, in answer to the call for 200,- 000 men, in tiie Tenth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, Company I. He was in the battles of Charleston, lukaand Corinth, Mississippi, and was honorably discharged on account of disability. He returned to Jasper County, Iowa, and in 1864 went to Indiana and spent two years. In 1806 he moved to De Kalb County, Missouri, and lived there five years. In 1871 he came to Harlan and engaged in freighting goods from Avoca to Harlan ur.til 1875; he then bought his present farm. Some of it was broken, but he has built a good house, a barn, planted an orchard, and 438 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. improved the place in good style. He has 172 acres of valuable land. Mr. Trotter was married in Jasper County, in 1863, to Mrs. Martha O. Bleness, a native of Indiana, and a daughter of James and Sarah Broomhall. He and his wife are the parents of eight children — Thomas A., Cora A., James M., Orlando M., Ernest, Lulu Mjrtle, Emma Leota and Eranklin. Mr. Trotter is a Re- publican, and a strong one. He has served on the school board for ten years, and is a member of the G. A. E., Post No. 197, and a member of the Anti-horse-thief Association, No. 27. Mr. Trotter is a man well posted, and has traveled a good deal. He is honest and upright in all his dealings, and has the respect and confidence of his associates. fO.. RAMSAY, of Lincoln Township, is a native of Maryland. He was born ' May 28, 1839, and is a son of Hugh and Elizabeth (Wliiteford) Ramsay. His father was a native of Pennsylvania, and his mother of Maryland. James O. is the third of seven children. He was reared on a farm and received his education in the common schools. He was married January 15, 1863, to Miss Eliza M. Glassgow, a lady of intelli- gence and culture, born in Jo Daviess County, Hlinois. She is a daughter of James and Mary A. (Rice) Glassgow. Her grandfather, Thomas Rice, taught the first school in Galena, Illinois, and his daughter. Miss Alena Rice, taught the first deaf and dumb pupils in St. Louis, Missouri. Mrs. Ramsay's father located in Galena, Illinois, in 1827. She was edu- cated there and at Jacksonville, Illinois, and was a successful teacher previous to her mar- riage. Mr. Ramsay lived in Maryland until 1873, when he came to Shelby County, Iowa. He settled on wild prairie land, where he has since resided. ^ He has improved his farm from year to year, until he now has it under as good cultivation as any in the county. His first house cost §500, and was destroyed in a cyclone in 1877. The familyhad a nar- row escape, Mrs. Ramsay being badly hurt and all the rest more or less injured. The present house, built in 1884, at a cost of §1,600, is of modern style and well furnished, showing the refinement and culture of the inmates. There is a large barn, a windmill, and all the equipments of a first-class farmer. Mr. and Mrs. Ramsay have three children — Edith Alena, Evelyn Adelle and James Dow- ney. The two daughters have graduated in the Harlan common school, and are members of the Methodist Episcopal church of Harlan. Mr. Ramsay's political influence goes with the Democratic party. •°^ "a ' ^ ' ' ' ^" ~^ fP. GILMORE was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, October 2, 18i2. He is * a son of George Gilmore, a native of Ohio. His mother died when he was a child. His father moved to Jones County, Iowa, in 1850, and was one of the early settlers. J. P. Gilmore was reared on a farm, and re- ceived a limited education in the public schools. At Lincoln's call for 200,000 men he responded, enlisting in the Thirty-first Iowa Volunteer Infantry, Company G. He was first under tire at the first attack of Yicksburg. He was in the battle of Ar- kansas Post, and later, on account of disabil- ity, he was transferred to the Reserve Corps, and was sent to Rock Island, where he was on guard duty, guarding rebel prisoners until the close of the war. He was honorably dis- charged and returned to Jones County, Iowa. In 1872 he was married to Mrs. Margaret Blizzard, a widow with two sons — Willis and BIOORAPHIGAL SKETCHES. 489 Edward. In 1875 Mr. Gilinore came to Slielby County and bought wild land, paying $10 per acre. Since then he has bonglit forty acres more, and has improved all until he has a fine farm under excellent cultivation. He has a good house, a barn, grove and orchard. Mr. Gilmore has no children. Po- litically he is a Republican. He was formerly a member of the G. A. 11. He is yet in the prime of life, and has made for himself an enviable reputation among his neighbors and friends. ■ g ' 3 " f^ - jRVILLE COMSTOCK, one of the early settlers of Lincoln Township, was born in Chautauqua County, New York, June 2, 1833. He is the son of James Comstock, who was in the war of 1812. His ancestry is traced back to five brothers who came to America before the lie volution. Two of them, Daniel and Jason, were in tiie Revolu- tionary war. The mother of our subject was Maria Card, a native of New York. The parents moved to Venango County, Pennsyl- vania, when Orville was thirteen years old. Here he grew to manhood. He moved into the pine woods, and engaged in lumbering on the Allegheny and Ohio rivers for several years. He was the oldest of nine children. Two of his brothers were in the late war — Elihu, and George, who died of fever at Dal- ton, Georgia. Mr. Comstock was married March 4, 1856, to Miss Sarah Temple, born and reared in Pennsylvania. By this union one child was born — James, whose birthday is November G, 1858. After the death of his first wife, Mr. Comstock was married September 7, 1804, to Miss Mary S. Day, of Forest County, Pennsylvania. J'y this mar- riage one son, W. A. Comstock, was born March 29, 1868. Mr. Comstock separated from this wife October 12, 1869, and the following June obtained a divorce from her. Mr. Comstock was again married Auijust 29, to Hetty Hickson, a native of Guernsey County, Ohio, and a daughter of Elias and Mary A. Hickson. In 1862 Mr. Comstock went to Bureau County, Illinois, and in Feb- ruary, 1864, returned to Pennsylvania, and spent some time in Pennsylvania, New York and Virginia. In 1870 he settled in Harri- son County, Missouri. Afterward he went to Ford County, Illinois, and then returned to Harrison County, Missouri. In 1873 he settled on his present farm, which he has under fine cultivation. He has made all the modern improvements, and has a comfortable home. Politically he is a Democrat. Mr. Comstock, althougii fifty-six years of age, appears to be in the prime of life. He has a good memory, is a great reader, and is well posted on all subjects of general interest. He is honorable in business, and has the con- fidence and respect of all who know him. fHOMAS BACON, an extensive stock- raiser of Shelby County, was born in Morgan County, Illinois, March 5, 183G. He is a son of Elijaii and Anna (Kerr) Bacon. His father was a native of Tennessee, and his mother was born in Scot- land, and came to America when a child. They were married in Morgan County, Illi- nois, when that was a new country. Tliey had nine children. Tiiomas, one of a pair of twins, and Miss Emeline Miller, also one of a pair of twins, are the only surviving children. Thomas Bacon was reared on a farm and received his education in the puljjic schools. He lived at home until he was twenty-one years old. In 1861 he removed to the far west, Idaho, where he engaged in 440 HISTORY OF ISUELJSY COUNTY. freighting goods. From there he removed to Illinois, and then went to Saline County, Missouri, where he engaged in shipping stock until 1876, when he went to Washing- ton Territory, where he spent one year. He then came to Shelby County, Iowa, and bought his present farm, which was im- proved. He now owns 480 acres, and has one of the best stock farms in Shelby Count}'. He has a good two-story residence, a commodious barn and two windmills. He has a grove of thirteen acres, one of the best in the county. Everything manifests the excellent management and industry of the owner. Mr. Bacon was married October 28, 1875, to Miss Emeline Miller, of Poweshiek County, Iowa, a daughter of Jacob Miller. Mr. and Mrs. Bacon have three children — Tuda, Alice and Eichard M. Mr. Bacon gives his support to tiie Democratic party. He is a man yet in the prime of life, and has gained an enviable reputation socially and financially in the county. lENTON C. CUSTEK is one of the suc- cessful and enterprising citizens of Fair- view Township. He was but a babe when his father, Henry Custer, wiiose history will be found on another page, came to this county; here he has lived for thirty-live years; his youth, spent amid the wild surroundings of pioneer life, was occupied in farm work and in attending school. Arriving at the age of manhood he was married January 1, 1879, to Miss Laura McGee, who was born at Big Grove, Pottawattamie County, Iowa; she is a daughter of William and Eda (IIuS) McGee; the father is a native of Indiana, and the mother of Illinois. Our subject came to his present farm, which is a portion of the old homestead farm, in 1879; he now owns 320 acres of well-improved land, consisting of rich bottom lands and timber. Custer's Grove is on tiiis farm. He built his present house in 1878; it is a fine frame building of modern style, and well furnished; it is well located on an excellent building site, surrounded by a . grove of native trees. Mr. Custer is engaged in general farming, making a specialty of the better breeds of stock. He and his wife are the parents of five children — Grace E., Ger- trude G., Eva E., Eda Inez and Glen Dale. He isaIlepublican,andastrongone. Though but a young man he has gained an enviable reputation in the county, and is one of her best citizens. J^ANIEL WATTERBURY, of Fairview lifi Township, section 16, was born in Onon- daga County, New York, February 3, 1842; he is a son of Stephen Watterbnry, (deceased). He was eleven years of age when his parents came to Shelby County; he grew to manhood on the old homestead, spending his time on the farm and in attending school. During the late war he went to the defense of his country; he enlisted October 14, 1863, in the Ninth Iowa Cavalry, Company M, Colonel C. Trumbull commanding the regi- ment. Company M was organized Septem- ber 2, 1863, and was composed mostly of men from Wapello, Lee and Shelby counties; they went into camp at St. Louis, Missouri, and were there for some time; they were or- dered on scouting expeditions into Missouri, and acted as a safe-guard to the Union infan- try for awhile. Their heaviest engagement was probably at Clarendon, Arkansas. The regiment was at Duval's Bluff from June 25 to June 29, 1864, and in August of the same year liad had some sharp engagements with the eneiriy. Mr. Watterbnry was taken BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 443 prisoner in Searcy County, Arkansas, Sep- tember 6, 18G4, by Captain Keybnrn's men, of Shelby's brigade; lie was held three days and paroled; he went to St. Louis, Missouri, via Iron Mountain. December 25, 1864, he was sent by boat down the river to old Browns- ville, Arkansas, where he joined his regiment; he was then engaged for several months against the bushwhackers; he was honorably dis- charged February 3, 1866. After his discharge he returned to Shelby County and engaged in farming in section 21, Fairview Town- ship, where he lived until 1844, when he came to his present home known as the Mc- Keig farm. Mr. Watterbury now owns 340 acres of well improved land; the farm lies two and a half miles from Corley Station, and is one of the best in the township. He was married in September, 1872, to Miss Hannah McKeig, a daughter of Wesley McKeig and Salina McKeig. By this union two children have been born — Virgil and Effie Maud. Our subject is a Republican, a member of the U. S. Grant Post, of Avoca, a member of the Masonic Order, Mount Nebo Lodge, No. 297, of Avoca, and a member of the I. O. O. F., of Avoca. He is one of the solid men of the county. lAPTAIN D. C. COOPER, of the firm of Abbott & Cooper, grain dealers, Shelby County, Iowa, was born in Kiil- ingly, Windham County, Connecticut, Octo- ber 17, 1834. He is a son of Calvin and Harriet (Kies) Cooper. Calvin Cooper was the son of Calvin Cooper, Sr., a Baptist min- ister of the gospel, of English ancestry and Puritan stock. The mother was a native of Connecticut, and a daughter of William Kies. D. 0. Cooper is tiie only son of six children; his youth was spent in attending the common schools, and his education was finished in the West Killingly Academy. In 1854 he re- moved to Illinois and engaged in farming for one season. He returned to his native State and was married to Miss Theresa Adams, of Windham County, Connecticut; she is a daughter of Arba and Rachel Adams, natives of Connecticut. In 1855 Calvin Cooper and family removed to Bureau County, Illinois, and in 1856 D. C. Cooper followed them and engaged in farming, which he continued nntil the late war. In February, 1862, he enlisted in the Sixty-fifth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, Company E, serving in Virginia until he was made a prisoner of war at the surrender of Harper's Ferry, where he was paroled and sent to Camp Douglas, Chicago; tiiere he was ex- changed January 10, 1863, and ordered to Kentucky, serving as mounted infantry in the eastern part of the State, and also in western West Virginia. In August of that year he was ordered to Lexington, Kentucky, and was there included in the organization of the Twenty-third Army Corps, which formed a part of the Army of the Ohio under General Burnside, who afterward occupied East Ten- nessee. Captain Cooper took part in many active engagements; among the most noted are the siege of Knoxville, Blain's Cross Roads, and Dandridge. After the siege of Knoxville he suffered the hardships of the next winter's campaign, probably the most severe endured by any troops during the war. In March he was discharged as Orderly Ser- geant from the Sixty-fifth Illinois, at Knox- ville, to assist in the organization of the First United States Colored Artillery, and was commissioned as Senior Second Lientenant. During the summer of 1864 the regiment was engaged in building fortifications. Mr. Cooper was promoted to Senior First Lieutenant in the fail of 1864. After the surrender of General Johnson the regiment, then at Ash- 444 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. ville, North Carolina, was ordered to Knox- ville, thence to Chattanooga, to garrison the town and relieve northern troops. Lieuten- ant Cooper was ordered to Lookout Mountain as Captain of Company H, and was in com- mand there during the military occupation of that point. He was honorably disciiarged in the spring of 1866, and returned to Bureau County, Illinois; there he was occupied with teaching and farming for five years; during this time he was a member of the board of supervisors for two terms. He was elected to the office of superintendent of the Bureau County Infirmary, filling the position with credit to himself and the satisfaction of the public for nine years. In 1880 he resigned his position and came to Iowa, settling in Shelby County, in the town of Shelby. There he opened a grain business in partnership with Mr. S. D. Abbott. At the beginning of the business Mr. Abbott resided in Illinois. This business relationship has continued up to the present time, and the firm of Ab- bott & Cooper are well known as honorable, reliable business men; they do an extensive business, their elevator having a capacity of 15,000 bushels. Captain Cooper is also one of the hardware firm of D. C. Cooper & Company, which business is managed by his son-in-law, Mr. B. L. Watson. Besides this mercantile business, Captain Cooper has superintended the improvements of about 500 acres of land which he owns in Shelby Township. In 1882 he was elected a mem- ber of the council of the town of Shelby and served six years; in 1885 he was elected supervisor of Shelby County, and served three years, during the year 1888 acting as chairman of the board. At the present time he is mayor of the incorporate town of Shelby. He is one of the charter members of the Dick Yates Post, No. 364, G. A. R., and was for two years its commander. He is a mem- ber of Silentia Lodge, No. 371, A. F. «fe A. M.; of Princeton Chapter, No. 28, Princeton, Illinois; he is one of the charter members of Mount Zion Commandery, No. 49, and was captain general under the dispensation. Captain Cooper and his wife are members of the Presbyterian church at Slielby. — »' ^ ' 3"t * | '*~' ^^i;:ESLEY McKEICt.— One of the well- lli/v/l known, early pioneers was Wesley l^feS McKeig, who came to Shelby County in 1855 from Fountain County, Indiana, with his wife and two children. He was married in Indiana to Salina Aberaiithy. When he came here he settled in section 16, Fairview Township, where he improved an excellent farm and lived until his death. The farm contained 110 acres, of which twenty- five acres were timber land. AVesley McKeig and wife reared eight children — Sainantha, wife of Thomas Long; Hannah, wife of Dan- iel Watterbury; Lizzie, wife of Joseph Eustis; John, Charles, Alma and Alva, who are twins. Mr. McKeig was a strong, robust man, well suited to undertake the hardships of pioneer life. He was a Republican. He died in April, 1874, and his wife passed away in the same month, one week previous. John W. McKeig, of Fairview Township, was born July 20, 1861. He is a son of Wesley McKeig, and was reared on the old homestead. He received his educa- tion in the district schools of Slielby County. AVTien his parents died he lived with R. Custer for several years. He was married December 27, 1882, to Miss Maggie McConnell, who was born in Rock Island County, Illinois. She was a daughter of James and Sarah Mc- Connell. Mr. McConnell died in Harlan. Mr. McKeig has a good farm of 120 acres near Corley; he has a good house, and stables for stock, and a windmill; everything shows BIOORAPHIGAL SKETCHES. 445 the energy and industry of tlie owner. lie is a Republican and a member of the Anti- horse-thief Association of the township. Mr, and Mrs. McKeig have two children — Dale and llarrold. They are botli in the prime of life, and have the prospect of a long life of pros- perity and happiness before them. — •'^ "^ • S"i • !" -*" — r. HACK was born in the Hoosier State, Fountain County, October 20, 1853. Ilis parents were Albert and Mary Hack, natives of Kentucky and Indiana. In the autumn of 1854 the family came to Shelby County, and settled in the northeast of section 16, Fairview Township, where Al- bert Hack improved a farm and made a home. He improved fifty-two acres and owned 180 acres. He died June 29, 1859, aged thirty-one years. He left a wife and four children; two of the children are living — H. P. Hack, and Hannah M. Preston, wife of O. A. Preston. The two children not liv- ing were John, who died at the age of eight- een months, and Margaret, who died at the age of nineteen years. Mrs. Hack still re- sides on the old homestead where she first settled when coming to Iowa thirty-four years ago. H. P. Hack grew to manhood on the old home place, and remained there until he was twenty-three years old; his youth was spent in farm work and in attending the dis- trict school. Arriving at the age of man- hood he was united in marriage with Miss Phoebe S. Williams, of Fairview Township. She is a daughter of John and Loruhamah Williams. Mr. Hack located on his present farm in 1877, and has improved the wild prairie land until lie now has it under excel- lent cultivation. He has a good comfortable frame house, and buildiiiirs for stock and grain. His farm is located one-half mile southeast from Corley Station. Mr. and Mrs. Hack have one child — Venie, aged eight years. One child. Lulu, died in infancy. Mr. Hack is a Republicfui. He has been called to serve in most of the township offi- ces; he has been township clerk for two years and assessor for two years ; he has also served on the school board, and acquitted himself with credit in all these offices. He is a mem- ber of the Masonic order, Mount Nebo Lodge, No. 297, Avoca. He is the present secretary of the Anti-horse-thief Association of Fair- view Township. Mr. Hack has always lent his hearty support to all public enterprises, and is one of Shelby County's honorable, up- right and reliable citizens. H. BELL is one of the intelligent, wide-awake and well-known citizens ® of Fairview Township. He came to Shelby County, October 1, 1873. He is a native of Illinois, born in Menard County, February 14, 1846. He is a son of Robert and Lydia (Davis) Bell, both natives of Ken- tucky. Robert Bell was but six years of age when he was taken to Illinois, where he was reared and lived nntil his death, which occurred March 15, 1880. His wife still resides in Menard County. By this union seven children were born, of whom Gr. H. was the second and the oldest son. The father was a farmer, and our subject spent his youth at farm work on the homestead and in attending the common schools. He was afterward engaged in agricultural pursuits in jiis native county until 1873, when he de- cided to cast his lot in western Iowa. He came from Illinois to Iowa with a team and located on wild prairie land in Pottawattamie County; in 1875 he moved to Shelby County, and was one of the first settlers in tlie nuii'h- 446 HISTORY OP SHELBY COUNTY. borhood where he has since lived, and im- proved liis farm until it is now under a good state of cultivation. He has a good frame house, situated on a natural building site overlooking the surrounding country. There are good stables and barns for stock and grain; there is also an orchard and grove. Everything bespeaks the thrift and prosperity of the owner. Mr. Bell has also improved another farm in Shelby County. Mr. Bell was married April 2, 1874, to Miss Ellen Abernathey, of Putnam County, Missouri. She came to Shelby County when she was two years old ; she is a daughter of Kelloni and Elizabeth (Penner) Abernathey. Mr. and Mrs. Bell have two children — Corda A., born April 17, 1875, and Ely F., born April 1, 1879. Mr. Bell is a Democrat and has ever taken an active interest in his party. He has been called to serve as a member of the school board, and was elected assessor in the fall of 1888. He is a member of the Anti- horse-thief Association, No. 35, aud is also vice-president. Mr. Bell is a member of the Evangelical Association of Harlan, as are also his wife and daughter, lleligion and educational enterprises have always found a ■liberal supporter in Mr. Bell. He is still in the prime of life; he is genial in his disposi- tion, honest and upright in business, and has tlie respect and confidence of all who know him. - * • -% • 3 »' i ' ^" ' " • — ■ fC. MANSFIELD, proprietor of Spring- dale Farm, Shelb}' Township, is one of * the early settlers, having come to the county in 1872. He is a native of the Buck- eye State, born in Harrison County, Septem- ber 22, 1847. He is a son of Richard and Elizabeth (Shimers) Mansfield. Mr. Mans- field was reared to farm life, and was edticated in the common schools. Durinsr the late war he was one of the first of the many gallant patriots to go to the defense of his country's flag. He enlisted January 27, 18C2, when but fifteen years of age. He was in the Seventy-fonrth Ohio Infantry, Company G. He was first under fire at Gallatin, Tennes- see, and was in the battle of Stone Biver, and was wounded December 31 by a gun- shot in the right leg. He was confined to the hospital at Nashville, Louisville, and Quincy, Illinois. He rejoined his regiment at Murfreesboro. He took an active part in the Tullahoma campaign, in the battle of Chickaraauga, the siege of Chattanooga, and the campaign of Atlanta, when he was under fire four months. He went through the Carolinas to Washington, and was present at the grand review. He was honorably dis- charged at Louisville, Kentucky, and mus- tered out of the service at Camp Denison, Ohio, in July, 1865. He then returned to Harrison County, Avhere he remained one year. He then went to Illinois and Tived in McLean and Logan counties until 1867, when he came to Mahaska County, Iowa. Here he lived until 1872, when he settled on the land which is his present home. It was then wild and unimproved, but to-day Springdale Farm is one of the finest in the county. There is a good house, barns for stock and grain, and a grove and orchard. A strong, pure spring supplies the stock with water. Mr. Mansfield has twenty-six head of thoroughbred short-horns of good pedigree, that cannot be excelled in the county. June 24, 1871, Mr. Mansfield was married to Miss Sophia E. CoflSn, of Oscaloosa, Iowa, a daughter of Samuel CotHn, Esq. They have four children — Elizabeth Ann, Flora E., Nel- lie G. and Mary Clyde. Mr. Mansfield is a Republican, and a member of the G. A. R., Dick Yates Post, No. 364. He has ever BIOORAPHIGAL SKETCUBS. 447 shown a public spirit, and is among the fore- most in every laudable enterprise. lie is still in the prime of life, is genial and hos- pitable in his disposition, honest and upright in bis dealings, and has the confidence and respect of all who know him. "' " ' £ ' 1 ' ' S ' ^" ' " — F. CHRISTOPHER, proprietor of , w wi the Shelby harness shop, is one of l^'^rri '■* the live, active business men of the town. He is successor to J. C. Garmong, who was in business some time at the same stand. The harness business was started in Shelby by William Campbell and passed through several changes previous to Mr. Garmong's owner- ship. The present proprietor carries a full line of harness goods, such as will be found in a first-class harness shop. He does a trade of $2,500 to $3,000 per annum. "W. F. Christopher is a native of Germany; he was born August 21, 1853, and is a son of John and Mary Christopher. The family came to America in the fall of 1864, landing at Castle Garden, New York. They settled in Sche- nectady County, New York, where our sub- ject grew to manhood; he passed his youth in farm work and in attending the common schools. At fourteen years of age he began the trade of harness-making at Glenville, New York; later he worked at Amsterdam, New York, and finished his trade at Utica, New York, in the autumn of 1874, when he re- moved to Kansas, where lie spent some time. He went to the Black Hills during the gold excitement in 1875; in July of the same year he came to Shelby and went to work at his trade. After a time he accepted a position in Council Bluffs, where he had charge of one of the largest shops in the city, C. I'eckman being the proprietor. In 1882 he bought the interest of the proprietor of the Shelby har- ness shop and took charge of the business. He is a thoroughly practical workman and a good judge of the stock used in his business. He was married December 31, 1881, to Miss Mary Sandal, of Council Bluffs, Iowa. They have two children — William and Albert. Po- litically Mr. Christopher is a Republican; he served in the town council four years; he is a member of the I. O. O. F., Canopy Lodge, No. 401, and has served as treasurer several years. Though but a young man he stands high politically and financially. •^ "^ •■ 3 *' i ' j!" "^ D. ABBOTT is one of tiie well-known business men of Shelby. He came to " the town in 1882. He is a native of Monroe County, New York, born September 30, 1835. He is a son of Calvin and Char- lotte (Clement) Abbott, natives of Vermont. They were the parents of eight children, our subject being the youngest of five sons and three daughters. He lived in his native county until he was seventeen years of age, spending the time in farm work and in attending school. He finished his education at Hanover, Indiana, and then taught eight years in Kentucky. There he was known as the Yankee schoolmaster from the North, and on account of his firm Union sentiments, so antagonistic to the rebel sentiments, he returned to the North, to Bureau County, Illinois. He settled at Mineral, and engaged in teaching and farming. In 1874 he en- gaged in the lumber and grain business, and continued this until he came to Shelby. Mr. Abbott was married in Spencer County, Ken- tucky, October 8, 1863, to Miss Indiana Henry, a lady of intelligence, a daughter of David and Hannah (lirown) Henry. Mr. and Mrs. Abbott have four children — Homer, Edwin Hardy, Hannah May and Clement 443 niSTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. Henry. They have given their children the advantage of a good education at Oberlin College in Ohio. Mr. Abbott is a strong Republican, and in Bureau County, Illinois, served as county supervisor. lie is one of the active, working members in the Presby- terian church at Shelby, and is an elder of the same. He has always taken an active interest in the Sabbath-school work. Any enterprise that has for its object the educa- tional and religious advancement of the county meets with his hearty support. •"■•■ ai ' 3 " S ' ^"- ' G. OSBORN, Township Trustee, came to Shelby in the spring of 1877. He ■^'^ was born in Bedford County, Penn- sylvania, July 5, 1826, a son of Christopher Osborn, who was a native of the same county, and whose ancestry goes back to William Penn's colony to Pennsylvania, when the first Osborn came to this country. The mother of our subject was Mary Griffith, of German and Welsh origin. Mr. Osborn was reared in his native county, and passed his j'outh in farm- ing and attending the common schools of that day. Arriving at the age of manhood he was married to Rosanna Foster January 23, 1851; she was born and reared in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, a daughter of Ben- jamin and Hannah Foster. Mr. Osborn lived in Pennsylvania until 1856, when he removed to Kosciusko County, Indiana. In June, 1857, he went to Knox County, Illinois, where he lived until 1868, when lie came to Iowa, h)cating in Johnson County, near Iowa City; here he lived until he came to Shelby. The first year he lived north of the town three miles, then he bought land and built where he now lives. He has a good one and a half story house, located on a tine building site, from which one has a fine view of the town and surrounding country. He has a grove and orchard, and everything indicates the thrift and wise management of the proprietor. He owns forty-one acres in the town limits. Mr. and Mrs. Osborn have five children living — Mary Frances, wife of Henry Foster, of Bird City, Kansas; Lemuel E., who is a farmer and lives four miles in Harrison County; William P., a photographer of Shelby; Wesley E., a farmer of Woodbury County, Iowa; Sarah Belle, at home. Mrs. Osborn and three of the children are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Osborn is a Republican, casting his vote first for Zach Tay- lor. He has served on the council, and was elected township trustee in the fall of 1888. He is honorable and upright in business, and the family are esteemed and respected by all. K . . . . .. £ . 3 11 1 . ^ 1.. ... ILLIAM KLEEB was born in Green it r/ \1W County, Wisconsin, May 16, 1851, l*"^Tl and is the son of John and Barbara Kleeb, whose history will befound elsewhere in this work. He was the oldest of a family of eleven children, and until his sixteenth year he resided in Fayette County, Iowa, working on a farm and attending the common schools. In 1867 he came with his parents to Shelby County, and settled in Washington Town- ship. In October, 1879, he was married to Miss Julia F. Wheeler, daughter of Monroe and Mary E. (Washlnirn) Wheeler; she was born in Waukesha County, Wisconsin, Au- gust 19, 1855, and came to Iowa in 1879. They are tlie parents of four children — Arthur W., Blanche E., Harry W. and Gladys L. After Mr. Kleeh's marriage he settled on a farm of eighty acres in section 34, Grove Township, and has since made this his home. When he bought the land it was uncultivated and unimproved, but he has brought it up to ^ i BIOORAPHICAL SKETCHES. 451 a high state of cultivation, and has erected large and comfortable buildings. He has purchased the adjoining eighty acres, so his farm now contains 160 acres. Mr. Kleeb is energetic and enterprising, and stands in the front ranks of Shelby County's fanners. He affiliates with the Union Labor party, and has held the office of school director. The family are numbered among the respected and worthy citizens of the county. — "♦■ > ' § • 3 " ; 'j i "-^ — B. OLSON", a native of Norway, born April 6, 1818, is the son of Barry and Jorena(Torstenson) Olson. When he was eleven years old his parents came with three other children to America. At the end of one year they came to Mahaska County, Iowa, New Sharon being thepostoffice. They purchased a farm where they resided until 1875. In 1873 T. B. came to Shelby County and purchased of the railroad company in section '6, of Lincoln Township, a fractional forty acres of unimproved land; the nearest neighbor at that time was two miles distant. Here he erected a small house in which he lived until 1883. In the meantime he had bought an adjoining forty acres; in 1883 he purchased his present home in section 13, Douglas Township, which was but partially improved; he has since placed it under good cultivation and made many improvements. He was married March 23, 1872, to Miss Stena Larson, a daughter of Lars and Stena Larson; she was born in Norway, Feb- ruary 25, 1852, and came with her parents to America about the year 1864, locating first in Henry County, Iowa, and afterward re- moving to Mahaska County. Here she met Mr. Olson. She died March 19, 1885; she was a good wife and mother, assisting her husband through all his early life in the hard- ships and struggles to gain for-them a home. They started in married life with comparatively nothing, having only a team of horses and willing hands. They are the parents of seven children — Joseph L., Benjamin F., Stella E., Henry M., Leroy, Albert and Amy. Tiie last two are twins; they are all at home. Mr. Olson was elected county supervisor in 1886, in which capacity he still serves. He is a staunch Republican. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and of the Farmers' Alliance. His father died in 1886, and since that time his mother has made her home with him. ►3*^ W. COX, farmer and stock-raiser, resides on section 27, Harlan Town- ® ship. He was born in Hendricks County, Indiana, March 6, 1843, and is a son of J. M. Cox, a minister well known to the citizens of Harlan, and Mary (Trotter) Cox. W. W. was a lad of seven years when his father went to Wisconsin, and lived there two years; then the family came to Jasper County, Iowa, where our subject grew to manhood. He was trained to a farmer's occupation and was educated in the common schools. He was married in Jasper County, July 28, 1864, to Miss Lucinda E. Woody, a native of Law- rence County, Indiana, who came to Jasper County with her parents at the age of seven years. Her father and mother were James W. and Asenath (Meglemer) Woody. In 1868 Mr. Cox came to this county and bought forty acres of land and built a small frame house. Now things are changed; the small dwelling lias been replaced by a fine residence built in modern style, and there are 189 acres of land in the farm. In 1886 Mr. Cox did his building at an expense of $1,600; there are barns for stock and grain, and all the sur- roundings indicate the prosperity and thrift 452 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. of the owner. Mr. Cox is engaged in general farming and stock-raising. He and his wife are the parents of .eight children — James M., Mary A., John M., Harvey B., William A., Olive Lillian, Carl M. and Laura Daisy. Mr. Cox has formerly affiliated with the Dem- ocratic party, but in 1888 he voted the Union Labor ticket. He is one of the leading citi- zens of the township, and has the confidence and respect of all who know him. [EORGE HAWLEY, a native of Sanga- mon County, Illinois, was born Sep- tember 14, 1824, and is the son of Pierce and Sarah (Schrader) Hawley, pioneer settlers of Illinois. He was reared in the county of his birth, and remembers the time when Springfield was a hamlet and Chicago was supplied with but one store. He was in his fourteenth year when his parents retnoved to Caldwell County, Missouri; there they re- mained over a year, and then on account of their religious faith, that of the Latter Day Saints, they were compelled to leave the State. In company with the total church membership they returned to Illinois, and re- crossed the river to Lee County, Iowa; there they resided three years and then removed to Black River Falls, "Wisconsin. There they lived for one year and then went to Texas. During their stay in Texas the first jail was erected in the city of Austin, and our subject was one of the principal workmen. Although reared to farm life he learned the carpenter's trade, and made it his chief occupation. Mr. Hawley was married July 4, 1846, to Ann Hadfield, daughter of Samuel and Mary A. Hadtield. She was born in England, April 14, 1830, and at the age ot twelve years came to America. Mrs. Hawley died Septeml)er 16, 1887. When Mr. Hawley was married his brother Johr> and his sister Priscilla were married with the same ceremony, at the same time, in the church at Austin, Texas, by Lyman Wright, one of the apostles of the church of the Latter Day Saints. After his marriage Mr. Hawley continued to reside in Texas until 1854, when he removed to the Cherokee Nation, and there engaged in mill- building for two years. In 1856 he removed to Utah Territory, settling in Pine Valley, Washington County; there he engaged in the saw-mill and lumber business — the manufact- ure of looms, spinning-wheels and reels. He made this his home for fourteen years, and in 1870 he came to Grove Township, Shelby County, and settled on an unimproved farm of 140 acres. He has made all the improve- ments necessary to a comfortable home, and has placed the land, which he has increased to 180 acres, under good cultivation. Mr. Hawley is a Democrat, and has represented his township as trustee. For forty-five years he has been an elder in the church of the Latter Day Saints, and his family are also members of the same society. Mr. and Mrs. Hawley are the parents of eleven children — Martha (deceased), George C. (deceased), Mary L. (deceased), wife of O. E. Holcomb; Maroni (deceased), Gideon M., Rosina, wife of David Jenkins; Sarah, wife of Benjamin Parker; Isaac L., Joseph, Lillian E., and William, at home. fA. ALBERTUS, of Portsmouth, is a prominent and well-known dealer in " imported horses. He makes a specialty of English shire horses, and has spent much time and money in introducing valuable breeds into western Iowa and Nebraska. He has been very successful in this business, and is known as one of the best judges of draft lilOGHAPUICAL SKETCHES. 433 horses in the county. He and his brother were among the iirst to bring imported horses into the county; they have bought and sold many valuable horses, and are well known for their strictly honorable dealing. J. A. Al- bertus was born in Sauk County, Wisconsin, July 26, 186'3, and is the son'of F. D. Al- bertus, a prominent citizen of Panama, Iowa. In 1874 he came to Shelby County and there grew to manhood, receiving the advantage of a public-school education. In 1886 he was married to Miss Louisa Williams, of Ports mouth. The result of this union has been two children — Maria and Robfert G. In pol- itics Mr. Albertus stands with the Republi- can party. He is of a genial disposition, and has won an enviable position in the business circles of Portsmouth. I ' S i' S ' l" ""— - lEV. JOSEPH B. IIUMMERT was born in Quincy, Illinois, March 25, 1860. ^^* He is the son of John and Elizabeth (Lubecke) Hummert, who came from Han- over, Germany, their native place, to Amer- ica about the year 1849. They iirst resided in St. Louis, Missouri, and in 1852 removed to Quincy, Illinois, where they still reside. Joseph Ij. was the fifth of a family of ten chiliren. His primary education was re- ceived in the private Catholic schools of Quincy, Illinois, and when he had attained his thirteenth year he studied one year under the private tutorship of Father Reinhart, of Quincy. He then took a thorough classical and philosophical course at St. Francis Semi-* nary, near Milwaukee, Wisconsin. His the- ology he studied at St. Mary's Seminary, Baltimore, Maryland. He graduated in 1885, and in September of the same year he was ordained from this institution, by his pastor, the Right-Rev. H. Cosgrove, at Davenport, Iowa. Soon after his ordination he entered into active ministerial work, as assistant to the Rev. J. C. White, at Marengo, Iowa. In November of the same year he was sent to take charge of the missions at Portsmouth, Panama and Earling. During the first year, as pastor of these missions, he resided in Portsmouth, and erected a church and par- sonage in that place. At the expiration of this year his residence was changed to Earl- ing, by the Right-Rev. Bishop, where he now resides. Being the first pastor sent to these missions, he found them destitute of church property. During the time he has been with these congregations, two churches, one at Portsmouth and one at Panama, have been erected, and a good two-story building has been erected at Earling, which is used for school and church purposes. For the present the church services are held in the upper story, and the lower floor is devoted to the school and residence of the Franciscan Sisters who have charge of the school. The scliool at this time numbers over 100 pupils. The congregation at Earling are planning to erect a commodious church building the coming year, 1890, at a cost of $20,000. They have an elegant parsonage, built in 1888, at a cost of $2,000. It has eight rooms, is heated by a furnace, and does credit to the congregation at Earling. The Rev. Father Hummert has labored with untiring zeal in behalf of his congregation, and has been repaid by seeing a growing interest and increasing eflbrts on their part in the cause which lies so near his own heart. (9 • < 9) HARLES ROBINSON, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Champaign County, Ohio, July 11, 1824, and is the son of Asa .and Hannah (Strattan) Robr 454 UISTORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. inson, natives of Virginia and West Virginia respectively. Being a farmer's son, our sub- ject was reared to that occupation, and re- ceived his education in the common schools. At the age of fifteen years he removed with his parents to Iowa, settling in Jones County, where he remained one year, and then went to Cedar County. Here Mr. Robinson, Sr., resided until his death, which occurred in 1862. His wife liad died in Ohio, when our subject was thirteen years old. Charles re- mained with his father until he was twenty- seven years old, when he was married and removed to Jones County, Iowa. His mar- riage to Miss Elizabeth T. Reynolds occurred March 7, 1851. She is a daughter of Will- iam and Nancy (Forgey) Reynolds, natives of Tennessee, and was born in Vermilion County, Illinois, September 9, 1838. Mr. and Mrs. Robinson are the parents of nine children — Nancy E., wife of John Easterly; John W., Hannah L. (deceased), Lincoln A., Laura A., wife of George Casey, Clemence M., wife of Horatio Sykes; Eliza, wife of Asa E. White; Theresa J. and Charles A. Mr. Robinson resided in Jones County until 1875, when he removed to Shelby County and settled on a farm of 160 acres of partially improved land, three miles southwest of Har- lan. Here he made his home for six years, when he purchased 120 acres of wild land in Greeley Township. This he has greatly im- proved by erecting a fine frame residence and buildings for stock and grain, and plant- ing two acres of grove. Since his first pur- chase Mr. Robinson has added eighty acres to his farm, making his farm 200 acres, all of which is under the finest cultivation. Mr. Robinson is a man of push and energy, which is shown by his beautiful home and its surroundings. He has done much toward the improvement and advancement of the county, and well deserves the position and respect which *lie commands in the com- munity. Mr. Robinson has met with his share of adversity. In 1860 all his pos- sessions, except his land, were swept away in the great tornado, and one season his crops and orchard were ruined by a hail storm, but despite all this his energy and courage never forsook him, and to-day he is enjoying the fruits of his labors. He is a member of the Republican party, and has served on the board of education and as road supervisor. Mr. and Mrs. Robinson are worthy members of the Christian church. ?L. STANLEY, proprietor of the pioneer meat market of Harlan, started the * business in that place in the spring of 1871, and continued in the trade until 1881. He then sold the business and engaged in farming in Jackson Township until 1887, when he returned to Harlan and re-engaged in this occupation. This market affords an excellent assortment of all kinds of meat, fish and vegetables in tlieir season. Mr. Stanley has a good trade which he has won by fair and upright dealing. The subject of this notice was born in Louisa Couuty, Iowa, June 12, 1837, and is the son of T. J. and Rachel (Hoskins) Stanley, natives of Virginia and Ohio respectively. The parents were among the first settlers of Louisa County, and when J. L. was five years old they removed to Whiteside County, Illinois, in which place he w'as reared and educated. In 1860 he re- 'turned to Jefl'erson County, Iowa, and there resided until he came to Harlan. Mr. Stan- ley was married in 1864 to Miss Lucinda Hodgen. They are the parents of nine chil- dren — Henrietta, Lemuel, James, Isaac, Charles, Elizabeth, John, Elsie and a baby girl. In politics Mr. Stanley affiliates with BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 457 the Democratic party. He and his, wife are members of the Cliristian church. SllEDEKICK W. LOEHE, farmer and stock-raiser, and dealer in agricultural implements at Earliiig, under the firm name of Loehr & Langeufeld, has been iden- tified with the interests of Shelby County since 1873. He was born in Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin, January 26, 1850, and is the son of Quirin and Dora T. (Strabul) Loehr, nati\'es of Prussia. The father came to America when eighteen years old, and the mother came when about fifteen years of age_ They were both reared in Wisconsin, and after their marriage settled in Fond du Lac County, where Mr. Loehr engaged in the mercantile business. The youth of our sub- ject was spent on the farm, in the store and iu the common schools, where he received his early education; he afterward attended Call- away College. He resided with his parents until his marriage to Annie May Langenfeld, which occurred in November, 1872. The fol- lowing spring he came to Iowa and purchased 830 acres of wild land in Westphalia Township; then there was but one house between Har- lan and Galland's Grove. He returned home the following year and moved his family to the county. He built a shanty, and broke forty acres of ground the first year; thus the improvement of his farm began, and by liard work and good management he has one of the finest farms in the county. In early days Mr. Loehr had to haul his grain to and drive his live stock to Shelby, Avoca, or Dunlap; at the latter place he has received 17 cents a bushel for corn, and 2 cents per pound for hogs. Mr. Loehr pursued the occupation of farming and stock-raising until the fall of 1888, when he engaged in the sale of farm- ing implements. Mr. and Mrs. Loehr are the parents of seven children — Quirin E., Dora, Jacob, Johannah, Nicholas, Catharine and Mary. He and his wife are members of the German Catholic church and attend the serv- ice at Westphalia. Mr. Loehr has served as township trustee, and on the board of school directors. Several times he has been elected to the office of justice of the peace, but never qualified. He was elected first trustee of the township. In the fall of 1887 he was elected supervisor of the county, and is the present incumbent of the office. C. POTTER was born in Whiteside County, Illinois, Sep.tember 22, 1854, and is a son of Martin and Salina (Perry) Potter, natives of the State of New York. He was reared and educated in his native county. September 2, 1875, Mr. Pot- ter was married to Miss Ph(i?be Richmond, daughter of Daniel Richmond. The result of this union is five children — Wyman, Edna, Glenn M., Hazel K. and Grace. Mr. Polter is proprietor of one of the leading blacksmith and wagon shops in Harlan; he has had thir- teen years' experience in the business, and thoroughly understands conducting it suc- cessfully and to the best interests of his patrons. He is in the prime of life, and is among the highly esteemed business men of Harlan. Mr. Potter is a member of the I. O. O. F., No. 267. 'T»-»r^,«» J. RAMSAY, proprietor of a meat market on the south side of the S(|uare, * Harlan, deserves and receives tlie pat- ronage due a well-kept market. He is a practical and experienced butcher, and is a 458 UISTOltY OF SHELBY COUNTY. popular and reliable business man. Mr. Ramsay was born in Maryland, March 2G, 1852, and is the son of Hugh C. and Eliza- beth ( Whitford) Ramsay. He was reared and educated in his native State, and at the age of twenty-seven years emigrated to Iowa, re- maining in Lincoln Township, Shelby County, for a few months. After this short residence in Iowa, lie went to northwestern Missouri and lived there a few years. Not yet satis- fied with the different sections of the west he had visited, he went to Saunders County, Ne- braska, which was his residence until he came to Harlan in 1888. Mr. Ramsay was married at the age of twenty-nine years to Miss Anna C. Dayman, of Saunders County, Nebraska. They are the parents of two children — Eliza- beth and Raymond. Politically Mr. Ram- say affiliates with' the Democratic party. G. FAY was born April 24, 1853, in Tama County, Iowa. He is a son of l® John and Ann (Dearborn) Fay, who were pioneers of Tama County, there being only nine white settlers in the county when they came there. John Fay was a native of Pennsylvania, and his wife was born in Indi- ana. When R. G. Fay was five years old he was taken to Indiana for a time, and after- ward to Missouri. He lived in Clark County, Missouri, for several years, being reared to the occupation of a farmer, and attending the public schools. Not being satisfied with a farmer's calling he went to Mechanicsville, Iowa, and there learned the carpenter's trade. In 1882 Mr. Fay came to Harlan, and en- gaged in contracting and building, employing several workmen in the business. At the present time he is dealing in coal, agricult- ural implements, wagons and road-carts; he sells over 150 car loads of coal annually, and transacts a lafge business In the other lines of his trade. He is a live, energetic man, and is one of the pushing citizens of Harlan. Mr. Fay was married in 1882 to Miss Catha- rine Miller. AMUEL SLATES, a native of Carroll County, Ohio, born November 12, 1826, is the son of Conrad and Hannah (Funk) Slates, both natives of Virginia. He was reared on a farm and was educated in the common schools of the day, school then being held in an old-fashioned school-house, built of logs; the educators corresponded with the house, being of the crudest sort. When he had attained his majority he karned the coop- er's trade, which he followed in connection with farming and carpentering for about eighteen years in Ohio and Indiana. He was married December 2, 1847, to Miss Mary Long, who died April 24, 1856; by this union four children were born — Jeremiah, Franklin, William P. (deceased), and Mary. He re- mained in Carroll County about seven years after his first marriage, when he removed to Putnam Coutjty, Ohio, and then returned to Carroll County; from there he went to Union County, thence to Martin County, Indiana. While in Indiana he met and married Lucre- tia Summers; she was born March 12, 1830, and died November 15, 1881. Seven children resulted from this marriage — Sarah A., John, Hannah, Alice, Samuel and Edward; one died in infancy. In 1866 he came to Siielby County, Iowa, with his family, and settled in section 18, Douglas Township, on an eighty- acre tract of wild land; he has gradually in- creased his estate until he owns 800 acres of Shelby County's land. He has made many improvements and has made a success finan- cially, lie was married for the third time lilOGliA PUWAL SKETCHES. 459 June 8, 1882, to Sarah Thomas. He is a member of the Masonic order, and of tlie Methodist Episcopal church. Jeremiah Slates, the oldest son of Samuel and Mary Slates, was born in Carroll County, Ohio, October 7, 1848; when he was ten years old his father moved to Indiana, and afterward to Iowa. They settled on a wild piece of prairie land, and have done much to improve and cultivate it. Mr. Slates was reared to farm life and has always followed it. When a young man he learned the cooper's trade under bis father, but never followed it; he is also a practical carpenter, having erected all of his own build- ings, whicli are neat and substantial. He has a pleasant home, a fine farm house, and barns for stock and grain; he has planted a grove and an orchard. He has 320 acres of good land in sections 9 and 10, which has been improved mostly by himself. He is one of the pioneer farmers of the county, and has undergone most of the hardships incident to pioneer life. He devotes himself to farming and stock-raising, and his surroundings indi- cate that he is a man of push and ambition. He was married March 5, 1876, to Ida Baker, daughter of R. E. and Almira Baker; Mrs. Baker's maiden name was Riddle. Mrs. Slates was born in Starke County, Illinois, February 4, 1858. They have four children — George R., Richard A., Harry II. and Pluma E. Mr. Slates has held the office of road su- pervisor and has served on the school board. He takes an active interest in educational affairs, and everything tending to the advance- ment of the county. He is a Republican. ^ ' 3"I ' 2 Iv-yRANK CROUCH has been a resident of the State of Iowa since 1871, with the exception of three years spent in Ne- braska. He was born in Saratoga County, New York, August 18, 1815, and is a son of Samuel and Sarah Crouch. He was reared to the occupation of a farmer, and received the advantage of a common-school education. When there was a call for men to defend the flag of this nation, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Forty-second Infantry, Com- pany G, and served his country faithfully for one year, when he was honorably discharged. He lived in Carroll County, Illinois, until 1869, when he removed to Eldora, Iowa. He remained there one year and then went to Tama City, Iowa, making that place his home until 1871. He then came to Shelby County, and engaged in farming until 1884. It was at this time that he went to Burt County, Nebraska, and resided three years. Upon liis return to Harlan he became the proprietor of the livery, feed and sale stables one block cast of the southeast corner of the square. This livery barn was built in 1880 by Swain & Brazee, and has room for 120 head of horses. Mr. Crouch keeps a good supply of horses and carriages, and is deserving of the popularity he has won. He was married No- vember 27, 1872, to Addie Tnrpin, of Shelby County; the result of tliis union is three children — Jessie, Earl and Pardon. Politi- cally Mr. Crouch afiiliates with the Republican party. He is a member of the G. A. R., Harlan Post, and is a member of the Baptist church. i^^\ tORENS JACOBSON, one of the enter- prising farmers of Slielby Township, came here in 1872. He was born in Denmark, March 15, 1844, a son of Peter and Catherine (Christianson) Jacobson. He lived in his native place until he was twenty-three years of age; he went to school until he was fourteen years old, when he worked on a 460 UISrOKT OF SHELBY COUNTY. farm. In 1867 lie sailed from Copenhagen to Leach, Scotland, then via Liverpool, Eng- land, to New York, landing at Castle Garden, lie first went to New Jersey, where he worked on a farm for a time; then he went to Long Island, then to Connecticut, and from there to Minnesota, where he remained for a short time. His last move was to Jas- per County, Iowa, where he worked one year. With his brother Andrew he came to Shelby County, driving an ox team. The first sea- son he broke prairie, and in the fall went to Adair County, Iowa, where he lived until 1872, when he came to Shelby County again. In 1874: he settled on the land where he now lives. It was wild prairie when he came here, but he has made a good farm of it. He has eighty acres, a good story and a half house, a barn, sheds for cattle and cribs for grain. Everything shows industry and thrift. Mr. Jacobson was married in Shelby County, October 24, 1870, to Miss Mary Jacobson, who was born in Denmark. She came to this country when she was eighteen years old. She was a daughter of Nels and Mary Jacobson. By this marriage eight children were born — Anna, Peter, Louie, Tina, Chris- tian and Winnie. Two children died — An- drew, seven years old, and Willie, eighteen months old. Our subject is a Republican. He has served as school director. He is in the prime of life, is kind to all, honest in his business transactioiis, and one of the success- ful farmers in the township. .EWIS W. FEY, a native of Franklin County, Indiana, was born April 24, 1865. He is the third child of Daniel and Rachel Fry. His childhood was passed in his native county until his seventh year, when his parents removed to Shelby County, Iowa; here h^ has since made his home, with the e.xception of three years spent in Avoca and Denison, Iowa. During this time he was engaged in the practice of veterinary surgery. Mr. Fry was brought up on a farm, and received the training usually given farm- ers' sons. His literary education was obtained in the common schools. At the age of four- teen years he began the study of veterinary surgery, and applied himself with great zeal to mastering this profession. lie took a thorough coarse of lectures, and when he embarked in the profession he was probably as well equipped as any man entering the business. He practiced three years, but owing to ill-health he was obliged to abandon liis work. He then turned his attention to breeding and raising fine grades of live-stock. His thorough knowledge of veterinary sur- gery is of great advantage to him in this business. Mr. Fry's farm of eighty-six acres lies in the northeast quarter of section 23, Union Township, one-half mile west of De- fiance. He was married December 1, 1887, to Miss Cora B. Luxford, daughter of Will- iam and Barbara Luxford. She was born in La Salle County, Illinois, September 25, 1866. They are both members of the United Brethren church. 2 ' ^"^ ' ^"*" — fATIIER FETER BROMMENSCHEN- KEL, Pastor of St. Boniface Catholic Church at Westphalia, Shelby County, Iowa, is a native of Rhine District, in Prus- sia. He was born September 27, 1846. His parents were Nicholas and Catharine Brom- meuschenkel, also natives of Prussia. The father was a farmer in his native land and in 1850 emigrated to America, first settling in Hennepin, Putnam County, Illinois, where lie remained with his family two years; he DWORAPniCAL SKETCHES. 461 then moved to Cliicago. After spending three months there lie moved to DnbiKjue, Iowa, covering the distance through tlie then wild and unsettled country in a prairie schooner- covered wagon, landing in Dubuque some time in 1853, where the parents still live. After coming to this country, the father of our subject learned the wagon-maker's trade, following the same for many years. Peter was only four years of age when he came with his parents to America, so his education has been obtained in this country. He is both a German and English scholar of marked intelligence; his first school days were spent at Dubuque, Iowa, in the school of the Ger- man lloly Trinity Church; he also attended the English Cathedral school of that city two and a half years. These schools fitted him to advance rapidly in the course of study, which was to guide him in his eventful Chris- tian life-work. He then entered St. Francis Seminary, situated a few miles from the city of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in the autumn of 1862, graduating from that institution in June, 1869. In August of the same year he was ordained priest by the hand of Bishop Hennessy, of Dubuque, Iowa. In October of the year 1869 he was appointed to take the place of Father Emonds at Iowa City, Iowa, having charge of St. Mary's Church, the latter having gone to Europe on a vaca- tion. He next went to Council Bluffs, Iowa, as the assistant pastor in that city, remaining there three months. He then served the church at Marshalltown, Iowa, from July, 1870, until November, 1875, and was then sent to Richmond, Washington County, Iowa, where he labored until October, 1881; from this place he went to Riverside in the same county, serving faithfully until 1886, when he became pastor of his present church at West- phalia, Iowa. Here he succeeded Father Weber. During his labors at Marshalltown, Iowa, he built a parsonage, and had charge of the Catholic congregation at State Center, where he erected a church edifice; he also looked after the best interests of the Catholics at the Dunn's settlement in the neighborhood, as well as at Blairstown, Benton County, Iowa, and at Toledo, Tama County. While serving the church in Washington County he built a church near Riverside, and a school at Richmond. Since Father Brommenschenkel has been at Westphalia he has worked ardently and manfully for the cause he es- poused in early life — that of promulgating the faith and teachings of the Roman Catho- lic church. He has charge of a congregation at Harlan, Iowa, where he has been instru- mental in building a church. Father Brom- menschenkel, while strictly adhering to the teachings of his church, deals with men as he finds them, treating all witlj consideration. He never allows personal likes and dislikes to turn him from the path of duty, and by reason of this is a successful organizer and leader of his people, sharing the good will of all classes in and out of his church. ,ATHANIEL BOOTH, dealer in agri- cultural implements, Harlan, has been deeply interested in the welfare of Shelby County since his residence here, which began in 1871. He is a native of England, born in London, September 21, 1837. He is a son of John and Elizabeth (Davis) Booth, both natives of f]ngland, who emigrated to America in 1849, and settled in St. Louis, Missouri ; here Mr. Booth died July 14, 1849. In the spring of 1850 the father, with two children, of whom our subject is the younger, came west to Xainsville, now Council Bluffs, where he remained two years, and then went to Salt Lake City; here he staid until the 463 HISTORY OP SHELBY COUNTY. spring of 1860 engaged in farming. Nathan, iel Booth, the subject of this sketch, was married in Salt Lake City to Miss Sarah M. Kobbins, a nativeof England, and a daughter of Henry p. Robbins, who came to this coun- try when Mrs. Booth was a child. Mr. and Mrs. Booth are the parents of three children — William Nathaniel, John Henry and Jo- seph Osgood. In 18G0 Mr. Booth took his family to California, where he engaged with the firm of bimpson it Gray in the lumber business at Stockton, San Joaquin County. His wife died in 1868, and in 1871 he came with his boys to Shelby County. He pur- chased 137 acres of improved land in Harlan Township, where he resided until the spring of 1881, when he came to Harlan, and engaged in business with E. J. Tro- bridge, dealing in agricultural implements. This firm continued six months, when Mr. Booth bought Mr. Trobridge's interest and has since done an extensive business, being the leading dealer in agricultural implements in the county. Mr. Booth was again married March 3, 1869, to Miss Mary Ann Phillips, a native of Upper California, born July 27, 1850, aud a daughter of David J. Phillips, who was a native of Wales, and who came to this country about 1848. By this union five children were born — Charles D., David J., Mary E., Charlotte E. and Nathaniel P. Mr. Booth served as sub-director for several terms, and as district treasurer of Harlan Township for several years. Ho was a member of the city council for one year, and served as township trustee for ten years. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., Harlan Lodge, No. 257; Mount Sinai Encampment, No. 106. He has passed through all the chairs of the lodge. He was representative to the grand lodge for two years and was deputy grand master for one year. He is also a member of the A. F. & A. M., Parian Lodge, No. 321; and Olivet Chapter, No. 107. Mr. and Mrs. Booth are members of the Latter Day Saints church. Politically Mr. Booth affiliates with the Republican party. Mr. Booth owns, besides his extensive business, 165 acres and otherlands in difi'erent localities. ^ P. SILLIMAN, Deputy Clerk of the District Court of Shelby County, has '^^ been a resident of the county since 1880. He was born in Pittsburg, Pennsyl- vania, August 20, 1843. He is the son of John and Nancy (Stevenson) Silliiuan, both natives of Pennsylvania. For eight years he was superintendent of the Allegheny County poor farm. From Allegheny County, Penn- sylvania, the family removed to Columbiana County, Oliio. S. P. was tiie oldest of four children, and received his education at Pitts- burg, Pennsylvania. At the age of sixteen he accepted a position as clerk in his father's mercantile establishment in New Waterford, Columbiana County, Ohio, where he remained for a number of years. In 1867 he accepted a position in Meiggs County, Ohio, where he had charge of a mill for three years. At the end of that time lie removed to Benton County, Iowa, where he acted as cashier of the Benton County Bank for eight years. In 1880 he removed to Shelby, Iowa, where he was bookkeeper in the mercantile house of W. F. Cleveland for four years. By his long experience and thorough knowledge of the intricacies of bookkeeping he is con- sidered one of the most expert accountants in western Iowa, and has been employed in that capacity in the several county otlicesand ])rominent business houses of Harlan. Jan- uary 1, 1889, he accepted the appointment of deputy clerk of courts of Shelby County under Omar P. Wyland. Mr. Silliman is a thor- BIOGRAPHICAL 8KETCUES. 4C5 ouglily accurate business man, and has filled all the different positions mentioned in this notice with credit to himself and to the best interests of his employers. lie is well in- formed on general topics, and has made many friends in Shelby County. He is a member of the Masonic order, and a member of the Iowa Legion of Honor of Shelby, No. 10. Mr. Silliman was married at Tampico, Illi- nois, September 21, 1875, to Miss Sue GrofF, a native of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, where she was reared and educated. They have one son — Robert G., born May 19, 1877. Mr. Silliman's father died in Blainstown, Iowa, in 1879. His mother still lives, and resides in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, at the age of sixty-eight years. »o» mi y 1^ ^wf^^ fBRINDLEY, a member of the present board of supervisors, is one of the promi- * neiit and well-known citizens of Mon- roe Township. He was born in La Fayette County, Wisconsin, February 14, 1848, and is a son of Joshua and Sarah (Edge) Brind- ley. The parents were natives of Stafford- shire, England, and were married in their native country. They emigrated to America in 1844, and settled at New Diggings, Wis- consin. In 1848 they removed to Grant County, Wisconsin, where the father lived the remainder of his days. The mother still lives on the old home farm. The youth of our subject was passed in very much the same fashion as that of other farmers' sons. He was married September 19, 1869, to Miss Isabelle Catherine Clark, of Grant County, Wisconsin; she is the daughter of John M. Clark, a prominent citizen of Monroe Town- ship. In 1872 Mr. Brindluy came to the township and settled on the land which ho now owns. He has 240 acres of well-im- proved land, a comfortable house, barn and crib. He has a good supply of agricultural implements, and a windmill. Tliere is a fine spring on the place that will supply water to 1,500 cattle. The farm is well stocked with cattle and horses. Mr. Brindley is in part- nership with Mr. A. Prichard in the business of importing draft horses. As fine specimens of these horses as can be found in Shelby County are on Mr. Brindley's place. J. Brindley is the leading pioneer thresher of Shelby County; he owns one steam thresher and is interested in four others. He has probably threshed more grain in this county than any other man. He is a staunch Re- publican and is one of the leaders of his party. He was elected county supervisor in the fall of 1888, and his good judgment is well displayed in this office, much to the sat- isfaction of the public. He and his wife are the j^arents of five children — Martha Jane, the wife of Sam Fleming; Thomas J., John AV., Robert Allen and Arminta Belle. K. RILEY, President of the Omaha Abstract Company, was for many '® years prominently identified with the interests of Harlan and Shelby County. He was born in Schoharie County, New York, August 10, 1852, and is a son of A. B. and Lois (Kellog) Riley, natives of New York, and of Puritan ancestry. His earlier youth was spent in attending school and assisting in his father's woolen mills. At the age of sixteen he entered the preparatory school at Fort Edward, New York, and was graduated from that institution with honor in 1872. He then entered Princeton College, and was graduated in the class of 1870. After leaving college ho went to Schoharie, New Yt)rk, and read law in the office of Krum & Grant 406 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. during the winter of 1876-'77. In the spring of 1877 he came to Iowa and accepted a position as professor of mathematics in Jef- ferson Academy, at Jefferson, Iowa, lie re- mained there one term, and read law in his leisure hours in the office of Russell & Tolli- ver. He was admitted to the bar in the winter of 1878. After making a tour of southwestern Iowa on horseback, he decided to locate in Harlan. He purchased a set of Shelby County abstract books of C. M. liob- ins, and opened a general law, loan and ab- stract office. He continued this business uutil the spring of 1887, when he sold out to Hertert Brothers. During his residence in Harlan he was one of the originators and owners of The Hub, which afterward consoli- dated with the Harlan Herald, now known as the Harlan Republican. He was also one of the incorporators and stockholders and attorney for the Shelby County Bank. After disposing of his business interests in Harlan, Mr. Kiley removed to Omaha and engaged in his present business. He is a member of the I. 0. O. F., Harlan Lodge. Politically he affiliates with the Republican party. He was married August 27, 1878, to Miss Beta M. Hard, a native of Ohio, and a daughter of A. G. Hard, a resident of Mis- souri Valley. Mr. and Mrs. Riley are the parents of three children — Allen K., Jr., Albert G. and Robert H. Both Mr. Riley and wife are members of the Congregational church. ■-♦|-JM^'|+- fOHN LANGENFELD, one of the lead- ing business men of Earling, Shelby County, Iowa, was born in Prussia, May 9, 1863. He is a son of Chris and Johannan (Eckes) Langenfeld, who emigrated to America in the year 1809. They settled in Fond du Lac County, "VMisconsin, and here our subject was reared to farm life, and obtained his edu- cation in the common schools. In 1885 he came to Lincoln Township, Shelby County, and here the parents still reside. In 1888 John Langenfeld went to Earling and entered the employ of John Lorge, as clerk in his ag- ricultural implement and farm machinery store. He remained here until his brother- in-law, F. W. Loehr, and he purchased the stock of Mr. Lorge, and they are still in the business. Mr. Langenfeld is an energetic, ambitious business man, and although a young man, has already won an enviable position in business circles in the county. He is a staunch supporter of the Democratic party. He was married November 13, 1888, to Miss Mary Weiland, daughter of J. B. and Mary (Nepper) AYeiland; she was born in Winneshiek County, Iowa, October 6, 1868. Mr. and Mrs. Lang- enfeld are worthy members of the Roman Catholic church. — S - 3 " t ' 2 — — i|SCAR NEFF, of Walnut, Iowa, vas for many years one of the well-known and active farmers of Monroe Town- ship. His residence there began in 1875, and continued until 1884, when he removed to Walnut, Iowa, where he has since resided. He was born in Buffalo, New York, in which place he grew to manhood. He received a fair education in the common schools. He was married in his native city, to Miss Har- riet Buss, a daughter of Daniel and Charlotte Buss. Daniel Buss was a native of York- shire, England. Some time after his mar- riage Mr. Neff removed to La Fayette County, Wisconsin, and made that his home until 1875, when he came to Shelby County. He improved 100 acres of land where Charles Neff now resides, and 100 acres east of the Vt^L/lJ fJjl^t^Mu BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 469 liome fartn, l>esides other lands. He was an active, industrious man, and was successful in his eftbrts. Mr. and Mrs. Nefl" reared six children — Nelson, Charles W. and William (twins), Milliard, Oscar and Hattic (twins). In politics Mr. NefF is Republican. He is a member of the Masonic order and of the I. O. O. F. Charles W. Neft" is one of the active and successful farmers of Monroe Township. He was born in La Fayette County, Wisconsin, November 21, 1864, and is a son of Oscar and Harriet (Buss) Neff. He was eleven years of age when his parents removed to Shelby County and settled in Monroe Town- ship. There he passed his youth, occupying his time with the duties assigned a farmer's son and attending the common schools. He spent one year in Montgomery County, Iowa, and one year at different points in the south- west. Mr. Neff was married July B, 1885, to Miss Sarali Emeline Johnson, a daughter of William Johnson, a prominent citizen of the township. Two children have been born of this marriage — Mamie and Walter. Mr. Neff affiliates with the Democratic party. He resides on the home farm and is engaged in general fanning and stock-raising, making a specialty of draft horses. He is frank and genial in his disposition, and has many friends in the township. C. CAMPBELL, the editor and pro- I'f, prietor of the Harlan T'rihune, was [** born September 28, 1855, in Bruns- wick, Australia; this town now forms a part of the city of Melbourne. On April 17, 1859, h is parents sailed from the port of Melbourne on the ship Indian Queen, of the Englisli Black Ball Line, in command of Captain Hrewer, bound for J.,ivcrpoo], England. It was the Captain's first ocean voyage, and being igno- rant of the course, he made a run of twenty- four hours too far south while rounding Cape Horn. At two o'clock A. M., June 21, the vessel struck an iceberg, which carried away all the masts and rigging, whereupon the captain, most of the crew, and all the officers excepting the third mate, took to the boats, supposing the vessel to be in a sinkitig con- dition. All the boats were swamped and their crews drowned within half an hour after leav- ing the ship. The carpenter reported after a thorough examination of the vessel, that Jier hull was uninjured. When daylight came it was found that the ship had drifted away from the iceberg; temporary masts were erected, and in this condition, under the direction of a young man who had studied navigation, and by the aid of all on board, the vessel was steered for Valparaiso, South America, reach- ing that port in safety six weeks after the wreck. To the young man who directed the course of the vessel the passengers are indebted for their lives, as he was the only person on board who had any knowledge of the science of navigation. The ship's owners had the passengers transferred to Panama and put under the care of the British Consul. A stay of six months was made there^ during which time Callao, Lima and other towns along the coast were visited. In January of the follow- ing year the family arrived in England, ten months having passed from the beginning of the voyage. In London a stay of one year wfis made, after which the fatnily removed to Edinburgh, Scotland; they resided in that city and vicinity for the following ten years, dur- ing wliicli time the subject of this biography received a common-school education. In May, 1871, Mr. Campbell emigrated to America with his parents and settled in Fremont County, Iowa. The year 1872 saw him employed as an aj)prentico in tlieotllce of the Sidney Union, Fremont County; this paper 470 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. was edited by Robert Simons, and Mr. Camp- bell remained in his service for two years, when lie obtained a position in the Shenan- doah Reporter. In 1870 he began work in the Atlantic Telegraph office; this jonrnal was edited by lion. Lafayette Yonng, and Mr. Campbell assisted in gettingout the first nnin- ber of the Daily 7e?^^?'a/>//. In the follow- ing January he began work for E. H. Kimball on the Esira Defender, published in Audubon County. In the following June he moved with Mr. Kimball to Guthrie Center, where the GutJiriaH^\a.s established. Later he con- ducted the Gvthrian for six months in com- pany with William Harris, under the firm name of Harris & Campbell. In July, 1878, Mr. Campbell was married at Guthrie Center, by the Ivev. Delano, of the Baptist church, to Miss Emma F. Straight. His marriage has been blessed with three children — May, Harry and Bob. In January, 1879, he issued the first number of the Audubon Advocate, the first paper printed in the town of Audubon. In the spring of 1880 he located at Harlan, and became connected with the Herald, then con- ducted by George D. Ross. In January, 1885, he purchased the Tribune of J. D. Walker; this paper is still under his management and control, and continues to be the organ of the Democratic party in the county. In June, 1889, the Tribune, which had been an eight- column folio, was enlarged to nine columns, and its facilities added to by the purchase of a cylinder press, a feature which has added much to its appreciation in the town and county. In 1882 Mr. Campbell was elected recorder of the town, receiving a majority of 121 votes; he served in that capacity one year. Since his purchase of the property Mr. Camp- bell's experience as a practical printer and newspaper man has enabled hiin to put the paper in a thoroughly sound financial condi- tion and largely to add to its circulation and influence, as wejl as to its mechanical facili- ties for doing all kinds of work connected with the business. His assiduous attention to editorial duties and zealous eiforts in behalf of the party represented by the Tribune has won for him the confidence and esteem of his party associates, and he has been chosen as a delegate to all the local district and State conventions which have been held during his editorial management. His aim has been to make the paper a trustworthy journal, free from scandal or sensational features, and his treatment of political opponents has been characterized by a straightforward opposition to their political views, and free from that style of disreputable personal warfare which is unworthy the real journalist. During his residence in Harlan he has been associated with the various social organizations which have sprung up, and has contributed to the best of his ability to their successful conduct. In his career as a newspaper man Mr. Camp- bell has been fortunate in making and retain- ing friends, and has made only those enemies that naturally spring up around the news- paper man ambitious to advance his political friends by zealous attachment to their cause. As a citizen he has not been found wanting in the influence of his pen, and the contribu- tion of his means to advance the interests of the town and county. «■■ 'i j^ ' l i n » ? fOIIN SCHILTZ, a citizen of Lincoln Township, Shelby County, was born in Luxemburg,Germany, November 3, 1827. He is a son of Frederick and Anna Mary (Wier) Schiltz. He attended school until he was fourteen years of age and then assisted his father on his farm and in the lime kiln. In 1852 he embarked on a sailing vessel at Havre, France, and arrived at Castle Garden, BIOQRAJPniGAL SE ETCHES. 471 New York, after a voyageof forty- three days. He went to Rochester, New York, and worked by the day for eighteen months; after a short residence in different places in JSew York he removed to Freeport, New York, where he worked in the blacksmith and machine shops of tlie railroad company. He saved his money and bought a small house and lot which he sold and then bought forty acres of land in Stephenson County, Hlinois. He then sold that and bought 160 acres in Carroll County, Illinois, where he lived until he came to Shelby County, Iowa. His farm contains 220 acres, and he has a good house, a barn, cribs, a grove and an orchard. The place is under good cultivation, and is one of the best in the township. Mr. Schiltz is engaged in general farming. He was married at Free- port, New York, in 1856, to Miss Mary Mert a native of Bavaria, Germany, and a daughter of Joseph and Mary (Sheilberger) Mert; she came from Germany in 1853. Mr. and Mrs. Schiltz are the parents of seven children — Michael, Terza, Anna Hare, John, Mary, Henry and Lena. The children have a good German and English education, and are well informed on general topics. Politically Mr. Schiltz is a Democrat. The family are mem- bers of the Roman Catholic church. They are among the first families of the township. lARAH ROUND Y is the daughter of William and Polly (Hedrick) Van Aus- dall, natives of Virginia. Mr. Van- Ausdall was born February 23, 1788, and died January 1, 1869, in Shelby County, Iowa. His wife was born in November, 1792 and died in November, 1846. They were married in Virginia, and in 1839 they came to Iowa and located in Lee County, where Mrs. Van Ausdall died. They were the par- ents of twelve children, of whom seven sur- vive — Jane, wife of William Gaugh; Eliza- beth (deceased); Mary, wife of Thomas Wood- cock; Anna, wife of John Cachran; Malinda (deceased); Margaret Sims (deceased); Cor- nelius (deceased); Leanah, wife of Chauncey Williamson; Martha, wife of George Oman; Sarah Roundy, the subject of this notice; Su- sannah (deceased), and William II., residing in San Antonio, California. Mr. Van Aus- dall was reared a farmer and followed this oc- cupation successfully through life. He came to Shelby County in 1850, bringing his family with him, settling at Gailand's Grove; there he spent the latter part of his life. He figured very prominently in the early politi- cal history of the county; he was the first judge of the county, and held some of the township offices. He was an elder in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (reorganized), and took an active interest in the upbuilding of that society. He united with the church in 1832, and clung fast to the faith until his death. He was a man who did whatever he could to pro- mote the welfare of the community. The last seventeen years of his life he spent with his daughter, Mrs. Sarah Roundy. Mrs. Roundy was born in Lawrence County, Ohio, February 22, 1831, and came to Iowa with her parents when she was eight years old. She was married March 22, 1853, to Asahel Roundy, a native of Onondaga County, New York, who was born September 10, 1828. He came to Shelby County in 1850, and there lived theremainderof his days; he died June 6, 1879. His first venture in real estate was a claim of 160 acres in section 20, Grove Township; there he and his wife com- menced life together. They struggled through the early history of the county, fearlessly facing the hardships met with by all pioneers. They improved their land and increased their 473 BISTORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. possessions until at the time of Mr. Roundy's death tliey owned 300 acres, all of which is highly improved. They have done their share in promoting tiie interests and welfare of the county. Through their many deeds of kind- ness and hospitality tliey have become en- deared to a large circle of friends. Mr. Roundy was noted forhis honorable and square dealing. He had few equals as a neighbor, and as a husband and father he was kind, faithful and true. He held positions of honor and trust among the people, and his death was mourned by a large circle of friends. His place is one that can not easily be filled. Mr. and Mrs. Roundy were the parents of ten children — Mary, wife of James Laing; Anna (deceased); Martlia, wife of J. M. Frank- lin; Artimicia, at home; Frances, wife of J. C. Hardman; Sophia, at home; Wflliain U., residing in Grove Township; Forest Rose and Lillie A., at home; Alma (deceased). The family are members of the reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Sophia and Martliy have been successfully engaged in the profession of teaching. "' •'^ % ' 1 >> 1 ' % ^LFRED JACKSON, an old settler of Grove Township, was born in Van Bnren County, Iowa, July 9, 1841. He is the son of Lewis and Margaret (Cran- dall) Jackson, natives of Cuyahoga County, Ohio, and pioneers of Iowa. Lewis Jackson is still living in Monona County, Iowa, at the advanced age of eighty-one years. His worthy wife has been deceased a number of years. They were the parents of nine chil- dren, three of whom are still living — Sarah Willson, of Monona County; Mary J. Tacy, residing in Dunlap, and Alfred, the subject of tliis sketcli. Wiien Alfred Jackson was about seven years old his parents came to Shelby County,, Iowa, and settled in Gal- land's Grove, Grove Township. His father was one of the pioneer settlers, and made Shelby County his home for thirty-five years. He itnproved three farms in the township, and was very prominently identified with the early political history of the county. He was a member of the Democratic party. He was a great hunter, and was very familiar with the surrounding country. He was an elder in the cliurch of the Latter-Day Saints. Alfred Jackson is the oldest settler now living in Grove Township. He was reared there and received his education in the old log school-houses of pioneer days. He was married to Miss Martha M. Holcomb, daugh- ter of O. E. and Sallie Holcomb, who was born in Ashtabula County, Ohio, June 20, 1849. They are the parents of nine chil- dren — Nettie A., engaged in teaching; Wil- lard L., Almond F., Andrew L., Frederick F. and Dora M., all at home. Corda, Lewis and Claudie W. are deceased. The first in- vestment he made was in forty acres in sec- tion 25, Grove Township. He has added to his farm until he now has 120 acres which he has placed under good cultivation. Polit- ically Mr. Jackson is non-partisan, casting his vote for the man best fitted in his esti- mation to fill the ofiice. The family are members of the Latter-Day Saints church. Mr. Jackson enlisted in the service of liis country, in Company F, Thirteenth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, November 5, 1864, and was honorably discharged at the close of the war. — ' • '^^ ^^ ' ; • g IIERCE HAWLEY was born in Ver- mont, near Lake Champlain, November 14, 1789, and is the son of Gideon and Levina (Darrah) Hawley, natives of Connecti- BIOGRAPHIGAL 8 K ETC HE 8. 473 cut and Nova Scotia respectively. Pierce Hawley was reared to the occupation of a farmer, which he followed through life. He resided in his native State until his twenty- seventh year, when he came as far west as White County, Illinois. There he met Miss Sarah Schrader, and was married to her July 4, 1822. She was the daughter of Jacob and Mary (Wolf) Schrader, the lather being a native of Germany, and the mother of Penn- sylvania. Sarah Hawley was born in Knox County, Tennessee, June 3, 1800, and lived in the State of her birth until she was four- teen years old. Her parents then came to Indiana and resided ttere four years; at the end of that time they removed to Illinois and settled in Lawrence County. After she and Mr. Hawley were married they continued to reside in White County for a short time. They then removed to Sangamon County, Illinois, and lived there four years. Thence they removed to Fort Clark, now Peoria, Illi- nois, and resided there one year. They con- tinued their residence upon the frontier, making a change whenever there seemed a chance of improving their fortunes. About the year 1839 they came to Iowa and settled in Lee County. There they remained until 1845, when they went to Texas and made their home there until 1853. The following seven years were spent in the Indian Terri- tory, where Mr. Hawley died August 16, 1858. The family returned to Grove Town- ship, Shelby County, where Mrs. Hawley makes her home with her son, Gideon Haw- ley. Pierce Hawley and wife were the parents of ten children — Mary (deceased), George, John, Aaron (deceased), William, Priscilla, widow of John Young; Isaac, Henry (deceased), Levina (deceased) and Gideon. Mr. and Mrs. Hawley were mem- bers of the Latter-Day Saints church. Mr. Hawley was a soldier in the war of 1812, and also in the Black Hawk war. Mrs. Hawley, although at the advanced age of eighty-nine years, has excellent health and retains full possession of her mental facili- ties. Gideon Hawley is the youngest of a family of ten children of Pierce Hawley and Sarah (Schrader) Hawley. He was born in Lee County, Iowa, April 21, 1842. When he was three years old his parents removed to Texas, and resided there until he was eleven years old. They then went to the In- dian Territory, and lived there seven years, at the end of which time they returned to Iowa and settled in Grove Township, Shell)y County. Gideon Hawley was reared to the life of a farmer and stockman, and received a very limited education in the common schools. He has supplemented these narrow opportunities hy the cultivation of a naturally observing mind, and has secured a good fund of information. At the age of sixteen years he began life for himself, taking his widowed mother under his care. After coming to Shelby County, in 1861, he rented land for one year; he then bought twenty acres on section 11, Grove Township, which he made his home for six years. He then purchased forty-five acres in the same section and built a house and made other improvements, and moved to this place. He afterward purchased eighty acres in section 13, and later an ad- joining forty acres, which he improved. In 1876 Mr. Hawley bought eighty acres of land in section 7, Union Township; he after- ward made additional purchases until he now owns 240 acres, which he has improved to a high degree. In 1879 he removed to this farm, having disposed of his property in Grove Township. Mr. Hawley is one of the leading stock men in Shelby County, having followed the business of buying and shipping for ten years. He is a staunch Democrat, taking an active interest in the welfare of his / 474 HISTORY OP SnBLBT COUNTY. party and the spreading of its principles. In 1882 lie erected a livery barn on Main street, Defiance, which was destroyed by fire in June of the same year; he also erected a livery barn on Second street. Defiance, the same year. He owned a livery barn in Persia, Iowa, which he sold in 1889. From 1864 to 1870 Mr. Hawley followed teaming and breaking prairie in connection with his farming. In 1862 he enlisted in the State Militia of Iowa, serving four months. He was then discharged to go south, but was taken sick in March of 1863, and was dis- abled from further service. March 28, 1864, he was married to Miss C. Mary Ilolcomb, daughter of O. E. and Sallie Ilolcomb, who was born in Ashtabula County, Ohio, De- cember 15, 1842. They are the parents of six children — Lovina (deceased), Nellie J., engaged in school work; Priscilla Adelle, Willard A., Carl H. and Chloe C. The fam- ily are members of the Latter-Day Saints church. fHOMAS COOK, deceased, late of Cass Township, Shelby County, Iowa, was a well-known and highly respected citi- zen. He was born in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, May 20, 1830, and is a son of Jesse and Ann (White) Cook. Jesse Cook was born February 15, 1800, and Ann Cook was born October 15, 1800. Anthony Cook came from England with William Penn; his son, John Cook, was the father of Jesse Cook, who was the father of Thomas Cook, the sub- ject of this sketch. The Cooks were the first to discover coal in that part of Pennsylvania, and all were prominent in the coal mining of that region. The mines were known as the Cook vein of coal, which was discovered by John Cook when he was digging for a rabbit. Thomas Co(5k was married in Pennsylvania in November, 1851, to Miss Mary Alloway, who was born in Bedford County, Pennsylva- nia, November 3, 1829. She was the daugh- ter of Jonathan and Elizabeth (Anderson) Alloway. They reared two children — Mag- gie Horton, of Portsmouth, and John A. Cook. Thomas Cook improved eighty acres of land, upon which he lived until death. In politics he was inclined to the principles of the lie- publican party. He was a member of the I. 0. O. F., Lodge No. 579, of Broad Top, Penn- sylvania, and joined the lodge at Shelby, in 1876. He was a chief patriarch of the order; he represented his lodge at Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, at the session of the State grand lodge; he also visited tiie sovereign grand lodge at the Centennial in Philadel- phia in 1876. He represented the Shelby Lodge at Des Moines and Cedar Papids, Iowa. Thomas Cook departed this life November 21, 1887; his wife died May 15, 1886; she was a memberof the Church of God. John A. Cook, an active citizen of Cass Township, was born at Broad Top, Pennsylvania, July 24, 1857. He was reared in his birtliplace, and received a good education at the Fulton Institute. He assisted his father in the coal business lor some time, and came west when the family came to Shelby County. He spent one season in Wyoming Territory, near Fort Laramie, at which time he was in the employ of G. H. and J. S. Collins. At one time he was in the employ of W. F. Cleveland, in Shelby. He was married February 14, 1882, at Wells' Tannery, Pennsylvania, to Miss Nettie Hor- ton, a daughter of David and Susan ( Wishart) Horton; she was born in Pennsylvania, May 1, 1861, and spent a part of her girlhood in the place of her birth. On coming to Iowa her parents settled in Lucas Co.unty, remain- ing four years and then returned to Pennsyl- vania. Mr. and Mrs. Cook are the parents of BIOGHAPHICAL SKBTGUBti. 477 three cliildreii living — Jesse W., Ora JVl. and Harry Ernest. Clare Chester died at the age of six months. Mr. Cook has umisual ability as a musician; he is a member of the Rink's Cornet Band, and at the age of thirteen years was the leader of the Broad Top City Band. In politics he is a Republican. He is a man well informed upon general topics, of a genial disposition, and worthy of the regard in which he is held. H. TINGLE, Recorder of Shelby County, was born in Muskingum ^® County, Ohio, October 20, 1862. ~^ He is son of W. J. Tingle, of whom special men- tion is made elsewhere in this volume. He was ten years old when his parents came to Iowa and settled in Grove Township, Shell)y County. Here he was reared on a farm and received his early education at the district school. He afterward attended JJailey's Busi- ness College at Keokuk, Iowa, graduating in tiie fall of 1882. He resided with his par- ents until he was twenty-three years old, when he accepted the position of deputy recorder under B. B. Mastick, where he re- mained over three years. In the fall of 1886 he was elected to the ofKce of recorder, and was re-elected in 1888, and is the present incumbent. Mr. Tingle was married Sep- tember 16, 1884, to Miss Carrie B. Barney, a native of Wisconsin, and a daughter of George M. and Julia (Washburn) Barney, of Waukesha. By this union two children were born — Holly B.died at one year of age; Wyatt B. still survives. Mr. Tingle is a member of the A. F. & A M., Parian Lodge, No. 321; Olivet Chapter, No. 107. He lends his support to the Republican party. W. J. Tingle, farmer and stock-raiser, has been identified with the interests of Slielby County since 1869. He is a native of Ohio, born in Guernsey County, May 17, 1824. He is a son of John and Sarah (Dennison) Tingle, who were natives of Virginia, and of German and Irish ancestry. Tliey were among the pioneers of Oliio, entering government land, and settling in a dense wilderness, where our subject M'as reared. His education was ob- tained in subscription scliools in primitive log school-houses, with slab benches and stick and mud chimneys. His father died when lie was two years old, and his mother was left a widow, with three sons and two daughters. W. J. was the youngest child. When he was about seventeen years old he was apprenticed to a cabinet-maker; he served about two years, and at the end of that time he returned to the farm and managed that for two years or more. In 1846 lie was mar- ried to Miss Rachel E. Koaran, a native of Guernsey County, after which he resided on the old homestead. By his marriage two children were born; one still survives — Han- nah M., wife of Michael Eshinan, of Omaha; Sarah J. (deceased) was the wife of George H. Doughty. Mrs. Tingle died in February, 1852, and in April of the same year Mr. Tingle went to California, crossing the coun- try with o.\-teams and taking four months for the journey. He went to Jacksonville and engaged in mining for a time, and then worked at carpentry. The following De- cember he went to Sacramento City. He arrived there without money, and found the city under water. He worked at anything he could tind to do. In March he left there and went to Nevada and engaged in mining, carpentry and saw-milling for over a year. He returned to the east by way of the Isth- mus, and remained in Ohio until the fall of 1856. He was married to Miss Mary C. Wheelan, a native of Ohio. After his mar- riage he settled on his farm, and in connec- 4:1s HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. tion with his agricultural pursuits he engaged in the manufacture of salt. Here he lived for eight years. In 1869 he sold out and came to Shelby County, and purchased 320 acres of unimproved land — a part in Gal- ' land's Grove and a part in prairie. He improved this place and resided upon it for some years; he then traded it for a mill in Panama, which he managed for two years and then sold out. In the fall of 1888 he moved one mile and a half from Dunlap. They are the parents of seven children, six of whom still survive — William E., of Grove Town- ship; George W., studying for the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal church; A. H., recorder; Charles E., Alfretta and Joseph S. One died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Tingle are members ot the Methodist Episcopal church. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M., Parian Lodge, No. 321. Politically he was formerly an old-line Whig, but since the organization of the Hepublican party he has cast his vote in its support. In 1862 he went to Washington Territory by water, leav- ing home in March and returning the fol- lowing October. aCHAKD LEYTHAM is one of the old- est pioneers of Cass Township, having come there in 1865. He was born in Lancashire, England, March 3, 1823, and is the son of John and Eleanor (Singleton) Ley- tham. He was reared to the occupation of a farmer. November 12, 1848, he was mar- ried to Elizabeth Taylor, a native of England, and a daughter of James and Eunice (Oibin) Taylor. In 1855 Mr. and Mrs. Leytham sailed from Liverpool to America; they landed at Boston and proceeded to Canada, but re- mained thereonly a short time comparatively. In the spring of 1856 they removed to Omalia, Nebraska. Qhiaha then had a few shanties, one hotel, the Douglas House, a small board- ing-house called Little Ireland, and lots of whisky. A three days' residence in Omaha satisfied Mr. Leytham and his wife, so they went to Florence, Nebraska, six miles north of Omaha, where they were among the first set- tlers. They built them a home, and remained there nine years. In 1865 they came to Shelby County, and Mr. Leytham bought sixty acres of land, ten of which were broken; there was a log-cabin on the place, and there was no other between Cass Township and Harlan. Mr. Leytham now owns 220 acres of well- improved land, stocked with a large number of cattle and horses. Mr. and Mrs. Leytham are the parents of fifteen children, nine of whom are living — John, Thomas, Eleanor, Robert, Richard, Ann Jane, Sarah, Eunice and William; those deceased are — Eunice, the first child so called, Elizabeth, James, Maggie, Samuel and Charles. The parents are mem- bers and zealous supporters of the Latter-Day Saints church, Mr. Leytham being a teacher in the church. He and his wife were brought up in the Church of England, but changed their views after coming to America, and united with the church of the Latter-Day Saints. In politics Mr. Leytham is inclined to the principles of the Democratic party. He is a good conversationalist, genial in his disposition, and an honored and respected citizen of Cass Township. — ■•^^ :": - | ' - - — EORGE R. EVANS, a successful farmer of Cass Township, was born in Canada, October 4, 1857. He is a son of Thomas and Emily (Moberts) Evans. The father is a native of Wales, and the mother was born in Vermont; they were married in Pennsylvania, and then went to Canada. George R. was BIOGRAPHICAL SKErCUES. 479 seven years of age when his parents removed to Jackson County, Iowa. There he grew to Tnanhood, receiving the practical training of a farmer's son, and attending the common schools. The parents still live in Jackson County. Mr. Evans was married in January, 1880, to Miss Martha Blakely, a daughter of James K. and Anna (McGanghy) Blakely. After his marriage Mr. Evans resided in Jackson County until 1881, when he came to this county and bought his present farm of 160 acres. The land was under cultivation, but since it was purchased by Mr. Evans it has undergone quite a change; there is a good dwelling house, a barn, sheds for the protec- tion of live-stock, an orchard, and a grove, all bespeaking the thrift, energy and enter- prise of the owner. Mr. and Mrs. Evans are the parents of iive children — Anna, James, Maud, Mary and Willis. Mr. Evans holds the political sentiments of the Republican party. He is in the prime of life, of a robust constitution, genial in his disposition, honor- able in business, and is numbered among the reliable men of Cass Township. |K..(E[ARLES TESKE, physician and sur- ^x\ g^*^"^' Portsmouth, Iowa, was born in Germany, January 17, 1849. He is a son of Charles and Louisa (Iloltz) Teske. He attended the public schools of his native country until he was eighteen years of age, and in 1867 commenced the study of medi- cine under Professor Budge, a popular and well-known German physician. He was grad- uated in medicine from the University of Greifswald in 1870. During the Franco- Prussian war he was Assistant Surgeon, and had mucli experience in the hospitals and on the battle-fields. After the close of the war Dr. Teske emigrated to America, and settled in Johnson County, Kansas, residing there until 1874. He then came to Glen wood, Iowa, and remained there two years. In 1876 he went to Avoca, Iowa, and after a residence there of five years he removed to Mineola, Iowa. He lived there nntil 1884, when he came to Shelby County, Iowa, and settled in Portsmouth. The Doctor is a well- read mail and very successful. Dr. Teske was married at Belton, Missouri, in 1873, to Miss Elizabeth Willcut, of Aubrey, Kansas. She was born in low^, but was reared and educated in Kansas. The result of this mar- riage has been six children — Oscar, Nora, Charles, Rudolph, Arthur and Lulu. ffOIIN HIGGINS was born in Crawford I County, Pennsylvania, March 4, 1834. His father, George Higgins, was a native of Kent, England. He came to America at the age of thirty years, and was married in Crawford County, Pennsylvania, to Phoebe Allen, a native of JStew Jersey. Her grand- sire was one of the Revolutionary soldiers known as minute-men. George Higgins and wife had two children — John, the subject of this notice, and Mary, wife of John Arm- strong, residing in Crawford County, Penn- sylvania. The parents both died at the age of seventy 3'ears. John Higgins was reared to the life of a farmer. He was married De- cember 25, 1855, to Miss Louisa Reynolds, a native of Venango County, Pennsylvania, and a daughter of John and Nancy Reynolds, who were cousins and lived in Pennsylvania until their death. In 1869 Mr. Higgins re- moved to Houston County, Minnesota, and remained there for six years. He then came to Cass Township, Shelby County, Iowa, and bought 290 acres of wild land. He was among the first settlers, as there were only thirty 480 Hiarour of suelbt county. voters in the township. He has increased his farm to 410 acres, all of which is well improved. All his surroundings indicate thrift and prosperity, and he is considered one of the successful farmers of the township. Mr. and Mrs. Higgins have live children — William, a successful teacher and fanner; George J., Charles F., Ephraim Ellsworth and Eliza Jane. Mr. Higgins is a Republi- can and has been othcially identified with his township as a member of the school board. He is a very strong man, physically, is well preserved, and is thorougiily honorable in all his business transactions. ■» » ■ : ■ 3 . . fg .'-^ M. WILLIAMS is a well-known, promi- nent citizen of Cass Township, of l® which he has been a resident since 1876. He was born in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, January 8, 1829, and is a son of Thomas and Jane (Bell) Williams, also natives of Pennsylvania. George M. was a lad of twelve years when his parents removed to Knox County, Ohio; there he grew to manhood, passing much time in agricultural pursuits, and taking advantage of the limited opportunities afforded by the public schools. He was married October 24, 1850, to Miss Mary A. Gant, a native of Loudoun County, Virginia, and a daughter of Samuel and Mary (Andrews) Gant, natives of Virginia, and mem- bers of old families of that State, of Holland- ish ancestry. Mrs. Williams was four years of age when her parents went to Knox County, Ohio, where she was reared and educated. After their marriage they continued to reside in Knox County until 1858, when they came to Johnson County, Iowa, and settled near Iowa City. They made this their home until 187G, when they came to Shelby County. When there was a call for men in the late civil war, Mr. Williams enlisted in August, 1862, in the Twenty-eighth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, Company E. He enlisted as a pri- vate, was promoted to Sergeant, and later was made Second Lieutenant. He took an active part in the expedition up White River, the siege of Vicksburg, Port Gibson, Cham- pion Hills. He was honorably discharged in January, 1864. On coming to Shelby County, Mr. Williams bought 160 acres of wild land, and has made later purchases until he now owns 1,000 acres. The farm is one of the best cultivated and improved in Shelby County, having a fine residence, and barns, cribs and sheds; there is also a windmill, supplying water wherever desired. Mr. Will- iams makes a specialty of raising cattle, and is one of the most extensive breeders in Shelby County. He and his wife are the par- ents of six children — Emeline V., wife of Robert Kuhn; Flora J., wife of N. M. Pettit; Capitola, wife of A. G. Wolfbarger; John C, George F. and Thomas. Mr. Williams sup- ports the issues of the Republican party. He is a member of the G. A. R., Dick Yates Post, of Shelby, Iowa. He is a man well informed upon general topics, honorable and upright in all his dealings, and held in high esteem and respect by all who know him. K. PRATT, Assistant Cashier of the Harlan Bank, was born in Essex, Mid- "* dlesex County, Connecticut, October 7, 1859, and is the son of E. W. and Cornelia M. (Doane) Pratt, natives of the State of Connecticut. At the age of sixteen he left the Hartford High-school, in which institu- tion he received a liberal education, and went to sea. After a year's service on the Black Ball line of ocean packets he returned to the Hartford High-school, and remained there BIOaRAPHICAL SKETUHBti. 481 until his graduation. Possessed of the rest- less and adventurous spirit of youth, Mr. Pratt was desirous of tasting the experience of western life; so he made a trip to Ne- braska and remained for some time in West- ern, Saline County. From that point he came to Harlan, and obtaining the position of assistant cashier in the bank of C. J. and D. M. Wyland, known as the Harlan Bank, he concluded to remain here. For the past ten years he has held this position, which is sufficient evidence of his ability and faithful- ness. Mr. Pratt was married in January, 1887, to Miss Ella Noble, a daughter of Peter and Susan Noble, of Harlan. Mr. Pratt is a member of Parian Lodge, No. 321, A. F. & A. M.; Olivet Chapter, No. 107, Pt. A. M. ; and Mount Zion Commandery, No. 49, K. T. He is also a member of I. O. O. F., No. 267, and of the Encampment. In politi- cal thought and action he is a Republican. ►4.^- fOSEPH BOARDM AN,farmer and stock- raiser, resides in section 25, Cass Town- ship. He was born in Stockport, England, October 23, 1834, and is a son of Robert and Jane (Chatterton) Boardman, natives of Eng- land. He was seventeen years old when his parents and a family of six children left the kingdom of Great Britain and came to Amer- ica. They lived in New York until 1857, and then came to Bureau County, Illinois, where the parents now reside, the father aged seventy-nine years, and the mother seventy- five years. Joseph Boardman worked for several years as an iron moulder in the east. In the beginning of the great Rebellion he enlisted for the defense of the flag of his adopted country. He' was a member of, the Fifty-seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry, Company F, and served from October 24, S3 1861, until tlie close of the war. He was in the following battles: Fort Donelson, siege of Vicksburg, Resaca, Snake Creek Gap, Rome, Georgia, and Bentonville. He was taken prisoner at Dalton, Georgia, and there saw some noted rebel Generals. Later he was paroled and in a short time joined his command. He was honorably discharged as Corporal, July 7, 1865. He was a musician and served as a fifer. He now receives- a pension of S4 per month. He was one of the gallant soldiers who went to the sea with General Sherman. After the close of the war Mr. Boardman returned to Bureau County, Illinois, and was married in New York City, November 21, 1866, to Miss Sarah Jane Hatherley, a native of Briston, England, and a daughter of Thomas Hatherley. They lived in Bureau County, Illinois, until 1882, when they came to Cass Township, Shelby County. Mr. Boardman bought a farm of 160 acres of John G. Clark, to the improve- ment of which he has devoted his whole time. He has erected a good residence, a commodious barn, having a capacity for sixty tons of hay, sixteen head of horses and forty head of cattle. Mr. and Mrs. Boardman have had born to them nine children, four of whom survive — Robert, John, Benjamin and Ruth. Mr. Boardman affiliates with the Republican party. He is a member of Dick Yates Post, No. 364. f3 » - Gl H O M A S L E Y T H A M, a successful \ft farmer of Cass Township, is a son p of Richard Lcytham, a pioneer of the county. He was born in Liverpool, England, November 16, 1852, and was three years old when his parents emigrated to the United States and settled in Cass Township, Shelby County. There, amid the wild surroundings 483 HISTORY OF .SHELBY COUNTY. of a frontier life, lie grew to manhood, receiv- ing the limited education afforded by the pioneer schools. In 1880 Mr. Leythani set- tled on the farm vvhicli is now his home. He purchased 120 acres of wild land, which, by diligence and industry, he has made into a good farm. He has a small house built on a brick foundation which is very substantial. He has provided for future comfort in setting out small fruits, planting a grove and an orchard. He lias sheds and stables for the protection of live-stock. The farm is well watered throughout, making it one of the most desirable stock-farms in the neighbor- hood. Mr. Leythani also owns 100 acres iu sections 29 and 32, Cass Township, which he uses for pasture land. October 16, 1879, Mr. Leytham was united in marriage to Miss Anna E. Asquith, a native of Pennsylvania, and a daughter of William and Anna D. As- quith. William Asquith died in CassTown- sliip, and his widow still resides there.' Mr. and Mrs. Leytham have had born to them four children — Bertha Edith, Laura Cecil, Grace Delany and Nina Elsie. Mr. Leytham votes with the Re[)ublican party. He has served as constable. He is a member of Craftsman Lodge, No. 490, A. F. & A. M., of Persia; and is also a member of the church of the Latter-Day Saints. He is yet in the prime of life, and is a highly respected citi- zen of the township. ILLIAM HANDY was born in War- M wickshire, England, April 11, 1811. He is a son of Joseph and Rebecca Handy, natives of England. In 1843 he bade farewell to his native land and came to the United States, settling in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was married May 2, 1859, to Miss Martha McCaslinc, a native of Bond County, Illinois; she was born April 16, 1831, and is a daughter of Jesse and Tepe (Dunham) McCasline, natives of South Carolina. Will- iam Handy and wife resided in Salt Lake City until 1866, when they came to Iowa; they stopped for a time at Cartersville, near Council Bluifs, and thence proceeded to Shelby County. In 1870 Mr. Handy moved his family to his present farm; he has eighty acres of land which is well improved; in the way of buildings he has a comfortable resi- dence, stables and cribs; he has planted a grove and an orchard, and made numerous provisions for future comfort. The farm is situated two miles south of Portsmouth. Mr. and Mrs. Handy are the parents of ten children — AVilliam, Hannah, Elza, Joseph, Rebecca, David, James, Susan, Nellie and Charles. One child, Jesse, died in infancy. The family are members of the church of the Latter-Day Saints. Mrs. Handy's j)arents were at Nauvoo, Illinois, when Joseph Smith was killed. Kjwj. fONATHAN ROLAND is a prominent and successful agriculturist of Cass Township, Shelby County, and has been a resident there since 1877. He was born in Washington County, Maryland, January 22, 1837, and is a son of Isaac and Nancy (Gru- ber) Roland, natives of Maryland and Penn- sylvania respectively. Jonathan was nine years of age when his parents removed to Ogle County, Illinois; there they were among the pioneers. The father died in June, 1855, and the mother still resides in the county at the age of seventy-eight years. Our subject was brought up on a farm, and divided his tiiwe between the duties usually assigued the youth on a farm and attending the common school. Not finding agricultural pursuits BIOGRAPHIUAL SKETCHES. 483 exactly to his taste, at the age of nineteen he wont to learn tlie carpenter's trade, which he followed many years. Mr. Roland was mar- ried February 24, 1859, to Sarah Cross, who was born in Washington County, Maryland, and was a daughter of Jacob and Mary (Struck) Cross. She was fourteen years old when her parents removed to Ogle County. After his marriage Mr. Roland remained in Ogle County until 18GG, when he removed to Marshalltown, Iowa, and worked there three years at his trade. He then returned to the occupation of his youth, farming, and con- tinued at that until the year 1877, when he came to Shelby County and bouglit 160 acres of land. His estate now covers 44:0 acres of the best land in Shelby County. In additicm to excellent buildings Mr. Roland has made improvements in the way of plant- ing a grove and an orchard. He and his wife are the parents of eight children — Ben F., Urias S., Martin O., Oliver N., Mary A., Delia R., Abner J. and JSettie N. Urias and Martin O. are successful teachers. Mr. Ro- land is a member of the Republican party, and has served on the school board. He is a member of the Evangelical churcli, and has been a steward of the same. His honorable and upright dealings have won the confidence and esteem of all who know him. lILEY BIRKS has been a resident of Shelby County, Iowa, since 1881. He was Ijorn in Logan County, Illinois, July 20, 1840, and is a son of Isom and Mary (Lucas) Birks, natives of Missouri and Illi- nois respectively. He passed his youth very much as other fanner's sons do, and received his education in the public schools. When tliere was a call for men to defend the flag of this nation he responded, enlisting in August, 1862, in the One Hundred and Sixth Illi- nois Infantry, Company B. He served two years and seven months, and was iu the battles of Little Rock and Pine Bluffs. He was honorably discharged on account of disability and returned to Illinois, settling in Sangamon County, where he lived until coming to Shelby County. In 1870 he went to Kansas, and resided in Howard County for two years, at the end of that time returninr; to Sangamon County. When he came to Shelby County Mr. Birks bought his farm of William As- quitli, one of the prominent early settlers; the place is one of the best in die neighborhood; there is a good house, surrounded with shade trees, sheds, cribs and barns, and all conven- iences for farming. Mr. Birks was married at Decatur, Illinois, April 20, 1865, to Miss Hethey J. Martin, a native of Illinois, and a daughter of John and Mary (McKenney) Martin, natives of Ohio. They are the parents of eleven children — Isom, Martin, Sally, wife of M. D. Copeland; John Frank, Mary Ann, Samuel, Eva Lnella, Lulu Jane, Nettie and Nellie (twins), Edward, and William R. (de- ceased). Politically Mr. Birks' opinions agree with the Democratic party. He is a mem- ber of Craftsman Lodge, No. 490, A. F. & A. M., of Persia. He has served his township as trustee, and has been a member of the school board. He is intelligent, well informed, and one of the leading men of the township. •♦|^«-'^^+'- [EORGE AV. AVALMER has been iden- ^7! titled with the interests of Shelby County . i- since 1875. He was born in Lancaster County, J'ennsylvania, IVIay 20, 1848, and is the son of William and Mary (Campbell) Walmer, who were also natives of Pennsyl- vania. He was a lad of seven years when his parents came to Iowa County, Iowa. There the 4a4 UiarORT OF HHELBY COUNTY. father resided until death; the mother is now living in Cass County, Iowa. George W. was brought up on a farm and obtained his education in the common schools. He was married at Marengo, Iowa, December 21, 1870, to Miss Anna Read, a native of Hunt- ingdon County, Pennsylvania, and a daughter of Hichardson and Louisa (Hoffman) Read. Mr. Waliner lived in Iowa County until 1874, and then went to Cass County, remaining there one year; at the end of that time he came to Shelby County. He owns 160 acres of fine land which he has improved with good buildings, and a grove and an orchard. Every- thing is arranged with an eye to convenience, and all the surroundings betoken thrift and pros])erity. Mr. Walmer devotes himself to farming and stock-raising exclusively. He and bis wife have had three children born to them — Iowa A., Mary L. and Lyle B. Mr. Walmer supports the issues of the Republican party. He is a member of the Evangelical church, and of the pioneer class of the town- ship. He is an active and enterprising farmer and is counted one of the reliable citizens of the township. fOIIN WILSON, a prominent and well- known citizen of Jackson Township, has been identified with the interests of Shelby County since 1876. He was born in Camden, Oneida County, New York, January 9, 1829, and is the son of Francis and Cath- erine (Moore) Wilson, natives of Ireland. The parents were married on the Emerald Isle, and shortly afterward emigrated to America, settling in Oneida County, New York. John Wilson was three years old when his parents removed to Oswego County, where he grew to maturity, receiving a fair education in the common schools. At the age of eighteen years he went to learn the cooper's trade, which he followed in after years. At the age of twenty he went to 'Wis- consin and engaged in the lumber business, running logs from Big Bull's Falls, Wiscon- sin, to St. Louis, Missouri. In a few years he returned to New York and worked at his trade and at blacksmithing for some time. He next removed to Saginaw City, Michigan, and worked at his trade, and again engaged in the lumber business. He remained there a short time, and then sold his interest in the business and removed to Jones County, Iowa, where he lived until 1876, when he came to Shelby County. Here he has improved a fine farm of 240 acres. He has one of the best orchards in the count}', containing 550 trees, and has planted a fine grove. He has a good residence, and a barn, and all the surround- ings are indicative of thrift and prosperity. Mr. Wilson also owns a liouse and lot in Harlan. He was married at Constantia, New York, when he was twenty-nine years old, to Miss Emeline Phillips, a native of Oswego County, New York, and a daughtei' of Ca- misca Phillips, of a prominent Cape Cod family. Four children have been born of this marriage — George F., Jennie, Anna, and Arthur, who died in his twelfth year. Mr. Wilson affiliates with the Republican party, and is very firm in his convictions. He is frank in Ills manner, is genial in disposition, and is highly esteem«d and respected by all who know him. gj-ETER GUBBELS, an enterprising and m prosperous farmer of Cass Township, is a Hollander by birth, who left his native land at the age of twelve years. He was born November 30, 1849, and is a son of John and Martha (Peils) Gubbels, natives of Hoi- l/irnM ////-/^' & ,r .'MMl^ BIOORAPUICAL SKETCHES. 