CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY FROM History Fees F 627H2''b6i" """""^ ""'"' + ^'°ftin£!!fi£^L.^f°'''' ""^ portrait album o .. 3 1924 028 914 020 olln Overs 1^ Cornell University Library The original of this book is in the Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924028914020 ^^^0U?HICAL J^Ecoj^^ AND ]r^OK.T^K.J^I^ ^ Fv'RI'^1^ OF HAMILTON AND WRIGHT COUNTIES, IOWA, Containing Poktraits of all the Pkbsidents of the United States from Washington to clef eland, with accompanying biographies of each; portraits and biographies OF THE Governors of the State; Engravings of Prominent Citizens IN Hamilton and Wright Counties, with Personal His- tories OF MANY OF the EARLY SETTLERS AND Leading Families. LE^^ nS BIOGEAPICAL PUBLISHING CO., 113 Adams Street, Chicago. 18S9. ^ I; KM- 1,1. URlVtR^'TY - l-ljR/dxY j\1o)u^:l CONTENTS. ■^■^•^^S-^" PRESIDEKTS OF THE UNITED STATES. George AV'ashington 9 John Adams 14 Thomas Jefferson 20 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 68 Millard Fillmore 73 Franklin Pierce 76 James Buchanan 80 Abraham Lincoln 84 Andrew Johnson 93 TJlysses S. Grant » . 96 Rutherford B. Hayes 103 James A. Garfield 109 Chester A. Arthur 113 Grover Cleveland 117 HISTORY OF IOWA. Aboriginal 133 Caucasian 134 Pioneer Life 133 Louisiana Territory 137 Iowa Territory 139 State Organization and Subse- quent History 141 Patriotism 146 loWa Since the War 151 State Institutions 151 Educational 154 Statistical 157 Physical Features 158 Geology 158 Climate .168 Census of Iowa 164 Territorial Officers 164 State Officers 165 GOVERNORS OF IOWA. Robert Lucas 177 John Chambers 171 James Clarke 153 Ansel Briggs 179 Stephen Hempstead 183 James W. Grimes 187 Ralph P. Lowe 191 Samuel J. Kirkwood 195 William M. Stone 199 Samuel Merrill 203 Cyrus C. Carpenter 205 Joshua G. Newbold 211 John H. Gear 215 Buren R. Sherman 219 William Larrabee 223 -M«-tV4Hj«-|f which have existed, under different names, from that day to this. Washington was rC' 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 scfon 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 gratify- ing fact of " the accession of North Caro- lina" to the Constitution of 1787, and June I of the same year 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 country, 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. fiBORGB WASHtNGTON. 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 exports 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 the United States forces, with the rank of Lieutenant-General, when war was threatened with France in 1798, nothing need here be stated, except to note the fact aG 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 by 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. >4 PRBSTDEUTS Otr THE. UNITED STATES. OHN ADAMS, the second President of the United States, 1797 to 1801, 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 boy into a lover of books. Accordingly, at the age of sixteen he entered Harvard College, and graduated in I755> 3t the age of twenty, 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 army. 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 d JOHN ADAMS. >7 prophetic glance into futurity, he hurried away all before him. American independence was then and there born. Every man of an immensely crowded audience appeared to me to go away, 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 afifairs, 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 Ansell 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 thev 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. A'dams 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 my 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 r-RESIDENTS OF THE UNITED 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 royal 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 the 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 country 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 very 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 heat 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! Accordingly 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 sympathized 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 his opportunity to retire to private life, 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 anxiety 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 lettei^s. 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 encroachments 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 years 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. IHOMAS JEFFER- son, the third Presi- dent of the United States, 1 80 1 -'9, was born April 2, 1743, the eldest child of his parents, Peter and Jane (Randolph) Jef- ferson, near Charlottes- ville, Albemarle County, 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 lady, 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 being mathemat- ics and the classics. At the age of seven- teen he entered William and Mkry 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 society, his horses and even his favorite violin, and devoted thenceforward fifteen hours a day to hard study, 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 $S,ooo a year. In 1772 he married Mrs. Martha Skelton, a beautiful, wealthy and accqmplished ^-?^/7Z^ THOMAS JEFFERSON. 23 young widow, who owned 40,000 acres of land and 130 slaves ; 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 Shad well, 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, yet 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. FrankHn, and Adams suggested a few verbal corrections before it was submitted to Congress, which was June 28, 1776, only six days 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 Virginia 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. For weeks Mr. Jefferson sat lovingly, but with a crushed heart, at the bedside of his sick wife, during which time unfeehng 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 24 PJiES/DE.VTS OF THE UNITED 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, unanimously 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 simpHcity 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 JEFFBRSON. 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- pHcated, 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- tioTi. 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 P. M. i6 PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. i^^iVflft,^&_jil± ., *^ ■_ ^^, *^ ^L^»{§yBl nL« ^ ^l^*,^^l/' ^'J^ "^ nft^ ;* |»MoW«lfeW«yoM>W»MoM>M^^ i+->:e'- MMii M^Mitl ■^•sS^- -.e^ij^jjg- AMES MADISON, the fourth President of the United States, 1809-17, was born at Port Con- way, Prince George County, Virginia, March 16, 1751. His father. Colonel James Madison, was a wealthy planter, residing upon a very fine estate called " Montpelier," only twenty-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 early age he made considerable proficiency 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 enibellished 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 1773 re- turned to Virginia, where he continued in incessant study for two years, nominally 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 of an amendment to the Declaration of Rights as prepared by George Mason, sub- stituting for " toleration" a more emphatic assertion of religious liberty. J Oy^^i-^-^^ ^^ tSC'^'^^yOf ^-L^ JAMES MADISON. 29 In 1776 he was elected a member of the Virginia 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 years, 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 he held in the great Nacional Convention of 1787 ; 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 poUsh 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 he 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 mind would be so completely at 3° PRESIDENTS 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 years 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, 1 8 10, and finally resulting in a decla- ration of war. On the i8th of June, 1812, 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 country 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 MADISON. 31 dency 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. Stansbury, relates the following anecdote of Mr. 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 3 his eye fell on the paper. Coming to a certain sentence in the speech, Mr. Madison erased a word and substituted another ; 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 regarding 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 anal)-sis 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 posterity in company with thatof the companion of her life. 32 PRBSTDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. t^^ AMES MONROE, the fifth President of the United States, 1817-25, 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 enrolled himself as a cadet in the army. At Trenton Lieutenant Monroe so dis- tinguished himself, 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 Brandywine, Ger- mantown and Monmouth. At Germantown he stood by the side of Lafayette when the Freflch 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 AnnapoHs when Wash- ington surrendered his commission of Com- mander-in-chief. With Washington, Jeffersonand 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 fAMES MONROE. 35 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 lady distinguished aUke 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 enough 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 neutrality be- tween these contending powers. France had helped us in the struggle ior our lib- erties. All the despotisms of Europe were now combined to prevent the French from escaping from tyranny a thousandfold worse than that which we had endured. Colonel Monroe, more magnanimous than prudent, was arixious 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 very James Monroe, who was denouncing the policy 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 pubHcly 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 inteilwined 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 country 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 very ably advo- cated his side of the question; but, with the magnanimity of the man, he recorded a warm tribute to the patriotism, abihty 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. Shortlv 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 Mr. 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 confidently stated, that, had Mr. Monroe'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, \Vere 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. JAMES MONROE. 7,1 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, 1.8 17, 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 AUiance 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 jiot 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. 3"^ PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. "OHN QUINCY ADAMS, the sixth President of the United States, i82S-'9, was born in the rural home of his honored father, John Adams, in Q u i n c y , Massachusetts, July II, 1767; His mother, a woman of exalted worth, watched over his childhood during the almost constant absence of his father. He commenced his education at th,e village school, giving at an early period indica- tions of superior mental en- dowments. When eleven years of age he sailed with his father for Europe, where the latter was associated with Franklin and Lee as Minister Plenipotentiary. The intelligence of John Quincy attracted the attention of these men and received from them flattering marks of attention. Mr. Adams had scarcely returned to this country in 1779 ere he was again sent abroad, and John Quincy again accom- panied him. On this voyage he commenced a diary, which practice he continued, with but few interruptions, until his death. He journeyed with his father from Ferrol, in Spain, to Paris. Here he applied himself for six months to study; then accompanied his father to Holland, where he entered, first a school in Amsterdam, and then the University of Leyden. In 178 1, when only fourteen years of age, he was selected by Mr. Dana, our Minister to the Russian court, as his private secretary. In this school of incessant labor he spent fourteen months, and then returned alone to Holland through Sweden, Denmark, Hamburg and Bremen. Again he resumed his studies under a private tutor, at The Hague. In the spring of 1782 he accompanied his father to Paris, forming acquaintance with the most distinguished men on the Conti- nent. After a short visit to England, he re- turned to Paris and studied until May, 1785, when he returned to America, leav- ing his father an embassador at the court of St. James. In 1786 he entered the jun- ior class in Harvard University, and grad- uated with the second honor of his class. The oration he delivered on this occasion, the " Importance of Public Faith to the Well-being of a Community," was pub- lished — an event very rare in this or any other land. Upon leaving college at the age of twenty he studied law three years with the Hon. Theophilus Parsons in Newburyport. In 1790 he opened a law office in Boston. The profession was crowded with able men, and the fees were small. The first year he had J, 2 . J*^laj>yyi JOHN ^UINCr ADAMS. 4'. 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 my 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 July, 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 scarcely 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- hshed. 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 1815. In 18 17 he became Secretary of State in Mr. Monroe's cabinet in which position he remained eight years. Few will now contradfct 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 $5,000,000. 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; WiUiam H. Crawford, forty-one, and Henry Clay, thirty-seven. As there was no choice by the people, the question went to the House 42 PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED 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 country, 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 any partisanship, but only to con- sult for the interests of the whole Republic, He refused to dismiss any 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 popularity. No one can read an impartial record of his administra- tion without admitting that a more noble example of uncompromising dignity 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 me, for T shall never forgive myself y 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 Quincy, 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 yesterday 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 years, 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 pian 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. JOHN ^UINCr 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 unc^er 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 Cassars, 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 rarely 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, if 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 they 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 2istof 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, " TAis 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 iiB^aO'^ -T" i|^ ■T- «^ ■ ■i^ ^''•T^<^^ •4^ INDREW JACKSON, the seventh President of the United States, i829-'37, was born at the Waxhaw Settle, ment, Union Coun- ty, North Carolina, March i6, 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, where 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 prison- 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 PRESIDENTS 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 very 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, twenty-two times. Hostile In- dians were constantl}' 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. Boldly, 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 Attorney 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 ANDREW JACKSON. 49 United States Attorney, which demanded frequent journeys through the wilderness and exposed him to Indian hostilities. 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 party. 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 slavery, 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 50 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 suppose4 treason. He was summoned to Richmond as a witness in Burr's trial, but was not called to the stand, probably because he was out-spoken in his partisanship. On the outbreak of the war with Great Britain in 1 812, 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 the famous victory of January 8, 181 5, :;rowned Jackson's fame as a soldier, and made him the typical American hero of the first half of the nineteenth century. In i8i7-'i8 Jackson conducted the war gainst the Seminoles of Florida, during which he seized upon Pensacqla and exe- cuted by courtmartial two British subjects, Arbuthnot and Ambrister acts which might easily have involved the United States in war both with Spain and Great Britain. Fortunately the peril was averted by the cession of Florida to the United States; and Jackson, who had escaped a trial for the irregularity of his conduct only through a division of opinion in Mon- roe's cabinet, was appointed in 1821 Gov- ernor of the new Territory. Soon after he declined the appointment of minister to Mexico. In i823Jackson was elected to the United States Senate, and nominated by the Ten- nessee Legislature for the Presidency. This candidacy, though a matter of surprise, and even merryment, speedily became popular, and in 1824, when Ith^e stormy electoral can- vas resulted in the choice of John Quincy Adams by the House of Representatives, General Jackson received the largest popu- lar vote among the four candidates. In 1828 Jackson was triumphantly elected President over Adatns after a campaign of unparalleled bitterness. He was inaugu- rated March 4, 1829, and at once removed from office all the incumbents belonging to the opposite party — a procedure new to American politics, but which naturally be- came a precedent. His first term was characterized by quar- rels between the Vice-President, Calhoun, and the Secretary of State, Van Buren, at- tended by a cabinet crisis originating in scandals connected with the name of Mrs. General Eaton, 'wife of the Secretary of War; by the beginning of his war upon the United States Bank, and by his vigorous action against the partisans of Calhoun, who, in South Carolina, threatened to nullify the acts of Congress, establishing a protective tariff. In the Presidential campaign of 1832 ANDtiBW JACKSON. SI Jackson received 2ig out of 288 electoral votes, his competitor being Mr. Clay, while Mr. Wirt, on an Anti-Masonic platform, received the vote of Vermont alone. In 1833 President Jackson removed the Gov- ernment deposits from the United States bank, thereby incurring a vote of censure from the Senate, which was, however, ex- punged four years later. During this second term of office the Cherokees, Choctaws and Creeks were removed, not without diffi- culty, from Georgia, Alabama and Missis- sippi, to the Indian Territory; the National debt was extinguished; Arkansas and Michigan were admitted as States to the Union; the Seminole war was renewed; the anti-slavery agitation first acquired impor- tance; the Mormon delusion, which had organized in 1829, attained considerable proportions in Ohio and Missouri, and the country experienced its greatest pecuniary panic. Railroads with locomotive propulsion were introduced into America during Jack- son's first term, and had become an impor- tant element of national life before the close of his second term. For many rea- sons, therefore, the administration of Presi- dent Jackson formed an era in American history, political, social and industrial. He succeeded in effecting the election of his friend Van Buren as his successor, re- tired from the Presidency March 4, 1837, and led a tranquil life at the Hermitage until his death, which occurred June 8, 1845. During his closing years he was a pro- fessed Christian and a member of the Pres- byterian church. No American of this century has been the subject of such oppo- site judgments. He was loved and hated with equal vehemence during his life, but at the present distance of time from his career, while opinions still vary as to the merits of his public acts, few of his country- men will question that he was a warm- hearted, brave, patriotic, honest and sincere man. If his distinguishing qualities were not such as constitute statesmanship, in the highest sense, he at least never pretended to other merits than such as were written to his credit on the page of American his- tory — not attempting to disguise the de- merits which were equally legible. The majority of his countrymen accepted and honored him, in spite of all that calumny as well as truth could allege against him. His faults may therefore be truly said to have been those of his time; his magnifi- cent virtues may also, with the same jus- tice, be considered as typical of a state of society which has nearly passed away. s* PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. t^^^t^t^t^t^t^^l g«^(^<^t^<^t^«^; ,,«^i l^l^fflAI^TIN UftN BUr^BN.^^ ARTIN VAN BU- REN, the eighth ^J/ 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 18 12 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 Albany 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, 1 829, he was appointed Secretary of 1^7X1^^.^^^^, 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 ail our great cities. Not less than 254 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, without opposi- tion, as the Democratic candidate, WiUiam 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 tfie 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 among those who have been the successors of Washington in the faithful occupancy of the Presidential chair. 56 PRESIDEI\tTS OP THE UNITED STATES. WILLIAM HENRY HflHSISDN ILLIAM HENRY HARRISON, the ninth President of the United States, I 84 I, was born February 9, 1773, in Charles County, Virginia, at Berkeley, the resi- dence of his 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 3f 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 Cincinnati, 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 Secretary of the Northwest Territory, 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 Cap- tain Harrison was chosen to fill that of- fice. In 1800 he was appointed Governor ^.J^//c William tiENRt harrison. S9 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 18 12 he was made Major-General of Kentucky, militia and Brigadier-General in the army, with the command of the Northwest frontier. In 18 13 he was made Major-General, and as such won much re- nown by the defense of Fort Meigs, and the battle of the Thames, Octobers, 1813. In 1 8 14 he left the army and was employed in Indian affairs by the Government. In 18 16 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 18 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 the County Court. He once owned a distillery, but perceiving the sad effects of whisky upon the surrounding population, he promptly 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 by 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 pleurisy- 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 PRESIDEIVTS OF TUB UtflTED STATES. Sjjgifey ^^gj^^'^^^aSl^ir >^ ^<%m^ ^^ ^^^^m^^^^^^^^ms . !««^»S^» 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 day, 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 young John entered William and Mary College, and graduated with honor when but seventeen years 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-six 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 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 signall}' 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 nuUifiers, 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 from 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. s£. ' -iJgjafe..^^ ^' "^^^^^k d ^ — ' ^c'sSBh, M P '^ <^H \^ f '^ ^^F J t 'it ^3|^j^BI^. -^wfc. ^ ^^^^^^^MMM i^^^ T ^b- * lit v^HHB fet- / V 1» 1 f ^>^ ^ 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 was 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 oi 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 any course which would not expose him to severe censure and denunciation. In 18 1 3 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 openly 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. 6+ PRESIDENTS 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 1813 he was sent to Murfreesboro Academy, and in the autumn of 181 5 entered the sophomore class in the University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill, graduating in 181 8. 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 County, 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- JAMES K. POLK. 67 ously re-elected until 1839. 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 ttie 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 1 841, but was defeated. In the mean- time a wonderful revolution had swept over the country. 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 lime sleeping in -the same bed. Mr. Jones was elected by~3,ooo 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-slavery wing of the Democratic party, and George M. Dallas their candi- date for the Vice-Presidency. They were elected by a large majority, 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 ot 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 $100,000,000. Of this money $15,000,000 were paid to Mexico. DecHning 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. 68 PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. ACHARY TAY- LOR, the twelfth President of the United States, 1849-50, was born in Orange County, Virginia, Septem- ber 24, 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 Jfefferson, 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, he was attacked with yellow fever, with nearly fatal termination. In November, i8io, he was promoted to Captain, and in the sum- mer of 181 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 1814 promoted to the full rank. During the remainder of the war Taylor was actively employed on the Western frontier. In the peace organization of 181 5 he was retained as Captain, but soon after resigned and settled near Louisville. In May, 1 8 16, however, he re-entered the army as Major of the Third Infantry ; became Lieutenant-Colonel of the Eighth Infantry in 1819, 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 mihtia 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 ZACHART TAYLOR. 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, 1845, 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-General 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 bis 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 Taylor 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 Buren 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 UNITED STATES. ILLARD FILL- MORE, the thir- * teenth President of the United States, i8so-'3, was born in Summer Hill, Cayuga County, New York, Janu- ary 7, 1800. He was of New England ancestry, and his educational advantages were limited. He early 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 1825 he took his seat in the House of Assembly 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- MILLARD FILLMORE. 75 cation his friends met in convention and renominated him by acclamation. Though gratified by this proof of their appreciation of his labors he adhered to his resolve and returned to his home. In 1847 Mr. Fillmore was elected to the important office of comptroller of the State. In entering upon the very responsible duties which this situation demanded, it was nec- essary for him to abandon his profession, and he removed to the city of Albany. In this year, also, the Whigs were looking around to find suitable candidates for the President and Vice-President at the ap- proaching election, and the names of Zach- ary Taylor and Millard Fillmore became the rallying cry of the Whigs. On the 4th of March, 1 849, General Taylor was inaug- urated President and Millard Fillmore Vice-President of the United States. The great question of slavery had as- sumed enormous proportions, and perme- ated every subject that was brought before Congress. It was evident that the strength of our institutions was to be severely tried. July 9, 1850, President Taylor died, and, by the Constitution, Vice-President Fillmore became President of the United States. The agitated condition of the country brought questions of great delicacy before him. He was bound by his oath of office to execute the laws of the United States. One of these laws was understood to be, that if a slave, escaping from bondage, should reach a free State, the United States was bound to do its utmost to capture him and return him to his master. Most Chris- tian men loathed this law. President Fill- more felt bound by his oath rigidly to see it enforced. Slavery was organizing armies to invade Cuba as it had invaded Texas, and annex it to the United States. Presi- dent Fillmore gave all the influence of his exalted station against the atrocious enter- prise. M.r, Fillmore had serious difficultigg to contend with, since the opposition had a majority in both Houses. He did every- thing in his power to conciliate the South, but the pro-slavery party in that section felt the inadequency of all measures of tran- sient conciliation. The population of the free States was so rapidly increasing over that of the slave States, that it was inevita- ble that the power of the Government should soon pass into the hands of the free States. The famous compromise measures were adopted under Mr. Fillmore's admin- istration, and the Japan expedition was sent out. March 4, 1853, having served one term, President Fillmore retired from office. He then took a long tour through the South, where he met with quite an enthusiastic reception. In a speech at Vicksburg, al- luding to the rapid growth of the country, he said: " Canada is knocking for admission, and Mexico would be glad to come in, and without saying whether it would be right or wrong, we stand with open arms to re- ceive them; for it is the manifest destiny of this Government to embrace the whole North American Continent." In 185s Mr. Fillmore went to Europe where he was received with those marked attentions which his position and character merited. Returning to this country in 1856 he was nominated for the Presidency by the " Know-Nothing " party. Mr. Bu- chanan, the Democratic candidate was the successful competitor. Mr. Fillmore ever afterward lived in retirement. Dur- ing the conflict of civil war he was mostly silent. It was generally supposed, how- ever, that his sympathy was with the South- ern Confederacy. He kept aloof from the conflict without any words of cheer to the one party or the other. For this reason he was forgotten by both. He died of paralysis, in Buffalo, New York, March 8, 1874. 76 PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. HaagBEHSsHHaHRHfiridHaaHHHHffiaaESEaH gag ^ ,7 RAN KLIN PIERCE, the fourteenth Presi- dent of the United States, was born in Hillsborough, New Hampshire, Novem- ber 23, 1804. His father. Governor Benjamin Pierce, was a Rev- olutionary soldier, a man of rigid integrity ; was for sev- eral years in the State Legis- lature, a member of the Gov- ernor's council and a General of the militia. Franklin was the sixth of eight children. As a boy he listened eagerly to the argu- ments of his father, enforced by strong and ready utterance and earnest gesture. It was in the days of intense political excite- ment, when, all over the New England States, Federalists and Democrats were ar- rayed so fiercely against each other. In 1820 he. entered Bowdoin College, at Brunswick, Maine, and graduated in 1824, ancj commenced the study of law in the office of Judge Woodbury, a very distin- guished lawyer, and in 1827 was admitted to the bar. He practiced with great success in Hillsborough and Concord, He served in the State Legislature four years, the last two of which he was chosen Speaker of the House by a very large vote. In 1833 he was elected a member of Con- gress. In 1837 he was elected to the United States Senate, just as Mr. Van Buren com- menced his administration. In 1834 he married Miss Jane Means Appleton, a lady admirably fitted to adorn every station with which her husband was honored. Three sons born to them all found an early grave. Upon his accession to office. President Polk appointed Mr. Pierce Attorney-Gen- eral of the United States, but the ofier was declined in consequence of numerous pro- fessional engagements at home and the precarious state of Mrs. Pierce's health. About the same time he also declined the nomination for Governor by the Demo- cratic party. The war with Mexico called Mr. Pierce into the army. Receiving the appointment of Brigadier-General, he embarked with a portion of his troops at Newport, Rhode Island, May 27, 1847. He served during this war, and distinguished himself by his bravery, skill and excellent judgment. When he reached his home in his native State he was enthusiastically received by FRANKLIN PIERCE,. 79 the advocates of the war, and coldly by its opponents. He resumed the practice of his profession, frequently taking an active part in political questions, and giving his sup- port to the pro-slavery wing of the Demo- cratic party. June 12, 1852, the Democratic convention met in Baltimore to nominate a candidate for the Presidency. For four days they continued in session, and in thirty- five bal- lotings no one had received the requisite two-thirds vote. Not a vote had been thrown thus far for General Pierce. Then the Virginia delegation brought forward his. name. There were fourteen more bal- lotings, during which General Pierce gained strength, until, at the forty-ninth ballot, he received 282 votes, and all other candidates eleven. General Winfield Scott was the Whig candidate. General Pierce was elected with great unanimity. Only four States — Vermont, Massachusetts, Ken- tucky 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 legions, 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 unparalleled 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 Presidency, 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. 8o PRESIDENTS OP THE VNlTBD STATES. '^'AMES BUCHANAN, the fifteenth President of the United States, 1857-61, was born in Frankhn County, 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 facihty. 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 1812. 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 by 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 18 12, 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 enlisHng as a private soldier to assist in repeUing the British, who had sacked Washington and were threatening Baltimore. He was at that time a FederaHst, 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 Federahsts to the war with England, and the alien and sedi- c: -s^^ JAMES BUCHANAN. 83 tion laws of John Adams, brought the party into dispute, and the name of FederaHst became a reproach. Mr. Buchanan almost 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 ofifice 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 State 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 niost 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. 84 PRBSIDEN^TS OF THE UNITED STATES. ^^^-. mmmmmm -e_A_£- BRAHAM 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. H i s 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 famihes, per- haps I should say. My mother, who died in my 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 paternal grandfather, Abra- ham Lincoln, emigrated from Rockbridge County, Virginia, to Kentucky in i;;8i 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 Kentucky to what is now Spencer County, Indiana, in my 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 Uttle 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 <^ ci---'''<2^*'-^^-i-^^-t^ 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 any 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 next 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 1854, 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 me 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, 18 18, 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 he m&de a trading voyage to New Orleans as "bow-hand" on a flatboat; removed 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 (1832) 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 PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED 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 influience; 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, ori 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 hfe ; 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 slaverj' 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 slavery 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 LINCOLN. 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 by 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 popularity. 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 avoiding Balti- more on his way to the capital, he reached Washington February 33, and was inaugu- rated President of the United States March 4, 1861. 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 States 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 hold, occupy and possess the property and places belonging to the Government, 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-country- 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 Demo- crats, headed by Douglas ; called out 75,000 miUtia from the several States upon the first tidings of the bombardment of Fort Sumter, April IS; proclaimed a blockade of the Southern posts April 19; called an extra 90 PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. session of Congress for July 4, from which he asked and obtained 400,000 men and $400,000,000 for the war; placed McClellan 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, ajddress 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 of the same year, by a large majority over General McClellan, with Andrew Johnson, of Tennessee, as Vice- President; delivered a very 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, byJohnWilkes Booth, a fanatical actor, and expired early on the following morning, April 15. Al- most simultaneously 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 of 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 memory 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. x^ ANDREW JOHNSON. 93 NDREW JOHNSON, the seventeenth Presi- dent of the United States, 1865-9, was born at Raleigh, North Carolina, De- c emb e r 29, 1808. His father died when he was four years old, and in his eleventh year he was ap- prenticed to a tailor. He nev- er attended school, and did not learn to read until late in his apprenticeship, when he suddenly acquired a passion for obtaining knowledge, and devoted all his spare time to reading. After working two years as a journey- man tailor at Lauren's Court-House, South Carolina, he removed, in 1826, to Green- ville, Tennessee, where he worked at his trade and married. Under his wife's in- structions he made rapid progress in his education, and manifested such an intelli- gent interest in local pohtics as to be elected as " workingmen's candidate " al- derman, in 1828, and mayor in 1830, being twice re-elected to each office. During this period he cultivated his tal- ents as a public speaker by taking part in a debating society, consisting largely of stu- dents of Greenville College. In 1835, and again in 1839, he was chosen to the lower house of the Legislature, as a Democrat. In 1841 he was elected State Senator, and in 1843, Representative in Congress, being re-elected four successive periods, until 1853, when he was chosen Governor of Tennessee. In Congress he supported the administrations of Tyler and Polk in their chief measures, especially the annexation of Texas, the adjustment of the Oregon boundary, the Mexican war, and the tariff of 1846. In 1855 Mr. Johnson was reelected Gov- ernor, and in 1857 entered the United States Senate, where he was conspicuous as an advocate of retrenchment and of the Homestead bill, and as an opponent of the Pacific Railroad. He was supported by the Tennessee delegation to the Democratic convention in i860 for the Presidential nomination, and lent his influence to the Breckenridge wing of that party. When the election of Lincoln had brought about the first attempt at secession in December, i860, Johnson took in the Senate a firm attitude for the Union, and in May, 1861, on returning to Tennessee, he was in imminent peril of suffering from 94 PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. popular violence for his loyalty to the " old flag." He was the leader of the Loyalists' convention of East Tennessee, and during the following winter was very active in or- ganizing relief for the destitute loyal refu- gees from that region, his own family being among those compelled to leave. By his course in this crisis Johnson came prominently before the Northern public, and when in March, 1862, he was appointed by President Lincoln military Governor of Tennessee, with the rank of Brigadier-Gen- eral, he increased in popularity by the vig- orous and successful manner in which he labored to restore order, protect Union men and punish marauders. On the ap- proach of the Presidential campaign of 1864, the termination of the war being plainly foreseen, and several Southern States being partially reconstructed, it was felt that the Vice-Presidency should be given to a South- ern man of conspicuous loyalty, and Gov- ernor Johnson was elected on the same platform and ticket as President Lincoln; and on the assassination of the latter suc- ceeded to the Presidency, April 15, 1865. In a public speech two days later he said: " The American people must be taught, if they do not already feel, that treason is a crime and must be punished; that the Gov- ernment will not always bear with its ene- mies; that it is strong, not only to protect, but to punish. In our peaceful history treason has been almost unknown. The people must understand that it is the black- est of crimes, and will be punished." He then added the ominous sentence: " In re- gard to my future course, I make no prom- ises, no pledges." President Johnson re- tained the cabinet of Lincoln, and exhibited considerable severity toward traitors in his earlier acts and speeches, but he soon inaug- urated a policy of reconstruction, proclaim- ing a general amnesty to the late Confeder- ates, and successively e'stablishing provis- ional Governments in the Southern States. These States accordingly claimed represen- tation in Congress in the following Decem- ber, and the momentous question of what should be the policy of the victorious Union toward its late armed opponents was forced upon that body. . Two considerations impelled the Repub- lican majority to reject the policy of Presi, dent Johnson: First, an apprehension that the chief magistrate intended to undo the re- sults of the war in regard to slavery; and.sec- ond, the sullen attitude of the South, which seemed to be plotting to regain the policy which arms had lost. The credentials of the Southern members elect were laid on the table, a civil rights bill and a bill extending the sphere of the Freedmen's Bureau were passed over the executive veto, and the two highest branches of the Government were soon in open antagonism. The action of Congress was characterized by the Presi- dent as a " new rebellion." In July the cabinet was reconstructed, Messrs. Randall, Stanbury and Browning taking the places of Messrs. Denison, Speed and Harlan, and an unsuccessful attempt was made by means of a general convention in Philadel- phia to form a new party on the basis of the administration policy. In an excursion to Chicago for the pur- pose of laying a corner-stone of the monu- ment to Stephen A. Douglas, President Johnson, accompanied by several members of the cabinet, passed through Philadelphia, New York and Albany, in each of which cities, and in other places along the route, he made speeches justifying and explaining his own policy, and violently denouncing the action of Congress. August 12, 1867, President Johnson re- moved the Secretary of War, replacing him by General Grant. Secretary Stanton retired under protest, based upon the ten- ure-of-office act which had been passed the preceding March. The President then is- sued a proclamation declaring the insurrec- ANDREW yOHNSON. 95 tion it 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 b}' 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. The 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 of 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 finally elected to the Senate in 1875, and took his seat in the extra session of March, in which his speeches were comparatively temperate. He died July 31, 1875, ^nd 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 he lived, niust have sacrificed a large portion of his popularity in carrying out any pos- sible scheme of reconstruction. 96 PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES. LYSSES SIMPSON GRANT, the eight- eenth President of the United States, 1 869-' 77, was born April 27, 1822, at Point Pleasant, ) .UTHERFORD BIRCH- ARD HAYES, the nine- teenth President of the United States, 1877-8.1, 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, 18 13, 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 principjil founders of Nor- wich. Both of her grandfathers were soldiers in the Revolutionary war. The father of President Hayes 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 18 12 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 181 7 that the family arrived at Delaware. Instead of settling upon his L/U^i e^^oJ^ RUTHERFORD S. HATES. loS 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 community. 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 very 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 dhd 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 yet." 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 feehngs of others which 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 o( 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 may 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 this 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 PtiESlbENTS Of THE UNITEb STATES. our Presidents was more universally ad- mired, reverenced and beloved than is Mrs. Hayes, and no one has done nvare 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 the Sec- ond Ohio District, which had always been Democratic, receiving a majority of 3,098. In 1866 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. yAMEs A. gaufield. 109 4Mii 4. i4Eiti^l f^^' (^(^j^i^t^f^i^a i€«^<^<^t^<^«^«^' AMES A. GARFIELD, twentieth President of the United States, 1881, was born November 19, 1831, in the wild woods of Cuyahoga County, Ohio. His parents were Abram and Eliza (Ballou) 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 WQuld 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 years of age, James's highest ambition was to be a lake captain. To this his mother was strongly 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 & PennsyU 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 pay his way he assumed the duties of janitor, and at times 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! Ito PRBSiDBNTS OP TttR VNITED STATES. Afterward he returned to Hiram as Presu 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 years 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 January, 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 Volun- 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 infantry 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 accompHshed, 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 any 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 Repubhcan 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 July 2 following, before he had fairly got started in his administra- tion, he was fatally shot by a half-demented assassin. After very painful and protracted suffering, he died September 19, 1881, 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 poHcy inaugurated by his predecessor. jfS^^fkt ^ ^<^^^^Se^^. "^Kt**^^ ^P ^^^ ^■ ^ r ^a ^^^^fef i^^I N^^^p ^^^mEP^^ ^^r^i^QH^ i^l^Sfl^^ ^\ V ^-^ra ^ j^^y^^4 j^ 1^ I \ '4^ ^^^^^"^ fe^^^ ^mk L ^^^^^m l&» .f!^MsL aB|iKl .^^^H ^H^^^BI^ . I^HhH HBk. m ■H ^E?**^^iV* " '^p ^^^H 1^^^ ;\^V/"-'" '■'^Fa ^^^^o^^KmL ^S^P '* JK^^Si F""* A^^^^^S^^^BKs ^a^^^ •* '- jff^~'ZMsu fe^^S^SC;" ^^mSK^% ^^ Jk ' W' ^^''"" S^S^^A ^^^"^ it V ^ " ^ iT^ Mf y^^ti/ f M^^^^pji^^^*^ r^iSf^ ^ Wr^^W^ it j^^^ps '?>:;' ■'"^^ -^ ' ^ j^^W y - y# -^#' CHESTER A. ARTHUR. 113 ^HESTER ALLEN ARTHUR, the twen- ty-first Chief Execu- tive of this growing republic, i88i-'S, was born in Franklin County, Vermont, October s, 1830, the eldest of a family of two sons and five daughters. His father. Rev. Dr. William Arthur, a Baptist clergyman, immigrated to this country from County 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, with $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 Westen. 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. Artnur died shortly before her husband's nomination to the Vice-Presi- dency, leaving two children. Mr. Arthur obtained considerable 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 by 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. mon, 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 womai\ 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 year 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 disappointed over their defeat. At the head of the Demo- cratic ticket was placed a very strong and popular man ; yet Garfield and Arthur were elected by 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 poHtics, 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 correspondi^ig re- action against "third-termism" had en- croached so far even upon "second-term" service, that the RepubHcan 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, March, 1885, he engaged in the practice of law at New York City, where he died November 18, 1886^ -^^ r r:/ GnoVER CLEVELAND. 117 *'^ "^^JC^t-i- ^^>^^.-;>^-^.J>--^^i^^-^ # z*'"^^ 1€ ^^^^T ROVER CLEVE- LAND, the twenty- second President of the United States, 1885—, was born in Caldwell, Essex County, New Jersey , March 18, 1837. The house in which he was born, a small two-story wooden building, is still stand- ing. It was the parsonage of the Presbyterian church, of which his father, Richard Cleveland, at the time was pastor. The family is of New England origin, and for two centuries has contributed to the professions and to busi- ness, men who have reflected honor on the name. Aaron Cleveland, Grover Cleve- land's great-great-grandfather, was born in Massachusetts, but subsequently moved to Philadelphia, where he became an intimate friend of Benjamin Franklin, at whose house he died. He left a large family of children, who in time married and settled in different parts of New England. A grandson was one of the small American force that fought the British at Bunker Hill. He served with gallantry through- out the Revolution and was honorably discharged at its close as a Lieutenant in the Continental army. Another grandson, William Cleveland (a son of a second Aaron Cleveland, who was distinguished as a writer and member of the Connecticut Legislature) was Grover Cleveland's grand- father. William Cleveland became a silver- smith in Norwich, Connecticut. He ac- quired by industry some property and sent his son, Richard Cleveland, the father of Grover Cleveland, to Yale College, where he graduated in 1 824. During a year spent in teaching at Baltimore, Maryland, after graduation, he met and fell in love with a Miss Annie Neale, daughter of a wealthy Baltimore book pubHsher, of Irish birth. He was earning his own way in the world at the time and was unable to marry; but in three years he completed a course of preparation for the ministry, secured a church in Windham, Connecticut, and married Annie Neale. Subsequently he moved to Portsmouth, Virginia, where he preached for nearly two years, when he was summoned to Caldwell, New Jersey, where was born Grover Cleveland. When he was three years old the family moved to Fayetteville, Onondaga County, New York. Here Grover Cleveland lived until he was fourteen years old, the rugged, healthful life of a country boy. His frank, generous manner made him a favorite among his companions, and their respect was won by the good qualities in the germ which his manhood developed. He at- tended the district school of the village and ii8 PRBSIDBJ^TS OF TUB UNITED STATES. was for a short time at the academy. His lather, however, believed that boys should be taught to labor at an early age, and be- fore he had completed the course of study at the academy he began to work in the village store at $50 for the first year, and the promise of $100 for the second year. His work was well done and the promised in- crease of pay was granted the second year. Meanwhile his father and family had moved to Clinton, the seat of Hamilton College, where his father acted as agent to the Presbyterian Board of Home Missions, preaching in the churches of the vicinity. Hither Grover came at his father's request shortly after the beginning of his second year at the Fayetteville store, and resumed his studies at the CUnton Academy. After three years spent in this town, the Rev. Richard Cleveland was called to the vil- lage church of Holland Patent. He had preached here only a month when he was suddenly stricken down and died without an hour's warning. The death of the father left the family in straitened circumstances, as Richard Cleveland had spent all his salary of $1,000 per year, which was not required for the necessary expenses of liv- ing, upon the education of his children, of whom there were nine, Grover being the fifth. Grover was hoping to enter Hamil- ton College, but the death of his father made it necessary for him to earn his own livelihood. For the first year (1853-4) he acted as assistant teacher and bookkeeper in the Institution for the Blind in New York City, of which the late Augustus Schell was for many years the patron. In the winter of 1854 he returned to Holland Patent where the generous people of that place, Fayetteville and Clinton, had purchased a home for his mother, and in the following spring, borrowing $25, he set out for the West to earn his living. Reaching Buffalo he paid a hasty visit to an uncle, Lewis F. Allen, a well-known stock farmer, living at Black Rock, a tew miles distant. He communicated his plans to Mr. Allen, who discouraged the idea of the West, and finally induced the enthusi- astic boy of seventeen to remain with him and help him prepare a catalogue of blooded short-horn cattle, known as " Allen's Amer- ican Herd Book," a publication familiar to all breeders of cattle. In August, 1855, he entered the law office of Rogers, Bowen & Rogers, at Buffalo, and after serving a few months without pay, was paid $4 a week — an amount barely sufficient to meet the necessary expenses of his board in the family of a fellow-student in Buffalo, with whom he took lodgings. Life at this time with Grover Cleveland was a stern battle with the world. He took his breakfast by candle-light with the drovers, and went at once to the office where the whole day was spent in work and study. Usually he re- turned again at night to resume reading which had been interrupted by the duties of the day. Gradually his employers came to recognize the ability, trustworthiness and capacity for hard work in their young employe, and by the time he was admitted to the bar (iSspyhe stood high in their con- fidence. A year later he was made confi- dential and managing clerk, and in the course of three years more his salary had been raised to $1,000. In 1863 he was ap- pointed assistant district attorney of Erie County by the district attorney, the Hon. C. C. Torrance. Since his first vote had been cast in 1858 he had been a staunch Democrat, and until he was chosen Governor he always made it his duty, rain or shine, to stand at the polls and give out ballots to Democratic voters. During the first year of his term as assistant district attorney, the Democrats desired especially to carry the Board of Su- pervisors. The old Second Ward in which he li\i;.ed was Republican- ordinarily by 250 majority, but at the urgent request of the GROVBR CLEVELAND. 119 party Grover Cleveland consented to be the Democratic candidate for Supervisor, and came within thirteen votes of an elec- tion. The three years spent in the district attorney's office were devoted to assiduous labor and the extension of his professional attainments. He then formed a law part- nership with the late Isaac V. Vanderpoel, ex-State Treasurer, under the firm name of Vanderpoel & Cleveland. Here the bulk of the work devolved on Cleveland's shoul- ders, and he soon won a good standing at the bar of Erie County. In 1869 Mr. Cleveland formed a partnership with ex- Senator A. P. Laning and ex-Assistant United States District Attorney Oscar Fol- som, under the firm name of Laning, Cleve- land & Folsom. During these years he began to earn a moderate professional in- come; but the larger portion of it was sent to his mother and sisters at Holland Patent to whose support he had contributed ever since i860. He served as sheriff of Erie County, i870-'4, and then resumed the practice of law, associating himself with the Hon. Lymaii K. Bass and Wilson S. Bissell. The firm was strong and popular, and soon commanded a large and lucrative practice. Ill health forced the retirement of Mr. Bass in 1879, and the firm became Cleveland & Bissell. In 1881 Mr. George J. Sicard was added to the firm. In the autumn election of 1881 he was elected mayor of Buffalo by a majority of over 3,500 — the largest majority ever given a candidate for mayor — and the Democratic city ticket was successful, although the Republicans carried Buffalo by over i,oco majority for their State ticket. Grover Cleveland's administration as mayor fully justified the confidence reposed in him by the people of Buffalo, evidenced by the great vote he received. The Democratic State Convention met at Syracuse, September 22, 1882, andnomi. nated Grover Cleveland for Governor on the third ballot and Cleveland was elected by 192,000 majority. In the fall of 1 884 he was elected President of the United States by about 1,000 popular majority, in New York State, and he was accordingly inaugurated the 4th of March following. ^•^^^ ^^-5e^*%^*^^^^.^,^j^^ex-^i^-^e^'%t«-=.<-«^ ■HISTORY OF lOWi »i-. IOWA STATE HOUSE AT DES MOINES HISTORY OF IOWA. "3 j^istory of Iowa. w% 11 ■ ! r ; jL ! *-'-? -'*—* ^' ii^ ix DAVID EYER AND WIFE. 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 10 accessors during ;ople have their as those of prog- oos and Chinese, tence as distinct 1 in a state of de- o not improve, nd the. United n in enjoying a ndians have long practical arts of it days of Feni- " red men have iespite the close ;r of civilization. orities unite in srican continent tern Asia, either hring's Strait or from the Kamt- ist. If mankind )ole, and subse- intic continent, ;sible that the cs of polar or 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 124 HISTORr 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 iji 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 savage religion, 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 35 th 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 in the 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 yisiting 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 by Louis Joliet, an agent of the French Government. The Indians, who had gathered 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. I2S 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 Catholiciam 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 and they 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 for a time, and afterward by others, subject to the varying fortunes of their little wars. The tribes were principally the Illinois, lowas, Dakotas, Sioux, Pottawatomies and finally the Sacs and Foxes. In 1765 the Miami confederacy was com- posed of four tribes, whose total number of warriors was estimated at only 1,050 men. Of these about 250 were Twightwees, or Miamis proper; 300 Weas, or Ouiate- nons; 300 Piankeshaws and 200 Shockeys; 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 by France to connect Canada and the Gulf of Mexico by 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 cgded to Spain all the country west of that river. In 1765 the total number of French fami- lies 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 126 HISTORY 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 Territories 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 Illinois 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, Foxes 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 k)wa 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 1825. 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 policy 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 th|p President of the United States wished to inquire into the needs of 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 six days 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 HISTORY OF IOWA. 127 Julien Dubuque, a Frenchman who held 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. January 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, a 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 tlte " 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 warriprs, and of his having headed an ex- pedition in defense of their village at Peoria. 128 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 always 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 18 16, 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 perrtianent 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 ratifying 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 rehn- 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^e 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 year, 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 HISTORT OF IOWA. 129 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 County was granted by the Lieutenant-Governor of Upper Louisiana in 179s 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, six 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 jn 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 1819-20 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- I30 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 mines 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 they 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 OP IOWA. «3t 1833, the troops were withdrawn, and the Langworthy 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 1 50 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 Monticelio, and the evening train brought the news of his death and his remains. Lucius H. Langworthy, his brother, was one of the most worthy, gif!ed 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 " FHnt 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 rights 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 o( Burlington in 1834, on a beautiful area of sloping eminences and gentle declivities, enclosed within a natural amphitheater 132 msTORT Of Tow a. 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 first 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 Foxes, 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 County, which was the first actual settlement within the Hmits of that county. The first settlers of Davenport were An- toine Le Claire, Colonel George Davenport, Major Thomas Smith, Major William Gor- don, PhiHp 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 1836. The first settlers of Muscatine County were Benjamin Nye, John Vanater and G. W. Kasey, all of whom came in 1834. E. E. Fay, William St. John. N. Fullington, H. Reece, Jonas Pettibone, R. P. Lowe, Stephen Whicher, Abijah Whitney, J. E. Fletcher, W. D. Abernethy and Alexis Smitli 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 " Mynster Spring," within the limits of the present city of Council Bluffs, and had probably been there some time, as the post was known to the employes 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 they 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 Pennsy> vania, who visited them soon afterward. The Mormon settlement extended over the county and into neighboring counties, wherever timber and water furnished de- sirable locations. Orson Hyde, priest, law- yer and editor, was installed as president HISTORY OF IOWA. t33 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 Allen, 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, and the Captain re- turned in the steamer to Fort Sanford to arrange for bringing up more soldiers and supplies. In due time they 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 Sturtevar.t, Robert Kin- zie, Alexander 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 next thing to do was to build a log cabin, a description of which may 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 the 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 shingUng, 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 i34 Mr Story op wwa. its handles. This was driven into the blocks of wood by a mallet. As the frow 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 ei^ht 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 pulling 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. The;^ were strangers to mock modesty, and the traveler seeking lodging for the night, or desirous of spending a few days in the community, if wiUing 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 six or eight members. The bed was very 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 HISTORT OF IOWA. 135 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 for 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 other 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 flajc. 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 necessary for the girls of our period to acquire a skillful use of their costly and elegant instruments. But those wheels, indispensable a few years 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 da\'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 by all the audience, mine host said to his wife, " Old woman, I reckon this 'ere preacher is pretty hungry and )'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 needl«ss 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 ip 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 controf next his property, he would burn off a strip around him and prevent the attack of the on-coming flames. A few furrows or a ditch around the farm were in some degrees a protection. HISTORl- OF IOWA. 137 An original prairie of tall and exuberant grass on fire, especially 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 beyond the people of the present day in this country. One could scarcely 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 convey, 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 accustomed place in the heavens, had dispatched myriads upon myriads of 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 quickly 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; yet, notwithstand- ing the imminent peril of prairie fires, one is loth, irresolute, almost unable to with- draw or seek refuge. LOUISIANA TERRITORY. As before mentioned, although De Soto, a Spaniard, first took possession of the Mis- sissippi Valley 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, by 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 1711 this province was placed in the hands of a governor-general, with headquarters at Mobile, for the purpose of applying a new policy 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 any Frenchman to establish trade, by closing the ports against him. In "^T^l 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 ot 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 Rocky 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 T754 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 Str-aits of Mackinaw, and in- vested St. Lours, Missouri, in 1780, but were driven off. 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 /r^ tem. 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 succeeSed 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 was James 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 18 10 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 postoffice 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 early 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. Swazey, Arthur Ingram, Robert Ralston, George Hepner, Jesse J. Payne, D. B. Hughes, James M. Clark, Charles Whittlesey, Jonathan W. 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 H. Beeler, 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 taCongress. 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- eyes " grew impatient under his administra- tion, and, after having a stormy session for a time, they 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 Indians had possession of the rest of Ipwa. 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 Buren 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 gase to the Supreme HISTORY OF IOWA. 141 Court of the United States for the settle- ment of the boundary 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," saj'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, th? 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 bod}' 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, fixed the boundaries of the State very differently from what were finally agreed upon. May 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 university; 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- 142 HIS Ton r 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. All 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 lor 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 of 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 116,651, 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 choose United States Senators. The Whigs had a majority of two in the House, and the Democrats a majority of one in the Senate. After repeated attempts to control these majorities-for caucus nom- inees and frequent sessions of 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 State. 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 parhamentary 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 for the use of the University, reserving their use, however, by the General Assembly and the State officers, 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 much was burned." The report was referred with- out the instructions, but Monroe City never became the seat of Government. By an HISTORY OP IOWA. 143 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 City, 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 185s, 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, 6i Muscatine and Shepherd LefHer, 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 the 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, Zachary Taylor 11,034, ^nd 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 governnient was not settled, and in 1851 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 temporary 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 oi her foster parent. 144 HIS'IORT Of IOWA. The year 1856 marked a new era in the his- tory of Iowa. In 1854 the Chicago & Rock Island Ra,iIroad had been completed to the east bank of the Mississippi River, opposite Davenport. In the same year the 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. Twenty 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 Assembly 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 State as if by 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, every 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 largely 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 msTORY OF tow A. HS policy of the Federal Government in selling 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 comprehensive 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 banks under the super- vision of our own laws. The Hmitation of the State debt was enlarged to $250,000, and the corporate indebtedness of the cities and counties was also limited to 5 per cent, upon the valuation of their taxable property. The judges of the Supreme Court were to be elected by the popular vote. The per- manent seat of government was fixed 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 of Iowa there had been upon the statute book a law pro- viding that no negro, 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 40,311 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 oi-her accompaniments increased 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 during this passage over hills and prairies, across rivers, through bottom lands and timber, the safes belonging to the several depart- t46 tttSTORY Of I6WA. ments contained large sums of money, mostly 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 ii, 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 1858-60, 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 duly 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 ot Iowa, as early as 185 1, 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 throu ghout 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 integrity, and the existence of our national Union, and the perpetuity of popular government," HIS TORT OF TOW A. HI the good people of Iowa were more than willing to respond to the call. Party lines gave way, and for a while, at least, party 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 repelHng 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, and they were purchased 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 Vandeverin 13 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 offices, 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 whoin 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 t86i, 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 State, were authorized to open a poll on the day of the election, and to make re- hS HISTORY OF IOWA. turn of their votes to the proper civil au- thorities. In the Presidenlal 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 see'med 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 lately in rebelHon. 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. They 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. WiUiams, of Dubuque County, Colonel. Veteranized in 1864, but before the new officers received their commigsions the regiment fought itself 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 sufiered 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. Sixteenth 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, of 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 fearfuljoss 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 Chnton, Colonel. Took part in many great battles. tSO MISTORT OP 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 Infantry ; 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 many 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. Thirty-eighth Infantr}' ; D. H. Hughes, of Decorah, Colonel. Most unfortunate of all in respect of sickness, 300 dying during the first two years. 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 Cavalry. There were no regiments numbered Forty-second or Forty-third. Forty-fourth Infantry for 100 days; Stephen H. Henderson, Colonel. Garrison duty in Tennessee. Forty-fifth Infantry, for 1,00 days ; A. H. Bereman, of Mt. Pleasant, Colonel. Garri- son duty in Tennessee. Forty-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 ; Cyrus Bussey, 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 Cavalry, only in part an Iowa regi- ment; William W. Lowe, of the regular army. Colonel. Distinguished in the hotly 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 HISTORY OF IOWA. IS» Ottumwa, Colonel. Served against the Indians. Eighth Cavalry ; Joseph B. Dorr, of Du- buque, Colonel. Served faithfully in guard- ing Sherman's communications, 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 Sioux 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, WiUiam Van- dever, M. 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 R, Weaver, Francis M. Drake, George A. Stone, Datus E. Coon, George W. Clark, Herman H. Heath, J. M. Hed- rick and W. W. Lowe. lOWTA 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 elections the people gave a ma- 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 23,1871. The structure is not yet completed. When finished it will have cost about $3,500,000. The State University, at Iowa City, was established 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, 153 HISTORr 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, 1853, at the request of the board, the General Assembly terminated its rela- tion to the State. The brancli at Dubuque had only a nominal existence . ' By 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 8f 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 June, 1868, and soon afterward the Iowa Law School at Des Moines, which had been in successful operation for three years, was transferred to Iowa City and merged in the department. The medical department was established in 1869; and in 1874 a chair of military instruction was added. Since April 11, 1870, the government 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, with 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 1863 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 February, 1877, ^^^ 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 Blind has been at Vin- ton since 1862. Prof. Samuel Bacon, himself blind, a fine scholar, who had founded the Institution for the Blind, at Jacksonville, Illinois, commenced as early 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 outlay 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 for 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. 153 pleted in 1861, atacostof $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 origmated 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 ma brick building at Lawrence, Van Buren County. It was sustained by voluntary contributions iintil 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 hot^l build- ing being fitted up for it, and by the follow- ing January there were ninety-six inmates. In October, 1869, the Home was removed to a large brick building about two miles west of Cedar Falls, and was ver}^ prosper- ous for several years; 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 Glenwood, 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 1 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 1841, 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 i872-'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 County. 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- «54 HISTOnr OF IOWA. cessfully 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 advisory 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 schoolteachers were among the first im- migrants to Iowa. Schools, therefore, the people have had everywhere from the start, and the schx)ol-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. Langworthy 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 1834-5. In Muscatine County, the first school was taught by George Bumgardner, in the spring of 1837. In 1839 ^ ^o& 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 Berry 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 Eddyville ; and in the summer of 1844 a log school-house was built by Gray, William V. Beedle, C. Renfro, Joseph McMuUen 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. HISTORr OF IOWA. IS5 At Fort Des Moines, now the capital of the State, the first school was taught by Lewis Whitten, Clerk of the District Court, in the winter of 1846-'/, 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; '^"'1 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 report 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, and new 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 lUinois, 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 six 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 provisions for teachers' institutes. In March, i860, the 156 HISTORY OF IOWA. General Assembly 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 county 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 County, 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 Government for 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 fines and forfeitures go to the school fund in the counties where collected. T)ie 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, lias 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. HISTORY OP IOWA. 157 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 twenty-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 permanently endowed. Has fourteen instructors and three hundred and eighty-four students. Iowa Wesleyan University (Methodist Episcopal), at Mt. Pleasant, has six mem- bers of the faculty and one hundred and seventy-five students. Luther College, at Decorah, Winneshiek County, has a faculty of ten, and one hun- dred and sixty-five pupils. Oskaloosa College has a faculty of five, and one hundred and thirty-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 faculty and an attendance of two hundred and ten scholars. University 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 'io,53i- 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 1880 was 1,624,463. The following table will show the population at different periods since the erection of Iowa Territory : Year. 183S.. 1840. . 1844 . 1846. , 1847.. 1849. . 1850. . 1851.. I8i2.. 1854- • 1856.. Population 22,589 .... 43.115 75i'52 .... 97.588 1 16,65 1 152,988 191,98^ 204,774 , ...230,713 326,013 5 '9.055 Year Population 1859 638,775 i860 674,913 1863 701.732 1865 750.699 1S67 902.040 1869 1,040,819 1870 1,191,727 1873 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 January, 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 : state 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' Home.. 62,000 Penitentiaries 408,000 Normal School . . 50,000 Reform School. . 90,000 »58 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 promptly 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. Noursc, 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 loWA !' " 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 eastern 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 Ues 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 lowest, 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 gravel than elsewhere. In HISTORY OF IOWA. 159 Southern Iowa the soil is frequently stiff and clayey. The bluff soil is found only 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 Palaeozoic age. The table below will show each of these formations in their order : o GD "O » >o < 2 o US' sa c ' O n a. 3 o 5- 1-3 Q2!3: 3 n.Cfq 3 CO B n o o Kit) (-'05 3' o o ." C on ^ fc_, _ P3 1 rt ■1 pi 013 N 3 3 en w» n. fP M n » S2.3 g 3 m a MO h n p 3 E. » S- g 3 n-^an 3 ;* 3 c » s ?3 "" q-r WW??cot-' 6 g r""" o 3Scfi3"b-!!t-<3"E:" a a 2? ff »s " fB 03 S^o S 3 n n 3 O n> : : » 3 3 == Srq 3 D-JS P?£j3 -^ cng CL T a. w: 3-. T^ '-1 T ^ rt O rt ^5 O. o 2 » p a o c O en O 00000000 OUi OvOtn 000 000 w 5 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 splintery 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 Magnesian 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. i6o tilSTORT OF IOWA. 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 usually 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 vicinity 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 is singularly long and narrow, seldom reach- ing more than a mile or two in width. The most northern exposure yet 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 clay 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 entirely a magnesian lime- stone, with a considerable portion of sili- cious matter, in some places, in the form of chert or coarse fiint. 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 forty to fifty. 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 Waverly, Bremer County. The heavier and more uniform magnesian beds furnish material for bridge piers and other material requiring strength and durability. A coral occurs near Iowa City, 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 County, 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 County, thence southward to the middle of the north line of Jasper County, thence southeastward to Sigour- ney, 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 Buren 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 of 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, particularly 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 MarsTiall 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 layers 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 hmestone 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 County. 