487 land. Four children were born toJohnGub- bels and wife in Holland; they are — Peter, Jacob, of Westphalia Township; Matthias, at home; John, living on section 12, Cass Town- ship. W. H. was born in Grant County, "Wis- consin, and resides at home. The family emigrated from Holland to the United States in 1862, and settled in Grant County, Wis- consin, making that their home until 1874. Tiiey then came to Shelliy County, and settled on wild land, which they have brought to a high state of cultivation. The brothers own 160 acres in section 2, Cass Township; they have improved 480 acres since coming to the county. Their home place has a large dwell- ing, a good l)arn, a windmill, a grove and an orchard. The brothers agree in politics, all being Democrats. They are intelligent men, good neighbors and successful farmers. They are strictly honorable in business and have the confidence of the communit}'. They are members of the Roman Catholic church. John Gubbels, the father, died in October, 1880, and his widow lives on the old farm with three of her sons; they are all bachelors and are jovial, genial boys. • ^ ■'i ^ ' 3nt ' | i' » » • • F. KELLER is a well-known citizen of Lincoln Township. He was born in I* Augusta County, Virginia, August 23, 1849. Pie is a son of H. D. and Susan (Engleman) Keller The father was a native of Virginia, a member of an old Virginia fam- ily of German' descent; the mother was also a native of Virginia. Until he was six years of age George F. lived in his native State; the family then removed to Jones County, Iowa, where they resided four years. In 1859 they returtied to Virginia and remained there a year and a half. Then they came back to Jones County, Iowa. The father was a farmer. and George F. was reared on a farm and re- ceived his education in the common schools, and at Oskaloosa College, Iowa. Mr. Keller was married December 25, 1869, to Miss Mershon Ilopy, a lady born and educated in Jones County, Iowa, and a daughter of John W. and Hester (Garwood) Hopy. The father was a native of Kentucky, and tlie mother of Ohio. In 1880 Mr. Keller came to Shelby County, Iowa, and bought 160 acres of land that had been broken; however, there were no buildings on the place; he built a good house, and barns for stock and grain; he planted a groveof fouracres and hasa modern windmill that furnishes water to all the stock. Mr. and Mrs. Keller are the parents of six children — Earl L., Mabel M., George F., Har- mon J., Minnie E. and Fanny E. Mr. Keller gives his political support to the Democratic party; he has served as township clerk, and was the choice of the people in the Demo- cratic party in 1886 for clerk, receiving a vote ahead of the ticket. He is a member of the Masonic order. Lodge No. 321; Com- mandery No. 49, and Chapter No. 107. Mrs. Keller is a member of the Christian church. Since Mr. Keller came to the county in 1880 he has been interested in politics, and all public enterprises find a hearty support in him. He has made and retained many friends by his honorable and upright business trans- actions. He is numbered among Shelby County's solid citizens. I^ENRY CUSTER (deceased), late of Fairview Township, was one of the pio- neers, having come to Shelby County in the spring of 1853. He was born in Ash County, North Carolina, April 22, 1807, and is a Son of Emmanuel Custer, who was also a native of North Carolina. When Henry was 488 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. fourteen years of age his parents removed to Ohio and settled in Clermont County, where he grew to manhood. At the age of twenty- one years he went to Putnam County, Indi- ana, where he was afterward married to Miss Elizabeth Burket, who was born near Salem, North Carolina, and was a daughter of Abra- ham Burket, who came witli his family to Indiana when Mrs. Custer was eighteen years old. Mr. Custer resided in Indiana until the spring uf 1852, when he emigrated with his family to western Iowa, which a short time before was an unexplored prairie, and at the time of Mr. Cnster's settlement was occupied by a few hardy pioneers. They made the journey with horses and oxen, fording streams, and picking their way across the country, as there were but few roads laid out at that early day. Mr. Custer first located in Mills County, where he remained until the following March, when he came to Shelby County and entered 3G0 acres uf government land in section B of what is now Fairview Township; there he began the task of making a home in the new country when there were but six families in the south part of Shelby County. He iirst erected a log house, as- sisted by his son Rudy and son-in-law Lean- der Hack, who had settled two miles south of Mr. Custer's place the preceding fall. Mr. Custer and his iamily passed through all the hardsiiips and privations incident to frontier life. During the severe winter of 1857, owing to the impassable roads and streams, they were unable to go to mill. Their breadstuff giving out the family ground ten bushels of buckwheat in an ordinary coffee-mill, at the same time having 300 busliels of wheat in the granary. They were obliged to travel a dis- tance of 110 miles to mill. During the early days when the country was sparsely settled, the friend or stranger received an equally cordial welcome at Mr. Custer's liome. As the country grew and improved the log honse was replaced by a substantial frame dwelling, a portion of which was removed from the old town site of Simoda. Mr. and Mrs. Custer lived upon this farm to the end of their days. They were the parents of eleven children — John and Mary Ann died in childhood; Jon- athan died while serving his country in the late civil war atlleleiia, Arkansas; Catherine, (deceased); Rudy, Elizabeth, Benjamin, Abra- ham, Henry, Caroline and Benton C. still sur- vive. Politically Mr. Custer was formerly an old-line Whig, and on the organization of the Republican party he cast his vote in support of its issues. He departed this lite August 27, 1885; his wife survived him until Octo- ber 28, 1.888. -■■ g . 3 .. t . ^. ..> fM. MALICK, a farmer and stock-raiser of Monroe Township, was born in ® Northumberland County, Pennsylva- nia, July 6, 1836. He is a son of John Jacob and Mary (Miller) Malick, natives of Penn- sylvania. His youth was spent upon a farm, and in attending the common schools. At the age of fifteen years he secured employ- ment in a grist-mill, and remained there until the war broke out. He enlisted in August, 1863, at the call for 300,000 men, in the One Hundred and Forty-seven tii Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, Company G, and served one year. He re-enlistcd in September, 1864, in the Two Hundred and Eighth Pennsylva- nia Volunteer Infantry, Company D, and served until the close of the war. He was in all the battles before Richmond, at Peters- burg, and was present at the grand review at Wasliington, D. C. He was honorably dis- charged and returned to his home. Mr. Malick was married in October, 1861, to Miss Mary Elizabeth Louis, who was born in Snyder BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCUBS. 489 County, Pennsjlvania, and a daugliter of Jacob and LSarbara (Smith) Louis. The father was a native of France, and the mother was born in Snyder County, Pennsjlvania. In 18G5 Mr. Malick bought his present place, which consisted of fifty-eight acres of wild land. lie has made numerous improvements, among which may be mentioned a good dwell- ing house and barns; he has planted an or- chard, and has everything in good shape. He also owns eighty acres in section 17, of this township. Mr. and Mrs. Malick are the par- ents of six children — C. II. Malick, Fred A., Blanche, Akron, May and J. Harry. They all have a good education, and Fred is a suc- cessful teacher. Several members of the fam- ily are worthy and consistent members of the Baptist church. Mr. Malick is one of the wheel-horses of the Democratic party. He is strictly honorable in business, and his upright conduct has won the confidence of the com- munity. •^»-^ fONATHAN BULLARD, an early set- tler of Cass Township, Siielby County, Iowa, was born in Canada, November 7, 1828. He is a son of Josiah and Susan (Sly)Bullard, who were married in Canada, and resided there until death ; the mother was a native of Canada, and died in 1830; the father was born in Vermont, and died in 1849. Jonathan Bullard, at the age of nineteen years, went to Kno.x County, Illinois, and re- sided there several years. He returned to Canada and was married at Brockvillc, Leeds County, September 17, 1849, to Miss Anna Landon, a native of Canada, born January 3, 1831, and a daughter of Elisha and Elizabeth (Rissel) Landon. Her parents were both (Canadians 1)y birth. After his marriage Mr. Bullard returned to Knox County, Illinois, and lived there four years. He then removed to Lee County, Iowa, and remained there two years. He next spent one winter in Missouri, after which he came to Iowa again, settling in Decatur County. There he bought and improved a farm, and lived until 18G2, when he removed to Pottawattamie County, and settled near Council Bluffs. In 1868 he came to Shelby County, and bought forty-two acres of wild land which he has improved and to which he has added 120 acres, also un- der good cultivation. He lived in a log cabin until 1874, when he erected a good two-story dwelling. He has built all the necessary barns, sheds, and cribs for the care and protection of live-stock and grain. Mr. and Mrs. Bul- lard have had nine children born to them, four dead and five living — William D., a prominent stockman of Harrison County, Iowa; James II. Bullard, of Persia; Elethe, wile of A. H. Morrow; Sophrona, wife of A. Pelton; Charles W., at home. Mr. Bul- lard served in the State militia during the war. His political action has been taken with the Republican party. He has served as a member of the school board. Both he and his wife are zealous mcinbersof thechurch of the Latter Day Saints, and are among the worthy and respected citizens of Cass Town- ship. ►>^ |ETER HERKENRATH, one of the prosperous farmers of Cass Township, Shelby County, was born in Germany, February 21, 1851. He is a son of Joseph and Gertrude Ilerkenrath. lie attended school in his native country until he was fif- teen years of age and acquired a good educa- tion. Durinii: the three years followintr he was occupied with farm work, and in March, 1869, he sailed for America. He landed in 490 BISTORT OF SUELBT COUNTY. New York, and thence went to Keokuk, Iowa. In 1876 he came to Shelby County and bought eighty acres of land, which now forms a part of his farm. He has added to his first investment, and now has 400 acres of as good soil as the county aifords. Mr. Herkenrath has erected a good residence, a barn, and has planted an orchard and a grove. He has a modern windmill, which is a very valuable addition to a stock-farm. Joseph Herken- rath, father of the subject of this notice, lived on the same place; his wife died in March, 1888, in the sixty-fifth year of her age. They were the parents of two children — Peter, and Anna, wife of Matthias dinger. Peter Her- kenrath was married in Keokuk County, Iowa, January 23, 1873, to Miss Mary dinger, a native of Keokuk County, and a daughter of Peter and Angeline dinger, natives of Ger- many. Mr. and Mrs. Herkenrath are the parents of seven children — Angeline, John, Anna, Peter, Matthias, Antony and Theo- dore. Mr. Herkenrath is a staunch and leading Democrat of the township. He is the present trustee, and has filled the office accepta bly. He is a member of the Eoman Catholic church. He is honorable and upright in all his business dealings, and has the respect of all who know him. - ..? . ; ■ 'I - g "- EOllGE BATTEY has been dealing in trrain and live-stock at Portsmouth since 1882, when the elevator was built; it was destroyed by fire in 1887, and then re- built, with a twelve-horse steam-power; it has a shelling capacity of 1,800 bushels per day, or 8,000 bushels of shelled grain per day. Mr. Bivttey does an annual business of three hundred cars. He is the pioneer grain-dealer of Portsmoutli, and lias secured a fine trade, of which he is well worthy. George Battey was born in Rhode Island, July 4. 1837, and is a son of Silas and M. M. (Wilcox) Battey, natives of Connecticut and Rhode Island re- spectively. While he was still a child his parents removed to Bureau County, Illinois, where he grew to manhood. He was reared to the life of a farmer and received his edu- cation in the common schools and Lombard College, at Galesburg, Illinois. During the late civil war he served in the One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, Company H. He went to the front in 1863, and served six months; he was stationed at St. Louis, Missouri; Cairo, Illinois, and Co- lumbus, Kentucky. At the age of twenty- one years he engaged in teaching, and taught eighteen terms in Illinois and Missouri. After the war he lived in Bureau County until 1869, and then removed to Vernon County, Missouri, engaging for the following seven years in stock-raising. He then came to Shelby, Shelby County, and engaged in farm- ing until 1882, when he sold his farm and came to Portsmouth. Mr. Battey was mar- ried at Princeton, Illinois, June 24, 1861, to Miss Louise F. Cooper, daughter of Calvin and Harriet E. Cooper, of Mineral, Illinois. Four children are the result of this union — H. v., editor of the Walnut J?Mreaw/ Frank S., in the grain business at Aspinwall, Iowa; Roy C. and George. In politics Mr. Battey is Republican. He is a member of the G. A. R., and of Craftsman Lodge, A. F. & A. M., of Persia, Iowa. He is one of Portsmouth's solid citizens, and has the regard of all who know him. -SH^J- iEECE I. BOYD, marble dealer, Harlan, was born in Warren County, Ohio, .fanuary 3, 1850. He is a son of James H. and Eliza (Phillips) Boyd. His father BIOGRAPniCAL SKETCHES. 491 was a native of Franklin Connty, Pennsyl- vania, and the mother of Warren County, Oliio. In 1855 the family moved to Iowa and settled in Muscatine County, where Mr. Boyd followed agricultural pursuits. Reece I. was reared on a farm and received his edu- cation in the district schools and at the Wil- ton Baptist College. In 18G6 he engaged as clerk in a drug store at Wilton, where he re- mained live years. After teaching school one year he engaged in the drug business for himself at Eldon, Wapello County, where he remained nearly three years. In the fall of 1877 he went to Nebraska, and for a year and a half followed various avocations. He then returned to Iowa, settling at Avoca, and dealt in horses and worked at the marble trade until February, 1882, when be came to Harlan and engaged in the marble trade, in which he is doing a business of from $6,000 to $10,000 per year. He has the only estab- lishment of the kind in Harlan, and has met with satisfactory success. Mr. Boyd was married at Avoca, May 17, 1883, to Miss Louisa dishing, a native of New Hamp- shire, and a daughter of Enoch Cushing, who came to Iowa in the year 1870 and settled in Pottawattamie County. Mrs. Boyd is a mem- ber of the Congregational churcli. Mr. Boyd gives his political support to the Republican party. He is a member of Parian Lodge, No. 321, A. F. & A. M., of Harlan. He is also a member of the 1. O. O. F., Eldon Lodge, No. 28. He was made an Odd Fellow in February, 1872. (HAUNCEY WILLIAMSON, a native of Onondaga County, Town of Spofford, New York, was born May 23, 1823. He is the son of John and Nancy William- son, natives of New York. When be was eight years old his parents removed from New York to Pennsylvania, remaining there one winter; they then went to Monroe, Ash- tabula County, Ohio, and here our subject dwelt until he was twenty years old, receiving a common-school education. When he left Ohio he went to Oakland County, Michigan, remaining there about six years; here he was employed in various pursuits, and in the spring of 1850 he started to California. On reach- ing Council Bluffs he stopped, and con- cluded to remain in Iowa. Mr. William- son was married April 15, 1851, to Miss Elizabeth J. Listen. Seven children were born to them — George H., Matilda (de- ceased), Henry (deceased), John, Nancy, wife of David Baughman; Mary, wife of C. A. Beebe, and David. Mrs. Williamson was called to the other life in October, 186!>, at the age of thirty-nine years. Mr. William- son was again married February 22, 1872, to Leanah, the widow of Milton M. Beebe, and daughter of William and Polly (Headrick) Van Ausdell. She was born in Lawrence County, Ohio, May 29, 1826, and was married to Milton M. Beebe in Lee County, Iowa, in 1850. They resided in Shelby County from 1851 until 1857, and during this time Mr. Beebe figured quite prominently in business and political circles of the county. He was engaged in the mercantile trade in Manteno, and was elected the first sheriff of the county. In 1857 he removed to Missouri, and died there before the close of the Rebellion. In 1866 Mrs. Beebe and five children returned to Shelby County; the children are — Luella G. (deceased), wife of Isaac Fauts; Georgianna v., wife of George Williamson; Cornelius A., Kate I., wife of Henry Urfer; Mary M., wife of Marion Hawley. Mr. Williatnson and Mrs. Beebe were married February 22, 1872. After his first marriage Mr. Williamson resided in Mills County, then Harrison 492 HISTORY OF SUELBT COUNTY. County, and in 1854 came to Shelby County, and purchased 160 acres of land in Grove Township, which he still makes his home. He has made many valuable improve- ments, erecting a residence and barns for stock and grain. Mr. "Williamson has done mucli toward tiie advancement and growth * of this part of Shelby County, and has held many positions of trust among the people. He assisted in the organizing of the school districts in his section. In politics his senti- ments find expression in the principles of the Republican party. Mr. and Mrs. William- son are consistent members of the reorgan- ized church of Jesus Christ, or tlie Latter- Day Saints, lie liaving served as priest in this body for twenty-six years. Tliey have been zealous workers in their church, and have done much for the religious element of the community, and are deserving of the regard in which they are held. ■■■ i i^ . 3n; . | ...<^ jLBERT E. GREGG, M. D., a practicing physician of Panama, Iowa, came to ^ Shelby County in the fall of 1881. He is a native of Westmoreland County, Penn- sylvania, and was born February 15, 1851. He is a son of William P. and Mary J. (Snyder) Gregg, and the oldest of a family of eight children. They are — Albert E., Eleanor, wife of George Black; .Fames (deceased), Jackson, John, Mary, William and Eliza Bell. Albert E. worked with his father in a woolen factory during his vacations until lie was fifteen years old. He attended the Blairsville Academy in Indiana County, .Pennsylvania, and prepared for the junior year in college. One of his preceptors was a classmate of James G. Blaine. Dr. Gregg spent several years in teaching, and in 1874 he began studying medicine, reading one year undei" Dr. J. H. Crawford, of Salts- l)urgh, Pennsylvania. Afterward he read two years under Dr. T. P. Klingensmith, of Blairsville, Pennsylvania. In 1877 he en- tered Jefferson Medical College, and studied there one year. He then practiced one year under his last preceptor, and then returned to Jefferson, from which institution he wms graduated March 13, 1880. He then located in Pittsburg and practiced one year, at the end of which time he came to Carroll, Iowa, remaining there but a short time. For a time after coining to Iowa he was engaged in work with the engineer corps on a liranch of the Chicago & Northwestern Ilailroad, and during the winter of 1880 he taught school and practiced medicine in Kirkman, Iowa, and in the fall of 1882 ho located in Panama. Dr. Gregg was married December 2, 1886, to Miss Mary R. Kinsella, a daughter of D. S. and Catherine (Holt) Kinsella. Mrs. Gregg was born in Jones County, Iowa, January 4, 1868. The Doctor is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. He affili- ates with the Democratic party. UGH L. SNYDER is one of the intelli- gent and enterprising citizens of Shelby Township, who came here in 1877. He was l)orn in Huntingdon County, Pennsyl- vania, December 6, 1851, and is a son of John and Sarah (Linn) Snyder, natives of Pennsylvania. There were eleven children, of whom Hugh is the youngest. The family lived in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, until 1865, when they came to Johnson County, Iowa. The father lived until 1878; he was born in 1800. The mother lives in Johnson County, aged eighty-two years. Hugh L. was reared on a farm and recciverl liis education in the public schools and in the ^^^/^ BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 495 academy at Iowa City. He was married De- cember 16, 1875, to Miss Myra Dennison, a daughter of George and Susan (Ileadley) Den- nison. Mrs. Snyder was a successful teacher for twelve terms. A short time after his marriage he came to Pottawattamie County, Iowa, for one year. Tlie next year he settled on an eighty-acre tract of wild land in Shelby County, where he still lives. He has made many improvements, has a good story and a half house, and barn with basement for stock, a grove, an orchard, and a windmill. He now owns 160 acres of as line land as lies in Shelby County. Mr. and Mrs. Snyder have four children — Mabel Edith, Marcus Arthur, Clifton Charles and Eertlia Ellen. Mr. Snyder is a liepublicau, and has served as township assessor and on the school board. He is secretary of the District Agricultural Association. He and his wife ai'e members of the Methodist Episcopal church. He is a man well-informed on general topics, cordial to all, upright and honorable in his business transactions. Mrs. Dennison, the mother of Mrs. Snyder, lives with them. She came to Iowa in 1839, seven years before Iowa was a State. It was but thinly settled at that time. She has witnessed the wonderful growth of the Hawkeye State, from its infancy to its present state of healthy development. She is seventy-one years old, and is in a good state of health. HI U i y t iHt j ^ |»^^— lANIEL B. WALTERS has become a prominent and well-known citizen of Fairview Township. He came to the county in 1877. He was born near Pitts- burg, Pennsylvania, September 7, 1823, and is a sou of Anthony and Elizabeth Walters. Pie was reared on a farm in Pennsylvania, and was married when he was twenty-live years of age, to Miss Margaret Byers, who is a native of Pennsylvania. In 1853 our sub- ject removed to Stephenson County, Illinois, where he improved a good farm and lived several years; he then sohl out and w-ent to Jo Daviess County, Illinois, near Warren, where he improved anociier farm. He re- mained two years and tlien went to Jasper County, Iowa, near Newton, w'here he im- proved a farm and lived eight years. He then sold and rented in PottawattamieCounty, near Walnut, for two years. In the spring of 1877 lie came to Sliell)y County, and located on his present farm of 160 acres. He also owns fifty acres in the north part of the town- ship, and 160 acres of improved land in Lin- coln Township. The home farm is one of the best improved in the townsiiip; there is a fine house built in modern style, surrounded with sluide and ornamental trees, large, fine barns, and all conveniences for I'arming in good style. Mr. Walters and wife have twelve children — Jacob, Jeremiah, Abram, Anthony, Daniel, Albert, William, Ed, Court, Jennie, Laura and Ella. Mr. Walters is a Republi- can, and always lias been one. He is honor- able in all his business transactions, and is one of Shelby County's solid and reliable citizens. fOSEPH YACKEY was born in Switzer- land, December 25, 1848, and is a son of Victon and Mary (Layman) Yackey. When he was three years old his parents de- termined to try their fortunes in the new world, so they emigrated from Switzerland to America. They lived in New York for two years after they landed, and then re- moved to La Salle County, Illinois, where his parents died. Until he was fifteen years old his time was divided between duties on the farm and attending school. At the a^e of fifteen he enlisted in the United States service in Company E, Fourth Illinois Vol- unteer Cavalry, and was mustered out May 29, 1866, at Houston, Te.xas. He took part in many severe battles, being under the com- mand of General Thomas. In 1865, at Alex- andria, Louisiana, his regiment was placed under the command of General Custer, under whom he served until the close of the war. He enlisted as a private and was discharged as Sergeant. During the latter part of 1864 he served as private scout to Colonel Mc- Calib. After he was discharged he returned to La Salle County, Illinois, and entered the employ of the Illinois Valley Coal Works as a miner. He remained there two years, and then took a position on the timber work, at which he was engaged three years; lie was then made superintendent of tiie underground work of the mines, a position he held until 1880, when he concluded to abandon mining and try his fortune in Iowa. He came to Shelby County, April 2, 1880, and has since made this county his home. Pi'ior to com- ing here he bought an eighty-acre tract in 503 HISTORY OP tillELBY COUNTY. section 13, Union Township — tlie land upon whicli tlie town of Defiance, except tiie Haines addition, stands. When the Milwau- kee Railroad was in course of construction Mr. Yackey disposed of his farm to the com- pany, and bought IGO acres in sections 8 and 17. This was raw prairie, but has all been placed under cultivation. Mr. Yackey erected a comfortable residence and buildings for stock and grain, and planted three acres of grove. He continued his residence there until the spring of 1888, when he disposed of the place and bought the Moffitt farm, con- sisting of 160 acres, in section 10. Since coining to his new home he has planted live acres of grove. He devotes himself to farm- ing and stock-raising exclusively. He is a member of the Republican party, and has represented his township as trustee. He was presented by his party as a candidate for the Legislature in 1885, but was defeated by a small majority. Mr. Y'ackey is a member of Guardian Lodge, No. 441, A. F. & A. M., •and of the I. O. O. F., of Defiance, and of the G. A. R., Defiance Post. He was mar- ried December 25, 1866, to Miss Harriette Way, daughterof Hiram and Harriette (Allen) Way, who was born April 2, 1850, in La Salle County, Illinois. They are the parents of six children — Hiram V., Edith Evaline, Mary T., George L., Joseph H., Hattie V. They are worthy and consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Yackey is a local minister in the Meth- odist Episcopal church, supplying pulpits whenever duty calls. HMJ-I--- fOHN POMEROY, editor and proprietor of the Shelby News, Shelby, Iowa, was born in the town of Concord, Franklin County, Pennsylvania, January 18, 1853. He resided (with the exception of six years spent away from home in attending school and teaching) in the place of his birth until 1878, when became to Shelby, Shelby County, Iowa. He spent two years as a student at Tuscarora Academy, Academia, Juniata County, Pennsylvania, and three years at Dickinson College, Carlisle, Pennsylvania, from which institution he was graduated in the summer of 1876, with the degree of A. B. After his graduation he had charge of the Concord, Pennsylvania, High School, from October, 1877, to March, 1878. Pre- vious to this time, however, he had engaged in the profession of teaching. He had taught in Louisa County, Iowa, from September, 1872, until July, 1873, during a part of whicli time he had charge of the grammar department of the Morning Sun public schools for one term. In the spring of 1880 Mr. Pomeroy purchased of LI. L. Heath, the Shelby JVeios, and since that date has been editor and proprietor of the paper. The News was founded by Mr. Heath in 1877, and is Republican in its principles. Mr. Pomeroy is unmarried. — •— *^ : - i"i ' g- — — fACOB WALTERS, bridge contractor, became a resident of Shelby County in 1878. He is a native of Pennsylvania, born March 23, 1849. He is the oldest son of D. B. Walters, whose biograpliy appears in this volume. When a child his parents removed to Illinois, and he was reared in Stevenson and Jo Daviess counties. In 1865 the family removed to Iowa, living first in Marion and then in Jasper counties. In 1869 Jacob started out for himself, engaging with the Rock Island Railroad in the bridge- building department. He remained in the employ of this company until 1873. During BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCUEti. 503 this time he resided in Des Moines. After severing bis connection witli tlie railroad company, lie contracted for bridges on bis own responsibility for several years. In 1878 be came to Sbelby County and settled on a farm in Fairview Townsbip. Tbe farm contained 120 acres of unimproved land, wbicb he improved and made into a good farm. In connection with bis farming pur- suits be fullowed his trade until 1882; he then moved to Harlan, but continued bis in- terest in both occupations. Mr. Walters was married December 25, 1871, to Miss Lucinda Long, a daughter of Richard Long. She was a native of Greene County, Pennsylvania, and came to Iowa when a child. Mr. and Mrs. Walters are tbe parents of six children — Millie O., Fannie E., Harry F., Eva L. and Maggie C. Stella G. died at tbe age of nine years. Mrs. Walters and children are mem- bers of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Walters has filled many local offices of trust and responsibility. H^ is a member of the K. P., Carthage Lodge, No. 65. He gives liis politicaf support to the Republican party. He does most of tbe city bridge-building, and also contracts for and builds barns. By his own industry and energy he has accumu- lated a good property. C. McCUSKEY was born in Morgan County, Ohio, April 25, 1843, and is tbe son of Joseph and Prudence (Dodge) McCuskey, who were natives of West Virginia and Ohio respectively. The subject of this sketch was deprived of a mother's care at the age of three years, and at the age of seven he lost bis father, so he early realized the responsibilities of life, as be was left alone and dependent upon his own resources. Until tbe age of fourteen years be resided in bis 84 native county, and then went to Hocking County, Ohio, making that bis home for three years; thence be removed to Perry County, Ohio, remaining there until tbe spring of 1878, with tbe exception of three years spent in the United States service, and three years spent in and about Des Moines, Iowa. He enlisted at the beginning of the late civil war, July, 1861, in Company G, Thirty-first Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was discharged November 29, 1861, on account of physical inability. He again enlisted in May, 1862, in Company G, Eighty-eighth Ohio Volun- teer Infantry. After three months' service he returned home sick and unfit for duty. In February, 1864, be re-enlisted in Company D, Sixty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served until September, 1864, when be was promoted to the Second Lieutenancy of the Seventh United States Colored Infantry, which position he held until tbe close of tbe Rebellion. He was engaged in many hard- fought battles, the most severe being that of Fort Gilmore, the regiment entering with thirty-three oflicersand coming out with five, and losing 700 men. Mr. McCuskey was married March 8, 1864, to Miss Emily J. Bugh, daughter of Henry and Charlotte (Black) Bugh, who was born in Perry County, Ohio, P'ebruary 15, 1841. They are the par- ents of six children — Lizzie C, a graduate of the Iowa Agricultural College, at Ames, Iowa, now teaching in Marshall County, Iowa; Henry B., a member of the junior class at Ames; Waldo B. R., attending school at Woodbine, Iowa; Willie, Charlotte P. and Mary at home. In June, 1878, Mr. McCus-" key and family landed in Grove Township, Shelby County, Iowa, having driven from Ohio in a wagon; they settled on section 14, on a farm of forty acres of wild land. Mr. McCuskey built a cabin and commenced im- proving his land. He has added to his fii-st 504 EISTORT OP SHELBY COUNTY. purchase until he now owns 320 acres, which he has brought from its original wild state to one of high cultivation. He has also replaced the cabin with a comfortable frame residence; he devotes his summers to farming, and spends his winters in teaching; he takes an active interest in the educational work of the county, and assists in all worthy enterprises tending to the advancement of the commu- nity. Politically he is a staunch Republican, and a strong advocate of prohibition. He was presented by his party as a candidate for the office of auditor of the county, and has been justice of the peace, township clerk and secretary of tiie scliool board. Mr. and Mrs. McOuskey are members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Defiance. " ^ ' I ' ^i ' t ' g IDWARD S. EIGLER, a native of Tus- carawas County, Ohio, was born De- cember 29, 1840. He is the son of Samuel and Susannah (Kislig) Bigler, natives of Switzerland. He was reared and trained to agricultural pursuits in his native county, and received his education in the common schools. At the age of twenty-two years he came to Iowa, settling in Poweshiek County, where he remained until 1879; he then came to Shelby County, locating on section 27, Greeley Township, on a farm of forty acres of unimproved land ; here he erected a tem- porary dwelling in wliich he spent the sum- mer and a part of the fall of 1879; the same autumn he purchased an adjoining forty acres of improved land and removed to this new place. In the fall of 1880 Mr. Bigler made another purchase of 120 acres of wild laud adjoining the former purchase; here he lias made many valuable improvements in the way of erecting buildings, and all the sur- roundings bespeak the thrift and prosperity of the owner. ' He now owns 240 acres of finely improved land, with about six acres of grove. Mr. Bigler is a live, energetic man, devoting himself to general agricultural pur- suits and the raising of live-stock. Begin- ning life without any financial support, by industry and thrift he has gained an enviable position in the community. Politically he is a Republican, and at the present time is acting as justice of the peace. Mr. Bigler was married March 28, 1875, to Miss M. E. Grant, daughter of Henry and Ellen (Hog- garty) Grant, natives of Scotland and Ireland respectively. Mr. Bigler was born in Port- age County, Ohio, February 23, 1851. They are the parents of five children — Effie V., Minnie I., Ivin E., John Leonard and Sarah Cecelia. They are consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and are among Shelby County's respected citizens. ....P. ; .. ; . ? .. ^ ^ — >UGUST SCHNUETTGEN, a native of Prussia, has been identified with the interests of Shelby County since 1873, when he emigrated to America, and settled in Westphalia Township. He was born March 30, 1854, and is a son of Anton and Mary A. (Ilitze) Schnuettgen, both deceased. August was the sixth child in a family of seven, three of whom reside in America. He was reared in his native country to farm life; he acquired a common-school education, and worked at the carpenter's trade one year previous to his coming to America. For twelve or thirteen years he followed this busi- ness in this country, and worked on a farm for one year. In the fall of 1885 Mr. Schnuettgen came to Earling, and erected a large two-story brick building, in which he opened a stock of hardware, tinware, stoves, pumps and furniture; he also attends to the BIOORAPHICAJ. SKBTVHES. 505 undertaking of EaiHng and vicinity, keeping a full line of burial robes and undertakers' supplies. Ills stock in both lines is un- equaled in most towns of the size of Earling. He also owns forty acres of land in West- phalia Township, 160 acres in Union Town- ship, a house and lot in Panama, and his property in Earling. He has erected most of the school buildings in Westphalia and Union townships, beside a great number of dwell- ing houses. Mr. Schnuettgen has probably done as much as any other citizen of the county toward the advancement and growth of the town of Earling. Politically he affil- iates with the Democratic party. He was married February 10, 1886, to Louisa Block, daughter of Henry and Mary A. (Bolte) Block, who was born in Fort Madison, Iowa, October 2, 1862. Mr. and Mrs. Schnuettgen are members of the Roman Catholic church. ?C. HEESE, dealer in lumber and build- ing materials, has been a resident of ** Westphalia Township since his eight- eenth year. He was born in Prussia, April 15, 1858, and is a son of John and Anna M' (Drexelius) Heese, natives of Prussia, but now residents of Westphalia Township. J. C. was the third child in a family of four, and was reared to farm life in his native country ; there he acquired a common-school education, and in 1876 emigrated to America with the other membersof his family ; they immediately came to AVestphalia Township, and have since made it their home. In 1881 our subject started in life for himself, having mastered the car- penter's trade, which he has since followed, also doing a large business in contracting. In 1886 he entered into partnership with FVaiik Hesse, and they carry a stock of lum- ber, lime, and general building supplies; they also carry a stock of coal. Mr. Heese is a live, energetic man, and has done much toward the building up of Earling and the surround- ing country. The firm does an annual busi- ness of $20,000. Mr. Ileese is a staunch member of the Democratic party. Ho was married November 26, 1885, to Miss Elizabeth Gollobisch, a daughter of John and Rosina (Nipp) Gollobisch. Mrs. Ileese was born in Dubuque, Iowa, March 15, 1865. Mr. and Mrs. Heese are tlie parents of two children — • Mary Rosina and Anna Margaretta. They are members of the Roman Catholic church. EWIS SHORETT has been identified with the history of Shelby County since April, 1872. He was born in New York, July 16, 184:6, and is a son of Antoine and Amelio (Des Vough) Shorett. They were the parents of eleven children — Antoine, Philus, Joseph, Amelio, widow of Mr. Pratt; Lewis, Harriett, Mrs. Potter, two children who died in infancy; Jefl:erson, who went south before the war, and is supposed to be dead, as he has not been heard from since; Mary Goodal (deceased), and Louisa Smith (deceased). When a mere child often years Lewis left home and began the battle of life. He worked as a farm hand until the breaking out of the late war, when he enlisted in Com- pany B, Thirty-fourth Illinois Volunteer In- fantry, July 16, 1861, his fifteenth birthday. He was sworn into the United States service September 1, 1861. He was in the following engagements, besides many skirmishes: Shi- loh, Corinth, Stone River, Lookout Mount- ain, campaign of Atlanta, Sherman's march to the sea, and the battle of Bentonvillc. He was discharged July 12, 1865; his regiment disbanded in Chicago July 16, 1865, and he reached home July 20. Mr. Shorett was 006 UISTOUY OP SHELBY COUNTY. uiarried December 10, 1807, to Miss Har- riett A., daughter of John and Siisana (Hun- ter) Hopkins. She was born in New York December 11, 1848. After tlieir marriage Mr. and Mrs. Shorett lived in AVliiteside County, Hlinois, for four years. In 1872 they started to Iowa, traveling with teams. Mr. Shorett first bought forty acres of wild land and built a rude hut, in which they lived for a number of years. He now owns 320 acres of land in a high state of cultiva- tion and well improved otherwise. He car- ries on farming and general stock-raising, shipping a car-load of cattle and from one to two car- loads of hogs annually from his own place; he also does some buying and ship- ping. From the time the Chicago, Milwau- kee & Saint Paul Railroad came through Panama until recently, Mr. Shorett bought stock and grain at that point. He was a member of the county l)oard of supervisors two terms, and has served in all the township oiEces. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and is a liberal contributor to all public enterprises. Mr. and Mrs. Shorett have had three children — Augusta (deceased), John Berton and Judson "W. ^ARSELIUS LARSON.— The subject of this biography was born at Ste- ^i^?r» venger, Norway, November 4, 1842, and is the second of a family of eight chil- dren the others being Augustine, Lewis, Christian, Maria, Stena (deceased), wife of T. B. Olson; Christena and Sarah. The parents were Larse and Stena Larson, natives of Norway. In 1864 the family emigrated to America and settled in Henry County, Iowa. Soon after they removed to Mahaska County, where Mr. Larson, Sr., died in 1870. The family came to Shelby County in 1880, and in 1887 Mrs. Larson died at Manning, the residence of one of her sons. Stevenger being a seaport town, Marselius early be- came familiar with seamen and vessels, and longed to be a sailor lad; so, when he had arrived at his thirteenth year he secured a berth as cabin boy, and in a few years became a full-fledged sailor. For seven years he trod the decks of a sailing vessel, but seeing no chance of promotion above the level of a com- mon sailor, without more of an education than he possessed or had facilities of acquiring, he decided to leave the sea and come to America, in which country better opportuni- ties would be open to him. Accordingly we find him at twenty-two years of age in the United States, working to secure a home for his loved one, who had crossed the ocean with his own family. It took but a short time to satisfy him that he could provide for two, and so after a few months they were united for life. Mrs. Larson's maiden name was Hannah Svcnsen, and she was born at Ste- venger, October 21, 1843. They were mar- ried December 28, 1804. The first two years in America Mr. Larson spent as a sailor upon the lakes, leaving his wife with his father's family. He then secured fifty acres of land in Mahaska County, Iowa, and besides farm- ing that he dug wells and did odd jobs of masonry and painting, turning his hand to anything to earn an honest penny. In 1880 Mr. Larson removed to Shelby County, Iowa, desiring to secure more land than was avail- able in the older county. His present home, "Hillside Farm," in Douglas Township, two miles east of Kirkman, consists of 200 acres of excellent land, all of which is finely im- proved. He has a nicely located commodi- ous house, well arranged stables and yards, and plenty of live-stock of the best breeds. Mr. Larson affiliates with the Republican party, and has frequently been called to posi- .^yM:i^^^€^i^c^^-^ ff C. BONNE, undertaker and dealer in I furniture and farm implements, is one * of the well-known business men of Shelby, where he located and began business in June, 1878. He started in a small way in a building where he had his furniture and workshop. He has been industrious and his trade has constantly increased. He has added warerooms and tilled them with a well-selected stock of goods. In 1883 he added to his furniture and undertaking business farm machinery, and carries a large stock of stand- ard make of goods. He does a business of $6,000 per annum. Mr. Bonne is a native of Denmark, and was born December 20, 1846. He is a son of M. P. and Mary Ann (Christiauson) Bonne. He was reared in his native country, and attended school until lie was fourteen years of age. For three years he worked on a farm. At the age of seven- teen he began working at the painter's trade, but owing to ill-health he gave it up and worked at the carpenter's trade. In 1873 he landed at Quebec, and tlien went to New Jersey, where lie worked for the Delaware, 513 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. Lackawanna & Western Railroad Company at Dover. From swinging a large hammer in the workshop he was promoted to assistant in building passenger coaches. He lived here until 1878, when he came to Shelby, to better his fortunes in the west and grow up with a new country. In addition to his other business Mr. Bonne operates a blacksmith- shop, where he keeps an e.xperienced work- man. He is an honorable and fair business man, and has many friends. He was mar- ried in 1875 to Miss Dorothea Katherine Henrickson. Tiiey have three children — Al- fenia Hellen, Leah Abbe and a baby boy. Politically he is a Republican. He is a mem- ber of the Methodist Episcopal church of Omaha, Nebraska. B.BOOKER, dealer in agricultural and farm implements and machinery, established his business at Shelby March, 188C. He carries a full line of goods, such as one will find in a first-class establish- ment. He is fair and honorable in his deal- ings and has a good trade, which he well merits. During the season of 1888 his sales amounted to between $5,000 and $6,000. He also deals quite extensively in flour and feed, in which he has a good trade. Mr. Booker is a native of Huntingdon County,Pennsylvania. He was born in 1855, and was ten years of age before his parents removed to Johnson County, Iowa; here he grew to manhood. His youth was passed on the farm and in at- tending the common schools. In 1878 he came to Harrison County, a few miles north- west of Shelby, where he bought wild land and improved it in good style; he engaged in farming until the spring of 1880, when he started in business in Shelby. He was mar- ried in Johnson County, Iowa, in 1878 to JSriss S. A. Dennison, of that county. They have two children — JNlyrtle D. and Roy Vance. Mr. Booker's business is located in what is known as the Campbell building, near the center of trade. He has extensive rooms for his business, in fact one of the best in the town. EORGE F. COLBY is one of the well- known earlj' settlers of Shell>y County, and an ex-soldier of the late war. He was born in Sullivan County, New Hamp- shire, July 5, 1830, a son of Ira and Polly (Foster) Colby. He was reared in the place of his birth and was educated in the common schools. At the age of eighteen he took Horace Greeley's advice and came west. He spent some years in the west and south, and just before the war broke out located in south- ern Illinois. He enlisted in the Twenty- fourth Illinois Infantry, Company E, in July, 18(51, taking an active part in the bat- tles of Stone River, Chickamauga, Mission Ridge, and going with General Sherman on his famous march to the sea. He served three years in the Twenty-fourth Illinois, then re-enlisted in the Eighteenth Kentuckj', where he served ten months; he was honor- ably discharged as a private. He then re- turned to the north and engaged in the more peaceful pursuit of agriculture, settling in Fayette County, Iowa. Jle was united in marriage at McGregor, Iowa, October 28, 18G7, to Miss Cornelia Lawson, a lady of in- telligence of that town, a daughter of John D., now of Lincoln Township, this county. Mr. Colby engaged in farming in Fayette County until 1873, when he came to Shelby County and bought 2-10 acres of wild land in sections 1( and 10, Shelby Township; this he has improved and has built a good house ^^^./(^^-^^ /tst^:^^ BTOGBAPIIICAL SKETCHES. 515 and barn, and lias set out a grove, so there is no better farm in the neighborhood. He made this his liomc until the fall of 1888, wiien lie came to the village of Shelby to give his children better educational advantages. Mr. Colby is a Republican and a strong ad- herent to the prii:ciples of the party; his first vote was cast for Lincoln. He has served as trustee and as a member of the school board. He is a member of the G. A. R., Dick Yates Post, No. 361; also a member of the A. F. & A. M., and the Mt. Zion Commandery at Harlan. Mr. and Mrs. Colby are both worthy and consistent members of the Meth- odist Episcopal church of Shelby. They have two children, a son and a daughter-— George William and H. Etta. Mr. Colby is a man well known in the county, cordial to all, hon- orable in business and always gives his hearty support to any enterprise to advance religion and education. He is one of Shelby's most valuable and respected citizens. ^HARLES KIDD, one of the pioneer settlers of Douglas Township, was born in Belmont C-ounty, Ohio, in the year 1818. He is the son of John and Elizabeth Kidd, natives of Pennsylvania. He was reared in his native State and received his education in the public schools ; in addition to the opportunities afforded in school, he has en- joyed the advantages of traveling through the States ot Virginia, Kentucky, Missouri, Nebraska, Indiana and Illinois. In 185G he came to Douglas Township, Shelby County, and has improved a farm of 160 acres in sec- tions 16 and 17. Mr. Kidd is a member of the Republican party, and has been officially identified with this body in his township. He held the ofiice of justice of the peace for several years. Mr. Kidd's wife, who was Miss Susan Williams, died in Missouri in 1854. She was a native of the State of Ohio, and survived her marriage a little over one year. Mr. Kidd has always been a lover of law and order, and has ever upheld all enter- prises tending to the advancement of the com- munity. — •°^'^'3" i ' ^ "-- — |THO MEANS is one of Shelby's intelli- ™ g®"'' ^"^^ respected citizens; he came to i^v' the town in December, 1882. He is a native of Lewis County, AVest Virginia, born February 3, 1821; he is a son of Isaac Means, a native of the same place; his grandmother was a native of Ireland; his father's brother served five years in the United States army and was in the war of 1812; he died at Ga- lena, Illinois. The mother of our subject was a Miss Elizabeth Starcher, a native of A''ir- ginia, and of German ancestry. The parents had nine children of whom Otho was the oldest; there were four sons and five daugh- ters. The family removed from Virginia to Morrow County, Ohio, in 1883, and were among the early settlers. Otho assisted his father to clear the land of heavy timber, and received his education in the subscription schools and the Marion Academy. Later he engaged in teaching, and taught some twelve terms. In 1858 he removed to Kosciusko County, Indiana, near Warsaw, where he worked at the carpenter's trade for two years. In 1852 he was elected county surveyor and served four years. At the breaking out of the Rebellion, when Lincoln called for 300,000 men, he enlisted in Company A, Seventy- fourth Indiana Volunteers. He was in the bat- tles of Ball's Bluff, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, and Buzzard's Roost. He was honor- ably dischargcJ in June, 1865, as musician, fifer of the regular musicians. In the fall 516 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. of 1865 he removed to Johnson County, Iowa, near Iowa City, where he bought a farm and engaged in its cultivation until 1882, when he came to Shelby. He bought the homestead of W. F. Cleveland, a fine house situated in the east part of the village, where he has all the comforts of a good home. Mr. Means is en- gaged in the insurance business, representing the most reliable companies in the country. Politically Mr. Means is a Eepublican; he cast his first vote for Henry Clay. He was elected mayor of Shelby in 1886 and 1887, serving with credit to himself and to the best inter- ests of the town. He is a member of G. A. K., Dick Yates Post, No. 364. Pie has served as Chaplain. He is a member of the Good Templars, No. 430. He has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal church for thirty years and is one of the stewards. He was mar- ried September 3, 1850, to Catherine Grouse, who was born in Franklin County, Penn- sylvania, and reared in Richmond County, Ohio. They have four children living — James H., John F., of Woodbury County, Iowa; Mrs. Geneva A. Sampey, and Charles Henry. Mrs. Means died January 15, 1885; she was a worthy and consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church from the time she was sixteen years old. Mr. Means is a man well informed, firm in his belief of right and wrong, honest in business; he has the confidence and respect of all. ?AP MORGAN, Mayor of Shelby, and one of its well-known business men, has been identified with the town since April, 1881; he is a native of the Hawkeye State and was born in Scott County, Decem- ber 6, 1848. His father was William Mor- gan, who was born in Greene County, Indiana; his mother, Elizabeth (Stafford) Morgan, was a native of Indiana. The Morgan family came to Scott County in June, 1845; there were ten children in the family, Jap being the third child. His youth was passed on a farm and in attending school. He resided at home until 1871, when he went west, where he spent two years at different points; he then returned to Iowa, where he made his home; in 1878 he moved to Jasper County, where he lived three years, opening a meat-market; in 1881 he came to Shelby, where he is proprietor of the meat market, and has a good trade. He also deals exten- sively in live-stock, being junior member in the firm of Winters & Morgan, stock-ship- pers. Mr. Morgan is a Democrat. He was married in Scott County, October 10, 1877, to Miss Etta Gibson, of that county. Tliey have two children — Bert and O. Ethel. Mr. Morgan stands high in the community, both as a business man and politically; he is a man friendly to all and has many admirers. •" ♦ ' I ' S t' S ' l ' - ^ (iHARLES KOSTELECKY is the pro- prietor of the city livery, feed, sale and exchange stables, located on the north side of Main Street, where he has a largo barn for horses, carriage-rooms and offices; every- thing is conveniently arranged, and all the details of tiie business are promptly attended to by him or his assistants. He keeps a good stock of carriages, phaetons and spring-wagons for liis trade. He started in business in 1882. He has been a resident of Shelby eleven years. Mr. Kostelecky is a Bohemian by birth and was born in March, 1854. He is a son of Joseph Kostelecky; he was a lad eight years old when his parents came to America and located in Johnson County, Iowa, near Iowa City, where he grew to manhood. His father was a blacksmith, but Charles's first manual BIOORAPniCAL SKETCHES. 517 al)or was on the farm. He received his education in the public schools. In 1877 he came to Shelby; he first did teaming, then he engaged in draying, doing quite an extensive business; in 1882 he began the livery business. He is a man of unusually great physical strength and activity. By a strict attention to his business he has secured a good trade, and is well worthy of it. Mr. Kostelecky was married at Iowa City in 1878 to Miss Lena Brotershoky, of Iowa City; they have four daughters — xVnna, Nell, Sada and Lena. Mr. Kostelecky is a Republican, and is one of Shelby's active business men. E. MORRIS is one of the early settlers of the township, coining to the county ® in the spring of 1870. He was born in Ashtabula County, Ohio, January 18, 1838. He is a son of Dennis Morris, a native of Seneca County, New York, and Olive Orpha (Hough) Morris, a native of Canada, although reared in Connecticut. D. E. Morris is the oldest of thirteen children. When he was four years old his parents removed to Peoria County, Illinois, where they were early set- tlers; here he grew to man's estate; he was reared on a farm and received his education in the common schools of the country. During the Rebellion he went to the defense of the old flag; he enlisted October 10, 1801, in the Fifty-seventh Illinois Infantry, Company H, at Lincoln's call for 300,000 more men, and was mustered into the service December 26, 1861. He was first under fire at Fort Donel- 8on; later in the battles of Shiloh, the siege of Corinth, the battle of Corinth, Town Creek, Rcsaca, Kingston, Rome, Altoona Pass, At- lanta, Savannah, Bentonville, and Sherman's inarch to the sea; he was honorably discharged December 25, 1864. He then returned to Peoria County, Illinois. He was married to Miss Mary C. Vanduyn, October 10, 1865; she was a native of Seneca County, New York, and a daughter of Dennis and Margaret (Mapes) Yanduyn. Mr. Morris engaged in farming and carpenter work until 1870, when he came to Shelby County. In 1872 he came to the land in Shelby Township where he now lives; it was wild prairie land, and he was one of the first settlers in the neighborhood; he has improved the land and has a good, comfortable house, a barn for grain and stock, and six acres of grove, all indicating the energy and economy of the owner. Mr. and Mrs. Morris have three children — Allen B., Ellis Frank and Jennie Blanche. Mr. Morris is a Republican, and a member of the G. A. R., Dick Yates Post, No. 364, and a member of the Legion of Honor. He is a man well posted, kind to all, and one of Shelby Townshijj's best citizens and representative men. ^^.T.ILLIAM EDWARDS is one of the W'/m'il ''spresentative men of Shelby Town- 1^1^ ship; he came here in June, 1869. He was born in Cardiganshire, Wales, April 12, 1838; he is the son of E. J. and Ceynor (Phillips) Edwards; he was but eighteen months old when his parents came to Amer- ica. They first settled in Jackson County, Ohio, and later in Gallia County, Oiiio. Will- liam E. was reared a farmer and was educated in the common schools. In the great Rebell- ion, at the first call for three months' men, he enlisted at Rock Island, where he was living at the time, in the Fifty-sixth Illinois Infantry, Company C. He served his tiine, and in the fall of 1862, at the call for 300 000 more men, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Illinois, Company H, for three years; he took an active part in the siege of 518 n I STORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. Vicksburg, and was in General Steele's expe- dition from Helena to Little Kock. lie was honorably discharged in August, 1865, as First Lieutenant, Iiaving been a brave and gallant officer. He came to Mahaska County, Iowa, where, in company with a brother, he engaged in mercantile business at Beacon. About three years later he sold his interest, and improved some land he owned in Monroe County, Iowa. In 1869 he settled on 160 acres of land that he owned in Shelby County; here he lias since made his home. His farm lies about two and a half miles north of Shelby; he has a good house, an orchard, a grove and a windmill; the grove contains six acres. He was married September 13, 1876, to Miss Mary Jane Cousins, born in County Tyrone, Ireland, and reared in Muscatine County, Iowa; she is a daughter of AVilliam and Mar- garet (Armstrong) Cousins. Mr. and Mrs. Edwards have two children — Hannah Myrtle, born June 20, 1877, and Mary Agnes, born November 10, 1882. Mr. Edwards is a Ee- publican; he has served on the school board with credit to himself; he is a member of the Masonic order, Shelby Lodge. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian church. He has always taken an activ^e interest in re- ligious and educational affairs. He is kind and hospitable, and has made many friends in his western home. ■gj C. BROWN came to Shelby County in April, 1872. He was born in Jack- ^* son County, Indiana, February 19, 1847. He is a son of the llev. J. D. and Jane Brown. The mother's name was Still- well. R. C. was a lad of eight years when Ills fatlier moved to Carroll ( 'onnty, Illinois. He was reared on a farm ami received his education in the Carroll County public schools and at Eagle Point Seminary, Illinois. He engaged in teaching, and taught for several years, both in Illinois and Iowa. During the late war he enlisted in April, 1864, in the One Hundred and Forty-second Illinois Infantry, Company D. He was honorably discharged in November, 1864. He was married March 6, 1872, to Miss Ella A. Fra- zee, born in Bedford County, Pennsylvania. When she was ten years of age her parents came to Carroll County, Illinois; she was a daughter of Npah and Eliza (Maiken) Fra- zee. Mr. Brown settled in Shelby in 1872, and engaged in teaching for three years. In 1875 he settled on a farm, where he has since lived. He has a good house, a tine grove and an orchard. His farm contains eighty acres of good rich land near the village. He has engaged in farming and general stock-raising; everything about tlie farm indicates the energy and thrift of the owner. Mr. and Mrs. Brown have two children^Claude R. and Grant C. Mr. Brown is a Republican, and has served as township assessor, as town- ship clerk, and as a member of the school board. He has filled all these offices with credit to himself. He is a member of the G. A. R., Dick Yates Post, No. 364, and has served as Quartermaster for three years. He has taken an active interest in education and religion, and every enterprise that had for its object the advancement of the community. He is cordial and genial in his disposition, and has made many friends among the citi- zens of Shelby Township. .. g . } .' i . g ...> LARSON is one of the well-known prominent citizens of Shelby Town- ship. He came to Shelby County in the fall of 1870. He was born in Niagara County, New York, December 26, 1841; he BlOGlUrUICAL SKETUUE8. 519 is tlie soil of J. B. Larson, a well known citi- zen of the township. Nathaniel was but a lad of fonr years when his parents came to McUenry County, Illinois, where they lived a few years; they then removed to Clayton County, Iowa. Our subject was brought up on a farm, and received his education in the common schools of McIIenry County, Illi- nois, and Clayton County, Iowa. He was one of the first to answer the call for 75,000 men. He enlisted October 20, 1861, in the Thir- teenth United States Regular Army, Com- pany C, and served three years. He was with General Sherman on his famous march to the sea. He was first under fire at Yazoo Bottom, Arkansas Post, Black Bayou, Cham- pion Hills, Black River, siege of Vicksburg, Jackson, Collierville, Tennessee, and Mission- ary Ridge. Our subject enlisted as a private and was discharged as Sergeant, October 20, 1864, having served three years as a faithful and gallant soldier. He returned to Clayton County, Iowa, and in the spring of 1865 moved to Winneshiek County, Iowa. He was married July 3, 1866, to Miss Emma Price, a daughter of Daniel Price (deceased), who was one of Shelby Township's well- known pioneers. Mr. Larson, in the spring of 1867, moved to Howard County, Iowa, where he lived until he caine to Slielby County in 1870; here he bought 100 acres of wild land, where he has since lived. He now owns 320 acres of as good land as the county affords. Eighty-seven and one-half acres lie in Lincoln Townsliip, section 31, and the balance in section 4, Shelby Township. His farm is well improved; he has a good house and barn, also sheds for stock and a windmill. He has a grove of ten acres. Everything bespeaks the energy and wise management of the owner; he is engaged in stock-raising and feeding extensively. He has thorough-bred and high-grade cattle. Mr- Larson and wife have five children — Ethel, Fred D., Roy G., Ralph and Grant. The two eldest attend Mount Vernon Seminary, Iowa. Mr. Larson is a Republican. He served two years as assessor and two years as trustee, which he did with credit to himself and the best interest of the township. He is a member of the G. A. R., Dick Yates Post No. 364; he is one of the charter members. He has always liberally supported any worthy enterprise. He is cordial to all, genial in his disposition, and has secured the respect and confidence of all who know him. fOHN BURWELL, house, sign and car- riage painter, is one of Shelby County's well known citizens, and has been iden- tified with the place since 1879. He is a native of England, born in Lancastershire, eighteen miles from Liverpool, April 30,1838. He is a son of George and Mary Burwell, natives of England. He attended school until he was fifteen years of age, when he went to learn the painter's trade. On April 15, 1865, he sailed from Liverpool to America. On the same day news was received on board the vessel that President Lincoln had been assassinated; this caused great excitement as there were many Americans on board. lie landed at Castle Garden and from there went to Wisconsin, settling in Warsaw County, where he worked at his trade some time. He traveled quite extensively in Indiana, Illinois and Iowa. He worked for a time at Chicago, Illinois, and at Davenport, Iowa, and tlien came to Shelby, where he soon built up a good trade; during the summer season he employs three men. His many years of practical experience and his thorough knowl- edire of the business are the foundation of his success. He was married in Shelby 530 HISTOllY OF SHELBY COUNTY. County to Miss Susan Cox. He is a Demo- crat, a member of the I. O. O. F., Canopy Lodge and Encampment, of Avoca. He is an enterprising man and one of Shelby's enter- prising citizens. fACOB B.LINN is one of Shelby County's honored citizens and an ex-soldier. He was born in Huntingdon County, Penn- sylvania, March 16, 1839. He is a son of James, a soldier of the war of 1812, and Nancy (Hooker) Lynn. He is the youngest of seven children. He received a fair edu- cation in the public schools of Pennsylvania, and was attending college in order to gain an education that would be sufficient for a profession, when the war broke out. In an- swer to Lincoln's call for 50,000 men lie, in company with seven class-mates, enlisted, April 23, 1861, in the Eighth Pennsylvania Reserves, Company F. He intended to en- list for three months, but he served three years in the same regiment, lie was under lire at Gainesville and took an active part in the second battle fought on the Potomac, and in the seven days' fight on the Peninsula; he was taken prisoner June 27, 1801, and sent to Libby Prison; he spent sixty days here and at Belle Isle, experiencing all the horrors of these terrible prisons. After his dis- charge he was unfit for duty and was sent to tlie United States hospital in New Jersey, but he took French leave and joined his regi- ment at Sharpsburg, Maryland. He took an active part at Sharpsburg, Antietam, battle of Fredericksburg under General Burnside, the battle of the Wilderness and in the seven days' battle before Richmond. He was hon- orably discharged at Spottsylvania Court- House, and mustered out of the service at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, May 28, 1804, as Sergeant. He returned home and took charge of his two brothers' farms, they still being in the service. He was married October 7, 1864, to Hester Ann Chilcote, of Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, a daughter of Alva and Catharine (Booker) Chilcote. He lived in Pennsy-lvania until 1874, when he came to Shelby County. He settled on wild land and was one of the first on the prairie; he im- proved his land in good style, and has a sub- stantial house, and barn for stock and grain. The farm consists of 120 acres of rich land, two and a half miles from Shelby. Mr. and Mrs. Linn have seven children, six sons and one daughter — Ambrose B.,McKindre, Anna Laura (a successful teacher), Monroe, "Walter M. C, Franklin, and Hugh L. Mr. Linn is a Republicun. He has served as township clerk for three years, as a member of the school board, and is the present assessor of the township. He has filled all these offices with credit to himself and to the best inter- est of tiie public. He is a member of the G. A. R., Dick Yates Post, No. 364; was a charter member of the first post of Shelby County. He is a member and class-leader o f the Metliodist Episcopal church. Mrs. Linn and four children are also members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Linn has ever taken an active part in religious and edu- cational alt'airs, and isalways aliberalsupporter of any enterprise that has for its object tlie advancement of the best interests of the com- munity. He is cordial to all, upright in business, and one of Shelby County's most valuable citizens. ,NDREW JACOBSON was born June 28, 1837, in Schleswig, Denmark; this province afterward became a part of Germany. He was a son of Peter and Cath- 'it i 't'w: ^^^^^^>i^s^^fy^^r<^^'' BIOORAPHICAL 8KETVHE,S. r>-i\i arine (Cbristianson) Jacobsou; he lived in Denmark until he was thirty years old. He attended school until he was sixteen years of age, and then woiked on a farm. In the spring of 1867 be sailed for America, from Copenhagen, via Liverpool, England. He landed at Castle Garden, and first went to Little Washington, New Jersey, where he worked until he went to Davenport, Iowa; be then went to Jasper County, Iowa, and returned to Davenport where be spent the winter and spring of 1868; be again went to Jasper County, where he worked two years on the railroad. In the spring of 1870 he, in company with his brother, drove out to Shelby County with an ox-team; he bought eighty acres of wild land, and has since made a nice home for bis family. He has a good frame house, and a barn for stock and hay, an orchard and a grove; everything shows the owner to be thrifty and prosper- ous. Mr. Jacobson was married December 14, 1867, to Dorothea Kock, at Davenport, Iowa; she was born in Denmark and came to America when twenty-two years of age. They have seven children — Mary, Peter, Ida, Andrew, Bertha, Catharine and Clara. Mr. Jacobson is a Hepublican, and has served as director and road supervisor. He and his wife are Lutherans. He has always been in- terested in the educational affairs of the county. He is honest and upright in busi- ness, and is one of Shelby County's success- ful farmers and solid citizens. Ill ' » I X * ?Ht * A l ^ ' " " ILLSON KEAIRNES has been a H resident of Shelby County since 1851, I'r^MS and therefore can justly lay claim to being one of the pioneers of the county. He was born in Virginia, November 30, 1824, and is the sun of Dunlap and Elizabeth (Willson) Keairnes, natives of Virginia, of Irish and German ancestry. Willson was about seven years of age when the family re- moved to Lawrence County, Ohio. There j^he father died, leaving a wife and live chil- dren — Kobinson, Willson, Jane, Eleanor, and Sarah Ann (deceased). Willson was reared to farm life, and obtained his education in the common schools. About the year 1843 be went to Missouri and spent one year; thence he removed to Illinois and remained there five years, and in 1849 he came to Iowa and settled at Indian Mills, now known as Park's Mills, three miles from Council BluflPs; In the spring of 1851 he removed to Grove Township, Shelby County, and pre empted a tract of 160 acres in what is now section 28. There he has made numerous valuable im- provements, and has one of the finest farms in that part of the county. He has a beauti- ful residence, and substantial buildings for live-stock and grain. When he settled on this place it was in its primitive state. He chose his farm partly in the prairie and partly in the grove which is now known as Keairnes' Grove. When he came to the county there were only fifteen men living within its borders, so it can readily be seen that neighbors were few and far between. Nothing daunted Mr. Keairnes' determina- tion, and he went to work with a will to secure a home for himself. He was almost penniless and bad the care of liis aged mother and two sisters besides his wife. How well he has succeeded can best be demonstrated by taking a look at his broad acres of finely improved land, well stocked with horses, cattle and hogs. His farm covers 360 acres of land. In the beginning of his residence in the county there were numy hardships to endure. The nearest market place was Coun- cil Blufls, fifty miles distant; and no differ- ence whether it was a pound of coffee or a 524 HISTORY OF aUBLBY COUNTY. spool of thread, fifty miles must be traveled to obtain it. This journey was made by ox team or on horseback. Mr. Keairnes was officially identified with his township as trustee and school director. He affiliatea. with the Republican party. He was united in marriage, April 8, 1847, to Sarah Parks, daughter of Elisha Parks. She was a native of Louisiana. Mr. and Mrs. Keairnes are the parents of ten children — Elizabeth, wife of Amsey Beadle; Orpha J., wife of C. Sparks (both deceased); William H., Harvey R., Mindred W., Juliett, Edwin U., George, Jennetta, wife of Samuel Buckster; Martha, wife of William Hammer. They have also reared four orphan children — Ida Sparks, May Sparks, Sarah Keairnes, wife of George Rumels, and Mary Keairnes, wife of Thomas Warren. Mrs. Keairnes is a member of the Latter-Day Saints church. **' *' & * ! ' ' S ' S" ' " fOHN JACKSON, dealer in agricultural implements, came to Shelby County in the autumn of 1887. He is a native of Indiana, born in Montgomery County, June 8, 1848. He is a son of W. T. and Rachel (Miller) Jackson, natives of Kentucky and pioneers of Iudi;ina. In 1852 the family emigrated to Iowa and settled in Guthrie County, where John was reared on a farm and received his education in the public schools. He resided with his parents until he was twenty-five years old. Mr. Jackson was married March 2, 1873, to Miss Susan Warren, a native of Ohio, a daughter of A. I. and Melissa (Ogle) Warren, an old family of Noble County, Ohio. After his marriage Mr. Jackson settled on a farm in Guthrie County, five miles north of Panora. Here he lived until the winter of 1875, wiien he purchased a hardware store in Panora, whicli he managed until 1879. He then sold out and removed to Cloud County, Kansas, and opened up a farm, where he resided one year. He then went to Cawker City, and dealt in grain until 1881, then sold out and returned to Adair, Iowa, and engaged in the hardware and implement business. He sold the hard- ware department in 1883. In 1884 he met with a serious loss by fire, which could have been covered by $3,500. He immediately resumed business, which he continued until 1888, when he sold out. In 1887 he had established a hardware trade in Harlan, and is now doing a thriving business. Mr. and Mrs. Jackson are the parents of six children, three of whom survive — Pearl E., George E. and Warren. The oldest died in infancy; Ollie died at the age of six months, and a second child named Ollie died at the age of one year. Mr. Jackson is a member of the A. F. & A. M., Parian Lodge, No. 821. He is also a member of the I. O. O. F., and of the Encampment. He casts his vote witli the Republicans of this country. •°*-' ^ ' i"S ' | ' - ^ LIVER McDowell, retired, was the pioneer blacksmith of Harlan. He opened a shop there in the year 1870, and continued in the business until 1883, when he retired. Mr. McDowell was born in Henry County, Indiaiia, at Newcastle, Feb- ruary 28, 1820. His father, William Mc- Dowell, was born in Vermont in 1800, and his mother, Hernida Bundy, was born in North Carolina, and reared in Wayne County, Indiana; she died when Oliver was a small boy, and her husband died in 1884. Our subject was reared to farm life, and at an early age learned the hlacksmitii's trade, in connection with carriage- making. In 1853 he came to Pella, Marion County, Iowa, and B I OG lUPH I a A L a KETCH ES. 5-35 there worked at his trade until 1870 when lie sold out and came to Harlan. He owns a good farm near the town, and a comfortable dwelling in Harlan. Mr. McDowell was married in Henry County, Indiana, July 26, 1849, to Mary Frazer, a native of Wayne County, Indiana, and a daughter of S. H. and Rebecca (Valentine) Frazer. The father was a native of North Carolina and died in Harlan, in May, 1879; the mother was born in Kentucky, and died in Marion County, Iowa, September 12, 1869. Mr. and Mrs. McDowell have two children living — Ar- niinta Taylor, of Denver, Colorado, and Albert L. Four children are deceased — Re- becca J., "William H., Charles, and Rufus K. The last named was a partner of his father. Mr. McDowell is an adherent to the 9 principles of the Republican party, and has served on the town council. He is a con- sistent member of the Baptist church. ~<" "^ * 2 ' ' t * S '* '" lEORGE SWINEHART, a farmer of Ilarlau Township, has been identified with the interests of the county since 1865. He was born in Stark County, Ohioi September 8, 1830, and is a son of John A. and Elizabeth (Iliraebaugh) Swinehart, both natives of Pennsylvania. The family lived in Summit County, Ohio, for several years, and in 1847 removed to Elkhart County, In- diana. George was reared a farmer, and re- ceived bis education in the subscription schools. He was married October 20, 1853, to Miss Eleanor Philson, a native of Penn- sylvania, and a daughter of James and Susan (llefHeg) Philson. In 1857 Mr. Swinehart came to Jasper County, Iowa, where he im- proved a farm, and in 1865 he came to Shelby County, where he bought ninety-five acres of land of Leonard Bowman : he now as owns 155 acres in the home farm and eighty acres in Jackson Township. His home place is well improved, having a good residence, a large barn, and a fine grove of timber, and an orchard. He is ensfao'ed in a:eneral farm- ing and stock-raising. By his first marriage he had eight children — James, Elfie, Emma, Owen P., Lemuel E., George M., Susan B., Ed. D. ; one child died, William Darbin, at the age of four years. Mrs. Swinehart died May 6, 1874; she was a member of the Meth- odist Episcopal church, and was a kind wife and an affectionate mother. Mr. Swinehart was again married January 19, 1885, to Miss Elizabeth Culler, a native of Stark County, Ohio, and a daughter of Benjamin and Cath- erine (Myers) Culler. The father was a native of Pennsylvania, and the mothei" was a native of France, who came to Ohio, when eight years of age. By this marriage Mr. Swine- hart has one child, Goldie Mildred. Our subject is a Republican, and has served several years as township trustee with credit to him- self. He has given his children a good edu- cation, and two of his daughters are successful teachers. Mr. Swinehart is a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and has always taken an active interest in the relig- ious and educational affairsof the community. He and his family are highly respected mem- bers of the community in which they live. E. GRAVES, farmer, of Harlan Town- ship, has been identified with the ^' county since 1870. He was born in Jo Daviess County, Illinois, February 23, 1849, and is a son of Homer Graves, a promi- nent pioneer of Jo Daviess County, Illinois. C. E. grew to manhood in his native county, where he was trained to agricultural pursuits and educated in the public schools of the 530- UISrURY OP SHELBY VOUNTT. county. In 1870 became to Shelby County, and in 1872 he bought land on which he lived until 1875, when he purchased what is known as the old Castile t'ariii; this place M'as first settled by a man named Lyon. In 1884: Mr. Graves built on this place. The farm contains 360 acres of land, well watered and well improved; besides his residence there are buildings for stock and grain. Mr. Graves was united in marriage in Stephen- son County, Illinois, February 25, 1872, to Miss Carrie-Daws, a daughter of Thomas and Charlotte (Neeves) Daws. She was born, reared and educated in Stephenson County. Mr. and Mrs. Graves are the parents of five children — Eodney E., Charlotte E., Clotilda, John and Azalia D. In political matters Mr. Graves aftiliates with the Republican party. lie has served as a member of the school board. By energy, industry and up- right dealing Mr. Graves has gained an envi- able position in the county. ►>^*- |EN JAMIN ROBERTS, of Harlan Town- lfe)1 s^''P> claims England by birth, but America by adoption. lie was born in Yorkshire, England, February 7, 1842, and is a sou of Joseph and Hannah (Hurst) Rob- erts, also natives of Yorkshire. He remained in his native land until he was twenty-eight years old, so that his coming to America was no flight of restless youth, but the determi- nation of sober, serious manhood. While yet a youth he went to work in a cotton fac- tory, where he was employed until 1870. In 1866 he was united in marriage to Miss Eliza Ann Smithers, who was born and reared n Yorkshire, England, and who was a daugh- iter of John and Adelaide Smitliers. Mr. Roberts, with his ftimily and brother Will- iam, sailed from Liverpool for New York in 1870, and thence came directly to Shelby County, Iowa. He bought forty-five acres of land where he now lives, and also owns eighty acres in section 20, Harlan TownsJiip. He has a comfortable home, and buildings for live-stock, to the raising and care of which he gives special attention. Mr. Roberts has two children — Sarah Ellen and Hannah. His great loss was the death of his beloved wife, which occurred in 1881. She was a good neighbor, a loving mother, and a devoted wife. Mr. Roberts lost one son, Joseph, at the age of seven years; he was drowned in the river. Mr. Roberts is not bound to any political party, but casts an independent suf- frage. He is yet in the prime of life, and is one of Shelby County's reliable and respected citizens. Ejj^rtARTIN OBRECHTis one of the pio- raW j,gg,.g (jf Shelby County, having been identified with its interests since 1857. He was born in Strasburg, France, Novem- ber 17, 1835, and is the son of Martin and Catharine (Miller) Obrecht, natives of France. He was sent to school until he was fourteen years old, and then he worked on a farm for four years. At the age of eighteen years he came to America, and settled in Ashland County, Ohio, where he lived two years ; he then removed to Elkhart County, Indiana, where he resided two years. In 1857 he came to Shelby County, and at tiie end of three years he returned to Elkhart County, Indiana, and was married February 5, 1860, to Miss Mary Bachman, a native of Germany, and daughter of George William and Anna Gertrude (Eckhart) Bachman, na- tives of Germany. The father died in Ger- many, and the widow emigrated to America with her children when Mary was thirteen A^d /^-^y-^.i'^r € -^..^Z.^'^-yyC^* C^^^ iCTf^ DIOORAPUICAL SKErClIES. 539 j'ears old. Soon after their marriage Mr. and Airs. Obrecht, with all their possessions, which consisted of a team of horses, a wagon, and a few dollars, returned to Shelby County, Iowa. They had brave hearts and willing hands, and were not afraid of work; they set- tled on fifty acres ot land near Bowman's Grove, where they lived until 1871, when they came on their present farm; this was then wild land, and there was not another house between thetn and Harlan; the place contains 240 acres under good cultivation; there is a comfortable residence, surrounded with five acres of grove, and a large barn, having a stone basement; there are buildings for stock and grain, and all the surroundings show the economy and wise management of the owner. Mr. and Mrs. Obrecht are the parents of nine children — George W., Will- iam M., Aletta C., Charles O., Lillie May, John Albert, Rufus Chaucer, Anna Gertrude, and Mary Huldah. Politically Mr. Obrecht is a member of the Democratic party. He and his wife are worthy members of the Dunkard church. He is a deacon in the church, and gave two acres for the church grounds. Mr. and Mrs. Obrecht have given tlieir children a good education, and have in- stilled in their minds good principles. They are plain of n:anner and speech, firm in tlieir convictions of right and wrong, and are among Shelby County's most respected cit- izens. ►>^-^ pMUND PENNISTON, a native of Leicestershire, England, was born De- cember 15, 1845, and is the son of George and Caroline (Thaup) Penniston, who emigrated to America when our subject was six years old. They settled in La Fayette County, Wisconsin, where Edmund was reared and where the parents resided until death. The father jjassed away in 1883, and the mother had gone before, in 1867. Mr. Penn- iston was one of a family of twelve children, and was trained to the occupation of a farmer. He assisted his father on tlie home farm until he was twenty-four years old, when he started in business for himself, renting a farm in company with his father for one year. He was married July 2, 1870, to Miss Mary J. Theobald, daughter of Robert and Isabella (Bernard) Theobald. The father is a native of England, and is still living. The mother was born on Prince Edward's Island, and died in 1886. Mrs. Penniston was born in Iowa County, Wisconsin, April 2, 1853. Mr. Penwiston and wife are the parents of four children — Carrie B. (deceased), Robert G., Ross E. and Ed Leroy. They have become much attached to a bright little girl of four- teen years. Lulu Cynthia Pratt, who has lived with them since her mother's death, five years since. After tlieir marriage they continued their residence in La Fayette County, Wis- consin, for fifteen months, and then went to Crawford County, Iowa, where they remained one year. In 1873 they came to Shelby County and settled on 160 acres of wild prairie in section 7, Greeley Township, which they have since made their home. Here Mr. Penniston has erected a comfortable frame residence, and barns for stock and grain, all bespeaking the energy and enterprise of the owner. He has added to his first purchase of land until he owns 400 acres of as fine land as Shelby County affords, all lying on the gentle slopes of the West Nishnabotna Creek, two miles north of Defiance. He ile- votes himself to farming and stock-raising, and has been very successful in these avoca- tions. Mr. Penniston is identified with the Republican party, and has held nuiiiy posi- tions of honor and trust in his township, 530 UISTORY OF aUELUY COUNTY. serving eight years as trustee, and eight con- secutive years as treasurer of the school board. Starting in life with very little of this world's goods, Mr. Fenniston has just cause for pride in the position which he occupies in the county, financially, polit- ically and socially. fll. GUTHRIE, a native of Jones County, Iowa, born July 10, 1865, is a son of ® Clement and Agnes (Brown) Guthrie, natives of Scotland, who came to America about 1841; they located first at Salem, Mas- sachusetts, where Mr. Guthrie acted as fore- man in a factory; he afterward came to Iowa, settling in Jones County, where they still reside. There is a family of ten children, five boys and five girls, of whom our subject is the youngest; he was brought up to farm life and received his earlier education in the common schools. When at the age of four- teen he attended High School, and commenced teaching when but sixteen years old. He taught and attended school alternately for some time, teaching to provide means with which to continue his education. He took a course at Eushnell, Illinois, Business College, graduating from this school in art and pen- manship. Afterward he attended the Iowa State Medical University, Iowa City; then he taught for a time, and afterward entered Rush Medical College for one term ; he then went to Louisville, Kentucky, and attended the Louisville Medical College; he graduated from this institution in 1887, when he came to Shelby County, Iowa, locating at Kirkmaa in August, 1887. Here he has established him- self in his profession and has a good practice. Doctor Guthrie was married April VZ, 1888, to Miss llattie Pank, a daughter of Jonathan and Anna (Watson) Fank, natives of Penn- sylvania; she was born in Illinois, May 16, 1868. The Doctor possesses eight diplomas: One of general practice, chemistry, surgery, penmanshi]), literature and art, and some minor ones. As a penman he has few equals; he defeated Prof. Iloff in an exhibition of penmanship at the Cass County Fair, and has many fine specimens of his skill, which deco- rate his home. When he undertakes a thing it is with a determination to excel, and well does he execute his desires. He is a live, energetic man, and we anticipate for him a brilliant career. He is courteous and afi'able and at once wins the respect and esteem of those with whom he comes in contact. IIERSON FOUNTAIN, a native of Mead r*v' County, Kentucky, was born March 5, 1838, and is the son of William and Maria Fountain. He was reared in his native State, and it was not until he had attained his twenty-third year that he removed to Noblesville, Indiana. He made this his home until 18G2, when he went to Boston, Massa- chusetts, and enlisted in Company D, Fifty- fifth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. He served three years, and was twice wounded during the battle of Honey Hill. He par- ticipated in a number of hard-fought battles, and after the war returned to Boston, going thence to Hamilton County, Indiana. There he was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth O. Roberts, a native of Hamilton County, Indiana. They are the parents of four chil- dren — Augustus, Edward, Ida .and Harrison. In 1867 Mr. Fountain came to Shelby County and located on a farm of 160 acres in Doug- las Township. He has made many improve- ments upon this land and has placed it under cultivation. Politically he is a staunch Re- publican. He has held the ofiice of road BIOORAPUrCAL SKBTGHBS. 531 supervisor, and has done much toward the advancement and progress of Shelby County. Mr. Fountain is a member of the A. F. & A. M. A. NIEMAN, a native of Hanover, Germany, born August 24, 1831, is a : * son of Christopher and Dora Nieman. His early life was spent in Germany on a farm. He took the regular course in the common schools, which covers a period of eight years, and after that he studied for over a year. In 1854 he came to America and located in Wisconsin, remaining over two years; he then took a trip down the Missis- sippi E.iver, stopping at all the principal towns, making the longest stays in Daven- port, Burlington and Saint Louis; at the lat- ter place he remained about two years; he continued his trip as far south as Memphis, Tennessee, intending to visit New Orleans, but the yellow fever was infesting the city at that time and he decided not to venture any farther. He then returned to St. Louis and spent two summers in Illinois, about seventy- five miles from St. Louis; after that he re- turned to Wisconsin, where he farmed one year and then sold out, going to Madison, Wisconsin, where he remained one year or more. In 1875 he moved to Avoca, Iowa, where he worked for Caldwell in his elevator for over two years; from there he went to Walnut, where he engaged in tiie farming- implement business, in company with his son-in-law, H. C. Hanson, for one year; he then sold out his interest and came to Shelby County, and purchased a farm in Douglas Township, of 100 acres, which was but par- tially improved. Here he went to work to make himself a farm and a home, which he has done by hones ttoil; he has placed the soil under good cultivation and improved the place till there is none better in the county; he has increased the farm to 240 acres. He has built a beautiful frame residence, with barns for stock and grain, and has planted about one and a half acres of grove, all of which bespeak the wise management and spirit of the owner; he employs his time ex- clusively in farming and stock-raising. Polit- ically Mr. Nieman is liberal in his views, casting his vote for the man he considers best qualified for the office. He was married December 21, 1861, to Dora, daughter of Christ and Kate Meyer; she was born in Han- over, Germany, September 24, 1839, and came to America in 1861. They are the parents of six children — Emma, wife of H. C. Hanson, resides in Nebraska; Augusta H., wife of P. F. Cold, resides in Irwin; Henry W., Lewis F., Julia E., and Willie J. C. are at home. " ' "£ * S"t * S" ' " W. CROFT was a native of Pennsyl- vania and married Mary M. Saner, ® also of Pennsylvania, where they were reared and passed their early life. After their marriage, at a very early day, they moved to Ohio and located in Coshocton County. Mr. Croft was a man devoted to agricultural pur- suits, and is still living, at the advanced age of eighty-two years. They had a family of eleven children — Catharine (deceased), Lydia A., wife of Thomas Mulford, resides in Frank- lin County, Iowa; John, who also resides in Franklin County, Iowa; Betsey (deceased); Joseph resides in Page County, Iowa; Mary A., wife of Samuel Dick, resides in Kansas; Hannah, wife of William Hawlin, resides in Nebraska; N. C, the subject of this sketch; George S. resides in Douglas Township; two children died in infancy. N. (J. Croft was born in Coshocton County, Oliio, October 1, 532 HISTORY OF SUBLET COUNTY. 1844, where he was reared to farm life. In August, 1875, he landed in Shelby County, locating on section 23, Douglas Township, on a farm of 120 acres of improved land. When he landed here he had only twelve head of cattle, five horses, and less than §5 in money. Here he went to work on the raw prairie to carve out a home for himself and family, and by dint of hard and honest toil he has suc- ceeded in securing what he has labored for, having to-day one of the best farms in Doug- las Township. He has erected good buildings, planted groves and made other improvements. He devotes himself to farming and stock- raising, and is a member of the Farmers' Al- liance. He was married April 5, 1867, to Minerva Allen, daughter of Elizabeth Allen; she was born in May, 1851. They are the par- ents of six children — Nellie, Maud, Claud U., Fred, Pearl and Nettie. ' 3"S ' | '»«°- fM. ROBERTSON is a native of Brown County, Indiana, born March 29, 1852, ' a son of W. R. and Elizabeth J. (Baily) Robertson, natives ofTennessee and Kentucky. In the fall of 1855 he came to Iowa with his parents, locating in Poweshiek County, on a farm where he was reared and where he re- ceived his education in the common schools of the neighborhood. He was brought up on a farm and spent his life in this capacity until February, 1888, when he came to Kirkman. He iignred quite jjrominently in the local political field in Poweshiek County, holding the office of justice of the peace and several minor offices, an evidence that he had the confidence of the people, especially in the good old Democratic party, which he represented. He is a lover of good horses, and is working to improve the quality by introducing a couple of standard stallions, a Norman and a Clydes- dale, which he has brought with him to Shelby County. In May, 1888, he purchased the Kirkman House, the only hotel in Kirkman, which he now owns and controls, and where he and his wife can be found, who will give you a cordial greeting and extend the comforts of a liome. They are well adapted to the avo- cation they have chosen, and Kirkman has need to be proud of her hotel and its proprie- tors. Mr. Robertson was married May 24, 1888, to Margaret, daughter of Phillip and Eliza Reid, who was born August 20, 1855, in Jasper County, Iowa; her parents were natives of New Hampsliire and North Caro- lina. She had two cliildren by a former mar- riage, Frederick and Raymond. fC. BUCKMAN.— When western Iowa was in its infancy, a wild, uncultivated ® prairie, inhabited by few white people, and visited by the ferocious red man when- ever it pleased his unruly disposition, J. C. Buckman came to Shelby County. April 1, 1869, he brought his young bride to the new country, when they began to make a home for themselves. They purchased eighty acres of land from Ephraim Douglas, in section 18, Douglas Township. Immediately after their arrival they set about to build a rude hut for temporary residence; this was accomplished by erecting four posts in the corners of a square, putting in siding of slabs, and com- pleting the whole by an entire roof of tarred paper; so a little home was made in a space 10 X 12 feet, and although the most comfort- able quarters, judging from the exterior, the interior was made bright and shining by the affable wife, who knew the needs of the occa- sion, and suited herself thereto. She made the little place a palace, indeed, with her con- stant congeniality and contented spirit. In BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 533 tlie meantime they labored patiently, early and late, to erect a comfortable residence; the lumber was purchased in Dunlap, thirty miles away, but the nearest point; there were many small streams to be crossed after leaving Dun- lap; so, when there was a heavy load, Mr. Buckman was compelled to unload most of the lumber, drive the mules across the stream, then carry the lumber over and re-load. In this way the lumber for his present residence was secured. But he and his wife were de- termined to succeed in their efforts for anew home, and met all the unpleasant features un- flinchingly. At one time they were out of flour, and not being able to procure any, their only resort was the coffee-mill; they ground wheat, of which they made bread and cakes for six weeks. At last they decided to conduct a ferry boat to cross the many streams; they made the boat of an old hollow basswood tree, by fastening boards firmly to both ends, and attaching a wash- tub securely to one side to prevent it from upsetting; by means of a rope stretched across the streams from one bank to the op- posite one, acting' as a propeller, they were able to cross the streams when quite high, with safety. And they are now reaping the reward of their earnest and unremitting toil. They own a fine farm of 160 acres; two acres of this are in a grove, and two in a thrifty orchard. Mr. Buckman devotes his time to farming and stock-raising. He spent his earlylife on a farm in Newtown, Pennsylvania, where he was born February 7, 1846. He is a son of William and Sarah (Cooper) Buck- man. March 4, 1860, he was married to Anna D., daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Daniels, February 16, 1851, being the date of her birth; she is a native of Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. buckman are the parents of four children — Julia D., Bes- sie Belle, Harry W. and Roy, all at home. Politically Mr. Buckman lends his support to the Republican party. He has held the oflice of township clerk for twelve years, and has also served as trustee for several years. He assisted in the organization of the township, and was one of the promoters of the Shelby County Agricultural Society, and is at pres- ent one of its directors. In all things per- taining to the advancement of the county Mr. Buckman has taken an active interest, thereby gaining the confidence and respect of all his acquaintance. " ' " ' ^* s * * t * S ' " -»** — |m PULVER, son of Waudle and Nellie ||y|t (McCarthy)Pulver, wasbornin New '* York State, May 16, 1835, where his boyhood was passed on a farm. His edu- cation though somewhat limited, compared with that received in the schools of to-day, was obtained principally in the common schools. When at the age of thirteen he ac- companied his parents to Illinois, locating on a farm in Carroll County, where the greater portion of his life was spent. He remained there twenty years, engaged in the pursuit of farming. Subsequently he removed to White- side County, where he remained until 1883, when he came to Shelby County, Iowa, and located on the Carter farm, in section 19, which he has since made his home. In 1860, April 29, he was married to Martha Delitt Bunco, the daughter of James A. L. and Esther Bunce, born July 14, 1842; she is also a native of New York State. They are the parents of eight children — William resides in Colorado; Dennis (deceased); Jennie, wife of Edward Smith, of Custer County, Ne- braska; Frank, Herbert A., Arthur L., Lloyd v., Clarence C. The five latter are at home. Mrs. Pulver is a wortliy member of the Chris- tian church. In 1862 Mr. Pulver enliste 1827, and is a son of Jacob and Mary (Lawrence) Hon, natives of North Carolina. When he was five years old his parents re- moved to Owen County, Indiana; here he was placed on a farm, and attended the sub- scription schools, which aflbrded him only a limited education; being a close observer, however, he has acquired an amount of in- formation equal to that of many who have 544 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. enjoyed superior advantages. Most of his early life was spent in clearing up the tim- bered land of his native State. Mr. Hon was married April 12, 1849, to Miss Matilda Fiscus, a daughter of Frederick and Mary Magdalene Fiscus, natives of North Carolina. Mrs. Hon was born in Washington Count}', Indiana, September 14, 1823. They are the parents of two children living — Nelson, re- siding in Polk Township, on the old home- stead and Mary llosella, wife of Albert M. Milton, also residing in Polk Township. lu 1872 Mr. Hon came to Marshall County, Iowa, and remained there one winter; in the spring of 1873 they came to Shelby County, and settled in section 23, Polk Township, on a farm of 240 acres of partially improved land; here he has made many inprovements in the way of erecting necessary buildings. After a residence of four years in Shelby County, Mr. and Mrs. Hon returned to Owen County, Indiana, and remained there four years, when they returned to Shelby County; here they have since made their home. Mr. Hon is a man that always takes an active interest in all enterprises tending toward the advance- ment aud improvement of the community in general. He is a strong Democrat, always casting his vote with his party. Mr. Hon devotes himself to farming and stock-raising, and finds a faithful helper in his most worthy wife. They are members of the Church of Christ. — .~.. g . t ..t. 2 — fP. PEllRY is one of tlie early settlers of Shelby County, coming here in 1874. * He was born in Belmont County, Ohio, September 10, 1841; he is a son of Jesse and Malinda (Poole) Perry. Jesse Perry is a rela- tive of the old Commodore Perry, and a native of Ohio; his wife was born in Virginia. J. P. Perry was the fifth of eight children, four of whom were sons and four daugliters. When he was thirteen years of age his father removed to Bureau County, Illinois, then a wild, new country; his parents lived here until tiieir death. He was reared on a farm and edu- cated in the public schools. During the late war he went to the defense of the flag; ho enlisted at the first call for troops, April 24, 1861, in the Twelfth Illinois Infantry, Com- pany I; he served over three months and was honorably discharged, and returned home. At the call for 300,000 more men, he again responded, enlisting June 1, 1862, in the Sixty-fifth Illinois Infantry, Company E; he was taken prisoner at Harper's Ferry, Vir- ginia, September 15, 1862; was paroled, and went to Camp Douglas, Chicago, Illinois, and was exchanged January 19, 1863; in April, 1863, he was sent to the front, and took an active part at Concord, Loudon Bridge, the siege of Knoxville, Tennessee ; with Sherman on the march to Atlanta; returned with General Thomas to Columbia, Ten- nessee; Franklin, Tennessee; Nashville, Ten- nessee; Fort Fisher, North Carolina; Fort Anderson, North Carolina; Cape Fear River, Wilmington. He was honorably discharged June 8, 1865, and returned to Bureau County, Illinois ; he was discharged as Corporal. September 5, 1866, he was married to Miss Mary Chaddock, a lady of intelligence, born in Jefferson County, Ohio; she is a daughter of Richard and Eliza (Nickelson) Chaddock; the father is a native of Maryland, and the mother, of Ohio. Her family-came to Bureau County in 1864. Mr. Perry lived in Bureau County until 1873, when he came to Mahaska County, Iowa; in 1874 he came to Shelby County, and settled on wild prairie land; he now owns 320 acres of land in a body, and has one of the best improved farms in the county; he has a good frame house, and 2> BIOGRA PHICAL SKETCH ISH. 545 barns for stock and grain; lie farms exten- sively, making a specialty of Jersey Red swine, of which he lias some specimens as iine as can be fonnd in the west. Mr. and Mrs. Perry have three children — William Grant, Jesse Harmon and Mabel. Mr. Perry is a Republican ; he is a member of the Anti- horse-thief Association, No. 35, and is secretary of the same. He is yet in the prime of life; he is social and genial in his disposition, an intelligent conversationalist, honest in busi- ness, and one of Shelby county's solid men. -- g - ^ ' I ' S W.M. SARVIS, of Fairview Township, section 23, is an ex-soldier of the late L® war. He was born in Dade County, Missouri, September 7, 1841. He is a son of Maldon and Mary (Flesher) Sarvis. He was fifteen years old when he came to Potta- wattamie County, Iowa. He worked on a farm until he enlisted in the army, March 11, 1862. He joined the Seventeenth Iowa In- fantry, Company II. He was first under fire at Hamburg Landing. He was in the battles of Corinth, Ball's Bluff, Raymond, Missis- sippi, Champion Hills, Jackson, Vicksburg, Chattanooga, Missionary Ridge, Buzzard's Roost, Duck Creek Gap, and Tilton, Georgia, where he was taken prisoner. He was con- fined at Millin, Georgia, for two months, then at Cahawba, Alabama, one month, and was then taken to Andersonville, where he was held three months. When captured he weighed 175 pounds; when released 113 was as high as he could tip the beam. He was first taken to Goldsborongh, North Carolina, and then to Washington, D. C. He was also in the Red River expedition. He served three years, one month and twenty-five days. He returned to Pottawattamie County, Iowa, and was married July 6, 1869, to Miss Susan 86 Donnclson. She was born in Scott County, Iowa, and is a daughter of Levi and Mary (Stafford) Donnelson. The father is a native of New York, and the mother of Indiana. Mr. Sarvis came to Shelby County in 1871. In 1887 he l)ought his present farm, which contains eighty-one acres of fine land and one of the best springs of water in the county; it is situated near the residence. There is a good barn, and a fine grove of timber. Mr. Sarvis and wife have three chil- dren living — Hattie B., Harry and George. Mr. Sarvis is a Republican, and a member of the G. A. R., U. S. Grant Post, Avoca. He is genial in his disposition, honest and up- right in business. ►>»f- E. COOPER is one of the active, wide-awake citizens of Fairview Township. He came to the county in 1876. He is a native of Keokuk County, Iowa, and was born May 1, 1859. He is a son of Hinchman Cooper, a former well- known citizen of the township, who is a native of Ohio, and who came to Iowa in the fall of 1857, locating in Keokuk County. In 1865 he went to Mahaska County, Iowa, and in 1876 to Shelby County. Hinchman Cooper married Abigail Johnson, who was also a native of Ohio. Her parents were natives of the Green Mountain State. H. Cooper and wife 'had four children — W. E.; Albert, who lives in Dickinson County, Kansas; Robert and Nettie, who live at home with their parents in Oregon. W. E. Cooper, our subject, was in his sixteenth year when he came to this county. He was educated at New Sharon Academy, Iowa, and engaged in teaching when lie was eighteen years old. He was very successful, and continued teaclir ing for fifteen terms. He began improving 546 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. his farm in 1881. He has a sahstantial house, a good barn, a grove and an orchard. Everything shows thrift and industry. Jle was married February 15, 1882, to Miss Laura Walters, daughter of D. B. Walters, a prominent citizen of the county. Mr. and Mrs. Cooper have two children — Myrtle and Leverne. Mr. Cooper is a Republican, and one of the wheel-horses of the party. He has served as township trustee for six years, as assessor for two years, and on the school board for five years. He has filled these offices with credit to himself and with satis- faction to the public. He is also a member and president of the Anti-horse-thief Asso- ciation of Fairview Township, No. 35. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, Castle Hall, No. 65, of Harlan. He is a member of the Evangelical Association of Harlan circuit. Mr. Cooper, though but a young man, has gained the confidence and respect of his associates, and has an enviable reputation, socially, politically and finan- cially, in the county. |DWAUD WATTERBURY, of Fair- view Township, is one of the well- known men in the township. He is a native of the State of Iowa, born in Clayton County, March 26, 1853. He is a sou of Stephen Wattcrbury, and was a babe when his parents came to Shelby County. Here he grew to manhood. His youth was passed at farm work and in attending the common schools of the county. Arriving at the age of manhood he was married to Miss L. J. Norton, of this county, March 8, 1876. By this union six children were born, five sons and one daughter — Oliver, Lillie May, Jesse, Freddie, Pearl and Oscar. Mr. Wattcrbury is a Republican and a member of the Masonic order, Mt. Nebo Lodge, No. 297, of Avoca. He is also a member of the Anti-horse-thief Association, No. 17, of Fairview Township. He is a man yet in the prime of life, is social and genial in his disposition, honest in busi- ness. He has the confidence and respect of all who know him. " g-:"t - g " fENS OLSON, a farmer of Fairview Township, is one of the early settlers, having come to the county in the fall of 1868. He was born in Sweden, December 11, 1837, and is the son of Ole and Anna Olson. He lived in his native land until he was eighteen years old, when he and his brother Peter went to Denmark, and worked on a farm. He attended school in his native country iintil he was fourteen years old. He was married November 10, 1860, to Miss Sophia Poulson, born in Denmark, September 7, 1839, and a daughter of Andrew and Car- rie (Havson) Poulson. Jens Olson had been married a year when he sailed for America, via Liverpool, England. He embarked on a large sailing vessel, and landed in New York. He came by rail to Jasper County, Iowa, where he lived for eighteen months, working on the railroad. He and his brother Peter came to Shelby County with a yoke of oxen and a wagon. They camped on the way, sleeping in the wagon at night. They ar- rived in Shelby County in the fall, and worked on the railroad until spring, when Jens Olson moved on the farm. He was among the earliest settlers of the township, having a wide stretch of prairie about him. Here he has since lived. He has a good farm of 167 acres, 100 of which are under cultiva- tion. There is a comfortable house, a good barn, and yards for stock. He has planted shade trees, and everything shows the thrift BIOGRAPHICAL SKETQUES. 547 and energy of tlie owner. Mr. and Mrs. Olson liave seven children — Carrie, Olivia, Mary, Anna, Peter, Nels and Christ. The last named is the oldest; he and the father are both Republicans. Mr. Olson and his wife are both members of the Lutheran church. He is honorable and just in his dealings, and has won the respect of all who know him. — ■ ■.■ ^: . T . g ...- — |ETER JENSON is among the prominent ■ citizens of Fairview Township. He was ~3f: born in Denmark, April 2, 1830, and is a son of Jens and Mary (Jenson) Peterson. He attended school until he was fourteen years old, and worked on the farm. He was married in 1859 to Miss Ann Nelson, a daughter of Nels Karlson. Mr. and Mrs. Jenson remained in their native land until 1862, when they sailed for America, going via Liverpool, and landing at Castle Garden, New York. They went to Brown County, Wisconsin, and resided there for five years; they then came to Shelby County, Iowa. Mr. Jenson bought 105 acres of land, eighty being bottom land, and twenty-five being in timber. Here he has since lived and im- j)roved his land, and added to the original purchase, until he now owns 223 acres of rich land. He has a good house, built in modern style and well furnished, a good barn and cril)S, a grove and an orchard. Mr. and Mrs. Jenson have two adopted children — a nephew and niece of Mr. Jenson's. Their father, Paul Jenson, died in 1869. These children are named James and Mary. Mr. and Mrs. Jenson are both active and zealous members of the Baptist cliurch, and liberal supporters of the same. Mr. Jenson is a deacon in the churcli; the church is Danish. Mr. and Mrs. Jenson are cordial and hospitable, honest and upright in their dealings, and among the best people of Fairview Township. (ICHOLAS VOGT is one of the early settlers of Fairview Township, having come to the county in 1877. He was born in Germany, August 23, 1822, and is a son of Peter and Clara (Miller) Vogt. He remained in his native land until he was twentj'-six years old. He went to school until he was fourteen years old ; then worked on a farm, and served three years in the army. In 1848 he came to America. He lived for awhile in Ohio; then in Kentucky, where he worked at the blacksmith's trade. Mr. Vogt was married in Hocking County, Ohio, in 1849, to Miss Catharine Miller, who was born in Germany in 1825, and is a daughter of Christ and Christena Miller. From Ken- tucky our subject came to Muscatine County, Iowa, and then to Johnson County, where he lived until 1877, when he came to his jiresent farm. It was then wild, unimproved land. Assisted by his sons he has made one of the best farms in Shelby County. He has a good house, a barn, a vineyard and a grove. Mr. and Mrs. Vogt are the parents of five children — -Jacob, Robert, Charles, George, and Katie, wife of D. P. Bonnett, of Harlan. Mr. Vogt is a Democrat. He and all his family are members of the lioman Catholic churcli. He is social in his disposition, and genial and friendly to all. Charles Vogt, dealer in general merchandise, Corley, is a son of Nicholas and Catiiarine Vogt. lie was born in Muscatine County, Iowa, March 14, 1860. He was seventeen years of age when he came to Shelby County. He was reared on a farm, and received his education in the public schools of Iowa. He assisted his father in the improvement of the farm, 548 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. and for several years operated a threshing machine. Charles Vogt was married in No- vember, 1883, to Rikla Thornton, of Gage County, Nebraska. They are the parents of one child — Mary. Mr. Vogt carries a good stock of dry goods and general merchandise, and sells his goods at reasonable prices. He has an extended acquaintance, and his up- right and honorable dealings have won him a large and profitable patronage. He casts bis vote with the Democratic party. ■thJ- ?E. LAWSON is an enterprising and suc- cessful farmer, Avho came to Lincoln ** Township in 1872. He was born in Niagara County, New York, August 14, 1850, and is a son of John Lawson, a well known and highly esteemed citizen of Shelby County. He was but a child when his parents moved to McHenry County, Illinois, and but six years old when they moved to Clayton County, Iowa. Here our subject grew to manhood, receiving his education in the common schools. He remained at home until he was twenty- one, when he M'ent to Wisconsin and worked by the month for some time. In 1872 he catne to Shelby County where he bought eighty acres of land at $8 per acre. For seven seasons he broke prairie, at first send- ing his plow-shares to Avoca to be sharp- ened; in this way he made money to pay for his land. He now owns 160 acres of as good land as Shelby County affords. He has a comfortable house, a good barn, and all the equipments of a prosperous farmer. Mr. Lawson was married June 22, 1880, to Miss Zella Foster, of Clayton County, Iowa. By this union two children were born — Minnie J., born September 27, 1881, and Ernest, born June 14, 1884. Mr. Lawson was greatly bereaved in the death of his beloved wife, which occurred December 5, 1886. She was a woman of many virtues, a faithful wife, a loving mother and a kind neighbor. Mr. Lawson is a genial man, honorable in his business transactions, and although young has gained an enviable position in the county. -" ^I ' T - g fAPHETII BROWN of Fairview, Town- ship, is one of the w'ell-known citizens, having come to the county in 1870. He was born in Stafford Township, Monmouth County, New Jersey, February 12, 1822; he is a son of Abraham Brown, who was born in the same county, and whose father, Samuel Brown, served in the war of the Revolution. Japheth Brown's mother was Charity Soper, a native of New Jersey. He lived in his native State until he was eighteen years old, when the family moved to Brown County, Ohio, where they lived until 1848. They moved to Livingston County, Illinois, by team and wagon. Mr. Brown was married in Clermont County, Ohio, August 8, 1844, to Miss Eliza Gates, a native of Ohio, and a daughter of Thomas and Mary Gates. Abra- ham Brown died in Livingston County, Illi- nois, December 17, 1851, and his wife died in Shelby County, in December, 1874, at the residence of lier son Japheth. Our subject lived in Livingston County, Illinois, until 1870, when lie came to his present farm, where he has since lived; the land was wild and unimproved. He now has a comfortable house, surrounded with shade trees, a good barn, stock-yard and stock-scales. All the surroundings indicate the energy and thrift of the owner. The farm, in all, contains 240 acres of rich soil. Mr. and Mrs. Brown are the parents of three children — Susan, wife of Lewis Watterbury; Nancy Gibson, of Avoca, and Clarence, engaged in business in Avoca. BIOGRAPUIGAL SKETCHES. 551 Politically Mr. Brown stands with the Demo- cratic party. He is plain in manner, genial in disposition, honorable in business, and has many friends, of whom he is wellworthy. -...?. ; ..;. % ... W. ALLEN, a successful citizen of Lincoln Township, was born January ® 14, 1841, in Saratoga County, New York. He is the son of J. W. and Eleanor (Van Waggen) Allen, both natives of New York, who were the parents of seven children. D. W. was the sixth child, and was reared on a farm, receiving his education in the com- mon schools. At the age of twenty years ho went to New York City, where he became interested, first in the street railway, and afterward in the ice business. In 1870 he went to Rock Island, Illinois, and engaged in railroad work, lirst as fireman, then in tlie railroad shops, then as fireman again, and finally as engineer. Mr. Allen was united in marriage to Miss Mary Bothwell, September 15, 1871 ; she was born at Olin, Jones County, Iowa, and is a daughter of John and Caroline (Seeley) Bothwell. Her father was born at Dumfries, Scotland, and was brought to America when eighteen months old. He was reared in Pennsylvania, and served in the Mexican war. The mother of Mrs. Allen was a native of Cattaraugus County, New York. D. W. Allen came to Shelby County in 1873, and settled on wild land, tliirty-tliree acres of which had been broken ; here he has since resided and made many improvements; he now owns 230 acres, all of which is in a fine state of cultivation; he has a good house, buildings for cattle, a grove, orchard and a windmill. Mr. Allen and wife have six chil- dren — Cora May, Silas (i., Sarah A., George H., Daisy C. and Mary E. Mr. Allen gives his sufi'rage to the Uepublican party; he has served as township trustee, and on the school board. He is a member of the Masonic or- der, Parian Lodge, No. 321; Lebanon Chap- ter No. 8, and Mount Zion Commandery, No. 49. Mr. Allen is yet in the prime of life, and by upright dealing has won for himself an enviable position in the county. ALENTINEPLUMB.ahighly es- teemed citizen of Lincoln Township, is a native of Lincolnshire, England, born December 5, 1843. He is the son of William and Sarah ((rray) Plumb, who reared six chil- dren, of whom Valentine is the second born. He was reared on a farm, and received his education in the common schools. He was united in marriage December 15, 1867, to Miss Charlotte Llewellyn, a native of Wales, born April 24, 1837; she is a daughter of William and Elizabeth (Evans) Llewellyn. Valentine Plumb resided in England until April 11, 1870, when he sailed for America on board the ship Nebraska. He arrived in New York, April 26, 1870, and came from that point to Council Bluff's, Iowa; he went to Mills County, where he had relatives, and worked by the month for two years; he then rented land in Mills County until 1875, when he bought land, and in the spring of 1876 he settled on his present farm; this he has im- proved from year to year, until he now has as fine a farm as Sheli)y County affords. He has a good frame dwelling, surrounded with shade trees, a fine grove and ( rchard, a barn and windmill, and all improvements, showing the thrift and prosperity of the owner. Mr. and Mrs. Plumb have one daughter — Mary II., born September 26, 1872. They are both worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Plumb is a Uepublican, and is now servinij his second term as trustee for the 553 BISTORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. township. Mr. PlumL is an example of what a man can do, coining to Iowa without money. By industry and good management he has acquired a good property. He has always taken an active interest in religion and education, and is a liberal supporter of all movements tending to advance either. ■ " ■^S ' T - I- '- I AMUEL G. POOL was born in Dela- ware County, Ohio, Slay 29, 1841. He is a son of Peter and Frances (Wilson) Pool. He was but eighteen months old when his parents removed to Washington County, Pennsylvania, where they resided for a time; they then went to Allegheny County, Penn- sylvania, where Samuel G. grew to manhood. He was reared on a farm, and educated in the public schools. His father died when he was but a lad. At the age of seventeen years he came to Iowa, settling in Davenport, where he worked eighteen months at the carpenter's trade. He then went to St. Louis, Missouri, where!he remained eighteen months, engaged in working at his trade. He next spent eight months at Alton, Illinois, and th«n went to New Orleans, where he spent one month, just before the war. Here he heard prominent rebels make speeches, encouraging their hearers to fight for the Confederacy, to go to Washington, take the city, and kill Lincoln. He returned to the north, being one of the last permitted to leave New Orleans for the north. He went to Salem, Ohio, where his mother resided, and August 13, 1861, he en- listed at the call for 300,000 men, in the Eleventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Company C. He was first under fire at Snell Mount- ain, Virginia; Gaily Bridge, Virginia; the two battles of Bull Run, Antietam, South Mountain, Nashville, Hooper's Gap, Chicka- mauga. Missionary Ridge, Buzzard's Roost, Dalton, and Resaca, Georgia. Mr. Pool was on active duty all the time with the exception of a very short time when he was in the hospi- tal. He was honorably discharged in 1864, at Chattanooga. In 1865 he returned to the United States Veteran Corps, known as General Hancock's Corps. He was again honorably discharged in March, 1865. He returned to Ohio and worked at the carpenter's trade for four years. Mr. Pool was married July 13, 1860, to Miss Mary C. Brown, a native of West Virginia, and a daughter of Shelton and Juliann (Tucker) Brown. Mrs. Pool's parents moved to Missouri when she was twelve years old, and both died while she was yet a child. In 1870 Mr. Pool came to Shelby County, Iowa, and settled on his pres- ent farm of 160 acres; he has a comfortable house, and a grove and orchard. Mr. and Mrs. Pool are the parents of seven children — Joseph R., William L., Nevada May, Rolla Adolphus, Ralph Edmond, Nellie lona, and Ivy Pearl. They lost one child by death. Mount Treveda, who died at the age of nine months. Mr. Pool is a member of the Re- publican party, and a strong supporter of its principles. [LAUS ALBERS, dealer in general mer- chandise, came to Corley in April, 1882, buying the stock of goods owned by Thomas McDonald. He is a native of Ger- many, born in June, 1855. He was ten years of age when his parents came to America, and settled in Davenport, Iowa, where he grew to manhood; he received his education in his native land, and in Davenport. At the age of fifteen years he went to work at the cigar trade, and followed it for several years at Davenport. In 1875 he went to Avoca, Iowa, and engaged in the manufacture BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 553 of cigars, and also in the saloon business for a time. Mr. Albers had resided in Corley four years when he bought the store building which he now occupies, and which is the best in Corley; he has a good cellar, and every- thing well arranged for the large stock of goods which he carries; he does an annual business of S15,000. Mr. Albers keeps one good clerk to assist him ; his fair and honor- abledealing has secured him alarge and profit- able trade. lie was appointed postmaster in January, 1884. lie was married in Septem- ber, 1880, to Miss Anna Snyder; one child is the result of their union — Mata. Our subject is a Democrat, and a member of the I. 6. O. F., Delta Lodge, No. 377, Avoca. He is numbered among the representative business men of Shelby County. C. "WILCOX, residing in Lincoln Town- ship, Shelby Count}', is a native of New ** York, born in Oneida County, April 2, 1833. He is a son of Chester and Aurelia (Dunbar) Wilcox, both natives of Connecti- cut. The Dunbar family were early settlers in Oneida County, New York. A. C. Wilcox was reared on a farm and received his educa- tion in the public schools. In 1855 he took Horace Greeley's advice and came west, set- tling in Winona County, Minnesota, where he remained only a few months. He then went to Waukesha County, Wisconsin, and spent the winter. In 1856 he came to Tama County, Iowa, and lived there two years. In the autumn of 1858 he went back to New York and spent the winter in Cattaraugus County, and in 1859 he went to Oneida County. In the spring of 1862 he went to Atkinson, Waukesha County, Wisconsin, where he worked at the carpenter's trade. In the fall of 1863 he went to Green Hay, Wisconsin, and worked at his trade. In 1864 he went to Dane County, Wisconsin, and engaged in farming. In the spring of 1865 he came to Iowa and settled in Mar- shall County, where he engaged in agri- cultural pursuits in connection with his trade. In 1873 he came to Avoca, where he worked at his trade, and in 1874 he bought the land on which he now lives. He was one of the first settlers in the township. Here he has since lived and improved his farm from year to year, until he has one of the best farms in the county. He has a comfortable house, buildings for stock and grain, a windmill, and one of the best maple groves in the township. His farm contains 160 acres. Mr. Wilcox was married in Mar- shall County, Iowa, March 5, 1868, to Miss Clarinda Richart, a native of Stephenson County, Illinois, and a daughter of Aaron and Eliza (Williams) Richart. Mr. and Mrs. Wilcox are the parents of eleven children, eight of whom survive — Herbert J., Chester A. and Lester A. (twins), Joe C, Roy S., Fred L., Lewis A. and Delia M. Aurelia E., Rosa and Amy died before maturity. Mr. Wilcox is a Republican, and has served as ] ustice of the peace for five years, with credit to himself. He has also served on the school board. Mr. and Mrs. Wilcox are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and Mr. Wilcox is a steward of the same. Mr. Wil- cox is a man who has traveled extensively in his younger days, and is well informed on general topics. ABRIEL BROWN is a well-known resJ- '\\MV 'lent of Lincoln Township. He was born in Monmouth County, New Jersey, June 22, 1817. He is a son of Abraham Brown, a native of New Jersey, of an old family in 554 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. that State. His father served three inontlis in the war of 1812. His mother was Charity Soper, and her family were old settlers in New Jersey. Gabriel Brown was reared a farmer and received his education in the common schools. At the age of fifteen he went to sea, first as a cabin boy and cook, and afterward as an able seaman before the mast. At the age of twenty-two he removed to Clermont County, Ohio, where he lived for eight years. lie was married June 16, 1841, to Miss Eliza Iladley, a native of New York, born August 4, 1817, in Tompkins County. She is a daughter of Ebenezer and Elizabeth (Potile) Iladley, natives of New York. Mr. Brown lived in Clermont County, Ohio, until 1845, when lie went to Kane County, Illinois, where he remained two years. In 1847 he went to Livingston County, Illinois, where he was one of the first settlers. Here he made his home until 1874, when he came to Shelby County and bought the land on which he now lives. He has a farm of 320 acres of well-improved land. Mr. Brown and wife have four children — William Albert, James A., John M. and Eliza. In politics Mr. Brown is independent. His son Albert served in the late civil war, in the Seventeenth Illinois Cavalry, for three years. Mi*. Brown is now past his three-score and ten years, but is still hale and hearty. He especially enjoys Iiunting and fishing, and passes many happy days in these sports. He is cordial in his disposition, plain of speech and manner, and firm in his convictions of right and wrong. when liis mother died. AVhen he was four- teen years of age he came to Jones County, Iowa, with an older brother; here he grew to manhood, passing his youth in farm work and in attending the common school. Mr. Muck was married December 23, 1869, to Miss Su- san Kohle, a native of Berks County, Penn- sylvania, and a daughter of William Kohle. Mr. Muck resided in Jones County until 1876, when he came to Shelby County. lie bought eighty acres of wild land, entirely improved; here he has since lived, and made improve- ments from year to year, until he has one of the best farms in the neighborhood. He has a dwelling built on the cottage plan, comfort- able and convenient, a barn, cribs for corn, and a fine grove of three acres. All the sur- roundings indicate thrift and \Yise manage- ment. Mr. and Mrs. Muck have no children. Politically he afliliates with the Democratic party. He is a man yet in the prime of life, of unusual physical force, and of a genial dis- position that attracts friends and keeps them. |OBERT W. MUCK is an early settler of Shelby County; he was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1842, and is a son of Henry and Maria (Harrison) Muck, natives of Virginia. He was l)ut eight years old '■' ■ ■(], ' 3"I • 1^" •" IIOMAS A. LONG is one of the best- known early settlers in Lincoln Town- ship, having come to Shelby County in 18G6. He was born in Hendricks County, Indiana, June 7, 1846. He is a son of Ju- gurtha Long, a native of Indiana. His mother was a Miss Hendricks, whose family were early settlers of Hendricks County. She died when our subject was a baby. In 1847 the father came to Iowa, and the ne.xt year he died. Thomas was then taken back to Indi- ana by his paternal grandsire, and was reared on a farm in Montgomery County. He re- ceived his education in the public schools. Mr. Long served his country in the late civil war, enlisting in October, 1863, in the Fortieth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, Company H, and ^:^:3^.