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 unsightly, 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 postoffices 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, yet 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 t62 HISTORY 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 every 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, comprisnig 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. They have not been observed in Iowa except in the bluffs 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 OP IOWA. 163 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 most 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 unknown, 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 alkaline 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, amor- 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 always too small to be of any practical value, usually occurring in shales and shaly clays, associated with strata that contain more or less sulphuret of iron. Gypsum has thus 15 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. B3' 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 bring rain and snow, while westerly ones clear the sky. 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 Ai^gust 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 HISTORY 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.. . . Hancock Hardin Harrison Henry Howard Humboldt. . . Ida., .' Iowa Jackson Jasper Jefferson Johnson Jones Keokuk Kossuth Lee Linn Louisa Lucas Lyon Madison Mahaska. . . . Marion Marshall. . . . Mills 1850 777 3.131 6f2 13s 735 517 3>94i 709 3,873 2,822 8.54 7,264 965 1,759 12,988 10,841 '"8^5 1,244 8,707 822 7,210 1,280 9,904 4,472 3,007 4,822 18,861 5.444 4,939 471 1,179 5989 5,482 338 i860. 984 1,533 12,237 11,931 o'^54 8,496 8,244 4,232 4,915 7,906 57 3,724 147 281 1,612 12,949 940 58 4.336 5.427 52 20,728 18,938 383 5,244 13,764 8,677 11,024 19,611 180 31,164 105 12,073 3,744 1,309 5,074 1,374 793 3,058 1,699 179 5,440 3,621 18,701 3,168 332 8,029 18,493 9,883 15,038 '7.573 13.306 13.371 416 29,232 18,947 i°,37o 5,766 7,3.39 14,816 16813 6,015 4,481 1870. 3,982 4,614 17,868 16,456 1,212 22,454 21,706 14.584 12,528 17,034 ',585 9,95' 1, 602 2,451 5,464 19,73' 4,722 1,967 10,180 8,735 1,53 27,771 35,357 2,530 12,019 15.565 12,018 17,432 27,256 1,389 38,969 1, 39 2 16,973 10,768 4,738 11,174 4,627 6,399 7,06 6,055 999 13,684 8,931 21,463 6,282 2,596 226 16,664 22,619 22,116 17,839 24,898 19,731 19434 3.35 37,210 28,852 2,877 10,388 221 13,884 22,508 24,436 17,576 8,718 1880. 11,199 11,188 19,791 16,636 ,7.448 24,888 23913 20,838 14,081 18,547 7,537 14,293 5 595 12,351 16,943 18937 11,461 8,240 14,.534 11,512 4,248 28,829 36,764 12,413 18,746 16,468 15,336 17,952 33,099 1,901 42,997 1,550 22,258 14,677 10,248 17,653 12.725 12,639 14,863 11,252 3,153 17,808 16,649 20,826 10,837 6,341 4,382 19,221 23,771 25,962 17,478 25,429 21,052 21,259 6,179 34,859 37,23s 13,146 14,.' 30 1,968 17,225 25,201 2.5,111 23,752 '4,135 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 Total 1850. 5.731 551 4.513 7,828 615 5,986 8 204 12,270 8,471 961 4,957 340 546 192,214 i860. 3.409 832 8,612 1.256 16,444 8 4.419 132 148 103 11.625 4,968 5,668 2923 246 25,959 S18 10 4,051 .5.2S5 3,590 2,012 17,081 i4,5'8 10,281 14,235 6,409 2,504 168 13,942 1,119 756 653 1870. 9.582 3.654 12,724 5,934 21,688 715 9,975 1,336 2,199 1,446 27,857 16,893 15.581 S.691 1,411 38,.509 2,549 570 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 2,392 674,913 1,191,792 1,624,463 1880. 14.361 - 9.05s 13.719 15,895 23,168 4,15s 2,219 19,667 4,131 8,567 3,713 42,.395 39,846 18,956 12,085 8,77+ 41,270 12,696 5,426 ' 16,966 2I,.58S 15,635 14,980 17,042 25,282 19,578 20,37S 16,127 15,950 4,917 23,937 14.997 7.953 5,062 TERRITORIAL OFFICERS. Cw^;-«orj.— Robert Lucas, i838-'4i; John Chamber, 1841-45,; James Clark, 1845. Secretaries. — Wm. B. Conway, 1838, died 1839; James Clark, i839-'4i ; O. H. W. Stull, 1841-43; Samuel J. Burr, 1843-45; Jesse Williams, 1845. ^w^zV^r.?.— Jesse Williams, i840-'43; Will- iam L. Gilbert, 1843-45; Robert M. Secrest, 1845- Treasurers. — Thornton Baylie, 1839-40; Morgan Reno, 1840. Judges— C\i2ir\es Mason, Chief Justice, 1838; Joseph Williams, 1838; Thomas S. Wilson, 1838. Presidents of Council. — Jesse B. Brown, 1838-49; Stephen Hempstead, 1839-40; M. Bainridge, i840-'4i; J.W.Parker, i84i-'42; John D. Elbert, 1842-43 ; Thomas Cox, HISTORY OF IOWA. i6S 1843-44; S. Clinton Hasting, 1845; Stephen Hempstead, 1845-46. Speakers of the House. — William H. Wal- lace, 1838-39; Edward Johnson, i839-'40 ; Thomas Cox, 1840-31 ; Warner Lewis, 1841-42; James M. Morgan, i842-'43; James P. Carleton, 1843-44; James M. Morgan, 1845 ; George W. McLeary, 1845-46. STATE OFFICERS. Governors. — Ansel Briggs, 1 846-' 50; Stephen Hempstead, 1850-54: James W. Grimes, 1854-58; Ralph P- Lowe, 1858- '60; Samuel J. Kirkwood, i86o-'64; Will- iam M. Stone, i864-'68 ; Samuel Morrill, 1868-72; Cyrus C. Carpenter, 1872-76; 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 Fa ville, 1 8 5 8- '60; Nicholas J. Rusch, i86o-'62 ; John R. Needham, 1862-64; Enoch W. Eastman, 1864-66; Benjamin F. Gue, i866-'68; John Scott, 1868-70; M. M. Walden, i87o-'72; H. C. Bulls, 1872-74; Joseph Dysart, 1874-76; 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., 1846-48; Joseph H. Bonney, 1848-50; George W. McCIeary, i8so-'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. nAuditors of State. — Joseph T. Fales, 1846-50 ; William Pattee, i85o-'54; Andrew J. Stevens, 1854-55 ; John Pattee, 1855-59; Jonathan W. Cattell, 1859-65; John A. Elliott, 1865-71 ; John Russell, i87i-'75 ; Buren R. Sherman, 1875-81; Wm. V. Lucas, 1881 ; John L. Brown, 1882-83 ; J. W. Cattell, acting, i88s-'86. Treasurers of State. — Morgan Reno, i846-'so; Israel Kister, 1850-52 ; Martin L. Morris, 1852-59; 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 Twombly, 1885. Attorney-Generals. — David C. Cloud, 1853-56; Samuel A. Rice, 1856-60; Charles C. Nourse, 1860-64; Isaac L. Allen, 1865- '66; Frederick E. Bissell, i866-'67; Henry O'Connor, 1867-72; Marcena E. Cutts, 1872-76; John F. Mcjunkin, 1877-81; Smith McPherson, 1881-85 ; A. J. Baker, 1885. Adjutant-Generals. — Daniel S. Lee, 1851- '55; George W. McCIeary, 1855-57; Eli- jah Sells, 1857; Jesse Bowen, i857-'6i ; Na- thaniel Baker, 1861-77; John H. Looby, 1877-78; W. L, Alexander, i878-'84. Registers of the State Land-Office. — Anson Hart, 1855-57 ; Theodore S. Parvin, 1857- '59; Amos B. Miller, i8S9-'62 ; Edwin Mitchell, 1862-63 ; Josiah A. Harvey, 1863-67; Cyrus C. Carpenter, 1867-71; Aaron Brown, i87i-'75 ; David Secor, 1875-79 ; J. K. Powers, i879-'82.* Superintendents of Public Instruction. — James Harlan, 1847-48; Thos. H. Benton, Jr., 1848-54; James D. Fads, 1854-57, Joseph C. Stone, 1857; Maturin L. Fisher, 1857-58; Oran Faville, i864-'67; D.Frank- lin Wells, i867-'68 ; A. S. Kissell, i868-'72; Alonzo Abernethy, i872-'76; Carl W. Van Coelen, i876-'82; John W. Akers, 1882-84. 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, 1851-53; William A. Hornish, 1853; Den- *Offlce abolished January i, 1883, and duties devolved on the Secretary of State i66 HISTORY OF IOWA. nis A. Mahoney and Joseph B. Dorr, 1853- '55 ; Peter Moriarty, 1855-57 I John Tees- dale, 1857-61 ; Francis W. Palmer, 1861- '69; Frank M. Mills, \?,6g-'7i ; G. W. Ed- wards, 1871-73 ; Rich. P. Clarkson, 1873- '79; Frank M. Mills, i879-'8i ; Geo. E. Roberts, 1881. State Binders. — William M. Coles, 1855- '58 ; Frank M. Mills, 1858-67 ; James S. Carter, 1867-71 ; J.J. Smart, 1871-75 ; H. A. Perkins, 1875-79; Matt. Parrott, 1879- '85 ; L. S. Merchant, 1885. 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, i847-'48; John J. Selman, i848-'49; Enos Lowe, i849-'Si ; Wm. E. Leffingwell, i8si-'53; Matui-n 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, 1846-48; Smiley H. Bonham, 1848-50; George Temple, 1850-52; James Grant, 1852-54; Reuben Noble, 1854-56; Samuel McFarland, i856-'57; Stephen B. Sheledy, 1857-59; John Edwards, i859-'6i ; Rush Clark, i86i-'63; Jacob Butler, i863-'65; Ed. Wright, 1865-67; John Russell, 1867-69; Aylett R. Cotton, 1869-71 ; James Wilson, 1871-73; JohnH. Geer, 1873-77; JohnY. Stone, 1877-79; Lore Alford, 1880-81; G. R. Struble, i882-'83; Wm. P. Wolf, 1884; Albert Head, 1886. Chief Justices of the Supreme Court. — Charles Mason, 1847; Joseph Williams, 1847-48; S. CUnton Hastings, 1848-49; Joseph Williams, 1849-55; George G. Wright, 1855-60; Ralph P. Lowe, 1860-62; Caleb Baldwin, 1862-64; George G. Wright, 1864-66; Ralph P. Lowe, 1866- '68; John F. Dillon, 1868-70; Chester C. Cole, 1870-71; James G. Day, 1871-72; Joseph M. Beck, 1872-74 ; W. E Miller, 1874-76; Chester C. Cole, 1876; Wm. H. Seevers, 1 876-77 ; James G. Day, 1877-78; 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 yustices.^o?,Q'^\\. Williams, held over from territorial government until a successor was appointed ; Thomas S. Wil- son, 1847; John F. Kinney, 1847-54; George Greene, i847-'55; Jonathan C. Hall, '1854- '55; WiUiam 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, 1864-70 ; Chester C. Cole, 1864-77; Joseph M. Beck, 1868; W. E. Miller, 1870; James G. Day, 1870. United States Senators. — Augustus C. Dodge, 1848-55 ; George W. Jones, 1848- '59; James Harlan, 1855-65; James W. Grimes, i859-'69; Samuel J. Kirkwood, 1866; James Harlan, 1867-73; James B. Howell, 1870; George G. Wright, 1871- 77; William B. Allison, 1873-79; Samuel J. Kirkwood, 1877-81; Wm. B. Allison, 1879-85; 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 C(?7^. STEPHEN HEMPSTEAD. 183 ■ mi*t»mmimm*m^^mmi»%t^^^^^ nU efe> kL. _^ .J/. ^ •!. @gc.,«t5^g5iOSI® •i/- ^ ^ -U cfe -U ^ntlff^ -5-ingf^V- I -^STEPHEN HEfflPSTEflH.^^ ^ ;;?.n^nS.7 I "T- «^ -f tj^ T* «i^~-T="@gc^<^5&>oa@) -T^. sj^ -T^. ^"^ |H I S gentleman, the second Governor of the State, was born at New London, Connecticut, Octo- ber I, 1812, and lived in that State until the spring of 1828, when his father's family came West and settled on a farm a few miles from St. Louis, Missouri. Here he remained until 1830, when he entered as clerk in a commission house in Galena, Illinois, and dur- ing the Black Hawk war he was an officer in an artillery company or- ganized for the protection of that place. At the close of the war he entered as a student of the Illinois College at Jackson- ville, Illinois, remaining about two years, leaving to commence the study of law which he finished under Charles S. Hemp- stead, Esq., then a prominent lawyer at Galena. In 1836 he was admitted to prac- tice his profession in the courts of the Ter- ritory of Wisconsin, then emlDracing Iowa, and in the same year located in Dubuque, being the first lawyer who practiced in that place. At the organization of the Territorial Legislature in 1838 he was elected to represent the northern portion of the Territory in the Legislative Council, of which he was chairman of the committee on judiciary, one of the important com- mittees of the Council. At the second session of that body he was elected presi- dent thereof, was again elected a member of the Council in 1845, which was held in Iowa City, and was again president of the same. In 1844 he was elected one of the delegates to the first constitutional conven- tion of the State of Iowa, and was chair- man of the committee on incorporations. In 1848, in connection with Hon. Charles Mason and W. G. Woodward, he was ap- pointed commissioner by the Legislature to revise the laws of the State of Iowa, and which revision, with a few amendments, was adopted as the code of Iowa in 185 1. In 1850 he was elected Governor of the State of Iowa, receiving 13,486 votes, against 11,403 for James L. Thompson, 575 for William P. Clarke, and 1 1 scattering. The vote was canvassed on the 4th of December, and a committee was appointed to inform the Governor elect that the two Houses of the Legislature were ready to re- ceive him in joint convention, in order that he might receive the oath prescribed by the Constitution. After receiving formal 184 GdvBttf^oHS OP- tow A. notification, Governor Hempstead, accom- panied by Governor Briggs, the judges of the Supreme Court and the officers of State, entered the hall of the House, and having been duly announced, the Governor elect delivered his inaugural message, after which the oa:th was administered by the chief justice of the Supreme Court. This session of the Legislature passed a number of important acts which were approved by Governor Hempstead, and formed fifty-two new counties, most of them having the same names and bound- aries to-day. These new counties were : Adair, Union, Adams, Cass, Montgomery, Mills, Pottawattomie, Bremer, Butler, Grundy, Hardin, Franklin, Wright, Risley, Yell, Greene, Guthrie, Carroll, Fox, Sac, Crawford, Shelby, Harrison, Monona, Ida, Waukau, Humboldt, Pocahontas, Buena Vista, Fayette, Cherokee, Plymouth, Alla- makee, Chickasaw, Floyd, Cerro Gordo, Hancock, Kossuth, Palo Alto, Clay, O'- Brien, Sioux, Howard, Mitchell, Worth, Winnebago, Winneshiek, Bancroft, Em- mett, Dickinson, Osceola and Buncombe. The last-named county was so called under peculiar circumstances. The Legislature was composed of a large majority favoring stringent corporation laws, and the liability of individual stockholders for corporate debts. This sentiment, on account of the agitation of railroad enterprises then begin- ning, brought a large number of prominent men to the capital. To have an effect upon the Legislature, they organized a " lobby legislature," in which these questions were ably discussed. They elected as Governor Verplank Van Antwerp, who delivered to this self-constituted body a lengthy mes- sage, in which he sharply criticised the regular general assembly. Some of the members of the latter were in the habit of making long and useless speeches, much to the hindrance of business. To these he especially referred, charging them with speaking "for buncombe," and recom- mended that as their lasting memorial, a county should be called by that name. This suggestion was readily seized upon by the Legislature, and the county of " Bun- combe" was created with few dissenting voices. By act of the General Assembly approved September 11, 1862, the name was changed to " Lyon," in honor of Gen- eral Nathaniel Lyon, who was killed in the civil war. Governor Hempstead's message to the fourth General Assembly, December, 1852, stated, among other things, that the popu- lation of the State was by the federal cen- sus 192,214, and that the State census showed an increase for one year of 37,786. He also stated that the resources of the State for the coming two years would be sufficient to cancel all that part of the funded debt which was payable at its option. By 1854 the State had fully recovered from the depression produced by the bad season of 185 1, and in 1854 and 185*5 the immigration from the East was unprece- dented. For miles and miles, day after day, the prairies of Illinois were lined with cattle and wagons, pushing on toward Iowa. At Peoria, one gentleman said that during a single month 1,743 wagons passed through that place, all for Iowa. The Burlington Telegraph said : " Twenty thousand immi- , grants have passed through the city within the last thirty days, and they are still cross- ing the Mississippi at the rate of 600 a day." Governor Hempstead's term expired in the latter part of 1854, and he returned to Dubuque, where the following year he was elected county judge. This position he held twelve years, and in 1867 he retired on account of impaired health. He lived, how- ever, till February 16, 1883, when at^iis home in Dubuque he closed his record on earth. He was a useful and active man, and deserves a prominent place in the esteem of lowans. v^ «^-7 yAMES W. cm MRS. T^l /■< SHE third to fill the of- fice of Governor of Iowa, and whose name deserves a fore most rank among the men whose personal his- tory is interwoven insepar- ably with that of the State, was James Wilson Grimes. He was born in the town of Deering, Hillsborough Count)^ New Hampshire, October 20, 18 16. His parents — John Grimes, born August 11, 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 early 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 sixteenth year of his age. Upon 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 poHce 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 Territor}'. In the early part of the year 1841 he formed a partnership with Henry W. Starr, Esq., which continued twelve years. 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 Des Moines County in the first Legislative Assembly of the Territory of Iowa, which convened at BurUngton, November 12, 1838; in the sixth, at Iowa City, December 4, 1843 ; and in the fourth General Assembly 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 GOt>-EJtArORS 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, Democracy 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, ^"^ ^'^^ placed upon the committee on naval aflairs January 24, 1861, on which he remained during the remainder of his senatorial career, serving as chairman from December, 1864. 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- ulty, 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 Uterary 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, 1 87 1, apparently in improved health and jspirits. 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. ,y>/^ /^, u^y^.a-^....^j^ RALPH P. LOW£. 1-sIE ■■■ II tl ■lfl fi^4l» -- =^„t ^ ^' 8 ii i '' i '' i> i »(ii'Cti i ii'Ci) i i i (i > flt i qi>(» gw^ HE 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 \o 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 Democrac)' 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 r,oo6 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- tgi GOVERNORS OP IOWA. viewing the preceding two years: " The period that has elapsed 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 j-ear 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 pay- 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 thirty 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. ^6''>>«.**-c«-^ SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD. 195 / ^^■.-j!»I^W-J»jH-J»»J>'-^!»!^^y^ ^^. "^■^WE-* /*"^ ^^ (^g^SAMUEIi (5. KlRKWOOD, ^ ■«-^ta>->»<^*-^*^-^>t^'^ i^^ST sAMUEL JORDAN KIRKWOOD, the fifth Governor of the State of Iowa, was born December 20, 1813, 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 Presbj'terian church. When ten years old young Kirkwood was sent to Washington City to attend a school taught by 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 majority, 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 bad re- moved from Maryland there) in clearing a farm. In 1841 he entered, as a student, the law office of Thomas W. Bartley, 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 year 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 th? 196 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 January II, i860. 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 i86i, authorized the sale of $800,000 in bonds, to assist m 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 of 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 Secretary of the Interior by President Lincoln, just before his death, but had withdrawn from the cabinet soon after the accession of Mr. Johnson to the Presidency. In this way it happened that the Legislature had two terms of United States Senator to fill, a short term of two years, to fill Harlan's unexpired term, and a long term of six years, to immediately succeed this ; and Harlan had now become a candidate for his own successorship, to which Kirkwood also aspired. Ultimately, 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 Savings Bank. 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 tZ^Cl WILLIAM M. STONE. 199 ^' piE subject of this brief sketch was the ninth to hold the position of Governor of Iowa, and the sixth to fill 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 grandfather, 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 years 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, 185 1, 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 Knoxville Journal, 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 GOVERNORS 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 Infantry, 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 i found Colonel Stone at Milliken's Bend, Louisiana, to assist Grant in the capture of Vicksburg. He was now in immediate coronnand 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 bre vetted 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 majority in 1863 was nearly 30,000, and in 1865 about 16,500. His diminished 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 whg 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 of English ancestry, being a descendant on his mother's side of Peter 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 father'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 Jamily, and in the eighth generation from his Pil- grim fathers. 18 Samuel was married first to Catherine Thorns, who died in 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 sunny 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 try his good fortune on the broad prairies of the. new and more fertile West, Accordingly, 204 GOVERIVORS 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 1855 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 prosperity 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 Twenty- 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 gallantly 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 bloody 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 11, 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. GTBtra 0. OARPENTBIt. 205 YEUS C. CARPEN- TER is a native of Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania, and was born on the 24th of November, 1829. His parents were Asahel and Amanda M. (Thayer) Carpenter, both of whom died before he was twelve years old. His grandfather, John Carpenter, was one of nine young men, who, in 1789, left Attleborough, Massachusetts, for the purpose of finding a home in tlie " new country," where they hoped to be able to purchase lands. After various vicissi- tudes they located upon the spot which they called Harford, in northwestern Pennsylvania, the township in which Cyrus was born. This location a hundred years ago was far from any other settlement, Wilkesbarre, in Wy- oming Valley, near the scene of the celebrated Indian massacre, being among the nearest, though fifty miles away. The place wliere these young Bay State men bought lands and settled M'as known for years as the " Nine Partners' Settlement." Here these hardy pioneers maintained their families and hewed themselves farms out of the wilderness, es- tablished schools, churches and homes, with all the indices of civilized and Christian life. Aaron Thayer, the maternal grandfather of our subject, moved to this settlement some years later from Medway, Massachusetts. Governor Carpenter attended a common school three or four months in a year until 1846, then taught winters and worked on a farm summers for three or four years, and with the money thus raised paid his expenses at tlie academy which had been established in his native town. After leaving the institution, in 1852, he started westward; halted at Johnstown, Licking 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. The city then had twelve hundred inhabitants. A few days later he started on foot up the Des Moines Valley, then just beginning to be regarded as one of the £1 Doradoes of the Hawkeye State. He found his way to Fort Dodge, eighty miles northwest of Des Moines, from which place the soldiers had moved the pre- vious spring to Port Ridgely, in Minnesota. Here he settled and soon found employment ^06 &0VEBN0n8 OF IOWA. with a Government surveyor, and for two years was employed inucli of the time by per- sons having contracts for surveying Govern- ment lands. He was thus naturally led into the land business, and from the autumn of 1855, when the land oiBce was established at Fort Dodge, much of his time was devoted to surveying, selecting lands for buyers, tax- paying for foreign owners, and in short, a general land agency. During this period he de%-oted 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 array, 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. Governor Carpenter was elected surveyor of Webster County in the spring of 1856, and the next year was elected a Kepresentative to the General Assembly, and served in the first session of that body held at DesMoines. He was elected register of the State land office in 1866, re-elected in 1868, and held the office four years, declining to be a candidate for renomination. He was elected Governor of the State in 1871, and re-elected two years later, mating an able and popular executive. In his first inaugural address, delivered on the 11th of January, 1872, he made a strong plea for the State University, and especially its normal department, for the Agricultural College, and for whatever would advance the material progress and prosperity of the people, urging in particular the introduction of more manu- factories. On this point he said: "To bring the manufactured articles re- quired by our people and the products of their industry nearer together, in my judg- ment, is of paramount importance. That the producer would be materially benefitted if the wagon, reaper, plow and cultivator with which he plies his industrial enterprises, and the cloth he wears, were manufactured at his market town, whither he could carry his sur- plus prodiicts and exchange them for these necessities, saving cost of transportation long distances both ways, is a proposition so self- evident that it needs no support by argument. But while the general Government may, as an incident of its power to collect revenue and the necessities of the treasury, be able to discriminate so as to encourage such indus- tries as are compatible with our habits, cli- mate and resources, and wisely exercise such discrimination, a State having no such au- thority, it may be asked, how can legislation aid us in this particular? It is- answered, if we can do nothing more, it is possible, through our board of immigration, to call attention to our manufacturing resources. The fact that Iowa is supplied with coal mines developing veins from six to eleven feet in thickness, which invite new industries to their vicinity, with lead mines, in which new lodes are daily discovered, with black walnut and other woods for manufacturing purposes, with inexhaustible gypsum beds, with lime- stone quarries of every variety, with clays for the production of all kinds of brick and pot- tery, and with other resources inviting skill and capital so numerous as to forbid, now and here, the mention, might all be set forth in a pamphlet, which, distributed by the board of immigration, could not fail to attract atten- tion and produce results." Other questions were discussed with marked ability in this inaugural address, and in his second, delivered two years later, he thus speaks of the duty of the wise legislator: '< He will not only heed the voice of the farm-producer, whose chief concern is to in- crease returns upon his surplus products, but GTBUB G. CARP ENTER. 307 with a statesmanship looting beyond to-day and to the greater questions of to-morrow, taking knowledge of the past in other and older States, he will, while building wisely for labor that owns farms, build with equal wisdom for labor that owns only lands — the men who do not look for greater profits, but for bread; who care less to keep the tax col- lector than the wolf from their doors. Unless we build wisely for these as well as others, in less than two decades from now there will be formidable conventions of this great and increasing class demanding, by resolution and political' action, such legislation as will fix their hours of daily work and the price per day for husking corn. I say these things with the more directness and with the greater boldness because, tor myself, I own no dollar of property but what is in a farm, and my heart never throbs but in sympathy with the toiling millions of my countrymen. " And here is the gist of my argument : What we need and must have for the producer, for the laborer, for the middlemen and for the State is a greater diversification of industry. "We need this not only to employ surplus la- bor and to furnish a market for home pro- ducts, but we need it also to build up here local marts of trade and maiaufactures, instead of pouring all our accumulations into the lap of great central cities, a folly which has now proved the ruin of more than one nation gone to decay. An eminent English agriculturist wrote but a short time since : ' It is precisely because British farmers have their customers, the British manufacturers, almost at their doors, and that other corn producing countries have not such manufacturers, that British agriculture is rich and thriving.' It is said by historians, that the act for which the first Napoleon will be best known one hundred years from now is the fact that he encouraged the introduction and naturalization of beet- sugar culture as a new industry of the French people." In June, 1873, Governor Carpenter deliv- ered a long and masterly address before the Patrons of Husbandry, of Iowa. It was full of happy suggestions like the following: " In order to increase in knowledge as we ought we must make the most of time, and to this end we must improve our machinery, improve our stock and cheapen our processes of transportation. One important feature in this transportation problem I have passed over, and that is a wise condensation of marketable commodities. To-day our canned fruits, tomatoes and sweet corn, bottled pickles, dried beef and many of our sugar-cured hams are brought from an eastern market. "We go from our rich soils to States where it is necessary to use from one hundred to one hundred and fifty dollars' worth of fertilizers to an acre of ground to buy luxuries which grow here on natural soil. The Grange must teach a wisdom which will doom such non- sense. The Grange must teach, also, that the prodigality of the rich does not conduce to the benefit of the poor. It is often said if the rich squander money, somebody gets it, it is distributed and does somebody good. This is not true. Suppose a rich man should hire labor to raise corn and then gratify his caprice by burning the corn; somebody would probably go hungry for this profligacy, not- withstanding money may have been distribu- ted to pay the labor required to raise the corn. This principle holds good in respect to all capital squandered in gratification of vanity and passion." At the expiration of his second term as Governor, Mr. Carpenter was appointed, with- out his knowledge of the design to do so, second Comptroller of the United States treasury, and resigned after holding that office about fifteen months. lie was influenced to 208 GOVEBNORS OF IOWA. 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 Grovernment employ. In 1878 Mr. Carpenter received the nomination of his party as the represen- tative of his district in the Congress of the United States. The voice of the convention was emphatically sustained by the people in the election of that year. He was again the choice of the people for Congress in 1880, and was again elected. His congressional career was marked by the same wise, prudent and judicious course that is ever characteris- tic of the man. He retired from Congress March, 1883, and in the fall of that year was elected to the Iowa Legislature, and served during the 20th session of the Iowa General Assembly, as chairman of the committee of ways and means. Governor Carpenter has done much toward improving a farm, and has been connected with other enterprises, but it is doubtful if he regards himself as a brilliant success in accumulating money, and having devoted his whole time to the duties of such offices as he has held from time to time, he has had but little opportunity to either originate or manage private material enterprises. He has been a Eepublican since the party was organized; is orthodox in his religious views, but regards himself as liberal in such views. He is a member of the Library As- sociation of Fort Dodge and Des Moines. He was married in March, 1864, to Miss Susan C. Burkholder, of Fort Dodge. They have no children of their own, but a niece of Mrs. Carpenter, Miss Fannie Burkholder, has lived with them from childhood. Governor Carpenter has led a pure, true and upright life. Of the many men who served as he did in the commissary depart- ment, some managed to save tens of thousands of dollars out of a salary of two thousand or three thousand dollars per annum. Men wlio " made something out of the army " are known to every reader of mature years. Xjov- ernor Carpenter came out about as poor as he entered the army. While in it he was asso- ciated with men like Generals Dodge, Logan, Noyes and Thomas, and enjoyed their fullest confidence, and he retains the warm friend- ship of all of them who are yet living. He' has always been a diligent and careful reader and student. It is doubtful if he ever sat down to seriously consider the subject of money making, but, on the contrary, has always been ready to divide his last dollar with the destitute. In concluding this sketch, it may not be improper to state that when Governor Car- penter first reached Fort Dodge he had but a single half-dollar in his pocket. He frankly told the landlord of his straightened circum- stances, offering to do any kind of labor until something should " turn up." On the even- ing 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's circumstances were so desperate that he at once offered his services to the gentleman. 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 prom- ise of steady 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 sli/^ht 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 until the contract was completed. The next winter he taught the first school in Fort Dodge, and from that date his general success was assured. JOSHUA G. NBWBOLD. ■j^mf^fm/mi^^f^i^m^ gt^i^i^t^i^i^i^f -^j@iai4 i. iiiwem-@.^t^ j t^7^(^f^«^i^(^(^i^3*(( Sl^^i^^^^^i ^"S^ OSHUA G. NEWBOLD was the tenth Governor of the State, and the thirteenth of Iowa, num- bering from the first Territorial G o v e r nor. He is yet living at Mount Pleasant. He is a native of Pennsylvania, and his an- cestors in this country were among the very early set- tlers in New Jersey. They were Friends, and conse- quently none of them figured in the struggle for the independence of the colo- nies. Governor Newbold is the son of Barzilla and Catherine (Houseman) New- bold. He was born in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, May 12, 1830, and reared as a farmer. When he was eight years of age the family moved to Westmoreland County, same State, where he was educated in the common school, and also in a select school or academy, the latter taught by Dr. John Lewis, since of Grinnell, Iowa. At sixteen he returned with the family to Fayette County, where he remained eight years, assisting his father in running a flouring mill, when not teaching. When about nine- teen he began the study of medicine, read- ing a year or more while teaching, and then abandoning the notion of being a physician. In the month of March, 1854, Mr. New- bold removed to Iowa, locating on a farm, now partly in the corporation of Mount Pleasant, Henry County. At the end of one year he removed to Cedar Township, Van Buren County, there merchandising and farming till about i860, when he re- moved to Hillsboro, Henry County- and pursued the same callings. In 1862, when the call was made for 600,- 000 men to finish the work of crushing the Rebellion, Mr. Newbold left his farm in the hands of his family and his store in charge of his partner, and went into the army as Captain of Company C, Twenty-fifth Regi- ment Iowa Infantry. He served nearly three years, resigning just beiore the war closed, on account of disability. During the last two or three months he served at the South he filled the position of Judge Advocate, with headquarters at Woodville, Alabama. His regiment was one of those that made Iowa troops famous. It arrived at Helena, Arkansas, in November, 1862, and sailed in December following on the expedition against Vicksburg by way of Chickasaw Bayou. At the latter place was its first en- gagement. Its second was at Arkansas Post, and there it suffered severely, losing in killed and wounded more than sixty. Alter Lookout Mountain it joined in the pursuit of Bragg's flying forces to Ring- GOVERNORS OF IOWA. gold, where it engaged the enemy in their strong works, November 27 losing twenty- nine wounded. The following year it joined Sherman iri his Atlanta campaign, then on the famous march to the sea and through the Carolinas. On returning to Iowa he continued in the mercantile trade at Hillsboro for three or four years, and then sold out, giving thereafter his whole attention to agricult- ure, stock-raising and stock-dealing, -mak- ing the stock department an important factor in his business for several years. Mr. Newbold was a member of the thirteenth, fourteenth and fifteenth General Assem- blies, representing Henry County, and was chairman of the school committee in the fourteenth, and of the committee on appro- priations in the fifteenth General Assembly. In the fifteenth (1874) he was temporary Speaker during the deadlock in organizing the House. In 1875 he was elected Lieu- tenant Governor on the Republican ticket with Samuel J. Kirkwood. His Democratic competitor was E. B. Woodward, who received 93,060 votes. Mr. Newbold received 134,166, or a majority of 31,106. Governor Kirkwood being elected United States Senator during that session, Mr. Newbold became Governor, taking the chair February i, 1877, and vacating it for Governor Gear in January, 1878. Governor Newbold's message to the Leg- islature in 1878 shows painstaking care and a clear business-like view of the in- terests of the State. His recommendations were carefully considered and largely adopted. The State's finances were then in a less creditable condition than ever be- fore or since, as there was an increasing floating debt, then amounting to $340,- 826.56, more than $90,000 in excess of the Constitutional limitation. Said Governor Newbold in his message : " The common- wealth ought not to set an example of dila- toriness in meeting its obligations. Of all forms of indebtedness, that of a floating character is the most objectionable. The uncertainty as to its amount will invariably enter into any computation made by persons contracting with the State for supplies, ma- terial or labor. To remove the present difficulty, and to avert its recurrence, I look upon as the most important work that will demand your attention." One of the greatest problems before statesmen is that of equal and just taxation. The following recommendation shows that Governor Newbold was abreast with fore- most thinkers, for it proposes a step which yearly finds more favor with the people: " The inequalities of the personal-property valuations of the several counties suggest to my mind the propriety of so adjusting the State's levy as to require the counties to pay into the State treasury only the tax on realty, leaving the corresponding tax on personalty in the county treasury. This would rest with each county the adjust- ment of its personal property valuations, without fear that they might be so high as to work injustice to itself in comparison with other counties." Governor Newbold has always affiliated with the Republican party, and holds to its great cardinal doctrines, having once em- braced them, with the same sincerity and honesty that he cherishes his religious senti- ments. He has been a Christian for some- thing like twenty-five years, his connection being with the Free-Will Baptist church. He found his wife, Rachel Farquhar, in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, their union taking place on the 2d of May, 1850. They have had five children, and lost two. The names of the living are — Mary Allene, Emma Irene and George C. The Governor is not yet an old man, and may serve his State or county in other capacities in the coming years. JOHN H. GEAR. 215 S< H > C[»CO(ll i |> i |) i I i (I»CD ( B(l)lli) l 8(t l II(t i OtiCD(!li &^^^ ' IHE 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. When he was quite young his family removed to Pittsfield, Berkshire County, Massachusetts; in 18 16, 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 Republican 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 Deniocratic vote he was again elected. He was also again nominated for Speaker, by the Repubhcan 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 fn3.bled 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, 1 88 1, 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 $125,000 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 payment. 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 whoiii are living. 03, d?^ jAt^rri^ez^ :^ BUREN R. SHERMAN. 219 T |HE twelfth Governor of the State was Buren R. Sherman, who held office two terms, from 1882 to 1886. He was born in Phelps, Ontario Count)', 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 Count3% 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- IP" 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 by 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 six 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, i88i,thathe was the nominee of the Republican parly for Governor The campaign was an exciting 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,- 1 12 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, for 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 J;he 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 physical 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, 1886, when he was succeeded by William Larrabee, and he is now, temporarily, 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 pubUc business has been of 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. WII.LIAM LARRABBE. <4WILLIflM LflfiRflBEE.^ 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 18 1 2, having been made a Second Lieuten- ant March i, 181 1. He was promoted to be Captain February i, 18 14, 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 15, 1837. Captain Larrabee died in 1869, aged eighty-two. The subject of this sketch was born at Ledyard, Connecticut, January 20, 1833 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 charge of the home 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, Clayton County, and there he went first. In that way he selected Northeast Iowa as his 224- 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 to 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 enhst, but was rejected on ac- count of the loss of his right eye. Being informed he might possibly be admitted as a commissioned oflfiicer he raised a company 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 Iowa 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 1 881, 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 January 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 personally 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 informatiou 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 Jefferson and Sumner to the fundamental principles of the people's rights in govern- ment and law." Governor Larrabee was married Sep- tember 12, 1 86 1, at Clermont, to Anna M. Appelman, daughter of Captain G. A. Appelman. Governor Larrabee has seven children — Charles, Augusta, Julia, Anna, William, Frederic and Helen. - m ^ ^^^;^^!^ : ^^^^^^^^ \0N. JOHN L. KAMRAE, attorney at law, Webster City, was born on a farm in Union County, Pennsylvania, Octo- ber 12, 1842, the third sonof John and Mary (McGill) Kamrar, natives of Pennsylvania, and of German and Scotch ancestry. His youth was Spent on the farm in his native State. At the age of fifteen years he removed with his father's family to a farm in Stephen- son County, Illinois, where he made his home until 1864. His education was obtained in the common schools, the academy at Franklin, Pennsylvania, and the high school at Mt. Carroll, Illinois, where he graduated in 1863, and soon thereafter was employed as pj-incipal of the schools at Savanna, Illinois, which position he resigned in the fall of 1864, and enlisted as a private in Company E, One Hundred and Forty-sixth Regiment of Illinois Infantry Volunteers; was afterward elected and commissioned Lieutenant of his comr pany. The headquarters of his regiment were at Springfield, Illinois, and the companies were scattered about the State on provost duty until the close of the war, so that they saw no active service and endured none of the hardships incident to the soldier's life. Oc- tober 5, 186^, he was united in marriage with 20 Miss Frances A. Sabin,of Stephenson County, Illinois, the third daughter of lialph and Amanda (Die) Sabin. Mrs. Kamrar was a farmer's daughter. She was educated in the common schools, at the Freeport High School, and at the Ladies' Seminary in Mt. Carroll, Illinois. She taught school at Savanna, Illi- h©is, and other places during her girlhood. After their marriage they settled on a farm near their parents in Loran Township, Ste- phenson County, Illinois, where they remained until the spring of 1869, when they came to "Webster City, Iowa, where he engaged in manufacturing and in the sale of agricultural implements in a small way. In 1870 he formed a partnership with Judge D. D. Miracle in the real estate and abstract busi- ness, devoting most of his time to the study of law, having previously read Blackstone. He was admitted to the bar in Hamilton County, Iowa, November, 1872, by his honor Judge D. D. Chase, and soon became one of the hard-working, fighting lawyers, which reputation he still sustains. The firm of Miracle & Kamrar continued successfully imtil January, 1880, when the senior mem- ber took his seat as Judge of the Circuit Court, to which ofiice he had been elected the 232 BIOOBAPEICAL RECOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF fall before. Mr. Kamrar succeeded to the business of the firm of Miracle & Kamrar, and now ranks among the leading lawyers of northwestern Iowa. During the construction of the Chicago & Northwestern Eailroad through Hamilton County, Mr. Kamrar did a large ainotint of work for the company. While he has never been a salaried attorney for the company, he is still employed by them in their local contested business. The town of Kamrar was named in his honor by Mr. Marvin Hughitt, who was then the general manager of the company. Mr. Kamrar is an uncompromising Republican, although he was raised under Democratic influences, his father being a member of that party, and supported Douglas in 1860. Unsolicited by Mr. Kamrar, he was elected mayor of Web- ster City, Iowa, in 1879, and in 1881 he was elected State Senator without opposition, serving in the Nineteenth and Twentieth General Assemblies with honor to himself and credit to his constituents. He took an active part in favor of the passage of the Pro- hibitory Liquol* law. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, Acacia Lodge, No. 176, Hope Chapter, No. 88, Triune Command- ery. No. 41, and the Grand Consistory of Iowa, 33°, A. & A. R. Senator and Mrs. Kamrar are the parents of five children — Harris S., Eussell H., Eva F., Carrie A. and John E. Mr. Kamrar gives Judge Miracle the credit of persuading him to renew the study of the law, the greatest kindness ever done him by his fellow man. H. H. SMITH is proprietor of the Clydesdale Stock Farm which is i ® located in Fremont Township, two and a half miles northwest of Webster City. This farm contains 240 acres of good land. well located and is one of the best stock farms in the county. Mr. Smith makes a specialty of raising draft horses, and has on his farm some of the finest animals in the State. Mr. Smith was born in Chautauqua County, New York, August 11, 1845, a son of J. T. and Hannah (Hill) Smith, being the third of seven sons. When he was twenty years old he went to Huron County, Ohio, and lived in Bell vi lie three years, and in September, 1869, came to Hamilton County. In 1871 he went to Independence, Iowa, and in 1873 went to DeKalb County, Illinois, where he lived two years, and in 1875 re- turned to Hamilton County and located on the farm where he has since lived. Mr. Smith was married January 22, 1870, to Miss Mary Mattice, a daughter of P. W. Mattice, a prominent citizen of this county. They have five children — Fred H., D. E., Hattie, ,W. H. and Ernest Eugene. In poli- tics Mr. Smith is a Eepublican. He is a fair and honorable business man, an enterprising, public-spirited citizen, and one of the sub- stantial and successful agriculturists and stockmen of Fremont Township. » S' t S « ,LFEED KEPLEE, Clear Lake Town- ship, was born in Summit County, '^jM- Ohio, April 20, 1838, a son of George and Catherine (Marsh) Kepler. He was reared in his native county and was given good- educational advantages. He was mar- ried, when but twenty-one years of age, to Susan Millinger, and soon after moved to Steuben County, Indiana, where he lived four years. In the meantime the war of the Eebellion was in progress and Mr. Kepler was drafted a member of the One Hundred and Twenty-ninth Ohio Infantry and was in a camp at Cleveland, Ohio, about seven WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 233 weeks, when on account of the ill health of his wife he procured a substitute, paying him $225. He returned home and soon after re- moved to DeKalb County, Indiana, where his wife died. October, 1868, he started for Iowa and landed in Hamilton County the 12th of the month. He first located in Webster Township, and subsequently bought land in Clear Lake Township, on which he located in 1871. He has 158 acres of valu- able land, the town site of Stanhope being on a part of his land. He is an influential citi- zen of the township and has served as a member of the school board and as road supervisor. He was married in March, 1864, to Eliza Dirrira, a native of Wayne County, Ohio, a daughter of Isaac and Eleanor Dir- rim. Mr. and Mrs. Kepler have seven chil- dren — Isaac G., Ida Ella, Edward, William B., Jay, Alta May and Lizzie Dell. Mr. and Mrs. Kepler are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. "*^ '| ' S"i ' |" -- DOREIS smith, farmer and stock- raiser, section 16, Freedom Town- ship, was born in Ancram, Columbia County, New York, September 28, 1811, a son of Morris and Anna (Dennis)|Smith. In 1825 the family moved to Onondaga County, where the father died in 1842, and in 1843 he removed with his mother and family to Kacine, now Kefiosha County, Wisconsin, and entered a tract of government land and improved a farm. His mother died in Wis- consin at the age of sixty-four years. He made that State his home until 1869, and in the meantime went to Chicago, where he was superintendent of a brick yard three years, but at the same time his family lived on the farm in Wisconsin. In the fall of 1870 he moved to Hamilton County, Iowa, and bought 160 acres of unimproved land, which he has improved and now has one of the best farms in the township. Mr. Smith was mar- ried February 19, 1851, to Eunice K. But- ton. Their only child, Anna E., died in infancy. Mrs. Smith died December 12, 1853. September 19, 1866, Mr. Smith mar- ried Loriuda YanKirk, a native of New York, daughter of John and Euth (Putnam) VanKirk, who were of German descent. Mr. and Mrs. Smith hav_6 had three children, two of whom are living — William G. and Mary E. Lulu Belle died in infancy. In politics Mr. Smith afliliates with the Eepublican party. He and his wife are members of the Congregational church. EOEGE HATHWAY, one of the well- |P known citizens of Webster City, was 'L born in Worcester County, Massachu- setts, in 1821, a son of Wilson Hathway, whose ancestry in this country dates back 200 years. Wilson Hathway was twice married and had a family of fourteen chil- dren, twelve by the first and two by the second marriage. George was the third of the family, his mother being Clarissa Ethe- ridge, daughter of Captain Etheridge, a sea captain, who died of yellow fever in the South. When George was eight years old his parents moved to Berkshire County, Massachusetts, and there he was reared. He was married May 1, 1844, to Calista Thomp- son, of Cummington, Hampshire County, Massachusetts, daughter of William and Lydia (Brown) Thompson. They have two sons : George D. and G. E. One son, Albert F., was a soldier in the civil war and died in Massachusetts after his retui-n home. In 1872 Mr. Hathway came to Iowa and has since lived in Webster City, where he has 334 BIOGBAPHIOAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF done much to advance its growth. He has served in several positions of trust, among others being that of trustee and assessor of the township and councilman of the city. He was in politics first a Free-Soiler, and later a strong adherent to the principles of the Republican party. He is a member of the dniversalist cliurch, a strictly moral man and a firm believer in the principles of pro- hibition. A brother of Mr. Hathway, A. N. Hathway, was one of the pioneers of Hamil- ton County. He was born in 1832, and in 1856 came to this county. He took an active part in the Spirit Lake expedition. He returned to Massachusetts in 1860 and enlisted in the Fifteenth Massachusetts In- fantry, and after participating in the battles at Fair Oaks and Malvern Hill was killed at the battle of Clettysburg. He was a faithful soldier and was loved and respected by all who knew him. H. HELLEN, real estate and loan broker, Webster City, Iowa, is a usi,- ;*? tive of Pennsylvania, bom in Union- town, May 16, 1822, the youngest son of Benjamin and Drusilla (Hook) Hellen. His father was a native of Calvert County, Mary- land, a son of "William and Dorcas (Johnson) Hellen. His mother was a sister of Gov- ernor Johnson, the first Governor of Mary- land, and a cousin of John Quincy Adams' wife (who was a Johnson). Benjamin Hel- len was left an orphan at an early age, and was reared by his uncle, Benjamin Johnson, of Frederick, Maryland, living with him un- til eighteen years of age, when he went to Pennsylvania, where he married Drusilla, daughter of Peter Hook, who was of French descent. He subsequently moved to Mor- gan town, Virginia, and engaged iij bog,ting on the Ohio River, and trading with the In- dians on the Upper Mississippi River. He afterward moved to Marietta, Ohio, and a few years later returned to Uniontown, 'Penn- sylvania, where he spent the rest of his days. He died at the advanced age of eighty-four years, his wife dying when sixty-four years of age. They reared a family of fourteen children, five of whom are living. The youth of our subject was spent in attending school and in the mercantile business, re- maining with his parents until his majority. In 1849, in company with another young man, he started on horseback for the Pacific Coast, making the journey from St. Joseph, Missouri, to Sacramento City in ninety days. After mining a short time they returned home via the Isthmus of Panama. After his return he engaged in merchandising in his native State, living for a time at Latrobe and later at Pittsburg. He was married July 3, 1853, to Malinda George, a native of "West- moreland County, Pennsylvania, daughter of John George, who was of English descent. After his marriage he moved to Uniontown, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits until the fall of 1856, when he emigrated to Iowa, and located in what was then "Webster, now Hamilton County. He settled on a farm of 730 acres of land, which he had previously purchased, and made it his home eighteen years, improving a quarter section. In 1873 he moved to "Webster City, and for six years carried on an agricultural implement and hardware business. He has been engaged in his present business since 1881. Mr. Hel- len is one of the substantial business men of "Webster City. Enterprising and progres- sive, he is active in promoting all projects of public benefit. He is a member of Acacia Lodge, No. 176, A. F. & A. M., having been a member of the Masonic fraternity forty years. In politics he was first a "Whig WEBSTER AND EAMILTOS COUNTIES, IOWA. 235 then a Republican, and now votes independ- ent of party ties. Of his family of seven chil- dren six are living — Benjamin H., Charles D., Isabella, Walter H., and William. Hal- lie died in 1880, aged fourteen years. fM. BLAKE is the only member of the bar of Hamilton County, residing at ** Jewell, where he located in 1886, suc- ceeding W. T. Frazier, now of Salina, Kansas. Mr. Blake is a native of Iowa, born in Louisa County, in March, 1857, a son of J. M. Blake, Sr., who came with his family to Hamilton County in 1865, and now lives in Webster Township. He was given good educational advantages, and for two years was a student at the Eastern Iowa J^ormal School, at Co- lumbus Junction. He began the study of law in 1882, with F. Q. Lee, of Webster City, and was admitted to the bar at the February term of court, 1884. He then practiced with Mr. Lee about a year, and then went to Strat- ford, and a year later located in Jewell. He is a close student of his profession, and al- though but a young man has already attained prominence, and is held in high estimation both by his brethren in the profession of Hamilton County, and as a citizen. In poli- tics Mr. Blake is an adherent of the Demo- cratic party. '^'3"; . |i »f*|«-*" fJS[. TAYLOE, section 35, Hamilton Township, is a native of New York, ® born in Wyoming County, January 1, 1842, a son of Alonzo and Diana (Barber) Taylor, his father a native of New Hampshire, and his mother of Massachusetts. In 1850 the family moved to Cook ( ounty, Illinois, and three years later to Carroll County, the same State, where he grew to manhood and was educated. February 9, 1865, he enlisted and was assigned to Company B, One Hun- dred and Forty-seventh Illinois Infantry, and served until February 19, 1866. He made his home in Illinois until 1882, when he moved to Iowa 5nd located on the farm where he now lives, buying 160 acres of partly improved land. His home is one of the pleasantest in the township, and his entire surroundings indicate thrift and enterprise. He has been a popular man of the township and has served four years as assessor. In politics he affiliates with the Republican party. He is a member of the United Work- men's order at Jewell. Mr. Taylor was married October 24, 1868, to Alice Hinds, daughter of Alonzo and Laura Hinds. They have four children — Laura D., Frank F., Myrtle May and Ivy A. ►^^f^ fOHN D. HUNTER was born August 12, 1834, in the town of Knoxville, Jef- ferson County, Ohio. His earlier years were spent like those of most boys who are the sons of parents in moderate circum- stances. From the age of nine to fourteen he attended the public schools about half the months in the year, and "finished up" his education with a year at the Ashland (Ohio) Academy. About this time he emigrated, with his father's family, to the wild and un- cultivated regions of Northwestern Ohio, locating in Bryan, Williams County, on the western boundary of the Maumee Yalley, or the famous " Black Swamp Country." Here he entered his father's printing office and de- voted himself to " learning the trade," and to the acquirement of such practical knowl- edge of the newspaper business as he was capable of. At the age of nineteen he and Miss Sarah A. Gates, of West Unity, Williams County, Ohio, were married, and to them four sons were born — Dwight L., Frank Jay, Sam- uel Irving and William Fremont. Frank Jay died at the age of two and a half years, in Eldora, Iowa, and the third son, Samuel Irving, died in Webster City, at the age of twenty-two years. On the anniversary of his twentieth birthday the initial number of his first newspaper venture — The Hoosier Banner — published at Angola, Steuben WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 245 County, Indiana, made its appearance. After a not very flattering experience of about a year here, he returned to Ohio, and was em- ployed in printing ofiiceB in West Unity, Ottokee, Wauseon and Crestline. In the summer of 1856 he removed to Iowa, cross- ing the Mississippi Kiver at Davenport on the 8th day of October. He worked two months on the Marion (Linn County) Regis- ter, of which paper Hon. N. M. Hubbard, a young lawyer just entering npon a career that has since made him distinguished among the men of his profession in Iowa, was editor. On the 20tli of December of the same year the subject of this sketch, after a trip of the most thrilling interest (having been lost in a ter- rific snow storm on the then wide and unset- tled prairie between Vinton and Wolf Creek), arrived at Eldora, the county seat of Hardin County. Here he entered the office of the Ha/rdin County Sentinel, whose chief editor at this time was Hon. J. D. Thompson, a leading lawyer, who afterward became Judge of the District Court. In the summer of 1858 he purchased a half interest in the Sentinel, and in company with Mr. James Speers published the paper about eighteen months, at the end of which time he pur- chased the interest of his partner, and con- tinued the publication of the paper until January, 1863, when he sold the Sentinel to Hon. M. C. Woodruff, who soon afterward removed it to Iowa Falls. In the spring of 1861 Mr. Hunter was appointed postmaster at Eldora by President Lincoln, which posi- tion he resigned at the end of the first year. In the fall of 1862 he was elected treasurer and recorder of Hardin County, at a salary of $800 a year, which office he resigned in August of the following year, to accept a position in the military service. At the close of the war he returned to Hardin County, and in company with John Croston and J. M. Scott, erected a building and embarked in the grocery basiness in Iowa Falls. In December, 1866, he came to Webster City and purchased The Hamilton Freeman ofiice, and has since resided here. In the fall of 1867 he was elected a member of the Iowa House of Eepresentatives, and was re- elected in 1869, serving with ability and credit to himself and his constituency. In the sum- mer of 1872 he. was appointed a member of the board of trustees of the Iowa Reform School by Governor Carpenter, and resigned in 1873, upon receiving the appointment of postmaster of Webster City at the hands of President Grant, which latter position he held until removed by President Cleveland, in August, 1885, for "offensive partisanship." From the date of his purchase of The Free- man Mr. Hunter has steadily kept the paper at the. front — making such improvements and additions as the increasing patronage and the progress of the community in which he lived seemed to require, until the Web- ster City Freeman has come to be recognized as one of the strong and reliable papers of the State. HMf.. fOHN LANDERS, of Webster City, was born in Broome County, New York, October 4, 1807, a son of John and Char- lotte (Patterson) Landers, his father a native of Lenox, Berkshire County, Massachusetts, and his mother of Litchfield County, Connec- ticut. The father died at the age of forty- one years, and the mother aged eighty-two years, both in Broome County. They had a family of five children. John Landers was reared a farmer, and followed that occupation in New York until 1864, when he moved to McHenry County, Illinois, and in 1869 came to Iowa and located in Webster City, where 246 BIOQBAPHIOAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF he has since lived. He was married May 13, 1841, to Mary P. Bidwell, a native of Coven- try, Chenango Caunty, New York, born Sep- tember 14, 1818, a daughter of Timothy and Adosha (Blakeslee) Bidwell, her father a na- tive of Watertown, Connecticut, and her mother of Saratoga County, New York. They died in McHenry County, Illinois, the mother October 6, 1855, and the father March 27, 1866. Mr. and Mrs. Landers have two children — Lou E., wife of George J. Garvin, of Emporia, Kansas, and Frank E., of Webster City. Frank E. Landers was born in Broome County, New York, July 17, 1844, and was educated in his native town, and at- tended Binghamton Commercial College: During the war he was a member of the Six- teenth New York Independent Battery. He was a successful teacher several years. In the fall of 1879 he was elected county audi- tor and served four years, and in 1888 was ap- pointed clerk of the Executive Council of the State. He was married June 3, 1874, to Mary O. Barrows, a native of Woodstock, Illinois, daughter of L. H. S. and Emily S. (Parker) Barrows. They have four children — Leonora M., born September 13, 1875; Lou C, born July 26, 1877; John C, born Janu- ary 6, 1879, and Frank L., born May 10, 1888. In politics, father and son cast their suffrages with the Republican party. N. GARTH, section 12, Cass Town- ship, is a native of Yorkshire, En- gland, born April 7, 1846, a son of James and Mary (Whitfield) Garth. In 1853 his parents and eight children came to the United States, landing in New York, and proceeding immediately to Dubuque, Iowa, where the father died January 10, 1865. The mother came to Hamilton County with her sons, and died in Cass Township Febru- ary 11, 1886, in the seventy-fifth year of her age. They had a family often children, two of whom were born in Iowa — Thomas, a phy- sician of Wright County; William; Sarah; James, who was a member of Company C, Twenty-first Iowa Infantry, and was killed at the battle of Yicksburg, June 22, 1863; Ralph, of Kansas City; John N., our subject; Elizabeth, wife of J. C. Longueville, of Du- buque; Rachel, wife of Deloss Welch, of Wright County; Anthony, of Blairsbnrg Township; and Mary J., wife of Peter Stone, also of Blairsburg Township. J. N. Garth was reared in Dubucjue, and the first work he did for himself was in the lead mines. Later he engaged in farming in Dubuque County, but in 1869 came to Hamilton County, and with his mother settled on a tract of wild land which he improved, living there until 1871, when he removed to his present farm, which was also a tract of wild land. This land he has converted into one of the best farms in the township, containing 400 acres of land, divided into seven fields and pastures, Mr. Garth being largely en- gaged in stock raising and feeding. He was married December 25, 1871, to Helen M. Welch, daughter of Nehemiah Welch. They have four children — ^George Francis, James Whitfield, Edwin Welch, and Mabel Helen. In politics Mr. Garth is a Republican. In 1887 he was elected trustee of his township, •an office he fills with credit to himself and to the entire satisfaction of his constituents. >0» i PiS l U^I 1 ^ * O" ' *°» lOBERT BAIN, section 9, Cass Town- ship, was born in the north of Scotland, in 1824, a son of William and Mary (McKinzie) Bain. When he was ten years old his parents moved to America, and WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 247 located in Canada. His father was a book- binder by trade, but after coming to Amer- ica be improved a farm on which be lived until his death. Robert's youth was spent on a farm, but when a young man he served an apprenticeship at the miller's trade, which he followed several years. In 1864 he moved to Kock County, Wisconsin, where he lived six years, and in 1870 came to Iowa and located in Hamilton County, buying the farm where he now lives, but eighteen acres of which had been broken, on which was a small log cabin. He now has one of the finest farms in Cass Township, his two-story residence having taken the place of the log cabin, and hi« other improvements are in good repair and show the thrift of the owner. Mr. Bain was married in 1853 to Miss Christianna Hen- drie, a native of Scotland, daughter of James and Christianna (Moore) Hendrie. They have eight children — James, Christianna, Alexander, William, Robert and Ebenezer (twins), Mary and Elizabeth. One son, Thomas, is deceased. Mrs. Bain died in 1886. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and a most exemplary woman. Mr. Bain is a member of the United Brethren church. In politics he is a member of the Republican party. He is a public-spirited man, taking an interest in everything that is of benefit to the communi- ty, especially in the cause of education and is a member of the school board. fN. MEDBERT, M. D., druggist, Web- ster City, was born in Nashville, ® Chautauqua County, New York, Feb- ruary 18, 1843, a son of David J. and Eliza (Black) Medbery, natives of New York, of English ancestry. He remained at home until the year of his majority, and in 1869 came to Iowa, and for ten years engaged in the mercantile business in Howard County. In 1871 he began the study of medicine with Dr. W. E. Chamberlain, of Lime Springs, and in the winter of 1872 took his first course of lectures at the Keokuk Medical College. He completed his course in the spring of 1873 and located at Lime Springs, where he practiced two years. He then removed to Webster City and built up a successful and lucrative practice, but failing health obliged him to give up active practice and according- ly, in 1885, be engaged in the drug business. Dr. Medbery was married May 20, 1873, to Myra P. Yelia, a native of New York, daughter of Peter and Julia A. Velia. They have two children — Gracie M. and Jessie M. Dr. Medbery is a member of the Masonic fraternity, Acacia Lodge, No. 176; Hope Chapter, No. 88; Triune Commandery, No. 41, and Ft. Dodge Consistory. He has filled all the chairs in the lodge, save that of wor- shipful master, and has served two years as senior marden, and three years as high priest in the chapter, four years as prelate and one year as eminent commander of the com- mandery. In politics, he affiliates with the Republican party. Dr. Medbery is a mem- ber of the Baptist church. i^Jt-if« F. WESTON, one of the well-known citizens of Webster City, was born in Jefferson County, New York, October 14, 1831, a son of Gabriel and Eleanor (Gar- diner) Weston, natives of Massachusetts. In 1853 he left his native county, and for four years lived in Columbia County, New York. In 1857 he moved to Calumet County, Wis- consin, where he was living at the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company E, Twenty- 348 BIOQBAPHIOAL BBOOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF first Wisconsin Infantry, as a private, and in February, 1863, was commissioned Second Lieutenant. In July, 1863, lie was promoted to First Lieutenant, serving in that capacity until his discharge, June 9, 1865. His first engagement was at Ferryville, September 20, 1863. He was wounded at Chattanooga, a minie ball passing through his right thigh, and was captured and confined in Libby prison six months; was then taken to Macon, Georgia, Charleston and Columbia, being held a prisoner seventeen months. He was ex- changed at Wilmington, JSTorth Carolina, March 1, 1865, and soon after joined his regi- ment. After his return home he located in Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin, where he lived until 1868, when he removed to Webster City, where he has since lived. He has served as deputy sheriff four years, and from January, 1884, until January, 1888, served as sheriff of Hamilton County. In politics Mr. Weston is a Eepublican. He is a mem- ber of Winfield Scott Post, No. 66, G. A. K He was married in 1857 to Agnes Fleming, a native of Orange County, New York. They have had two children. Their son William was born April 25, 1866. Their daughter Lucy was horn July 17, 1859, and died No- vember 11, 1882. -^'-^'^^ L. McCAKTHY is one of the well known citizens of Blairsburg Town- ship. He was born in Otsego County, New York, March 2, 1836, a son of Patrick and Catherine McCarthy, natives also of the Empire State. They had a family of eleven children, six of whom are living — Hiram, Nelson, A. L., James, Mrs. Hattie Holmes, and Mrs. Julia Lawrence. The mother died when her children were small, and the father moved to Winneshiek County, Iowa, where he died and where all but two of his children — Nelson, of Michigan, and A. L. — still live. Three sons, William, Nelson and James, were soldiers in the war of the Rebellion, and the former gave his life for his country. A. L. McCarthy lived in his native State until eighteen years of age, and then went to Illi- nois and lived in Marshall and LaSalle coun- ties until 1871, when he came to Iowa and bough" eighty acres of land in Hamilton County, which he has improved and added to until he now has a good farm of 240 acres. Mr. McCarthy was married in Marshall County, Illinois, to Mary Mason, a native of Hamilton County, Ohio, daughter of Abram and Elsie (Moore) Mason. They have a family of five children — Mrs. Elsie Fowler, at home, her husband having charge of the farm ; Charles E., a telegraph operator of St. Paul, Minnesota; Mrs. Ella Wells, of Calhoun County, Iowa, where her husband owns a finely improved farm of 240 acres; Everett and Bertha. In politics Mr. McCarthy is a Eepublican. He has served his township as road supervisor. He is a member of the Wesleyan Methodist church. » 3 i i S « fAMES ADAMS, farmer and stock-raiser, section 32, Independence Township, is a native of Kentucky, born in Warren County, December 4, 1814, a son of Jesse and Elizabeth (Goodman) Adams, natives of Virginia, of English ancestry. Nine of a family of twelve children are living. James was reared a farmer, remaining with his parents till manhood, and with them in 1837 moved to McLean County, Illinois, where the father died in February, 1844, aged fifty-six years. His mother afterward came with him to Iowa and died in Hamilton County, aged seventy-three years. Mr. Adams came to WEBSTER AND UAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 249 Iowa in 1855, and settled in Hamilton Coun- ty, on the farm where he now lives, which at that time was a tract of wild land. He bought 700 acres of land in that year, 300 in one tract and 400 iu another, paying $6 an acre for it. He has improved his land and has given his children, as they have left the old home, farms of their own. Mr. Adams was married June 3, 1841, to Lucinda Hand, a native of Sangamon County, Illinois, daughter of George and Barbara (Grouse) Hand. Her father was a native of Ohio, of English de- scent, and her mother was a daughter of Philip Crouse, a native of Germany, who served in the Colonial army during the war of the Eevolution. Mr. and Mrs. Adams have had nine children, six of whom are liv^ ing — George T., Jesse, Barbara Elizabeth (wife of M. L. Root), Mary Ellen (wife of Samuel G. Lane), James W., Martha Ann (wife of Frank Sells). Three children died in infancy. In politics Mr. Adams, in early life, was a Democrat, but since 1861 has voted the Republican ticket. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. I J. NORTHCRAFT, farmer, section 4, Freemont Township, was born in ® Green County, Wisconsin, November 9, 1847, a son of Samuel and Elmira (Daw- son) Northcraft, his father a native of Mary- land and his mother of Virginia. His parents moved to Green County, "Wisconsin, in 1845, and still reside in that county. T. J. North- craft resided in Green County until 1874, when he came to Hamilton County, Iowa, and, located on a tract of wild land, which he has improved, and it is now his present fine farm. His farm consists of 230 acres of good land, and his building improvements are substantial, being among the best in the 21 ° neighborhood. Mr. Northcraft was married in Green County, Wisconsin, to Miss Elmir:i Rowe, who died in 1876, leaving one daugh- ter — Maggie May. In 1877 he married Elizabeth Melissa Rowe, sister of his first wife, and to them has been born one son — Ward Carlisle. Mr. and Mrs. Northcraft are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, Oak Glen congregation. In politics he now casts his suffrage with the Democratic party and favors Prohibition. He has served his township on the' school board, as assessor and as treasurer. ►4Mf« E. SCHROEDER is one of the most extensive land owners of Cass Town- ship. He M'as born in Neukalen, Meck- lenburg, Germany, December 5, 1833, a son of Joachim C. and Johanna Schroeder. He attended school until fourteen years of age and then went to work on a farm, where he remained until 1867, when he came to the United States, landing in New York. He proceeded immediately to Wisconsin, to Hor- icon, where he has a brother, going subse- quently to Watertown, and thence in 1868 to Hamilton County, Iowa, and entered eighty acres of government land, on which he lived two years. This land he sold in 1871, and bought ninety acres in Cass Township, to which he has added from time to time, until he now owns 560 acres in Cass and 640 acres in Blairsburg Township, being the largest land owner in the township. A large part of this he cultivates himself, and the rest is rented, thus yielding him a good revenue. Mr. Schroeder was married, December 6, 1869, to Caroline Gerber, a native of Bavaria, Germany, born November 17, 1845, a daugh- ter of Jacob and Barbara Gerber. She came to the United States in 1867, and lived in 250 BIOORAPHIOAL SEOOBD AND POBTBAIT ALBUM OF Peoria, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Schroeder have ten children — Hedwig, EmilE., Martha, Ernest A., Otto O., R-jsa, Lillie, BLortensia, Helena, Caroline. In politics Mr. Schroeder is a Republican. He and his wife are mem- bers of the Lutheran church. He came to Iowa with but $1,000, and his present pros- perity is due entirely to his unremitting toil and good management. He is a representa- tive man, and is esteemed by all who know him. — i ■ii l'> II 2 > 1 ^ ■■►-y^ " « " ' son married Miss Delia C. Keyser, a native of Schoharie County, New York, who accom- panied her parents to Illinois in 1861 and later to Hamilton County, Iowa, where both parents died. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have G. JOHNSON, senior member of the mercantile lirm of Johnson & Forbes, ' ® Ellsworth, was born in Sweden Feb- ruary 8, 1837. His father, Nels Johnson, came to America when our subject was four- teen years old, and now lives in Princeton, Illinois. The father was born in 1806 and the mother in 1811. They had a family of six children, four of whom are living — Swain G., Andrew P., of Webster City; Mary, in Bureau County, Illinois, and Anna, living near Princeton, with whom the parents make their home. S. G. remained at home until the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, and toward the latter end of that struggle enlisted and was assigned to Company K, One Hundred and Forty-Seventh Illinois In- fantry. In 1868 he came to Hamilton Coun- ty, and in 1871 engaged in the mercantile business at Lakin's Grove. In 1873 he sold out and moved to Callanan, where he re- mained until 1881, when he came to Ells- worth, and in February of that year formed a partnership with A. R. Coddle, which con- tinued until April 18, 1883, when the present firm of Johnson & Forbes was formed, and this is now one of the largest mercantile houses in the county. They also own and operate the EHi^worth creamery. Mr. John- one daughter — Dora. ^ G. HOWES, one of the enterprising and successful farmers of Williams * Township, resides on section 24, where he owns a fine farm of 200 acres. He is a native of Franklin County, Massachu- setts, born in the town of Ashfield, October 9, 1844, a son of Enos and Bathsheba (Vin- cent) Howes, both natives of Massachusetts, descendants of the Pilgrims, Thomas and Mary Howes,who came over in the Mayflower. Tlie father died in Ashfield in 1881, aged eighty-one years, and the mother still lives in that to wn, and is in the eighty-eighth year of her age. He lived in his native county until twenty-three years of age, when he, in 1867, moved to Illinois and settled in Bureau County, near Mendota, where he worked at farming by the month a year, and then en- gaged in farming on his own account. He lived in Bureau County until 1874, when he moved to Hamilton County, Iowa, and set- tled in Williams Township, buying ninety- one acres on section 26, where he lived eight years, and then sold his farm and bought 120 acres on section 24, which at that time was a tract of wild land. This he has improved, and has added to, until he now has 200 acres, all under cultivation, well adapted to either grain or stock, to both of which industries he gives his attention. Mr. Howes was married in 1869 to Delia R. Hill, a native of Massa- . chusetts, daughter of Austin and Lydia (Shaw) Hill. They have one son — Archie Ernest — born December 31, 1870. In poli- WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 251 tics Mr. Howes is a Kepublicaii. He has served his township four years as constable. He is a member of the Legion of Honor. fOHN HUNT, a well-known citizen of Plamilton County, was born in Dutchess County, New York, January 26, 1815, a son of Joseph and Marin (Wood) Hunt. When he was a child his parents moved to Ulster County, and subsequently to Orange County, New York, his entire youth being spent in his native State. He worked on his father's farm until twenty-one years of age, and then began working at the carpenter's trade, which he followed several years. In 1852 he removed to Madison, Wisconsin, where he lived four years and then moved to a farm on which he lived until 1864, when he came to Iowa, and after a short sojourn in Webster City located on a farm in Boone Township, where he lived until 1885, when he retired from the active duties of farm life and moved to Webster City, where he has a pleasant and comfortable home. Mr. Hunt was married in 1841 to Elizabeth J. Hull, a native of Orange County, New York. They have three children living — Leander, Min- erva J. and Doretha J. Their eldest daugh- ter, Huldah M., died at the age of twenty- two years. In politics Mr. Hunt is a Re- publican. He is very firm in his convictions of right and wrong, and strictly honorable in all his dealings. K. DOOLITTLE, section 10, Cass Township, was born in Washington ^® County, New York, February 15, 1823, a son of Ambrose and Esther (Hyde) When he was nineteen years of Doolittle. age he went to Wyoming County, New York, where he lived until 1845, when lie moved to Green County, Wisconsin, and en- tered government land near Albany, which he improved, living there until 1867, when he came to Hamilton County and bought 160 acres of wild land in Cass Township, which he has improved and now has one of the best farms in the township. He has a good resi- dence and farm buildings, everything about the place indicating the care and thrift of the owner. Mr. Doolittle was married in 1845 to Caroline, daughter of John and Antha Parrey. They have eight children — Lizzie, wife of S. W. Wade; John, of Cass Town- ship; James, of California ; Antha Jen nette, wife of George Phelps, of California ; Addie, wife of J. M. Dunbar ; William W., Carrie, wife of George Smith, and Harry. In poli- tics Mr. Doolittle casts his sulfrage with the Republican party. He is an energetic, in- dustrious man and is one of the prosperous and representative citizens of the township. fRED L. TAYLOR, M. D., is a native of Beaver County, Pennsylvania, born May 14, 1867, a son of Willard M. and Nancy (Warner) Taylor, natives of New York. Willarji Taylor moved first from the East to Illinois, and thence in 1865 to Iowa, but soon after returned to Pennsylvania, coming again to Iowa, however, in 1868. When he first came to Iowa he bought a farm in Hamr ilton County, and on this farm he settled on his second coming to the State. In -the fall of 1879 he was elected clerk of the courts of Hamilton County, succeeding A. A. Weeks, and served two terms, or four years, residing, in the meantime, in Webster City. He re- mained in Webster City until 1886, when he moved to Louisiana. His family consists of 253 BIOQEAPHICAL RECOBB AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF seven children. The eldest son and three daughters are in Louisiana. Two sons are on the old homestead, and the youngest son is the subject of this sketch. Fred L. Taylor Wus given good educational advantages, com- pleting his studies at the high school in Web- ster City. He then taught for some time, and in the summer of 1885 began the study of medicine with Dr. "W. N. Green. He took his first course of lectures at the medical department of Iowa State University, and in the fall of 1887 en- tered Rush Medical College, Chicago, from which he graduated February 21, 1888. He then locjated at Jewell, Iowa, where he is building up a good practice, and is fast win- ning the confidence of the community. He is a young man of promising prospects, and bids fair to rank with the best physicians of the country. ►^♦-^ iUGUST HOFFMANN, cashier of the Farmers' National Bank, Webster City, Iowa, is a native of Syracuse, New York, born August 16, 1855, a son of Louis and Catherine (Shaffer) Hoffman, natives of Germany, the father of Wurtemburg, and the mother of Baden. They came to the United States when young, the mother in 1847, and the father in 1849, and were mar- ried in Syracuse in 1854. They had a family of four children — August F., Louis E., of Chicago, Illinois ; Catherine, wife of Frank Huckman, of Syracuse, and Minnie, widow of Henry Bullis, also of Syracuse. In 1875 our subject left home and came to Iowa, landing in Webster City the 10th of June. He found employment with J. M. Jones at $20 a month, remaining with him a year. He was then appointed by John Eckstine, deputy treasurer of the county, and served from May, 1876, until July, 1877. He was then in the hardware business with Albert Hoffmann three years, when he accepted the position of bookkeeper in the First National Bank, which he filled a year, and then was employed as clerk in the law office of J. L. Kararar until Japuary, 1882, when he was again appointed deputy county treasurer by C. H. Fowler, and in January, 1884, was elected treasurer, and served two terms. In September, 1887, he was elected cashier of the Farmers' National Bank. He was mar- ried May 14, 1878, to Einma J. C. E. Klube, a native of Syracuse, of German parentage, daughter of Herman and Mary (Voight) Klube. Mr. and Mrs. Hoffmann have two children— Edith M. and Mabel E. In poli- tics Mr. Hoffmann is a Republican, and for two years has been chairman of the Central Committee. He is a member of the Odd Fellows order, Webster City Lodge, No. 342, and Eidgely Encampment, No. 9, and has filled all the chairs of both lodge and en- campment, and served as district deputy of each. He is also a charter member of Alemis Lodge, No. 137, K. of P., and has passed all the chairs and was its first repre- sentative in the Grand Lodge. - .■! ■i^»3ii; < | i< "" ' R. SHINKLE, is one of the enter- prising and intelligent citizens of Cass "* Township. He was born in Sangamon County, Illinois, April 19, 1834, a son of James and Margaret (Williams) Shinkle, his father a native of Ohio, and his mother of North Carolina, but early settlers of Sangamon County. E. R. is the second of six children. When he was two years old his parents moved to Stephenson County, Illinois, and there he was reared and educated. His early life was spent on a farm, but when he was twenty-one WBBSTEB. AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 253 years old he engaged in milling, which he followed several years. In 1861 he enlisted in the Fifteenth Illinois Infantry, one of the first regiments raised in the State, and par- ticipated in the battles at Shiloh, Hatchie (where six regiments defeated'the rebel hosts of Van Dorn and Price), siege of Vicksburg, Jackson, Meriden raid, and many other minor engagements. He was a faithful soldier and never lost a day from duty during his entire term. He was discharged at Springfield, Illinois, and returned to his home in Ste- phenson County. In 1869 he came to Ham- ilton County and located on the farm where he now lives, which at that time was a tract of wild prairie land. It is rich, productive soil, and his 120 acres now constitutes one of the best farms in the townslnp. It is all under cultivation, and his residence and farm buildings are all in good repair. He has planted groves and a fine orchard, and every- thing about the place indicates the care and thrift of the owner. In politics he is a Republican. He has served his township as trustee ten years and as a member of the school board. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. He is a mem- ber of Winfield Scott Post, No. 66, G. A. R., at "Webster City. ^O i' i . ^ i. ■.. jEV. THOMAS J. BARR is a native of DeWitt County, Illinois, born August 19, 1843. His father, Thomas Barr, was a native of Gibson County, Indiana, born March 4, 1813, and was a son of John Barr, who was a native of Ireland, and came to the United States with his parents when a young man and settled in North Carolina, subse- quently moving to Indiana. He married Nancy Hamilton, of South Carolina, and to them were born ten children — William, John, Mary, Rebecca, Jane, Cynthia, James, Lewis, Thomas and Jackson. June 10, 1833, Thomas Barr married Alcy Watt, a daughter of Rev. Gabriel and Nancy (Simmons) Watt, the former a native of Kentucky and the latter of Virginia, and tlie parents of twelve chil- dren — Lucinda, Elijah, Nancy, Juanna, Alcy, Rachel, Sarah, Paulina, Asbury, Pleasant, Emma and Elizabeth. The year of his mar- riage Mr. Barr moved to DeWitt County, Illinois, and entered a tract of Government land,^where he made his home for fifty-four years. He and his wife had a family of eleven children — Andrew Jackson, Elizabeth Ann, William B., John W., Nancy Emeline, Thomas Jefierson, Rebecca A., Francis Mari- on, Sarah Ellen, Henry L. and Matilda Jane. The father died January 14, 1887, and the mother still lives, and is in the seventy-fourth year of her age. Thomas J. Barr lived with his parents until manhood and was given good educational advantages, attending for some time the university at Mount Pleasant, Iowa. He was married September 21, 1865, to Nancy J. Garrett, a native of Kentucky, daughter of John A. and Mary (Bell) Gar- rett. After his marriage he taught school, and also engaged in farming a year, and in 1866 moved to Hamilton County, Iowa, and settled in Freedom Township; but a year and a half later returned to Illinois and entered the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal church, his first charge being at Bath. He was subsequently stationed at Mason City, Middletown and Myerville, and in 1873 returned to Iowa and entered the Northwest Iowa Conference, and served the charges of Hooks Point, or Stratford, Sac City, Storm Lake, Webster City cir- cuit, and then on account of failing health located and settled on the farm where he now lives, which contains 240 acres of good land. Mr. and Mrs. Barr have nine children — 254 BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD AMD PORTRAIT ALBUM VJf Thomas A., Cora M., William E., Key I., Lewis E., Joseph E., Homer G., Alva J. and Asa Ray. Two children, Arthur F. and Ber- tie C, are deceased. In politics Mr. Barr is a Eepublican. He is a member of the Ma- sonic fraternity. ■■I "ly « Si i t ' S" " ' " lAMDEL BAXTER was born in Mus- kingum Coimty, Ohio, December 4, 1830, a son of Samuel and Actus (Gor- such) Baxter, natives of Baltimore County, Maryland, of English descent. His father was a son of Samuel and Sarah (Cheneth) Baxter, and his mother a daughter of Nor- man Gorsuch. Our subject was reared in his native county, remaining there until the spring of 1865, when he came to Iowa and settled in "Webster City. His first business venture in the West was to buy with another party 1,000 head of sheep, but this not prov- ing a paying investment he abandoned sheep- raising in 1867 and the same year took the contract of building thb first court house and the first church in the county. In 1868 he was elected county recorder and filled this office two terms of two years each. During this time he prepared a set of abstract books of the county and at the expiration of his term en- gaged in the real estate and abstract business, which he continued ten years. In 1882 he with Mr. Howard opened a hardware and agricultural implement store which is now one of the leading business houses of the city. In 1874 Mr. Baxter Was elected super- visor and served three years. His successor resigned after serving a few months and Mr. Baxter was appointed to fill his unexpired term, thus serving nearly six years. During this time the land for the poor farm was bought and the house erected, and Mr. Bax- ter's business ability and integrity were manifest by the straightforward and honor- able manner in which he superintended the affairs of the county at that time. Mr. Bax- ter is an honored member of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to Acacia Lodge, No. 176, Hope Chapter, No. 88, and Triune Commandery, No. 41. In politics he is a Republican. In addition to his business in- terests and home in Webster City he has a good farm of 240 acres in Rose Grove Town- ship, and mining interests in the Black Hills of Dakota. Mr. Baxter was married January 2, 1855, to Mary Gayer, a native of Ohio, daughter of James and Isabelle (Bonner) Gayer. They have three children — Howard, Laura and Florence. Mr. and Mrs. Baxter are members of the Congregational church. fULIUS M. JONES.— Whenever a new country is opened to settlement, with such attractions of soil and climate, such prospects of future growth and business de- velopment as to make it a promising field for the energies of young men, scores, probably hundreds, flock thither to take their chances in the race of life. At the start their chances would seem very much alike; but if the reader should call around thirty years after- ward, he would find in the locality only a few of those that had thus started out together. We do not, of course, refer to those who •' by the wayside fell and perished," but to the living and active, who ha,d survived from the day of small things. The majority of such settlers do not tarry. A few return to their old homes, while many press forward to other " promised lands," or perhaps fail of business success. But out of the mass you will find that a small percentage have staid where they landed at first, and by the constant exhibition of the pXoooe^ ryv CrM£.A^^ WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 257 liigli qualities of manly fortitude and ear- nestness, have succeeded admirably. Each, most likely, will have earned and saved a handsome competence, besides obtaining an enviable social position in the community. Such are the results in most localities, 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 not heard from. Among the vanguard of early settlers of Hamilton County, few have borne a more conspicuous, useful or honorable part than Mr. Julius M. Jones. When the writer first came to Webster City, late in February, 1857, Mr. Jones was a sawyer in the old steam-mill, that stood on the east side of the town, near Bank street, and just east of the track of the C. &. N. W. R. R. He owned a small interest in this mill which he had bought on time. As I recollect, the impression made upon me on seeing such a lot of crooked, scraggy hard- wood saw-logs, was that the business did not seem at all promising. But first and last the old mill did some very good work, and it was a factor of the first consequence in the early settlement of Webster City and Hamilton County. It was there that the business life of Mr. Jones began. He was born in Milford, Massachusetts, February 16, 1832, the son of John and Melinda (Chamberlain) Jones. The father was of Welsh ancestry; the mother, the daughter of Nathaniel and Permelia Cham- berlin. Julius was born and raised on a farm, re- ceiving an education at the Milford High School. He resided at home with the family until he removed to Iowa, in the spring of 1856. He worked actively in the mill until the autumn of 1858, when he was elected clerk of the District Court. He was re- elected, serving in this capacity six years — for the last term by the unanimous vote of the county. He was nominated for still another term without opposition, but the following day received from Abraham Lin- coln, the appointment of Major and Pay- master in the army. His station was Louis- ville, Kentucky, where he remained until the close of the war. His bond was $50,000, which some of us (his neighbors and friends) made up among our- selves, without any consultation with him. At one time his paymaster's safe contained nearly a million of dollars. In the ordinary discharge of his duties under the Government, he sel^ dom came in the possession of more than about $400,000; but this large sum was placed in his keeping by one of his old friends, who had known Major Jones in his early boyhood— a Mr. Walker, an agent of the State of Ohicr, to receive the pay of sol- diers in the field and take the money home to their families. Mr. Jones was only individu- ally responsible for the money, and its loss would in no way have aflfected his bondsmen. I mention this fact merely for the purpose of stating how implicitly he was trusted by one who had only known him in years long gone by, as a boy. Walker was compelled to go across with Sherman, in the former's march " from Atlanta to the sea," and the money remained in the safe of Paymaster Jones some three months. When Walker finally " got around " to take charge of his great trust every dollar was forthcoming, and the families of the Ohio soldiers were only inconvenienced by a few months' delay in receiving their money; At the close of the war he was engaged in the wholesale stone- ware trade in Chicago for a couple of years, when he returned to Web- ster City, where he has since resided. His business thereafter for many years was general 258 BIOGBAPHIOAL RBGORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF mercliandising. The first two years he was associated with Kendall Young. After the retirement of the latter he continued in the business about fifteen years, the last five of which he was associated with Mr. Cyrus Smith. Failing health then made it necessary that he shoiild retire from active business pursuits. He has since devoted his time to superintending his farming interests. Mr. Jones was married March 4, 1869, to Miss Jennie O. Fisher, a native of "West Med- way, Massachusetts, — daughterof Elias T. and Martha B. (Ellis) Fisher, a lady whose many amiable and estimable qualities have given her an enviable social position, not only in the city of her residence, but at the capital of our State. Politically Major Jones has always been identified with the Republican party. In addition to the offices above mentioned, he was elected member of the Board of Super- visors in 1869, acting as chairman during his term. In the autumn of 1883, he was elected member of the Iowa House of Representa- tives for the term of two years. He was very active in. behalf of the important tem- perance legislation of the session, which resulted in the passage of the law totally prohibiting the sale of intoxicating liquors, which was the foremost topic of the times. A practical temperance man himself, he naturally affiliated with the friends of tem- perance. He is now vice-president of the Farmers' National Bank, of which he was one of the founders. It may well be said of Mr. Jones that he is a self-made man. He had little or no means when h-e came to Webster City, but through hard labor, close economy, unfiiuching per- severance and fair dealing, he has earned a handsome competence. His service in pub- lic position was always marked by great prudence and efficiency, and the record he has made is a proud one. He enjoys the confidence and respect of the entire commu- nity. Of the three children born to Mr. and Mrs. Jones, but one is living, Robert Em- mons, who is now receiving a liberal education at Andover, Massachusetts. Chables Aldeich. •^t-tf* ^EUBEN LEE was born in Whitehall, f| New York, September 21, 1810, a son of John H. and Ruth (Kelsey) Lee. His father was a native of Massachusetts, born August 26, 1784, and his mother was born in Killingworth, Connecticut, Novem- ber 3, 1791. Reuben is the second of nine children reared to maturity. He was reared a farmer, a vocation he has followed a greater part of his life. He lived in New York State from his boyhood until 1873, when he came to Iowa, and has since lived in Webster City, where he has been one of the prominent citizens, public-spirited, enterprising and a liberal supporter of its interests. Mr. Lee was an Abolitionist in the early days of the Whig party, and since its organization has been a firm supporter of the principles of the Republican party. He and his wife have been members of the Baptist church for over a half century. He was married September 15, 1832, to Hannah Collins, a native of Herkimer County, New York, born Novem- ber 23, 1811, a daughter of George and Zurviah (Pool) Collins, her father a native of Cheshire, Massachusetts, born January 9, 1777, and her mother a native of Stevens- town, New York, born August 18, 1787. Mrs. Lee's only brother, George W. Collins, was a Captain in the One Hundred and Thirty-second New York Regiment, and per- ished in the great battle of the Wilderness WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 259 during the Hebellion. Mr. and Mrs. Lee have four sons — Henry S., born July 27, 1836 ; Edwin R., born December 2, 1839 ; George W. and John H. (twins), born October 26, 1849. All are prominent business men of Webster City. ■ «.»..^-5Hf^-»^ fOHN C. PIERSON, section 23, Scott Township, was born in Henrietta, Mon- roe County, New York, July 4, 1822. The Pierson family are of English origin, the first to come to America being Jabez and David, who settled in Connecticut, our sub- ject being a descendant of David. The grandfather of John C. was a soldier in the war of the Revolution, and after the war set- tled in Genesee Valley, where he spent the rest of his life. Josiali Pierson, the father of our subject, married Betsey Clough, who died about 1831, leaving five sons, of whom John C. was the eldest and is the only one living. He afterward married Mrs. Lorilla (Clarke) Walton, and to them were born nine children, six of whom are living. In 1837 the father moved to Eaton County, Michigan, and settled in the woods, where he improved a farm and lived until his death, which oc- curred in 1863, at the age of sixty-three years. John C. was fifteen years old when his father moved to Michigan, and knows well the hard- ships attending a pioneer life. Not being very strong physically the freedom and wild- ness of a life in a new country developed his muscles and gave him a self confidence and independence that has done much toward promoting his success in life. His educa- tional advantages were of course limited, but realizing the necessity of an education, he improved his time and spent his leisure in studying, and finally acquired sufiicient knowledge to enable him to teach, but. however, taught but one term. Being naturally inclined to mechanical work he worked at the carpenter's trade more or less a number of years, and since coming to Iowa, although his time has mostly been devoted to agriculture, has worked at his trade as circumstances demanded. Mr. Pierson was married November 24, 1844, to Electa Tuck- er, who died in Ohio, leaving five children, the eldest being about seventeen years old. He afterward married Miss Elizabeth Wright, and to them have been born four children. Mr. Pierson's eldest, a son, Fay Collins, died July 13, 1869, aged about twenty-four years. He was a graduate of Albion College, Mich- igan, and for some time was principal of Carlisle College, Indiana, but was obliged to resign the position on account of failing health. The other children are all livinc:, viz.: George, LeRoy D., Charles E., Lewis J., Martha E., Mary J., John C. and Ward W. In 1868 Mr. Pierson decided to move west, as he considered it a better place to rear his family of boys, and accordingly came to Hamilton County, Iowa, and liking the ap- pearance of the country moved his family here in 1869. He now has a good farm of 160 acres, which he has developed from a tract of wild prairie, and now has one of the most beautiful homes in the county. But it is not alone in the development of the physi- cal resources of the county that Mr. Pierson's infiuence has been felt, but the moral and religious sentiment of the community has been elevated through his influence and ex- ample. He has been especially interested in the Sunday-school work, and organized the first school in the township, which was held at the houses of the settlers until a school- honse could be built. This work is still increasing, and the good it has done and is doing can not be estimated. In politics Mr. Pierson is a Republican. For three years he 260 BIOOBAPEIOAL BECOBD AND POBTBAIT ALBUM OF was a member of the county board of super- visors, and has held the most of the township oflB^ces, at present serving as trustee. ICHAEL KOSKOPF, section 26, Hamilton Township, is a native of Wisconsin, born in "Washington Coun- ty, December 31, 1841, a son of Michael and Margaret (Opal) Roskopf, natives of Germany and early settlers of Wisconsin. The mother died in 1861, and the father still lives in Wisconsin. They had a family of five chil- dren — Barbara, Joseph, Eosa, Michael and Anton. Michael Roskopf lived in his native State until 1872, when he came to Iowa and settled on the land which is a part of his present farm, buying forty acres of partially improved land of L. Olmstead. To this he has since added until he now owns 200 acres of choice land, well improved, with a good residence and farm buildings. He discovered the first gas well in the county and used it for heating his house in the coldest weather, which was one of the strongest inducements in favor of sinking the pipes in the gas well in Webster City. Mr. Roskopf was married November 13, 1866, to Margaret Barnes, a native of Germany, daughter of Nicholas Barnes. They have nine children — John, Rosa, Pan], Clara, Henry, Mary, Joseph, Michael and Frank. Mr. Roskopf has served as a member of the school board. He and his family are members of the Catholic church. ►^Mf. ^ILLIAM MILLER, section 7, Blairs- burg Township, has been a resident of Hamilton County since 1876, when he bought eighty acres of wild land, to which he has since added until he now has a fine farm of 640 acres, under a good state of cultivation, with good building improve- ments. Mr. Miller is a native of Bristol, England, born October 15, 1833, a son of Peter and Maria (Upton) Miller. He was reared in his native country and in his youth served an apprenticeship at the butcher's trade, becoming an expert at that business. In 1851 he joined the British army and was ordered to Gibraltar, tlience to Malta and later to Constantinople, where he was sta,- tioned during the siege at that place. He was wounded in the right arm by a fragment of shell and in 1855 returned to England. In 1856 he came to America and lived in Victoria County, Canada, six years, when he moved to Porter County, Indiana, and lived there until 1876, the year of his removal to Iowa. He was married in Canada, to Jessie Mathews, a native of Scotland, daughter of Edward and Margaret Mathews. Mr. and Mrs. Miller have six children — Katie, Maria, Margaret, Rosa, Peter and Edward. ORGAN HILL, section 30, Hamil- ton Township, has been a resident of ^^ Hamilton County since 1855. He was born in Pocahontas County, West Vir- ginia, October 21, 1836, a son of Isaac and Jane (Edmunson) Hill, natives of Virginia. Morgan was the sixth of a family of eight children. His father died in his childhood, and his mother, in 1847, moved with her family to Iowa and lived in the eastern part of the State until 1855, when, with three sons and one daughter, she moved to Hamil- ton County, and died here March 29, 1885. She was for many years a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Our subject bought the farm where he now lives in 1881 of Samuel Chichester. It contains 160 acres WEBSTER AND HAMILTON O0UNTIE8, IOWA. 261 of fine prairie soil with ten acres of timber, and the improvements, including the resi- dence and other buildings, are among the best in the township. Mr. Hill has witnessed the changes that have transformed Hamilton County from a tract of wild prairie land to one of the best counties in the State of Iowa, and has not been an idle looker-on, having done his full share in advancing its develop- ment. He was married December 10, 1857, to Sarah Groesclose, who was born in John- son County, Indiana, March 4, 1839, daugh- ter of Andrew and Fanny (Messersmith) Groesclose, who came to Hamilton County in 1852, and in 1859 moved to Polk County, and in 1865 to Colorado, where they both died. They had a family of seven children — Jacob, Peter, Andrew, George W., Margaret Ann, Sarah and John. Mr. and Mrs. Hill have had' twelve children, eleven of whom are living — Colbert, Mason, Andrew, Myriam F., Phoebe Jane, Isaac Chester, Maggie E., Nancy Rebecca, Ena J., Allie C. and Morgan. In politics Mr. Hill is a Democrat. He has served as road supervisor, trustee and as a member of the school board. N. GEEEN, M. D., is a native of the State of New York, born October [ ® 4, 1855, a son of Z. W. and Eliza- beth J. (Telfair) Green, the former a native of New York, of English descent, and the latter a native of Scotland, daughter of Dr. William Telfair, of Edinburg. "When our subject was two years old his parents moved to Richland County, "Wisconsin, where he grew to manhood, and was educated, com- pleting his literary course in Milton College. In 1876 he began the study of medicine un- der the preceptorship of Dr. L. J. Alleman, of Boone, Iowa, remaining with him two years. He subsequently attended two courses of lec- tures at Rush Medical College, Chicago, graduating in the spring of 1881. He began ' his practice at Stratford, Iowa, and in Octo- ber, 1884, removed to Webster City, where he has built up a good practice, and is now recognized as one of the leading physicians of the county. Dr. Green was married October 9, 1882, to Alice E. Hanslip, a native of La Grange County, Indiana, daughter of Rob- ert and Susan Hanslip. They have one daughter — Alta. Dr. Green is a member of the American, Iowa State and Central Medi- cal Associations. He is a member of Acacia Lodge, No. 176, F. & A. M. In politics he aflaiiates with the Republican party. EORGE T. ADAMS, farmer and stock- raiser, section 32, Independence Town- ship, is the eldest son of James and Lucinda (Hand) Adams. He was born in McLean County, Illinois, March 7, 1844, and was eleven years old when his parents moved to Hamilton County, and here he was reared, his youth being spent in assisting his father improve a frontier farm. On arriving at* manhood his father gave him fifty acres of land and to this he has added, by industry and good management, until he now has. a good farm of 135 acres, all under cultivation, and with comfortable building impi'ovements. He was married March 27, 1864, to Perme- lia Walters, a native of Brown County, Penn- sylvania, daughter of Michael and Mary Ann (Reed) Walters, who were of German and English ancestry. When she was a year old her parents moved to Henry County, Indi- ana, where she was reared, and in 1861 they moved to Hamilton County, Iowa. Her father enlisted in the Thirty-second Iowa In- fantry, and died at Cape Girardeau, Missouri, 263 BIOQBAPHIOAL REOOBD AND POBTJRAIT ALBUM OF in November, 1863. Mr. and Mrs. Adams have had eight children, six of whom are liv- ing-^ Yiola L., wife of Thomas Calkins; Lillie May, wife of Byron Clarke, a minister of the United Brethren church; Nellie I., Mary E., Ira F. and Clara A. William Henry died, aged three years, and Florence A., aged two months. Mr. Adams has held several local offices of trust. He served sixteen consecu- tive years as school treasurer and twelve years as justice of the peace. In politics he is a Republican. He and his wife and three of his daughters are members of the Method- ist Episcopal church. L. TREAT, general merchant, Webster City, Iowa, was born in Aurora, New York, a son of Oren Treat, a native of Vermont, of English descent. When quite 3'oung his mother died, and when a young man he moved with an older brother to South- ern Wisconsin, locating in Walworth County, where he "grew to manhood, clerking for a nominal salary, barely sufficient to buy board and clothes. He then, in company with Kendall Young, came to Iowa and engaged in business in Marshall County under the firm name of Young & Treat; a year later moved to Kossuth County, where he followed milling, farming and merchandising, and while there was elected treasurer and re- corder of said county. About the year 1860 moved to Webster City and embarked in business in the old Town Hall building. Later on built with others the Commercial Block on Seneca street, where he is now located and has carried on a successful business, always holding that square dealing had its own re- ward. In addition to his mercantile interest, which he thought too small for his whole time and amusement, he has sought broader fields and made quite extensive transactions, in real estate, grain, etc. He was married in 1871 to Laura A. Cooper, a native of Pennsylvania. They have two children — Carroll L. and Tressa L. In politics he is a Republican. '°*H» ig ii 2i i ;.^i .i--». — EORCE F. KENT, one of the pioneers of Hamilton County, is a native of Oneida County, New York, born No- vember 9, 1832, a son of Zenas and Lora Ann (Powell) Kent, descendants of some of the earliest settlers of New England. The father is still living in the State of New York at the age of eighty-two years. Of a family of nine children five daughters and one son, our sub- ject, are living. In 1855 George F. and his brother William W. came to Iowa with the intention of settling and making a home, being allured to this State by the accounts of their father who had visited it several years before. From Rock Island they went to Des Moines by stage and thence on foot to Fort Dodge, where the land office had just been opened. They passed the first winter at Ecerton's mills, afterward known as Bone's, and still later as Bell's mills, the first flour- ing mills in this part of the State. They assisted in getting the lumber for this mill during the winter and the following spring engaged in making brick, making a good quality, and the first in the county. They worked together two years and then William, after wandering about for several years in Iowa and other Western States, settled on Boone River about two miles South of Web- ster City, where he died. He married Miss Calista Woodward. George F. settled on his present farm on section 30, Hamilton Town- ship, in 1865. His homestead contains 200 WEBSTER Ann HAMILTON OOUNTIES, IOWA. 263 acres of good land and in addition to this he owns a tract of timber land iu another part of the township. He has a beautiful home with excellent improvements, his residence which was bnilt in 1883 being excelled by no farm house in the county. Mr. Kent was married in May, 1865, to Margaret Groves, daughter of Jackson Groves. They have eight children — Carrie M., Anna A., U. S. Grant, Serena J., George E., Adella M., Jackson Groves and Mabel A. In politics Mr. Kent is a Eepublican.^ He has filled the most of the township oiEces and has served on tlie county board of supervisors. ^OEACE SEGAR, section 27, Cass Town- ship, is one of the first settlers of Ham- ilton County. He was born at Quaker Hill, New York, September 25, 1814, a son of Benjamin and Marilda (Eichards) Segar. "When a lad eight years old his father moved to Bradford County, Pennsylvania, and there he was reared, his youth being passed in assisting his father in clearing and improving his farm. In 1847, he moved to Carroll County, Illinois, and thence in 1855 to Ham- ilton County, Iowa, coming with wagon and driving about twenty head of cattle. In 1857 he located on the land where he now lives, which at that time was a tract of unbroken prairie. He has made all the improvements on his land and now has one of the best farms in the township, with a good frame house and other comfortable farm buildings. His farm contains 240 acres of rich land, forty of which is timbered^ and is well watered by Buck Creek, an outlet of Wall Lake. Mr. Segar was married July 14, 1840, to Ortensia Hager, a native of Bradford County, Penn- sylvania, daughter of Edmund and Mabel (Hitchcock) Hager, her father a native of Vermont and her mother of New Haven, Connecticut. Mr. and Mrs. Segar have eight children — Lewis, Angeline, Emma J., Jessie, Benjamin, Poland, Peter and Mabel. In politics Mr. Segar is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Christian church. frOSEPH T. PAYNE, section 10, Cass Township, is one of the well-known pio- neers of Hamilton County. He was born in Tennessee, March 12, 1839, a son of Jacob W. Payne, an early settler of this coun- ty. In 1844 the parents of our subject came to Iowa, and located in Henry County, where they lived about ten years, and in 1854 moved to Hamilton County, and here he grew to manhood. He enlisted in the war of the Eebellion in Company A, Thirty-sec- ond Iowa Infantry, and participated in the battles at Cape Girardeau, Bayou Metoe, the taking of Little Rock, Black River Bridge and General Banks' Red River expedition. He was wounded at Pleasant Hill and his eye sight was injured, and he has never re- covered from its effects. He was captured" April 9, 1864, and was held a prisoner at Tyler, Texas, fourteen months, until the close of the war. After his return homo he set- tled on land he had bought before going into the army, which he has improved and now has one of .the best farms in the township. His homestead contains 200 acres of finely improved land, and in addition to this he owns 160 acres in Blairsburg Township. Mr. Payne was married December 13, 1866, to Phenette Bickford, who was born in Chautau- qua County, New York, August 21, 1850, a daughter of Leander and Philinda (Smith) Bickford, who came to Hamilton County in 1863. Mr. and Mrs. Payne have had seven children, five of whom are living Eva J., 264 BIOGBAPHIOAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF born July 11, 1868; P'rank Monroe, born December 26, 1870; Minnie May, born Decem- ber 5, 1875; Allie Belle, born March 3, 1880; George T., born April 29, 1882. Charles A. died in infancy and Fred F. died aged live years. In politics Mr. Payne is a Republi- can. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. He is a mem- ber of Winfield Scott Post, No. 66, at Web- ster City. Mr. Payne is one of the repre- sentative men of Cass Township, and an esteemed citizen. A. WILLIAMS, carpenter and con- tractor, Webster City, was born in McHenry County, Illinois, April 29, 1850, a son of Caleb and Cordelia B. (Bidwellj Williams, his father a native of Vermont, and his mother of New York. He was reared a farmer, but was given good educational ad- vantages, attending the schools of his native county. In 1869 he came to Iowa, and has since lived in Webster City. He began working at the carpenter's trade soon after coming here, his iirst work being done on the old Willson House. He has made a stndy of architecture, and has designed and contracted for some of the best buildings in the country. The new Willson House and First Baptist church in Webster City are monuments to his skill, being erected entirely after his designs and under his supervision. Mr. Williams was married in 1875 to Ella Dodge, a daughter of I. Dodge, of Webster City. They have two children — Roger B. and Mark D. In politics Mr. Williams is a Republican. He is a member of the Odd Fellows order, Lodge No. 344. He has served as city as- sessor two terms, and also as a member of the council. His ancestors were among the first settlers of this county, haying settled in New England in 1635, and are traceable back in the old English stock to one of the generals of William the Conqueror. His wife's ances- tors settled in Essex County, Massachusetts, in 1629, 0. S. They came in company with the '■^ fleet" from England. Many of their descendants have attained honorable distinc- tion in this country. ffOHN M. HOFFMAN, druggist, Ells- I worth, Iowa, is a native of the northern part of Prussia, born in 1845. He learned the trade of a cooper in his native country, and worked at this trade nine years in Ger- many and two winters in America. He came to the United States in May, 1870, and after spending one month in Utica, New York, came to Iowa and worked for C. Lamb & Sons, of Clinton, until 1881. His close attention to his work made him a favorite witii his employers and he remained with them until deciding to go into business for himself. He, in 1881, came to Hardin County, and with F. R. Jaenke engaged in the lumber business in Radcliff. They sold out to C. P. Hough in January, 1883, and came to Ellsworth, where they had previ- ously established a lumber yard. In 1884 Mr. Hoffman bought his partner's interest, and since that time has carried on the busi- ness alone. He soo-n saw the need of a first- class drug store in the town, and accordingly opened his present place of business, where he has a good trade, although at the same time he attends to his lumber interests. He is an enterprising business man, and has already gained the respect and confidence of the people of the town and surrounding country. He came to America a poor boy, and his success has been entirely due to his integrity and close attention to his busi- WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 265 ness. He was married at Clinton, Iowa, to Johanna Newman, also a native of Prussia. They have six children — "William, John, Louisa, Martha, Lydia and Augusta. In politics Mr. Hoffman is a Republican. glCHAEL FOSTEE, section 29, Cass Township, was born in France, May ^^^0^ 5, 1819, a son of Joseph and Barbara (Greek) Foster. He was reared in his native country, and at an early age began working to take care of himself. In 1840 he came to the United States, landing in New York, where for three years he worked at the butch- er's trade. He then went to Buffalo, and from there to Syracuse, and thence to Home, New York, where he lived until 1857, when he came to Hamilton County, Iowa, and lo- cated on the farm where lie now lives. At that time it was wild prairie land, but by persevering industry he has converted it into one of the best farms in the township. It contains 117 acres of rich land, and is located two miles north of Webster City. His resi- dence is a good brick, and his other farm buildings are commodious and comfortable. Mr. Foster was married in 1854 to Magda- lena Eckstein, who was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, in 1821, a daughter of John and Theresia (Bolsinger) Eckstein. They have two children — Mary and Barbara. In poli- tics Mr. Foster is a Democrat. He and his wife are members of the Catholic church. irSRAEL DODGE, one of the well-known |n and prominent citizens of Webster City, W was born in Hillsboro County, New Hampshire, August 17, 1820, a son of Solo- mon and Elizabeth Dodge, natives also of New Hampshire. Our subject was reared a farmer, an avocation he has always followed. He came to Webster City in 1869, and has since lived in Hamilton County. He owns a good farm of eighty acres near Webster City, and a pleasant residence in the town. Mr. Dodge was married in 1845 to Priscilla An- drews, a native of New Hampshire, daughter of Israel and Betsey Andrews. To them were born four children — Henry R., of Web- ster City; A. P., a manufacturer, of Cleve- land, Ohio; Emma E., late wife of O. O. Tol- lerton — she died March 17, 1874, leaving one child, Lillie; Ella P., wife of C. A. Will- iams. Mrs. Dodge died March 6, 1882. In politics Mr. Dodge is a Eepublican. His ancestors settled in ancient Salem, Massachu- setts on the 29th day of June, 1629, O. S. (now the 10th day of July, N. S.). They were of very ancient lineage in Cheshire, England. From the first settlement and throughout succeed- ing generations, in almost every State, many of this very numerous family have attained honorable distinction. ■^ * 3"I * |" '-^ IHARLES D. NEELY, sheriff of Ham- . ilton Countv, Iowa, was born in Edgar County, Illinois, May 26, 1845, a son of Isaac and Elizabeth (McConkey) Neely, natives of Virginia, the former born in 1803, of Irish ancestry, and the latter born in 1804, of Scotch ancestry. They were among the first settlers of Edgar County, and there the mother still lives, the father dying in 1884. Our subject remained at home until after the breaking out of the war of tl^e Rebellion, and in February, 1864, enlisted in Company E, Sixty-sixth Illinois Infantry, and served until the close of the war, being with Sher- man on his march to the sea, and in the grand review at Washington. He was disr 266 BIOORAPEICAL REOOBD AND POBTBAIT ALBUM OF charged at Springfield, Illinois, in July, 1865. He returned to his native county and lived there until June, 1873, when he came to Iowa, and settled in Boone, now Independ- ence, Township, Hamilton County, where he bought 160 acres of wild land, which he has improved and added to until he now has a good farm of MO acres. Mr. Neely was married January 15, 1871, to Margaret Mc- Dervitt, a native of Edgar County, Illinois, daughter of Joseph and Sarah (Morton) Mc- Dervitt. To them have been born seven children, six of whom are living — Grace, Ethel, Maud, Alexis, Van and Percy. One child died in infancy. Mr. Neely has held many local offices of trust, and since 1887 has been sheriff of the county, a position he is well qualified to fill. He is a member of Acacia Lodge, No. 176, A. F. & A. M., and Winfield Scott Post, Gr. A. R. In politics he affiliates with the Republican party. ->^«|^-^^^"-°* I AMUEL A. JAMESON, one of the pioneers of Hamilton Township, was born in Morgan County, Illinois, and when five" years old his parents moved to Jefferson County, Iowa, and in 1855 came to Hamilton County, and settled in Homer. In 1863 our subject enlisted in the war of the Rebellion and was assigned to Company G, Seventh Iowa Cavalry, his two brothers, Charles M. and Jacob B., being members of the same regiment, and both died while in the service of their country. Samuel was accidentally injured, having his left hip dislocated and was discharged on account of disability, and has never fully recovered from the effects of this injury. He settled on the farm where he now lives in 1872, which con- tains 160 acres of good land, located on sec- tion 7, Hamilton Township. He is a member of one of the well-known and representative families of the county, and is one of the prominent citizens of his township. He mar- ried Eliza Groves, a daughter of Jackson Groves, a pioneer of the county. They have two children — Lorinda Eva and Loranda Elva (twins), born February 24, 1868. In politics Mr. Jameson is a Republican, and an earnest advocate of the principles of his party. He is a member of the Baptist and his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. ON. S.B. ROSENKRANS, proprietor of Rosenkrans' Park, is one of the pioneers and enterprising citizens of Hamilton County. He is a native of New York, born in Steuben County April 27, 1824, a son of Aaron and Hannah (Ager) Rosenkrans. His father was a native of New Jersey, a son of Levi Rosenkrans, also a native of New Jersey, and a grandson of John Rosenkrans, who was a native of Dutchess County, New York, born May 18, 1724. His great-great-grand- father was a native of Amsterdam, Holland, and was one of the first settlers of the State .of New York. At the breaking out of the Revolutionary war John Rosenkrans and three of his sons enlisted and served in the defense of the colonies until the close of the war, the father being commissioned a Colonel. He was married August 8, 1751, to Margaret DeWitt, and in an early day they moved to New Jersey, where many of their descendants still live. Aaron Rosenkrans was reared in New Jersey and there married Hannah Ager. They subsequently moved to Hammonds Port, Steuben Coimty, New York, where he engaged in farming and wagon making. They reared a family of seven children, four of whom are living. They were active mem- bers of the Presbyterian church, which de- WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 267 nomination he served as deacon and elder over half a century. Both died in Steuben County at the age of seventy-seven years. S. B. Rosenkrans, the subject of our sketch, spent his youth in attending school, and in assisting his father in the manufacture of wagons, and when he attained his majority was given a partnership in the business. In March, 1856, he moved to Iowa and settled in Webster City, where he engaged in the manufacture of lumber and the real estate business. The following fall he was elected clerk of the courts of "Webster County, which then comprised the present limits of Hamil- ton and Webster counties, and served in this capacity two years. In 1859 he was elected to represent Hamilton and Story counties in the State Legislature, serving in the sessions of 1859, 1860, and the special session of 1861. At the breaking out of the Bebellion he was appointed drafting commissioner by Governor Kirkwood, holding the position during the war. He has held the positions of mayor and councilman of Webster City, and has taken an active interest in all enterprises for the advancement of the city and county. He was one of the incorporators of the Crooked Creek and Southwestern Railroad, and served as its secretary. He has for several years been engaged in the real estate business, and now devotes his time to the improvement and development of Rosenkrans Park. He has erected quite a number of the business build- ings of the town and now owns several busi- ness houses and other improved property. Mr. Rosenkrans was married June 3, 1851, to Charlotte LarRowe, a native of Wheeler, Steuben County, New York, a daughter of Albutius and Jeannette (Auls) LarRowe, who were representatives of the oldest families of that county, the former a native of New Jersey and the latter of North Carolina. Mr. 22 and Mrs. Rosenkrans are members of the Congregational church. In politics he is now independent, but was formerly a Whig and later a Republican. ■ ••*^ "| ' S"S ' ^ ^-'^ — H. BRINTON, proprietor of the Keystone stock farm, which is ® located a half mile west of Ells- worth, is one of the leading citizens of Ham- ilton County. He is a native of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, born September 16, 1856, a son of S. M. and Mary (McGrew) Brinton, natives of Pennsylvania, his father of Chester and his mother of Westmoreland County. His father entered land in Scott Township, Hamilton County, Iowa, in 1856, 1,800 acres of which are still in the posses- sion of the family. Three dwellings are on the land and other valuable improvements, a large portion of the land being used for pasture and meadow land. The father died in A^jril, 1883. He was a good business man and owned a large amount of property both in Pennsylvania and Iowa. The mother still lives in Washington County, Pennsylvania. They had a family of five children, M. H. being the youngest son. The Brinton fami- ly are the largest tax payers in Hamilton County. Their pasture land will rival the famous blue grass pastures of Kentucky. On the Keystone farm may be found some of the best short-horn and Hereford cattle in the State. M. H. Brinton was given good edu- cational advantages, and graduated from the Jefferson College in Pennsylvania in 1879. He then remained at home and assisted his father until after the latter's death, and in 1884 came to Hamilton County and located at Ellsworth, where he has since been active- ly identified with its business interests. In addition to his large stock business Mr. 268 BIOORAPEIGAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF Brinton is one of the stockholders in the Bank of Ellsworth, which is one of the im- portant factors of the town. He \*as married June 13, 1888, to Jennie M. Scott, of Eliza- beth, Pennsylvania, daughter of John V. Scott. In politics Mr. Brinton is a Repub- lican. IHAELES PI. AETHUR, druggist, Webster City, is a native of Hamilton County, born February 12, 1865, a son of A. D. and Sarah A. (Howe) Arthur. He attended school until sixteen years of age, and then began clerking in the drug store of Miller & Packard, with whom he remained two years, and in the spring of 1883 we;nt to Eagle Grove, Iowa, and engaged successfully in the drug business two years. In 1885 he returned to Webster City and clerked for A. H. Miller a year. In the spring of 1887 he bought the store, where he now carries a complete stock of drugs, medicines, wall paper, stationery, paints, oils and fancy goods, and has one of the finest stores of the kind in the city. He was married February 2,, 1886, to Gertrude Price, a native of Canada, daugh- ter of James and Elizabeth (Greer) Price, of Eagle Grove. In politics Mr. Arthur affili- ates with the Eepublican party. H M. GEEENWOOD is one of the leading H citizens of Hamilton County. He is the ^® owner of the beautiful country residence known as Cedardale, which is located a mile south of Stratford. This farm con- tains 120 acres, and in addition to this Mr. Greenwood owns 400 acres adjoining the yillage of Stratford. He is one of the most extensive dealers in IJolstein-Friesian cattle in the county, the head of his herd being Leader, bred in Holland and imported in 1885, registered No. 4076, his whole herd being among the finest of black and whites in the State. Mr.' Greenwood was born in Cort- land County, New York, July 20, 1839, a son of Kinney and Laura (Phillips) Greenwood, his father a native of New Hampshire, and his mother of New York. He was given good educational advantages, attending for a time Cazenovia Seminary, and after leaving school taught several terms. In 1867 he came to, Hamilton County, Iowa, and located on the' farm where he now lives, and has made his present beautiful home out of a tract of wild prairie land. He was married Decem- ber 25, 1859, to Phcebe Hicks, daughter of Zepheniah and Mary (Sampson) Hicks, na- tives of New York. They have two children — Frank J. and Laura M. In politics Mr. Greenwood is a Eepublican and a devout prohibitionist. He is a prominent business man, and enjoys the confidence and respect of all who know him. ""- "'^ * 3 ' -'! * 3"' '-*'*~~~ fPACKSON GEOYES was one of the well known pioneers of Hamilton County. He was a native of West Virginia, born in 1818, a son of iTohn Groves. He was reared in his native State and was there mar- ried to Caroline Hanna. In 1854 he came West and lived in Cedar County, Iowa, one year, and in 1855 came to Hamilton County, buying land in what is now Independence Township. This land he improved and afterr ward exchanged it for the farm on section 7, Hamilton Township, which is now the home of his family, where he lived until his death, which occurred March 9, 1881. Mr. Groves first wife died in December, 1865; he mar- ried Miss Jane Dressier, a native of Juniata A^ -^^-^5^^ -^2- ^, i'. ^^^z^V&^, WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 271 County, Pennsylvania, daughter of John and Elizabeth Dressier. She moved to Clearfield County, Pennsylvania, with her parents, and there her father died in 1857, aged sixty-two years, and her mother in 1885, aged ninety years. In 1863 she came to Hamilton Coun- ty witli her brother-in-law, John P. Dale. To the first marriage of Mr. Groves were born eight children, seven of whom are living. To the second marriage wgreborn two sons — Jackson and George, who live on the home- stead with their mother, and one daughter, who died in her fifth year. Mr. Groves was one of the representative men of Hamil- ton County. He was a successful farmer and was highly esteemed by all who knew him. Coming to the county when all was a state of nature he witnessed the marvelous growth, and was one of the most enterprising _and influential in developing the county's re- sources. No name is better known in the county or is more worthy a place in the record of its prominent citizens, and it is with pleasure that we give this short sketch of his life to our readers. Mr. Groves was in politics an adherent of the Democratic party. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. ■"^ '^ ' S ' T ' ^" *" fAMES F. BRENNAN, priest of the Catholic Church, Webster City, was ap- pointed to take charge of this parish in 1881. He was born in County Kilkenny, Ireland, in 1854, and educated in 1878 and ordained to the work of the ministry in May- nooth, Ireland. In 1880 he came to the United States, and for a year was assistant in the Cathedral at Dubuque, Iowa, and in 1881 came to Webster City. He is a cul- tnred gentleman, and his cordial and courteous manners have won for him the respect of all who know him. The church in Webster City was built in 1872. It is a good brick building, located on a fine site in the eastern part of town. Father Peter O'Dowd had charge of the church from 1872 till 1875, and Father 0'Keefi"e from 1875 till 1881. The growth of the church has been slow but steady, and they are now in a prosperous condition. They have in addition to the church building a good residence property, which is now the home of Father Breunan. • " '■ "I ' 3"! ' I" ' ■ ' J. FRAKES, farmer and stock-raiser, Cass Township, was born in Logan ® County, Illinois, May 7, 1840, a son of Patrick and Anna (Jacaway) Frakes. When he was thirteen years old his parents moved to Iowa and he walked from Logan County aad drove eight cows. His youth was spent in assisting his father on the farm, his educa- tional advantages being limited, August 15, 1862, he enlisted, in answer to the call for 300,000 men, to assist in putting down the Rebellion, and was assigned to Company K, Thirty-second Iowa Infantry, and served three years and nine days. He was wounded and taken prisoner at Pleasant Hill, April 9, 1864, and was in the prison at Mansfield, Louisiana, until June 17, when he was paroled and sent to the Marine Hospital at New Orleans. Three weeks later he returned home on a furlough, and then rejoined his regiment, and subse- quently was in the battle at Nashville. He was discharged August 23, 1865. After his return home he again engaged in farming, and located on section 16, Cass Township, where he improved eighty acres of land. In 1872 he sold that farm and moved to the farm where he now lives, which contains 285 acres of good land, well improved, with a good residence and farm buildings. Mr. 272 BIOGRAPHICAL BEOORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF Frakes was married in September, 1861, to Sarah Frakes, a daughter of Dawson Frakes. She lived but a few months after her mar- riage. March 21, 1867, he married Mary A. Calkins, a native of New York State, daugh- ter of John K. and Maria (Smith) Calkins. They have had eleven children, eight of whom are living — Anna, wife of A. Bain; Hattie E., wife of F. Doolittle; "Wesley W., Andrew J., Charles A., Fanny J., Cora E., Frankie Folsom. Mary A., Jesse and Clara Belle died in childhood. In politics Mr. Frakes is a Democrat. He is a member of Winiield Scott Post, No. 66, G. A. E. JRepublican. He and his wife are members of the Lutheran church. ' 2n; « IHAELES CHRISTIAN, section 8, Lin- coln Township, was born in Sweden in December, 1845, the second of three phildren of Christian and Mary Christian. He attended school until fourteen years old and then worked on farms until |1871, when he left his native country on the sailing ves- sel Helringberg, and after a voyage of five weeks landed at Castle Garden, ISew York. From there he came direct to Hamilton County, Iowa, and for two years worked for John Howd, and then bought forty acres of land, which is a part of his present farm. This he has improved and added to until he now owns a fine farm of eighty acres. His improvements are good, and his residence is one of the pleasantest in the neighborhood, built in modern style, and surrounded with shade and ornamental trees. He has com- fortable stables for his stock and good cribs for his grain, and taken altogether his farm indicates a careful and thrifty owner. Mr. Christian was married in 1873 to Miss Anna Johnson, a native of Norway, who has been a helpmeet in deed as well as in word to her husband. In politics Mr. Christian is a •4«-»K fREDEEICK MOOEE, one of the lead- ing business men of Jewell, became ^ identified with the town in 1883. He was first located on the north side of the town, but in 1885«moved to his present place of business. He carries a complete stock of general merchandise, aiming to keep con- stantly on hand everything to be found in a first-class store. He was born in Stephenson County, Illinois, but when a babe his parents moved to Iowa, and his youth was spent in different towns of the State. His father, Robert B. Moore, died in Batavia, Jeff'erson County. He was a successful merchant and our subject was early taught the details of the mercantile business. Mr. Moore mar- ried Anna M. Jones, daughter of Isaac Jones, of Jefferson County. Mr. and Mrs. Moore have three children — Charles, Robert and Helene. In i)olitics Mr. Moore is a Eepub- lican. He is a public-spirited man and is always ready to assist any enterprise that is of benefit to the community. •• ^'| ' 3"i ' |' P. SCEIVEN, grocer, Webster City, is a native of New York, born in Grafton, Eensselaer County, February 19, 1852, a son of C. W. and Mercy Scriven, natives of the same State; father of English ancestry. His father was engaged in the general mercantile business at Grafton, and was also at the time of his death engaged in the manufacture of shirts. E. P. attended school until fourteen years of age, at the time of his lather's death, and was compelled to leave school to assist in the settlement of his father's WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 273 estate. He was employed as clerk and then as salesman in a mercantile house, and in 1874 was appointed mail carrier in Troy, New York, remaining there three years! In 1878 he came to Iowa, and, locating in Web- ster City, embarked in the grocery business, which he has successfully conducted, and is now one of the leading business men of the place. Mr. Scriven was married June 21, 1871, to Emma A. Scullen, a native of New York, daughter of James and T. M. Scullen. They have two children — Lottie E. and Chloe K. In politics Mr. Scriven is a Republican with prohibition principles. He and his wife are members of the Baptist church. •• " '■ g ' i"t ' ^" ^ jOBERT H. MARTIN, farmer and stock- raiser, section 1, "Webster Township, was born in Kentucky March 8, 1839, the third son and fourth child of eight children of Samuel and Jeddie (Pierce) Martin, the former a native of North Carolina, of Scotch descent and the latter a native of Tennessee, of Irish descent. In 1845 the parents moved to Tennessee and lived there until 1856, when they moved to Iowa and settled in Hamilton County, the father entering 160 acres of land near the present site of Lakin's Grove, which he lived on until 1860, when he moved to Story County and settled near what is now Story City, but a short time later returned to Hamilton County, where he has since lived, now making his home with the subject of our sketch. The mother died in 1870, aged fifty-seven years. R. H. Martin remained with his parents until 1861, when he hired out to carry the mail from "Webster City, Hamilton County, to Marietta, Marshall County, which he continued seven months, and then obtained employment of the "West- ern Stage Company, driving for that company eight months; after that he drove for the Northwestern Stage Company for nearly four years, until the railroad reached Boonsboro. He remained with the company five years, and being a man of temperate habits and upright principles, he gained the confidence of his employers and was given positions of responsibility. In 1868 he left the company and rented a farm in Hamilton County, on which he lived two years and then bought forty acres of his present farm, to which he has added until he now has a good farm of 182 acres, all well improved. Mr. Martin was married January 1, 1872, to Minerva Corbin, a daughter of Dr. Corbin, a prominent citizen of the county. To them were born three children — Lena, Bertie, and one that died in infancy. Mrs. Martin died April 16, 1885. She was a prominent member of the Christian church, Mr. Martin being a mem- ber of the same church. In politics Mr. Martin casts his sufl^rage with the Democratic party. lATRICK FRAKES, deceased, was one of the early pioneers of Hamilton Coun- ty. He was a native of Ohio, a son of William Frakes, who was of Irish parentage. From Ohio Patrick Frakes moved to Illinois, and thence in 1853 to Hamilton County. He lived a short time near the present site of Webster City, and then moved to section 17, Cass Township, where he entered 240 acres of government land, which lie improved and made his home until his death. He was twice married. First in Ohio, and to this marriage were born two children — William and Mary, both deceased. He was married the second time in Illinois to Anna Jacaway, who was of French parentage. To them were born ten childi-en — Eliza J., deceased, 274 BIOGRAPHICAL BECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF wife of B. R. Brewer; Harriet E., widow of J. N. Lee; Matilda, wife of Thomas May, of Nebraska; W. B.,of "Wright County, Iowa; L. "W., of Nebraska; Betsey, deceased, second wife of B. R. Brewer; John, twin of Betsey, lives in Wright County; Robert, of Hamilton County; Martha, who died in childhood, and A. J., of Hamilton County. Mr. Frakes died in 1874, and his widow now lives in Wright County. »o*-a.| ?»St < S ''^'-»»' kENJAMIN MILLARD, one of the prominent pioneers of Webster City, is a native of Humerstone, Canada, born February 4, 1816, a son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Doan) Millard. His paternal grandfather was a soldier in the Revolution- ary war. The Doans were among the first settlers of Massachusetts. John Doan came from England to Plymouth about 1630, and in 1644 settled in Cape Cod. He is the progenitor of all the Doans and Doanes in America. Trees that he had set on the cor- ners of his farm, with the initials J. D. cut on them, are still standing. He died in 1688, aged over ninety years. One of his sons, Daniel, was the first physician on Cape Cod. A son of Daniel, also named Daniel, was married in 1696, and settled in Bucks Coun- ty, Pennslylvania, where he reared a family of thirteen children, one of whom, Israel, was married in 1725, and settled in Plumstead, Pennsylvania. A son of Israel, Joseph Doan, married Hester Dillon, and moved to Hum- erstone, Canada. They had a family of nine children — Moses, Joseph, Mahlon, Levi, Aaron, Thomas, Hester, Mary and Elizabeth. Hester married Edward Richardson, and her grandson, George F. Richardson, is superin- tendent of schools of Hamilton County. Elizabeth was born August 11, 1776, and January 1, 1800, married Thomas Millard, who was born in Chester County, Pennsyl- vania, June 2, 1775. They had a family of seven children — Esther, born February 13, 1801; Thomas, born May 4, 1803; Rebecca, born September 8, 1805; Moses, February 9, 1808; Elizabeth, October 29, 1810; Rachel, May 24, 1813; Benjamin, February 4, 1816. The parents moved from Humerstone to Yarmouth Township, five miles from Port Stanley and six miles from St. Thomas, where our subject was reared. In March, 1837, he came West, and settled in Ottawa, La Salle County, Illinois, and soon after moved to Putnam County. In 1853 he moved to Marshall, Illinois, and in 1855 to Webster City, Iowa. In the spring of 1856 he built the old Hamilton House, which he carried on a year ; then sold out, but a year later bought it again, and continued the hotel business until the death of his wife in 1860. He then went to Fonda, Pocohontas County, and en- gaged in the mercantile business four years, and since 1864 has lived on his farm south of town. Mr. Millard was married in Octo- ber, 1840, to Samantha Servis, a native of Letart Falls, Meigs County, Ohio. In poli- tics he is a Republican, joining that party on its organization, having formerly voted with the Whig party. ■ « » » i | ' 3 i i; . g i««'" M. STUDLEY, farmer, section 12, Fremont Township, is a native of 1® Bureau County, Illinois, born March 13, 1850, a son of William and Eunice (Timberraan) Studley. He was reared and educated in Bureau County, his youth, when not in school, being passed in assisting in the work of the farm, and with the excep- tion of two years, when he had charge of a brickyard, he has devoted his attention to WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 275 agriculture. He came to Hamilton County^ Iowa, in 1877, and in 1880 located on his present farm, which at that time was wild, uncultivated land. He has converted it into a good, productive farm, and has erected a substantial residence and other farm build- ings. Mr. Studley was married July 4, 1871, to Sarah Pope, and to them were born two sons — Sumner D. and Christopher T. Mrs. Studley died October 6, 1882, and December 19, 1883, Mr. Studley married Sarah E. Smalley, of Hamilton County. They have two children — Maud L. and Orpha May. In politics Mr. Studley is independent. '•* "| * l"i * S' * " ' fR COMPTON, M. D., was born in Mercer County, Ohio, in June, 1845, ® a son of Elihu and Sarah (Johnson) Compton, natives of Ohio. His father was a son of William Compton, a native of Pennsyl- vania, of Scotch descent, and his mother was a daughter of William Johnson, a native of Virginia. Both the Compton and Johnson families were among the earliest settlers of Ohio. In 1853 the parents of our subject moved to Iowa and located in Washington County, where they still live. He was given good educational advantages, remaining at home until after the breaking out of the war of the Kebellion, when, May 10, 1863, he enlisted and was assigned to Company B, Forty-fifth Iowa Infantry. His regiment was stationed in Tennessee, doing guard duty and detached service under General A. J. Smith along the Memphis and Charleston Kailroad, and there as the result of exposure he con- tracted disease which unfitted him for active service. He was discharged at Keokuk, Iowa, in October, 1863, and returned home. He then attended school for a time, and in 1866 began the study of medicine with Dr. R. F. Baker, of Davenport^ with whom he remained two years. In the winter of 1867-'68 and 1868-'69 he attended lectures at the Hanne- man Medical College, Chicago, graduating in the spring of 1869. The following summer he located at Brighton, Washington County, Iowa, and in November of the same year moved to Webster City, where he was the first graduated physician of the homoeopathic school. He has built up a good practice, and is now the leading homoeopathic physician of the county. He is serving his fourth term as county physician, an evidence of the esteem in which he is held by the medical fraternity. He is a member of the United Workman and Odd Fellows orders and the Grand Army of the Eepnblic. He was married in May, 1869, to Ella A. Atkinson, a native of Belmont County, Ohio, daughter of David B. Atkin- son. They have one son — Charles H. In politics he is a Republican. f^ENRY STAEEY, section 11, Ellsworth Township, is one of the early pioneers of Hamilton County. He was born in Schenectady County, New York, January 19, 1816, a son of Oliver and Elizabeth (Swart) Staley. His grandfather Staley settled in the State of New York in 1753. His mother died in 1820, leaving four children — Cather- ine, Ann, Henry and George. His father afterward married again, and to the second marriage were born five children. Henry Staley lived in his native State until 1855^ when, accompanied by his brother George, he came to Iowa and entered 160 acres of land in Story County and 420 in what was then called Webster County, section 11, Ellsworth Town- ship, where he settled in 1856, and is his present homestead. He has been a hard working man, and there are many evidences 276 BIOQBAPEIOAL BEGOBB AND POBTBAIT ALBUM OF of his thrift and enterprise in Hamilton County. He has been closely identified with all the various improvements of the county, and the development of its resources has been largely augmented by him. He is highly esteemed by all the early settlers who have so long been with him identified and interested in the advancement of the county. He was married in 1862 to Annette Wilkinson, a native of Vermont, daughter of John and Orra (Copeland) Wilkinson. They have had six children — Mrs. Hattie O. Lakin, who died in 1887; Elizabeth, wife of Stephen Hoon; Nettie, wife of Douglass Cochran; Minnie, Carrie and Henrietta. In his political afhlia- tions Mr. Staley is a Democrat. He has served his township in the capacity of clerk, but save in this one instance has not accepted positions, preferring to devote his time to tlie quiet pursuits of rural life. fAMES M. ISIELSON, proprietor of the Pleasant Hill stock farm, located on section 81, Fremont Township, was born in Henry County, Hlinois, March 4, 1843, son of James and Elizabeth (Davis) Nelson. He was reared in Henry and Knox counties, spending his youth on his father's farm. He remained in Illinois until 1876, when he came to Iowa and bought eighty acres of wild land, which he has improved and added to until he now has 400 acres of tine land on which are good buildings, a native grove of forest trees, and everything that goes to make a pleasant home. It is one of the best farms in the township, and Mr. Nelson is one of the township's most enterprising farmers. Mr. Nelson makes a specialty of stockraising, and his fine Clydesdale horses deserve especial mention. He was married January 12, 1865, to Esther A. Thompson, a daughter of John and Catherine (Livingstone) Thompson, of Knox County, Illinois. They have three children — Charles Henry, Walter Byron and Sadie Myrtle. In' politics Mr. Nelspn is a Democrat. He has been a prominent man in public affairs in the township, and has served as trustee and as a member of the school board. EV. DAYID P. DAY was born in St. I Albans County, Vermont, February 16, 1804, a son of Oliver Day, who was probably of Welsh descent./ In 1812 the family moved to Wayne County, Ohio, locat- ing near Wooster, where the father died. David was reared in Ohio, living in that State until 1855, when he came to Iowa and located a mile and a half northwest of Ft. Dodge, in Webster County, and in April, 1856, moved to Cass Township, Hamilton County, and located on section 8, where he built a log cabin, but only lived about two years after coming to the county, his death occurring October 16, 1858. He was a minister of the Methodist Episcopal church, and supplied different charges in Iowa, riding the circuit when it comprised Webster, Hamilton and Wright counties. Mr. Day was married in 1823 to Khoda Chaffin, a native of Maine, daughter of Simon Chaffin. She died Oc- tober 6, 1849. To them were born eight children, three of whom are living — Diadama, wife of Joel Emry, of Jo Daviess County, Illinois; Lucinda, wife of T. D. Bryan, of Charlotte, Michigan, and Simon, of Cass Township. Levi perished in a storm in Webster County, December 9, 1855; Hall died in Ohio, aged thirteen years; Jabez and Margaret Amanda both died when three years of ao-e, and one died in infancy unnamed. May 2, 1850, Mr. Day married Deborah WEBSTER AND HAMILTON OOUNTIES, IOWA. 277 Edgar, who was born in York County, Pennsylvania, July 28, 1806, daughter of Ebenezer and Elizabeth (Badders) Edgar, her father a native of Ireland and her mother of York County. Mrs. Day now makes her home with Simon Day, and is hale and hearty at the age of eighty-two years. » S i i ; « fW. YOUNG, junior member of the lumber firm of F. D. Young & Co., ' was born in Lamoine, Hancock County, Maine, December 1, 1843, a son of Stephen and Betsey (McFarland) Young. He lived on a farm until fifteen years of age, when he began the life of a fisherman, sailing on a fish- ing vessel considerable of the time for ten years from Maine to Newfoundland. In 1868 he returned to liis native county and served an apprenticeship at the ship and house car- penter's trade, which he followed until 1880, when he came to Hamilton County, Iowa, and for three years was employed by F. D. Young, and in 1883 bought an interest in the business. Mr. Young was married June 15, 1866, to Margaret Milliken, daughter of the Hon. John and Eosilla (Coats) Milliken. They have four children — Calvin, Ethel, Martha and Earl. Mr. Young is a member of the Masonic fraternity. Acacia Lodge, No. 176; Hope Chapter, No. 88; and Triune Commandery, No. 41. He is also a member of "Webster City Lodge, No. 137, A. O. U. W. In politics he is a Kepublican. He is a inember of the school board. •^Hi' fRANK R. DALBEY, section 7, Lincoln Township, was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, July 24, 1848, the youngest of eight children, six sons and two daughters, of Rev. Joel and Caroline (Sidell) Dalbey. Hisfather was a prominent minister of the Methodist Protestant church, and preached the gospel for half a century. He was a member of the Ohio, then the Illinois, Iowa, and last of the Missouri Conference, and died in St. Charles County, Missouri. The mother died at her son Frank's house in Lincoln Township in 1879. F. R. Dalbey was reared in the various places where his father was stationed, and received good educational advantages, and for a time taught school. He came to Hamilton County in 1876 and located on the farm where he now lives, which contains 160 acres of good land and is well improved, wi'th a good resi- dence and other farm buildings. Mr. Dalbey was married November 10, 1872, to Roanna S. Everett, a native of Hampshire County, Virginia. When she was twelve years old the family moved to Ohio and thence to Iowa and the mother is now living near Jewell. Mr. and Mrs. Dalbey have four children — Joel Edward, Bertha M., Clyde T. and Earl Francis. In politics Mr. Dalbey is a Re- publican. ►^*-tf^ P. LAYNE, deceased, was one of the I influential farmers of Hamilton Town- ® ship. He was born in Floyd County, Kentucky, January 19, 1834, a son of John and Elizabeth (Priest) Layne, natives of Vir- ginia. He was reared a farmer, remainincr m his native State until eighteen years of age, when he went to Edgar County, Illinois, where he was living at the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion. October 12, 1862, he enlisted in4;he defence of his country, and was assigned to the First Missouri Engineers, and was engaged in building bridges and other special work the greater part of the time, but participated in the battle of Atlanta 278 BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OM' and two or three other severe engagements. He received injuries while in the service from the effects of which he never fully re- covered. He was discharged in June, 1865, and then returned to Edgar County, and the same year moved to Iowa and located in Hamilton County, on the farm now owned by his family. This farm he improved, and it is now one of the best in the township. Mr. Layne was married September 3, 1861, to Mary T. Neely, a native of Edgar County, Illinois, daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth (McConkey) Neely. To them were born eight children — John, who died in Louisiana, leaving a wife and child, Walter; Cora, wife of Charles Dick; Leona, Addie and Eva (twins), Mary and Amy. In politics Mr. Layne was an adherent of the Greenback party. He served his township as road su- pervisor and as a niember of the school-board. He died May 28, 1886, leaving with his family a host of friends to mourn the loss of a good citizen who was always one of the foremost in advancing the interests of the community. The home farm contains 120 acres of good land, and in addition to this they have a good farm of 100 acres about a mile from the homestead. » 3nS ' a mile east of Webster City. He makes a specialty of dealing in stock, and has some of the finest horses in the county. Mr. Cum- mings was married in October, 1861, to Prudence Remington, a native of Muskingum County, Ohio, and at the time of her marriage a resident of Boone, Iowa. To them were born three children — Charles R., Ella J. and Alfred E. Mrs. Cummings died March 13, 1883, and June 11, 1885, Mr. Cummings married Augusta Stone, a native of Clinton County, New York, daughter of Bartlett and Mary (Rubbedim) Stone. She came to Har- din County, Iowa, in 1871, and in 1875 to Hamilton County. In politics Mr. Cummings is a Republican. He and his wife are mem- bers of the Congregational church. ALFRED CUMMINGS is one of the enterprising citizens of Webster City. He is a native of New York State, born January 21, 1833, a son of Stephen and Sarah (Herrick) Cummings. He remained in his native State until twenty-two years of age, when he came to Iowa and lived eighteen months in Jefferson County. He then moved to Boone County and bought and improved eighty acres of land two miles north of Boone, on which he lived until 1883, when he bought the farm where he now lives, which is located ^JHJ« IMON DAY, farmer and stock- raiser, section 8, Cass Township, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, September 15, 1832, a son of David P. and Rhoda (Chaffin) Day. He grew to manhood in his native State, and in 1855 came to Iowa and settled in Webster County, where he lived until the spring of 1856, when he moved to Hamilton County, and settled in Cass Township. The first year he lived on section 28, and then moved to the farm where he now lives on section 8. His farm contains 210 acres of Cass Township's best land and his building improvements are among the best in the county. Mr. Day is a representative farmer, having made a success of that avocation. He is a prominent man in the township and has held several local positions of trust and re- sponsibility. In politics he affiliates with the Republican party. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and one of its most liberal and earnest supporters. Mr. Day was married April 5, 1855, to Mary Hutson, WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 279 a native of "Wayne County, Ohio, daughter of Moses and Lydia (Winkler) Hutson. To therii have been bom six children — Levi, David P., William O., Simon M., Elmer E. and Effie L. Levi and David are ministers in the Methodist Episcopal church. Mrs. Day died March 13, 1871, and Mr. Day sub- sequently married August! Parker, a native of Long Branch, New Jersey, daughter of Michael and Margaret (Norris) Parker. To them have been born three children — Mary A., John Lewis and Herbert A. tlTTHER LAKIN is one of the early set- tlers of Hamilton County. He was born in Pike County, Pennsylvania, March 7, 1830, a son of Elisha and Cynthia (Ainesly) Lakin, his father a native of Massachusetts, and his mother of Pike County. His father was born in 1807, and when eighteen years of age went to Pennsylvania, where he was married and lived until 1842, when he moved to Kane County, Illinois, and entered Gov- ernment land, living there five years, when he moved to De Kalb County, Illinois, and made that county his home until his removal to Hamilton County in 1855. He brought with him 100 head of cattle and horses, which was a valuable addition to the stock of Hamilton County. He located on section 24, Lyon Township, and was the first permanent settler of that township, and made it his home until his death. His wife died in 1858. They had a family of fifteen children, ten of whom grew to maturity — Lucinda, Harriet, Mary Ann, Luther, B. A., Martha, Esther, Cynthia, Polly and Charles. Elisha Lakin was one of the well-known pioneers of Ham- ilton County. He was a Jacksonian Demo- crat, and for a number of years was justice of the peace, and was also a member of the county board of supervisors and coroner of the county. Luther Lakin was twelve years old when his father moved to Illinois. When he was twenty-one years old he went north to the lumber regions and remained three years. He then returned to De Kalb County, and preceded his father to Iowa by a few days, thus sharing with him the honor of being the first settler of Lyon Township. He located on the land which is now his pleasant home- stead, owning 224 acres of choice land, known as the Lakin Grove stock-farm, all under cultivation with good building improvements. He makes a specialty of raising thorough- bred Durham cattle, and has some of the finest animals in the county. Mr. Lakin is a prominent man in the township, and has held several local official positions, and for several years was a member of the county board of supervisors. He is a member of the order of the Knights of Labor. In politics he afiiliates with the Democratic party. Mr. Lakin was married November 26, 1854, to Emily S. Staples, a native of Maine, daughter of Sylvanus and Pauline G. (Maxwell) Sta- ples, who moved to Illinois in 1851, and to Lakin's Grove, Hamilton County, in 1856, where the father died October 25, 1874, and the mother August 5, 1883. They had a family of six children, three of whom are liv- ing — Emily S., Emeline and Sophia. Mr. and Mrs. Lakin have fifteen children — Noah, Norman, Willard, Nancy, Gustavus, Perlina, Alpheus, Mary, Harry, Frederick, Minonia, Bessie and Jessie (twins). Alma and Emily. ->ij-. EORGE W. TEED, druggist and jew- eler, Webster City, Iowa, was born in Canada West, March 16, 1849, and when two years old moved to Livingston County, New York, a son of Pell and M. J. 280 BIOOBAPHIGAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF (Washburn) Teed. He remained at home with his parents until his majority, and was given good educational advantages. In 1870 he M'ent West, was employed as traveling salesman by a jewelry house, remaining with them until 1874, and in December ot that year came to Webster City, Iowa, and opened a jewelry store, continuing in that business three years, when he formed a partnership with B. Detloe, adding a stock of drugs to his already well established jewelry business, the firm name becoming Teed &;Detloe. In 1881 they bought the store now occupied by Mr. Teed, and conducted two stores a year, when the partnership was dissolved, Mr. Teed taking one store and Mr. Detloe the other. Mr. Teed has been a successful mer- chant, and now has the leading store in his line in the town, having a complete stock of drugs and also a fine stock of jewelry. He was married in June, 1874, to Delia Martin, of Mt. Morris, New York. They have one son George M. Mr. Teed is a member of the Masonic fraternity. Acacia Lodge, No. 176, Hope Chapter, No. 88, Triune Com- mandery. No. 41, and Cedar Eapids Consist- ory, also of Alemis Lodge, No. 137, K. of P., and Teed Lodge, No. 60, L. of O. In politics he casts his suffrage with the Eepub- lican party. Mrs. Teed is a member of the Congregational church. KX-Hfe-.!' 3 l * l » |h' " " '^°*~ W. HILL, section 4, Lyon Township, is a native of Clermont County, Ohio, i* born January 31, 1849, the seventh of ten children of Daniel and Mary Ann (Phil- lips) Hill, the father a native of Pennsylvania and the mother of Maryland. In November, 1855, the Hill family moved to Clinton Coun- ty, Iowa, where the father died December 9, the following year, the mother living until January 15, 1882. G. W. Hill remained in Clinton County until 1870, when he moved to Cass County, Nebraska, where he lived ten years. He then sold his property in Nebraska and moved to Hamilton County, Iowa, and located on the farm in Lyon Town- ship, where he now lives. His farm was partially improved, but he has continued to improve it and now has one of the best farms in the township, his residence and other build- ings being comfortable and commodious. Mr. Hill was married July 3, 1872, to Mary S. Eogers, a daughter of L. F. and Sarah M. (Boynton) Kogers, of Clinton County, Iowa. They have eight children — Casablanca D., Myrtie M., Claude L., Clay R., Cecil H., Clarence C, Cyrus G. and Calvin T. ►>^ NDEES CHEISTIANSON, one of the well-known pioneers of Scott Township, resides on section 20, where he owns 140 acres, and also owns 240 acres adjoining on section 21, making a fine farm of 380 acres. His land was new when he settled on it, and he has made all the improvements and now has a beautiful home. He has a good residence and substantial farm buildings and fine groves of trees, where once was a treeless prairie. Mr. Christianson was born in Nor- way, October 17, 1881. His father. Christian Peterson, died when he was a boy. He was reared in his native country, and was there married to Helen Larson. In 1854 he came to America, landing in Quebec, and proceeded direct to La Salle County, Illinois, where a brother and sister had already located. In 1857 he came with his brother-in-law, Peter Larson, to Hamilton County, and they enjoy the honor of being the first settlers of Scott Township. A sister, Mrs. Phillops, was the first of the family to come to the county. WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 281 He worked for others at farm work for some time before buying his land, and also worked a farm on section 3, belonging to Albert Hall, on shares, and in 1864 bought his present farm. When Mr. Ohristianson came to Iowa he had not money enough to pay the expense of bringing his family from Illinois, and. his prosperity is due to his industry and good management. Mr. and Mrs. Christiansen have had four children. A son atid daughter died in early childhood. Another son, Lars, was killed on the farm in 1864, aged nine years. Their only living child. Christian J., was born in La Salle County, Illinois, October 26, 1855, and still lives with his parents. Mr. Christiansen and his son are adherents of the Republican party. The family are mem- bers of the Lutheran church. Mr. Christian- son is one of the highly respected men of the township, which he has assisted so materially to develop, and is now reaping the reward of his early years of toil and hardship. F. DERR is a native of Pennsylvania, born in Northampton County, October '® 31, 1886, a son of William S. and Mary (Griesemer) Derr. He lived on a farm. until thirteen years of age, when, not liking the routine of farm work, he began clerking in a store in Allentown, remaining there four years. He then went to Carey, Wyandot County, Ohio, and five or six years later to Kenton, the same State, where he remained two years. In the spring of 1863 he came to Iowa and lived in Des Moines two years. Then removed to Homer, and in October, 1872, came to Webster City, where he has since lived. He has the largest store in the place, carrying a stock valued at $20,000. He is purely a self-made man, getting his first start in business by economy and hard work, saving his earnings, always making it a rule to save something even when his salaiy was small. Mr. Derr was married September 1, 1862, to Ether Carroll, a native of Seneca County, Ohio, daughter of Ophar and Phoebe (Goodin) Carroll, then of Kenton, Ohio. They have two children — May, wife of J. W. Al- lington, and Mason, who is in the store with his father. In addition to his business inter- ests Mr. Derr has a fine farm of 480 acres. He and his wife are members of the Baptist church. In politics he casts his suffrage with the Republican party. THOMAS B. BONEBRIGHT, one of the prominent pioneers of Hamilton ^^ County, is a native of Lycoming Coun- ty, Pennsylvania, born September 29, 1836, a son of Frederick and Maria (Blackwell) Bonebright. In 1846 his parents moved to Stephenson County, Illinois, being among the first settlers of Freeport. Thomas was reared on a farm and received but limited educational advantages. In 1856 he started for Hamilton County, Iowa, driving a team for Washington Saulsbury, and the first year in the State worked for him. The next year he worked for George McClure in a saw-mill, and in the spring of 1857 joined the Spirit Lake ex- pedition company and assisted in burying the dead killed by the Indians at that place. In 1859 he went to Wright County, and lived four years, when he returned to Webster City and for several years worked at the carpen- ter's trade. In 1882 he was employed as mechanic on the Northwestern Railroad, and later superintended the water department on the western branch of the road, having charge of all the pumps and engines. He has a pleasant home in the southern part of Webster City. Mr. Bonebright was married , 282 BIOOBAPHIOAL REOORB AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF May 2, 1859, to Sarah Jane Brewer, a daughter of Willson Brewer, a pioneer of Hamilton County. Mr. and Mrs. Bonebright have had six children, .five of whom are liv- ing — George W., Harriet M., wife of Theo- dore Close; William Wallace, Frank A. and Ella Belle. A daughter, Adella, died, aged eleven years. In politics Mr. Bonebright is a Republican. He is a member of the Iowa Legion of Honor, and the Knights of Labor. -o»"'l>*W-lH ^ 1 1 ^ Mt-^H' 40> ^ILLSON BREWER, one of the first settlers of Hamilton County, was a native of Virginia, but wheii four years old his parents moved to Henry County, Indiana, where he was .reared and was there married to Margaret Moore, a native of Henry County. In 1850 they came to Iowa and settled in Hamilton County, Mr. Brewer en- tering Government land ten miles south of the present town of Webster City. He died in 1857, leaving a widow and eleven children, five of whom are living — Benjamin R., Sarah Jane, William, Walter and Margaret. Jack- son, John Thomas, Julia and Nancy are de-, ceased. Mrs. Brewer is still a resident of Webster City, where she has made her home for so many years. KENDALL YOUNG.