^^^^z..^A /^^^Y2^^^: BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 557 serving until the close of the war. He par- ticipated in the battles of Nashville, Peach- Tree Creek, Kennesaw Mountain, Iluzzard's Roost, New Hope Church, in all the battles in and around Atlanta, Franklin, and Dalton, Georgia, besides one or two others. He re- ceived a slight wound in the head at Kennesaw Mountain, but was in the hospital only a few days. He was one of the old soldiers that made a figliting record. After liis discharge lie returned to Indiana and remained there a short time. He tlien came to Shelby County, where he owned some land. Mr. Long was married July 4, 1868, to Miss Samantha Me- Keig, a daughter of Wesley McKeig, of Fair- view Township, who is a prominent pioneer, specially mentioned on another page in this volume. After his marriage Mr. Long set- tled on section 24, Lincoln Township, where he had built a log cabin that has stood the storms, and to-day is a land-mark of early days. In 1877 he came on his present farm, which was then wild prairie land. Here he has since lived, making all modern improve- ments and placing tlie farm in a high state of cultivation. He owns 240 acres of land in a body, two and a half miles from Harlan. Mr. and Mrs. Long are the parents of six children — Jugurtha, John W., Anna L., Charles, James Garfield and Maud. Harry died in infancy. Mr. Long is a strong Re- publican, dyed in the wool. He has served as township trustee and on the school board. He is one of Shelby County's solid citizens. i,LEXANDER McCORD, a native of New York, born January 11, 1810, was left an orphan at a very early age, and was placed in an orphan asylum, where he remained until he was fourteen years old. He received his education in this institution, and when he reached the age of fourteen was apprenticed to learn the shoemaker's trade, which lie followed for a number of years prior to his coming west. He went to Can- ada, and afterward removed to Randolph County, Missouri, where he remained one year, engaged in farming. He tlien spent one summer in Illinois, working on the first railroad entering Quincy, for which he re- ceived nothing. In the spring of 1846 he removed to the place wliere Council Elufls now stands, then known as Traders' Point, wiiich contained but three houses. He lived in a tent for almost one year. When lie had been there about a month Mr. McCord en- tered the Mexican war, Company A, under Captain Hunt. Allen was First Lieutenant, and died shortly after, when Cook took com- mand. The company was known as the Mor- mon Battalion. A part of this same company were the first to strike gold in California while digging a well race. Mr. McCord served two years, returning in the winter of 1848. He sutfered death many times from hunger and thirst while in the service, and many other hardships incident to war in those days. After liis return to Iowa lie purchased some claims near Council Bluffs and engaged in farming. Here he remained until about 1849 or 1850, and then came to Shelby County, locating at Gallaiid's Grove, Grove Township. He purchased 160 acres of wild land, which he improved and placed under good cultivation, remaining on it until 1882. In the meantime he had purchased 240 acres in Douglas Township, and added to it until he owns in one body 560 acres. It was all unimproved land, and by the united ettbrts of the family it has been placed under its present advanced state of cultiva- tion. It is one of the finest farms in the county. The first residence erected is now used as a granary. In 1881 the presen- 558 HISTORY OF SUE LB Y COUNTY. beautiful residence was built, being one of the finest in the county. The family also own 500 acres of improved land in Grove Town- ship, 120 acres being timber land. The land in Douglas Township reverted by will to Bradley, the third son, who now occupies the same. Mr. McCord was always a true and public-spirited man, aiding in anything for the welfare of the county. He was generous, kind and good. He always followed agricult- ural pursuits. He was married November 25, 1834, to Sybel Bradenburgh, daughter of William and Elizabeth (Williams) Braden- burgh. She was born in the State of New York, February 27, 1817. They are the par- ents of seven children — Elizabeth, wife of Milton Lynch, of Grove Township; Eunice (deceased); William, of Union Township; Hiram (deceased); Luther, residing in Grove Township; Bradley, residing in Douglas Township; and Ichabod, residing in Union Township. Mr. McCord was treasurer of Grove Township for a number of years. He died July 15, 1887. Bradley, the sixth child, was born in Grove Township December 27, 1852. He was reared in his native place, and received his education in the common schools. He owns 560 acres of as tine land as Shelby County affords, lying in sections 7, 8, 17 and 18, of Douglas Township. He set- tled on this farm in 1874, and has since made it his home, devoting himself to farming and stock-raising. He deals quite extensively, always shipping his own stock. He is an active worker in the Kepublican party. He was married November 27, 1873, to Mary E., daughter of Jasper and Elizabeth (Hawkins) Scott. She was born in Columbia County, Indiana, September 7, 1849. They are the parents of seven children — Pearlie, at home; Almud (deceased); Clara, Arthur, Bradley, Daisy and Gracie, all at home. The family are active members of the Latter- Day Saints church. Alexander McCord was a minister in the church of the Latter-Day Saints, sent on two different times to preach to the citi- zens of Salt Lake City against polygamy. He held the office of elder, and was of the seventies, being ordained as such. W. SALTER is one of the enterprising citizens of Lincoln Township. He was born in Greene County, New York, Jan- uary 14, 1837, and is a son of Benjamin and Mary (Green) Salter. He was reared on a farm in his native State, and received his edu- cation in the common schools. At the age of twenty he started out in the world on his own responsibility, and came to Illinois in 1857; he settled on a farm in Marshall County, and spent his tirst season in breaking prairie. During the late civil war he went to the de- fense of his country, enlisting in the Eighty- sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, Company H, in August, 1862. He served until Janu- ary, 1864, taking an active part in the battles of Perry ville, Crab Orchard, Murfreesborough and Nashville. He was ill at Old Asylum Hospital for a time, and was honorably dis- charged February 2, 1864. He returned to Bureau County, Illinois. Mr. Salter was mar- ried August 23, 1862, to Miss Anna M. Boyd, a native of Canada, and a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Jamison) Boyd, also natives of Canada. Mr. Salter remained in Bureau County, Illinois, until 1866, when he returned to La Salle County, Illinois, where he resided two years; he then removed to Livingston County, Illinois, where he remained until 1873, when he came to Shelby County. He now owns 200 acres of as fine land as can be found in the county, all under fine cultivation and well improved. He is engaged in general farming and stock raising, feeding high grade BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 550 cattle and liogs. Mr. and Mrs. Salter are the parents of nine children — J. Frank, Mary Lizzie, wife of John Mann; Ida May, wife of Charles Middleton; Cora B., Adelaide, Charles W., Lillie Belle, Morris S. and Ladnsky. Po- litically Mr. Salter affiliates with the Demo- cratic party; he has served on the school board, and was elected justice of the peace in 1888. He is a member of the G. A. R., Harlan Post, and of the I. O. O. F., Harlan Lodge. He is a member of the Latter-Day Saints. He has always taken an active interest in re- ligious and educational affairs, and all worthy enterprises have found in Mr. Salter a hearty support. — g - : " ! •:;"•- — F. MILLER, a citizen of Lincoln Township, is a native of the Buck- eye State, Ohio. He was born in Shelby County, Ohio, January 8, 1854, and is a son of Alfred and Anna (Stone) Miller. When he was two years of age his parents removed to Iowa, and settled in Jackson County. The mother died in March, 1884, and the father still lives in Jackson County. W. F. Miller was reared to farm life, and was educated in the Jackson County schools. For two or three years he was employed in oper- ating a well drill. He resided in Jackson County until 1877, when he came to Shelby County and bought his present farm, which was then wild prairie land; he was one of the early settlers in the western part of the county. He has made many improvements on his farm, and put it under a fair state of cultivation; he is engaged in general farming, and stock- raising and feeding. Mr. Miller was united in marriage March 5, 1878, to Miss Mary Mann, a native of Canada, reared in Jackson County, and a daughter of John and Mary (Kennedy) Mann. By this union two chil- dren were born — Bert and Daisy Belle. Mrs. Mary Miller died November 2, 1882. Mr. Miller married his present wife March 20, 1884; she was Miss Lou Mann, a sister of his first wife. They are the parents of three chil- dren — Roy, Frances and Edith. Mr. Miller is a Democrat. He is yet in the prime of life, and has every prospect of a prosperous future. ANIEL MUSSELMAN, a representa- tive citizen of Lincoln Township, came to Shelby County in 1878. He Hret lived in Monroe Township, near Walnut, and in 1870 came on his present farm. He is a native of Bucks County, born December 25, 1833. He is a son of Jacob and Mary Musselman, natives of Pennsylvania. Three brothers named Musselman came from Ger- many to America about 150 years ago, and bought 1,500 acres of land, much of which is still in possession of the Musselman fam- ily. Daniel Musselman was reared in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, on a farm, and received his education in the public schools. At the age of nineteen years he was married to Miss Sarah Roth, a native of Bucks County, Penn- sylvania. By this union three children were born — Jacob, Henry and Mary. His wife died in 1865, and in 1866 he came to Ogle County, Illinois. He was married to his present wife in January, 1869, to Miss Sarah Wallace, a native of Pennsylvania, and a daughter of George and Mary (llodearmel) Wallace. Mrs. Musselman's parents came to Illinois when she was fifteen years old, and settled in Ogle County. After his marriage Mr. Musselman resided in Ogle County until 1872 when he came to Cass County, Iowa, and settled be- tween Lewis and Atlantic. Here he lived on a farm until 1878, and then came to Shelby County. He bought land of Rev. E. D. Werts, 560 BISTORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. which he has greatly improved. He has a comfortable residence, buildings for stock and grain, a windmill, which furnislies water to the dwelling and stock -yards, and many other comforts and conveniencies. The farm con- tains 160 acres, located three miles northwest from Harlan. He devotes his time to farm- ing and stock-raising. By his last marriage seven children were born — Laura Jane, Ro- setta Mary, Gilbert Grant, Clarissa Charlotte, Ada Ora, Sarah Elizabeth and Arthur Daniel. Mr. and Mrs. Musselman are members of the Evangelical church. "■'■ ^3 - 'C - ^ '" fOHN BARE has been identified with the interests of Shelby County since the spring of 1880. He was born in Somer- set County, Pennsylvania, and is a son of Christian Bare, a native of Switzerland, who came to America at the age of twenty-one years and settled in Pennsylvania; here he married Elizabeth Miller, a native of Penn- sylvania, whose parents were also Pennsyl- vanians. Christian and Elizabeth Bare were the parents of eight children. John was the second child, and was reared and educated in his native State. At the age of twenty-two years he removed to Wayne County, Ohio, where lie worked on a farm for eighteen months. He then went to La Grange County, Indiana, where he remained six months; thence he went to Linn County, Iowa, where he lived for seven years. During the late civil war he went to the defense of his coun- try's flag. He enlisted August 7, 1862, in the Twenty-fourth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, Company F, and served until the close of the war. He was in the battles of Champion Hills, Vicksburg, Port Gibson, Fisher's Hill, Cedar Creek, Winchester, and the Red River campaign under General Banks. He re- ceived a gun-shot wound at Champion Hills, and was honorably discharged at Savannah, Georgia, in 1865. He returned to Penns^'l- vania, and in the spring of 1866 he removed to Woodford County, Illinois. Here he was married to Miss Rachel Blough October 28, 1866; she is a native of Somerset County, Pennsylvania, and a daughter of Jonas and Elizabeth (Bowman) Blough, natives of Penn- sylvania. Mr. Bare resided in Woodford County, Illinois, until 1880, when he came to Lincoln Township, Shelby County, Iowa, and bought his farm of Edgar Conistock; there was a small frame house which has since been torn down, and replaced by a frame house built in modern style; this is surrounded by shade trees, and has a pleasant situation. There are also good buildings for stock and grain, and all the surroundings show the thrift and industry of the owner. Mr. and Mrs. Bare have three ciiildren — Elizabeth, Ida and John W., who were born in Woodford County, Illinois. Mr. Bare is a member of the Re- publican party, and of the G. A. R., Harlan Post, No. 197. He carries his age well, and is a man respected by all who know him. H. ERICKSON is a successful farmer of Lincoln Township, who has been * identified with the interests of Shelby County since 1873. He was born in Norway, December 26, 1854, and is a son of Henry and Olivia (Anderson) Erickson. The family, consisting of the parents and six children, emigrated to America and settled in Mahaska County, Iowa; one of the sons had come to this country before the family came. Our subject lived in Mahaska County, near New Sharon, until 1873, when he came to Shelby County and bought forty acres of land in J.iincoln Township, which he began to im- ^.' BfOORAPIIWAL SKETCHED. 561 prove. The following spring his parents moved on the place, and have since resided here; the land has been improved from year to year, and additions have been made until the farm now contains 140 acres of as good soil as Shelby County affords. The residence is a good story and a half frame building, surrounded with shade trees, and there are barns and cribs, with all the conveniences for carrying on agricultural industries. Mr. Erickson was married November 9, 1880, to Miss Matilda Olson, a native of Norway, who emigrated to America in 1884. They are the parents of two children — Oscar Herbert and an infant son. Mr. Erickson afKliates with the Republican party, and has served two years as township clerk, with credit to himself and the best interests of the public. He was the choice of his party for township clerk in the fall of 1888, but was defeated by one vote. He is a member of the Lutheran church, as were his parents before him. He is a young man yet in the prime of life; is honorable in business, and one of Lincoln Township's leading citizens. fOSEPH GARDNER is one of the early settlers of Lincoln Township. He is a native of Somerset County, Pennsylvania, horn July 10, 1838, and is a son of Peter and Barbara (Miller) Gardner, who were born and reared and died in Somerset County, Pennsyl- vania. John Gardner, the father of Peter Gardner, fought in the war of 1812, and entered land near Cincinnati, Ohio. Peter Gardner and wife had four' children — John, Joseph, Mary and Elizabeth. Joseph Gard- ner, the subject of this sketch, lived in his native county until he was seventeen years old; he was reared on a farm, and attended school in a log school-house with slab seats. At the age of fifteen years he went to learn the cigar-maker's trade, and in two years came west for his health. He settled in Linn County, Iowa, at Mount Vernon, where he remained eight years. At the end of that time he went to Jones County, Iowa. Mr. Gardner was married December 22, 18G9, to Miss Sarah Jane Short, a native of Somerset County, Pennsylvania, and a daughter of Peter and Rebecca (Lohr) Short. They re- sided in Jones County until the spring of 1874, when they came to Shelby County. Mr. Gardner first bought 120 acres of land of Al Bacon, who had made some improve- ments; he also bought eighty acres of the railroad company, and he has added to this first purchase until he now owns 200 acres in a body. The farm is well improved; there is a good house, a grove, an orchard, a barn, build- ings for stock, and cribs for grain. The school- house of district number four is on a corner of Mr. Gardner's farm. He devotes himself to general agricultural pursuits. Mr. and Mrs. Gardner are the parents of eight children — Elizabeth Emerine Stittle, Peter Henry, Mary Millie Lary, Susan Ellen Roland, Ida Adelaide, William Franklin, Ilattie May, and Judd Hiatt. Mr. Gardner is a member of the Republican party. He is also a member of the Evangelical church, and has been for thirty years. His wife was reared in the Lutheran faith. He gives a liberal support to all educational and religious enterprises in the county,and has the confidence and respect of all who know him. W. MULDOON,a native of Allen County, Indiana, was born in the city * of Fort Wayne, March 7, 1856. He is a son of Bryan and Anna (Killan) Mul- doon, natives of Ireland, who emigrated to 563 HISTORY OF SUE LB Y COUNTY. America about the year 1838. He is one of a family of four children, and his early life was spent in Fort Wayne and on a farm. When he was fourteen years of age he was apprenticed for three years to a harness- maker, S. H. Shafe, in Fort Wayne. Having served his apprenticeship he went to Walker- ton, Indiana, where he followed his trade over a year. He then purchased a farm in La Porte County, Indiana, and lived on it oue year, at the end of that time trading it for property in Walkerton; he also bought a wagon and blacksmith shop which he worked in for a year and a half, and then returned to his old trade of harness-making. He con- tinued in this for two years, and then went to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he remained two years, engaged in the harness and trans- fer business. After leaving Minneapolis Mr. Muldoon took an extensive trip through Da- kota, Minnesota, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri and Iowa. In 1887 he came to Shelby County, Iowa, where he has since resided. In the spring of 1888 he opened a harness shop, and has established a good trade, as his general disposition has made him many friends. In January, 1889, he took a part- ner in his business, and the firm now stands Muldoon & Anderson. They are energetic business men, and are destined to make their mark in the commercial circles of Shelby County. Politically Mr. Muldoon is an active Democrat. — S ' ^"^ ' ^ '" '" — II. ALLEN, a native of Sangamon County, Illinois, born April 27, 1844, is the son of Andrew and Lovina (Roberts) Allen. His early life was spent on a farm, and his education was begun in the common schools. When he was seventeen years of age he began teaching school, and was engaged in this profession for twenty- two terms, or something over live years. When he was four years old his parents came to Iowa and settled in Mahaska County, and afterward removed to Monroe County, where they resided eight years. Mr. Allen entered Oskaloosa College when he was twenty-four years of age, and spent a part of the three following years in taking a general course. In 1883 he came to Shelby County and pur- chased forty acres of land in Jefferson Town- ship, where he remained one year. He then came to Irwin, and bought a stock of general merchandise of the Townsend Brothers; at the end of two years he sold out to T. N. Harford, and purchased the stock of P. F. Cole; after one year he sold to Mr. Stein- honsen, and then bought the stock of E. J. Trowbridge, with the building, a spacious room, in which he carries a finely assorted line of goods. In the four years in which he has engaged in this business he has built up an excellent trade, his annual sales reaching $15,000. He is an energetic, pushing man, and is one of Shelby County's leading busi- ness men. Aside from his mercantile inter- ests he handles coal and lumber, and has his farm under his personal supervision, lie is a staunch Republican. Mr. Allen was united in marriage December 25, 1870, to Miss Al- cinda Long, a daughter of Jeremiah and Mary A. (Bell) Long, and native of Mahaska County, born in April, 1852. The result of this union is six children — Minnie, Orlando, Clarence, Totty, Mary and Ernest. Mrs. Allen is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Allen is a member of the A. F. & A. M., and of the I. O. O. F., and of the Legion of Honor. In the late civil war he enlisted, February 16, 18G3, in the Thirtieth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, Company D, serv- inir until the close of the Rebellion. He was taken prisoner in the first battle in which he ^?>t^ BIOQRAPHWAL ISKETOUES. 565 participated, at Mark's Mills, Arkansas, and was held in Camp Ford, Texas, for ten months, where he suffered the hardships endured in the southern prisons. •°'" | ' i"I ' g '*~' fHOMAS JEFFERSON RYAN, a na- tive of Rochester, New York, was born February 15, 1851, and is the son of Jeffery and Sarah (Clark) Ryan, natives of Ireland, who emigrated to America before marriage. They first settled in Canada, then in New York, and subsequently removed to Ogle County, Illinois, which is their present residence. They are the parents of si.x children. Thomas Jefferson, the second child, was reared to farm life and received his education in the public schools of Illinois. At the age of six- teen years he entered tiie employ of J. H. Newcomer, Ogle County, Illinois, owner of a large stock farm ; here he spent live or six years, and became thoroughly initiated in the live-stock business. In 1870 Mr. Ryan took a trip to California, and remained there two years; he was engaged as clerk and book- keeper on a fruit ranch belonging to his Uncle Mortimer Ryan, at Sonoma, Sonoma County. After his sojourn in California he returned to Illinois, remaining there but a short time. lie then came to Iowa, settling near Brooklyn, in Poweshiek County, where he resided until 1882, when he came to Shelby County. He settled on a farm of 120 acres in section 34, Greeley Township, which he had purchased three years previously; he lias since added forty acres to his first pur- chase. This was all unimproved land, but has undergone quite a change in the past few years. In 1884 Mr. Ryan erected a fine frame residence to take the place of a smaller one that has since been converted into a granary; be has large and convenient build- ings for stock and grain, and a system of water-works supplying water for domestic purposes and live-stock. These various im- provements have cost upward of $3,200, and the farm is considered one of the most de- sirable in the county. Mr. Ryan also owns a farm of eighty acres in section 10, Greeley Township, which he rents. The first men- tioned farm is devoted largely to the breeding of thoroughbred registered short-horn cattle, of which he has a herd of the Phyllis, Prin- cess, Young Mary, and Rose of Sharon fam- ilies. In December,. 1885, Mr. Ryan took charge of the Lauderbach stock farm which occupies the whole of section 16, Greeley Township, and removed to this place; how- ever, he still has his own farm under his im- mediate supervisfon. J. II. Cummings, of Tacoraa, Washington Territory, now owns the Lauderbach farm, but Mr. Ryan has the management of the place. Upon this farm a specialty is made of breeding Holstein- Friesian cattle, there now being twenty-six head selected from Philadelphia breeders and importers. First-class horses are also kept for breeding, the Hambletonian, Percheron and Norman being represented by the best animals. While still a minor young Ryan turned a large part of his earnings toward assisting his father complete the payments on what is still his home, and although he was entitled to his own earnings, he chose to render such assistance to his parents. His life furnishes a fair example of what success can be achieved through industry and per- severance. Politically he is an active worker in the Democratic ranks, and has been ofK- cially indentified with his township as clerk, assessor and secretary of the school board. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., Ellsworth Lodge, of Irwin, No. 493, and of the Farmers' Alliance. Mr. Ryan was married October 28, 1874, to Miss Mary A. Grant, daughter 566 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. of Henry and Ellen (Haggard) Grant, natives of Scotland and Ireland respectively. Mrs. Ryan was born in Poweshiek Countj', Iowa, October 28, 1855. She was reared in the Presbyterian faith, and finished her edu- cation at Grinnell, Iowa. She taught school for nearly four years prior to her marriage, in Iowa and Poweshiek counties. She has stood faithfully by her husband in all his labors, assisting both in counsel and execution of plans. They are the parents of four chil- dren — Myrtle Ethel, Herbert Roy, Earl Grant and Sara Ellen. , T. HENRY, a native of Peru, Miami County, Indiana, born May 10, 1857, ' is a son of Milton and Clara (Kings- bury) Henry, natives of New York. When he was eight years old his parents removed to Blairstown, Benton County, Iowa, where his boyhood was spent. He received his edu- cation in the graded public schools of Peru and Blairstown. When fifteen years of age he entered the employ of J. H. Henry, who was engaged in the grain business. He re- mained with him six months, and was then employed by J. H. Henry's successors, Ryan & Kelly, with whom he remained nine months. He then worked for a year with Grund Broth- ers in a hotel, and at the end of that time re- turned to his former employment in the grain business. In 1882 he secured a position on the railroad, which he held for eighteen months. He commenced as car checker at night, but applying himself faithfully to his duties, he was promoted until he gained the position of car accountant. In December, 1884, Mr. Henry came to Irwin and took charge of the grain department of Martin D. Stevens & Compfiny, commission merchants, Chicago. He has since assumed full control of the business at this point, buying and shipping all kinds of grain, and through his management quite an extensive business has been built up, the annual shipments aggre- gating 300 cars. Mr. Henry is a live, ener- getic man, of a genial and courteous disposi- tion, and will gain many friends wherever he may be placed in life. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and is at present conductor. Politically he is an active worker in the Re- publican party, and is secretary of the Re- publican Club of Irwin. Mr. Henry was united in marriage, November 27, 1884, to Miss Lucia Anderson, daughter of David and Phcebe Anderson, born in Blairstown, Iowa, in 1859. They are the parents of two chil- dren — Carrie May, born January 28, 1887, and Clara Phoebe, born November 27, 1888. Mr. and Mrs. Henry are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and are among Shelby County's most respected and worthy citizens. •'♦•■" I ' SuS - ^" -*" jjjETER FREDERICK COLD, a native of North Germany, born May 12, 1852, is a son of Ferdinand and Johannah Cold. When he was four years old his parents emigrated to America and settled in Clinton County, where he was reared and spent his early life. He attended the common schools of Alliance, and afterward the seminary of the same place. When he had reached his majority he entered Clinton College, which he attended for three years. Althongh reared to farm life, after his college course he engaged with Reifi" & Berlins as clerk in the town of Bryant. He remained here but a short time before he was transferred to Pres- ton. He remained with this firm five years, when the stock was destroyed by fire. After closing up the business for the firm, he took BIOQRAPUIGAL SKETGHES. 567 a trip to Europe and spent five inontlis vieit- ing in France, Germany and Denmark. After liis retnrn to America lie engaged immedi- ately with Comstock & Woods as clerk in a general stock of merchandise at Lost Nation, Iowa. He remained in the employ of this firm for a year and a half, when he returned to Preston and spent one winter. In the spring of 1881 he came to Shelby County and located at Irwin, which was then in its infancy. Here he opened a general stock of merchandise, and conducted the business until May, 1887; he then disposed of the stock to Paul et Allen, and engaged in stock-raising and shipping. Besides his large interests in live-stock, he deals extensively in real-estate, owning at present 380 acres of land in Shelby County, besides town property, town lots and 280 acres of land in Nebraska. Mr. Cold is a live, energetic man, and stands to-day in the front ranks of Shelby County's prosper- ous citizens. Politically he is a Republican. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M. He was married April 22, 1883, to Miss Augusta Nieman, a daughter of H. A. and Dora Nie- man. Mrs. Cold was born December 22, 1866. They are the parents of two children —Otto H. and Bertha E. D. Mr. and Mrs. Cold are members of the Lutheran church, and are among Shelby County's most re- spected citizens. ►4«t^ fOIIN C. WOOSTER, a native of Wit- tenberg, Germany, was born December 7, 1829, and is the son of Christian Woos- ter. He was reared on a farm in his native country, and was educated in the common schools. He served four years in the Ger- man army, but his pride revolted against the treatment he was subjected to, so he deter- mined to seek a home in a more congenial 87 clime. Like many another, he turned to America, and landed in New York in 1854, penniless and unable to speak one word of English. He brought with him the deter- mination characteristic of the German peo- ple, and nothing daunted, started for Massa- chusetts. After many days of weary travel through snow and rain, sometimes without food, he stopped near Springfield, Massachu- setts, where he secured employment with a man who promised him his clothes and ftlOO for one year's work. He received one $3 suit of clothes and $10 in money for his pay, and half the time had not enough to eat. He was discouraged with this adversity in a strange country, but struggled bravely on in hopes of better days. After filling his con- tract with his first employer he went to Thompsonville, Hartford County, Connecti- cut, where he took charge of a livery stable for about two years. He was then employed in a knitting factory where he remained for ten years. His next move was to New York, where he worked on a farm for a short time; he then worked in a tannery, running the engine for eight months. At the end of this time he went to Carroll County, Illinois; here he was employed in a saw-mill for three years, and worked on a farm for four years. Mr. Wooster was married September 6, 1855, to Miss Barbara Smeltsley, a daughter of Fred Smeltsley, who was born in Wittenberg, Germany, December 30, 1830. In 1875 Mr. Wooster removed his family to Shelby County, Iowa, and settled in Jefl'erson Town- ship, where he liomesteaded 160 acres of land which was then wild prairie. The family had to undergo many privations in those early days of the settlement of the county. At one time they were obliged to live ou noth- ing but potatoes for six weeks; but they faced these hardships bravely and won in the battle. Mr. Wooster has a fine residence, 5«8 HIHTOliT OF SHELBY COUNTY. large and convenient barns for stock and grain. He now owns 280 acres of as fine land as Shelby County affords. He and his wife have eight children — Barbara, wife of William Finch; John (deceased); William, John C, Fred Christian, Eva, wife of Jasjier Groat; Christina, and Charles (deceased). The family are wortliy members of the United Brethren church. Mr.Wooster is a staunch Republican. lEORGE E. HECK is a native of Wabash County, Indiana, and was born Septem- ber 19, 1846. He is the son of John and Sarah Ann (Rockwell) Heck, natives of Germany and Virginia respectively. He was reared in his native county, and educated in the common schools; these at that time did not afford unlimited advantages, but by close observation and diligent reading Mr. Heck acquired a fund of information of which many college-bred men might be proud. Mr. Heck was married May 2, 1866, to Miss Mary E. Richards, a daughter of George W. and Delilah (Ferran) Richards, who was born in Wabash County, Indiana, March 5, 1847. They are the parents of tive children — William A., John E., Rose A., Albert, J. and Violet. After their marriage they resided in Wabash County for three years, and in the fall of 1869 they removed to Tama County, Iowa, where Mr. Heck en- gaged in farming; there they resided until 1873, when they removed to Pottawattamie County; in the same autumn Mr. Heck came to Shelby County and bought eighty acres of land in Jefferson Township, which was unim- proved. In the spring of 1874 he moved his family to their new home, where he had erected a log cabin, 14. \ 14 feet; here they lived two years, and in the spring of 1877 re- moved to 160 acres of land south of his first purchase; here he has since made his home, adding many improvements until he has one of the best improved farms in the township. He has planted two acres of grove, has a comfortable frame dwelling, and barns for stock and grain. He has done much toward the opening and improvement of the county, and well deserves the esteem and respect in which he is held. He devotes himself ex- clusively to agricultural pursuits, and is very successful. He has held many positions of trust, and has been secretary of the school board for fifteen years continuously. He takes an active interest in the educational features of the county, and heartily assists every enterprise of an educational character, lie has served as township trustee for several terms. Politically heafliliateswitli the Demo- cratic party, but casts his suffrage inde- pendently. He is a member of the Shelby County Farmers' Alliance. In their pioneer days in this county Mr. and Mrs. Heck were compelled to undergo many hardships, but they faced them bravely and are now enjoy- ing the reward of their labors. The family are among the most worthy and respected people of the county. ••♦ "4 « S"! ' ^" '- ARLAN D EDWARDS, a native of Bar- ron, now Metcalfe, County, Kentucky, born February 11, 1821, is a son of William and Julia (Furgeson) Edwards, na- tives of Virginia. He was reared on a farm in his native State, and received his edu- cation in the subscription schools of those days. This was necessarily limited, but what was lacking in opportunity has been made up by nature in endowing her subject with a keen^ close observation. Mr. Edwards was married December 24, 1845, to Miss Luciuda Piper, a daivghter of John and Jane Piper, natives BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 669 of Virginia and South Carolina respectively. Mrs. Edwards was born in Metcalfe County, Iventncky, December 13, 1825. Tliej re- mained in Metcalfe Comity live years after their marriage, and then removed to Marion County, Iowa, where they remained one year, and then to Jasper County, wiiere they re- sided until 1872. They then came to Shelby County, settling on a homestead in Douglas Township, which was reclaimed by the rail- road. Mr. Edwards then purchased 300 acres of wild, unimproved land; here he planted four acres of grov^e, erected a comfortable residence, and barns for stock and grain, and made all the improvements necessarj* to a well-regulated farm. He and his wife ex- perienced many hardships in their early life in the new country, but they faced them bravely, and to-day are reaping the reward. Mr. Edwards and wife are the parents of three children — Eliza, wife of AVilliam Wad- kins, of Highland Grove, Shelby County; William and Jolin, both residing with their parents. In 1887 they moved from the old home farm to section 36, Greeley Township. Mr. Edwards and sons own about 600 acres of Siielby County's best soil. He has lield the office of township trustee, and affiliates with the Republican party. In the late civil war he enlisted in the Fortieth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, Company E, and served fourteen months, and was discharged on account of disability. IBENEZER IRWIN is a native of Cam- bria County, Pennsylvania, and was born January 28, 1821. He is the son of Edward and Elizabeth (Decker) Irwin, natives of Westmoreland County, Pcnnsyl vania. Until he was fifteen years old he lived on a farm in his native county; he then worked on the Pennsylvania Canal through the summer seasons for si.x or seven years. After leaving the canal he was employed in the Cambria Iron AVorks where he remained for several years. He also worked in the rolling mills for three years, after which he came to Iowa in 1861, and settled in Wash- ington County, where he engaged in farming; he has since followed agricultural pursuits. Mr. Irwin was married May 22, 1845, to Miss Elizabeth Zech, a native of York County, Pennsylvania, who died in 1849; this union resulted in one child — John S., who died in Washington County, Iowa, aged thirty-four years. Mr. Irwin was again married March 22, 1852, to Miss Priscilla Treat, daughter of Laban Treat; she was born in Cleveland, Ohio, February 28, 1827. The result of this union was nine children — Julia, wife of Winfield Pixley; Harry, Iluth, Edward,'Emma, Chattie and Jennie, twins, Jennie being the wife of Willson Wurtzbaugh; Cornelia, and John. Ruth, Julia, Chattie and Jennie have all been engaged in school work. In Feljruary, 1876, Mr. Irwin and family came to Shelby County, Iowa, and settled in Jefferson Township on a farm of 160 acres of partially improved land. Here he has made his home, adding many valuable improvements in the way of erecting buildings and planting a grove. All the surroundings bespeak the thrift and energy of the owner. Mr. Irwin has done much toward the opening up and improving of the sur- rounding country, and has served as justice of the peace and on the board of education. He is a Republican, and stands by his party. He and his wife are zealous members of the Methodist Ejjiscopal church, and were among the promoters and workers in the founding of the society at Irwin. Mrs. Irwin died March 18, 1883. When they first came to Iowa they suffered many privations, but faced all hardships with true pioneer spirit. 570 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. Mr. Irwin is a member of the Farmers' Al- liance, and in every way is a worthy citizen. ^1*^ S. IRWIN, son of E. W. and Mary A. Irwin, was born in Cambria County, "* Pennsylvania, December 6, 1848. He was the second child and only boy in a fam- ily of nine children. His early childhood was spent in an uneventful manner. Residing more than a mile from the nearest school-house, under the then imperfect free-school system of Pennsylvania, his means of acquiring a liberal education, or even laying the founda- tion of the same, were necessarily limited. The school term then consisted of a period of three months. When the war of the Rebellion broke out, being the son of poor parents, young Irwin was obliged to bid adieu to his school life and assume the management of a contract to furnish sand for the western di- vision of the Central Railroad and the city of Pittsburg. His life was spent in tliis work until the spring of 1865, when he removed with his father's family to Iowa. Just as the glad news of Lee's surrender was received he turned hisback upon tliehomeof hischildhood. On reaching Iowa he settled with his father's family in Washington County. His desire for an advanced education had not grown less, but the wolf was to be kept from the door, and the struggle for existence was to be made; being the only help his father had in the support of a large family, attending school was impossible. Mr. Irwin then formed the very e.\cellent habit of investing a few dollars, as they could be spared, in books, and employ- ing all his spare time in study. During the winter of 1867 he tauglit school, and the fol- lowing summer assisted his father in the farm work. In the autumn of the same year he attended the Iowa City Commercial College; mastered the Bryant & Stratton system of bookkeeping in eight weeks, and returned in time to help harvest the corn crop and teach a winter's term of school. In the spring of 1870 Mr. Irwin removed to Shelby County, Iowa, and purchased land in section 30, Jef- ferson Township, a part of which is occupied by the town of Irwin. He improved this farm and continued teaching during the win- ters. At that time the improvements in the northeastern part of Shelbj' County consisted of three small dwellings. Avoca, thirty miles distant, was the nearest market for grain and live-stock. Harlan at that time was a ham- let of less than a dozen houses, contained one store carrying a general stock of merchandise, and one drug store. In February, 1875, D. S. Irwin was married to Iliia, daughter of Garland Edwards. He then built a house on his flirm in section 30, and resided there until 1879. In 1879 Mr. Irwin purcliased a law library and began reading law; he was admitted to the bar at the March term of the Circuit Court in 1880. At the time of the comple- tion of the Iowa & Southwestern Railroad, Mr. Irwin sold a portion of his farm for the town site of Irwin. Soon after he sold all but a small part, on which he built a residence, and engaged in the practice of law in Irwin with more than ordinary success. D. S. Irwin is an uncompromising advocate of Prohibitory legislation against the liquor traffic, and the large vote in Jefferson Township in favor of this amendment is due to the influence of Mr. Irwin. In 1883 death claimed his wife, and at the early age of thirty-two years she was laid to rest in Oak Hill Cemetery, leaving her husband and four small children — Leroy, Willie, Oliver and Jennie. Mr. Irwin was wedded to Mary Stovall, of Metcalfe County, Kentucky. She was born August 1, 1859. One son, Lee, has been born to them. Mr. Irwin continued the practiceof law until 1886, BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 571 ■when he traded his residence for a farm in Greelej Township, and abandoned law for the more congenial pursuit of farming. He has 240 acres of fine land, commodious barns, and is engaged in stock-raising. As early as 1871 he became prominent in the politics of the county, and the excellent financial stand- ing of Jefferson Township is due in a great measure to D. S. Irwin. ' ! '« ; ♦ ! '♦ *" E. AVERILL, a native of Canada West, was born September 13, 1841, * and is the son of Thomas and Anna (Flewuelling) Averill. At the age of eight years his parents removed to Macomb County, Michigan, where he spent his early life, be was trained to agricultural pursuits, and was educated in the public schools. At the age of seventeen years he began to learn the car- penter's trade, which avocation he followed for six years. His life has been somewhat varied since he abandoned his trade. In 1863 he came to Davenport, Iowa, and en- gaged in the carpenter's trade; he then re- moved to De Witt, Clinton County, where he followed the same trade for a time; here he also engaged in the insurance business. From this point he removed to Lincoln, Illi- nois, where he managed a hotel, the Sherman House, for one year. He then sold this and returned to Iowa, settling at Wheatland, Clinton County; here he resided two years, engaged in tlie fruit-tree business. After his stay in Wheatland he went to Marshall County, and farmed four years. He then re- moved to Newton, Jasper County, where he embarked in the general merchandise trade; this he continued three years, and the next six years was employed in farming. In tlie spring of 1882 he came to Siielljy County, and settled on a farm of 200 acres in (ireeley Township, which he had purchased in the winter of 1879 and 1880. This was wild land, but has since been brought to such an advanced state of cultivation that it is one of the finest farms in the county. Mr. Averill has made his own improvements in buildings, probably reaching $3,000 in value. He has a fine system of water- works, supplying water to live-stock and for domestic purposes. The farm is known as Pleasant Ridcre Stock Farm, and is situated one and a half miles from Defiance. Mr. Averill also operates a dairy in connection with his other farm work. He makes a specialty of high grades and fine breeds of cattle, and takes an active interest in the improvement of all kinds of live-stock. He is a supporter of the Republican party, and is at present serving as Justice of the peace in his township. He has served on the board of education, and is a member of the Farmers' Alliance. Mr. Averill was married October 14, 1865, to Miss Lucinda Porter, a daughter of Matthew H. and Sarah (Carl) Porter, who was born in Putnam County, Illinois, May 14, 1839. They are the parents of four chil- dren — Carrie B., wife of Robert Crisp; Thomas M., Ida M. and Edwin II.; the last three are residing at home. Mr. and Mrs. Averill are worthy and consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church. iOBERT JAMES, an enterprising farmer of (Treeley Township, has been a citizen of Shelljy County since 1880. He was born in Davenport, Iowa, February 8, 1858, and is a son of George and Sarah (Mont- gomery) James. His youth was ])assed in Davenport, and at the age of fourteen years he removed to Powesiiiek County, Iowa, where he engaged in farming for eight years. As before stated, Mr. James came to Siielby 573 HISTORY OF SUELDY COUNTY. County in the year 1880, and settled on a farm of unimproved land in Douglas Townsliip. There were eighty acres in this place, which he placed under good cultivation, and sold, going to Astor, Crawford County, Iowa, where he bought an interest in a stock of hardware with F. W. Blackburn; he continued in tliis business for two and a half years, and then traded his stock for a farm of eighty acres in Greeley Township. lie also owns forty acres in section 3, Greeley Township, and eighty acres in Crawford County, all of which is under good cultivation, and all of which lies in one body. In 1885 Mr. James erected a line frame residence on his farm in section 4, where he has one of the most attractive homes in the community. He devotes himself to farming, stock-raising and shipping, and is a live, energetic man, standing in the foremost ranks of Shelby County's well-to-do citizens. Politically Mr. James give a staunch support to the Republican party. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and of the Iowa Legion of Honor. September 3, 1885, he was married to Alice Saunders, daughter of Charles and Louisa Saunders, who was born in Dane County, Wisconsin, September 4, 1862. Mr. James has done much toward tlie improve- ment and advancement of the county, and well deserves the honor and esteem in which he is held in the community. ■^-^i^-^ fM. FllATT, an enterprising farmer of Shelby County, was born in Warsaw, * Wyoming County, New York, Decem- ber 29, 1834. He is the son of Asa and Ema- linc (Kidder) Pratt. The father was born in Vermont and the mother was a native of tiie State of New York. J. M. was but ten years of age when his parents removed to Lake County. Illinois, wliere he passed his youth. He was trained to the occupation of a farmer, and at the age of eighteen years started out for himself, with no capital but energy and ambition. He iirst went to the copper mines of Michigan, and there engaged in teaming. He remained in this place one year, and then went on the lakes as a sailor; he followed the water at broken intervals for several years. In the great Rebellion he enlisted in Com- pany I, Forty-fifth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and served his country faithfully for three years and two months. He participated in the following noted battles: Vicksburg, Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Chattanooga, and went with General Sherman on his famous march to the sea. He served as Corporal from his entrance into the service, and was afterward promoted to the position of Sergeant. After the close of the war he came to Jasper County, Iowa, and remained there a year and a half. In the fall of 1867 he came to Shell)y County, and settled in what is known as Greeley Township; he purchased eighty acres of wild land and erected the first house in the town- ship, a log-cabin; here he resided three years, making many improvements. At the expira- tion of this time he removed to Atlantic, Iowa, where he spent one winter. He then returned to Shelby County, purchasing eighty acres of wild land in Douglas Township; this he improved, residing upon it four years, ^ when he sold it and came to Greeley Town- ship, where he still resides; his first purchase was eighty acres, and he has added to it until he now owns a quarter section of as good farming land as lies in the borders of Shelby County. He has opened up three different farms in the county, and made many improve- ments, which have all been first-class. Mr. Pratt has held many positions of honor and trust, and has been identified with his town- ship officially, as assessor, and has served as secretary of the school board for twelve years. ^cc^- niOORAPUICAL SKETCHES. 575 He lias done much to promote education in the county, and has assisted in the erection of every school-house in the township. Politi- cally he is a staunch, active Greenbacker, being one of the organizers of the party in the county; from the founding of the party he has been a member of the central com- mittee, lie is a member of the Farmers' Alliance. Mr. Pratt was married November 12, 1861, to Lydia L. Thompson, a daughter of Jasper and Ludia A. (Graham) Thompson; she was born in Canada, July 16, 1844. Mr. and Mrs. Pratt are the parents of six children — Olarence, deceased at the age of thirteen years; William, Nellie, Cora, Florence, and Vera. ►>.^ ACOB BOSLEY, retired farmer, is one of the best known of Lincoln Township's pioneers, having settled there in 1865. He was born in Fayette County, Pennsyl- vania, March 23, 1827, and is the son of Greenbury and Huldah (Morris) Bosley, na- tives of Pennsylvania. He grew to manhood in his native county, being reared to the life of a farmer, and receiving his education in the common schools. In 1848 he went to Putnam County, Illinois, being one of the pioneers there; thence he removed to LaSalle County, Illinois, and remained there until 1865, when he came to Iowa and settled on section 16, Lincoln Township, Shelby County. Here he improved 320 acres of wild land, placing it under cultivation and erecting a residence and barn. He also planted a fine grove of trees. He was one of the very first settlers in this part of the county, and endured all the privations with which the pioneer alone is familiar. He owns, in addition to his farm in section 1(5, eighty acres in sec- tion 10, and eighty acres in Cass Township, making a total of 480 acres. Politically Mr. Bosley stands by the Republican party. He has done his share in the improvement of Shelby County, and is counted among the financially solid men of the county. ►^V4j*|«.^ ILLIAM KEAIRNES is a native of the Ilawkeye State, having been born in Grove Township, Shelby County, on the old Keairnes homestead, in Keairnes's Grove, March 15, 1854. He is a son of Wilson and Sarah Keairnes, whose biography will be found on another page of this work. Our subject was reared in the township in which he was born, and received his education in the common schools of the neighborhood. He remained under the pa- rental roof until he was twenty-two years of age; then he started for himself, renting a farm for two years. In 1877 he purchased a tract of forty acres of wild land in section 28, which he began to improve; he also rented land which he farmed in connection with his own land. He has since added 320 acres to this first purchase, so that his farm consists of 360 acres, all in Grove Township. It is all under cultivation except the last eighty acres which he bought. He has a good frame residence, and barns for stock and grain. He has done much for the advancement of the community in which he lives, and although a young man, he has risen to a position in the county of which he may well be proud, lie is a self-made man, having started with nothing but will and determination to suc- ceed. Mr. Keairnes is a staunch Republican, and has represented the township as trustee, and is now acting treasurer of the school board. He was married August 9, 1879, to Miss Margaret, daughter of i'atrick and Hannorah Tierney. She was born in Clinton 576 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. County, Iowa, February 14, 1860. They are the parents of four children — Nellie M., Clarence P., Bessie E. and Blanche 11. Tlioy are members of Saint Mary's Catholic Church- p(IMON A. SIDENER, a pioneer farmer of Shelby County, Iowa, was born in Marion, Marion County, Ohio, February 16, 1825. He is the son of George and Mary (Baughman) Sidener, natives of Pennsylvania. He was the only child of this union, but had half-brothers and half-sisters, as the mother married after the death of his father. He obtained his education in the common schools, and at the age of seventeen years he began to learn the cabinet-maker's trade; he worked at this only one year, however, and then engaged in various pursuits until he was twenty years of age, when he came as far west as Indiana; there he remained two years, turning his hand to anything that would bring an honest dollar. He next went to St. Joe, Michigan, and re- sided there fourteen years, following farming most of the time. In 1857 he came to Iowa, and settled on a farm of forty acres, princi- pally timber land, in section 28, Grove Town- ship ; he purchased forty acres of prairie land in section 27, and has brought it all to a high state of cultivation. He has since made this his home, and lias done much for the improve- ment and advancement of the county. He has made later purchases of land, until he now owns 103 acres; he has a nice frame dwelling-house, surrounded by an orchard of three acres, which he himself planted. Mr. Sidener was married September 5, 1850, to Miss Cynthia J., daughter of William and Nancy (Willson) Nickerson, natives of New York. Mrs. Sidener was born in the village of Auburn, Cayuga County, New York, Oc- tober 5, 1831. Mr. and Mrs. Sidener were compelled to meet many hardships, but they did it in true pioneer style, and to-day are en- Joying the pleasures won by many years of economy and industry. At times in those early days they were compelled to makeilour and meal by grinding grain in the coifee-raill, or by cooking corn and then grating it. Their nearest market place was Council Bluifs, fifty miles distant. Mr. Sidener has had an able assistant and faithful cnmpanion in his loyal wife. He is a staunch Democrat, and has held several township otKces. m l i H? » j > t ^ ■ Ti ll .. ♦i g . S ii t . gn ■■■ fOIIN LOKGE, a native of Ozaukee County, Wisconsin, was born July 22, 1855. He is a son of Peter and Anna (Weyland) Lorge, natives of Ijelgium, who emigrated to America in 1846 and 1849 re- spectively. They were united in marriage in 1853, and came to Iowa in 18G5. In 1875 they came to Shelby County and settled in Westphalia Township, in which place, one year later, March 23, 1876, Mr. Lorge passed to his last rest. Mrs. Lorge is still living, and resides in Earllng. They were the parents of eight children — John P., John, Nicholas, Henry, Frank, Julius, Mary (the wife of John Smith), and Katie. John, the subject of this brief biography, was the second child, and until his tentli year was reared to farm life, llis education was obtained in tlie common schools, and was more of a practical than literary character. At the age of four- teen years he commenced life on his own responsibility, and his first business engage- ment was with W. J. Creamer, of Calmar, Iowa, dealer in agricultural implements. He remained in his employ for five years, and in 1875 came to Shelby County, since that time making this his home, with the exception of nine months. In 1881 Mr. Lorge embarked in the agricultural implement business in Harlan, which he conducted for three years, in company with J. B. Weyland one year, and then with Lewis Gingery. In February, 1884, he disposed of his stock and came to Earling, engaging in the same business until 1888, at which time he placed a stock of harness in connection with the othei- stock. He carries a fine line, and also does manu- facturing of harness. Mr. Lorge owns a half interest in a stock of general merchandise, the business being conducted under the firm name of Lorge Brotliers. This stock is valued at $5,000. Mr. Lorge affiliates with the Democratic party, and has held the ofiice of justice of the peace for four years, lie was married September 15, 1885, to Miss Lena Kuhl, daughter of Valentine and Clara Kuhl, a native of Wisconsin. Mr. and Mrs. Lorge are members of the Roman Catholic church. ^ ' 2 »' t ' |" «~ ICHOLAS J. LORGE, a native of Ozaukee County, Wisconsin, was born February 13, 1859. He is the fourth child of Peter and Anna (Weiland) Lorge, and at the age of five years was brought to the Hawkeye State, Winneshiek County; 582 UISTOliY OF SHELBY COUNTY. here he was educated in the common schools, and received training in agricultural pur- suits. At the age of eighteen years he engaged in school-teaching, and continued in this profession until he had taught twelve terms in Shelby and O'Brien counties, Iowa, and in Dakota. During the intervals between terms of school Mr. Lorge was engaged in clerking. In 1888 he entered into partner- ship with his brother John, having purchased the stock of J. B. Weiland. This firm carry a stock of $5,000 of general merchandise, and are doing a thriving business. Mr. Lorge is a member of the Roman Catholic church. His political sympathies are with the Dem- ocratic party, to which he gives his undi- vided support. f?OHN MADSEN, the senior member 1 of the firm of Madsen & Christensen, dealers in clothing and gents' furnishing goods, Harlan, Iowa, was born in Denmark, January 7, 1863. He remained in his native country until he grew to manhood, attending school until the age of fifteen years. He de- termined to seek what fortune the new world might hold for him, and so sailed from Copenhagen for the United States, March 16, 1887. He landed in the city of New York, and went directly to Chicago, Illinois. There he finished his education in the Chicago Athenffium, and then engaged in the clothing business until the spring of 1889, when he came to Harlan. He had not long been a resi- dent of that place before he made many friends, being of a genial disposition, and strictly honorable in all his business transactions. Carl Christensen, of the firm of Madsen & Christensen, was born in Denmark, January 24, 1861. He attended school until he was twenty-two years of age, when his native country lost her hold upon him, and he sailed from Copenhagen in 1883, having graduated from the university of that city in Septem- ber of that year. After landing in the city of Kew York he proceeded to Clinton, Iowa, and for three years was engaged there in the clothing business. He then removed to Chicago, and resumed the same business, in which he continued until he came to Harlan in 1889. Mr. Christensen became a member of Western Star Lodge, No. 100, A. F. &. A. M., of Clinton, Iowa, in 1885. He is now a member of Parian Lodge, No. 321, A. F. & A. M. Madsen & Christensen established themselves in business in Harlan in March, 1889. They keep a large and well-selected stock of goods belonging to their line, and by upright dealing and frank and gentle- manly manners have won a large share of patronage. ^ *M »| » » g t « | «i i it, 1^ ASON FISH, (deceased), was one of the first settlers of Clay Township, Shelby County, Iowa. He was born in Cayuga County, New York, March 24, 1805, and is a son of Isaac Fish, a native of the State of New York, who was a soldier in the war of 1812. He was a son of Nathan Fish, who served in the war of the lievolu- tion for eight years. Nathan Fish's father was born in Wales, and with two other brothers was stolen and sold to planters, and sent to different States. Mason Fish was reared in the State of New York, and at the ace of twenty-seven years was married in AVarrenCounty,rennsylvania, to Miss Clarissa Lyon, who was born in Onondaga County, New York. She was a daughter of Jeremiah Lyon, who served in the war of 1812 for two years. Mason Fish lived in Pennsylvania for thirteen years after his marriage, and then BIOOHAPHICAL SKETCUES. 085 removed to Summit County, Ohio, where he lived six or eight years. He then went to Kane County, Illinois, and made his home there for two or three years. His next move was to Grant County, Wisconsin, in which place he resided until 1867, when he came to Clay Township, Shelby County, where he lived until his death, which occurred Sep- tember 16, 1878. He and his wife reared nine children — Rninina, Ed. F., Henry, Anna, Mary (who died in 1876), John, George M., Russell G., and Darliska. Mrs. Clarissa Fish, the mother, died February 24, 1884, aged seventy years. Mr. Fish was a member of the Masonic lodge, and was buried by the fraternity. He was made a Mason at Mus- coda, Wisconsin, and was a member of Pa- rian Lodge, No. 321, A. F. & A. M., of Harlan. — - "g ' S"; ' ! ' " " — tD. F. FISH is one of the best known of Clay Township's citizens, having been a resident since 1867. He is a son of Mason Fish and was born in Warren County, Pennsylvania, January 11, 1835. He was a lad of seventeen when his father located in Grant County, Wisconsin, where he grew to manhood. He received a fair education in the common schools, and taught for two years in Wisconsin, and has the honor of being master of the iirst school taught in Clay Township. Mr. Fish was united in marriage April 21, 1867, to Miss Anna Berger, a native of Erie County, New York, a daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth (Miller) Berger, natives of Germany. Mrs. Fish was two years old when her parents removed to Rock County, Wisconsin, where she grew to womanhood. Her parents died in Richland County, Wis- consin. When Mr. Fish came to the county he settled on 160 acres of wild land, building a log house for a dwelling; this has since been converted into a kitchen, and a frame house has been erected. A grove and an orchard have been planted, and all the im- provements have been made that are neces- sary to comfort and convenience. Mr. and Mrs. Fish have had five children born to them — Clarissa Elizabeth, wife of John Lamer; Charles Mason, Edith Anna, Florence Vel- zara and Joim Ed. In politics Mr. Fish affiliates with the Republican party, being one of the wheel-horses in his township. He served in the late civil war, being a member of the Third Wisconsin Infantry for thirteen months, .of the One Hundred and Twenty- fourth Illinois Volunteer Infantry for seven months, and of the Thirty-third Illinois Vol- unteer Infantry for seven months. He par- ticipated in the battles of Shenandoah Valley, Winchester, under General Banks, Cedar Mountain, Rappahannock Station, Antietam, and Spanish Fort. He was wounded at Rappahannock Station in the left iiand, in consequence of which he lost his index finger. He was also wounded in the forehead by the fragment of a shell. Mr. Fish is a member of Mount Nebo Lodge, No. 197, A. F. & A. M., of Avoca. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, Carthage Lodge, No. 65. He has been identified with his township iis justice of the peace, as clerk, and as a member of the school board. He is at the present time a notary public. Mr. Fish is in the prime of life, is of a genial disposition, is a good con- versationalist, and is one of the leading citizens of Clay Township. fREDERICKD.ALBERTUS, of Panama, is an old resident of Shcll)y County. He was born in Saxony, (iermany. May ID, 1822, and is a sou of Karl and Mary (Obe- 586 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. richt) Albertus. They were the parents of six children — Frederick T.,Charles, Minnie, Gns- tavus and John; two of the children are de- ceased. Karl Albertus and wife came with their family to America in 1843. Frederick D. and his sister remained in New York and the other members of the family went to Wisconsin and settled there. Frederick D. worked at his trade, that of a confectioner, until July 3, 1844, when he started to "Wis- consin. He went by way of the Hudson River, Erie Canal and the lakes to Milwau- kee, then a very small town. From Milwau- kee he walked to Sauk City, a distance of twenty-five miles. When he reached the Wisconsin Eiver he found that he could not cross it. He discovered an old shanty and determined to sleep there; he concluded, however, to make one more eflbrt, and going farther up the river, he spied a hamlet on the other side; he called a man who came and took him across in a canoe. He finally reached his father's home, and they two started out prospecting for a place to locate. They waded through swamps and forded streams, and at last settled on a tract of forest land. They each took 120 acres, which had not been surveyed by the government; the survey was made the next year. Frederick D. worked with his father for three years, when they had some ditSculty and dissolved partnership. He had been married in Germany, June 13, 1841, but his wife did not come to America until 1848. Mr. and Mrs. Albertus are the parents of six children — Arthur, Augustus, Charles, Frederick, John, and Minnie, wife of George Walters; Arthur and Charles are deceased. Mrs. Albertns was born in Switz- erland, October 15, 1818, and died in Ports- mouth, May 30, 1887. Mr. Albertus sold his farm of 120 acres in Wisconsin fifteen years after he settled there, for $1,700. In 1859 he bought a farm of eighty acres in the same township, and added to it until he owned 290 acres; he traded this to his son Frederick in 1874 for 160 acres of land near Shelby, Iowa. He had made fine improvements on the farm, and had erected a stone residence at a cost of $3,000. When he first came to Shelby County he bought 420 acres of land which he has sold. He now owns 177 acres of good land near Portsmouth. Mr. Alber- tns continued farming until 1877, when he went to Shelby to live. In 1882 he removed to Portsmouth and engaged in general mer- cantile trade; in 188G he traded his stock for 160 acres in Cedar County, Nebraska, and 440 acres in Monona County, Iowa. He still owns a residence in Shelby. Mr. Albertus is a member of the Evangelical church. Before the war he voted with the Democratic party, but since that time he has supported the issues of the Republican party. He died June 9,1889,of inflammation of the bowels; was sick thirty-six hours; was buried beside his wife in Cass Township cemetery. EORGE M. FISH is a well-known, early settler of Clay Township, having come to the county in 1867. He is a sou of Mason Fish, deceased, whose biography appears upon another page of this history. George M. was born in Summit County, Ohio, February 16, 1846, and at the age of six years his parents removed to Kane County, Illinois; in a few years they went to Grant County, Wisconsin, and there our subject grew to manhood. June 9, 1867, he was married to Miss Rachel J. Gray, of La Fayette County, Wisconsin, a daughter of Socrates and Maria Gray, natives of the State of New York. Mrs. Fish was two and a half years old when her parents removed to La Fayette County, Wisconsin, where she was BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 587 reared and educated. Her mother died of the cholera in 1849, and her father died in Clay County, Iowa, in 1881. After his mar- riage Mr. Fish came to Shelby County. He built a log-house on the land he now owns, which he replaced with a frame dwelling in 1887. He has eighty acres of rich land, forty acres in section 7 and forty acres in section 8. Mr. and Mrs. Fish have two children — Stella Maria, wife of D. Lamer, and William Henry. Mr. and Mrs. Lamer are the parents of two children — David F. and Pearl Irene. Mr. and Mrs. Fish have one daughter, Elea- nor M., who died in her twelfth year. Polit- ically Mr. Fish is allied with the Independent party. He was a member of the school board, has served as justice of the peace, having tried thirty-five cases, giving entire satisfaction, and as constable. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and has been class-leader of the same, and superintendent of the Sabbath-school. Honorable dealing and a strict regard for the rights of other people have won for Mr. Fish the esteem and friendship of all who know him. "'•' ^ • 3 '« t ' ^ |EORGE H. DOUGHTY, a native of Muskingum County, Ohio, was born May 2, 1847, and is a son of Allen and Lucinda (Honnold) Doughty, natives of Ohio and Virginia respectively. He was the si.xth of twelve children, and was reared to the life of a farmer in his native county, obtaining his education principally in the common schools. When he reached his majority he went west to Edgar County, Illinois, and re- mained there one year. Mr. Doughty was married October 21, 1869, to Miss Sarah J. Tingle, a daughter of Joseph Tingle, Esq. She was born in Guernsey County, Ohio, Sep- tember 25, 1850, and died August 11, 1881. 88 Two children were born of this niarriage — Effie, who died at the age of seventeen years, and Warner. Mr. Doughty's second mar- riage occurred February 18, 1886, to Miss Lois Van Home, daughter of Cornelius Van Home, Esq. Slie was born in tlie State of Illi- nois, February 15, 1859. One child was born of this union — Edith Pearl, born March 6, 1888, and passed to the other life July 29, 1888. In 1882 Mr. Doughty came to Iowa, and purchased 240 acres of land in Union Township, Shelby County, he made many valuable improvements upon this land, and later made additional purchases, until he now owns 320 acres of land, which is under good cultivation. He also owns property in the village of Earling, and since 1883 has made his home there, being among the first to en- gage in the grain business in that place. In 1884 Mr. Doughty bought a half interest in the elevator now owned by G. II. Doughty & Co., and since that time has devoted the most of his time to buying and shipping grain and live-stock. He also takes an interest in the breeding of high grades of horses. Politically he affiliates with the Republican party. He is an industrious, enterprising man, and is among the leading citizens of the county. fRED ALBERTUS is one of the promi- nent, enterprising and successful citi- ^ zens of Cass Township, and has been a resident of Shelby County since 1874. He was born in Sauk County, Wisconsin, August 2, 1854, and is a son of Frederick Albertus, a leading business man of Panama, Iowa, Fred lived with his parents until he was twenty years old, being trained to tlie occut pation of a farmer, and received liis educa- tion in the common schools of Baraboo, Wis- consin. As before stated he came to Shelby fiSS HIHTORY OP SUELDT COUNTY. County in 1874, and improved 120 acres of land which he afterward sold, going to Los Angeles, California. He remained only six months and then returned to Shelby County; he bought 160 acres in Shelby Township, near the village of Shelby, which he soon after ex- changed with his father for the homestead in Wisconsin. There were 260 acres in the home farm, and he lived there four years. In January, 1882, Mr. Albertus was married to Miss Sarah liagatz, a daughter of Thomas llagatz; she was reared in Sauk County,Wis- consin. Soon alter their marriage they came to Shelby County, and Mr. Albertus opened a lumber yard in Portsmouth, which he kept for three years, at the end of that time sell- ing to Peter Korth. lie then removed to his present farm of 235 acres, which is well im- proved; there is a good dwelling house, and barns, sheds, an orcliard, and a grove. Mr. Albertus is one of the stockholders in the Panama Bank. Politically he casts his suf- frage witli the Republican party. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. He is in the prime of life, has traveled much, and is one of the first men in the township, financially and socially. He and his wife have had born to them three children Milton George. Walter, Arthur and fO. CORY has been identified with the history of Shelby County since 1876. * He was born in Windham County, Con- necticut, November 18, 1814, and is a son of Rufus and Rachel (Olney) Cory, natives of Connecticut. J. O. was live years old when his parents removed to Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania, where he grew to manhood, lie was reared to the life of a farmer, and re- ceived his education in the subscription schools of tbqt day. At the age of sixteen he went to learn the trade of a hatter at Thompson, Windham County, Conjiecticut, and in later years worked at his trade in the State of New Jersey. In 1836 he went to northern Penn- sylvania, and worked at his trade until 1842, when he went to Maryland, and settling in Ilagerstown, remained there three years, en- gaged in his trade. In 1845 he enlisted in the United States regular army, First Regi- ment United States Dragoons, Colonel Kear- ney's Regiment. He took an active part in the Mexican war; he served as Orderly under General Wool, and in the famous battle of Buena Vista he commanded the General's escort. Later he crossed over to California, and after he was discliarged he engaged in gold-mining, being among the earliest miners in the gold fields of California. In 1852 he returned to the east via the Isthmus of Pan- ama to New York. A short time afterward he went to Livingston County, Illinois, where he was one of the first settlers. He resided there until 1876, when he came to Shelby County, Iowa. He has 120 acres of finely improved land, a good house pleasantly situ- ated in the midst of shade and evergreen trees, a barn, an orchard and a grove, all betoken- ing comfort and plenty. Mr. Cory was mar- ried in Livingston County, Illinois, March 7, 1855, to Miss Ann M. Johnson, a native of the State of New York, and a daughter of John R. and Elizabeth A. (Henston) Johnson, natives of New Jersey. Mrs. Johnson's par- ents were among the earliest settlers of Liv- ingston County, Illinois, having gone there in 1851. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Johnson— Ed. O., Mary F., Jennie, John J., Hattie M., Franklin B. and Rachel E. Mr. Cory zealously supports the measures of the Democratic party; he has served as justice of the peace for eleven years, being an impartial judge of all w-ho present themselves before him. He bears his seventy- BlOGRAPUICAL SKETGUES. 589 five years lightly, is well-preserved, genial in manner, honorable in business, and highly esteemed by all who know him. ■ "* "% ' i * ' t * A '* ' " ■ IIRISTIAN JOHNSON has the honor of being the first Dane to settle in Clay Township, Shelby County, having come there in 1868. lie was born in Denmark, October 12, 1839, and attended school in his native country until he was fourteen years old. He then learned the miller's trade, at which he worked until he was twenty-one years old. He then bade farewell to his native soil and set sail from Hamburg for America, landing at New York. From New York he went to Davenport, Iowa, and for one year worked at various kinds of labor. His next move was to Moline, Illinois, in which place he worked at inilling and farm- ing for five years. At the age of twenty- three years Mr. Johnson was married to Miss Mary Johnson, a native of Denmark. They have had one son born to them — James P. Johnson, born in Moline, Illinois, in 186-8. They have one adopted daughter — Lydia. James P. Johnson married Miss Augusta Weien, of Cuppy's Grove, and they have two sons — William and Oliver. As before stated, Mr, Johnson came to Shelby County in 1868. He has bought, improved and sold several farms. He has been very influential in in- ducing Danish settlers to come to the county, and has done much to develop that part of the county in which he lives. He owns one of the best farms in the township; it con- tains 315 acres, has a good dwelling, large barns and cribs, and is well arranged. Mr. Johnson is engaged in breeding and raising Holstein cattle, having the only herd in the county. He has thirty head of thorough- breds, as good as can be found in western Iowa, and fifty head of other high grades. He also owns two thoroughbred Percheron horses, as tine as can be found in the county. In politics Mr. Johnson inclines to the prin-fr ciples of the Republican party. He is a lead- ing memljer and liberal supporter of the Adventist church. He has always taken an active interest in educational and religious afi'airs, and has given hearty support to all enterprises having for their object the ad- vancement of the community. -ji-if^ fRANK THEILE, a lumber dealer of Westphalia, was born in Prussia, Octo- ber 17, 1851:. He is the son of Henry A. and Josephine (Sonderman) Theile, and is the youngest of a family of nine children. Until he was nineteen years of age he lived in his native country, in the village of Schreibsbof. There he attended the common schools, and also received private instruction. At the age of nineteen years he emigrated to America and settled in Dubois County, Indi- ana, working at the carpenter's trade and clerking. He remained there three years, and at the end of that time he came to Iowa, locating at the German settlement of West- phalia. He made this liis home for two years, and then went to Kansas, residing there two years, employed at his trade. He then returned to Westphalia, and has since made it his home. In 1884 Mr. Theile came to Earling and opened a general stock of merchandise. He conducted this business until 1886, when he sold the stock and entered into partnership with Michael Wil- werding, in the lumber and coal business, under the firm name of Theile & Wil word- ing. The firm do some contracting, and their annual business amounts to from $12,000 to $15,000. Mr. Theile was united in marriage, 590 n I STORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. February 20, 1884, to Elizabeth Wilwerding, daughter of Michael and Kate (Keemmer) Wilwerding, a native of Minnesota. Mr. and Mrs. Theile are members of the Roman Catholic church. Mrs. Theile is proprietress of one of the millinery stores of Earling, and carries a well-assorted stock of goods. Mr. Theile's political sentiments find expression in the principles of the Democratic party. fREDERICK ANDREW MILLER.— This substantial and enterprising farmer and breeder of fine live-stock is widely and favorably known. The principal feature of his business is that of breeding thorough- bred Poland-China hogs, he being the pro- prietor of the Silver Ridge herd of Poland Chinas. He has been a very successful breeder of these valuable swine for fifteen years, but did not make them a specialty until two years ago. His herd now consists of over lOOheadof registered animals, and is becoming extensively known and largely patronized. Mr. Miller's farm of 160 acres in section 15, Shelby Township, is well adapted naturally for this class of stock, and the excellent ar- rangement of sheds and barns contributes to make it a model stock-farm, with facilities for breeding 200 head per year. He has a tine residence of ten rooms, delightfully lo- cated on the border of a beautiful grove; it was erected in 1885 at a cost of $2,500. Frederick A. Miller first saw the light near Quincy, Adams County, Hlinois, February 5, 1843, and is the eldest of a family of fifteen children, of whom fourteen grew to maturity, and thirteen are now living. His parents were Jacob S. and Armilda (Edwards) Miller. The father was a native of Somerset County, Pennsylvania, born October 12, 1812; his (death occurred May 21, 1876, in Poweshiek County, Towa. The mother was born in Pike County, Missouri, April 17, 1825, her parents having emigrated from Vermont at an early day. She is still living in Norton County, Kansas. Of the family, one sister, Emeline, wife of Thomas Bacon, resides in Shelby County; Angeline Sheley lives in Poweshiek County; Jacob S. died at his home in Ringgold County; Solomon C. and George H. live in Nebraska; Luther M. lives in New Mexico; Joseph M., Daniel H., Stephen T., Grant, and Anastasia Sheley reside in Norton County, Kansas. Benjamin F., John and Armilda Raabe live in Charles Mix County, Dakota. Jesse died at three years of age. In 1850 the familv settled in Mahaska County, Iowa, where they resided eight years, removing at the end of that time to Poweshiek County; there they continued to live until the father died. When living in that county Frederick became nineteen years of age, and his father save him his time, as he did all his sons at that age. He then started out in life for himself. He worked by the month for his future father-in-law, Samuel Cofljn, for two years. At the end of this time he was mar- ried to Miss Susan Coffin, January 24, 1864. She was born in Mahaska County, January 13, 1847, her parents being Samuel and Sophia (Fisler) Coffin, who were natives of Indiana, and pioneers of Mahaska County, making that their residence during life. The mother died January 24, 1850, and the father died May 6, 1880. After his marriage Mr. Miller rented land in Mahaska and Poweshiek counties, and in 1871 he came to Shelby County, selecting his present home. He bought 240 acres, paying $6.25 per acre. Mr. and Mrs. Miller are the parents of four chil- dren — Edwin Martin, born January 1, 1865, who married Mary Elizabeth Moore; Fred Tilman, born November 15, 1866; Olive, born February 10, 1876, and Daisy May, born BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 591 December 22, 1884. They suffered the loss of one bright little boy of five years, Chester A., born September 10, 1881, and died January 5, 1886. Mr. Miller is a director of the Shelby District Agricultural Society. He has served as township assessor, and as township trustee and as school treasurer. Politically he adheres to the principals of the Republican party, and takes an active interest in all public matters. lie belongs to Silentia Lodge, No. 371, A. F. & A. M., of Shelby. — "-■ ^: " i -g-'- — ^EORGE JAMES, merchant and post master of Elkhorn, is one of the well- known citizens of Clay Township. He was born in Denmark, December 7, 1844, and attended school until he was fourteen years of age; he then served an apprenticeship at tlie tailor's trade, and worked at the business until he was twenty-one years old. At that age he sailed from Hamburg for America, landing in Quebec, Canada; thence he came to Chicago, Illinois, and thence to Rock Island County, Illinois, and there worked at his trade one year. At the end of that time he went to Henry County, Illinois, and remained there seven or eight years, working at his trade. In 1875 he came to Clay Township, Shelby County, Iowa, having bought land two years previously; at that time there was not a house north of the creek in the east part of the town- ship. He settled in section 12, on 100 acres, which he improved in good style; he also owned forty acres in section 1. Mr. James lived on this place until 1883, when he en- gaged in the mercantile trade at Elkhorn. He had a partner for eighteen inonths. Nils Larson, and attheend of that time he Ijougiit him out. Mr. James carries a well-selected stock of dry-goods, boots, siioes, groceries and queen's- ware. He is a popular mercliant, hon- orable in business, and is well worthy of the large patronage he receives. He was appointed postmaster in 1884, and is a model officer. Politically he affiliates with the Republican party. He has served five years as township clerk, and eight years as township trustee, with credit to himself. He is one of the lead- ing members of the Lutheran church, and is treasurer of the society. Mr. James was married in Henry County, Illinois, in 1870, to Anna M. Johnson, a native of Denmark. They are the parents of seven children — Anna M. K., Johan P. C, Lizzie, James Peter E., Walter, Dagmar and Clara. . ; , t S » ^ i-«« ATHIAS P. KUIIL, a native of Fond du Lac, "Wisconsin, was born July ^^^ 15, 1853, and is the son of Peter and Mary C. (Finkin) Kuhl, natives of Ger- many. He is one of a family of ten children, eight of whom grew to maturity — John K., a half brother; Anna, M. P., Margaretta, Angeline, Amalia, Josepli P. and Nicholas. M. P. was three years of age when his par- ents removed to Mills County, Iowa, and set- tled on a farm on which he "was reared. He obtained a very limited education in the com- mon schools, but the cultivation of a natu- rally keen observation has enabled him to attend to any business that may devolve upon him. He remained at home until he had reached his twenty-sixth year, and then was married August 23, 1879, to Miss Allie Mar- tin, a daugiiter of Robert A. and Phidelia (Porter) Martin, natives of Athens County, Ohio, who emigrated to Mills County, Iowa, in 187G. Mrs. Kuhl was born December 7, 1801, and is one of a family of live children. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Kuhl continued to reside in Mills (Jonnty for one year, and then came to Shelby County and 592 BISTORT OF SHELBY COUNTY. settled in Lincoln Township, remaining there two years; then tliej removed to Earling, and Mr. Kuhl engaged in the saloon business for a short time. He soon sold this and pur- chased a livery stock, and later a barn, and now conducts a profitable livery business. In connection with this he also buys and ships live-stock of all kinds. He owns two pieces of property in Earling, and an interest in a farm in Mills Cou!ity, Iowa. Politically Mr. KuliTs convictions are voiced in the Democratic party. He and his wife are members of the iioman Catholic church. ■^Mf- J. KORTH, the popular pioneer mer- chant of Portsmouth, established liim- ' self in business in tiie fall of 1882, and sold the first goods in the new town. He carries a full stock of dry-goods, staple and fancy groceries, and clothing, and does a business from $17,000 to §20,000 per annum. By his genial, affable manners, and strictly honorable dealing he has built up an exten- sive business. P. J. Korth was born near Madison, Wisconsin, April 1, 1857, and is the son of Jacob and Mary Anna (Soentgen) Korth, who were born near Cologne, Ger- many, and came to America and settled in Wisconsin in 1852. The family lived there ten years and then removed to Keokuk County, Iowa, and made that tlieir home until 1876, when they came to Shelby County. The family consisted of the parents, five sons and three daughters. P. J. Korth was reared to the life of a farmer, and obtained his edu- cation in the common schools. At the age of twenty years he secured a situation as clerk with E. C. Clapp, of Shelby, with whom he remained one year. He then entered the employ of W. F. Cleveland, remaining with him two or three years. In 1882 he came to Portsmouth and opened his stock of gen- eral mercliandise. Mr. Korth was married February 1, 1881, to Miss Mary Leinen, a daughter of Matthias and Mary (Buch) Lei- nen, natives of Germany. Mrs. Korth was born, reared and educated in Keokuk County. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Korth, both of whom are deceased — Leo J. died at the age of one year and eleven months, and Zeono J. died at the age of two years and eight months. Mr. Korth is one of the wheel-horses of the Democratic party in Cass Township. He is a member of the Roman Catholic church. February 14, 1886, he was appointed postmaster of Portsmouth. He is one of Shelby County's honored and esteemed citizens. ►^«f*|^ |OBERT FORD, a native of Bristol, Eng- land, was born November 18, 1830, and is the son of Charles and Elizabeth (Da- vis) Ford. He was reared in his native city and attended the common schools until his fourteenth year. Then, according to the cus- tom, he was apprenticed to learn the black- smith's trade, and served for seven years. At the end of that time he was employed by Statherd, Staughter & Co., with whom he re- mained six years, working in the locomotive and marine engine shops at Bristol. Mr. Ford's father was foreman twenty years in the shops in which he learned his trade. After leaving the engine works in Bristol he went to London, and was there employed in the Enfield government works, the shops in which a rifle is turned out every two and a half minutes. He served the government for nine and a half years, with tlie exception of a short time when he was employed on the construction of tlie Great Ea.stern, the largest vessel afloat. In 1866 he emi- BIOORAPHIGAL SKETCHES. 593 grated with his family to America, landing July 4; they remained a few weeks in Brooklyn, and then went to New York, Mr. Ford finding employment in the boiler works of Dawn & Nichols; there he remained three years, and in 1869 he came west and traveled through several States and Territories; he finally located in Utah Territory, at Ogden, and conducted a business of his own for a year and a half; he then went to work for the Union Pacific and Central Pacific railroads, and after six months he entered the employ of the Consolidated Company of San Francisco, en- gaged in opening coal mines. In six months he came to Omaha, and worked on the great bridge spanning the Mississippi River at this point. In 1871 he came to Grove Township, and purchased a farm in section 7, which he opened and placed under cultivation. He also bought a blacksmith shop, and worked at his trade for a short time, and then he erected a shop on his farm, and continued to conduct his trade and cultivate his land. A part of his farm lies in the town of Manteno, and a portion is divided into twenty-eight lots. In 1882 Mr. Ford came to Earling, and since that time has made this village his home. Here he erected a good residence and a black- smith shop, and now does all kinds of smith's work, making a specialty of machine work; he also handles all kinds of agricultural im- plements and harness. He lias invented and patented three different articles — barb-wire, cultivator shovels, and automatic waofon- brakes, all betokening the skill of the in- ventor. Politically Mr. P^ord is a Republican, he has been a member of the school board, and in 1888 he was a delegate to the State Con- vention. He was married July 18, 1.850, to Elizabeth, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Adams) Nicholas, who was born in the town of Cornwall, England, September 24, 1830_ They are the parents of seven children — Rob- ert H., "William N., Thomas, John, Alfred, Elizabeth (deceased), and Nellie (deceased). Mr. and Mrs. Ford are members of the Latter- day Saints church, Mr. Ford having been a minister for a number of years. ,yjETER KORTH is a member of the firm 4 of Korth & Wehr, one of the leading business firms of Portsmouth, dealers in lumber, coal, lime, grain and agricultural im- plements. In 1884 he bought Fred Alber- tus's interest in tlie lumber firm of Hohrman & Albertus, and so tlio firm was Dohrman & Korth from the fall of 1884 until the fall of 1886, when Nicholas "Wehr purchased Mr. Henry Dohrman's interest, since which time the firm is known as Korth & "Wehr. The firm keep a large stock of goods, and by uni- formly fair and courteous dealing they have built up an extensive trade; they are one of the most solid firms of Portsmouth. Peter Korth has been a resident of Shelby County since 1875; he was born near Cologne, Ger- many, April 13, 1847, and is the oldest son of Jacob and Mary Anna (Soentgen) Korth. He was five years old when the fainily emi- grated to America, and settled in Dane County, Wisconsin. They resided there for ten years and most of this time in the town of Cross Plaines, where Peter was educated in Catholic and common schools. In 1862 they removed to Keokuk County, Iowa. He passed his youth in the occupations usually assigned a farmer's son; he resided in Keo- kuk County with the exception of two years which he spent in "Washington County, Iowa. In 1875 he came to Shelby County and set- tled in Cass Township. He bought eighty acres of land in section 14 and added to it until he had 195 acres, well improved. In 1884 he sold his farm to Fred Albertus and 594 HISTORY OF SUELBr COUNTY. came to Portsmouth and engaged in his pres- ent business. Peter Korth is one of the lead- ing Democrats of Cass Township; he was elected justice of the peace in November, 1876, and has served until the present time, dispensing justice to all who were called be- fore his court in a manner worthy of a judge; he was elected township trustee in 1878 and served one year; in 1879 he was elected town- ship clerk and served seven years, and in No- vember, 1888, he was elected again for the offices of justice of the peace and township clerk for a term of two years. In 1885 he was elected mayor of Portsmouth, and then served three years on the town council, and in the spring of 1889 was elected to serve three years more; he has also been elected as a member of the school board of the inde- pendent district of Portsmouth for the term of three years, and has filled all these offices to the credit of himself and the satisfaction of the public. He is a member of the Roman Catholic church, and when the church was first built east of Portsmouth he gave five acres of ground toward it. Peter Korth was married in Keokuk County, Iowa, November 3, 1870, to Anna Rosalia Leinen, a daughter of Mathias and Anna Mary Leinen. They are the parents of nine children — Mary, John, Anna, John L., Gertie, Frank, Peter, Leo and Jacob B. John, the oldest son, died when he was two years old. Mr. Korth has one of the finest residences in the town of Portsmouth, and on a fine location surrounded by shade and evergreen trees. ■ ■I »l ? . 3 i ) f . V ii m fACOB KORTH, Jr., proprietor of the hardware store in Portsmouth, Iowa, es- tablished the business in 1887. He carries a good stock of shelf and heavy liardware; his store-room is large and well arranged for his stock. He has a profitable trade, and by his honorable dealings and genial and cordial manners is fast increasing it. Jacob Korth was born in Keokuk County, Iowa, May 8, 1864, and is a son of Jacob Korth, Sr. When he was eleven years of age his parents removed to Cass Township. He was reared to the life of a farmer, and re- ceived his education in the public schools of Keokuk and Shelby counties. At the age of seventeen years he engaged in clerking for his brother, P. J. Korth, and remained in his employ for three years. He then obtained a position in a general store in Council Bluffs, which he held for two years. He then re- turned to Portsmouth aTid again was engaged with his brother as clerk, lie remained with him until he engaged in the hardware busi- ness on his own account in 1887. His ex- cellent business habits and his extensive acquaintance are fast building him up a lively and paying trade. Mr. Korth has been twice married; September 14, 1885, he was mar- ried to Janey V. Harter, who died February 9, 1887. He was married to his ])resent wife, Susan Ilammes, April 10, 1888. In politi- cal thought and action Mr. Korth is Demo- cratic. He is a member of the town council. He a member of the Roman Catholic church, and is one of the popular citizens of Ports- mouth. H^f-I^^ W. MORGAN, a farmer and stock- raiser of Monroe Township, was born in Washington County, Pennsylvania, February 14, 1848. He is a son of John Morgan, a native of Pennsylvania, who traces his ancestry to the Welsh. His mother, Nancy (Cannon) Morgan, was born in Penn- sylvania, and was of Irish lineage. J. W. remained on his native soil until he was fif- BIOGRAPIIIGAL SKETCHES. 595 teen years old; tlie family then removed to Livingston County, Illinois, where he grew to manhood, fitting himself for the occupa tion of a farmer. His parents lived in Illi- nois until death. January 20, 1870, Mr. Morgan was united in marriage to Miss Jane Chapman, a daughter of Sonon and Elnura (Adams) Chapman, natives of Huron County, Ohio. Mrs. Morgan was reared and edu- cated in Livingston County, Illinois. In 1875 Mr. Morgan removed to Shelby County and bought IGO acres of wild land. He has added 160 acres to his first purchase, and has brought it to a high state of cultivation. He has a nice residence, pleasantly situated, and surrounded with shade trees. He has a good barn, cribs, stock-scales, and all the conven- iences for carrying on farming. Mr. Morgan makes a specialty of raising and feeding stock, and has been very successful in that enterprise. Four children have been born to Mr. Morgan and wife — Orvil O., J. Wylder, Frank S. and Jessie G. Mr. Morgan is one of the wheel-horses of the Republican party in Monroe Township, and has served five years as clerk, and in other township ofiices, with credit to himself. He is a member of Walnut Lodge, No. 327, L O. O. F. iICHAEL HAMMES.— The Ports- mouth Livery, Feed and Sale Stable is owned and controlled by Michael Hammes. This barn was built in 1882, but was not bought by the present proprietor until 1888. He keeps a large number of good driving horses and good carriages. He is doing an extensive business, and is one of the popular business men. Michael Hammes was born in Germany, May 10, 1865. When he was seven years old his parents deter- mined to try their fortunes in the new world, so they emigrated to Keokuk County; there Michael grew to manhood, spending his j'outh on the farm and in attending school. December 1, 1885, he was married to Bertha Goltner, and by this union two children have been born — Willie and an infant son. In politics Mr. Hammes finds the expression of his principles in the Democratic party. He is a young man, jovial and genial to all, and deserves the popular regard and esteem in which he is held. fOHN H. NEFF was born in Muskingum County, Ohio, May 20, 1838, and is a sou of Samuel and Harriet (Ham mitt) Neff, natives of Virginia and Ohio respect- ively. The Nefts were of Hollandish ances- try, and the Hammitts were of French ex- traction. When John H. was eleven years old his parents removed to Bureau County, Illinois, and there he grew to maturity — being trained to agricultural pursuits, and receiving his education in the common schools. During the great Rebellion, at the call for 300,000 more men, he enlisted Au- gust 13, 1862, in the Ninety-third Illinois Volunteer Infantry, Company 1, and served until the close of the war. He was in the battles of Jackson, Mississippi; Champion Hills, the siege of Vicksburg, Tiiscunibia, Mission Ridge, Decatur, Alabama; Dalton, Georgia Altoona Pass, Macon, Georgia; Co- lumbia, South Carolina; i'entonville, Nortii Carolina. Mr. Neff was present at the grand review at Wasliington, D. C, and had marched during his service 7,700 miles. He was mustered out at Louisville, Kentucky, June 23, 1865, and honorably discharged at Camp Douglas, Chicago, July 6, 1865, and then returned to Bureau County, Illinois. In 1861 Mr. Nefi" was married to Miss Sarah 596 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. Wyatt, who was born and reared in Dela- ware; she died in 1862. He was married September 1, 1867, to Miss Phoebe A. Crow, of Tioga County, Pennsylvania, a daughter of John and Maria (Cline) Crow. They re- sided in Livingston County, Illinois, until 1873, when they came to Shelby County, and settled on 160 acres of wild land. Mr. Neff has made many improvements upon his place, and has rendered it one of the most desirable farms of the township. He has a comfortable dwelling, good bams, stock- scales, and has planted a grove and an or chard. He owns 251 acres; 160 are in the home place; forty-one are in section 25, and iifty-one are in section 30, Clay Township. The home farm is in Monroe Township, sec- tion 26. Mr. and Mrs. Neff are the parents of four children — Lewis J., a successful teacher; Mamie J., John O. and George E. In politics Mr. Neff supports the issues of the Republican party. He has served as township assessor, as constable, and as a member of the school board. He is a char- ter member of the G. A. R., John A. Dix Post, No. 480, of Walnut. [AVID W. GREEN is a native of the State that has furnished so many sub- stantial citizens to Shelby County; that is, Pennsylvania. He was born in Cumber- land County, August 7, 1844, and is a son of John and Elizabeth (Allen) Green, also natives of Pennsylvania. David was four years old when his parents removed to Johnson County, Iowa, which is still their home. He passed his youth upon a farm, and obtained his education in the common schools of the day. During the late civil war he enlisted in the Forty-seventh Iowa Volunteer Infantry, Com- pany G, and served four months in the west- ern army, and was honorably discharged. Mr. Green was united in marriage September 13, 1868, to Miss Margaret Alloway, born in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, and a daughter of Jonathan and Elizabeth (Ander- son) Green. After his marriage Mr. Green resided in Johnson County until 1881, when he came to Shelby County and bought his present farm; it was wild land, but he has placed it under cultivation and erected good buildings. He has a modern windmill, and many conveniences for farming and stock- raising. Mr. and Mrs. Green have had born to them four children — Lizzie May, wife of William Horton; William Henry, lona Grace and John Irvin. He and his wife are mem- bers of the Church of God, he serving as one of the ruling elders. In politics he supports the principles of the Republican party. ' S"S ' | '*'~ [[cj^HOMAS McCOID, now living on sec- tion 17, Grove Township, is one of the pioneer settlers of Shelby County, hav- ing come here in March, 1851. He was born in Muskingum County, Ohio, Jul}' 9, 1822, and is tiie son of Nathaniel and Mary (Sarchet) McCoid. The father was born in Scotland, May 12, 1793, and died October 21, 1870, at his home in Pottawattamie County. He crossed the ocean when quite young and first settled in Pennsylvania, near Pittsburg; he afterward removed to Ohio, thence to Indiana, and thence to Pottawattamie County, Iowa. Mrs. McCoid was born August 8, 1802, on Guernsey Island, of French parentage; she died February 28, 1861, at the old home- stead in Pottawattamie County, Iowa. They were both members of the Methodist Epis- copal church. Thomas McCoid, the sub- ject of this sketch, left his father's home at the age of eighteen years to do for himself; BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 597 for six years lie worked by tlie month on a farm in Indiana. In 1850 lie came to Kanes- ville, now Council Blufts, and March 20, 1851, he was united in marriage to Miss Syntha Fonts, in Harrison County. After his marriage he settled at Galland's Grove, Shelby County, but as the survey had not then been made it was not known which county he had settled in. He first bought a squatter's claim and in a short time sold it. He entered 160 acres of government land, which he improved and made his home. Mr. and Mrs. McCoid bad two children born to them — Mary Ann, wife of T. E. Fowler, and Martha, who died in infancy. Mrs. Syntha McCoid died October 30, 1855, at the age of twenty-seven years. She was a native of Indiana, and a member of the Christian church. Mr. McCoid was again married October 4, 1858, in Shelby Countj', to Miss Lorinda J. Mcintosh. By this union two children were born — James (deceased), and George W., a merchant of Panama, Iowa. Mrs. Lorinda McCoid passed from this life December 23, 1872, at the age of thirty-one years. Mr. McCoid's estate covers 456 acres of good land; he has been an extensive farmer and stock-raiser. He is inclined to the prin- ciples of the Republican party. He is a mem- ber of the Methodist Episcopal church. -♦■" g ' 3 >« S - [EORGE W. McCOID, dealer in general merchandise and agricultural imple- ments, Panama, Iowa, was born January 12, 1861. He is the son of Thomas and Lo- rinda (Mcintosh) McCoid, who are the par- ents of two children — James (deceased), and the subject of this notice. George remained under the parental roof until he was twenty years of age. He attended school in J.,ogan for five years before he was twenty years old, after which he devoted himself to a^ri- cultural pursuits for two years. He then entered Miller's Mercantile College, which he attended six months, being graduated from that institution in the spring of 1882. The school is now known as Pierce's Busi- ness College. While in Logan Mr. McCoid learned the miller's trade. After leavinsr school he returned to the farm for one sum- mer, and then purchased the interest of Mr. Wheeler in the firm of Wheeler & Kleeb, Panama. This business was established in 1882 by Wheeler & Kleeb. Mr. McCoid sold his interest to Williams »fc Company in 1884, and in 1885 he bought the entire busi- ness. He carries a stock of $12,500, and does a thriving business. Mr. McCoid was married to Miss Emma J. Purdon, May 19, 1885. She was born in Athens County, Ohio, July 8, 1861, and received a very liberal education. Mr. and Mrs. McCoid are the parents of two children — Lorinda, born March 23, 1886, and Tressy G., born February 2, 1888. Mrs. Emma J. McCoid is a member of the Christian church, having joined at Nelsonville, Ohio, in 1876. EORGECRANDALL,farmerand stock- raiser, section 26,Washington Township, has been identified with the interests of Shelby County since 1852. He is a native of Illinois, born in Hancock County, September 9, 1843, and is the elder son of Benjamin and Rebecca (Lemons) Crandall. Benjamin Crandall was a native of Ontario County, New York, of English and German ancestry. His parents, John and Magdalene (Wood) Crandall, were both natives of the United States. When he was a child his parents emigrated to Ohio, and there ho grew to manhood. They afterward followed the fron- 598 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. tier, and went to Missouri first, and then to Hancock County, Illinois; thence they came to Iowa. After his marriage Benjamin Cran- dall settled in Shelby County, having entered a tract of government land, upon which he passed the remainder of his days. He and his wife had born to them seven children, five of whom lived to be grown, and three of whom survive — George, Daniel and John. Benjamin Crandall died March 27, 1872, and his wife, Rebecca Crandall, passed away Jan- uary 9, 1884. George Crandall was reared to farm life and obtained his education in the subscription and district schools of that day. He lived with his parents until he reached his majority, when he worked at various occupations until he purchased his present farm in 1870. He improved the land and made additions to it until he now owns 430 acres in a high state of cultivation. Mr. Crandall was married December 12, 1874, to Miss Jenette Martin, a daughter of James and Alvira (Spencer) Martin, early settlers of Illinois, who were natives of the State of New York. Mrs. Crandall was born in Whiteside County, Illinois. By this marriage four children were born — Maud (deceased). Lulu, Ada (deceased), and Eugene. Mr. Crandall is a member of Parian Lodge, No. 321, A. F. & A. M. He has served as town- ship clerk and trustee, and as a member of the school board. He casts his vote with the Democratic party. ►iwF. I LI E. HOOVER began his residence in Shelby County in 1878. He was born in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, November 18, 1848, and is a son of David and Sarah (Alloway) Hoover, natives of Pennsylvania. He was a l>abe of eleven months when his parents pushed to the front- ier and settled in Johnson County, Iowa. There he grew to manhood, being trained to the duties of a farmer's son, and receiving the limited advantages oflFered by the pioneer schools. December 7, 1871, he was married to Miss Mattie A. Green, a native of Cum- berland County, Pennsylvania. She was an infant when her parents, David and Rachel (Peffer) Green, removed to Johnson County, Iowa. The year of his marriage Mr. Hoover removed to Cass County, Iowa, and remained there six years; in 1878 he came to Shelby County and settled on 160 acres, which form a part of his present farm. He has made ad- ditions to his first purchase until he now owns 240 acres, in an advanced state of cul- tivation. He has a fine house, and has planted a grove and an orchard; his barn is one of the largest and most substantial in the town- ship. He devotes himself exclusively to farming and stock-raising, and has been very successful. Mr. and Mrs. Hoover are the parents of five children — Irvin, Elbert, Clin- ton, Ross and Walter. Mr. Hoover is in- clined to the principles of the Republican party. He is a member of the Evangelical church, and of the Pioneer Class of the town- ship, being steward of the same. He is strictly honorable in business, and has the confidence of all with whom he has any dealings. AMUEL DAGGET is an old resident of Shelby County, and one of the first set- tlers in Washington Township, having gone there in 1874. He is a native of Indi- ana, born January 10, 1831. He is a son of John and Sallie (Chopen) Dagget, who were the parents of eleven children, nine of whom arc living. Samuel was the oldest of tliis family and remained at home until his mar- riage to Mrs. Mary Black, which occurred in BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 599 September, 1852. At the time he was living in Illinois, and remained there, engaged in farming until 1S59, when he made a trip to Oregon; he staid there four years, mining and teaming. From Oregon he went to the Idaho mines, and lived there live years, mining and teaming. While they were liv- ing in Idaho City Mrs. Dagget died, Febru- ary 10, 1867. She left one child— Eliza, the wife of Thomas Grott. By her first mar- riage she had one daughter — Cynthia Ann, wife of Mr. Preston, of Galesburg, Illinois. June 16, 1868, Mr. Dagget left Idaho City for Illinois, with a fine span of horses, and ar- rived at his destination August 11, the same summer. September 20, 1870, Mr. Dagget was again married, to Mrs. Nancy Jane Kin- mer. By this union one child was born — Luella. Mrs. Kinmer had three daughters by her first liusband — Cora, Mary and Susan, all of whom are married. In February, 1874, Mr. Dagget removed his family to Shelby County. He first bought 120 acres of wild land, and afterward added eighty more to his place. He carries on general farming and stock-raising. His political inclinations are toward the Kepubliean party. Mrs. Dagget is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. They are highly respected citizens, always willing to contribute liberally to any worthy cause, and to do anything in their power to alleviate suffering and distress. PRITCHARD is one of the promi- nent agriculturists and stockmen of ^"^ Monroe Township, Shelby County. He was born in the north of Ireland, October 14, 1846, and is a son of Henry and Mary B. Pritchard. He was a lad of eighteen years when his parents sailed from the Emerald Isle for the new world. They located in Henry County, Illinois, and there our subject grew to manhood, receiving the training of a farmer's son, and obtaining his education in the common schools. Mr. Pritchard was mar- ried when twenty-three years old to Miss Mary A. Brown. In 1873 Mr. and Mrs. Pritchard came to Shelby County, and since that time have made it their home. They were among the early settlers in the neigh- borhood. Mr. Pritchard bought 120 acres, and has since added to it until he now has one of the finest farms in the township. His dwelling is a very substantial house built in the shape of a double L, in modern style. He has a large barn and numerous other buildings for stock and grain. He makes a specialty of Hereford cattle and has the only herd of thoroughbreds in Shelby County. He also has large numbers of other high grades of live-stock. Mr. Pritchard is in partner- ship with Mr. J. Brindley in the raising of draft-horses. Mr. Pritchard affiliates with the Republican party, and although not an aspirant to office he has served as trcijs- urer of the township and on the school board for several years. He is a member of the A. O. U. W., of Walnut. His upright, busi- ness habits and other excellent qualities have won for him a standing among the first citi- zens of Monroe Township. A ' l i * S * ^ '" " - fF. BAIRD, a prominent citizen of Cass Township, has been a resident uf the * county since 1880. He is a native of Iowa, born in Davis County, September 15, 1853. He is a son of James and Mary (Carlton) Baird. In 1804 the father went to California and was there murdered for money, thus leaving the mother with a family of young children to support. J. F. was reared in Davis County until his thirteenth year. 600 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. At the tender age of ten years he went out to work to assist his mother in supporting the family, and although a child he was able to render her much valuable assistance. IJe obtained his education by attending school in the winter months and reading and studying at home. In 1873 lie went to Logan County, Illinois, and remained tliere seven years. He was married January 24, 1878, to Miss Mary Malinda Ann Copeland, a daughter of Abner Copeland. In 1880 they returned to Shelby County and bought 160 acres of wild land one-half mile north of Portsmouth. Mr. Baird has erected a comfortable cottage, has planted a grove and orchard, and made numer- ous improvements. He devotes liis time exclusively to farming and stock-raising, and all his surroundings indicate thrift and pros- perity. Mr. and Mrs. Baird have had born to them four children — Lena Maud, Clara Ethel, Cora Jane, and John Abner. Cora Jane died August 21, 1885. Mr. Baird is a staunch and leading Democrat of the town- ship. He has served as township trustee and as a member of the school board with credit to himself. He is an open, plain-spoken man, and has won the regard of his neighbors and acquaintances. 4, - I"! ' a) fM. LAWKENCE is a well-known and useful citizen of Cass Township, and has * been identified with the interests of Shelby County since 1879. He was born in Tennessee, October 28, 1844, and is a son of Thomas and Nancy (McMurray) Lawrence. He was an infant when his parents removed from Tennessee to Georgia, where he grew to manhood, and received a common-school education. During the late civil war he served in the Thirty-ninth Georgia Volunteer Infantry for three years under General Bragg and General Pemberton. He was at Vicks- burg most of the time during the siege of that city. After the close of the war he removed with his parents to Sangamon County, Illi- nois. March 1, 1876, lie was married to Miss Anna Banerley, a daughter of Frederick and Catherine (Meyers) Banerley. Mrs. Lawrence was born in Illinois, and at the age of years her parents went to Sangamon County, where she was reared and educated. In 1879 they came to Iowa, and bought land in Shelby XJounty. Mr. Lawrence now owns 200 acres of well-improved land; he has a good dwelling just one mile from the town of Portsmouth. He has some good stock on his farm, and some especially fine horses. In his jjolitical opinions he agrees with the Democratic party. Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence are the parents of four children — Thomas Ed, Samuel M., David F. and Olive Agnes. ■^«f- H. GRAVES, a retired citizen of Pan- ama, has been a resident of Shelby * County, Iowa, since 1882. He was born in Onondaga County, New York, April 13, 1818, and is the son of Waters and Han- nah (Chapel) Graves. The father was a native of Massachusetts, and the mother was born in Connecticut. They had eigiit children born to them — Salinda (deceased), Waters (de- ceased), Z. II., John W., Sheldon, Theoron, Mur, Welsie Ann, the wife of Z. II. Bartlett. By a previous marriage Mr. Graves had nine children — Fannie, Elihu,Rasius, Polly, Olive, Esther, Abigail, Almyroii and Wells. Z. H. Graves, the subject of this notice, was married to Ellen Elizabeth, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Gressman) Fish, April 29, 1865. Mrs. Graves is a native of the State of New York; she was born in Onondaga County, October 5, 1833. The result of this marriage .fk.MJrf^tZ JilOGHAPUWAL SKETVUE8. 603 lias been three children — WatersB.jborn April 29, 18G7, and died April 9, 1880; Lizzie I., the wife of Nicholas F. Burks, born July 19, 1870; and Theoron B., born February 7, 1875. Mrs. Graves had one child by her first hus- band, Elmer E. Kusser, a resident of Dunlap, born May 18, 1861. Mr. Graves had one child by his first marriage; his name was Seth, now deceased. Mr. Graves has served as a justice of the peace one term. Politically he is inclined to the principles of the Ilepublican party. He is a member of the Masonic fra- ternity. MM ^' -^•'-'r^' farmer and stock-raiser, is a highly esteemed and well-known citi. i" zen of Monroe Township, and has been identified with the history of Shelby County since 1872. He was born on the Shenandoah River in Page County, Virginia, February 17, 1831. He is a son of John and Mary (Eppard) Kite, also natives of Page County, Virginia, and of German ancestry. K. W. Kite was reared to the occupation of a farmer, and received the limited educational advantages afforded by the common schools of his youth. Arriving at the age of man- hood he was united in marriage August 17, 1852, to Miss Caroline Kite, who was born and reared in Page County, Virginia, and is a daughter of Noah and Isabelle (Pirkey) Kite, also natives of Virginia. Three years after his marriage, in 1855, Mr. Kite was seized with a desire to try his fortunes on the frontier, as Iowa was then called. He emi- grated to the west, and settled in Cedar County, Iowa, near Tipton. Tiiere he resided until 1872, when he came to Shelby County and bought 120 acres of land which had been broken the year previous. He has built a good story and a half house, and buildings for stock and grain. He has provided for future comfort and enjoyment in planting a grove, and an orchard of five acres. By in- dustry and thrifty management Mr. Kite has made liis farm one of the most desirable in the township. He also owns a good farm in Douglas Township, Audubon County. Mr. and Mrs. Kite have had born to them twelve children, ten of whom are living — Lathaniel, Mary Jane, D. M., Benjamin F., Alice lie- becca, George W., Harvey H., Ellen V., N. B. and I. Newton. Stephen D. died at the age of four years, and Oliver in his third year. In political thought and action Mr. Kite is Democratic. He has served as a member of the school board, and is interested in all measures tending to advance the edu- cational standing of the community. His family are numbered among the leading citi- zens of Monroe Township. fOHN N. IIALSTON has been a resident of Shelby County during the last five years. He was born in Illinois, August 26, 1852, and is the son of Thomas and Sarah (Peyton) Ralston, who removed to lon-awhen our subject was two years of age, and settled in Dallas County; there the father died at the age of thirty years; the mother still resides in Dallas County, at the age of sixty- si.x years. They were the parents of five chil- dren — Samantha Ann, the wife of H. AVatkins" Caroline (deceased), Benjamin F., John N., and Jennie, the wife of George Saky. John N. began to support himself at the age of fourteen years. April 7, 1871, he was mar- ried to Miss Libbie, daughter of William and Lucinda Thompson. She is a native of Penn- sylvania, and was born September 4, 1852. For three years after his marriage Mr. Ralston rented and farmed his mother's land in Dallas C04 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. County. He then bought eiglity acres of wild land in Madison County, Iowa, which he im- proved and made his home for seven years. At the end of tliat time he sold out and came to Shelby County, and rented until the fall of 1888,when he bought eighty acres of improved land in section 2, Washington Township. Mr. Ralston has been politically identified with his township as trustee, and is the present as- sessor; the township assesses §180,000. He is a member of the Democratic party. Mr. and Mrs. Ralston have had born to them two children — May, born September 15, 1872, and Anna, the wife of Patrick Buckley, born De- cember 15, 1874. Mr. Ralston is a teacher, and had the advantages of a good education. May is also a teacher; she was graduated from the classical course at St. Mary's Academy, Council Elufis, in 1887. fD. VANDEBURG, of Jackson Town- ship, has been a resident of Shelby * County since the year 1875. He was born-in Greene County, New York, January 15, 1816, and is a son of Peter and Hannah (Shersey) Vandeburg, natives of the State of New York. J. D. grew to man's estate in Greene County, being reared to the occupation of a farmer, and obtaining his education iti the common schools. He was married May 2, 1840, to Marilla Crosby, of Greene County, New York. By this union six children were born — Eder, Van Buren,Lucit)da, Sarah, Han- nah and Elizabeth. Mrs. Vandeburg died in 1851, and Mr. Vandeburg was married to Sarah P. Crosby, September 4, 1852. She is a native of Greene County, New York, and is a daughter of B. L. and Huldah (Hull) Crosby, natives of the State of New York. Mr. Vandeburg lived in Greene County until 1801, when he removed to La Salle County, Illinois. He remained there four years, and at the expiration of that time he went to Rock Island County, Illinois, where he re- sided until 1875. He then came to Shelby County, Iowa, and purchased 160 acres of wild land. He was the first settler in the neighborhood, there being no house to the east of his place in Shelby County, and the nearest house being five miles away. He has expended much time and labor upon the place, and to-day the Vandeburg farm is con- sidered one of the best in the township. There is a good residence, attractively sur- rounded by a tine grove of maples, an orchard, a large barn, and other good farm buildings. There is an air of neatness and thrift about the place that gives an index to the character of the owner. By his last marriage eleven children were born, eight of whom still sur- vive — Huldah, Alida, Carrie, Grace (a popu- lar teacher, now attending college), Lulu, David, Adalbert and Elmer. James died in Arizona in December, 1888; Charlie died in his third year, and Crosby died in infancy. Mr. Vandeburg was for many years a mem- ber of the Methodist Episcopal church. His wife is an Old-school Baptist. They are both intelligent people, hospitable and cordial, and have the esteem and respect of all who know them. 1^^ W. STARR, a farmer of Clay Town- » ship, has made his home in Shelby I' County since 1881. He was born in Clark County, Indiana, February 22, 1835, and is a son of Isaac and Nancj' (Griffin) Starr, natives of North Carolina. He was a babe when his parents settled in Johnson County, Indiana. His father died when he was four years old, when his mother removed to Hamilton County, Indiana. She died when BlOQllAPHWAL SKETCHES. 605 he was eleven years old, and he then went to live with a sister, Mary Stuart, wife of Green- berry Stuart. When our subject was fifteen years of age the family came to Iowa, five yoke of oxen drawing the wagon. G. W. drove young stock most of the way from In- diana. They crossed the Mississippi River at Burlington, Iowa, and settled in Wash- ington County, where Mr. Starr resided until 1852. He then spent one year in Indiana. He was reared to the occupation of a farmer, and received his education in the primitive log school-house of that time. Mr. Starr was united in marriage, October 21, 1860, to Miss Maria Hyatt, who was born in High- land County, Ohio, July 8, 1841. She is a daughter of Jeremiah and Elizabeth (Adams) Hyatt, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio re- spectively. Mrs. Hyatt was a second cousin to John Q. A.dams. Mrs. Starr was three months old when her parents came to the Territory of Iowa, settling among the Indians in Washington County. The father died in 1877, and the mother still lives in Washing- ton County. Mrs. Starr attended the first school, held in a log school-house, and there met her future husband. After his marriaee Mr. Starr lived in Decatur County, Iowa, for eighteen months, and then returned to Wash- ington County, where he resided until he came to Shelby County in 1881. He owns IGO acres of land, divided into fields of forty acres each. He has a comfortable residence, an orchard of two acres, a good barn, and cribs for grain. All the surroundings be- speak the thrift and prosperity of the owner. Mr. and Mrs. Starr are the parents of nine children — William F., John V., Nancy E., Louis F., Rosa E., Martin V., Calvin V., Frank F. and Jennie B. Two of the chil- dren are married — William F., who resides in Audubon County, Iowa, and Nancy E., who is the wife of George Pontrous, also re- ap siding in Audubon County. Mr. Starr is a Republican. Five of the children are mem- bers of the Adventist ciuirch. Louis F. is in Baltimore, Maryland, engaged in mission work. He was educated at Battle Creek, Michigan. Rosa E. is at Blair, Nebraska, attending school. EORGE R. STEPHENSON is an early settler of both Audubon and Shelby counties, having come to the former in 1863, and to the latter in 1869. He was born in Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, November 23, 1843, and is a son of James and Nancy (Smith) Stephenson, natives of Pennsylvania, the father being of Irish de- scent. When George was eleven years old his parents removed to Rock County, Wis- consin, and settled seven miles from Beloit, where they lived two years. The family then went to Story County, Iowa, and were among the early settlers there. In this county George grew to manhood, receiving a fair education in the common schools. In 1863 he came to Audubon County, when there were only nineteen voters in the county, ten of whom were Republicans and nine of whom were Democrats. This was the year in which there was such a bitter contest over the elec- tion of county officers, an account of which will be found in the general hjstory of Audu- bon County. During the civil war Mr. Stephenson lent his aid in the preservation of the nation; he enlisted in March, 1864, and took part in the battle of the Spanisii Fort, in which he was wounded in the foot by a minie- ball, which he keeps as a relic of the war. He was confined in a hospital for some time, and on obtaining a furlougii he returned to Davenport, Iowa; there he was held until the close of the war, when he was honorably dis- GO.; HISTOIiT OF SHELBY COUNTY. charged. He returned to Audubon County, and there made his home until 18G9, when he came to Shelby County and settled in Clay Townsliip. He came on his present farm in 1872. Mr. Stephenson was united in inar- riage January G, 1870, to Miss Darliska Fish, a native of Summit County, Ohio, and a daughter of Mason Fish, Esq., a prominent citizen and early settler of Clay Township. Si.\ children have been born of this marriage — Nye and Guy are twins, born April 13, 1877; Ina, born November 4, 1882; Goldie, born June 17, 1885; William, the oldest, born June 5, 1871, died in Kansas in 1879, while his parents were making a visit in that State; Nettie P., born July 2, 1873, died at the age of twenty months. In politics Mr. Stephenson votes the Republican ticket. He is a member of the G. A. K. Post, of Marne, Iowa, and also of the I. O. O. F. He and his wife are members of the Protestant Methodist church, and are among the wortiiy and respected citizens of the township. ' S * ^ ' ' ^ ' 1' " '" fOIIN FRITZ, of Jackson Township, is a well-known, early pioneer, having come to Shelby County, Iowa, in 1859. He was born in Butler County, Pennsylvania, Sep- tember 17, 1828, and is a son of Martin L. and Mary (Hoffman) Fritz, natives of Pennsylva- nia. Martin L. Fritz was a son of Martin Fritz, a native of Germany, wlio emigrated to America before the Revolution. Mary Hoff- man Fritz was a daughter of Adam Fritz, who served in the Revolutionary war, in which he was wounded; he carried tlie British lead to his (frave. Martin L. Fritz and wife were the parents of ten children who grew to maturity — Josepli, Peter (deceased), Eliza- beth, Adam, Nancy (deceased), Silas, Cath- erine, John, Sarah and Samuel. When John was twelve years of age his parents removed to Owen County, Indiana; the mother died on the journey, and the father survived her four years; so at the age of sixteen John Fritz was left an orphan. He went to Green- castle, Putnam County, Indiana, and there served an apprenticeship of three and a half years at the cabinet-maker's trade. He was married June 1, 1853, in Putnam County, Indiana, to Miss Eliza Ann Dunnington, a native of Woodford County, Kentucky. Her parents were Alexander and Levisa (Sellers) Dunnington, and when she was three years old her father removed to Indiana; her mother died in Kentucky. When Mr. Fritz came to Shelby County in 1859, he engaged in the carpenter's trade; he helped build the first court house in Harlan, and built many homes, and some of the first school-houses in the county. He lived in Harlan until 1862, wlien he rented a farm of L. D. Sunderland. His first purchase was forty-eight acres in Bowman's Grove, which he improved and sold in a short time. During the late Rebellion he enlisted October 4, 1863, in the Ninth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, Company H, and served twenty-eight months in the southwestern division. He was honorably discharged and returned to Putnam County, Indiana, where his family had located during tiie war. Tliere he resided until 1870, when he returned to Shelby County, and in 1873 he bought his present farm which was then wild land. He has placed the land under good cultivation, has erected buildings, has planted a grove and an orchard, and has made numerous improve- ments. Mr. and Mrs. Fritz have had born to them nine children — Frank F., William D., InaS., wife of H. B. Madison, of Rock County, Nebraska; Mary L., Edgar, John II. and Fred. Albert died in infancy, and Archie at tlie age of four • and a half years. Mr. Fritz is a Republican. He has served on the school BIOORAPHICAL SKETCHES. 607 board, as comity supervisor in 1874, as town- ship trustee, and as school treasurer for nine years. He is a member of Parian Lodge, No. 321, A. F. & A. M., and of Olivet Chapter, No. 107, R. A. M. He was made a Mason in 1856, in Putnam County, Indiana. Mr. Fritz is among the honored and honor- able pioneers of Shelby County. isONROE SEYMORE,one of the lead- ing agriculturists of Clay Township, ^-^i^~ Shelby County, is a native of the State of New York, and was born in Wyo- ming County, September 10, 1845. He is a eon of Henry and Betsey (Dout) Seymore, who were born in the State of Pennsylvania. Monroe grew to manhood in the place of his birth, where he was trained in that great school which makes us an independent nation, the farm. He obtained his education in the common schools. During the great civil war, when there was a call for more men to de- fend the flag of our nation, Mr. Seymore en- listed December 28, 1863, in the Second New York Mounted Rifles, Company B. He took part in the engagements of Hatch's Run, Petersburg, Cold Harbor, North Anna and the latter part of the great battle of the Wil- derness under General Grant. He was at Ap- pomattox when General Lee surrendered to General Grant. After his honorable dis- charge at Buflalo, New York, in 1865, he re- turned to Wyoming County. In 1866 Mr. Seymore removed to Whiteside County, Illi- nois, and resided there until 1876, when he went to Calhoun County, Iowa; he remained there one year, and then came to Shelby County. The tirst two years he lived in sec- tion 28, and in 1879 came to his presentfarm, where he has since made his home. He owns eighty acres of tine land in a high state of cultivation ; he has a good dwelling, stables and cribs; he has jilanted a grove and an orchard, and has developed his farm into a very desirable place. Mr. Seymore was mar- ried in Whiteside County, Illinois, in 1869, to Miss Anna McNeil, who died in August, 1874. In the spring of 1876 he was married to Miss Carrie B. Hudzel, a daughter of Jeremiah and Malinda (Roub) Hudzel, natives of Pennsylvania. By this union three chil- dren were born — James H., Caroline and Julia Malinda. In politics Mr. Seymore is a liepublican. He is a member of the G. A. R. Post, of Marne. tEWIS KELLOGG, a farmer and stock- raiser of Clay Township, has been a resi- dent of Shelby County, Iowa, since 1868. He was born in Oswego County, New York, near the place where Oswego now stands, May 22, 1836. His fatlier, David Kellogg, was a native of Connecticut; his mother, Harriette (Loomis) Kellogg, was born in England, and emigrated to America with her parents when she was ten years old. Lewis Kellogg was two years old when his parents removed to Allegheny County, New York; there he lived utitil lie was eighteen years old, spending his time in farni work, and in attending the common schools. When he was seventeen years of age his mother died, and the following year the family went to Wisconsin, settling in Grant County, near Boscobel. Mr. Kellogg was united in mar- riage December 23, 1858, to Annar Fish, » native of Warren County, Pennsylvania, and a daughter of Mason Fish (deceased). At Lincoln's call for 300,000 men in the late Re- bellion, Mr. Kellogg enlisted in the Twentieth Wisconsin Yolunteer Infantry, Company C. He served nine months, and was honorably 60S HlSTOliT OF SHELBY COUNTY. discharged; he took part in tlie battle of Prairie Grove. After returning from the war he lived in Wisconsin until 1868, when he came to Shelby County and settled on 160 acres of wild land, which he has improved and brought to a high state of cultivation. He has a comfortable dwelling, a good barn, and cribs, and has planted an orchard and a grove. Mr. Kellogg devotes his time exclu- sively to farming and stock-raising, and has been successful in these pursuits. Three chil- dren were born to Mr. and Mrs. Kellogg — Ed. M. resides in Clay Township, where he owns a good farm ; Clara, wife of Christ Ol- son, resides in Cass County, Iowa; Lyman L. lives in Shelby County. In politics Mr. Kellogg zealously supports the Republican party. lie is a member of Grove Lodge, No. 492, A. F. & A. M.,of Marne, Iowa. He was made a Mason at Avoca, Iowa, and at one time was a member of Parian Lodge, No. 321. fa ' ^ ' I ' S iEORGEW. POTTS, a farmer and stock- raiser, of Clay Township, Shelby County, was born in Richland County, Ohio, July 5, 1823. He is a son of Benjamin and Abigail (Peer) Potts, natives of Pennsylva- nia and New Jersey respectively. "When George W. was thirteen years old his parents removed to Noble County, Indiana, where his father and one Dave Harriman were the first settlers in Jefferson Township; his father and mother resided there until death. He remained there until he was grown, and re- ceived a fair education in the subscription schools. October 28, 1848, Mr. Potts was married to Miss Mary Kline, a native of Han- over, York County, Pennsylvania, and a daughter of Henry and Catherine (Mults) Jvline, natives of Pennsylvania and Maryland respectively. Mr. Potts lived in Noble County iintil 1876, when he came to Marion County, Iowa, and lived near Pella one year. He then removed to Polk County, and resided there three years. In 1879 he came to Clay Township, and settled on wild land, which he has improved, and made into one of the best in the township. He has a good story and a half house on a pleasant site, a barn, and other substantial farm buildings, all showing Mr. Potts to be a thrifty and prosperous farmer. Si.x children have been born to our subject and his wife — Warren W., Celesta, wife of David Prichard; George W. ; Kate, wife of Dell Vandeberg; Fred L. and Walter E. Mr. Potts is a Democrat, and is a strong adherent of the old Jacksonian principles. He is firm in his convictions of right and wrong, is strictly honorable in business, and has the confidence and respect of all who know him. « ■' " '■ ^ ' 3"i « |" '°' S. FUDGE, a farmer of Clay Town- ship, has been a resident of Shelby ^^^^^ County since 1882. He is a native of the State of Virginia, born June 17, 1846. He is a son of William Fudge, a descendant of an old and honored Virginia family. His mother's maiden name was Thompson, and she too was a Virginian by birth. M. S. was a child three years of age when his parents removed to Coles County, Illinois, where they resided five years. At the end of that time they went to Jasper County, Iowa, and there the mother died when M. S. Fudge was eleven years old. He passed his youth in the duties assigned usually to farmer's sons, and obtained his education in the com- mon schools. In 1869 he went to Cass County, Iowa, and there made his home for five years. He then went to Pottawattamie County, Iowa, and remained there until 1882, when he came to Clay Township, and settled BIOORAPHIGAL SKETCHES. 60g on his present farm. The land was wild, but had a few cheap buildings on it. Mr. Fudge has made it a valuable farm by placing it under good cultivation and erecting substan- tial buildings. The dwelling is a large two- story frame house, on a very sightly eleva- tion, from which is obtained a tine view of the country for miles away. There is a grove, and an orchard of two acres has been planted. Mr. Fudge was married September 10, 1874, to Miss Melvina Beath, of Ross County, Ohio, a daughter of Joseph and Christina (Teter) Beath, natives of Ohio. She was sixteen years of age when she came to Jasper County, Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Fudge have had born to them three children — Justus B., Marion A. and Clarence Elsworth, who died at the age of five years and one month. Mr. Fudge affiliates with the Democratic party. He is a member of the A. O. U. W., and is a re- spected member of the community. — * g - 3"t ' 2 -- — ?OHN LAMPHERE was born in Oneida County, New York, January 27, 1838, and is a son of Smith and Eleanor (Pad- dock) Lamphere, natives of the State of New York. He was a lad of thirteen years when his parents decided to try their fortunes in the west, and removed to Whiteside County, Illinois. There John grew to manhood, passing his youth in agricultural pursuits, and in attending the common school. In the year 1861, in the month of February, Mr. Lamphere was married to Miss Mary Hotch- kiss, a native of Oswego County, New York, and a daughter of David and Phcebe Hotch- kiss. Six children have been born of this marriage, four of whom still survive — Lucy, wife of David Willson, of Cumberland, Iowa; Duly, Merritt and Bert. Claude died at the age of nineteen years and five months, and Meda, in her sixth year. During the great Rebellion Mr. Lamphere went to the defense of the old flag, enlisting in 18G2 in the Seventy-fifth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, Company B. He took an active part at Perry ville, where his company lost fortj^-four men out of fifty-five. He also participated in the engagements at Danville, Cumberland Gap, and Stone River. As he was not able to travel he was detailed as teamster for a time. He was honorably discharged atMur- freesboro, Tennessee, and returned to WhitC' side County, Illinois, engaging in the more peaceful pursuits of agriculture. He resided in that county until 1875, when he came to Shelby County, and settled in Clay Town- ship. He has 120 acres of valuable land, having made many improvements. Tliere is a substantial residence, a good barn, and other buildings for the care and protection of stock; a grove and an orchard have been planted, and in a few years will add very mate- rially to the value of the place. In politics Mr. Lamphere supports the issues of the Democratic party. He has served as road supervisor and as a member of the school board. He belongs to' the G. A. R; Post, of Marne, Iowa. He ia counted among the re- liable farmers of the township. f ' i"S ' |" ' — — m% B. DIGHTON, an intelligent and en- terprising farmer of Clay Township, is * a native of the State of Iowa, born in Delaware County, April 17, 1856. He is a son of B. F., a native of Pennsylvania, and Catherine Jane (Ilitts) Dighton. The father was an early and well-known settler of Dela- ware County, and is still living there; the mother died when B. B. was six years old. Mr. Dighton was reared to the life of a farmer, and received his education in the common 610 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. schools of Delaware County, Iowa. At the early age of sixteen he left his home and went to Pottawattamie County. After a short tiine he returned to Delaware County, and at the end of two years he went to Hardin County, Iowa, and remained there four years. His next move was to Shelby County, where he has since made his liome. He was married in Cass County, Iowa, January 1, 1880, to Miss Susan Lamer, a daughter of Jacob and Mary Lamer; she was born, reared and edu- cated in Hardin County. Two children have been born of this marriage — Etta C. and Willie D. In political thought and action Mr. Dighton is a Republican. He is a mem- ber of the I. O. O. F. Lodge, of Marne. He and his wife arc members of the Protestant Meth- odist ciiurch. Mr. Dighton is yet in the prime of manhood, and has the confidence and re- spect of the community in which he lives. M. B. CLARK, a successful farmer of Clay Township, has been a resident of Shelby County since the year 1871. He was born in Barren County, Kentucky, August 26, 1850, and is a son of John M. Clark, a prominent citizen of Monroe Town- ship, whose biography appears upon another page of this history. Mr. Clark was three and a half years old when his father settled in Grant County, Wisconsin. There he grew to manhood, passing his time on the farm and in attending the common schools. He was in his twenty-first year when he came witii his father to Monroe Township. He broke out the first prairie in the neighbor- hood wher» his father lifes, and assisted in placing the home farm under cultivation and making other improvements. December 28, 1878, Mr. Chirk was married to Miss Nellie Adelia Whitney, a native of Oswego County, New York. She was eight years old when her parents, Thomas and Anna (Jewell) Whit- ney, removed to Whiteside County, Illinois. The father and mother lived in Whiteside County for five years, then in Shelby County until 1876, when they removed to Rio Grande Connty, Colorado, and there lived until death claimed them one year later. Mr. and Mrs. Clark have had born to them eight children — ■ Robert F., Charles Tiiomas, Mary Isabelie, Carrie Maria, John M., Olie Eliza, Rockie Mildred and Addie May. Politically Mr. Clark holds the views of the Democrats, sympathizing with the Greenback element. He has served as a member of the school board. He is in the prime of life, is of a genial disposition, and has the respect of the community. ^ARMON PINNEY has been a resident of Clay Township for the past six years, having come there in 1883. He was born in Mentor Township, Lake County, Ohio, near the home of James A. Garfield, October 10, 1848, and is a son of Randolph Pinney, a native of Connecticut, and Patience (Har- mon) Pinney, a native of Lake County, Ohio. Harmon was reared in his native county, and passed his youth in farm work and in at- tending the common school. He was united in marriage December 11, 1872, to Miss Alice Reynolds, of Kirtland Township, Lake County, Ohio; she is a daughter of Alonzo and Melissa (Fuller) Reynolds, natives of Ohio. Mr. Pinney lived in Lake County, Ohio, until 1877, when he came to Mitchellvilie, Polk County, Iowa, where he bought a farm of eighty acres adjoining the corporation of Mitchellvilie; lived there five years, sold out and came to Shelby County, Clay Township, in 1883. He had been engaged in fanning DIOOnAPUICAL SKETCHES. Git in his Ohio home, and he continued this oc- cupation in his newly chosen place of abode. He purchased 160 acres of land which had been partially improved by George Richard- son. Mr. Pinney has since added many other improvements, and to-day has one of the best farms in the community. He has a fine resi- dence, built in modern style, surrounded with shade and ornamental trees, a good barn, cribs and other necessary buildings. He devotes his time exclusively to farming and stock- raising, and has been quite successful. Mr. and Mrs. Finney are the parents of one child — Jessie K. Politically Mr. Pinney aiSliates with the Republican party. He is a man honorable in business, and is counted among the reliable citizens of Clay Township. ►|«H iRLICE BRADFORD has been identified with the interests of Shelby County since 1878, when he came here to make his home, having three years previously bought some land in Clay Township. He was born in Mercer County, Illinois, March 18, 1858, and is a son of William and Maria (Stevens) Bradford, natives of Switzerland County, Indiana. The parents were early settlers in Mercer County, Illinois, and there Bruce was reared to the life of a farmer, and obtained his education in the common schools. February 14, 1878, Mr. Bradford was united in marriage to Emma J. Smith, of Mercer County, Illinois, a daughter of Alfred and Margaret Smith. The same year they came to Shelby County and located on their pres- ent farm, which is one of the best in the township. Mr. Bradford has 120 acres under cultivation and the balance is in meadow. He has a comfortable residence, stables and cribs, and all the necessary buildings for the pro- tection and care of live-stock. He has planted a grove and an orchard, and has made many other improvements. Mr. and Mrs. Brad- ford have had born to them four children — Mabel, Alfred, Guy and Arthur Earl. Of the two great parties Mr. Bradford is inclined to the principles of the Republicans. He is yet in the prime of life and is one of the es- teemed citizens of Clay Township. igt^LIAB MYERS, one of the leading ag- riculturists of Jackson Township, has been a resident of Shelby County since 1870. He was born and reared in Waterloo County, Ontario, his birthday being June 7, 1837. His parents were John and Mary (Wengen) Myers, both natives of the State of Pennsylvania. They were married in Canada, and resided there until death. Eliab Myers passed his youth in his native county, work- ing on the farm and attending the common schools and the academy. At the age of seventeen he engaged in teaching and con- tinued this profession for four years. At the age of twenty-one years he removed to Jo Daviess County, Illinois, and engaged in farm- ing. Mr. Myers was married in August, 1862, to Miss Sarah M. Daw6j of Stephenson County, Illinois, a daughter of Thomas Daws. They have had born to them si.x children — Angeline Orvilla, wife of George Womer, of Illinois; John F., of Tacoma, Washing- ton Territory; Archie A., a successful teacher; Roland, Orpha and Roy. Mr. Myers resided in Jo Daviess County, Illinois, until 1870, when he came to Shelby County and bought 240 acres of improved land, to which he has added until he now owns 700 acres, 300 of which are in Jackson Township and 340 of which are in Polk Township. Sevonty-five acres are timber land, and the farm is watered by the east branch of the West Nishnabotna 612 BISTORT OF anSLBT COUNTY. River. There is a comfortable dwelling and extensive buildings for stock and grain, and a large orchard. Mr. Myers is inclined to the principles of the Republican party. At one time he served as postmaster. He is honorable and upright in business, and is numbered among the worthy citizens of Jack- son Township. .^-«^ fOHN M. CLARK is one of the promi- nent early settlers of Monroe Township. In 1871 he bought 160 acres of land, paying $10 per acre. The first season he broke sixty acres and built a small frame house. He has since erected a larger dwell- ing, and has made many improvements upon the place, until it is considered one of the best in the township. John M. Clark was born in Knox County, Tennessee, near Knox- ville, January 11, 1871, and is a son of John and Catherine (Moats) Clark. His father was a native of South Carolina, his ancestors coming from Scotland, near Glasgow. His mother was born in Virginia, of German an- cestry. Mr. Clark, the subject of this notice, was reared in Knox County, Tennessee. At the age of nineteen years he enlisted and went to the Indian or Seminole war in Flor- ida, under General Wool. He served twelve months, and at the end of that time was honorably discharged. When he was twenty- one years old the Clark family removed to Kentucky, traveling over the Cumberland Mountains in ox-carts. The}' settled in AVar- reii County, Kentucky. Mr. Clark was married September 4, 1839, to Mary Ann Renshaw, who was born and reared in Ken- tucky, and who was a daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth Renshaw. Ily this union two children were born — William J., of Audubon County, Iowa, and Martha E., wife of W. H. Debord, of Monroe Township. Mrs. Mary Ann Clark died in Jo Daviess County, Illi- nois, in 1847, the family having removed from Kentucky to Illinois in 1844. They remained there three years, Mr. Clark being engaged in lead-mining. After the death of his wife he returned to Kentucky, and No- vember 22, 1849, he was married to Maria Sarah Quick, a native of Kentucky, and a daughter of Charles and Patsey (Foster) Quick. By this marriage four children were born — J. M. B., of Clay Township; Isabel Catherine, wife of J. Brindloy; Sarah Jane, wife of J. S. Morgan, of Walnut, and Robert Allen, of Pottawattamie County. Mrs. Sarah Clark died July 1, 1858. In 1854 Mr. Clark removed to Grant County, Wisconsin, and settled near Plattville, where they lived until 1871, when they came to Shelby County. Mr. Clark supports the issues of the Demo- cratic party. In religions opinion he is of the Baptist faith, his father being a minister of that denomination. Although seventy- three years of age, Mr. Clark is young in mind and well preserved in body. He has traveled much, is well informed, of a genial disposition, and is highly respected by all who know him. iANIEL FLEMING, a son of Samuel and Sarah (Henderson) Fleming, was born in the Buckeye State near Colum- bus, May 24, 1826. His father was also a native of Ohio, and was one of the first set- tlers of Franklin County. Daniel was reared in Ohio, and passed his youth in farm work, and also did some work in a stone quarry near his home. When he had reached his twenty-first year he went to Allen County, Indiana. There he was married August 15, 1850, to Miss Catherine Crance, a native of ///^. >v BIOORAPHICAL SKETCHES. 615 Allen County, and a daughter of Jacob and Rachel (Fent) Crance. Jacob Crance was a native of the State of ^New York, and was one of the early settlers of Allen County, be- ing there when peace was declared with the Indians. His wife was born in Tennessee. Daniel Fleming resided in Allen County until 1868, when he removed to La Porte Coimty, Indiana; there he lived until 1877, when he came to Iowa. He lived in the south part of Clay Township for seven years, and then came to his present farm. He owns 160 acres of well improved land, 145 of which are under cultivation, and the balance is in pasture and meadow. He has a good frame house, a barn and cribs; lie has planted a grove and an orchard, and has made many other improve- ments which will add very much to the com- fort of living. Mr. Fleming is enterprising, and has been successful in his work, a result of industry and wise management. He is plain of speech and manners, is firm in his convictions of right and wrong, and is an hon- ored and esteemed citizen of Clay Township. In politics he is a Democrat. He isa mem- ber of the G. A. R., of Marne, Cass County, Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Fleming are the parents of nine children — William James, Emily, Sarah Amanda, Jacob Samuel, Albert, Ma- linda, Hester Anna, Ida May and Edna Bern ice. ■Si * " (>» M. SNYDER, of Jackson Township, is one of the oldest pioneers of Shelby I ' County, having settled there in 1856. He was born in Berks County, Pennsylvania, January 5, 1829, and is a son of Daniel and Catherine (Miller) Snyder, also natives of Berks County, Pennsylvai.ia. Daniel Snyder had two brothers who fought in the war of 1812. He and his wife lived in their native county until death. II. M. Snyder at the age of seventeen years began to serve an ap- prenticeship in the miller's trade. In his nineteenth year he went to the State of Ohio, and for three years he traveled about the State, remaining but a short time in a single place. He was married at Dayton, Ohio, January 6, 1851, to Miss Elizabeth Strine, daughter of Solomon and Ann Eliza Strine- she was born in Maryland, but was reared in Montgomery County, Ohio. After his mar- riage Mr. Snyder removed to Elkhart County, Indiana, and resided there until 1856, when he came to Shelby County with William and Isaac Wyland. The first year he lived at Wick's Grove, Harlan Township, and the next year removed to section 30, Polk Town- ship, where he bought forty acres of land; he has since added to this until he now owns 160 acres of fine land, which is cultivated by his sons. He made this place his hume until 1886, when he rented the farm and went to live in Harlan. In the winter of 1888 he went to his present farm of eighty acres in section 8, Jackson Township. He has a com- fortable house, a barn, a grove and an orchard and a very good tract of land. The place was improved by H. McConnell. Mr. and Mrs. Snyder have had nine children, five of whom are living— William Monroe, Alonzo, Mat- thias, Ellen, wife of John Frost, and wife of William Davis. The four children deceased are— Jonathan, who died at the age of one year; Jane, at the age of twelve years; James, at the age of twelve years; and Mi- nerva, wife of Scott Miller, who left four children. She had been twice married, first to James Pearman, by whom she had one son, Frank, who lives with his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Snyder. Mr. Snyder afiiliates with the Democratic party. Ho has served as a member of the school board and as township trustee. For many years lie was a member 616 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. of Parian Lodge, No. 321, A. F. & A. M. He is a man tirin in hib convictions, plain in speech and manner, and is one of the highly esteemed citizens of Shelby County. ■■■• 'g - l"t - g plIEODORE ANSTINE, one of the lead- ing agriculturists of Monroe Township, has been a resident of Shelby JCounty since 1873. lie was born in Champaign County, Ohio, April 28, 1844, and is a son of Michael and Amy (Snyder) Anstine, na- tives of Pennsylvania. Theodore was eight years old when his parents removed to Mc- Donough County, Illinois; there he grew up, receiving a fair education in the common schools. During the great Rebellion he went to the defense of his nation's flag, enlisting September 14, 1862, in the Seventy-eighth Illi- nois Volunteer Infantry. He was first under fire at Chickamauga,and took an active part in the battle of Mission Ridge. Two days after the battle of Chickamauga he was taken prisoner; he was first confined at Richmond, Virginia, in the Royster building, opposite Libby Prison. February 23, 1864, he was taken to Anderson- ville. He was held 577 days, and experienced all the horrors of rebel prison life. Of the nineteen privates and one officer who were taken prisoners belonging to Mr. Anstine's company, only nine lived to return to their homes. Mr. Anstine was married February 23, 1869, to Miss Mary L. Wilhelm, of Schuyler County, Illinois; she is a daughter of Wel- come and Mary (Price) Wilhelm. In 1873 they came on their present farm of 160 acres. It was wild land but is now under cultivation, and has been greatly improved by the erection of buildings and planting of trees. In 1889 Mr. Anstine erected a new residence at a cost of ;{;1,500, situated on a natural building site, and attractively surrounded byevergreen trees. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Anstine — William, Eashie Jane, Cora May, Elmer, Chester Rcy, Katie and Clara. Mr. Anstine is a Republican ; he has been officially connected with his township as justice of the peace, as township trustee and as a member of the school board, serving with credit and to the satisfaction of the public. He is a member of the G. A. R., John A. Dix Post, of Walnut. — ■ " ■ ■g - : " r - S — ll^ILLIAM JOHNSON, a farmer of \1t Monroe Township, has been living ■%^ in Shelby County since 1877. He was born in Yorkshire, England, September 6, 1834, and is a son of Robert and Elizabeth (Ponder) Johnson, also natives of Yorkshire, England. Until he was sixteen years of age our subject lived on his father's farm, attend- ing to those duties usually allotted to a farmer's son. He then went to work on the railroad, and followed this business for sev- eral years. In 1855 he bade farewell to his native land and emigrated to America, set- tling near Galena, Illinois. He remained there about two years, and then went to Plattville, Wisconsin, where he resided until 1877. He then came to Shelby County and bought eighty acres of partially improved land in Monroe Township; there be has since lived, and has developed one of the best farms in the neighborhood. He has a frame dwell- ing house, attractively surrounded with shade trees, an orchard, and buildings for live-stock and grain. Mr. Johnson has added to his first purchase of land, and now owns 160 acres. All the surroundings betoken thrift and prosperity. Mr. Johnson was married at Plattville, Wisconsin, February 11, 1869, to Mrs. Barl)ara Morman, a widow with four sons and three daughters. Her maiden name BIOGUAPHICAL SKETCHES. 817 was Augustine, and she was a native of Ohio. r?y this marriage one child has been born — Emma, wife of Charles W. NeS; she was born in Plattville, Wisconsin, in 1870. Mr. Johnson is a zealous advocate of the prin- ciples of the Democratic party. Although firm in his beliefs, he is a man of broad and liberal views. His honorable dealings have won the confidence of the community in which he lives. — g . i .. r . g. ..~ — jAVID HALL, farmer and stock-ra'ser, Cass Township, has been a resident of Shelby County since 1869. He was born in Delaware, November 11, 1841, and is a son of Joel and Emily (Morton) Hall, natives of Delaware and Pennsylvania respectively. David was four years of age when his parents removed to St. Louis, Missouri. They re- mained there seven years and then went to Council Bluffs, where David spent seventeen years. He obtained his education in the pub- lic schools of that place. In 1869 he came to Shelby County and bought forty acres of prairie land and two and a half acres of tim- ber, and began in a small way to make a home for himself. By industry and good manage- ment he has gained a farm of 400 acres, well improved; the place is well watered by springs, making it one of the best stock- farms in ShelbyCounty. Hisdwelling,ereeted in 1886, is a large, substantial frame build- ing, of modern style; it is situated on a nat- ural building site and is surrounded by shade trees. He has a good barn, cribs and sheds, and everything convenient for the care of stock. Mr. Hall devoted considerable time to the raising of stock, and is one of the best judges of stock in the township. Mr. Hall was united in marriage November 28, 1867, to Miss Emeline Miller, of Galland's Grove, a daughter of Gilbert and Mary (Roundy) Miller. Mrs. Hall's mother is a sister of the Hon. Washington Roundy, of this county. She was born in Hancock County, Illinois, and was reared in Davis County, Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Hall are the parents of three chil- dren — Alva, Mabel and Nellie. Mr. Hall's politics is Democratic. He has filled many of the township offices with credit to him- self. He is a member of the Latter-Day Saints church, and is a respected and worthy citizen of the county. fHOMAS A. KAVANAGH, Justice p of the Peace, Panama, Iowa, is among the leading young business men of the county. His residence in the village of Pan- ama began May 26, 1885, when he estab- lished a harness and saddler's business there. He sold this business and stock April 18, 1889, to Burdick & Company, but he intends remaining in the county and studying law. He was born in Carlton County, Ontario, March 26, 1863, and is the son of Walter and Mary (Larkin) Kavanagh. They were the parents of eight children — Peter, John, Wal- ter, Matthew (deceased), Joseph, Patrick, Thomas A. and Michael. Walter Kavanagh, Sr., and wife were both natives of Canada. Mr. Kavanagh is still living in Canada at the age of sixty-four years; he has followed the occupation of farming all his life. His wife was born December 24, 1827, and died Feb- ruary 17, 1875. She was of Irish ancestry, and Mr. Kavanagh is of English and Irish extraction. Thomas A. Kavanagh has been a member of the town council since the organization of Panama. He is a staunch advocate of the principles of the Democratic party; he has usually attended the State, con- gressional and county conventions of his 618 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. party. He was elected justice of the peace of Washington Township in November, 1888, by a large majority. He is a member of the Roman Catholic church. I ' l ' ^ ' l jOBERT PORTER, one of the prominent and extensive fanners of Monroe Town- ship, is au early settler in the neighbor- hood. He was born in Essex, England, May 19, 1832, and is a son of James and Susan (Malyan) Porter. He was reared to the life of a farmer, remaining in England until he was twenty-two years of age; he then emi- grated to America, hoping to better his fort- unes in the new world. He left England in a sailing vessel June 12, 1854, and after a voyage of forty-two days landed in New York City. The vessel Mr. Porter sailed on was the Robert Peel. From New York he proceeded at once to Iowa, and crossed the Mississippi River to Davenport as the sun was going down on the last day of July, 1854. Thence he went to Cedar County, Iowa, his total wealth amounting to $10 when he had completed his journey. He worked by the month for a time, and later rented land; he then bouglit eighty acres which he farmed for nine years and then sold. A few years after Robert Porter came to America the other members of the family followed him. The father died within five or six weeks after his arrival. The mother is still living at Le Mars, Iowa, at the advanced age of eighty years. She makes her home with her daughter Agnes E. Werling. The other members of the family are William Porter, residing in Shelby County; George Porter, residing in Pottawattamie County; Benjamin Porter, residing in Wayne County, Nebraska; Tiiomas Porter, residing in Guth- rie County, Iowa, and Mary Yule, residing in Cedar County, Iowa. Wlien Robert Porter came to Shelby County one of his brothers came with him. In 1876 they bought 560 acres of wild land; later he bought his brother's interest, and now owns 560 acres of as good land as can be found in Shelby County. He has a fine, two-story residence, built in modern style, situated in the center of a beautiful lawn, ornamented with ever- greens and shrubs. He has one of the best barns in Shelby County, built upon a stone foundation in a very substantial style. It is well arranged for the care and comfort of live-stock. Mr. Porter is engaged in general farming and stock-raising, making a specialty of Galloway cattle. March 20, 1864, occurred the marriage of Robert Porter and Mrs. Mary Churchill, widow of W. L. Churchill, and daughter of Joseph and Eliza (Green) Bum- garner. She was born in Knox County, Indiana, and at the age of seven years her parents came to Iowa. Six children have been born of this marriage — James R., Eliza A., Frank, John G., Nettie M. and Florence M. Mr. Porter affiliates with the Republican party. He is one of the m orthy and respected citizens of Monroe Township. Mrs. Porter has one son by her first marriage — W. H. Churchill — residing in Wayne County, Ne- braska. ILLIAM BAIRD lives on section 13, Monroe Township, and is well known l*=§iTl as one of the successful farmers of Shelby County. He was born in Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa, April 24, 1853, and is a son of John Baird, one of the early settlers of Clay Township. His early youth was spent in his native county, and at the age of eighteen years he came with his father to Clay Township, and assisted him in improv- ing the old home farm. Mr. Baird was mar- ^^^^u^-£zaZ^ .^^X-^^^^^ BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 621 ried January 1, 1873, to Miss C. Alinira Chase, a native of the State of New York, and a daughter of George W. Chase, who now resides in Audubon County. After his marriage Mr. Baird lived for a short time in Audubon County. In 1883 he came to his present farm, which he has since made his home. He, in company with his brother George F. Baird, has 140 acres under cultiva- tion, the balance being in pasture and meadow. He has a good house, and the nec- essary buildings for stock and grain. He has planted a grove and an orchard. Mr. and Mrs. Baird are the parents of three chil- dren — Rosa, Ada and Arta. In political thought and action Mr. Baird stands with tlie Republican party. By honest and up- right dealing he has won the confidence and esteem of his neighbors and acquaintances. I ' M^ ' l fT. BUSS, a successful and enterprising farmer in Monroe Township, has been ' a resident of Shelby County, Iowa, since 1880. He was born in La Fayette County, Wisconsin, July 16, 1855, and is a son of Daniel and Mary Ann (Jones) Buss, natives of England, but for many years residents of La Fayette County, Wisconsin. J. T. Buss grew to manhood in his native county. He was reared to the occupation of a farmer, and obtained his education in the common schools. He was married November 13, 1879, to Miss Elizabeth Perry, a native of Grant County, Wisconsin, and a daughter of George and Elizabeth (Griffith) Perry, natives of Wales. When Mr. Buss came to Shelby County he settled on 240 acres of wild land, which he placed under cultivation. He devotes himself exclusively to farming and stock-raising. Po- litically he affiliates with the Republican party. He is in the prime of life, is of a cordial and frank disposition, and is strictly honorable in business. Mr. and Mrs. Buss had born to them three children — Ilattie, Sarah Ann and Martha. S ' ^"t * S" * " — fAMES ADAMSON, deceased, was one of the early settlers of Washington Township. He was a native of Eng- land, and was born December 1, 1856. His parents are David and Jennette (McCuen) Adamson, who had eight other children Elizabeth, David, William, Alexander, Jessie (deceased), Jennie, Isabel, and Mary (de- ceased). The father and mother are botli natives of Scotland. They came to America in 1860, and have lived in several difi'erent States and large cities, where Mr. Adamson worked at his trade, that of a machinist. James Adamson remained with his father until he was nineteen years old, workinu' on the farm and attending school. He then rented land and began life for himself. After renting for six years he purchased 120 acres in Washington Township; in 1884 he bought eighty acres more, making 200 acres in all, which he has brought to a fine state of culti- vation. Mr. Adamson was united in marriage December 25,1878, to Miss Sarah J. Roundy, the daughter of Washington and Alvira (Will- iams) Roundy. She is a native of Siielby County, and was born April 25, 1855. Mr. Adamson carried on general farming, giving especial attention to raising of live-stock. His political convictions were voiced by tlie Democratic party. He served four years as township treasurer, and was filling the office at the time of his death. He had also served as school director. He was public-spirited and contributed liberally to all enterprises tending to advance the standing of the com- munity. His death occurred April 8, 1889, «-'2 HIHTORY OP SHELBY COUNTY. after an illness of only five days. He leaves a wife and four children to mourn his loss, and a vacancy in the community that cannot easily be tilled. Mr. and Mrs. Adamson's children are — Myrtle A., born October 28, 1879; Edmond W. and Eldred N., twins, born February 2, 1883; and William G., born February 10, 1887. ' t - l x l - t '-'- ,LMA M. NEWiJERRY has been iden- tified with the history of Shelby County, Iowa, since 1875. He was born in Lee County, Iowa, December 25, 184G, and is a son of James and Elizabeth (Haskins) New- berry, who were the parents of six children — Joseph II., Heber, Mary Elizabeth (deceased), Jolana, Daniel (deceased), and Alma M., the subject of this sketch. Elizabeth Newberry, the motlier of A. M., was liorn in Locke, Cayuga County, New Yoik, March 9, 1815, and died February 28, 1855. James New- berry was born May 29, 1791, in Warwick, Orange County, New York, and died July 19, 1880. He was married to his first wife, Mary Smith, August 24, 1811, and there were ten children born to them — Jane, John S. (deceased), Abraham B., James W., Sally Ann, Hannah Maria, Harriet, Lecty Louisa, Esther and Patty. Mr. Newberry was mar- ried to Sible Pulsipher, but no children were born to tliem. She died January 6, 1870. He was married to his second wife, and sepa- rated from her, and little of her history is known. His last wife is now living in Har- rison County, Iowa. Mr. Newberry settled at Traders' Point in 1847, and in Kanesville in 1848, and was residing there when the city of Council Bluft's was laid out. He was a member of the old Latter-Day Saints church, and was all through the Mormon war. He was taken prisoner with Joseph Smith and others. Alma M. Newberry re- mained under the parental roof until he was twelve years old and at that early age began supporting himself. He worked a greater part of the time, until he was twenty-one years old, on a farm; and then he began renting laud, and continued this until 1875. He then bought forty acres in Shelby County, and has since made additions to it until he now owns 240 acres, all in an advanced state of cultivation. He devotes considerable time to the raising of live-stock, shipping one car- load of hogs annually, besides fattening some cattle. He owns a store building in Panama, lot 2, block 11. Mr. and Mrs. Newberry are members of the Latter-Day Saints church. Mrs. Newberry was a Miss Philena S. White, a daughter of Valentine and Martha Ann (Trout) White, and she and Mr. Newberry were united in marriage May 22, 1884. She was born in Sandwich, DeKalb County, Illi- nois, August 29, 1864. They are the parents of two children — James Vernon, born July 10, 1885, and Paul Alma, born December 10, 1887. Mr. Newberry affiliates with the Demo- cratic party. He has served as road super- visor for three terms, also as constable for one term. "^'■ i;, ' S »« S ' g "'»--' fHEODORE SONTAG, of Cass Town- ship, Shelby County, adopted America, as his country in 1872, in which year he emigrated from France. He was born in Loraine, France, June 24, 1850, and is a son of Matthias and Margaret Sontag. Until his fifteenth year he attended the public schools of his native country, and acquired a good education. After leaving school he engaged in farming, and continued this occupation until he was twenty-two years of age. Mr. Sontag has also had a taste of military life, BIOQRAPHWAL SKETCHES. 623 having served eleven months in the Fianco- Pnissian war, in the vicinity of Paris. In 1872 he sailed for New York, and immedi- ately upon his arrival proceeded to Keokuk County, Iowa, and made his home there until 1878; he then came to Shelby County, and bought eighty acres of wild land. He was very prosperous in all his undertakings, and now owns 240 acres of good farm land. It is well improved with buildings, a grove and an orchard, all showing industry and thrift. Mr. Sontag was married March 4, 1878, to Miss Mary Korth, a daughter of Jacob Koith, Sr., of Portsmouth; her native State is Wis- consin, but she was reared and educated in Keokuk County, Iowa. They are the parents of five children — Mary Margaret, Matthias Peter, John, Joseph, and Anna Catherine. Mr. Sontag is a leading Democrat of his township. He is a member of the Roman Catholic church, and is counted one of the reliable citizens of Cass Township. g^ILLIAM PETERS, of Washington 'iWl'k'nk Township, was born in the Emerald Isle, March 13, 1839, and is the son of Peter and Betty (Moorhead) Peters, both of whom died in Ireland; they were the parents of ten children — John M., James, William, Agnes, wife of A. D. Tomb; Jane, wife of Robert Enert; Thomas, David, Peter, Patrick, Catherine, wife of Robert McKeever. Mr. Peters left his native soil and sailed for America in 1857. He first settled in Illinois, and there learned the brick-mason's trade. He worked at this until the breaking out of the war, when he went to defend the Hag of his adopted country. He enlisted in Com- pany C, One Hundred and Fourth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, August 27, 18G2, and served until July 28, 18G5, when he was discharged in Chicago. He took part in the following engagements — Mission Ridge, Chickamauga, Peach Tree Creek, and about Atlanta. He got a furlough to go home for election in 1864. Mr. Peters worked at his trade for three years in Montana in connec- tion with mining. In 1880 he was married to Miss Myra Tomb, a daughter of John and Frances (Shaw) Tomb. She is a native of Pennsylvania, and was born in 1843. Mr. Peters resided in Harrison County, Iowa, a few years, and eight years ago he returned to Illinois, but remained there only seven years. He then came to Shelby County and com- menced improving his farm. He is erecting a frame house that will cost him about $1,200. He affiliates with the Republican party, and is a member of the Masonic lodge and chap- ter. Mrs. Peters is a member of the Presby- terian church. li^ARL KEEHNER, farmer and stock- raiser, of Washington Township, Shelby County, is an American only by adop- tion, having been born in Baden, Germany, December 1, 1848. He is a son of Karl and Sophia (Keensman) Keehner, being the oldest of four children, names as follows — Karl, the subject of this biography; Mary, the wife of Jacob Veest, residing in i5aden, Germany; Catherine, the widow of Christian Miller, a resident of Baden, and Jacob, residing in America. Karl Keehner came to America in 1865, and remained in New York City one winter, working at the harness-maker's trade. The following summer he worked at the carpenter's trade and then came to Fayette County, Iowa, working by the month on a farm for three and a half years. In the spring of 1871 he came from Fayette County to Shelby County, and for si.x years he worked by the 634 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. month; he then rented land for one year, dur- ing that time boarding with N. J. Roundy. After renting one year he bonglit eighty acres of wild land which he improved and has since made his home. August 23, 1877, Mr. Keeliner was married to Miss Mary Kemer, a native of Iowa, born in the year 1860. The result of this union is five children — Victor, Cora, Frederick, Bessie and Effie. Mr. Keeh- ner built a small house at a cost of §100, which furnished a shelter for ten years; he then built a larger one at a cost of $1,200, which makes a very comfortable home. Mr. Keehner now owns 360 acres of laud. lie carries on general farming and stock-raising, fattening about 150 hogs annually, and from one to two car-loads of cattle. He is inclined to the principles of the Democratic party, and has served his township as road supervisor, and as school director. Mr. Keehner's parents remained in Germany; his fatiier died at the age of forty-nine years, and his mother sur- vives at age of sixty-five years. ^I ' T ' g fHOMAS BROOMIIALL, farmer and jjipj^ stock-raiser of Monroe Township,Shelby County, is a native of the Hoosier State. He was born at Noblesville, Hamilton County Indiana, December 1, 1843, and is a son of James and Sarah (Smith) Brooinhall, natives of Pennsylvania and North Carolina respect- ively. The parents were married in Indiana, and Thomas was nine years old when they removed to Des Moines County, Iowa; there they were among the first settlers, and made that their home for five years. They then moved to Clark County, Missouri, and resided there until the breaking out of the war, when tliey returned to Iowa and settled in Jasper County. The father lived tliere tlie balance of his days, and the mother died in Shelby County April 25, 1886. Thomas Broomhall received very few educational advantages during his youth, but by study at home he has acquired a good practical education, and is a well-informed man. During the late Re- bellion he enlisted in August, 1862, at the call for 300,000 men, serving in the Ninth Iowa Cavalry, Company L. He was in the western army, and when he went out the regiment numbered 1,200 strong. In one year it was cut down to 700. Mr. Broomhall was honorably discharged February 3, 1866, at Little Rock, and finally discharged Febru- ary 14:, 1866, at Davenport, Iowa. He then returned to Jasper County, Iowa, and engaged in farming. May 17, 1874, occurred the marriage of Mr. Broomhall to Miss Maria Hitcliler, a native of Jasper County, Iowa, and a daughter of William and Nancy (Miller) Hitchler. In 1877 they came to Shelby County and settled in Lincoln Township, and in 1883 came to their present farm, which is well improved. Mr. and Mrs. Broomhall are the parents of three children — Allie Leota, Charles William and Birdie Logan. Mr. Broomhall affiliates witli the Republican party. He has served as justice of the peace three terms with credit to himself and the satisfaction of the public. He and his family are among the worthy and estimable people of Monroe Township. l - h ^ l - l J. JOHNSON, M. D., was one of the first settlers of Shelby County, ' Iowa, and lived there until his death, which occurred May 1, 1872. He was born in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, September 22, 1798, and was a son of John Johnson. He was reared and educated in his native State, and studied medicine under Dr. Mowry, a prominent and well-known phy- BIOORA PUICA /, S KETCHES. 625 sician of tliose times, residing at Wheeling, Virginia. Some time later Dr. Jolinson re- moved to Pickaway County, Ohio, locating at Bloomfield. He was married in Scioto County, Oliio, October 3, 1837, to Miss Mary Thompson, a daughter of James and Susanna (Malone) Thompson. After their marriage they lived in Pickaway County, at Wiiliamsport, where the Doctor engaged in tiie practice of his profession for nine years. In 1848 they started to Iowa with two horses, a wagon, and some household goods; they were on the way seven weeks, camping out at night, excepting iive nights when it rained. They settled in Louisa County, and remained there until -1852, when they came to Shelby County, being among the very first settlers. They arrived at Cuppy's Grove October 15, 1852. They built a rude log cabin which at the end of one year was burned to tlie ground, with the most of its contents. A few neigh- bors came to the assistance of the Doctor, and another cabin was erected in one day. Atone time when her husband was ill, Mrs. Johnson took her rifle, she was a good shot, and killed a deer. Game, potatoes, and corn-meal were the only articles of food, and hospitality was dispensed with a liberal hand at tiie log cabin of Dr. and Mrs. Johnson. W. J. Johnson was one of the first physicians in tiie county, and many early settlers are indebted to him for both life and health. He improved a good farm of IGO acres, which is now owned by his widow. The place is well improved, having a good residence, and barn, and being under a high state of cultivation. Dr. and Mrs. Johnson were the parents of seven cliil- dren — John, who was killed in his twenty- third year; Bradford, who served in the late war; Sarah liodgers, Mary W., Witherton, James E., and Lucinda Morris. Tiie widow of Dr. Johnson was married September 22, 1888, to Isaac F. Allen. No wqman in «o Shelby County has seen more of pioneer life than Mrs. Allen. She is a pleasant talker, and loves to tell of those early days. Ill »! ? ■ | l l { ■ ?! ■■ <■> HOMAS COOK, deceased, late of Cass Township, Shelby County, Iowa, was a well-known and highly respected citizen. He was born in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, May 20, 1830, and is a son of Jesse and Anna (White) Cook. Jesse Cook was born February 15, 1800, and Anna Cook was born October 15, 1800. Anthony Cook came from England with William Penn; his son, John Cook, was the father of Jesse Cook, who was the father of Thomas Cook, the sub- ject of this sketch. The Cooks were the first to discover coal in that part of Pennsylvania, and all were prominent in the coal raining of that region. The mines were known as the Cook vein of coal, which was discovered by John Cook when he was digging for a rab- bit. Thomas Cook was married in Pennsyl- vania in November, 1851, to Miss Mary Alloway, who was born in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, November 8, 1829. She was the daughter of Jonatiian and Elizabeth (An- derson) Alloway. They reared two children — Maggie Hopton, of Portsmouth, and John A. Cook. Thomas Cook improved eighty acres of land, upon whicli he lived until his death. In politics he was inclined to the principles of the Republican party. He was a member of the 1. O. O. F., Lodge No. 579, of Broad Top, Pennsylvania, and joinetj the lodge at Shelby in 1876. He was a chief patriot of the order. He represented his lodge at Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, at the session of the State grand lodge; he also rep- resented the grand lodge at the centennial in Philadelphia in 1876. He represented the Slielby Lodge at Des Moines and Cedar Rap- 620 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. ids, Iowa. Thomas Cook departed this life November 21, 1887; his wife died May 15, 1886. She was a member of the Church of God. John A. Cook, an active citizen of Cass Township, was born at Broad Top, Penn- sylvania, July 24, 1857. He was reared in his birthplace, and received a good education at the Fulton Institute. He assisted his father in the coal business for some time, and came west when the family came to Shelby County. He spent one season in Wyoming Territory, near Fort Laramie, at which time he was in the employ of G. H. and J. F. Collins. At one time he was in the employ of W. F. Cleveland, in Shelby. He was married February 14, 1882, to Miss Nettie Horton, a daughter of David and Susan (Wishart) Horton. Siie was born in Pennsylvania, May 1, 1861, and spent a part of.lier girlhood in the place of her birth. On coming to Iowa her parents settled in Lucas County. Mr. and Mrs. Cook are the parents of three children living — Jesse W., Ora M. and Harry Ernest. Clare Chester died at the age of si.x months. Mr. Cook has unusual ability as a musician. He is a member of Rink's cornet band, and at the age of thirteen years was the leader of the Broad Top band. In politics he is Kepublican. He is a man well informed upon general topics, of a ge- nial disposition, and worthy the regard in which he is held. S ' '"t ' l iAYID DEEN, a farmer of Monroe Township, has been identified with the interests of Shelby County since 1875. He was born in McLean County, Illinois, August 14, 1836, and is the son of Benjamin and Sophrona (Fordice) Dean, natives of the State of Ohio. He was brought up in Mc- Lean County, being trained to the occupation ofafarmer,and attending thecommon schools. When he was sixteen years old the family re- moved to Johnson County, Iowa. Tiiere he grew to manhood, and February 26, 1857, he was married to Miss Hannah M. Pitt, a native of Burlington, Iowa, and a daughter of Samuel and Hannah M. (Kensell) Pitt, natives of Pennsylvania. In the late Rebellion Mr. Deen enlisted in the Twenty-second Iowa Volunteer Infantry, but was soon discharged on account of disability. Qn coming to Shelby County in 1875 he located on 160 acres of wild land, which he has placed under good cultivation. He has erected good buildings on the place, and has planted a grove and an orchard of three acres. Mr. and Mrs. Deen are the parents of six children — William, re- siding in Jackson Township; Ben F., at home; Samuel P., living on section 12, Monroe Township; Emary S., Fred C. and Verna E., at home. Mr. Deen is a Republican and a mem- ber of the United Workmen. He is strictly honorable in business, and is highly esteemed by all who know him. M. .i ? . 3 ii ; . ^ i. •- lONSTAND LEINEN, a farmer of Cass Township, has been identified with the history of Shelby County since 1875. He was born in Germany, September 25, 1847, and is a son of Matthias and Anna Mary (Buch) Leinen. Pie was a lad of eight years when his parents left their native soil to try their fortunes in the new world. After their arrival in America they came to Iowa, and settled in Keokuk County; there Con- stand grew to manhood, passing his youth in much the same fashion as other farmers' sons. He acquired a good education in the public schools of Keokuk County. Novem- ber 3, 1870, he was married in Keokuk County, Iowa, to Miss Gertrude Korth,daugh- C/^^i^?5»^iJ^.»^2^<^O^r^ BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 620 ter of Jacob Korth, Sr., of Portsmouth. She was born in Germany, April 5, 1852, and when slie was three months old her parents removed to Dane County, Wisconsin, and when ten years old removed to Keokuk County, Iowa; there she grew to womanhood and received her education. When Mr. Leinen came to the county of Shelby he in- vested in eighty acres of wild land; he was very successful in his business, and to day owns 280 acres of well-improved land. He has a substantial dwelling house, a commodi- ous barn with a brick basement, and cribs for grain. He has planted a grove and an orchard, and made his place one of the best in the county. He raises large quantities of grain, and fattens a number of cattle and hogs annually. Mr. and Mrs. Leinen are the parents of six children — Matthias, Constance, Jacob, Josephine, Mary and Gertrude. The family are members of the Roman Catholic church. Mr. Leinen is one of the staunch Democrats of Cass Township. He is a man of intelligence, is well informed upon general topics, and one of the solid men of the county. jHILLIP ARMENTROUT, of Jackson Township, is one of the prominent and successful farmers of Shelby County. He was born in Richland County, Ohio, Feb- ruary 28, 1847, and is a son of Jacob and Mary (Hammond) Armentront, natives of Rockingham County, Virginia. Phillip was a babe twelve months old when his parents removed to Kosciusko County, Indiana, where tliey lived five years. Li 1853 the family came to Cedar County, Iowa, being among the first settlers. There Phillip grew to man- hood, receiving the training of a frontier farmer's son, and the education afforded by the common schools. In 1872 he came to Shelby County, and located at Correction Grove, in Clay Township, with his brother George, who had come to the county in the fall of 1871. In 1877 Mr. Armentrout set- tled on his present farm, being one of the first settlers in that part of tlie county. His land was wild and unimproved, but years of labor have developed it into one of the best in Jackson Township; it contains 280 acres, and is well watered by strong, pure springs. There is a comfortable dwelling, situated in the midst of a beautiful grove of seven acres of maples, a fine orchard, a good barn, and all the mocJern conveniences for farming and stock-raising. Mr. Armentrout keeps large numbers of cattle, horses and swine of the best breeds. In the year 1876, December 28, the subject of this sketch was united in mar- riage to Miss Alice Ross, of Shelby Connty, a daughter of H. W. Ross, of Leroy Town- ship, Audubon County. By this union five sons have been born — Alonzo E., William Otho, Eldoris, Ralph Ellis, and Robert. Mr. Armentrout is a strong adherent to the prin- ciples of the Democratic party. He has served as township trustee and as a member of the school board. He is a member of the Farmers' Alliance, and is one of the sub- stantial and reliable men of the county. ?ACOB ARMENTROUT, the father of Philip Armentrout, was born June 18, 1800, in Rockingham County, Virginia. His father died when he was four years of age, but his motlier and brothers assisted him to gain a fair education. In the month of Aug- ust, 1820, he moved with his brother to Richland Countj', Ohio, and after a short so- journ there to Knox County, Ohio, where he served a three years' apprenticeship to a cabi- net-maker; he then returned to Richland 6:W niSTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. » County, and worked at liis trade for some time, and returned to Virginia. After a short time he went back to Ohio, and worked at his trade, bat not feeling satisfied he again returned to the State of his nativity, and there on April 17, 1825, he was married to Mary Ilammen, of Kockingham County. In the fall of 1826 they emigrated to Ohio and settled in Newville, where he plied his trade, held the office of jnstice of the peace for nine years, and that of postmaster for six years. After a residence of sixteen years in Newville, he purchased a farm two miles west of the place, on wliich he lived seven years, when he sold out and went to Kosci- usko County, Indiana; there he bought a farm which he cultivated live years, when he emigrated to Iowa in 1853 and bought a farm on which he passed the remainder ot his days. He held the office of justice of the peace in Cedar County for eight years. Jacob Armentrout's father, being the eldest of the family, under the old colonial laws in- herited the entire estate of his father, but he divided equally with his brothers and sisters. He left a wife, five sons and seven daughters to mourn his loss. He was highly esteemed by all who knew him, being gentlemanly, courteous, and oWiging to a fault. g - i >' t ' | »»> W. ALLOWAY is a well-known, en- terprising and successful agriculturist i* of Cass Township. He was born in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, Novem- ber 23, 1835, and is a son of Jonathan and Elizabeth (Anderson) Alloway, natives of Pennsylvania. He was reared in his native State, dividing his time between farm work and attending school. In 1855 the family removed to Johnson County, Iowa, and the parents remained there until death. G. W. Alloway was jnarried in Johnson County, April 13, 1862, to Miss Caroline Doner, a native of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, and a daughter of Daniel and Carrie (Gay- men) Doner, who were also natives of the State of Pennsylvania. Mr. Alloway lived in Johnson County until 1873, when he came to Cass County, Iowa, and made that his residence two years. At the expiration of that time he bought his present farm of 100 acres, which was wild prairie land. He has since devoted himself to the improvement and cultivation of this place, and the results have been very gratifying. He has a com- fortable residence, surrounded by a fine grove, an orchard of three acres, a barn, and cribs for grain. He is engaged in general farming and stock-raising. Mr. and Mrs. Alloway have two children — Mary Lizzie, wife of Fred Gill, residing near Portsmouth, and George W. Mr. Alloway votes the Republican ticket. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., Canopy Lodge, of Shelby. He and his wife are mem- bers of the Chui'ch of God. They are highly esteemed, and are among the most respected citizens of Cass Township. iATTHIAS LEINEN is one of the leading German citizens of Cass Township. He has been identified with the interests of Shelby County since 1870, and has done his share toward its de- velopment. He was born in Germany, No- vember 3, 1849, and is a son of Matthias Leinen, a resident of Cass Township. Mat- thias, Jr., was a cliild of six years when his parents emigrated to America, and settled in Keokuk County, Iowa. There he grew to manhood, and received a fair education in the public schools. November 25, 1874, he was married to Miss Anna Hammes, a native of BIOORAPHICAL SKETCHES. G31 Germany, who came to America and settled in Iowa at the age of eigliteen years. She is a daughter of Michael Hainines, who died in Keokuk County, Iowa. Three of her broth- ers live in Cass Township — John, Frank and Mike Hammes. As before stated, our sub- ject came to Cass Township in 1876, and set- tled on eighty acres of land. He has been prosperous and now owns 200 acres of well- improved land; 120 acres lie in section 23, and eighty acres in section 22. He has a fine dwelling house, a good barn, a grove and an orchard, and is well equipped for carrying on farming. His farm is situated two miles east of Portsmouth, and is one of the best in the neighborhood. Mr. and Mrs. Leinen are the parents of six children — Mary, Anna, Michael, Maggie, Peter and Susan. The family are members of the Roman Catholic church, and are among the worthy citizens of the township. Politically Mr. Leinen affiliates with tlie Democratic party. ^ENRY W. CRAIG, deceased, was born in New Jersey in 1824. Pie was mar- ried in Iowa Count}', Wisconsin, in 1846, to Miss Esther Landford, a native of Kuox County, Ohio, and a daughter of leaac L. and Sarah (Elwell) Landford. The father was a native of Virginia, and the mother was born in Maryland. Mrs. Craig was a girl twelve years of age when the family removed to Edgar County, Illinois; the father died in Illinois, and then the mother and children removed to La Fayette County, AVisconsin. During the great civil war Henry W. Oraig enlisted in 1862, in the Twentieth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, Company C. Ue died of disease contracted when he was capsiijed in the Gulf of Mexico, December 23, 1863, leaving a wife and children to mourn his loss. Mrs. Craig lived in Grant County, Wisconsin, until 1874, when she removed to Shelby County, hoping to better her circumstances and give her children greater opportunities for doing for themselves. She bought a farm of 160 acres, and with the assistance of her children she has placed it under good cultivation, and has made many other valuable improvements. There are five children in Mrs. Craig's family — Henry Ben., of Jeftierson Township; Mary S., wife of William Loomis, of Grant County, Wisconsin; EmmaJane,wifeof George Ayers, of Shelby Township; A. W., John A., of Shelby County. Two children died — Lorinda Sabrina, aged seven years, and Sarah Ann, aged nine months. Mrs. Esther Craig is a consistent member of the Methodist Episco- ])al church. A. W. Craig affiliates with the Republican party, and is a member of the United Workmen. BNER COPELAND, a farmer of Cass Township, Shelby County, was born in Sangamon County, Illinois, July 24, 1880. He is a son of William and Sarah (Lucas) Copeland. The father was a native of North Carolina, and when a young man removed to Greene County, Ohio, where he met and married Sarah Lucas. In 1820 they removed to Sangamon County, Illinois, and lived there until death. Abner Copelaud was reared on a farm in his native county, and received the usual training in agri- cultural pursuits bestowed upoh a farmer's son. His education was obtained iu the pio- neer schools of that time. In December, 1853, he was married to Malinda Hurks, who was boru in Logan County, Illinois. The re- sult of this union was one cliilil — Mary Malinda Ann, the wife of J. F. Haird, a well-known citizen of Cass Township. Mrs. 633 HISTORY OF SHELBY COUNTY. Sarah Copeland died in 1854. Mr. Copeland was married to liis second wife March 7, 1857. She was Mary (Lucas) Buckles, a native of Logan County, Illinois. By this union six children were born, two of whom survive — Angeline Jane and Elias A. Mr. Copeland came to Cass Township in 1870, and bought wild land, which he improved and made his home for five years; he then sold it and re- turned to Illinois, and remained there two years. In 1877 he came back to Cass Town- ship and purchased 160 acres of land. He now owns 314 acres, all well improved. He has a comfortable residence, good barns, an orchard, and all the conveniences for carrying on a farm. Mr. Copeland supports the Demo- cratic party. He has served his township as trustee and as a member of the school board. He is a member of the Christian church, and is one of the highly respected citizens of Cass Township. J. CURTIS, a successful agriculturist of Monroe Township, has been a resi- li® dentof Shelby County since 1881. He was born in Rock Island County, Illinois, M^rch 17, 1858, and is a son of Wellington and Eliza (Bows) Curtis. The father was born in the State of New York, and is one of the early settlers of Rock Island County. The mother was born in Ireland, and was brought to Rock Island County when a child. Welling- ton Curtis and wife had nine children, of whom R. J. was the third. He was reared to the occupation of a farmer, and received his edu- cation in the common schools of Rock Island County, Illinois. In 1881 Mr. Curtis came to Shelby County and settled on eighty acres of land in section 14, which he sold in 1885, when he bought his present farm of J. H. Philips, who had broken it out. Mr. Curtis has put the other improvements on the place, and has made a very desirable farm. He has built a story and a half frame residence, barns, sheds and cribs; he has also planted a grove and an orchard. On October 8, 1844, Mr. Curtis was united in marriage to Miss Ida M. Smith, a daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Lambert) Smith. The father was born in Ohio, and the mother in Indiana; both were brought to the State of Iowa in childhood. They are the parents of eight children, of whom Ida M. is the oldest. She was born in Dallas County, Iowa, July 25, 1862, and re- ceived a good education, partly in the Adel High School. She is an accomplished mu- sician, and has made a profession of teaching music since 1879. Siie has been a resident of Shelby County since 1874. Mr. and Mrs. Curtis are members of the Christian church of Harlan. In politics he inclines to the prin- ciples of the Republican party. They are in the prime of life, and have won an enviable position in the community in which they live. — ■ "^^ • 3 »' t ' ^" '" ^UMPHREY G. NICHOLS, a prominent pioneer of Lincoln Township, was born in New York State, Essex County, Jan- uary 30, 1832. He is a son of Aaron and Eleanor (Cole) Nichols, both New England- ers by birth. Humphrey G. was a babe when his parents went to Orleans County, Vermont, where he grew to manhood and received his education. Mr. Nichols was united in mar- riage October 29, 1854, to Miss Caroline Hanson, a native of New Hampshire, and a daughter of Jei'emiah and Eunice (Furnel) Hanson, also natives of New Hampshire. In 1856 Mr. and Mrs. Nichols emigrated to Iowa, settling in Chickasaw County, where they lived one winter. They then went to Floyd County, where they bought land, and lived for three BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 633 years; their next residence was in Winnebago County, Iowa, where they remained one year. Tliey then went to Decatur County, Iowa, and from this place to Polk County, where Mr. Nichols worked at farming and in a saw-mill. They then came to Shelby County, Iowa, Mr. Nichols driving a yoke of steers and a yoke of cows, and Mrs. Nichols driving the other cattle and sheep behind the wagon. They were the first to settle in Lincoln Township, there being only two or three houses built at that time, the fall of 1865. Mr. Nichols has a well-improved farm of 160 acres, a comfort- able house, a barn, a grove and an orchard, all showing the thrift and prosperity of the owner. He and his wife are the parents of three children — Annette, wife of Isaac Par- sons, of Audubon County; Julia, wife of Stephen Parsons, of Audubon County; and Leaphey, wife of Uriah Parsons, of Audubon County; they lost one child by death. Our subject casts his political suffrage with the Kepublican party. He bears his years lightly, is plain of speech and manner, and is num- bered with the reliable men of the county. J. CALDWELL, one of the best known of Jackson Township's intelligent and * active farmers, has been a resident of Shelby County since 1865. He was born in Hancock County, Indiana, July 23, 1837, and is a son of Elijah and Nancy (Wilson) Cald- well, natives of Tennessee and Kentucky respectively. The father was brought to Kentucky when a babe by his parents. After his marriage Mr. Caldwell and his wife set- tled in Hancock County, Indiana, where T. J. was reared to the occupation of a farmer, and educated in the common schools. At the early age of seventeen years he was seized with the desire to see the west, and in 1854 he came alone to Iowa and settled in Jasper County, where he remained until 1859; he then removed to Polk County, Iowa, and made that his home for one year. In 1861 he de- termined to see the western coast of this country, and started with a team and wagon, his wife and three children, to California; he was four months on the road. His wife died in Eldorado County, California, leaving three young children. Mr. Caldwell engaged in freighting for some time, and then returned to Iowa. In 1864 he was married to his present wife, who was Miss Lucinda Carmine, of Mahaska County. In 1865, as before stated, he came to Shelby County and settled three miles northeast of Harlan; there he built a log-cabin, in which hospitality was never lacking. He bought and improved a farm of 300 acres, which he sold in 1883, and removed to Jackson Township; there he pur- chased a farm of 356 acres, which he has placed under good cultivation. He has a fine residence, built in modern style, and well furnished; it is pleasantly situated in the midst of shade and ornamental trees, and is a very attractive home. He has buildings for the protection and care of live-stock, and all the modern conveniences for stock-raising. By his first marriage Mr. Caldwell had three children — Elijah, William H. and Sarah Ida. By his second marriage three children were born — Charles, John and Edward. Mr. Cald- well is the pioneer stock-shipper of Shelby County, having shipped the first stock from Avcica, and also from Harlan. He is one of the best judges of live-stock in the county. The first Baptist church of the county was organized in Mr. Caldwell's log cabin, Mrs. Caldwell being one of the active members. She is a member of the Baptist church at Bow- man's Grove. Mr. Caldwell is in the prime of life, has traveled extensively, is genial in his manners, and has many friends among the citizens of Jackson Township. HISTORY OF Audubon County, Iowa, CHAPTER I. INTRODUCTORY. JHEY have moved awaj out into west- ern Iowa," is a phrase which does not now carry with it the meaning it did, when BO commonly spoken, a quarter of a cent- ury ago, when the hopeful and adventurous pioneer had left his older home in some one of the thickly settled eastern States, and taken a " claim " in western Iowa, which was then but little less than a desolate prairie- land and wilderness. At that date no net- work of railways, providing a royal highway over which the iron-hearted, steaming monster could speed his rapid way by day and by night, year in and year out, had been pro- jected. The prairie sod was then unturned; the rivers and creeks were then nnbridged, and almost impassable roads were the rule^ everywhere. Ox and mule trains, en route for Pike's Peak and California, had for a few years passed through this section and specu- lated, while camped along some one of its many beautiful little creeks, upon the future of this charming domain, which the pioneers have chosen to call Audubon County. But vague, very vague, indeed, was their compre- hension of the richness of the soil and the wealth they were leaving behind when they passed on toward the setting sun, in search of homes and happiness. A few brave sons of toil had the hardi- hood to face the privations incident to front- ier life, and come on in advance of railroads, high culture and fancy styles ! They brought no better title to the lands they claimed than that they were numbered among American citizens, which had already come to mean much to him who sought to build for himself a home with naught save hard days' work. " They came, they saw, they conquered," and soon the ear of civilized life caught the in- spiration and wended its way on to this goodly country, where men at once grew healthy and wealthy. The settlers multiplied; the soil produced far more than these first settlers could consume, and it was not long before capitalists saw money could be no better ex- pended than in giving an outlet for the annu- ally increasing crops, by the construction of systems of railroads. So it may be said that southwestern Iowa is marked by two special eras — one the first settlement and the other the advent of the railroads. It is the pur- pose of this work to trace out the historic events from the date of the first settlers, on 638 HISTOBY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. - down throngh the railroad era, noticing the advancement on all hands, from the tirststep to the present day — in brief, to survey tiie original, primitive wilderness, and the same domain after having been transformed into a garden spot, assuring the reader the contrast is, indeed, marked. The first thing to be taken into account is how this section of Iowa was left, when given over to man by the kind- ness of a wise Creator. We now come to speak of the GEOLOGY, TOPOGRAPHY AND GENERAL FEATURES. The Post-tertiary formations everywhere occupy the surface, burying completely from view the older geological formations. The drift deposits are but imperfectly known, appearing only here and there at frequent in- tervals from beneath the more recent bluff formations. The drift, however, is so deeply covered by the blufif deposits that it has no influence in modifying the soil, even in the valleys. The soil could not be more fertile, except so rendered by artificial means. Ce- reals and corn are peculiarly adapted to the soil of this region, whose fineness and depth afford a very thorough under drainage and at the same time it is retentive of sufficient moisture, even in unusually dry seasons, to insure at least a medium crop. From the summit of the great " divide," in the northern part of the county, a inagnili- cent panorama of the surrounding country is commanded. In the west, southwest and south the eye scans the distant horizon which is bounded by a lofty prairie barrier, envel- oped in the uncertain shimmering haze of a summer day, and seeming like a vast rim bounding the further outline of an immense shallow basin, whose middle portion is occu- pied by gracefully undulating prairie swells which rise and fall, one beyond the other, until distance blends the whole mass into lines of light and shadow. When one com- mands a view like the above, outstretched over a radius of thirty or forty miles, embrac- ing a region, every acre of which is the finest arable land in the world, for the first time he gains an intelligent impression and a just ap- preciation of the grandeur of these undulating, treeless plains. The county is fairly esti- mated to contain 1,600 acres of timber. Hamlin's Grove and the forest near the vil- lage of Exira are the largest in extent of sur- face. Along the larger streams, narrow belts of timber occur at intervals, and upon the upland slopes, considerable areas are occupied by growths of burr and red oak. The general surface is quite rolling, yet it is seldom injured for agricultural purposes by " washing." It is entirely free from ponds or sloughs. The East JSishnabotna Kiver rises in Carroll County, and flows southward through Audubon County, making a wide valley of unsurpassed fertility, that rises in gentle slopes from the bed of the stream to the upland prairies, which stretch away in graceful swells. The valleys of the smaller streams present the same features, while the high prairie land between these streams is, indeed, beautiful. The soil in the valley is a dark loam, mixed with a productive sand, while the " divides " are composed of a blnfiT deposit. Besides the East IMishnabotna Kiver, which is the main stream of the county, may be mentioned its branches — David's Creek, Troublesome Creek, Crooked Creek, Buck Creek, Little Indian Creek, in the southern and eastern part of the county, and the " East Branch " of West Nishnabotna River, In- dian Creek, Bull Run and Bine Grass Creek, all of which are in the western part of Au- dubon County and flow toward the si)uth and west, into Shelby County. Every township is drained with running water of the best and purest quality. nisTonr of audubon countt. 039 CHAPTER II. EARLY SETTLEMENT AND ORGANIZATION. I ARLY in 1851 iive men, named Nathan- iel Hamlin, James Hamlin, Samitel Ogden, William Powell and David Ed- gerton, left Mahaska County, Iowa, to seek homes in the western part of the State. Hav- ing heard of the tronble among the Mormons at Council Bluffs they first made that an ob- jective point, but upon their arrival were not pleased with the appearance of the country; lience they made an extended tour up the Missouri Kiver, prospecting in several of the western counties of the State; but still being unable to find a desirable location they turned their faces eastward again, and came as far back as what is now known as Troublesome Creek, in Audubon County, at a point a few miles above its junction with the East Nisli- nabotna River, where they remained several days, quite well pleased with the country. They followed the stream up to section 35, township 78, range 35, west, and there camped for the night. The following morn- ing (the latter part of the month of March, 1851), Natiianiel Hamlin staked off his pres- ent valuable farm, through which Trouble- some Creek meanders. The first stake driven for this purpose was the first blow toward the actual settlement of Audubon County. Mr. Hamlin resolved here to make his home — his fortune — and here to remain the re- mainder of his days. There was not a white settler within twenty miles of the place; he hastened home and made preparations for moving. He took his oldest daughter, ten years of age, and left his family behind; and with a monstrous Pennsylvania wagon, drawn by seven yoke of cattle, and a breaking plow and accouterments, he started for his new home among the wolves and deer wliich then ran in packs and herds of scores and fifties. The spring was forward for this latitude. In March the new grass had grown several inches, and a large herd of deer, almost as tame as sheep, grazed on the bottom lands where now stands the district school-house. On the 6th day of May Mr. Hamlin and Iiis daughter reached their destination, accompa- nied by a young man named John Hoggard and his sister Elizabeth Ann, who took a claim a half mile north of Hamlin's; also Arthur Decker, who claimed a tract in Big Grove, near the place where Louisville was afterward platted. Upon entering the county the pioneer party had to halt on account of high water of the Middle River. Logs were cut and a bridge constructed, over which they crossed. This was beyond question the first bridge ever built by a white man in this sec- tion of the country. Notwithstandinor the year 1851 was the rainiest (np to the middle of June) ever known in the State, Mr. Ham- lin set about the erection of a rude half- hewed log cabin, and when this was accom- plished started his breaking team, consisting of seven yoke of oxen, and began to turn a twenty-four inch furrow with a rod plow, the 640 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY.^ first soil ever overturned for agricultural pur- poses within Audubon County. By July 1 he had succeeded in breaking forty-two acres, all of which was planted to " sod com." Seven acres of this virgin soil was sowed to buckwheat among the corn, besides a large amount of turnips — three crops, all planted on the same land. Cultivation was unnec- essary, as weeds never flourish on newly broken land. So when autumn came Mr. Hamlin cut up the sod corn, and carried it from the field, then cut his buckwheat, which proved a very excellent crop, both as to quantity and to quality. Then, after the gathering-in of two bountiful harvests from the same field, he pulled an abundant crop of the finest turnips ever grown in Iowa. The potatoes which grew underneath the sod turned that year were so pressed down by the heavy covering of sod that when they wei-e ready to dig it was found that they were excellent in quality and size, but were all flattened, presenting a very curious sight. May and June were extremely wet, so that the streams were away out of their natural banks. It was for this reason that the Uni- ted States surveyors, who at that time were running the township lines, named one of the worst streams Troublesome Creek. The prairie-breaking season having ended, and his crop being planted, the pioneer Ham- lin yoked his teams, and started back for the remainder of his family. Preparations were speedily made upon his return, and soon the luiwe " prairie schooner " received its cargo and passengers, and with prow directed toward the setting sun, hove into port on the 13th day of September, and the weary found home and comfort. The season had been very favorable, and a bountiful crop was in waitin" to bless the first husbandman's labors. The following year (1852) brought with it its blessings. The mail route from Fort Des Moines was established through to Coun- cil Bluffs by the way of " Hamlin's Grove," thus turning all the Pike's Peak and Pacific coast travel to the very door-yard of the first settler in Audubon County. The mail serv- ice soon established a postofiice at Mr. Ham- lin's place, making him postmaster. His first commission was from Zach Taylor, Presi- dent of the United States. He served until after the election of Abraham Lincoln. Much connected with the early settlement of the county will be found in the biographical sketclies of pioneers, especially of " Natty " Hamlin, as he is so commonly called. From the most reliable source we herewith publish a list of names of those who settled within the limits of the county prior to 1861, without regard to their location; each name will be of interest to some one: N. Hamlin, J. S. Johnson, Ruben Carpenter, William Carpenter, J. M. Donald, James Donald, W. H. H. Bowen, George Cannon, M. Sharfi", Mark Heath, Milton Heath, A. Heath, Miles Beers, P. I. Whitted, Samuel Hockman, James Poor, Avery Belcher, Lyman Jordan, R. A. Oliphant, Hiram Beck, Joseph Kirk, I. Hal- lock, Sr., N. Wiggins, George Sharp, L. B. Montgomery, Charles Wiggins, Bradley Beers, D. Barlow, Daniel Crane, John Crane, J. W. Dodge, B. G. Dodge, Samuel Smith, D. L. Anderson, B. Milliman, A. B. Houston, Rich- ard Gault, Edson Herrick, Erbane Herrick, A. J. Leflingwell, H. F. Lefiingweli, William Leffingwell, Curtis Herrick, Charles Chapin, Frank Burnham, H. J. Green, William Hol- craft, William Walker, I. V. D. Lewis, T. S. Lewis, R. M. Lewis, W. F. Ballard, Dr. S. M. Ballard, J. M. Hubbard, Lou Arnold, Jona- than Decker, I. S. Thomas, R. C. Meek, L. Early, A. Cooper, J. R. Thacker, Frank Hobbs, Lyman Bush, J. Hammer, William Norton, John S. Jenkins, Wallace Pearl, Josh. Pearl, William Tringle, Alvan Herrick HISTOliY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. 641 J. A. Hallock, I. p. Hallock, Jr., Samuel Johnson, B. Sylvester, Palmer Rodgers, Henry Kinkade, John Williams, Oliver Smith, David Beers, William Stone, George Colder, John Colder, James Hewlett, Samuel Howlett, William Howlett, William Nelson, Charles Van Garder, Colbert Strahl, J. S. Jobs, Will- iam Pangburn, George Dunbar, John Beers, William Wiggins, Samuel Smith (English Smith), Washington Bartlett, Lee Bartlett, John Patterson, R. S. Hallock, Thomas Rodg- ers, Benjamin Hiatt, William Hardy, G. N. Jones, J. M. Donald, David Edgerton, Jacob Sifford, Norman Archer, Ace Workman, Peter Barlow, "Judge" Benedict, Z. A. Phelps, James Pixley, John McConnell, Coit Herrick, Henry Myers, Charles Kemp, Thomas Rowland, J. C. Brown, John Van Houghton, "Tip" Herrick, E. Herrick, J. D. Herrick, Orleans Jones, Thomas Hire, John Mont- gomery, Levi Montgomery, George Mont- gomery, William Thompson, Ralph Eddy, E. Birge, James Birge, S. PL Perry, William Bush, W. P. Hamlin, Samuel Hopkins, John Countryman, Chancy Ward, Ruben Kenyon, Messrs. Wilkins, Perkins and Kemp, Steven Deborde, William Powell, S. L. Day, Alvin Decker, A. M. Graves, O. Outtout, Thomas Truman, James Mounts and Robert Stans- berry. This makes a total of 126 actual set- tlers, who were old enough to cast a vote, living in Audubon County prior to the Re- bellion. Thefirst men to settle in the north part of the county were men named Gage and Wilkinson, who settled on section 36, township 79, range 34, west, in what is now Greeley Township. Their settlement dates from the spring of 1852. The next to try his lot in the unde- veloped wilds of the county was Joseph Will- iams, who located on the northeast quarter of section 1, township 81, range 34, west. This was in 1859; be remained about two years, during which time he and the family almost starved. He then moved to Oregon Territory. FIEST EVENTS. The tirst actual settler in Audubon County was Nathaniel Hamlin, who first came to the county in March, 1851, staked out his claim, returned to eastern Iowa and brought one daughter back with him in April. The en- tire family came September 10, 1851. The first deed placed on record in Audubon County was a conveyance of thirty-five acres of land by Samuel B. Hopkins to John S. Jenkins, for the consideration of $100. This land was a part of the southeast quarter of section 17, township 78, range 35, west. This instrument, it seems from the record of deeds "A," was given August 16, 1854, and ac- knowledged before V. M. Conrad, a justice of the peace. It was filed for record May 22, 1855, but was not actually placed on record until August 8, 1855. This delay was not occasioned by the press of business, but simply neglect. The first village platted within the county was Dayton, tiie same being executed July 9, 1855. The first birth was that of a child born to Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Decker, some time early in December, 1851. The motlier died in childbirth, and was the first one to die in Audubon County of which there is any record. It will be remembered that nothintr could be obtained in way of lumber, furni- ture, etc., at that date in these parts, and so when this pioneer woman's death was an- nounced, the three or four men outside of the Decker household met together and planned for a coffin and the burial of tlie un- fortunate woman. Finally Nathaniel Ham- lin, James Kinkade and John S. Jenkins made a coSin (such as it was) out of bass wood puncheon, which they split from a green 642 niSTORT OF AUDUBON COUNTY. tree they felled, and in this rude box they placed the deceased. They also served as the funeral cortege and pall-bearers, carrying the rough slab-like casket to a point just north of the place where Daniel Miller's house now stands; here it was deposited in the earth; but many years ago its resting place was mo- lested by the sharp plowshare. Mr. Decker left the county soon after his companion's death — hence the uncared for grave of the first person who died within the county. The first birth of a child who now lives in the county was that of Mrs. Martha Jane (Hamlin) Calp. Siie was born September 6, 1852, and was the second person born in the county. The first marriage in Audubon County was tliat of George L. Kellogg to Susannah Kingon, April 16, 1856, Urbane Herrick officiating. The first log house was raised by N. Ham- lin, the first settler, in the early spring of 1851, on section 35, township 78, and range 35, west. It was sixteen feet square. The first frame house was built by John Countryman and afterward sold to D. Glass- gow. The first frame barn was raised for B. Milliman, July, 1857. The first mill in the county was the one erected by Green, Chapin and Hobbs, at Louisville, in the summer of 1856; it was a combined flour and saw mill, operated by steam-power. The first Fourth of July celebration was held in 1856, on one of the highest elevations of ground in the county, and at a point about two miles northwest of N. Hamlin's residence. Itwasthebeginningof the Buchanan-Fremont presidential campaign, and a liberty-pole was erected from which floated the "Stars and Stripes." The flag hung there for souie time after- ward and was seen at great distances by the emigrants, who slowly wended their way westward. It may here be stated that there were but few Fremont men in these parts — all voted for James Buchanan and good old Democracy. This pioneer celebration was not a grand afiTair, yet it showed a disposition to keep in remembrance the day of National Independence. The only music upon this occasion was that furnished by Mrs. Dr. Tres- cott with her old-fashioned melodeon. Anvils were fired, but the speeches were " short and sweet." However, a good time was had by all, as a barbecue was held, consisting of roasted animals and game, such as the new county then abounded in. The first county fair was held on section 15, township 78, range 35, in 1859, and one of the laughable features was the putting of a yoke of oxen in harness belonging to a span of horses present. The ox team was then " trotted " about the ring, which was but an imaginary track. The first newspaper was issued in Decem- ber, 1860, and called the Audubon County IHonecr. (See Press Chapter.) The first school-house was a log building erected in 1857 by JSI. Hamlin and D. M. Harris, who furnished the only scholars for the pioneer school — nine pupils was the largest enrollment ! Miss Ellen ]SIt)rthgrave, who became the wife of Albert "Wakefield, was the first to teach; she received $16 per month. This was not a free-school, but the private enterprise of Messrs. Hamlin and Harris. The first religious services in the county were conducted in the Hamlin Grove log school-house, by the Methodist people, about 1858. The first church edifice was the Congrega- tional church at Exira, built in 1870. The first postoffice was established in 1852 at the residence of N. Hamlin, who was the HISTORT OP AUDUBON COUNTY. 643 first postmaster. He lield the same nine years, until the Republican party came into power and President Abraham Lincoln re- moved him for party reasons, it is said. The stages at that time left Des Moines and Council Bluffs each Monday morning and met at " Uncle Natty Hamlin's" on Wednesday of each week. Tlie first man to work at the blacksmithing business was (aside from Mr. Hamlin, who at that day was master of all trades as a mat- ter of necessity !) Charles Marsh, who in company with Hamlin run a blacksmith shop in 1855-'56. They mined their own coal in Guthrie County, at Bear Grove. Their principal business was sharpening plowshares fop the newcomers. The first shoemaker was John S. Johnson, who came in 1856. The first regular harness-maker was D. E. Soar, who located at Exira in 1870. The first goods were sold by N. Hamlin, who hauled the stock, from time to time, from Council Bluffs and Des Moines. His children (now married folksj will remember the times, as they used to count on getting a liberal supply of candy and sweetmeats upon th? arrival of a new stock of goods ! Soon after this Mr. Hamlin, in company with H. Beck, opened a general store at the newly laid out town of " Audubon City " — now defunct. Among the earliest attorneys were D M. Harris (county judge) and D. S. Andrews. The first court was held by Judge Sears at HainliTi's log school-house, in November, 1855. The jury had to retire to the grove, close to the school-house, and there decide the case, according to " law and evidence," of course. The grand jury of that first term of court found only one true bill, and that was against Thomas S. Lewis for the illegal sale of liquor — prohibition even at an early day! The oflicors of this court were: E. H. Sears, Judge; B. M. Hiatt, Sherifi" ; John W. Beers, Clerk. The following served as the first petit jurors: G. W. Taylor, Mark Heath, Hiram Perkins, James H. Donnell, William Walker, William Carpenter, George Wire, Iluben Kingon, B. Milliman, Robert Stansberry, James Mounts. The grand jury was as follows: David L. Anderson (foreman), Charles E. Marsh, W. H. H. Bowen, J. L. Frost, John Countryman, Ed. Gingerly, John Crane, John Seift'ord, Allen McDonnell, J. S. Johnson, N. Hamlin, J. S. Kirk, Richard M. Lewis. The first civil action was against a Meth- odist preacher, against whom judgment was obtained. The title of the case was " Blanchet S. Shacklett vs. Richard C. Meek." The first election in Audubon County, aftfT its real organization, was held April 7, 1855, at Hamlin's school-house. ORGANIZATION. Audubon County was organized by order of Judge Benedict, then of Cass County, in the spring of 1855, the first election being ordered and l>eld April 2, of that year. Its name is derived from the eminent naturalist, John James Audubon, who died the year in which this county was organized. Originally it was a part of Keokuk County, but in 1851 was organized as a se])arate county, and had, in addition to its present domain, the tier of townships to the eastward, now being a part of Guthrie County. In 1853 Audubon was attached to Cass County as one civil town- ship. After its real organization, in 1855, it still remained as one township until, by pe- tition to the board of supervisors (consisting of one member, as the law provided for one from each civil township), it was subdivided into three townships, June 3, 1862. These townships were named Audubon, E.xira and 644 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. * Oakfield. In 1873, at the April session of the board of supervisors, five more civil town- ships were created, viz. : Douglas, Greeley, Hamilton, Leroy and Viola. October 20, 1874, Cameron was created; September 7, 1874, Melville was created; September 6, 1875, Sharon was created; June 5, 1876, Lin- coln was created. The above sub-divisions constitute the present twelve civil townships of Audubon County, and each is a regular con- gressional square township, being numbered and described as follows: Audubon com- prises township 78, range 34: Cameron, township 81, range 35 ; Douglas, township 80, range 36; Exira, township 78, range 35; Greeley, township 79, range 34; Hamlin, township 79, range 35; Leroy, township 80, range 35; Lincoln, township 81, range 30; Melville, township 80, range 34; Oak- field, township 78, range 36; Sharon, town- ship 79, range 36; Viola, township 81, range 34. As now constituted, Audubon County is in the third tier of counties from the Mis- souri River, and the fourth from the south- ern line of the State. It contains an area of about 446 square miles, and is bounded on the north by Carroll County, on the east by Guthrie County, on the south by Cass County, and on the west by Shelby County. It is within townships 78, 79, 80 and 81, and in ranges 34, 35 and 36, west of the fifth P. M. UI8T0RT OF AUDUBON COUNTY. H4S CHAPTER III. COUNTY GOVERNMENT. jUDUBON County, which was estab- lished in 1851, attached to Cass County as one civil township in 1853, was finally organized a separate county in 1855. In May, 1855, the court of the judicial dis- trict in which Cass County was situated ap- pointed three gentlemen as a committee to locate a county seat for the newly made county of Audubon. This committee con- sisted of T. N. Johnson, of Adair County; T. Bryan, of Guthrie County, and C. E.Wood- ard of Cass County. The two last named qualified, and on June 20, the same year, made their report, which was approved, as havinf? established the county seat on the northwest quarter of section 22, township 78, range 35, and named such site " Day- ton." The first sale of lots was effected No- vember 22, D. M. Harris being county judge at the time. The first town lot was sold to J. L. Frost for 50 cents. The sale was ad- journed until June, 1856, when eighty-five lots were sold at prices ranging from $1.50 to $9 each. The first government of the county was under the old county judge system — the one- man power. The management of county affairs thus being left in the hands of a single officer, it became his duty to locate roads, levy taxes, build bridges, court-houses, jails, etc., and was amenable to no one except on the day of election! Notwithstanding this almost unlimited power and authority and the large amount of public money left at his disposal, we do not find that the trust was frequently betrayed. During the whole time such office existed in Iowa there were but two or three cases wherein the judge ever de- faulted. It is a remarkable fact that as a rule the county judges always were held in high esteem by tlie people and usually kept in such office for a long term of years. The gentleman first exalted to the honors and emoluments of this office, in Audubon County, was T. S. Lewis, who was elected in the spring of 1855, and served until the fall election, when D. M. Harris became county judge, serving two terms. To give the reader a more comprehensive view of the county we shall follow the history by years and terms of office, giving the various acts of county offi- cials. Thus in order for one to trace out any one given feature it will be well to read all that is said on " county government." For example, the matter relating to county-seat changes is not confined to any one year, but necessarily runs through a term of more than twenty years. It will be well to remember that the government of Audubon County is marked by two eras — first, the county judge system, and; secondly, the board of county supervisors system ; the latter dates from Jan- uary 1, 1861; all official acts of public policy prior to this date were the work and wisdom of the county judge. The first matter of much consequence Mr, EISTORT OF AUDUBON COUNTY." which came before His Honor D. M. Harris was that of calling an election for the pur- pose of determining whether the county seat should remain at Dayton or be removed to Exira, the same having been petitioned for by many citizens. So, at the general election held April 7, 1856, the question was sub- mitted, but did not carry; so the county seat of Audubon County was legally known as " Dayton " until April, 1861, when the propo- sition to remove to Exira carried by a small majority, and the seat of justice was removed. It may be stated, however, that Dayton was only in name, as the real county seat was at the residence of either the county judge or clerk wherever one could tind the '■'■Minute Book '-4' — Auduhoa County;" there one would find all the county seat there was prior to its establishment at Exira. The county judge's book shows that in 1858 the tax levy was: County tax, four mills; State tax, one and one-half mills; school tax, one and one-half mills; road tax, one mill; making a grand total of eight mills on a dollar of all taxable property. The bounty on wolf scalps was at that time $1.50, and the records show that large numbers were killed, of both prairie and timber wolves. The principal work of the county judge was the tax levy, settlement with the county treasurer, and taking care of road and bridge work, which was no small task. Following D. M. Harris came A. B. Houston as county judcre, serving from January 1, 1860, to Janu- ary 1, 186-i. In 1861, however, the county supervisor system relieved the judge of a large part of his work. The supervisor at- tended to all matters relative to the public welfare of the county, aside from regular probate court business, which was in the hands of the county judge until the creation of a State system of circuit courts in 1869, when the office of county judge was abolished entirely and the office of auditor instituted. This officer became clerk of the county board and attended to all the business in time of vacation. The first board of supervisors met the first Monday in January, 1861. It should be remembered that Audubon County con- sisted of only one civil township at this date, and as the law allowed but one supervisor from each civil township, this first board was made up of but one member — J. M. Hub- bard, whose duty it was duly to qualify him- self, and then qualify the clerk of the board, who was Richard Eault. Then it became his duty to have the clerk arrange ballots or slips of paper with the words "long term" and "short term" written on them, from which he was to draw, to determine lawfully whether his term of office as supervisor should be one or two years. This matter of form was gone throuffh with, and Hubbard drew the "short" term of office. Tlie first bill they were called upon to audit and order paid from the county funds was $20.84 to W. B. Felch, for boarding a jiauper named AV. L. Carter, for sixteen weeks, at $1.25 per week. The second meeting of this "body" was in the month of June, and held at the farm residence of the clerk, in Hamlin's Grove. The minutes of this session show the tax levy to have been : County tax, two and one-half mills; State tax, one and one-half mills; school tax, one and one-quarter mills. The following bills were presented and allowed : Mills & Co., fire-proof safe |135.00 " " slatiooery 7.00 W. J. Jordan, hauling safe from Des Moines. . 21.00 J. C. Norton, bounty on three wolf scalps 3.00 William Lefflngwell, bounty on three limber wolves 3.00 William Leffingwell, bounty on one swift scalp. 1.00 I. V. D. Lewis, for service as county assessor. . 97.50 In 1862 the board of supervisors consisted HIISTOBY OP AUDUBON COUNTY. fi47 of B. G. Dodge, Chairmau, and Richard Gault^ Clerk. Tlie principal business for this board to attend to at its tirst session seems to have been allowing bounty on the scalps of wild animals killed, and mending dilapidated bridges. The recorder of deeds that year re- ceived $116, while the county judge only re- ceived $100. In June the board met again and subdivided the county into three civil townships — Audubon, Elxira and Oaktield. This board also ordered a special election in June of that year, to submit to the tax-payers the question of ratification or rejection of the contract previously made with the American Emigrant Company. This election was held at Heneck's school-house, June 21, 1862. Kichard Gault, Clerk of the board, received for his services that year $230. The board of 1863 consisted of C. E. Frost, Chairman, and J. A. Hallock, Clerk. Among the acts of this board is found on the records, W. S. Carter (pauper) was "let to William Carpenter at $1.40 per week, with $3 appro- priation with which to purchase said Carter a hickory shirt and a pair of blue drilling pants." This brings to one's mind those dark days of the civil war, when cotton goods were very high. Think of $3 expended for a cot- ton shirt and pair of pants for a pauper to be clothed in during the fall and winter of 1863! The further work of the June session of the board of 1863 was to make the follow- ing classification for the use of the assessors: Prime wild land, per acre |2.25 Improved " " $ 4.00 to $10.00 Timber " " 5.00 to 15.00 Town lots in Exira 5.00 Work cattle, per head 40.00 to 60.00 Cows, " 6.00 to 12.00 Steers (tliree years old), per head 6.00 to 12.00 Bulls (all ages), " 10.00 to 1,5.00 Work horses, " 25.00 to 80.00 Mules, " 40.00 10 70.00 Sl'eep, " 3.00 to 5.00 Swine, per pound 1>^ cents In 1864 the board consisted of N. Hamlin, J. A. Pearl and B. G. Dodge, with J. A. Hal- lock as clerk. In 1865 the board was made up of two from the previous year and the newly elected member, A. I. Brainard. Numerous questions of public interest came up from time to time in the year 1866. The board consisted of I. V. D. Lewis, S. H. Perry and W. Bartlett. A. I. Brainard was clerk of the board. A petition of H. C. Smith and many others was presented asking to re- locate the county seat at Louisville. Also there came up a remonstrance, headed by John Crane. The remonstrance had more names than the petition, so no election was ordered to decide the matter. The board of 1867 consisted of I. V. D. Lewis, S. H. Perry and W. Bartlett. In 1868 W. Bartlett, Isaac Thomas and D. L. Anderson served, the last named beintr chairman. In 1869 Jacob Andrews, W. Bartlett and I. Thomas composed the board, with Mr. An- drews in the chair. During 1870 J. Andrews, J. A. Pearl and J. Thomas constituted the board, Mr. Pearl acting in the capacity of chairman. Mr. Andrews resigned before his year was out, and B. G. Dodge took his place by appoint- ment. In 1871 John T. Jenkins, J. W. Dodge and W. II. II. Bowen formed the board, with the last mentioned as chairman. The board of 1872 was John W. Dodge, W. II. II. Bowen and John Noon. During that year the board renewed a former con- tract with P. Gad Bryan and John M. Scott, by which they were to pay said i)arty $3,000, providing they, as attorneys, should succeed in getting clear title of lands once granted conditionally to the American Emigrant Company. During their January term the board decided to erect a court-hou.se. J. W. 648 BISTORT OF AUDUBON COUNTY. » Dodge, one of their number, drew plans and specifications, for which he received §17. He was also committeeman to go to Des Moines and procure counsel, which was to cost not over $500, regarding the setting aside of a certain injunction which had been placed against building the above named court-house. Messrs. Bowen and Dodge voted for this measure favoring the erection of a court-house, while Mr. Noon opposed it. At their September session the board had presented to them apetition asking for theloca- tion of the county seaton section 35, township 80, range 35, Mr. ^'oon voting against, and the other two members for the measure. A remonstrance was freely circulated to offset the above petition, which made it a compli- cated case. The board gave sufficient time for the peijple to sign both the former peti- tion as well as the remonstrance, and when counted out it appeared that there were 192 for and 200 ajjainst the measure. Still an- other petition to locate the court-house at the platted village of Hamlin was presented and lost — two members voting against, while Mr. Noon cast a vote for the measure. The board of 1873 consisted of J. W. Dodge, John Noon (chairman) and A. L. Sanborn. At their June session came up a petition for locating the county-seat at Ham- lin again, notice of same having been pub- lished in the AuJuhon County Defender, published at Exira. Attached to this peti- tion were 23(5 names, which asked that tiie question be submitted to the voters of the county at the fall election of that year. The petition was honored, and the election or- dered. During this somewhat stormy ses- sion the " Hamlin Town Company " came before the board with an offer to erect suit- able court-house buildings at Hamlin, and lease the same for a nominal sum (free) for four years from January 1, 1874, providing the people saw fit to locate the seat of justice at that point. This proposition was signed by N. Hamlin, President, and Jolin W.Scott, Seci'etary, of the " Hamlin Town Company." The people at and near the village of Exira, not wishing to be deprived of the county seat, also came forward with a similar proposal, by authority of what was styled the " Exira Hall Company," which bonded themselves to the county in the amount of $5,000 to build and keep upsuitable county buildings free, so long as used for county-seat purposes. This was signed by Charles Van Gorder, A. B. Houston, John D. Bush, J. A. Hallock, P. I. Whitted and A. Campbell. This ofter was accepted, and for the time being the county-seat matter settled. In 1874 the board was composed of I. Thomas, John Noon and A. L. Sanborn. The county was involved badly, and so the board decided to bond the county for the sum of $10,000, which measure was carried out. The bonds were made payable on or before ten years. The same men served as supervisors in 1875 that had served in 1874. The board of 1876 was S. A. Miller, I. Thomas and John Noon. The record shows no important acts during the year 1876. The board of 1877, composed of S. A. Miller, James Davisand John Noon, had the usual routine work of adjusting claims and looking after the complications of road busi- ness. They made the Defender and Sen- tinel the official papers of the county. In 1878 the board was composed of John T. Jenkins, S. A. Miller and James Davis. In 1879 it was James Davis, S. A. Gra- ham and John T. Jenkins. During this year a petition, signed by 673 legal voters, was presented to the board, asking that the county seat be removed to Audubon, which ^ ad just been platted at the end of the Atlan- nisTonr of audubon county. 649 tic & Audubon brancli of the Rock Island Railway. Tlie number who signed such peti- tion were a majority of the voters within the county. The question was submitted at the October election that year and resulted as follows: Whole number of votes cast, 1,361, 841 being cast for removal to Audubon, and 620 against it. The citizens of the new town of Audubon had already bonded themselves to build as good buildings as those at Exira. The Rock Island Railway Company, however, had large landed interests around Audubon, so they built a large brick structure designed so that it could be converted into business houses or into a court-house, if desired. They finally donated a free lease of this build- ing to the county for fire years. After the county had accepted this proposition the next move was to proceed to the removal of the county effects — books, safes, etc. — from Exira to the new county home. The railroad company had taken deep interest in all these county-seat moves, and had donated to the county the present beautiful public square, but did not venture to erect the building they were about to give for the free use of the county, for fear it would not be able to remove the same from lands already deeded to the county, so it was erected just across the street east of the public square. When the day set for removing the books from Exira had arrived a special train was sent up from Atlantic, and large numbers of the citizens from the northern part of tlie county boarded the train and proceeded to Exira, where teams were in readiness to cart the effects of the county from the old iiall to the train. At the election which finally settled the county-seat contest in favor of Audubon, much " bad blood " was manifest, the south part of the county charging the nortii por- tion with illegal voting. So hot was this contest that men from Exira were present at the polls all day, for the purpose of chal- lenging votes. These men, many of them, carried well-loadod revolvers, but the event passed off without the use of them. However, many hot words were shot pro and con throughout the day. While there perhaps were some questionable votes cast at Atidu- bon, yet the majority being 221 votes, the popular vote of legal citizens must have been in favor of Audubon. In 1880 the board consisted of J. T. Jen- kins (chairman), S. A. Graham and W. E. Hensley. In 1881 it was S. A. Graham (chairman), W. E. Hensley, B. F. Jenkins. In 1882 the board consisted of W. E. Hensley (chairman), S. A. Graham and B. F. Jenkins. During their term of office it de- volved upon them to provide a jail, and after the usual routine of election business and formality, the vote standing about 200 major- ity for, the contract was let to P. McKinley. The structure is a two-story brick house, with iron cells in the rear, the front and upper portion being used for the sherifTs residence. The total cost of the building and cells was $6,927. Among other acts of the above board was the leasing of the lot upon which was built the engine house to the city of Audubon, said lease being for five years. Before his term of office had expired B. F. Jenkins died and his seat was filled by J. P. Hallock, who was selected by virtue of the law, making it the duty of the county clerk, recorder and auditor to fill such vacancies. The board of 1883 was J. P. Hallock, S. A. Graham and William E. Hensley. During their administration the proposition to bond the county for $30,000, witli which to build a new court-Iiouse, was submitted to the people at the general flection, said bonds I to be payable in five and ten years, by the 650 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. \ewy of a three-mill annual tax. This measure, however, was defeated. The board for 1884 was S. A. Graham, W. E. Ilensley and T. J. Essington. This was somewhat of an eventful year for Audu- bon County, owing to the fact tliat this part of Iowa was visited on August 7 by a terrible cyclone and hail-storni, which ruined much of the growing crops of the farmers. These unfortunate farmers sought some relief at the hands of the board, whom they asked to remit their taxes; but after well considering the matter they decided it would be outside of their duty as well as bad policy — one which might cause an almost endless complication and set an example for future years. The same year came up the question of voting a one-mill tax for a term of live years, for the purpose of accepting the liberal offer of the Rock Island Railroad to convey to the county the building before named and in which the county offices were then located. The com- pany asked §7,000 for this property, and the vote proved that the people considered it a safe investment. It was in this manner that Audubon County finally secured her own court-house, which is a two-story brick build- ing, 44x100 feet. The lower story is subdi- vided into rooms for the various county offices, while the upjier floor serves as a court-room, and lias for years been used as a public hall, opera house, etc. The board of 1885 consisted of W. E. Hensley, S. P. Baker and T. J. Essington. In 1886 it was T. J. Essington, George McCain and S. P. Baker. In 1887 it was S. P. Baker, George McCain and Jasper Jensen. It was during this year that the questionof purchasing land for poor- farm purposes came up, and was finally set- tled by a vote; a majority of 363 decided land should be bought at once. The tax for such purchase was two mills per dollar. Accord- ingly a 200-acre tract was bought of Michael O'Donnell, on sections 33 and 84 of Leroy Township, and within one mile and a half of Audubon, in a southwesterly direction. The board of supervisors could not have selected a finer location or obtained better land. A natural grove containing thirty acres gives a beautiful site for the poor-house buildings which are to be built the present season. The farm-house already on the place, together with barns, etc., which the county has built, is sufficient to accommodate all the unfortu- nate poor, and the farm was more than self- sustaining the first year. It cost the county $35 per acre, or $7,000, the same being a wise investment, for the two simple reasons that paupers can be kept cheaper in this manner, and also there are many persons who have hitherto drawn some support from the county fund who dislike to be sent to the poor farm — hence the number is greatly lessened who apply for aid. For the first superintendent over this place, the services of Y. A. Walkup were secured; he is now on his second term. His report shows, and is corroborated by the appearance of the farm, that he is the right man in the right place. The board of 1888 was constituted by Jasper Jensen (chairman), A. F. Armstrong and Samuel Minser. >"#^h^^ HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. 