— Few who meet W the quiet and equable President of the 1=^ First National Bank of Webster City, Iowa, would suppose that he had ever led the rough life of a sailor " on the desolate, rainy seas," of a soldier in the service of his coun- try, of a miner in the early days of California, or of a pioneer in the settlement of north- western Iowa; but he bore an active part in these various capacities, notwithstanding the very difi"erent life he has lived in Hamilton County for almost a generation. His varied career illustrates the character of the best class of Yankee boys who start out in youth, to make their way in life and win a compe- tence. His only capital was a cool and clear brain, excellent health, courtesy and kindness toward all, patience to bide his time, and determination and perseverance which never flagged. Kendall Young was born in the town of Eden, Hancock County, Maine, Jan- uary 19, 1820. He was raised on a farm, becoming inured to hard out-door labor at an early age, acquiring only the little education that could be obtained in the country schools of those days. But even these slender edu- cational privileges came to an end during his sixteenth year, and he went to school no more. He remained at home until he at- tained the age of nineteen, when he started out to make his own way in the world. Not far from the time of attaining his majority he saw a little military service, in what has since been known as " The Aroostook War." A question of boundary arose between the State of Maine and the Canadian province of New Brunswick. The local authorities were un- able to agree, and finally the Governor of Maine called out the State militia, with the determination of driving the British intruders back to their own country. Kendall Young enlisted as a "private" in Captain Nash's company, " Maine Militia Northeastern Fron- tier Disturbances," and was out in " the tented field " about two months. The ques- tion having thus become a threatening one to the peace of the United States and Great Britain, the authorities of the two nations intervened to prevent bloodshed, and adjusted the difiiculty. Uncle Sam paid the Maine volunteers out of his oyn capacious purse, allowing them $18 for a little over two months' service and a warrant for forty acres '"-'"^iy,j„,,,j;l&irt'> y^ I~<--r'^-.igfCi!if>^ /^t-zrz-jc--»'-»2^ '"^'aiki Samuel Sii^'"""" Q^a^YxJ^ ^^4-ry^-^^Y-r^ WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 287 of land. Later, he gave each one a land war- rant for 120 acres. It was rather an unusual thing to meet an old soldier who had not parted with his land warrant, and I distinctly recollect writing an editorial about that of my friend Kendall Young, some twenty-eight or twenty-nine years ago. He located his first warrant on forty acres of land some four miles north of "Webster City, in what is now Cass Township; the large one in Kossuth County. This last he exchanged for a part of his present farm in Cass Township, in this, Hamilton County, and for that reason calls it " The Aroostook Farm." Before quitting this topic of military service, it should be stated that Mr. Young's grandfather was a soldier in the war of Independence. He was one of those who threw the British tea into Boston Harbor. I do not know that he was the man referred to in James Russell Lowell's well-known poem — " Ag'in the chimbtly crooks necks hung An' in among 'em I'usted The Die queen's arm that Gran'tlier Young Fetched hack from Concord busted ;" — but be that as it may, a few years ago, while Kendall was visiting at his old home, he searched out the grave of his patriotic grandsire, then fallen into neglect, and with others of the descendants of Elkanah Young, placed over the precious dust a granite pillar, suitably inscribed, which will keep green the memory, and give to distant generations the proud record of him who sleeps beneath it. Soon after attaining his majority he started out to make his own way in the world, going to sea and becoming a " sailor before the mast." In this humble, toilsome capacity, he visited the West India Islands, England, and many ports along the coasts of the United States. The last summer he was afloat was spent in cod-fishing near Belle Isle, on the coast of Labrador. He speaks of it as a bar- ren and most inhospitable region. Ice-bergs were always in sight, imparting great cold- ness to the foggy atmosphere, while drenching rains were falling at very frequent intervals. He enjoyed the summer's work very much, but still has never had the least desire to re- visit that incomparably sterile and desolate quarter of the globe. Quitting the sea and returning to Maine, he engaged — " in a small way," as he says — in merchandising, doing a sort of barter trade with the fishermen. He sold them their supplies of dry goods and groceries and bought their fish, which he sent to distant markets. After two or three years he emigrated to Wisconsin, settling upon a farm in the year 1847. He followed this calling two years, until the height of the gold fever in California, when he crossed the plains. The party drove ox teams and were seven months making the journey! Mr. Young was thus one of " the Argonauts of '49 " or an " original '49-er'" — as the Californians are called in the history of those exciting days. En route they saw many Indians, but were never molested by them. Seeing the wild waste of country across the plains, and through the mountain region, was a romantic experience which will never be repeated, for the extension of the railroads, the disap- pearance of the Indians and the wild animals, and the changes everywhere wrought by the white man, have made a journey to the Pa- cific coast a very different affair. It now requires less of days than it then did of months. Mr. Young engaged in mining at Mormon Island in the American Eiver. After two and a half years in the mines he returned to his old home in Pine Tree State, where, however, he was not now contented to remain, though he had acquired a fair capital to engage in busi- ness. But his taste of western life had effectually dissipated all ideas of staying in 288 BIOGBAPEIOAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF slow old Maine. He therefore* came west again, this time settling at Rockton, Illinois, where he entered into a sort of general busi- ness, loaning money, selling merchandise and owning an interest in a paper-mill. These enterprises did not " pan out" sufficiently to suit the old miner, and he again concluded to " go west." Associated with his long-tinle friend, Mr. L. L. Treat, now a prosperous merchant of "Webster City, he came to Albion, Marshall County, Iowa, where for a time they engaged in business. But this location did not suit them, and a year or two later found them in Kossuth County, where they laid out the town of Irvington. This was a most beautiful town-site, occupying one of those splendid elevated terraces, which are of such frequent occurrence along the valley of the upper Des Moines. The ground was perfect- ly dry, with excellent natural drainage, and level as a floor. A wide extent of country was in sight away to the north, south and west, and the winding of the river could be traced for many miles by its groves and belts of timber. But the town of Algona, a few miles north, and nearer the center of the county, had acquired such a start that it became evident after two or three years that a town could not be built up at Irvington, and the project was abandoned. Mr. Young then, in 1859, settled in Webster City, having been married a year or two previous to Miss Jane TJnderdown, a most estimable lady who is still living. He has never again changed his residence. The first decade of Mr. Young's life in Webster City was devoted to general mer- chandising. One or two of these years he was in co-partnership with Julius M. Jones. But in 1871 the First National Bank of Webster City was founded, of which Kendall Young was one of the largest stockholders. He was elected president of the bank at its organization and has held the position con- tinuously to the present time. He has been quite fortunate in the " race of life," acquir- ing a handsome competence, and enjoying the entire confidence and high respect of his fellow-citizens of the town and county. Many years ago he built himself a tasteful residence which remains one of the finest in the county, notwithstanding many quite as large and more expensive have been erected in later days. He has also improved one of the most beautiful farms in the county, two miles north of Webster City, in the township of Cass. His farm buildings are models in their way, and any one in passing the place would need no argument to convince him that the owner was a man of brains and thrift. An old Indian of my early acquaint- ance, who lived in a squalid cabin, once re- marked that any one who should see his home " would think a dead man lived there! " No such supposition would be entertained by those who see the splendid fields and com- modious buildings of this well managed farm. . Here is a little anecdote of Mr. Young's early business days in Webster City, which very clearly shows his characteristics of good humor and fair dealing. When he went to Chicago to buy his first supply of merchan- dise, of course, like everybody else, he needed a little credit; so he was invited into the private office of one of a certain firni, to be questioned by a very adroit, sharp member of the establishment, in regard to his worldly possessions and his ability to pay his debts. He told the big well-fed partner, in response to questions, about his transactions, and how he expected to meet his obligations, among other things mentioning that he had a few quarter-sections of land, which, at that time, however, was a very drug in the market. " How much, Mr. Young," asked the genteel WEBSTMB AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 289 wholesaler, " do you consider that land worth?" The legend says that the answer came quick as thought — "/ don't think it is worth a damn! " " Mr. Young you can have all the goods you want, and pay for them just when you please!" said his cross-exam- iner, and the colloquy closed. It is said that as long as Mr. Young remained in trade he continued to deal with this house, the mem- bers of which took special delight in telling the story to any Webster City man who hap- pened that way. He started out in life with the best possi- ble mental equipment for a young man who had to " paddle his own canoe." His habits were excellent, he was willing to work at any honorable employment,' had no false ideas concerning labor, no " wild oats " to sow and was determined to win a good name in whatever community should become his home. He has fully achieved what his early ambition so laudably craved, a handsome competence, and a character and standing in the community above and beyond reproach. In the discharge of his labors as President of the First National Bank, he has always been thoroughly Informed in regard to its business and responsibilities — fairly trn.sting his sub- ordinates, who have always been most fortu- nately selected, but never leaving his own duties to be performed by others. Under his charge the bank has prospered until its original capital stock has about doubled in value. His name has become a synonym for trust- worthiness and reliability, and hundreds of people seek his advice in matters of in- vestment, or general business. While he is most undemonstrative, conservative, and by many, perhaps, deemed in some directions too conservative, it is universally conceded that no interest entrusted to his care or guid- ance has ever suffered from inattention, or an error of judgment. We hear of men to 23 whom have been applied such terms as " Old Reliable," "Old Business," "Old Brains," etc., etc., but while Mr. Young has happily escaped the questionable honor of that species of nick-naming, his personality is all that any or all of them could possibly imply. He came of a long-lived race, and even now, in his sixty-eighth year is in vigorous health, — better preserved in fact than most men of fifty. I have written these lines after an acquaint- ance with Mr. Young of thirty years, during which time we have ever been warm personal friends. I have known him intimately and well, and it has afforded me a high gratifica- tion thus to bear testimony to the eminent praiseworthy qualities of this truly self-made man, the architect of his own fortunes. Chaeles Aldeioh. ■Tt-^ J. CLIFTON, section 15, Fremont Township, was born in Cass County, Michigan, April 2, 1836, a son of John and Elizabeth (Taylor) Clifton, natives of Ohio. When he was nine months old his fatlier died, and when he was nine years old he was orphaned by the death of his mother. He was reared by relatives until he was six- teen years old, when he started out to take care of himself He worked on farms in the summer and in the winter attended school until twenty-one years old. He lived in Michigan until 1865, when he came to Iowa and lived in Jasper County during the sum- mer, and in the fall moved to Hamilton County and settled on Fremont Prairie, At that time there was but one house between his and Webster City, and none nearer than five miles on the south. He built a log house in the spring of 1866, 16x20, of hewed logs which was a great source of pride to 390 BWGBAPHIGAL BBCORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF him, as it was one of tlie best in the county. This house is still standing, a land-mark of pioneer days. In 1884 he erected his pres- ent residence, a two-story frame, on a fine building site, in the center of a pretty lawn, and although it combines all that is comfort- able with its convenience and taste his pleasure in it does not begin to be as great as was his pride in the little cabin in pioneer days. Mr. Clifton was married March 22, 1857, to Miss Sarah Dewey, daughter of Solomon and Elizabeth (Griffin) Dewey. They have five sons — Charles H., Frank L., Byron M., Lester S. and John A. A daugh- ter, Ida A., died aged twenty months. In politics Mr. Clifton is a Republican. He has served two terms as assessor, township trustee five or six times, and as a member of the school board a number of times. D. AETHUR, stock dealer, Webster City, is a native of Jefferson County, P® New York, born March 7, 1831, a son of Homer and Fanny (Higby) Arthur, the father a native of Massachusetts and the mother of New York. In 1847 his parents moved to Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin, and two years later he bought a farm and engaged in farming on his own account. In 1858 he came to Iowa and settled at Spirit Lake, and in 1863 came to Hamilton County and settled in Webster City, where he en- gaged in stock dealing, shipping the first car-load of stock from the place. He has been successful in this business, and in con- nection with it has engaged in farming quite ejjtensively. Mr. Arthur was married Feb- ruary 14, 1861, to Sarah A. Howe, a daughter of John D. and Sarah (Cutter) Howe, who were natives of the New England States and moved to Iowa in an early day. Mr. and Mrs. Arthur have had four children, three of whom are living — Charles H., Herbert J. and Katie H. Their eldest child, Eobert, died in infancy. They are members of the Congregational church. In politics Mr. Arthur is a Republican. He has now dis- posed of his farms and is devoting his time entirely to the stock business, ranching in the West and buying and shipping cattle and horses to the Eastern markets. ►4«-^ liliRISTIAN THOEESON, real estate, abstract, loan and insurance agent, Webster City, was born in Norway, near Christiana, March 17, 1852, a son of John and Anna (Elvrud) Thoreson. His father was, in his early life, an officer in the army, but spent his declining years on his farm and died in his native country, and his mother still lives there. Christian Thoreson lived on a farm until fourteen years old, and then went to the city of Moss, where he at- tended academy, and afterward obtained employment as clerk, remaining there until 1872, when he came to the United States. He lived in Rochelle, Ogle County, Illinois, three years, and in 1875 came to Hamilton County, Iowa. He taught school in Scott Township two years, and then was employed as a clerk in a store in Callahan eight months, when he bought a stock of goods and embarked in business for himself,' sub- sequently moving his stock to Ellsworth, where he lived until 1882, when he was elected county recorder. He then moved to Webster City, and after serving as recorder two terms, January 1, 1887, engaged in his present business. Mr. Thoreson was married June 23, 1885, to Carra Letts, a native of Will County, Illinois, a daughter of Rev. David and Olive (Cleveland) Letts, the WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 291 former a native of Canada and the latter of New York. The father died in Wright County, Iowa, and the mother now lives in Webster City. The only child of Mr. and Mrs. Thoreson died in infancy. They ^re members of the Congregational church. In politics Mr. Thoreson is a Republican. He is a member of Webster City Lodge, No. 542, I. O. O. F., and Alemis Lodge, No. 137, K. of P. — I ' !"; ' !" "-- — i>NGUS McLaughlin.— Among the many successful farmers of Hamilton County none have made a more honor- able or successful record than Angus Mc- Laughlin. Coming to the county in its early settlement, the death of his father a few mouths later, left him at nineteen years of age with the care of a widowed mother, his two sisters and his father's estate to manage. This responsibility was greater than often falls upon the shoulders of a mere boy. But with willing hands and sturdy purpose, he made good use of the lessons of industry and economy which he had received from his father. None but those who have experienced the difficulties of winning success on the frontiers can appreciate the full measure of energy, mental and physical, required to bring success; and such only can appreciate the difficulties that he came in contact with. But pushing through these hardships helped develop qualities of min I and heart that now command the respect of his fellow citizens. His farm on the banks of Boone Iliver, six miles northwest of Webster City, known as Mineral Springs farm, contains 400 acres, and is one of the best in the county. The substantial farm buildings, fields of golden grain ready for the harvest, his flock of a 100 head of high grade cattle and horses grazing in the blue grass pastures, and 200 head of fine Poland China hogs, give a more correct history of the proprietor than any words the writer can command. Mr. McLaughlin was born in Cojumbiana County, Ohio, August 2, 1837, a son of James and Elizabeth (Noble) McLaughlin, who were natives of Inverness- shire, Scotland, and came to America in 1817, together with a large colony, and settled in Columbiana County, Ohio. They were active members of the Presbyterian church. In 1856 they emigrated to Hamilton County, Iowa, where the father died in the November following. The mother died August 30, 1883. They had four children who lived to maturity — William, Catherine, Angus and Elizabeth, two of whom, Angus and Eliza- beth, the widow of the late Angus McBane, of Ft. Dodge, are still living. Mr. McLaugh- lin was married March 10, 1864, to Catherine Sells, who was born in Rush County, Indiana, in 1838, coming to Iowa when eighteen years of age, and was engaged as a teacher in the public schools for several years previous to her marriage. They have six children — ■ Lizzie A., James J., Angus A., Edwin M. Stanton, Marion W. and Maud W. The two oldest boys, James and Angus, are being educated at the State Agricultural College at Ames, Iowa. Lizzie is receiving her educa- tion at the Normal School at Algona, Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. McLaughlin are consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and have contributed liberally of their means and good works in building and sustaining Oak Glen Church, which stands in a beauti- ful grove, which was formerly a part of his farm. In politics he has always been an ardent Republican, and takes an active in- terest in the success of that party. In 1883,. when the vote was taken to make total prohibition a part of the constitution of the State, he was very active in its behalf, and 292 BIOGRAPHICAL BECOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF through his personal efforts was due in a great measure the carrying of his township in its favor. He has always been active in matters pertaining to the public interest, and besides the township offices held by him was a mem- ber of the County Board of Supervisors from 1864 to 1867. J. M. Jones. ►^Mf. A. FOEBES, of the firm of Johnson & Forbes, Ellsworth, was born in Eutland ® County, Yermont, June 19, 1853, but was reared in Addison County. His father, D. A. Forbes, now lives at Ballston, Saratoga County, New York. Our subject was reared a farmer, remaining at home imtil 1881, when be left home, but remained in his native State a year, and in the meantime was mar- ried to Miss Mary L. Smith. On leaving Yermont he went to Colorado, and for a time worked as a laborer at Georgetown, then a railroad camp. He subsequently became connected with the commissary department of the company, remaining with them until 1883, when he came to Hamilton County, Iowa, and April 18, of that year, became associated with S. G. Johnson in the general mercantile business. This firm are both good business men, and by their integrity and fair dealing have built up a good trade, and are now numbered among the substantial citizens of the county. fILLMORE MILLAED is a native of Illinois, born in Putnam County, March 27, 1852, a son of Benjamin Millard. When he was three years old his parents moved to Webster City, Iowa, where he has since made his home. When seventeen years pld he began to work at the carpenter's trade. still remaining at home, however, until 1872, when he went to I>tebraskaand Colorado. In the fall of 1874 he went to Kansas City, Mis- souri, and took a course in Spanlding's Com- mercial College, graduating early in 1875. In 1875 he returned home, and soon after went to Pocohontas County and engaged with his father in the mercantile business three years. He remained in Pocohontas County six years, then returned to Hamilton County, and has since worked at his trade and fol- lowed farming, residing on the old homestead near the city, where he has sixty acres of good land. Mr. Millard was married November 12, 1876, to Alice E. Evans, a native of Cattaraugus County, New York, daughter of Orange C. and Harriet Evans, who came to Iowa at an early day, settling first in Floyd County, and later moving to Pocohontas County. Mr. and Mrs. Millard have had four children, but three of whom are living — Harriet Esther, Benjamin Evans and Frank Arthur. Jennie died March 18, 1888, aged eight years. In politics Mr. Millard is a Republican. L. EILEY, section 7, Hamilton Town- ship, was born in Seneca County, New i® York, March 12, 1834, a son of Robert and Minerva (Tripp) Riley, natives of New York. When he was twenty years old his parents moved to Adams County, Wisconsin, and later to- Jackson County, where the father died at the age of seventy-six years, and the mother aged seventy-nine years. R. L. Riley remained with his parents until manhood. In 1859 he came to Hamilton County, and located in the eastern portion, where he kept a stage station during the war. In 1866 he located on his present farm, on which was a small house and a small garden WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 293 patch. Here he has added substantial im- provements, and now has a good homestead and is counted among the enterprising and influential citizens of the township. He was married April 21, 1857, to Eliza Harris, a native of Fulton County, Illinois, daughter of J. M. and Eosetta (Briney) Harris, the father a native of Canada and the mother of the State of Ohio. The father died in Chris- tian County, Missouri, aged sixty-eight years, and the mother now lives in Boulder City, Colorado. Mr. and Mrs. Riley have eleven children — Emmett L., Frank D., Herbert E., Edwin L., Fred S., Inez K., Mary E., Jay S., Laura M., Mattie O. and Ruby L. In poli- tics Mr. Riley has never adhered strictly to any party, voting for measures and men and not for party. He has served as township clerk four years, and for eleven years has been a member of the school board. He has a large family, and also twelve grandchildren, all living and residents of Hamilton County. tL. CADY, a well-known and respected citizen of Williams Township, resides " on section 27, where he owns a fine farm of 120 acres. He was born in Tioga County, Pennsylvania, January 1, 1843, a son of Lemuel and Cerneptin (Place) Cady, natives also of Pennsylvania. His father was a farmer, and also to a large extent engaged in lumbering, and his youth, when not in school, was spent in assisting his father. When he was nineteen years old the family moved to Illinois, and shortly . after he en- listed and was assigned to Company C, One Hundred and Fourth Illinois Infantry. His regiment was a part of the Army of the Cumberland, and took part in the battle at Hartsville, Tennessee, where he was captured and was in the hands of the rebels ten days. He was then paroled and was sent to Camp Douglas, Chicago, until exchanged, in the spring of 1863. After their exchange he was left by the rest of the regiment at the hos- pital sick, where he remained about eight months, and was then transferred to the Second Battalion, Veteran Reserve Corps, and was employed in the medical depart- m^nt, dispensing medicine for the army sup^ plies. He was discharged March 12, 1865, and returned to Earlville, Illinois, where he remained a short time, when he went to Bates County, Missouri, where his parents had moved during his absense. He worked at the blacksmith's trade in Missouri until 1873, and then came to Hamilton County and worked at his trade in Williams until 1885, when he sold his shop and turned his attention to farming, locating on his present farm which he had. bought some time before, and which is now one of the best in the township. Mr. Cady was married in Earl- ville, Illinois, to Fanny M. Eaton. They have three children — George, Winifred and Joe. Mr. Cady is a charter member of Cassius Fairchild Post, No. 431, G. A. R. In politics he is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. fOHN G. BONNER is one of the pioneer settlers of Lyon Township. He is a native of Maryland, born in 1809, a son of John aud Mary Bonner, his father a native of Ireland and his mother of Pennsyl- nia. John Bonner came to America when twelve years of age and lived in Maryland and Pennsylvania several years, moving thence to Ohio where he died. John G. Bonner has devoted his life to agricultural pursuits. He lived in Ohio from a child 394 BIOGBAPHICAL BEOOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF until 1859, when he came to Ilaitoilton Coun- ty, Iowa, and bought a tract of 1,200 acres of land in Eose Grove Township, which he sold three years later and bought 400 acres on sections 23 and 24, Lyon Township, which he improved and made his home until 1870, when he sold it to his son-in-law, Palmer Tatham, and moved to his farm where he now lives on section 11, where he owns 320 acres of good land, which is all under culti- vation with good building improvements. Mr. Bonner is one of the well-known pioneers of Hamilton County and has lived to see the tract of wild prairie land change into a fine farming community, dotted over with thriv- ing towns and villages. He has been an in- dustrious, energetic man, and has assisted materially in the development of the county's resources. In politics Mr. Bonner was form- erly a Whig, but on the disruption of that party became identified with the Democratic party. He was married, in Ohio, to Mary Sidle, a native of that State. To them were born nine children, six of whom are living — John, "William, Andrew, Mary Jane, Caro- line and Amelia Ann. The deceased are Jerred, Sarah and Isabelle. The mother died in 1869. »-^>^«f*>-- fOHN McFAELAND, section 19, Hamil- ton Township, is a native of Ohio, born in Champaign County, December 17, 1830, a son of James and Rebecca (Yazel) McFarland, natives of Ohio. They accom- panied their son to Iowa in 1855, and the mother died here the following winter and the father in October, 1866. John McFar- land was reared a farmer, remaining in his native State until 1849, when he moved to McLean County, Illinois, and thence to Hamilton County, Iowa, in September, 1855, and in 1856 located on the land which is now his homestead. At that time it was a tract of wild land, and has been by him improved and converted into a productive farm, and the building improvements are substantial and commodious. He first bought forty acres, but to this has added until he now owns 400 acres, the greater part of which is under cultivation. He planted a grove of Cottonwood trees in 1858, and it is now a great addition to his place. Mr. McFarland was- married May 25, 1856, to Martha Duck- ett, a nativ£ of McLean County, Illinois, daughter of James and Martha (Adams) Duckett, her father a native of South Carolina and her mother of Virginia. They now live in Hamilton County. Iowa, making their home with their children. Mr. and Mrs. McFarland have had seven children, six of whom are living — George Thomas, William Fletcher, Martha Rebecca, Perraelia Jane, John Henry and Clarrissa Elizabeth. All are married and away from home except the youngest son, who works the farm for his father. One son, Lennie Franklin, died August 24, 1879. In politics Mr. McFar- land is independent. He has served nine years as road. supervisor and three years as a member of the school board. He is one of the self-made men of the township. Start- ing in life with no means he h^s by energy and good management acquired a good prop- erty, and is now one of the substantial men of the township. His first home was a cabin made of round logs, with a clap-board roof; no floor, nor door, nor window. Their table was a board fastened to the wall, their chairs two stools made out of slabs, and their bed- stead was built in one corner of the room of rough plank, with but one leg. They did not even have a tick for the straw, but spread it out on the plank. Into this house the young couple moved June 24, 1856, and here WEBSTER AND HAMILTON OOUmTIES, IOWA. 395 they began together to make for themselves a home, and how well they have succeeded is seen by a visit to their pleasant homestead and accepting the hospitality that is always awaiting the guest, stranger and friend, mak- ing them feel at home and assuring them that now as in the early days, their latch- string is always out. tINDSEY SOWEES resides on section 35, Ellsworth Township, where he has lived since the fall of 1857. He was born in Fountain County, Indiana, December 25, -1833, a son of Solomon and Eacliel (Pickett) Sowers, natives of North Carolina. They were early settlers of Parke County, Indiana, removing later to Fountain County, where the mother died in 1856, aged about tifty-one years. The father afterward removed with his children to Iowa and lived in Story County until 1857, when he came to Hamil- ton County, and died at the home of his son Lindsey, June 15, 1884, aged eighty-three years. Of a family of six children but three are living— George, of Story County; Henry and Lindsey, of Ellsworth Township. The eldest of the family, Sylvina, married John Newman, who died in Indiana in 1857, and she afterward came to Iowa, and died here in October, 1860. Charles and Alfred died in Ellsworth Township. Alfred left a wife and daughter, but Charles was unmarried. Lind- sey Sowers entered a tract of wild land in Hamilton County in 1854, and has lived on this land since 1857. He owns a fine farm of 248 acres of land, 240 acres being prairie and the rest timber. He is one of the represen- tative farmers of the township, where he was one of the first settlers. He has one of the most beautiful homes in the township, the reward of many years of toil and good man- agement. Mr. Sowers was married March 20, 1862, to Kebecca Ward, a daughter of Josiah and Mary (Burner) Ward, natives of Ohio who came to Story County, Iowa, in 1860, removing in September, 1868, to Mad- ison County, Iowa, and thence in the spring of 1879 to Kansas, where the father died March 16, 1888. Mrs. Sowers is the eldest of eight children, all of whom are living. Elias S. lives in Kansas; Mrs. Sarah C. Foster lives in Madison County, Iowa; Henry J., Isaac M., RoUin F., Mrs. Eva M. Lake, and Orval P. live in Kansas. Mrs. Foster was the first school teacher in Ellsworth Township, where she taught a number of terms. Mr. and Mrs. Sowers have a family of six children — ^Albert, Parley, Mary, Guy, Pliny, and Charles. They have lost two children. Their eldest, Laura, died aged two years and Henry died at the age of seven months. 101 i> iy ip 2 * ^ S"^ '*^ " fREDEEICK A.EDWARDS,poatmaster, Webster City, is a native of New York, born in Wetherfield Springs, Wyoming County, January 20, 1855, a son of B. F. and Delia (Andrews) Edwards, the former born in Hartford County, Connecticut, September 28, 1827, of Welsh descent, and the latter a native of New York. B. F. Edwards was a merchant in New York until 1868, when he moved to Iowa and settled on a farm in Boone Township, Hamilton County, where he lived until his death, May 23, 1880. He was a Democrat of the old school, and while in Ne\^ York served as postmdster under Buchanan's administration. He and his wife were mem- bers of the Baptist church. They had a family of three children — Frank, now of Rock Rapids, Iowa; Frederick A. and W. H. of Holyoke, Colorado. Mrs. Edwards is now a 396 BIOGBAPHIOAL REOOBD AND POBrBAIT ALBUM OF resident of Webster City. F. A. Edwards was thirteen years old when his parents moved to Iowa. After reaching his majority he formed a partnership with his brother Frank in the general mercantile business, which they conducted successfully seven years, when on account of failing health he sold his in- terest to his brother, W. H., and for three years devoted his attention to agriculture and stock-raising, making a specialty of short- horn cattle, being the first to introduce that breed in the county. In August, 1886, he was appointed by President Cleveland post- master of Webster City, and has faithfully discharged the duties of his office. Mr. Ed- wards was married October 15, 1879, to Geneve Howard, daughter of W. B. Howard. They have one daughter — Jessie Delia. In June, 1887, Mr. Edwards made the first sale of pedigree short-horn cattle ever held in the county, which was a very successful one, and he now claims to have one of the finest herds in Iowa. His farm is inside the city limits, and is one of the finest in the country. |AVID BEACH, farmer, was born in Morris County, JS'ew Jersey, May 16, 1832, a son of John S. and Elizabeth (Eoberts) Beach, tatives of J!^ew Jersey. In 1839 his parents moved to LaGrange County, Indiana, and there his youth was spent assist- ing his father to clear and improve a frontier farm. When he was eighteen years old his father died, and his mother returned to New Jersey. He remained in Indiana until 1854, when he came to Iowa, and with his brother entered 600 acres of Government land, the most of it adjoining the present site of Web- ster City. This they have improved and Mr. Beach is now one of the prosperous farmers of the county. He was married January 16, 1857, to Jane Groves, a daughter of Jacob and Margaret Groves, early settlers of La- Grange County, Indiana. They had a family of three children — Eva Jane, WiUiam Lewis and John. The latter is deceased. His wife died March 28, 1867, and June 9, 1868, he married Louise Crosley, daughter of George H. and Lucy (Fry) Crosley, who moved from Ohio to Illinois, and thence to Webster City, Iowa.' Mr. and Mrs. Beach are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. In politics he votes independent of party ties. ►JMJ* i A LOOM McKEIG, farmer, section 17, Fremont Township, was born in Belfast, County Downs, Ireland, No- vember 18, 1836, a son of William and Nancy (Johnson) McKeig. When he was twelve years old his parents came to America and located in Connecticut, where they passed the rest of their lives. They had a family of ten children, six sons and four daughters. One son enlisted in the British army and par- ticipated in the Crimean war, but never re- turned home. Another son died in Ireland; two died in Connecticut; a daughter died in Fort Wayne. When our subject was eighteen years old he went to Chautauqua County, New York, and engaged in butchering sev- eral years. In August, 1862, he enlisted in the service of the United States, and was de- tailed butcher of his regiment, and served in that position three years. He was discharged iu New York and remained in that State until 1868, when he came to Hamilton County and bought his present farm, which was partly improved, and on it was a small log house. He has replaced the log house with a fine frame and has m^de his other im- provements in proportion until he now has one of the best farms in the township. He WBESTEB. AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 297 is a practical farmer and by good manage- ment has secured a competency and is now counted among the substantial men of Fre- mont Township. Mr. McKeig was married in 1857 to Ann Fleming, and to them have been born three children — Anna, wife of Charles Clifton; William, and Agnes, wife of Sheldon Tatam, of "Wright County. In poli- tics Mr. McKeig is a supporter of the princi- ples of the Republican party. fA. P. TA.THAM is one of the repre- sentative men of Lyon Township, where ® he has lived since 1866. He was born in Muskingum County, Ohio, December 25, 1845, the thirteenth of fifteen children of John and Mary Ann Tatham. When he was nineteen years old he left his home and came to Hamilton County, Iowa, and first worked for farmers by the month and with money thus earned bought his. first land, which consisted of 320 acres on section 11, Lyon Township. This land he afterward exchanged for his present farm of 300 acres on sections 23 and 24, which was formerly the home of John G. Bonner, a pioneer of this township. It is one of the best stock farms in the county, is well watered with a flowing well which affords ample water for his stock in the dryest seasons. He makes a specialty of stock deal- ing, buying and shipping as well as raising. Mr. Tatham was married August 16, 1866, to Sarah E. Bonner, daughter of J. G. Bonner. To them were born two children — Allie C. and William. The latter is deceased. Mrs. Tatham died April 13, 1877, and October 17, 1878, Mr. Tatham married Amelia Ann Bonner, a sister of his first wife. They have two children — Grace and Florence. In politics Mr. Tatham is a Democrat. He has served six years as a member of tlie town- ship board of trustees. He is an enterprising business man and one of the leading stock men of the country. 3||AKS HENDEESON, section 33, Scott nr'ff Township, was born in Norway, January %F^ 15, 1825. He was reared in his native country, and there married Anna Nelson. In 1856 they came to America and lived in Illi- nois until the spring of 1857, when in com- pany with Anders Christianson he came to Hamilton County and bought a farm on sec- tion 33, Scott Township, which has since been his home. November 18, 1864, he enlisted in Company I, Sixteenth Iowa Infantry, and served until July 19, 1865. Soon after his enlistment he was sent to Nashville, and took part in the battle at that place. He was taken sick at Nashville and was in the hospital some time, but when sufficiently recovered he was taken to the Atlantic coast by way of New York and joined his regiment in South Carolina, whence they had marched with Sherman. He then went to Washington with his regiment and took part in the grand review of the army. He has never recovered from the effects of his army service, but as he is unable to show a hospital record cannot obtain a pension. He was a brave and faith- ful soldier, and should receive a reward from the country for his services. Mr. Henderson lost his wife October 23, 1887. They had a family of three sons. The eldest, Henry, died in 1876, aged twenty-eight years. Nels E., was born in Norway, and now lives in Scott Township. Christian, the youngest, was born in Scott Township, August 1, 1861. He married Dora Chelsvig, a daughter of Charley Chelsvig, and they have two children— Ada and Charley. Christian has bought the old homestead, but the father still makes it his 298 BIOOBAPHIGAL RECORD AMD PORTRAIT 'ALBUM 0J< home. Our subject is one of the highly esteemed citizens of the township, where he has lived over thirty years. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic post at Story City. k*„^|*4»-»j*|m-w ^LLIAM WESLEY BOAK.— This gentleman was among the very early comers into Hamilton County, hav- ing settled upon the farm where he now resides in 1855. He was of Irish descent. His grandfather, John Boak, resided in County Tyrone, Ireland. The subject of this notice has now in his possession a venerable account book, which from the various dates therein set down, shows it to have been in use by this ancestor as early as 1767. It is a very interesting relic, as showing the quaintness of hand-writing in those days, and very accurate business habits on the part of its owner. John Boak was the father of five children — four sons and one daughter. The third son," William, was the father of our pioneer. William emigrated to America at the early age of seventeen. He served an apprentice- ship for the purpose of learning the business of cabinet-making at Darkesville, Berkeley County, Yirginia, with William Macoughtry, as appears from a certificate given to William at the end of his time. Here is a copy of the certificate, which is written in a very beauti- ful hand, and comes down in fine preservation except some of the water stains so often seen in ancient manuscripts. " Nov. 20th, 1802. This is to certify that William Boak, (the bearer) my former ap- prentice, served me faithfully and behaved himself with punctuality as an honest and sober citizen, during his apprenticeship in Berkeley County, Virginia, till this present date, as given under nay hand and seal this day, October 5, 1807. "William Macoughtry." [Seal.j In 1807, however, soon after his indentures expired, he made a visit to his old Irish home, which was a memorable one in the annals of the Boak family, for it was the attraction of his sweetheart which drew him thither over the wild wastes of stormy seas. Her name was Nancy Latta. They were married during the same year and returned to Darkesville, Virginia, where he wrought at his trade until the year 1836. Mr. Boak is in possession of some very interesting documents bearing upon the history of the family, in addition to the old account book above mentioned. One of these is a passport which his father pro- cured upon returning to his birthplace. It was granted by James Madison, then Secretary of State, during the presidency of Thomas Jefferson. It bears the date of October 9, 1807, with the seal of the department. The word [gratis] printed in brackets, is under the seal, showing that in those days the Govern- ment had not progressed to the point of charging $5 for these documents as it does in these latter degenerate days. The docu- ment bears various old water marks and is in excellent preservation. The other relics are two certificates, to be used no doubt as letters of withdrawal from the church in Ire- land and commendation to any similar organi- zation in their new home. The pastor's name was John Holmes, Presbyterian minister, and he writes, April 18, 1801, as follows: " I hereby certify that the bearer. Will Boak, has hitherto been a regular member of this congregation under my charge, and has supported a fair moral character." The other certificate or letter is by the same pastor, to the same effect, but includes the young wife. It bears the date of August 1, 1808. By a singular error the writer gives c^^, tyA ^^^^^y6 WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 301 the name "Agnes" when it should have been " Nancy." William and Nancy Boak having returned to Berkley County, resided there until 1836. To them were bom eight children — two boys and six girls — two of the latter dying in infancy. W. W. Boak, the eldest son, was born August 21, 1825. There was no free schools in that State at that time. Parents in a neighborhood clubbed together and hired a teacher for such length of time as they chose, paying in proportion to the number of their children. William Wesley attended those schools until he was eleven years old, when his school days ended. In September, 1836, the family emigrated West, and arrived at Georgetown, Vermillion County, Illinois. They were on the road some six weeks, the transportation being by wagons and teams. They arrived at their journey's end in Octo- ber, and remained until the ensuing spring. Mr. Boak mention^ as an interesting inci- dent of his winter's sojourn, that the horses were wintered upon corn for which his father paid 5 cents per bushel! The Ohio Kiver was crossed at Wheeling on a bridge; the Illinois at Peoria, on a boat propelled by oars; and the Mississippi, afterward at Burlington, also on a row-boat. While the family were at Georgetown, Mr. Boak states that his parents let him go out with a team to help a farmer husk corn. This service brought them sixteen bushels of corn per day, the equiva- lent of 80 cents, — somewhat different from the wages prevalent in Iowa these hard times. But in the spring of 1837 William Boak again started west, for the Territory of Wis- consin. People who studied geography in those days will remember that Wisconsin contained a wide scope of country, and that the word "Iowa" had not yet appeared upon any of our maps. The family finally arrived near the present city of Mt. Pleasant, Henry County, in April, having been on the road about a, month. Mt. Pleasant, now a city of perhaps 5,500 inhabitants and the " Athens of Iowa," was then a rude hamlet of seven or eight houses, and these were of very rude construc- tion. At this time Alvin and Presley Saun- ders were engaged in general merchandising at Mt. Pleasant. The building was a split clapboarded (shakes) shanty, with a chimney built of sticks and clay. Their stock would be deemed a very small one in these days and could no doubt be moved in a couple of wagon boxes. This was the start in business life of Hon. Alvin Saunders, afterwards State Senator in Iowa, and later Governor and United States Senator of Nebraska. That section of country was then but newly opened to settlement. William Boak bought a quar- ter section of land tliree miles from the present city at the customary rate of the United States Land office, $1.25 per acre. He re- sided there until his death, March 27, 1861. William Boak was a substantial citizen of Henry County. He and his family went through the usual hardships attendant upon settlement in a new country; but was fairly successful in his life-work, winning the es- teem and confidence of the community and laying up a fair competence. Mr. Wesley Boak \vas brought up on the farm, remaining with the family until after his majority in consequence of the impaired health of his father. He then freely gave to the old folks and the other children the hard work and earnest efforts of several of the very best years of his life, but without complaints or misgivings on his own part. On the 4th of October, 1849, Mr. Boak was united in mar- riage with Miss Samantha K., eldest daughter of Jacob W. Payne, who afterward became a well-known resident of our county. In 1852 he crossed the plains and the Eocky Mountains with an ox team, to engage in busi- 303 BIOGBAPEIGAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF ness in California, requiring six months to make the trip. After some four months of prospecting and working in the mines at the old Kanacka l)ar on the American River, he went up into the Redwood Mountains, west of San Jose, where he remained two years in the lumber business. He was moderately successful in this work, gaining quite as much of value to him in after life in the way of ex- perience as in actual results. But in the spring of 1854 he returned to Iowa, coming home by the way of the Isthmus of Panama, and thence by sea to 'New York City. Upon this ocean voyage he suffered iu an extraor- dinary degree from sea sickness, and came near losing his life. Once more in Iowa, he soon determined to find a new home. His father-in-law, the late Jacob W. Payne, had settled on his well-known farm four miles north of Webster City in 1854, and had se- lected for Mr. Boak the then wild land which constitutes his present finely improved farm. Finding this land to his liking he entered it at the United States Land oflice at Des Moines. This entry was in the fall of 1854, the next spring Mr. Boak removed here with his family, and has ever since been a citizen of Hamilton County. Since those early days, when Webster City was known as New Cas- tle, Mr. W. W. Boak has been one of the most useful, prominent and well-known citizens of the county. He has resided continuously upon his farm, which through his own hard labof and skillful management has become one of the best in the county. Mr. Boak began his career in our county in very reduced circumstances, so far as money was concerned, and none of our early settlers worked harder or went through more privations. In the fall of 1856 an early frost left the corn crop in poor condition. The next winter he was compelled to purchase some to feed his team. For this he paid $1.50 per bushel, giving his note drawing ten per cent, interest, having little idea how it was to be paid. The pay day came along rather quickly, as pay days are apt to do, and he began to look up some way out of debt. The only means that pre- sented itself was to cut and haul wood to Webster City. But at that time the very best wood was only bringing $1 per cord. He was a stalwart chopper, and was able single- handed and alone to cut and deliver two cords a day. The amount was not so large but that it was whittled down by the time it was due. Many years ago some man who lived in town made a public declaration that our farmers were " niggardly." Hearing of this, Mr. Boak " took it up." " I rather guess," said he, "that this is true. I am quite ' niggardly' myself. That means that we feel compelled to save closely everything that comes into our hands, and get the best price we can for our produce, this is simply fair dealing after all, and it is what gets a man out of. debt and keeps him out. What man in any other profession acts upon any higher standard? I believe that iu appeals tor real charity you will find the farmers of Hamilton County as generous according to their means as any class of men anywhere, but we must be allowed to act upon our own ideas of right like anybody else." The occasion of the almost total failure of the corn crop in 1858, found him with his cribs full, from the two previous seasons. He could have sold it in a lump at the very highest figure, cash in hand; but he let it all go to the poor settlers up north, in small quantities and on their own individual credit. He refused to sell it to any man to feed animals, for it was all needed for bread by families who were very poor, and there were oats and hay sufficient to fairly supply the animals. In but one instance did he fail to be paid, though some of the buyers were two or three years in discharging WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 303 the obligation. In every instance each man was given all the time he needed, and no one was crowded. While still a young man in Henry County, and away far from home, he needed $100 lor twenty-four or forty- eight hours only, to enter a piece of land. A banker in Fairfield, Iowa, who was not acquainted with him loaned him the sum, on his word alone. The very next day he paid it after a ride of fifty miles, and the banker would take nothing for the use of the money, though that was in the old days of forty per cent. The commendation his promptness won for him made an impression on him which he retains to this day. If his word had been given he would do the same over again to-day or to-morrow. Mr. Boak is a man of strongly marked characteristics, and of rather conservative tendencies. What- ever his hands have found to do he has always aimed to do well. A laboring man through- out his life he is more strongly inclined to succeed by the reliable old methods that he had learned in younger days than to " hands out " after new innovations. Still, in his farming operations he has kept fully abreast of the time, adopting improved methods as they have commended themselves to his judg- ment. He has been for many years engaged in raising graded short-horns and draft horses with an admirable degree of success, and his farm — a most beautiful one by the way — is one which always shows the evidences of a thrifty, tasteful management. One of the very early settlers of the county, he " grew up with the country" by habits of untiring industry and thorough economy, succeeding well in his work, and coming early to be re- garded as a man of substance and position in the community. He has never sought a pub- lic office^ though he has at times filled most of those in his township, and was for eight years a member, and a part of this time chair- man, of the Board of County Supervisors. On more than one occasion he might have gone to the State Legislature, but he invariably refused to allow bis name to go before the Convention. He possessed peculiar qualifi- cations for a legislator in his intimate knowl- edge of the laws afiFecting townships and counties, but he was nnwilling to accept its responsibilities. In his social relations he was an abiding, steadfast friend, though his fixed opinions and conservative notions made him ratherchary of bestowing his confidence. But with many of our best citizens he has all these thirty-three years sustained relations of devoted friendship unbroken by a single mo- ment of doubt or distrust. His word to them is as good as gold. While men have differed from him, while he has given and received his share of the " hard knocks " which ever attend upon pioneer life, and varying neigh- borhood and county interests, no man has ever breathed a word against the integrity or purity of his life. It is seldom that any man out ot prominent public life has so stood out as one of the pillars of society. His opinions have always influenced many men. He lives in a beautiful home on the banks of our little river, blessed with a fair competence, the fruits of the industry and economy of himself and his devoted wife. He is a great reader, a good talker, and there are few men more capable of making a visitor's hour pass more pleasantly. His time has come to relinquish the se- verer toil of other days, and to " crown a life of labor with an age of ease," though he is still active in the management of his farm. Two years ago impaired health of himself and wife compelled them to seek a change of climate. They therefore visited portions of California, Utah, Wyoming, New Mexico and Colorado. While in California they visited the locality where he was engaged in lumber- 304 BIOOBAPHIGAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF ing thirty-six years ago, readily finding the spot where he built his pine log-cabin in those far-off times. Of the four sons and six daugh- ters born to Mr. and Mrs. Boak, two sons and four daughters are still living. Chaeles Aldeioh. ■.iH„ ig . 3 ii ;»^ii . !=• fW. ALLING-TON is a native of Onta- rio County, New York, born October ® 2, 1853, a son of J. P. and Lavina M. (Bowker) Allington. In 1855 his parents moved to Iowa, and settled in Albion, Mar- shall County, where the father was engaged in the manufacture of carriages. He re- mained at home until his majority, working when not in school in the shop with his father. In 1874 he came to Webster City, and in company with J. E. Marsh, engaged in the furniture business, the firm name being Marsh & Allington. A year later he em- barked in the grocery business with his father, the firm name being J. P. Allington & Son. This he also continued but a year, when he was employed as traveling salesman for a furniture firm, and remained with them four years. In 1879 he again formed a partner- ship with J. E. Marsh, and in 1881 bought his interest and has since conducted the busi- ness alone. He carries the largest stock of furniture and carpets in Northwestern Iowa, and has a good trade. In connection with his other business he is interested in an extensive grain and live-stock business, carried on un- der the firm name of J. W. Allington & Co. Mr. Allington was married February 12, 1884, to Millie May Derr, daughter of B. F. Derr, of Webster City. They have one son William Guy. Mr. Allington is a member of the Masonic fraternity. Acacia Lodge, No. 176; Hope Chapter, No. 88; Triune Com- mandery. No. 41, and also of the Knights of Pythias. In politics he affiliates with the Democratic party. f[ B. TEDROW, M. D., of Williams, is a i native of Somerset County, Pennsyl- '^' vania. He was born in the country home of his father, near the village of Glade, on the 20th day of May, 1859. His early life was spent amid the toils and cares of farm duties, receiving the best educational advan- tages then afforded in the common and nor- mal schools of the count3^ Having always been an apt pupil, and early manifesting a desire for a higher intellectual culture, he was at an early age placed in Mount Union Col- lege, at Mount Union, Ohio, where he gradu- ated with honors in both' the literary and commercial departments in 1882. He began the stiidy of medicine with Dr. W. H. Gard- ner, of Glade, Pennsylvania, and afterward studied with Dr. B. P. Scoville, of Constan- tine, Michigan. He then entered the Medical department of the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, from which he graduated July 1, 1886, as valedictorian of a class of eighty- thi-ee members, thus receiving the highest honors the University bestowed. He was largely thrown upon his own financial re- sources and responsibilities, and made his way, through college by means of teaching and canvassing. On the 8 th day of September, 1886, he located in the practice of his profes- sion at Williams, where, through close appli- cation and strict integrity he has succeeded in building up an enviable practice. He is a member of the State, Northwestern District and Central District Medical Associations, thus using every means in his power to perfect himself in his profession. He has equipped himself with a library and arma- mentarium of instruments that is second to WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 305 none iu the State, and is a wide-awake, ener- getic man of the times. He is fast gaining the confidence of the community, and is destined to ranlt with the first physicians of the country. ►>^ fAMES COLE is one of the prominent citizens of Rose Grove Township. He is a native of England, born in Somer- setshire, June 11, 1836, the youngest of three children of John and Mary (Counsel) Cole. The father died three months before the birth of our subject, and the mother afterward married Eobert Dnrston, with whom she came to America in 1857, and now lives in Iowa, but has again been widowed. James was reared in England, and for twelve years worked at the baker's trade. In 1856 he came to the United States and for nine years lived in Dubuque, Iowa, and from there moved to Humboldt County, where he lived ten years. In 1875 he ■ ame to Hamilton County, and first rented land four years of George Frost. He then bought 200 acres of wild land, which he has improved until he now has one of the best farms in the township. He has added to his first purchase until he has 240 acres on section 9, and 120 acres on section 4. His improvements are good, and he has a fine grove of four acres and also an excellent orchard of all kinds of fruit adapted to this climate. Mr. Cole was married in 1856 to Maria Kidgell, and to them was born one daughter, Mrs. Jennie Minard, now of Dakota. His wife died in the winter of 1858. In 1865 he married Miss Alice Frost, daugh- ter of George Frost, of Williams. They have five children— Mrs. Anna Minard, of Fort DoSge; John, Carrie, George and Charles. In politics Mr. Cole is a Eepublican. He has served liis township as trustee, and at present is treasurer of the school board. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. HRISTIAN P. CHRISTIANSON, of Randall, is one of the prominent busi- ness men of Hamilton County. He is a native of Denmark, where he was reared and married to Elizabeth Hansen. In 1868 he came to the United States and located in Ellsworth Township, Hamilton County, where he bought a farm of Thor Oleson, which was well improved, he paying $8,000 cash for it. He afterward added to his large estate until he at one time owned 672 acres. About the year 1879 he aud his son, George P., engaged extensively in the agricultural implement business, which they conducted successfully until October, 1882, when they, in company with H. L. Henderson, organized the mer- cantile firm known as the Randall Company. In 1883 S. Seymour bought a quarter interest in the business, and they carried on a large and successful business until March 13, 1888, when the partnership was dissolved by limita- tion, the firms of 0. & G. P. Christianson and Seymour & Henderson succeeding the Randall Company, Seymour & Henderson assuming liabilities, etc., of the merchandise department, and C. P. & G. P. Christianson continuing in the lumber, grain and live-stock business. They are also the owners of the Farmers' Bank at Randall. They have a large grain elevator at Randall, and also at Story City, Iowa. George P. Christianson was born in Denmark, December 2, 1863, and was in the fifth year of his age when his parents came to the United States. He re- ceived his primary education in the public schools, and graduated from the Battle Creek Commercial College, Battle Creek, Michigan, in 1882, but prior to that time had been 306 BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF associated with his father in business. He is at present the cashier of the Farmers' Bank. He is a young man of culture, scholarly at- tainments, and of excellent business qualifica- tions. » SuS « SEA H. TREMAIJSr, section 31, Indepen- dence Township, was born in Oneida County, JSTew York, February 7, 1822, a son of Ira and Kuth (Harwood) Tremain, the father a native of New York, of French Hu- guenot ancestry, and the mother a native of Vermont, of Puritan descent. He was reared on a farm, receiving his education in the common-school and completing it at the academy at Koyalton, New York. His father died in 1842, and the management of the farm then devolved on him. In 184:6 he and his mother moved to Waukesha County, "Wiscon- sin, where he entered eighty acres of Govern- ment land, where he lived twenty-one years. His mother lived to the age of ninety-three years. During the war of 1812 she prepared articles for the soldiers, and fifty years later was called upon to do the same thing for the soldiers during the war of the Rebellion. Her grandfather, Peter Harwood, served in the Revolutionary war, and was wounded at the battle of Bennington, and her father, Clark Harwood, was also present at that battle, and a brother, James G. Harwood, was killed in that war. Our subject's paternal grand- father, Joseph Tremain, was a soldier in the war of the Revolution, and was present at the surrender of Burgoyne. Mr. Tremain moved to Iowa in 1867, and settled on the farm where he now lives, which at that time was but partially improved. His 160 acres are now under cultivation, and he has one of the best farms in the township. He was married October 9, 1849, to Rosalia Howe, a native of Vermont, daughter of John D. and Sarah (Cutter) Howe, who moved to Erie County, New York, when she was nine years of age. To them have been born five children — Har- mon H., Orlando G., John D., Frank W. and Minnie. Their daughter is the widow of J. M. Bone, and is now a school teacher in Wy- oming. Mr. Tremain is a prominent citizen of Hamilton County, and represented his county in the Seventeenth General Assembly in 1878. He has held several local positions of trust and responsibility, and has served to the entire satisfaction of his constituents. He and his wife are members of the Congre- gational church. In politics he was first a Whig, and was one of the first to adopt the principles of the Republican party, to wliich he has ever been a firm adherent. LEMUEL ROBBINS, farmer and stock- raiser, section 26, Fredom Township, was born in Franklin County, Ohio, January 5, 1830, a son of Matbias and Sarah (Cooder) Bobbins, natives of Pennsylvania, his father of English and his mother of Ger- man descent. When he was a small boy bis parents moved to Wood County, Ohio, and there the mother died in 1843. In 1848 his father moved to Boone County, Illinois, where he died in August, 1884. Clemuel remained with his father until 1862, when he came to Iowa and settled on the farm where he now lives, which he had entered from the Govern- ment in 1854. His farm contains 170 acres of good land, and his improvements are among the best in the township. He makes a specialty of stock-raising, and has made a success of this enterprise. Mr. Bobbins was married December 18, 1862, to Sarah' A. Royster, a native of Indiana, daughter of William and Adaline (Banks) Royster, natives WEBSTER AND HAMILTON GOUNTIBS, IOWA. 307 of Virginia, wlio settled in Hamilton County, Iowa, in 1854. Mrs. Eobbins died Septem- ber 12, 1887, leaving a family of four chil- dren — Elmer E., William M., Susan A. and Nora E. Mr. Robbins is a member of the Metliodist Episcopal church. In politics he casts his suffrage with the Republican party. He has held several local offices of trust in his township. fOHNSOJM BROTHERS, dealers in gen- eral hardware, stoves, etc., are numbered among the prominent business men of "Williams. The hardware department of the store was established in 1875 by J. W. Thompson, and bought of him by the John- son brothers in 1883. Their store is a two- story building, 22x50, the lower floor being used for their general stock and the upper floor being used as a work-shop and for their stoves, of which they carry a fine stock. They have a large and constantly increasing trade, carrying a stock valued at $4,000. H. N. Johnson, the senior of the firm, was born in Kenosha, "Wisconsin, December 21, 1856, and E. J. was born in the same town in 1859. Their father, Isaac L. Johnson, was born in Erie County, New York, and when a young man moved to Wisconsin and was one of the early settlers of Kenosha. H. N. Johnson started out to make his own way in the world when eighteen years of age and came to Iowa, and for a time worked as a farm laborer. He then bought land in Williams Township, Hamilton County, which he im- proved and lived on until 1883, when his brother came to the county and together they bought their present place of business. He was married September 27, 1881, to Miss Addie Robertson, a native of Kenosha, Wis- consin, and they have one child — Floyd. In politics the Johnson brothers are Democratic. H. N. Johnson is a member of the Odd Fel- lows order. fK. CALKINS is a native of Saratoga County, New York, born November ® 16, 1826, a son of Marion and Fanny (Barrows) Calkins, natives of Connecticut, and descendants of the Puritan Fathers. The father was a carpenter and the sons naturally followed the same trade, and when seventeen years old our subject was apprenticed to an older brotlier and served three years. He then served an ajjprenticeship of two years in the Blood Scythe factory in Saratoga, and followed that business fifteen years. On ac- count of his health he left the shop, and for six years worked on a farm, and in 1864 came west with a homestead colony. They arrived in Sioux City in May, 1864, and he remained there until the following February, when he came to Hamilton County and bought eighty acres of wild land six miles north of Webster City, for which he paid $5 per acre. He planted an orchard, set out groves and otherwise improved his land and lived on it two and a half years, when he sold it and the following winter lived in Webster City. In January, 1870, he bought another eighty acre tract of wild land and again began to improve a farm. To this he has added until he now has 220 acres of good land all well improved. He was married August 3, 1848, to Maria Smith, a native of Saratoga County, New York, daughter of Richard and Charlotte (Thompson) Smith. To this union have been born eleven children, nine of whom are living— Mary A., wife of A. J. Frakes; Fanny G., wife of J. P. Frakes; O. D., of Kansas City, Missouri; Thomas; John; Ida, wife of James Howard; Stephen E., Delbert ao8 BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF and Lottie. Marion and John S. are de- ceased. In politics Mr. Galkins is inde- pendent, voting for men not party. He and his wife are members of the Baptist church. J. BREWER, farmer and stock-raiser, section 21, Cass Township, is a repre- ^■® sentative of two of the pioneer families of the county, the Brewers and the Frakes, both of whom came in an early day. He was born in Webster City February 24, 1857, a son of A. J., Sr., and Harriet (Frakes) Bi'ewer. When he was a babe his father died, and he was reared by his mother on the farm in Cass Township, receiving his education in the dis- trict schools. He was married September 1, 1877, to Sarah Pringle, a daughter of Thomas and Nancy (Welch) Pringle. After his mar- riage he settled on the farm where he now lives, which was at that time under good cultivation and well improved. It is well adapted to both stock and grain, being watered by White Fox Creek. In politics Mr. Brewer is independent. In religion he and his wife are members of the United Brethren church. ■^M^ fD. SELLS, of Wright County, Iowa is one of the prominent early settlers * of Wright and Hamilton Counties, hav- ing been identified with both since 1857. He was born March 29, 1818, in Ohio, a son of Benjamin and a grandson of John Sells, who was a native of Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, and of German parentage. His mother, Catherine (Baum) Sells, was a native of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, also of Ger- man ancestry. His parents were married in Ohio and made that State their home till their death. They had a family of eleven children — Michael, Mary, Samuel, John, Barbara, Sarah, Susan, Mahala, Benjamin, Catherine and J. D. J. U. Sells was reared in his native State and lived there until 1836, when he moved to Rush County, Indiana, and from there in the fall of 1845 to Mercer County, Illinois. In 1846 he returned to Ohio, and lived in Brown County until 1857, when he came to Iowa, making the journey with teams and being thirty-four days on the way. He had bought 320 acres of wild land, 240 being in Wright and eighty in Hamilton County, before coming, and twenty-five acres had been broke and a log house built. This house is still standing and is now used as a machine house. Here Mr. Sells has since lived, and to his first purchase added until he owned 1,100 acres in one tract, which he has divided with his sons, reserving 600 acres as -Jiis homestead. His farm is one of the best in the counties, and is watered by the Boone River, making it especially desirable for stock, which Mr. Sells maKes a specialty. He has built a good residence in the center of a fine lawn, dotted with evergreens, and his other buildings are commodious and con- veqient. Mr. Sells was married in Ohio to Manhulda Metzer, daughter of Leonard and Barbara (Baum) Metzer, who died in Mercer County, Ohio, March, 1847. To them were born six children — Minerva, wife of G. Moore, of Webster City, Catherine, wife of Angus McLaughlin, of Cass Township; Leonard, of Buchanan County, Iowa; Barbara, wife of Josephus Nottingham, of Fremont Township; Marion, of Webster County, and Harriet, wife of Henry Clarkins, of Wright County. December 29, 1848, Mr. Sells mar- ried Mary Francis, a native of Brown County, Ohio, daughter of Edward and Eleanor (Will- son) Francis. They have seven children — Samantha E., wife of J. D. Read, of Webster City; Mary C, Frank E., Benjamin Willson, WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 309 Joseph M., John B, and Edward Warren. In politics Mr. Sells casts his suffrage with the Kepublican party, but was a Democrat until the breaking out of the war of the Re- bellion. He has served live years as justice of the peace, and has held other offices in Wright County, of which he is a citizen, his residence being on that side of the county line. He has been a member of the Meth- odist Episcopal church forty-five years. He has been a member of the Masonic fraternity twenty-five years. He has been interested in the public 'affairs of Wright and Hamilton Counties, and although counted as a resident of Wright has assisted all in his power all enterprises of benefit to Hamilton. He is a liberal, whole-souled man, cordial and hospit- able and is one of the substantial citizens of this part of the country. — ~-4-^mh|h-* — fG. STERNS was born in Waldo County, Maine, February 12, 1848, a son of ^ ® Ezekiel and Elizabeth (Osborn) Sterns. From his tenth to his twentieth year he fol- lowed the sea, sailing on both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. In October, 1868, he abandoned the sea and located in Iowa, where for a time he had charge of a boarding train on the Illinois Central Railroad, boarding the hands at work on the construction of the road from Iowa Falls to Storm Lake. He bought 160 acres of land on section 16, Blairsburg Township, Hamilton County, and hired 100 aci'es broke the first year. In the fall of 1870 he went to Vermont, and was there married March 18, 1871, to Ella Jones, a native of Plymouth, Yermont, daughter of William B. and Melvina (Russell) Jones. He soon after his marriage returned to Iowa, bnilt a house on his land, and settled, down to farming. The following winter his house was burned. He afterward changed his farm for the place where he now lives, which contains twenty- four acres of fine bottom land, all well im- proved, with good buildings. He also owns eighty acres of improved land four miles west of Webster City. Mr. and Mrs. Sterns have seven sons — Jesse Osborn, James Percival, Frank Gny, Harry Arthur, Robert Wilson, Walter JSTorris and William Bradford. Mr. Sterns is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America. He is one of the representative business men of the city, and is well and favorably known throughout the county. Mrs. Sterns is a member of the Baptist church. — |*>f-i— Jg^ORACE N. HURU, postmaster, Will- ing iams, Iowa, and also notary public and T^ real estate dealer, was born in Burr Oak, Iowa, November 17, 1856, a son of Elisha H. and FannyM. (DeKay) Hurd, natives of New York, the father of Onondago County, and the mother of Orange County. The parents were married in New York, and in the spring of 1853 moved to McHenry Coun- ty, Illinois, and lived in Woodstock until the fall of 1854, when they moved to Winneshiek County, Iowa, where they lived until 1866, when they moved to Hamilton County. The father entered a tract of land in Rose Grove Townsl^ip, where he lived until his death, and there the mother still lives. To them were born eight children — Thomas, David E., Reuben J., Addison L., Hannah (wife of W. J. Snider), Alpheus E., Horace N. and John H. H. N. Hurd was ten years old when his parents moved to Hamilton County, and here he was reared and educated, attending the district schools and the Webster City Academy. He commenced teaching when but seventeen years old, and taught ten terms. In March, 1880, Mr. Hurd went west to Reno, Nevada 310 BIOOBAPEIOAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF He spent two years in teaching, travel and recreation in the far west. He then for five years was engaged in farming in Eose Grove Township, where he owns a fine farm. He owns 640 acres of land, a part of which lies in Blairsburg Township, and in addition to this he owns some fine property in the village of Williams. Mr. Hnrd was married May 14, 1888, to Miss Ida M. Talman, a native of Benton County, Iowa, daughter of Byron Tahnan, now of Hardin County. In politics Mr. Hurd is a Democrat. He has been post- master of Williams since January 1, 1886. C. HILLOCK, section 32, Kose Grove Township, was born in Tecumseh, ■ ® Lenawee County, Michigan, Novem- ber 28, 1836. His father, Hugh Hillock, was a native of the north of Ireland and came to the United States when a lad. He was married in Ithica, New York, to Euphelia Landon, a native of New Jersey, and they moved to Lenawee County, Michigan, in 1824, being early settlers of that county. The father went to California in 1852 and returning home via New York, died at Ithica. H. C. Hillock was reared in Michigan and was given good educational advantages. In 1856 he came to Iowa, making the trip to Davenport by rail, thence by stage to Iowa Falls and from there to Webster City on foot, arriving at the latter place April 7. The first year he worked for Willson brothers. In 1857 he was one of the expedition who went from the county to take part in quell- ing the troubles at Spirit Lake, and for some years was a member of the Northern Border Brigade and was stationed at Cherokee, Peterson and Spirit Lake. In 1864 he opened a meat market, which he conducted in connection with buying and shipping stock for several years. He was appointed sheriff of the county to fill an unexpired term, and the following year was electe,d to the ofiice and served two years, and the following two years served as deputy. In 1874 he moved to Eose Grove Township and settled on the farm where he now resides, which he had bought some years before and had partially improved. His farm contains 320 acres, being the east half of the section. Six acres of it is a fine grove of chestnut and other forest trees, there being abont 1,000 trees of the former variety, and he also has a small orcliard and an abundance of small fruit. His farm is all under cultivation, and his building improvements are comfortable and convenient, all having been erected by Mr. Hillock with a view of making this his permanent home. In politics Mr. Hillock afiiliates with the Ee- publican party, and is one of its standard bearers in Hamilton County. He has at different times held most of the township oifices and has also served on the board of county supervisors. He was married in October, 1865, to Jennie M. Carpenter, a native of Ashtabula County, Ohio, daughter of William and Isabel (Lusk) Carpenter. They have four children — Carrie Belle, Grace E., Benjamin Lewis and Hugh Eoyden. ILMAM BEEEMANN, farmer and ■wwmVM' stock-raiser, is a native of Germany, l^^^l born in Polleon, near the Weser Eiver, State of Hanover, July 25, 1834, a son of Frederick Beermann. He attended school until fourteen years of age, and then was em- ployed by the Government in the culture of forest trees until twenty-one years old, when he left his native country, and June 28, 1855, sailed on the vessel Hermine, from Bremen, for the United States, landing in New York WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 311 August 25, and four days later went to Wal- lingsford, Connecticut, where he was employed in the Britania Spoon Works, and later in the German silver department. After working seven years in the spoon factory he moved to Meriden, Connecticut, to learn the burnisher's trade, which he followed three years, and then learned the molder's trade, at which he worked six years. In 1871 he came to Iowa and bought 240 acres of wild land in Hamilton County, which he has improved. Although he had never had any experience in farming, he has been successful, and now owns 320 acres of good land well improved. His early experience in handling trees has been of benefit to him, and his fine grove surrounding his residence is one of the best in the town- ship. Mr. Beermann was married February 4, 1860, to Catherine Dreher, a native of Baden, Germany. To them were born two children — Carrie, wife of John Janson, and William F. Mrs. Beermann died December 17, 1867, and April 1, 1869, Mr. Beermann married Caroline Brennecke, a native of Ger- many, daughter of Charles and Minnie Brennecke, who came to the United States in 1865, and in 1867 settled in Meriden, Con- necticut. Mr. and Mrs. Beermann have eight children — Charles, Frederick, Dora, Lena, Minnie, Christian, Anna and Frank. From the time of casting his first vote in 1860 till 1884 Mr. Beermann afiiliated with the Hepublican party, but in the latter year voted for Grover Cleveland. He and his wife are members of the Lutheran church. - ' M l ml? « 3 i i ; » S" -""— — >^ENIIY GATH, section 15, Lyon Town- ship, is one of the enterprising and successful farmers of the township. He is a native of Mecklenburg, Germany, the youngest of nine children of Christopher and Ida Gath. He went to school until fourteen years of age, and then went to learn the weaver's trade, at which he worked about eighteen years. He was married in his native country to Miss Caroline Frand. In 1868 he, with his wife and son, H. T. Gath, then a lad of nine years, came to the United States, sailing from Hamburg, landing in New York ten days later, and five days later or fifteen days from Hamburg located in Jack- son County, Iowa. In 1876 he bought the farm where he now lives, and in 1877 located on it with his family and began to make permanent improvements. His first residence was a small frame house, which is now the kitchen of his substantial and commodious residence. In 1886 he built his new barn, which is 24x56 feet in size, and is one of the best in the township, and in 1888 built an- other barn 30x62 feet in size. He has a grove of four acres, which is also one of the finest in the township. Mr. Gath and his son, H. T. Gath, are engaged in general farm- ing and stock-raising, and are counted among the prosperous and prominent citizens of the county. H. GURNET, proprietor of the Gur- ney livery, feed and sale stables, Web- " ster City, was bornin Dutchess Coun- ty, New York, in 1831. When he was four years old his parents moved to Wisconsin, and in 1847 returned to New York. He lived in New York City until 1860, when he moved to Waukesha, Wisconsin, and July 13, 1861, enlisted in Company F, Fifth Wis- consin Infantry. He participated in the second battle at Bull Run, Spottsylvania, Antietem, Gettysburg and the Wilderness, where he was wounded, May 9, 1864, in the left arm and was captured. He was a pris- 313 BIOOBAPniOAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF oner eleven months and thirteen days, and was confined in Libby and» Andersonville prisons. After his discharge from the army he returned to Waukesha, and nine months later went to Green Bay, where he lived two years. In 1869 he came to Iowa and took up a homestead in Webster County, and sub- sequently for some time had a sta^e route from Webster City to Algona, and in 1882 established his present livery business. He has one of the most completely equipped stables in the town, having both single and double carriages, and teams and horses -of all descriptions. His stables are commodious and his horses are kept in fine condition, and the public can be accommodated at all times with any style of rig they wish. Mr. Gurney was married in 1870 to Ellen Reynolds. Their only son Luell died when three years of age. In [lolitics Mr. Gurney casts his suffrage with the Eepublican party. He is a member of Lodge JSfo. 342, I. O. O. F., and Post No. 66, G. A. R. He and his wife are members of the Baptist church in the place where they live. ffUDGE DAVID D. MIRACLE was I born in London, Ontario, January 23, A. D. 1840, a son of Hiram and Mary Delamater-Miracle. The former was born near Albany, New York, and the latter in New York City, a daughter of Isaac Delamater. His ancestors were of Holland descent, and among the early settlers of the Mohawk Val- ley, coming to this country early in the sixteenth century. Judge Miracle's youth was spent in attending school in his native city. Before reaching his majority, he, with his parents settled in Oshkosh, Wiimebago County, Wisconsin, where his father still re- sides, and where his mother died in the year 1887. After coming to Oshkosh he engaged in teaching and attending school at the Lawrence University, Appleton, Wisconsin, and the Law Department of the State Uni- versity at Ann Arbor, Michigan, after which he read law in the office of C. Coolbaugh, of Oshkosh. In April, A. D. 1864, he was ad- mitted to the bar, and the following May he came to Webster City, Iowa, and engaged in the practice of his profession. In 1868 he formed a partnership with R. N. Wood- worth, Esq., in the real estate business, in connection with his profession. August 1, 1870, he formed a partnership with J. L. Kamrar, which continued successfully un- til January 1, 1880, when he took his seat as Judge of the Circuit Court of the Eleventh Judicial District of Iowa, to which office he had been elected the fall previous. He filled this position with credit to himself and satis- faction to the people until 1887, when the office of Circuit Judge was abolished by law. He was then elected Judge for the Eleventh Judicial District of Iowa, comprising the counties of Boone, Story, Marshall, Hardin, Hamilton, Webster, Wright and Franklin, which office he was filling at the time of his death. Judge Miracle was, in the truest sense, a self-made man, having by his own energy and industry, guided by a most laud- able ambition, reached the high position he occupied — prominent at the bar, distin- guished on the bench, loved, honored and es- teemed by the community in which he had so long lived, and in whose progress and ad- vancement he was so conspicuous a factor. In August, 1866, he was married to Miss Ella M. Bell, a native of the State of New York, daughter of Colonel Ralph Bell, of whom mention is made elsewhere in this volume. Four children were born to Judge and Mrs. Miracle — Frank D., Ella Bell, Kate E. and Ralph O., all of whom survive X/^">(^'~^^-^-1^'2^ WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 315 him. Mrs. Miracle is a member of the Bap- tist church. Judge Miracle was a memher of the Masonic fraternity, Acacia Lodge, No. 176, Hope Chapter, No. 88, Triune Com- mandery, No. 41, and Consistory No. — . He died July 29, 1888, at the age of forty- eight years, six months and six daj's. fACOB M. FUNK, one of the prominent citizens of "Webster City, and a pioneer of Hamilton County, Iowa, is a native of Pennsylvania, born in Chester County, Feb- ruary 6, 1829. He is the fifth son of Benja- min and Ann (Morris) Funk, also natives of Pennsylvania, of German descent. He re- mained on the farm of his parents until eighteen years of age, when he went to learn the blacksmith's trade, serving an apprentice- ship of three years. He then worked as a journeyman in his native State three years, and in 1853 started West, stopping first in Miami County, Ohio, where he remained six months. He then continued his westward course, and for a year lived in Carroll Coun- ty, Illinois, coming thence to Hamilton County, Iowa. He entered 1,000 acres of Government land in Boone and adjoining townships, and for ten years devoted his time to its improvement. He then moved to Webster City, where he has since lived, en- gaged in various kinds of business, all of which have been attended with success. He, in company with B. F. Miller and George Shipp, carried on a private banking house four years. He was one of the organizers of the Hamilton County National Bank, of which he has always been first vice-presi- dent. He was one of the projectors of the now thriving town of Webster City, and its raiload facilities are largely due to his energy and influence. He was one of the builders of what was known as the Webster City & Crooked Creek, now the Webster City & Southwestern Eailroad, in the fall of 1876. In politics Mr. Funk is a Democrat. He has served as supervisor of his township two years. In 1886 he was nominated by his party for the ofiice of State Senator, but as they are largely in the minority in this district he was defeated, but by only a small majori- ty. Starting in life with limited means Mr. Funk has worked his way up and is now one of the most prosperous men in Hamilton County, and is one of her most influential and honored citizens. N. EATON, farmer and stock-raiser, section 18, Williams Township, is a native of Cuyahoga County, Ohio, born October 24, 1838, a son of Dyer and Emeline (Clark) Eaton. In 1849 his parents moved to Hillsdale County, Michigan, and in 1851 to DeKalb County, Illinois, where he grew to manhood and was living at the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion. August 26, 1861, he enlisted in Company D, Thirty-fourth Illinois Infantry, and partici- pated in the battles at Munfordville, Shiloh, Corinth, siege and capture of Atlanta, and Sherman's march to the sea, and through the Carolinas to Washington, where he was in line at the grand review of the army. He served three years, ten months and twenty- two days, and was a brave and gallant soldier. He was discharged at Louisville, Kentucky, and returned to his home in DeKalb County. In 1875 he came to Hamilton County, Iowa, and located on the farm where he now lives, which he has improved until the Eaton farm is one of the best in the township. It con- tains 164 acres of good land, and his build- ing improvements are comfortable and com- 316 BIOGRAPHICAL BEOOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF raodious. Mr. Eaton was married in 1865 to Julia E. liallock, of Lee County, Illinois. They have one daughter — Florence E. In politics Mr: Eaton is a Republican. He is one of the representative rfien of his town- ship, and has held several ofiBcial positions. Since the fall of 1887 he has been a member of the county board of supervisors. He is a charter member of Cassius Fairchild Post, No. 431, G. A. R., and of Silver Link Lodge, No. 458, L O. O. F. Jf^llAEBUETON BROTHERS, the pio- WHW '^^^^ hardware merchants of Jewell, I-iJ^l became established here on the ad- vent of the railroad, erecting a part of their present building in 1881. Their trade has been constantly growing from the start and their business is now one of the leading in- dustries of the town. The firm is com- posed of J. H. and D. R. Warburton. The former was born in Lancaster, Grant County, "Wisconsin, in 1849, and when but a child his parents moved to Dubuque, Iowa,. where D. R. was born in 1853. The father died in Dubuque and the family afterward moved to Ogle County, Illinois, and in 1869 to Inde- pendence, Iowa, where the mother and her eldest son, William, now live. J. H. was married in Independence to Lela George, a daughter of S. George. They have two children — George and Marie. D. R. was the first of the brothers to come to Jewell. He came in November, 1880, and made ar- rangements to engage in business. He was also married in Independence to Bessie, daughter of "William Boyack. They have two children — Agnes and Mildred. In poli- tics the "Warburton brothers are Republicans. In whatever tends to promote the interest of their town they take an active part. They are members of the Congregational church, and were among the most liberal contributors toward the erection of the beautiful church of that denomination in Jewell. — ^"r^-w^>|^--- — . CUYLE, section 18, Hamilton Town- ship, has been a resident of the county since 1859. He was born in Otsego County, New York, February 18, 1828, a son of Samuel and Margaret (Bunn) Cuyle, his father a native of New York, of Scotch descent, and his mother a native of Pennsyl- vania. In 1854 our subject went to Pennsyl- vania and engaged in farming two seasons, and then went to "Wisconsin and lived in La Fayette County three years, when he came to Hamilton County and bought 100 acres of land in "Webster Township, which he im- proved, but afterward sold it and moved to DuPage County, Illinois, and for two years was engaged in dairying. He then returned to Wisconsin and lived two years, and in 1865 he returned to Webster City and engaged in farming about five years. In 1870 he began working in a manufactory in Webster City, and continued in that business four years. He made Webster City his home twelve years, and in 1877 located on the farm where he now lives, which he has continued to im- prove, and now has one of the best farms in the township, all under cultivation, with a good residence and other farm buildings. Mr. Cuyle was married in 1853 to Mary Whitcomb, who died in Webster City in 1868. In 1869 he married Jennie Carey, a daughter of Ambrose Carey. They have one daughter — Mary Florence, born April 3, 1874. In politics Mr. Cuyle is a Republican, but of late has voted the Greenback ticket. He is now serving as trustee of Hamilton Township, and has also served as treasurer WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 317 and as a member of the school board. He and his family are members of the United Brethren church. iNUREW J. BARR was born in Logan County, Illinois, September 15, 1833, the eldest son of Thomas and Alcy (Watt) Barr. He was reared in DeWitt County, Illinois, where his parents moved in his iiifancy. He remained at home until his marriage and then settled on an unimproved farm three miles from Wapella, a station on the Illinois Central Railroad in DeWitt County, Illinois, and six miles from the old homestead, where he lived two years, when he sold out. In 1859 he moved to Blue Earth County, Minnesota, and bought a claim and entered 160 acres of Government land. This was during the time of the In- dian troubles in that State, and they were obliged to build stockades to defend them- selves. He moved his family into a cabin without floor, door or window, except one pane of glass put in a crooked log. His family at that time consisted of his wife and three children and a brother, William Barr, who is now a resident of Kansas. He lived on his land a year and a half and then sold out and moved to the adjoining county, Fairibault, where he bought another unim- proved farm and made it his home eleven years. February 18, 1868, he enlisted in Company C, Sixth Minnesota Infantry, and remained at Fairmount, Martin County, Minnesota, until about the first of June, 1863, when he went to Helena, where, on account of the sudden change in the climate, the regiment was reported unfit for duty several weeks. They were then ordered down the Mississippi River, but returned to Helena a few days later. During this time his Captain was taken sick and he was de- tailed to nurse him and was afterward sent to the hospital as a nurse, and two weeks later was taken sick, and in September was taken on a hospital boat to St. Louis, where he remained until the next month, when he was transferred to the Veteran Reserve Corps and was sent to Chicago, and was placed on guard duty, his regiment helping to guard the prisoners at Camp Douglas, then num- bering about 14,000. In the meantime he was one of the guards at the court house when President Lincoln's body lay in state, and accompanied the remains to the cars. In June, 1865, his regiment was ordered to re- port at Cairo, Illinois, for guard duty, and while there he was detailed to take charge of the Christian Commission rooms, continuing this duty until the close of the war. He was discharged August 5, 1865, and returned to his home in Minnesota. In 1873 he sold his farm there and moved to Hamilton County, Iowa, where for the fifth time he opened up a new farm. He now has a good farm of eighty acres, well improved, with comfort- able buildings. He was married September 29, 1853, to Catherine E. Hoffman, a native of Virginia. In her infancy her parents moved to Champaign County, Ohio, and when she was sixteen years old, to DeWitt County. They have had six children, four of whom are living — Alcy C, wife of H. Robinson, of Story County, Iowa; John T., of Webster County; Martha, wife of William Meeks, and William M., of Webster City. Angeline and La Fayette died in Minnesota. Mr. and Mrs. Barr are members of the United Brethren church. When eighteen years of age he was appointed class-leader and has filled that position the greater part of the time since, and for seventeen years he has been superintendent of the Sunday-school. For ten years he has been a licensed exhorter 318 BIOQBAPEICAL BBGOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF in his church. He served as a member of the school board a number of years in Minnesota, and also in the neighborhood where he now lives. He is an adherent of the principles of the Kepublican party. ■ -•<--'|» ; n S »|f^-». lOLONEL CHARLES WHITAKER, sections 5 and 6, Marion Township, is a native of Pennsylvania, born in Phila- delphia, November 10, 1823, a son of James and Sarah (Adams) Whitaker. His father and Uncle Joseph were the pioneer iron manufacturers of the State, establishing the Phcenixville Iron Works of Chester County, and also the iron and nail works of Bridge- town, New Jersey, known as the Cumberland Works. His grandfather, Joseph Whitaker, came to America from England as a soldier in the British army during the war of the Eevolution, but on reaching this country deserted and joined the colonial army, and served until its close, when he settled on a farm in Chester County, Pennsylvania, where he died at the age of ninety-three years. His father died in Philadelphia, aged ninety-two years. His mother was a native of New Jersey, of English and Swedish ancestry. Our subject was reared in his native city and was given good educational advantages, completing his education in the Norwich, Vermont, Military and Scientific Uuiyersity. After leaving school he engaged in the busi- ness of cotton manufacturing in Philadelphia, which he followed until 1855, when he moved to Waukesha, Wisconsin, and settled on a farm nine miles west of the city, and was engaged in farming at the time of the break- ing out of the war of the Rebellion. In July, 1862, he enlisted and was elected Captain of his company, but on reporting for duty re- ceived the commission of Lieutenant-Colonel of the Twenty-eighth Wisconsin Infantry. He served until after the death of his wife, when he resigned and returned home. In 1866 be came to Hamilton County and bought 400 acresof land, which was partially improved, where he has since lived. Mr. Whitaker was married in June, 1850, to Catherine Ripka, a native of Philadelphia, daughter of Joseph Ripka, a pioneer cotton manufacturer of the United States. To them were born eight children, six of whom are living — Catherine, wife of H. Gr. Hicks, of Nebraska; Joseph R., attorney of Boone, Iowa; James M., attorney of Marshalltown ; Sarah A.; Amelia E. and Agnes Y. Lavina died November 22, 1879, aged twenty-one years; and Ellen, wife of Alfred Schleitter, died August 25, 1881, also aged twenty-one years. Mrs. Whitaker died December 8, 1862, and June 2, 1863, he married Margaret Hill, a native of Delafield, Wisconsin, daughter of John and Anna Jane Hill. They had a family of seven children — Anna J., Margaret, Charles, John E., Kenneth, Robert H. and Guy. His wife died December 5, 1879, and August 20, 1884, Mr. Whitaker married her sister, Eliza J. Hill, and to them has been born one son — Harry. — — «°*-**g<' Sn? * S'" "*"* ANFORTH C. WOOD, farmer and stock-raiser, section 3, Freedom Town- ship, was born in Springfield, Massa- chusetts, March 22, 1835, the eldest son of Colonel David Wood. His father was born in Yermont November 17, 1796, and was married May 14, 1834, to Hannah Booth, a native of Enfield, Connecticut, born Novem- ber 11, 1803, a daughter of Peter and Martha (Eyers) Booth. After his marriage he settled in Springfield, Massachusetts, and in 1840 moved to Iowa, going down the Connecticut WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 319 River, thence across the Allegheny Moun- tains, then down the Ohio River to Cairo and up the Mississippi to Muscatine, thence by teams to what is now Anamosa, Jones Coun- ty, his being the first family in the place. He built the first frame house in Jones County, but did not live to see the county develop, as his death occurred November 11, 1840. He left two sons, Danforth C. and "William B. Mrs. Wood afterward married Gideon H. Ford, who came to Jones County from Massachusetts in the winter of 1838-39, and was the first blacksmith in that county, but subsequently engaged in farming. In 1869 he moved to Hamilton County, where he died July 19, 1880. The mother now lives with our subject, and although eighty-five years of age is in the enjoyment of good health. To Mr. and Mrs. Ford were born two children — Harlow H., of Omaha, and Maria, wife of Joseph Ferber, of "Webster City. D. C. Wo'id was five years old when his parents moved to Jones County, and there he was reared and educated. He remained with his mother until his majority, and then was employed as clerk in a drug store ten years, and subsequently worked as civil engi- neer for the railroads and engaged in farm- ing. In 1868 he came to Hamilton County • and settled on section 4, Freedom Township, where he worked at engineering a short time, and since then has given his entire time to agricultural pursuits. Mr. "Wood was mar- ried November 25, 1858, to Mary Keacox, a native of Cleveland, Ohio, whose parents moved to Jones County in 1856. They have had a family of eight children, seven of whom are living — Cary, wife of Charles Stebbins, of Gilmore, Iowa; Charles, Lillie, Emma, Cornelia, Edmond and Delia. Helen died at the age of one year. Charles superintends the work of the farm, as Mr. "Wood is unable to do much manual labor on account of his healtfi. Mrs. "Wood died October 8, 1880. She was a member of the Congregational church. Mr. "Wood is a member of the Al- liance. In politics he affiliates with the Republican party. g.^ENRY F. "WILLE, section 4, Rose Grove Township, was born in Mecklen- berg, Germany, June 18, 1835, a son of Ralph and Hannah ("Wilkin) "Wille. He attended school in his native country until fifteen years of age and then went to learn the tailor's trade, serving an apprenticeship of three years. In 1854 he left Germany, and after a voyage of two months landed in New York. From there he went to Mil- waukee, Wisconsin, and thence to the Lake Superior copper mines, where he worked three months and then went to Detroit, Michigan, and from there two months later to Decatur, Michigan. In July, 1855, he went to St. Louis, Missouri, and then to New Orleans. Three weeks later he returned North and visited Keokuk, Iowa, St. Paul, Minnesota, Galena, Illinois, Milwaukee and Burlington, Wisconsin. The following win- ter and spring he was employed as fireman on a road running from Delavan to Racine, and the next summer and fall worked in the lead mines at Galena. He then went to Grant County, Wisconsin, where he was employed at farming and mining until 1861. October 10, 1861, he enlisted in Company I, Sixteenth Wisconsin Infantry, and served until July 29, 1865. His regiment was a part of the Army of the Tennessee, and participated in the battles of Shiloh, Corinth, and "Vicks- burg. At the latter place he re-enlisted and returned home on veteran furlough. He joined his regiment at Cairo, and from there went to Clifton, Tennessee, thence marching 330 BIOGBAPEIOAL BEOOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF to join the forces in front of Atlanta, and there the Twelfth and Sixteenth regiments took the leading part in the capture of Bald Hill, July 21 and 22. July 20, he was wounded, but remained with his regiment until after the battle when he was sent to the hospital at Chattanooga, and from there to Nashville, thence to Louisville, Jefferson bar- racks, Indiana, the E. A. Wood, a hospital boat at Cairo, to the general hospital at Keo- kuk, Iowa; and finally in April, 1865, to the hospital at Prairie Du Chien, from which he received his discharge. He returned to his home in Grant County, where he lived until the spring of 1870, when he came to Ham- ilton County, Iowa, and located on the land that is now his fine farm. He owns 160 acres of land, eight acres of it being a fine grove, and his improvements are among the best in the township. Mr. "Wille was married September 10, 1867, to Hannah Ann Cullen, a native of Pennsylvania, a daughter of Joseph Cullen, and to them have been born six children — Joseph H., Hannah E., Charles F., George F., Paul E., and David W. In politics Mr. "Wille is a Eepublican. He has served his township as road supervisor, trus- tee and school director. He and his wife are members of the Lutheran church. He is a member of Cassius Fairchild Post, No. 431, G. -A . E., of which he is charter member and its present commander, and of Silver Link Lodge, No. 459, I. O. O. F. A. EOBEETSON, M. D., is the pio- neer physician of Williams. He is a ® native of Decatur County, Indiana, born May 17, 1841, a son of David and Mary (Martin) Eobertson, natives of South Caro- lina, of Scotch ancestry. In 1851 the family moved to Jefferson County, Iowa, and there our subject was reared. September 28, 1861, he enlisted in Company K, Thirteenth Iowa Infantry as a private, and was after- ward promoted to Sergeant, and later to First Lieutenant. He participated in the battles of Shiloh, the first and second days ; fight at Corinth, the siege and capture of Yicksburg, the battle at Kenesaw Mountain, the siege of Atlanta, and in Sherman's march to the sea, thence through the Carolinas to Washington and took part in the grand re- view. At the close of the war he returned to Iowa and subsequently began the study of medicine at Fulton, Illinois, under the pre- ceptorship of H. Hartshorn, M. I). In 1876 he located at Williams and has built up a good practice, which extends over a wide territory, frequently being called to ride thirty and forty miles. Dr. Eobertson was married July 12, 1877, to Miss Elfie Spencer, of Paw Paw, Illinois. In politics he is a Eepublican. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Eepublic, Post No. 431. •°« » i | « 3 u ! ' |» «-«°' tJAYCOX, one of the representative and successful farmers of Williams Town- ^® ship, resides on section 18, where he has one of the pleasantest homes in the township. He is a native of the State of New York, born July 12, 1833, a son of John and Eliza- beth (Garrison) Jaycox. When fourteen years of age he began to work in a ship yard, serving an apprenticeship, and then went to work in a navy yard, and has since been em- ployed in nineteen different States. During the war of the Eebellion he enlisted in Au- gust, 1864, in the One Hundred and Twenty- fourth New York Infantry, Company K, his regiment being a part of the Army of the Potomac. He took part in the siege and capture of Petersburg, Virginia, serving un- WEB3TMR AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 321 til the close of the war. After his return home he lived in New York until 1869, when he moved to Hamilton County, Iowa, and settled on section 30, Williams Township, where he lived two years and then sold his land and bought forty-four acres on section 18, the same township. He afterward lived in Blairsburg Township some time, and in 1887 bought the farm where he uow lives, which contains 160 acres of good land located on sections 18 and 19. Mr. Jaycox was married in 1856, to Mary Yantassel, who died leaving three children — Lucy, Howard and Virginia. In 1868 he married Emma J. Ireland, and to them have been born seven children, six of whom are living — Benjamin, Guy, Lewis, Leroy, Elizabeth and Mary. "Willard died September 2, 1876, aged two years. In poli- tics Mr. Jaycox is a Democrat, and a strong adherent of the principles of that party. » 3nS « iKYlD D. C. TEMPLER was born in Schenectady County, New York, May 2, 1838, a son of William and Ann Templer, and the second of the three brothers residing in Ellsworth Township. He was reared on a farm and followed that vocation with the exception of a few years prior to his removal to Iowa when he was in the mer- cantile business. In 1867 he left New York and came to the Hawkeye State and first settled in Hardin County, where he lived until the spring of 1870, when he moved to Hamilton County and located on the farm where he now lives which contains 107 acres of good land, all well improved. For eighteen years he has been identified with the in- terests of Ellsworth Township, and has done his share in developing its resources.. He was reared in the Democratic school of poli- tics and has always adhered to the principles of that party. He married Miss Nancy Ennis, a daughter of Joseph Ennis. To them have been born six children — Ann, Jane, Ettie, Maggie, Cammie, and Archibald. The two eldest daughters are prominent and successful teachers of this county. M. NOETHCEAFT, section 9, Fremont Township, is one of the leading and enterprising citizens of the township. He was born in Green County, Wisconsin, April 25, 1850, a son of Samuel and Eleanor (Dawson) Northcraft. He was reared and educated in his native county, and was mar- ried there February 25, 1873, to Miss Isa- belle Smith, a native of Eock County, Wis- consin, daughter of Archibald and Margaret Smith. Mr. and Mrs. Northcraft have four children — Jessie Belle, Samuel Lee, Gertrude Ethel and an infant daughter. In 1879 Mr. Northcraft moved to Hamilton County, Iowa, and settled on a wild tract of land, which he has improved, built a good house and other farm buildings, including sheds for stock and grain, and everything about the place is in-, dicative of the thrift of the owner. In poli- ties Mr. Northcraft is a Democrat. Al- though still a young man he is counted among Fremont Township's enterprising and substantial citizens. i-jt-ifi p[DMUND CEABTEEE, a prominent business man of Williams, was born in the town of Oldham, Lancaster County, England, October 11, 1839, a son of John and Alice (Mills) Crabtree, deceased, whose remains are now entombed in the beautiful cemetery at Lancaster, the county seat of Grant County, Wisconsin. In 1841 his 323 BIOGBAPHIOAL BEOOBD AND POBTBAIT ALBUM OF parents came to the United States and located in Grant County, Wisconsin, in tlie lead mine district, which at that time was having a boom on account of the rich lead deposits being worked in the vicinity. Here Edmund was reared, working on the farm, in the lead mines and smelting furnaces, and attended the public schools of the county. In Septem- ber, 1858, he went to the Pacific coast via New York City and the Isthmus of Panama, and remained in California, near Placerville, eighteen months, engaged in mining gold. In the spring of 1860 he returned to Wisconsin and resumed his former occupation of running a smelting furnace. He was married Decem- ber 24, 1860, to Melissa A. Altizer. In the fall of 1862 Mr. Crabtree purchased an in- terest in the Annaton flouring mills; at that time being the largest flouring mills in Grant County, of which he had the general super- vision until his enlistment in the United States service. He was also a member of the firm of Clayton,Crabtree&Co.,of Annaton,Wisconsin. Was in the general mercantile business from 1862 to 1866. Under the call of Abraham Lincoln for more troops Mr. Crabtree left his business interests with partners, enlisted, and was mustered into the United States service September 2, 1864. He was assigned as Sergeant, Company H, Forty-third Wisconsin Yolunteer Infantry, and served until the close of the war. He returned home to Annaton, closing out his business interests, and went to farming in the spring of 1869. He sold his farm and came to Hamilton County and settled in Williams Township before there was a house on the present site of the thriving town of Williams. Hie located on a tract of wild land which he improved, and devoted thirteen years to farming and stock-raising. In the spring of 1882 he sold his farm, closed out his stock, etc., and moved to Williams, on account of declining health contracted during his army service, and embarked again in the mercantile business, and is now a partner in the leading mercantile establish- ment of the town, the firm name being Crab- tree & Morrison, S. S. Morrison taking charge of the mercantile business, while Mr. Crabtree gives his attention to real estate, loans and collections. In politics he is a staunch Ke- publican (says he has never lost but one Presidential vote, and that one was cast for James G. Blaine). He was a member of the county board of supervisors at the time the present court-house was erec'ed, which is one of the finest in the State. Has served as justice of the peace fifteen years, is now serv- ing his third term as mayor of Williams, and is a prominent member of Cassius Fairchild Post, No. 431, G. A. E., Department of Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Crabtree have three children — Viola J., wife of G. N. Orris; Jennie Alice, wife of I. G. Cole, and Edmund Ernest, a promising son of fifteen summers. |EHEMIAH WELCH, deceased, was IM one of the representative citizens of Cass Township, where he located in Jan- uary, 1869. He was a native of Sanford, Maine, born February 25, 1824, a son of Aaron and Olive (Morrison) Welch. He was reared in his native State and was there married December 2, 1851, to Margaj-et E. Nourse, a native of Essex County, daughter of George and Sarah (Jones) Nourse. In I860 they moved to Massachusetts, where he engaged in the manufacture of shoes until 1869 and in that year moved to Hamilton County and bought the farm in Cass Town- ship, which is now the family homestead. At that time it was an uncultivated tract, only fifty acres having been broke, and a rude house built, but he improved it and made it WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 323 one of the best farms in the township. Mr. and Mrs. Welch had a family of five children — Mrs. Helen M. Garth, George P., Mrs. Anna F. Garth, Ernest C. and Alice E. Two children, Alcie F. and Alvah H., died in early childhood. Mr. Welch died August 8, 1878, and his widow still lives on the homestead in Cass Township. In politics he was a Democrat. fOHN G. EIGK, section 25, Williams Township, was born in Germany, April 9, 1838, a soTi of George and Charlotte Louisa (St. Rema) Rick, his father a native of Germany, and his mother of France. When he was nine years old he came to the United States and lived in Buffalo, New York, sev- eral years, and there learned the barber's trade. He enlisted in the regular army in 1853, and served ten years as a member of Company H, Sixth United States Infantry. During the war of the Rebellion he was in the Army of the Potomac, serving under Generals McClellan, Fitz John Porter, Meade and Grant, in the Fifth, Ninth and Eighteenth Coi'ps, and took part in some of the historic battles of that department of the army. He was discharged November 17, 1863, and January 5, 1864, again enlisted and was ap- pointed Second Lieutenant of Battery A, Second Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery, and served with distinction until mustered out at Fort Fisher, North Carolina, May 15, 1865, having in the meantime been promoted to First Lieutenant. After the war he moved to Illinois and located at Princeton, where he worked at his trade several years and then moved to Buda, Bureau County, where he also worked at his trade and was agent for several lines of ocean steamers, was a notary public and was agent for several insurance companies. In 1877, on account of his health, he bought some land in Williams Township, Hamilton County, Iowa, on which his son Theo located, and at once began to improve. In the fall of the same year he moved his family to Butler County, Iowa, where he lived until February, 1879, when he located on his land, " Hopedale Farm," where he has since lived and now has one of the best farms in the township, located about two miles east of Williams. In addition to carrying on his farm he works at his trade, and is also en- gaged in the insurance business in the village of Williams. Mr. Rick was married in Phila- delphia, Pennsylvania, August 13, 1863, to Magdalena Weiser, a native of Germany, daughter of Daniel and Eva (Bold) Sander. She came to America when twenty-three years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Rick have four children — Theodore J., who married Lena Martin, of Providence, Rhode Island, and now lives in Alden, Hardin County; George C, William H., and Nellie C, wife of R. P. Orris, of Williams. In politics Mr. Rick is a Republican. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, and was the founder of Cassius Fairchild Post, No. 431, of Will- iams, and was its first commander. He is also a member of the Masonic and Odd Fellows order, the Knights of Pythias, the United Workmen, and the Legion of Honor, and is president of Brown Lodge, No. 107, of the latter order. He and his wife are mem- bers of the Presbyterian church. » ;n; « W. McCANON, M. D., located at Jewell, September 28, 1885, succeed- ms _ Dr. F. J. Will, now of Union Grove. He was born in Benton County, Iowa, June 15, 1860, a son of Dr. W. C. McCanon' a successful physician of Des Moines. W. su BIOGRAPHICAL BBGOBD AND POBTBAIT ALBUM OF C. McCanon is a native of New York, and came to Iowa when a youth. He is a gradu- ate of Bennett Medical College, of Chicago, and also of the Medical College of Keokuk. F. W. McCanon received his early education at Cedar' Rapids, later attending school at Iowa City, Des Moines, and at Greeley. He began the study of medicine in the office of his father at Greeley in 1878, and in the winters of 1880-'81 and 1881-'82, attended lectures at Iowa City, graduating in 1883. In the summer of 1883 he took a course in the College of Physicians and Surgeons, where he was demonstrator of anatomy. Dr. McCanon is a close student of ^his profession and is one of the promising young physicians of the State. He has built up a good prac- tice, which is constantly increasing, as he is daily gaining more and more the confidence of the community. He married Alice L. Smith, a native of Johnson County, Iowa, born in 1862, a daughter of Isaac Smith, a pioneer of that county. They have had two children, but one of whom, the youngest, is living — Elva L. Earl, a promising boy of four years, died in February, 1888. »o»-t u|N iit ^ l i S * si '"-**** fPEHIEL D. EEED, deceased, was one of the prominent citizens of Webster City. He was born in Yates County, New York, April 4, 1837, a son of William and Lucinda (Pulver) Eeed. He was reared anjl educated in his native county, and in 1865 came to Hamilton County, Iowa, and located in Fre- mont Township, buying 160 acres of wild land, which he improved and made his home until 1874, when he bought a farm in Wright County and lived there ten years. In 1884 he moved to Webster City, where he lived until his death. Mr. Eeed was married June 1, 1871, to Samantha E. Sells, a native of Ohio, daughter of J. D. Sells, a prominent citizen of Wright County. To them were born four children — J. DeLoss, Mary L., Ida A., and Charles J. In politics Mr. Eeed was an ardent Eepublican and an active worker for his party. He was an able public speaker and during all great political cam- paigns was one of the party's most influential advocates. He was a prosperous man and left his family a valuable estate consisting of 500 acres of land and a good home in Webster City. — «.-«|*>»f.^i-*<- SEYMOUE, of the mercantile firm of Seymour & Henderson, Eandall, was one of the first business men of the place. The mercantile business was started in Eandall by a stock company, of which C. P. Christiansen was president and S. Seymour was manager, and was bought by Seymour & Henderson in 1888. The commodious and elegant store was begun in 1882 and com- pleted in the spring of 1883. It has two apartments on the ground floor, both being 22x55 feet in dimension. They carry a large and varied stock, suited to the wants of their many customers, comprising dry goods, gro- ceries, boots, shoes, hardware, clothing, medi- cines and fancy goods. Mr. Seymour was born in Kendall County, Illinois, December 6, 1853. His father, S. Seymour, was a na- tive of Norway, and came with his family to the United States in 1853, locating in Grundy County, Illinois, where he died of cholera three weeks after reaching his destination, and about three months before the birth of hi« sou. The mother afterward moved to Kendall County, where she died in 1862. She was left penniless with a family of four children, our subject being the only son. Two daughters are living in Hamilton County and WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 327 one in Story County, Iowa. Our subject re- mained at home until after the death of his mother, and in Kendall County until 1878, and then came to Hamilton County. When twenty-one years old he entered the Nevada High School, which he attended three years, and then engaged in the insurance business. Later he was employed as clerk in a general store a year, and then was manager of a gen- eral mercantile business, having stores at Callanan near Dayton, Orange City, Maurice, and near Hawarden, Iowa, and Alcester, Dakota. This was a valuable experience for him and fitted him for a successful business life. In 1883 he bought a fourth interest in the Randall Company, which was dissolved by limitation March 13, 1888, Mr. Seymour, H. L. Henderson, O. L. Henderson and M. L. Henderson purchasing the business. Mr. Seymour was married to Miss Lizzie Jacobs, of La Salle, Illinois. They have had four children, but two of whom are living — Anna Isabelle and Stella Adeline. A daughter, Mabel Elizabeth, died in early infancy, and a son, Severt H., died in the spring of 1888, aged three years, five months and four days. » SnS ' ffOSEPHUS NOTTIJSGHAM, farmer, Fremont Township, is a native of Dela- ware County, Indiana, born March 19 1839, a son of Major and Jane (Funk) Not- tingham, his father a native of Ohio, and his mother of Pennsylvania. His mother died when he was eighteen months old, and his father subsequently married again, and in 1847 moved to Clinton County, Iowa, but eighteen months later returned to Delaware County. In 1850 he again went to Clinton County, -and died there in 1856. Josephus Nottingham was reared a farmer, receiving his education in the common schools. In 26 1861 he went overland to California with a mule team, being four months in making the trip. He worked at lumbering for some time in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and later engaged in freighting goods, remaining in California until the fall of 1865, when he returned to Clinton County, arriving there October 4. In 1868 he came to Hamilton County, Iowa, and bought eighty acres of land in Fremont Township, on which he lived ten years, when he sold it and bought his present farm, which also contains eighty acres. Mr. Nottingham was married March 30, 1869, to Barbara Sells, a native of In- diana, daughter of J. D. Sells, of Wright County. They have three children — Mary E., Nettie May and Genevieve. In politics Mr. Nottingham is an ardent supporter of the Eepublican party. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. EUBEN J. HURD, proprietor of the Iowa Lake stock farm, section 14, Rose Grove Township, was born in Cayuga, County, New York, August 16, 1847, a son of Elisha H. Hurd, an early settler of Ham- ilton County. When he was a small boy his parents moved to Iowa and lived in Winne- shiek County until 1866, when they moved to Hamilton County. He was reared a farmer and has been successful in his oper- ations and is now one of the largest land owners in the county. His stock farm con- tains 1,500 acres of land well improved. Fifty acres of his land is one of the finest groves in the county, comprised of white willow, soft maple, black walnut and butter- nut trees. He makes a specialty of horses and cattle, and also deals extensively in swine. His farm is located six miles south- east of Williams. His residence is located 328 BIOQBAPEIGAL REGOBD AND PORTBAIT ALBUM OF on a beautiful building site surrounded with shade and ornamental trees, and his other farm buildings are commodious and sub- stantial. Mr. Hurd was married January 15, 1881, to Winnie J. Crane, a native of Clay- ton County, Iowa, daughter of James S. and Mary J. (Eller) Crane, who are now residents of Dakota. Mr. and Mrs. Hurd have three children — Lulu B., Walter L. and Halph. In politics Mr. Hurd was formerly a Republican, but now votes independent of party ties. » 3 > i ; « SEWEY S. DOOLITTLE, farmer and stock-raiser, section 10, Cass Township, was born at Hampton Corners, Ver- mont, December 10, 1831, a son of Ambrose and Esther (Hyde) Doolittle, also natives of Vermont. In 1842 his parents moved to the State of New York, where he grew to man- hood, and in 1854 the family moved to Green County, Wisconsin, where the father died. The mother accompanied her son to Hamil- ton County, Iowa, and here spent the rest of her life. Our subject left Green County, Wisconsin, in 1866 and moved to Hamilton County, where he bought eighty acres of wild land. When he first came to Iowa he had a team of horses, two cows and $5 in cash. He went to work and after improving his land and paying for it he added to it from time to time until he now has 480 acres of Cass Township's best land, all well improved and his residence and farm buildings are comfortable and commodious. He is one of the prosperous and influential citizens of the township, and is among the foremost in as- sisting any enterprise of material benefit to the community. In politics he affiliates with the Democratic party. Mr. Doolittle was married in 1852 to Caroline Hayes, a native of Wyoming County, New York, daughter of Ezekiel and Dorothe Ann (Wiles) Hayes. They have six children — Helen, wife of A. Banks, of Eagle Grove; Martha E., wife of H. Allen; Charles, Frank, Addie Alma and Ada Alma (twins), the former the wife of Fred Pringle, and the latter the wife of Oscar Schoonover. The paternal grand- parents of Mrs. Doolittle were John and Susan (Holladay) Hayes, the former a native of America and the latter of Dublin, Ire- land. They had a family of seven children — John, Ezekiel, Moses, Elias H., Polly, Betsy, wife of David Hall, and Susanah, wife of Frederick Hall. Her maternal grandparents were Frank and Penelope Wiles, the former a native of England and the later of Gerr many. They had nine children — Daniel, David, Abram, Betsy, wife of Daniel Oster- hout; Dorothy, wife of E. H. Hayes; Effa, wife of William Ellison; Katie, wife of Malanton Smith; Nancy, wife of Daniel Odell, and Sally. 101 i» i? » 2 i i^ ' S"' ' ■ ' pARLES D. HELLEN, publisher of JOT. the Webster City Tribune, is one of the representative young men of Hamilton County. He is a native of the county, and was born on a farm about six miles north- west of Webster City, August 28, 1860, the third son of N. H. Hellen. In 1874 his parents moved to Webster City, and October 25, of the same year, he began working at the printer's trade for T. E. McCracken, then publisher of the Hamilton Freeman, and re- mained with him until July, 1880, when, in partnership with W. L. Clark, he rented the office of the Webster City Argus, which they published a year. He continued to control the job department of the same office two years, and in partnership with his younger brother, Walter H., leased the same paper for WBB8TBB AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 329 another year. They continued to publish the Argus until July 1, 1885, when they started the Webster City Tribune, and the following year, April, 1886, C. D. bought his brother's interest, and has since conducted the paper alone with remarkable success. Starting for himself at fourteen years of age without a cent, he has never missed paying a week's board, and has during the entire time clothed himself. He now has a good paying busi- ness, which is constantly increasing, and is well numbered among the enterprising and substantial business men of the town. In addition to his business he owns one of the finest little residences in the city on one of the best residence streets. He has lived a strictly moral life, having never touched in- toxicants of any kind, and is one of the most trustworthy and reliable citizens of Webster City. October 35, 1883, he was married to Miss Clara Eyer, a daughter of one of the leading merchants of Webster City. «»«-ii i i ? « 3 i i ; »i^»i>^». lYLVESTER F. PALMER, hardware merchant of Ellsworth, Iowa, was born in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, in September, 1854, a son of Solomon and Adaliza (Rockwell) Palmer. His raotlier died in March, 1888, and his father is still living in Franklin County. S. F. Palmer remained at home until manhood, and in his native county learned the trade of a tinsmith. In 1875 he went to Mount Carroll, Illinois, and worked at his trade there three years, and in 1878 came to Hamilton County, Iowa. He first located at Callanan, and opened a hardware store, remaining there until 1881, when he came to Ellsworth, and opened the only store of the kind in the town. He is an enterprising man, and is one of the substantial business men of Ellsworth. He was married in Illinois in June, 1875, to Susan C. Hoy. They have three childre;i — Olive May, Orin Ralph and Grace. In politics Mr. Palmer is a Democrat. «*^' | ' 2nS ' |i '-«»' AVID DOUGLASS, farmer and stock- raiser, section 7, Cass Township, was born in West Virginia, June 4, 1835, a son of David, Sr., and Jane (Brown)'Doug- lass, natives of Chester County, Pennsylvania. When our subject was a child his parents moved to Columbiana County, Ohio, and there he was reared. When he was fourteen years old he began to work at the mason's trade, which he followed several years. In 1857 he came to Iowa and lived in Jones County until the spring of 1859, when he came to Hamilton County, and located on the farm where he now lives. At that time it was wild, uncultivated land, and by his own energy and industry he has made it one of the best farms in the township. His farm is located six miles north of Webster City, and contains 240 acres of choice land all im- proved, with good residence and farm build- ings. On his farm is one of the best springs in the county, and the water flows through pipes to a trough by the roadside, furnishing water for his stock, both summer and winter. Mr. Douglass was married November 27, 1857, to Catherine McLaughlin, daughter of James McLaughlin. Mrs. Douglass died July 6, 1875, leaving five children — Alice, wife of Ephraim Robbins; James A., of Brown County, Nebraska; John E., of Clin- ton County, Nebraska; Wesley W. and Orson B. December 19, 1879, Mr. Douglass married Mrs. Maggie C. Glasgow, daughter of David Ley, a native of Scotland, who came to America in his youth and settled in Canada, where Mrs. Douglass was born 330 BIOGBAPEIOAL BECOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF later moving to Wright County, Iowa, where he now lives. In politics Mr. Douglass is a Kepublican. He is a member of the Meth- odist Episcopal church, and one of the most earnest supporters. He is prominent in the political circles of his township and has held several offices of trust and responsibility. [ILBEKT PEEEY, proprietor of the Tunnel Flouring Mills, was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, May 31, 1834, a son of Ira and Charlotte (Palmer) Perry, the former a native of Massachusetts, of Welsh descent, born August 7, 1791, and tlie latter a n9,tive of Connecticut, of Scotch de- scent, born in 1798. The former went to Trumbull County, Ohio, when a yotmg man, and the latter was taken to the same county by her parents when an infant, her brother, Zachariah. Palmer, being the first white child born in the county. They were married March 4, 1819. The father died in 1841, and the mother in 1882. Gilbert Perry was but six years old when his father died. He remained with his mother until eleven years old and then worked out by the month five years and then went to Grant County, Wis- consin, where he worked as a farm laborer three years. He then began to work at the carpenter's trade, serving three years as an apprentice, and followed that trade until 1870. He came to Iowa in 1856 with his brother, and lived in Hamilton County two years, and then went to Wright County, where he lived until 1870, when he returned to Hamilton County, and in company with his brother bought the saw-mill and added to it the machinery for making flour. In 1876 his brother withdrew from the firm and Mr. Perry has since conducted the business alone. He does an extensivebusiness, owning the only water roller-mill in the county. Before the Northwestern Kailroad was built they shipped large quantities of fiour, supplying the mar- kets of Webster City and Fort Dodge, but now tiie custom business consumes the en- tire capacity of the mill. In connection with his milling property he owns thirty acres of good land which he cultivates. When the office was established at Tunnel Mr. Perry was appointed postmaster by President Cleveland, and ^till retains the position. He has held various local offices of trust. In politics he is a Republican. Mr. Perry was married July 3, 1857, to Irena Metz, a native of Calhoun County, Illinois, daughter of Elias and Lydia (Patterson) Metz. The former died in 1850, aged fifty-eight years, and the latter is living at Falls City, Ne- braska, at the age of eighty-eight years. Mr. and Mrs. Perry have had eight children, four of whom are living — Ver. H., of Webster City; Ira E. and Newmarsh, of Fonda, Iowa, and Roscoe C. » S i i ; « EORGE SHIPP is one of the well- known pioneers of Webster City. He was born in Center County, Pennsylva- nia, Jiily 12, 1815, a son of James and Cath- erine (Helman) Shipp, his father a native of Pennsylvania and his mother of Maryland. He is the seventh of a family of twelve children. When he was seven years old his parents moved to Wayne County, Ohio, where they were early settlers and made that county their home until death. In 1833 George Shipp went to Millersburg, Ohio, and was employed as a clerk in a mercantile house four years. He then returned to Wayne County and enga,ged in business for himself several years. In 1852, in company with 100 men, he started overland for WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 331 California, taking with them 200 head of cattle and a number of horses. They were about five months on the road. After his arrival there he engaged in stock-raising, and remained about two years, when he returned to Ohio, where he lived until 1856, when he came to Hamilton County, and first located on a tract of land, but in 1857 moved to Webster City, and has since been engaged in the mercantile business. He has always been a prominent citizen of the town, and for two years served as county treasurer. In politics Mr. Shipp is a Republican. He cast his first presidential vote for Henry Clay, the second for General Scott, «,nd when in Cali- fornia voted for J. 0. Fremont, and since that time has been a strict adherent to the principles of that party. Mr. Shipp is a worthy member of the Congregational church, and has served as deacon several years. He has been an enterprising business man and has always been among the first to assist any enterprise of public benefit. He has one son, J. H. Shipp, who is one of the promi- nent young business men of the town. «^^^ fB. JENSEN, grocer, Webster City, was born in Germany, March 13, 1837, <* a son of John and Sophia Jensen. He was reared in his native country, attending school until sixteen years of age, when he went to work on a farm and for several years had charge of a number of hands. In 1865 he left Germany, sailing from Hamburg and landing in New York City. He proceeded direct to Watertown, Wisconsin, where he lived two years and in 1867 came to Ham- ilton County, Iowa, and located in Boone Township, removing thence to Cass Town- ship, and in 1876 moved to Webster City, and embarked in the grocery business. He carries a complete stock of staple and fancy groceries, and by his fair prices and honorable dealings has built up a trade of about $20,- 000 a year. His store building is a good two-story brick, 22x64 feet in dimension, and built at a cost of $3,500. Mr. Jensen was married in Wisconsin in 1867, to Miss Angeline Krail. They have one daughter-— Emma. In politics Mr. Jensen is a Eepub- lican, and one of the substantial business men of Webster City. ■ ■•■ 'i i^'S i' S"!""** — - fUSTtrS SMITH, one of the early settlers of Lyon Township, resides on section 26, where he owns a good farm of 132 acres. He is a native of Vermont, born in Addison County, October 22, 1821, a son of Justus and a grandson of Henry Smith, who was of French descent. Of a large family of children but five sons are now living — Justus, Byron, Culver, Royal and Lnman. Justus Smith was reared a farmer, but in his youth learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed sev- eral years. He remained in his native county until 1851, when he moved to Dane County^ Wisconsin, and settled on Sun Prairie, and made that his home until July, 1865, when he moved to Hamilton County, Iowa, and settled on the farm which is now his home, in 1871. He is one of the influential citizens of the township, where he has lived so many years, and has served as justice of the peace, a position he is well qualified to fill. He was married in his native county, January 27, 1847, to Charlotte A. Clarke, daughter of Isaiah and Harriet Clarke, natives also of Addison County, where they spent their Hves. Of a family of three sons and eight daughters, two sons and six daughters are living, Mrs. Smith being the only one in Iowa. One son, Myron A., was killed at the battle of Gettys- 333 BIOOBAPEICAL RBOORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF burg during the war of the Rebellion. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have two children — Willis E. and Lillian Maud. "Willis married Miss Sarah Everett, and has two children — KoUin P. and Cady B. Lillian married Noah Lakin, and has two children — Emma G. and Leslie Clark. In politics Mr. Smith is a iirm adherent to the principles of the Republican party. fP H. SMALLEY, section 14, Fremont Township, is a native of New Jersey, ® born April 24, 1831, a son of Henry and Sarah M. (Drake) Smalley, natives also of New Jersey. When seventeen years old our subject went to work in a machine shop, and followed that business until 1856, when he came to Iowa and first located in Musca- tine County, -later moving to Washington County, and in 1870 came to Hamilton County and located on his present farm. This was one of the first towns opened on the prairies of Fremont Township, and Mr. Smalley marked out some of the first roads in the neighborhood. His farm of eighty acres is now under a high state of cultiva- tion, and all his improvements are of a high order of excellence. Mr. Smalley was mar- ried in Muscatine County to Sophia Gray, a native of Trumbull County, Ohio. They have eight children — Sarah E., Henry W., Frank J., Warren L., Minnie, Camelia, Ada and Mabel. In politics Mr. Smalley was formerly a Republican, but now votes independent of party ties. He has served his township as justice of the peace, road supervisor, and as a member of the school board. He is a mem- ber of the Methodist Episcopal church, which he has served as trustee, steward and class leader, and has also been an active worker in the Sunday-school. He is a liberal supporter of all enterprises that tend to benefit and ad- vance the interest of the community in which he lives. i^jILO TUTTLE, deceased, was born in f Utica, New York, May 16, 1827, a son of Ephraim and Rhoda Tuttle, who were of Irish and Scotch ancestry. He was reared a farmer and for several years in his youth followed the canal. In 1844 he came west and located in DeKalb County, Illinois, where for a short time he worked at the carpenter's trade and then engaged in farming in that county until 1875, when he came to Iowa and settled in Boone Township, Hamilton County, where he entered a tract of wild land and made it his home until his death, which occurred, April 8, 1884. He commenced life in limited circumstances, but was successful, and at his death left a landed estate of 700 acres. He was married Oc- tober 24, 1850, to Jane Eliza Furman, who was born in New York City, August 3, 1827, a daughter of John and Anna Maria (Mor- gan) Furman, who were natives of New York and descendants of the early Dutch settlers. To them were born seven children, six of whom are living — William H., Joel P., Mary S. (wife of E. M. Furguson, of Des- Moines), Herbert C, Stella and Furman. Alice J. is deceased. In politics Mr. Tuttle was a Republican. He and his wife were members of the Presbyterian church. ►>^f* TEPHEN WOODWARD, section 1, Rose Grove Township, is a native of Pennsylvania, born in Tioga County, August 17, 1840, a son of Stephen and Amanda (Allen) Woodward, natives of Yer- parents moved to Dodge County, Wisconsin ^ WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 333 mont. When he was sixteen years old his where they were living at the breaking out of the Rebellion. In September, 1861, be enlisted in the defense of the old flag, and was assigned to Conipany K, Twenty-first "Wisconsin Infantry. He was in the battles at Resaca, where his regiment lost 360 men in killed and wounded, at Atlanta and from there to the sea and through the Carolinas to "Washington, where he was in line at the grand review of the army. At the close of the war he was discharged and returned to his home in "Wisconsin, and in tbe fall of 1866 cam.e to Iowa and took a homestead of eighty acres in Rose Grove Township, Hamilton County. He has improved his land and has added to it until he now has a fine farm of 200 acres, his improvements being among the best in the township. Mr. "Woodward was married May 17, 1866, to Martha Kingon, a native of Dodge County, "Wisconsin, daughter of Samuel and Martha Kingon. To them were born seven children, six of whom are living — Albert, "William, Florence, Engene, Stephen and Robert. A daughter died at the age of nineteen years. Mrs. "Woodward died in February, 1886. In pol- itics Mr. "Woodward is a Republican. He is a member of Post No. 431, G. A. R. He is one of the prominent and eflicient members and supporters of the Methodist Episcopal church. ■^wF. k,ERBERT C. TUTTLE was born in De Kalb County, Illinois, April 17, 1862, a son of Milo and Jane Eliza (Furman) Tuttle. He was thirteen years old when his father moved to Iowa, and his education was completed in the agricultural college at Ames. After the death of his father in 1884, he took charge of the farm which, under his careful management had steadily improved in value. He was married March 13, 1888, to Ella Vic- ker, anative of Lee County, Illinois, daughter of Simpson and Mary Vieker. Mrs. Tuttle is a member of the Presbyterian church. He is a member of the Odd Fellows order, "Web- ster City Lodge, No. 842. In politics he affiiliates with the Republican party. ■^w^ J. BATES, farmer and stock-raiser, section 15, Independence Town- ship, has been identified with the interests of Hamilton County since 1865. He is a native of Chenango County, New York, born May 8, 1815, a son of Henry and Abigail (Hopkins) Bates, natives of Connecticut, of English descent. His grand- father came with his family to America and he and three sons were soldiers in the war of the Revolution. The brothers became separated and one was killed and the others were never again heard from. His maternal grandfather was a Captain in the Revolution- ary war. The father of our subject lived to be seventy-five years old, and his mother to the advanced age of ninety-six years. "W. J. is the youngest of eight children. He was reared on a farm, receiving a common school education. He remained with his parents until his majority, when he began to work at the carpenter's trade, having learned that trade of his father. He lived in New York until 1859, when he removed to Dodge County, "Wisconsin, and three years later to Portage County, where he lived fourteen years, working at his trade and also engaged in farming. He then lived in Linn County three years, and in 1865 moved to Hamilton County, and lived in "Webster City three years, and in 1868 bought 160 acres of land, which he improved and which is still his 334 BIOORAPEIOAL RECORD AITD PORTRAIT ALBUM OP liom,e. Mr. Bates was married August B, 1836, to Mary Bunnell, daughter of Israel and Beulah (Hitchcock) Bunnell. They have had a family of eight children, five of whom are living — Laura, wife of Charles H. Stone; Joseph W.; Sarah A., wife of D. A. Ches- more; Elida, wife of W. H. Pierce; and E. "W. Mary A., Frances I. and Louisa are de- ceased. They have reared a grandson, Clarence W. Chesmore, whose mother died in his infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Bates are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. In politics Mr. Bates is a Kepublican. lOLOMOJSr B. DICK, one of the well- known citizens of Webster Township, has lived in Hamilton County since 1864. He is a native of Oldham County, Kentucky, born October 22, 1822, a son of Jacob and Susan (Boyer) Dick, his father a native of Virginia and his mother of Penn- sylvania. When he was about four years old his parents moved to Edgar County, Illinois, where they made their home the rest of their lives. They had a family of eight children, four of vsrhom are living. S. B. Dick was reared a farmer, receiving but limited ed- ucational advantages. He remained in Illinois until 1864, when he came to Hamilton Coun- ty and bought eighty acres of partially im- proved land on section 25, Webster Town- ship, where he lived until 1874, when he sold his farm and bought the land that is now his homestead, which at the time he bought it was a tract of wild prairie land. Mr. Dick was married September 5, 1844, to Julia A. Kearns, a native of Ohio, daughter of John and Abigail Kearns. To them have been born ten children — John, Mary (de- ceased), Jacob, Rebecca, Chester, Charles, Kosetta, George Horton, William and Oscar. In politics Mr. Dick is a Democrat. He has served his townsliip as trustee and as a member of the school board. ^OUNG W. SHORT, farmer and stock- raiser, Cass Township, was born in 'W^ Hendricks County, Indiana, October 17, 1840, a son of Young, Sr., and Elizabeth (Stinson) Short, natives of Virginia. Young Short, Sr., moved to Indiana in 1833, and settled in Wayne County, and five years later moved to Hendricks County, where he died Ocrtober 8, 1881, aged seventy-eight years. He was twice married. By his first marriage he had a family of seven children, our subject being the sixth. The mother died July 21, 1843, and he then married Elizabeth Smith, who died February 4, 1876. To them were- born six children. Young Short, Jr., was given good educational ad- vantages and for several years tai^ght school in Indiana. August 5, 1862, he enlisted in Company C, Seventeenth Indiana Infantry, and was assigned to the Army of the Cumber- land, FirstBrigade, Third Division, Twentieth Army Corps. He was with Sherman on his march to the sea and other engagements of minor importance. He enlisted as a private and was promoted to musician. He was discharged June 8, 1865, and returned to Indiana, where he again taught school several years, and later engaged in farming. In 1888 he came to Iowa and bought the farm where he now lives, which contains 240 acres of good land well drained with tile, and his buildings are among the best in the township. In politics Mr. Short is a Republican. He is a member of Winfield Scott Post, No. 66, G. A. R. He and his wife are members of the Christian church. He was married July 22, 1874, to Martha L. Huff, daughter of WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUJ^TIES, IOWA. 335 Eichard and Maria (Holden) Huff; lier father born in Maryland, February 22, 1815, and tier mother in Yermout, May 11, 1819. They were married August 27, 1840, and in 1846 moved to Warren County, Indiana, where the father died February 19, 1867, and the mother December 29, 1887. They had a family of five children. Mr. and Mrs. Short have had four children, three of whom are living — Oscar Young, born September 26, 1877;Orville A., born April 21, 1881, and Rosalie H., born January 3, 1884. Fannie H. died aged two years and five months. jLYIN J. SMITH, section 4, Eose Grove Township, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, February 22, 1849, a son of William and Hannah (Graham) Smith, his father a native of Pennsylvania, and his mother of Ohio. The parents were married in Wayne County, Ohio, and in 1854 moved to Lee County, Illinois, where their family was reared, and in later life they moved to Hamil- ton County, Iowa, and the father died in Eose Grove Township in 1873. The mother is still a resident of the township, and is in the seventy-fifth year of her age. To them were born eight children — Joseph G. (died in 1861), Mary J., Eliza G., James G. (died' aged six years), Alvin J., Eosa H., Samuel J. (was killed by lightning in 1874), and Emma A. In 1870, Alvin J. and his sister Mary, an enterprising young lady, came to Hamil- ton County and commenced to make a home. His sister started the first Sunday-school in the township. He has been successful in his pursuits and now owns a good farm of nine- ty-three and a half acres, well improved, with a pleasant residence and comfortable farm buildings. Mr. Smith was married February 8, 1875, to Lizzie, daughter of George Frost. To them have been born two children — George M., born October 28, 1875, and Earl A., born September 17, 1882. In politics Mr. Smith is a Eepublican. He has held several offices of trust in his township. He is a member of the Odd Fellows order. Silver Link Lodge, No. 458. fOIIN LENHAET, section 16, Fremont Township, was born in Knox County, Ohio, March 17, 1838, a son of Jacob and Catherine (Eichards) Lenhart, natives of France, where they were married. After coming to America they settled in Ohio, and later moved to Hamilton County, Iowa, where the mother died and the father still lives. In 1850 our subject went to De- Kalb County, Indiana, and lived six years, and in 1856 came to Iowa and lived in Du- buque County two years, and then in Bu- chanan County until 1861, when he went overland to California, and worked in the mines. In 1862 he went to Oregon and two months later to Idaho, and worked in the Florence mines on the Saluma Eiver thirty days, then returned to Oregon and spent the winter, and in the spring of 1863 went again to Idaho and worked in the mines until the fall of 1864, when he went to Brit- ish Columbia, and one month later went to Montana, and remained until 1867, engaged in mining and blacksmithing. In 1867 he went to Alaska via British Columbia, and in the fall of the same year returned to Mon- tana and lived until 1873, when he came to Hamilton County, Iowa, and bought the farm where he now lives. Mr. Lenhart is the patentee and proprietor of the Lenhart Plow, which is adapted to any kind of soil, and is undoubtedly the best plow made. He is an 336 BIOOBAPHIGAL BECOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM Oi enterprising man and one of the representa- tive citizens of the township. He was mar- ried April 4, 1875, to Anna, daughter of Olaf and Cornelia Johnson. They have six children — Charles O., John J., Anna, Victor Hugo, Sarah and George. In politics Mr. Lenhart is independent. W. GAETH is one of the well-known and successful citizens of Blairsburg -=#^^® Township. He was born in Dubuque County, Iowa, a son of James Garth, who came to Hamilton County in 1869, when our subject was sixteen years of age, and here he grew to manhood. He has always given his attention to agricultural pursuits and now has a good farm of 160 acres, all well improved, with a good residence and farm buildings. Mr. Garth was married in November, 1870, to Miss Anna Welch, daughter of Nehemiah "Welch, a pioneer of Cass Township. They have one son — Alvah N., born March, 1881. In politics Mr. Garth is Eei^ublican. He has served five years as trustee of his township and also as a member of the school board. — ^o«-Hi> iy u i ^ i i ^ '" xn ' «"> HiCHAEL WELCH, farmer, residing on section 14, Fremont Township, was born in Martinsburg, Virginia, in 1838, a s^ J. SILVERS, section 26, Fremont Township, has been identified with '^ the interests of Hamilton County since 1854. He was born in Lee County, West Virginia, January 80, 1830, a son of Jacob and Charlotte (Southern) Silvers, flis paternal grandfather, Aaron Silvers, was a native of Holland, and came to the United States when a boy and served as a soldier in the war of the Revolution, and afterward settled in Virginia. His maternal grand- father, Jesse Southern, was a native of Eng- land, and came to this country but a short time prior to that great struggle for liberty. When our subject was fifteen years old his father moved to Illinois and settled in De- Witt County; he grew to manhood and then entered a farm from the Government, which he improved. In 1854 he came to Hamil- ton County and entered 160 acres of land, and in the fall of the same year moved his family to the county. He found that his land was underlaid with a fine bed of coal, and this he has developed, and for sixteen years has in connection with his farming in- 344 BWOBAPHIOAL BEOORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF terests engaged in mining, supplying Web- ster City and the surrounding country, and also shipping to points on the Illinois Cen- tral Eailroad. He has added to his land from time to time until he now has 1,009 acres, or rather had before he divided it into separate farms for his children. He is an enterprising man, and is one of the foremost in developing the material interests of Ham- ilton County. He was married July 14, 1853, to Elizabeth Barr, a native of DeWitt County, Illinois, daughter of Thomas and Elsie (Watt) Barr. They have had a family of ten children, nine of whom are living — - Thomas E., John C, Yiola A. (wife of John Smith, of DeWitt County, Illinois), William D., Lottie B., Emma J., Jay M., Rosa L. and Bessie. One child died in infancy. Mr. Silvers is an adherent of the principles of the Democratic party. Mrs. Silvers is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. They are numbered among the prominent citizens of the township where they have lived so many years. 1,^-SlEAM CAMPBELL, section 10, Fre- mont Township, is one of the well- known farmers of Hamilton County, He was born in Stark County, Ohio, February 22, 1824, a son of John and Margaret (Bell) Campbell, his father a native of Ireland, and his mother of Washington County, Pennsyl- vania. The mother died in Stark County, Ohio, and the father in Clarion County, Pennsylvania. Hiram is the sixth of seven children. He was married October 19,1851, to Sarah McCloskey, a native of Ireland, daughter of Arthur and Nancy (Hogan) McCloskey, who came to America in her childhood. In 1867 Mr. Campbell came to Hamilton County, Iowa, and first entered eighty acres of wild land in Webster Town- ship, where he lived several years, then sold it and bought the farm where he now lives, which was also wild land, only twenty-five acres having been broke. His 160 acres are now under cultivution, and he has erected good, substantial buildings. He has been a representative citizen of the township, and has served as trustee, road supervisor, and as a member of the school board. In politics he affiliates with the Republican party. His wife died February 17, 1875. She was an active member of the Catholic church. To Mr. and Mrs. Campbell were born seven children — Margaret, wife of George Ellis, of Colorado; Arthur, of Fremont Township; Mary, wife of George Hughes; Anna, John, Frank and George. 4^«^. gENJAMIN B. SEGAR, section 21, Cass Township, was born in Bradford Coun- ty, Pennsylvania, December 12, 1829, a son of Benjamin and Marilda (Richards) Segar, natives of Connecticut. His grand- father, Daniel Seger, was a native of Eng- land, and came to the United States when a young man, and was married in Connecticut to Eunice (Bass.) About 1845 the Segar family moved to Illinois, and lived in Carroll County about nine years and in 1854 moved to Iowa and settled in Jones County, coming thence to Hamilton County in the fall of the same year. They located on section 21, Cass Township, where the father died September 25, 1867, and the mother January 26, 1870. They had a family of thirteen children, nine of whom are livingr— Lucy Ann, Horace, Caroline, Sarah, Betsey, Adalinda, Benjamin B., Eliza and Daniel. Benjamin and Horace are the only ones living in Hamilton County. Harriet, Eunice, Jennette and an infant are WBBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 345 deceased. Benjamin B. Seger, our subject, was reared a farmer, and lias always followed that vocation. He came to Harrison Coun- ty with his father in 1854 and lived on sec- tion 30, Cass Township, three years, when he moved to his father's homestead to look out for the interests of his parents, and this has since been his home. He now owns a fine farm of 120 acres, eighty acres being on section 21, and forty acres on section 16, all well improved and adapted to either grain or stock raising, being watered by White Fox Creek. His buildings are substantial and commodious and his surroundings indicate the thrift of the owner. Mr. Seger was mar- ried February 10, 1852, to Catherine Burg- dorf, who was born in Wayne County, New York, September 25, 1832, a daughter of Daniel and Mary (Liversee) Burgdorf, natives also of New York, but of German parentage. Mr. and Mrs. Seger have had seven children — Mrs. Emma Bailey, George, Mrs. Ida Butler, Mrs. Sarah Conklin, Angenette (de- ceased was the wife of Douglas Pringle), Charles, and Mrs. Mary Pringle. Emma and Sarah live in California and the rest are in Hamilton County. In politics Mr. Seger is a Democrat. He has served his township as trustee. Mrs. Seger is a member or the United Brethren church. ^HARLES HOON, section 10, Ellsworth Township, is a native of Bedford County, Pennsylvania, born in 1885, a son of Stuart and Mary (Millard) Hoon, In 1839 the family moved to Preble County, Ohio, and five years later to Delaware County, In- diana, and from there to Rock Island County, Illinois. In 1868 our subject came to Ham- ilton County, Iowa, and located in Ellsworth Township, ^nd iniproved a farm which he sold 26 in 1882, and then bought eighty acres of good land, which is now his homestead. He also owns a quarter section in Dakota. He is an enterprising farmer and is one of the representative men of the township. He was married in Rock Island, Illinois, to Mary E. Drury, and to them have been born nine children, eight of whom are living — Mary, Francis, Stephen, William, Charles, George, Eliza and Elmer. Their fifth child, Anna, is deceased. In politics Mr. Hoon is a Repub- lican. He has held the offices of county supervisor, township treasurer and trustee. •^Mf- I. WORTHINGTON, carpenter and contractor, is one of the pioneers of ® Webster City. He was born in Bainbridge, New York, November, 15, 1829, a sou of Theodore Worthington. In 1835 his parents moved to Tioga County, Penn- sylvania, and in 1837 to St. Joseph County, Michigan, where he lived with them until eighteen years of [age. He then began working at the carpenter's trade, living at different points until 1855, when he came to Iowa, and located at Webster City. He spent two years in Den- ver, Colorado, going there when that city wa5 a rude hamlet, and built some of the first houses in the town. During the war he went South as a sutler, being in the Second Iowa Cavalry and the Ninth Illinois Cavalry. Mr. Worthington is one of the best builders in this part of the State. Honorable and trust- worthy, his contracts are always carefully carried out, and many of the best buildings of Webster City are monuments of his skill. He has been three times married. His first wife was Caroline Brewer. Their son, Charles J., is a resident of Omaha, Nebraska. His second wife was Helen Skinner, a daughter 346 BIOGRAPEIGAL BECOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF of Jacob Skiuner. Three of their iive sons are living — George J., Frank C, of Sioux City, and Marion. Fred died aged seven years, and John aged sixteen. The mother died in 1874, and in 1878 he married Anna R. Car- mon. They have one daughter — Grace I. In politics Mr. Worthington is a Republican. Pie has served as marshal and assessor of Webster City. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and the Knights of Labor. J. CARR, farmer and stock-raiser, sec- tion 25, Rose Grove Township, is a native of Canada, born June 7, 1857, a son of Robert Wallace and Jeannette fHenson) Carr. His father was a native of Ireland, and came to America when a young man and located in Canada, where he was married, and lived until 1865, when he moved to Hamilton County, Iowa, and settled in Rose Grove Township, where he still lives. J. J. is the second of a family of four sons and two daughters. He was reared in his native country and Iowa, and was given the benefits of a good common school education, and is one of the intelligent and enterprising young men of the township. He has a good farm of 180 acres, well improved, with good resi- dence and farm buildings. He is engaged in general farming and stock-raising, and some of the finest stock in the county can be found on his farm. He was married September 6, 1883, to Hattie Hennefin, a native of Hardin County, Iowa, daughter of Calvin E. and Malinda R. (Cacfin) Hennefin. To them have been born two children — Nora Emma and Cora Rebecca. In politics Mr. Carr is a Democrat. He has served as a member of the school board, taking an active interest in the cause of education and all interests of benefit to the community. He is a public- spirited man, and is a liberal supporter of all enterprises that tend to elevate the people of the county, as well as all that promise ad- vancement to its material interests. » S i i! « mOMAS PRINGLE, section 3, Cass ■^lipf Township, was born near the Falls of ^ the Ohio River, in Indiana, June 18, 1818, a son of William and Elizabeth (Shaufner) Pringle, liis father a native of England, and his mother of Germany. When he was a babe his parents moved to Green Couuty, Kentucky, and when he was four- teen years old they moved to Clarke Coun- ty, Ohio, and thence in 1835, to Warren County, Indiana. The year following his majority lie spent in Allen County and then went to Illinois, and in 1841 came to the Territory of Iowa, and entered land near Keokuk, where he lived until 1874, when he moved to Hamilton County, and located on the land which is his present home. He first bought 160 acres and later eighty more, and now has it all well improved, with good buildings, and everything that goes to make a pleasant home. The White Fox Creek flows through this land, and in addition to this there are three springs of good water on it, thus affording plenty of water for his stock. Mr. Pringle was married September 29, 1842, to Nancy Welch, daughter of William and Margaret Welch. To them were born twelve children— P. M., J. A., Cevilla, Nacy F., Sarah, Samantha, Charles A., Douglas, Arnold, Fernando W., Delfaretta, and Ed- ward. Mrs. Pringle died January 4, 1884. March 15, 1888, Mr. Pringle married Mrs. Annie Church, daughter of Perry and Han- nah Tharp, her father a native of England and her mother of Pennsylvania. Both died in Ohio. In politics Mr. Pringle is a Demo- WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 847 crat. He is a public-spirited man, but has never aspired to official honors, preferring the quiet of rural life to that of a public servant. ■°i-ii iS » 3i it ' ^ i" " ■ tRRlN M. BALDWIN, farmer and stock raiser, section 29, Independence Township, was born in Crawford Coun- ty," Pennsylvania, June 19, 1844, a son ot Warren and Lucy (Woodard) Baldwin. His parents moved to Black Hawk County, Iowa, in 1853, arriving in Waterloo December 2. He grew to manhood amid the pioneer scenes of Black Hawk County, receiving but limited educational advantages. He remained at home until his majority and then bought a farm in Black Hawk County, which he im- proved and made his home until 1869, when he came to Hamilton County and bought his present farm, which at that time was a tract of wild prairie land. He now owns a fine farm of 340 acres, all under a good state of cultivation, with a pleasant residence and comfortable farm buildings. In politics Mr. Baldwin is a Republican. He was elected constable of his township in 1885. He is a member of the Christian church. J. ALLEN, proprietor of the pioneer harness shop of Webster City, has been ^"^ in business in this city since 1871. He has always had a good trade and has customers to whom he has sold harnesses for seventeen years. In the booming days of the town his sales amounted to $10,000 per year. He keeps a full line of horse furnishing goods, and his prices are always as low as the low- est. Mr. Allen was born in Cayuga County, New York, in June, 1821, a son of Miles and Mai-y Allen. When he was ten years old he began to work at the harness-maker's trade, and when twenty years old went to Greene County, Illinois. -Later he worked at Quincy, Ottawa and Peoria, Illinois, and from December, 1863, until July, 1864, he was employed by the Government and had charge of the harness cutting department at Little Rock, ATkansas. Mr. Allen was mar- ried in Greene County, Illinois, to Mary M. Hunt, a native of Yermont. They have two children — Edwin, of Michigan, and Fannie, of Minnesota. In politics Mr. Allen is a Democrat. G. LAYNE, section 7, Hamilton Township, is one of the well-known ® citizens of the county. He was born in Floyd County, Kentucky, in March, 1841, son of John and Elizabeth Layne. In 1861 he went to Edgar County, Illinois, and in 1862 enlisted in the First Missouri Engineers. He served in the ranks about six months and then was transferred to the blacksmith de- partment where he remained the greater part of the rest of his term. He was with Sher- man at Atlanta and on the march to the sea, returning to Washington via the Carolinas. At the close of the war he returned to Ed- gar County and later went to Kentucky, and in the fall of 1865 came to Hamilton Coun- ty, Iowa, and bought forty acres of land which is a part of his present homestead. He has since bought 120 acres and now owns 160 acres of Hamilton Township's best land. He has a shop on his land and does quite a business at his trade, it being a great con- venience to his neighbors. He has en- gaged in the mercantile business several years at difierent times, at one time having a store on his land, and a,t the same time was 348 BIOGRAPHICAL REGOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF postmaster of what was Eed Cedar postoffice. Later he was in business at "Webster City and then at Jewell and Stanhope. Mr. Layne is a good business man and by his straight- forward dealing gained the coniidence of his patrons. In politics he is independent. He is a member of the Odd Fellows order and the Grand Army of the Republic. He and his wife are members of the United Brethren church. Mr. Layne was married February 11, 1868, to Mary E. Adams, daughter of James Adams, a pioneer of Hamilton County. They have six children — James, Effie, Lewis, Har- mon, Ivy, and Bessie. --1*^-:-:-' pAM KEPLER, of Stanhope, Iowa, is one of the well-known early settlers of Hamilton County. In the spring of 1855, in company with his brother Solomon, he left Summit County, Ohio, traveling by rail to Dubuque, Iowa, and thence walked to Fort Dodge. Adam bought a section of land in Clear Lake Township, Hamiltop County, remaining in this county until the following fall, when he returned to Ohio. His parents, George and Catharine (Marsh) Kepler, died in Portage Township, Summit County, Ohio, in 1844, of typhoid fever, calomel, blood-letting and doctor's skill, the father aged thirty-four and the mother thirty years, leaving their little children, the eldest twelve and the youngest two years old, to " paddle their own canoe." The father was born near Canton, Ohio, and the mother near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The latter's mother sang at the funeral of General "Wash- ington; her maternal grandfather Beers was a judge of the civil courts. Relatives of both the parents took part in the struggle for in- dependence. The mother made her trip across the AUeghanies to her new Ohio home in a large Pennsylvania schooner drawn by four large draft horses when but three years old. The father's parents, John and Mary (Cramei-) Kepler, had preceded the mother's parents, Adam and Susannah (Beers) Marsh, some ten years, coming about 1807. All were natives of eastern Pennsylvania, the father's ancestors of Swiss and Fi'anco-German origin and the mother's of German, English and Scotch-Irish nationalities. In religious con- viction all were_ Protestants, first of the "Waldensian and Huguenot type on the father's side, and of the Quaker and Cove- nanter type on the mother's side. Of their immediate ancestors some were G-ernian Re- formed, some Quakers and some Presbyterian, and all as fugitives from persecution, hastened to the land of the free, where each could worship according to the dictates of his own conscience. From such a combination the hereditary tendency would be to a race that would do its own thinking and acting in re- gard to matters, political, scientific, philo- sophical and religious, resulting in a vigorous, self-respecting radicalism, joined with a healthy conservatism, which ever turns from titles and authority to truth and right. "With such an ancestry their children, as pure Americans, are naturally in the forefront of American feeling, thought and action. None of the children have ever brought even a shadow upon the honored name of the father and mother, whose lives as devoted, pious, consecrated Christians, enjoying a present, joyous, full salvation, remain vividly in the memory of those who knew them, and who speak of them as too good for earth, and for the good of the earth too brief their career. Oft in the years of their orphanage have these sons and daughters held and expressed the conviction that the prayers of their saint- ed parents have brought the protecting shield of their heavenly Father twixt them and WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 349 harm, with the Eternal Spirit to guide, and comfort, and strengthen them. Their chil- dren were six in number, four sdns and two daughters. Adam, the eldest, was married in 1858 to Elizabeth Myers, and in April of the same year they came to Hamilton County and settled on the land he had previously entered, on the east bank of the Boone River, where they lived until their removal to the village of Stanhope. They have had eleven children, but five of whom are living — Will- iam L., George F., Otis W., Cora J. and Emma M. Mr. Kepler has taken an active part in all public enterprises, especially in the cause of education, and has taught school in the winter several years, the summer being devoted to the care of his farm. He organ- ized the first Sunday-school in Hamilton Township, and has since worked in the school either as superintendent or teacher. He has also served as secretary of the county Sunday- school association. He has held various official positions in the township, such as clerk, assessor and justice of the peace. Three of the brothers are residents of Ham- ilton County, and among its most respected citizens. Solomon, in October, 1858, bought land four miles south of Webster City, some eighty rods west of the banks of the Boone Eiver, where with his wife, Philene Dennison, of New Portage, Ohio, he still lives. They have reared a family of seven children, one son and six daughters — Mary K., Delila J., Lopedia A., Ehoda, Eosa, Susie M. and Jacob William. In 1859 Alfred Kepler came to the county from Steuben County, Indiana, where he had married Mrs. Eliza Dunham, and settled on a farm adjoining the town of Stanhope, his residence being on the east side of the street, opposite that of his brother Adam. His children are — Isaac C, Ida E., Edward B., William, Jay, AldieM. and Lizzie A. Adam and Alfred were among the found- ers of the town of Stanhope, and have given substantial aid to its growth. The youngest brother, Eev. William Kepler, Ph. D., for over three years a soldier in the Array of the Potomac, an ex-professor and ex-president of Baldwin University, is a member of, and secretary of the North Ohio Annual Confer- ence of the Methodist Episcopal church. The sisters, Mrs. Mary Sours, and Mrs. Susan Snyder, are the wives of much esteemed and well-to-do farmers near Akron, Ohio. The entire family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and as actively engaged as their circumstances will permit in the pro- motion of the intellectual, moral and spiritual growth of those around them. ~^»|^'^wf~|«— ILLIAM WILKE, section 3, Eose Grove Township, is a native of Wis- consin, born in Watertown, April 2, 1852, a son of John and Mary (Knuths) Wilke. In 1867 his parents moved to Iowa and settled in Wright County, where he grew to manhood. He was reared a farmer, and on reaching his majority engaged in agricultural pursuits on his own account. His first pur- chase of land was 160 acres in Wright County, to which he afterward added eighty acres, and still later 200 acres, making a fine farm of 440 acres. In 1880 he moved to Williams, Hamilton County, and for four years was engaged in buying and shipping grain and live stock, building what is known as the Hayse elevator. In 1885 he again turned his attention to agriculture and settled on the farm where he now li%'es, which contains 446 acres in Eose Grove Township, and forty-six acres in Hardin County, located two miles from the town of Williams. Mr. Wilke was married in 1871 to Kate Eice, and to them have been born four children — Herman j 350 BIOGBAPHIOAL REGOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OJf Leoni, John and William. In politics Mr. Wilke is a Democrat. He has served as as- sessor "of Eose Grove Township, and although he has only resided in the township a few years, is one of her prominent citizens. » S t tS " ^[HAELES ALDEICH.