651 CHAPTER IV. ELECTION RETURNS -COUNTY, STATE AND NATIONAL. liiiJIIE first election in Audubon County was lield at the house of John S. Jin- kins, April 2, 1855 .and resulted in electing the following officers: Thomas S. Lewis, County Judge; John W. Beers, Clerk of the District Court; Miles Beers, Treasurer and Recorder; David L. Adkins, Prosecut- ing Attorney; Benjamin M. Hiatt, Sheriff; Kobert Stansberry, Coroner; John W. Beers, County Surveyor; Urbane Herrick and Carlos E. Frost, Justices of Peace; W. W. Bowen, Road Supervisor and Assessor. The whole county was, at this time, in ©ne civil town- ship, hence the election of the above ofScers. At an election held in August, 1855, Daniel M. Harris was elected County Judge; Nathaniel Hamlin, Treaeurer and Recorder; Benjamin JVI. Hiatt, Sheriff; P. I. Whitted, Surveyor; he also received the appointment from the county judge as swamp land commissioner. The following has been taken from the county records and will serve to show who have held various offices in Audubon County since 1856, as well as how the county vote stood in the election of President of the • United States and Governor of Iowa. FOR PRESrOENT OF THE UNITED STATES. 1856 — James Buchanan (Democrat) 56 John ('. Fremont (Republican) 29 1860— Stephen A. Douglas (Democrat) 84 Abraham Lincoln (Uepublican) 13 1864— George B. McClelland (Democrat) 61 Abraham Lincoln (Republican) 33 1868— U. S. Grant (Republican) 114 Horatio Seymour (Democrat) 118 1872— U. S. Grant (Republican) 184 Horace Greeley (Liberal-Dem.) 146 1876— Rutherford B. Hayes (Republicau) 426 Samuel J. Tilden (Democrat) 353 1880 — James A. Garfield (Republican) 963 W. S. Hancock (Democrat) 637 1884 — James G. Blaine (Republican) 1,224 Qrover B. Cleveland (Democrat) 1,216 1888 — Benjamin Harrison (Republican) 1,366 Grover B. Cleveland (Democrat) 1,210 FOR GOVERNOR OF IOWA. 1857— R. P. Lowe (Republican) 37 George Gellespy (Democrat) 42 1859— A. C. Dodge (Democrat) S. J. Kirkwood (Republican) 1861— W. M. Stone (Republican) 19 (Democrat) 69 1863 — Samuel J. Kirkwood (Republican) 23 J. M. Tuttle (Democrat) 74 1865 — Samuel J. Kirkwood, (Republican) 70 T. H. Burton (Democrat) 85 1867 — Samuel Merrill (Republican) 80 Cbaijes Mason (Democrat) 92 1869— Samuel Merrill (Republican) 114 George Gellespy (Democrat) 118 1871— J. C. Knapp (Democrat) 177 C. C. Carpenter (Republican) 155 1873— C. C. Carpenter (Republican) 209 Jacob G. Vail (Democrat) 289 1875— S. J. Kirkwood (Republican) 313 Sheppard Leffler (Democrat) 275 1877— J. H. Gear (Republican) 410 J. P. Irish (Democrat) 352 D. B. Stubbs (Greenback) 26 1879— J. H. Gear (Republican) 812 H. H. Trumble (Democrat) 652 Daniel Campbell (Greenback) 11 652 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. 1881— Bureau R. Sherman (Republican) 855 L. G. Kinnie (Democrat) 562 D. M. Clark (Greenback) 61 1883— B. U. Sherman (Republican) 1,137 L. G. Kinnie (Democrat) 89S John B. Weaver (Greenback) 117 1885— William Larrabee (Republican) 1,069 Charles E. Whiting (Democrat) 1,152 1887— William Larrabee (Republican) 1,096 T. J. Anderson (Democrat) 935 M. J. Cain (Fusion) 178 COONTY JUDGE. 1855 — Thomas E. Lewis 1855— Daniel M. Harris 1859— A. B. Houston 1861— A. B. Houston 1863—1. P. Hallock 1865 — J. S. Jenkins 1867— Amherst Heath 1868— B. F. Andrews 1869— A. J. Brainard COUNTY AUDITOR. 1869— John W. Scott 107 A. J. Brainard Il9 W. F. Stotts 172 1871— Herbert S. Wattels 157 1873— H. S. Wattels 297 S.A.Graham 198 1875— Thomas Walker 334 H.S. Wattels 186 1877— Thomas Walker 403 J. F. McAuinch 382 1879— Thomas Walker 855 J. M. Bryan 626 1881— W. P. Stotts 841 W. J. Lancelot 621 1883— W. F. Stotts 1,046 E. B. Cousins 1,038 J. C. F. Wicker .^ 72 1885— John H. Rendleman, .' .... 1,230 Thomas Walker 908 J. C. F. Wicker (Union Labor) 84 1887— John H. Rendleman : 1,181 W. A. Stowell 866 COUNTY TBEASDREB. 1855— Nathaniel Hamlin 1857— Nathaniel Hamlin 48 E. W. Pearl 4) 1859— Nathaniel Hamlin 1861 — Nathaniel Hamlin 1803— C. E. Frost 1865— A. B. Houston 1867— A. B. Houston 99 Charles Van Gorder '. 73 1869— Charles Van Gorder 119 A. B. Houston 108 1871— Charles Vaa Gorder '. 176 A. L Brainard 156 1873— W. F. Stotts 287 H. Ransford 202 1875— W. F. Stotts 424 B. F. Miller 167 1877— D. W. Harris 414 E. J. Freeman 368 1879 -D. W. Harris 763 J. L. Stotts 708 1881— E. J. Freeman 736 J. M. Bryan 681 J. Bonwell 41 1883— E. J. Freeman l,ioi John R. Rudge 1,004 J. H. Giler 50 1885— W. F. Stotts 1,153 Ed. B. Cousins 975 H. S. Wetherell 93 1887— John B. Doak 1,133 G. L. Jones . . . 904 COUNTY RECOEDEE. This office was with that of tlie Treasurer and styled "Comity Treasurer and Recorder," until 1864, when a separate office was created. Those having served are as follows: 1864— John Ofane 1866— D. Andrews 78 Isaac Jinkins 69 Frank Stotts 103 1808- H. F. Andrews 96 A. Campbell 125 1870— J. P. Davis 105 1873— E. H. Kimball 181 A. L. Campbell 171 1874— John S. Toft 361 W.H. Fowler 13 1870- J. M. Crocker 406 J. S. Toft 368 1878— J. M. Crocker 476 L.J. Hilton 266 J. S. Toft 131 1880— S. P. Rhodes 899 John H. Bell 72B 1882— S. P. Rhodes 1,117 E. A. Armstrong 278 1884— Otto Witthoner 1,179 W. R. Neff 1,140 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. 653 1886— A. L. Wever 1,079 OttoWitthoner 1,048 1888— A. L. Wever 1,578 Elias Fiscus 1,015 CLERK OP THE DISTRICT COURT. 1855— Jolm W. Beers 1856— Franklin Burnbam 1858- Franklin Burnbam 1860— Richara Gault 1863— J. A. Hallock 1864— George W. Cannon 1866— A. I. Brainard 1868— J. W. Scott 103 John Crane 08 1870— H. Ransford 136 A. B. Houston 97 1873— Thomas Walker 343 Samuel Majors 113 1874— A. L. Campbell 337 B. F. Thacker 153 1876— A. L. Campbell ; 438 D. W. Harris 348 1878- B. F. Thacker 436 F. P. Bradley 439 1880— Frank H. Bradley t<37 H.H.Green 831 1883— F. P. Bradley 931 H. H. Green 843 H. S. Witherell 99 1884— R. J. Hunter 1,381 H. P. Moore 1,079 J. C.F. Wicker 77 1886— Charles Vail 1,076 R. J. Hunter 1,048 1888— Charles Vail 1,565 C. A. Marlin 1,037 SCHOOL SDPBKINTENDENT. 1858 — L. B. Slontgomery 1860— Robert N. Day 1863— Robert N. Day 18()4— Robert N. Day 1865— B. G. Dodge 1867— B. 6. Dodge 84 David Beers 117 1869— B. G. Dodge 113 1871— John Hunter 183 Mrs. Jennie McCowen 13G 1873— H. G. Smith 043 J. A. Hallock 100 1875— B. F, Thacker 34O E. E. Majors 243 1877 — A. K. Brainard 4O5 B F. Thacker 373 1879— R. M. Carpenter 797 R. W. Hanna 683 1881— R. M. Carpenter 884 M. A. Mills 579 1883— C. F. Willcutt ],327 R. M. Carpenter 873 1885— C. F. Willcutt 1,076 Mrs. Ada Funk 403 Jno. M. Cotton 663 1887— C. F. Willcutt I,l;i9 W. H. Brinkerhoff 910 COUNTY SDRVEYOn. 1855— John W. Beers 1855-6— P. I. Whitted 1857— P. I. Whitted 49 J. W. Beers yy 1859— P. I. Whitted 1861— P. I. Whitted 1863— P. I. Whitted 1865— P. I. Whitted 1867— P. I. Whitted 91 J. L. Frost 74 1869— P. I. Whitted 133 Charles Andrews 103 1871— P. I. Whitted 177 James D. Gage 157 1873— P. I. Whitted 356 D. P. McGill 321 1875— R. T. Smart 275 P. I. Whitted 124 E. J. Freeman 118 1877— L. C. Frost 403 William Milliman 395 1879— H. 8. Wattles ....'. 773 William Milliman 687 1881— H. S. Wattles 753 Elias Fiscus 684 1883— L. C. Frost i,094 P. Bruce Moore 907 J. A. Botts 93 1885— H. S. Wattles ],o«7 R. T. Smart 151 1887— J. M. Hill 1,080 P. I. Whitted 981 SHERIFF. 1855 — Benjamin M. Hiatt 1856 — Charles L. Chapin 39 J. W. Beers 34 1857— Charles L. Chapia 69 R. M. Lewis 20 18.59— U. Uerrick 1861— U. Herrick 1863— E. W. Pearl 1866 — Isaac Thomas 77 Andrew Leilingwell (Lefllngwell served). 77 654 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. 18G7— John Huntley 88 B.L.Anderson 80 1869— S. R. Thomas 98 C. Strahl 80 1871— J. B. Conrardy 1873— J. B. Conrardy 219 S. P. Zike 203 1875— J. L. Stotts 380 F. J. Shrauger 136 1877— J. L. Stotts 416 John Huntley 365 1879— H. B. Herbert 538 William Mallory 483 G.W.Bailey 451 1881— H. B. Herbert 757 J. R. Rudge 721 1883— H. B, Herbert 1,187 W.J. Walker 909 John Huntley 43 1885— William Mallory 1,102 H. B. Herbert 1,057 H. B. Owen 60 1887— A. B. Stanfield 902 William Mallony 1,149 OTHEK COUNTY OFFICES. From the organization of tiie county until about 1870 there was what was known as the "drainage commissioners," wliose business, principally, was to look after the swamp lands of the county. At one time it was an office of some considerate importance. The first to act in such capacity in Audubon County was P. I. Whitted, who received his appointment from the county judge, D. M. Harris, who in those early days was in fact chief ruler over all! Among others who held the office of drainage commissioner may be mentioned W. H. Green, in 1861. For the first few years of Audubon County's history, it being embraced within one civil township and the settlers few in number, one man, known as county assessor, did all the assessing. '^. W. Bowen was elected first county assessor, as well as road supervisor, holding both offices at the same time. In 1861, it is found by the records, I. Y. D. Lewis was county assessor, and re- ceived for his services that year $47. W. P. Hamlin was the last county assessor, and served in 1862. LIQrOR PROniBITOEY AMENDMENT. At an election called especially for deter- mining whether or not the constitution of the State of Iowa should be amended so as to prohibit the sale and manufacture of intoxi- cating liquors within the State, the following is a true copy of the vote in Audubon County, given by townships, as siiown by the official returns. Such election was held June 27, 1882, and uniformly throughout the State. Townships. For. Aoainst. Audubon 50 89 Cameron 70 45 Douglas 41 47 Esira 151 132 Greeley 54 69 Hamlin 31 44 Leroy 217 124 Lincoln 50 71 Melville 33 56 Oakfield 49 28 Sharon 9 42 Viola 53 52 Total 807 779 HISTOJiT OF AUDUBON COUNTY. 655 CHAPTER V. SPECIAL EVENTS AND OTHER MATTERS. SPECIAL EVENTS. jMONG the special events having trans- pired M'ithin tlie range of history in Audubon County, may be mentioned the following: The election records of 1880 show that when the question to strike from the State constitution the words '■'■free white'''' (which virtually gave the colored man the same legal rights as the white race) came up, the vote stood 545 for and 365 against. It is stated upon good authority that the excitement was so great over the location and re-location of public roads in Audubon County, that several times the judge of the district court was compelled to adjourn court for the reason that every one who should have been in attendance at court was at- tracted by the large crowd of "path-finders" who besieged the board of supervisors at the county auditor's room, which is under the court-i-oom. There are various reasons for the public highways having caused so much trouble. Among these reasons may be men- tioned the fact that in so hilly and uneven a surface as this country is, it is hard to make suitable roads and have them established on regular government lines, as is the usual cus- tom in more level counties. The matter of right of way, damages, etc., has ever been a "bone for contention" among the land own- ers. Again, the field notes of many of the surveyed highways were very imperfectly ex- ecuted, and frequently such notes were illy recorded or tlie record entirely lost. At present, however, with the modification of the State laws and a better system of surveys and road records, the matter of highways is fast coming to a state of perfection. Perhaps there is no more historic building in the county than the old hall, used for many years at E.xira for county-seat purposes. It is built of lumber, two stories high, and 22 X 50 feet on the ground. Its first cost was about ^1,700, and it was erected by the " E.x- ira Hall Company." The building is still standing where it was first erected, and is used as a hall for the Knights of Pythias. The first county otiices, after the county seat was located at Exira, were within a frame building, 16x16 feet. Court at that time was held in the district school-house at Exira. At one of the early elections (so it is re- lated to the writer) less than 100 votes were cast, and before the time came for countinsr out the votes many of the voters wore quite full of pioneer " budge," so it was proposed to take the ballot-box, which was a common cigar box, to the house of one of the judo-es of election; but in transit it was lost, and lo! and behold, upon going to count, nothing could be found to count! A part of the ofllcers of election were supporters of one political party, and the remainder of them represented the interests of the otiier party; so, quite philosopliically, instead of attempt- ing to hunt the cigar ballot-box up, they simply took their seats and made out the 000 JIIHTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. «■ election "returns," according to what they knew of the voters' politics — "counting noses," as it were. It may be added that said election gave very universal satisfaction! The first actual flour-mill of Audubon County was not constructed in the limits of the county, as it was a coffee-mill, manu- factured in Yankee land, probably! It was owned by Nathaniel Hamlin, the pioneer settler, who came in 1851. It was used by his family, as well as by the few neighbors at " Hamlin's Grove " settlement, and in it was ground corn and buckwheat. It was called "Hamlin's Portable Mill !" Its owner and proprietor tells the writer that its capac- ity was only limited by the amount of grease (elbow) it took to run it! Before " shinplasters " (paper currency) were wisely issued during the liehellion, small change was hard — almost impossible — to ob- tain, as the Wall street (New York) money sharks and traveling Jew brokers collected it all as fast as possible. Consequently the treasurer of Audubon County had to impro- vise some means of making change to those who came to pay taxes. Accordingly little slips of white paper, provided with a red line border, were made in large quantities. The same bore the signature of the county treas- urer, with the words "promise to redeem" upon their face. These passed throughout the county as money, and several are still in existence. ASSESSED VAI.UATION OF PROPERTY IN 1888. NuMBEK. Amount. Cattle 23,807 | a05,713 Horses 7,442 202,848 Mules 629 24,605 Sheep 87U 1,193 Swine 21,90U 45,202 Kailway property 124,408 Farm lands 283,557 2,194,084 Village properly 244,892 Total $3,203,574 MAEEIAGE EECOED. The first marriage in the county was that of G. L. Kellogg to Susana Kinyon, April 16, 1856. The ceremony was performed by Justice of the Peace Urbane Herrick. The following gives the total number of marriages for each year from the organization of the county to December, 1888, as shown by the marriage records in the county clerk's office: Tear. No. Yeab. No. 1850 .... 2 1873. . . 23 1857 1 1874... 20 1858 .... 2 .... 2 1875 . ... .30 1859 1876... 34 1860 .... 2 1877... 26 1801 ... 1878... 37 1863 .... 1879 . . . 56 1803 .... 1 1880... 52 1804 .... 5 1881... 83 1805 9 1883... 1883... 08 1800 .... 9 07 1867 . . . .... 9 ....14 1884 . . 6!) 1868 1885... 70 1869 ....10 1886.. 90 1870 .... 4 1887 . . . 93 1871 ....13 1888... 53 1873 ....11 Total 932 POPULATION BY TOWNSHIPS IN 1885. No. OF FORKIGN BOBN. Total. Dwellinos- Audubon. 255 981 IGO Cameron. 69 64 596 647 132 Douglas. . 139 Exira and village. 128 1,555 390 Greeley . . 81 750 148 Hamlin . . 80 187 591 1,883 113 Leroy and town of Audub'n 388 128 80 835 715 175 Melville.. 129 Oakfield. 332 893 108 Sharon . . . 380 683 138 Viola.... 43 709 135 Totals.. 1,817 10,835 2,207 POPULATION AT VAEIOUS HATES. In 1856 the county contained a population of 283; in 1860 it had 451; in 1870 its population was 1,270; in 1880 it amounted to 7,448; in 1885 it had reached 10,825. imSTOHY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. fi57 CHAPTER VI. THE NEWSPAPER PRESS. SCOTCHMAN wlio had seen the Stuart dynasty snng from the throne, said: "Let ^i^ me make a nation's balhids, and who will may make its laws." Newspapers liave superseded ballads. Journalism, the popular voice in type, is the foe of usurpation. The growth of our press has, indeed, been wonder- ful. While Captain Carver treated with the North American Indians the newspaper ad- vanced from an advertising sheet to a political power. Before King George rewarded Carver with a grant, tlie newspaper had defeated the monarch. The " stamp act " might have been fought in vain but for our journals. Patrick Henry would have aroused a small circle of loyal men, and there would have been no na- tional sonl if it had not been for journalism, the bond of union that saved the colonies. The Maryland Gazette indorsed Patrick Henry, and at once every liberal sheet responded. Tlie Boston Gazette echoed the words, backed by Adams, and a pamphlet in London disseminated that utterance, in spite of the British government. Within one year the king was discomfited, the " stamp act " re- pealed—that was the beginning, and the end was near. " I am the State," said Louis XIV. With greater truth the press could have said "/ ara the Revolution!'''' The newspaper was the weapon, without which there had been no Bunker Hill, no renowned Declaration. No local newspaper can remain long in a community and enjoy a good patronage un- less it be a journal which reflects the general public and moral character of such commu- nity. If a people be intemperate, it were folly to attempt to publish a prohibition sheet; if in a commercial center, no one would think of receiving support for an agricultural paper! For a time, a low-lived journal may find a few paying subscribers from among the morbid curiosity seeker, but no moral people will long tolerate an immoral paper, and no peculiar sect will support a paper which does not advocate its principles. The flrst to found a local journal in the then wild and undeveloped region of Audu- bon County were John C. Brown and J. J. Van Houghton, who established the Audu- hon County Pioneer in December, 1860. It was published at "Audubon City" now de- funct. It was Democratic in politics, but little else is known of its liistory save that the tax list was published in its columns. No file can now be found of it. Upon the break- ing out of tlie Rebellion the paper was sold to Frank Whitney and moved to Lewis, Cass County, Iowa. Johu C. Brown, one of the original owners, enlisted in ISf)! and was an ofiicer in Company I of the First Iowa Vol- unteers; he was killed at Milliken's Bend. His partner also served in the army, being Captain in the Fourth Iowa Infantry. He returned to Iowa after the war and died about 1883. 658 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. « The next journal benefiting the people of Audubon County was a Democratic paper published at Atlantic, wliich, for political and advertising purposes, ran a portion of its issue with an Audubon County heading. It contained the proceedings of the county super- visors. Ne.vt, " Leafe " Young, of Atlantic newspaper fame, a radical Republican, fur- nished Audubon County with a similar paper, which in fact was a Cass County journal, but contained some local items from this county. It was at one time the official organ of Au- dubon County, but upon the establishment of a real liome-made paper, it soon ceased its weekly visits. The next newspaper venture in the county was made by leading Democrats who were instrumental in getting R. Lespeuasse to come to the county and take charge of a paper owned by a stock co?npany of Demo- crats who proposed to liave an official organ. This was known as the Auduhon County Sentinel, which first appeared during the winter of 1870-'71. The manager whom the company had imported did not fill the bill, so the editorship was transferred to James P. Lair, who was an improvement, he being a vigorous, dashing " quill-slinger." Later on, however, its original editor, Mr. Lespeuasse. purchased the plant, good-will and material; he controlled it till about 1873, when it was virtually given to ex-County Judge D. M. Harris, who changed its name to that of Audubon County Defender. He managed it a year when he sold to E. H. Kimball, who published the paper until the spring of 1877. In 187G, however, its poli- tics were "in the twinkling of an eye" changed to Republican doctrines. In 1877 the concern was sold to J. A. Hallock and A. L. Campbell, who very much improved the style of the publication. It then passed into the hands of Milliman & Crane, and from them to R. W. Griggs, then to " Bert " Sim- mons, who later let it go back to Griggs, who i finally, in 1883, removed it to Kansas. In 1876 Mr. Lespeuasse, who started the Sentinel, which had been changed to the Defender, came back to the county and again started a paper called the Sentinel, taking up the old volume number. This only survived a year, collapsing in 1877-'78. Its manager was D. D. Stanclifl", who died in 1887. But the people demanded a Senti7iel, and so in 1878 H. P. Albert began printing a paper, taking the name of Auduhon County Senti- nel. It was at first published at the now de- funct town of Hamlin, but the following year it was removed to Exira and there conducted until 1879, when it was removed to the then infant town of Audubon, at which point the county seat had been located. It continued until 1884, when its good-will (?) was sold to the Advocate. The Audubon Advocate (Democratic) was issued under great disadvantages. Perhaps no paper in Iowa was launched on the jour- nalistic sea under more trying circumstances, both as to opposition from the other news- papers as well as from the wintry elements — all combining to " freeze out " tiie newly- born local paper, which was edited by E. II. Kimball in a very able and aggressive man- ner. Its first number was issued January 1, 1879. It was at first a nine-column folio — half home and half foreign print. The press employed to print it was the ever-reliable ami old-fashioned " Washington " hand press, which has ever had that peculiar faculty of wonderfully developing the muscles about the elbow joint of the operator's right arm! As a matter of history it may be well for the reader to peruse the following, which is an extract from one of the earliest editorials of this paper, under the heading of " Then and Now": HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. 659 " Don't it beat the royal star spangled American ! " Ent a few short months ago, in the place where we now sit, encircled by all that exalts and embellishes civilized life (perhaps), the rank thistle nodded in the wind, and the wild polecat flipped his caudal appendage in the prairie grass, or words to that effect. Pshaw! we thought we were running a Sunday-school paper in Exira! It is not often that we get sentimental! But what we started out to say is this: Less than four months ago we roamed around over tiiis town plat, trying to trace out the streets and alleys by the short stakes planted a short time before in the high prairie grass. I^ot a building had been erected, and in fact there were no signs that any would be erected for some time to come. The grass had already been killed by the autumn frosts, and the cold wind betokened winter at hand. Nearly every one predicted that nothing would be attempted in the way of building until spring-time. To-day (Jan- uary 22, 1879), we are sitting in a neat and Cozy office in a handsome two-story building. In the rear room two presses are running, and their incessant click! click! click! announces that the ' Art Preservative ' has found its way to the 'new town,' as it was then called. Around us are papers and books in profusion, and several persons, strangers to us then, some reading, some talking, but all here to, make their home. In front is a fine street, and scores of teams and busy people hurrying to and fro; the iron horse is snorting and puffing beside a iriagniticent depot, and pass- engers are leaving the train and hurrying to hotels and other places. Half a dozen dray teams are hauling goods up the streets, the hotel bells are ringing to call the many new- comer guests to dinner; the sound of the tools used in nearly all the trades can bo heard; upward of a hundred building's, many of 42 ° ^ them magnificent ones, adorn the town plat, and we see Audubon, then a naked tract of prairie, now a veritable and tiourishingyoung city, the liveliest of its age and size in all Iowa, as hundreds who see it every day freely admit. We venture the prediction that one year from to-day the population of the place will reach nearly 1,000. And why not? It is tributary to, and will command, the entire trade of as beautiful a country as the sun ever shone on, for a distance of fifteen miles, east, north and west, and about half that dis- tance south." The sea of journalism in Audubon County has been very trying and rough — one which has not fully satisfied the people, or even been a paying business to the proprietors themselves. There have been a number of changes on each of the several local papers, including the Advocate. As before stated, E. H. Kimball started thep;iperon borrowed capital, out of wliich grew much contention, so before the end of the first volume a part- ner named B. F. Tliacker was taken in, when the paper was conducted under the firm name of Kimball & Tliacker; but before the year closed Seth Paine, the original owner of the material, came on from Chicago, and took j)OSsession of his projierty. Under his man- agement and editorship the paper was greatly improved, having a more reliable, respecta- ble standing among Iowa newspapers. It ever worked for good men and good improve- ments in the growing county. Mr. Paine was full of energy, and got out a large edition January 1, 1881, which con- tained a very authentic historical "write-up," giving the county, and especially Audubon, a grand boom. It treated of the county's soil, crops, inducements offered to emigrants, etc. He sold 4,500 of these papers at ten cents each. They were sent to all parts of the east and to many places in Europe. St. i^w HISTORY OF AUDUnoN UOUNTY. John, traffic manager of the great Rock Island Railway, bought $100 worth and sent them liroadcast; and from such papers came men from New England who now reside in the county, drawn here by the glowing ac- counts I'ead in that single issue. Emigrants also came from Germany and other European States. The following season 131 cars were landed at Audubon containing freight, which came by reason of that issue. It was a mar- vel in the way of jjroving the value of print- er's ink. In January, 1882, Mr. Paine sold the paper to R. M. Carpenter, who had for an editor about a year E. M. Stewart; but before that volume closed lie w-as at the helm him- self, lie made some changes in the " make- up" of the sheet, and edited a good paper. In 1886 he changed it again to a live- column quarto — its present size and form. In February, 1888, the paper passed from Mr. Carpenter's hands to the proprietorship of Crane & Crane, who continued the partner- ship until November of that year, when V. 13. Crane sold his interest to F. D. Allen, the present iirm being Allen & Crane. The AuJuhoti County Republican^ the organ of the party which its name would in dicate, was founded December 24, 1885, as an eiijht-column folio, lialt' home and half foreign print. It was established by (\)usins & Foster, the hitter's interest being repre-- sented by \V. II. McClure, who succeeded Foster iu ownership in April, 1887. The Iirm still remains Cousins & McClure. TJie Republican is a good local paper, clean and moral — one which no community need be in the least ashamed of. While it is a party paper, yet it treats all with i'airness. The jTtwtA' was owned and conducted byE. II. Kimball, who was virtually given his outfit by the liock Island Railway t'ompany, who >V'anted an organ within their newly created town. It was established in the winter of 187y-'80 and published until the fall of 1880, when its proprietor saw greener fields await- ing his newspaper talent, in the mountain country of Wyoming Territory, to which sec- tion he shipped his office. In politics his paper was Republican. It was an eight- column folio and it is said to have been one of the strongest papers in the county, yet had its very bitter enemies. The Audubon County Journal (independ- ent) is publislied at Exira. It takes the serial number of two defunct papers of that town, but virtually was founded anew by G. AV. Guernsey in September, 1885. It is one of the best local papers in Audubon County, giving each week all the local happenings in the community. Its proprietor is a practical printer and journalist, who takes with the masses. IJe ever strives to build up his town and county, by speaking well of his location, the county and its populace. Tlte Liberator was a purely local sheet, founded and conducted by T. Y. Paine — a mere youth, who met with an accident in childhood and was a cripple till his death, which occurred in 1888. lis was a son of Seth Paine who was once owner of the Advo- cate. The Liberator was a clean, spicy, well- cdited local journal, well thought of by all. It was the pet and pride of young Paine, whose wiiole life seemed wrapped up in liis pa])er, which was a four column folio in form, lie conducted it as long as he lived, the paper beinsr in its third volume at the time of his death. The WeUern Blizzard, an independent journal, was started by Allen & Waitinan, at the village of Gray, in May, 1887. It had for a motto at its head (which was a very elaborate design), "/< blows for IIu7)uinity." About three months after its establishment Frank D. Allen became sole proprietor of nisrORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. 661 the paper. It was a five-column quarto at first, but was later changed to a folio and made a semi-weekly; then changed to a weekly again and printed on rose-tinted paper. It was somewhat of a sensational paper and was suspended before it had a chance to wield much influence politically. Its name was a happy hit and caused much comment by the press throughout the entire country. It did not pay ! CC2 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY.^ CHAPTER VII. VARIOUS THINGS. EDUCATIONAL. a|T is liiglily conipliinentary to the intelli- H gence of Audubon County peo])]e, that in ^ the few years devoted to the development of educational advantages, she has made so line a record. Education has ever been held uppermost in the minds of the general popula- tion, who have never expended foolishly, yet always liberally, for the support of schools. To-day she has a system which eipials any and far surpasses many older settled counties. It may be said there are fewer persons who canuot read and write than in almost any other county. "The High School of the town of Audu- bon is one of the most flourishing and effect- ive in all western Iowa, having for tiie past eio-ht years been under ths superintendency of enterprising educators, who were awake to modern methods, whicli have been introduced with most satisfactory results. The curriculum embraces the higher branches of study, in- cluding languages, while special attention is given to a preparatory course for teachers giving equal advantages in this regard with the regular Normal Schools, and no higher reward of compliment could be paid to those whose endeavors have thus built up this school than the knowledge of the fact that among the successful instructors doing good work in the county to-day there are many who have graduated from this place of learning." The schools throughout the county are under an excellent system, so tiiat none are deprived of advantages. In going over the entire county one beholds district school- houses every two miles each way, making a grand total of one hundred and eight. This is indeed wonderful when one comes to re- flect that there are only twelve civil town- ship within the bounds of the county, giving nine school-bouses to each townsliip upon an average. In 1878 there was but one graded school, and that at the village of Exira. In 1888 there were three graded sciiools — one in Exira Township of two rooms; one in the village of Exira of five rooms, and nne at Audubon of seven rooms. The cost per pupil in 1878 was $2.40, while in 1888 it was but §2.20, with far greater advantages. (See village history for other educational matter.) The following will show the advancement made in educational matters in the last dec- ade, as sliuwn by the reports of the Audu- bon County superintendent of schools: NAME OF DISTKICT. 1878. 1888. eCHOOLS. PDPILS. SCHOOLS rirn.9. Audubon 8 3 3 8 2 1 1 3 3 5 5 2 5 49 222 23 60 230 140 119 110 69 28 54 30 3 111 1,205 10 7 9 9 1 9 9 8 9 9 9 8 9 115 292 Ind. Dist. of Audubon . . Cameron Douglas Exira 416 Itil 186 312 Ind. Dist. of E.\ira Greeley Hamlin 250 227 310 Leroy Lincoln 183 197 Melville 187 Oakfield 175 Sharon Viola 174 207 Total 3,283 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. 663 AUDUBON COUNTY SOLDIERS. Audubon County, at the breaking out of the great civil war, had but a small popula- tion, amounting to less than 500. Her quota of men, called for by the government, was twenty-two; about one-half this number vol- unteered, while the balance remained to be made up by draft. It should not be under- stood that this constituted the total number of Audubon County men who served in the Rebellion, for quite a number went to Des Moines, Council Bluffs, and various other localities, and entered the army, hence by that act were not credited to this county, as sliown by the Adjutant General's reports. There is no greater — almost impossible — task for a local historian to undertake than to give the complete roster of the soldiery which went from any given county, from the reason above named, as well as from the fact that official reports are anything but fully complete in all their details. From the best information which can be obtained from the soldiers themselves and other early citizens, the following are about the facts couceruiiig the county's war record — at least all of those given served in the Rebellion, from this county, and if there were others whose names should appear, their omission is not intended, but because no data could be found regarding additional names. If there are any such they must have been among the list of men who were drafted, or who went from other loca- tions, and in order to take advantage of a bounty were credited to other than their own home county. The subjoined served under the several heads of either volunteers, were drafted and furnished a substitute, or served as drafted men themselves: Volunteers: Captain Charles Van Gorder, Company I', Thirty-ninth Infantry. Richard S. Hallock, United States Colored Infantry. Robert Oliphant, Company' B, Fourth In- fantry. Orland Jones, Second Iowa Battery, killed. John T. Jenkins, Second Battery. Silas D. Burns, Second Battery. Charles II. Norton, Second Battery. John W. Davis, Company L, Fourth Cav- alry. William Anderson, Company B, Fifth Iowa Infantry, killed. John Anderson, Seventh Iowa Cavalry. D. L. Anderson, Company D, Seventh Iowa Cavalry. W. F. E. Smith, Fourth Cavalry. Lyman Jordan, Fourth Infantry, died. Hiram Simmons, Fourth Infantry. Washington Hardy, Fourth Infantry, died. John W. Montgomery, Company E, Third Infantry. Frank Smith, Seventh Cavalry. James Jones, Second Iowa Battery. William M. Nelson, Company D, Twenty- ninth Iowa Infantry. James Robison, Company D, Twenty-ninth Iowa Infantiy. James S. Smith, Fourth Infantry. James F. Smith, Company I, Twenty-third Iowa Infantry. Drafted: John Crane, James Poage, Rich- ard Eault (these three sent substitutes), Henry Eagan, James Eagan, James Ilowlett, Samuel Howlett, Nathaniel Wiggins. RAILKOADS, TUE "SQUATTERS," ETC. Every community has to undergo a greater or less amount of annoyance, in order to ob- tain its railways. While the policy of our national government has, for the most part, been prudent and wise in its granting wild lands to the aid of railroad construction, yet it has not been without its al)uses, which in some instances has amounteil to no less than high-handed robbery. In 18(36, what was 664 HISTORY OF AUDDBON COUNTY. " known as the "Mississippi and Missouri Kiver Kailway Company " was given a grant of land by Congress, for the purpose of con- structing a railroad across the State, which was to pass through Audubon County. This company failed to meet with the stipulated requirements and claimed to have gone into bankruptcy, whereupon the Rock Island & Pacific Company bought them out(?)and got an additional grant from Congress for the same purpose. The lands granted them in this county amounted to 163,000 acres, most of which was choice soil, having been selected by the company. However, many would-be settlers did not believe this company could hold such lands as they had not fully complied with the law in regard to their surveys and other stipulations. So these settlers " squat- ted" on these lands, the same as they would have done on government lands where grants had not been given. About 150 such settlers located in Audubon County, and commenced to open up farms, but the money power of rich railroad corporations prevailed in Con- gress as against actual settlers, and the gov- ernment officers were ordered to eject the unfortunate "squatters" from these lands. All but about a dozen of these settlers finally gave up, but these refused to go and some violent measures had to be resorted to, including the pulling down of houses and other improve- ments, in order to gain possession of the lands claimed for the railroad company. Among such lands was the tract upon which now stands the town of Audubon, the original claimer of which finally compromised by tak- ing a lot in the plat upon which his house had been built. When the Rock Island Company built its Audubon branch from Atlantic, in 1878, its constructors had to survey and grade through a corn-field wiiich covered the principal part of the present town. Hence it will be seen that the county has paid well for its railroad advantages; yet the advent of these roads de- veloped the country as nothing else could possibly have done. The Rock Island «fe Pacific Company pro- vided a splendid outlet over its main line, via Atlantic, for all produce grown in the south- half of the county, so rich in agricultural wealth; but it still remained for capital to develop the northern portion of tiie county. Consequently, in addition to the Audubon branch of the Rock Island Road, which is twenty-six miles in length, tiiere was still a good field for a northern outlet, via Manning and Carroll, at which latter place was the main line of the Chicago & Northwestern Road. The Audubon & Carroll l)ranch of the Chi- cago & Northwestern Railway built its line to the former named town in tlie early part of 1882 without expense to the tax payer. This gave the county seat a new boom, as it greatly reduced freight rates to and from the east. Large grain elevators, corn cribs, etc., were built at once upon the depot grounds and are still potenffactors in the commercial interests of Audubon. With the view of giving the reader a more comprehensive view of Audu- bon County, the following table is shown, the same having been carefully compiled in 1887 by station agents for publication in a small descriptive pamphlet issued at Audubon. It shows tiie produce exported from Septem- ber 1886, to September, 1887 — one year's crop: Pboduct. No. of Cars. Value. Corn 3,500 $52;>,000 Oats 800 100,000 Barley 93 36,010 Kye 101 64,320 Wheat 123 43,050 Timothy 12 19,200 Cattle ;iM(l hogs 967 (Per car, f 950) 918,650 Total $1,756,260 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. 6C5 STOCK-RAISING. This branch of fiirin industry has grown to be one of vast importance in Auduhon County. Much ot this business is in the hands of men who have means to carry on their ati'airs on a large scale, and they have spared no paius to improve stock, until all of the best breeds of cattle, horses and swine are now represented. The number of cattle alone in tiie county in 1887 was 16,997, which were assessed at $204,928 — this being less than one-third their actual value. This number is highly complimentary to so new and undeveloped a county. Here there are many advantages in stock-growing. Among the heavier dealers, those who operate stock-farms or " ranches," may be named Charles Stuart & Son, nine miles east of the county-seat; William M'Lerans, one mile west of Audubon, and Thomas Mussons, ten miles east of Audubon. AOEIOULTUEAL SOCIETY. Very early in the history of Audubon County did the settler see the need and prize the value of forming an agricultural society. Such an organization was perfected prior to the Rebellion, but finally went down. About 1870 a joint-stock company was organized, doing business at E.\ira, under the name of the Audubon County Agricultural Society. This, however, did not seem to meet with popular approval among the farming classes, as the teachings of the " Grange'' movement had instilled into the minds of farmers a dis- trust for all stock companies. Upon the completion of the Rock Island road to Audubon measures were taken to re- organize the society and procure suitable grounds for annual exhibits, while tiic prop- erty could be obtained at cheap rates. But the old stockholders opposed anything which sought or tended toward the upbuilding of the new county seat town. The Exira people bitterly opposed the removal. The people of the central and northern portions of the count}' then considered the propriety of hold- ing a fair at Audubon. A call for a meeting was published, and none but farmers were asked to siu-n such call. The first meeting was held at the freight-house in Audubon, called to order by I. A. Shingledecker, and Captain Stuart placed in the chair, but he was obliged to go away on the incoming train, so Mr. Shingledecker took the chair. An or- ganization was then perfected by the election of George Gray as President; D. Barlow, Vice- President; H. U. Funk, Secretary; A. H. Roberts, Treasurer. Also township directors. The newly -formed society had neither land nor tnoney, so success depended on the work- ing force found within the society. How- ever, the third week in September, 1879, was fixed as the date for holding a county fair. Up to the Ith of July not a dollar had been raised. On that day the sale of mem- bership tickets was begun at Luccock's Grove and about $60 realized. During the next few weeks the society, through the agency of E. J. Freeman, procured forty acres of land, which was a donation by the Rock Island Railway Company. Subscription was circulated, and some funds raised, with which needed improvements were made on the grounds. But the work could not be com- pleted in time, so the fair was postponed until October 1. In the meantime work went on with a rush, and the county-seat contest grew hot, Exira people straining every nerve to defeat its removal to Audubon. Many of the farmers in the south part of the county had never yet seen the new town of Audu- bon, hence had no just conception of its growth. It was desired that these people should visit the place, so E. J. Freeman got 666 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. the railroad company to run special cheap trains during the fair week. The weather proved excellent, and a large crowd were pres- ent. The number of entries was large, and the exhibit a good one. The total receipts from all sources were $711, while the pre- miums paid amounted to $702. No one man deserves so much credit for his untiring energy and liberality as E. J. Free- man, who superintended all the work of the fair grounds. In the fall of 1879 the violent winds blew down the fair ground fences, and about 2,000, feet of lumber were stolen. These losses were met and the repairs made. When the Northwestern Railroad was built its line badly cut up the fair grounds and other grounds had to be procured. The society now owns forty acres, upon which tract they have commodious buildings, shed- ding, etc. It has come to be one of the per- manent fixtures of the county, each annual exhibition growing better, and the feeling once existing seems fast fading from the minds of those who at first opposed the so- ciety in locating its home at Audubon. niSTOUT OF AUDUBON COUNTY. 667 CHAPTER VIII. TOWNS AND VILLAGES- RECORD OF VILLAGE PLATS. ^AYTON, the lirst village of Audubon County— now defunct — was platted July 9, 1855, bytlie county judge. It was sit- uated on the east half of the northwest quarter of section 22, township 78, range 35, west. It was designated as the first county seat, the board of commissioners giving it its name. "Audubon City" was platted September 3, 1856, by Thomas Lewis and N. Hamlin. D. M. Harris was county judge and P. I. Whitted the surveyor. It was located on the southwest quarter of section 25, township 78, range 35, west, and is now numbered among the defunct villages of the county. ExiRA was platted June 1, 1857, by County Surveyor P. I. Whitted and acknowl- edged before County Judge D. M. Harris. It is situated on section 4, township 78, range 35, west. Houston's addition was au- thorized to be platted by A. B. Houston, September 2, 1878. West Exira was platted March 29, 1879, by H. F. Andrews, William F. Stotts, Henry B. Houston and John N. Griggs. Oakfield was platted January 4, 1858, by Erasmus Bradley and Alva B. Brown. It was located on the west half of section 20 and the northeast quarter of section 19, town- ship 78, range 35, west. Louisville was platted June 4, 1866, by N. Hamlin. It was situated on the north- west quarter of the southwest quarter of section 16, township 78, range 35, west, and is now defunct. Hamlin was platted April 29, 1873, on sections 1 and 2, township 79, range 35, by N. Hamlin, I. N. Donnell, P. G. Bryan, George W. Seevers, H. W. Maxwell and H. D. Thompson, under the title of "The Haijilin Town Company. " It is now defunct. Audubon was platted by the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad Company, Septem- ber 23, 1878, on the southwest quarter of section 21, township 80, range 35, west. Hart's addition to Audubon was platted April 3, 1886. The Rock Island Railroad Company made additional plats, dated as follows : June 20, 1879; May 24, 1880; January 4, 1882. Brayton was platted December 16, 1878, by John S. and John P. Jenkins, consisting of thirty acres on the south side of section 19, township 78, range 35. Gray was platted August 10, 1881, on the southeast quarter of section 12, township 81, range 36, west, by George and Fanny Gray. Ross was platted July 28, 1882, by The Western Town Lot Company. KiMBALLTowN, the last village platted as yet in the county, was platted June 2, 1888, by Hans J. Jorgenson, on the northeast quarter of the northeast quarter of section 30, township 79, range 36, west. 068 HISTORY OF AUDUBON OOUNXT. AUDUBON. Audubon, the county-seat of Audubon CoHuty, and the mart tlirough which flows the principal commerce of one of Iowa's most thoroughly prosperous and rapidly grow- ing counties, was platted by the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad Company, September 23, 1878. The first sale of town lots was made October 15, of that year, the first day's sales amounting to $6,190. These sales were confined almost entirely to busi- ness lot limits, and property changed hands at fabulous prices. Before the sun had shed its evening twilight rays lot purcliasers had already commenced the work of excavating, preparatory to building business houses. The following winter between fifty and seventy carpenters and masons were kept constantly busy. They persevered against fearful odds, the chief of which was the long distance which building material had to be transported by wagons — everything having to come from Carroll or Atlantic. The land upon which the city is situated was a part of the numer- ous tracts granted to the Rock Island Rail- road, at quite an early day. While the railroad bus been greatly benefited by the enterprise of the business men of this thriving mart, on the other hand the city was created and fostered by the railroad company. Geo- graphically, Audubon is situated on the southwest quarter of section 21, township 80, range 35, west, and in Leroy Township, which places it nearly in the center of the county, only deviating a mile and a half from a true center. For a record of the various plats, original and additions, see " Record of Plats," in the beginning of this chapter. Like ancient Rome, it stauds on many hills; however, they are but slight, rounded ele- vations; ia no instance, do they amount to an al)ruptness, wiiich occasions side-hill "washes," or in any other manner precludes the building of business or residence property. By nature, Audubon is finely situated, com- manding as it does, an outlook, in every direction, upon one of the most truly pictur- esque and enchanting farm landscapes which ever charmed the eye and pleased the mind of cultured man. The luxuriant growth of grass, the waving panorama of green, grow- ing crops, the rich mellowness of sunny autumn time, reflecting the promise of the early spring, all become factors, or brushes, as it were, in Nature's hand to complete the beautiful landscape, causing the spellbound beholder to exclaim, " Verily a thing of beauty is a joy forever.''' To give an idea of tlie rapid growth of Audubon, it may be stated, upon autiiority of reliable records, that the assessed val- uation of the tract of land upon which the city stands was less than $800 as against $90,000 the following year; this, it should be remembered, was the assessed valuation. In 1880, on the first day of June, accord- ing to the State census returns, Audubon had a population of 800, which has steadily in- creased until we find by the census of 1888 (taken for school purposes) that it has up- ward of 1,800, the growth of less tlian one decade. FIRST EVENTS. The first birth in Audubon was Daisey Audubon McKinley, to whom the railroad company gave a town lot in compliance with an ofter made and spread upon tiie county records at the time the village was platted, to the efi'ect that the first child born should be ffranted a lot. This child was born in the fall of 1878, but died when less than a year old. The first wedding, where invitations were sent out, was that of John A. Nash and Miss (lertrude Russell, who still reside in Audu- UISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. fi69 boil, Mr. Nash being among the most promi- nent men of the place; also a member of the law firm of Nash, Phelps & Green. The first train of cars ran to Audubon in the fall of 1878, via the Rock Island branch. The first town lot was sold October 15, 1878. The first brick building was Charles Stuart & Son's office building near the liock Island depot. P08T0FFICE HISTOEY. A postoffice was established at Audubon, February 15, 1879. The first postmaster to serve was A. L. Sanborn, who served until January, 1883, when E. II. Kimball took tiie oflice and conducted it a year, and was suc- ceeded by Captain Foster, lie held the office until January 25, 1888, and was succeeded by R. M. Carpenter, the present incumbent. There lias been more or less trouble over this important office, the same here as elsewhere. Sometimes men unworthy the position have been in the office, and again good efficient men have been displaced by political wire pulling, " nonpartisanship," etc. However, the jwesent postmaster is well pleasing to the general community. The first money order issued from the Audubon office was dated August 2, 1880. It was issued by Hiram Miller, remitter to Morris Miller, Villisca, Iowa. The amount was for $5. Tlie last serial number of money orders issued from this place, up to Decem- ber 28, 1888, was 11,108. KARLY BUSINESS INTERESTS. The subjoined is very nearly if not quite a complete directory of the business concerns of Audubon in January, 1880, when the place was but little more than a year old: Baitkiufj, Wliitney & Van Corder; real cst'ite, Nash & I'helps, Fnuk ik Funk, Love & Van Pelt, H. W. Ilanna, E. J. Freeman, Andrews & Armstrong; attorneys, J. M. & R. W. Griggs, Nash & Phelps, Stotts & Nichols, Love & Van Pelt, Funk & Funk, Andrews & Armstrong, J. W. McCord, II. W. Hanna; general merchandise, B. F. Howald, Wilson Burnside, G. B. Russell, Lundy Bros., C. Egbert (clothing); groceries, E. S. Foster, Consigny Bros., Frank Gleason; clothing, Evan Davis, J. H. Kate, William Mallory; hardware, Martin & Keller, S. II. Schryver; agricultural implements, Williams & Morrow, S. H. Si^hvyver; phi/sicians, J. D. Holmes; J. T. Breneman, P. M. Sheafor, J. Cloughly, S. H. Phelps ; jewelry, E. W. Beghtol; newspapers, " Times " and " Advo- cated^ ; millinery, Mrs. Frank Gleason, Mrs. Newmir'e and Miss Donaldson; lumber deal- ers, Charles Stuart & Son, A. A. Hubbard, II. Umphrey; furniture, W. i\. Miller, Horace Prentice (W. H. Scott, manager); barbers, Wilson Blackwood; meat market, A. A. Zaner; harness shops, D. E. Soar, Louis Tramp; blacksmiths, Neil Ross, Keen & Jump, R. G. Sands, H. B. Wilson; grain dealers, Charles Stuart & Son, George Gray, Wilson Burnside; ploio works, Steel & Yo\^ng•,dr^lgs, A. H. Roberts, W. Cloughly, J. T. Breneman; draymen, James Benefield, Joseph AUee, A. H. Herring, Joseph Heath and James PoUett; lioery, I. N. Simpson, W. P. Gardner, Good- win Thompson; shoemakers, Mr. Ott, John Both; art galleries, T. B. Mendenliall, I. E. Ililsaback; hotels, "Walker," "Grant " and " Weston." INOOEPOEATION AND WATEIt-AVOEKS. Audubon became an incorporated town in 1881. The following liave served as mayors of the place: E. J. Freeman, 1881; J. Mack Love, 1882-'83; J. D. Holmes, 1884-'85; Charles Bagley, 1880-'87; A. F. Armstrong, 1888. The first to hold this office was elected 670 HISTORY OP AUDUBON COUNTY. » witliout a single opposing vote and could have held the office for any number of years had he so chosen. He has had more to do with the care of the town and all her improve- ments, including the water-works, than any twenty men of the place. ]No more effective system of water- works can be found in Iowa than here. The plant is of the " direct pressure " style; the water is pumped by steam from a well located in the lower part of town, near the Rock Island depot, and is forced through a six-inch main up the principal street, through the public square, and to a large water tank, similar to those used by railroads; this tank holds 34,000 barrels of water, which comes through a main 2,500 feet long. The pumps are worked by a good sized engine, simple in its construction. The pressure derived from t!ie 138 feet elevation of these works is eighty pounds per square inch, while the amount of water capable of being forced through the main to the tank is 10,000 gallons per hour. The water thus supplied protects the town against fires, as well as all who may need it for domestic purposes. Besides, the town has a hook and ladder appliance; also two hose carts with 2,500 feet of hose. No destructive fires have occurred since the water system was put in. It has cost the town about $10,000, and has always been cared for by E. J. Freeman. I'UBHC SCHOOLS. Audubon is already widely known for her excellent scliools. Her first attempt at edu- cational matters was when the place was first started; a frame school building was erected, which was 18 x 24 feet. This was built in the autumn of 1878. Miss Kate Cameron tauirht the first term of school the foliowine: winter. Witii the almost magic like growth of the town more school-rooms had to be provided; one by one they were added, but they did not meet the approval of a highly enterprising class of citizens; even the one built in 1880, which was two stories high, containing four spacious rooms, failed to give sufficient room. This building cost §5,000. In the winter of 1886-'87 three schools, in- dependent of the four conducted at the High School building, were taught. This system became obnoxious to the citizens, and the general public sentiment was in favor of better buildings. A vote was taken and the measure carried by a large majority. Ac- cordingly the contract was let and carried out for the present elegant High School build- ing, which from first to last has cost not far from $15,000. The design combines both beauty of construction, symmetry and pro- priety. It is located on a commanding site, convenient to all parts of the place, and by the foresight of those who had the work in hand, the spacious grounds devoted to this purpose make it quite exempt from danger of fire by its surroundings, etc. For scholarship, etc., see educational item elsewhere in this work. CIVIC S0CIETIK8. Grand Army of the Rejjuhlic, Allison Post, No. 3^, was organized April 19, 1881, by twenty-two charter members. This post was named in honor of a Hardin County (Iowa) comrade named Eobert Allison, who was Captain of Company C, Sixth Iowa Infantry, and was killed at Mission Ividge, Tennessee. The original post, as above described, only existed about three months. Its first com- mander was C. S. Foster, and Beach lihooder was its adjutant. As more soldiers moved to the county, greater interest was taken, and finally the society was revived. The date of the re- organized post was May 4, 1883. The fol- HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. C71 lowing were its first officers: E. J. Freeman, Commander; W. F. Stotts, Senior Vice- Commander; II. C. Paul], Junior Vice- Commander; M. Nichols, Adjutant; E. W. Beghtol, Officer of the Day; D. II. Walker, Quartermaster; J. W. B. Cole, Outside Guard. The latter named was the leading spirit in bringing about the re-organized post, and has ever taken aprominent part and has passed all the official chairs. The officers of 1888 were: E. Baxter, Com- mander; H. W. Wilson, Vice-Commander; H. E. Cole, Junior Vice-Commander; II. F'. Andrews, Officer of the Day; Clark Cross, Adjutant; A. II. Edwards, Outside Guard. The present membership is 132. The post nsed the Odd Fellows' Hall as a place of meet- ing for the first two years, after which they leased and fitted up Grand Army Hall, used for this and no other purpose excepting the Womans' Relief Corps and Sons of Veterans. The Womans' Relief Corps, of Audubon, JVo. 3S, was organized in June, 1885, with the following named as first officers: Mrs. Lizzie Kimball, President; Myrtle A. Cole, Senior Vice-President; Mrs. Lydia Rosen- berg, Junior Vice-Conductor; Mrs. Esther Bryan, Conductor; Mrs. Almeda Nichols, Chaplain; Mrs. Emma Matthias, Treasurer; Mrs. Fanny Talbot, Secretary. The officers serving in 1888 were: Mrs. Lydia Rosenberg, President; Mrs. Esther Bryan, Senior Vice-President; Mrs. Lorana Cole, Junior Vice-President; Mrs. Alice Con- signey, Conductor; Aliss D. E. Di.\, Chaplain; Miss Belle Hanna, Secretary; Mrs. Delia Ott, Treasurer. The Sons of Veterans, Camp Siuart, No. 50, of Audubon, was organized October 13, 1885, and now has a membership of over fifty, all made up from soisof men who " wore the blue" from 1861 to 1865 in the Rebellion. The first officers were: A. L. Wever, Cap- tain; D. L. Freeman, First Lieutenant; C. H. Ro.llins, Second Lieutenant; Ed. Delahoydc, First Sergeant; W. S. Kimball, Quarter- master. The present officers are: Major D. L. Free- man, Captain; L.J. Yagey, First Lieutenant; E. M. Cole, Second Lieutenant; Charles Rose, Orderly Sergeant. Captain Freeman was elected Major of the State of Iowa Division in June, 1888. Captain Charles Stuart, for whom the camp w;is named, being a wealthy and liberal man, donated about $800 worth of arms, etc. to the camp. This donation included seventy- two fine new Springfield breech-loading rifles, with all necessary accouterments, and 1,000 rounds of ammunition. This was indeed a goodly gift and one which stimulated the lively interest already taken by the Sons of Veterans at Audubon. Veritas Lodge, No. 393, A. F. cfe A. M., worked under dispensation from February 18, 1879, to July of the same year. The follow- ing were the officers and charter members: E. W. Beightol, Worshipful Master; A. L. Sanborn, J. R. A¥. D.; E. H. Kimball, S. R. W. D.; Joseph Snider, William Wilde, W. L. Swaney, Charles Wheeler, A. L. Campbell, C. H. Earhart, J. C. Bonwell, F. H. Burr (Secretary), R. M. Hubbard (Treasurer), R. G. Sands. January 1, 1889, they had a mem- bership of eighty-one. The present officials are: John D. Holmes, Worshipful Master; M. F. Johnson, Senior Warden; John B. Doak, Junior Warden; W. II. Scott, Treas- urer; Fred W. Brown, Secretary. Amity Chapter, No. 93, Royal Arch Ma- sons, was organized April 28, 1881. The following named were charter members: Thomas Chadwick, E. W. Beightol, A. F. Armstrong, Henry Young, A. S. Rodgers, Phillip Young, I. A. Shingledecker, F. M. Jones, R. G. Sands, George E. Hastings. C73 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY.^ The first officers were: Thomas Cliadwick, High Priest; E. W. Beightol, Kiug; A. F. Armstrong, Scribe. In 1889 the officers were: A. H. Roberts, High Priest; Thomas Walker, Secretary; Charles Van Gorder, Treas- urer. Godfrey Commaiidery, No. ^.Jf., of Knight Templars, was instituted June 22, 1882. The charter members were as follows: Sir Knight E. S. Foster, E. C; Sir Knight I. H. Shingle- decker, G. I.; Sir Knight E. J. Freeman, Captain General; Sir Knight H. W. Hanna, Recorder; Sir Knight John iS'orris, Treasurer. Sir Knight A. F. Armstrong, Sir Knight William H. Scott, Sir Knight E. W. Beightol, Sir Knight Ed. B. Cousins, Sir Knight Will- iam Burnside, Sir Knight George E. Hastings, Sir Knight F. M. Jones. The present number belonging to this com- mandery is forty-six. The officers at present are: Sir Knight A. F. Armstrong, Eminent Commander; Sir Knight W. H. Scott, G. 1. ; Sir Knight B. W. Brown, Captain General; Sir Knight H. W. Hanna, Recorder; Sir Knight Charles Van Gorder, Treasurer. At this writing they have twenty-seven fine uni- forms and are in a flourishing condition. Aiiduhon Chapter, U. D., Order Eastern Star, was instituted ]Sovember 21, 1888, by a charter membership of sixty-one. Officers: Mrs. Gertrude R. Nash, W. Matron; Mrs. A. H. Roberts, W. Patron ; Mrs. B. W. Brown, A. Matron; Mrs. Eva Freeman, Treasurer; Mrs. H. W. Hanna, Secretary; Mrs. H. W. Wilson, Conductor. Knights of Pythias, Audubon Lodge, No. 163, was organized Juue 10, 1886, with a charter membership of twenty-five. The first set of officers were: H. P. Albert, P. C; P. W. Ledyard, C. C; W. H. O'Conuell, V. C; W. II. McClure, Prelate; E. R. Darling- ton, M. of F.; James A. IS'ash, M. of Ex.; James F. Consigiiy, K. of R. S.; A. L. Wever, M. at A.; Seth Paine, I. G.; Edwin Delahoyde, O. G. The officers elected in the winter of 1888- '89 were: W. H. Negley, P. C; J. A. Wheatley, C. C; Seth Paine, V. C; John Weigh ton. Prelate; B. F. Howald, M. at A.; F. E. Brainard, K. of R.; W. "W. Talbot, M. of Ex.; John Dawson, M. of F.; B. F. Ken- nedy, I. G.; A. L. Wever, O. G. W. H. O'Connell, of this lodge, was re- cently elected district deputy. The present standing of the lodge is excellent. It now numbers seventy -four, all of whom take deep interest in tlie order. They meet at Castle Hall, in John A. Nash's building. Iowa Legion of Honor, Audubon Lodge, No. 115, was organized July 12, 1881, by J. H. Helm, D. G. P., of the State of Iowa. There were twenty-one charter members. The first officers were as follows: G. H. Jones, President; E. C. Brown, Vice-President; Frank Gleason, Recording Secretary; John A. Nash, Financial Secretary; Wilson Burn- side, Treasurer; W. D. Blackwood, Usher; H. M. Talbot, Sentinel. The present member- ship is thirty, and the insurance it represents (for its object is purely life insurance) is §72,000. It is looked upon as the very best, safest and cheapest means of life insurance in Iowa to-day. Its present officers are: F. Gleason, Presi- dent; G. H. Jones, Vice-President; H. F. Andrews, Recording and Financial Secretary and Treasurer; William Merser, Chaplain; J. C. F. Wicker, Usher; J. Miner, D. K.; W. C. Barton, Sentinel. Aretas Lodge, I. 0. 0. F., No. 396, at Audubon, was instituted in August, 1879. The first set of officers were: H. E. Cole, Noble Grand; S. P. Rhooder, First Vice- Grand; George Myres, Secretary. There were thirteen charter members. The largest number ever belonging to the lodge at any HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. 673 one time was seventy-six; thepresent raember- eiiip (per last report) is fifty-seven. The j)resent officers are: Seth Paine, N. G.; H. Rohrbech, V. G.; E. U. Funk, Secre- tary; George Ellis, Treasurer. The lodge meets each Monday evening at William Cul- bertson's hall. The order contemplate build- ing in the near future, having now in their possession about $5,000 worth of real prop- erty. Nishnahotna Tribe, No. 8, I. 0. li. M., was organized in November, 1886. Thelirst officers were as follows: J. A. Ilornberger, Senior Sagamore; D. C. Abrams, Junior Sachem; John F. Consigny, Chief of Eecords; A. F. Fails, Keeper of Wampum; H. P. Albert, Prophet. The present officers are: E. S. Foster Sachem; M. F. Johnson, Senior Sachem; Charles Weston, Junior Sachem; J. W. B. Cole, Prophet; II. U. Funk, Chief of Rec- ords; Eli Weston, Keeper of Wampum. The object of tliis purely American secret order is the promotion of Freedom, Friend- ship and Charity, founded upon the customs and traditions of the North American In- dians. A good " Red Man " can not fail to be a good citizen and a true patriot. At present the order have their own lodge room in Forbes's Block. Besides the above orders, there is a well- working Good Templars' lodge at Audubon, to which many of the best business men belong. CHURCHES. • 2'he Methodist Episcopal Church at Au- dubon was lirst a charge on Hamlin Circuit. This society, as has been tiie case in nearly all new countries, was the first to herald the glad tidings of the gospel in Audubon, hold- ing the first religious services in the place December 14, 1878, at ivhich time only four- teen persons were present. A. II. Roberts is now the only one here who was present. The church, independent of its connection with any circuit, was organized in. February, 1879, the iirst quarterly meeting occurring February 8 and 9 of the same year; Rev. John Ilestwood, P. E., was present. At that time A. H. Roberts was elected trustee. In 1880 a church edifice was erected at a cost of about §2,700. It is situated on the corner of Tracy and Chicago streets, and in 1886 additional improvements were made under Rev. Harris's pastorate to the amount of $1,000. These improvements included the building of the gallery, decorating, etc. The church has a seating capacity of over 300, and is the finest furnished in Audubon. It should here be mentioned that the church edifice was dedicated December 12, 1880, by Rev. W. T. Smith, P. E. A good parsonage was provided in 1884, now valued at §600; it is located on the grounds adjoining the church lots. As one visits this church at the sound of the fine 800-pound bell suspended in the neat belfry, and is made comfortable in the coldest weather by a Hess impi'oved heater, he can not fail to note the contrast with days when services were held in dingy school-rooms, illy heated, and poorly lighted by candles tacked to the walls on either side! The present membership of the society is an even 100, while its Sabbath-school, which was formed April 13, 1879, now numbers 160. The following faithful servants have served the church as pastors: Rev. John W. Lewis, from September, 1878, to September, 1879; Rev. A. W. Armstrong, one year; Rev. W. C. Smith, two years; Rev. L. M. Campbell, one year; Rev. J. AV. Bott, three years; Rev. Joseph B. Harris, the present pastor. The First Presbyterian Chxirch of Audu- bon was organized April 14, 1879, with a membership of seven, by a committee from 674 EI STORY OF AUDUBON COUNTT> the Conncil Bluffs presbytery. For nearly a year services were held in the old school- bouse. The following June a church edifice was raised, which was 38 x 60 feet. When partly enclosed it was swept from the founda- tion by a violent wind storm; this was an ex- pense to the society of about $500. The structure w^as completed, however, at a cost of about $3,500. The first services were held in the new church January 18, 1880, being the first re- ligious services lield within a church build- ing in Audubon. The church was then closed until March 28, when it was opened with a communion service, which was also the first Lord's Supper celebrated in an Audu- bon church edifice. The house was dedicated Sal)l)ath morning. May 9, 1880. Rev. E. B. Cousins was duly installed the first pastor, serving for four years. His successors were Kev. D. A. Blose, fifteen months; Rev. J. A. Bartlett, one year; Rev. E. Dickinson is the present pastor. The First Baptist Church was organized A}>ril 1, 1881, at a meeting conducted by Rev. D. D. Proper. The charter members of the society are : E. F. Fales, Mrs. C. A. Fales, n. M. Talbot, Mrs. M. Scott, Mrs. E. J. Ford, Mrs. V. Sands, Mrs. S. Davis, Rev. A. Y. Sharpnack and wife, II. W. Talbot, F. Van Pelt, Mary J. Van Pelt, Elnora Howald, V. Sands, Isabel Harris, Mrs. E. M. Funk. The first deacons were E. M. Fales and Frank M. Van Pelt. The first clerk and treasurer was II. M. Talbot. Rev. A. F. Sliarpnack was engaged to j)reach once in two weeks for the first year. The first covenant meeting was held April 27, 1881. The church made but little growth and advancement until recently. Some re- moved, while others seemed for the time to slacken their former zeal in the cause they had once espoused. Hence it was that the society has but little history to record until October, 1887, when the society was reorgan- ized, embracing some few of the remaining charter members. In September, 1888, plans were matured for the erection of a church. Lots were purchased of the railroad company, directly opposite the court-house and jail buildings. During the present winter (1888 -'9) a good-sized building is being erected, which will cost about $3,000 when finished. Rev. A. C. Zollhoffer was pastor when the plans for building were made, but in Octo!)er of the same year (1888) he resigned. The church is not large in numbers, but all seem desirous of work, and whoever records the history of the church in another decade will doubtless find this society flourishing. The Roman Catholic Church, under the watch-care of the priest at Atlantic, is in a fairly good condition at Audubon. They have a comfortable frame church building, situated on East Hilh Its size is 28x45 feet. There are not many Catholics living near Audubon, but those are well cared for in the above charge. BUSINESS INTERESTS OF 1888. Opera house, G. W. Russell; banks, Au- dubon County Bank, Commercial Bank, Citi- zens' Bank, all private l>aiiking concerns; dry goods and general stocks, Russell & Sons, B. F. Howald, John Van Scoy, R. Lenox; groceries, John Consigny, Fisher Bros., B. F. Howald, Will D. Forbes, Will Gleason, T. S. Francis, W. Talbott, W. Rosenburgh; drug stores, Dr. Cloughley, William Cloughley, A. B. Roberts, O. J. Houston; hardware dealers, McKarahan & Vanderbei-gh, John Rhine- nund, Setii Paine; farm implements, McFar- lane, Dickey & Co., Clark Cross, George Keen, Seth Paine, II. A. Jump; grain deal- ers, Charles Stuart & Son, IJiirnside & Fran- cis, Henry Grovesmuhl, Herbert &, Johnson, mSTOllY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. 075 George Gray; lumber, Charles Stuart & Son, Green liay Lumber Co., Henry Roherbeck; clothing, John *lvate, D. C. Abrains, B. F. Howald; jewelry, O'Conuel Bros., Will Cowles; hotels, Walker House (commercial), Stuart House, Grant House, Northwestern Hotel, Weston House; newspapers, Audubon County RepuMican, Advocate; restaurants. Will D. Forbes, AVilliam Rosenberg; boots and shoes, J. Forbes ct Son; millinery. Miss Dix, Miss Walker; harness shops, David Soar, Harp Wilson; blacksmith shops, James Round, George Keen, H. A. Jump, Doc. Wil- son; shoemaker, William Ott; wagon shop, George Keen; meat markets, Prather Bros., Doak &, Co.; marble works, Wallace Van Gorder; furniture, Scott Bros.; physicians. Dr. Cloughley, J. D. Holmes, C. W. De Motte, Dr. Lass, J. M. Rendleman ; attorneys at law, Nash, Phelps & Green, H. W. Hanna, J. N. Griggs, Thomas F. Myres, A. F. Arm- strong, Charles Bagley, H. F. Andrews, E. H. Hurd, F. E. Brainard, H. U. Funk; roller mills, Kuhn, Culver & Co.; ])hotographers, Harper, T. B. Mendenhall; livery sta- bles, Charles Benton, Tharnish Bro., Isham Bro. ; express companies, American, United States; railways. Rock Island & Pacific branch and the Chicago & Northwestern branch. BANKING HOUSES. The first banking concern to operate in Audubon was first organized in 1876, at Exira, as the "Audubon County Bank," which in December, 1878, removed to Audu- bon, still retaining its original name. It was started by Whitney & Van Gorder, but is now the property of diaries Van Gorder and has a capital of $00,000. It is a private bank, enjoying good patronage, its proprietor being among the early settlers and most highly esteemed men of his county. 43 The Citizens' Bank was established in 1884. Thomas F. Morrow, President; E. J. Freeman, Cashier. This is a private banking house, as well as the other two banks of Audubon. It does a good business and has the good- will of all the citizens in Audubon County, who know the concern is one of safety and trust to all who deal there. The Commercial Bank was organized Jan- uary 1, 1887. The officers are: William Leet, President; William H. Negley, Cashier. The capital stock, paid up, is §50,000. The first year they occupied a part of Van Gorder's Block, but January 1, 1888, removed to their present elegant quarters in " Park Place." They have the finest furniture of any bank- ing house in the county. EXIRA. This is a beautifully situated village of about 600 population, located in Exira Town- ship, in the southern part of Audubon County. It is among the earliest villages of the county; it was platted June 1, 1857, by P. I. Whitted, County Surveyor. Its original plat comprised fifty acres on section 4, township 78, range 35, west. "Houston's Addition" was platted Sep- tember 2, 1878. "West Exira," near the depot, was platted March 29, 1879, by a com- pany composed of H. T. Andrews, William F. Stotts, Henry B. Houston and John N. Griggs. The main part of the place is nestled in a charming grove, on a rise of ground which afibrds good streets and excellent build- ini^ locations. Until the town of Audubon sprung up, upon the building of the railroad, Exira was the only place of any considerable importance in tiie county. The first house erected in Exira was the property of County Judge D. M. Harris, and was built in the fall of 1857. It was after- ward moved to Audubon. The first business G7U niSTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. house built for business purposes was the one owned by John D. Bush. Goods had been Bold, however, from different private houses long before this. A. B. Houston sold the first goods from a store; there had been peddlers coming and going before his store opened, which was in 1864. The first to sell drugs in the place was a man named Scott, from Guthrie Center, who was just before Ilardenbrook. The first to deal in hardware were Russell & Stotts. The first dealer in furniture was A. J. Braiuard. The first harness- maker was David Soar. The firot-shoemaker was a man named "Wilson. The first blacksmith was Thomas Trneman, of whom many funny incidents are told; among others it is related that the bad youth of the pioneer village stopped up his chim- ney flue, by raining old carpets and green pumpkins down from the top. When "Tom " started his forge fire, there being no chance for the smoke to escape elsewhere, it filled the dingy shop full, to the astonishment of the honest smith, but to the merriment of the young rascals. So hard had the flue been packed that it had to be taken down part way. It is further related of this pioneer blacksmith that when he left for Oregon Ter- ritory, that he lead a cow upon whose back hunroprietor; physi- cians, C. H. Andrews, John Kiley; shoe- makers, John Stager, George C. Jeffries, D. AVorkraan. During the year 1888 what is known as tiie "Exira Coal Mining Company" was or- ganized at Exira, by some leading citizens, who represented a capital stock of $100,000. The president of the company was Lewis Born, and the secretary G. W. Guernsey. They at once engaged experts to go down by means of boring; this was continued until cold weather set in. Many indications were obtained of a paying bed of soft coal under- lying the surface from 100 to 300 feet. A forty-inch strata of coal was found at a depth of 204 feet. It remains to be seen whether the enterprise will prove one of financial value to Exira; all depends on amount of coal and its depth from the surface. BRAYTON. Tliis village is the second station on the railroad south of Audubon, and was platted December 16, 1878, by John S. and John T. Jenkins. Its geographical location is a thirty- acre tract of land along the south side of the northwest quarter of section 19, township 78, range 35, west, and in what is known as Oakfield Township. It is but a short distance from the old village of Oakfield, where noth- ing remains in a business sense, except the flouring mill. Upon the building of the rail- road the business of Oakfield was removed to Brayton, which has come to be a thriving vilbige of between 100 and 200 people, with all the common branches of retail trade represented. A POSTOFFICE was established at this point in the spring of 1S79. The first postmaster was John T. Jenkins, who was succeeded by O. F. Ide, October 1, 1886. Brayton was made a money-order office in August, 1882. The first order was issued August 7, to L. S. Cotton for $2.05, payable to E. S. Phelps, Galesburg, Illinois. Up to January 1, 1889, this office had issued 2,200 money orders. BUSINESS FIRMS. The first house erected in the place was the blacksmith shop now occupied by L. N. Beck. John Cooper was the first blacksmith to stand beside a glowing forge at this point. Mr. Beck runs a large shop, in which he makes buggies and w^agons, and does general blacksmith work. The first general store was opened by K. Crumling, early in 1879. The present gen- eral stores are conducted by Reynolds & Ide, and Hanson & Bloom. The pioneer hardware dealer was J. Zim- merman, who embarked in trade in 1881. He sold to I. P. Hallock, who was shortly succeeded by John Anderson, and he sold to the present dealer, N. J. Nelson. The first to handle drugs was Burton & Kirkpatrick, who came in 1879. The drug trade is now in the hands of C. L. Bisom. Grain was first handled by Stockdale & Day, in 1878. The present dealers are Worth- ing & Foote, C. E. Myers & Co. The first lumber yard was owned by Will- iam Hoak, in 1878-'79. It is now controlled by the Green Bay Lumber Company. Live-stock dealers at the present time are Messrs. Jenkins, Myers & Co. The first hotel at Brayton was conducted by L II. Jenkins, who still entertains the weary traveler in a home-like and pleasing HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. 081 style. The other hotel of the village is run by a Dane named Chris Hanson. The first harness-maker was Daniel Car- penter, who came in 1886. It is now in the hands of Glaus Paulson. The first shoemaker was Chris Thompson, in 1887. He is still the only one represent- ing this branch. The meat business has been in the hands of many; the first was run by a "cow-boy" from the plains. An ofier was made by Mr. Jenkins, pro- prietor of the town, of SlOO to any society who would build a church. Tiie Congrega- tional people tried to avail themselves of such offer, but did not succeed. A building, however, was built by subscription, and for a time used for such purpose, as well as for a school in summer time. At present there is no church organization at Brayton, neither a regular school, except the district school out- side the plat. PIONEER ODD FELLOWS LODGE. "Audubo7i" Lodge of I. 0. 0. F., No. 217, is the oldest secret society in the county, having been organized at an early day at the now defunct village of Louisville. The date was soon after the Rebellion closed. The lodge was then moved to'Oakfield, and from there to Brayton, where the order is in a flourish- ing condition, owning a good building 22 x 46 feet, costing $1,000. The upper part is used for their lodge-room, while they rent the first story for a temperance billiard hall. The present officers are: I. N. Horton, N. G.; A. H. Early, V. G.; Peter F. Howell, Secretary; D. A. Wethcrby, Treasurer. The present memljcrship is forty. More members were taken in upon one night than were ever taken in by any other lodge in the district — six )>erson8 going in at one time. Besides this order Brayton is represented by the " Danish Brotherhood" a newly or- ganized society, now numbering only about 2,000 in the United States. The lodge at Brayton (No. 31) was instituted October 20, 1888, by ten charter members. They have increased to seventeen. Their officers are: Jacob Bloom, President; Jacob Benedixen, Vice-President; Peter Jacobson, Secretary; Chris Christianson, Treasurer; Hans Nyman, Inside Guard; N. L. Beck, Outside Guard; Hans Hanson, ex-President. This order meets twice each month, and bids fair to become a popular society among the Danes. SOEGHUM MANUFACTUEINO. No locality in Iowa at present produces more sorghum than does Oakfield Township. There are several large concerns making this product. The soil and late seasons seem to make it a certain and profitable crop to raise. Cotton Brothers, at Oakfield, run a flouring- mill, and also have extensive sorghum works, both running by water-power. During the past year (1888) not less than 40,000 gallons have been made. It commands a higher price than ordinary syrups, and will be had at twice the cost, if possible. GRAY. Gray is a station on the Carroll branch of the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad, and is situated on section 12 of Lincoln Township, near the north line of the county. The land was formerly owned by George and Fannie Gray. The plat was tiled for record August 10, 1881. However, the road did not come until early in 1882. The first to engage in business was Will- iam Johnson, who started a general store. AVilliam Stotts also started in the same line of business that season. The first to deal in hardware in the place was Theodore Myres. CS-3 niSTORY OF AUDUBON GOUNTr. » The first hotel was built for L. C. Whipple in 1882; the same is now idle, the large building being owned by George Gray. George Gray, proprietor of the village, built a large steam elevator of 33,000-bushel capacity; also a spacious office in which he transacts the business of his grain-house, be- sides that of his ranch of 1,500 acres close to the village plat. Upon this ranch are raised horses, cattle and liogs in large numbers. The residence on his ranch is very superior, as well as barns and shedding. The first to handle drugs was Dr. Hins- dale. The first harness-maker of the place was David Soar, who has the honor of starting the first harness- shop in each town and village within the county, but one. The pioneer blacksmith was a man named De Good. George Davis opened a restaurant in 1887. The first to deal in grain was George Gray. A postofiSce was established at Gray, which was named in lienor of the proprietor of the village, in 1882. The first post- master was William Stotts, who was suc- ceeded by W. R. Johnson, and he, in 1886, by B. Lebeck. J. J. Jones and Seth Gittbrd had charge a short time. The first scliool on the village plat was taught by Miss Libbie Johnson, in 1883. The school-bouse, which stood in an adjoin- ing county district, was moved into the vil- lage in 1887, and an addition built to it, making two departments, in 1888. The Methodist Episcopal people formed a church and erected a neat structure in 1886, which cost $1,500. The United Brethren also have a society in the neighborhood, and hold services every other week in the Meth- odist building. The Methodists have no reg- ular pastor, but are supplied from another charge. SOCIKriES. An Odd Fellows' Lodge, known as Utopia Lodge, No. ^61, of Gray, was instituted April 20, 1888, with a charter membership of seven which at the present date (1889) numbers, twenty-eight. The first elective officers were as follows: J. E. Freetley, N. G.; T. J. Spiker, V. G.; O. B. Francisco, Secretary; II. W. Lebeck, Treasurer. Officers for 1889: J. S. Fisher, N. G.; William McMullen, V. G.; C. M. Taylor, Secretary; Frank P. Reese, Treasurer. The present condition of the lodge is e,\- cellent; they have a finely furnished hall and are free from debt. Hiawatha Lodge, No. 16, I. 0. R. M., was formed October 19, 1888, by a charter membership of twenty-seven. The first offi- cers were: Spark Baker, Sachem; A. L. Brooks, Keeper of Records; F. Reese, Keeper of Wampum; S. D. Scovil, Prophet; John Heuch, Senior Sagamore; C. Woodland, Jun- ior Sagamore; O. F. Francisco, First Senti- nel; Eli Agnew, Second Sentinel; William Johnson, Inside Guard; Charles Wiley, Out- side Guard. The officers elected to serve in 1889 were: O. B. Francisco, Sachem; A. L. Brooks, Keeper of Records; John Lancelot, Keeper of Wampum; Spark Baker, Prophet; Frank Reese, Senior Sagamore; Eli Agnew, Junior Sagamore. Good Templars' Lodge, No. 4^7, was or- ganized at Gray, December 8, 1888, by a membership of forty-six. The first to serve as officers were: D. O'Lary, C. T. ; Miss Alta Crow, V. T.; Mrs. J. J. Kittell, Dep.; Mrs. W. J. Audis, S. J. T.; Mrs. C. M. Tay- lor, P. C. T.; Mrs. W. J. Lancelott, Chaplain; S. T. Thompson, Financial Secretary; Mrs. R. J. Reese, Treasurer; T. O'Lary, Record- ing Secretary; Miss Clara Atkinson, Assist- HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. G83 ant Secretary; Saimiel Harris, Marshal; Miss Nora O'Lary, Deputy Marshal; May Clark, Sentinel; Thomas Watson, G.; R. II. Hamil- ton, D. G. The present membership of this order is fifty-nine. They meet once a week at Odd Fellows' Hall. BUSINESS INTERESTS OF 1888-'89. General stores, Lancelott & Reese, II. W. ii B. Lebeck & Co., Horace Shelley; hard- ware, Audis Brothers; drugs. Dr. A. L. Brooks; hotel, "Cottage House," S. T. Thompson, proprietor; restaurant, Frank Da- vis; blacksmith shop, Hepp & Frese; wagon sliop, Hepp tt Frese; harness shop, Ilonsman & Scovile; grain dealers, George Gray, Charles Stuart & Son; coal dealers, George Gray, Green Bay Lumber Company; lumber. Green Bay Lumber Company; physicians, Dr. A. L. Brooks, Dr. L. A. Bears; livery stable, S. T. Thompson; meat market, Ben- son & Peterson. A newspaper called the Western Blizzard was published here about a year by Frank D. Allen, who later on consolidated it with the Auchihon Advocate. It is generally under- stood that S. T. Thompson, proprietor of tlie Cottage House, is about to start a local paper at Gray. ROSS. This is a station four miles north of Au- dubon, on the Carroll branch of the Ciiicago & Northwestern Railroad. It was platted by tiie Western Town Lot Company, July 28, 1882; a station house was not built until in 1885. A postoffice was established at this point in 1883. The following have been postmasters: L. D. Thomas and John Wagner. Thg iirst to engage in trade was Fox & Johnson. At present — 1889 — a general store is operated by J. L. Luse. There are no other commercial interests, aside from tiio grain and coal trade, conducted by George Gray, W. H. Negley, Charles Stuart & Son. KIMBALLTON. Tliis is the last village platted in Audubon County; it was recorded June 2, 1888. How- ever, it had been platted by its proprietor, Hans J. Jorgenson, in 1883. It is located on tlie northeast quarter of section 80, town- ship 79, range 36, west. A postoffice was established in the fall of 1883, with Hans J. Jorgenson as first post- master. He was succeeded in July, 1888, by Hans Marquesen. The first goods sold at this point were in the fall of 1883, by Louis Hansen. In January, 1889, the following constituted the business interests of Kimballton : Murquesen ife Mehard, general store and postoffice; A. Bergreen, selling on com- mission for Russell & Son; Eveck 6c Gray, hardware and farming implements; Carl Johnson, blacksmitli; L. C. Thompson, car- penter. Goods are now usually hauled by teams from Audubon fifteen miles to the northeast. DEFUNCT VILLAGES. Among the defunct villages whicli appear on the county plat book is Dayton, whicli was the first platted village ot the county. Its plat was recorded January 9, 1855. It was the location set apart as the county seat by the locating committee. Geographically, it was situated on the east half of the nortli- west quarter of section 22, towiisbij) 78, range 35, west. There were never any busi- ness houses erected there, and only had a name in the plat book and as the jjlace of holding county court, etc., when the county judge happened to reside there. About ninety lots were sold at jn-ices from 50 cents to $9.00. No county buildings were ever erected, and when the county seat was removed by a 684 HISTORY OF AUDUBOH COUNTT> vote of the people to Exira, in 1861, Dayton ended its history, and its ambition to become a place of note fell into forgetfulness! Audubon City was the next village platted ill the county. It was situated on the south- west quarter of section 35, township 78, range 35, west. Its plat was filed for record September 3, 1856, by Nathaniel Hamlin and Thomas Lewis. A few store buildings and shops were there erected and its proprie- tor hoped to have the county seat finally located at that point, but the county nortli and west settled rapidly, and when the question was canvassed the people did not kindly take to the seat of justice being established there, hence another would-be county-seat village lost its identity and soon was numbered among the dead. A corn-field was j)ointed out to the writer when he asked, "Where is Au- dubon City?" However, its real location may be briefly described as being about the center of Exira Township. Oakfield was the name of a beautifully located plat, which was surveyed and recorded January 4, 1858, by Erasmus Bradley and Alva B. Brown, on sections 19 and 20, of what is now the civil township of Exira. Like the other early villages, it failed to be- come a place of any considerable note, and upon the platting and final building of the village of Brayton, a short distance to the west, and a station on the Audubon & At- lantic Railroad, Oakfield soon fell into the list of defunct villages. Another one of Uncle "Natty" Hamlin's town plats was recorded June 4, 1866, and was known as Louisville. It was located on the northwest quarter of the southwest quar- ter of section 16, township 78, range 35, west, and in what is now known as Exira Township. Here the first mill in the county was built, and at one time quite a pioneer vil- lage existed at this point. It also had county- seat aspirations, but, like so many other prospective county capitals, it soon went down with the upbuilding of more central locations. Hamlin was another county-seat venture projected by "Natty" Hamlin, Messrs. Bryan, Seevers, Donnell, Maxwell and Thompson, known as the " Hamlin Town Company," who ottered great inducements to gain the county seat, in the way of erecting a court- house and other improvements, then so much needed by the county. This attempt at "locating" a county seat for a time met with public favor, as the town proprietors ofl"ered liberally and their location was nearly in the center of the county, it being platted on sections 1 and 2, township 79, range 35, in what is known now as Hamlin Township, the same being a short distance southeast of Audubon, the present seat of justice. But the Exira people also made an equally liberal offer to the county and it was accepted. HISTORY OP AUDUBON COUNTY. 685 CHAPTER IX. CRIME IN SHELBY AND AUDUBON COUNTIES. HERE are but few, if any, portions of 'yimf either tlie civilized or uncivilized world phere the hand of crime has not at some period in the history of man left its crimson stain as an evidence that such loca- tion has been the scene of tragedy, aye! of deeds that were dark and damnable in their ciiaracter, deeds that sliock and horrify tlie refined senses of all rational beings who have been reared under the influence of Christian and civilized homes. For any one community to deny that crimes have been committed in their midst would be a useless piece of folly. Wherever man is found there more or less sin abounds, and where sin abounds to any great extent there the truthful chronicler of events must note the fact that crimes have ieen committed; but as to who have thus far forgotten the God who created them, and as to how men have been thus implicated in their dark deeds — this is an- other question, and one which for the good of all concerned, perhaps, may as well be for- ever unanswered. Suffice it to say that our own proud and much-boasted-of common- wealth — the State of Iowa — has a population at least as highly cultivated and refined as any one in the Union. She has a grand sisterhood of ninety-nine counties where may be found more school-houses and church buildings to her population than nearly any other State, and yet the court records of each and all of these, nearly 100 counties,contain an account of both criminal and civil proceed- ings of which no good law-abiding citizen is in the least degree proud. We now come to speak more especially of the dark deeds whicli unfortunately have happened within Shelby and Audubon counties since the time the first white man ventured into these parts for the purpose of ejecting a settlement. Upon entering into a county the local his- torian's ears are burdened and his heart sad- dened by the recital of foul crimes which have been committed from time to time. The county records display them, the press contains graphic and too frequently one-sided accounts of them; pioneers have them by heart, and nearly every citizen, whether of long or short residence, knows much, if not all, their history. The historian is not uu- frequently asked the question as to how he proposes to treat certain cases found in crime's crimson calender. And indeed, to all such it may be here stated that it is not the object of this Biographical and Historical liecord to deal extensively on base crimes, or in any other manner to injure the feelings of any man or woman within these counties, or any of their relatives who may have been in any way connected with such crimes. It may, however, be stated with propriety in tiiis connection, that some crimes have been here committed the mere record of 686 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY.'- which can in no wise harm any one, whila they will be read as matters merely of his- tory by those who may come after us, with some degree of interest, and serve to show the contrast of the days when laws were not as much respected as in the day in which we now live. THE JELLERSON MURDER AND SUBSEQUENT LYNCHING. The darkest page of crime's history within Audubon County up to the present time was made in the years ISSl-'SS. As in all such cases, the reports given, especially as to where the blame should rest the heaviest, varies as told by different men and written about by various pens. It is not the sphere of the recorder of local history to shade and cover for the purpose of fastening guilt upon or censuring any who may have been unfort- unate enough to have taken part in any way in a deed so full of darkness. From the best possible sources the writer has obtained the following facts concerning Audubon County's double tragedy: It appears that on April 26, 1884, an old and inoffensive citizen of the county living about four miles southeast from Audubon, named Hiram Jellerson, was taken from his bed at night by his son and two sons-in-law (as was finally proven) and dragged some dis- tance to a tree, where in his nakedness he was hung. From all that can be learned Mr. Jellerson was a crippled up old man who was a good citizen, possessing fairly good moral and intellectual traits of character, but who had been unfortunate in his family con- nections, and through them had lost much of his hard-earned property. His son, Ciccru B., who confessed the terrible crime later on, was of a brutish make-up, inheriting, it is believed, from his mother, who was of a low type and anything but intellectual. The sons-in-law were residents of Carroll County named Joel J. Wilson and John A. Smyth, who, together with the son of a self- ish mother, took the life of an aged, well- respected man after several weeks of plan- ning. After the usual preliminary work the three murderers were arrested, the son Cicero having allowed their crime to be made known to an outraged community, partly through his simple-mindedness and partly through the total depravity to which he was sunken. Hence the three were subsequently indicted and placed in jail awaiting their lawful trial. The ensuing term of the district court allowed the case to be continued. The next term of court was held in February, 1885, Judge Loofbourow on the bench. The defendants filed a motion for a oliange of venue on the ground of prejudice among the citizens of the county, the said motion being sustained by a few attorneys, together with four affidavits tiled by men in e.vtreme parts of the county, and who were supposed to know but little concerning the case or the feelings of the ex- cited community who had been too frequently annoyed by mismanaged courts and slow grinding " mills of justice.'' The motion was filed, but not acted upon the same day, by Judge Loofbourow, who, before court convened the following week (for reasons not generally known) exchanged benches with Hon. Judge H. C. Henderson, of Marshalltown, Iowa, who took charge of the court in Audubon on the following Mon- day, in place of Judge Loofbourow. These days were full of suspense to the anxious citizens, who had made up their minds that these mur- derers should be tried, or at least punished, in their own county — their guilt having been established beyond a doubt. To the great surprise of the vast throng from all parts of the county present. His Honor Judge Hen- derson made it known that Judge Loof- HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. 687 bonrow had concluded not to try the case at home, but had lieard with favor the prayer of the seven men who asked for a change of venue to Cass County. Anger and outrage seemed depicted on the face of the great gathering in attendance, and the bitterness of feeling for the time seemed to turn from the real criminals to tlie person who had absented himself, as they believed, from facing his own decision — Judge Loof- bourow. By many it is believed that the fury of an exasperated crowd, lead on perhaps by some lawless character, would have en- dangered the life of the judge had he been present. It is said that not less than 150 men from all parts of the couiity were in council as an indignation party the evening following Judge Henderson's announcement, who it was believed had feared some trouble might arise, and had ordered the sheriff to have the prisoners sent at night-time by a special train to Atlantic, the county-seat of Cass County, where by order of the court they were to be tried. This placed all in favor of trying them at home, on their guard, and united them by a sort of common consent in the conclusion that they should not escape their just deserts, though violence had to be used as a last re- sort. The people knew that they were taking chances at the hands of foreign courts, be- sides the matter of creating an almost too burdensome expense upon Audubon County, whose people were in no shape to pay un- necessary taxes at that date. Certain it is that all nigiit long the town was guarded, and no one permitted to ap- proach the jail. Excitement ran high every- wliere the following day; nothing else was tiiought of or talked over among lousiness men and farmers. At two o'clock in the morning, Tuesday, February 4, came the culminating act! Sheriff Henry Herbert was awakened from his slum- bers by a loud rap at his door within the county jail building. He responded by going to a window and inquiring what was wanted. A voice replied, " Henry, we want to see yon." The sheriff again asked what was wanted of him. The reply was, "We want the Jeller- son murderers." Herbert looked out of the window and estimated that there were about seventy-five men about the jail yard. He at once informed them that the prisoners were in his charge as an officer of tiie law, and that he would not give up the keys as de- manded by them, but would defend and pro- tect the prisoners. They then informed him that they did not intend to allow the prison- ers to go to another county for trial, it having been rumored that the sheriff was to remove them by night. Herbert told them if they would go away, that he would promise them upon honor to remove them by day, givino- them due notice when it should be done. He added that he should neither give up the keys nor prisoners. Then a voice replied, "Her- bert, every man here is your friend, and we know your duty as well as you do; but we have come on business, and that business we must do quick. We are no mob, but a body of determined men who are citizens of your county. We came for Jellerson's murderers, and we will not quit short of having them let it be at whatever cost it may." The sheriff and his deputy, Mr. Workman then tired several shots over the heads of the crowd, to try and alarm the citizens about town, but all to no avail. Some one from the crowd tired at the jail window, causing the officers within to believe that they meant all they had said. The sheriff ran down stairs, but found they had spiked his key-hole in a manner which securely fastened him inside of liis sleeping-room, making him powerless 688 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTi\ to defeud the prisoners. The mob (for such it had then come to be) soon broke an open- ing through the brick walls of the jail, by means of sledges, crow-bars, etc., and were inside, bolting the other door, thus cutting off all possibility of the officers protecting the prisoners. An account given by one of another set of prisoners, aside from those the mob were after, gave the following details of the tragedy: The prisoners sought were in two cells inside an iron cage, and they slept on hammocks. At the first alarm Smith re- marked, "They are after us!" Wilson re- plied, "Yes, it's all up with us now!" One of the mob carried a lantern, while others were well provided with tools; yet it took nearly an hour and a half to gain access to the prisoners' inner cells, by the dextrous use of cold chisels, hammers, etc. Upon their entrance Smith struck one of the nine masked men, who were within the jail, with a broom- handle, knocking him over by a table; where- upon the lyncher drew his revolver and shot Smith in the head, instantly killing him. In the cell were two chairs, and whenever a man attempted to enter Wilson would strike at him violently, and it was some time before they could conquer him. He finally ran toward the opening, like a mad beast, with chair in hand, but was silenced bj' a bullet for an instant, but kept up his uneven fight for life until after the third shot had taken effect, when he fell to the cell floor. The bodies of the two already killed were dragged to the opening the mob had made in the jail wall, taken out and hung to a fence stringer. Cicero, the fiendish culprit, was still' within his cell, frightened almost to death, but re- marked to one of his fellow-criminals, after the party left to hang up the prisoners already shot, that he did not think they would kill him. But alas! he did not seem to measure the storm of passion then engendered in the hearts of the furious yet seemingly level- headed lynchers. The next move was to re- move Cicero from the jail, which he did not resist. When out they placed a rope around his neck, and he was obedient and humble as a lamb. Nothing further is known of the procedure until the dead body of Cicero was found hanging within the band stand, in the center of the public square. While the mob were ontside with the other two prisoners, Cicero, confined in his cell, confessed his terrible guilt, together with that of Smith and Wilson. He confessed with the express understanding between him- self and the other convicts of the jail that they should not tell on him only in case the mob should kill him. Smith and Wilson, however, protested their innocence to the last. The verdict of the coroner's jury was to the eflect that the three prisoners came to their death "by unknown hands." Judge Henderson always claimed that tiie exchange of judges was made at his and not at Judge Loofbourow's request, but the ma- jority of the people always felt that their judge shirked a known duty, and dare not face his own act in granting a change of venue. To say that Audubon County people upheld mob law would be false, but it is true that they had become tired of mismanaged courts of justice. There had been seven murders committed during the three years prior to this affair, and none had been properly dealt with by the courts of justice, all of which tended to nettle and make tlie people ready to justify, to a certain extent, this last lynching act. And since that date law and order have prevailed and crime won- derfully decreased. HI STOUT OF AUDUBON COUNTY. 68!) "POLK CITY MURDERERS LYNCHED. CAPTURED AND Tliis terrible tragedy may be recorded as an Audubon-Shelby County affair, belonging as much to one county, perhaps, as another, beginning as it did in Audubon and finally culminating in the county-seat of Shelby County. The following is about as plain and brief a statement of the noted case as can here be given, owing to the fact that the courts of justice never had the chance to hear the evi- dence, the culprits botli meeting their fate at the hands of " Judge Lynch,^' whose court never records its speedy decision, which in some instances may have been acts of pru- dence and a safeguard to the welfare of com- munities where real courts have failed to bring the guilty to justice. Early in the month of April, 1882, Mayor Stubbs, of Polk City, Iowa, was aroused from his slumbers by two men who Hashed a dark lantern in his eyes; as he sprang from his bed a bullet pierced his heart and he fell dead. Search was at once made, no pains or expense being spared to find the guilty, midnight assassins, but for months the hunt seemed in vain. About the 15tli of July, the same year, Polk City was the scene of another cold-blooded murder. The postmaster there, named Clinigan, and his deputy, a Mr. Hanger, were closing for the nigiit, two men accosted them with a pleasant " Good even- ing" salute, and in a few seconds the post- master was dead with a bullet-hole through his neck. Five minutes later armed men were in pursuit of the murderers, yet, strange to relate, the clue to them was lost. Several trails were followed up, one commencing where two horses had been stolen a few miles from the tragic spot. Detectives were speedily dis- patched in all directions, and a day or two later a telephone dispatch at the office of Charles Stuart & Son, of Audul)on, revealed the fact that the horse thieves were just fleeing over Stuart's " rancii," eight miles east, and were being pursued by eight men. At once fhe sheriff and other officers at Audubon sent telegrams to all points on both railroads, notifying the agents to be on the look-out. Subsequent developments revealed the fact that they had compelled a farmer in the edge of Guthrie County to get them breakfast, and then stolen two fresli horses and continued their flight west until they reached the farm house of Hugh McGiil, in Melville Township, Audubon County. It was then five o'clock in the morning. The first intimation the farmer had was the approach of two men, who, with revolvers pointed at him, addressed him thus: " We want your team.'" They took his fine team and continued their journey west. In the meantime the agent of the Rock Island road at Audubon had been notified of the approach of the men who it was supposed were the " Polk City murderers." The news spread rapidly and soon a posse of men was formed, consisting of W. G. Stuart, John Griggs and William Stotts, who started west accompanied by City Marshal Spriggs, it having been learned that the desperadoes had been seen passing a mile north of Audubon. Various reports and trails were traced out, including one on the " Mormon Trail," where the two men had inquired for Walnut Station. The next heard of them was a few rods from Kimball ton Postoffice, where John Gardner and E. Baxter were building a bridge across Indian Creek. On approaching the bridge they were informed they could not pass, as it was yet unsafe, so tiie}' made the Iiorsesjump the stream, which aroused suspicion, and the bridge builders at once saddled their liorses and followed them, but soon lost sight of them. The next seen of them was at a point seven miles north and west of Elkiiorn Grove; but 090 niSTORY OP AUDUBON VOUNTr. upon being pursued they turned, going toward the grove. One of their horses giving out, they both mounted the same horse, finally landing in the dense thicket about the grove, where they hitched their horse and concealed themselves, being watched only by Gardner, Baxter and two Danes who lived near by. The horse whinnied, giving the alarm, and thus showing the exact spot where they were con- cealed, so the men rode in and captured the animal, leading him to the road-side. In a short time twenty farmers were present and stationed as guards around the grove. At 11:30 A. M. Isaac Hallock and Mr. Zim- merman, from Oakfield, arrived, M'hen, in com- pany with John Gardner, they decided to go through the grove, but the trip revealed nothing new. At about this time squads ar- rived from Audubon and Exira, when a line was formed, which proceeded to march through the grove — the men being about twenty feet apart. After penetrating the grove 300 yards, the murderers were seen by young Willis Hallock, who called out "Here they are!" whereupon he was instantly shot. ]S'o other member of the company saw the men, and as Hallock claimed their attention the villains again escaped fartlier into the forest. By dark there were stationed around the grove not less than 300 men, fresh re- cruits arriving all night long. During the niu'lit the murderers attempted to e.-cape several times but failed. The guards were fed in the morning by farmers and by those who had sent provisions from surrounding towns. Again a line was formed and marched through the grove to no purpose; it was sup- posed they had made their escape during the night in some way, but better judgment pre- vailed and the third inarch was ]jrojected by cool-headed officers, who determined to go over every yard of land within the forest. The march was ordered, and when half way through the assassins were seen and one of them at once tired a revolver at John Maddy, of Marne, the bail taking effect in his side. Then the men broke for the prairie — running a race for life, in which they failed! After going over a wheat field, about forty yards, the leader was shot down by Levi Montgom- ery, of Exira, when the others took for the timber again. The man shot lived about thirty minutes, during which time he was questioned about the Stiibbs murder, but he refused to talk. He finally confessed to shooting Clini- gan, also the two men in the grove. By this time there were present fully 2,000 people. As to the proceedings after the capture, no better account can be given than that pub- lished at the time in the State Register: "The sheriff of Polk County desired to take charge of Hardy, the living culprit, but the crowd were not ready to release him. He was marched to the public road, eighty rods distant, where they halted, when the cry went up from all sides — '■Rang him,!'' ^ Hang him!'' But the sheriff and cool heads succeeded in gaining a calm, when it was learned the prisoner had not eaten for many hours, so he was fed. "The greatest crime to which he would confess was that of stealing horses. He claimed his name was William Smith, a native of Denison, Texas, aged twenty-two years. He claimed only to have been in Ijad company, but said he never killed a man. Said his mother died when he was ten years old, and that he believed in a Supreme Being. He liegged for mercy, and yet seemed per- fectly cool in all his actions. Finally the cry for '■Rope!'' became again loud, and against the oflicer's will a rope was placed about his neck, and with strong hands to firmly hold him he was tied. Turning south the crowd ran with violent yells, which frightened the horses, upsetting several buggies. The pris- HISTORT OF AUDUBON COUNTY. U91 oner was then led witli a rope nearl}' a mile to the bridge crossing Indian Creek. Hardy was taken to the center of the rude stiucture and told he must soon die, which statement did not seem to ruffle him in the least. He asked for pencil and paper with which to write to his mother, wishing some one pres- ent to convey it, along with his $14 in money, to her. Dick Griggs, of Exira, was selected. The liack of a scale-book leaf was given him, upon which he wrote the following: " ' To 3frs. Ellen Crist, Butler, Bates County, Missouri: '"Dear Mothek: — As I am now on the gallows, speaking the last time to you, I will speak in sorrowful, although in firm tones. I am sorry to have come to such an end; I know it will nearly kill you, but it is my fault, not yours. Mr. Griggs will see that 1 am decently buried, and give you the details of the case. I will send you what money I have and a lock of my hair, that will, I hope, have some bearing on the future life of the buys. Your loving son, " ' Wm. IIakdy.' " Prominent men then spoke to the crowd, pleading with them not to defeat justice, and keep their hands clean of human blood! E. J. Freeman, M. Nichols, J. D. ITolmes, Es- quire Darnell, the Sheriff of Shelby County, and others spoke. Then the prisoner spoke at length of his innocence, after which citi- zens again spoke, trying to cool the blood- craving spirit already rife. At last it was concluded to vote on the question of hanging, which seemed to be in favor of lettinif law prevail. During the trying ordeal Hardy stood with rope around his neck, yet not a quiver era change was seen upon his face. "The Sheriff of Shelby (bounty succeeded in pinioning his arms and getting him in a 44 buggy, in which he soon drove away to the jail at Harlan. The crowd, nearly worn-out by over-ta.\ed nerves and loss of sleep, soon went their several ways." HAEUY LYNCHED. Hardy was confined in the jail at Harlan July 14, and on the night of the 24th of the same month, at about two o'clock, a. m., the city fire bell rang an alarm to awaken the citizens, who speedily as possible, after find- ing the trouble, went to the county jail, which had been quietly surrounded by about fifty masked men, who frightened the keys from the jailor's wife; they then securely tied the jailor, and at once proceeded to take Hardy from his cell, which they quickly ac- complished, and hastened him along through the town to the bridge; just south of the town, crossing the Nishnabotna River at a point near J. W. Chatburn's flouring mill, where, from all that could be traced by the officers who looked the ground over afterward, it seems they hung and shot the outlaw, and afterward threw his body into the river. The oTily conversation heard by those not directly interested was that heard by Judge Chatburn, who, upon hearing the noise, step- ped to his doorway, when he heard some one say, " Please donH shoot me, boi/sf" Again a voice said, " Pull him up from the water! " and immediately there were not less than 100 shots fired, a dozen or more of which took deadly eft'ect in the body of Hardy. Hundreds of people began to crowd around the scene by this time, but at nigiit no one se-med to lead, and those who constituted the mob of lynchers made good their escape, some going in one direction and some in another. A search was at once made. J. H. Weeks, member of the Harlan tire department, volunteered to go into the river in search of 692 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY^ the body, wlucli in less than ten minutes was found and brought to the shore. Upon examination it seemed quite certain that he had at first been hung, and then shot at by the mob, as they passed along by the man in rapid succession. Some of the dozen or more balls had penetrated his heart; the size of the bullets was thirty- two calibre. The teeth of tiie corpse were firmly set, show- ing that Hardy had died as he lived — a man of iron nerve. His hands had been tied be- hind him with a piece of check-rower cord, the sume as was used in binding the jailor. " CKOOKED CKEEK OUTLAWS." This was the name given to a band of law- less citizens, who from the close of the IJc- bellion up to about 1885 iTihabited the soutii- eastern portion of AiuIuIhui County, as well as the northern tier of townsliips in Cass County. Many of the deperadoes had set- tled along Crooked Creek, from which they took their name. For many years this band of murderous, thieving people was the terror of both counties. They included men who had run away from the Confederate States — were rebels of the darkest dye — and soon gathered to themselves such other outlaws as had already settled in this section of Iowa. They stole valuable stock, including horses, and they also gave quarters for hard charac- ters who chanced to go through their settle- ment. Law-abiding people were for many years harrassed to that extent tliat they dare not go before a grand jury and testify against them. In one night one farmer had fifty fat liogs stolen and driven from his barn-yard; and for fear of having his house and barns burned he never prosecuted, or even sought to trace out tlie tliieves, whoui he had every reason to believe were his nearest neighbors. From time to time these men have Ijeen .shot, sent to State's prison, or hung by lynch law here or in adjoining counties, until the "nest "has finally been pretty well broken up. While every new country has more or less trouble with this desperate sort of cliar- acters, it would seem that southern Audubon and northern Cass counties had more than their full share. It is for this and the other fact that courts of justice have necessarily had more or less of these outlaws upon their trial and grand juries, that it was impossiV)le for peaceable citizens to have justice meted out at the hands of courts, and in self-protection they got into the habit of taking the law into their own hands, and perhaps used the services of "Judge Lynch" more than they would have done otherwise. JILRDKR OF C. n. KLEVA. One of tiic most dastardly and cold-blooded murders committed in Audubon County oc- curred on the night of December 24, 1884, on section 17, of Oakfield Township. From the best reports now on file it seems that a man twenty-two years old, named Peter Ryan, had been to Bray ton the afternoon prior to the murder, and liad there imbibed too freely of that which so frequently kills — whisky. Upon returning his team had ran away, and he called at the farm-house of one of Audubon County's most highly respected citizens, C. II. Kleva, at about ten o'clock at night and wanted to warm his hands, having lost his mittens, he said. In a moment or two he went out of the door, remained a short time, and returned, sayinghe went to see if the man was outtliere holding his team yet. The farmer questioned whether there was any one there, or any team, and told Ryan he did not think he had a team there; whereupon Kyan pulled a re- volver and fired two shots, one taking effect HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. 693 in Kleva's mouth and the other in his chest, causing almost instant deatli to a perfectly harmless, innocent man. Marshals Walkup, of Audubon, and Camp- bell, of Exira, soon arrested Eyan, who of- fered but slight resistance. A preliminary trial was held before Ma3'or A. B. Houston, of Exira, which resulted in binding him over to the next term of district court. The feel- ing upon the day of the coroner's inquest was so great that it was feared he would be hanged by the enraged neighbors. But bet- ter judgment prevailed, and he was confined in the jail at Audubon to await his trial, which was postponed until September the following year — 1885 — when he was tried by some of the best attorneys in the State, but convicted, and finally sentenced to the State's prison at Fort Madison for a term of twenty years, at hard labor, by Judge Loof- bourow. At the same term of court parties belong- ing to the noted " Crooked Creek " gang, named Huntley and Heath, were sentenced each twenty months for stealing cattle. Since justice has been meted out in a proper man- ner by the courts of the county, but little crime has been committed, and it is without doubt that no lynching ever occurred in Au- dubon County where the parties were not guilty and richly deserving of such punish- ment. Innocent men have never been hung in this county, but many an innocent one brutally murdered. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, (UARLES VAN GORDER, banker, Au- dubon, Iowa, is a native of New Yoriv, born in Delaware County on a farm, on tlie baiilis of the Delaware River, Jan- uary 23, 1837. He is the fifth in a family of eleven children, eight of whom survive. His father, Simon Van Gorder, is still living, and is in his ninetieth year; he is a native of New York, born on the Delaware River, and is a farmer by occupation; his father was Lawrence Van Gorder, and his grandfather was John Van Gorder, of Hollandish descent. The motlier of our subject was Miss Jane Fisli, a native of Delaware County, New York, and a daughter of Isaac Fish; she was born in 1808, and died in 1882. She was a person of unusual merit. Charles Van Gorder passed his youth in his native State working on the farm; he received a common- school education. In 1850 he drifted west- ward to Illinois, stopping in Henry County, and afterward in Bates County, Missouri, where he remained three years. In the spring of 1860 he came to Audubon County, Iowa, and soon alterward fitted up a fine freigiiting team to Denver, Colorado, and at llie same time engaged in the inaniifactnre of brick; he continued the freighting and brick-making until 1862, wiien he entered the Union army, in the Thirty-ninth Iowa Infantry, Company B; he was sent to the front, and took part in several battles, among them Resaca and Ai- toona, in the last of which he was wounded, being shot in the left foot; he was disabled for six months. Recovering from this wound, he was ordered to report at Washington, D. C., where his discharge papers were made out, and sent to Clinton, Iowa, where he re- ceived his pay, and final discharge. He tilled every station from that of a private soldier to Captain. He then returned to Audubon, and accepted a position as clerk in a store, where he remained until 1869, when he was elected county treasurer of Audubon. He was re-elected in 1871, serving four years. After retiring from office he engaged in the real-estate business, which he continued until 1876, when he formed a co-partnership with F. H. Whitney, and organized the Audubon County Bank; this partnersiiip continued until 1883, when Mr. Van Gorder bought out Mr. Whitney's interest in the bank; since that time he has operated the business alone. He owns several good farm.s wliicli he rents. 69G n I STORY OP AUDLBON COUNTY. * In 18G9 Mr. Van Gorder was married to Miss Laura J. Delalioyde, of Oakfield, Iowa; slie is a daugliter of Thomas Delalioyde, who died when she was ij^uite young; she was born in Ireland, and came to this country when one year old. Mr. and Mrs. Yan Gorder are the parents of three children — Edwin S., Sidney L. and Lowene. Mr. Van Gorder has served as member of the city council and of the school board. He began life without any means, and has by tireless energy and excellent man- agement attained an enviable position in the county. .4„j,|^ 5SAAC P. HALLOCK,Jk., a leading farmer of Audubon County, Iowa, was born , in Kendall County, Illinois, March 21, 1840. He is the youngest son of Isaac P. and Abigail H. (Smith) Ilallock, who were among the iirst settlers of Oakiield, Audubon County. Isaac P. Ilallock, Sr., was born in Clinton County, New York, in 1802; his father was Israel Peter Ilallock, of Scotch and French extraction. Abigail II. Ilallock was born in the State of Massachusetts, in the year 1800, and died in the year 1885; she was the mother of eight children, six of whom lived to maturity — Elizabeth, wife of Thomas Diss- more; Julia A., wife of E. D. Bradley; Ilich- ard S., John A.; Sarah M., wife of J. H. Basham, and Isaac Peter, the subject of tliis sketch. He was fourteen years of age when his parents removed to Earlville, Illinois, in which place tiiey lived two years. In the fall of 1856 they came to Audubon County, Iowa, and settled on a tract of land which is now the old town siteof Oakfield, as platted by liichard S. Ilallock and E. D. Bradley in 1857. Isaac P. Hallock, Sr., erected the first house in tlic village; soon after coming to the county ho was elected judge for one term; he was then elected justice of the peace, a position he held for several terms. He was appointed post- master of Oakfield, and held the otfice for many years. Mr. Ilallock is still living, in his eighty-seventh year. Isaac P. Hallock, Jr., received only the advantages of a common- school education. The school-house at Oak- field was a cabin of rude construction, which was afterward replaced by a frame building. At the age of nineteen years he assumed the care and responsibility of his father's farm, as his father was at that time afflicted with asthma. He was very successful in the man- agement of the place, and at the same time made some profitable trades in live-stock, lie then embarked in the mercantile business at Oakfield, beinof associated with I. H. Jenkins and D. W. Powers; this firm continued to transact business successfully for five years, and at the expiration of that time Mr. Hal- lock purchased the interest of both his part- ners and carried on the business alone. After a prosperous career of several years Mr. Ilallock sold his stock to T. E. Cotton, now deceased. He then bought a stock of goods owned by his brother, J. A. Hallock, at Exira, and managed that store forses'eral years. At one timehe also owned a stock of hard ware and farm implements at Brayton, Iowa. In the early spring of 1881 Mr. Hallock opened a hard- ware store in Carson, Pottawattamie County, Iowa, having as a partner L. L. Archer; they afterward sold out and invested the proceeds of the sale in Salt Lake City real estate. Mr. Ilallock is now largely engaged in feeding sheep for Chicago markets; he also feeds large numbers of cattle and hogs. Of later years he has given especial attention to the breeding of heavj' draft horses. His landed estate now covers 2,400 acres, and with the direction of this and the can^ of the stock his time is fully taken up. Mr. Hallock was married in his twenty-eighth year to Malinda A. Norton, of DIOGRAPinCAL SKETCHES. 697 Oakfield, daughter ofAVilliam C. Norton, who came to Oakfield in 1856. Tliey have liad born to them seven children, four of whom are living — Abbie 11., Keese C, Alice and Isaac Percy; three died in infancy. Mr. II al- lock has bueii iilentified with ahuost every enterprii^e tliat had for its object the advance- ment and growth of the town and progress of the c'l II Ml unity. He was one of the origina- tors, diricturs and stockholders of the Atlantic National IJaiik at Atlantic, Iowa, and held his connection witii that institiitidU fur many years. At one time he was owner of the Oakfield flouring-mills. He is a staunch member of the Republican party; has held the offices of townsliip clerk, trustee, and been a member of the board of supervisors of Au- dubon County, Iowa, and township assessor at one time. fOIlN F. CONSLGNY, one of Audubon's successful grocery men, came to the town in its infancy and established himself in business, in which he has been actively en- gaged ever since. He is a native of Canada, and was born April 2, 1848, in St. Cesaire, Province of Quebec, remaining there until nearly grown; here he received a good com- mon-school education, and later was sent to the Brothers' College. His father was Dr. A. P. Consigny, a highly esteemed citizen and a successful physician, who for many years con- ducted a large -and lucrative practice. Pre- vious to the division of Canada into counties. Dr. Consigny was, until iiis death, inspector of schools and colleges in Lower Canada. His death occurred in April, 1857. Ilis wife, who was Miss Lucy L. Goodrich, a daughter of Captain Ezekiel Goodrich, still survives him, and resides in Avoca, Iowa; lier father was a Captain in the Revolutionary war. John F. Consigny, on reaching his sixteenth year, went to the State of Vermont, and accepted a clerkship in a store containing a general stock of merchandise; he served in this capacity until 1863, when he enlisted in the First Ver- mont Cavalry, and was assigned to the Army of the Potomac. While his company (M) was doing duty as mounted provost and body guard at Second Corps headqnartir.s near Hatcher's Run, Virginia, in October, 1864:, he was wounded in the foot, and alsn received a wound on the side of the head on April 2, 1865, from the effects of which he has lost the hearing of one ear. He served his country faithfully for two years, and was discharged at Burlington, Vermont, in Jnne, 1865. He then resumed the occupation of clerkship and bookkeeper. In February, 1866, lie came to Dubuque, Iowa, and afterward made an ex- tended tour of several States, going as far south as Texas; he drifted back to Avoca, Iowa, and remained there for a period of two years, and thence came to Audubon and em- barked in the grocery business, as before stated. FroiQ his long experience, and honest and fair dealing he is widely and favorably known to the trading public. Besides his grocery stock Mr. Consigny carries a full line of queen's-ware and glass-ware, etc. Mr. Con- signy was united in marriage in February, 1879, to Miss Alice Ileflin, of Avoca, Iowa; she is a daughter of Marshall and Nancy (Rusk) Ileflin, who are now residents of Avoca; she was born in Knox County, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Consigny have had born to them four children — Clarence P., Maliel A., J. Edward and James G. Mr. Consigny is a member of the city council, having served over three years. He is a member of Veritas Lodge, No. 392, A. F. & A. M.; of the I. O. R. M.; of the Knights of Fythias, No. 163; Uni- form Rank of the Aretas Fiodge, No. 396; Encampment of 1. O. O. F., ami of Allison COS HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNtT. Post, No. 34, G. A. R., having been five times delegate to the State Encampment and dele- gate to the National Encampment at Port- land, Maine, and San Francisco, California. Mr. Consigny is of French extraction on his father's side, and of English and Welsh on the mother's side. ^TIIELBEET J. FREEMAN, of the %. firm of Freeman & Armstrong, bankers, real estate and loans, Audubon, Iowa, is a native of Pennsylvania, born in Fayette County, September 22, 1840. The father is Mordecai Freeman, a farmer and miller by occupation, a native of Pennsylvania, now residing at West Liberty, Pennsylvania. The mother is Mary Freeman; she had two sons, of whom our subject is the eldest. The brother, Leroy Walter, was killed in the late war in November, 1864, at the battle of South Side Railroad, near Petersburg, Vir- ginia. E. J. Freeman, the subject of this notice, was educated in the common schools of his native county. In 1857 he went to McDonough County, Illinois, and followed farming and carpentry'. In 1864, May 24, he enlisted in the Sixteenth Illinois Volun- teer Infantry, Company A; he was assigned to the department of the Army of the Cum- berland ; he took part in the battles of Plue Mills, Missouri; Island No. 10, and its capt- ure; Tiptonville, Tennessee ; Farmington, Mississippi; Stone River, Tennessee, and other smallerengagements; lie belonged to the Second Division, Second Brigade, and the Fourteenth Army Corps. He was honorably discharged February 5, 1863, on account of disability. lie then returned to McDonougii County, Illinois, and engaged in farming. In the fall of 1867 he came to Audubon County, and settled on 160 acres, which he had purchased. In 1878 he was appointed agent for the town of Audubon, and for rail- road lands belonging to the Rock Island A: Pacific Railroad, a position which he still holds. In 1880 Mr. Freeman was elected treasurer of Audubon County, and was re- elected in 1882, serving four years in all. In 1883 he formed a co-partnership with A. F. Armstrong, and continued dealing in real estate and loans; in 1885 the Citizens' Bank was established and Mr. Freeman was made cashier, and still holds this position. Sep- tember 13, 1862, Mr. Freeman was married to Miss Nancy Leightj', of McDonough County, Illinois, a native of Ohio, and a daughter of Daniel Leighty, now deceased. Mr. and Mrs Freeman have eight children — Daniel, Eva, Edmond, William, Drew, Eth- elbert, John, and a babe unnamed. Mr. Freeman was elected the first mayor of Au- dubon, receiving every vote that was cast. He has been chief of the fire department since the starting of the town, and now he has been chosen to operate the water-works. He has been a member of the school board since his first residence in the county. He is a member of Veritas Lodge, No. 392, A. F. & A. M.; Amity Chapter, No. 92, R. A. M.; Godfrey Commandery, No. 44, K. T. Mr. Freeman has a tine residence and comfortable surroundings. He is also a member of the Allison Post, No. 34, G. A. R. g . 3 . . ; . ;. ..■■ ,0N. RUSSELL A. STEERE was born in Jefl'erson County, Ohio, March 27, 1821. His father, David Stecre, was a miller by trade, and was born in Virginia, of French parentage, in August, 1786. His father was Joseph Steere. The Steere family settled in South Carolina in 1700; six gen- erations have i)een born in America, the first BIOORAPUICAL SKBTGIIBS. 699 settlers having been French Huguenots. The mother of Russell A. Steere was Phoebe Mil- hous, who was born in the city of Phila- delphia, where she grew to womanhood. Her father was William Milhous, a native of Pennsylvania, of German descent. Russell A. Steere passed his early boyhood in Ohio, and in 1833 went ont to Michigar., remain- ing there until he was eighteen years of age; he then entered Mount Pleasant College, a Quaker institution in Jefferson County, Ohio, and was graduated in 1841. He then began his career as a teacher, and taught in Mich- igan, Ohio, Kentucky and West Virginia. In 1844 he went to Cincinnati, and was there employed in an importing dry-goods estab- lishment until 1847 when he enlisted in the Mexican war, entering Company P, Second Ohio, Charles Broughf actino; as Colonel of the Regiment; he was sent to Matamoras, and then to Vera Cruz, where many of the soldiers took the yellow fever; all of the officers and many soldiers died. Mr. Steere was sent to New Orleans, and was there placed in the hospital under the care of the Sisters of Charity. After being mustered out of the service he returned to Cincinnati, Ohio, and resumed his place in the wholesale house, remaining there until 1853, when he went to Minnesota, and settled in Fillmore County. In 1864, when there was a call for more men to defend the flag of this nation, Mr. Steere again shouldered his musket, antl enlisted in Company A, Second Minnesota Volunteer Infantry; he was sent south, and joined Sherman's army at Savannah, and took part in the pursuit of General Johnston, who surrendered at Raleigh. He was then ordered to Washington, D. C, took part in tiie grand review, was mustered out July 11, 1865; was paid at Fort Sneliiiig, and received his final discharge July 20, 1865. Mr. Steere was married in Deceinher, 1855, to Miss Alice King, a daiigliter of John E. King, a native of England. She was born in Illinois. Eiglit children were born of this marriage — Ed- mund IL, Ernest K., Samuel II. (deceased), Francis V. (deceased), Lincoln, Elinor, Alice M. and David. Alter returning from the war, Mr. Steere began farming near Spring Valley, Minnesota, and remained there until 1867, when he removed with his family to Michigan and bought a farm in Branch County, and lived upon it until 1872; he then went back to Minnesota, attended to some business, and in October, 1873, he removed his family to Audubon County, residing the first two years at Oakfield. In 1875 he moved to his present farm, whicii contains 160 acres; since his residence there Mr. Steere has devoted all of his time to directing and improving his farm; he gives special attention to raising live-stock. While living in Minnesota, Mr. Steere was elected a mem- ber of the Legislature, and was appointed to the offices of county commissioner and county clerk. He also filled several township offices, acquitting himself in all these positions witli much credit. He is a member of the Ma- sonic order, and of the I. O. O. F. He is a member of the Union League, and is a staunch temperence man. Politically he is a Repub- lican; he was born and raised a Wliig. He voted for General Harrison in 1840, ant! for Benjamin Harrison in 1888. He is a mem- l)er of the G. A. R. Ill . n? * ! ! < t * V * * " IHARLES HOWARD VAIL is a de- HJK. scendant of the sixth generation of John •grl and Eiizal)ct]i Vail, who came from Kng- land and landed at South-hold, Long Island, in 1650, to enjoy freedom to worship God; they were members of the Society of Friends. They liad three children tlohn, Samuel and 700 BISTORT OF AUDUBON COUNTY. » Martha. The eldest, John, was a useful min- ister ainuiig the Friends of that remote period, and his descendants became distinguished in political life and scientific attninments. The second son, Samuel, was born Octoljer 21) 1G78, and was twice married. He purchased a large plantation on Green Brook, near the place that is now covered by Plainiield, New Jersey; this property has been in the posses- sion of members of the family ever since — 164 years. Samuel Vail died April 26, 1733. (A copy of his will is now in the possession of C. U. Vail.) His eldest son, John, and a brother occupied the Green Brook farm. In 1780 John married Margaret Shotwell Laing, and they were the parents of eight sons who were all married and who had large families, whose descendants are numerous and widely scattered. The eldest son, John Vail, Jr., and o-reat-grandfather of C. II. Vail, married Catherine Fitz-Kandolph, a descendant of a large and influential family of P'riends, who came from England to America in 1630, set- tling in Massachusetts. John, Jr , and Cath- erine had seven children — Margaret, Edward, Amos, Isaac, Phoebe, Nathan and Joel. Dur- ing the contest for American Independence, when the British forces held possession of Perth-Amboy and the adjacent country. Gen- eral Washington and staff called at the farm residence of John Vail, and asked to be guided to some prominent spot on the mountain, from which a good view of the plain below could be obtained ; this request was granted, and the spot to which he was conducted still bears the name of Washington's Rock. Edward Vail, the second child of John, Jr., and Catherine Vail, grandfather of our subject, was Ixirn Marcli 27, 176-1, at Green Brook, New Jersey. When a young man his father gave him one of the Green Brook farms, and there lie l)ni]t a commodious residence. On the 20th of December, 1793, he was married to Sarah Kinsey, of Woodbridge, New Jersey, who was born June 8, 1770, and wliose family have always held an enviable position in the best society — socially, politically and religiously. They came originally from Scotland. Edward and Sarah Vail had nine children, six of whom lived to be over seventy years of age. Their seventh son, Abel Vail, father of C. H. Vail, was born February 12, 1807, at Green Brook, New Jersey, and was married November 2, 1831, to Arietta Bristol, of Dutchess County, New York. She was born March 1, 1809. Abel Vail was a hatter for many 3"ears, but afterward went upon the old homestead and was a farmer the remainder of his days. He and his wife were the parents of four children, of whom C. H. Vail is the youngest. In 1853 Abel Vail moved to Indiana, settling near La Porte; he died while on a visit to New York, August 15, 1885. In the history of the So- ciety of Friends in New Jersey, it is said that there is no family name more honorably or continuously associated with the welfare of the society than that of the Vails. From the earliest records of the meetings it is learned that a conspicuous and important part was always taken by some of the family from the very beginning of the society. In 1687 men- tion is made of John Vail, as an active mem- ber of the first meeting at Amboy, and as one of the founders of the meeting at that place. Among the numerous names of ancestral fame and honor, that of Vail was pronounced the leading one in the number bearing it. Charles Howard Vail was born February 26, 1851, near Plainfield, New Jersey. When two years of age his parents removed to Indi- ana, in which State he grew to manhood; he was edncjited in the district school, and spent his summers working on the farm. In 1875 he came to Audubon County, Iowa, and set- tled at Oakfield; he soon after became clerk in a general store, a position he held until BIOGRAPHICAL SKKTCUES. 701 187B, wlien he took charge of a branch store for R. Keininling, at the old town of Ilamliii. In the fall of 1879 he formed a copartnership with John T. Jenkins at Braytoii, Iowa, in the dry-goods and general merchandise busi- ness, under the firm name of Jenkins & Vail; this business relation continued until 1886, when Mr. Vail was elected clerk of the dis- trict court. He assumed the duties of that office January 1, 1887, and in the fall of 1888 he was re-elected for the two years following, having filled the office to the entire satisfac- tion of his constituents. Mr. Vail was mar- ried March 31, 1880, to Mrs. Martha C. Reynolds, of Oaktield, Audubon County. Mrs. Vail was born in New York. They liave two children — Arthur H., born in Brayton, Iowa, June 2, 1881, and Arietta, born in Brayton, Iowa, August 10, 1883. Mrs. Vail had one daughter by her former marriage — • Rose G., wife of Joseph S. Grosvenor. " "I ' S"? ' ^ENRY FRANKLIN ANDREWS, of Audubon, was born in Lovell, Oxford County, Maine, June 27, 1844. He is the eldest child of Jacob and Martha Phin- ney (Hamblen) Andrews. His brothers and sisters are — Dr. Charles Hamblen Andrews, of Exira, born June 21, 1847; Isaac Stearns Andrews, a farmer, residing three miles north- east of Atlantic, Iowa, born April 25, 1849, and Sarah Kimball Andrews, born September 25, 1857, who married William Tingle, of Cass County, Iowa, and removed to Bassett, Nebraska, where she died September 26, 1887. Mr. Andrews is descended in nearly every branch of his family from the earliest New England settlers. In the paternal line his first ancestor in America was Robert An- drews, who came from England with his wife, Elizabetli, and resided at Ipswich, Massachusetts, as early as 1635. This was the home of this branch of the family down to the time of the Revolutionary war, through si,x generations, including Robert Andrews, viz.: John Andrews, and Sarah, his wife; John Andrews, and Judith, his wife; William Andrews, and Margaret Wood- ward, his wife; Solomon Andrews, and Eliza- beth Ingalls, his wife, married October 27, 1726, and Captain Abraham Andrews, born September 6, 1747, married Esther Stearns, October 19, 1773, wlio was descended from Isaac and Mary Stearns, who came from England and settled at Watertovvn, Massa- chusetts, in 1632; their so!), John Stearns, and his wife, Sarah Mixer, settled at Biller- ica, Massachusetts; their eon. Captain John Stearns, and his wife, Joanna (Call) Parker, of the same place, and their son, John Stearns, and his wife, Esther Johnson, and their son, Hon. Isaac Stearns, and wife, Sarah Abbott, of the same place, who were the parents of Esther Stearns. Isaac Stearns, as well as many other members of the Stearns family, was a soldier in the French and Indian wars. Captain Andrews was at the battle of Lex- ington, and served all through the war of the Revolution. He was a Captain in the Second Regiment of Massachusetts Foot (Infantry), in 1788. With his brother-in-law, Benjamin Stearns, and wife's uncle, John Stearns, he removed to Lovell, Mainf, and made the first white settlement in the town. His son, Isaac Stearns, was born here, August 13, 1788. He married Sally Kimball, Octoi)er 15, 1815. Their son, Jacob Andrews, father of II. F. Andrews, was born at Lovell, Maine, February 24, 1820. In the maternal line Mr. Andrews' first ancestor in America was James Ilaniblen and Anne, his wife, wiio canu! from London, England, and settled at Harnstablo, Massachusetts, about l()3!t, wliere four generations of the family were born — 702 niSTORT OF AUDUBON COUNTY. » their son, John Hamblen, born June 26, 1644, married Sarah Eearce; their son, Ebenezer Hamblen, born May 12, 1683, married his cousin, Thankful Hamblen, May 11, 1710; their son, Gershon Hamblen, born Jnly 19, 1718, married Hannah Almony, August 9, 1739. He was a soldier in the French war, under General Wolf at Quebec, in 1759, and died at Barnstable some time prior to 1763. Their son, Gershom Hamblen, was born Sep- tember 16, 1745. In the year 1763 the widow of the elder Gershom Hamblen, with her children, including the son Gershom, re- moved to Gorham, Maine, and settled tlere upon land granted them by the Legislature of Massaciiusetts, ibr military services ren- dered by their relatives in King Philip's war of 1675. Two sons of James and Anne Hamblen, Bartholomew and Eleazer, are known to have been members of Captain John Gorham's company, of Barnstable, and served in that war. Gershom Hamblen, the younger, married Deborah Jenkins at Gor- ham, December 17, 1774. Their soii, Ichabod Hamblen, was born at Gorham, April 11, 1791. He married Lydia Webb Fickett at Portland, Maine, October 11, 1815. He was a soldier in the war of 1812. Their daugh- ter, Martha Phinney Hamblen, mother of Mr. Andrews, was born at Limington, Maine, December 25, 1818. Ex-Vice-President Han- nibal Hamlin, of JJangor, Maine, is a lineal descendant of James and Anne Hamblen, al)ove mentioned. Of the family of Stearns, above mentioned, Hon. Onslow Stearns was Governor of New Hampshire, and Hon. Mar- cellus L. Stearns was Governor of Florida. lion, (ieorgc Andrews, one of the present Supreme Judges of New York, and llun. Abraham Andrews Barker, of Ebensburg, Pennsylvania, are descendants of Captain Aljraliam Andrews. The parents of Mr. Andrews were married at Lovell, Maine, June 25, 1843. Mr. Andrews lived with his father until he was eighteen years of age, first at Lovell, then a few years at Stoneliam, an adjoining town. The family then moved to Portland and lived four years, when in 1853 they returned to Lovell and remained until 1865. Mr. Andrews attended the com- mon district school, summer and winter, imtil he was twelve years of age; he then worked on his father's farm and in the tim- ber, his father being then engaged in farming and lumbering during the spring, summer and autnmn months, and attending school in the winter. Thus he received an education in the common branches then taught in the district school. July 18, 1862, he enlisted as a private soldier, for three years, in Com- pany 1), Sixteenth Regiment Maine Volun- teer Infantry. He served through the war, and was discharged as a private at Washing- ton, D. C, July 13, 1865. He participated with his regiment in the following services: Antietam campaign, September, 1862; the battle of Fredericksburg, Virginia, Decem- ber 12-15, 1862; Burnside's mud march, Falmouth, Virginia; battle of Chancellors- viUe, Virginia, April 28 to May 4, 1863; march to point near Gettysburg, Pennsyl- vania, June, 1863; engagement at Rappa- hannock Station, Virginia, August 1, 1863; march from Culpepper, Virginia, to Center- ville, Virginia, October 11-17, 1863; skir- mish at Bristow Station, Virginia, November 26-30, 1863; Wilderness and Spottsylvania Court House campaign, May, 1864. The last year of the war, from June, 1864, on account of ill- health, he was on detached iservice at Washington, D. C. In June, 1865, his parents, brothers, sister and grandfather Andrews removed to Exira, where he joined them t)ctober 3, 1865. The following year he taught school in Cass County, at Crooked Creek. The summer of 18(56 he worked at niOGRAPniC'AL SKETGIIBS. 703 farm labor in Audubon Connty, and the fol- lowing winter taught school in Nathaniel Hamlin's district, in the south part of Audu- bon County. At the general election in 1866 be was elected recorder of Audubon Connty, and served two years, and worked a portion of the time at carpenter work. In the sum- mer of 1868 he was appointed county judge of Audubon County, to fill a vacancy until the general election of tiiat year. In the fall of 1866 his father purchased land, built a residence and opened a farm, now occupied and owned by J. J. Ilensly and J. II. Basham, one-half mile south of E.xira. This place Mr. Andrews made his home most of the time until his parents sold the farm and removed to their present farm and residence, two miles northeast of Atlantic, Iowa, in 1869. In 1870, as Deputy United States Marshal, he took the census in Audubon County, and also Shelby County. In 1870 he was admitted to the bar of Audubon County, as an attorney and counselor at law, which profession he has since followed with short intermissions. Feb- ruary 25, 1871, at Atlantic, Iowa, he was married to Jennie Maria Norton, by Rev. M. Hughes. She was a daughter of William C. Norton and his wife, Ruth Harriet (Thayer) Norton, of Oakfield, born at Fort Wayne, Indiana, June 21, 1850. Iler parents were formerly from Spring Water, Livingston County, New York. They settled at Oak- field in 1856. Mrs. Norton died in June, 1882; Mr. Norton died in November, 1884. Both are buried at the Oakfield Cemetery, and were at the time of their decease mem- bers of the Methodist Episcopal church. The ciiildren of Mr. and Mrs. H. F. Andrews were all born at Exira, Iowa. They are — Charles Franklin, born April 24, 1872; Claude Norton, born March 10, 1874; Jessa- mine Julia, born April 16, 1877; Wallace Pearl, born July 28, 1879; Jolm Hamblen, born October 15, 1886; I'liilip Stearns, born July 20, 1888. In 1872 Mr. Andrews at- tended one term of the law department of tiie Iowa State University. Aside from the school privileges above mentioned, Mr. Andrews has been a self-edncated man. He has resided at Exira nearly continuously since his settle- ment there in 1865, the only exceptions being a residence at Iowa City four months in the latter part of 1872, and a residence of one year at Atlantic, frojn October, 1874, and a residence at Audubon from March to Octo- ber, 1882. In politics he has always been a Republican. His grandfather, Isaac Andrews, died at Exira, December 31, 1868. Both his grandfather and sister are buried in the ceme- tery at Exira. Since March, 1882, the law oftice of Mr. Andrews has been located at Audubon. Mr. Andrews is a member of Exodus Lodge, No. 342, A. F. & A. M., Exira; Exira Lodge, No. 181, K. of P., Ex- ira; Allison Post, No. 34, G. A. R.; Audu- bon, Nishnabotna Tribe, No. 8, I. O. R. M., Audubon; Audubon Lodge, No. 115, I. L. II., Audubon. Mr. and Mrs. Andrews are both members of the Eastern Star Lodge at Audubon. At this time he is associated in the law business with William H. Hanna, Esq., county attorney of Audubon County, under the firm name of Andrews & Ilanna. Ill 'i ? ' 8 i ' C * A i jj^EV. EDWARD B. COUSINS is a mem- ber of the firm of Cousins & McCiure, editors and proprietors of the Audubon County Republican, Audubon, Iowa. The Republican was started in December, 1885, by Mr. Cousins and Sidney A. Foster. The paper was continued under tlie management of this firm for fifteen months. In April, 1887, W. H. McClufo purcliased the interest of Mr. Foster, and tlie j)aper has since been 704 IIIHTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. conducted by this firm. The Republican, as its name implies, is Hepublican in politics. It is an eight-coluinn folio, issued Thursday of each week, and has a good circulation. It has done the county printing for three years, and it also does the city printing. The office is well organized and well equipped for this work, and the paper comes from the press a neat and clean sheet. Mr. Cousins was born in Cedar County, Iowa, May 2, 1841. He is the youngest of ten children of Robert and Ann (Beattie) Cousins. Both the father and mother were born in Ireland, and emigrating to America they iinallj settled in Cedar County, Iowa, where they both died about six months ajiart. Edward B. was then six years of age. His youth was spent on a farm and he had the advantages of the common schools until he was nineteen years old. He then went to Cornell College, Mount Vernon, where he pursued his studies for two years. In July, 1862, he enlisted in Company B, Twenty-fourth Iowa Infantry, as a private, serving three years. On the organization of his regiment he was sent south, and took part in the siege of Yicksburg, also in the lied Uiver campaign. He then went, via New Orleans, around to the Shenandoah Val- ley, under General Phil Sheridan, and took part in the battles of Winchester, Fisher's Hill, Cedar Creek, and other smaller engage- ments. He was then ordered to Savannah, Georgia, then to Augusta to guard the ar- senal at that place. Afterward his regiment was ordered back to Savannah, Georgia, where Mr. Cousins was mustered out of the service in July, 1865. He returned to Davenport, where he received his pay and final discharge. He then resumed farming for a time, and 'then entered the State University at Iowa City, graduating in the academic department in the class of 1872. • Going back to the farm, he remained but a short time, and then went to Chicago and entered the Presbyterian Theological Seminary, graduating in 1875. In the spring of 1874, previous to his gradu- ation, Mr. Cousins was licensed to preach at Wilton, by the Iowa City Presbytery. He was ordained by the Cedar Kapids Presbytery at Cedar Rapids, Iowa, having preached at several places. In the fall and winter of 1878 and 1879 he was employed as historian by a history firm, having their headquarters at Adel, Iowa. In the spring of 1879 he came to Audubon as pastor of the Presby- terian church at that place, where he remained for four years. He then carried on farming for two years. Following this he was em- ployed as bookkeeper for Charles Stuart & Son for two years. He then became con- nected with his present newspaper work. In 1876 Mr. Cousins married Miss Lou M. Post, of Clarence, Iowa, a daughter of E. E. Post. Mr. and Mrs. Cousins are the parents of one son — Charles Edward, who died at the age of six years. Mr. Cousins is a member of Ver- itas Lodge, A. F. & A. M.; Amity Chapter, and Godfrey Comraandery, being one uf the charter members of the last. He is also a member of Allison Post, No. 34, G. A. R. YRON S. PHELPS, of the firm of Nash, Phelps & Green, attorneys at law, Au- dubon, Iowa, is a native of the State of Vermont. He was born in Millon, Chitten- den County, in November, 1854, and is the ninth of eleven children, eight of whom sur- vive. William E. Phelps, the father of Byron S. Phelps, is a native of Vermont, and was a farmer by occupation; he is now retired, living in Milton, in his eighty-fourth year; the mother, Ursula Plielps, is also still living. Byron S. Phelps passed his early boyhood in Milton where he received his first lessons in cyCu-oo't:a^/Jce^ crzjipc^-'pzj^'io^ \F uf^io-m^^^^nAXij mj ^fom^lUiy BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 70U the cominou schools; he tlieu entered the Underliill Academy, and afterward went to Plattsburg, New York, At which place he spent one year in school. In 1873 he came to Atlantic, Iowa, and entered the law office of his brother, with whom he read law for three years. He was admitted to the bar of the circuit court. Judge Stockton presiding. In 1877 he removed to Stuart, Iowa, and started what was called the Stuart Bank in company with E. C Chapman; he continued the banking business until the fall of 1878, when he sold his interest in the bank. In June, 1878, he went to E.xira, and on the starting of the town of Audnbon came to that ]ilace; having formed a partnership at E.xira with John A. Nash, both gentlemen removed to Audubon, where they have done a large and prosperous business in law, real estate, loans and insurance. In 1886 Mr. Green was taken into the firm, thus making up the firm of Nash, Phelps & Green. Mr. "helps was married J nne9, 1886, to Miss Sallie Forbes, a daughter of James Forbes, a promi- nent merchant of Andubon. Mrs. Phelps was born in North Carolina, and was l)rought to her western home when a little girl. They have one child — Lucia, born February 22, 1889. Mr. Phelps owns two good farms, which he rents. lie started out for himself with limited means, but by industry and hard work he has accumulated a considerable property. He owns a business house, and his residence, which stands ujion a high spot commandinii a fine view of the town. kATHANIEL HAMLIN.— It is a privi- lege that many years hence will not be vouchsafed to men to hear the history of pioneer days from the lips of the worthy old pioneers themselves. Nathaniel Hamlin, the first settler of Audnbon County, Iowa, was born in Lewis County, Kentucky, March 13, 1814. His father, William Hamlin, was also a native of Kentucky, and was one of the first settlers of Lewis County. His grand- lather, John Hamlin, of Scotch descent, emi- grated from New Jersey to Ke'ntucky. His mother was Mary Smith, a daughter of James Smith, Esq., a native of England, a sailor by occupation. After her marriage to William Hamlin they settled in Lewis County, Ken- tucky, and there dwelt until the death of William Hamlin, which occurred in 1836 tlie wife and seven children surviving. Some years after her husband's death Mrs. Hamlin came to Iowa, and made her home with her son Nathaniel. She died at the advanced awe of 100 years, one month, and a few days. Nathaniel Hamlin was married in Vermillion County, Illinois, April 9, 1840, to Margaret Poague, daughter of Ellen and Margaret (Terrill) Poague. Mr.s. Hamlin was born in Greenu]) County, Kentucky, August 12, 1824, but when she was two years old her parents removed to Vermillion County, Illi- nois. Nathaniel and Margaret Hamlin are the parents of twelve children — Mary M., wife of Isaac Thomas; Ilaimah M., wife of C. C. Hawk; Sarah P., wife of B. F. Thomas; Malinda C, wife of William Ptadciifie; Will- iam Allen, married Florence A. Lewis; Mar- tha J., wife of E. S. Calph; Eliza (deceased); Susan P., wife of John V. Plantz; Clarinda II., wife of John M. Allen; Nathaniel D. married Elva Crane; Fernando R., married Emma E. Kilwortii; Kobert E., married Sarah Wheeler. Mrs. Hamlin's grandfather, Robert Poague, was a native of Scotland, and iier grandmother, Rebecca Poague, was born in Ireland. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Hamlin settled in Vermillion County, Illinois, and there resided until 1844; they then removed to Mahaska County, Iowa, and no HTSTORT OF AUDUBON COUNTY. lived there seven years. September 10, 1851, they came to their present farm — being the first actual settlers in the county of Audu- bon. Mr. Hamlin first entered 160 acres of land, selecting that on the waters of Trouble- some Creek, which is skirted by a beautiful natural grove. To the south stretches a rich and fertile prairie, making an ideal farm- land. Here the pioneer settled and planned his future home. His first house was a double log cabin of two rooms, but these two rooms had the capacity of accommodating a good many persons. This house was for many years the travelers' liome, and numbers of people to-day remember the generous hos- pitality extended by the worthy host and his faithful wife. The first barn was erected the following fall. It and a corn-crib, erected at the same time, still stand as monuments to those early days. Mr. Hamlin went to work in earnest, broke out a part of his ne'w farm, and proceeded to place it under cultivation. He found a read}' market for most of his prod- uce, especially corn, among the emigrants who were journeying still further westward. During the years when the tide was at its height, Mr. Uamlin remembers many times when forty or fifty teams would camp in his gruve on account of the high waters of Troublesome Creek. Mr. Uamlin was elected the first county treasurer, an office he held for eight years. During a part of that time he acted as recorder. He was the first post- master appointed at Hamlin's Grove post- office, and held the position until the election of Abraham Lincoln. He has always been an old-style Jacksonian Democrat, and was appointed postmaster under General Taylor's administration. For two years he was county supervisor. Instead of Mr. Hamlin's seek- ing the office it sought him, and politics was in a healthier condition thati it is to-day. I)urin" the eight 3'ears he acted as treasurer of the county he kepthis money in the house. On being asked by the writer if he were not afraid of iiaving the money stolen, he replied that it was quite safe — people in those days being generally honest. Mr. Hamlin built the first school-house in the county, and he and one of his neighbors furniched eleven children, and paid the teacher. Judge D. M. Harris held the first court of the county in this same school-house. Mr. Hamlin was fond of chasing deer and wolf, and always kept a good number of hounds for the purpose, and to this day he keeps three fine hounds for chasing wolves. From the modest beginning of 160 acres Mr. Hamlin has increased his landed estate to 1,400 acres, besides having ffiven to each of his children from ninety to 100 acres. This in itself is a record of in- dustry, thrift and wise management. Mr. Hamlin has been actively engaged in feeding live-stock, and has annually shipped from one to four car-loads of live-stuck to the Chicago markets. Although in his seventy-fifth year he is sound in mind and body, and attends to all his business with the same energy and pusli as in younger days. He and his estima- ble wife have journeyed many years together, and peace and happiness have been their re- ward. They have sixty-three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. ►>^ LEXANDE-R H. ROBERTS, pharma- cist, Audubon, Iowa, came to the place October 15, 1878, the day on which the town lots were first offered for sale. He is a native of the State of Iowa, was born August 26, 184:8, in Des Moines County, twelve miles west of Burlington. His father, James Dorsey Roberts, is a native of Virginia, and a farmer by occupation. He removed to Iowa in 1838, and is now a resident of Henry nioa HAPIIICA L S KETCHES. 711 County, Iowa, wliere he has lived since 1855. He was born in 1823. Tlie inotlier of Ale.\- ander II. Roberts is Susan (McDonald) llob- erts, a daughter of Alexander McDonald. She was born in 1826, and is still living. The family consists of four children, of whom A. H. is the second. The subject of this brief sketch was seven years old when his parents removed to Henry County, Iowa. lie at- tended the common schools, and later pur- sued a three years' course at Howe's Academy- After leaviiig school he taught for a time, and then went to liurlington, where he grad- uated at the Bryant & Stratton Business Col- lege, and where he was employed as mailing clerk in the Burlington Ilawkeye office for six months. He then embarked in the mer- cantile business in Corning, Iowa, wiiere he remained twelve mouths. He went from Corn- ing to Mount Pleasant, wiiere he engaged in the drug business, in which business he has been engaged since that time. In the autumn of 1878 he came to Audubon and opened a stock of drugs, books and stationery. He is well established in trade, and is a very efficient druggist and careful pharmacist. Mr. Iloberts was united in marriage, September 14, 1871, to Miss Lizzie Pritchard, of Mount Pleasant, Iowa, a daughter of Thomas Pritchard, Esq. Mrs. Roberts was born in Henry County, Iowa, where her father was one of the earliest settlers, coming to the county from Philadel- phia in 1834. Mr. and Mrs. Roberts have two children — Ira Pearl and Ralpli Pritchard. Mr. Roberts was a member of the first school board, serving six years. At present he is president of that body. He was also a mem- ber of the first city council. He is a member of Mount Pleasant Lodge, No. 8, A. F. & A. M., Mount Pleasant, Iowa; of Amity Chap- ter, No. 93, R. A. M., Audubon, and of God- frey Comniandery, K. T., Audubon. He was the first treasurer of the Audubon County 45 "' Agricultural Society, serving four years, and has been elected secretary for the cominor year. In political matters he is rather con- servative. He is an active member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and has been since childhood. He is serving his tenth year as superintendent of the Sabbath-school, for the success of which he has been a faith- ful worker. Mr. Roberts has not only been an active spirit in all business enterprises in Audubon, but he has also been instrumental in elevating the morals of his adopted city. Reuben Roberts, grandfather of A. II. Rob- erts, came to Iowa at an early day. He made the journey via the Ohio River to the Mississippi, thence via the Mississippi to Burlington. He came from near Wheelinsr, West Virginia, and was the father of twelve children. ' 2"I * ^" ' '■' fOHN D. HOLMES, physician and sur- geon, Audubon, Iowa, is a native of Ohio, born in Tuscarawas County, near New- commerstown, July 1, 1849. He was the fifth of a family of eight children, seven of whom were girls. His father was James Holmes, also a native of Ohio, born in Bel- mont County in 1818, a farmer by occupation. His mother was Elizabeth Dillahay, a native of Maryland, who died in 1882; she and her husband were among the pioneers of Ohio. The family moved by wagon to Wayne County, Iowa, in 1858, where the parents passed the remainder of their lives. The boyhood of the Doctor was passed in Wayne County, attend- ing the district school and working on the farm, where he lived until he was seventeen years old. He then began teaching school in Lucas County, Iowa. Afterward he entered Sinij)8on College, pursuing his studies three years. In 1870 lie entered the office of Dr. IIISTOUY OF AUnUBON COUNTTy C. W. Davis, under whom he read inediciiie tliree years. He then entered the Medical College of Ohio at Cincinnati, where he took a course of lectures. lie then came to Audu- bon County and commenced his practice. The following winter lie went to Keokuk, Iowa, and entered the College of Physicians and Surgeons, from which he graduated in 1876. He returned to Indianola, where be formed a copartnership with Dr. J. D. Mc- Cleary, which continued for one year. He then returned to Hamlin, Iowa, and resumed his practice there. In the fall of 1878 be removed to the new town of Audubon, where he has been actively engaged in his profession ever since, with the exception of seven months spent in Little liock, Arkansas. He is a mem- ber of the Botna Valley Medical Society, of the State Medical Society, and of the Ameri- can Medical Society. He was elected mayor of the town of Audubon, serving three years, and succeeding E. J. Freeman. He was one of the electors from the Nintli Congressional District, and cast the electoral vote for James G. Blaine and John A. Logan. He is a mem- ber of Veritas Lodge, No. 392, A. F. & A. M., of which he is now Master. He is a member of Amity Chapter, No. 93, K. A. M., and of Godfrey Commandery, No. 44, K. T. fllOMAS WINTERS, who may be num- bered among the pioneer settlers of Audubon County, Iowa, was born in Yorkshire, England, November 5, 1833. He is a son of John and Mary Winters, who emigrated to America when Thomas was one year old; they landed on Long Island, where they were shipwrecked, having intended to land in New York City. They crossed the Eastern States to Upper Canada, and stopped in Brantford, where they settled permanently and lived the remainder of their days. The father was a shoemaker by trade. At the age of fifteen years Thomas left home to learn the carpenter's trade, and served an appren- ticeship of five years. After this period of time he worked as a journeyman on the rail- road through Canada, buildine' bridges on the Great Western. He then left the British dominion and came to the United States, spending two years in Michigan and one in Missouri; from Missouri he went to work on a farm in Mercer County, Illinois, and re- mained there one year. In tiie year 1862, when tliere was a call for men to defend this country's flag, he entered the army, enlisting in Company G, One Hundred and tecond Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He remained in Illinois some time; was then ordered south through Kentucky and Tennessee, and joined Sherman's army, participating in the cam- paign from Nashville through to Savannah; then hack through tlie Carolinas on to Wasli- ington, D. C, where he took part in the grand review. After being honorably dis- charged and receiving his pay he I'eturned to his home and engaged in agricultural pur- suits for the three years following. In the fall of 1868 he removed whh his family to Audubon County, settling on what was known as the swatnp land. The following spring he bought of the American Swamp Land Com- pany eighty acres of land on the Nishnabotna River, in what is now Viola Township; the county had not been divided into townships at that time. Mr. Winters broke out his land and built a shanty, into which lie moved his family. He had no neighbors, and his near- est market-place was Gliddeu, Carroll County, Iowa, at a distance requiring two days to make the trip. All the hardships met by pioneers were endured by Mr. Winters and his family. The second winter they spent in Exira, returning to the farm in the spring. DIOQUAPIIWAL SKETCHES. 713 Tlie farm is rich bottom land, finely located, and well stocked with hogs and cattle of high fjrades. Being a carpenter by trade, Mr. Winters built his own lioine, the lumber for which was sawed at the mill of Nathaniel Hamlin, the first settler of the county. In 1861 Mr. Winters was married to Susanna Wheeler, a daughter of Caleb Wheeler; she was born in Ohio, but was a resident of Mercer County, Illinois, at the time of her marriage. Eight children have been born to this union — Eva, Blanche, Nora, Laura, Min- nie, Mary, Lois and George. Little Eva died at the age of four years. Death again came into the happy home and called away Lois, the youngest girl, a bright child of ten years. She died May 14, 1888. Mr. Winters ha^ represented his township as treasurer, and as school director. He is a member of the G. A. R. Politically he affiliates with the Democratic party. |MIL BILHARZ, an active business man of Audubon, lias been identified with the town since the spring of 1879. He was born in Baden, Germany, October 20, 184:5, and emigrated to America when lie was nine years of age; his parents came to this country at the same time; they were on the water thirty days, and landed at the city of New York; from New York they went to Ottawa, Illinois, where they settled; here the father died two years later; he was a har- ness-maker by trade. The mother, Maria (Speas) Bilharz, died in Ottawa in her forty- tiiird year; she was also a native of Baden, Germany. There were ten children in the family, six of whom survive. Emil was the fourth child. After coming to this country he spent his youth in Ottawa, Illinois. At the age of nineteen years he entered a store in Seneca, Illinois, as clerk; here he remained several years, and acquired a very thorough knowledge of the business. He then re- moved to Audubon, Iowa, where he estab- lished himself in I)nRiness, first in a general store, and later he kept a restaurant for several years. In 188(3 he opened a grocery store with a large and well-selected stock, and he is now firmly fixed in Audubon busi- ness circles. Mr. J5illiarz was married in 1871 to Miss Emma Moore, of La Salle County, Illinois, a native of Pennsylvania, who came to Illinois with her parents at an early day. At her death she left two children — Edward F. and Ilattie May. Mr. Bilharz married his jiresent wife in 1887; she was Miss Mary Dawson, of Audubon, a native of Canada. No children have been born by this marriage. Mr. Bilharz owns a farm in Leroy Township, one in Melville Township, and one in Cameron Township; he also owns three good business houses which he rents. He began his career without means, and by in- dustry and wise management he has accumu- lated a good property. He is a member of Seneca Lodge, A. F. & A. M.; Amity Chap- ter, No. 93, Audubon, and of Godfrey Cora- mandery. No. 44, Audubon. Mr. Bilharz's son « is a student at Grinnell College, Iowa. jOBERT M. CARPENTER, Postmaster j|,|M at Audubon, Iowa, was born in Powe- shiek County, near (Jrinnell, Iowa, Jan- uary 29, 1854; he is the fifth of nine children of R. C. and Mahalah (Thurinan) Carpenter. The father is a native of Ken- tucky, who in early life removed to Ohio, where lie was married, and resided for a number of years; he is still living and is a resident of Audubon County, Iowa; the mother was a native of Oliio, and was a daughter of Levi 714 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNT f". Tliurnian. Robert M. Carpenter jtassed his bojliood in his native county, attending the district school, and working on tlie farm in the summer time. He attended Iowa Col- lege at Grinnell, and afterward Oskaloosa, remaining in the latter school two years. He began his career as a teacher, and fol- lowed this profession for nine years. In 1878 he removed to Audubon County, Iowa, and in the following year was elected super- intendent of the Audubon County schools, which office he held for two terras, being elected on the Democratic ticket. In Jan- uary, 1884, he became editor and proprietor t)f the Auduhoii County Advocate,' he con- tinued in this business until Ja' uary 25, 1887, when he sold out the paper. October 27, 1887, he was appointed postmaster of Au- dubon, the appointment being confirmed No- vember 8, 1887; he assumed the duties of this office January 25, 1888, and is an effi- cietit, accommodating officer. December 13, 1879, Mr. Carpenter was united in marriage to Miss Minnie A., daughter of Freeman Drake, of Audubon County, Iowa. Mrs. Car- penter was born in the State of Miimesota; they are the parents of two sons — Maurice • M. and Carroll C. fOHN JARMAN was born in Sussex, England, November 25, 1827, and is a son of William and Sarah (Noaks) Jar- man. He remained in his native country until he had attained his majority, being reared to the occupation of a farmer. He obtained a limited education in the common schools, but by the cultivation of his observa- tion lie has acquired a fund of information, enabling him to attend to any business that may devolve upon him. Mr. Jarman was married in the year 1849 to Mary Coomer, daughter of Stephen Coomer. She was born in 1825 and died in 1859. Four children were born of this marriage — ^Sarah, residing in Illinois; Hannah and Eliza, both residing in Minnesota; and Mary, living in Dakota. Almost immediately after his marriage Mr. and Mrs. Jarman emigrated to America, and settled in Saint Clair County, Michigan, where Mrs. Jarman died. In 1860 Mr. Jar- man removed to Minnesota, and settled in Winona County. There he made his home until 1878, when he came to Andubon County. He was married to his present wife, who was Miss Mattie Irvin, July 3, 1887. She is the daughter of John and Agnes (English) Irvin, natives of Kentucky, and was born in Itush- .ville, Illinois, November 8, 1845. When j\Ir. Jarman came to Andubon County he bought a tract of 200 acres in Greeley Town- ship, which had very few improvements, and about fifteen acres of land broken; the re- mainder was raw prairie, but to-day it is one of the finest farms in that part of the county. There is a beautiful frame residence, and barns for stock and grain. Our subject de- votes himself to farmine: and stock-raisinir, and is striving to better tiie grade of live- stock in the community. He is a man who has done much toward the development of the county, and is deserving of tlie esteem in which he is held. lie affiliates with the Re- publican party. lie and his wife are con- sistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church. ~*-^|*i'-'^^**-~^ fRANK D. ALLEN is a member of tlie firm of Allen & Crane, proprietors of the Audubon County Advocate, the oldest paper in the county. This firm suc- ceeded the firm of Crane & Crane, Mr. Allen purchasing an interest in the paper in Octo- BWaRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 715 ber, 1888. Frank D. Allen was the former jiroprietur and founder of the Western, Bliz- zard at Uray, Iowa, a semi-weekly, success- fully managed by Mr. Allen for a time, and then moved to Audubon and consolidated with the Adoucatc. Previous to his starting the Blizzard Mr. Allen had been traveling corresjiondent for several of the leading OuKiiiH papei'S for a ]ieriod of two years, vis- iting all the important towns and cities from the Missouri River to the J'acific Coast. Mr. Allen i.- a native of the State of Iowa, born in Jones County, in November, 1867. lie received his earlier education in the com- mon schools, and then entered tiie Western Normal College at Shenandoah, Iowa, where he pursued his studies for one year. On leaving school he began his career as an ed- itor. Although the father, A. E. Allen, was a prominent farmer and stock-raiser, the son preferred to wield the pen. A. E. Allen was an old settler of Jones County, Iowa, and owner of nearly 1,000 acres in Audubon County; he moved to the county in 1882, and is one of the substantial farmers of Vi- ola Township. The mother of Mr. Allen was Miss Mary Gilbert, of Jones County, Iowa, a native of Ohio, and a daughter ot Eussell Gil- bert, now a prominent merchant of Wyoming, Iowa. She died in 1872, leaving four sons, three of whom still survive. Frank I). Allen started his first paper at Dedham, but it was not a success, and he took Horace Greeley's advice, and turned up at the Black Hills in Dakota. After he had been there three months he secured a position with the county attorney, as secretary and corre- spondent, for two months; after that he se- cured a position on the Omaha Bee as local correspondent; he traveled in the interest of the paper and wrote up many im])ortant towns and cities in Nebraska and Soutliern Dakota. At one time he was con-espoiident for the Chicago papers, among which we mention the Chicago Sunday National, one of the leading humorous papers of the west. '°^ "| * 3"t ' |" — fAMES T. BELL,oneof Audub.m County's pioneer teachers, has devoted twenty years to his chosen profession, ami many a youth owes his success in life to the early impressions iTiade by the zeal and energy which Mr. IJell manifested in his noble call- ing. This venerable teacher was born in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, August 8, 1827, and is the oldest son and second child of William and Martha L. (Shannon) Bell, natives of Pennsylvania. He was reared in his native county and received a common- school education. He began his career by teaching one term in his own county. He then drifted west, and in 1855 stopped in Garnavillo, Clayton County, Iowa. He con- tinued to reside there until 187-4, when he re- moved to Audubon County, and soon after began teaching. He closed his last term in March, of the present year, 1889. On May 4, 1861, he entered the Union army, joining the Third Iowa Volunteer Infantry. He was assigned to Hannibal, Missouri, and there guarded the Hanibal & St. Joseph Railroad during the iirst summer. The following fall he was sent to St. Louis, Missouri, and was ordered from that point to St. Charles, where he guarded the North Missouri Railway at different points for one winter. His regi- ment was then sent to make up tiie expedition of the Tennessee River, General Grant com- manding. He took part in the engagement at Blue Mills, Shiloh, the siege of Corinth, and was ordered to Moscow, Tennessee; and was then ordered to Moscow, Missouri, guarding there the Memphis tSi St. Ciiarles Railroad. In the following spring he went 710 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY.-^ to Memphis, and from that jjlace passed to Vicksburg, and was iu the siege from May 18 to July 4. Thence the regiment was ordered to Natchez, after which he was sent to Keokuk, Iowa, where he was honorably discharged in June, 1864. Returning to Clayton County he remained there until 1874, when he went to Audubon County, as before stated. Soon after coming to the county Mr. Bell bought eighty acres of land to which he has added until he now owns 240 acres, all fenced and nuder good cultivation. Mr. Bell was married in March, 1888, to Mrs. Irving, a native of the State of Kew York. She came to this county in 1883, having previous to this timelosther former husband, James F. Irving, by whom she had one son, Frank F. Irving. Mr. Bell has served as township clerk three terms, and as trustee one term. ►^wf- UKE BAKER, a farmer of Greeley Township, has been a resident of the State of Iowa since he was twelve years of age. lie is a native of Stephenson County, Illinois, and was born January 23, 1859. His parents are Richard and Fannie (Shoe- smith) Baker, natives of England, who emi- grated to America, and now reside in Gutii- rie County, Iowa. Mr. Baker was married February 25, 1885, to Miss Laura A. Giles, a daughter of Salem and Sophlana Giles. Mrs. Baker was born in Henry County, Illi- nois, April 27, 1858. One child has been born of this marriage — Ada R. In 1884 Mr. Baker came to Audubon County and settled on his farm. In 1882 he had purchased 120 acres of wild land in Greeley Township, upon which he has made many valuable im- provements. He has a good two-story frame residence, and all his surroundings are indic- ative of prosperity. Although a young man Mr. Baker has a good foothold in the county, and we anticipate for hiiu a successful future. In politics he supports the issues of the Re- publican party. He is the present trustee of the township, and has served as road super- visor. He devotes himself to farming and stock-raising, and is numbered with the fore- most farmers of Greeley Township. ^.. ? .;,.{. ? ..-~ HOMAS WALKER has been identified with the history of Audubon County since 1865. He was born in England, June 30, 1824, and is a son of William and Mary (Sherman) Walker. He received a good common-school education in liis native country, and in 1841 he went to London and clerked for a number of years. On February 3, 1850, he sailed for America, and landed in the city of New York, March 16. Thence he went to New Jersey, and was there employed on a farm for two years; after which he drifted west to the State of Ohio. He did not remain there long, but returned to New Jersey, and then removed to La Porte, Indi- ana, and engaged in farming. In the spring of 1865 Mr. Walker moved west to Audubon County, Iowa, and was variously employed until 1872, when he was elected clerk of the Audubon County court, a position which he has filled ably, and for which service he was paid the extravagant sum of $14 per month! He resigned this position, and went to grub- bing to make money faster. Collecting his money together he started a store in Oakfield on a small scale, and later he associated him- self with other parties. In 1875 he was elected county auditor for a term of two years, and was twice re-elected. He also served as deputy two years under W. F. Stotts. On retiring from office he engaged ill the real-estate and abstract business. He BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 717 owns some valuable town lots and some prop- erty which he rents. At present he is city and township assessor, township clerk, and notary pnl)lic. In 1877 Mr. Walker was. united in marriage to Lena Delaiioyde, of Exira, Iowa. Mr. Walker is a member of Veritas L xi-e, JSo. 392, A. F. & A. M.; of Amity Ciiapter, No. 93, R. A. M.; and of Goli'Vcy Commandery, No. 44, K. T. ■ " • ■^ • 3"; . ^ i. ... ^ENRY W. HANNA, attorney at law, Audubon, Iowa, was born in Licking County, Ohio, in the village of Utica, December 25, 1847. Ills father, Andrew G. Ilanna, was one of the early settlers in Ohio, lie was mari'ied to Miss Lavina Sharp, of Wayne County, Ohio, and they settled in Licking County, afterward removing to Rich- land County; from this county they came to Johnson County, Iowa, in 1854, and stopped at what was then known as Clark's Mills, now Coralville. Here they lived until Sep- tember, 1855, and then moved to Iowa City, where they resided until March, 1850, when they removed to Benton County, Iowa. Here they went on a new place, to which they added many improvements. In 1875 they removed to Marengo, where Andrew G. Hanna died, December 30, 1880. II is wife, who still .survives him, makes lier home with her daughter in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She is the mother of six children, four sons and two daughters. Henry W. Ilanna is the third child. His early education was received in the district schools of liciiton (bounty. In 186() iie entered the State University at Iowa City, and graduated from the academical de- partment in 1872. He spent the winters of 1867, 1808 and 1869 in teaching school. In September, 1872, Mr. Ilanna went to Cass County, Iowa, and began the study of law in Atlantic with his brother, J. T. Ilanna. He was admitted to the bar in March, 1874. In September of the same year he moved to Ex- ira, Audubon County, and commenced the practice of law. In October, 1879, he went to Audubon and opened an office alone, and has since Been engaged in an active practice of his profession. Mr. Ilanna was married September, 1883, to Miss Jennie Braytoii, of Audubon, a native of Wisconsin. They have two children — Lena L. and Ruby M. Mr. Ilanna wa.s elected county attorney in the fall of 1886, and re-elected in 1888. He owns a good farm, which he rents. He was initiated in Exodus Lodge, No. 342, A. F. & A. M., at Exira, and liecame a member of Veritas Lodge at Audubon in 1882. He is also a member of Godfrey Commandery, No. 44, being one of its charter members, and re- corder since its organization. Durinir his residence in Cass County he was appointed deputy sheriff, and served under E. E. Her- bert and J. S. Presnall. He has served as secretary of the Blue Lodge for two years. He has a select law library which cost $1,500, and is one of the best in the western part of the State, and a complete set of abstracts of all lands in Audubon County. ►>^ DELBERT L. WEVER, Recorder of A u- dubon County, is a native of New York, born April 8, 1849, near Syracuse. He was three years old when his parents moved to Illinois, where he grew to manhood. His ■father, Moses 11. Wever, is a blacksmith by trade, and continued his work until he was in his seventieth year. He is now making his home with our subject. His wife, Adel- bert L. Wever's mother, was Catherine (Free- dom) Vandenburg, of Dutch descent, who died when her five children were all (juite 713 IIISTOnr OF AUDUBON COUNTT^ young. Adelbert L. AYever attended the common school in liis boyhood; he then en- tered Wheaton Academy, and afterward pur- sued his studies at tlie Baptist University at Burlington, Iowa, for one year. lie then re- turned home and began farming, which he continued until 1873, when lie removed to Stewart, Iowa. Here he engaged in the butcher's business for some years. In the fall of 1879 he came to Audubon and engaged in the grain trade. He managed the grain business for George Gray at this station, until he was elected to his office in 1886. He as- sumed the duties of this position January 3, 1887. He was re-elected in the fall of 1888 by the largest majority that had ever been given any office since the organization of the county. Mr. Wever was married in 1878 to Miss Anna Walsh, of Stewart, Iowa, a native of County Sligo, Ireland, where slie was reared. They have two children, a son and daughter— George and Anna. Mr. Wever is a member of the I. (). O. F., Audubon Encampment, No. 109; of the Knights of Pythias, No. 163, belonging to the uniformed rank, and of the Independent Order of Red Men, Nishnabotna, No. 8. fOIIN T. JENKINS, a prominent fanner and extensive land-owner, is the second son of John S. and Malinda (Miller) Jenkins. He was born in Meade County, Kentucky, November 14, 1838. Soon after liis birth his parents removed to Perry County, Indiana, and settled near Rome, on a farm, and remained there between four and five years. In the fall of 1850 John S. Jenkins and family removed to Wapello County, Iowa, and remained tiiere a few months. In the following May they removed to Audubon County, and settled on a tract of land which is now a part of the old town site of Oakiield. This land was pre-empted by Mr. Jenkins, and when it came into the mar- ket he bought it of the "jovernment. Audu- bon County was at that time a part of Cass County. This tract of land was skirted ou the north by a fine grove of timber, while to the south lay a beautiful prairie which was as level as a table, and was well designed by nature for the home of a pioneer. Mr. Jenkins broke out and put under cultivation a part of this new farm, which contained IGO acres of prairie and a small piece of timber. So attractive was the spot that Mr. Jenkins believed he had struck the garden spot of the world. However, after the lapse of four years he sold this place and bought anotlier, two and a half miles east of the first one, the present site of the town of Oaktield. On this farm he lived several years, and then sold it and purchased a tract of land on the west side of the Nishnabotna River. By this time Mr. Jenkins had become (piite an extensive land-owner. He and his son, Jolin T., owned the land on which the town of Brayton now stands. This place was platted by Joiin T. Jenkins, in 1879. John S. Jenkins" next home farm was north and west of the town site of Brayton. He was an active citizen, well and favorably known, and when his deatli occurred, July 11, 1886, Audubon County lost one of lier beloved pioneers and most honored citizens. Mrs. Jenkins passed to iier eternal rest March 10, 1882. She was the mother of six children, all of whom lived to be ofrown, were married and had children — Benjamin F. died December 2-1, 1887, leaving a wife and six children; John T., Sarah B., wife of L. L. Bartlett, of Shelby County; Isaac H., Harriet, wife of G. W. Cannon, and George W. Joim T. Jenkins, the subject of this notice, was reared on a farm and received the industrial and intellectual training com- DWGRArUICjU. SKETCHES. 719 iiion to his surroundings. On reaching his twentieth year ho took a trip to Pike's Peak, in search of wealth, and returned the follow- ing winter. August 19, 1861, he enlisted in the defense of his country, being a member of the Second Iowa Battery, Nelson T. Spooner, Captain. He passed the first win- ter in northwestern Missouri, building breast- works and guarding railroads. In February, 1862, he was sent south to Ishind No. 10, and took part in that engagement. Thence he came up the Tennessee River to Ilainliurg's Landing. For twenty-one days before reach- ing Corinth he was under fire. He took part in the first and second battles of Corinth, the siege of Vicksburg, the battle of luka, Mississippi, Tupelo, Mississippi, and was in the Sixteenth, Seventeenth and Eighteenth Army Corps, under Generals McPherson, Sherman and Pope. He was mustered out September 4, 1865, and returned to his old lionie in Audubon County. January 19,1865, Mr. Jenkins was married to Darthula Rodg- ers, of Audubon County, Iowa. She was born in Illinois, and was the second daughter of Thomas and Sarah Rodgers. After his marriage Mr. Jenkins settled on a farm and engaged in farming and stock-raising. In 1879 he formed a partnership with C. H. Vail, embarking in the mercantile business under tiie firm name of Jenkins tt Vail, at Brayton. This firm continued in transact business successfully for a period of nine years, when Mr. Vail was elected county clerk. Mr. Jenkins bought Mr. Vail's inter- est, and the business was continued. In 1887 Mr. Jenkins retired from the business, and since that time he has been largely en- gaged in dealing in live-stock. Mr. and Mrs. Jenkins have had born to them three chil- dren — Jeanette, Marion E. and Fraidc G. Mr. Jenkins's landed estate numbers 540 acres, which is in a higli state of cultivation. He has served two terms as supervisor, as township clerk and as township trustee. He has been a member of the school board three terms. Politically he is a staunch Republi- can, and takes an active interest in the suc- cess of the party. He was elected an alternate to the National Convention in Chicairo in 1888. He was appointed postmaster under General Grant's administration, and held the office until the election of Grover Cleveland as President. Mr. Jenkins is a member of Pymosa Lodge, No. 18, A. F. & A. M., at Atlantic, Iowa, and of Audubon Lodge, No. 217, I. O. O. F., at Brayton. ^ • 3"i - |" "^ fO H N RILEY, physician and surgeon, Exira, Iowa, is a native of the State of Illinois. He was born in Bureau County, near the spot where Neponset now stands, August 18, 1850, and is the second in a family of seven sons, all of whom lived to maturity. John and Abigail (Burnet) Riley were his parents, and they were both natives of New York. Mrs. Riley's mother and General Slocum were first cousins, and they trace their ancestry back for five generations. John Riley, Sr., is also a doctor, and he and his wife are both living at S])ring Hill, Illi- nois. He was one of the pioneer physicians in Illinois. He was educated in New York, and came to Chicago by way of the lakes, and thence across the ])rairies by wagons. In his younger days he conducted a large and prof- itable practice, and gained some distinction in that section of country. John Riley, Jr., passed his boyhood in Wiiiteside County, Illinois, whither his father had removed when he was an infant. His primary education was received in the district school, and later he attended the Academy of Prophetstown, and finished his literary education at Fulton, 720 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY.^ Illinois. He then began teaching school in Clinton, Iowa, and continued in this profes- sion for six years. "While engaged in teach- ing he took up the study of medicine, and afterward entered the office of Doctors Mc- Cortnick & Smith, the leading physicians of the place. After reading under their direc- tion for some time he entered the medical department of tlie Iowa State University, and was graduated from that institution in 1880. He then came to Exira, and began the prac- tice of his profession, to which he has de- voted the whole of his time and energies with gratifying results. Dr. Riley was married August 26, 1880, to Miss Mary J. Powers, a native of Ohio. She was a graduate of the TVesleyan University at Delaware, Ohio, and for some time was engaged in teaching at Cedar Rapids, Iowa. They have two chil- dren — Ethel M. and John. The Doctor is Master of Exodus Lodge, No. 342, A. F. & A. M., and M. W. of the A. O. U. W. He is a member of the town council, and is now president of the school board; he is also a member of the Iowa State Medical Society, and president of the Botna Valley Medical Association. Of the seven sons in this fam- ily three are physicians, three are lawyers, and one is a farmer. One of the attorneys died in March, 1888; he had studied law with Mrs. Foster. Their names are — Charles, at- torney; John, physician; William, attorney (deceased); George W., attorney; Bruce, phy- sician; Lincoln, physician; and Henry Clay, at home on the farm in Illinois. All are married, except Bruce. iTTO WITTUAUER, dealer in lumber, Exira, Iowa, was born in Center County, Pennsylvania, in the town of Wood- ward, October 11, 1857. He is the third child of Herman and Louisa (Fleal) Witt- haner. natives of Germany, who emigrated to America in 1854 and settled in Pennsylvania, and there remained until April, 18(35, when they removed to Guthrie County, Iowa; here they permanently settled and still reside, Mr. Witthauer devotinof himself to farminjr. Otto Witthauer was only seven years old when his parents came to Guthrie County, Iowa; there he passed his boyhood and attended the dis- trict school. Later he attended the Guthrie High School at Panora, in which institution he-pursued his studies industriously for eight- een months. He then begran his career as a teacher at the age of nineteen years, and con- tinued work in this profession for four years. In the summer of 1880 he took the United States census in the two townships, Valley and Jackson, in Guthrie County. In the fall of 1880 he entered the employ of Charles Stuart, of Guthrie Center, Iowa. He took charge of the grain and lumber business at Monteith, Iowa, and remained there until April, 1881, when he came to Exira and took chargeof the same business. Mr. Witthauer continued in Mr. Stuart's employ until 1884, when he was elected to the office of county recorder on the Democratic ticket. He then removed to Audubon, and assumed the duties of the office January 1, 1885. He tilled the office acceptably and was renominated, but defeated by the small majority of thirty. He is treasurer of the independent school district of Exira, and a member of the city council. He takes an active part in politics, acting as delegate to State, congressional and judicial conventions, voting the Democratic ticket. In January, 1887, Mr. Witthauer returned to Exira, and embarked in the grocery business with his father-in-law, Mr. Bowman. May 10, 1887, he lost some property by fire, having lit tie insurance. ' He again took charge of Mr. Stuart's business, and when Mr. Stuart sohl BlOGUArUICAL SKETCHES. out tlie business Mr. Witthauer einharked in the same enterprise on his own account- He keeps a good stock of lumber, posts, and all kinds of stone and lime. He was married June 13, 1883, to Miss Mattie Cowman, daugliter of William Bowman, Esq. She was born in the State of Ohio, and when a child came to New- ton, Iowa, with her parents. Mr. and Mrs- Witthauer are the parents of two children — Bessie, and one child that died in infancy. Mr. Witthauer is a member of the Knights of Pythias, Lodge No. 181, and is keeper of records and seal, and trustee of the same. ■• ""! • 3 < ' S • I ' '-^ I^POLLONIUS B. HOUSTON, a pioneer of Audubon County, Iowa, was born in the State of South Carolina, February 16, 1823. At the age of nine years he was taken to Tennessee, whither his parents had removed, and settled in Maury County. Oswald Houston, his father, was born in South Carolina, in 1798. He engaged in the mercantile trade at Williamsport, Tennessee, and on his removal to Atlanta, Georgia, he was occupied with the same business. He died in Atlanta, Georgia, June 11, 1861. Oswald Houston's wife was Anna Louisa Shaw, a daughter of Anna Fardoo. She was born in 1803. They had born to them ten children, six of whom lived to maturity. ApoUonius B. was the eldest child. lie passed the greater part of his youth in Ten- nessee, and received his education in the subscription schools. He was a partner of his father in the mercantile business in Atlanta, Georgia, and remained there until 1853, when he made a tour of the State of Texas and the Pacific States, after which he returned to Tennessee. In 1856 he removed to Audubon (/ountj, Iowa, in wagons, cover- ing the journey in seven weeks. He had started to California, but was prevented by the government on account of the dej)rcda- tions committed by the Indians. Mr. Hous- ton settled near Hamlin's Grove, and was one of the first settlers in Exira, building the first dwelling house in the village. He also assisted in the erection of the first school- liouse in the place. In 1844 Mr. Houston was married to Nancy Bridges, of Maury County, Tennessee, a daughter of James C. Bridges, by whom teTi children were born, all of whom have lived to maturity — Henry B., Udora 1., now Mrs. W. F. Stotts; Lonisa B., the wife of M. J. Kagan; W. W. Houston, O. J. Houston, Flora D., wife of David B. Lyon; Mary L., wife of Thoma.s Bryant; Charles W. and Robert L. Houston, and Lida A., wife of George Henshaw, and the young- est child. Mr. Houston has filled the offices of county clerk, county judge, county treas- urer, and many minor offices. For the last six years he has served as justice of the peace. He has been a member of the Masonic order for forty years. He has served as mayor of Exira for two terms. During the past twelve years Mr. Houston has dealt in real estate. lie owns land in the States of Nebraska and Missouri. He built the Houston House in Exira in 1871, and was proprietor of the hotel until August, 1888. Mr. Houston's mother died November 21, 1888, at Atlanta, Georgia. ~*''^*^J*|«-~ ARIUS W. POWERS was born in 1 Hamilton County, Ohio, in the city of Cincinnati, September 23, 1847. Fie is the son of Cyrus and Mary 11. (Wallace) Powers, natives of the State of Vermont. Cyrus Powers emigrated to the State of Ohio at an early day, and was a contractor in Cin- cinnati for many years, building a number of 733 UI8T0RT OF AUDUBON COUNTY.^ the liuer old residences. In 1856 he re- moved to La Salle County, Illinois, and set- tled on a farm, spending the remainder of his days there. He died in October, 1871. His wife survived him until 1884. Darius W., the subject of this biography, passed his boy- hood on a farm in La Salle County, Illinois, and attended the district sciiool. At the age of twenty-one years he began teaching school, and continued this occupation three years. In 1874 he came to Oakfield, and in the fol- lowing spring he embarked in the mercantile business, being associated with Isaac P. Hal- lock and I. H. Jenkins, under the firm name of Hallock, Jenkins & Powers. At the ex- piration of three years Mr. Jenkins and Mr. Powers sold their interest to Mr. Ilallock. Mr. Powers then engaged in the grain, lum- ber and coal business, selling the grain interest in 1885, and disposing of the coal and lumber business in 1888, to the Green Baj' Lumber Company. In the fall of 1888 he again be- gan handling grain. Mr. Powers was married in October, 1869, to Miss Eliza M., daughter of Thomas and Mary E. (Ilallock) Dissmore, of La Salic County, Illinois. They are the parents of four children — Male, George D., Marie and Richard W. Mr. Powers has hold the office of justice of the peace for three terms, notary public for thirteen years, a member of the school board, and treasurer of the township. lie is a staunch supporter of the Republican party. Mr. Powers owns a farm of 400 acres, which is well stocked, especially with cattle and horses. ILSON BURNSIDE, one of Audu- ■'s prosperous business men, and one of its pioneer grain dealers, es- tablished his business in the county seat in 1878. lie was the first to start the business in which he has been actively engaged ever since. He is a man who has contributed his full share to the business interests of his adopted town, and who has added very ma- terially to its linancial standing, as well as its good name. Wilson Burnside was born in McIIenry County, Illinois, near "Woodstock, the county seat, September 7, 1848, and is the son of Wilson and Celestia (Wayne) Burnside; the mother was a daughter of An- thony Wayne, Esq., and a native of New York; the father was of Scotch-Irish descent. Wilson Burnside passed his early boyhood in McIIenry County, attending the common school in the winter time, and assisting his father on the farm during the summer. At the age of twenty-two he went to Kansas, and embarked in the mercantile business in the town of Florence; here he remained four years, and at the expiration of that time, he disposed of the business and removed to Car- roll County, Iowa. There he engaged in the grain trade and general merchandising for three and a half years, and then sold out, coming to Audubon; here he established himself in the grain trade, handling live- stock, principally hogs and cattle, in con- nection with the grain. He built the first warehouse near the Northwestern Railroad, and also one near the Rock Island Railroad, thus affording the best shipping facilities. The first three years of his residence in Au- dubon, he had a store containing a general stock of merchandise, in connection with his grain business. In August, 1888, Mr. Bum- side formed a partnership with C. A. Francis, under the firm name of Burnside & Francis; during the years 1888 and 1889 they shipped 200,000 bushels of corn and oats. Mr. Burn- side was elected a member of the school board in 1888, and still holds that position. He is a meml)er or Veritas Lodge, No. 392, A. F. it A. M.; Amity Chapter, No. 93, R. BIOGIiAl'HWAL SKETCUES. 723 A. M.; and of Godfrey Conimandery, No. 44, K. T. In political matters he is rather con- servative. Mr. Burnside began his business career on small capital, but by industry and close attention to business he has acquired a handsome property. He has a line residence which is situated on the summit of a hill, affording a view of Audubon and the sur- rounding country. Mr. I'urnside was mar. ried in 1871 to Miss Mary E. Ary. of Linn County, Iowa, a native of Ohio, and a daughter of Sinclair Ary, Esq. Tliey are the parents of five children — Grace J3., Mary Belle, Charles, Wellington and Ned, the last two named being deceased. ., ? . 3 m;. ? .«.~ fOIIN B. DOAK, Treasurer of Audubon County, Iowa, is a native of the State of Pennsylvania, born in Columbia County, on a farm near Bloonisbnrgh, October 19, 1851. He is the eldest son and second child in a family of four sons and four daughters, all of whom are living. His father, Henry Doak, is a farmer by occupation; his mother was Dorcas Brothwell, a native of Pennsyl vania, and a daughter of Dr. C. Brothwell; both parents arc living on a farm near Bloomsburgh, the father in his sixty-third 3'ear, and the mother in her sixty-first. The boyhood of our subject was spent in his na- tive county, attending the district school; later, heentered the Normal School at Blooms- burgh, and afterward taught two winters. He remained with his parents until his twenty- first year. He then went to Lehigh Coal Mines, and remained there four years, having various connections with the coal company. In 1877 he went to Saint Joseph County, Michigan, stopping near Three Rivers. In 1879 he came to Audubon County, stopping at Exira, where he spent one winter; he then came to Audubon and remained one year. He then went to Fort Collins, Colorado. In 1881 he returned to Audubon County, and acted as a clerk in a store until he was elected treasurer of the county in 1887. Mr. Doak assumed the duties of this office January 1, 1888. He is a member of the Veritas Lodo-e, No. 392, A. F. & A. M.; of Amity Chapter' No. 93, R. A. M., and of Godfrey Com- mandery. No. 44, K. T. fANIEL G. LASS, physician and sur- geon, Audubon, Iowa, is of German nativity, born in the city of Bremen, January 19, 1858. He is a son of Lorenz H. and Meta (Rohde) Lass. The father was a sea captain on the waters between Bremen and Honolulu. lie died at Bremen in 1805, and the mother died at the same place in 1860. The youth of our subject was passed in attending the schools of his native city, where he received the degree of B. A. In 1872 he emigrated to the city of New York, where he remained four years in the employ of John Faber, brother to tlie celebrated Faber pencil-maker, in the capacity of pharmacit-t. In 1875 he came to Iowa, and 6toj)ped in Nora Springs, where he clerked in a pharmacy for Dr. C. C. Birney, who became his pre ceptor in the study of medicine. He passed one examination before tiie Iowa Commis- sioner of Pharmacy, and took one course of lectures at the College of Physicians and Sur- geons, Keokuk, Io.\a. He took a second course at Vanderbilt University Medical De- partment, Nashville, Tennessee, graduatin-' with the class of 1885, and receiving the degree of M. D. Dr. Lass was elected cor- oner of Audubon County in 1887. He has also held the position of county commicsiuner for the insane. He came to Audubon in 724 UISTORT OF AUDUBOH COUNTY: March, 1884, and has devoted his entire time to his profession. He was married in 1880 to Miss Hattie Bailey, of Audubon, a native of Christian County, Illinois Dr. Lass is a member of the Knights of Pythias, of the Botna Valley Medical Association, and sur- geon for the Mutual Benefit Association, of Galesburg, Illinois. His brother, Lorenz Lass, is captain of the German ship, J. "W. Vendt, plying between New York and Bre- men. Dr. Lass has built up a good practice during his residence in Audubon. fEROME SHINGLEDECKER, a success- ful firmer of Leroy Township, was born in Cass County, Michigan, near Cassop- olis, the county seat, January 12, 1848. He is the son of Isaac A. and Barbara (Hain) Shino-ledecker. Isaac A. Shiuucledecker was Lorn in Miami County, Ohio, February 20, 1818; his father, Jacob Shiiigledecker, was a native of Westmoreland County, Pennsyl vania, and was of German ancestry; he was a soldier of the war of 1812, with the rank of Captain. The mother of Isaac Shingledecker was Mary Ann Rue, a native of West Vir- ginia. Isaac A. was married to Barbara Ann Hain March 14, 1844; she was a daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth Hain, of German an- cestry. After his marriage Isaac A. SLiiigle- decker and wife resided in Ohio, and then removed to Michigan, where they remained until 1875 when they came to Audubon Count}', Iowa. The subject of this biography, Jerome Shingledecker, passed his youth and school days in Michigan, where he was reared on a farm, and well trained in all the details of the management of a farm. In 1872 lie took a trip to California, wiiere he remaii,ed three years engaged in farming. He returned to Michigan, and again went to California, being fairly successful in his business oper- ations. He returned once more to Michigan, where he was married in 1882 to Sarah Adams, a native of Michigan; she is a daughter of Moses and Hannah (Wiley) Adams, natives of Vermont and New York respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Shingledecker have had born to them two sons — Clarence and Louis Adams. In the fall of 1883 they removed from Michigan to Audubon County, Iowa, and rented their present farm for three years; at tlie end of that time they bought the place, which they have made into an at- tractive, comfortable home. Mr. Shingle- decker has made many improvements, and has been uniformly successful in the manage- ment of his farm. While a resident of Michigan lie was a member of the Masonic order at Cassopolis. Politically he is con- servative, voting the Republican ticket, but being his own judge as to who is hest fitted for positions of trust. ^ ' S t' I ' S — ILLIAM A. CRANE, senior member of the firm of Allen & Crane, editors and proprietors of the Audubon County Advocate, has heen connected with the paper since November, 1887, leasing an interest from R. M. Carpenter, the present postmaster of Audubon. Mr. Crane managed the paper until March 1, 1888, when he formed a partnership with his uncle, the new firm being known as Crane & Crane, the Messrs. Crane having purchased the entire interest of the paper. They conducted the business successfully until October, 1888, when Mr. Allen bought a half interest in the concern, and the firm was changed to Allen kfe Crane. William A. Crane was born in Audubon County, Iowa, near Exira, Decem- ber, 1860. He is tlie eldest son of John and BIOOHAPIIICAL SKETCUES. 725 Mary I. (Harris) Crane. The mother is a daughter of D. M. Harris, the founder of the Audubon County Defender, a paper pub- lished at Exira for several years. John Crane was a native of tlie State of Ohio, being born in Highland County. He was a farmer in early life, but after his removal to Audubon County he was appointed deputy sheriff. He was the tirst Democratic candidate for office of sheriff in the county, and was beaten in the general election by one vote out of eighty- one votes cast in the county. The mother of our subject is still living. William A. Crane was reared in Exira and educated in the schools of that place. At the age of eighteen he went west to Fort Collins, Colorado, and entered the office of the Fort Collins Courier to learn the printer's trade, first serving in the capacity of printer's devil. He remained in the office for some time, and was sent out as a correspondent, to western Colorado and the Territory' of Wyoming; the country then being new and wild, he did nut like it, so re- turned to Exira. In 1881 he bought an interest in the Audubon County Defender, which was conducted under the firm name of Crane it Milliman. This partnership was of short duration, liowever, Mr. Crane going south to Atlanta, Georgia, where he was em- ployed in the State printing office. On leaving Atlanta, Mr. Ciane went to Cliilli- cotlie, Ohio, where he secured a position on the Sclota Gazette, as job compositor, for one year. He then returned to Iowa and took the foremanship of the Advocate at Audubon, holding this position for twenty months. He was then emphiyed in the office of the Repub- lican, then under the management of Cousins & McClure. He remained tliere about one year. He then took a trip through the States of Missouri and Kansas. He returned to Audubon and formed tlie business relation before mentioned. Mr. Crane was united in marriage July 31, 1884, to Miss Jennie M. Burton, a daughter of Henry Durton, of Exira Township, Audubon County. Mrs. Crane was born in Guthrie County, Iowa. One child has been born to Mr. and Mrs. Crane — Frankie Belle. Mr. Crane is a member of the K. of P., and of the Imi>roved Order of Red Men. M.., ? . 2 .i ; . '^ ..... fOSEPH McFADDEN, a successful farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, April 1, 1853. He is the youngest son of Joseph and Mary (Jamison) McFadden. Joseph McFad- den, the father, was born in Pennsylvania, and is a descendant of a Scotch-Irish family. The mother, Mary Jamison, was also born in Pennsylvania, and after her marriage to Mr. McFadden they settled in Fayette County, where they lived until they removed to Mc- Donough County, Illinois; here they lived on a farm for six years, and in 1872 they removed to Audubon County, Iowa, and set- tled on a farm now owned by Mr. Shingle- decker in the east part of the township of Leroy; at that time this place was raw prairie, and here Mr. McFadden passed the remainder of his days. He died October 4, 1886, in his ninety-third year, and was active in mind and body until within six months of his death. When eighty years of age he made a hand in the harvest field. He was a kind husband, an indulgent father, and a generous neighbor His wife is still living, and makes her home in Shelby County with her daughter, Mrs. Andrew Marshall. Joseph McFadden, Jr., the subject of this sketch, was thirteen years old when he removed to Illinois with his parents; at the age of nineteen the family removed to Audubon County, and his serv- ices beino- valuable on the farm his school 726 niSTORT OF AUDUBON COUNTTf days were cut short; lie was well trained in agricultural pursuits. He continued to live with his parents until May, 1886, when he was married to Miss Abbie Iloyt, daughter of Francis and Elizabeth (Lauinan) Hoyt. Her parents now reside in Melville Township, Au- dubon County, and are natives of Connecticut and Pennsylvania respectively. Mr. and Mrs. McFadden are the parents of one son — Francis Hoyt McFadden. After his marriage Mr. McFadden settled on his present farm of eighty acres, wliicli he has developed from raw prairie land into choice, well-improved land on which he has built a good residence. He is a very successful stock feeder, fattening from a half to a car-load of cattle annually. Mr. McFadden votes with the Republicans, and takes an active part in elections. Mrs. McFadden was born April 22, 1862, at Ot- tawa, La Salle County, Illinois. *^^j-^y arSAAC THOMAS.— One of tlie pioneer M settlers of Audubon County is Isaac ^ Tliomas, who lives on section 7, Audubon Townsliip. He was born in AVashington County, Ohio, May 28, 1835, and is the son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Linn) Thomas. Mrs. Elizabeth L. Thomas was one of tlie first white children born in Monroe County, Ohio. She now resides in Sioux County, Nebraska, at the age of eighty-nine years, and is taking up a claim of 160 acres. Her husband died in Washington County, Ohio, about the year 1847. She is the mother of ten children, of wliom Isaac Thomas is the tifth. He was reared to farm life in his native county, and received his education principally in tlie common schools. He had spent one year in college, when he was compelled to abandon the course on account of ill-health. In the spriiicr of 1860 he came to Iowa, and settled in Audubon County. He secured employ- ment on the farm of Nathaniel Hamlin, and remained in his employ for four year.s. About one year after he came to the county he was married to Miss Mary M., the oldest daughter of Nathaniel and Margaret (Foague) Hamlin, who was born in Vermillion County, Illinois, October 22, 1841. She was the first white woman who settled in Audubon County, having come with her father to assist in founding the new home, as she was the old- est child. She made herself very useful in driving the oxen and planting corn. After four months she returned to Mahaska County, where the family were then living; later, the same fall, the entire family removed to the new home in Audubon County. After the niarriage of Mr. Thomas, which occurred March 14, 1861, he remained in the employ of his father-in-law for three years. During this time he purchased eighty acres in Audu- bon Township. There was a rude hut on this place, and about twelve acres of land had been broken. In tlie spring of 1864 Mr. and Mrs. Thomas caine to this ]ilace, and have since made it their home. In the beginning they had many hardships to undergo. They were obliged to travel eighty miles to Des Moines to do their marketing, and grain and produce had to be hauled the same dist:ince. Mr. Thomas has added to his farm until he now has 335 acres; he has as good land as lies in the county, and it is improved with a fine residence, and barns for stock and grain. Politically he is a staunch Union Labor man, being one of the first to join the party. Pre- vious to the organization of this party he was a Democrat. He has been elected to the office of county supervisor three terms, and has held the office of justice of the peace, be- sides other township offices. He and his wife are members of the Christian church. They are the parents of eleven children — Luann, BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 727 Mutiirin, Belle, wife of S. J. Bloom; Jacob, Is'^ancy J. (deceased), Nathaniel, Oral (de- ceased), Rosie, John (deceased), Isaac (de- ceased), and Bessie. SILLIAM M. POULSON, farmer and '', dealer in fanning implements, is the ^^^^^J present proprietorof theGrant House, Audubon, Iowa. He is a native of the State of Iowa, born in Jasper County, near the noted springs of Colfax, A])ril 13, 1852. His ])arents are J. C. and Mahala (Spray) I'oul- son, natives of Maryland and Ohio respect- ively. The father was born July 20, 1820, and is of German ancestry. lie is a farmer by occupation, and now resides on the farm on wliich he settled in Jasper County in 1851. The mother died April 5, 1880. William M. Poulson was reared to the life of a farmer, and received his education in the common schools. He remained with his parents until liis majority, when he was married to Maggie McCuen, of Jasper County, Iowa, a daugh- ter of George A. McCuen. She was born in Ohio, and came to Iowa with her parents when a little girl. After his marriage Mr. Poulson settled in Jasper County, and fol- lowed farming until the spring of 1878, when he removed to Audubon County, settling on a farm in Lincoln Township. There were 100 acres, not a furrow of which had been turned at that time. He built a house and broke out the farm which is now under good cultivation. He continued to farm until 1887, when he rented the place and removed to the town of Au l ' i K l '^ WILLIAM MALLORY, Siieriff of Au- dubon Couuty, is an efficient officer. I*-§&r| He was born in Henry County, Iowa, near Mount Pleasant, November 18, 1851, and is a son of Daniel Mallory, who was born at Harper's Ferry in 1826. The grandfather of William Mallory was William Mallory, who was a native of Vii-ginia and a descend- ant of an Irish family. Daniel Mallory was a farmer iu early life, and was among the early settlers of Henry County, Iowa. He enlisted at Burlington, and going tu Me,xico took part in most of the battles of the Me,\i- can war. After the close of the war he went to California in 1849 in search of gold, re- maining there two years. He then returned to Henry County, Iowa, and engaged in farming, which occupation he has since fol- lowed. He is still living, and resides in Henry County. Daniel Mallory's wife, the mother of our subject, was a Miss Hhoda Jay, born of Quaker parents, in North Caro- lina. Her family removed to the Territory of Iowa when she was a young child. Daniel Mallory and wife were the parents of ten children, one daughter and nine sons, six of whom still survive. William Mallory, the subject of this sketch, was reared on a farm near the bank of the Skunk River. He spent his summers in working on the farm, and his winters in attending the district school. Later he was sent to Howe's Academy at Mount Pleasant, Iowa, where he pursued his studies one year. In 1873 Mr. Malloi'y was married to Miss Ophelia Lane, of Henry County, a schoolmate, and a daughter of Abner and Barbara Lane. In 1877 they removed to Audubon County, living on a farm for one year. When the town of Audubon was started Mr. Mallory moved to the place and em- barked in the clothing business, which he carried on successfully for six years. In 1885 he was elected sheriff of Audubon County, and was re-elected in 1887, and is the present incumbent of the office. Aside from the duties of his office, he devotes considerable time to auctioneering, his circuit extending over six counties. Mr. and Mrs. Mallory have twu sons — J. Howe and Ira Wade. Mr. Mallory is a Royal Arch Mason, and is also a member of the I. O. O. F., of which he is a charter member. He is an active and public-spirited man, deeply interested in the progress and welfare of the community. g - I"; . g 4>^ iIIARLES BAGLEY, attorney at law, and dealer in real estate and loans, Audubon, Iow;i, was born near West Liberty, Iowa, May 29, 1854. He is the fourth of ten children, all of whom are living and residents of the State of Iowa. His father, William A. liagley, was a native of Ohio, and was a farmer by occupation, and is now a resident of Cass County, Iowa, living on the farm to which he came in 1873. His mother, Lucretia Burgan Bagley, was also a native of Ohio. After their marriage his parents settled on a farm in Muscatine County, Iowa; thence they removed to Cass BIUORAPUWAL SKETCHES. 720 County. Charles Bagley was a mere lad wlieii his parents went to Muscatine County, where he grew to manhood. His primary education was received in the district school; he afterward attended a select school, and then entered the State University at Iowa City, where he pursued his studies for two years. He then entered the law department of the same school, from which he was grad- uated in 1881. In 1882 he came to Audu- bon, and opened a law oflice, devoting his time to his profession in connection with real estate, loans, collections and insurance. Mr. Bagley was united in marriage in Octo- ber, 1888, to Miss Amanda Williams, of Audubon, Iowa, a daughter of Sarah Will- iams. Her father died when she was a little girl; she was boru in the State of Indiana. Charles Bagley was elected mayor of Audu- bon, Iowa, in March, 1886, and re-elected in 1887, and has served two terms. IILLIAM H. SCOTT is a member of ,, y,;, J| the tirm of Scott Brothers, under- l'-©^^ takers, and dealers in furniture, Au- dubon, Iowa. This business was established by Horace Prentice, W. II. Scott becoming his agent for the first year. At the end of that time Mr. Scott bought a half-interest in the business, and the firm continued for sev- eral years. In 1884 Walter R. Scott, brother tu William H. Scott, purchased the half- interest of Mr. Prentice, and the firm changed to Scott Brothers. The business was con- tinued at the old stand, Scott Brothers own- ing the building. They purchase their sup- plies directly from eastern factories, and are well known and established in the business. William II. Scott was born in Warren County, New York, May 11, 1847. lie is the oldest son of Robert and Eliza (Ilodgin) Scott. The father was a Highland Scotchman, and the mother was a native of Saint Law- rence County, New York, both her father and mother being of Scotch descent. They were the parents of six children, three of whom survive. The father died in 1874, in his fifty-eighth year; the mother isstill living, and is a resident of Audubon, Iowa. The boyhood of William H. Scott was passed in his native State, where he grew to manhood. He began to learn the cabinet-maker's trade at the age of eighteen, and served an appren- ticeship of two years, when the firm with which he was employed tailed. He then went to Greenwich, Washington County, New York, where he worked at his ti-ade,and afterward worked in Troy, New York. In May, 1876, he came to Mechanicsville, Cedar County, Iowa, where he Remained for two years. In the fall of 1878 he came to Au- dubon as agent for Mr. Prentice, as before stated. In October, 1868, Mr. Scott was married to Miss Miriam W. Tefft, of Saratoga County, New York, a daughter of John H. and Mary E. (Sherman) Teft't. Mr. and Mrs. Scott have one adopted daughter — Katie. Mr. Scott has been a member of the council since the incorporation of the town. He is a member of Veritas Lodge, No. 392, A. F. & A. M.; Amity Ciiapter, No. 93, and Godfrey Commandery, No. 44. lie has served as a delegate to the Grand Lodge. ►JwJ-. INCENT A. WALKUP, Superintend- ent of the Audubon County Poor Farm, took charge of this institution in 1888. The farm consists of 200 acres, formerly be- longing to Michael O'Donnell, and was pur- chased by Audubon County for $7,000. It is situated one and a half miles south of the county seat, on the Bluegrass Creek. Tiiere 780 HItiTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. is a beautiful natural grove on the i'arin, west of the house and barn, which affords fine shade in the summer and serves as a wind- break in the winter, besides adding very ma- terially to the attractiveness of the place. Mr. Walkup was born in the State of Ken- tucky, January 8, 1844. lie is a son of John and Nancy (West) Walkup, natives of Scot- land. Ills mother was well educated and taught many terms of school in the South. She died in 1865. After the death of the mother, the father and family removed to Iowa and settled on a farm near AVinterset, Madison County. Here the fatiier passed the remainder of his days. He died in Feb- ruary, 1879. He was reared on a farm, and at the age of nineteen entered the Union army, Company L, Thirteenth Kentucky Cavalry, and went to the defense of his country. He took part in many skirmislies, and scoured a large territory. He was taken prisoner November 17, 186B, at Columbus, Kentucky, and was paroled several days after- ward. He never lost a day when in active service, and was honorably discharged Jan- uary 25, 1865. He removed to Madison County, Iowa, and settled on a farm near St. Charles, where he lived several years. In the spring of 1881 he came to Audubon and resided here six years. He built the first steam flour- mill in Audubon, which he kept running for some time, but it was not a pay- ing investment, and he retired from the business and took charge of the water-works, lie was appointed city marshal, in which capacity he served three years. Mr. Walkup was then appointed superintendent of the poor farm, a position he is well fitted to till. Mr. Walkup was married in 1865 to Miss Ann Kinnaird,of Kentucky, a daughter of Joseph Kinnaird, a prominent farmer of that State. Tliey are the parents of si.x chil- dren — Robert A., Cornelia, wife of Samuel Fisher; Alexander, Joseph, Mack and Sylves- ter. Mr. Walkup is a member of Veritas Lodge, No. 392, A. F. & A. M., of the I. O. O. F., of the Knights of Pythias, and of the G. A. R., Allison Post. .^ -'■'?" S -„V- s)^ ROF. CHARLES F. WILLCUTT, Super- intendentof the AuduboiiCounty schools, was born in Franklin County, Massacliu- 1 setts, August 26, 1841. He is the oldest son of George and Martiaette (Stanley) Wilicutt, both natives of Massachusetts. George Will- , cntt was a farmer by occupation, and when his son Charles was four years old he removed with his family to Portage County, Oliio, in the t^ectiDU wiiich is now known as the West- ern Reserve. The father died in 1852, his wife and tiiree cliildren surviving him. The mother ot our subject was the daughter of Phineas Stanley, of English descent, three generations having been born in America. The great-grandfather of Charles Wilicutt, Zebedee Wilicutt, was a soldier in the Revo- lutionary war. The Willcutts were of Encf- lisli descent. Charles F. passed his boyhood in Portage County, Ohio, attending tlie dis- trict school until his thirteenth year, during that time losing only two days. Tiie lather dying ab(jut that time, the mother removed to Hiram, (31)io. There Charles entered what was called then the Western Reserve Eclectic Institute, which is now Hiram College. Here he pursued his studies four years, working on the farm during his vacations. At the age of seventeen years he began teaching school, boarding around among the pupils, thus earn- ing money in the winter to p.'iy scliooling during the spring and fall terms at the Ec- lectic Institute. Thus he passed four more years of life. At the age of twenty-three years he removed to Sangamon County, Illi- BIOGRAPHICAL HKETCUEti. 731 iiois, and there engaged in teaching three years. Here he was married to Miss Amelia B. Mason, a native of New York, and a daughter of Dr. Milton Mason. In 1867 he was elected principal of the third ward school in Springlield, Illinois, a position which he held for a period of eight years. After leaving Springfield he taught six years in Illinois. In 188 i Mr. Willcutt came to Exira and taught two terms of school. In 1883 he was elected to the otlico of county superintendent, a posi- tion he still holds, being re-elected on the Kepublican ticket. Mr. and Mrs. Willcutt are the parents of four children — George B., Jessie L., wife of Julius Herrick; Maud and Paul B. Mr. Willcutt has devoted the greater part of his active life to the profession of teach- ing, a profession than which there is none higher. ^IIARLES II. AVEEKS, deceased, was an old resident of Jones County, Iowa, who was born in the State of New York, November 22, 1883. His parents, Jacob K. and Hopey Weeks, removed to Iowa when he was a mere boy; here he grew to manhood, attending school in the winter, and workinfjr on his father's farm in the summer He acquired a good knowledge of the branches taught in the district schools of that day; he remained with his parents until he reached his majority. lie was married November 27, 1858, to Miss Martha J. Ferguson, the second daughter of Hans and Margaret (Shields) Ferguson, who was born and reared in the State of Pennsylvania. After her mar- riage to Mr. Weeks they settled on a farm in Jones County, Iowa, where they lived until the death of Mr. Weeks, which occurred in 187-4. Mrs. Weeks was thus left with four children, two sons and two daughters — -Mary E., wife of J. II. Jones, of Audubon County; Fred II., who is at home and has the man- agement of the farm; Victor C, who assists on the farm, and Maggie May. After the death of her husband Mrs. Weeks removed with her family to the farm of her brother, David Ferguson, where she has since resided. The farm contains 160 acres of well-im- proved land, and she with the help of her two sons, carries on the farm work successfully; they have the ])lace stocked with high grade cattle, hoirs and Iwrses. ERNAKD CUNNLNGHAM, an active farmer of Leroy Township, Audubon County, was born in Ireland in the County of Donegal. When he was eighteen years of age he emigrated to America, land- ing in New York City. He worked at various trades in New York and New Jersey until 1861. In April of that year he drifted west- ward to Sangamon County, Illinois, where he engaged in farming until 1869, when he re- moved to Jasper County, Iowa. Here he settled on a farm of 160 acres in Synngrove Township. He paid $8 per acre, and during his residence made so many valuable improve- ments that he sold the place for $27 j)er acre. In October, 1882, Mr. Cunningham came to Audubon County and purchased 200 acres of improved land in Lincoln Township. In 1882 he bought his present home place in Leroy Township, containing 105 acres of well-improved land. He has erected a good residence on this place. He has followed general farming, making a s[)ecialty of high grades of stock. Mr. Cunningham has been particularly successful as a corn grower. He owns some town lots in Manilla. Mr. Cun- ningham was united in marriage in 1868, to Miss Anna English, of Newark, New Jersey, b 733 UJSTORT OF AUDUBON COUNTY. She is a native of Ireland and catne to this country when she was eleven years old. She is a daughter of Michael and Mary (Brady) English, who died in New Jersey. Mr. and Mrs. Cunningham have five children — James, Mary A., John B., Frank L. and William. Our subject had but $5 when he came to this country; but he had, what is sometimes bet- ter than money, pluck and energy. He votes the Democratic ticket, having become natu- ralized in 1861. His parents, Timothy and Hannah (McLaughlan) Cunningham, died in Ireland. ■«|->^— I^^ICHAEL K. GIFFOKD, a retired farmer of Audubon County, Iowa, was born in Morgan County, Ohio, near Pennsville, a small Quaker village, October 1, 1824. His grandfather, Abraham Giftbrd, was born in the State of Maine, and removed to Ohio in 1816, and settled near Marietta, Ohio. He was of English ancestry, and for many years was a sailor on a whaling vessel. The father of our subject was xVlex- ander M. Gifibrd, also a native of Maine, born March 13, 1800. He was a farmer by occupation, and died November 16, 1884. He was married to Miss Isabel King, who died June 19, 1842, a daughter of Michael King, of English ancestry and Quaker stock. Mr. King was among the early settlers of Guern- sey County, Ohio, and built the first grist- mill in that part of the country. Isabel King Gifford was born July 28, 1802, in Guernsey County, Ohio. Michael K. passed his early boyhood in Morgan County, Ohio. Wlien lie was twelve years of age his parents re- moved to Noble County, Indiana, where he grew to manhood. The family continued their residence in Noble County until 1854, when they all removed to Cedar County, Iowa. There the parents settled permanently and passed the remainder of their days. Mr. Gilford was married May 7, 1848, to Miss Mary Ann Carman, of Allen County, Indiana. After his marriage Mr. Gilford settled in Noble County, but in 1854 removed with the family to Iowa, where he engaged in farming in Cedar County until October, 1873. He then moved to Jasper Count}', remaining five years; thence to Pottawattamie County, remaining one year. In April, 1880, he moved to Audubon County and settled on 160 acres of land, for which he paid $13 per acre. He lived on this place and improved it until 1886, when he sold the farm for $25 per acre, cash in hand, since which time he has not been actively engaged in business. Mr. and Mrs. Gifford are the parents of seven children, six of whom lived to maturity — Almira was born October 27, 1849, wife of Samuel T. Lambert; John W., born July 21, 1851; CharlepC.,bornJuly 16, 1854; Mary, born October 27, 1857, wife of Wesley lines; Martha, born May 6, 1860, wife of Joseph Bottenfield; Jason A., born August 9, 1862 and one child that died in infancy. When living in Cedar County, Iowa, Mr. Gilford held the office of justice of the peace for two terms. He is a member of the Wesleyan M. church, and was ordained in 1859, Junius A. Preston officiating. Mrs. Gilford was born in Steuben County, New York, May 6, 1829. She was the daughter of Charles C. and Eliza Ann Carman. AVID FERGUSON, deceased, was acit. izen of Leroy Township, one of its early settlers, higldy esteemed, and widel}' and favorably known, not only in Audubon County but in adjoining counties. Mr. Fer- guson was born in the State of Pennsylvania, BIOGRArniCAL SKBTCHES. 733 Indiana County, Jamiary 26, 1832. His par- ents were Hans and Margaret (Shields) Fer- guson, both natives of Pennsylvania. Hans Ferguson, the father of our subject, was a fanner by occupation; he followed this pur- suit until his death, which occurred in early life. His wife, Margaret Ferguson, who survive.s him still, resides in Cedar County, Iowa, to which place she moved with her family in 1857; she is the mother of eleven chiklren, nine of whom are living; she is now in hfr eightv-third vi'ar, and iu reason- ably good health. David Ferguson moved to Cedar County with his mother, and in 1876 came to Audubon County, and purchased the farm now occupied by his sister, Mrs. Charles PI. Weeks. The farm at the time of pur- chase contained 120 acres without improve- ments. He broke the land, built a good residence, barn and other buildings necessary to carry on successful farming. The place is situated on the east bank of the Nishnabotna liiver. Mr. Ferguson planted numerous trees whicii serve not only as a wind-break, but add very much to the appearance of the place. After a successful career, David P^erguson died, August 7, 1885; and thus passed away one of Audubon's honored and beloved citizens. His funeral was the largest ever occurring in the county. He had never married and Mrs. Weeks had been his housekeeper for many years before his death; he had deeded his farm to her before his death. He had not only been an honored citizen, but he iiad as- sisted in tlie defense of his country, serving her faithlully for three years. He was a member of Company H, Thirty-fifth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, and was assigned to the western army. He took part in the Red Iliver campaign under TJanks's command; in the battle of Nashville, Tennessee, under (ieneral Thomas; and was wounded in a bat- tle in Mississippi; he also took part in the battle of Pleasant Hill, the siege of Vicks- burg, and other important engagements. Iu July, 1865, he was honorably discharged at Muscatine, Iowa. He was a member of Al- lison Post, No. 34, G. A. R. ~>-., ? . ; ,. ; . ? ..-^ 1*1 ■* " (» AMUEL JORDAN, an euturprising farmer of Viola Township, vv;is born in Fermanagh, Ireland, October 13, 1831, He is the twelfth of a family of fourteen children of John and Elizabeth Jordan. His father was a modest farmer in his native land, in which country both his parents died. Samuel was reared to the life of a farmer, and received his education in the common schools. Arriving at the age of twenty years, he made a voyage to Australia, and there worked in the gold fields, being quite suc- cessful. He remained there nine years, dur- ing the time making one visit to Ireland. In the fall of 1863 Mr. Jordan came to the United States, landing in the city of New York; thence he went to Nova Scotia, and visited a brother living there. lie returned to New York, and thence proceeded to Rock Island County, Illinois. He remained there, engaged in farming until 1868; in November of that year he removed to Poweshiek County, Iowa, and settled on a farm which he im- proved. In the fall of 1880 he sold this place, and in March, 1881, he came to Audu- bon County and settled on his present farm; there were then only eighty acres in the place, but Mr. Jordan has added to it, until there are now 200 iicres. He devotes him- self to farming and stock-raising. In No- vember, 1853, occurred the marriage of Mr. Jordan and Miss Alice Worrcl, a native of Ireland, and a daughter of William Worrel, Esq. By this marriage eight children were liorn, seven of whom arc living —Joshua; 734 BISTORT OF AUDUBON COUNTY.* Elizabeth, wife of Samuel Johnson; Ann J., wife of Robert Smith; William J., Thomas C, Sainnel K. and Alice Beatrice. In Na- tional and State matters Mr. Jordan votes the Republican ticket; in local afiairs he votes for the best man for the place. He has a good, comfortable home, barns and cribs, and is well fixed in this world's goods. He is energetic, honorable in his dealing, and is numbered among the best of Yiola Town- ship's farmers. ~.. .^ . !m; . ^ «^-^ I AMUEL HAYS was born in Westmore- land County, Pennsylvania, November 28, 1844, and is the son of Fred and Mary (Uobins) Hays, natives of the State of Pennsylvania. When Samuel was eighteen months old his parents removed to Rock Island County, Illinois. There he passed his early youth, being reared to the occupation of a farmer. He obtained his education in the district schools and the graded schools of Cordova. He was entering his second term in the latter place when he enlisted in the United States service in the Fifteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, Company D. After si.K months he was honorably discharged, and re- turned to Rock Island County, and remained there until 1867, engaged in farming during the summer season and in teaching school in the winter. In the fall of 1867 Mr. Hays came to Iowa, and for several years he was occupied in teaching in the winter season, and working at the carpenter's trade and at the shoemaker's trade during the rest of the year. For three years after coming to the State he made his home in Henry County, after which he removed to Marshall County, remaining there four years. He was married September 6, 1872, to Miss Ellen L. Clark, daughter of C. C. and Pha-be A. (Rodgers) Clark, who was born in Marshalltown, Iowa, July 17, 1854. They are the parents of nine children — Frew L., Maud A., Willie A., Gabriel C, Samuel E., Miles F., James A., Mary M. and Alice L., all at home. In 1875 Mr. Hays removed his family to Andubon County, and settled on a farm of eighty acres in Greeley Township, which was then wild prairie laud. He has added eighty acres to his first purchase, and has made many valua- ble improvements, erecting a good frame residence, and barns for stock and grain. He affiliates with the Democratic party, bnt votes for the man that he judges best qualified to fill the position. He takes an active interest in the political affairs of the county, and has filled most of the township offices. He is a member of the K. of L. -jMf- fRANK M. PIENSLEY, an enterprising farmer of Greeley Township, Audubon County, is the seventh child of J. J. and Martha J. (Popejay) Ilensley. He was born in Polk County, August 31, 1858, and passed his early childhood in his native place. When he was ten years of ital, but by dili- gence, hard work and economy he has accu- mulated a comfortable fortune. lOSS J. CREVELING, contractor and I builder, Audubon, Iowa, was born in Columbia County, Pennsylvania, No- vember 13, 1842. He is a son of Andrew S. and Theresa (Allegar) Creveling, both of whom were born and reared in Pennsylvania. The father was a farmer by occupation and lived in Columbia County until his death, which occurred in 1884. The mother has also passed into the other life. Ross J. spent his youth in his native county, being reared on a farm and receiving a common- school education. During the late civil war, in August, 1862, he enlisted in the One Hun- dred and Forty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, Company F, and was assigned to the Army of the Potomac. He participated in the engai^ements of Chancelorsville, Get- tysburg, and the Wilderness; in the last- named battle he was wounded in the foot, and was so disabled that he was discharged in 1864, having served faithfully for two years. He then returned to his old home in Pennsylvania and went to work at the car- penter's trade. Mr. Creveling was married in September, 1860, to Miss Rebecca E. Brown, a native of Columbia County, Penn- sylvania, and a daughter of Matthew Brown, Es(|. Four children were born to this mar- i-iacre — Verge M., teacher; Theron B., grocery clerk; Ira M. and Lulu Grace. In 1872 Mr. Creveling went west with his family and settled in Clayton County, Iowa, remaining there one year. He then removed to Noble County, Minnesota, and took up a homestead there. He was eaten out by the grasshoppers for two seasons, so he returned to Iowa and settled in Waterloo, Black Hawk County, BWOHAPnWAL SKETCHES. 