— The subject of this notice was born in the town of Ellington, Chautauqua County, New York, October 2, 1828, the eldest son of Stephen and Eliza Aldrich. His early edu- cation was obtained in the country schools of that day, with one year at the old academy at Jamestown. But these educational facilities ended when he was sixteen years of age. The family had meantime removed to the adjoin- ing county of Cattaraugus, visiting at Cold Spring and Bucktooth Mills, on the Allegany Eiver, but finally settled on a farm in the town of Little Valley. He first entered the law ofiSce of Hon. William P. Angel, of El- licottsville, in the county of Cattaraugus, but impaired health after some months compelled him to abandon his purpose. In June, 1846, he went to Buffalo and learned type-setting in the office of the Western Literary Messen- ger, conducted by Clement & Eaxon. Years afterward Clement was one of the editors of the Dubuque Titnes. When he had mastered the mysteries of printing in a city office, he started out to work his way up in the profes- sion of newspaper making, which has a strong fascination for so many ambitious young men. He worked as a compositor on papers in Attica and Warsaw, and crossing over into Pennsylvania spent some time on the Wwrren Mail, a paper which " still lives." He had in the meantime, while working at the case, acquired the habit of picking up local items of interest, putting them in form in the " stick," without written copy. He was a born journalist, and his sharp items attracted attention from the editor, met his approval and added zest and spice to the local column which the public did not fail to observe and appreciate. In June, 1850, the young printer of twenty- two made his first newspaper venture in the town of Eandolph, New York, where he launched the Cattaraugus Sachem, and as editor, publisher, printer, foreman and press- man, kept his paper running a year. Having acquired confidence in himself as a newspaper man, he removed to Glean, a much larger town, and for several years published the Glean Journal. His paper was never dull — it was always aggressive and thoroughly wide- awake. He attracted the attention of Hon. Eeuben E. Fenton, then a rising young poli- tician of Chautauqua County, who afterward became Governor and United States Senator, and held a warm friendship for Mr. Aldrich to the day of his death. The great unsettled West was always the unexplored land of promise to the enterpris- ing and ambitious young men of the Eastern States, and Iowa was in 1857 attracting to its broad prairies thousands of the brightest and most energetic of the overflowing population of the older members of the Union. Young Aldrich studied the map of Iowa, and on a cold winter night, in February, 1857, the stage coach landed him in the little frontier village of Webster City. About two hundred other young and adventurous people had preceded him, and he thought the ambitious county seat should have a newspaper. So thought the citizens generally, and on June 29, 1857, the Hamilton Freemxin appeared, and at once began to make itself felt out over the prairies of the beautiful Boone Eiver Valley. The newly-born Eepublican party of Iowa was not yet three years old. 'Y\\& Free- man was true to its name and its stalwart S-^.fftyT'.BS-^r-lS-ir'.-hZarslajSc'-''^ WEBSTER AITD HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 353 blows were showered with unflinching vigor upon the Democratic party and the aggressive slave power which then dominated the policy of the national Government. "Webster City and Fort Dodge were the chief towers of Northwestern Iowa, and their founders, lead- ing citizens and Federal officials were all staunch Democrats. The Sentinel, at Fort Dodge, was an able and aggressive Demo- cratic paper, conducted with marked ability by A. S. White, who died in the prime of early manhood many years ago. Down at Boonsboro " Lnte" Sanders, a most brilliant paragraphist, was struggling with poverty to keep alive his Boone County News. ' He too, so genial, kind and generous, sank into an early grave. These three men and papers, in % 1857, represented all of the thirty counties of Northwestern Iowa. The men were young and full of enthusiasm, and in my judgment, no three citizens of that great Northwestern corner of our State have ever contributed more toward its development into what it is now, and is to be, than Aldrich, White and Sanders. They never issued a paper that did not beneficially advertise the beauties, fertility and unsurpassed resources of that magnificent region, drained by the Boone, the Upper Des Moiues, the Little and Big Sioux and the great Missouri Eivers and their tributaries. These pioneer newspaper men often lived on coarse fare, lodged in rude cabins, toiled at the case and hand-press fifteen hours a day, fought mosquitoes, fever and ague, and each other (politically) year after year, but let some homesick traveler publicly disparage Northwestern Iowa — and they sprung for his scalp with the fresh vigor and unity of pur- pose that would inspire a Sioux war camp! In the political campaigns of those stirring times, when the aggressive young Kepublican party was leveling its shafts at the slave power and the old time-honored Democracy, hard blows were given and taken. Major William Williams, John F. Duncombe, J. M. Stock- dale, of Fort Dodge, and the Willson brothers of Webster City, were the Democratic lead- ers, and the Fort Dodge Sentinel was their organ. Charles B. Richards and C. C. Car- penter, of Fort Dodge, and Charles Pomeroy, of Boonesboro, with Charles Aldrich at Web- ster City, all young and full of enthusiasm, led the new Republican cause, and the Free- man was their organ. The Freeman never dodged a blow — never issued a dull number — and never failed to draw blood in these po- litical battles. No other paper in Iowa at that period was oftener quoted than, the Hamilton Freeman. It was the ablest sup- porter of Governor Grimes for United States Senator in the campaign of 1857, although Dubuque and a strong combination of north- ern Iowa Republicans worked desperately to defeat him with a northern candidate. Mr. Aldrich called the first Republican convention held in Hamilton County, and was for years the leading spirit of the party in Webster City. In the winter of 1860 Mr. Aldrich's services were recognized by the Republican party of the State in his election unanimously, without opposition, as the chief clerk of the Iowa House of Representatives. He served that body with such marked ability, that he was re-elected in 1862 and 1866, and again in 1870. During his eight years service as clerk of the House, Mr. Aldrich originated and drafted many important acts which are incorporated into the statutes of our State. Chief among these were the change in county government, from the County Judge system of one-man power, to the New York system of a Board of Supervisors. Previous to 1860 the Reports of the State Officers and State Institutions had not been preserved in bound volumes, and many of those of early years consequently lost— not a single copy were 354 BIOOBAPEICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF being found even in our State Library. Mr. Aldrich drafted a resolution, and secured its passage through both branches of the General Assembly, by which these invaluable Reports have ever since been bound in books knovpn as " Public Documents," thus preserving for future history the most important facts con- nected with the State's progress. Mr. Al- drich was largely instrumental in securing the act which provided for the continuance of the geological survey of the State by that eminent Iowa scientist, Dr. Charles A. White. He drafted, and by persistent work, secured the enactment into law of severe penalties for the wanton slaughter of harmless birds, and those wbich subsist chiefly on destructive insects. He has for years in the press of the State urged the strict enforcement of that law, and aroused a public sentiment that has rendered its violation hazardous to the law- breakers. This law was warmly commended by the natural history periodicals of England at the time of its enactment. The originators and founders of our State Agricultural College have always bad in Mr. Aldrich an earnest advocate and a devoted working friend. In 1862 Mr. Aldrich locked the doors of the Freeman office, and entered with hosts of other patriotic young men into the ranks of the great Union army that was organized to preserve the Government from destruction. He was appointed Adjutant of the Thirty-second Iowa Infantry, Hon. John Scott, Colonel. After about tw.o years of service he returned to Iowa, and was soon to be commissioned Major of the Tenth Cavalry when orders came suspend- ing the organization of the regiment, as no more cavalry was liicely to be needed. He was tendered a place on the staff of General M. M. Crocker when that officer was ordered to Arizona, but his business affairs rendered it impracticable to leave home. In 1865 he was chief editor of the Dubuque Daily Times, and in 1866 purchased the Marshalltown Times, and published it some three years. He has at different times held editorial positions on the Waterloo Courier, Council Bluffs iV^ow- pareil, and Chicago Inter-Ocean. In 1871 he retired to a beautiful farm on the Boone River, not far from Webster City, where he has gathered one of the rarest pri- vate libraries ia the State. In 1873 he was commissioned with two othet citizens of the State, by Governor Carpenter (by authority of the Legislature), to investigate the rights and claims of settlers on the Des Moines River lands, who were being dispossessed of their homes under decisions of the United States Supreme Court. The labors of the commission resulted in an act of Congress, by which the President appointed a commission to examine and report further upon the sto^ws of these claims. Mr. Aldrich was appointed by President Grant a member of the commis- sion, and in accordance with its recommenda- tion a bill was passed by the House, providing relief by indemnity, but it failed in the Senate. In 1875 Mr. Aldrich was a member of the geo- logical survey of Southern Colorado and Utah, under Professor F. Y. Haydeu. He wrote a very interesting series of letters for the Inter Ocean, descriptive of the wild regions for- merly occupied by the " Cliff dwellers," which attracted wide attention and added to the knowledge of the scientific world many inter- esting items of discovery. In 1862-'64: Dr., William A. Hammond was Surgeon-General of the United States Army, where he became widely distinguished for the extraordinary ability with which he completely reorganized the medical and hospital service. But he came into unpleasant relations— " crossed swords," so to speak — with Edwin M. Stanton, the gentlemanly secre- tary. The result of this historical case was that Dr. Hammond was court-martialed and WEB8TES AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 355 most unjustly dismissed from the service. He had really outlived whatever odium at- tached to this severe "continuing" sentence, and acquired the highest social and pro- fessional position. But he determined to appeal to lawyers for the necessary authority to allow the President to review the case and set aside the findings of the court-martial. At this stage of the proceedings Dr. H. selected Mr. Aldrich as his representative and manager in securing the necessary legislation. Mr. A. presented the case to Congress (1877- '78), and had the satisfaction of seeing the bill passed unanimously by the House, and with but one dissenting vote in the Senate. The President thereupon appointed a board of military officers of high rank to review the case, and the result was, that some months latex, this most unjust sentence was set aside, and Dr. Hammond was restored to the army register as Surgeon-General retired, with the rank of Brigadier-General. In 1877 Mr. Aldrich with others saw the evils resulting to the business interests of the State from the unwise attempt of the Legisla- ture to fix arbitrary freight rates on the various lines of railroad. He visited Mas- sachusetts and examined the workings of the commissioner system there in operation, found it to work well, and returning presented the facts to the public through the press, awaken- ing a general discussion of the entire system of regulating transportation by common carriers, which resulted in the enactment by the next Legislature of a commissioner system similar to the Massachusetts plan. In 1882 Mr. Aldrich was a member of the House from Hamilton County, where he made his famous fight against the giving of " free passes" to public oflicers by railroad officials. The able and fearless manner in which he exposed this long established abuse of attempt- ing to secure favors from judges and legisla- tors in their official capacity, by the railroad corporations, in return for free transportation for themselves and families, gave him a na- tional reputation. His powerful speech in support of his bill to prohibit and punish this species of bribery of our law-makers and law- expounders was published in the leading journals of America and noticed in several of the great newspapers of England and France. It gave rise to a general discussion of the practice in all of its bearings, from the neigh- borhood gathering to the halls of Congress. The North, American Review, the greatest non-partisan periodical of our country, invited Mr. Aldrich and Judge IST. M. Hubbard, of Cedar Eapids, to present arguments for and against the practice, as the two most noted antagonists assailing and defending it. The estimate which that magazine placed upon the relative merits of the two papers, thus prepared for its columns, may be inferred from the title the editor bestowed upon the subject in controversy, viz: " Bribery by Eail- way Passes." In response to the allegations of Mr. Aldrich " that, in the distribution of free passes to the judges of our courts, who must decide legal contests between the citizen and the railway corporation, and to the legis- lators who enact our laws, the people believe the passes are granted to influence friendly decisions or laws for such corporations; if not, why are they given to such officials." Judge Hubbard was constrained to admit that they were given " to ward off hostile legislation and unjust judgments of the courts, begotten of prejudice." l^o more conclusive evidence is needed to establish the fact that free passes to public officials are given to influence decisions of courts and the votes of legislators, in a way friendly to the givers of these favors. In 1882, when Mr. Aldrich made the tight against free passes to public officers, th S56 BIOORAPHIGAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF papers of this and other States were with rare exceptions solidly against him and most bitter and vituperative in their denunciation. The railroad commissioners ridiculed the author of such a radical reform. No political party had condemned the free pass, and the bill had to be passed upon by a Legislature — each member of which had free passes in his pocket. And yet, such was the ability with which Mr. Aldrich urged the reform, and pressed it to a vote, that his bill won the votes of more than one-third of the members of the House. In 1883 the reform had made such marked progress that the Eepublican State Convention incorporated it in the platform of the party, thus handsomely endorsing his effort; and two years later Congress enacted a law intended to abolish the whole demoraliz- ing system. In 1884 Mr. Aldrich donated to the State his large and valuable collection of manu- scripts, autograph letters and engraved por- traits, representing hundreds of the most famous authors, poets, statesmen, scientists, emperors, kiiigs, and all grades of statesmen, reformers and military notables. Altogether it is a collection of rare interest and great value. His purpose is to add to this collec- tion from year to year, during his life-time, until it shall become one of the largest and rarest in America. One case will be devoted exclusively to Iowa notables, embracing statesmen, pioneers, military men of note. State officials, editors, authors, educators, etc., with brief biographical sketches and steel portraits, with autographs and any valuable manuscripts, commissions, etc., that may be obtained. The " Aldrich collection" is one of the greatest attractions of the Capitol, and will grow in interest and value as the years pass away. It is a noble monument to the generous donor, and will connect his memory for all time with the State he has helped to develop during all the years of his mature life. Early in 1887 Mr. Aldrich started a move- ment to place in the Hamilton County Court House a beautiful and durable brass tablet, commemorating the heroic expedition to Spirit Lake in 1857, and giving the roster of Company C, which was raised in Hamilton County. He prepared and circulated a peti- tion to the Board of Supervisors, which was signed by every man to whom it was pre- sented, with but two or three exceptions. The board appropriated $300 for this purpose, and Mr. Aldrich was appointed chairman of a committee to improvise the work. He prepared the inscription and secured the making of the tablet, by Messrs. J. & K. Lamb, the well-known artists of New York City. The tablet was unveiled at a great meeting on the. 12th of August, 1887, at which Governor William Larrabee presided. Two thousand people were present, and it became necessary to organize an " overflow meeting" in the Court House grounds, over which Mr. Aldrich presided. Addresses were made by Governor Larrabee, Ex-Governor C. C. Carpenter, General Charles B. Richards, "William K. Laughlin, Hon. John F. Dun- combe, John N. Maxwell, Michael Sweeney, Hon. L. A. McNurray and Charles Aldrich. All except Governor Larrabee and the two last named were survivors of the expedition. This tablet is unquestionably the finest his- torical monument in the State. The survivors of the expedition related in thrilling language the scene, sufferings and heroic endurance of the brave band of men, who, on a smaller scale re-enacted the trage- dies of JSfapoleon's winter retreat from Mos- cow, and endured sufferings hardly less severe. Their speeches afford the amplest material for the history of this most interest- ing episode in early Iowa annals. In his WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 357 retirement to Ws quiet country home on the banks of Boone River, Mr. Aldrich finds rare enjoyment among his books, and the extensive correspondence that results from his continued work on his growing collection for the State. He is a great lover of birds and domestic animals, many of which are his choice pets. No Iowa editor has written more good words for his adopted State and its noble and worthy men and women than Mr. Aldrich. His generous nature is always prompting him to recall to public memory the good deeds of those who have served our State in days gone by. He has no malice in his nature; for as death has from time to time stricken down those who were once his most bitter political or personal foes, his pen has been the first to recall their virtues and recount their good deeds. I have known Charles Aldrich intimately since the winter of 1860, and have learned to appreciate his untiring public spirit, which is ever prompting him by pen or voice to do something for the betterment of Iowa, its laws, institutions and people. During ten years of service with him in various capaci- ties in our State Legislature, I have never known him to advocate a bad measure, or to withhold his earnest support from a good one. If all his public acts are ever recorded, I -believe it will be found that he has pro- posed, drafted or suggested, more wholesome laws now on our statute books than any other citizen of Iowa. As a worker for or against a man or measure, I have never seen his equal. He has made as many hard fights in political contests, said and written as many severe criticisms, helped to beat as many men as any man among us. But while he is an untiring worker against the man or measure he opposes, it is equally true that he is even more persistent in behalf of those who enjoy his esteem and friendship. Many are the men in Iowa who have arisen to place and power through the influences he has set at work in their behalf; and too few of them have had the manhood or fidelity to a friend to stand by him as he stood by them in the hour of need. For many years Mr. Aldrich has con- tributed valuable articles to the American Naturalist and other scientific and literary publications. He possesses an intimate knowledge of the current literature of this country and Europe, of books, periodicals, authors and their works, in both the old and new world, that is rarely found among west- ern people. As a conversationalist he is rarely surpassed, as there is hardly a subject in the range of ordinary thought that he has not investigated; and his extensive travels in America and Europe have stored his mind with a fund of knowledge which he imparts in the simple language of one who has mingled with the best thinkers, writers and talkers of the times. B. F. Geee. Des Moines, Iowa, May 27, 1888. D. GOIT, coal-dealer, Webster City, was born in Oswego County, New * York, in 1826, a son of David and Lucinda (Alfred) Goit, natives of the same county, where they spent their lives. Of their family of eight children four are living — E. D.;MaryL., wife of Nelson Evarts; Margaret L., wife of S. L. Nichols, of Oswego, New York, and Jennette L., wife of M. Evarts, of California. The maternal grand- father of our subject, Shubal Alfred, was a soldier in the war of 1812. David Goit was a prominent business man of Oswego, owning both a store and mill, and when E. D. was old enough he was taken into the store as a 358 BIOGRAPHICAL BEGOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF clerk. He, however, disliked the business, and accordingly went to work in the mill, and for several years had charge of one of the largest flouring mills in Oswego. In 1861 he enlisted at the first call of President Lin- coln for 75,000 men, and helped to raise Company H, of the Twenty-fourth New York Infantry, of which he was appointed Second Lieutenant. His regiment was assigned to the Army of the Potomac and participated in thirteen engagements, the most prominent being the second battle at Bull's Eun, An- tietam, Fredericksburg and Chancellors ville. For nine months he served as Quartermaster. He was in the service two years and three months, when he was honorably discharged and returned home, and was soon after ap- pointed recruiting officer of Oswego Dis- trict, No. 2. After the war he engaged in the mercantile business until 1879, when he moved to Webster City, Iowa, and in 1880 became established in his present business. He was married in 1852 to Elvira E. Eichard- son, daughter of John M. Kichardson, a prominent citizen of Oswego County. They have two children — Carrie L. and Jeanette L. In politics Mr. Goit is a Kepublican. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. He and his family are members of the Con- gregational church. i-5»-t^i ffOHNSON LATTA, section 23, Fremont I Township, was born in Ashland County, Ohio, March 14, 1846, a son of John and Mary (White) Latta, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Maryland. When he was a child his parents moved to Jackson County, Iowa, and there he was reared and educated. In 1873 he came to Hamilton County and located on the farm where he now lives, which he had bought the year before, and had twenty-five acres broke. He built a part of his present residence that year, completing it in 1878. His 160 acres are now under cultivation, and his farm is one of the best in Fremont Township. Mr. Latta was married February 15, 1872, to Miss Lizzie O'Neal, a daughter of Michael and Elizabeth (McMahon) O'Neal. They have three children — Mary E., Agnes L. and Eosa. In politics Mr. Latta is a Democrat. He is a prominent citizen of his township, and has served as trustee, making a faithful and con- scientious servant of his fellow citizens. |EOEGE FEOST, one of the pioneer business men of Hamilton County, located in Williams in the spring of 1870. He erected the first business house, sold the first goods, and built the first dwell- ing in the town of Williams. He is a native of England, born in Derbyshire, January 13, 1820, a son of John and Ann (Simpson) Frost. When he was ten years old his . parents came with their family to the United States and located in Pottsville, Pennsyl- vania, and a few years later moved to Pitts- burg, where he grew to manhood. In 1842 they moved to Dubuque, Iowa, where they died. George was the son of parents who were in limited circumstances, and in his yonth he was obliged to assist in his own maintenance, and for several years worked in the coal mines. In 1846 he followed his parents to Dubuque, and worked in the lead mines until 1870, when he came to Hamil- ton County, and located at Williams. In 1880 he sold his interests to his son George, and has since been practically retired from active business life. He was married in March, 1843, to Elizabeth Winders, who was born in Pittsburg, in October, 1823, a daughter of WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 359 Joseph and Alice (Barker) Winders, natives of England, who came to America in 1818. Mr. and Mrs. Frost have had ten children, live of whom are living — Alice, wife of James Coles, of Rose Grove Township; Ann, widow of Isaac Brown; John, a leading bus- iness man of Williams; Elizabeth, wife of Alvin Smith, of Rose Grove Township, and Sarah, wife of B. F. Corbin, of Williams. Four of their children died in infancy, and one son, George, died in January, 1885, aged twenty-nine years, leaving a wife and one child, William H. In politics Mr. Frost is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. H. HOWARD is a native of Indiana, born in Shelby County, May 13, ® 1847, a son of James Howard. In 1850 his parents moved to Missouri and settled in Mercer County, and in 1862 moved to Jackson County, Iowa. He remained at home until his majority, and in 1868 came to Hamilton County. He worked for other parties until 1874, when he bought eighty acres of land, which he has improved and added to until he now owns a landed estate of 1,730 acres, all under cultivation. In ad- dition to his vast farming interests he is en- gaged in the grain business having five elevators at as many different stations, and in 1887 he carried 150,000 bushels of ^rain. He does an annual business in grain and stock of $150,000. He is the original pro- prietor of the town site of Kamrar, where he was the first merchant and still carries a good stock of general merchandise. Mr. Howard was married February 28, 1872, to Sarah Jane Grill, a native of Jackson County, Iowa, daughter of John and Martha (Trump) Grill, natives of Pennsylvania, of German ancestry. Mr. and Mrs. Howard have had five children — Austin, James, Asher, Lewis and Emma. In politics Mr. Howard is a strong supporter of the Republican party. |EORGE MERRILL, section 25, "Fre- mont Township, was born in Washing- ton County, New York, August 7, 1842, a son of John and Jane (Hopkins) Merrill, his father a native of Hebron, Hart- ford County, Connecticut, and his mother of Sandgate, Bennington County, Vermont. His father died in 1850 and in 1854 his mother moved with her family to Kendall County, Illinois, later coming to Iowa, and died in Estherville in April, 1888. George Merrill was reared a farmer, but was given good educational advantages, attending school in his native county and in Yorkville, Illi- nois. After the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion in August, 1861, he enlisted in the defense of his country and was assigned to. Company E, Thirty-sixth Illinois Infantry, which became a part of the Army of the Cumberland. He participated in the battle of Perry ville and Stone River, where he was wounded December 31, 1862, a musket ball entering his body between the sixth and seventh left ribs, and he still carries the rebel lead in his body. He was also captured and was held a prisoner four days, when he was retaken by the Union forces. He was known to have been wounded and was re- ported among the dead. He was taken to the hospital at JSashville, where he remained three months under the care of a cousin, Dr. Hopkins, now a prominent physician of Kendall County. He was discharged from the service on account of disability and re- turned home, where he remained until 1865, when he came to Iowa and located in Fre- 360 BIOGRAPHIOAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF mont TownshiiJ, Hamilton County, where he has since lived. He entered 160 acres of wild land, which he has converted into a fine farm, and has added to it until he now owns 400 acres. His farm is located four miles northwest of Webster City, in one of the pleasantest portions of Hamilton County. Mr. Merrill was married in December, 1866, to Frances Helen Johnson, a native of Ver- mont, daughter of Daniel and Avis (Gray) Johnson, early settlers of Kendall County, Illinois. Mr. atid Mrs. Merrill have three children — Daniel, Unth and Phillip. In politics Mr. Merrill casts his suffrage inde- pendent of party ties. He has always taken an active interest in public affairs, and has served as justice of the peace, township trustee, and as secretary of the school board. tEWIS CEAEY. — In presenting a record of the lives of the men who have made Hamilton County one of the foremost in the State of Iowa, we feel that it would be incomplete did it not contain a sketch of him whose name stands at the head of this brief article. His grandfather, Eoger Crary, was born in Scotland about the year 1710, and came to this country with his brother, Peter Crary, in 1758, settling in Ashford Coun- ty, Connecticut. Eoger Crary had two sons, John and Joseph, the latter being the grand- father of Lewis. He was born at Ashford, Connecticut, about 1758. He was a Eevolu- tionary soldier and officer answering to the title of Major. He was a prisoner in the cele- brated "sugar house" in New York, and would have starved to death but for a lady, who mistaking him for a friend, sent him presents of provisions. At last an interview was granted her, when she discovered her mistake, but fortunately for the future generation of Crarys, she continued to befriend him and thus saved his life. Subsequent to the war he married Polly Proctor, the daughter of Leonard Proctor, of Proctorville, Vermont, and to them were born five children — Leonard Proctor, Aaron K., Joseph S., Achsah, and Louis. Leonard Proctor Crary was born in Cavendish, Vermont, February 27, 1790, and died at Black Eock, New York, March 6, 1836, being at the time of his death collector of customs for the port of Black Eock. He was twice married. To his first marriage were born four children — Elizabeth Ann, Oscar F., Leonard P. and Harriet. His second wife was Sarah Harris, who was born at Scipio, Cayuga County, New York, No- vember. 18, 1803, and died at Harris Hill, near Buffalo, March 23, 1869. They had a family of six children — Charles, Caroline, George, William, Mary and Lewis, Charles and Mary being the only ones living. Lewis Ci"ary, the youngest of the family, was was born at Avon Springs, New York, Jan- uary 27, 1886, three months prior, to his father's death. The family was left in straightened circumstances, and all through his early boyhood Lewis saw his mother struggle to keep her family together, and when but thirteen years old he manfully as- sumed his own support with all its cares and responsibilities. Choosing the life of a sailor he began at the lowest round, and how well he served may be judged from his record, which shows him advancing step by step until he reached the position of first mate. At this time he was offered the command of a passenger steamer plying the lakes between Buffalo and Chicago, and left the ocean to assume the new role at the age of twenty-three years. In December, 1859, he was married to Alzada Bowman, second daughter of E. H. Bowman, of Bowmansville, New York. Ten years later he left the water ^V'^iXeMotiStA trrt.To^''''- \ — tVATV^ V/v (V>r 1 WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 363 and decided on a mercantile career. He moved with his little family to Webster City, Iowa, then a mere hamlet of a few houses, in the wilds of the prairie, its first rail- road just completed and its future all before it. What brought him to the West? He was obeying an impulse which comes to these leaders of men; to form and mold a new commercial center. He threw himself with all his energy and great natural ability into a citizenship which has left an indelible impression on the commercial, industrial and educational growth of Hamilton County. That faith in the resources of his chosen State in general and in the proud future of Webster City in particular was a principle of his existence needs not to be proved to his contemporaries. Frdm the first moment of his connection with the town never a call was made for help to further any good end that he did not stand ready with his influence and his means. For eighteen years the hardware business which he built up has been known throughout this portion of the State. He was foremost in establishing an order of Knights Templar in the city, and held the position of eminent commander year after year until his death. As a member of the Board of Education his untiring efforts for the advancement of the public school system were largely instru- mental in securing to the Webster City schools their proud place with sister schools throughout the State. During the two terms of his mayorship the town was improved by a good and sufiicient system of water works. He died June 4, 1888, of peritonitis, in the very prime and vigor of mature manhood. Surviving him are his widow and two daugh- ters — Emily Crary Jamieson and Bessie M. Crary, and one son, Charles Crary. One daughter, M. Alzada, died April 1, 1887. In the passing away of Lewis Crary Hamil- ton County lost a faithful upholder; Webster City an indefatigable promoter of public wel- fare, and a citizen who counted a life-time of giving as naught; the church a helper, and mankind a friend. ►jMf* ^ENNIS CHURCH, section 25, Cass Township, was born in Story County, Iowa, November 14, 1855, a son of Ebenezer and Caroline (Ohafflin) Church. When he was a child his parents moved to Webster City, and there he was reared and educated. When a young man he turned his attention to agriculture, and in 1877 set- tled on the farm where he now lives, which at that time was a tract of wild land. He has been energetic and industrious, and now has one of the best farms in the tovmship, and is numbered among its representative young men. He was married December 25, 1877, to Esther E., daughter of James and Hannah (Comer) Daniels. In politics Mr. Church is a Republican. " »-'i'i ? » 3i i S*^ ''"-' " fOHJSr W. FUNK, assistant cashier of the Hamilton County Bank, was born in Chester County, Pennsylvania, May 14, 1827, a son of Benjamin and Ann (Morris) Funk. His father died when he was eighteen years old, and he soon after started out to battle with life for himself. He attended the Normal Seminary at Norristown, Pennsylva- nia, and after leaving school began teaching in Chester County. In 1854 he emigrated to Illinois, and taught one year in Carroll County. He then returned to his native county, and in 1856 came to Iowa and en- tered 160 acres of Government land in Boone Township, Hamilton County. In addition S64 BIOORAPEIOAL BEOOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF to improving his land he taught school eight years. In 1866 he went to Yernon County, Missouri, and four years later to Indian Ter- ritory, and a year later returned to Missouri. After an absence of about six years he re- turned to Hamilton County, where he was employed as clerk in stores, and as book- keeper in the Hamilton County Bank, and since its organization aw a National Bank has been assistant cashier. In politics Mr. Funk is a Republican. He has served as deputy county treasurer four years. He is a sub- stantial business man, and owns a landed estate of 200 acres near Webster City, and an interest with his brother in 300 acres in another part of the county. ^^j_tJ-,l,-Ai,-»o«-. KH ^" ^^^' section 8, Cass Township, is a representative of one of the pioneer ® families of Hamilton County, his father, J. W. Lee, settling here in an early day. He was born in Cass Township March 11, 1861, and here grew to manhood, receiv- his early education in the district school, and subsequently attending E. E.. Eldridge's JSTormal School at Columbus Junction. When twenty-one years old he began teach- ing and taught six terms in his native town- ship. He now gives his attention to his farming interests, and is one of the prosper- ous young citizens of the township. Although but a young man he is numbered among the representative citizens. In politics he is a Kepublican, but of an independent order. He is now serving his township as road super- visor. He was married March 11, 1883, to Nettie Selder, a native of Jones County, Iowa, daughter of Dr. W. B. Selder. She was given a good education, and for several years was a successful school teacher. Mr. and Mrs. Lee have three children — Bessie, born March 5, 1884; John W., born Novem- ber 24, 1885, and Russell M., born October 28, 1887. F. MILLER, president of the Farmers National Bank, Webster City, is a na- * tive of Yirginia, born in the Shenan- doah Valley, February 11, 1883, a son of Richard and Mary (Allen) Miller, natives of Yirginia, of Scotch and English descent. When our subject was eleven years old he left home and began life for himself, going to La Porte, Indiana, where he was employed in a mercantile house. The first two years he worked for $50 a year. He remained in La Porte four years and then went home, re- turning to La Porte two years later, where after clerking for a time he formed a part- nership with his brother, which continued a few years. He subsequently went to New Carlisle and conducted business under the firm name of Dennis & Miller until 1867, when he came to Iowa, and has since been one of the prominent business men of Web- ster City. He established the first banking house in the place, a private bank, and many were the obstacles he was obliged to encoun- ter in carrying on that business in a new country. This bank was later merged into the Hamilton County National Bank, and Mr. Miller subsequently organized his pres- ent banking house, first under the name of B. F. Miller, later Miller & Mattice, and De- cember 17, 1885, it was changed to the Farmers' National Bank. Mr. Miller served as its vice-president until June, 1887, when he was elected its president. He has been a good financier, and his successful life is due solely to his good business management and energy. He was married September 5, 1859, to Rebecca Whitlock, a native of St. Joseph WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 365 County, Indiana, daughter of Abel "Whitlock. They have two children — Homer A., presi- dent of the First National Bank, at Eagle Grove, and Grace, wife of W. S. Brown, of Minneapolis, Minnesota. In politics Mr. Miller is a Democrat. — "' "I ' S"! * !" "" fOHN V. KEARNS, Eecorder of Ham- ilton County, was born in Warren Coun- ty, Indiana, May 4, 1842, a son of Archibald Kearns, and a grandson of Thomas Kearns, a native of Scotland, who was brought by his parents to America when an infant. The father and five sons were killed by the Indians at Fort Erie, leaving Thomas, then but two years old, to the care of Mrs. Reed Parker, by whom he was reared. When a young man he went to Ohio and thence to Indiana, and entered a section of Government land in what is now Warren County, and was there married to Elizabeth Farmer, a daughter of Enoch and Phoebe (Vistel) Farmer, natives of North Carolina, of English descent. The Fanner family settled in Warren County in an early day and laid out the town of tTtica. Archibald Kearns lived in Indiana until 1855, when he moved to Iowa and settled in Benton Coun- ty where he died in 1866, aged fifty-eight years. Our subject was thirteen years old when his father moved to Iowa and remained in Benton County until after the breaking out of the civil war when. May 18, 1861, he enlisted in the Thirteenth United States In- fantry and participated in many hard fought battles. At the battle] of Vieksburg, May 19, 1863, he was shot live times, each time breaking a bone and as a result lost his right arm, and the following September, was dis- charged. He returned to Benton County and for four years was unable to work and 37 it was seven years before tlie last ball was re- moved from his body. As soon as able he engaged in the book business, which he con- tinued for two years and for one year was in the confectionery business at Vinton, Iowa. In 1871 he came to Webster City, and in 1875 was elected recorder of Hamilton County and held the office until 1888, and in 1886 was again elected to the same position. Mr. Kearns was married September 17, 1868, to Mary J. Dostill, a native of Belgium, born April 8, 1851, a daughter of Joseph and Annie (Davis) Dostill, who came to the United States in 1856,- and settled in Linn County, Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Kearns have six children — ^William B., Charles R., Clara M., Archibald R., John H. and Flora B. They are members of the Baptist church. In politics he is a Republican. ILLIAM SPICER, farmer and stock- raiser, section 10, Webster Township, was born in Schenectady, JSTew York, October 4, 1829, a son of William and' Celia (Buss) Spicer, natives of England, who came to this country after their marriage. When he was an infant they moved to Saratoga County, New York, where they spent the rest of their lives. When he was fifteen years old he went to live with Reuben Sea- man, and remained with him until twenty- one years old, receiving for his services $100 and two suits of clothes. He then put his money out at interest and went to work for a farmer at $8 a month. He worked for wages a year and a half, when he was married and settled on a farm, where he lived two years. In the spring of 1855 he moved to Mount Carroll, Illinois, and in the fall of 1855 came to Iowa and entered eighty acres of land in Howard County. The following 3GB BIOGBAPBIOAL BECOBD AND POBTRAJT ALBUM OF spring he began the improvement of his land and built a house, and in the fall of 1856 moved his family to Iowa, making the trip with ox teams. He lived in Howard County eight years and in June, 1864, sold out and bought 160 acres of land in "Webster Township, Hamilton County, which had been partially improved and abandoned. He has improved this place and added to it until he now owns 440 acres, all under a high state of cultivation. Mr. Spicer was married No- vember 6, 1852, to Emeline Weed, a native of Saratoga County, New Yorlc, daughter of George and Elizabeth (Hall) Weed. They have no children but have reared the orphan children of Mr. Spicer's brother. In politics Mr. Spicer votes independent of party ties. He has served in several positions of trust in his township and has been school treasurer eighteen years. He and his wife are mem- bers of the Baptist church. f[OHN W. LEE, deceased, was one of Cass I Township's early pioneers. He was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, March 12; 1835, a son of Daniel and Maria (Enley) Lee. He was reared in his native country, and in 1858 came to Iowa with a team, and settled in Cass Township, Hamilton County. His first location was on section'16, but he afterward sold this and located on section 8, where he had at the time of his death a fine farm of 362 acres. In his early .life he was a school teacher and taught some of the first schools in Hamilton County. He was mar- ried November 4, 1859, to Mrs. Harriet E. Brewer, widow of A. J. Brewer, and mother of A. J. Brewer, of Cass Township, and Albert Brewer, pf Illinois. To Mr. and Mrs. Lee were born three children — P. W., Jesse L. 3,nd Q. N. In politicg Mr, Lep was q. Re- publican. He filled the most of the town- ship ofiices, being secretary of the school board nineteen years, county supervisor and county superintendent of schools several years. He was decided in his connections of right and wrong, and firmly upheld his principles. He was one of the prominent and influential men of his township, and his death, which occurred March 4, 1884, was regretted by all who knew him. OSES SNOW, section 30, Fremont Township, was born in Chautauqua 1^^ County, New York, June 12, 1821, a son of Asher and Madonna (Matthews) Snow, his father a native of Massachusetts and his mother of New York. His father was a soldier in the war of 1812. His mother died in Ohio and his father in Indi- ana. They had a family of five children — Polly, Moses, Levi, Wealthy and Jane. In 1826 the family moved to Madison County, New York, and thence in 1833 to Huron County, Ohio, where Moses was reared and lived until eighteen years of age. He was married May 2, 1842, to Wealthy Ann Fill- more, a native of Steuben County, New York, daughter of John Fillmore, who was a cousin of Millard Fillmore. In 1851 Mr. Snow moved to Noble County,- Indiana, where he was engaged in the grocery business until his stock was destroyed by fire, and then had charge of a hotel on the Pittsburg & Fort Wayne Railroad. In 1862 he came to Iowa and located at Waterloo, removing eight months later to what is now Blairsburg, where he kept a stage station about three years, when he moved to Webster City, liv- ing there about five years. While there he bought eighty acres of land in Fremont Township, on which he settled in 1871, and WEB8TBR AND HAMILTON OOUHTIES, IOWA. 367 lias since made his home. He has become one of the prominent citizens of the town- ship, having assisted materially in develop- ing its resources, and changing it from a tract of wild land into a fine farming coud- try. He has served several years as road supervisor and also as a member of the school board. Mr. and Mrs. Snow have had eight children, but four of whom are living — Sal- mon A., Frank, Izoria (wife of Jerome Sheets), and Charles. Omer died aged four years; Douglas, aged three years; Porter Kellogg, aged eighteen months, and Wilbur Alden, after reaching manhood. Wilbur A. Snow was a conductor on the Truckee Kail- road in Nevada, having risen from brakeman, and was one of the best known railroad men in Nevada. He was a promising young man, and his death was a sad blow to his parents. In politics Mr. Snow is a Republican. 5AYID MoFARLAND, section 21, Hamilton Township, was born in Champaign County, Ohio, in April, 1831, the eldest of eleven children of James and Rebecca (Yazel) McFarland. When he was eighteen years of age the family moved to McLean Couuty, Illinois, where he lived until 1855, when he came to Hamilton County, Iowa, and first located in Webster Township, where he entered eighty acres of land. This he afterward sold and bought eighty acres in Hamilton Township, where he lived until 1880, wnen he went to Kansas, but the climate of that State not agreeing with him he returned to Iowa in 1882 and bought the place where he now lives. His residence is a fine story and a half frame, built in the spring of 1882, with all modern improvements, and is a model of convenience and good taste. Mr. McFarland is a practi- cal farmer and everything about his farm indicates thrift and enterprise. In his polit- ical views he is a Republican. Although not an aspirant for oflicial honors he has served two terms on the school board. He was married August 17, 1855, to Eliza Duckett, a native of McLean County, Illi- nois, daughter of James and Martha (Adams) Duckett. They have six children — James William, Joshua Lincoln, Mary Elizabeth, Edward Franklin, Laura Belle and Barbara Luella. ARREN S. WORTHINGTON was born in Bainbridge, Chenango Coun- ty, New York, in November, 1823, a son of Theodore and Eliza (Irwing) Worth- ington, the former a native ot Massachusetts, of Scotch and English descent, and the later a native of New York. He was reared in his native village and in St. Joseph County, Michigan, attending school until sixteen years old, when he began to learn the car- penter's trade with his father, working with him until his majority. When he was twenty-one years old he began running a tobacco and cigar wagon for C. C. Brown of Toledo, his route being from St. Joseph to Toledo, and worked for him about six years. In 1856 he came to Iowa, arriving in Web- ster City April 21, and the following fifteen years worked at his trade. He has dealt extensively in lumber for a number of years, and has also given considerable attention to agriculture, having a fine farm of 480 acres, all well improved. He is a man of good business ability, and his success has been wholly dne to his good management and energetic industry. He is a prominent and esteemed citizen of Eagle Grove, and has served as magistrate, mayor and in other posi. 368 BIOQBAPEICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF tions of trust. He was married July 21, 1852, to Jane Eliza Ennis, a native of New York, daughter of William and Sarah (Gee) Ennis. Their only child died when eight months old. Mr. and Mrs. Worthington are members of the Universalist church In poli- tics he is a Republican. F. SMITH, proprietor of Seneca street livery, feed and sale stables, has been i*" in the business in Webster City since 1885. He is centrally located and is pre- pared to furnish all styles of carriages, bug- gies or phaetons. His charges are reasonable, and his gentlemanly and cordial manners win the confidence and esteem of his many patrons. He is a thorough huiness man and one of the representative men of Webster City. His horses are among the best in the county, and all can be accommodated, his stock comprising all descriptions, from a lady's car- riage horse to a heavy draft horse. Mr. Smith was born in Chautauqua County, New York, where he lived until twenty years of age. He then went to Huron County, Ohio, and in 1874 came to Iowa and lived in In- dependence until his removal to Webster City in 1885. -»-5HS-o-*H-f" lEOEGE ELY, section 24, Fremont Township, is one of the well-known farmers of Hamilton County, where he Jaas lived since 1865. He was born in Wayne County, New York, in 1839, a son of Henry H. and Nancy (Caruthers) Ely, natives of New Jersey. In 1843 the family moved to Hills- dale County, Michigan, and three years later to Stark County, Illinois, where they lived at fhe breaking out of the war of the Eebellion. In August, 1862, our subject enlisted at Lincoln's call for 300,000 men, and was as- signed to Company F, One Hundred and Twelfth Illinois Infantry. He was taken sick, and after being in the hospital some time was sent to Jefferson, Indiana, and transferred to the invalid corps, and the rest of his time was engaged in guarding the arsenal. He was discharged in July, 1865, and returned to his home in Stark County. The following October he came to Hamilton County, making the journey with a team. He had but $103 in money, and with this he bought sixty acres of land in Wright County, which he afterward traded for eighty acres in Fremont Township. In 1883 he bought his present homestead of W. S. Worthington and L. McMurray, and the George Ely farm is now one of the best in the township. His farm is located one-half mile west of the Boone River, and the soil is rich loam and well adapted to either grain or stock-raising. His residence is located on a natural building site and is surrounded by trees and shubbery. His barn is a substantial, convenient build- ing, 40x56 feet in size, and a modern wind- mill supplies an abundance of water for his stock, conveying by pipes to his different yards. Everything about the Ely farm is indicative of the thrift and enterprise of the owner. From his humble beginning in this State he has come to be one of the substantial men of Hamilton County, and while in the spring of 1866, after struggling through a hard winter, he was obliged to sell $20 worth of clothing to buy provisions for his family, in 1883 he was able to buy 320 acres of land and pay $30 an acre for it. Thus may be seen the result of a few years of honest toil added to economy and good management. Mr. Ely was married May 9, 1860, to Carrie Johnson, a native of Sweden, born April 11, 1841, a daughter of Olaf and Julia (Jensen) Webster and Hamilton oounties, iowa. 371 Johnson, who came to America when she was twelve years old, and settled in Princeton, Bureau County, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Ely have eight children — George Ellison, Ger- trude EsteJla, John, Anna May, Carrie Attie, Charles Henry, Warren and Laura. They have lost two children — Frankie and Lettie. In politics Mr. Ely is a Republican. He is one of the successful men of the town- ship, and is numbered among its representa- tive citizens. CANUTE PHILLOPS, section 33, Scott Township, was born in Bergen, l^orway, September 12, 1834, a son of Canute and Sistena Phillops. When he was sixteen years old his parents came to the United States, landing in New York after a voyage of ten weeks and three days. They went direct to Dane County, Wisconsin, but a year later moved to LaSalle County, Illinois, and bought a house and lot, and also some cattle, which the father cared for while the sons worked on farms by the month. The parents had a family of four children — Anna M., Helen, Canute and Peter. In August, 1861, the sons both enlisted in Company F, Thirty- sixth Illinois Infantry, and Peter died in the hospital at Murfreesboro in February, 1864. Canute was with his regiment at the battles of Pea Ridge, Perryville and Stone River, and at the latter place was taken prisoner, but was paroled and sent to Annapolis, Mary- land, where he was on provost duty until June, 1863. He joined his regiment just before the battle at Mission Ridge and took part in that contest. At the battle of Adairs- ville he received a gun-shot wound in his thigh, and was in the hospitals at l^ashville, Louisville, Madison, Indiana, and Camp But- ler, Springfield, Illinois. He was discharged on the expiration of his term of service in September, 1864, and returned to LaSalle County. A few weeks laterhe came to Ham- ilton County, Iowa, and settled in Scott Town- ship, where he engaged in farming. July 9, 1865, he married Mrs. Melinda (Christianson) Larson, who owned at that time a farm of eighty acres, partly improved. This land Mr. Phillops has improved and has added to it until the farm now consists of 400 acres of tine land, and the residence and other build- ings are among the best in the township. Their residence was built in 1878 at a cost of $1,800. Mr. and Mrs. Phillops have one child— Peter M., born January 18, 1869. A daughter, Patrie C, is deceased. Mrs. Phil- lops has one daughter by her first marriage. Bertha. In politics Mr. Phillops is a Re- publican. He has served as township trustee and school treasurer. He is a member of the G. A. R. post at Story City, and he and his wife are members of the Lutheran church. B. SELDER, M. D., section 17, Cass Township, was born in Ven- *" ango County, Pennsylvania, May 19, 1812, a son of Dr. R. L. and Ann (Bar- ron) Selder, natives also of Pennsylvania. When he was five years old his father moved to Muskingum County, Ohio, and there he was reared and when twenty-one years old began the study of medicine with his fathei' and an older brother. He practiced in Ohio two years, and then moved to Shelby County, Indiana, where he lived until 1849, when he came to Iowa and lived in Monti cello, Jones County, until 1866. He then returned to Hamilton County, and retired from practice, living in Webster City until 1875, when he located on the farm where he now lives,- about three miles north of Webster City. sn BIOGBAPHIOAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF This is one of the best faring in the township, all being under cultivation but about fifteen acres of young timber. Dr. Selder was mar- ried in February, 1855, to Jane Boucher. They have six children — Frank P., Vincent, Nettie (wife of P. W. Lee), Olive, Lillie and Fannie. <0t l|*^i|Hg<-t^il>^t^K.«0» H^lHILLIAM ELY, proprietor of Ely's "ffWOl ^i^^^y stable, on Second street, near l-c^^J the Willson House, is a native of Wayne County, New York, where be lived until he was sixteen years of age, when he went to Stark County, Illinois. In 1862 he enlisted in Company F, One Hundred and Twelfth Illinois Infantry, and served three years. He participated in the battles at Kirksville, Buzzard's Roost, Resaca, Kene- saw Mountain, siege of Atlanta, Snake Creek Gap, Columbia, Franklin, Fort Fisher, Nasb- ville and Kingston. He was wounded twice, once by a minie ball, and once receiving a saber wound in his wrist. After his discharge he returned to Illinois, and in 1865 came to Iowa and engaged in farming until 1875, when he embarked in the livery business in Webster City. He keeps a full line of car- riage and road horses, and vehicles of all kinds, and his genial manners, and liberal, honorable dealing, have won the respect of his customers. In politics Mr. Ely is a Re- publican. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. i-jH^i lERRY O. BALDWIN, farmer and stock-raiser, section 28, Independence Township, is a native of Pennsylvania, horn in Crawford County, in March, 1846, a son of Warren and Lucy (Woodard) Bald- win. In 1854 his parents moved to Iowa and settled in Black Hawk County, at that time on the frontier, there being but one frame building in Waterloo. He remained at home until his majority, assisting his fa- ther on the farm, and then began to work at the carpenter's trade, which he followed two years, and in 1869 came to Hamilton County and bought eighty acres of wild land, and began to improve a farm and make for himself a home. By industry and good management he has been successful, and now owns 320 acres all under cultivation, with good build- ing improvements. Mr. Baldwin was mar- ried December 22, 1870 to Lavancha Wood- ard, a native of Indiana, daughter of Israel and Harriet (Burdick) Woodard, formerly of Pennsylvania, of Welsh and English ancestry, who came to Hamilton County in 1852. Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin have four children — Frank, Carl, Blanche and Etta. In politics Mr. Baldwin is a Republican. He is serving his second term as justice of the peace. ►^M^. |EORGE E. BAILEY, section 3, Cass J! Township, was born in New Hampshire, 'L near Concord, November 11, 1824, a son of Clark and Hannah (Hovey) Bailey, the former a native of Connecticut, and the latter of Yermont. The father died in 1830, leav- ing a family of seven children. The mother died in 1877, aged eighty-eight years. George is the only one of the family now living. When he was eighteen years old he went to Ohio and lived at New Philadelphia, where he learned the carriage maker's trade, at which he worked a number of years. In 1865 he moved to Morrow County, that his children might have better educational ad- vantages, and remained there six years. In 1871 he came to Hamilton County, and lo- cated on a tract of wild laud on section 3, WEB8TBB AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 373 Cass Township, on which was a small frame honse, and here he has since lived. The tract of wild land he has converted into a fine farm, and has substituted a good frame house for the small one, and has made other substantial improvements, until now he has one of the best farms in the township. His farm contains 160 acres of choice land, and is well watered by "White Fox Creek. Mr. Bailey was married in Belleville, Ohio, to Miss Elza J. Moore, a native of Knox County, Ohio, daughter of Abraham and Hannah (Davies) Moore, her father a native of Chester County, Pennsylvania, and her mother of Baltimore County, Maryland. Her father died in 1854, and her mother in 1879. the latter aged eighty-nine years. Mr. and Mrs. Bailsy have three children — Alice, wife of Theodore A. Brown, of Marshalltown, Iowa; Horace M., of California, and Ida E., wife of James Doolittle, also of California. In poli- tics Mr. Bailey was originally an Abolitionist, a!:d later affiliated with the Republican party, but now is a pronounced Prohibitionist. He and his wife are birthright members of the Society of Friends. 19* i ny • 3* * £ * |^ **"*°*" fifteen springs of good water. His residence and farm buildings are convenient and com- fortable, and the entire surroundings are in- dicative of thrift and enterprise. Mr. Tatham was born in Muskingum County, Ohio, February 14, 1833, a son of John and Mary (Stott) Tatham. He is one of a family of fifteen children. The father died in January, 1857, and the mother in January, 1859. Mr. Tatham was married November 11, 1858, to Mary Jane Bonner, a native of Muskingum County, Ohio, daughter of John G. and Mary (Sidle) Bonner. They have eight children — Ida, wife of C. E. Fletcher, of Muskingum County; Shel4on, of Wright County, Iowa; Mary Belle, wife of J. N. Olmstead, also of Wright County; J. W., Miles, Laura, Clin- ton, Edna Earl. In politics Mr. Tatham is a Democrat. He has served his township as trustee, and in 1886 was the candidate of his party for representative. He has been a member of the Masonic fraternity since 1858. [ILLIAM TATHAM, a leading citizen of Fremont Township, has been a resident of Hamilton County since 1882, when he located on his present farm, although he had previously lived in the county about four years. He first came to Webster City in 1864, and remained until 1868, when he returned to Ohio, and in 1882 again came to this county and bought the farm known as the Allen homestead, one of the first farms improved in the township. The farm is now known .as the Spring Vale farm. It is well adapted to stock-raising, which Mr. Tatham makes a specialty, having fine pasturage and HAELES C. DAKIJSr, farmer and stock dealer, is one of the well-known citizens of Hamilton County. He was born in Chittenden County, Yermont, July 24, 1838, a son of John and Ann (Alexander) Dakin. When he was fifteen years old he left home and went to Dane County, Wisconsin, where he remained six years, and in 1859 joined a company that was going overland to Cali- fornia. They left Dane County April 7, and arrived at their destination August 7. He engaged in mining until the fall of 1861, when he enlisted in Company M, Second California Cavalry. In April, 1862, they were ordered to Nevada to keep the Indians under subjection, and the ibllowing fall were sent to Salt Lake City, where they spent the winter. In the spring and summer of 1863 374 BIOOBAPEIOAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF I I they were stationed at Fort Bridges, to be cognizant of the movements of the Indians in Wyoming, Idaho, and a portion of Colorado. He was discharged in the fall of 1864, and with seven others started overland for "Wis- consin, reaching Dane County December 5. Here he spent the winter, and April 4, 1865, was married to Mary Neal, a native of Ken- nebec County, Maine, daughter of Thomas and Olive (Daltou) Neal. Soon after^ his marriage Mr. Dakin came to Iowa and entered forty acres of Government land and bought 100 acres. Mrs. Dakin was teaching school at that time, and remained in] Wisconsin for some time, following her husband at a later period. They made this farm their home until the spring of 1883, when Mr. Dakin bought the farm where they now live, which contains 220 acres of excellent land, all under cultivation. In 1887 he erected his fine modern residence at a cost of $2,000. It is a model of comfort and convenience, and the entire surroundings indicate the thrift and energy of the owner. Mr. and Mrs. Dakin hav-e three sons — Chapman L., Silas T. and Charles W. In politics Mr. Dakin is a Kepublican. Pie is a member of Winfield Scott Post, No. 66, G. A. R, and is its pres- ent commander. Mrs. Dakin is president of the Women's Belief Corps. |DGAR COLE, section 12, Eose Grove Township, was born in the State of New York, September 22, 1846, a son of Henry and JSfancy Cole. When he was four years old his parents moved to Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin, where he was reared and educated, remaining at home until after the breaking'out of the war of the Rebellion. In March, 1865, he enlisted and was assigned to Company E, Fifty-first Wisconsin Infantry, and for a time was stationed at St. Louis, and from there was sent to guard the Union Pacific Railroad, remaining in the West about six months, when he was discharged and re- turned to Wisconsin. In 1866 he came to Iowa and lived in Hardin County three years, and in 1869 moved to Hamilton County and bought eighty acres of land in Rose Grove Township, where he has since lived. He has added to his farm until it now contains 159 acres, and in addition to this owns 141 acres in Hardin County. He has a good residence and other farm buildings, and his improve- ments are among the best in the township. Mr. Cole was married March 15, 1873, to Jennie Brace, a native of Columbia County, Wisconsin, daughter of Lewis Bra e, now of Hamilton County. They have five children — Alice Louise, Myrtle, Milton, Edith and William H. In politics Mr. Gole is a Re- publican. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. D. DOOLITTLE, section 3, Cass Town- ship, was born in Green County, Wis- i® consin, June 24, 1858, a son of Dewey Doolittle, who settled in Hamilton County in 1865. His early life was spent on the farm, and his education was received in the district schools and at Webster City. When he was twenty years old he began farming on his own account on a portion of his father's homestead, on section 9, Cass Township. In 1881 he sold that land and bought 141 acres of wild land, which he has improved and erected good buildings, and a stranger would readily think from the many improvements that it was one of the oldest farms in the township. He is an industrious, energetic young man, and is already one of the rep- resentative agriculturists of the township. WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 375 In 1883 he bought 120 acres adjoining his first purchase od the north, but lying in "Wright County, and in 1886 forty acres more, so that now he owns 300 acres in one tract. It is well watered by White Fox Creek, and affords good pasturage for his stock, which he makes rather a specialty. Mr. Doolittle was married April 5, 1879^ to Christie A. Bain, daughter of Robert Bain. They have two children— Irvin D., born May 26, 1883, and Alta Fern, born February 23, 1886. In politics Mr. Doolittle is a Eepublican, but not a strict partisan. 101 '> l^ > 2 * ' ?*^'* * " IHEISTIAN LOGAN, section 33, Scott Township, is a native of Norway, born April 19, 1841. When he was seven years old his father, Christian Peterson, died, and when he was sixteen his mother, Mary Peterson, came to America with her three youngest children, Mr. Logan being the eldest of the three. The six eldest of the family had preceded the mother to America. Of the family five sons and two daughters are living. Of these Andres, Andrew, Chris- tian, Melinda, wife of Canute Phillops, and Bertha, wife of Nute Nelson, live in Hamil- ton County; Peter, the eldest of the family, lives in LaSalle County, Illinois, and John lives in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Helen and Henry are deceased. The mother lives with her son Andrew. In 1861 our subject en- listed in the defense of his adopted country in Company F, Thirty-sixth Illinois Infantry, but about seven months after his enlistment was discharged at St. Louis, Missouri, on account of ill-health. Being unable to work on the farm he went to Chicago and attended the Lutheran Seminary about four months. In the spring of 1863 he came to Hamilton County and made his home with his sister, Mrs. Phillops, and January 28, 1864, started for Norway, returning the following July accompanied by a wife whom he had married in his native country, whose maiden name was Bertha Evalina Knudson. She died January 17, 1883, leaving five children — Henry, Gertrude, Nute, Helen and Caroline. One, Ann, died in infancy. November 10, 1883, Mr. Logan married Julia Ostren, who died September 17, 1885, leaving one son — Ela Benjamin. His present wife was Mrs. Julia Boyd, who was born in Grundy County, Illinois, in August, 1853. She has three children by her first marriage — Otis,- Martha and Joseph, and has lost one, Rachel, who died aged seven years. Mr. Logan has 160 acres in his homestead, and also owns 147 acres in Story County, adjoining. No im- provements had been made when he settled on his land, and from a wild prairie he has made a beautiful farm, with especially good building improvements, surrounded by fine groves of forest trees. In politics he is a Republican, and is a member of the Lutheran church. ETER LYON was one of the earliest pioneers of Hamilton County, coming here in May, 1852. He was born near Cleveland, Ohio, in 1811, a son of Jotham Lyon, who was of English ancestry. When he was about twelve years of age his parents moved to Yermillion County, Illinois, where he grew to manhood. He was married in Fountain County, Indiana, about 1833, to Margaret Black, a native of Kentucky, daughter of John Black, who was killed by an elephant in a circus at Attica, Indiana. After his marriage Mr. Lyon moved to Mil- waukee, Wisconsin, and a year later to Foun- tain County, Indiana, where he remained a 376 BIOGRAPHICAL REGORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF year or two. Then moved to Vermillion County, Illinois, and thence in 1849 to Ap- panoose County, Iowa, coming thence in 1852 to Hamilton County. At that time there was not a house on the present site of Web- ster City, and only six families in the county. He located on section 33, Boone Township, about a mile east of the postoffice. He en- tered 320 acres of Government land, which he improved and made his home until 1868, when he went to Jefferson County, Kansas, where his wife died in February, 1885, and where he now lives. Mr. and Mrs. Lyon had a family of nine children, five of whom are living — John and Jothani, of this county; Eichard, of Washington Territory; Mary Ann, of Jefferson County, Kansas, and George, of Hamilton County, The deceased are Martha, wife of Jesse Bishop; Jane, wife of A. Moffatt; Huldah, second wife of Jesse Bishop, and Sarah wife of Thomas Hopewell. In politics Mr. Lyon is a Re- publican. He is a member of the Method- ist Episcopal church. ■01 11. 1? « gn; » gu v m I^ON. WALTER C. and SUMLER WILLSON. — In sketching the career of a useful and eventful life we find no easy task. Unlike the man who has slipped noiselessly through life's warfare and is dis- tinguished alone in some one particular role, is the individual whose influence has touched every branch of trade that comes in the march and progress of almost fifty years, of whom too much can not be said. As the founder of Webster City and the subject of our sketch we introduce to our readers the Hon. Walter C. Willson. At the age of nineteen he, in company with his father, left his native land in pursuit of employment, arriving at Mil- waukee, Wisconsin, at one o'clock P. M. October 8, 1844, possessed of but one suit of clothes which he wore, and $3 in cash; this same day he made a trip on foot of sixteen miles, through dense and pathless woods, when he put up for the night, paying for his entertainment $1.50, thus reducing his bank account one-half. The following day he com- pleted his journey, a distance of forty-five miles, landing at his brother's house. His father followed a few days later, remaining here a short time, when he returned to his home in York State. On the eve of his departure, however, he called his son aside and said: " Walter, how much money have you?" Walter thought the question leading, and gave an evasive answer, coupling with it the remark, that perhaps he could give the information his father desired upon making an invoice of his pants. The investigation was made on the sly, disclosing the fact that fifty cents was his balance, but the collapsed condition pf the young man's purse was kept safely enough from the father's' knowledge. The father feared his son's finances were at low ebb, and insisted on his accepting assis- tance to aid him through the winter. This offer was too much for the boy's pride, and although penniless and in a strange land, he declined it with a haughty air. Pluck and independence were prominent traits in the young man's " make up,' which have clung to him through his successful life. At parting the father proposed, as an incentive for the lad to economize, that if on his twenty-first birthday, he had saved from his earnings $100, he would present him with an equal amount. Before Walter became of age the father died, but all had been arranged, and as Walter had saved over $2,000 he received the $100 on his becoming twenty-one. After a few day's recreation at his broth- er's he started out in search of work. After walking 300 miles, and failing to obtain 9?