711 where lie worked at his trade four years. In June, 1879, he removed to Audubon, which he has since made his liome. He has en- gaged in contracting and building, and has done a j^rofitable business. The family are all members of the Methodist Episcopal church, Mr. Creveling being a trustee of the same. - ♦•' ^ • i"t ' ^" ' ■•' ^I^EOKLV I. WHITTED, ex-County Sur- veyor, Exira, Iowa, was born in Maury County, Tennessee, in the town of Will- iamsport, February 29, 1832. William Whit- ted, the father of P. J. Whitted, removed from Virginia to North Carolina, and was there married to Miss Arrena Howard, a native of Orange County, North Carolina, and a daugh- ter of John Howard; she was born in 1796, and was the mother of thirteen children, eleven of whom lived to maturity. William Whit- ted and wife removed from North Carolina to Tennessee, and settled in Maury County, re- siding there until 1833, when they moved to Vigo County, Indiana; thence they went to Parke County, Indiana, and in 1838 they went to Vermillion County, Indiana. At this place the father engaged in packing pork; when going down the river lie was taken with yel- low fever and died; his wife late in life catne to Cass County, Iowa, and resided there until lier death, which occurred June 5, 18G2. Peoria, the subject, passed liis youth in Indi- ana, and attended the district school. In 1845 tlie family removed to Keokuk County, Iowa, and here ho grew to manhood. He entered the Methodist College at Muscatine, Iowa, and here pursued his studies for two years. In 1850 he went to Ottumwa, Iowa, and after- ward entered the printing office of the JJes Moines Courier; here he spent one year, then went on a government surveying e.xpedition to Santa Fe, New Mexico. After an absence of six months he returned to Iowa City, and then engaged in the survey of the railroad from Davenport to Iowa City; this is now the Rock Island Pailroad. In 1853 Mr. Whitted came to Audubon County, stopping at Ham- lin's Grove; at this time there were only six houses in the county. Mr. Whitted acted as land agent, and assisted in the laying out of Omaha, Nebraska. He was appointed organ- izing sherifi', and called the first election held in the county; this was in April, 1855, and the cabin of John S. Jenkins was the votino- place. On the first Monday of the following August a general election was held ; Mr. Whit- ted was a candidate lor county surveyor, and was elected; he soon after took charge of the office, and has held it for twenty-two years. After retiring from public office he continued the survey of private lands and roads. In the spring of 1857 he removed to Exira, and has since there made his home. Mr. Whitted was married February 28, 1860, to Miss Louisa C. Montgomery, of Exira, a daughter of L. I>. and Fannie (Boyls) Montgomery; Mrs. Whitted was born in Hancock County, Illi- nois, and at the age of fifteen years came with her parents to Exira. The father was a native of Pennsylvania, and the mother was born in the State of New York; both are dead, and lie buried in the cemetery at Exira. Mr. Whit- ted and wife have had seven children born to tliein — Clinton J., Mary, the wife of Albert Sewell; Minnie, wife of J. M. Barber; Forest, Elbridge, Carl C. and Clara P. Mr. Whitted is a member of the I. 0. O. ¥.; he is present assessor of Exira. In national matters lie votes the Democratic ticket. He owns two good farms, one in Exira Township and one in Hamlin Township, and five acres in his home place. Mrs. Whitted is a member of the Christian church, and is one of its most active members, as well as one of its liberal 743 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNT} . ' contributors. Mrs. Whitted's father, L. B. Montgomery, was one of the first settlers of Audubon County. He held the office of county superintendent of schools for two terms. He liad a wide circle of friends and was greatly beloved by all wlio knew him. ^YRUS H. SAMPSON, a thorough-going agriculturist of Viola Township, Audu- bon County, was born in Iowa County, Wisconsin, near Mineral Point, May 1, 1850. He is next to the oldest of four children of Henry and Elizabetli (Baker) Sampson, who are natives of England. They married and settled in Iowa County, Wisconsin, in which phice the mother died in 1864. The father, who survives her, is still living on the old homestead. Cyrus H. passed his youth in his native county, receiving in addition to a cotiinion school education a course in a busi- ness college. In 1873 he came to Audubon County, Iowa, and purchased eighty acres of prairie land and rented land for two years. In 1875 he settled on the farm he now owns and went to work in good earnest. He has been prosperous, and has added to the small beginning Tintil he has a farm covei'ing 390 acres, all well fenced and stocked with cattle, hogs, and a few hurses. He has erected a large, substantial residence, which is sur- rounded by a beautiful grove and lawn. Mr. Sampson devotes special attention to feeding cattle, shipping from one to two car-loads of cattle annually, besides large numbers of hogs. In 1877 Mr. Sampson was united in marriage to Miss Martha Ellis, of Audubon County, Iowa. She was born in the State of ^'ew York, and removed with lier parents to Grinnell, Iowa, when a child. Three chil- dren have been born of this marriage — Henry E., Cyrus F. and Cora May. Mr. Sampson has served as supervisor of roads several terms. In politics he is conservative. He takes an active part in endeavors to elevate the morals of the community-; is a prominent member of the Methodist Episcopal church, using his money and influence in the support of the same. By his honorable and upright living he has won the confidence and respect of all who know him, and is considered one of the reliable farmers of Viola Township. |^,OBERT MILLER, deceased, was born •> in Allegheny County, near Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, June 9, 1807. He de- parted this life at his home in Leroy Town- ship, Audubon County, Iowa, July 28, 1886. He grew to maturity in his native State. He attended the common schools, and early in life learned the miller's trade, but afterward became a farmer. On April 2, 1834, he was united in niariiage to Miss Elizabeth AVood- burn, who was born in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, and was the oldest daughter of William and Elizabeth (Veasy) Woudburn. Her parents settled in Allegheny County in the day when Indians were numerous. They were of Irish descent, two generations having been l)orn in America. After his niarriasje Mr. Miller settled in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, and in the fall of 1856 he re- moved to Mercer County, Illinois, where he engaged in farming. He remained in this county ten years. In the fall of 1866 Mr. Miller removed with his family to Audubon County, Iowa, settling on a farm three niiles soutli of Exira, which is now known as the Gault farm. There he resided two years, and then removed to his present farm, sit- uated on the Nishnabotna River, section 1, Leroy Township, and containing 133 acres of well-improved lami. Mr. Miller was engaged BroaiiAPIIWAL SKETCUKS. 743 in general farming, but especially delighted in the care of fine live-stock. Ills horses, cattle and hogs were usually of high grades. Jlr. and Mrs. Miller had born to them ten children, eight of whom lived to maturity — \Yilliam, died at the age of eight years; Martha AV., wife of Perry Roberts; Benjamin F., died in November, 1886; Elizabeth, died at the age of eleven years; James, died in January, 188-4; Thomas, a prosperous farmer; Samuel, residing with his mother on the home farm; John A., a successful clothing merchant of Superior, Nebraska; Mary J., died February 3, 1874, and Sarali A., died December 5, 1879. Mr. Miller was appointed postmaster during President Hayes's adminis- tration, the office being kept in his dwelling. He also served as road supervisor. lie was an old-fashioned Democrat, and was an ad- mirer of President Cleveland's administra- tion. He did not chew tobacco, but enjoyed a good smoke. Mrs. Miller is now in lier seventy-seventh year, and is in possession of all her mental faculties, and assists and directs in the management of the farm. Mr. and Mrs. Miller had lived together for fifty- two years. Benjamin F. and James Miller served in the late Rebellion. B. F. was a member of the Tliirtieth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, Company G, and was Orderly Ser- geant of his company. James Miller was a member of the Ninth Illinois Mounted In- fantry, Company E, and served four years. He was among those who re-enlisted. g . MI . ^ ..... fOUN J. HENSLEY, a prominent farmer and stock-dealer in E.xira Township, was born in Chill icothe, Ross County, Ohio, September 11, 1819. His fatiicr, Jacob Hens- ley, was a soldier in the war of 1812, and died when Joliu J. was a small Ijoy. His mother 47 was a Miss Sarah Wilfong, of German ances- try, a daughter of John Wilfong, who served as a soldier in the Revolutionary war; she also died wlien John J. was a child, and he went to live with his uncle, Christopher Wil- fong, witli whom he remained until liis death; he was then thrown upon his own resources, and began the struggle of life alone. During his residence with his uncle he had attended school in the winter and worked on the farm in the summer. In 1844 lie was married to Miss Martha Popejay, of Fayette County, Ohio, and after liis marriage he settled on a farm in Fayette County; this he carried oa successfully for a number of years. In 1856 he removed to Franklin County, Iowa, and there began dealing in live-stock in a small way, his means being somewhat limited. After a few years he removed from Franklin County to Polk County, and settled on a farm south of Des Moines; here he engaged in raising and shipping stock extensively until 1869, when he moved to Jasper County and engaged in the same enterprise until 1871. He then sold out and moved to Audubon County, purchasing a farm one mile south of Exira, on the Nishnabotna River; this is one of the most desirable farms in tliis section, being of a very fertile soil and under high cultivation; there is a beautiful, natural grove north of the residence and barns, adding much to the attractiveness of the place, and afford- ing a most excellent shelter from the piercing winds of winter. Tiie farm is one of the oldest in the neighborhood, and was improved by Jacob Andrews, and at the time of purchase by Mr. Hensley contained 200 acres. Since his residence on this farm Mr. Hensley has devoted the greater portion of his time to buying, selling and shipping live-stock, while his sons have managed the agricultural de- partment of farming. From long experience in the business Mr. Ilensley iias become 744 U I STOUT OF AUDUBON COUNTY a most reliable judge of cattle; of late years he has also bought and sold hogs quite ex- tensively, shipping them to eastern markets. During their residence in Polk Countj' Mrs. Ilenslej was called from this life, in the year 1869; she was a devoted wife and mother, and at her death left eight children — Leroy M., AVilliam I., Morgan, Martha A., wife of Daniel B. Hayes (Mrs. Hayes is now deceased) ; Fanny May (deceased), Frank M., John I. and Charles F. Mr. Hensley was married to his second wife in Polk County; she was Mrs. Maria Eckles, widow of Rev. William Ecklcs, and daughter of Heurv Reichert, of Indiana, a resident of Polk County, Iowa. Two chil- dren have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Hensley — Martha A. and Agnes. Mr. Hensley has not only been prominent in business circles, but he has also taken a lively interest in the elevation of the morals of the community; he is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, with which he has long been identi- fied, contributing largely of his time and means for its support; he has served as trus- tee and steward of the church. Politically he has lonjc been identified with the Demo- cratic party. -'♦■ ^ • 2 " i ' ^" ^ ||\0N. WILLIAM WALKER has been identified with the interests of Audu- bon County since the year 1855. He was born in Huron County, Ohio, March 2, 1834, and is the son of Joseph and Catherine (Sheridan) AValker. His father was a native of England, and emigrated to America when a young man. His mother was a native of Ireland, and was brought to this country when a child. After his marriage Joseph Walker settled in Huron County, remaining less than one year; he then removed to Per- rien County, Michigan, and settled on a farm, there passing the remainder of his days. He died in 1867; his wife, who survives him, occupies the old homestead in Michigan ; she is the mother of ten children, five sons and five daughters. William spent his youth on his father's farm, where his services were usually in demand, as he was the oldest son. He re- ceived the advantage of a district-school ed- ucation, and at the age of twenty-one years he forsook the ancestral roof and went to make his fortune in the far west, as Iowa was then considered. He pre-empted 160 acres of land in Audubon County, and entered 200 acres at §1.25 per acre; this secured to him a home which he began to improve as his means would allow. In February, 1857, Mr. Walker was married to Miss Nancy J. Bowen, the oldest daughter of W. H. and Elizabeth Bowen, who came to Audubon County in 1853. W. H. Bowen is still living at the age of seventy-seven years, and his wife died in 1873. Mrs. Walker was among the pio- neer school teachers of the count}'. After his marriage Mr. Walker settled on his farm on the west side of Troublesome Creek; this being a most excellent piece of land, Mr. Walker prospered, and as his means increased he invested in another farm on the east side of Troublesome Creek; this laud is skirted on the north by a heavy belt of timber which aff. rds the best protection to the live-stock on this farm. Here Mr. Walker has erected a fine two-story frame residence, a large barn for horses, and numerous buildings for the protection of live-stock. His landed estate at present numbers 1,500 acres, the greater portion of which is seeded down to grass. Large numbers of cattle are fattened annually on Mr. Walker's farm, and special attention is given to the breeding of the higher grades of live-stock. Mr. and Mrs. Walker are the parents of nine children — John E., Charles W. (deceased), Frances A. (deceased), Laura A. f.JZ^&A uioaiiAPUicA I. SKETCH ma. 749 A., wife of J. D. Barhan; Ulysses S., Lula May, Oliver M., Eva and J. Grant. Mr. Walker has been politically identitied with his county as a member of the Legislature, serving in the twenty-second session; he was elected on the Republican ticket in 1887. lie has also served his township as clerk, trustee, and treasurer of the school district. He is a member of Exodus Lodge, No. 344, A. F. & A. M. Mr. Walker cast his first ])residential vote for John C. Fremont. His grandfather, "William Walker, was a soldier in the British arn)y, and was present at the surrender of Cornwallis. Mr. Walker began life with small means, but his industry and good management have served him well, and to-day he is the owner of a handsome estate. — -" l - h ^ l - l * " " — I fOSEPn p. THORNISCH is a member of the firm of Thornisch & Isliam, livery and coal dealers, Audubon, Iowa. In the livery business Mr. Thornisch succeeds Mr. I. N. Simpson, of whom he bought the business in May, 1880, which he continued at the old stand. lie formed a partnership with Mr. Charles Isham, who with himself constitutes the present firm. Mr. Thornisch was born in Wyoming County, New York, August 2, 1844. lie lived in his native county until he was sixteen years old, when he went to Genesee County, New York, working on a farm, breaking horses, and fit- ting them for market. lie afterward drifted west and stopped in Audubon County, Iowa, in 1871, and spent his first winter on Davis Creek. In the following spring he took up a homestead near the present town site of Au- dubon, but through some technicality the Ilock Island Railroad Company gained pos- session of it, and ]\[r. Thornisch lost about $4,000. Abandoning the homestead he dis- posed of his cattle ranch, and purchased the livery stock, as before stated. The firm of Thornisch &, Isham is well known from the fact that both parties have been residents of the county for several years. They keep a good stock of buggies, including a fine hack and hearses, and attend to calls in the country promptly, as well as in the city. Their stock of horses is quite complete, and they have fine driving teams. In connection with their livery and coal business they have given special attention to the breeding of Henry Clay and Messenger horses; they also breed Clydesdale horses, and have invested a con- siderable sura in this business. Mr. Thorn- isch was married in 1867 to Miss Elizabeth Gabel, of Wyoming County, New York, a daughter of Jacob Gabel, of the same county. There she was born and reared to woman- hood. To Mr. and Mrs. Thornisch have been born three children — Eli A., Francis M., and Irma C. Mr. Thornisch has served one term as township trustee. He is a member of Gretas Lodge, No. 39G, I. O. O. F. Mr. Thornisch's parents were John J. and Catha- rine (Meyers) Thornisch, natives of Germany. The father emigrated to America before he was married. -jMf. fOIIN A. HICKS, an active farmer and stock-raiser of Exira Township, was iiorn in Canada West, February 11, 1843. He was reared on a farm, but when he had reached his nineteenth year he was bound to learn the blacksmith's trade, and served an apprenticeship of three years. He is the son of James and Margaret (Connon) Hicks, the mother only surviving. After he had finished his trade he worked as a journeyman for seven years in the State of Wisconsin, having come to the United States in his twenty- 750 UTSrORT OF AUDUBON COUNTY. second year. In June, 1871, he came to Audubon County, stopping at Exira. Tliere he had a shop for eight or nine years, doing work for the country for miles around. lie continued this occupation industriously and with profit to himself. At the expiration of nine years he bought a farm of 200 acres, west of Exira. He has placed most of this under cultivation, and has a fine young grove of thirty acres. He has erected a good, substantial, two-story frame house, which is nearly surrounded by a natural grove, and other buildings necessary for the protection of live-stock. In 1874 Mr. Hicks was mar- ried to Mary B., the only daughter of Samuel and Gertrude Smith. Mrs. Hicks was born in Ross County, Ohio, January 6, 1854, and when she was three years of age her parents removed to Audubon County, Iowa. To Mr. and Mrs. Hicks have been born five children — James A., Samnel A., Ethel G., Clarence and John. Mr. Hicks began the struggle of life without a dollar, but by pluck, hard work and economy he has laid something by for a rainy day. His political sympathies are with the Republican party. His brothers and sis- ters all reside in Canada. lENJAMIN F. HOWALD, one of the leading merchants of Audubon, was born in Holmes County, Ohio, near Shanes- ville, August 30, 1850. He is the only son in a family of eight children, five of whom still survive. His fatlier was a shoemaker l)y trade; later Henry Howald became a farmer and contractor in Ohio, and died at the age of eighty years. The mother was Miss Magdalene Triver, a native of Germany, who died when i'enjamin was but eleven years old. Mr. Howald received a good com- mon-school education at the district school. He left home at the age of fourteen years, and commenced clerking in a store at Orrville, Ohio, after which he went to Cleveland, where he continued clerking until he was twenty years of age; the firm with whom he was employed did a large business, and with them he acquired a thorough knowledge of business methods, laying the foundation of his future success. In 1870, in company with his father, he came to Chicago, Illinois, and thence made a trip through the south- western States, remaining about two years in Texas, where he engaged in stock-raising. He then came to Atlantic, Iowa, where he engaged in the drug business with his brother-in-law, Dr. A. S. Moncrief; he re- mained here some time, and from Atlantic he came to Audubon where he embarked in the dry goods business on a small scale; this was in November, 1878. He carries a general stock vt' merchandise, including clothing and gents' furnishing goods; both departments are under Mr. Howald's control. In 1879 he was united in marriage to Miss Eleanor Disbrow, of Atlantic, Iowa, a daughter of Perry Disbrow, now a resident of Lewis, Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Howald have one son — George H. Howald. Mr. Howald is a mem- ber of Veritas Lodge, No. 392, A. F. & A. M.; and of Godfrey Commandery, and is also a member of the Knights of Pythias, No. 163. Mr. Howald has in the course of erection a fine brick business block, 50x95 feet, two stories in height, with a basement. There are no jjartitions on the first floor, the ceiling being supported by iron columns, thus leaving the space in one commodious room. The second floor will be fitted up in suites of rooms and offices which will admit of very handsome furnishings, as the building will be finished in good style; it will bo substantial throughout, and reflects much credit upon the thrifty young merchant of Audubon. BIOORAPHICAL SKETCUEti. 751 lie began liis career in a modest way, and the proportions it has assumed is indexed by the hirge building which is to accommodate the growing trade. Audubon has many fine buildings, and Mr. Howald has given cause for increased pride in this direction. fOllN II. FRAHM.— The Stuart House, Audubon, Iowa, was built by John H. Frahin in 18S2. It is a two-story brick front, located on the corner of Broadway and Market streets, and is comfortably furnished and well kept. Mr. Frahin was born in North Germany, which was once a portion of Denmark, April 16, 1854. He was educated in his native tongue, and also acquired a knowledge of the English language. At the age of si.xteen years he left school and became a landscape gardener, in which science and art he grew to be an expert. His parents, John and Anna (Neve) Frahm, had born to them eight children, three of whom still sur- vive. The father and mother are both de- ceased. In 1875 Mr. Frahm emigrated to America, landing in the city of New York; thence he came to Iowa, engaging in various kinds of work in Davenport for some time. In October, 1878, he came to Audubon Couuty, this being the time of the county- seat contest. The first business in which he embarked was tiiat of keeping a restaurant, which was followed by a regular hotel busi- ness. In April, 1881, he opened a new hotel, which was called the Farmers' Home. Tills he managed a few years and then sold, after which he traveled through the western States and Territories, visiting California, Washington Territory and Oregon. He then made a visit to his old iiome in Germany, returning to tiie United States in the spring of 1884. Coming to Audubon County ho again opened a hotel, and has since carried on the business successfully. Mr. Frahm was married to Rosaphine II. C. Hansen, a native of Germany, residing at the time of her mar- riage in the State of New York. Mr. and Mrs. Frahm have had two children — Anna M. C. and Maria T., who died in infancy. Mr. Frahm owns a good farm in Cass County, which contains 160 acres, all well impruvedj and under good cultivation. Mr. Frahm began his career without any caj)ital, but has accumulated a comrortable living l>y industry and wise management. I^ARTIN L. CAPPER, who is one of vlt the many successful farmers and stock-growers of Melville Township, Audubon County, Iowa, is a native of West Virginia, born in Berkley County, September 26, 1842. He is the third son of Samuel and Margaret (Hite) Capper, natives of Penn- sylvania, of German ancestry. They were early settlers in that part of Virginia, and followed the most honorable calling known to mankind, farming. In the early autumn of 1855 Samuel Capper removed to Iowa with his family and settled in Henry County, near the town of Trenton. There the parents again took up farming and passed the re- mainder of their days. The mother died in the fall of 1879, and the father in the winter of the satue year. They were the parents of nine children, eight of ■«vhom grew to matu- rity. Martin Ii. passed his youthful days in Henry County, Iowa, attending the common schools and doing tlie ordinary farm work usually falling to a farmer's son. Besides the work he did at home he hired to the neighbors, improving every opportunity offered him for earning an lionest dollar. He was united in marriage October 22, 1868, to 752 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. • Miss Jane I'ratt, of Henry County, Iowa, the youngest daughter of Lewis and Ellen Pratt, natives of New I'ork and New Jersey re- spectively. After tlieir marriage Mr. and Mrs. Capper lived on a farm, and in the spring of 1877 they came to Audubon County, settling on forty acres of land in Leroy Township. In 1879 Mr. Capper traded for the eighty acres on which he now lives, in section 6, Melville Township. Here he erected the necessary buildings, broke his land, and made many good improvements, including a five-acre grove, which he planted. He has been a successful farmer in all the different departments. Mr. and Mrs. Capper are the parents of seven children — Flora, Anna, Ilalph, Charles, John, Samuel and Alice Mary. In political belief Mr. Capper is independent, but in national matters he votes the Democratic ticket, always reserving the right of voting for the best man, irre- spective of party lines. Both Mr. and Mrs. Capper areacceptable members of the Method- ist Episcopal church, worshiping at present at Bethel church. Being fully absorbed in farm life and its duties, Mr. Capper never sought public office, holding no such positions, except that of school director. As one views this worthy man's life-work he can but feel that his way is the true way to live — independent, free and happy, surrounded as he is by ail the ordinary comforts of life, possessing the knowledge that his duty has been well per- formed. - - g ' l '- fg-- i,LLEN J. EDDY, a prominent stock- raiser of Leroy Township, was born in Lake County, Ohio, December 21, 1839. He is the second son and youngest of four children of Benjamin and Lavina Eddy, natives of tiic State of Vermont and New York respectively. Both parents died in Johnson County, Iowa. Mr. Eildy's paternal grandfather fought in the war of the Revolu- tion. Our subject received his earlier educa- tion in Lake County, Ohio, whore his parents had settled after their marriage. When he was twelve years of age the family removed to Johnson County, Iowa, going by way of the lakes to Chicago, thence through the country with teams to Johnson County, wheje Allen grew to manhood. He enlisted in the Fourteenth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, Com- pany F, when there was a call for men to defend their country's flag. He was assigned to the western de])artment of the army and belonged to the Si.xteenth Army Corps, then under command of General Grant. Mr. Eddy took part in the following l)attles: Fort Donelsou, Shiloh, Corinth, where his regi- ment suffered great loss, about half the men being taken prisoners, and was then ordered back to Davenport, Iowa, where the regiment was re-organized. They were then ordered to Columbus, Kentucky, at which point they were stationed for some time. The regiment was then ordered up the Red River, General Smith commanding, and took part in the battle of Pleasant Hill, where 280 Union men were lost out of 600. After this battle the regiment was ordered to Missouri and followed General Price. Mr. Eddy's term of enlistment having expired he was sent to Davenport, where he received his pay and was honorably discharged November 9, 18G4. Although taking part in nine regular battles, and his comrades being shot down by his side, he escaped without a scratch; but he had some holes shot through his clothing. He returned to Johnson County, Iowa, and farmed for two years, and then removed to Harrison County, where he engaged in agri- cultural pursuits for eight years. He tlien returned to .loiinsou County on account of niOORAPUIGAL SKETGUES. 753 tlie grasshopper raid, from wliicli lie suffered a heavy loss. In 1880 he removed to Audu- l)on County, Iowa, with his family, and pur- chased 160 acres of land, sixty of which were broken. lie put the remainder under line cultivation and made many improvements, lie has a bank barn, which aff'ords the best protection to live stock, corn cribs, and all buildings necessary to farming. Mr. Eddy was united in marriage to Miss Maria Elliott, of Johnson County, Iowa. She was born in Miami County, Ohio, and is the eldest daugh- ter of George and Mary Elliott. Mr. and Mrs. Eddy have had eleven children, seven of whom survive — Oren W., Ilattie, wife of Baker; Emma J., Henry J., Irvin, Alice Maud and Bernie II. Mr. and Mrs. Eddy are devoted members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Eddy has served as road supervisor, and he is a member of the G. A. R., Allison Post, No. 34. fOSEPIl EIDPATII, farmer and stock- raiser, Audubon County, Iowa, was born in Montgomery County, Virginia, on the west side of the Blue Ridge Mountains, September 21, 1829. He is the son of James A. and Rebecca (Kelsey) Ridpath, who were the parents of five children. The father was a native of Virginia and a farmer by occu- pation. and the mother was of German descent. The grandfather of our subject was a native of England, and was brought to this country at the age of eight years. Joseph is a cousin of the historian, John Clark Rid- path, a resident of Greencastle, Indiana, lie passed his boyhood in Ross County, Ohio, whither his ]>arcnts had moved when he was one year old. His father died here three years later, leaving him an orphan when a mere cliilil. The mother and chiMroii, a few years later, removed from Ross County, Ohio, to Putnam County, Indiana, where they bought a piece of land in the green woods, which they partly cleared out. During this time Joseph was bound out to Henry Picket, with whom he remained until his eicrhteenth year. Mr. Picket proved to be a good father, and when Joseph left him, gave him a suit of clothes, a horse, saddle and bridle. In the meantime the mother and other members of the family had removed to Parke County, In- diana. Here the mother was again married and passed the remainder of her days. In 1849 Mr. Ridpath left Putnam County and came to Mahaska County, Iowa, where he bought forty acres of land, paying $1.25 per acre. This he improved, and added to it eighty acres more, on which he resided until the spring of 1880, when he removed to Au- dubon County, Iowa. Mr. Ridpath was mar- ried to Miss Betsey Jarrad, of Mahaska County, Iowa, by whom four children were born — Henrietta, wife of G. H. Petty ; Thomas M., Otis (deceased) and Albert. The mother died in Mahaska County. Mr. Ridpath was married to his present wife in May, 1806. Mrs. Rid path's maiden name was Rebecca J. Petty, and she is a daughter of James B. Petty, a native of Ohio. On the breaking out of the late civil war Mr. Ridpath enlisted in Company E, Thirty-third Iowa Volunteer Infantry. He was immediately sent to Lit- tle Rock, Arkansas, under General Steele. He was then sent to Camden, Arkansas, and on the defeat of General Banks he was ordered into the Seventh Army Corps. He was fol- lowed and overtaken at the Saline River, and had a sharp engagement with General Price's forces, in which a good many men were killed and wounded and taken ])risoners. He was then ordered back to Little Rock, thence to Mobile, Alabama, where the siege contiMU(;ot 1 1 V m ? nC-»?»>-»>. fESSE F. LOSE, merchant, Ross, Iowa. Mr. Luse was born in Johnson County, Iowa, near Big Eend, July 31, 1861, and is a son of Joseph and Sarah (Higbee) Luse. Joseph Luse was born in Butler County, Penn- sylvania, October 19, 1830, and is a son of Stephen and Hannah (Liken) Luse; the Liken family were of Swedish and Welsh ancestry, and the Luse family were of German and French descent. Joseph Luse drifted west when a young man, and stopped in Johnson County, Iowa, whore he married and settled on a farm, where he resided until 1834, with the exception of a trip to Pike's Peak in the time of the gold fever, when he removed to Missouri, whei'e they spent three years. Tiiey tlien went to Kansas, where they lived live years, and were driven away by the grass- hopper raid and drouth; they returned to Johnson County, and from there to Audubon County in 1847, where they were again at- tacked by the grasshoppers. They stood their own ground this time, and since then have prospered. Mr. Luse improved his farm, which is situated on the Chicago it North- western Railroad, near Ross. He had built a tine house, and was surrounded with many comforts when he died, April 26, 1887, by the horrible effects of a cancer, admired and respected by all who knew him. Mrs. Luse, who survives him, occupies the homestead " and manages the farm with the assistance of her youngest son, David N. Luse. The place consists of 160 acres. Joseph Luse and wife were the parents of ten children — Charles (deceased), John W., Hattie. Stephen and Jesse F. (twins), Ezra (deceased), David, Susan (deceased), Alice and Annie. Jesse F. Luse passed his youth in Missouri and Osage County, Kansas, with plenty of Indians for companions, where he had the advantage of a common-school education. He removed with his parents to Audubon County, and remained with them until his majority. During this time he followed breaking up prairie and farming. In 1884 he was married to Miss Ida W. Rice. Mr. and Mrs. Luse have one daughter — Nellie I. Mrs. Luseisthcdaughter of Samuel and Rebecca (Downing) Jiice. On quitting his farm Mr. Luse bought the stock of goods belonging to II. B. Shelby, which consisted of a general stock. He has built up a large trade, and is well and favorably known as proprietor of the Farmers' Store, and dehorner. Mr. Luse has invented a machine for dehorning cattle, with which he has re- moved the horns of hundreds of cattle. The machine is simple in construction and swift in action, and promises to be the means of making him a fortune. This practice of de- horning cattle is now generally approved. -"l - l >> l ' t ilLLIAM G. STLTART, junior mem- ber of the firm of Charles Stuart & Son, dealers in lumber, grain and stock, Audubon, Iowa, was born in Stark County, Illinois, October, 1856. He is the son of Cliarles and Lois G. (Graj') Stuart, BIOGRAPniCAL SKETGUES. 755 natives of the State of Vermont, who, after their marriage, removed to Stark County, Illinois, where they were early settlers. Cap- tain Stuart was an active man and stock- raiser, and accumulated property rapidly. Having some surplus capital, he came to Au- dubon County, Iowa, and bought large tracts of land which he improved and stocked to their fullest extent, lie had established his large ranch in Melville Township before the town of Audubon was platted. His pi-esent stock ranch consists of six sections of land, tlie greater part of which is under tine culti- vation. It all lies in one body and is well fenced, so tiiat stock can be handled to good advantage. A part of the land is set apart for the cultivation of corn, which Mr. Stuart raises extensively. He also buys large quan- tities of the neighboring farmers. Large numbers of cattle and hugs are fed on the Stuart ranch, and for the past few years special attention has been given to the breed- ing of Fercheron and Clydesdale horses. Two hundred tons of hay are annually cut on the place. The ranch is conducted under the immediate direction of W. G. Stuart. Although he resides in Audubon, he visits the place almost daily; he also has telephone connection between his ofhce in town and the ranch. At present there arc 1,100 head of cattle on the farm, some of which are thor- oughbred, and others of which are liigh grades mixed. Their annual sales are from 000 to 1,000 head. The farms are well pro- vided with sheds for the protection of the stock, and they are all well supplied with water. In 1878, after the starting of the town of Audubon, Charles Stuart established a lumber yard and built a large grain eleva- tor, where he deals in lumber and grain quite extensively. On the completion of the Rock Island & Pacific Railway to Audubon, Mr. Stuart erected his office, which is of a very attractive design and finish. The entire building is of St. Louis pressed brick, and the interior is furnished with every modern convenience. William G. Stuart also has charge of the grain and lumber business, Charles Stuart being still a resident of Illi- nois. The firm employs from thirty-five to forty men during the year. Mr. Stuart was married in 1882 to Miss Annis Randolph, of Tama County, Iowa, where she was born and reared. She is a daughter of John Ran- dolph, a resident of Audubon County. Mr. and Mrs. Stuart are the parents of two chil- dren — Lois and Charles. Mr. Stuart has served one term as a member of the town council, and in National and State elections he votes the Republican ticket. .^.OBERT NATHAN CARPER, of Leroy M Township, Audubon County, Iowa, was born in Berkeley County, near Martins- burgh, West Virginia, August 2G, 1847. He is a son of Samuel and Margaret (Hite) Carper, who emigrated from Virginia to Iowa in 1856. They settled at Mount Pleasant, Henry County, where Robert N. passed his youth. At the age of eighteen he went to Warren County, Iowa; here he broke out two new farms for Andrew Pudepbaugh. He remained there nine years, and during this time was married to Miss Laura Turney, of Henry County, Iowa, December 8, 180S; she is a daughter of Daniel and Lilah (Wilcox) Tur- ney. After their marriage they settled on a farm near Lacona, where they resided until the fall of 1877. They then came to Audubon, and Mr. Carper bought a farm of 120 acres, which he improved and sold; he then Iwught 160 acres, which he improved and disposed of; he then purchased his present farm of eighty acres, which is all well improved. lie 75(} HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNT F.* has erected a substantial residence, fle has made a specialty since coining to this farm of buying horses and fitting them for market. He also gives special attention to breeding Clydesdale horses, and all of his live-stock are of high grades. Mr. and Mrs. Carper are the parents of eight children — Fannie, Maggie, Frank, James A., Burel, Alvin B., Robert Ingersol and Emma. Mr. Carper has served as school director, but in political matters is somewhat conservative; he affiliates with the liepubiican party. Mr. Carper commenced life without any capital excepting that with which nature had endowed him; he has em- ployed this to the best advantage, and has accumulated a comfortable fortune. '^■ "| ' 3"t ' |" '°' fUDGE JAMES HOLLIDAY, of West Exira, one of the early settlers of the county, was born near Wheeling, West Virginia, April 16, 1821. He is a son of William Ilolliday, a native of Virginia; the Ilollidays were among the first settlers of West Virginia, their ancestors leaving New England, and settling in that State. The grandfather of James Ilolliday was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, and endured all the extreme hardships of that hostile period, having no shoes to wear often during the cold seasons, and living for days and weeks together on roast potatoes, llis courage and faitiifulness were rewarded by this govern- ment, as he was receiving a pension at the time of his death. William Holliday's wife, the mother of James Holliday, was Mary Campbell, a native of Connecticut; she was the daughter of Richard Campbell, oF the old straight-jacket Presbyterian stuck. AVhcn she was a child lier parents removed to Vir- ginia. She was the mother of four children, three boys and one girl. AVilh'am Holliday's first wife was a Miss Harve^', and three daughters were born by this marriage, all of whom lived to maturity. Judge James Ilol- liday, the subject of this notice, was the old- est child of the second marriage. His brother, Richard C, was a prominent attorney of Moundsville, West Virginia, and his other brother, William, was a merchant residing in the State of Illinois. James Holliday was reared in Ohio County, West Virginia, until he was twelve years of age; his father then removed to Marshall County, AVest Virginia, settling on a farm near Moundsville. Here James attended school, and afterward taught for two terms; he also engaged in teaching after he came to the State of Iowa. In 1861 he was appointed postmaster under Lincoln's administration, at Moundsville, West Vir- ginia; he held this office until the close of the war, when he resigned and entered into other business; he had bought some coal land in Belmont County, Ohio, which he afterward opened, and sold at a considerable profit. In the month of July, 1866, he re- moved to Henry County, Iowa, settling on a farm nine miles northeast of Mount Pleasant; here he remained two years, and then sold the place, removing to Polk County, and set- tling on Mud Creek, ten miles east of Des Moines; here his wife died; her maiden name was Mary Jane Whittingham, and she was married in 1841, and left at her death five children — George W., James (deceased), Amanda, wife of John A. Jones; Mary E., the wife of George Smith; Estelle, wife of Charles Smith. Mr. Ilolliday married his present wife, Sarah Andrews, in 18 — ; she was born in Oxford County, Maine, and is a daughter of Isaac and Sally (Kimball) Andrews. In 18G8 he moved to Guthrie County, and after a residence of four years, he moved to Audu- bon County, and settled on a farm two miles south of Exira; here he remained ten years, BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 757 and at the end of this time he was elected justice of the peace, filling tliis office six years. lie was then appointed coroner, aud served two years.- i\G owns a large two-story residence iu West Exira, and ninety acres of land, which he rents. In political matters Mr. Holliday votes the Republican ticket; but often when running for otlice, he receives as many Democratic votes as Republican votes. Mrs. Ilolliday's first husband was Samuel Ayer; her parents are both deceased. Mr. Holliday owns eight lots in Douglas, Wyoming Territory, which is valuable prop- erty', as Douglas is the county seat of (Jon- verse County. fPOEL II. UASIIAM, an active farmer and * stock-raiser of Exira Township, was born in the State of Kentucky, Breckenridge County, March 24, 1838. He is a son of Frank and Theresa (Hardin) Basham; the father was born in Virginia, and was the son of Obediah Basham, who removed from Vir- ginia to Kentucky when Frank Basham was a child. Joel H. was the sixth in a family of ten children; he spent his youth in his native county, attending school and assisting his father; at the age of twenty years he went to Gentry County, Missouri; from this point he went to the mines of Central City, and remained there until 18G3, when he came to Iowa, and settled on a farm. He spent two years freighting across the State from GrinncU to Council BiuUs. Mr. Basham was married in 18G6 to Miss Sarah M. Hal- lock, of Audubon County, a daughter of Isaac I*, and Abigail Ilallock. After his marriage Mr. I'asham resided in Oakfield for a time, and then removed to a farm west of the vil- lage, which he rented for three years. He then bought a iiirni in fJass County, Iowa, on which he lived for one year, and then sold, returning to Oakfield. He afterward pur- chased a farm in Greeley Township, and made his residence there until he sold the place, when he bought his present farm in the spring of 1881. Mr. Basham owns twenty acres of timber besides the land which he has under cultivation; the farm was unimproved in the way of buildings, so all the work in this direction has been done by the present owner of the place. Mr. and Mrs. Basham are the parents of four chil- dren—Frank H., Lester W., Gertrude II. and Robert Burns; two children died in infancy. Mr. Basham has served as road supervisor for the i^ast four years; in National and State elections he votes the Democratic ticket, but in local politics he votes for the best fitted in his estimation to fill the ofiice. — -»>-. .; • me . ^ .... o . — EORGE M. DUBOIS, deceased, was IW °"^ *^*' ■^'^^"'^''" County's most enter- prising citizens. He was born in the State of Indiana in 1850. When a small child his parents emigrated to Jones County, Iowa, where they settled, and where he grew to manhood. He received a common-school education and was reared a farmer, becoming well skilled in his occupation. In 1878 ho came to Audubon County and secured a farm in tiie southeastern corner of Loroy Town- ship, wliich he broke and improved in many ways. The place was well fenced, there was a comfortable residence, a large frame barn, and other buildings for stock. He planted a grove, which added very much to the attract- ive appearance of the place. At the time of his death the farm contained 357 acres. Mr. Dubois was an excellent judge of live-stock, and was very successful in their care. He was a man of (juiet force and great energy, work- 758 HISTORY OP AUDUBON COUNTY. ing late and early in all kinds of weather. He wag married in his twenty-ninth year to Mies Ella Bowdish, of Audubon County, Iowa, a native of the State of Indiana, and a daugh- ter of Ira and Sallie E. Bowdish. She came to Iowa with her parents in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Dubois are the parents of three children — Anna Pearl, Dolly D. and Mabel. Mr. Dubois died December 19, 1885, of con- sumption. After the death of her husband Mrs. Dubois took charge of her farm, and conducted it with much ability until her mar- riage to Mr. James M. Pratten in 1886. Mr. Pratten is a native of England, but came to America when in his youth. He has worked in various kinds of business, but is a prac- tical farmer, and is an excellent judge of stock. Mr. and Mrs. Pratten are the parents of one daughter — Alice M. Pratten. — -•■ ^i " ; ' g — fOHN M. GRIGGS, attorney at law, Au- dubon, Iowa, was born in Indiana, Ma- rion County, near Indianapolis. He is the fourth son of a family of eleven children of Hiram Lee and Elizabeth (Hawkins) Griggs. His father A'as born in Westmoreland County, Virginia, in 1803, and his mother, Elizabeth Hawkins, in Bath County, Kentucky. His father is still living and resides at Monrovia, Morgan County, Indiana. The father is a Methodist Episcopal minister, and has de- voted many years to that service. John M. was reared in central Indiana. His father being a minister of the Methodist Episcopal church, their residence was frequently changed, ac- cording to the custom of that ciiurch. He began studying law while attending tiie Zions- ville Academy, and later attended Wabash College. On the 19th of April, 18()1, he en- listed in the service of our country (first call) at Indianapolis, Indiana. At the time of his After about eighteen rerriment was clianged first enlistment he was studying law with Colonel C. C. ^'ave. Being discharged from first enlistment he resumed his studies with Coloi.el Nave. On July G, 1861, he again enlisted for three years' service, in response to the call for 300,000, at Centreton, Indiana, becoming a member of the Twenty-first Indi- ana Volunteers, Company K. This regiment was one of the first to leave the State under the three years' call, months' service the from infantry to artillery, and was thereafter known as First Indiana Heavy Artillery. In July, 1861, he was sent to Baltimore, thence on an expedition into Accomack and North- ampton counties, Virginia, thence to Fortress Monroe, thence to Newport News, Virginia. On the 4th of March, 1862, he boarded the Constitution for Ship Island, left James' Bay on March 6th, witnessed the bombardment of Fort Jackson and St. Philips. His regiment was the first at the landing at New Orleans. Upon his discharge, dated July 81, 1864, we find the following indorsement: "John M. Griggs, character good. Participated in the following engagements; Baton Rouge, Louisi- ana, August 5, 1862; Donaldsonville, Louisi- ana, September 24, 1862; Bayou Des Almands, September 9, 1862; A. J. Cotton, January 14, 1863; Camp Bisland, April 12, 13 and 14, 1863; Port Hudson, May 27, 1863, to July 8, 1863, inclusive; Cane River Crossing, April 23, 1864; Marksville Plains, May 16, 1864; Yellow Bayou, May 18, 1864; Mans- field, April 8, 1864; Pleasant Hill, April 9, 1864. Clayton Cox, Captain Company K." In August, 1864, he returned to his home in Indiana by way of the Mississippi River on board tiie steamer Empress, which, while en route for Cairo, was fired at by the enemy at Gaines' Tow Head. On his return to his home in Indiana he resumed his studies of law, and during intervals taught school in Marion and BIOGRAPHICAL .SKBTCIIKS. 75!> other counties. In 1865 lie went to Emporia, Kansas; reinaineil there but a short time and returned to Indiana by way of Iowa. In 1867 lie again returned to Iowa, locating in Audu- bon County, Iowa, where he was admitted to the bar and commenced the practice of law, and has been a resident of said county ever since. "J. M. Griggs commenced the practice of law at Exira in the year 1869, and has given the profession the closest individual attention. He moved to Audubon imme- diately after the county seat was moved to this city. lie has never missed a term of court in the county during the wliole time. Naturally a man of studious habits, he liter- ally lives with his profession, and we can truly say he is wedded to it. He has been singularly fortunate in his practice, gaining some splen- did cases. He is a bold, ardent advocate. His success depends upon his profound learn- ing, his clear judgment, undaunted courage, loyalty to his clients, his veracity and perfect understanding of his case. Taken altogether, he stands second to no lawyer of the bar of Audubon County." — H. F. Andrews in Ad- vocate, January 1, 1881. — —:♦;»'! '^— — lEORGE IIARDENBROOK was born in Knox County, Ohio, December 4, 184:2, and is the son of Ambrose and Hannah (Axtell) Ilardenbrook. Tlie father was a native of Pennsylvania, and tlie mother was of English descent, and both died when onr subject was an infant. Lndwig Ilarden- brook, the grandfather of CJeorge Ilarden- brook, was one of the early settlers of Man- hattan Island; he was of Ilollandish descent, and served in the war of the Revolution. At the close of this war he was paid in a land warrant, wiiich he located in western Penn- sylvania; he lived upon this land for several years, and then removed to Jefferson County, Ohio. He served in the war of 1812, and soon after moved to Knox Connty, Oiiio, re- siding there until his death, which occurred at the age of eighty-nine years. George Ilardenbrook went to live with an aunt after the death of his parents, and later made his home with a sister. At the age of fifteen years he started out to support himself, hav- ing received a common-school education. Afterward he attended three terms of a graded school, at the same time working at the carpenter's trade. Tliis avocation he followed until the breaking out of the late civil war, when he enlisted in the Twentietli Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Company' G, being one of the first to respond to the call for men to go to the defense of the nation's flag. He was sent into West Virginia under General McCIelland's command. While in the serv- ice he was taken sick with the measles and thrown into the hospital. He was dismissed before he was cured, as the hospital was over- crowded, and suffered a great deal of expos- ure, from which he was a long time in recovering. He was ordered to Columbus, Ohio, and was there mustered out of the service. In January, 1864, he enlisted as a mechanic in the quartermaster's department in the Army of the Cumberland. After one month's service he was promoted to the fure- manship of this work. On his return to Monroe County, (Jhio, he accepted the posi- tion of deputy sherift", and iield the place for three montlis, when he went to Omaha, Ne- braska, and thance to Jasper County, Iowa, in which place he worked at the carpenter's trade for two seasons. Mr. Ilardenbrook was married to Miss Rebecca J. Bundy, of Jasper County, who was a native of Highland County, Ohio, and a daughter of Caleb and Sopiirona Bundy. After liis marriage Mr. Ilardenbrook embarked in the grocery busi- 700 iimronY of auduiion county.' ness at Prairie City, Jasper County, Iowa, remaining tliere two years. He then removed to Kansas, thence to Nodaway County, Mis- souri, and thence to Maliaska County, Iowa, in which county, at Leighton, he opened a drug store. In a short time he removed this stock to Exira, Iowa, in September, 1872, being one of the first druggists in the place. In 18^6 he was appointed postmaster under General Grant's administration, and held the position seven years, at the end of which time he resigned. He carries a full line of drugs and medicines and fancy goods. In 1880 he was elected a member of the school board, and continued in this position until 1888, wlien he resigned. He is a member of the O. P. Morton Post, No. 35, G. A. R., and of the A. O. U. W., of which he was first Master. He is a charter member of Ex- odus Lodge, No. 312, A. F. & A. M., of the chapter and coramandery. Mr. and Mrs. Ilardenbrook are the parents of five children — Burton, Blanche, Lena, Edith and Ross. Caleb Bundy, father of Mrs. Harden- brook, was one of those men whose life is a sweet memory to his friends. He was born of Quaker parents, in Westmoreland County, Virginia, and was of the Quaker faith until his marriage, at which time he abandoned the society on account of having married out- side its membership. He was one of the northern abolitionists who assisted the blacks in their flight to the north, and he lived to see that horrible institution wiped from this nation. After his marriage he joined the Methodist Episcopal church, and was ordained as a minister. He preached in Illinois and Iowa, at the same time carrying on the blacksmith's trade. He took an active interest in the politics of the county, and was elected upon the Republican ticket to repre- sent the county in the Xlllth Assembly, a position he filled with marked ability. In 1872 Mr. Bundy removed to Audubon County, Iowa, making his home with Mr. and Mrs. Ilardenbrook at Exira, at which place beheld the position of postmaster until his death, which occurred in March, 1876. He was a man who commanded the respect of all parties, and at his death was without an enemy. He devoted his leisure hours to looking after the poor, and in performing many acts of charity. % ' l *' t ' % ' "" arSxVAC L. STATZELL, attorney at law, M Exira, Iowa, was born in Hendricks ^ County, Indiana, near Danville, February 16, 1861. Isaac Statzell, his father, was a native of the State of Pennsylvania, and his mother, Abigail J. (Griggs) Statzell, was born in Virginia, and was the daughter of Hiram and Elizabeth Griggs. Isaac L., the subject of this biography, is the fourth child in a family of seven, two boys and five girls, all of whom are living. He passed his boy- hood on his father's farm, and received liis primary education in the district school. Later he attended a select school, and finally entered the State Normal School at Terre Haute, Indiana. After leaving school he en- gaged in teaching, but about the year 1882 he became connected with a newspaper called the Auduhon County Defender, published at Exira, Iowa. During his connection with this paper he read law, and at the expiration of two years he entered the law office of J. M. it R. "VV. Griggs. After liis admission to the bar, Mr. Statzell commenced practice alone in Exira, and since that time be has de- voted his whole time to his profession. He j)ractices in all the State and county courts. Mr. Statzell is a member of Exodus Lodge, No. 342, A. F. & A. M., of which he is senior warden. He also has a membership in the BIOGRAPHICAL Hh'ETCIIES. 761 A. O. U. W. and the Knights of Pythias. He is an active worker in the interests of the Republican party, attending conventions as a delegate and otherwise serving his party dili- gently and faitiifiiily. -' ■ "^ • S"£ ' |" "-^ jARiriS E. SHAUGUR is a member of the firm of D. E. Shaugur & Company, ^^ dealers in agricultural implements, Ex- ira, Iowa. Ilis father, Francis J. Shaugur, now deceased, was born in the State of Penn- Bylvania, but passed most of his early life in Michigan. lie died November 17, 1888. He removed from Michigan to Rock Island, Illinois, and was there employed by the Chi- cago & Rock Island Railroad Company. He commenced at the bottom and climbed, step by step, until he reached the position of con- ductor, which he held for seventeen years. Mr. Shauijur was married to Miss Anna Hun- stead, of Three Rivers, Miclilgan. Slie was born in Pennsylvania, and when she was a child her parents removed to Michigan. In the fall of 1869 Mr. Shaugur moved to Au- dubon County, Iowa, stopping at Louisville and working at the carpenter's trade until his removal to Exira in 1878. He then engaged in the furniture business, and followed it four years. His next enterprise was openirg a meat market, at the same time embarking in the agricultural implement business. In 1882 Mr. Shaugur established his present business in company with AVashington Stuart, under the iirra name of F. J. Shaugur & Company, which continued until the deatli of F. J. Shaugur. The firm name then became D. E. Shaugur & Company. Francis J. Shaugur was a Royal Arch Mason, and often repre- sented his lodge in the Grand Lodge. He was also a member of the Knights of Pythias and of the I. O. O. F. He had served on the school board, and as treasurer of Exira. He was an active business man, and exhibited much public spirit in encouraging all enter- prises tending to build up the interests of the community. Mr. Shaugur was a delegate to the National Convention at St. Louis in 1888, which nominated Grover Cleveland for Presi- dent of the United States. Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Shaugur — I. E., Ada L., wife of Arthur Bartlett; D. E. and Frank E. Darius E. is the third child, and was a mere lad when his parents removed to Iowa. He received his education in the com- mon schools, and when quite young began clerking in his father's store. Later on he worked eight n)onths in the recorder's oflice under Otto Witthauer, and afterward formed a partnership in his father's business, as be- fore stated. •°*- "^ * 3 " S ' | "-'~ J^^EORGE C. JEFFRIES, dealer in har- ness, saddles, robes and whips, Exira, was born in Burlington, Iowa, May 13, 1852. lie is a son of George C. and Mary J. (Cady) Jeffries, natives of Kentucky and New York respectively, who were early set- tlers in Iowa. His father has been a shoe merchant in Des Moines for many years, re- moving from Burlington to that city when our subject was two years old. Here George C, Jr., passed his boyhood and attended the city schools. After leaving school he learned the harness-maker's trade, and also worked at brick-laying for several years. He tlien fol- lowed shoemaking for a time, and tlien en- gaged in farming for two years. In 1887 lie embarked in the harness business, opening a shop in Exira. He has since carried on a good business, and is building up a profitable trade. Mr. Jeffries was married in 1874 to Miss L. E. Fisher, of Carlisle, AVamMi 7C2 HI STOUT OF AUDVBON COUNTY. * County, Iowa. By this union three children have been born — Fred R., Bertie W. and Mary E. Mr. Jeifries is a member of E.xo- dus Lodge, No. 342, A. F. & A. M.; of the Knigfits of Pythias; of the A. O. U. W., No. 251, and of the Methodist Episcopal church. He casts his suffrage with the Republican party. Ilis father died in 1881, in the sixty- fifth year of his age. 4 ' i"^ ' a" •" — fHOMAS H. KILWORTH, a farmer of Audubon County, is an American, not by birth, but by adoption. He was born in England, September 6, 1829, and in the year 1850 came to America and settled in Henry County, Illinois. He there owned a farm, but carried on his trade of carpenter and joiner, having little means and being anxious to earn an honest dollar. He re- mained in Henry County until 1873, when he sold his farm and came to xVudubon County, Iowa, settling on his present farm of 160 acres. The land was in its original wild state, and Mr. Kil worth has made all the im- provements on tlie place. After breaking out the farm and putting it in tame grass, he began raising live-stock, handling high grades. He added eighty acres to his first purchase, and now owns 240 acres of as choice land as lies in Audubon County. Mr. Kilworth was united in marriage in 1863 to Mary Healey, a native of England, in which country the marriage took place. Mr. Kilworth has made several trips to his native land, having crossed the ocean five times. Five children have been boru to Mr. and Mrs. Kilworth — Emma, wife of Bert Hamlin; Jeannette, wife of Oscar Wheeler; John H., Ida May and Earl T., at home. Air. Kilworth has served five years as school director. In National and State poli- tics he votes the Democratic ticket, but in local matters he votes for the man who in his estimation is best fitted for the position. When he came to this country he had no means, but by close application to business and wise management he has accumulated a good competence. He is pronounced in his views, yet is liberal and public spirited. S ' ^"^ ' ^ f CHILLI AM CURTIS, an active farmer ™l| of Exira Township, was born in Oneida "^^^ County, New York, July 14, 1856. He is the third son of Joseph and Mary (Dipor) Curtis, natives of England, who emi- grated to the United States when quite young. They were married in Oneida County, New York, in the year 1866. Joseph Curtis and family removed to Johnson County, Iowa, and lived there until 1876, when they moved to Audubon County, settling in Greeley Township, which is still their home. He was a tailor by trade, and for many years worked at the business in Hampton, New York. The boyhood of William Curtis was passed in his native county in attending school. At the age of ten years he removed with his parents to Johnson County, Iowa, and there continued his studies. He remained with his parents until he was twenty-four years of age, and then he was married to Miss Georgianna Watson, second daughter of Thomas and Mary A. (Howe) Watson. She was born in Prince- ton, Bureau Count}', Illinois, June 20, 1861, and at the age of two years was taken by her parents to Johnson County, Iowa. Theie she resided until she was eighteen years old, at- tending school; she also paid some attention to music, and wps an accomplished horse- woman, taking much pride in riding and the training of horses. Mrs. Curtis's parents are Scotch-Irish descent; they removed from New York to Illinois, and thence to Iowa, and are IllOa HA Pino A L S KETCHES. 7fi3 still living on the place that has been tlieir home for twenty-six years. They began life with very little of this world's goods, but by industry and good management have acquired a comfortable living. They are the parents of six children, all of whom are living. After his marriage Mr. Curtis spent one year in Johnson County, and in the spring of 1882 he came to Audubon County and settled on his present i'arm; this place contains 240 acres, all fenced and under cultivation. Mr. Curtis has added to the improvements already made a comfortable residence and a good barn. He has been successful in raising and handling live-stock, especially sheep and cattle. Mr. and Mrs. Curtis have had born to them five children— Charity E., Ellsworth, T. J. Sey- mour, Chester Arthur aud C. Florence Ne- vada. In politics Mr. Curtis votes with the Itepublican party. Recommenced life with- out an}' capital, and now has a good farm well stocked, to show as a result of industry, thrift and wise manajfement. -jt-fj- jTSAAC n. JENKINS, son of John S. and H Malinda (Miller) Jenkins, was born in ^ Meade County, Kentucky, June 5, 1845. His school days were passed in Wapello County, Iowa. At the age of nineteen years he crossed the plains with Charles Van Gor- der, in chai'ge of a provision train. Arriving at Central City, Colorado, and having disposed of a portion of their effects, they engaged in gulch mining. On returning to Audubon County Mr. Jenkins was occupied with farm work for some time. At one time he took charge of a freight train to Denver, Colorado. In 1886 he was running a saw-mill at Oak- field, Iowa, and met with a very serious acci- dent by which he lost one of his fingers; he then abandoned this enterprise and spent some 48 time in breaking out prairie. March 28, 1868, he married Miss Clarissa, daughter of Allen Chase; she died five years later, leaving no children. In 1874 he formed a copartnership with I. r. liallock, J. II. Jerer and D. W. Powers, ill a general store at Oakfield; this continued in operation for four years. Mr. Jenkins was united in marriage to MissMollie, daughter of Patrick and Mary Devine, of Madison, Wisconsin. They have two children — Willis S. and Jennie Irene. When he re- tired from the mercantile trade he built his present hotel; this was in the winter of 1879, and it was the first hotel in Erayton. Mr. Jenkins also deals in real estate in partner- ship with W. E. Statts. For a time he acted as deputy sheriff. ILLIAM W. SICKLES, of the firm of Ilenshaw & Sickles, Exira, Iowa, was born in Warren County, New Jersey, near Johnsonburg, September 21, 1855. He is the oldest son of James S. and Henrietta M. (Ward) Sickles. William W. passed his early school days in New Jersey, being thirteen years old when lie came to Clarke County, Iowa; there he spent two years. Having a taste for reading he acquired an education beyond that of the ordinary pupil, and without the aid of an instructor. One winter he attei.ded a select school, and that practically ended his school days. For two years he was employed as a clerk in a hardware store, and tlien clerked in a dry- goods store in Exira until 1872. After spending two years farming he took a trip to California. On his return he engaged in the sale of farm imjilements for three years, and then embarked in the mercantile business on his own account. He opened a general stock of farm implements in partnership with Mrs. 764 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. Baylor, now Mrs. Watson. Tliis partnership continued twenty-two months, when Mrs. J>a_ylor sold her interests to W. N. Ilenshaw, a present member of the firm. Ilenshaw & Sickles carry a full stock, and are active busi- ness men, Mr. Sickles devoting the whole of his time to the management of the business. In November, 1883, Mr. Sickles was married to Mary A. Campbell, of Exira, a daughter of E. Campbell, Esq. Mrs. Sickles was born in the State of "Wisconsin. By this nnion three children were born — Nettie E., George A. and Lulu Madge. Mr. Sickles is a mem- ber of Exodus Lodge, No. 342, A. F. ife A. M. He owns a good farm in Exira and Hamlin townships, which contains 200 acres; it is an admirable stock farm, being watered by Davis Creek. The subject of ihis notice began life at the bottom round of the ladder, but by industry and diligence he has gained an enviable position, socially and financially, in the county. lie votes with the Repub- lican party. "t- l x l 't--^ KfjUGUST OELKE, an intelligent and modest farmer of Hamlin Township, "i^ has been identified with the interests of Audubon County since 1886. He was born in Clayton County, Iowa, and is the youngest son of ^Yilliam and Elizabeth Oelke. The parents were born in Germany, and emigrated to the United States in 1851, landing at the city of New Orleans. They proceeded immediately to Clayton County, Iowa, and settled on a farm, where the father lived until death, which occurred in August, 1888. His wife, who survives him, makes her home among her children; she has three sons and one daughter — William II., Henry, J^>ertha, wife of Fred Splics, and August, the subject of this biographical sketch. He ob- tained his education in the common schools of Clayton County, and became well ac- quainttd with the details and management of a farm. He spent his leisure time in reading profitable books, and so acquired a fund of nseful knowledge. He remained at home nntil he attained his majority, when he took charge of his father's farm. In 1881 he bought the place of his father, and worked it very snccessfully nntil 1886, when he sold it and came to Audubon County. He then bought 320 acres in Hamlin Township, one and a half miles northwest of Exira. For many years this farm was owned by Mr. Davis, and is one of tiie best farms in the southern part of the county. It has a sub- stantial residence, an excellent barn, and many valuable improvements. North of the barn is a beautiful native grove of timber, which is not only valuable for wood, but forms a fine wind-break during the cold winters so common in this part of the State. No farm is better adapted by nature to stock- raising than Mr. Oelke's. He is an ex ten - sive feeder, using all the grain produced on his own farm, and buying thousands of bush- els of his neighbors. In 187-4 Mr. Oelke was married to Emilie Kregel, of Clayton County, Iowa, a daughter of William Kregel. Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Oelke — l^odo, Nora, Alma, George and Clara. Mr. Oelke is an enterprising and public- spirited citizen. Politically he is a strong Democrat. S ' 3 .' t - g- - LIVEll II. r. ROBERTS, a successful farmer and stock-raiser of Leroy Town- ship, was born in Lawrenceburg, Dear- born County, Indiana, February 26, 182!t. He is the oldest son of Moses and Elmira E. (Clark) Roberts. Eben E. Roberts, the father lUOG UA PIIWAL SK ETC 11 EH. 7(i5 of Moses M. Roberts, was born in the State of Maine, and was a soldier in tlie war of 1812. Moses M. Roberts was also born in tho State of Maine, and Almira E. Clark, his wife, was born in Newport, Rhode Island, and at an early day removed to Dearborn County, Indiana. She was the daughter of George Clark, who removed to Cincinnati, where he was a ship carpenter for many years. Moses M. Roberts and family removed from Indiana to Illinois, and settled on a farm in Henderson County. O. H. P. Roberts was at this time about twelve years of age. He received only a common -school education, and remained on the farm with his parents until liis twenty-fourth year, at which time he was married to ]\lartha W. Miller, the oldest daughter of Robert and Elizabeth Miller. In the fall of 1866 Mr. Roberts removed with his family to Audubon County, Iowa, and settled on a farm in section 1, Leroy Township, on the east branch of tho Nish- nabotna River. The land was wild, and neighbors were few and far between. E. J. Freeman, an old and tried friend, was Mr. Roberts's most intimate associate, with whom he passed many happy hours. On first coming to the State his means were limited, and there were many hardships to be met, and many burdens to be borne; but his cour- age and industry were equal to the test, and bj diligence and good management he has one of the best farms in the neighborhood. The place contains 187 acres of choice land in a higli state of cultivation. The residence, which is a two-story frame building, stands in the midst of a natural grove. There are also many pines and cedars growing near the house, which add to the attractiveness of the place as no other foliage can. Although they were planted by Mr. Roberts, they liave grown to be forty or fifty feet in height. The farm is well stocked with the best grades of live-stock, and everything is arranged with an eye to convenience and ease in the care of them. Mr. and Mrs. Roberts have seven children — William S., Robert C, Ida L., Herbert M., Mary E., Lewis W. and Oscar P. Mr. Roberts has been officially identified with his township as trustee, and also as clerk. He is a member of Veritas Lod<>-e, No. 302, A. F. & A. M. In political mat- ters he is rather conservative. He was a staunch Union man during the war, and offered his services to his country, but was not accepted, on account of ill-health. In National elections he votes the Democratic ticket, but in local affairs he votes for the man best fitted for the office, regardless of party ties. , ^..£*^«^ fOSEPHUS LEWIS, one of Audubon County's honored citizens, and a suc- cessful farmer and stock-raiser of Ham- lin Township, was born in Delaware County, New York, near the village of Delhi, March 22, 1814. He is a son of Henry and Mercy (Ilolloway) Lewis, the father being a native of Sclioliarie County, New York, of Low Dutch descent, and tlie mother a native of Dutchess County, New York. After their marriage they removed to Delaware County, and there passed the remainder of their days. The father was twice married, and had two children by his first wife, and seven by tlio second. Josephus Lewis, the youngest son of the second marriage, passed his boyhood and school days in Delaware County, New York. He remained with his parents until he was eighteen years old, when he engaged in the lumber business and farming. His father having dealt in lumber for many years, a good opportunity was afibrded him to learn the details of the trade, in which he k 76C HI STOUT OF AUDUBON COUNTt. was uniformly successful. In June, 1843, Mr. Lewis was married to Miss Melissa Barlow, an accomplished lady of Delaware County, New York, the only daughter of John and Deborah (Kichols) Barlow, natives of the State of New York. After his mar- riage, Josephus Lewis and wife settled on a farm in Delaware County, New York, and lived there until 1868, when they removed to Audubon County, Iowa. Mr. Lewis then purchased 320 acres of prairie land. The country was sparsely settled, and the thoughts of Mrs. Lewis often wandered back to her home in New York as she was caring for her little family; but as time rolled on settlers came, and the newness seemed to wear away. Mr. Lewis has devoted most of his time to raising cattle and hogs. AVith the latter he has been extraordinarily successful, raising from 150 to 200 head aiiiHially, and realizing handsomely upon them. His farm is watered by the Nislmabotna River, and its banks are skirted by a beautiful grove of hard-wood timber. All the products of the farm are fed on the place, and Mr. Lewis buys large quantities of grain from neighboring farmers. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis have four children — De Witt C. took a literary course at the State University at Iowa City, studied law at Ann Arbor, Michigan, and is now a prominent attorney in Moiitesano, Washington Ter- ritory; Minerva, the older daughter, was graduated from the literary and medical de partmeiits of the Iowa State University, and is now in the enjoyment of a good practice; ilomer is in Turner County, Dakota; Kose is the wife of Dr. J. M. Louthan, of Spear- lish, Dakota. Mr. Lewis is now in his seventy-fifth year, but still superintends his farm. His wife is in her seventy-second year, and is strong in body and mind. She comes of a family of vigorous constitutions. Her father was a native of England, and her mother of New York. They emigrated to Nova Scotia, and removed thence to Dela- ware County, New York. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis have led an industrious and frugal life, and have laid by a competence for their declining years. ►>4^ LPUEUS F. IlODGERS,a model farmer of Leroy Township, section 9, <^ was born in the State of Michigan, Cass County, near Dowagiac, February 15, 1839. He is the third child of Samuel and Margaret (Burk) Rodgers. The mother was a native of Virginia, and a daughter of AVilliam Burk. The father was born in Preble County, Ohio, October 13, 1810. He grew to manhood in his native State, and at an early day removed to Michigan, where lie carried on farming and milling as a business. He served as a soldier in the Black Hawk war. He received land war- rants, with a portion of which he located land adjoining his home. He is still living, and is a resident of Benton Harbor, Michigan. A. F. Rodgers passed his early boyhood in Michigan, receiving the advantage of a good common-school education. In the year 1854 he removed with his parents to La Salle County, Illinois, and worked on the farm with ills lather until he reached his majority; he then began life on his own account, fol- lowins; farmins until 1864, when he started for the mines of Idaho and Montana. He left Omaha the 3d day of May, and arrived in Virginia City the 10th day of July. He engaged in mining in Last Chance and Hard Scrabble gulches, built a cabin, and the first hotel buildins in what is now Helena, the capital of Montana. Returning to Seneca, Illinois, he opened a meat-market and dealt in live-stock. Afterward he went into the BIOORAPHICAL SKETCHES. 767 lumber business, which he conducted suc- cessfully until 1878. In March, 1879, Mr. Rodgers went to Audubon County, Iowa, and in March of the following year he moved his family to Audubon. October 21, 1880, he moved on his present farm, and devotes his time to general farming. He endeavors to raise good grades of stock, believing that it costs uu more to raise a good animal than a poor one. The place is well provided with buildings fur the protection of live-stock. Mr. liodgers WHS married August 23, 1859, to Miss Caroline Hurlburt, a daushter of Will- iam and Laurinda Hnrlburt, of La Salle County, Illinois. Mr. Kodgers is a member of Veritas Lodge, No. 392, A. F. & A.M.; of Amity Chapter, No. 93, R. A. M.; and of Blaney Commandery, No. 5,K. T., at Morris, Illinois. In politics he is a Republican. Mrs. Rodgers's father was born and reared in Massachusetts; her mother was a native of New York State. Her parents were married in Ohio, and afterward removed to Illinois. The grandfather of A. F. Rodgers was Alex- ander Rodgers, who married Miss Margaret Culton. a native of Rockbridge County, Virginia. •-■ "d, ' 3 »' S - ^" -" [EOKGE E. COTTON, proprietor of the Oakfield Flouring Mills, at Oakfield, Iowa, was born in Genesee County, New York, near the town of Attica, Septem- ber G, 1834. His father, Owen Cotton, was a native of the State of Vermont, and was an early settler of western New York. He was a millwright by trade, and at dift'erent times owned several mills. Laura Adams Cotton, the mother of George W., was a daughter of Major Permine Adams, who was proininent in politics and represented his district twelve years in Congress. She was born in (len- esee County, New York, and was there reared and married. After her marriage her hus- band settled there, and both remained there the balance of their days. They were the parents of seven children, six of whom sur- vive. George E. Cotton was the second child, and his boyhood days were passed in his native county, where he received the advan- tages afforded by the district school. lie re- mained at home until he attained his twent}'- first year. In 1853 he went to Wisconsin, and staid there one season in a mill which his father owned ; he then returned to New York, and in the fall of 1855 he went to dnaha, Nebraska, remaining there about twelve months. Crossing the Missouri River to the Iowa side he stopped at a place called Macedonia, and there entered the employ of J. B. Stutsman, who owned a flourin? mill at that place. He continued to fill this position for four 3'ears, and in the fall of 1859 he went to Lewis, Cass County, Iowa, where he su- perintended a mill for five years. In 1865 he removed to Oakfield, Iowa, and {lurchased a half interest in the grocery store of D. M. Clover, which partnership terminated at the end of one year, both parties sellincr out. He then went to Oskaloosa, where he was employed in a distillery for three years. He next went to Monona County, Iowa, and worked two years in a mill; thence he went to Adel, Dallas County, spending twelve months there. The two years following were passed in a mill at Panora, Guthrie County. In the fall of 1878 he came to Oakfield and purchased the Oakfield Mills of Isaac P. Hal- lock, since which time he has done a general milling business. He has put in a sorghum attachment, with a capacity of 500 gallons per day. Mr. Cotton was married in 1862 to Miss Mary llinns, of Cass County, Iowa; she was born in Wakefield, England, and was brought by her parents to the United States I 768 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTT. when she was eight years old. Mr. and Mrs. Cotton have had born to tliem eight children ' —John O., William E., Lizzie S. (wife of O. F. Ide), George "VV., Charles E., Alexander L., J. Ernest and Mary. Mr. Cotton was appointed postmaster of Macedonia under James Buchanan's administration, and served f(.)ur years. He has filled the offices of town- ship trustee and of justice of the peace at Oakfield. lie is a member of Lewis Lodge, No. 113, A. F. & A. M. Politically he is a staunch Democrat, especially in State and National affairs. In local politics he votes for the man best fitted in his estimation to fill the position. ^ILBEKT S. D. MASON, a successful cattle-feeder of Viola Township, was born in the State of Pennsylvania, in the city of Philadelphia, October 7, 1840. He is a son of William K. and Margaret (Comley) Mason, natives of Delaware and Pennsylvania respectively. Both parents died in the city of Philadelphia. Gilbert S. D. Mason was educated in the scliools of his native city. Although his father was one of the principal wholesale merchants of Phila- delphia, he made up his mind to be a farmer, and accordingly began this occupation in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, at the age of seventeen years. In 1873 he i-emoved from Bucks County to Carroll County, Iowa, set- tling upon a farm five miles south of Arca- dia. This place contained 200 acres, which Mr. Mason improved and used as a cattle farm until he removed to Audubon County, Iowa, in 1883. He located on his present farm in Viola Township, which was known for many years as the Ilawer farm, and which at that time contained IGO acres. Mr. Mason has made additioruil purchases of land until his farm now covers 320 acres of choice land in a high state of cultivation, beautifully sit- uated on the waters of the Nishnabotna River. While it is well suited to small grains, it is admirably adapted to stock-farming. In 1862 Mr. Mason was married to Miss Martha, the eldest daughter of Josiah and Mary (Crous- dale) Tomlinson, descendants from families of Quakers who came to Pennsylvania with William Penn, and settled in Byberry, Mont- gomery County, Pennsylvania. Land tracts of the old Penn purchase are still in the fam- ily name. The old Penn chestnut-tree still stands upon the homestead, twenty-four miles north of Philadelphia. By this union ten children were born, all of whom survive — John li., Lewis L., Gilbert S., Jr., Philip S., William R., Josiah T., George W., Paul B., Emma M. and Benjamin F. In politics Mr. Mason is rather conservative. In Carroll County he served on the school board for seven years, and held other township offices. The Masons descended from an old English family, and were early settlers of Connecti- cut, removing from that State to Delaware. The Grandfather Comley was an officer of marines in the war of 1812, and died in the service at the Piiiladelphia navy yard. .o. .,. ^ . ; .. ; . ^ .. .> ■T-T.T:ILLIAM J. WALKER, an active ' :\ }j!i farmer of Hamlin Township, was i^^Sy^r] born in Pike County, Missouri, Sep- tember 21, 1834. He is a son of Thomas B. and Polly (Berry) Walker. The father was born in Virginia, but was reared in the State of South Carolina; the mother was a native of Missouri, and died when William J. was three years old. Thomas Walker was again mar- ried, to Susan E. Lyons, of Clinton County, Iowa, and resided in Iowa until his seventy- fifth year, when he removed to southwestern BIOORAPniGAL SKBTCUES. 7G9 Nebraska; he died there October 19, 1888, in his seventy-ninth ye.ar. He had three chil- dren by his first marriage and eight by the last. William J. Walker passed his boyhood and school days in Clinton County. He re- ceived the educational advantages of the dis- trict school, which were somewhat meager. He remained with his parents until his nine- teenth year, when he was married to Matilda H. Mitchell, of Clinton County, Iowa. Mrs. AValker was born in Adrian, Michigan, and is the daiiirliter of Charles M. and Elizabeth (Row) Mitchell; she came to Iowa with her parents when a child of eight years. After his marriage Mr. Walker settled on a farm in Clinton County, and resided thereuntil 1877, when he removed to Audubon County, and located on his present farm in Hamlin Town- ship. The place contains eighty acres of excellent land, and he has made many valua- ble improvements. F'onr children liave been born to Mr. and Mrs. Walker — Oscar E., in business in Omaha; Edward W., a farmer; Ferry H. and Wilber L., both at liome. Mr. AValker 8])ent two years in Dakota, and im- proved a homestead there, but on account of the severe winters returned to Iowa. S - ] ' tt - g ... ^ lOP.ERT SIZER was born in Lincoln- shire, England, January 13, 1840, and is a son of George and Jane (Randalls) Sizer, who remained in the old country, the father being a small farmer. When ten years old Robert Sizer emigrated to the United States with his uncle, John Barker. They proceeded by water to Davenport, Iowa, stop- ping there one year; from Davenport Robert went to Comanche, Iowa, remaining there about twelve months; at the expiration of this time he went to Jackson County, Iowa, and was there employed on a farm, working by the month for four years. He then left the State of Iowa and went to Camden, Illinois, and worked in a brick-yard one summer. Mercer County, Illinois, was liis next place of abode, and he remained there until 18G1, at which time he returned to Jackson County, Iowa. In August, 1861, Mr. Sizer joined the M. S. Lancers, three months' men, who were engaged in State service. After this com- pany disbanded he returned to Jackson County. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company A, Twentj^-fonrth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, and was sent to Muscatine, Iowa. On the organi- zation of the regiment he was sent to Helena, Arkansas, at which place he scouted and skirmished until 1862; he then entered Gen- eral Grant's campaign and took part in all the engagements; among them are Fort Gib- son, Champion Hills, the siege of Vicksburg, which lasted forty-two days, many skirmishes and small engagements. After the fall of Vicksburg he was assigned to the chief de- partment under General Banks, and later he was transferred to the department under General Sheridan in the Shenandoah Valley, taking part in all the engagements of that campaign. After some further service he was ordered to Davenport, Iowa, and was honor- ably discharged and received his pay. Re- turning to Jackson County, Iowa, Mr. Sizer engaged in farming, which he followed suc- cessfully until the spring of 1881, when he removed to Audnbou County, Iowa, and jiur- chased his present farm in Hamilton Town- ship; the farm contains 310 acres, wliich at that time had no improvements in the waj' of buildings. The land is now under a ]ii> l ' t "^ ALENTINE BAUER, of Viola Town- ship, was born on a farm in Germany, February 14, 1840, and is a son of Mi- chael and Mary (Matias) Bauer, who died in their native country. Valentine started to school at the age of six years, and continued to attend until he was fourteen years old. He then went to work on his father's farm, and remained there until he was twenty-two years old. Wishing to see the new world and try what fortune it might yield to him, he sailed {rom the harbor at Bremen for the United States, the voyage lasting eight weeks. He arrived in the city of New York and remained there two months, visiting two sisters who were living in that city. On leaving New York he went to Madison County, Illinois, 772 BISTORT OF AUDUBON COUNTY. and went to work on a farm for 60 cents per day ; at the end of two years he came to Lyons, Clinton County, Iowa, and worked on a fiirm by the month until 1871,when he rented afarm and worked it six years on his own account. In the spring of 1879 he removed to Audubon County, having bought eighty acres of land there the previous fall at the rate of $9 per acre. He built a house and set out a grove, and a year later lie purchased an additional eighty acres; he sowed most of it in wheat, upon which he realized very handsomely. He has since bought eighty acres more, making 240 acres, most of which is under cultivation and well fenced. He devotes some attention to live-jBtock, breeding common stock. Mr. Bauer was married in October, 1873, to Elizabeth, the oldest daughter of Levi and Anna (Whit- ney) Shadduck, natives of Pennsylvania and New York respectively. She was born and reared in Clinton County, Iowa, her parents having come to the Territory of Iowa in 1839. Mr. and Mrs. Bauer are the parents of two children — Frank and Mary. By a former marriage to John Hill, Mrs. Bauer had five children — Addie, Arthur, George, Gertrude and Grant. Mr. Bauer has served as town- ship trustee and as assessor, also as a school director. He is a member of Charity Lodge, No. 197, A. F. & A. M., at Coon Kapids. Mr. and Mrs. Bauer are members of the church at Viola Centre; Mrs. Bauer teaches in the Sabbath-school, and Mr. Bauer is treasurer of the same. ^ON. JACOB A. OVERIIOLTZEli.- ^Ij Among the farmers of Viola Township who have contributed to its wealth and influence, we mention Jacob A. Overholtzer. He is the fifth child of Jacob and Catherine (Anglemire) Overholtzer, and was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, near Lan- caster City, February 13, 1841. Jacob Over- holtzer, the father of our subject, was a Penn- sylvania farmerof prominence, and his father Jacob Overholtzer, was from Germany. Jacob Overholtzer, the father of Jacob A., removed with his family from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, to Ogle County, Illi- nois, in which place he made his home until his death, which occurred in 1866; his wife died March 20, 1875. Jacob A. received a good common-school education. He re- mained with his parents until his twentieth year, when there was a call for men to defend the flag of this nation. He enlisted in the Seventh Illinois Cavalry, Company B, and was assigned to the western army, servincr three years and four months. He took part in the following skirmishes and engagements: Second battle of Corinth, siege of Corinth, battle of luka, Island No. 10, Fort Macleid, Coffeeville, battle of West Point, Missis- sippi, Colliersvilleand BoUiver, and took part in the Greason raid, which started from La- Grange, Tennessee, and ended at Baton Rouge, Louisiana, known as the first raid of the western army. In the last he was wounded in the foot and disabled for three months. He was sent to Memphis, Ten- nessee, spending six months there, and was mustered out of the service at Springfield, Illinois, in November, 1864. He then re- turned to Ogle County, Illinois, and engaged in the more peaceful pursuit of farming. In June, 1879, Mr. Overholtzer removed his family to Audubon County, Iowa, locating upon his present farm in Viola Township. He first purchased 160 acres, on which he built a comfortable residence and other neces- sary buildings. He has added to the farm at diff'erent times until his estate covers 680 acres. The home farm is watered by the Nishnabotna River, and all the land is in a BIOQRAPUICAL SKBTOIIES. liigh state of cultivation. Mr. Overholtzer devotes special attention to the raising and feeding of live-stoclc, shipping from one to five car-loads annually. September 6, 1868, he was married to Clarissa F. Ferrin, of Car- roll County, Illinois, the third daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Pieston) Ferrin. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Orerholtzer — Alice L., formerly a student at Drake University, Des Moines, Iowa, now a teacher in Stuart schools; Oscar L., a student at Drake University, Des Moines; Katie M., Merritt P., Ralph F. and Lavisa. In 1883 Mr. Overholtzer was elected a member of the General Assembly of the State of Iowa, and in 1885 he was re-elected, both times on the Republican ticket. He acquitted himself with credit, taking an active part in advocat- ing and passing some important bills, among which was the bill appropriating money and locating the Soldiers' Home at Marshalltown, Iowa. In the last session he assisted in the introduction and passage of bills providing for the election of the railroad commission- ers by the people, and the public distribution of school-books in the several counties. Mr. Overholtzer is an active member of tiie Methodist Episcopal church, and is a mem- ber of Allison Post, No. 34, G. A. E. In the fall of 1888 he was elected president of the Audubon County Agricultural Society, lie is a public-spirited man, ready and will- ing to assist in any enterprise tiiat will be of advantage to the community. 5SAAC W. REED, of the firm of Reed Brothers, extensive fanners and dealers in live-stock, has been a resident of Audubon County since 1883. He is the second of a family of eleven ciiildrcn, eight of whom sur- vive. The father, John Reed, is a native of Pennsylvania, and was born in 1812. The mother, Mary (Brewer) Reed, was born in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, and after her marriage to John Reed they came to Poweshiek County, Iowa, and settled near Montezuma, where they remained until 1883, when they came to Audubon County. They now reside in Leroy Township. Isaac W. Reed was born in "Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, August 4, 1857, and at the age of twelve years came to Poweshiek County, Iowa, with his parents. He received the ad- vantages of a district school education, and was thorougiily drilled in the details and management of a farm. He remained with his parents until his majority, when he formed a partnership with his brother, John J. Reed, under the firm name of Reed Brothers. They began farming by renting the farm of C. II. Cross for six years. In the spring of 1889 they rented and moved to the farm of John C. Bonwell, which covers 720 acres. They have the farm well stocked, and employ three men, and run five teams during the busy sea- son. In the season of 1888 they raised 10,- 000 bushels of corn. They fatten from fifty to 100 head of cattle annually. The Reed Pirothers are very successful farmers, devoting their whole time to the business. The grand- father of Isaac W. Reed was Isaac Reed, who removed from beyond the Alleghany Mount- ains and settled in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, at an early day. He was de- scended from an old English family, three or four generations of whom were born in America. Isaac Reed married Miss Jannett tlolinson, and reared a family of twelve chil- dren. The mother of Isaac W. Reed, Mary (Brewer) Reed, is a daughter of Henry Brewer, of German descent, and Mary (Ran- dolph) Brewer, who reared a large family. Mary (Brewer) Reed was born ^farch 22, 1811), and is the mother of twelve children. 774 HISTORY OP AUDUBON COUNTY. eight of whom are living — James Z., John J. and Isaac W. (twins), William, Herman E., A. C, Mar}' E., Harriet M., and four who died in childhood. Isaac Iteed, the grand- father of Isaac W., was a spy during the Indian troubles in the early settlement of Pennsylvania. IHARLES HOFFMAN, an active and successful farmer of Viola Township, was born in Holstein, Germany, De- cember 3, 1844. He is tlie son of Charles and Celie Hofl'man, who emigrated to the United States when our subject was four years old. They landed at the city of New Orleans, and came up the river to Davenport, Iowa, where they settled. The father was a lislierman by occupation. He died in the year 1880, and tlie mother died in tlie year 1878. In his childhood Charles spent little time in school, as he was needed to assist his father. In later years he went to work on a farm for a man named Bennett, on condition tiiat he was to go to school a portion of the time. This contract resulted in three years' wori< and one week's schooling, a deprivation to wiiich there is none other equal. Charles returned to Davenport and remained there a year, being unable to work. In August, 1862, at the age of eighteen years, he enlisted in the Union army, in Company G, Twentieth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, and was sent to St. Louis, Missouri, tiience to Arkansas, and thence to Vicksburg, where he took part in the siege. In 18G3 liis regiment was sent to I'ort Hudson, and tliere did duty as guards and in attending tlie sick for tiiree months. He was then ordered to New Orleans, thence to Mustang Island. After si.x montlis lie was sent to Te.xas, being stationed at l»rowns- villc. His next order was to go to Mobile Bay, and after some skirmishing there he was mustered out, receiving his discharge at Clin- ton, Iowa, in July, 1865. He then returned to Davenport and there worked two years in a lime-kiln. In the spring of 1871 he came to Audubon County and settled on his present farm, which was then raw prairie. He first bought eighty acres, and now owns 200 acres, well improved. He was married in 1866 to Miss Mary J. Baker, a daughter of Robert and Eliza (Owen) Baker, of Davenport, Iowa. By this marriage seven children have been born — Charles O., William IL, Christopher A., Robert L., James, Roy V. and Lillie May. By industry and good management Mr. Hoffman has acquired a valuable prop- erty, and his honorable dealing has won the confidence and respect of all wlio know him. MOS TEAKLE is the pioneer breeder and importer of Clydesdale liorses in Audubon County. The first pure- blooded Clydesdale horse brought to the county was imported directly from Scotland by Singmaster and Sons, noted stockmen and importers of Keokuk County, Iowa. This animal was purchased by Mr. Teak! e in 1883, and much credit is due him for tlie advance- ment that has been made in this industry. He now owns two tine horses: Leekie Lad, registered in the Stud Book of Great Britain, No. 1,725; in the American Registry, No. 835. Sir Matthew is registered in the Scotch book. No. 6,299; and in the American book. No. 3,548. Mr. Teakle's farm is in Douglas Township, and is fitted up for breeding pur- jioses. Our subject was Iwrn in Juniata County, Pennsylvania, June 20, 1850. His father, Tiiomas Teakle, was a native of Eng- laml, wiio emigrated to America when a young man. He married Jane Gemmill, a BIOORAPHWAL SKBTUJfES. native of Scotland, and a daughter of Will- iam Geininill. After bis marriage Thomas Teakle settled in Pennsylvania, and there carried on farming for along period of years. He sold his farm and removed with his family to Keokuk County, Iowa, in 1869, and resided there until his deatli, which oc- curred in 1876; his wife passed away two years later, in 1878. Amos Teakle is the oldest of six children, four boys and two girls, all of whom are living. He was reared to farm life, and continued to follow this occu- pation until his majority, when he engaged in feeding hogs and cattle; later he turned his attention to the breeding of horses. Mr. Teakle was married to Miss Maggie Booth, of Keokuk County, Iowa, a native of Scot- land, and a daughter of "William Booth. They have had three children born to them — Agnes, Thomas and Jane. Mr. Teakle is a member of the Knights of Pythias, Audubon Lodge, No. 163. -■■^•3Ml-g-— fACOB GARKATT, one of the agricult- urists of Viola Township, has been a resident of Audubon County since 1883. He was born in the Dominion of Canada, Province of Ontario, in August, 1850. His father, Edward Garratt, was a native of Eng- land, and his mother, Mary, A. Stong, was born in Canada. Eight children were born to the parents, of whom Jacob is the sixth. He received a common-scliool education, and was trained to the duties of a farmer's son, his father removing to Ogle County, Illinois, and settling on a farm there. The father died in Cook County, Illinois, in 1866, and the mother died in 1854. Jacob Garratt spent most of his youth in Ogle County, Illinois, and later removed to Cook County, which lie made his home until 1867. He then went back to Ogle County, and was there married to Miss Susan E. Sanborn, of that county, a daughter of Ambrose Sanborn, Esq. In Oc- tober, 1883, Mr. Garratt removed to Audu- bon County, Iowa, and settled on a farm in section 9, Viola Township. The farm con- sists of 120 acres, and is well improved, with a good residence, and buildings for stock. While he is no political aspirant, our suly'ect votes the Democratic ticket. He commenced life for himself with limited means, and to- day owns valuable property. Mrs. Garratt's mother was Elizabeth Good, Mrs. Garratt being her eldest daughter. EORGE W. WOOD, a farmer of Lincoln Township, was born in Mercer County, Illinois, April 1, 1862. He is the young- est of six children of John and Caroline (Van Buskirk) AYood, who were early settlers of Pickaway County, Ohio, which was their na- tive State. They removed to Wisconsin, and thence to Mercer County, Illinois, in 1861; they made that their home until 1866, when they went to Poweshiek County, Iowa, and settled on a farm nqar Grinnell. At the end of one year they moved to Madison County, Iowa, and settled near AVinterset; there they continued to reside until 1874, when they came to Audubon County, Iowa, and located on a farm in section 35; the land was new and unimproved; the first purchase contained 240 acres, a part of which was afterward sold. The father died in Poweshiek County, Iowa, and the mother was married to Joseph Sny- der. They lived on their present farm for several years and then rented the ])lace and removed to Nebraska, where the mother died June 16, 1888. There were no children born of the second marriage; the children by the first husband were — Sarah (deceased), wife of 770 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. E. W. Jones; Grandval. died at the age of six years; Emily (deceased); Laura, wife of Albert Adkinson; Willis G., and George W., the subject of this notice. He was reared to the occupation of a farmer, and in 1885 he went with his mother and step-father to Nebraska, devoting his time to hunting and trapping on the waters of the Ponca Creek; the game was otter, beaver and coon; during the season he shot prairie chickens for the Omaha market, which he made quite profitable. In the fall of 1888 he returned to Lincoln Township, and settled on the farm of 120 acres which his mother had willed to him. Mr. Wood devotes his time to general farming pursuits, and is one of the enterprising young agricult- urists of the township. His grandfather, on his mother's side, was John Van Buskirk, an early settler of Pickaway County, Ohio, of Hollandish descent. -*"'^S" ^ ' S * 1 '""^ jHILIP BICKELHAUPT, an act- m ive farmer of Viola Township, was born in Germany, near Berlin, Jnne 15, 1844. He is the fifth of a family of six children, five of whom lived to be grown. His parents were Jacob and Martha (Kcreman) Bickel- liaupt, who were born in Germany, and lived and died in their native country. Philip at- tended school until he was fourteen years old, and at that early age he was desirous of trying his fortunes in the new west. He embarked on a sailing vessel for the United States, and made the voyage in fifty-four days, the first part of the journey being attended with very severe storms. He landed in New Orleans, and from that city went to St. Louis by water; from St. Louis he went to Chicago, Illinois, and remained there one week; his finances were by this time quite reduced, so that he pawned his clothes for $5 in order to get money to go to Eulton, Illinois. There he secured work in a cigar factory, and afterward went to work on a farm where he staid two years. He then went to Morrison, Illinois, and VForked on a farm until the breaking out of the late civil war. He enlisted in the Eighth Illinois Cavalry, Company C, and was assigned to the Army of the Potomac, skir- mishing and scouting the greater part of Virginia. He participated in the battle of Fredericksburg, and also of Gettysburg, after which he was taken prisoner, held three days, and then paroled. He was wounded in the left knee, and so was disabled for four months, after which he joined his regiment in Mary- land, and was afterward sent to St. Louis, Missouri, thence to Chicago, where he was finally discharged. He then returned to Mor- rison, Illinois, and in 1865 he was married to Mary Tyson, a daughter of John Tyson, Esq., of Morrison, Illinois. The two years follow- ing he was engaged in farming in Whiteside County, Illinois, and in the fall of 1808 he removed to Jasper County, Iowa, locating in the town of Monroe, where he opened a meat market; he remained there one year, and then moved back to Whiteside County, Illinois, and remained there three years. In 1872, Mr. Jjickelhaupt removed to Audubon County and purchased eighty acres of new land in section 6; this he broke out and im- proved, and two years later he bought eighty acres more, and he now has a half section of land in a high state of cultivation. He also has town property in Coon Kapids, Iowa. He is extensively engaged in the feeding, buying and shipping of live-stock. All of his own produce is consumed on his farm, and lie buys largely of his neighbors. Mr. and Mre. Bick- elhnupt have had nine children born to them — Margaret, Elizabeth, Peter, Mamie, Alice, George, Albert, Odessa and Ilena. Eight of the children are livitig. The confidence reposed in BIOaitAPUICAL SKETVHES. Mr. Bickelliaupt l)y the people of the coni- m unity is shown by the fact that lie lias served as township trustee for thirteen years, and has been president of the school board for fourteen years. He was elected township treasnrer in 1888, and is the present incum- bent of the office. He is a member of Charity Lodge, No. 197, A. F. & A. M., at Coon Rapids, Iowa. He strongly adheres to the principles of the Democratic party. He is a member of the G. A. R. post at Dedham. fOSEPPI CONRAD, an intelligent and successful farmer of Hamlin Township, was ,born in Germany, April, 1853. He is the youngest of three brothers. His parents, Joseph and Mary A. Conrad, re- mained in the old country. Joseph, Jr., entered school at the age of six years, and pursued his studies for eight years. On leav- ing school he engaged in farm work, which he continued for two years. At the age of sixteen he sailed for Amei-ica, and landed at New York City; from the latter place he went immediately to Scott County, Iowa, where he secured employment on a farm, and continued there sixteen months. He then came to Atlantic, Iowa, and entered the employ of the Rock Island & Pacific Rail- way Company, working in different depart- ments and divisions until the last few years, when he was employed in the engine house. He remained with this company for fourteen years. By the practice of economy he was able to save from his wages enough money to buy eighty acres of land in Hamlin Town- ship; he has added to that purchaBe until he now owns 200 acres. In 1884 he removed to his farm and began to im) rove it. Mr. Conrad has been very prosperous in all his agricultural enterprises. His notable suc- cess has been in raising small grains and breeding high grades of live-stock. He has erected a comfortable residence, a substantial barn, and numerous buildings for the protec- tion of stock. In 1879 Mr. Conrad was married to Albertiua Bailer, of Atlantic, Iowa, who was a native of Germany, coming to this country when quite young. The re- sult of this union has been three children Mary A., August and Frank. On his arrival in this country Mr. Conrad's means were almost exhausted; he was in a stran-re land, without friends or acquaintances, unfamiliar with the English language. Under these inauspicious circumstances he beo-an his career. His success is evidence of his in- domitable courage and perseverance, and he richly deserves his prosperity. ILLIAM E. IIENSLEY, farmer and tMi>M stock-raiser, of Greeley Township, was born in Fayette County, Ohio, July 27, 1848. He is the son of J. J. and Martha J. (Popejay) Ilensley, who removed to Iowa when William E. was eight years of age. They tirst located in the northern part of the State, and after making seveial changes they settled in Audubon County, in the full of 1870. In the spring of 1871 William E. Ilensley, in partnership with his brother, L. M. Ilensley, purchased IGO acres in Greeley Township. They continued to buy land until at one time they owned 680 acres in one body. They afterward sold forty acres, re- taining just one section, which they divided equally in 1884. They were the lirst settlers in this part of the county, and the land was wild and unimproved. When Mr. Ilensley came to the county he was unmarried, and made his home with his brother. June 27, 1875, he was wedded to Miss Laura Ander- 77« HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY* son, daughter of David L. and Mary L. Anderson; she was born in Audubon, County, April 27, 1856, and died March 3, 1885. Five children were born of this marriage- — Clyde, Vernie, Mary E., Clarence Edward and Flora Ina. Mr. Ilensley was again mar- ried February 20, 1887, to Miss Minnie Dettmann, who was born in Germany, and came to America with her parents in 1881. This union has resulted in one child — Hazel M. Mr. Hensley makes a specialty of stock- raising, and also buys and ships live-stock ex- tensively. He also owns a livery barn in Exira, but has recently disposed of the stock. His farm is under good cultivation, and is well improved in the way of buildings. Po- litically he is a staunch Democrat. He has served two terms as county supervisor with credit to himself and the satisfaction of his constituents. lie has also represented his township in most of the diflerent offices. Mr. Ilensley is a self-made man, and has arrived at his present position through his own efforts. He occupies an enviable place in the county, socially and financially — a just reward of in- dustry and perseverance. • ^ ■ g - 3 " I - ^ '""' tEUOY M. IIENSLEY, the oldest child of J. J. and Martha (Popejay) Ilensley, was born in Fayette County, Ohio, De- cember 28, 1845. lie was reared in his native county until his tenth year, when his parents removed to Iowa, and settled in the northern part of the State. In the year 1870 they went to Audubon County, and settled on the farm of J. J. Hensley. Leroy M. re- mained with liis parents until 1872; Feb- ruary 14 of that year he was married to Miss Elizabeth Pilmer, daughter of Philip and Alice (Sherriff) Pilmer, who was born in England, of Scotch ancestry, November 30, 1847; she came to America in 1850. They are the parents of six children — Philip (de- ceased), Martha Alice (deceased), Charles B., Walter A., Elmer L. (deceased), and James L. Soon after their marriage they removed to their new home, a tract of 120 acres which Mr. Hensley had previously purchased. A frame building 14x16 feet was erected, in which they took up their abode before it was completed. They were anxious to establish themselves, and unhesitatingly faced all the hardships encountered by settlers in a new country. The success they have had is fully demonstrated by taking a look at their finely improved farm. There is a tine two-story frame residence, and also buildings for stock and grain. Mr. Hensley has been an active, enterprising citizen, always aiding and encour- aging every enternrise tending to advance the ig' '7 interests of the community in which he lives. Politically he is a staunch Democrat, and has represented his township as clerk and as a member of the school board. Mrs. Hensley is a member of the Presbyterian church, while her husband was reared in the Meth- odist Episcopal church. The family are among the most worthy and respected citizens of the county. — ^->f^— ^DGAIl YOUNG, a native of Will County, Illinois, has been a resident of Audubon County since the year 1871. He was born August 19, 1854, and is a son of Henry and Charlotte (Mudge) Young, natives of Ohio and Pennsylvania respect- ively. He was but six years old when his parents emigrated to Iowa and settled in Boone County, wliere they lived eleven yeai-s. They then removed to Audubon County, and located on a farm in Greeley Township. There our subject made his home until 1881. jnoORAPIlWA L SKETCH EH. 779 May 22 of that year he was united in mar- riage to Miss Clara A. Beers, a daiigliter of Bradley and Hannah G. (Eels) Beers. She was born in Audubon County, Iowa, March 4, 1803. In 1882 Mr. Young removed tu his present farm. lie then owned eighty acres, which was raw prairie land. He has placed this under cultivation, and has added eiglity-two acres^ making 162 acres in all. He has built a fine frame residence, a baru) and buildings for the care and protection of stock and grain. He is a live, energetic man, and stands in tlie front ranks of Audubon County's reliable farmers. When Mr. Young began life for himself his capital consisted of pluck and energy. The result of his labor has been very sitisfactory, as will be seen on taking a look at his farm and its many val- uable improvements. Politically Mr. Young is identilied with the Republican party. He has held the office of justice of the peace. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Young — Alvie Judson, Bonnie May, Arlow Floyd and Bertha Ora. jRADLEY BEERS and his worthy wife WWi ^^^'"'^ among the early pioneers of An- ^^ dubon County. Mr. Beers came to the county in 1857, and in 1859 he purchased a tract of 320 acres of land in Hamlin Town- ship. The land was wild, unbroken prairie, and there was no human hal)itation in sight. The country teemed with wild animals, such as the wolf, deer and elk. Mr. Bradley erected a house composed of black walnut lumber, and made other necessary improvements. He also planted a grove of walnut trees covering ten acres, which is now one of the prettiest groves in the county. He i)laced the farm under good cultivation and continued to reside there for eleven years, when lie sold the place 49 and removed to Exira. In six months he re- moved to his home on David's Creek, Greeley Township, where he had purchased 120 acres of land, and where Mrs. Beers now resides. In 1880 he erected a large frame residence, which is one of the linest homes in that part of the county. Mr. Beers was a staunch Democrat, always taking an active part in political affairs, and at one time held the office of justice of the peace. He was born in Walton, Delaware County, New York, and was there reared to the occupation of a farmer, which he followed through life. He died March 12, 1879, aged about fifty-eight years. He was married February 17, 1857, to Han- nah G. Eells, daughter of Samuel and Clarina (Gray) Eells, who was born in Walton, Dela- ware County, New York, January 11, 1832. They were the parents of four children — Frank, residing in GrceleyTownship; Samuel, at home; Clara A., wife of Edgar Young, and Charles, deceased. Samuel, the second child, was born March 24, 1860, and was married September 11, 1880, to Miss Ora Ilerrick, daughter of Urbane and Charlotte (Spirling) Ilerrick. Mrs. Beers was born in Exira, October 28, 1802. They are the parents of one child — Homer L., born October 4, 1884. Mr. Beers afMliates with the Demo- cratic party. During his earlier life he fol- lowed cattle-herding for eight years, but is now engaged in fai'ining. He is an enter- prising young man, and enjoys the esteem of a wide circle of friends. fOSEPH CURTIS was born in Leeds, Yorkshire, England, November 26, 1811, and is the son of Charles and Bettio (Brown) Curtis. He is the oldest of a family of five children, and grew to maturity in his native country, his twenty-first birthday being 780 niSTORT OF AUDUBON COUNTY^ passed on the ocean during tlie voyage to America. On arriving in this country he settled in Oneida County, New York. He had learned the tailor's trade, which he fol- lowed until his fifty-second year, when he secured a position in a foundry in Hampton village. For seven years he continued this work, and then came to Iowa, locating in Johnson County. In 1882 he came to Au- dubon Comity and settled on a farm of eighty acres of improved land in section 29, which he still makes liis Jioine. He was married about the year IB-to, in the month of Febru- ary, to Mary Dickson, daughter of John and Dallie Dickson, who was born in England in May, 1819. Seven children were born of this marriage — Palmer, Mark, Julia, William, Ellen, Hannah and John. Joseph Curtis is a strong adherent to the principles of the Democratic party. Palmer Curtis, a son of Joseph and Mary (Dickson) Curtis, was born in Oneida County, New York, November 13, 1848. At the age of eleven years he went to work in a foundry in Westmoreland, New York, and remained in this employment for six years. He then came west and settled near Iowa City. He was employed for a year and a half by a Mr. Seymore on his farm. During the next live years he worked for a Mr. Abraham on a cheese farm, and then re- turned to his former employer, Mr. Seymore, for one year. At the end of the year he went to his fatiier's liome, fifteen miles west of Iowa City, and assisted him until the spring of 1878, when he came to Audubon County, and settled on a farm of 160 acres of wild land in section 34, Greeley Township. Mr. Curtis has placed this under good cultivation, and has erected a residence and barns for stock and grain. lie has done much toward the development of this part of the county, and thereby has won the regard and esteem uf n wide circle of friends. After spending nine years in improving and cultivating his farm, Mr. Curtis concluded to embark in the butcher's tratle, and so removed to E.xira and followed that business for two years, after which he returned to his farm. Politically he advocates the principles of the Union Labor party. October 18, 1881, he was mar- ried to Lauretta Patterson, daughter of Eli and Rebecca J. (Basem) Patterson, who was born November 8, 1851. They are the ])arent8 of two children — Jesse and Glen. Mrs. Cur- tis is a Tnember of the Baptist church. ■■■ .i| . 3 ii ; . ^i . ■■• tSAAC N. BROWN has been a resident of Audubon County since tlie year 1876. ^ He was born in Morgan County, Ohio, September 7, 1834, and is the son of Samuel and Margaret (Brannon) Brown, natives of Ohio, who removed to Union County, Ohio, when Isaac N. was a small child. There he was reared to the life of a farmer, and re- ceived his education in the common schools. When he had attained his eighteenth year he went to Washington County, Iowa, and tliere remained until 1858, when lie took a trip to Kansas and took up his residence there. In 1860 he returned to Washington County, and August 8, 18G1, lie was married to Miss Isabelle C. McNulty, daughter of William and Amadella (Adams) McNnlty. She was born in Boone County, Indiana, July 29, 1840. Nine children have been born of this marriage — Isaac N., residing in Audubon County; Amadella (deceased), Lenetta IL, wife of Henry Englekiiig, of Audubon County; Maryetta E., Willie and Wilber, twins (de- ceased); Carrie II., Lee (deceased) and Charlie A. Mr. Brown enlisted August 9, 1862, in the State's service, and August 22, 1862, he was mustered into the United States' service. Nineteenth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, Com- BIOGRAl'IIWAL SKETOHES. 781 pany C. He participated in many liard- fouglit battles; among tliem are Prairie Grove, Vicksburg, Spanisli Fort and Mobile. He was honorably discharged July 2G, 1865, and returned to Washington County. After two 3'ears he took his family to Coffee County, Kansas, and they resided there seven years. They then came back to Washington County, and at the end of two years they came to Au- dubon County and settled on the George B. Russell farm, north of Exira, remaining there one year. They rented another farm the next year, and in 1872 Mr. Brown purchased eighty acres of wild land, which he has im- proved and increased until he has a farm of 200 acres, as fine as there is in the county. He has a good residence, buildings for stock and grain, three and a half acres of grove, and an equal tract planted to fruit-trees. He devotes himself to farming and stock-raising, and has been very successful in his chosen calling. He started with nothing but strength of purpose, and has acquired his property through his own efibrts. He affiliates with the Republican part}', and has represented his township in its various offices. Mrs. Brown and two eldest daughters are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. fACOB II. HILL has been identified with the interests of Audubon County since the year 1872. Unlike many of the pioneers, he was born in the State of Iowa, Cedar County. His parents are John F. and Eliza (May) Hill, natives of the State of Rennsylvania. Jacob H. was two years of age when his parents removed to Johnson County, Iowa, where they remained until he was fifteen years old. On coming to the county the family first settled in Exira Town- ship, and later in Greeley Township, wliile the parents now reside in Audubon Town- ship. Mr. Hill was reared to the life of a farmer, and obtained his education in the common schools. In the year 1882 he bought an eighty-acre tract of wild land in section 28, Greeley Townshiii, which he has improved and placed under good cultivation. He has a comfortable frame residence and the necessary buildings for stock and grain. He has done ranch toward the upbuilding of that part of the county, and well deserves the esteem in which he is held. The marriage of Jacob H. Hill to Miss Evaline Youn^ occurred September 29, 1882. She is a daughter of Henry and Charlotte Young, and was born in Illinois in June, 1860. They are the parents of one child — Flossie. In political thought and action Mr. Hill is Republican. By upright and honorable deal- ings, by industry and perseverance, he has won a reputation, and has acquired a property of which any man might well be proud. "" " % " ^ * ' w * ^ *'" **** AVID A. McANULTY, of Audubon Township, has been identified with the history of Audubon County since 1876. He was born in Boone County, Indiana, May 7, 1845, and is a son of William and Ama- della (Adams) McAnulty. He is the fourth child of a family of seven children, and when he was six years old his parents removed to Iowa and settled in Washington County, where he was reared to the occnpation of a farmer, and educated in the common schools. When there was a call for men to defend the flag of this nation, he enlisted in the Ninth Iowa Cavalry, Company D, and served until 1865, when he was discharged at Little Rock, Arkansas. He then returned to Washiiiirton County, Iowa. September 17, 1868, he was married to Miss Leah Richardson, daughter T« UISTORT OF AUDLBON COUJTl'T. of Aaron and Anna (Cline) Richardson. She was born in Jefferson County, Iowa, January 20, 1848. After bis marriage Mr. McAnulty resided in ^YasbingtoIl County for eight years. He then caine to Audubon County and settled on a farm of 166 acres of raw prairie land. There he has since made liis home, making many valuable improvements in the way of erecting buildings and placing the soil under cultivation. He has also planted about one acre of grove. The farm is considered one of the most desirable in that part of the county. Mr. McAnulty, by honesty and upright dealing, has won the confidence of the community in which lie lives. He takes an active interest in all enterprises tending to the advancement of the people. He is a staunch member of the Re- publican party. He is chairman of the Re- publican township committee, and in 1887 he was sent as a delegate to the State Con- vention. Mr. and Mrs. McAnulty are the parents of one child — Arthur, born July 31, 1869. He was married December 9, 1888, to Miss Emma F. Benton, a daughter of Isaiah and Tranquilla (Maj') Benton. She was born in Jo Daviess County, Dlinois, Jan- uary, 1868. fOSEPH NEWELL, deceased, was a man whom Lincoln Townshij) could not well afford to lose. He was a native of the Emerald Isle, born near the city of Belfast, in 1836. AVheu a mere lad his parents, Will- iam and Agnes Newell, emigrated from Ire- land to America, settling in Canada, near Hamilton. Tliere he grew to manhood, re- ceiving his education in the common schools, and being trained to the duties of a farmer. In 1872 he was married to Miss Isabella E. Tansley, a resident of his neighborhood. Soon after this union they removed to the United States and settled on a farm in Ben- ton County, near Blairstown, Iowa. Mr. Newell opened up a tract of 160 acres of wild land, erected necessary buildings, planted a grove, and put the farm in good shape. He made this his home until 1881, when he re- moved to Audubon County, having sold out his possessions in Benton County. His first purchase in Audubon County was 320 acres, and later he bought 120 acres, whicli he afterward sold. It was new land, without improvements, but at the time of Mr. Newell's death, which occurred October 12, 1887, the farm had been developed into one of the most desirable in the community. He was a good judge of live-stock, and took an active interest in the improvement of the breeds. Mr. Newell left a wife and five children to mourn Ills death. The children are — Samuel J., Josephine, Charles S., Thomas and Henry. Since the death of her husband Mrs. Newell has sujierintended the farm, and has been very successful in her management of the estate. Mrs. Newell was born in Canada, and is the oldest daughter of Samuel and Annie (Bousiield) Tansley, natives of Eng- land. She was educated in her native country, and is a most thorough-going woman. For many jears she has been an active member of the Methodist Episcopal church. ^ENRY CONKLIN, of the firm of Conklin & Son, Exira, was born in the State of Indiana, near Connersville, Fayette County, June 10, 1836. His grand- father, Henry Conklin, emigrated from Ger- many to Pennsylvaiua at the early day when knee-breeches were in vogue. For many years after coming to this country he kept a tavern. Josiah Conklin, father of the subject BIOGRArUICAL SKETCHES. 