^y^. Cc}^ <^. ^^^^-^i^^^^^-^i-^ WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 381 a situation, he came back to his brother's home much discouraged, a victim of hard luck. Shortly after his return he hired out to a neighbor to chop tamarac poles for fencing at $8 per month. He worked hard through the long winter, laying aside every dollar, and the following spring pur- chased forty acres of land adjoining his brother's farm, walking to Milwaukee in the night time to secure the deed, a distance of forty miles. These lands he sold two weeks after his purchase at $400, thus netting a hand- some profit, and was at heart the richest man in the northwest. His first venture in the way of business was establishing the first store and the building of the first hotel at Palmyra, Wisconsin, known as the Palmyra House. In t'his hotel his married life began, his bride being but a girl of seventeen, who^'did the honors as landlady as with an old-fashioned grace born of experience. It was in this city the firm of W. C. and S. Willson had its birth, the partnership covering a period of thirty-six years. The "Willsons did business here for two years, and selling, next located at Omro, Wisconsin, then a new town, again engaging in general merchandizing and also built the Fox Hiver Hotel. This hotel was sold two years later, and the Commercial House was built by them, which was sold directly after completion. Sumler's time was given to the care of the store, while W. C. engaged with Robert W. Crawford in the lum- ber business, which yielded good margins. Theefibrts of the Willsons in their various enterprises while in Wisconsin was an unbroken train of successes, their accu- mulations, amounting to $22,000, being brought to Webster City, to which may be attributed its thrifty growth and develop- ment. In 1855 they came to Iowa, locating and purchasing large tracts of land, part of which- they platted and christened Webster City. In the summer of the same year they built a saw-mill, being the first in the county, and also did the first grinding here. Shortly after this mill was purchased by Stoddard & Prey. In 1^56 Messrs. Willson brought to Hamilton County the first steam saw-mill, which was afterward Eold to Kosen- crans, Fenton, Jones & Co. During the summer of 1857 Willson Brothers erected a large brick flouring-mill at a cost of $15,000, with three sets of burrs, and a capacity of 200 barrels of flour per day. Upon these mills the towns of Sioux City, Algona and Fort Dodge depended, and in fact the entire northwest was supplied from the Willson Mills, all of the machinery for these mills being hauled overland from the Mississippi Eiver and Iowa City. Frontier life to men of cultivation and refinement, without mail facilities and communication with the outside world, made their pioneer home almost unendurable. Realizing the advantages of mail service the two brothers soughtabout to open a thoroughfare — through the Western Stage Company — between Cedar Falls and Sioux City, and succeeded in bear- ing away the palm in opposition to competing rival lines represented by T. I. Allen, Sterrill & Devotee, favoring Batch Grove, with Snell & Butterworth in the interests of Homer. To secure this line no small eflfort was re- quired in the face of such rivalry, but deter- mination was plainly written on the Willson banner, and the route was established at the expense of a heavy bonus. In the winter of 1856-'57, Mr. W. C. Willson represented his people in the Iowa Senate, and through his instrumentality Hamilton County was formed and Webster City made the capital. At the time of the Spirit Lake massacre of 1857 Webster City was put under martial law, with John Peak as Colonel and Walter C. Willson as Captain of Home Guards. A 882 BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF company of fifty men organized at Web- ster City, accompanied by a less number from Fort Dodge, hastened to the scene of this horrible butchery. Much suffering was ex- perienced from hunger, exposure and severe cold among those who went to the rescue, Captain Johnston, of Webster City, and a Mr. Burgholder, surrendering their lives through loyalty and love for their fellow-men. In this time of need Messrs. Willson were wide awake to the situation, and immediately started a wagon laden with barrels of pork, flour, meal and provisions of all kinds to this fleld of bloodshed and suflering. In the fall of 1861 W. C. Willson moved to Chicago, embarking in the commission business, part- ner in the flrm of Rand, Willson & Co., at the same time conducting the lumber busi- ness under the firm styled Willson, Ennis & Smith, being successful in each. He re- tired from both branches and returned to Webster City six years later, owing, or on account of the land grant made to the old Dubuque & Sioux City Railroad Company, and re-grant to John I. Blair, knovfing he had the means and ability to complete this road to Sioux City. To this enterprise Mr. Will- son devoted his entire time and energies for one year, assuming the responsibilities to place the ties and put down the iron from a point near Webster City to Storm Lake, a distance of eighty miles. On the first en- gine that crossed the bridge at Dubuque Mr. Willson was a passenger, in company with Colonel Mason, and it was he that held the lever that controlled the first engine that startled the natives with its shrill scream, in every quiet hamlet from Webster City to terminal. In the year 1869 the old Willson House was built and operated by W. C. and S. Willson, a commodious and modern struc- ture, erected at an expense of $15,000, Mr. S. Willson giving it his special attention. also having charge of the store, while W. C. attended the fiouring-mill and superintended their large areas of lands. Most of the prin- cipal business buildings of Webster City were built by the Willson brothers, or by their aid. Attention may be called to this one fact, that the Willsons have erected in all one hundred and thirty-three buildings within the limi's of Webster City; the Opera House was built at an outlay of $20,000, the brick block on Second street, now occupied by Lee Brothers, five mills, three hotels, etc. Mr. S. Willson gave much of his time to educational interests, being a member of the school board for many years, and president when the present beau- tiful school-building was built, he selling the bonds and negotiating the loans. He was an active, far-sighted business man, and devdted to any cause he might espouse. The part- nership of the Willson Brothers existed un- til the winter of 1882, when the bond was broken only on the death of Sumler. In the fall of 1876 the Webster City Crooked Creek Railroad and Coal Company was organized with Walter C. Willson as president and general manager. This company purchased large tracts of land in Webster County, and laid out the town of Lehigh, developing what is known as the Crooked Creek Coal Mines, and in the year 1886 the same company con- structed the Webster City & Southwestern Railroad. W. C. Willson was born in the State of New York, in the year 1824, in the village of Arkwright, a son of Zebina and Polly (Smith) Willson. In early life he was taught that " honesty was the best policy," that perseverance and industry would bring sure reward. From these teachings he has never departed, and as the result, every am- bition has been realized. Immovable and firm in his convictions, faithful and confiding with friends, cheerful and courteous in- bnsi- WEBBTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 383 ness, affectionate and devoted in his home; if these are the essentials to greatness, then Walter Willson's name belongs to the roll of honor. He married, July 27, 1848, Miss Ca- lista Louisa Rickerson, daughter of Hon. Charles C. Rickerson, and also a native of JSfew York State. Her father moved to Pal- myra, "Wisconsin, in the year 1842, and two years later to the State capital, where he be- came quite conspicuous in the political affairs of the State, serving a number of years in the State Legislature. He died of a fever in Watertown, New York, while returning from a visit to the Pacific coast. In conclusion, it is but fair to add, that whatever the success of our subject, much credit is due the esti- mable wife in whom Mr. Willson has ever found a reliable and safe counselor. In so- ciety she has proved herself the one bright star in the social cluster, beloved by all, imi- tated by many, courteous and kind at all times, everywhere winning friends. In total, Mrs. Willson is one of the popular ladies of the land. To Mr. and Mrs. Willson were born four children, of whom three are de- ceased. Frank E. is a resident of Webster City, where he is associated in business with his father. He married, March 20, 1888, Miss Minnie A. Arthur. Sumler Willson was born March 10, 1826. He was married JSTovember 4, 1858, to Miss Abbie M. Holt, a daughter of Lemuel and Susan Holt, natives of Yermont, of English and Scotch ancestry. Mrs. Willson was born in Yermont, remain- ing there until 1857, when she came to Iowa, and was married the next year. To them were born two children — Clara, wife of C. W. Thompson, of San Diego, California, and Terressa M., wife of M. C. Henneberry, of Akron, Colorado. Mr. Sumler Willson was a prominent member of the Masonic frater- nity. RTHUR K MILLARD, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Putnam Coun- ty, Illinois, September 27, 1849, a son of Benjamin Millard, a prominent citizen of Webster City. He was six years old when his parents moved to Hamilton County, and here he was reared and educated. He re- mained at home until his marriage, and then settled on the farm where he now lives, which is a part of the land entered by his father. He has always given his attention to agriculture and stock-raising, and being a practical, energetic man, has been successful. His farm is now one of the best in the county, his 160 acres all being under tine cultivation. Mr. Millard was married December 19, 1871, to Antoinette Powers, a native of Cleveland, Ohio, daughter of Salmon and Susan (Depew) Powers, early settlers of Hardin County, Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Millard have three children: LouressaD., Myrtle and Loral Fern. In politics Mr. Millard is a Republican. NDREW J. LARSON, a well-known, enterprising citizen of Scott Township, ' was born in Norway, March 25, 1836, a son of John and Elizabeth Larson. In 1857 the parents came to America with their family, and settled first in Grundy County, Illinois, and subsequently moved to Hamilton County, Iowa, and settled on section 19, Scott Township, where the father died in 1865. The mother and younger children live in Hamilton County. They had a family of eight children — Enger, of Story County, Iowa; Andrew J., of Hamilton Coun- ty; Lars J., of Story County; Ole J., of Illi- nois; Anna J., who died in Story County, aged thirty-four years; Sa.nuel J., Oliver J. and Melinda, who died at the age of twenty- 884 BIOOBAPHIOAL RBOOBD AND POBTBAIT ALBOM OF seven years. Andrew J. came to the United States with his parents and to Hamilton County in 1865. He now owns a iine farm of 226 acres, all well improved. He was mar- ried in Kendall County, Illinois, to Martha Mackelson, a native of Norway, daughter of Michael and Julia (Anderson) Mackelson. Pier mother died in Norway when the daugh- ter was eleven years old, and when nineteen years old she came to the United States. Her father died in Kendall County in 1863. Mr. and Mrs. Larson have had eight children — John (died aged fourteen years), Tobias, Mar- tha, Anna, Gurine, Melinda, Audrina and Johanna. In politics Mr. Larson is a Repub- lican. He has served his township as trustee. He is a progressive, public spirited citizen, and a representative man of the township. t S u S " jAYID COUETER, section 26, Cass Township, located on 120 acres of wild land in 1871, which he improved and made his home until 1884, when he bought his present homestead, which contains eighty acres of rich land, and the building improve- ments are among the best in the township, the residence being built in 1884 by Mr. Courter, at a cost of $900. Mr. Courter was born in Lewistown, Pennsylvania, June 12, 1842, a son of John and Margaret Cour- ter, natives also of Pennsylvania. When he was two years old his parents moved to Bu- reau County, Illinois, and there he was reared, his youth being spent at farm work. After the breaking out ot the war of the Rebellion he enlisted and was assigned to the Sixty- fifth Illinois Infantry, Twenty-third Army Corps, under General Sherman. He was taken prisoner at Harper's Ferry, but was paroled on honor, and was later in the com- mand of General Burnside. He participated in the Atlanta campaign, the siege of Atlanta, the battles at Franklin, Nashville and Salis- bury. At Lexington, in August, 1863, he was sun-struck, and was in the hospital at Crab Orchard for some time, but has never fully recovered from its effects. He was dis- charged April 18, 1865, and returned to Bureau County, where he lived until his re- moval to]Harailton County. He was married July 27, 1865, to Hannah Thompson. They have an adopted daughter — Myrtle. Mr. Courter is a member of Winlield Scott Post, No. 66, G. A. R., at Webster City. He and his wife are members of the Christian church. LIS BRIGGS, farmer and stock-raiser, is a native of Derbyshire, England, born February 8, 1821, the eighth of eleven children of Samuel and Hannah (Farnsworth) Briggs. When he was eight years old he was apprenticed to a potter and served eight years, the first few years receiv- ing 12^ cents a day, and the last years of his service receiving 24 cents a day. After com- pleting his trade he went to work in the mines, which he continued until 1845, when he came to the United States, landing in New York, Christmas day. He located in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, where he lived about eleven years, and in 1856 came to Iowa and engaged in farming in Jackson County. In 1857 he moved to Hamilton County and settled in Cass Township, and subsequently moved to Webster City. He bought forty acres of land in Boone Town- ship, to which he has added until he now owns 202 acres of good land, all under culti- vation. Mr. Briggs has been a hard work- ing, energetic man; and is well worthy the WEBSTER AND HAMILTON OOUNTIES, IOWA. 385 success he has had, it being but the result and reward of many years of hard labor. He was married in England, April 5, 1845, to Ellen Brown. They are the parents of eight children — Thirza; Agnes, who was one of the first school teachers of the county, now the •wife of George Umstead, of Fremont Town- ship; Steven, died aged twenty-eight years; Ella, wife of Joseph Bates, of California; Charles, Frank, Marion and Ulis. Mr. Briggs has served his township as justice of the peace. In politics he casts his suffrage with the Republican party. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. fOTHAM LYON, a representative of one of the first pioneer families of Hamilton County, was born in Fountain County, Indiana, August 1, 1837, and was in the fifteenth year of his age when his parents came to Hamilton County. His youth was spent in assisting his father to improve a frontier farm, and his education was neces- sarily limited. During the war of the Re- bellion he served fifteen months as a member of the frontier guards, Colonel Ingham commanding his regiment. He was married October 19, 1865, to Mary Willis, who was born in Muskingum County, Ohio, daughter of Robert and Louisa Willis, who came to Hamilton County in 1856. Her father died in 1865, and her mother now lives in Web- ster City. Mr. and Mrs. Lyon have six children — Archie, Caddie, Bessie, Benton, Grace and Wyatt. In politics Mr. Lyon is a Republican. He is a member of the order of United Workmen. He is a prosperous farmer, and now owns 154 acres of well im- proved land, seventy-four of which was en- tered from the Government by his father. His residence and farm buildings are com- fortable and commodious, and everything about the place indicates the thrift and good management of the owner. > g H g l j l* 4W EUBEN BENNETT, section 34, Cass Township, is one of the well-known pioneers and prominent men of the township. He was born in Scioto County, Ohio, August 6, 1830, a son of William and Nancy (Slavens) Bennett. He was reared in his native county, living there until 1855, when he came to Hamilton County, and in company with W. D. McFerren engaged in farming ten years. He then bought the farm where he now lives, which contains 200 acres of rich land. At the time Mr. Bennett settled on it no improvements had been made, but now it is one of the best farms in the town- ship, his farm buildings being excelled by none. He is a practical farmer and his place is an evidence of his thrift and energy. In politics he is a Republican, but has no as- pirations for political honors, prefei-ring to attend to his own business rather than the worry and bustle of public life. He is an upright, substantial citizen, his word being as good as his bond. ^ENRY S. ORRIS is a native of Perry County, Pennsylvania, born February 20, 1832, the second of seven children of George and Sarah (Scholl) Orris, natives of Pennsylvania, the father of Scotch and the mother of German ancestry. When he was twenty-two years old he went to Center Coun- ty, Pennsylvania, and spent three years in teaching, and then went to LaSalle County, 386 BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OF Illinois, where lie lived until 1869. In early life he taught school, and after removing to Illinois was also engaged in agricultiiral pur- suits and teaching. In 1869 he came to Hamil- ton Countj, Iowa, and bought eighty acres of land in "Williams Township, and in February, 1870, located on it. Subsequently as he was prospered he added 160 acres to his first purchase and now has a fine farm of 240 acres, all well improved. In February, 1888, he moved to Williams and has since been en- gaged in the real estate and loan, collecting and insurance business. He represents the Phoenix Insurance Company, of New Yorki the "Western Home, of Sioux City, and the Boone Yalley, of Hamilton County. Mr. Orris was married in LaSalle County, Illi- nois, in the spring of 1858, to Emma Porter, a native of Stark County, Ohio, daughter of Hobert and Isabella (Scott) Porter. To them have been born eight children, six of whom are living — Robert P. and George A., busi- ness men of Williams; Frederick G., Lyle E., Belle and Etta. One child died in in- fancy, and one son, Willis Irving, was killed on the railroad in 1882, in the twenty-fourth year of his age. In politics Mr. Orris is a Republican. He has served in the most of the local offices of the township. He is a member of the Odd Fellows order. Lodge No. 478. He and his wife and daughter Belle, are members of the Presbyterian church. » S t iS « SRANK FIDLER, an enterprising farmer of Cass Township, is a native of Ger- many, born in Luxemburg, January 28, 1848, a son of Michael and Kathrina (Smith) Fidler. He was reared in his native country, attending school until fourteen years of age. When he was twenty years old he entered the German army and served one year. In 1870 he came to America, landing in New York, and from there proceedde direct to Aurora, Kane County, Illinois, where he lived until 1875, when he moved to Hamilton County, Iowa. In the fall of 1885 he bought the farm where he now lives, moving to it the following spring. It is located two and a half miles from Webster City, and contains 198 acres of rich farming land, with good comfortable building improvements. Mr. Fidler was married November 23, 1875, to Mary Foster, a daughter of Michael Foster, a pioneer of Hamilton County. They have two children — Mary Barbara, born February 13, 1878, and Michael Francis, born March 25, 1879. — ~^.^|-J«^►|t-|-w. — HARLES A. HOWD, farmer and stock- raiser, section 19, Cass Township, is a native of Onondaga County, New York, born January 7, 1846, a son of E. S. and Phoebe (Kenyon) Howd, natives also of New York. His mother died August 1, 1874, and his father still lives on the homestead in Onondaga County. They had a family of tiCe children — Charles A., Oren A., DeLoss H., Harvey J. and Jennie. Charles A. Howd was reared in his native county, and obtained a good education, attending the Cazenovia Seminary several terms. He taught school to defray the expenses of his education, and after leaving school taught three or four years. In 1871 he came to Iowa and located in Hamilton County, and has since given his attention to agriculture. He has a fine farm four miles northwest of Webster City, known as the Boone River Stock Farm. He makes a specialty of stock-raising, and has some of the finest short-horn cattle and Poland-China hogs in the county. Mr. Howd was married November 1, 1871, to S. Ann Sears, a native y tZ^C^y-'y-T-^o-'^^^ O-^^. WEBSTER AND HAMILTON COUNTIES, IOWA. 389 of Madison County, New York, daughter of Lewis and Mary (Severance) Sears, wlio came to Hamilton County in the spring of 1871. The father died in 1874 and tlie mother in 1878. Mr. and Mrs. Howd have six children — Mai-y Phoebe, Ilattie Jennie, Eli Lewis, Arthur Sears, Fr.mk Severance and Otto Oreu. In politics Mr. Howd is a Republican. He is an enterprising, public-spirited man, and takes an active interest in everything that is of benefit to the community. He is an especial friend to the cause of education, and has served three years as county superin- tendent of schools. T. STOYER is one of the success- ful farmers of Lyon Township. He was born in "Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, December 24, 1823, a son of Jacob and Mary (Taylor) Stover. He was reared on a farm until seventeen years of age,when he went to learn the black- smith's trade, which he followed several years. He lived in Pennsylvania until 1854 when he moved to Stephenson County, Illi- nois, where he lived until 1877, wiien he came to Hamilton County, Iowa, and March 17, of that year, bought the farm where he now lives of Thomas Neal. This farm is one of the best in the township and is all well improved, having a good residence and other farm buildings, the water for his stock being supplied by wind-mill power. Mr. Stover is one of the representative men of his township, and is an enterprising, public- spirited citizen. In his political views he is a warm supporter of the principles of the Republican party. He was married in J une, 1848, to Margaret Barry, a native of Blair, Pennsylvania, daughter of John and Cath- erine (Kearns) Barry. Mr. and Mrs. Stover as have elevan children — Anna, John E., Hul- dah E., Sarah C, Joseph A., Otis T., Martin E., Ida B., Harry T., Lily May and Frank F. fOHN HArSE, dealer in lumber, grain, live-stock, hard and soft coal, farm ma- chinery, lime and brick, Williams, Iowa, is one of the leading business men of Ham- ilton County. He does an annual business of $100,000. His elevator has a capacity of 10,000 bushels, and he carries a complete stock of lumber, farm machinery, agricultural implements, and building materials, which he sells at fair prices. The business was es- tablished in 1884 by Mr. Hayse and Fred. Beisner, but a year later Mr. Hayse bought his partner's interest and has since carried on the business alone. John Hayse is a native of Germany, born in 1848, and when eigh- teen years of age came to the United States and located at Manitowoc, Wisconsin, where he lived two years and then moved to- Hardin County, Iowa, and thence eighteen months later to Wright County, where he- engaged in farming until 1884, when he came- to Hamilton County and located in Williams.. He was married in Wright County, and has six children, four of whom are living. In politics Mr. Hayse is a Democrat. He is a member of the Silver Link Lodge, No. 458,, I. O. O. F. i-iMf. SALMON WILTSEY, the oldest pioneer of Webster City, was born in Otsego County, New York, August 29, 1823, a son of Isaac and Polly (Spencer) Wiltsey, the former born in 1793, and the latter in 1792. His mother died in New York State in 1859, and in 1870 his father came to. 390 BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM OB Hamilton County, and died at the age of ninety-three years. They had a family of six children, four of whom are living, all in Webster City — Mrs. Eunice Ives, Talmon, Mrs. Mary Monroe and Spencer. Mrs. Rachel Soup and James both died in this county, the latter leaving a widow and seven children. Talmon Wiltsey remained in New York until 1850, when he went to LaGrange County, Indiana, and in the spring of 1854 came to Iowa and entered 160 acres of land near where he now lives. He built the second house on the present site of Webster City, which was of hewed logs, with^ stone chimney, and was used as a place of refuge for women and children during the Indian excitement of 1857. In 1855 Mr. Wiltsey sold his land for a town site and has since bought and improved other land. He has since been engaged in farming and 'stock- raising, making a specialty of Norman draft horses. In politics Mr. Wiltsey is a Repub- lican and a strong adherent to the principles of that party. His life has been an eventful one, and he has witnessed the marvelous growth of the city and county. He is a true type of the pioneer, plain in manner and ffpeech, fair and honoi-able in his dealings to all. He has a pleasant home and is sur- rounded with all the comforts of life as the reward for the many years of toil and hard- ship. lEV. JOHN M. RANKIN resides on section 33, Lyon Township, his farm comprising the east half of the south- east quarter of that section. Mr. Rankin settled here in 1881. He was born in Indi- ana County, Pennsylvania, in 1820. His father, Andrew Rankin, was a native of Ire- land, emigrating to America when about twenty years old, and settled in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, and- later in Indiana County. He married Miss Anna Stitt, a native of Fayette County, Pennsylvania. They were the parents of ten children, all of whotn grew to manhood and womanhood but one, who died early in life. Eight of the family — six sons and two daughters — are liv- ing, but are much scattered. Rev. John M. Rankin lost his mother when he was but twelve years old and there being a large family it was deemed best for them to separate. He engaged to work for a neighboring farmer named Campbell, with whom he remained till eighteen years old. He had attended the district school daring the winter season up to this time, and had qualified himself to teach, in which occupation he engaged, and until the age of twenty -five years was engaged alternately in teaching and at- tending school. He had also at this time been engaged as a local preacher of the Methodist church for about a year. In 1845 he was admitted to the Pittsburg Annual Conference. In 1852 he married Miss Phoebe Jane Ihnisem, a native of Birming- ham, Pennsylvania. In 1855 he was trans- ferred to the Iowa Conference, and remained in the regular work until 1885, when he took a superannuated relation on account of failing health and located at Jewell Junction, where he has since resided. He only preaches occasionally as his health will per- mit. Thus it will be seen that Mr. Rankin has been in the active work of the ministry for over forty years. And during this long time he has labored faithfully in the cause of his Master, and continued to preach the gospel as long as strength permitted. It is esti- mated that exclusive of the eight years that SnS'niy-HBuJjmsmi'''^' A~^ WEBBTEB AND HAMILTON COUNTIES', IOWA. 393 he served as presiding elder the number of conversions that resulted from his preaching was about one thousand. Mr. Rankins has ever possessed the esteem and respect of all. He and his wife have six children — William F., Annabel, Ida May, Charles Wesley, Jes- sie Jane and Edgar I. »ji-»i ? » 3 i i ; « 2i »- ;u; « fD. YOUNG, one of the leading busi- ness men of "Webster City, a member <* of the firm F. D. Young & Co., dealers in grain, lumber and stock, is a native of Hancock County, Maine, born in 1838, a son of Elvin Young, who still resides in Maine, on the same farm where he has lived over half a century. F. D. was reared a farmer, remaining at home until twenty-one years of age, when he went to Boston, Massachusetts, and worked at the carpenter's trade until 1861. In September, 1862, he enlisted in Company E, Twenty-sixth Maine Infantry, serving in the Gulf Department, and partici- pated in several important engagements. He was conimissioned Sergeant, but served as Second-Lieutenant the greater part of the time. After his re'^urn from the war he 402 BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM. worked at his trade in his native State until 1874, when he came to Iowa and located in Webster City. In 1875 he began dealing in lumber, and in 1878 began buying and ship- ping grain, subsequently adding the live- stock business to his other enterprises. In 1881 the large grain elevator was built. It has the capacity for holding 30,000 bushels of grain, and the firm handle about 100,000 bushels a year. In the lumber yard may be found all kinds of building material, and a full stock of both hard and soft-wood lumber. They also handle about $150,000 worth of stock per year. Mr. Young was married in February, 1864, to M. J. McFarland, of Han- cock County, Maine. They have three chil- dren — Aletta, wife of "W". F. Hunter; Elvin Y. and Alena . In politics Mr. Young Fis a Republican. He is a member of the Ma- sonic and Odd Fellows orders, and of Win- field Scott Post, No. 66, G. A. R. WILLIAM GARTH, the second son of James and Mary (Whitfield) Garth, lives on the homestead first entered by the family in Cass Township, his sister Sarah being his housekeeper. The farm con- tains 160 acres of rich land, well adapted to grain and stock-raising, and the building im- provements are commodious and convenient. He is a thrifty farmer, and a representative citizen of Cass Township. J!j„!^iyM.BjraIlSLSansl3Bmlcf9t'NJ' dd^.dsi^sidd.dctJ^iilc' fddrtclj^xiidj^cjj:^ ^WKIGHT 0OUNTY,}^_ lUMNER BARSTOW HEWETT, a pioneer settler in Wright County, Iowa, and second judge of the county, is a son of Sumner B. Hewett, Sr., a millwright and carpenter, and Mary E. Allen, and was born in Northbridge, Massachusetts, on the 22d of June, 1833. The Hewetts are of English pedigree, and were early settlers in the old Bay State. The grandfather of our subject was in the war of 1812. Sumner spent his boyhood in Sutton, Worcester County, Massachusetts, near his birth-place, finishing his education at the East Douglas Academy. He was a clerk in a store at East Douglas and other places a few years, after- ward an accountant in Boston four years, and in 1854, at the age of twenty-one, settled in Wright County, which has since been his home. His father and brother-in-law, Na- thaniel B. Paine, came with him, and they were the first settlers who remained. With the exception of narrow belts of timber on the streams and around Wall Lake and other bodies of water, and here and there a grove, the county twenty-four years ago was an open prairie, "unshorn and beautiful,"' wait- ing for the plow. Buffalo, elk, deer and 29 other wild animals were abundant, but no white man had turned a furrow. Judge Hewett selected his home in Eagle Grove Township, in the southwestern part of the county, and started what is now known all over northwestern Iowa as Eagle Grove farm. It consists of 600 acres of the best quality of land, under good improvement, and well stocked with short-horn and graded cattle. Stock-raising has been a specialty with Judge Hewett. He has taken much pains to ac- quaint himself with the science of the busi- ness; is well posted on matters generally pertaining to agriculture; has a small orchard, and is a good representative of Iowa men engaged in this pursuit. He was appointed county judge in April, 1861, and the follow- ing October was elected to the same office for the term of two years. In 1862 he was appointed revenue collector for the Sixtli District, and held the latter office until turned out by Andrew Johnson, the bolting Republican President. Prior to taking this office, in January, 1862, he was appointed engrossing clerk of the Senate in the General Assembly, and most of the time acted as second assistant secretary of the Senate. 408 BIOOBAPHIGAL BEOOBD AND POBTBAIT ALBUM Judge Ilewett was elected to the General Assembly in the autumn of 1871, and in the session held the next January to March served on the committees on Agricultural College, Eailroads, and Public Buildings, being chairman of the first-named committee, and doing good work on all of thern. He was for some time a director of the Iowa State Agricultural Society, and quite active and efficient in the board. He seems to be always ready for public service, and prompt in the discharge of every duty. The records of the Fourteenth General Assembly indicate that Eepresentative Hewett was usually in his place when votes were taken. He was a discreet legislator, doing very little public talking, but prompt and untiring in the com- mittee-room. He has always been a Kepub- lican, and is vigilant in his efforts to advance the interests of the party, often 'attending Congressional and State conventions. Politi- cally and in all respects he is an influential man. He has been a Freemason since 1862, having, however, taken only three degrees. The wife of Judge Hewett was Miss Abbie S. Parker, of Blue Hill, Maine, a woman of good education, and in her younger years a popular school-teacher. They were married on the 24th of October, 1854. They have two adopted children, recently taken, a boy and a girl, whom they are intending to edu- cate and fit for usefulness. The Judge has been engaged from time to time in trying to secure a railroad for his part of the State, was one of the first men to suggest the Iowa Pacific road, now graded through "Wright County, and passing within a mile and a half of his farm, and is one of the foremost men in his section in prosecuting enterprises cal- culated to develop the wealth of the soil and the best qualities of the people. He was persistent and public spirited in his efforts to secure for his county railway facilities, and his efforts were finally successful. Much credit is due him for securing the location of the town of Eagle Grove, and the division of the Chicago & JS[ or th western Railway at that point, which has made it the leading town in Wright County. It is situated about a mile from his old home. He was largely inter- ested fn the town site, and has been active in building up the town, and has now a large amount of property there, among which is a very handsome, substantial and com- modious home, surrounded by large and beautiful grounds, most artistically laid out and beautified. His energy and industry have been substantially rewarded in a financial way, so that he is now enjoying the fruits of his labor amid the fruits, flowers and sun- shine of California. fP E. EOWEK, the subject of this sketch, was born in Thompsonville,Connecticut, ^ July 26, 1837. His boyhood was largely passed in attending school until the age of fifteen, when his parents removed to Cedar County, Iowa,where they lived for three years, and in 1855 came to Wright County, settling in Horse Grove, Iowa Township. The county at that time was but sparsely settled, and that being by a rough element, which soon disappeared, bfeing replaced by a more sub- stantial class of settlers. Mr. Kowen was married in 1856 to Catherine McNutt, a daughter of a United Brethren elder, and by this union became the fatlier of three daugh- ters, all of whom now reside in Kansas. His marriage into the McNutt family also led to a connection with the church of the United Brethren, in which church he was licensed, at Iowa Falls, to preach the gospel, and the following year was regularly ordained to the position of elder in the Christian min- OF WRIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 409 istry, at a conference held at Lisbon, Linn County, Iowa. He has during the years since his ordination done pastoral work at the following places: Castalia, Chickesaw, Cedar Falls, Bowen's Prairie, Butler Centre, Eockford, Eolfe, Dakota City, Emmettsburg and Clarion. He is now under appointment of the Iowa Conference of the United Breth- ren to organize its work in Wright County, and although it is but eighteen months since the work was commenced, there are already two societies, with a membership of seventy. He lost his first wife by death, and he was again married to Miss Kate Edwards, of Chickesaw, with whom he lived two years, when his home was again darkened by death. In 1872 he was married to Miss Mary J. Farmer, of Goldfield, Iowa, and the union has been a singularly happy one. They have been blessed with six children, three boys and three girls. United in their religious and social opinions, their home life is one of continuous joy. Far from rich in the world's goods, it is one of the rules of the house al- ways to share with the needy, and not even a tramp has ever been turned away hungry from their door. Mr. Rowen was the first person ever baptized by immersion in the Iowa Eiver at the town of Belmond. jOBEET EOWEN", farmer and stock- 1 raiser, section 33, Iowa Township. The % subject o/ this sketch is one of the first settlers of Wright County, coming here in 1855. He is a native of Ireland, born in Colderain, County Derry, June 17, 1803, a son of James and Agnes (Quig) Eowen, na- tives of the same county. The youth of our subject was spent in assisting his father on a farm, and after the death of his father, which occurred when our subject was nineteen years of age, he continued to reside with his moth- er until he emigrated to America in 1839. He sailed from Liverpool on the Armadella, and was six weeks and three days on the water; he landed in New York and went to work at weaving, and resided there about a year, and then went to Long Island and worked at farming and various other occupa- tions until 1836, when he went to Alabama and lived for about a'year and then sailed for Boston, where he remained for a short time, and again went to New York. While there he was married to Miss Elizabeth McMulleii, a native of County Armagh, and a daughter of John McMullen. She came to the United States when a child. After his marriage he went to Thompsonville, Connecticut, and engaged in carpet weaving, where he remained for eighteen years, and during the time there he wove carpet for the White House at Washington. In the summer of 1851 he came West, and after looking over Illinois, Wisconsin and Iowa, he finally entered 160 acres of Government land in Cedar County, where he settled and began to improve his farm. Here he lived for three years, and then sold out and came to Wright County and purchased two claims of Ford & Murdoch, for $350, then went to Des Moines and en- tered the Section; here he erected a log cabin, and in the spring of 1855 he moved his family here and began the task of im- proving his frontier home and began buildino- his present residence. He hauled his logs to Alden, Hardin County, to be sawed. The siding and most of the trimmings were of black walnut. In 1858 he moved into it. Mr. and Mrs. Eowen are the parents of five children, two of whom still survive. Eliza- beth, died in Thompsonville at four years of age; John, of Clarion; William, who was drowned at Belmond; Eobert, who died while serving his country at Little Eock, 410 BIOGBAPHICAL REGORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM Arkansas, was in Company A, Thirty-second Iowa Volunteer Infantry; Joseph li., of this township. Mr. Eowen has now 185 acres of .improved land in a high state of cultivation. Our subject served for eight successive years as supervisor, has also served in local offices of trust and responsibility. Politically he affiliates with the Kepublican party, and was one of the organizers of the party. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian church. ' >««-n^' S i \ l Mi-^i>-4<» fHOMAS EICHAEDS, deceased, was a native of Wales, born in Euabon, June V 13, 1826, a son of Eichard and Eliza- beth (Jones) Eichards. His parents removed to Liverpool when our subject was a small child. Here he lived for several years and received his education. He then returned to his native county and learned the machinist's trade, which he followed until in IVovember, 1850, and then emigrated to the United States and .located in "Winnebago County, Wisconsin, and engaged in the flouring and milling business for eight years. He was married September 12, 1853, to Miss Jane Williams, a native of the same county in Wales as Mr. Eichards. She was a daughter of Thomas and Jane (Owens) Williams, who came to the United States in 1849. In 1858 our subject removed to Oshkosh and engaged as engineer for a time, and then engaged in the lumber business. He followed this for six years, and then removed to California and continued in that business for four years more, and then returned to Wisconsin. In October, 1868, he moved his family to Web- ster City, Iowa, and engaged in the saw- milling business. In 1869 he removed the mill to Batch Grove, Wright County, and followed the business there until 1874, when he removed it back to Webster City. He then added a set of burrs, and ground flour and feed for the surrounding farmers. After running the mill for a short time he sold out. He died May 10, 1876, leaving a widow and eleven children. He had traded the mill for a residence in Webster City and the farm on which his family now live. He had entered 180 acres of Government land in Clay County in 1869, and he also owned forty acres at Batch Grove which he improved. After the death of Mr. Eichards, the family removed to the farm in Hamilton County, and there resided until 1884, when they removed to the present farm in Lincoln Township, on .section 10, where they have 160 acres of improved land in a high state of cultivation. The farm buildings are surrounded by a fine grove and ornamental shrubbery. The chil- dren are — William T., Sarah (deceased), Ar- thur S. (died in infancy), John H., George W., Arthur, Evan L., Elizabeth J., Edward H., Lydia, Annie B., Charles J., and Esther. Politically our subject was a Eepublican. fOSEPH DAVENPOET, a descendant of the Eev. John Davenport, the founder of New Haven, Connecticut, was born in the year 1847, at Dorchester, Massachusetts. He married Marah White, and they had nine children, one of whom was a minister, one a doctor, and the rest were farmers. The doc- tor, whose name was Nathaniel, was a Friend Quaker; he was born in 1783, at -Dorchester, Massachusetts. These children were all noted . for their moral and temperate habits, and would drink nothing stronger than milk. Nathaniel married Alice Davenport, and they had six children, viz: Eobert, Joseph, Am- mon, Liddia, Truair and Jason. Eobert was a mechanic and machinist, Truair a tiller of OF WniOET COUNTY, IOWA. 411 the soil, and the rest of the brothers are all dentists. Trnair Davenport, the fourth son of Nathaniel Davenport, was born the 22d day of April, 1834, at Colerain, Massachusetts, on " Catamount Hill." He was married on the 4th day of July, 1858, to Miss Nancy A. Christie, who was born August 1, 1835, at Heath, Massachusetts. They lived at Cole- rain, Massachusetts two years, during which time their first son was born (June 5, 1859), and was named Terance A. They then re- moved to Madison, Wisconsin, where their second son, Jason C, was born. August 8, 1861, after living there two years, they again came farther west and settled in Belmond, Wright County, Iowa. Here they purchased a sixty-acre farm of Amos Cummings, where they have made their home ever since. Their first and only daughter, Abbie J., was born February 3, 1864. Their third son, Frank J., was born December 19, 1866, and tlie fourth and last son, Truair Nathaniel, was born November 30, 1868. The first few years of their home in this county were dili- gently spent in paying for the farm, which was accomplished in the fall of 1867, and prospects for T. J. Davenport seemed to be brightening, but alas, on the 12th day of June, 1868, he was struck and killed by lightning, while cultivating corn, leaving a wife and four small children, and another born five months after, to struggle alone in this then almost wild wilderness. By close and judicious management the mother kept the children together and sent them to school — enough at least so that all of them received an average common-school education. Ter- ance A. received his first certificate to teach school when only nineteen years of age. He began teaching the next spring, and has followed teaching as a profession ever since in different parts of Wright County. Abbie J. has taught two terms, and has spent the rest of her time at home. The boys, JasonJ Frank and Truair, have always worked the home farm since they have been old enough. The children have always made their home with their mother. Truair is the only one not of age. Mrs. Davenport in late years has added 140 acres of land to the old home- stead, in order to give, the boys profitable employment at home. They are at present quite extensively engaged in the dairy busi- ness, milking from tliirty to thirty-five cows the year round. ►>,j*|** ,EV. JOHN KUHN, born in the Canton Zurich, Switzerland, in the year 1837, ^^^ son of Jacob and Barbara Kiihn, whose life was spent on a farm, raising their son to the same occupation, on the old homestead of his ancestors. He received a complete edu- cation, which was commenced in his native country, but co)npleted, however, in America. From his sixth to his twelfth year he attended the public schools regularly, according to the laws of Switzerland, and from his twelfth to his fifteenth year attended a higher school, at the same time receiving catechetical instruc- tion from the minister of his parish, as he was then attending the German Reform Church, and was admitted into full member- ship of this church by the rite of confirmation in his seventeenth year. Shortly after this ordeal his mother died, this bereavement probably being the cause of his present abode in America. After the death of his mother, his brother Henry, who was buried in Phila- delphia, Pennsylvania, since 1875, and him- self were summoned by their father into his presence, consulting them as regards their future life and occupation, requesting them to make a choice at the present time. Being reared by very pious parents, and still under 413 BIOOBAPHIOAL BEGORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM deep regret at the early death of his mother, our subject chose to enter a mission schooh He also made application to the board of missions of the German Reform Church, and entered their institution at Basil, Switzerland, in 1857. After two years, in 1859, he was sent by that board to a hospital in the city of London, England, where he performed his mission among the sick and dying with love and earnestness, manifested in his affec- tionate devotion and never-tiring minister- ings to the sick and needy, while giving kind words and loving assistance to the dying, devoting his time and ardor so continuously to his labor. By his own request he was directed by the same board to America, in the year 1861, to harbor his bark of minis- tering kindness in Galveston, Texas. But after arriving in New York the same year, which was also the year the war broke out "between the North and the South, his sympa- thy being so zealous with the Northern men, he decided to join them and decide the great question then weighting the minds of the American people, but did not enlist till a year later, when he enlisted into the United States service, and was sworn in as Second Steward of the Military Hospital at Turner's Lane, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for the term of one year, while his time up to the date of his enlistment was spent in an academy at Northampton County, Pennsyl- vania, where he took one course, and also returned after his service in the army. In 1862 he was married to Miss Sarah M. Lau- bach, of Northampton County, Pennsylvania. In 1867 he removed to Iowa with his father- in-law, and settled in "Washington County, where he remained but a short time, and then removed to Tiffin, Ohio, where he was, with the sttidents of the seminary known as the Heidelburg College, enrolled as a candidate for the ministry, tliat being the western college of the German Reform Church of the United States. He passed a satisfactory ex- amination before the Ohio synod and adjacent States, and was licensed and ordained for the ministry in 1868. In 1870 he moved back to Iowa, where he has been engaged as a minister successively. In 1885 he located in "Wright County, with the intention of build- ing a home for his family, which consists of four children, viz: Amelia, Henry, Willie and Johnnie. Here they are very pleasantly situated, having a comfortable, commodious dwelling, with suitable barns and granaries, located on the south half of section 33, in Lincoln Township, of which he is now the possessor, Mr. and Mrs. Kuhn are pleasant, hospitable people, well liked by their numer- ous acquaintances. ■i 2 i i S " iICHARD MILNES, Yernon Township, section 22, is one of the well-known, ^^^ enterprising citizens of the township. He came to Wright County in the year 1880. He was born in Yorkshire, England, March 15, 1839, a son of Benjamin and Ann (Wes- terly) Milnes. Richard grew to manhood in Yorkshire, and at the age of twenty came to America. He landed at New York, and went thence to Winnebago County, Illinois, where for a time he worked by the month at farm work. He was married in the fall of 1863, to Miss Mary Moat, who was also a native of Yorkshire, England, and came to Winnebago County with her parents when a small child. Our subject engaged in farming in Illinois until 1880, when he came to Vernon Township and purchased 160 acres of land, known as the Crabtree farm. Here he has since resided and improved his farm in a ffood manner, until it is one of the best in the neighborhood. It is well adapted for OF WRIGHT OOUNTT, IOWA. 413 either grain or stock raising. He has a good house and barn, and a fine grove. Everything about the place shows the thrift and prosper- ity of the owner. Mr. and Mrs. Milnes are the parents of five children, viz: William, Anna, Ella, Susy and Samuel. Mr. Milnes is a worthy member of the Methodist Epis- copal Church of Yernon Centre. In politics he is a Republican. He has served as con- stable. "♦-^I^ Mi ' g '""^ PARSHALL, one of the enter- irising and successful citizens of Vail Lake Township, came to Wright County in the year 1875. He was born in Trumbull County, Ohio (now Ma- honing County), on October 3, 1831, a son of David, who was born in Pennsylvania, and Abigail (Gee) Parshall, who was born in New York. Our subject lived in Trumbull County until he was fourteen years old, when the family moved to Crawford County, Penn- sylvania. The father died when W. S. was fifteen years of age. The mother went to Shelby County, Missouri, and died there in 1860. Our subject was reared a farmer and received his education in the common schools. He was married October 28, 1852, to Miss Mary C. Smith, who was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, MarcTa 27, 1833, and was a daughter of John and Jane (Mc- Creary) Smith, and came to Crawford Coun- ty, Pennsylvania, with her parents when thirteen years old. Her parents died in that county. After marriage our subject lived in Ashtabula County, Ohio, for five years, and then removed to Shelby County, Missouri. Here he lived for three years, and then came to Washington County, Iowa, where he lived for eleven years, and in 1872 he came to Hamilton County and resided until 1875, when he traded with Dr. Selders for his present farm. He has now in his home farm 160 acres, and has 160 acres in Blairsburg Township, Hamilton County, Iowa. He has a good house and other farm buildings, a good barn, 44 by 48 feet with 18-foot posts, which was built in 1888, and all is sur- rounded by a fine grove of shade and orna- mental trees. Everything about the farm is in good shape. Mr. and Mrs. Parshall have six children living, all daughters, viz: Ruth A.; Alice D.,'wife of William Inman; Flor- ence Abbie, wife of William Bain; Mag- gie May, Blanche Idelia and Etta May. They have lost one daughter by death — Ida, who was the wife of Henry Wheeler, died in Jamestown, Dakota, at the age of thirty-one years, and who left a bright little daughter — Alta May.' Mr. Parshall is a Re- publican, and has served as township trustee for many years, and has also held other offices. He is a member of the Masonic order — Acacia Lodge, at Webster City, Iowa. He joined the Masons in Richmond, Iowa, — Lodge No. 96. He has always taken an active interest in any movement that had for its object the best interests of the community in ^hich he lives, and is one of the highly esteemed and respected citizens of Wright County. ff G. McOLLOUGH, attorney at law, [ notary public, and dealer in real estate, ® is located on the east side of the town of Eagle Grove. Mr. McOllough is a native of Cedar County, Iowa, where he was born November 29, 1847. His father was C. McOllough, and the family are of Scotch ancestry. The subject of this notice was educated at Cornell College, Iowa, after which he was for some time engaged in teachin^r. 414 BIOGRAPHICAL SEOOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM In 1873 he removed to Colorado, where for several years he was engaged at speculating in mining stock. In 1884 he located at Eagle Grove and engaged in the law and loan business, making a specialty of the latter, in which he is engaged extensively. He is politically a Republican, and is influen- tial in the councils of his party. He is a member of the order of A. F. & A. M. In 1875 Mr. McOllough was united in marriage to Miss Addie Morrison, of West Liberty, Iowa. They have one daughter — Eva May. Mr. McOllough is one of the representative professional and business men of Eagle Grove. I^ON. JOHN L. MOESE. Judge Morse was one of the pioneer settlers of Wright County. He was born in Cortland ville, Cortland County, in the State of New York, on the 13th day of May, 1815. He was a son of Minor and Sally (May) Morse. His father was a native of Guilford, Connecticut, and his mother of Monson, Massachusetts, both of English descent. His grandfather came to JSTew York in 1796 and died there in 1801. Mr. Morse's parents were among the first New Englanders coming in their youthful days to New York State and locat- ing in Cortland County, when the view was one dense wilderness where to-day is a broad expanse of acres of cultivated lands and all the comforts and luxuries of a high civiliza- tion. There Judge Morse grew to manhood, receiving his education in the common schools and two terms in an academy. In 1822 his parents moved to Niagara County, New York, where his mother died, the Judge being then thirteen years of age, when his father and his children returned to Cortland County. At seventeen years of age Mr. Morse came with his father to Michigan and settled in Oakland County, where he sup- ported himself by teaching school winters and working on a farm in summer. On the 3d day of November, 1834, he married Susan Ann Cowles, the daughter of Alvin and Roxanies Cowles, of English and Irish lin- eage. In March, 1838, Mr. Morse and his wife moved to Otisco, Ionia County, Michi- gan, being among the very first settlers of that town, and he became the first supervisor of that town. In 1845 he was elected and served as a member of the Michigan State Legislature, representing a district composed of the counties of Ionia, Kent and Ottawa. In 1856 he was elected Judge of Probate of Ionia County and re-elected in 1860, serving in all eight years. In the spring of 1866 he came to Belmond, Wright County, and purchased a partially improved farm where he made his home. In 1868 he was elected county judge, serving one year as county judge and one year as county auditor by virtue of said ofltice. In 1870 he was elected county auditor, which office he held until. January 1, 1876. In 1875 he was elected a member of the Sixteenth General Assembly of the State of Iowa for the years of 1876 .and 1877, representing the district composed of the counties of Wright, Ha nil- ton and Humboldt. In 1869 he was admit- ted to the bar of Wright County and prac- ticed in the circuit and district courts of the county for sixteen years, when his health failed and he retired from business, which was the " finis " of his public life, but not terminus of the good he has accomplished nor the duties he has discharged, which are as foot prints on the sands of time indelible. Judge Morse has not spent all these years without a pleasant 'particiimtion in joy, for Mrs. Morse has been as a shining light always ready to comfort and assist, a pleasant and OF WEIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 417 affable lady to one and all, standing by him in public life and in all things for fifty- foui- years. They are the parents of eleven chil- dren — Allen B., now one of the judges of the Supreme Court of the State of Michigan; Cordelia and Joseph D., also residing in Ionia County, Michigan; Martha, the wife of George S. Cutler; Rhoda, the wife of E. S. Hubbard; Perry L., Eufus C. and Willard J., residents of Wright County, and three others deceased. Mr. Morse cast his first vote Democratic for Martin Yan Buren, in 1836, but in 1848 he joined the Free-Soil party, and in 1854 was one of the organizers of the Republican party in Michigan, to which he has, by his vote and influence, in- flexibly adhered ever since, casting his four- teenth presidential, vote for President-elect Harrison in 1888. fRED LUICK, one of the well-known, prominent pioneers of Pleasant Town- ^ ship, lives near Belmond, on section 30. He came to the county in the year 1857. He was born in Washtenaw County, Michigan, August 22, 1839, a son of Henry and Catherine Luick. Our subject was reared at farm work, and received his education in the district schools of Washtenaw County. When he was eighteen years of age he came to this, county, going to Chicago by team and then to Dubuque, Iowa, by rail, and the rest of the way by team. After arriving here he worked out by the month for several seasons. In 1860 he bought land near where he now lives, and lived on it until 1865; he then bought 100 acres of improved land in sections 30 and 31, and lived there for several years, and in 1876 he came on to his present farm. It had been improved by his brother Henry, who had settled on the same in 1854. Here our subject has since lived and has made the farm one of the best in the county.^ He has a fine frame house, a large barn and granary, and a dairy house where he makes the butter from the milk of twenty-five cows. Every- thing about the place shows the thrift and prosperity of the owner. The farm contains 620 acres, and adjoins the town plat of Bel- mond. Mr. Luick was married September 7, 1865, to Miss Alice Packard, a native of Ohio, who when a child went to Waupaca County, Wisconsin, where she grew to woman- hood. She was a daughter of E. C. and Caroline Packard. As a result of this union three children have been born to them, viz: Edith Beatrice, Chester Packard. and Harold. Frederick. They lost one by death — Albert Silas — when he was four years old. Mr. Luick is a self-made man, and one of the solid citizens of the county. Politically he is a Democrat. Mr. Luick served eight months in the war of the Rebellion. He was in the Second Iowa Infantry, and was with Sherman on his memorable march to the sea. »^Mf« ftmlCHOLAS JOHNSON came to Wright W/ County in the year 1869. He was born in Norway, on the 17th of February, 1830, a son of John and Carrie Johnson. When thirteen years of age our subject went to sea as a cabin boy. He attended to his duties faithfully and was soon promoted to a seaman, next a mate, and then as captain of a vessel. He served as a sailor until 1856, and during his many years on the sea he visited many parts of the globe. In 1856 he was married to Miss Hannah Finn, a native of Ireland. After his marriage he located in New York City and worked as stevedore until 1861. He then went into the employ 418 BIOOBAPEICAL RBOOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM of the United States, and assisted in sending out the first guns that went to the South. He was in the Quartermaster's department, and assisted in rigging vessels for the navy. At the close of the war he returned to his vrork as stevedore, and followed it until 1869, when he came to this county and engaged in farming. He paid $2,500 for his present farm, which at the time of purchase was im- proved. His home farm contains 120 acres of finely improved land, a good house, barn and other farm buildings, all surrounded by a fine grove. Mr. Johnson and his estimable wife ai-e the parents of seven children, five daughters and two sons, viz: Johanna Caro- line Jones, Nora UndercofHer, Mary Jane, Anna Christena, Cora, John Nicholas and Thomas Albert. They have lost three by death. Mr. Johnson is a Republican; he has served as assessor and on the school board. fH. BIEDSALL, merchant, Galtville, is a dealer in general merchandise, and * carries $5,000 worth of stock. His goods are of the best quality, and he sells them at reasonable prices. He engaged in this business at that place in February, 1888, buying out the firm of Hanlin Brothers, who had established the business in 1884. Our subject is the postmaster of that thriving little village, being appointed in the spring of 1888. He is a man of sterling principles, and is honorable in all his dealings. He has secured a fine trade, of which he is well wor- thy, and stands high socially and financially in the county. Mr. Birdsall was raised on the Birdsall homestead in Wall Lake Town- ship, and is a son of Benjamin Birdsall, de- ceased, a very prominent citizen of tliis county. Our subject was reared a farmer and received his education in the schools of Wright County. He had always followed farming until he embarked in his present business. He was married October 3, 1883, to Miss Minnie Gade, of this county, and as a result of this union three children have been born to them, viz: Maggie, Minnie and Kate. Politically our subject is a Democrat. i^H^ ,ICHAEL EUSSELL, a native of County Tipperary, Ireland, and a son of Patrick and Catherine (Grace) Russell, was born in the year 1835. His father died when Michael was eight years old. Michael was the only boy, but he had two sisters. In 1853 he left the parental roof, sailing for America, making his first permanent stop at Troy, New York, working by the month for two years ; thence to Penn- sylvania, and followed farming for one year; and then to Warren County, Illinois, where he continued at farming for two years. Here in the year 1862 he married Miss Catherine Lee, a daughter of Michael Lee. After his marriage he rented land on shares for six years; he then came to Wright County, where he purchased eighty acres of unim- proved land, which he set about to cultivate. To this he has since added 320 acres, all till- able lands, comparing with the finest farms in the county, and all due to his individual thrift and energy. As he began life a poor boy without means, all the more credit is due to his prosperity, as he was without education. To him and his wife were born eight children, four sons and four daughters, viz: Thomas, Michael, James, Edward George, Katie, Julia, Maggie and Mary. On No- vember 2, 1877, Mrs. Russell was stricken with paralysis and remained an invalid until relieved by death, June 13, 1886, leaving a OF WBIOET GOUNTT, IOWA. 419 devoted husband and a family of fond chil- dren to mourn the loss of mother. Mr. Russell has served as director of schools and township trustee, and also path-master. He is a member of the Catholic Church at Clar- ion, as is his family. He is one of the sub- stantial farmers of the county, and a man who is respected for his honor and upright- ness. Politically he is a Democrat. H. MARTIN, of Boone Township, is one of the pioneers of Wright County. \^ He resides on section 30, where he settled in February, 1855, and here he has since lived. He was born in County Glouces- ter, England, January 23, 1818. This is the county that has produced many eminent men, including Dr. Jenner, the discoverer of the art of vaccination. The father of our sub- ject, John Martin, was a woolen manufacturer, though he had been reared to the occupation of a farmer. When the subject of this notice was yet a small boy, his father came to America to select a home for the family. He selected a place in Medina County, Ohio; his family came not long after. The mother of our subject, Maria Verinda, died in Eng- land, and the father had married a second time before coming to America. The step- mother and two children, the subject of this notice and his eldest sister, came to this country as before stated; three brothers and two sisters remained in England. The father continued to live in Ohio till his death. When our subject left home he first went to Summit County, Ohio, where he worked on a farm for a man by the name of Samuel Treat until he came to Iowa. Having saved some money by his labor, he resolved to come to Iowa and invest it in land. He stopped for a short time in Hamilton County, but came here and made his location ifi February, 1855. He has added largely to his original purchase, and is now numbered among the largest and most successful farmers and stock-raisers in northwestern Iowa. He has 600 acres of land, fine buildings and a beauti- ful home. He was married March 2, 1865, to Mrs. Anna M. Odenheimer, widow of William Odenheimer. Her maiden name was Anna M. Kelling, a sister of Frederick Kelling, of Liberty Township. She was born in Germany, April 26, 1842. Mr. and Mrs. Martin have had ten children, but only four are now living, viz: Henry, Walter, George and Alfred. They lost five daughters and one son. The daughters all died of that terrible disease diphtheria, within two weeks of each other. Mrs. Martin has a daughter by her first marriage — Sadie, the wife of Millet Braden, of Troy Township. Mr. Martin is a Republican. He is one of the representative citizens of his township. By industry and economy he has secured a com- petence. Mrs. Martin is a woman of more than ordinary intelligence, and to her her husband owes no small part of his success in life. Mr. and Mrs. Martin have had tlieir share of life's troubles, their great affliction being the loss of their children, as above stated. < n > i | i lX 'I' S l I S" * X '" » >* mUTHDR A. LOOMIS, of Belmond, fl|| Wright County, Iowa, is the son of %^ Amsey and Betsey (Newton) Loom is, natives of Connecticut and Massachusetts. Luthur was born in West Monroe, Oswego County, New York, September 23, 1822, where he was reared to farm life. Here he received his early education in the common schools. In 1857 he came to Wright Coun- ty. In 1846 he came from New York to 430 BIOGRAPHIOAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM Michigan, locating in Otisco, Ionia Oonnty, where he resided nntil 1857. While in Michigan he followed farming and mail con- tracting. He was married in Ionia, Michi- gan, to Sarah Ann, daughter of Jacob and May Morse. She was born in 1824. Lnthnr A., our subject, is one of Wright County's pioneers, and is now one of the oldest living, having resided in the county over thirty-one years. He first purchased a farm of 160 acres in Hancock County, adjoining Wright, which he improved, but most of his attention was devoted to Wright County's welfare. When he first came to Belmond he purchased a stock of general merchandise from Henry Luick, which he handled for about six months, when he sold out to Mr. Brown. He then purchased the hotel property which was being constructed at that time, being the first hotel of Belmond, which he fitted up and traded off for some land in section 36, in Belmond Township, which he owns at the present time. This he has improved until he has it under a fine state of cultiva- tion, which bespeaks the thrift and energy of the owner. He has struggled hard in his efforts to prepare a home for himself and family, and has had to undergo most of the hardships incident to pioneer life, receiving at times a mere pittance for his grain. He has hauled wheat from Belmond to Cedar Falls, a distance of seventy-five miles, for 35 cents per bushel. In 1868 he took a con- tract for conveying the mails and driving stage from Belmond to Alden, Belmond to Garner, and Belmond to Webster City, which he followed untH the railroads usurijed the business. During his service for the Government he had to contend with numer- ous hardships, struggling through mud and breasting the severe snow and hail storms, at times when his very life was endangered; yet he fearlessly sallied forth in the discharge of his duties, never missing a single trip, but always ready to go. He owns several pieces of property in Belmond, and is so situated that his declining years can be enjoyed in ease and comfort. He also possesses 160 acres of land in Belmond Township. He is a strong adherent to the Democratic prin- ciples. Mr. and Mrs. Loomis are the parents of four living children — Jennetta M., Anna, Emma and Perry. Mr. Loomis has held the office of supervisor and member of the school board. fOSEPH GROYER INGRAHAM, sec- tion 12, Blaine Township, is one of the intelligent and enterprising citizens of the township and came to the county in the year 1876. He was born in Medina Count}', Ohio, May 26, 1823, son of Ira and Phila (Porter) Ingraham, the former a native of Vermont and the latter a native of Connecti- cut. Our subject was a lad of thirteen years when his father removed to Delaware County, Indiana, where J. G. grew to manhood; he was reared a farmer and received his education in the common schools. In 1855 he went to Lake County, Illinois, and lived for two and a half years and then went to Franklin Cou.nty, Iowa, being among the earliest settlers in that county, where he lived until 1875 and then came to Wright County. During the late civil war he was drafted but was discharged on account of disability. He first settled on section 10 where he improved a farm and lived for six years and then came on to his present farm, which at that time was wild land. It contains 160 acres of fine land in a high state of cultivation. He has a fine house with a stone basement, and other good farm buildings, and has a fine orchard, and all are surrounded by a fine native grove. OF WRIOHT OOUNTT, IOWA. 431 Onr stibject was twice married, the first time in Delaware County, Indiana, in January, 1843, to Miss Lucy Ann Kichardson, of Jay County, Indiana, and a daughter of William Richardson. By this union were born twelve children — William H., who served in the Thirty-second Iowa Infantry, Company H, and now lives at Ellsworth, Minnesota; Lu- cretia, of Nebraska; Julia E., of Lake Coun- ty, Dakota, and George C, of Cheyenne, Nebraska, are all that survive. Mrs. Ingra- ham died March 10, 1862. Our subject was married to his present wife December 13, 1863. She was a Miss Sarah Tillman, and was born in Darke County, Indiana, and a daughter of Daniel and Mary (Thomas) Tillman. As a result of this union eleven children have been born to them, but only eight of them still survive, viz: Ezra, May A., Cyntha M., Lydia A., Eose Anna, Louisa, Nancy I. and Joseph Grover, Jr. Our sub- ject is a Republican ; has been assessor for six years, justice of the peace for four years, and president of the school board for four years. He is a man cordial to all, and has the respect and confidence of all. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Epis- copal Church. 101 ii>^>^ii.g»-4^.i>-tf-. fOSIAH PI]SriON,who resides on section 17, Wall Lake Township, is one of the well-known enterprising and successful citizens of the county, where he has made his home since the year 1881. He is a native of Pureau County, Hlinois, where he was born July 16, 1859, a son of Peter and Elizabeth Pinion, of that county, the father having been a prominent pioneer. Josiah was reared a farmer and received his education in the public schools and in the Northwestern Col- lege of Naperville, Illinois. He made his home in his native county until 1881, when, as before stated, he came to Wright County, settling on a section of wild land in Wall Lake Township. He now has 300 acres under cultivation. Josiah is and has been assisted by his brother Alfred. They are engaged in general farming and stock-raising. They are intelligent young men and have gained a good position among the best men of the county. lEOJRGE DAWSON, a native of Greene County, Pennsylvania, was born March 10, 1811, a son of Moses Dawson. Our subject was reared on a farm. He was mar- ried to Kebecca Brewer, a native of Belmont County, Ohio, who was born March 39, 1818. Our subject entered land in Belmont County to the amount of 120 acres, which he traded for 400 acres in Wright County, upon which he settled in 1869. Here he resided -until the time of his death, in February, 1878. His widow still survives, making her home with her daughter, Mrs. Meechem. To Mr. and Mrs. Dawson were born eight children, four sons and four daughters, viz: Malinda, wife of J. G. Meechem; William; David; Chris- topher; Deliah, deceased; Mary H. (King); Milton and Eebecca Jane, deceased. In poli- tics Mr. Dawson was a Republican, and bit- terly opposed to slavery. He was a member of the Disciple Church, as is also his widow. He was one of the honored and highly es- ieemed citizens of this county, and his death fell as a pall in every home where his name was known; he was buried in the cemetery at Clarion. «-'-C^>^«^»|«-«*^ ILLIAM DAWSON, eldest son of George and Rebecca (Brown) Daw- son, early settlers of Clarion Town- ship, Wright County, Iowa, was born in the year 1840, in Belmont County, Ohio. He was reared on a farm and had the usual ad- vantages allowed farmers' sons. He enlisted in August, 1861, in Company E, Fifteenth Ohio Infantry, serving in all four years and four months. The company veteraned in 1863. The principal engagements were Shiloh, Stone River, siege of Corinth, Che- mauga. Missionary Ridge, the battle of At- lanta and numerous skirmishes, also at Ken- esaw Mountain, where the regiment suffered with a great loss of men; also at Nashville; had his arm broken on the train between Chattanooga and Knoxville, for which he re- ceives a sufficient pension. He was mustered out at San Antonio, Texas, November 21, 1865, and returned to Belmont County, Ohio, OP WBIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 429 where he assisted his father on the farm till the following fall, when he came to Cedar County, Iowa, bringing with him his new wife whom he married in Belmont County, Ohio, October 27, 1866. Her maiden name was Esther A. Simeral, and was a daughter of Samuel and Mary Simeral. After remaining two years in Cedar County our subject came to Wright County, buying 120 acres of new and unimproved land, which he at once set about to place under cultivation; this he ac- complished, and to which he has since added forty acres, his farm now comparing with the best in the county, bespeaking for the owner thrift and good management. To Mr. and Mrs. Dawson was born six children, one son and five daughters, viz: Mary J., Lowry S., Minnie J., Lucy E., Anna L. and Landia D. (deceased). Mr. Dawson is a member of the G. A. K., General Lyons Post, of Clarion, Iowa. Both Mr. and Mrs. Dawson are act- ive and consistent members of the Christian Church at Clarion. fL. RICHARDSON, who resides on section 18, Wall Lake Township, is '* one of the enterprising young men of the township where he has made his home ■ since the year 1870. He was born in Calu- met County, Wisconsin, April 3, 1855, a son of Thomas Richardson, who was born in Lancashire, England. He came to America when a young man and here married Susan Day, who was also a native of England. They were the parents of five children, viz. : Albert, Sarah, John L., Lewis and Ella — the last two were twins. The mother died in 1865, and the father married again. The family came to Wright County in 1870, and here the father died in the year 1887. Our subject was reared a farmer and received his education in the public schools. He was married October 10, 1887, to Miss Viola Hazwell, of Webster City, Iowa, and a daughter of Arthur Hazwell. She had been a successful teacher in the schools of Hamil ton County. Mr. Richardson owns 260 acres of land well improved; he has a good frame house, barn and other farm buildings. Pie is engaged in general farming and stock raising. In politics he is a Republican. M. IIIjSTES, who resides on section 15, Wall Lake Township, is one of the '^ well-known enterprising and success- ful citizens of the township and an ex-soldier of the late war. He came to Wright County in the year 1879. He is a native of the Buckeye State, where he was born February 21, 1840, a son of Eli and Rebecca (Cole) Hines. The Hines family removed from Pickawany County, Ohio, to Allen County, near Lima, where they lived till 1851; and then went to Lee County, and remained there two years, and then came to Iowa and located in Washington County. The parents of our subject had four children, viz: S. M., Irene, Louisa and Phillip, who lives in Ottumwa, Iowa, where the father now lives. Tiie mother died in Ottawa, Illi- nois, in 1881. S. M., the subject of this sketch, was reared a, farmer and received his education in the public schools. During the late civil war he went in defense of the old flag, serving in the Western army as a mem- ber of the First Iowa Cavalry, Company F, under General Fremont. Our subject was one of the body guard of General Pope for a time; also carried despatches for General Hunter. Mr. Hines was in thirteen engage- ments altogether. He was for a time in General Curtis' command, also under General 430 BIOGRAPHICAL BEOOBD AND POBTBAIT ALBUM Steele, and was one of the number to meet General Banks on his return from the Red lliver expedition. Ho was lionorably dis- charged as Sergeant on the 9th of September, 1864, at Davenport, Iowa, and returned to Washington County, Iowa. In 1865 he re- moved to Hardin County, Iowa, where he engaged in the mercantile business at Point Pleasant, later he engaged in farming near Eldora. In 1879 he exchanged for his pres- ent farm, which at that time was wild land. He has since improved it and has a good liouse, barn and other farm buildings, all surrounded by a fine grove. He was mar- ried November 14, 1866, to Miss Margaret J. Nott, of Point Pleasant, a daughter of Luther and Mary Nott. As a result of this union they are the parents of five children, viz: Frank L., Mary E., John O., Angle and Charles N. Mr. Hines is a member of the G. A. R., General Lyons Post, of Clarion. In politics he is a Republican. -»o>-iH»-» % t \% n-^tt-ti— H. CRABTREE, dealer in farm imple- ments, wagons, buggies and harness, 'I® established . in business at Dows in September, 1886. He carries a $3,000 stock, and does an extensive business. He is a man well known in the county and honorable in his business dealings, and is a popular busi- ness man. Mr. Crabtree is a native of Kane County, Illinois, where he was born Novem- ber 8, 1855, a son of George and Sarah Jane (Fillmore) Crabtree. The family came to Wright County in the year 1866, and settled in Vernon Township, where the father made his home for many years and was one of the township's best citizens. The mother died in 1871, and the father now lives in Otter Tail, Minnesota. Our subject grew to man- hood on the old farm, and received his education in the schools of Wright County. After arriving to majority he bought a farm for himself and was engaged at agricultural pursuits until he came to Duws. He still owns his farm, which contains 400 acres of well improved land. Mr. Crabtree, on the 16th of October, 1876, was married to Miss Emma Richards, of Vernon Township, and they have six children, viz.: Carrie E., John C, Richard Fillmore, Rosena May, Jenette and Janey. In politics our subject is a Republican. ANIEL BLOXHAM, farmer and stock- raiser, section 16, Dayton Township, was born' in Erie County, New York, June 11, 1833, a son of Thomas and Phebe (Rhodes) Bloxham, the former a native of Yorkshire, England, and came to this county when twenty-seven years of age and settled in Erie County, and the latter a native of Rhode Island of Scotch- Irish descent. Our subject remained on his father's farm till he was fifteen years of age, when he was apprenticed to the blacksmith's trade, serving two years, after which he engaged in farming in his native State till 1852. He then came to Iowa and located in Chickasaw County. He was married in 1858 to Miss Hannah Smith, a native of England, who Came to this coun- try with her parents when nine years of age. In 1860 he removed to Minnesota, where he engaged in farming until the breaking out of the late civil war. Enlisting August 15, 1862, in Company F, of the Eighth Minne- sota Volunteer Infantry, he served in the Western Department in the Indian war with Tilby and Smalley. He served three years and was honorably discharged August 15, 1865, after which he engaged in farming in Minnesota till 1871, when he came to Olar- OF WRIGHT COUNT T, IOWA. 431 ion, Iowa; here he rented the Gates farm for tliree years and then went to Chickasaw County and worked his father's farm for three years; he then returned to Wright County and settled on his present farm which he had previously purchased, and which he now has in a high state of cultivation. Mr. and Mrs. Bloxham are the parents of eight children, of whom six still survive, viz.: C. B., A. C, deceased ; Margie, a successful teacher in the schools of Wright County; R. J., deceased; Lena V., Lewis K., Mabel, Ernest and Edgar. Mr. Bloxham has served as president of the school board, also as con- stable. He is a jnember of the A. F. and A. M., Cyrene Lodge, No. 325, also of the G. A. R., General Lyons Post. Politically he affil- iates with the Republican party. Mrs. Blox- ham is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. fOHN WOODARD, Troy Township, section 22, one of the well-to-do lead- ing men of the township, has made Wright County his home since the year 1869. He was born in Rutland County, Vermont, November 22, 1830, a son of Stephen and Amanda (Allen) Woodard. John was the fourth child of ni# children. When he was seven years of age the family removed to Tioga County, Pennsylvania. Our subject passed his youth at farm work and in receiv- ing an education in the common schools. He was married when twenty-one years of age to Miss Abigail Abbott, and as a result of this union they are the parents of two children, viz. : Viola Digman, Abbe Kline, of Benton County, Iowa. In 1858 our sub- ject removed to Dunn County, Wisconsin, where his first wife died. In the fall of 1858 Mr. Woodard was married to his present wife, Miss Mercy Schoonover, a native of Dodge County, Wisconsin, and a daughter of Richard Schoonover. Our subject lived in Dunn County until 1869, when he came to Wright County; here he located^on the farm where he has since lived. He first bought 120 acres of wild land, and built a small box house, 14x16 feet; the barn was a rude shed covered with slough grass. But a great change has since taken place; the Woodard farm now contains 560 acres of well improved land which compares with the best in the township. The present residence was erect- ed in 1886 and is 26x26 feet, two stories high and has an addition 17x18 feet. It is built in modern style and furnished in a good manner; there is also a good barn and other farm buildings and a windmill furnishes wat^ for the house and stock, and everything about the farm shows to the thrift and pros- perity of the owner. Mr. Woodard by his present wife have five children, viz.: Marion, wife of J. M. Fisher, of Troy Township; Frank, Richard, Sarah and John. In politics Mr. Woodard is a Democrat. Our subject has always taken an active interest in school work, and any enterprise that had for it* object the best interests of the community in which he lives has received his hearty sup- port. gUGH JONES, Woolstock Township, section 17; is one of the extensive aori- culturists of the township, and is well known in both Wright and Hamilton counties. He has made Wright County his home since 1871. Mr. Jones is a native of Wales, where he was born February 15, 1835, a son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Price) Jones, They had four children ; the father died before the birth of Hugh. Hugh grew to manhood 433 BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM ill his native county; lie wa8 reared to farm work. In 1866 he came to America and lo- cated in Kenosha County, Wisconsin ; here he worked out hy the month for five years. In 1871 he came to Wright County with Richard Lewis, driving a team for him and after ar- riving here assisted Mr. Lewis 'in starting a home. For several years after he worked out by the month in both Hamilton and Wright Counties and saved some money. In 1873 he bought forty-seven acres of land; the eighty where his home now is was bought in 1878. He was married in February, 1880, to Mrs. Mary Robey; her maiden name was France. After his marriage our subject located on his present farm, which he has added to from time to time, and he now is one of the large land owners of the township, owning altogether 487 acres, 360 acres of it being in the home farm. He is engaged in farming and stock-raising, keeping a, large number oi cattle. He has a comfortable house, good barn and other farm buildings, and is a very successful Jarmer. Mr. and Mrs. Jones are the parents of four children, viz.: Richard Price, Elizabeth May, Margaret and Nettie. In politics Mr. Jones is a Republican and a strong believer in the principles of that great organization and in a high protective tariff. » S t < ; « A. DEVERAUX, farmer and stock- 1, raiser, is a native of Canada, born in 'i® Drummond, December 29, 1837, a son ofEbeuezer and Mary (Wiggins) Deveraux; the former was a native of "Maine and of French descent, the latter was a native of New Hampshire and of Puritan ancestry. Our subject received a common school educa- tion, and then learned the carpenter trade with his father. In 1857 he with his father's family removed to Yermont, where he fol- lowed his trade for several years. He was married March 24, 1862, to Miss Jennie Johnson, a native of Vermont, and a daugh- ter of William Johnson. Mr. Deveraux fol- lowed his trade in Vermont till 1868 when he emigrated to Iowa; he located at Mason City for five years. In the spring of 1875 he came to this county and purchased 440 acres of wild land which he has improved, and now has one of the finest farms in the county. Mr. and Mrs. Deveraux have one son, John Chester. Our subject and his wife are active and consistent members of the Baptist Church, Mr. Deveraux being a dea- con in the First Baptist Church of Mason City. ..