783 of this notice, was born in New Jersey, April 6, 1804. lie was married to Sarah Putnam, a distant relative of General Putnam, who was born in the South, and whose father was a planter. After their marriage the}' settled in Fayette County, and thence removed to Hamilton County, Indiana, in which place they resided eleven years. In the fall of 1850 tiiey removed to Keokuk County, Iowa, settling on a farm, and there leading a very active life. Mr. Conklin died May 4, 1880, and his wife- died in 1854; she was tiie mother of eleven children, nine of whom lived to maturity. Henry Conklin, Jr., passed his boyhood in Indiana, and there attended the common schools. At the age of fourteen years his parents took him to Iowa, and the following four years he attended the short winter terms of school. His father being a farmer by occupation, he also received some training in agricultural pursuits, and he also had some experience in clerking in a store. In his nineteenth year he was married to Miss Catherine Waltz, of Keokuk County, Iowa, a native of Wayne County, Indiana, and a daughter of Isaac and Rebecca Waltz, of German descent. After his marriajje Mr. Conklin settled on a farm in Keokuk County, and resided there until the fall of 1877, when he removed with his family to Audubon County, Iowa. He and his wife are the parents of seven children, five of whom still survive — Mary E., wife of John C. Persing; George W., Sarah K., wife of W. II. Brigg- man; Henrietta (deceased), Eliza J. (deceased), Lucy C. and Mark Pomeroy. In 1880 Mr. Conklin l)ought a store in E.xira, and started in the grocery business, in which he con- tinued until May 10, 1887, when his build- ing and entire stock were consumed l)y fire. He had a small insurance of $1,000, which he collected, and immediately engagcii lumber to erect a new business house. During the erection of the new house Mr. Conklin rented a small building, and put in a stock, and re- sumed business. Mr. Conklin served as school director and as constable, and four years as deputy sheriff, while a resident of Keokuk County. After removing to Exira he served on the town council, and in a race for the office of mayor he was beaten by one vote. In National and State politics he votes the Democratic ticket. Mr. and Mrs. Conklin are members of the Christian church. Mrs. Waltz's father, Isaac Waltz, died in Keokuk County, Iowa, at the age of sixty- three years; her mother is still living, at the age of seventy-four years. mYRON G. FOREMAN, proprietor of 1^^ the livery, feed and sale stables, Audu- ^^ bon, Iowa, was born near Delaware, Delaware County, Ohio, April 24, 1852. He is the oldest son of David A. and Lydia A. (Dodds) Foreman. The mother was born in Ohio, and the father was a native of the State of Pennsylvania, a farmer by occupa- tion, and an early settler of Ohio. B. G. Foreman removed with his parents to Grundy County, Illinois, and settled on a farm; there the parents resided for many j'ears, and are now living in Morris, Illinois. Six children were born to them, four of whom are living. The subject of this notice grew to manhood in Grundy County, Illinois, and received his education in the common schools. He began his career as a farmer anddealer in live-stock in Grundy County, making horses a spe- cialty. He resided there until he came to Audubon County, when he began house and buggy painting, at $2 per day, for John Eslc}'. He remained in his employ for two years, and then was compolled to abandon the trade on account of ill health. He then Ijcgan 784 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUlh'T. trading in live-stock and town property, in which he has been very successful. He has built extensive sheds and stables for thefeed- ing of horses, and the accommodation of farmers' teams. He buys large numbers of horses, fattening them for the home, Dakota and eastern markets. In 1889 Mr. Foreman erected a barn and sheds for the accommoda- tion of 100 teams, and opened a first-class livery stable. He has good Iniggies, car- riages, hacks, and everything for the busi- ness; he also gives attention to the breeding of fine draft horses. Mr. Foreman was mar- ried in 1875 to Miss Ella G. Stoneback, of Grundy County, Illinois, the youngest daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Stoneback. They have one little daughter — GeorgianaE. i-5*-»f» AWKENCE SEYLLER, a prominent farmer and successful stock-raiser of Cameron Township, was born in Ger- many, August 5, 1850, and is a son of George and Catherine (Haemaser) Seyller. They are the parents of thirteen children, of whom the following are living — John, Charles, Conrad, Catherine, George, JSelson, Law- rence (the subject of this biographical sketch), Frank and August. The father is a farmer by occupation. He emigrated with his family to America when Lawrence was an infant, and settled on a farm in Cook County, Illi- nois, remaining there one year; he then re- moved to Henry County, Illinois, and bought a farm, on which he still resides. He has been prosperous since coining to America, and has accumulated a comfortable compe- tence for his declining years. Lawrence Seyller is the sixth of the family. He received a district-school education, and was trained to agricultural pursuits. He continued under the parental roof until his twenty-first year, when he started in life on his own account. He learned the carpenter's trade, at which he worked for twelve years. Having laid by some money he came to Iowa in 1881 and in- vested in land; i)e bought 4-40 acres, eighty acres lying in Viola Township, and the bal- ance in Cameron Township. Mr. Seyller was not able to pay for all the land in the beginning, but his hope of success in the future, upon which he depended, was fully realized. He began by raising grain exten- sively, and later he paid more attention to the raising of hogs and cattle, until in 1888 he shipped five car-loads from his own farm, and in 1889 four car-loads. His farm is well stocked with a large number of hogs and cattle. He has some fine thoroughbred Po- langus and Poland-China hogs, and is mak- ing a specialty of breeding this stock. Mr. Seyller was united in marriage in 1875 to Miss Elizabeth Goembel, of Henry County, Illinois, the fourth cliild of Henry and Cath- erine Goembel; she was born in Stark County, Illinois. Four children have been born of this marriage — Vida I., Lee Roy, Mollie May and Hazel C. In politics Mr. Seyller is conservative, voting for the man rather than the party. He began life with pluck and determination to succeed, and the result can best be realized by visiting his farm, which is a model in every respect, having all the modern conveniences for practical farming. — ■°* ♦' | * s »' i ' S" ' " — ■ MOS FANCHER, of Cameron Town- ship, has been identified with the his- tory of Audubon County, Iowa, since the year 1880. He was born in Keokuk County, near Sigourney, September 13, 1856, and is a son of AVilliam and Rebecca Fancher, natives of Pennsylvania. Amos Fancher is BIOGRAPEWAL SKETCHES. 785 the youngest son of a family of nine children, two sisters being younger than he. He was reared to the life of a farmer, and received a fair education in the common schools. lie remained witii his parents until he reached his twenty-lirst year, when he took up the responsil)ilities of life and began seeking the fortune tlie world might hold for him. His first investment was in forty acres of land, on which lie lived two years. At the end of that time, in the spring of 1880, he came to Audubon County and bought 160 acres of raw prairie land. Later he made an addi- tional purchase of eighty acres, and afterward he bought forty acres more, making 280 acres in all. Mr. Fancher's princijjal success has been in raising liogs. He also feeds a large number of cattle, and is rearing some high grades of liorses. All the improvements upon the farm have been made by Mr. Fancher. He has erected a comfortable residence, a good barn, and other necessary buildings. In 1884 occurred the marriage of Amos Fancher and Cora Stoops, a daughter of Joseph and Harriet Stoops, and a native of Mahaska County, Iowa. They are the parents of three children — Stella, Myrtle, and an in- fant unnamed. Mr. Fancher adheres to the principles of the Democratic party. " " ■ ^ • 3"i ' |" -^ lOKPIlUS D. GRAVES, deceased, was an active and enterprising citizen of Douglas Township. He was born in Oneida County, New York, and was a son of Austin and Mary Ann (Bishop) Graves, natives of the State of New York. When Dorphus D. was two and a half years old his parents removed to Marion, Ohio, where he grew to manhood, and received a common- school education. He l)egan to learn the printer's trade at Marion, and later worked at it in Springfield, Ohio. He afterward drifted west, and stopped at some of the river towns in the State of Iowa. Finally he went to Johnson County, Iowa, and settled on a farm eight miles from Iowa City. Mr. Graves was married to Miss Malinda Haw- ley, of Johnson County, Iowa, a daughter of Jesse and Eliza (Brown) Ilawley, who had removed to Johnson County from Ohio. After his marriage Mr. Graves continued farming, and afterward removed to Keokuk County, iind in 1882 he came to Audubon County, locating on a farm in section 2, Douglas Township, known as the John Mor- row farm; the place contains 820 acres. Mr. Graves was an enterprising and energetic farmer; he fed large numbers of cattle and hogs, which he shipped to eastern markets. He was an active member of the United Brethren church, serving many years as trustee, class-leader and steward of the so- ciety. He was held in high esteem by all who knew him, and his loss was deeply felt in the community. He left a wife and six children to mourn his death, which occurred June 11, 1887. The children are named as follows — Mary E., wife of William Gipple; Jesse A., Calvin D., Murtle D., Waiter D. and Leonard B. Mr. Graves was a staunch Ilepublican,and took an active interest in the success of the party. Mrs. Graves carries on the farm, with the assistance of her sons. She is a woman of ability, and has been suc- cessful in the management of the property left her; she is a devoted member of the United Brethren church. EOllGE M. ROSS, a successful agri- culturist and stock-raiser, of Cameron Townsliip, has i)een a resident of .\udu- bon County since 1878. He was born in 7S(i HISTORY OP AUDUBON COUSTT. Indiana County, near the town of Marion, Pennsylvania, May 4, 1851, and is the fifth of a family of eight children of Samuel and Elizabeth (McCoweu) Iloss. The parents ■were born in Ireland, and emigrated to the United States in their early married life, and settled in Pennsylvania; they are still living on the old homestead in Indiana County where they hrst settled. Seven of the eight children are living, five sons and two daughters. George M. was reared to the life of a farmer, and obtained his education in the common school. He remained under the parental roof until his eighteenth year, when he took up the responsibilities of life for himself. He went to Louisville, Kentucky, and engaged in retailing manufactured to- baccos, cigars and smoker's articles, in which he made money rapidly. He sold out the business and removed to Page County, Iowa, wiiere he engaged in farming two years. In the spring of 1878 he came to Audubon County, Iowa, and bought a half section of choice land, which at that time was wild prairie land. He went to work with a will, and as time has passed he has added many valuable improvements. Mr. Ross has here- tofore been engaged in general farming, but in ihe past two years he has given more at- tention to the feeding of live-stock, and has been quite successful; he has, however, suf- fered heavy losses from cholera at times. Mr. IJoss was uuvrried in the spring of 1878 to Miss Alice C. Price, a daughter of Fred Price, Esq., of Page County, Iowa. Four children have been born of this union — David Cameron, JJessie, George and Samuel. Mr. Iloss has been politically identified with his township as trustee, having been elected in the fall of 1888. lie afHliates with the Jiepublican party. His larded estate num- bers 760 acres, 440 in Audubon County, and 320 in Woodbury County, Iowa. Mr. Ross was entirely without means when he began his business career, but he has not remained at the bottom of the ladder; he has exerted all his energies, and to no small purpose, as can be seen from the valuable property he has accumulated. [AMUEL F. DONALDSON, a farmer (iv^l of Lincoln Township, was born in -^^ Westmoreland County, Pennsyhania, October 18, 1837. He is the youngest of a family of eight children of Robert and Ann (Felton) Donaldson. Her 7nother was Cath- erine Kincade, of Scotch-Irish descent, who came to America to look after her father, who was supposed to have lost liis life in the Revolutionary war. The great-grandfather of Samuel F. Donaldson, Isaac Donaldson, after serving in the Revolutionary war, was killed by the Indians in 1783, in Westmore- land . County, Pennsylvania. At the same time an aunt and seven children were taken prisoners. The children were killed by the Indians, and after ten years the aunt made her escape. James Donaldson, the grand- father of Samuel F., served in the war of 1812. Robert Donaldson, the father of S. F. Donaldson, was born in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, on the farm owned by his father, James Donaldson. The gratul- father on tlie mother's side was Robert Fel- ton, a native of Scotland. He also served in the war of 1812. The father of our subject, Robert Donaldson, remained in Westmore- land County, following the occupation of a carpenter until 1850, when he removed to the wild woods of Indiana, settling in Welle County. There he cleared out a farm and remained until his death, wiiicli occurred in 1880. His wife, the mother of S. F. Don- aldson, died in 1861. Samuel F. Donaldson BIOQRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 787 was thirtoen years of age when lie removed with his parents to Indiana. There he grew to manhood, attending the common log-cabin schools, and receiving the usual training of a farmer's son. In 1861 he enlisted in Com- pany A, for three months' service, at the first call for 75,000 men. On the expiration of the three months he enlisted, on the 30th day of August, 1861, for three years, in Company A, Thirty-fourth Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He was immediately made chief musician of the regiment, and served in that capacity fur four and a half years. He was honorably discharged at Brownsville, Texas, February 20, 1866. He then returned to Wells County, Indiana, and engaged in agricultural pursuits until 1868, when he removed to Polk County, Iowa, and settled on a farm near Polk City. There he resided until the spring of 1880, when he came to Audubon County, settling upon his farm in Lincoln Township, which was then wild prairie. Upon this new farm he erected a board shanty, twelve feet square, which sheltered the family until better quar- ters could be provided. However, before these temporary quarters could be provided the family lived in wagons. The first thing to be done was to break out the new farm, and make arrangements for the home. What has been accomplished can best be realized by making a visit to Mr. Donaldson's farm. Tlie place is well fenced, and is stocked with reasonable numbers of hogs, cattle and Imrses. The residence is attractively surrounded by a grove which was planted by Mr. Donaldson. September 4, 1861, occurred the marriage of Samuel F. Donaldson and Lizzie Marshall, of Wells County, Indiana, in which place niie was born and reared. She is a daughter of Kobert and Mary A. (Weisner) Marshall, natives of Scotland and Ohio respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Donaldson have had born to them four children — Kate F., wife of J. L. Van Dorn (the latter died in 1885); Anna E., William F. and P>onnie C. Mr. Donaldson was elected clerk of his township in 1882, and has served in that oflice ever since until the present time, lie is a member of Ver- itas Lodge, No. 392, A. F. & A. M., at Au- dubon, and of Utopia Lodge, No. 161, I. O. O. F., at Gray, being one of the charter members. He is also a member of the Hia- watha Tribe, No. 16, I. O. E. M., and of the G. A. H. post at Manning, and is a member of the Tall Cedars of Lebanon, and also the Universal Brotherhood. In politics he actively supports the issues of the Republican party. ►>«- tOBEUT II. LACY, an eaily settler of Cameron Township, was born near Madisonville, Knox County, Kentucky, August 29, 1831. He is the second son of George and Sophia (Hicks) Lacy, who were born and reared in the State of Virginia. Soon after their marriage they removed to Kentucky, thence to Tennessee, and tiience to .Madison County, Illinois; there they rented a farm, and resided until they removed to Fayette County, Illinois, in which county George Lacy died in 1851; his wife died five months later in Morgan County, Illinois. They were the parents of seven children, all of whom are living, excejit one son. Robert Lacy passed most of his youth in Fayette County, Illinois, receiving the benefit of a common-school education. He had lived at home until his father's deatli, which occurred when he was nineteen years old. He then started out for himself, working by the month on a farm for six years. He was mar- ried to Nancy E. Jones, of Morgan County, Illinois, the oldest daughter of James Jones, Esq. After his marriage Mr. Lacy renteil a 788 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUl^TT. farm in Henry County, Illinois, on wbicli he spent nine years. In the fall of 1873 he moved with his family to Audubon Count}', Iowa, and l)onght 100 acres of raw prairie land; this he broke out and improved, erect- ing buildings, planting trees, and making many other valuable additions to the place. He has engaged in general farming since coming to Audubon County. Mr. Lacy's lirst wife died on the farm in 1879; she was the mother of live children — George H., James W., Charles C, Robert, and Joim M., who died at the age of twelve years. Mr. Lacy was maiTied to Mrs. Amelia Burt in 1880; her maiden name was Wallace, and she had two children by iier former husband, Edmund Burt — Carrie, wife of George H. Lacy, and Ilattie, wife of Charles E. Lacy. Mr. Burt died in Buena Vista County, Iowa, lie served the country eighteen months in the late civil war. Mrs. Lacy and her first husband were born on the shores of Lake George. Mr. Lacy removed from his farm to Audubon in the spring of 1880, and clerked in a hardware and agricultural imple- ment store for five years. He then removed to Coon Rapids, which is his present home. He opened a meat market in this place, and at the end of two years sold out the business- Politically he affiliates with the Republican party. l --i" l -l""' ljw.^LIAS FISCUS,an early settler and active farmer of Douglas Township, was born in the Hoosier State, in Owen County, May 7, 1837. His fatlier, Levi Fiscus, an early settler of Indiana, was born in South C^arolina, and was a son of Frederick Fiscus, a native of (Tcrnujny. His niother was Dar- bara Ann Concanour, a daughter of Jacob Concanour. She was reared in Owen County, whither her parents had removed when she was a child. Levi Fiscus and family removed to Marshall County, Iowa, where his wife died in 1866. He died at the residence of his son, Adam Fiscus, in Audubon County, October 4, 1884:, aged sixty-nine years. There were seven children in the family, six of whom are living, Elias being the oldest. He received a common-school education in Owen County, and remained on the farm with his parents until his twenty-first year. He then began to learn the carpenter and cabinet- maker's trade, which he followed many j'ears. He has worked at the trade some since he began farming. In the fall of 1865 he re- moved to Marshall Count}', Iowa, locating upon a farm nine miles northwest of Mar- shalltown. He resided there until the fall of 1870, when he removed to Shelby County and settled near Harlan. He remained there one year, and then came to Audubon County, purchasing eighty acres in section 7, Douglas Township. This land he broke out and im- proved, adding from time to time to his first purchase, until he now owns 259 acres in an advanced state of cultivation. The soil is fertile and is watered by the Nishnabotna River. Mr. Fiscus has been one of the pio- neer stock-feeders, and has done much to ad- vance this branch of farming in the county. In 1860 he was married to Harriet Fiscus, of Owen County, Indiana, where she was born and reared. They have four children living — Benjamin F., Eliza Ann, wife of C. T. Wyley; Mary E., wife of A. H. Speas, and Walter S. Mr. Fiscus has served many years as township clerk, notary public and land agent. He takes an active part in politics, affiliating with the Democratic party. He is often chosen a delegate to conventions, a position he is well calculated to till. He be- gan the business of making a name for him- self without any capital excepting that with BIOORAPHICAL SKETCHES. 789 which Nature liad endowed hiin — energy and determination to succeed. That he has pros- pered is very evident to him who looks over tlie broad fields and cultivated lands belong- ing to our subject. He is a man highly re- spected in the community, and is well worthy the regard in which he is held. Mrs. Fiscus died January 30, 1888. She was a devoted member of the Christian church. Mr. Fiscus also belonfrs to this church, and is one of its elders. He is the inventor of the Automatic Grain Weigher and Register, patented Octo- ber 30, 1888, No. 391,888. — g ' i " t ' g ' " °' fAMES HALL is one of Cameron Town- ship's energetic farmers, who give char- acter and influence to a community. He was born in Stark County, Illinois, January 14r, 1845, and is the second son of Kobert and Harriet (Marsh) Hall. The grandfather was Robert Hall, a native of England, wiio fought in the war of 1812 on the Britisii side. Robert Hall, the father of James, emigrated to America in 1836, and afterward married and settled in Stark County, Illi- nois, wliere he and his wife are still living. Tlio mother of our subject, Harriet Hall, was born in the State of Pennsylvania. Nine children were born to her and Robert Hall, six of whom are living. Tlie childhood and school days of James Hall were passed in Stark County, Illinois, where he received a greater part of his education in the dis- trict school. Later, however, lie entered the Princeton Academy in Pureau County, Illi- nois. After leaving school he began farming in his native county, and afterward spent some time in Bureau County. In the spring of 1881 Mr. Hull removed with his family to Audubon County, Iowa, locating upon his jiresent farm, which at that time was wild prairie land; and then the struggle began in opening out the farm and making a new home. He afterward purchased another IGO- acre tract, securing in one body 320 acres of most excellent land. The place is now well stocked with hogs and cattle, on which Mr. Hall has made the most of his money. He has had his reverses, as have had other farmers, but he has been generally very successful. He has erected a large, substantial residence, barns, and sheds for the protection of live- stock. Mr. Hall was united in marriage, in 1875, to Miss Belle Hooker, of Peacham, Vermont, a daughter of Sanford Hooker, Esq. This union has been blessed with 6\x children — Scott, Jay, Florence, Lilia, Ilattie and Ellen E. Mr. Hall is an excellent judge of live-stock, and feeds from two to four car- loads annually. Like many other men who have made the most brilliant successes, Mr. Hall began his career on a very limited capi- tal, but industry and perseverance made up what was lacking in another direction. — S- 2 "i-2-' — i^ILLIAM J. CLARK, a jjrominent J farmer of Viola Township, has been l^=^rj a resident of Audubon County since 1876. He was born in Warren County, Kentucky, August 30, 18-40, aiid is the old- est son of John M. and Mary (Renshaw) Clark. The father, a native of Tennessee, is a son of John Clark, and is still living, in his seventy-third year, having been born Jan- uary 11, 1817. The motlier, Mary Renshaw , was a daughter of Andrew Renshaw, an early settler of Kentucky; she died when William J. was seven years old. In 1844 John M. Clark removed with his family to Missouri, and thence to Jo Daviess County, Illinois, spending one year in that county; he then returned to Kentucky, and in 18(50 removed 790 niSTORT OF AUDUBON CWNTY. to Wisconsin, locating in Grant County. In 1872 be removed to Slielby County, Iowa, and is still living there. He was twice mar- ried, and "William J. is the oldest of the chil- dren of the first marriage. A biography of John M. Clark appears in the history of Shelby County. The boyhood of William J. Clark was passed in Kentucky and Wiscon- sin, his education being obtained in the com- mon schools of the former State. His father being a farmer he was trained to agricultural pursuits. At the age of fourteen years he went to Wisconsin with his father, and re- mained with him until the breaking out of the civil war, when he enlisted in Company M, Third Wisconsin Cavalry, and was as- signed to the western department of the army. He took part in the battles of Cabin Creek, Fort Gibson, Honey Springs, and skirmished through Missouri and Arkansas. He served his country faithfully for three years, three months and eight days, and was not wounded or taken prisoner. In March, 1865, he was sent to Madison, Wisconsin, and there received his final discharge. He then repaired to the mining district of Wis- consin, and worked in the lead mines for two years. The three years following he was engaged in farming in Wisconsin, and in 1872 he removed to Shelby County, Iowa, and re- sided there until 1876, when he came to Audubon County, as before stated. He pur- chased a farm on section 8, Viola Township, which contained 160 acres of raw prairie, paying $5 per acre; this place has been im- proved and brought to a high state of cultiva- tion by Mr. Clark. In 1888 he bought a tract of improved land in sections 4 and 5, which contains 174 acres. Since his resi- dence in Audubon County he has devoted his time to general farming. Mr. Clark was united in marriage in December, 1866, to Serena .J., the oldest daughter of Grcenberg and Charlotte (Henderson) Thompson, natives of Mississippi. At the time of their mar- riage Mrs. Clark lived in Grant County, Wisconsin. Mr. and Mrs. Clark are the parents of eight children — John G., Emma S., Albert S., Sophrona M., Ella C, Martha, and Cliarlotte, who died in infancy. In Na- tional and State politics Mr. Clark is a straight Democrat. Ilehas served as township trustee, school director, and as road supervisor. Mr. Clark began his career at the bottom round of the ladder, but by industry, honor- able dealing and perseverance he has risen to a position of financial independence. fOIIN A. NASH, of the law firm of Nash, Phelps & Green, Audubon, Iowa, was born in Polk County, Iowa, in the city of Des Moines, May 9, 1854. He is the only son of a family of four children of Dr. J. A. and Mary (Hepburn) Nash. The boy- hood of John A. Nash was spent in Des Moines, where he attended tlie public scliools, after which he entered the University at Des Moines, from whicli he was graduated in 1870. Immediately after his graduation he entered the law office of Brown & Dudley, prominent attorneys of Des Moines, with whom he read law for two years; he then entered the law school of Simpson Centenary College, and afterward was examined and admitted to the bar of the Supreme Court of Iowa in 1870. He then went to Stuart, Iowa, where he was employed in the private office of C. S. Fogg for one year. In June, 1878, Mr. Nash came to Exira, at which place he built up a good law business; here he was employed by the Rock Island & Pa- cific Raih-oad Company as their attorney to quiet the titles of lauds then owned by the company in Shelby, Crawford and Audubon BIOGRAPHICAL .^KE'JVJI MS. 791 counties. Mr. Nash had formed a partner- ship with Byron S. Phelps, which continued until 1882, when Mr. O. K. Holmes was taken into the firm, this partnership continuing for two years. In 1886 Mr. Green was taken into the firm. The business is conducted in the following way: Mr. Phelps makes all loans, Mr. Nash attends to the collections, real-estate and insurance, and Mr. Green manages the law business of the firm. Mr. Nash was united in marriapje with Miss Ger- trude Kussell, September 1, 1881; she is a daughter of George S. Russell, a prominent merchant of Audubon, and a native of Stougliton, Wisconsin. Mr. and Mrs. Nash are the parents of two daughters — Beatrice and Gretchen. Mr. Nash is a member of the A. F. & A. M., Godfrey Commandery, No. 44; Audubon Lodge, No. 163, K. of P., and of the I. O. R. M. He is also a member of the school board. [ILLIAM McLERAN, proprietor of McLeran's stock ranch, one mile west of Audubon, is one of Audubon County's thorough-going, successful citizens, of whom no reasonable man ever has aught to complain. The best and truest index to any man's character and life is the general opinion entertained of him by his nearest neighbors, and those with whom he dealt from day to day. Mr. McLeran's success as a stock-grower and farmer comes largely from the fact that he has always been tliorougli- going and painstaking, and never afraid to do hard work himself. Li a volume of this character, which is to be handed down from generation to generation, it is ^indeed fitting that some record be here made of one who has gained a competency for himself and family wholly by virtue of his own industry and unremitting zeal. His has been a life to which one may refer any young man as a good one to pattern after, with all assurance of abundant success. It requires more real, true manhood, and genuine worth for one to begin life unaided by friends and wealthy relatives than it does to have ready capital to commence on; however, the strongest characters of American history have been forged and wrought by boys who have been obliged to carve their own way to final suc- cess. Mr. McLeran, who has been a citizen of Audubon County since 1879, is a native of the old Green Mountain State, Vermont. He was born October 24, 1824, in the town of Barnett, Orleans County; his parents were William and Eliza (Gleason) McLeran; his Grandfather McLeran was also named Will- iam; he served as a soldier in the war of 1812, and lived to an advanced age. William, Jr., died when eighty-one years old. The mother of our subject was of English descent, born in Massachusetts, and died at Rochester, New York; her remains now rest at Barnett, Vermont. Mr. McLeran passed his youth and received his education at Barnett, Ver- mont, living at home on the farm until he was about twenty years of age, at which time he engaged in railroad business in New England and Pennsylvania, both as- a con- structor and an operator; he ran the second locomotive ever built in the United States. It was of a crude and curious desisrn, and has for years been on public exhibition in the city of Philadelphia; it was among the curiosities at the Centennial Exposition of 1876, where Mr. McLeran last saw it. In 1851 he was married to Miss Betsey Blanch- ard, the third daughter of Simon and Betsey (Spencer) Hlaiichard. She was born Decem- ber 9, 1829, at Peacham, Vermont, where she grew to womanhood. There she obtained an excellent education, graduating from the 792 HISTORY OF AUDUBON GOUnTY. coiintj academy, operated on the endowment plan; it was accounted one of the Ijost edu- cational institutions of New England at that time. After leaving school she at once began teaching, and followed it for several years, becoming a very popular and successful teacher. Three years after his marriage Mr. McLeran emigrated with his wife to Illinois; at first he rented land near Rock River for a year, after which he bought eighty acres in Bureau County, of that State; here he re- mained for nearly a quarter of a century, twenty-four years, during which period he was successful as a farmer and stock grower, his attention beiug especially directed to swine- growing. Mr. and Mrs. McLeran are the parents of nine children, eight of whom still live — Abbie, wife of E. D. Van Court; Si- mon J3.; Helen M., wife of F. H. Chidister, of Aurora, Nebraska; Fannie C, now at- tending school away from home; "Walter Palmer, at home; George Ralph, at Com- mercial College at Omaha, Nebraska; Her- bert Morris, at home attending school; and Charles Stuart, at home. The deceased, named Bessie Blanchard, died in infancy. Upon selling out in Bureau County, Illinois, in March, 1870, Mr. McLeran removed to Audubon County, purchasing at first a quar- ter section of land of the Rock Island Rail- road Company. He now has a fine farm of beautifully rolling prairie land, located on sections 19 and 30, township 80, range 35, west, and in the civil township of Leroy, which is one mile west from Audubon, the county seat. The first season he was in the county he had 400 acres broken, besides at- tending to the erection of a fine frame resi- dence that would do honor as a city house. He is at present as comfortably situated as any farmer in his county, and is steadily in- creasing his possessions by thrifty farming and stock-growing. He now has hundreds of fine cattle, hogs and horses upon his farm. His premises are well adapted to stock-grow- ing and feeding, as he has established a fine system of water-works, by which a wind- mill becomes the power in pumping water to a large tank in the stock-yards and barn. He grinds and mashes all the large corn crop he produces, after which it is judiciously fed to stock. He makes a special point of de- horning all his horned stock, and has become especiall}' successful in the feeding of young stock. Everything about the place displays the art, so often lost sight of by farmers, that of order. In political views Mr. Mc- Leran is what might be termed conservative; however, in State and National politics he always votes the Democratic ticket. He has never aspired to public office, but always tells those who seek to press him into such positions, which he might ably fill, that his office is in his cattle yards. As one views his large possessions, and sees how successfully all parts are carried on, and then pauses to think of the fact, that when he landed in Illi- nois in 1854 all his earthly possessions were found in his most estimable wife and two children, and $123, it goes without saying that all has come from patient toil and frugal management. ►^M^-i- fOHN NASH, D. D., President of the University of Des Moinfes, an educator of much experience and wide reputation, is a native of Sherburne, Chenango County, New York. He was born July 11, 1816. When he was five years old his father died, and he was brought up by an aunt on a fiirm in Otsego County. At the age of twenty he entered the preparatory department of Madi- son University, and graduated from that in- stitution in 1842, and from the theological BIOGRA PUI CA L S KETCHES. seminary at the same place, in 1844. His tirst pastorate was at "NVatertown, New York, wliere lie spent six years. January 3, 1851, he came to Des Moines, Iowa, where he has since made his home. lie immediately gathered the Baptists together, organized a church, and was its pastor for eighteen years; he also taught a large portion of this time. About the year 1835 he started a select school, which grew into what was long known as the Forest Home Seminar}'. Des Moines being centrally located in the State, and some inducements being held out to the Baptists, it was resolved to establish an institution there for the higher order of education, and the University of Des Moines is the result of that movement; it was organized in April, 1865. Dr. Nash became its financial agent, and labored in tiiis capacity, with some inter- ruption, for four years, when his health broke down. This was not, however, until some time after the brick building on the hill in Des Moines had been completed, and the in. stitutiou was in operation. During the peri(jd that Dr. Nasli was regaining his health he was superintendent of the schools of Polk County, his term expiring January 1, 1874. Prior to this date, in the autumn of 1872, he became acting president of the University, and liad been at its head three years, when lion. Frederick Mott became president. After tilling the ]iosition a little over a year lie resigned, and Dr. Nash was again placed in the presidential chair in May, 1877. Since his residence in Des Moines Dr. Nash has accomplished a great religious work, having organized two Baptist churches on the east side of the river, and being largely instrumental in the formation of nearly thirty other churches in central Iowa. Every good cause receives his hearty and powerful support. Dr. Nash has been twice married — first in July, 1846, to Miss Jennie C. Calhoun, of Wellsford, Monroe County, New York; she died P'ebruary 3, 1851, with- out children. His sece>nd marriage was March 15, 1853, to Miss Mary E. Hepburn, a native of New York, residing at the time of marriage at Augusta, Lee County, Iowa. They have four children — John A., Jennie C, Nettie and Mattie. S ' > ' t ' 2" "' ^^EAD P. STllAHL, an agriculturist of A^iola Township, was born in Bel- i0^ mont County, Ohio, August 29, 1844, and is the youngest of seven children of Thomas and Sarah (Mead) Strahl. Tiie par- ents were born and reared in Ohio, and the mother died there when Mead P. was one year old; his father removed to Illinois, and thence to Nebraska, where he died in 1878. Sarah Mead was a daughter of Joseph Mead, a native of Pennsylvania, of Quaker faith; he was an early settler of Belmont County, Ohio. Mead P. Strahl passed his youth in his native count}', receiving his education in the pioneer log school-house. In the spring of 1866 he went to Ogle County, Illinois, and engaged in fanning, making his home there until 1883, when he removed to Audu- bon County. He purchased 160 acres of choice land, which is now well improved; there is a good substantial residence, barns and cribs, and the situation and neighborhood cannot be surpassed. Mr. Strahl devotes his time to general farming and stock-raisin <». He was married in 1870 to Miss Alice J. Donaldson, of Ogle County, Illinois, a daugh- ter of James and Kate Donaldson ; she was born and reared in Ogle County. Ten chil- dren liave been born of this marriaore — Eva J., Ida F., James C, Ella G., Frank, Fred T., William S., Myrtle A., Verna K. anil Pearl. Mr. Strahl is director of school dis- nisrouY ov audubon county. trict No. 4, and is supervisor of road district No. 3. In Jnne, 186.3, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Twenty-ninth Ohio Vol- unteer Infantry, and served nine months. He took part in the raid in Cumberland Gap and capture of General Frazier; thence he was ordered to Clinch River, and in March, 1864, he was mustered out of the service. He re-enlisted in the 100-days' regiment, and did duty in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia under General Sheridan. At the expiration of the 100 days he enlisted in the Fifteenth Ohio Volunteers as a recruit, serv- intr until the close of the war. He was ordered north in December, 1865, and was discharged the 28th of that month. He then returned to his old home in Ohio, and en- gaged in the more peaceful as well as more profitable occujiation of farming. Mr. Strahl is a member of the G. A. R. post at Dedhara, Carroll County, Iowa. He began life with little capital but pluck, energy and a deter- mination to succeea person of unusual domestic qualities, and is perfectly at home amid her honsuliold duties. Mr. and Mrs. Russell have four children — Agnes R., Charles, a member of the firm of G. B. Russell & Son ; Gertrude C, the wife of John A. Nash, and James F., also a mem- ber of the firm. Mr. Russell commenced at the bottom of the ladder, but has not re- mained there. He owns several good farms in Audubon County, which he rents, and he has a neat, substantial residence, tastefully finished and furnished. In politics he takes an active part, voting for the man whom he thinks best fitted for the ofilce. While he is not a member of any church he is a strong advocate of temperance in all things. He is public spirited, and ever stands ready and willing to assist in any work tending to the good of the community. fOHN F. CLOUGHLY, physician and surgeon, Audubon, Iowa, was born in Canada, in April, 1858. He is a son of John and Sarah (Kirkland) Cloughly, who came to the United States when our subject was nine years old. The father, when in business, was actively engaged in the boot and shoe trade, and is now residinar in Bucklin, Missouri. The mother died soon after coming to the United States. Ur. Cloughly spent his boyhood at Mitchellviile, 800 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. lovva; he was educated at Mitchellville Col- lege, and at the Central University at Pella, Iowa. He began the study of medicine at Mitchellville, Iowa, under Dr. T. Seeines. lie then went to Keokuk, Iowa, wliere he entered the College of Physicians and Sur- geons, graduating from that institution in 1878. lie practiced his profession for live years, and then entered the medical college at, Louisville, Kentucky, graduating in 1883. In 1878 Dr. Cloughly caiue to Audubon, where he has built up a large jjractice. In 1881 he erected a business block, two stories high, with basement; the basement is occu- pied by the Advocate, the first floor by a drug store, and the second floor by offices and a photogra]ih gallery. He was married in January, 1886, to Miss Minnie Shoesmith of North Branch, Guthrie County, Iowa, who was a daughter of Stephen Shoesmith. The Doctor is a prominent Mason, and is a member of Veritas Lodge, No. 392. He commenced life without means, and by close application to his profession he has acquired a handsome property; his drug store contains a large and well-selected stock of goods, and is complete in every department. He trans- acts a large and profitable business, and is a most genial and agreeable gentleman. Dr. John F. Cloughly departed this life in Janu- ary, 1889, after the notes of this brief biography had been given by him. ~»-*a*^J^*""*°^ lEORGE GRAY. There is no one among the business men of Audubon who has given the grain trade a greater impetus, who has added more to the com- mercial and financial standing of the town, who has pushed her interests farther, than George Gray. He started his business almost with the birth of the town, and no one has stuck to his purpose more tenaciously than the subject of this brief biography. Mr. Gray was born on a farm in the State of Vermont, August 9, 1886. He is the young- est of a family of eleven children, and is a son of William and Isabel (Roben) Gray; the father was a native of Vermont, a sturdy farmer, and a man of great strength of pur- pose and force of character; after his marriage he settled in Caledonia County, Vermont, where he lived the remainder of his days; he died at the age of seventy-two years. The mother was born in Scotland, and was of a strong mind, and of a vigorous constitution; she died at the ripe old age of ninety-two years. The grandfather of George Gray, William Gray, was a descendant from an old Scotch family. George Gray passed his youth in his native county, receiving his education in the common school and in a seminary. On reaching his twenty-first year he started in the battle of life on his own account. Drift- ing as far west as Stark County, Illinois, he was employed to work on a farm for §20 per month; as his means increased he invested in land, and was soon able to begin farming: hia own land; he devoted considerable time in stock-raising, and was very successful in tliis. He continued to invest in land. While yet living in Illinois he bought 1,160 acres of land in Audubon County, and 160 in Union County, Iowa. While residing in Illinois he improved over 1,000 acres. Having disposed of his property in Illinois, he removed to Stuart, Iowa, where he engaged in the grain, lumber and stock business; he carried this on successfully for seven years, during which time he purchased 4,000 acres of land in Audubon and Carroll counties, the whole of which he improved. In one season he sowed 3,000 acres to wheat, and the season being favorable, he realized a handsome profit on it. In 1880 Mr. Gray began dealing in BIOORAPIIICAL SKETCHES. 801 wheat iti Andubon ; this he shipped to Chicago and intermediate points. He has erected an elevator at tlie town of Gray on the North- western Railroad, at a cost of $10,000; be- sides his elevator, he has two large ware- houses at Audubon, and one at Ross, Iowa. He still carries on farming in connection with his grain dealing. He has also shipped stock, principally handling that of his own raising. In 1874 Mr. Gray was married to Miss Fannie A. Sjiencer, a woman of unusual purity and force of character. She was a native of Stark County, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Gray are the parents of one son — George S. Gray. The mother died Novem- ber 9, 1888; the very large number attending the last riles of interment attested the love and honor in whicli she was held. Mr. Gray takes an active part in politics, affiliating with the Republican party; he lias served as delegate to the congressional and judicial conventions. He is public-spirited, and liberal in contributing in any enterprise tending to benelit the community. ►4w^ |EORGE McCAIN, one of the well-to-do farmers of Melville Township, located on section 16, in the month of Septem- ber, 1870. At first he purchased eighty acres of land, one-half of his present farm, which is all well improved. Mr. McCain was born in the village of St. Omer, Indiana, December 30, 1839. lie is the youngest of a family of ten children. His parents were William and Mary (McCarty) McCain, who lived for a time in Wayne County, Indiana, near the village of Centerville, at that time the county seat. Later on they removed to St. Omer, Decatur County, Iixliana, where the father engaged in farming and mercantile business. He died in 1845, and the mother. May 8, 1878, at the age of seventy-three years. Of the ten children only five are liv- ing; a brother of our subject in Indiana, one in r.ansas, otie sister in Colorado, and one in Iowa. Mr. McCain, like most men of his age, received his education under many dis- advantages, within a rude log school-house, provided with slab seats. The teacher was paid by private subscription. The youthful days of our subject were spent for the most part upon his father's farm. At the outbreak of the civil war he enlisted as a member of Company K, Sixteenth Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He saw much hard service during his army life. His first engagement was at Edwards' Ferry, at the time of the Balls Bluff disaster. In the fall of 1861 his com- mand went into winter quarters, and in the spring crossed over into Virginia, going over the Blue Ridge Mountains. He received his discharge in May, 1862, at the city of Wash- ington, D. C, after which he returned to his home, and enlisted in the thirty days' regi- ment, formed to protect the country against the Morgan raiders. In December, 1863, he enlisted in the three years' service at Greens - burg, Indiana, as a private soldier; but he soon after became Sergeant-Major, and Au- gust 9, 1864, he was commissioned as First Lieutenant of Company G. They were sent to Nashville, Tennessee, and became part of General Ilovey's Hoosier troops, and then went South with General Sherman, prepara- tory to entering the Atlanta campaign. Mr. McCain was in the fall of Atlanta, and tells many thrilling scenes in connection with this great event. From Atlanta, under the com- mand of General Thomas, he marched to the north into Tennessee, where his regiment did various duties; he finally took a steamer, via Ohio lliver for Cincinnati, and went thence by rail to Washington, I). (J. He was then ordered to Amlcrson, going down 802 niSTonr of audubon county. tlie Potomac River into Chesapeake Bay, and to Cajie Fear lliver, North Carolina; he then crossed the countr}' to Moorehead City, en- j gaging in a three days' figlit at Wieser Forks, and defeating General Hooks. The company then marched to Goldshoro, North Carolina, where they made junction with Sherman's ni'my; there they remained until the sur- render of General Johnston's army took place. The rest of the season, np to August, 1805, was put in at guard duty; but on the 25th of that month Mr. McCain received his final discharge, and returned to Decatur County, Indiana. Having thus faithfully served both as a private and an officer, in an army which had finally restored peace and liberty to a great nation, he then began to lay plans for his own future welfare. For a year and more he was engaged in the bridge- building department of a railroad company in Indiana. In March, 1807, he came to Iowa, and stopped in Jasper County, near Newton. Here he engaged with the Rock Island Company in the same branch of work he had been following in Indiana. Tliis work took him along the main line, and all tlie branches of the great Hock Island Route, both in Iowa and Nebraska. He continued in this i:)Osition until May, 1870, when he was married to Miss Ada A. Potter, of Marengo, Iowa, a native of New York. In September, 1870, Mr. and Mrs. McCain removed to Audubon County, and bought hind as above noted, where they have not only built for themselves a good home, but have establislied a character in the com- munity which is beyond reproach. Having been among the first to locate in the north- ern part of the county, Mr. McCain has helped to foster the public schools and estab- lish the public roads, and advance the wel- fare of the county in many directions. Mr. and Mrs. McCain are the parents of five children — R. E., Mona E., Guy F., Mary A. and John Mayo. In politics Mr. McCain is a staunch Republican, and has been honored by various local offices; he has served as town- ship clerk for two terms, trustee one term, as- sessor three terms, and was elected supervisor soon after the establishment of the county seat at Audubon. Under President Hayes's administration he was appointed postmaster of Melville Center, holding this position from February 19, 1878, until February 19, 1880. fILAS REASON, one of Melville Town- ship's prominent farmers and stock- raisers, was a native of the State of Ohio, having been born in Greene County, near Xenia, January 28, 1836. He was the son of John and Elizabeth Reason, tiie father being one of Greene County's most prosper- ous farmers, of English ancestry. The early boyhood of Silas Reason was passed on the farm near Xenia, Ohio, and his first lessons were learned in the district schools. AVhen a mere lad Mr. Reason moved with his parents to a farm near Atlanta, Logan County, Illinois, where he continued to assist on the farm until about nineteen years of age. He then attended Wesleyan University, at Dela- ware, Ohio, a few months, and returning to Illinois he began the study of law at Lincoln, Illinois, under Judge Lacy. In the mean- time Mr. Reason was married October 9, 1856, to Miss Olive Ash, daughter of James and Ruth Ash, of Scotch ancestry. Mrs. Reason was born in Indiana, and vv.as brought with her parents to Illinois when a child. Mr. Reason moved to Lincoln, Logan County, Illinois, in 1800, and continueil the study of law under difficulties, lie was admitted to the bar at Springtiekl, Illinois, before the BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCUBS. 803 Supreme Court of the State, in March, 1859. He was elected mayor of Lincoln, and served five consecutive terms; after an interval of two years he was again elected mayor, and served two terms. He was elected a member of the Legislature in 1868, serving one term, and taking part in the introduction and pass- age of several important bills. Having re- tired from his legislative honors, Mr. Heason resumed the M'ork of his profession, in which he had built up a lari;e and lucrative prac- tice. He held many offices but was not an office seeker, his disposition being retiring and modest. He took a lively interest in politics, affiliating with the Democratic party. He was a candidate for circuit judge in 1877 on the Democratic ticket; the circuit was composed of eight counties, and notwithstand- ing it was strongly Republican he was defeated by a small majority. Mr. Beason was a member of the L O. O. F., and of the Knights of Honor, of Lincoln, Illinois. The pressure of business drew too heavily upon his physical strength and he was at last com- peHed to go in search of health. Having previously purchased many valuable acres of land in Audubon County, Iowa, in 1882 he retired from the practice of law, and removed with his family to the farm in Iowa, hoping to receive benefit in health by the change. He engaged in general farming and the breeding of tine live-stock, including short- horn cattle, horses, and hogs. Under his management these industries were a success, and his health was greatly improved. The farm is traversed by the east fork of tlie Nishnabotna Kiver, and the land is of supe- rior quality, well ada])ted to the growth of grain and the raising of live-stock. Mr. Beason planted many trees on his place, which serve as a protection from the heat and winds, and also add greatly to the beauty of the place. He displayed much judgment in the management of his farm, as well as great ability when acting as legal counsellor. He was cut off in the prime of life, in the midst of his daily pursuits, by accidentally falling from a loaded wagon which passed over his body and inflicted injuries from which he died in a few hours, November 9, 1884. He was a devoted husband, a kind father, always generous toward public enterprises, and his untimely death was deplored by all who knew him. He left a large estate to his wife and children. Mr. and Mrs. Beason are the parents of the following named children Omar, a graduate of Lincoln University, died December 12, 1881, much lamented, at the age of twenty-four years; Ida, a graduate of Monticello Seminary, is the wife of William S. Blair, of Aurora, Illinois; Ella, a graduate of Monticello Seminary, Godfrey, Illinois, is at home; John, who accidentally shot him- self in crossing a barbed wire fence Septem- ber 26, 1886, was a promising youth of many excellent qualities of head and heart; Lewis assists his mother on the farm; Rose and Olive are at home. Mrs. Beason, with the assistance of her son, is managing the farm of 1,700 acres, which is well stocked. She has shown much ability and skill in the care of the farm, which is one of the best im- proved in Melville Township, being furnished with all the modern conveniences and havintr o most attractive surroundings. - "S ' ^ ' t ' ^ ' "" tSAVALD J. HOUSTON was born in Waynesboro, Wayne County, Tennessee, f& February 13, 1855. When he was three years old his parents removed to Iowa, settling at Hamlin's Grove, being among the earliest settlers in the county. He is the fourth of a family of ten children, ami is a son of A. I!, and Nancy (Bridges) Houston, 804 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. botli natives of the State of Georgia, who now reside in Exira, Audubon County, Iowa. O. J. grew to manhood in Audubon County, and attended the scliools of Exira. He began liis mercantile career at the age of eighteen, entering a dry-goods store in Atlantic, Iowa, and remaining there nearly five years. Having returned to Exira, he purchased the drug stock of John Hunter, with a view of study- ing medicine; this plan was not carried out, but he took up the study of pharmacy, and continued the drug trade until 1880, when he sold the business and went to Fort Collins, intending to engage in business in that place. Not liking Colorado as well as Iowa, he re- turned to Audubon County, and formed a ]>artnership with M. N. Graves, of Atlantic, Iowa. In 1881 the firm built a business house in Audubon, and put in a stock of drugs; this partnership continued until 1885, ■when Mr. Houston boujiht the interest of his partner, and has since controlled the business alone. Mr. Houston was married May 24, 1877, to Miss Mary Dissmore, of Oakfield; she is the second daughter of Richard and Elizabeth Dissmore. Mr. and Mrs. Houston have one daughter — Lulu May. Mr. Hous- ton is a member of Exodus Lodge, No. 342, at Exira, and of Amity Chapter, No. 93, and Godfrey Commander}', No. 44. In politics he is conservative. SKANIv P. BRADLEY, dealer in live- stock, Audubon, Iowa, was born in tlie State of Illinois, in Caldwell County, in the town of Oswego, October 3, 18G2. His father, E. D. Bradley, was a proniinent mer- chant and speculator, who was born in the State of New York; he was reared in his native State, and there married Miss Julia Hallock, who was born and brought up in the same State; soon after their marriage they removed to Caldwell County, Illinois. When Frank P. was seven years old his par- ents removed to Aurora, Illinois, where he was educated in the public schools; after leaving school he taught for one term. The tide of emigration being westward, young Bradley drifted in the same direction, and in 1874 came to Audubon County, stopping at the county seat, which was then Exira. In 18 — he was elected clerk of the court of Audubon County, being nominated on the Democratic ticket; he held this ofKce for three consecutive terms, six years. During his term of office the county seat was moved from Exira to Audubon; the details of this exciting contest will be found in the general history of Audubon County. When the court was moved Mr. Bradley moved also. On retiring from office he at once engaged in the live-stock and real-estate business. He purchased a large tract of land in Guthrie County, Iowa, where he has established a cattle ranch, associating himself with A. L. Campbell, the furmer clerk of the court, and cashier of the Citizens' Bank of Au- dubon. Mr. Bradley was one of the orig- inators and stockholders of this bank, but sold his interest in the business some time ago. He now devotes considerable time to buying stock which he sells to parties for feeding, both in this county and adjoining counties. Mr. Bradley was married in 1878 to Miss Fannie Atkinson, of Exira, a daugh- ter of George Atkinson, Esq. Mr. and Mrs. Bradley are the parents of two children. Mr. Bradley began at the bottom of the lad- der, l)ut he has not remained there, having l)y hi.s own exertions acquired a large prop- erty. E. D. l^radlcy died in October, 1888; he opened the first store at (Oakfield, Audu- bon County, one of the old landmarks of the county; he had purchased land in the county niOOHAPUICAL SKETCHES. 805 as early as 1854. The motlier of our subject is still living, making her home with him. Isaac P. Hallock, Sr., the grandfather of Frank P. Bradley, was among the first set- tlers at Oakiield, and served many years as postmaster of the place. Mr. I. P. Ilallock's biogra])hy appears upon another page of this volume. fOSEPII M. EEYNOLDS is the senior member of the tirin of lleynolds & Ide, merchants at Brayton, Iowa. Messrs. Reynolds & Ide carry a general stock, and both being active business men they do a large and prosperous trade. lioth gentlemen are well and favorably known. Mr. lley- nolds was born in Orange County, New York, in the heart of the great cheese and butter region, January 4, 1852. He is the third of a family of six children of Patrick and Mary (Muden) Reynolds, who were born and reared in Ireland. The father was born in the county of Longford, and the mother in the county of Leitrem, near the Shannon River. In the fall of 1839 the parents emi- grated to America, landed in the city of New York, and at once proceeded to Orange County. Patrick Reynohls at once identi- iied himself with the old Whig party, and became a warm supporter of the same. On the organization of the Rejmblican party his sympathies were with it, and he fought in the war of the Rebellion. From Orange County the family removed to Muscatine County, Iowa, in January, 1854. For many years the father was employed by the C, R. I. & P. Railroad, and was a valued and trusty man. He died at West Liberty, Iowa, hon- ored by all who knew him. His wife is still livinir, and is now a resident of Des Moines. The boyhood days of Joseph M. ReynoMs were passed in West Liberty, where he re- ceived his education. On leaving school he accepted a clerkship for a short time; he then entered the employ of the railroad com- pany, beginning at the bottom round of the ladder. He rose to the position of passenger conductor, when he met with an accident that caused the loss of two fingers of his left hand. He then took up the study of telegraphy, and became an operator and station agent in the employ of the C, R. I. & P. R. R. Co., for a period of ten years. In 1870 he came to Brayton and opened the station, and contin- ued there until 1886. In 1887 he embarked in the mercantile trade, purchasing the stock of W. Bartlett & Son, and associating him- self with O. F. Ide, Esq. Mr. Reynolds is a thorough business man, and in connection with his mercantile interests he carries on farming and stock-raising to a considerable extent. Mr. Reynolds was united in mar- riage in 1881 to Miss Lillie Bartlett, the only daughter of Washington Bartlett, Esq., whose biography appears on another page of this volume. This union has been blessed with one child — Beatrice. Although young she is quite accomplished in music. Owing to failing health Mr. Reynolds has traveled considerably during the past two years. He is one of the active members of Audubon Lodge, No. 217, I. O. O. F. ; A 8 H I N G T O N BARTLETT, a pi'ominent citizen of the south part l^'^iJS^ of Audubon County, died at 4 a. m., May 21, 18 — , at his homestead, near Bray- ton, Iowa. His death occurred after a brief illness of only four days, in the beautiful home which his own hands had reared, at- tended b}'- his failliful wife, and surrounded by his children and grandchildren, a fitting 806 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. end for a useful and lionorable citizen and man. The funeral services were held at the residence on the 22d and were of a most solemn and impressive nature. Seats had been provided on the beautiful lawn ad- joining the parlor where the dead pioneer lay encased in a rich casket, surrounded by a bank of fragrant flowers, the tribute of friends from far and near. Wreaths, crosses, and anchors, emblems of immortality, faith and hope, spoke the thoughts of tender hearts and loving friends of the deceased. A large number of leading fanailies of this val- ley were pi-esent. There were few dry eyes among them when, after the Rev. E. S. Hill had spoken feelingly of his acquaintance of twenty odd years with the deceased, he asked the choir to sing that dear old hymn, " Nearer, My God to Thee," and explained tiiat grandpa had often asked his little five-year old grand- child, Beatrice Reynolds, to sing it for him when weary with toil or care. After the sermon tiie people took a last look at their dead friend, and six prominent citizens and pioneers, Oliver Smith, Mark Heath, Edson Herrick, Christopher Smith, J. C. Cannon, Sr., and C. H. Vail bore the deceased to the funeral cortege, and thence, followed by a long line of carriages, to the Oaklield Ceme- tery, where they laid him to rest with tender and reverent hands. Green be the turf above thee, friend of our better days, None knew thee but to love thee, nor named thee but to praise. Washington Bartlett came of illustrious blood. Tiie Bartletts trace their lineage back to Thomas Bartlett, of Mayflower fame, and his own mother, Sabrina (Hill) Bartlett, was a niece of Thomas JeflTerson, the celebrated statesman, of Virginia, in which State the subject of this sketch was born September 19, 1820. At tiie early age of eleven years Thomas Bartlett emigrated to Warren County, Indiana; there the boy grew to manhood through all the privations and hardships of pioneer days. There, too, he married Miss Margaret Brier. One child, David Milton Bartlett, a well-to-do citizen of that county and State, is still living. About the year 1852 Wash, as he was familiarly called, went to the gold flelds of California, via New Or- leans and the Isthmus, returning eiffhteen months later. He came to the then new State of Iowa in 1855, and in 1856 located on the estate where he lived so many years, respected and liked by those who knew him best. Here he married Martha E. Cuppy. Three chil- dren are tiie fruit of this union — E. G. Bart- lett, Esq., Lillie Bartlett-Reynolds, wife of J. M. Reynolds, the Brayton merchant, and H. M. Bartlett, agent of the C, R. I. & P. R. R., at Brayton. All are married, and living near the old home. Of the character of tlie dead it need only be said that he held offices of trust and honor among his fellow-men all his life. As justice of the peace, secretary of the school board, and as a member of the board of supervisors, he discharged his duty faithfully and well. With malice toward none and charity for all he lived a useful and honorable life. The world will be poorer for his going, yet richer in memories of kindly deeds and honest worth. The elements were so mixed in him that nature might stand up and say — this is a man. ■■■ ■^ ■ l .. t . ^ iOBERT C. CARPENTER is a native of the State of Kentucky, born in Bath County, near Owensville, June 12, 1824. Levi Carpenter, his father, was a native of the same State, atid a son of Michael Car- penter, of German ancestry, who was among the early settlers of Kentucky. Susan (Moore) BWaiiAPHWAL SKBTCIIES. 807 Carpenter, mother of Robert C, was born in Kentucky, and is a dangliter of Robert Moore, also a native of Kentucky. J^evi Carpenter was for many years a resident of Kentucky, but removed from Bath County to Morgan County, Indiana, and resided tliere until he went to Poweshiek County, Iowa, where he died in 1870. Ills wife survived him until 1882. Slie was the mother of eight children, four of whom are living. Robert C. Carpenter passed the greater part of his youth in Morgan County, Indiana. He received such advantages as were afforded by the common schools of tliat day. lie re- mained with his parents until his twenty-first year, when he l>egan farming in Morgan County on his own account. In 1851 he bade farewell to tlie Iloosier State and emi- grated to Poweshiek County, Iowa, which was at that time considered the frontier. There he studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1868. Since that time he has been engaged in the law and general farm- ing, which he pursued until 1878, when he removed to Audubon County. lie first set- tled in Viola Township, two miles west of the farm whicli he now owns, lie remained there two years, and at the end of that time he moved to his present farm on section 15. lie has eighty acres of as choice bind as Au- dubon County affords. The place is well im- proved and is one of the neatest little farms in that part of the county. In 1846 Mr. Carpenter was united in marriage to Miss Mahala Thurman, a second cousin to Allen Thurman, of Ohio. Mrs. Carpenter was born in Highland County, Ohio, December 22, 1822, and removed with her parents to Mor- gan County, Indiana, when a young girl. Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter have had born to them nine children — Frank M., John C, Levi T., Mary, wife of Ilarlin Griffen; Rob- ert M., Malissa Ann, Sarah C, Anderson C. and Dora. Mr. Carpenter has served as jus- tice of the peace over thirty years, and has held many other township offices, always ac- quitting himself honorably and with much credit. He has also served as county super- visor for four years. Politically he gives his undivided support to the issues of the Demo- cratic party. He is a member of La Fayette Lodge, No. 52, A. F. & A. M. He is also notary public. ,«'t^4„J^V... fOIIN C. PON WELL, retired farmer of Viola Township, now a resident of Au- dubon, Iowa, was born in Highland County, Ohio, near Hillsborough, November 16, 1842. He is a son of Nathaniel and Charity (Lowman) Bonwell. The father was boi-n in Westmoreland County, Viro-inia, in 1792, but passed most of his youth in Ken- tucky, whither his parents removed when he was a child. He removed to Ohio and was there married, and settled in Iligldand County. There he carried on farming until his death, which occurred in 1865. His wife was a native of Pennsylvania. Late in life siie came to Audubon County, where her death occurred in 1881. She was in her seventy-second year. Arthur Conweli, grand- father of our subject, was a native of Scot- land. He emigrated to America and took part in the war of 1812. He removed from Virginia to Kentucky in 1797, and at one time owned a number of slaves, whom he afterward set free. John C. Ron well was reared in his native county, receiving a common-school education and acquiring a knowledge of all the details of practical farming. At tiie age of nineteen years he left the plow and volunteered in the defense of his country. He enlisted in the Si.xtieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Company F, and 808 UISTORT OF AUDUBON COtTNTT. was assigned to the Army of the Potomac. He participated in several battles and skir- mishes, the most noted being the second bat- tle of Bull Run. After this battle he was taken prisoner and held for three days, when he way paroled, sent to Annapolis, thence to Baltimore, and thence to Chicago, where he was discharged in December, 1863. In Au- gust, 1864, Mr. Bonwell re-enlisted in the One Hundred and Seventy-fifth Ohio, and was sent to Camp Deiiison, near Cincinnati. He remained there two months, and from that time until June, 1865, he was guarding bridges and railroads in Tennessee and Ken- tucky. He was honorably discharged in June, 1865, and tlien returned to Highland County, Ohio. lie then started a store in Lebanon, Ohio, which he managed three years. During this time he was married to Miss Mary E. Miller, the oldest daughter of Jacob and Eliza Miller. In the fall of 1869 Mr. Bonwell removed with his family to Marion County, Iowa, and during the first winter taugiit school at Wheeling. The fol- lowing summer he removed to the town of Monroe, and there he dealt fb real estate and taught school. In 1874 he purchased an in- terest in the First National Bank of Monroe, and was book-keeper for that institution for some time. Disposing of his interest in the bank, ho went to Exira, Audubon County, Iowa, in 1875, when he engaged in the drug trade. Selling out this business, he bought 400 acres of land in Viola Township, which he has improved by erecting a substantial residence and good buildings for stock and grain. Mr. Bonwell devotes his time to feeding and raising hogs and cattle, in which he has been very successful. He has added to his farm until it now contains 720 acres, in a high state of cultivation. In the spring of 1880 he removed his family to the town of Audubon, in order to give his children better educational advantages. Mr. and Mrs. Bonwell have three daughters — Pauline V., Gertrude C. and Leora May. Mr. Bonwell has served several terms as justice of the peace in Viola Township. In politics he is a staunch Republican, taking an active in- terest in the party, often serving as a dele- gate to county, judicial, congressional and State conventions. Mr. Bonwell is a mem- ber of Veritas Lodge, No. 392, A. F. & A. M., and of Amity Chapter, No. 93, R. A. M. He is a member of Allison Post, G. A. R., and of the Red Men. He commenced life on a small capital, but by industry, good judg- ment and careful investments he has accumu- lated a large estate. 1=1 »i x « 3 t ' S * 2 '" ' " fOIIN J. HUTCHINSON, a farmer and stock-raiser of Douglas Township, was born in Clinton County, Ohio, near the town of Harveysburg, October 3, 1836. He is a son of Benjamin and Frances (Rankin) Hutchinson, the father being a native of Ireland, and the motlier of Virginia. Ben- jamin Hutchinson emigrated from the Emerald Isle at the early age of sixteen years, his father being a s?ilor. He married and settled in Clinton Conntj', Ohio, where he died in 1862. His wife died in 1877; she was the mother of si.\ children, of whom Joiin J. was the fourth. He was reared to farm life in his native county, receiving the advantage of a common-school education. He was married to Eliza A. Mendenhall, the fourth child of Nathan and Mary (Beech) Mendenhall. Mrs. Hutchinson's grandfather was also a Nathan Mendenhall, who was a native of North Carolina. Her grandfather on her mother's side was Benjamin Beech, a native of Connecticut; the Beeches were of Scotch ancestry, and early settlers of Con- BIOGRAPUIGAL SKUTCnES. 809 iiecticiit. After his marriage, John J. Iluteliiusoii settled on a farm in Clinton Connty, Ohio, and resided there until his removal to Randolph County, Indiana; there he spent three years, and then emigrated to Guthrie Connty, Iowa. He afterward re- moved to Dallas County, Iowa, and remained there eight years. At the expiration of that time, in 1877, he came to Audubon County, and settled on his present farm. He has 120 acres of choice land, which he has brought to a high state of cultivation; lie has a good residence, attractively situated upon an ele- vated plain, affording a fine view of the sur- rounding country. Mr. Hutchinson has carried on general fanning, his live-stock being of especially good grades. He and his wife have no children. Politically he is an ardent Republican, often acting as a delegate to the county conventions. He took a part in the famous Morgan's raid in Ohio. He began life without means, but by industry and wise management he has accumulated a considerable property. Mr. Hutchinson en- joys the esteem of his neighbors, and is counted one of the reliable citizens of Dong- las Township. jNTHONY N. DETWILEIl, of Lincoln Township, is assured of his success in life in being a descendant of German ancestors, on both his father's and mother's side. He was born in Mifflin County, Penn- sylvania, near the village of Allensville, Janu- ary 26, 1840. He is the second son of Christian and Caroline (Ham) Detwiler, natives of Pennsylvania. The father was a gunsmith by trade, which he followed for many years. In 1854 he removed his family to Johnson County, Iowa, and settled on a farm near Iowa City, where he lived the remainder of his days. He died in his sixty -eighth year, and his wife is still livintr, making her home with her daughter, Mrs. J. M. Gibson, of Lincoln Township, Audubon County. An- thony N. Detwiler passed his youth in John- son County, Iowa, receiving his education in the common schools. He taught one term, and in August, 1861, he entered the army for the defense of his nation's flao-, enlist- ing in Company II, Second Iowa Volunteer Cavalry. He was sent to Davenport, Iowa, thence to St. Louis, thence to Bird's Point, opposite Cairo, Illinois, and thence south to Island No. 10. Afterward he went to New Madrid, and thence across the country into Tennessee, where he joined the forces return- ing from Columbus. He was wounded in a battle M'ith buckshot, and was disabled for a few days. He also took part in the battle of luka, and was taken prisoner in the battle of Nashville, Tennessee, and was held for three months at Jackson, ]\Iississippi, where he was handled pretty roughly by his captors. After his release he returned to his regiment, and soon after the news of General Lee's surrender he was ordered to Selma, Alabama, where he was mustered out and sent to Davenport, Iowa; there he received his final discharge and pay, having served his country faithfully for four years and two months. At the time of his discharge he ranked as Quartermaster-Sergeant. Returning to John- son County, Iowa, he became an honest tiller of the soil, renting lands until he was able to buy a farm of his own. As a farmer he was quite successful, and carried on the busi- ness extensively until 1886, when he sold his farm in Johnson County, and removed to Audubon Connty. After looking over tho connty he bought 160 acres on section 35, which is beautifully situated and of a very superior soil. It is drained by the Nishna^ botna River, is well fenced and most of the 810 HISTORY OF AUDUBON €OUNTT. land is seeded down to grass. In 1886 Mr. Detwiler built a substantial residence, which is surrounded by a fiue grove and very at- tractive in appearance. In 1870 be was married to Miss Nancy J. Shaffer, daughter of David and Agnes (Miller) Shaffer. She was born and reared in Indiana, and was living with her sister in Johnson County at the time of her marriage. The result of this union lias been six children — Adda, Edna, Carrie, Dora, Mollie and Christian A. Mr. Detwiler is one of the active members of Allison Post, G. A. R. In politics he is a staunch Republican, taking an active interest in the party and its successes. He is a man of genial disposition, of public spirit, and has the confidence and respect of all who know him. [AMUEL M. GARDNER, was burn in Hancock County, Maine, June 8, 1861, and is the son of J. S. and Lydia F. (Appleton) Gardner, also natives of the State of Maine. He is the eleventh child of a family of sixteen, and remained in his native place until his nineteenth year. He attended the public schools and was graduated from the Higli Scliool. On first coming to Iowa he located at Cedar Riipids, and engaged in the carpenter's trade, which he had learned from his father while he was yet at home. He remained in Cedar Rapids three years, and then engaged witli Fairbanks, Moss & Company, in the construction of windmills and tanks. He remained with this firm, at work on the Chicago, Milwaukee ct St. Paul Railroad, for two years. In 1881, December 6, Mr. Gardner was married to Miss Pina L. Patterson, daughter of Robert II. and Laura L. (Nye) Patterson. Mrs. Gardner was born at Pine Mills, Muscatine County, Iowa, Jan- uary 10, 1859. Three children have been born of this marriage — Olive Elizabeth, Willis Miles and Alice Appleton. Immediately after their wedding Mr. and Mrs. Gardner came to Audubon County, and settled on a farm of 160 acres of partially improved land, which they made their home for two years. At the expiration of that time they returned to Muscatine County, and spent the summer there; then they came back to Audubon County, where they have since made their home. Mr. Gardner has added to his first purchase of land 240 acres, making 400 acres in all, lying in sections 1, 2 and 3, Greeley Township. He has made many valuable improvements, and has made a decided success in the business, although he knew nothino: about it when he settled on the farm. Politically he is a staunch Republi- can, taking an active interest in the welfare of the party. He has been twice elected del- egate to the State convention, and has acted as chairman of the Republican Township committee. Mr. Gardner and family are worthy people, and enjoy the respect of the citizens of the community in which tliey live. g - l i' t - S-- fRANK P. HUFFMAN has been identi- fied with the history of Audulwn County since 1880. He was born in Clinton County, Ohio, near Wilmington, July 12, 1853, and is the youngest of eight children, four boys and four girls, all of whom are living. His father, William Ilufi'man, was born in the State of Virginia, and is a son of Caleb Huffman. The mother of Frank P. was Elizabetii (Lucas) ilufi'man, a native of Ohio. Her parents were Caleb and Mary E. (Price) Lucas, who removed from Virginia to Ohio at an early day. William Huffman BIOGRAPHICAL SKBTCUEH. 811 was a blacksmith by trade, and in later years turned his attention to agriculture. lie re- moved from liis native State to Clinton County, Oliio, where he married and settled permanently; his death took place in April, 1862. His wife also died on the old home- stead in August, 1875. Frank P. Huffman passed his youth and school-days in his na- tive , county. When he became of age he was married, in 1874, to Ella B. Lemar, a daughter of Charles and Adaliue (Lemar) Lemar, of Clinton County, Ohio, and settled on the old homestead, which he farmed until 1880. He then removed his family to Au- dubon County, Iowa, locating; upon his present farm; it consists of eighty acres, wliicli was wild prairie land, and unimproved. Mr. Ilutfman has spent much time and labor in developing this place, and has been well rewarded, as everything is in good shape. Four children have been born to Mr. Huff- man and wife — Minnie, Joseph M., Zelta V. and James Garfield. The mother passed from this life to her eternal rest in October, 1884. Mr. Huffman has represented his township as trustee, and is the present in- cumbent of the office. He takes an active interest in the welfare of the Democratic party, and often acts as delegate to judicial and county conventions. fsf ILLIAM JOHNSTON, a successful I farmer and stock-raiser of Lincoln l*"^)^ Township, was born in Morrow County, near Mount Gilead, Ohio, August 13, 1848. He is the third son of John and Mary Louisa (Loy) Johnston, also natives of Ohio. The father was descended from an Irish family, and the mother from a (Torman family. In 1861 John Johnston removed with his family to Louisa Cpunty, and settled 61 on a farm; he had formerly been a carpenter, but from the time he came to Iowa until his death, which occurred in 1874, he followed farming. Ilis wife died the previous year, 1873, in her fifty-eighth year. William Johnston passed his youth in Louisa County, Iowa, attending the common schools; later he pursued his studies at Knox College, Galesburg, Illinois. After leaving school he entered the employ of Cole Brothers, of Mount Pleasant, Iowa, and engaged in selling pumps for si.x years; on account of failing health he was compelled to retire from the business. In the spring of 1876 he came to Audubon County, Iowa, and located on a farm in section 20, Lincoln Township, the first place opened up on the west side of the township. The land was wild, and there were only thirteen voters in the township; in 1888 248 votes were cast in Lincoln Town- ship. Mr. Johnston broke out eighty acres of land, and erected a house for a dwelliiH'; it was a truly pioneer life, which is rapidly becoming a circumstance impossible, as there will soon be no new land to settle. Mr. Johnston has added from time to time until his farm now contains 240 acres, most of which he lias brought to a high state of cul- tivation. At the time of his coming to the county there was no church building in Lin- coln Townshij), and no organized religious societies; at the present time there are five organizations, and two church buildings. Of the thirteen voters before mentioned, six were Democrats and seven liepublicans. Mr. Johnston has been very successful in raising hogs; he feeds about 100 head armu- ally, principally of the Poland-China breed. In 1868 he was married to Miss Emma Ilardesty, a daughter of Meredith llardesty; she was born in Ohio, but removed to Iowa with her parents when she was a child. Nine children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. 813 niSTOUY OF AUDUBON COUIHI'T. Johnston^ — Blanche, James Owen, Maud L., Frank, Bnrt, Mamie, Arthur, Fred, and Ray, wlio died in infancy. Mr. Johnston has been the choice of tlie people for almost every office in the township, and is the present as- sessor. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, and of the T. O. E. M. Folitically he is a staunch Democrat. lie has done much toward the development of tlie county, from every point of view. At the time he came to the county there was not a grove in Lincoln Township; one of the first things he did was to plant a grove, which has grown to tlie proportions adequate for holding Fourth of July picnics and othtr out-door festivities. [ILLIAM J. NEWELL, an active and 1- w \i' successful farmer of Lincoln Town- "Sy^ ship, was born in Canada, near the city of Uamilton, May 13, 1863. He is the oldest son of si.x children of William P. and Sophia (Davidson) Newell. The father was born in Ireland in 1881, and the mother is a native of Canada, in which country she lived at the time of her marriage. They con- tinued to reside in that country, William P. carrying on the shoemaker's trade for many years; he afterward engaged in farming, and iu 1881 the family removed to the United States, and settled in Audubon County, Iowa, on a farm of 120 acres. William P. Newell was an enterprising and prosperous farmer up to the time of his death, which occurred February 12, 1889. His wife died April 23, 1889. They were the parents of nine chil- dren, six of whom are living — Louisa J., wife of John Shinners; Carrie A., wife of L. M. Estes; William J., Edward S., Alice M. and Charles 11. George, May, and one child unnamed died in infancy. William J. New- ell, the subject of this notice, passed his youth in the country of his birth, where he received his education in the common schools. He removed with his parents to Iowa, and remained under the parental roof until he was twenty-two years old, when he began farming and stock-raising on his own account. He was married in 1885 to Miss Jessie E. Somers, the third daughter of William L. and Isabelle Somers, of Yermont. One (jhild, a son, has been born of this marriage; his name is George. Mr. Newell moved to his present farm in 1885; it contains eighty acres of good land, which has been placed under cultivation and improved -y Mr. New- ell. He has been very successful in raising and feeding stock, for the past three years shipping one car-load of cattle annually be- sides raising a large number oi hogs. In politics he affiliates with the Republican party. •" "| ' S"? ' ^ »— ^ANS PETER HANSEN, a prosperous and intelligent Dane, residing in Gray, Iowa, was born in the city of Copen- hagen, Denmaik, November 25, 1857. He is the oldest of four children, two sons and two daughters, his parents being Christieu and Anna C. (Anderson) Hansen, who are still living in Copenhagen, the father being a mechanic by trade. Hans Peter Hansen re- ceived a "rood common-school education in his native country, and then went to learn the trade of an engineer, serving two years. Desirous of seeing the new world he set sail in 1881, and after a voyage of thirty- two days he landed in the city of New York. He continued his journey to Minnesota, stopping at Albert Lea five months. On coming to Gray he entered the employ of Mr. George Gray as engineer in his elevator, a position he still holds. In February, 1888, Mr. Han- sen made a visit to his native land, remain- BWORAPHICAL SKETCHES. 813 ins amons the scenes of bis childliood four inontlis. Returning to Gray he resumed his position as stationary engineer. In June, 1889, lie was married to Miss Martha Jacobs, a native of Denmark, wlio came to America in 1888. He is now living in Gray in a comfortable home, which he owns. He also owns other property in tlie village, which he rents. Mr. Hansen is an industrious citizen, and by perseverance and economy he has ac- cumulated some property. He began with- out capital, except his pluck and energy and determination to succeed, and we anticipate for him a prosperous future. lEORGE J. McLACHLTN has been a resident of Audubon County, Iowa, since 1887. He was born in Caledonia County, Vermont, May 7, 1848, and is a son of James and Alinira (Varnum) McLaehlin. The father, a son of John McLaehlin, was born in Vermont in 1818; he is a farmer by occupation, and still lives in Vermont. His father was born in Scotland. The mother of George J. was born in Vermont; she is living, and also her four children, named as follows — "William V., George J., Charles F. and Merritt H. George J. was reared to the life of a farmer. He received his early edu- cation in the common school, and later he entered the Caledonia Academy, pursuing his studies there for three years. He remained with his parents nntil iiis twenty-first year, when, like so many other young men, he was caught in the tide of emigration, and drifted westward. In the spring of 1887 he removed to Audubon County, and spent the hrst summer working for Mr. (icorge Gray on his farm. He then rented a farm of W. G. Cameron for one year, and in the mean- time he bought eighty acres of wild land in Lincoln Township, which he broke ont and began to improve. Four years later he sold this farm, and removed to a farm of 160 acres which he had purchased in partnership with his brother. They still own the place, which they have placed under good cultivation, and to which they have added many improve- ments. The residence, which is a neat two- story frame building, was erected in 1880, and is pleasantly situated on a high and sightly spot. Mr. McLaehlin was married in 1871 to Miss Jane L. Dewey, of Caledonia County, Vermont. She is the oldest daugh- ter of Bela S. and Lavinia (Carter) Dewe}', natives of the State of New Hampshire, now residing in Caledonia County, Vermont. Of their two children Mrs. McLaehlin is the only one surviving. Mr. and Mrs. McLaeh- lin are the parents of three children — Glenn D., Harvey C. and Elsie J. Mr. McLaehlin has been engaged in stock-feeding and rais- ing, shipping from three to five car loads annually. He is enterprising, industrious, and honorable in all his dealings, and has the respect and confidence of all who know him. •^■S- I >T. ? ...~ |»1|ILT0N D. TAYLOR, breeder of ■' /,)/i1t Norman horses. Mr. Taylor's farm "^^^ is located one and one-half miles west of the town of Gray, in Lincoln Township. He was reared upon a farm, and Iiis long ex- perience in handling live-stock lias well fitted him for his present occui>ation. His parents were caught in an early tide of emigration, and did not settle until they reached Otto County, Nebraska, where Milton D. was born in October, 1859. The country was new, and the privations endured so great tiiat they packed their effects and went back to Wash- ington Connty, Iowa. They are both natives of Venango County, I'ennsylvania, and on 814 IIISTOUY OF AUDUBON COUNT }'. their way west spent one year in Eock Island County, Illinois, resuming the journey to Kebraslia the following spring. On their re- turn to Washington County, Iowa, Milton D. was a mere lad. The father occupied himself with farming and stock-raising, and is still engaged in this business. There our subject grew to manhood, and received- his education in the common schools; he had nnnsnal opportunities of perfecting himself in his chosen calling, being under the tuition of his father. In the fall of 1879 Mr. Taylor came Audubon County, and bought eighty acres to of land in section 11, which he broke out and placed under cultivation. The following fall he added forty acres to the farm. He re- mained upon his farm for two years, and then returned to AVashington County. In the fall of 1887 he came on his present farm, and be- gan placing upon it permanent improvements. In February, 1888, he brought to this coun- try the celebrated Norman horse, Splendid, imported directly from France. In the French record botik this horse is numbered 18,285, and in the American book it is num- bered 9,829, VoK V. Splendid is a beauti- ful steel gray, four years old. Mr. Taylor is deserving of much credit for the introduction of pure blooded horses into Audubon County. Enterprise of this kind advances the whole interests of the county, and is one of the strong factors of progress. IP^ENJAMIN C. BROOKFIELD, a prom- inent farmer and dealer in real estate, of Lincoln Township, is a native of the State of Michigan, born in Berrien County, near Niles, July 19, 1842. He is the youngest of five children of Noali and Mary (Collins) Erookfield, natives of Canada. The father died when Benjamin C. was seven years old. At the early age of fifteen years the tide of emigration carried him to Iowa. He settled in Jackson County and remained there until he enlisted in 1861 in the Second Iowa Vol- unteer Infantry, Company L, giving his aid to perpetuate this nation. He was sent to St. Paul, Minnesota, and was mustered out of the service in 1862. Returning from the army, he engaged in the milling business in Jackson County, but as this proved unprofit- al>le he abandoned it and entered the employ of Henry & Company as a collector. After two YP'irs of service to this firm he secured a position on the Burlington & Missouri Rail- road, grading and preparing road bed through Iowa and other States, his services being re- tained by the company for a period of nearly twenty years. Alter leaving the railroad company he came to Iowa, and soon after rented a farm in Audubon County which be- longed to George Gray. In later years he bouglit this land, and from time to time he has added to it, and now owns a fine tract of 280 acres, which he has improved and brought to a high state of cultivation. He has erected a good, comfortable residence, barns and cribs for stock and grain, and many other con- veniences. The farm is well stocked witii hofs and cattle, both of which he handles in considerable numbers. In connection with his farm and live-stock interests he buys and sells real estate for eastern parties, and loans money in different parts of the State. In 1870 Mr. Brookfield was married to Miss Rose Lowry,of Dowagiac, Michigan, in which State she was born and reared to womanhood. Her father, Thomas Lowry, was an old resi- dent of Michigan, and a citizen held in high esteem. Mr. and Mrs. Brookfield are the parents of four children — Maud, Flora, Ben- jamin M. and Lois. Mr. Brookfield lias served his township as trustee with credit to himself and the satisfaction of his party. BIOOBAPUICAL SKETCHES. 815 Politically lie affiliates with the Republican party. He is an active member of the Knights of Pythias, No. 166. fRANK R. McLaughlin, of Lincoln Township, is one of the successful farm- ers I if Audubon County. He was born in Lickint; County, Ohio, August 27, 1853. His father, Charles McLaughlin, a descend- ant of a Scotch family, was born and reared in the State of Ohio, and followed the occu- pation of a farmer the greater part of his life. Rachel A. (Covil) McLaughlin, the mother of Frank li., was a daughter of Joseph Covil, Esq. Charles McLaughlin and wife had born to them eight children, five of whom are living. The mother is deceased, but the father still survives. When Frank R. was about eight years of age his parents removed to Marshall County, Illinois. There he grew to manhood, receiving the advantages of a common-school education and a good training; in asfricnltural pursuits. At the age of twenty years he be- gan working on a farm by the month, follow- ing this for three years. Being convinced that he could make money more rapidly by farming on his own account, he rented land in Livingston County, Illinois, and the first year suft'ered the disaster of being drowned out. He then returned to Marshall County, and worked on a farm (tne year. He then bought land in Marshall County, which ho cultivated five years. At the end of this time he sold out and entered a farmiiig-impleinent store, where he clerked until 1885. Collect- ing his effects, he removed to Audubon County, Iowa, and located on his present farm, which he bought after renting it for four years. The place was then known as the Whipple farm. It contains 240 acres, and is well stockeil and well improved. Mr. McLaughlin was married in 1885 to Miss Cora Evans, of Kno.\ County, Illinois, a daughter of Oliver Evans, who died when she was si.\ years of age, near Oskaloosa, Ma- liaska County, Iowa, in 1868. They are the parentsof two children — Charles E. and Frank Ray. Mr. McLaughlin is a member of Utopia Lodge, No. 161, I. O. O F., at Gray. fRANK P. WISEMAN, one of the early settlers of Lincoln Township, was born ^ in Stark County, Ohio, July 22, 1853. He is a son of William and Mary (Shilling) Wiseman, natives of the State of Ohio. The father followed the trade of a blacksmith for twenty-five years, and died in his native State. The mother removed to Iowa and died in Crawford County. She was the daugh- ter of James Shilling, and tne mother of nine children, three sons and six daughters. The grandfather of Frank P. was George Wise- man, of German descent, a native of Mary- land, and a soldier in the war of 1812. Frank P. Wiseman resided in his native county until his twenty-third year, when he left the farm which had been a home to him in his childhood and early manhood. He first worked at the carpenter's trade, and afterward learned tlie milling business. In January, 1876, caught in the tide of western emigration, he came to Iowa and stopped in Crawford County. He remained there four years, and at the end of that time he removed to Audubon County and settled on his present farm. The place contains 120 acres, which is well improved, with good buildings, and in a high state of cultivation. In 1878 Mr. Wiseman was mar- ried to Susie Halford, of Crawford County, a daughter of James and Mary C. Halford. One son has been born of this marriaire — • Frederick P. Mr. AViseman is a member of 816 BISTORT OF AUDUBON COUNTY. the lodge, No. 450, A. F. & A. M., at Man- ning, Iowa. He is also a memher of the A. O. U. AV. In politics he gives his undivided and hearty support to the Kepublican party. He and his wife are devoted members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mrs. Wiseman's father served as a soldier in the late war, and one of her brothers was a member of the One Hundred and Seventh Ohio regiment. ~> "i^ - 5 '« S ' j) ' " " PSIRAM Z. WEBSTER, an earlj settler and most worthy resident of Douglas Township, was born in Madison County, Illinois, near Alton, March 1, 1828. Zenas W^ebster, his father, was a well-to-do farmer; and a native of Woodstock County, Vermont. He married Tarnel Palmer, a native of Ver- mont, and at an early day removed to Illinois, settling in Madison County, where he opened and improved a farm. He died about the year 1840, wiien Hiram was a lad of twelve years. After the death of his father our sub- ject remained with his mother until he was twenty-three years of age. He was then married to Mary A. McGuire, of Warren County, Illinois. Soon after his marriage Mr. Webster removed to Ogle County, Illi- nois, and there resided eight years, following the occupation of a farmer. From Ogle County he went to Wood County, Illinois, and there made his home for several years. He tlien removed with his family to Marion County, and bought a farm seven miles north of Fella; there he carried on farming and stock-raising on a large scale, residing there twenty years. Disposing of his farm in 1870, he came to Audubon County, purchasing a new farm in section 3, Douglas Township; it contains 320 acres, drained by the middle branch of the Nishnabutna liiver, ami is ad- mirably adapted to the raising of grains or for grazing purposes. When Mr. Webster settled there his nearest postofHce was Exira, where mail was received once a week. The products of the farm were hauled to Atlantic, oats selling for 9 cents per bushel, and corn for 14 cents; coal sold for $6.50 per ton, a disproportion so great, that it is difficult to see how farmers managed to Jceep warm during the long, cold winters. Not finding a ready sale for his grain, Mr. Webster turned his attention to feeding stock, thus consuming all of his produce upon his farm. This he found much more profitable; of late years he has directed his attention to breed- ing draft horses, of the Clydesdale stock ; he has formed a partnership with John Cameren, and they also breed fine grades of mules. This Mr. Webster does in connection with his farming and feeding. He ships annually from one to three car-loads of stock. Mr. and Mrs. Webster are the parents of seven children — Hamilton C, Elizabeth A., wife of Monroe Johnston; William D., Edith, wife of Albert Green; Harry, Carrie and Edna. For several years Mr. Webster has served as road supervisor; he has been an active Re- publican since the organization of the party. He commenced his career without means, but by honesty and industry he accumulated a good property for his declining years. He and his wife endured many hardships and privations incident to the settling of a new country, and are to-day enjoying their reward in peace and plenty, and the comforts of a modern civilization. — ,t • : " : • > • " — ILLIAM L. SWAN EY has been identified with the interests of Au- dubon County sitice 1873. Unlike many of the residents of the Ilawkeye State, he has the honor to have been born within BIOQRAPUIGAL SKETCHES. 817 liur Ijorders, and February 21, 1847, is the date of Ills birth, and Jackson County, near Preston, is tiie place. He is the son of Da- vid and Sidney (Latta) Swaney, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio respectively. They were married in Ohio, and soon after removed to Michigan and settled in Ann Arbor; thence they went to Jackson County, Iowa, in ilay, 1839, being among the pioneers of the county. David Swaney was a son of James Swaney, a native of Ireland, who was a soldier in the British army. David died in Jackson County, Iowa, in 1883, in his seventy-fifth year. The mother of our sub- ject was born in 1818, and reared eight children, four sons and four daughters — Nancy J., wife of D. Baldwin; James, An- geline, wife of George Lucas; Mary A., wife of William Mills; William L., the subject of this sketcli; Medora, wife of William Rut- ledge; Milton L. and Alonzo. William L. passed his boyhood in his native county, re- ceiving a common-school education; he re- mained with his parents until his twenty-tirst year, when he took up the responsibilities of life and began to carve out h's own fortune. In the summer of 1873 became to Audubon County and purchased eighty acres of wild prairie land. The following spring he moved liis family to the new home, where they bravely faced many of the privations incident to pioneer life. Mr. Swaney has put all the improvements upon the place, and has added from time to time to his first purchase, until he now owns 400 acres in one l)ody. A part of the farm is seeded down to pasture and the balance is under cultivation. Mr. Swa ney pays special attention to feeding live- stock, shipping large numbers annually; he has been quite successful in this department of agriculture. In 1873, February 12, oc- curred the marriage of William h. Swaney and Arminda Wilson, a native of the State of New York, and a daughter of A. Wilson, Esq., who died in this county. Her mother's maiden name was Bacon; she is still living. Mr. and Mrs. Swaney have had born to them si.x children — David L., Ada M., Wil- son Bacon, Milton, Minerva G. and Albert J. Mr. Swaney has served as justice of the peace since coming to the county, except one year; he has also represented his township as trustee and as a member of tiie school board and as assessor, to the entire satis- faction of the public. He is a member of Veritas Lodge, No. 392, A. F. & A. M., having been made a Mason in Jackson County, Iowa. In State and National affairs he support.s the issues of t'le Democratic party, but in local matters he votes for the man best fitted for the office in his estima- tion. He commenced life with no capital excepting that with which nature endowed him, pluck, energy and a determination to succeed; that he has succeeded is demon- strated when one takes a look at his broad acres in a high state of cultivation, and all the modern improvements upon his farm. Everything is arranged for comfort and con- venience, and the air of thrift and prosperity about Mr. Swaney's farm places him in the front ranks of Audubon County's agricult- urists. < ""^ l - h 'l' l *"" ?f(ILLIAM G. CAMERON, who was , , one of the first settlers in Cameron l*^&ri[ Township, has become a leading agri- culturist and stock-raiser in that part of the county. He settled upon his home farm in 1878, removing from the State of Vermont, in which lie was born in September, 183G. His father, a most thorough business man, and the owner of a large property, was John Cameron, a descendant of Puritan stock. His 818 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. mother was Jane Gray, a native of Vermont, and a most estimable woman, the mother of several children, of whom William G. is the oldest. His early childhood and school days were passed in his native county. Ilis edu- cation was received in the common schools, and his father bein^ an extensive farmer and stock-raiser, lie had unusual facilities for ac- quiring a knowledge of the management and handling of stock. In 1863 William G. Cameron took a trip to California, and while there engaged in various pursuits, prospecting some for gold. Keturning to Bureau County, Illinois, he carried on farming, and traded in live-stock for a time. He then returned to his native State, Vermont, but as the tide of emigration drifted westward he made np his mind to return, and as several of his friends had settled in Audubon County, Iowa, he settled there also. His first purchase was 640 acres of land on section 21, Cameron Township, which was at that time open prai- rie. He began the task of breaking out the new farm, fencing it, and stocking it with cattle and hogs. In this enterprise he has been very successful, and as his means in- creased he has added to his first purchase of land until he now owns 1,440 acres; the land is not hilly, but is undulating, with an occa- sional gentle roll. All is enclosed with a good substantial fence, 200 acres being de- voted to raising corn, and the balance being seeded down to grass. In 1886 Mr. Cameron erected his large barn; when the framework was up ready to be enclosed it was struck by a cyclone and blown to the ground. The wreck was cleared away, and it was immedi- ately rebuilt. It is one of the largest barns in the western part of the State, and every- thing is arranged with an eye to convenience, as well as for the protection and comfort of the live-stock. The farm is well stocked with high-grade cattle, hogs and horses; every de- partment of the farm has the direct and care- ful supervision of Mr. Cameron. In 1876 Mr. Cameron was united in marriage to Miss Eliza Crief, of Bureau County. Illinois, a most excellent person, and the possessor of many womanly qualities; she was born in Pennsylvania, and removed to Illinois with her parents in her girlhood. Politically Mr. Cameron is a man of pronounced views, and in matters pertaining to the State and Na- tional affairs he affiliates with the Republican party. — "♦♦' | « ;n; ' |" «" — SICHARD SIBSON, an agriculturist of Viola Township, was born in Cumber- land, England, May 31, 1840. He is a son of William and Sarah (Brown) Sibson, who remained in their native land. He was the fourth of a family of six children, and was reared in England. As soon as he was large enough he was, like all boys in mining towns, put to work in the mines at the age of eight years, and passed from one position to another as he iiicreased in size, and knew no otlier life than this drudging one until he had arrived at man's estate. At the age of twenty-five years, in the year 1865, he emi- grated to the United States, landing in the city of New York. He proceeded at once to the coal mines of Pennsylvania, and resumed work in the mines of Mercer County. One year afterward he went to Allegheny County, and worked in the mines for three years. Wishing to secure himself a home he came west, traveling through Illinois, and finally, in 1871, he settled in Polk County, Iowa, and began farming, meeting with success in his new enterprise, lie was also engaged in coal mining at Mitchellville, Iowa. After- ward lie came to Audubon County, and pur- chased a tract of new land, which lie at once BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 819 began to improve; he lias since made addi- tions to this purchase until he now owns 370 acres. It is a beautiful farm, near the north- ern borders of the county, adjacent to the Carroll County line. The residence is a fine commodious house, standing on an eminence tliat commands a view of the surrounding country. The owner's good taste is shown in the ornamental trees and large lawn, and the entire farm is well arranged, and is kept in lirst-class order. Mr. Sibson has been a successful breeder and grower of high-bred stock, and has given this branch of farming special attention. lie has fed as many as 300 head of hogs annually, and raises large numbers of cattle, and Norman and Clydes- dale horses. Mr. Sibson was married in his twenty-eighth year to Miss Elizabeth Robert- son, her parents being of Scotch ancestry. They have a family of four children — Walter A¥., William, Isabel and Richard. Though Mr. Sibson is a Republican he is considered a liberal, conservative citizen. He is a good business man, and stands high in the estima- tion of all who know him. , ilLLIAM J. LANCELOT, of the firm Wjj'mh of Lancelot & Rees, merchants. Gray, l^-SS&rj Iowa, is a native of England, born in the county of Cornwall, December 4, 1849. He is the second of a family of six children of William II. aid Isabelle H. (Trucott) Lancelot, who still reside in the old country, well preserved in mind and body. The father was for many years a sea captain on the waters of the Atlantic. He is now employed in the government service at Falmouth, England. William J. was educated in his native country in a select school. At the early age of eighteen years the borders of his native country had grown too narrow for his youthful and sanguine spirits, so he emi- grated to America, landing in the city of New York. Thence he continued his jour- ney to Clayton County, Iowa, and there en- gaged in farming. Before leaving England he had served an apprenticeship as a butcher, and followed the business in America. In 1876 Mr. Lancelot removed to Cameron Cen- ter, Audubon County, and engaged in farm- ing until 1885, when he moved to Ross, Iowa, and there associated himself in the grocery business with Frank Gluason, of Au- dubon. He afterward sold out at Ross and purchased a stock of goods of W. P. Johnson & Company, of Gray, taking F. P. Rees into partnership. The tirm of Lancelot & Rees was established in 1887, and by strict atten- tion to business and fair dealing they have won a large share of patronage. Mr. Lance- lot was instrumental in establishing the post- office at Thompson, a place well known by all the old settlers, which was discontinued when the town of Audubon was started. While in Ross he succeeded L. D. Thomas as post- master, and held the office until his removal to Gray. April 10, 1889, Mr. Lancelot re- ceived his appointment as postmaster of Gray, under President Harrison. Mr. Lance- lot is correspondent for the Daily Register, Des Moines, and also for the county papers. He has held several of the township offices, acf|uitting himself with great credit. He takes an active interest in the welfare of the Republican party, acting as a delegate to State, congressional and judicial conventions. Mr. Lancelot was united in marriage in 1873 to Miss Phcebe A. Crow, of Fayette County, Iowa, a daughter of Milton Crow, Esq. Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Lancelot — William II., Isabelle B., K. Grant, Milton J. and (irace. Mrs. Lancelot is a native of the State of Indiana. She was a successful instructor, having taught si.xteen 820 HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. terms in Clayton, Fayette and Audubon counties. Iler primary education was re- ceived in the district school of Fayette County. Later slie entered the Upper Iowa University in Fayette County, and had almost completed the course at the time of her mar- riage. Mr. Lancelot is a member of Utopia Lodge, No. 161, L O. O. F.; the Iowa Legion of Honor; the K. of P., No. 166, at Man- ning, Iowa, and of Hiawatha Lodge, No. 16, I. O. R. M., at Gray. Mr. Lancelot com- menced the struggle for life single-handed and without capital, and by energy and close application to business he has secured an ample competence. '■-^l' 'i *> l - l > " ' ROBERT HENDERSON, a thrifty and prosperous agriculturist of Cameron Township, was born in the State of Vermont, near St. Johnsbury, October 11, 1851. His father, "William Henderson, a native of Scotland, came to America in his youth. His- grandfather, William Hender- son, was also a native of Scotland. The mother of Robert Henderson was Hannah Gray, a daughter of William Gray, and a sister of George Gray, of Audubon County. She died when Robert was eight years old. The father is still living, at the age of seventy- five years, on the old homestead where our 8ul)ject was born. Robert remained under the parental roof until his twentieth year, receiving the advantage of a district-school education, and also a few terms at the Peacham Academy. After leaving school the spirit of youth would no longer be re- strained, and he journeyed to the west, seek- ing the best in store for him. His first sojourn was in Stark County, Illinois, where he remained one year. He tlien went to Adair County, Iowa, and thence to Audubon County, taking charge of George Gray's ranch, which he opened up and managed for four years. Within this period he was mar- ried to Miss Ellen Evans, of Peacham, Ver- mont, a daughter of Charles Evans, Esq. After his marriage Mr. Henderson purchased 160 acres of land which was new and unim- proved. The courage of the pioneer can scarcely be appreciated in this day, when there is so little that is new; but Mr. Hen- derson was equal to the occasion, and began with a will to claim from Nature all that she would yield. He broke out the farm, made many valuable improvements, and added to it from time to time until he'now owns 400 acres, all under a high state of cultivation. He pays special attention to feeding hogs and cattle, shipping several cars annually. He also has some very fine horses for farm use. In 1888 he erected a large barn with sheds attached, having a capacity for seventy- five head of cattle and twenty-five head of horses. The confidence reposed in Mr. Hen- derson is attested in the fact that for several years he has served as township trustee. He began his career at the bottom round of the ladder, but by energy, industry and untiring efibrt he has accumulated a good competence. Mr. Henderson is of a genial, frank disposi- tion, and during his residence in the county has won a host of friends. -3**H RSON B. FRANCISCO is the man- ager of the Green i'ay Lumber Com- pany at Gray, Iowa. This company does a large business in the way of handling lumber, cedar posts, lime, hair, cement, stucco, hard and soft coal. Mr. Francisco, who has proven himself a most efficient man fur the place, came to Gray in 1884, and took charge of the business which had been estab- BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 821 lislied in 1881. He was born in the State of New York, near Schenectady, June 13, 1850, and is the youngest of a family of nine children of Cornelius W. and Mary A. (Davis) Francisco. The parents grew to maturity in their native State, New York, and in 1851 tliey emigrated to Lake County, Illinois, re- siding there for two years. Thence they went to Grant County, Wisconsin, where the father lived the remainder of his days; he died in 1865, and his wife, who survives him, makes her home with her daugliter, Mrs- Gulliford, in Sac County, Iowa. She is now in her eighty-third year and is in the fulj possession of all her faculties. Her husband was born in 1805. Their children are named as follows — Sarah, Mary, Cornelia, Elizabeth D., Elisha, Nicholas J., D. Marvin, Andrew J., Orson B., and Elizabeth, who died in her twentieth year. Until his fifteenth year Orson B. lived in his native county; he attended the district school, and later the High School of Boscobel, Wisconsin. He taught school thirteen terms, from six to nine months long, in Wisconsin, Iowa, and Minnesota. His father dying when he was but fourteen years old, he was thrown upon his own resources. He did not continue in the profession of teaching, but accepted a position on the government survey through the Territory of Dakota; at the end of one year he made a trip into the Yellowstone country up the Missouri, and then returned to Wisconsin, where he was married to Mary 11. Winn, a daughter of John and Maria (Griffith) Winn. Mrs. Francisco was born in the State of Illi- nois, but grew to womanhood in Wisconsin. They are the parents of four children — Mark C, Edgar, Lulu Belle, Winnie O. Edgar died in infancy. Mr. Francisco is a member of Utopia Lodge, No. 161, I. O. O. F., at (}ray; of the Knights t^f Pythias, No. 166, at Manning, Iowa; of the A. (). U. W., Odobolt Lodge, No. 217, and of the Hia- watha Tribe, No. 16, I. O. K. M., at Gray. In politics Mr. Francisco is rather conserv- ative. He served as assistant postmaster nearly four years at Odobolt. The grand- father on the mother's side was Elijah Davis, of German and French extraction. The grandfather on the father's side, Nicholas Francisco, was of French descent, and served in the Revolutionary war. Buth families are noted for their longevity. fOHN CAMERON ie a member of the firm of Cameron & AVebster, breeders and importers of Clydesdale horses. The celebrated horse of this tirni was im- ported by Mr. Singm aster, of Keota, Iowa, and is registered in the Scotch Herd Book, No. 2,481, and in the American Herd Book, No. 1,108. They also breed fine jacks, hav- ing the largest herd, numbering thirteen, in the county. Mr. Cameron's farm is located in Lincoln Township, on the branches of the Nishnabotna River, and contains 120 acres; he also rents some adjoining lands, making 280 acres under his care. Mr. Cameron is a practical farmer as well as a practical stock- breeder, and has been successful in this avo- cation. John Cameron, the subject of this brief biography, was born in January, 18-46, in the country of Nova Scotia. His father, Allen Cameron, was a native of Scotland, who emigrated to Nova Scotia and became an extensive owner of pine lands, and for several years was largely engaged in the lumbering interests. He became heavily in- volved by aiding his friends in endorsing paper, so thafr upon his removal to Carroll County, Illinois, he was in moderate circum- stances. His wife, ('atherino Canujron, was also a native of Scotland. The grandfather S-li HISTORY OF AUDUBON COUNTY. of onr subject was Alexander Cameron, who emigrated with his family from Scotland to Nova Scotia. The graiidfatiier on the mother's side was Donald Cameron, also a Scotchman. John Cameron passed his early boyhood and school days in Carroll County, Illinois; later he attended a select school for a period of six months. His father dying soon after the re- moval of the family to Illinois, he was de- prived of paternal care; his older brother took charge of the family, and gave what assistance his years were capable of giving. In the spring of 1868 Mr. Cameron, in com- pany with his brother-in-law, Kobert Gunn, came to Audubon County, and located on lands in section 16, which afterward were named Cameron Townsiiip, in honor of the Cameron family, he and Mr. Gunn turning tiie first furrow of land in the township. After breaking out his farm, and making some improvements, he returned to Illinois, and then took a trip to Colorado, in search of wealth, working in the mines which prom- ised to be remunerative. After the lapse of a few years he returned to Audubon County, and settled on his present farm which was new and unimproved ; he has placed the land under fine cultivation, and has made many valuable improvements in the way of buildings. Mr. Cameron was married in 1879 to Mrs. Sarah Dustin, of Exira, Audubon County, her par- ents being early settlers of the county. B}' this union three children have l)een born — Allen B., Grace M. and James L. IIOBERT H. DAVIDSON, an early set- tler of Douglas Township, was born in Brooke County, West Virginia, August 22, 1820. He is a son of William and Sarah (Hawkins) Davidson, natives of the State of Pennsylvania. Tlie father was a carpenter and farmer by occupation. His grandfather was Tiiomas Davidson. When Robert H. was ten years old his parents removed to Monroe County, Ohio, where he grew to manhood; he was reared to the life of a farmer, and obtained a limited education in the common schools. He remained under the shelter of the parental roof until liis maturity, wiien he was united in marriage with Miss Catherine Canada, who died, leav- iiior one child — William E., a resident of Oiiio. Mr. Davidson was married a second time, to Maria J. Stoots, by whom he had five children — Ciiarles S., Nora C, the wife of Eiisha Fisciis; Ida, wife of Henry Gillett, and two children who died in infancy. Mr. Davidson's present wife was Mrs. Lacy E. (Reasoner), widow of William Kunkle, of Guthrie County, Iowa; eight children were born of this marriage — Vantura, wife of John C. Baker; Anna B., wife of Bert R. Givens; Calvin F., Fred B., Joseph W., Milton II., Maud and Kittie Lulu. In the spring of 1857, when Iowa was considered to be the frontier, Mr. Davidson removed his family from Noble County, Oiiio, to Guthrie County, Iowa; there he worked at the car- penter's trade, and cultivated his farm of 120 acres. Selling out his possessions in Guth- rie County, he removed to southwestern Missouri, and remained thereeighteenniontiis; the climate of that latitude not agreeing with him he returned to Guthrie County, and resided there until 1873, when he came to Audubon County. He located upon his present farm, which is situated on tiie east fork of the west branch of the Nishnabotna River; the land is fertile, and there is a natural grove upon the place, which adds very materially to the value of the farm. Mr. Davidson devotes considerable attention to the feeding and raising of good grades of live-stock, and lias i)een very prosperous in BIOGRAPHICAL SKETOUBH. Hi:! this enterprise. In politics lie is inclined to the principles of the Republican party. lie has served his township as justice of the peace for fourteen years, the period of his service being indicative of the respect in which liis judgment is held. ►^«^ fRANK GARROUTTE, a most thorough and enterprising farmer of Douglas Township, was born in Brown County, Ohio, near Fayetteville, November 28, 1851. He is a son of John W. Garroutte, who is a native of Ohio, and a fanner and carpenter by vocation. His mother was a Miss Mors- mon, also a native of Ohio, and a daughter of Levi and Rachel Morsinon. The family of Garrouttes are of French extraction. After his marriage John W. Garroutte settled in Brown County, Ohio. He and his wife are the parents of two children, boys — Birk and Frank, both of whom are living. Frank Garroutte obtained his education in the dis- trict school, which offered very limited ad- vantages at that early day. He was trained to the occupation of a farmer, and that his training was excellent is shown by the model condition of his farm to-day. When he was two years old his parents removed to Dallas County, Iowa, where his father died two years afterward. His mother and brother still re- side in Dallas County, Iowa. He continued to live with them until fifteen years of age. He was united in marriage, June G, 1880, to Miss Jennie Merry m