>^^. BENJAMIN BIRDSALL, the subject of this sketch, was born at Hillsdale, Co- lumbia County, New York, January 8, 1810. He came of that patient sturdy race of Hollanders that founded the colony of Amsterdam and his ancestry were prominent in colonial times. In 1816 the family moved to Central New York, and settled at Greene, in Chenango County, and there Mr. Birdsall grew to man's estate. His earlier years were spent upon his father's farm, where were inculcated those habits of industry and economy which characteri^ his after life. In 1886 he went to Texas and remained there one year with his elder brother, John Bird- sall, who was the confidant and trusted coun- selor of General Sam Houston, and the first attorney-general of the " Lone Star State." From Texas he went to Illinois end settled in LaSalle County, where he engaged in farm- ing until the year 1846. In that year he moved to Northern Wisconsin, and located at what is now the town of Weyanwega, Wau- pauca County, but was then an unexplored wilderness of pine forests. He founded the fe^^A,^ ^i^^^a^ OF WBIOET OOUNTT, IOWA. 435 town of Weyanwega and engaged extensively in lumbering at that place. For many years thereafter he was connected with one of the largest lumbering firms of northern Wiscon- sin, and became widely known throughout business and financial circles. In 1871 he removed with his family to Alden, Hardin County, Iowa, and in the fall of that year purchased the Purcell place on the banks of Wall Lake in Wright County, where he has permanently resided since 1874. In the year 1873, in company with his son, T. J. Bird- sail, and with C. M. Nagle, he founded at Alden, the Bank of Alden, which has ever since been in successful operation under the management of his son. From time to time he added to his possessions at Wall Lake vintil at the time of his decease they num- bered 1,600 acres, constituting one of the finest stock farms in the county. Mr. Bird- sail was married at Weyanwega, Wisconsin, in 1851 to Anna Hyde, of Erie County, JSTew York, and there were born to them ten chil- dren, nine of whom survive him. On July 25, 1888, he departed this life at his home in Wright County. For several years prior to his decease he had given the management of the details of his business to his sons and gave his time and thought to the greater problems of life. A student and lover of nature he found in the contemplation of its works a greater satisfaction and purer joy than the active duties of life, with its busy cares and responsibilities can aiford. His home became known far and wide for its hospitality and good cheer, and many a belated traveler before the advent of railways in the county had cause to bless the shelter it afford- ed from the winter storms. Urbane and social, whoever visited his country home found in him a gentleman of the old, and a philosopher of the new school. Learned and modest, plain and unassuming, he was equipped with the best thought and most advanced learning upon the great problems of life and gifted with rare conversational powers. Honesty was the only key to his confidence and regard, and with this no one ever sought his aid in vain. He dignified labor; he knew that it was the condition of human progress and within to warp and woof was contained the destiny of mankind. Professing i\o religion but love of his fellow-man, the tenets of his faith were the golden rule and reciprocity. Upon these he builded a life of rectitude and honor; keeping uninfringed his natures law. He faithfully kept and performed the duties of life and fearlessly met the " King of Terrors," viewing death as but a form with which the great law of change and progress clothes its workings. He will be long re- membered among the earlier settlers in the county. fPOHN FRAKES, section 32, Woolstock I Township, is one of the well-known en- terprising men of Wright County. He is a son of Patrick Frakes, a prominent pioneer of Cass Township, Hamilton County, Iowa, whose sketch appears on another page. John was the sixth child of nine children. He was born in Logan County, Illinois, April 6, 1850, and was about four years of age when his father came to Hamilton County. He was reared in Cass Township, on the old homestead. His youth was passed at farm work and in receiving an education in the primitive schools of those early days. When he was twenty-one years of age he married Miss Ida A. Doolittle, who was born in Wis- consin, a daughter of S. and Olive (Kellogg) Doolittle. After his marriage our subject resided in Cass Township, engaged In farm- ing until 1871, when he bought 160 acres of 436 BIOOBAPMIGAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM wild land, where he now lives. Mr.' Prakes has improved the farm and added to it and he now owns 320 acres, and the Frakes farm is known as one of the best farms in the township. Mr. Frakes has a fine house, good barn and other farm buildings, and a wind- mill furnishes water for house use and for his stock; everything about the place shows the thrift and prosperity of the owner. Mr. and Mrs. Frakes are the parents of three children, viz.: Elizabeth Olive, Sadie Belle and llo P. They lost one by death, Lotta, when two years old. In politics our subject is a Democrat. He is a man cordial to all, honorable in all business transactions, and is numbered, financially, among the best men of the township. E. MATTHEWS is one of the enter- prising and successful citizens of Troy ^J * Township. He resides on section 13, and has made Wright County his home since the year 1869. He was born in Adams County, Ohio, August 18, 1843, a son of Joshua and May L. (Wasson) Matthews. In 1853 the father of our subject settled in Henry County, Illinois, and was among the earliest pioneers of that county ; here he lived till 1875, when he removed to Schuyler Coun- ty, Missouri, where he and the mother of our subject now reside. T. E. was reared a farmer and received his education in the public schools. August 12, 1862, he en- listed in the One Hundred and Twelfth Illinois Infantry, Company A. He was first under fire at Kichmond, Kentucky. He was taken prisoner at Franklinville, Tennessee, Novem- ber 30, 1864, when on a charge at the breast works at that place. His hat was shot off his head and two bullets struck his knapsack. He was held a prisoner for six months, first at Columbia, Tennessee, fourteen days; then at Corinth, Mississippi, nine days; Marnon, Mississippi, six days; then taken to Mont- gomery, Alabama, by rail and held four days; thence to Andersonville, Georgia, for two months; then to Blue Springs, Georgia, four days; thence to Thomasville two days; then to Cartersville, Florida, three days; thence to Jacksonville and from there by boat to Hiltons Head, North Carolina; thence by ship to Annapolis, Maryland; thence to St. Louis, Missouri, to parol camp; later to Springfield, Illinois, where he was discharged July 3, 1865, and then returned to his home in Henry County. He was married March 16, 1867, to Miss Elizabeth A. McClelland, at Dixon, Illinois. She was a daughter of David and Sophia (Myers) McClelland. Our subject settled in Humboldt County, Iowa, in 1867, and while there his house was blown down by the wind. He then went to Hamilton County where he lived for two years and then came to Wright County. In 1871 he lo- cated on his present farm, which was at that time wild laud. He now has 160 acres of fine land well improved; he has a good house, barn and other farm buildings, and >has some good thoroughbred short horn cattle. Mr. and Mrs. Matthews are the parents of eight children, viz.: Guy H., Bert E., Frank J., Boyd and Grace (twins), Ethel S., Asa A. Lee and Cora J. In politics Mr. Matthews is a Republican. -^^ I^UGH DONELY, the present county |R^ clerk of Wright County, is one of the •^(l well-known representative men of this county, which he has made his home since the year 1882. He is a native of Lycoming County, Pennsylvania, where he was born January 13, 1845, a son of Hugh and Betsey 0¥ WRIGHT aOUNTT, IOWA. 487 (Beach) Donely. When our subject was two years old his parents removed to La Porte County, Indiana, where he grew to manhood. His youth was passed at farm work and in receiving an education in the common schools of that county. In 1876 he came to Web- ster City, Iowa, and engaged in the grain and stock business for some time, when he was appointed 'city marshal, and after serving one term he again engaged in the grain and stock business. He followed thig till 1882 at that place, and then removed to Eagle Grove, Wright County, and continued the business there. He being the first to engage in this business in the town, lie followed it for some time and then was tendered the position of superintendent of the " Eiverbend Stock Farm," which he accepted. In the fall of 1886 he was elected to the office of county clerk, on the Democratic ticket, showing his popularity, as the county is strongly Repub- lican. Mr. Donely was married in 1866 to Miss M. J. Hews, who was born in Penn- sylvania, but grew to womanhood in Indiana. She was a daughter of Henry and Mary (Hagerman) Hews. By this union Mr, and Mrs. Donely are the parents of two sons, viz.: D. R. Porter and Henry H. Mr. Donely is a member of the A. F. and A. M., also of the Knights of Pythias. Though but a young man he has gained an enviable position, soci- ally and politically, among the leading men of the county. W. STEWART, farmer and stock- raiser, section 36, Dayton Township. ** The subject of this sketch has been identified with the interests of Wright County since the year 1879. He is a native of Wis- consin, born in Green County, December 6, 1856, a son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Stull) Stewart. The father was a native of West Virginia and of Scotch-Irish descent, and was among the earliest settlers of Wisconsin, and was married there to the mother of our sub- ject who came from Pennsylvania with her parents. The father and mother of our sub- ject were the parents of twelve children, of whom six still survive. Our subject was the si.xth cliild; the father died in Wisconsin in 1876 and the mother died in Clarke County, Iowa, June 30, 1886. Our subject was reared on a farm and received a common school education; he resided with his parents until he had reached his majority. In the spring of 1879 he came to Wright County and located in Woolstock Township and engaged in farming on rented land. In 1883 he pur- chased eighty acres of wild land, which he broke up and raised one crop from ; he then sold out and purchased his present farm which contains 120 acres of improved land in a high state of cultivation. He was married May 23, 1883, to Miss Cora Clark, a native of Wisconsin, and a daughter of George H. Clark, of Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Mrs. Stewart came with her parents to Wright County in the early settlement of the county; she was engaged in teaciiing for several years. Mr. Stewart is politically a Republican. •-3<-»f« AVID G. LEY, one of the well-known citizens of Woolstock Township, located in the county in 1870, on the White Fox Creek. He was born in Canada near Toronto, August 8, 1844, a son of David B. Ley, a native of Dundee, Scotland, and Agnes (Arnot) Ley, a native of Cambelton, Scotland. The parents of our subject were married in Canada, and had twelve children, of whom nine were living in 1888. D. G. was the fourth child. The parents came to Wright 438 BIOGRAPHICAL BEOOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM County in 1873, where they lived until death. David G. attended school at Orono, Canada, until he was eighteen years of age, when he went to Kochester, JS'ew York, and learned the carpenter's trade. In December, 1863, he received an appointment in the United States Quartermaster's Department, where he was employed until the close of the war. He was engaged at his trade and contracting and building in Chicago, Illinois, until 1870, when he came to Wright County. The Ley farm contains 400 acres of rich farm land, well improved, a good house, and the best barn in the township; it is 52 by 80 feet, 16 foot posts and 26 foot perliiies, and has room for ninety head of cattle and 200 tons of hay and grain. Everything about the farm shows the thrift of the owner. Mr. Ley was mar- ried September 22, 1867, to Miss Almira Youngheim, of Naperville, Illinois, a daugh- ter of Augustus Youngheim, and one of the pioneers of that county. Mr. and Mrs. Ley have four children, viz.: Mamie C, Eddy v., Harry D. and Lotta M. Mr. Ley is a Republican; and a man cordial in manners, genial in his disposition, well informed on general topics and one of Wright County's best citizens. ►Sw^i G. OMSTEAD is one of the well- known early pioneers of Hamilton i® County, which he has made his home since the year 1853. Tiie only settlers in the north half of the county at that time were Widow Stanley, Peter Lyon, Wils Brewer, a Mr. Thurman and Faul. The father of our subject was Jacob Omstead, who, with his family, came here in the spring of 1853. His sons were Jacob, Jr., a married man; Levi, also a man with a family. N. G. Omstead was a single man, but was married a year later to Miss Sarah A. Evans, a native of Story County, Iowa, and a daughter of Isaac and Jane Evans. Jacob Ojnstead, the father of our subject, was born in the Green Mountain State and when ten years of age he went to Ohio, where he grew to manhood. He mar- ried Betsey Vannatta, by whom he had twelve children, ten of whom grew to man and womanhood; thi-ee of the sons, as before stated, came with their father to this county, and started the town of Saratoga. Here the father lived for ten years, and then returned to Indiana, and lived till death in La Grange County; he died at the age of eighty-three years. N. G. Omstead settled at Saratoga where he broke wild land, using a huge prairie breaker, drawn by six yoke of oxen. He would take wild land, improve it and sell out, making a good profit; this he followed for many years and then he engaged in run- ning a saw-mill on both the Boone and Des Moines Elvers. In August, 1862, in answer to Lincoln's call for three hundred thousand men, he enlisted in the Thirty-second Iowa Infantry, Company A. He took an active part at tlie battle of Cape Girardean, Missouri, was then stationed at Little Rock, Arkansas, for twenty months, and was then honorably discharged and returned to his home. Some time later he engaged in merchandising at Webster City, which he followed for three years. He then engaged in the stock busi- ness and also in the grain business, buying at five stations on the Iowa Northern Railroad. He is now in charge of the feed yards at Tama City, Iowa, which position he fills to the best interests of all concerned. Mr. Omstead owns one of the best farms in Fre- mont Township. It contains 653 acres, and is finely improved; he has a fine house, good barns and other farm buildings, and has fifteen hundred rods of tiling on the place. Mr. and Mrs. Omstead have had eight children OF WBIOMT COUNTY, IOWA. 439 born to them, all of whom are now living, viz.: Jenny, the wife of Frank Edwards, of Rock Rapids, Iowa; Clara, the wife of Bridge Mason, of Webster City, Iowa; J. N., of Wright Coiyity, Iowa; Annabelle, wife of A. Campbell, of Fremont Township: Lena, wife of Henry Smalley, of Rock Rapids, Iowa; Luella, Fred and Dotty. In politics Mr. Omstead is ar staunch Democrat. He is a member of the Masonic order. Mr. Omstead has been identified with the interests of Hamilton County for the last thirty-five years, and probably no man has done more to build up the county, or is better known to the early settlers. » S i i ; » H. ROWEN, farmer and stock-raiser^ section 17, Iowa Township. The subject of this sketch was born in Thomasonville, Connecticut, December 29, 1844, a son of the venerable Robert Rowen, of whom mention is made elsewhere in this volume. Our subject was ten years old when with his parents he came to Wright County, Iowa, where his youth was spent in assisting in clearing and improving his father's fron- tier farm, and in receiving a common-school education. He resided with his parents till he was twenty-two years of age. He was married December 27, 1866, to Miss Geor- giana Stearns, a native of Clear Lake, Iowa, and a daughter of Edward Stearns, who came from Massachusetts to Iowa in the year 1855. After marriage Mr. Rowen settled on a part of the old homestead, where he followed ag- ricultural pursuits until 1873, when he was elected treasurer of Wright County, and served three terms of two years each. In 1880 he removed to his present farm which contains 160 acres of improved land in a high state of cultivation. He and his wife are the parents of nine children, viz.: Stella^ William E., Luella E., Etta, Joseph B., Elnmuel C, Robert T., Ellen and Lottie R. Mr. Rowen is a member of the A. F. and A. M., Cyrene Lodge, of Clarion, Iowa. Politically he affiliates with the Republican party. » ;> < ;« QRUNDIGE S. HAVILAND, deceased, was one of the well known of the earlier settlers of Troy Township, settling on the farm where his family now reside in 1865, and where he died January 26, 1880. He was a native' of Dutchess County, New York, where he was born March 3, 1822. His father was Isaac Haviland, who had quite a numerous family of children. The subject of this sketch was reared on his father's farm and attended the common schools till he was eighteen years of age when he was apprenticed to the trade of wagon-maker. He served a full apprenticeship, but did not con- tinue in the business, as lie found it was not conducive to his health. At the age of twenty- one years he went to Kane County, Illinois, where he pre-empted a quarter section of Government land and engaged in farming, remaining here for several years. There he married Ann Eliza Adams, November 20, 1844; she was a native of Dutchess Connty, New York, and was born November 19, 1824, a daughter of Charles and Selinda Adams. When Mrs. Haviland was about eighteen years old she removed with her par- ents to Kane County, Illinois, where her father died; later the mother died at the home of her son at Whiteside, Crawford County, Iowa. The parents of Mrs. Havi- land had five children, four of whom were sons, and only one of whom, the eldest, Samuel, is living. He resides at Sacco, Iowa. 440 BIOGBAPHICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBTTM The deceased brothers were: Clark, Egbert and John. Several years after his marriage Mr. Haviland removed from the farm where he first settled and located on a farm near St. Charles, where they lived till they came to Wright County; his object in coming was to secure more land for the benefit of his chil- dren. The homestead is on section 4, and consists of 170 acres of fine land. As before stated, Mr. Haviland died in January, 1880, leaving a wife and four children, one son and three daughters, viz. : Chloe, wife of Nathaniel Connor; Alice, wife of James Quackenbush; Elva, wife of James Moore. The son is the youngest, and is still at home. In politics Mr. Haviland was a Republican, and in religious matters a spiritualist, and a firm believer in the principles of both. g^AVID VEEDER, deceased, was a native of New York, born in ^Montgomery County, February 9, 1823, a son of David and Hannah (Yan Buren) Yeeder. The paternal ancestors of our subject em- igrated from Holland and settled in New York in an early day. The mother was a cousin of President Martin Yan Buren. Our subject was reared on his father's farm until t;welve years of age and then started out to maintain himself. At the age of eighteen he came west and located at Eockford, Illinois, where he engaged in brick-making, man- ufacturing the first brick made in that city. He followed this vocation for some time and then went to Dane County, Wisconsin, and engaged in farming and was there married January 4, 1848, to Miss Eachel Yeeder, a native of Montgomery County, New York, and a daughter of Yolkert and Deborah (Wemple) Yeeder, and a great-great-grand- daughter of Gen. Cornelius Yeeder, of Rev- olutionary fame. Her parents emigrated to Wisconsin when she was a child. After their marriage they resided in Dane County for some years and then removed to Prairie dn Chien, Wisconsin, where he foHowed farm- ing for fourteen years. In 1869 he came to Wright County and purchased 108 acres of wild land and began the task of improving it and making himself a home. Here he fol- lowed farming for the balance of his days and at the time of his death had a fine farm of 275 acres of improved land in a high state of cultivation. He and his wife were the parents of twelve children, of whom nine still sur- vive, viz.: Hiram, Hellen, Frank, Florence, David, William, Minnie, Fred and Cora. Mr. Yeeder was a self-made man and by his own industry and exertions accumulated a good property. He and his wife were mem- bers of the Presbyterian church. Politically our subject was a Republican. flis death occurred February 6, 1882. His widow still resides on the old homestead and with the help of her children has increased the farm so that it now contains 520 acres and the farm compares with the best in the county. While living ip Wisconsin he held the ottices of road supervisor, justice of the peace and school director. <^t^ N. JOHNSON, who resides on section 25, Norway Township, is one of the intelligent, enterprising citizens of Norway Township. He has m^de Wright County his home since the year 1880. He is a native of Norway, where he was born May 6, 1844, a son of Nels and Arna John- son. When he was six years of age his par- ents immigrated to America and settled in Columbia County, Wisconsin, where they lived for four years, and then came to Iowa OV WRIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 441 and settled in Mitchell County. Here our subject grew to manhood. During the war of the Eebellion he enlisted in the Twenty- seventh Wisconsin Infantry, Company H, in the Seventh Army Corps. He was in the battle of Saline River, and was with General Steele in the expedition to Camden, and many other engagements. He was a gallant soldier and was honorably discharged June 24, 1864, at Madison, Wisconsin, and re- turned to Mitchell County, where he was mar- ried in 1865 to Miss Rachel Olson, a daughter of Ole and Belle Olson, of that county. He then went to Freeborn County, Minnesota, and remained four years, and then returned to Mitchell County and lived till 1880, when he came to this county. Here he located on 120 acres of wild land. He has now 240 acres of well improved land, a good house, barn and other farm buildings, a wind-mill, all surrounded by a fine grove. It is one of the best farms in Norway Township. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson a'e the parents of seven children, viz.: Arna, Isabelle, Betsey, Joseph- ine, Nelly, Oscar and Rhoda. In politics our subject is a Republican and is one of the wheel horses of that party in his township. He is the present township treasurer. He is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran Church, and was the leader in the erection of the present house of worship. He has given his children the benetit of a good education, and some of them are successful teachers. Mr. Johnson is a member of the G. A. R. of Belmond, Iowa. |OBERT HOPKINS, proprietor of the Dows Furniture and Undertaking Es- tablrshment, commenced business in December, 1879; he is located on the corner of Ellsworth and Tracy streets, one of the best sites in town. He keeps a stock equal to many in larger cities and sells at reason- able prices. He is the possessor of a good tr&de, which he deserves. Our subject is a native of Sunderland, England. He was born February 14, 1829, a son of Alexander An- drews, who died when Robert was eighteen months old; the mother's name was Sophia. The mother was again married, the husband's name being Robert Hopkins and at his re- quest Robert was called after him. At the age of eleven years our subject ran away from home; for several years he was cabin boy in a sailing vessel and later a seaman. At the age of about twenty years he came to America and worked as engineer in the Staten Island Dye Works for four years and then went to Savannah, Georgia, and was in the employ of the Georgia Central Railway Company for some time; he left there on ac- count of the yellow fever and went to the" Tennessee Mountains and worked in the mines and at copper smelting. On account of Union principles his life was endangered. He w^as conscripted and mustered into the Tenth Tennessee Regiment and detailed back to the copper mines to smelt copper ore for the Confederacy. He deserted in the fall of 1862 and was for some weeks in the swamps of Ge'orgia, but finally got through the lines to New Albany. He then went to the Lake Superior copper mines and worked for the Lake Superior Copper Company as snrface superintendent, where he remained for some time. He was' married in 1868 to Miss Maria Beach, a lady of intelligence and cul- ture. He then left the copper region and went to Nejaume -and opened a dry-goods, boot and shoe and clothing store; this he soon closed out and then went to Mine La- motte, Missouri, and for some time was com- mercial buyer for theLamotte Lead Company. In 1872 he went to Canada and lived there 442 BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM until 1879, when he came to Dows. Mr. Hopkins is a Republican, a' member of the Presbyterian church and an elder in the same and has been a great Sabbath-school worker for a number of years. He is a man cordial to all and has made many lasting friends. » 2 i * % 1 P,()N. NICHOLAS F. WEBER, cashier ^j of the First National 13ank of Clarion, Tf^ is a native of Wisconsin, born in Iowa County, January 15, 1849. He was the oldest of ten children of Nicholas and Sophia (Budia) Weber, who were natives of G-erinany and came with their parents and settled in Wisconsin when they were small children, and where they were married. Mr. Weber was a baker by trade, which he followed until his death. Of the ten children eight lived to be grown and still survive. Our subject's youth was spent in assisting his father in his avocation and attending school. When nine years of age he was run over by a train of cars and lost his right arm. When he was sixteen years old his father died, leaving the family in limited circumstances, and the duties of looking after^their welfare devolved on our subject. Notwithstanding his dis- ability he struggled bravely, working hard and, whenever opportunity offered, he at- tended the public schools. In the winter of 1864-'65, and at the annual session of 1865- '66 he was a messenger boy in the Wisconsin Legislature. In the spring of 1866 he came to Iowa and for one year taught school in Winneshiek County; the following year he was principal of the Howard and Cresco Schools (Howard County). He then went to Decorah and entered Judge Cooley's office and began the study of law, remaining until 1871. In 1870 he was door-keeper in the Iowa Senate. He was admitted to the bar in October, 1871, and went to Nora Springs, Howard County, Iowa; remained there until March, 1871, and came to Wright County and was elected to the office of County Super- intendent in the fall of 1871, which he held for two years. In 1875 he was elected to the office of County Auditor, which office he filled with honor to himself and credit to his constituents for four years. After January 1, 1880, he engaged actively in the practice of his profession and in the real estate busi- ness, which he followed successfully until the fall of 1887, when he organized the First National Bank of Clarion, and was elected its cashier. He was, in the fall of 1885, elected to represent the Thirty-seventh Sena- torial District, comprising the counties of Webster, Wright and Hamilton, in the Iowa State Senate. He has had the office one term, four years, and is the present incum- bent. In connection with his banking duties he manages the real estate and loan depart- ment. He was married November 12,1873, to Miss Emily Gaylord, a native ot Connecti- cut, and a daughter of Lyman Gaylord, of Floyd County, where Mrs. Weber was reared. By this union three children have been born to them, viz.: Arthur, Howard and Cora. He and his wife are members of the Congre- gational church. He is a member of the I. O. 0. F. Clarion Lodge, No. 225. Politic- ally he is an uncompromising Republican. In coming to Wright County Mr. Weber trav- eled on foot, with only a good stock of energy and one hand. Here by hard work and good management he has accumulated a good property, which he uses to the best advant- ages in surrounding himself with all the com- forts of life. He is, and always was, among the foremost to take an active interest in any enterprise that had for its object the best in- terests of the county or the community in ^- 7:Mh/ %-- OP WRIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 445 which he lives. His mother still resides in Decorah. lie is one of the founders of the Congregational church at Clarion, and de- votes most of his time and means to the church work, and is a strong worker and be- liever in the religious cause generally. ►>tf. ILLIAM WILLIS, one of the repre- sentative men of Wright County, was born in Muskegan County, Ohio, July 2, 1848, a son of Robert Willis, one of the well-known and early pioneers of Cass Townsliip, Hamilton County, Iowa, who was born in 1818, in Belmont County, Ohio, and a son of William Willis. Robert was but a young lad when his father removed to Mus- kegan County, Ohio, where Robert grew to manhood, and from his youth up was accus- tomed to pioneer life. Here he married Mise Louisa Stanger, a native of Germany. In 1843 the Willis family removed from Ohio to Louisa County, Iowa, and in April, 1856, arrived in Hamilton County, Iowa, settling on the White Fox Creek, where he improved a good farm of eighty acres, and there resided until death, October 5, 1865, leaving a widow and six children, viz.: Mary, wife of J. N. Lyons, of Webster City; JSTancy, a successful teacher of Webster City; William, of Wool- stock; Ella, wife of Dr. A. H. Hull, of Keith County, Nebraska; Carrie M., a teacher of Keith County, Nebraska, and Ulysses Grant, of Logan County, Colorado. Robert Willis was a Democrat until 1856, when he refused to support Buchanan; four years later he voted for Lincoln. He was a man well in- formed and a good writer, and frequently contributed to the Hamilton Goimiy Freeman in its early days. He was a man of strong and decided views as to right and wrong, honorable in all his social and business rela- tions, he secured the confidence and esteem of all. William Willis, whose name heads this sketch, was a lad of eight years when his father's family came to Hamilton County. He was reared on the old farm and received his education at the log school-houses and at Webster' City. At twenty he removed to Webster City and engaged at different work, mostly at the carpenter's trade. He was married February 8, 1872, to Miss Amanda Smith, of Webster City, Iowa. After his marriage he lived for three years on the old homestead, then removed to the " Averill Farm," one of the old farms of Cass Town- ship. In March, 1883, he bought his pres- ent farm, which contains 160 acres of rich land, well adapted for stock or grain farming and is well watered by Eagle Creek. He has a good house, barns, and other good farm buildings, making it one of the best improved farms in the county. He is interested in blooded stock, consisting of horses, cattle and swine. Mr. and Mrs. Willis have three chil- dren, viz.: Lnla Hermie, Ralph William and Mattie Louisa. Mr. Willis is a Republican, a member of the Masonic order. Acacia Lodge, Webster City, Iowa. Though but a young man he is numbered among the rep- resentative men of Wright County. fAMES RENNE, one of the intelligent and progressive citizens of Woolstock Township, came to the county in the year 1869. He was born in Greene County, New York, August 20, 1887; a son of Smith and Jane (Lockwood) Renne, who were natives of New York; our subject being the fifth child of three eons and four daughters. James was reared at farm work and received his education in his native county. There he resided until 1865, when he removed to 440 BIOGBAPHIOAL BEOOBD AND POBTBAIT ALBUM Gruudy County, Illinois, where he lived until the breaking out of the Rebellion. On Octo- ber 11, 1861, he enlisted in the Fifty-third Illinois Infantry, Company A, Col. W. H. W. Cushinan in command. He was assigned to the First Brigade, Fourth Division, Seven- teenth Army Corps. He took an active part in the battle and siege of Corinth, Big Hatchie, Mississippi, Vicksburg and siege of Vicksburg from December 23, 1862, to July 4, 1863; and at Jackson, Mississippi, where, in a charge,, he was taken prisoner. He was taken to Richmond and confined in a build- ing opposite Castle Thunder; later he was taken to Belle Isle and kept in that horrible place of torture foi' fourteen weeks. He was then exchanged on parole and sent to Benton Barracks, St. Louis, Missouri, by way of Annapolis and Baltimore. He was exchanged for the field May 7, 1864, and joined Sher- man's army at Rome, Georgia. From this place he took an active part in the Georgia campaign; was in the battles of the 21st, 22d and 28th of July, 1864, before Atlanta, and at Jonesboro, Georgia. He was honor- ably discharged as First Sergeant, November 11, 1864. He returned to Grundy County, Illinois, where he lived until 1869, when he came to Wright County; first locating in Troy Township, he came on to his present farm in 1881. He now owns 114 acres of as good land as the county aflfords, and has a good house built in modern style and well furnished, situated on a fine building site and surrounded by a fine grove of elm trees; and his other farm buildings are in fine shape. Everything about the farm shows taste and good management. He was married Septem- ber 28, 1876, to Miss Nancy J. Middleton, a native of Troy Township, and a daughter of Hutchison Middleton, one of Wright County's prominent pioneers, whose sketch appears on another page. By this union thi-ee children were born to them, viz.: Achsah J., Mary Alette and James Dwight. Mr. Renne is a Republican, a member of the G. A. R., Will- iam GriflSth Post, of which he is Senior Vice. He is a worthy member of the Meth- odist church, of Eagle Grove. ffOHlSr REEH, one of the well-known I pioneers of Vernon Township, came to Wright County in 1866. He is a native of Germany, and was born January 25, 1821, a son of John and Mary (Gail) Reeh. He attended school until fourteen years of age; later he was engaged in the iron and copper mines for several years. He was twenty-five years old when he came to America and landed at New York. He came in a sailing vessel and M'as seven weeks on the voyage. He went first to Clarion County, Pennsyl- vania, where he worked four months, then to Butler County for three months, and then to Galena, Illinois, where he worked at lead mining. He lived here for some time. Later he settled in Green County, Wisconsin, where he bought land and farmed until 1864, when he came to Iowa and settled in Hardin County. Here he rented land for two years, and in 1866 he came to Vernon Township and bought 120 acres of wild land, where he now resides. He was married October 26, 1855, to Miss Louisa Pepper, a daughter of Dedrick and Wilhemina (Roudei-) Pepper. His fariH is well improved and one of the best in the township. He has a good house and two barns, one 28 by 42 feet, and the other 24 by 42 feet, and other good buildings for grain and stock and a good wind-mill furnishes water for his stock. He has 120 acres in the home farm and a 160 acre farm one mile west of his house. Everything shows the thrift of the owner. Mr. and Mrs. OF WRIGHT GOUNTT, IOWA. 447 Reeh have four children, viz.: Clara Peter- son, Mary Barber, of Chickesaw County, Iowa; and John, at home; one deceased, Nancy, at twenty-six years. For the last five years of her life she had been a very success- ful teacher. Mr. Reeh is a Democrat, a member of the Reformed church. He has always taken an active interest in educational and religious matters, and is one of Yernon Township's most highly esteemed citizens. WILLIAM WILLIX is one of the lead- ing citizens of Blaine Township, and came to Wright County in the year 1871. He was born in western Canada, August 2, 1828, a son of George, a native of Scotland, and JSTancy (Cole) Willix, who was a native of Pennsylvania, and who died when our subject was but one year old. William was reared in Canada at farm work, and re- ceived his education in the common schools. He was married November 4, 1852, to Miss Margaret Beaird, who was a native of Canada and a daughter of Enos and Mary (Beaird) Beach, also natives of Canada. Our subject lived in Canada until 1858, he then went to Oswego County, New York, where he lived until 1863, when he removed to Marquette, Michigan, where he lived until 1871. Our subject had learned the blacksmith trade when a young man and followed it till he came to Wright County. When he came to Wright County and settled on his present farm he was among the earlest settlers of the township; he has improved in a good man- ner. His farm now contains 160 acres, and is among the best improved farms in the county. He has a good house, barns and other farm buildings, a wind-mill and an orchard, all surrounded by fine ornamental and shade trees; everything shows the thrift of the owner. He and his wife have had three children born to them. Enos B., who was born in Canada, July 12, 1854, and now lives in Diser, Iowa, and is engaged in the lumber business. He was formerly one of the live business men- of Dows, Iowa. He born in 1816, a daughter of Hugh and Maria and his wife have one daughter. William Henry, who was born April 23, 1855, and died when fifteen months old. Ida Medora, who was born August 15, 1861 ; she was the wife of O. C Longley. Our subject is a Republican and- has served as justice of the peace and as township trustee. He is a member of the A. E. and A. M. Cornelian Lodge, No. 425, of Dows, Iowa. p[DWARD BROWN resides on section 7, Lake Township, where he settled in November, 1883, but first came to the county in 1856. He was born in Chestersliire, England, June 6, 1834. His father was Charles and his mother was Catherine (Chop- pock) Brown ; the father died when Edward was about three years old and the mother when he was about ten. They had four children, two sons and two daughters — Martha, Alfred, Edward and Hannah. Martha was married in England about a year before her mother's death to Henry Powell, and came at once to America and settled in Edwards County, Illinois. In 1850 when Edward was sixteen years old he and his brother Alfred and sis- ter Hannah came to America, and went to Illinois, where the older sister was living. In October, 1856, Edward came to Wright County. None of the others came to Iowa to live; Alfred lives in Edwards County, Illinois; the sisters live in Oregon. Edwards pre- empted 160 acres of land in Liberty Town- ship and made some improvements on it. Ou 448 BIOOBAPHIGAL BEOOSD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM the lOth day of April, 1860, Mr. Brown, accompanied by Messrs. Griffith, Mcintosh, Dean and other parties, started for the mining districts of Colorado; they went overland with ox teams. Going to Denver they stopped for a short time, and going thence to Spring Gulch, they engaged in mining. Mr. Brown and Mr. Dean returned after about four months, on account of the illness of Mr. Dean. They returned with teams, as they went, being about six weeks on the return trip. Mr. Brown was married on the 17tli of March, 1861, to Miss Mary Jane Dean, a daughter of David and Sarah B. (Shepherd) Dean, who were early settlers of Wright County. David Dean was born in the State of J!^ew York, December 17, 1803, and his wife in Pennsylvania, November 6, 1817. They were married in Ohio, March 13, 1845. Mr. Dean had been previously married, and had four children by his first wife. They re- moved from Ohio to Indiana, and thence to Tama County, Iowa, and thence to "Wright County in the spring of 1856. David Dean died in Liberty Township, October 13, 1870. His wife now lives with her children. There are two of them surviving, viz. : Mrs. Brown and John M. On the 2nd of August, 1862, Mr. Brown enlisted in Company D, First Iowa Cavalry. He re-enlisted at Little Kock, Arkansas, on the 1st of January, 1865. His final discharge was on the 15th day of February, 1866. He took part in many of the important engagements of the war; was at the battle of Prairie Grove, Little Eock, Little Missouri and Saline River, Arkansas. One of the most important campaigns in which he was engaged was the pursuit of General Forrest from Cape Girardeau to Chalk Bluffs, which consumed a period of seven days. His regiment was also engaged in the pursuit of General Price and alsoof Quantrell and other bushwhackers. In Augnst, 1865, after the war had closed, he took part with his regiment in General Custer's expedition from Alexander on the Red River to Austin, Texas. This was one of the most severe rides of the cavalry during the war, though not attended with very important results. Mr. Brown was not injured Hy the bullets of the enemy, but suffers from the effects of army life. His eyes were considerably injured by his service. Mr. Brown sold his farm in Marshall County while he was in the service, where Mrs. Brown had resided since her husband had enlisted, and in May, 1866, they came to WrightCounty to reside permanently. Mr. an/i Mrs. Brown have six children, four daughters and two sons, viz.: Ella S., the eldest, was born December 17, 1861; she is well educated, and was a successful teacher for a number of years, and in the fall of 1887 she was elected county superintendent of schools of Wright County. Their second is Alfred L., born December 16, 1866; Frank, born July 12, 1872; Jessie Belle, born August 4, 1876; Carrie A., born August 1, 1881; Elsie Olive, born September 26, 1887. They lost two children in infancy, Martha Ann and Arthur August. Mr. and Mrs. Brown are among the early and well-known set- tlers of Wright County. Mr. Brown is one of the representative men of his township. He was a gallant soldier, and is a worthy citizen. In politics he is a Republican. Mr. Dean, the father of Mrs. Brown was one of the representative men of Wright County. He was a Republican and a great admirer of the principles of that party. He settled in Eagle Grove Township, on the farm now owned by Charles Griffith. Here he and his two sons, Ira and A. L., put up the first saw-mill in Wright County. Later he removed to Goldfield, and in 1860 he went to Marshall County and lived at the home of his son-in-law, Mr. Brown. He and OP WEIGHT OOUNTY, IOWA. 449 his wife returned to Wright County with Mr. Brown in 1866. In the spring of 1867 he went to live with William O. Dean in Lib- erty Township, where he died. He was the first judge of Wright County and a man highly esteemed by all. |ABEIEL GEANT YEOMAN, farmer and stock-raiser, section 26, Iowa Town- ship. The subject of this sketch has been identified with the interests of Wright County since the year 1875. He is a native of New York, born in Delaware County, August 1, 1831, a son of Francis Y. and Margaret (Grant) Yeoman, natives of New York and of Scotch descent. Our subject was reared on a farm and received a common- school education. He resided with his par- ents until his marriage, which occurred April 24, 1850, to Miss Mary A. Judson, a native of the same county as our subject and a daughter of Lucius and Jernsia (Denioe) Judson. The father was a native of Con- necticut and of English descent, and the mother was a native of Vermont of Welsh descent. After his marriage our subject resided on his father-in-law's farm for five years, working the farm on shares. May 1, 1855, he removed to Illinois and settled in Winnebago County where he rented land for three years, and then went to Carroll County, and, in company with his father-in-law, pur- chased eighty-five acres of partly improved land, where he lived for nine years. He then removed to near the town of Mt. Carroll and lived for three years. In 1871 he came to Iowa and settled in Cedar County and rented a farm ; here he resided for three years, and then came to Wright County and purchased eighty acres of land with a few improve- ments. In the spring of 1875 he removed his family here, where he has since lived. He has improved and added to his first pur- chase, and he now has 240 acres of finely improved land in a high state of cultivation. Mr. and Mrs. Yeoman were the parents of six children, but have lost three by death. Those still living are — Alice, wife of A. E. Rollins, of Greene County, Iowa; Lucius D., of this county, and Nora, the wife of George A. Whitten, of this county. Mr. Yeoman has served as township clerk for eleven . years, also as township trustee and as justice of the peace. ILLIAM STEELE, Blaine Township, section 3, is one of the leading men of the township and an ex-soldier of the late war; he came to the county in 1882. He is a native of Steuben County, New York, born August 29, 1838, a son of Thomas S., a native of New Jersey and Susan (Wolcott) Steele, a native of New York. They were the parents of five children and our subject was the second child. He was ten years old when his father removed to DeKalb County, Illi- nois, where he settled; here our subject grew to manhood; his youth was passed on a farm and he received his education in the common schools. In answer to Lincoln's call for 200,000 men he enlisted in the First Illinois Artillery, Company D, Captain Mc- Allister commanding the company. He was first under fire at Pittsburg landing. A short time later his health failed and he was dis charged on account of disability and returned to Lee County, Illinois, and by the advice of his physician he went to Montana and re- mained for a year and then returned to Lee County and remained for a short time and then came to Buchanan County, Iowa. He was married in 1872 to Misg Belle Walters, 450 BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM a daughter of Thomas Watters, of that coun- ty. Our subject engaged in farming in Buchanan County and remained until 1882 and then came to Wright County and settled on his present farm, which was at that time wild land. lie has since improved the farm in a good manner. He has a good house and other farm buildings surrounded by a fine grove; the home farm contains 160 acres; he also owns eighty acres in section 1. Mr. and Mrs. Steele have two children — Flora and Josephine. Politically our subject is a Re- publican. fj. ANDREWS. The State Bank at Eagle Grove was incorporated August ** 1, 1888, with J. J. Andrews as presi- dent, R. M. Smallpage, vice-president, and Mrs. Anna Andrews, cashier. This bank was organized as a private institution in August, 1882; by J. J. Andrews. It has always done a general banking business. It has a cash capital of $30,000. President J. J. An- drews, who was the founder of the institu- tion and whose influence was largely instrumental in securing its present organi- zation, was born in County Monaghan, Ireland, in 1841. His father, John Andrews, immi- grated to America with the family when the subject of this sketch was about thirteen years old. After spending one season in Allegheny City, Pennsylvania, the family removed to Whiteside County, Illinois. John Andrews was born in 1801. His life has been spent in agricultural pursuits. He is still living in 1888 at the advanced age of eighty-eight years. J. J. Andrews graduated at Cornell College, Iowa, in 1868. He was a successful teacher for many years. He was for some time the principal of the schools at Lyons, Iowa, He read law at the Michigan State University, and afterward resumed teaching, being for some time at Boonesboro, and then nine years principal at Toledo, Iowa; from the latter town he came to Eagle Grove. Mr. Andrews is a man of culture, having been a student as well as a teacher for many years. He brought with him into his business life the same elements of energy and industry that made his professional life a success. His wife, formerly Miss Anna An- thony, is the efficient cashier of the bank. Mrs. Andrews is a lady of culture and refine- ment. She is a native of the State of New York, and a relative of the talented Miss Susan B. Anthony, the latter and Mrs. An- drews' father being cousins. Mr. and Mrs. Andrews have two daughters — Jesselyn and Anna. In politics Mr. Andrews is a Republican. llg?»,ON. C. M. NAGLE, the senior mem- ber of the most prominent legal firm in the county, Nagle & Birdsall, of Clarion, Wright County, Iowa. He has been identified with the interests of Wright County since the year 1881. He is a native of Iowa, born in Delaware County, October 8, 1845, a son of John and Delocina B. (Paddleford) JSTagle, who were natives of ISTew York and of Puritan descent. They emigrated to Iowa in an early day. Our subject was reared on a farm, obtaining a limited education at the district schools, which he completed at the Upper Iowa Uni- versity, in Fayette County, Iowa. After fin- ishing his education he commenced the study of law, by reading in the office of S. F. Wood- ard, of Clayton County, Iowa, and was ad- mitted to the bar in the year 1867, at Elcader, Clayton County, Iowa, and in the year 1868 he began the practice of his chosen profession OF WRIOHT OOUNTT, IOWA. 453 at Alden, Hardin County, Iowa, which he followed very successfully until his removal to Clarion in 1881, where he formed a partnership with Hon. N. F. Weber, under the firm name of Nagle & Weber. This firm continued until 1884, when Mr. Weber withdrew and our subject associated himself with Mr. B. P. Birdsall, under the firm name of Nagle & Birdsall, who by close at- tention to business have made their name known over the State as the leading law firm of Wright County, Iowa. In 1879 our sub- ject was elected to the State Legislature to represent Hardin County in the Eighteenth General Assembly, which position he filled to the best expectations of his friends and constituents. Here he served one term and his non-continuance in this official capacity is probably due to the fact of his removal from Hardin County. Our subject was also a member of the board of supervisors of Hardin County for several years. He was married- in September, 1869, to Miss Louise M. Keys, a native of New York and a daugh- ter of William M. Keys, and came to Iowa when a child. By this happy union they are possessed of six children, viz.: Irvin E., Stella, Duren L., Angie, Corydon and Julia L. Politically our subject aflSliates with the Republicans. |HARLES CONINE, farmer and stock- raiser, was born in Wayne County, New York, February 21, 1856, a son of L. S. and Eliza (White) Conine, natives of New York and of Puritan and German an- cestry. Our subject was four years old when his parents removed to St. Joseph County, Michigan, where his youth was spent in as- sisting in the clearing and improving of a heavily timbered farm, and attending the district schools. Here he resided until he reached his majority. In 1881 he came to Wright County and purchased 160 acres of partly improved land, which he has since im- proved. His home is one of the best in the county. Politically he affiliates with the Democratic party. II^ON. A. S. CHAPMAN, one of Wright County's best known citizens, came to the county in 1869. He was born in Penobscot County, Maine, May 27, 1846, a son of Winthrop Chapman, a native of the same county and a son of Winthrop Chap- man, Sr., who was one of the first settlers of Exeter, Maine, and was a man of much wealth. He was of Scotch ancestry. The mother of A. S. was Caroline (Eastman) Chapman, born in Penobscot County, Maine, Her parents were New liampshire people. The parents of our subject had four sons, viz: A. S., W. E., Fred E, and Harmon B. The father of our subject died April 4, 1888; he had been a very successful man. The mother still resides in Maine. A. S. was reared in his native county, educated at Exeter Acad- emy, and later engaged in teaching in several towns. In 1869 he came to Wright County and located where he now lives, on wild land. He was one of the first settlers of the town- ship, and for some time kept " Bachelor's Hall." Here he has lived for nineteen years, buying land from time to time until he now owns 1,800 acres. He is the most extensive farmer in the county, has 900 acres under cultivation. He usually keeps from 300 to 500 head of cattle. His home farm is well improved, with a good frame house, built in modern style and well furnished, good farm buildings, wind-mills and stock scales, and a fine grove of fifteen acres; everything shows 454 BIOGRAPHICAL BECOSD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM the thrift of the owner. Our subject was married March 9, 1873, to Miss Emma W. Clark, who was bora in Fon du Lac County, Wisconsin, daughter of George and Betsey Clark. By this happy union three children were born to them — Cora B., Carrie E. and George W. Mrs. Chapman died on the 9th day of October, 1884. Mr. Chapman was married to his present wife November 21, 1887, the same being Anna E. Napper, daughter of Abel Napper, of Wall Lake Township. Mr. Chapman is politically a Republican. lie served as township treas- urer for fifteen years, was county supervisor, and was elected to the- State Legislature in the fall of 1887, and served in the Twenty- second General Assembly in a very credita- ble manner. He is a man still in the prime of life, courteous to all, honorable in business, and is one of Wright County's most highly esteemed and respected citizens. fC. HARWOOD, editor and proprietor of the Wright County Monitor, is a ® native of Illinois, born in LaSalle Coun- ty, June 29, 1844, the oldest son and child of Sanford and Kezia (Dryer) Harwood. The father was reared in New York and when a boy was apprenticed to the harness trade. He came to Illinois when a young man and was there married to the mother of our sub- ject, who was a native of New York and came to Illinois in an early day. The grand- parents of our subject were natives of Eng- land. The father of our subject followed his trade and agricultural pursuits until he came to Iowa, in 1853, and located at Independence for a year and a half; he then settled at Charles City, Floyd County, where he has since been engaged in the harness business. Our subject was nine years old when his parents came to Iowa. At the age of six- teen he went to learn the printer's trade in the Intelligencer office, at Charles City, serving three years as an apprentice; he then worked as a journeyman for four years. In 1867 he went to Forrest City and engaged on the first paper in that city; a few weeks later he purchased a half interest in the paper and conducted it until 1872, when he went to Hampton, Franklin County, and there purchased a half interest in the Recorder, the only paper in the place; three years later he bought his partner out. February 1, 1879, he came to Clarion and took possession of the Monitor, and has since conducted that paper in an able manner. He was married June 19, 1866, to Miss Mary E. Burge, a daughter of James R. and Elizabeth W. Burge. By this union four children were born to them, of whom three still survive — Bert, Rilla, and Bernice. Nellie died at the age of seven years. Mr. Harwood is a member of the A. F. & A. M., Cyrene Lodge, No. 325. He was made a Mason in the year 1867. In 1881 he was appointed postmaster of Clarion under President Garfield's administration, and served until 1885, when he was removed for offensive partisianship. ■ *°<-'i'' S" ' S ' i S 'i' ^ i'i-x" fH. THOMPSON is one of [the leading men of Yernon Township, and came '^ to Wright County in the year 1874. He was born in Dubuque, Iowa, December 1, 1853, and was a son of William Thompson, who was a native of North Ireland and of Scotch-Irish blood. He came to America when a young man and married Miss Emily Griffin, a native of Ohio. William Thomp- son was a farmer and J. H. was reared at that avocation and received his education in the public schools of Dubuque. At the age OF WBWET COUNTY, IOWA. 455 of twenty-one he came to Wright County and bought eighty acres of wild land, which he improved and there lived for six years, then sold out and bought his present farm. He now owns 160 acres df fine land well im- proved, has two good houses, a good barn and other good farm buildings all surrounded by a fine grove, and everything about the place shows the proprietor to be a man of thrift and prosperity. He is engaged in general farming and stock-raising.' Mr. Thompson was married July 3, 1875, to Miss Ida Butler, a native of Wright County, Iowa, and a daughter of F. H. Butler. As a result of this happy union five children have been born to them, viz.: Mary J., Henrietta, Nellie May, Hattie and Freeman. Mr. Thompson is a Kepublican and has served as a member of the school board. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, William's cir- cuit. He is a man still in the prime of life, cordial to all and is numbered socially, finan- cially and morally among the leading men of the township. G. PALMER, proprietor of Palmer's livery, feed and sale stables and pro- '•'^ prietor of the city dray line and dealer in farm machinery and Shire horses, established his business in the fall of 1880. His barn is located convenient to the business part of the town, and he keeps in stock a good line of driving horses and his terms are reasonable. He carries a line of the best buggies and carriages along with his farm implements. He is a good business man and is doing an extensive business. Our subject was born in Waterloo, Iowa, in 1856, a son of John and Louisa Palmer. He grew to manhood in his native county and received his education in the public schools; he came to the county in 1879. He has a 150-acre farm three miles west of Dows. He was married in this county to Miss Minnie C. Clow, and they have three children, viz.: Bessie Nellie, Susy Glennie and Murttie Louisa. Mr. Palmer is a self-made man, active and wide awake and attends strictly to business, in which he has made a success. |,HILLIP DOCTOR, farmer and stock- raiser, section 13, Lake Township. The subject of this sketch has been identi- fied with the interests of Wright County since the y^ar 1873. He is a native of Penn- sylvania, born in Lycoming County, May 5, 1837, a son of John and Keziah (YanDine) Doctor, natives of Pennsylvania and of Ger- man ancestry. Our subject was reared on a farm in his native county and received a common school education. He resided with his parents until he reached his majority; after which he engaged in the manufacture of lumber until 1861, when he came to Illi- nois and engaged in farming in Ogle County, where he remained until his removal to this county. He was married October 31, 1866, to Miss Hattie Sweeny, a native of Pennsyl- vania and a daughter of Joseph and Sarah (Hendershor) Sweeny, who were of German and Irish ancestry. In the fall of 1873 he re- moved to this county and settled on his pres- ent farm, which he purchased the previous June, it being then wild land. It contains 240 acres of fine land in a high state of cul- tivation, and the improvements are among the best in the county. Mr. Doctor is a self- made man, and by his industry and exertion has accumulated a good property, which he uses to the best advantages, surrounding himself and family with all the necessary comforts of life. He and his estimable 450 BIOOBAPEIGAL UEOORD AND POBTBAIT ALBUM wife are the parents of four children, of whom three still survive — Ethel, who died in in- fancy; John "W"., Lu Gardie and Sarah Alta. Mrs. Doctor is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Doctor has served as justice of the peace two years, also as town- ship trustee for many years, and has been school treasurer of his township since its oi'ganization. Politically he afHliates with the Democratic party. i>|Wfo fEANK CHEISTIE, section 10, Belmont Township, was born in Franklin County, Massachusetts, November 24, 1838," a son of John and Mary (Peck) Christie. Frank was the second child of five children. He was reared on a farm and received his education in the public schools. After leav- ing school he worked in the cotton factory for a time. At the breaking out of the late civil war he went out in defense of Union and Liberty, enlisting in Company A, First Connecticut Cavalry in 1861. The regiment participated in ninety engagements. He was honorably discharged as Sergeant in the fall of 1865. The same year he came to Wright County and purchased 160 acres of wild land which he improved and now has 400 acres of highly improved land. His residence is a good frame house, his barn 40x60 stone base- ment, and a twenty acre grove. He is a suc- cessful farmer and makes a specialty of raising tine horses and cattle. He was married July 12, 1866, to Miss Carrie M. Cheney, a native of Worcester County, Massachusetts, and a daughter of Marion and Bethiah (Morris) Cheney. Mr. and Mrs. Christie are the par- ents of tliree children — Marvin F., Edward S. and Ellen C, all having been given the ad- vantages of obtaining a good and practical education. Politically he is a Republican, and has served as assessor, township trustee and also as a member of the Republican Cen- tral Committee. He is a member of the G. A. R. Post, No. 268, and the A. O. U. W., No. 168. Mrs. Christie is a member of the Relief Corps, No. 147. E. JENISON, section 8, Pleasant Township, is one of the enterprising ® and successful citizens of the township. He is a native of the township and was born August 26, 1859, and is a son of J. B. Jen- ison, one of the pioneers of the county. Our subject was reared a farmer and received his education in the district schools. He was married October 8, 1884, to Miss Rose B. Meacham, a daughter of A. H. Meacham, one of the well-known early settlers of the county. Our subject has 200 acres of fine land, 160 acres of which are under cultivation, and the balance is in meadow and pasture. He has a good house and barn, a fine orchard and grove, and everything about the farm has a thrifty look. He is engaged in general farming and stock-raising. He and wife have one son — George Leroy. Mr. Jenison; though but a young man, is counted socially, financially and morally among the best in the township. Politically he affiliates with the Republican party. K^Hfn D. LEARNARD, section 32, Belmond Township, was born in County Cork, ■ Ireland, February, 1816. He was the ninth Daniel from father to son. He is a son of Daniel and Margaret (Sullivan) Learn- ard. Our subject was thirty- five years old when he crossed the ocean for America and located in Hopkins, Massachusetts. He was OF WmOHT COTTNTT, IOWA. 457 married May 9, 1853, to Miss Mary O'Brien, born in Cork, Ireland, a daughter of Cornelius and Mary (White) O'Brien. In 1856 our sub- ject moved to Chicago, 111., where he remained two years, then moved to Kane County, 111., where he lived until 1865, when he came to Wright County, Iowa, settling near Clarion. He was one of the pioneers of Wright County, and endured many hardships incident to pio- neer life; at one time he worked three days with his team for a sack of corn, and at another paid George Bingham $2.50 for a bushel of uncleaned wheat, and many other incidents too numerous to mention. He resided near Clarion until 1882, when he re- moved to his present farm, then an unbroken prairie, which he has put in a high state of cultivation. They are the parents of five children — ^three sons and two daughters: Mary Parks, Daniel, John, Cornelius and Nellie. Mr. Learnard is politically a Demo- crat. He has served in many local ofilces of trust and responsibility, served as deputy under Sheriff Hiilts with credit. He and his family are members of the Catholic church. ^j.^ I^DMDND FULLER, one of the intelli- SL gent and enterprising citizens of Ver- non Township, came to Wright County in the year 1871. He is a native of Oneida Connty, New York, and was born March 2, 1824, a son of Edmund Fuller, Jr., who was a son of Edmund Fuller, Sr. The subject of this sketch in early life was known as Edmund Fuller the third, as the three Fullers are recorded in the family Bible. The Fullers Jr. and Sr. served in the war of 1812, the Sr. as Captain and the Jr. as private, and both took part in the engage- ment of Sacketts Harbor. The mother of our subject was Rachel (Martin) Fuller. Our subject was reared a farmer and received his education in the common schools and at the "HobertHall Institute." After finishing his education he taught school for thirty-three years, during the winter seasons, both in the east and the west. At the age of manhood he married Miss Alzina Adsit on the 1st of Sept- ember,1844 ; she was a native of Oneida County, and a daughter of Erastus and Pernelia(Weese) Adsit. Our subject lived in Oneida County until 1868, when he came to Buchanan Connty, Iowa, where he lived for two and a half years, and in 1871 came to Wright County and located where he now lives. He and his son own the north one-half of section 34, and the farms are well improved and compare with the best in the township, every thing about both homes show the thrift and prosperity of the owners. Mr. Fuller and wife have one son, A. C, who is one of the representative men of the township; he is married to Miss Florence McClure, of Buchanan County, Iowa, and they have four sons, viz.: Merton L., James Edmund, Albert C. and Roy Earl. Our subject is politically a Democrat, and has served as township clerk and as justice of the peace. He has been a member of the Presbyterian church for fifty years, and is a ruling elder of the same. He is cordial to all, honorable in business and has the confidence and esteem of all who know him. «o| i|.| S » ^ 1 1 ^ IP /H i i u i ilLLIAM F. GIBBS, real estate dealer. The subject of this sketch has been identified with the interests of Wright County since the year 1868. He is a native of New York, born at Cooperstown, Otsego County, January 11, 1828, the fourth son and fifth child of the venerable J. D. Gibbs, a resident of Gibbsville, Wisconsin, 458 BlOQBAPHtCAL BtlGORD AND PORTRAIT and of English and Scotch descent. The mother of our subject was Eunice Cook, a native also of New York, and a daughter of Alfred Cook, who was an officer in the Revo- lutionary war, and was also of English an- cestry. Our subject was a lad of seven or eight years when his parents removed to Wisconsin, and his father entered the first farm and became the first tiller of the soil in Sheboygan County, Wisconsin. Our subject was reared on this frontier farm when there were two Indians to one white man in the county, remembers well of twenty-five to forty Indian squaws stopping over night and sleeping around the old-fashioned fireplace, which took up one end of the log house; plenty of wood from four to six feet long; plenty of live coals to start a fire in the morning; depending entirely upon the In- dians for meat and- sugar until the next spring when they made sugar from a sugar bush on their own farm. Our subject was reared on this frontier farm, and his education was received in the subscj-iption schools held in the primitive log school-houses of those early days. He resided with his parents until he had reached liis majority, after which he engaged in the manufacture of wagons and at agricultural pursuits until the civil war, when he raised a company and was commissioned Captain of Company D, and was assigned to the Sixteenth Wisconsin Yet- eran Infantry, and served under Sherman, and accompanied him on , his famous march to the sea. Our subject remained in the service until the close of the war, and par- ticipated in the grand review at Washington. He was mustered out July 10, 1865. In 1868 he moved to Iowa and purchased fifty acres of land in Troy Township, Wright County. In 1869 he was elected to the office of county recorder, and removed to Clarion. He served in that official capacity for four years, and since that time he has been en- gaged in the real estate and loan business. He was united in marriage November 9, 1851, to Miss Emity D. Knight, a native of Ehode Island, and a daughter of Stephen L. and Cynthia J. (Jordan) Knight, both of Puritan descent. By this union six children were born to them, of whom two survive — Emma A. and Henry G. William D., Caro- line L., Paul S. and Mabel are deceased. Mr. Gibbs is a member of theG. A. E., Gen- eral Lyons Post, No. 133, of Clarion, and he and wife are members of the Congregational church. Politically he is a Republican. C. THAYEE was born in Otsego Coimty, New York, October 15, 1822, a son of James and Fannie (Main) Thayer, also natives of New York. In 1831 they removed to Jefferson County, New York, where our subject grew to manhood on a farm. He was married February 22, 1846, to Miss Lucy Baker, daughter of Olney and Olive Baker. Mrs. Thayer was born Decem- ber 12, 1821. In 1865 Mr. Thayer and his wife and four children came to Iowa, and in 1871 purchased eighty acres of unimproved land in section 11, Belmond Township, which he has, with the assistance of his family, placed in a high state of cultivation, and have increased their landed estate until they have a beautiful farm of 200 acres. On arriving in Wright County all the means they possessed to begin life with was $5 in money. They began with their limited means in a new country and here endured the hard- ships and privations incident to pioneer life and their trials were many, but they struggled bravely onward and by hard and honest toil have surrounded themselves with all the comforts, so that their declining years can be OF WMQHT COUNTY, IOWA. 459 spent in peace and qniet. They are the par- ents of fonr children — Ellen, James, Levina, and Fenny (deceased). «-^*4i-if*|«'-~ i,NDREW WRIGHT is one of the well- known representative men of Wright County, and is the original proprietor of the east side of the town of Eagle Grove, which he laid out in 1881 and 1882. lie was the owner of the site- of this part of the town several ye'ars prior to that time. He also erected the first store building and hotel on the east side, the latter is known as the " Junction House." Mr. Wright and his son George began merchandising in- August, 1882, which is 'still continued. This branch of business is now conducted by George, Mr. Wright, Sr., being otherwise engaged. The mercantile business, which is a general and extensive one, is carried on in th^t part of the store whicb was erected in 1881; the original structure has been very much en- larged to meet the demands of a growing trade. Andrew Wright is a native of Tyrone, Ireland, where he was born in 1831. He was reared to agricultural pursuits, and married Mary Montgomery. At the age of twenty- two he came to America and resided with his family at Gambridgeport, Massachusetts, for fifteen years, during which time he was variously engaged. In 1868 he removed to Jones County, Iowa, and fonr years later to Wright County. Mr. and Mrs. Wright have six children, viz.: Jennie, wife of Ed. Davis, of Minneapolis; George, who as be- fore mentioned is in charge- of the mercantile business, was born in Massachusetts in 1853. He resided in his native town till fifteen years of age, attending the public schools of Gambridgeport. From that age till he en- gaged in business with his father he was engaged in farming. He married Miss Kate Wasem, a daughter of John Wasem, of Eagle Grove Township. She died February 25, 1887, leaving a husband and three children, viz.: Anna, Frank and John A. The next in order of age of the children of Andrew Wright is William A.; the daughters were Susie, Minnie F. and Anna E. Mr. Weight is a man of excellent business capacity, and is esteemed by all for his honest, upright character. ^[HARLES W. HILL, a native a Steuben County, New York, was born in the year 1831, and is a son of William P. and Sarah (Herrick) Hill. He attended school until he was fifteen years of age, in the meantime assisting his father on the farm. He then left home, working by the month at Inmbering, thus aiding in caring for the family, he being next to the oldest son of a poor but honest man. At the age of twenty- five he was married to Adelia Riley, a daugh- ter of Simeon Riley, of Steuben County, New York. Shortly after his marriage he made his first purchase of 200 acres of unimproved land. Here he resided until the year 1860; he then went to Illinois and stopped until the following spring, when he came to Wright County and purchased his present farm and began improving it until it now compares with the best farms in the county, although when he came he was without money and there was nothing left for him to do but to pitch in and pay for his home by hard work and energy. Mr. Hill became a member of the I. O. O. F., at Belmond, Iowa, in 1875. He and his wife are the parents of three chil- dren, two sons and one daughter, viz.: George, married to Miss Jessie Stockwell, and resides on his father's farm; William, 460 SIOGHAPHIOAL hMOOBD AND PORTttAlT ALBUM ■who was drowned at the age of nine, and Adela Lindsay, wife of James Lindsay. The wife of onr subject died in July, 1887. Mr. Hill has ever acted with the Eepublican party. He has been one of the directors of the County Agricultural Society for four years, giving his special attention to the horse department. He is recognized as one of the thriftiest farmers in the county and commands the respect of all who know him. |R. THOMAS GARTH, physician and surgeon. The subject of this sketch has been identified with the interests of Wright County since the year 1872. He is a native of England, born in Yorkshire, April 4, 1835, a son of James Garth (whose sketch will appear in the Hamilton County part of this work). The youth of our sub- ject was spent in attending school in his native country until he was eighteen years of age. In the year 1853, he, with his father's family, immigrated to this country and located in Dubnqne, Iowa, where our subject engaged in various occupations until the breaking out of the late civil war when he went out in the defense of his adopted country. Enlisting in the Fourth Missouri Cavalry, Fremont's Huzzars, in August, 1862, he sewed in the Western Army, sta- tioned at Helena, Arkansas; detailed in the hospital department and served about a year, when on account of sickness he was honor- ably discharged. After returning home and regaining his health, he began the study of medicine under the preceptorship of Dr. Larkin, of La Salle County, Illinois, com- pleting his study in the oflBce of Dr. Bry, and graduating with honors from the E. M. Institute, at Cincinnati, Ohio, in February, 1866. Immediately after graduating he com- menced the practice of his chosen profession at Otter Creek, Jackson County, Iowa. Here he remained a year and a half and then re- moved to Edgar County, Illinois, and resided there until the year 1872, when he came to Wright County and located at Clarion, being the first physician to locate at that place, where, by close attention to his profession, he has built up a large practice and acquired a good property. During this time he has enjoyed only one vacation, that being four months spent in Europe. He was married to Miss Jemima Johnson on the 9th day of Sep- tember, 1865. She was a native of Iowa, born in Dubuque, a daughter of William Johnson, who was a pioneer of Dubuque. By this union four children have been born to them, of whom two are still living, viz.: James W. and Rosella. His wife died Feb- ruary 10, 1879. He was again married April 10, 1881, to Miss Rose Whited, a native of Michigan^-nd a daughter of William Whited, who came to this county when Mrs. Garth was an infant. As a result of this union Grace Greenwood and Mark Eowe were born to them. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M., Cyrene Lodge, No. 325. The doctor has served as justice of the peace for eight years; on the commission of insanity four- teen years; coroner for twelve years, and mayor of Clarion for one term. Politically he is a Republican, casting his first vote for John C. Fremont in 1856.. Kt- MX » It \ l « .S '""-*-^ jUFUS C. MORSE was born in Iowa I County, Michigan, October 23, 1856, a son of Judge John S. Morse, of whom mention is made elsewhere in this volume. Our subject came to Wright County with his father's family when a boy; was reared on a frontier farm, receiving his education in the - -^Ui^i^^.^. OF WRIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 463 common schools, with the exception of one year, which was spent at the loni High School. He was married December 25, 1880, to Miss Mittie Malvin, a daughter of Nicho- las and Ellen (Hubbard) Malvin. She was born February 6, 1863, in Colesburg, Dela- ware County, Iowa, and came to Wright County with her parents. Tliey are the parents of three children : . Lovena, born May 25, 1883; Allen B., born July 18, 1885; and John N., born April 18, 1887. He owns an undivided half interest in 400 acres of fine land, in a high state of cultivation. He has held many local offices of trust and responsibility. Politically he is a Democrat. H. LUICK, a prosperous farmer and stock-dealer, was liorn in Washtenau *■* County, Michigan, January 22, 1843, son of Henry J. and Malica (Ovur- acker) Luick. His father was a native of Germany, born in Stutgart, and came to America at fifteen years of age, locating in Michigan, where he remained for a time. In 1853 Mr. Luick with his family emigrated to Iowa and arrived in Wright County on the 2d of September, and located in Pleasant Township, on section 31. They were the parents of nine children; seven still survive: Silvester, Mary, Barbara, M. H., Louis, Frank and Charley. Mr. Luick remained in Wright County until 1866, when he removed to Mahaska County, where he still resides. He has served as county judge of Wright County. His wife died in 1884. M. H. was ten years old when became to Wright County with his parents. He was reared on a fron- tier farm, receiving his education in the com- mon scliools. In 1865 he located in Belmond Township, on forty -acres of land in section 24, He was married October 18, 1863, to Miss Sarah Lathrop. The little farm of forty acres has steadily grown by Mr. Luick making additions until now he has a beautiful farm of 400 acres of improved land, situated on the west slope of the Iowa Eiver. In 1880 he erected his beautiful residence, at a cost of $2,250. Mr. and Mrs. Luick are the par- ents of three children — Albert D., Minonet and Jessie, while a stepson, John Baker, lives on an adjoining farm. Politically Mr. Luick is a Hepublican. ILLARD J. MORSE was born in Iowa County, Michigan, December 26, 1858, a son of Judge John S. Morse, whose sketch appears in this volume. Our subject came to Wright County with his parents, where he has since made his home. He received his education in the common schools; was reared on his father's farm. He was married November 24, 1881, to Miss Ida Luick, a daughter of David and Sarah Luick, whose sketch will also be found in this volume. She was born in Wright County June 4, 1863. Mr. and Mrs. Morse are the parents of three children — David, born Feb- ruary 26, 1888; Rhoda, born July 1, 1884, and died September 15, 1887; Bertie, born September 2, 1886. Mr. Morse has an un- divided half interest in 400 acres of improved land in a high state of cultivation. Politically Mr. Morse is a Republican. » S i i ; « fOHN G. HATHWAY, section 19, Pleasant Township, is one of the well- known pioneers of the township; he located in Wright County in 1867. He was born in Cass County, Michigan, April 12, 1885, a son of Isaac and Catherine 464 BIOGBAPHIOAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM (Garver) Ilatliway. The father was a native of New York and the mother of Pennsyl- vania. "When John G. was four years af age his father removed to Eacine County, Wis- consin ; later he removed to McHenry County, Illinois, and in 1845 the family removed to Buchanan County, Iowa. Our subject was reared a farmer and received his education in the public school's. He came to Wright County in the year 1857 and bought his present farm. In 1860 he went to California, Idaho and other Western Territories and en- gaged for six years at mining. In 1866 he returned to Iowa and located on his present farm. He has a good house and other farm buildings all surrounded by a fine grove. His farm adjoins the town plat of Belmond and is very valuable. Mr. Hathway was married in October, 1867, to Miss Kate Smyser, who was born in Wayne County, Ohio. As a result of this union two daughters have been born to them — Ilattie L. and Susie A., both successful teachers. Mr. Hathway is a mem- ber of the Masonic order. King Solomon's Lodge, ISTo. 210, of Bolmond. Politically he he is a Democrat. ^.^,^^^.,_ fOHN W. McGRATH, attorney and counselor at law. Eagle Grove, Iowa, located there in April, 1887. Mr. Mc- Grath does a general law collection and in- surance business. He is a native of Morrison, Whiteside County, Illinois, where he was born in October, 1861. His father, James McGrath, was an early settler of. that county and one of its well-known representative citi- zens. He was a native of Ireland. John W. is the eldest of his father's family, which consists of four sons and one daughter. His earlier education was received in the primary gcbpols of his native county. Later he was a student of the Pligh School, at Sterling, Illinois, and still later of the Northern Nor- mal School, at Valparaiso, Indiana. He en- tered the law department of the State University of Iowa in the fall of 1885 and graduated therefrom in March, 1887. Eagle Grove at that time was attracting much at- tention as a prosperous and promising town, and yielding to tliis attraction, Mr. McGrath decided to come hither. His merit as an at- torney and business man are being appre- ciated, as isindicated by his growing business. He married at Enimettsburg, Iowa, Miss Mary Treadgold, a native of England and a daughter of Anthony Treadgold, and they have one daughter. In politics Mr. McGrath is a Bepublican. fOHN NICOLL, president of the Cit- izens' Bank, at Goldfield, Iowa. The bank does a general banking business, exchange bought and sold. It was established in August, 1888. Thepresident has been iden tified with the interests of Goldfield for four years. He was born in Canada, September 20, 1847, a son of Alexander Nicoll and Lydia (Bane) Nicoll, natives of Scotland. Our subject lived in Canada till he was twenty-one years of age. He was reared a farmer and received his education in the public schools. In 1869 he came to Iowa and located in Tama County. Here he worked at manual labor by the day or raontli and by strict economy he saved enough to get a start in life. In 1875 he bought a farm of 160 acres near Traer, Tama County, this farm he still owns. In 1884 he came to Goldfield and engaged in the lumber and grain business, in which he was successful. This he followed till he went into the bank- ing business. He has all the conibined traits OF WBIOBT COUNTY, IOWA. 465 of character, industry, good understanding and sound judgment which go to make up a successful business man. He has always taken an active interest in educational and religious matters and has been a liberal sup- porter of the same. Mr. Nicoll was married at the age of twenty -three to Miss Alice Dnrsdale, a woman of intelligeni;e and edu- cation and a daughter of L. P. Dursdale, and as a result of this union they are the parents of seven bright and intelligent chil- dren, viz: James, Martha, Lydia, Alexander, Lizzie, Ella and Edna. Mr. NicoU is a member of the Presbyterian church, being one of the ruling elders. In politics he is a Republican. He is the present president of the school board. A. MICKELSON, one of the enter- prising and well-known citizens of ''® Woolstock Township, came to the county in the year 1877. Mr. Mickelson is a native of Norway, born December 30, 1845, a son of O. and Angeline Mickelson. The family came to America in 1848, locating in Green County, Wisconsin, and were among the early settlers of that county. The parents died in 1854, leaving a family of three chil- dren, our subject being the second child and oldest son. He was bound out to a Mr. Stewart, and his youth was spent at farm work and attending school. He enlisted, February 22, 1865, in the Forty-ninth Wis- consin Infantry, Company G, and was dis- charged November 14, 1865. He then returned to Green County and completed his education at Albany, Wisconsin. At the age of twenty-two he engaged in teaching, teaching in the winter and farming in the summer, for fourteen years. He was mar- ried October 31, 1877, to Miss Fern Fleek, a lady of education and culture and a daughter of E. T. Fleek, a prominent pioneer of Green County, Wisconsin. The mother was Miss S. A. Bowen before marriage. The parents were natives of Hampshire County, West Virginia, and settled in Green County in 1843. A short time after marriage our sub- ject came to Wright County, locating on 160 acres of partly improved land, where he now lives, the house being built and some break- ing being done. Here he has since lived and improved his farm so that it is known as one of the best in the neighborhood. The Mickelson farm now contains 480 acres of fine land. Mr. Mickelson is engaged in gen- eral farming and stock-raising. He has a comfortable house surrounded by a fine grove, a large barn 52 x 60 feet with 20 foot posts, wind-mill, feed yards and other good improve- ments. Everything about the farm shows the thrift of the owner. Mr. Mickelson and wife have one daughter, Nellie Fern, born March 8, 1879. Mr. Mickelson is politically a Republican, has served as township trustee and president of the school board. He is a member of the G. A. R., General Lyons Post, No. 133, Clarion, Iowa, and his wife is a member of the Relief Corps of the same post. Mr. Mickelson, though but a young man, has gained a good position socially, politically and financially. PICKERING, one of the repre- sentative men and early settlers ol Wright County, resides on section His farm contains 280 acres in sections and 83, Eagle Grove Township. Mr. Pickering purchased his farm in 1869 and settled on the same in June, 1870. He had previously resided on section 20 for about four years. Mr. Pickering is a native of the 466 BIOGBAPHIGAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM old Granite State, having been born in Eicli- mond, New Hampshire, July 28, 1832. His father was Timothy Pickering, also a native of New Hampshire. The mother of our sub- ject was, before her marriage, Nellie Kelton, a native of JRoyalston, Massachusetts, and like her husband belonged to an old New Eng- land family. Timothy Pickering died when his son A. K. was about twelve years old, the mother surviving him many years, dying in the year 1862. Timothy Pickering was twice married, the first wife being, a sister of the second. There were fourteen children in the family of Timothy Pickering, four of whom were by his first wife, Martha Picker- ing. Of this once numerous family but four survive in 1888, viz: Nathaniel and Horace, by the first marriage, and by the second — Olive and Amaziah K., the subject of this notice. The latter lived on a farm until about sixteen years of age. "When twenty years old he went to Sharon, Massachusetts, where he was engaged in the boot and shoe business for eleven years and then came West. He married in Sharon, Harriet J. Greenleaf, a native of Stark, Maine. Her parents were Gason and Nancy (Joy) Greenleaf; the former was also born in Stark, but the latter was born in Massachusetts. When Mrs. Pickering was about thirteen years old her parents removed to Massachusetts, where they both died within two years. They had seven children, five of whom were living at the time of the death of the parents; three are living in 1888 — Eleazer, the eldest, lives in Iroquois, Dakota; Mary, wife of George N. Eichards, lives at Warwick, Massachusetts; Mrs. Pickering being the youngest. In June, 1862, Mr. Pickering came West for the benefit of his health ; he stopped in Du- buque County, Iowa, and spent the summer with his eldest brother, who was living there, flis health improving he returned East in November of that year, and in the following spring he returned with his family, and lived in Dubuque County two years. He en- gaged in farming and in 1866, as indicated above, he came to Wright County. Mr. and Mrs. Pickering have had four children, three of whom are living in 1888, viz: Byron E., a resident of Dayton Township; Howard A. and Yerna B. They lost their eldest, Clar- ence F., at the age of six years. Mr. Picker- ing, as stated, is one of the representative men of his township and a man highly es; teemed by all. He has made his own way in the world since he was twelve years of age. He now has a fine farm and a pleasant home, which has been acquired by the industry and good management of himself and wife. Both are firm believers in the doctrines of the Christian religion. In politics Mr. Pickering is a Republican. » St «S " C. KING, farmer and stock-raiser, section 33, Lake Township. The ^subject of this sketch has been iden- tified with the interests of Iowa since the year 1866 and of Wright County since 1882. He is a native of Pennsylvania, born in Beaver County, March 11, 1835, a son of John and Elizabeth (Cory) King, natives of Pennsylvania and of Irish ancestry. Our subject was reared on a farm in his native State until he was sixteen years of age. His mother died when he was six months old and his father died one year later. He lived with his grandfather Cory until he was four years old and then lived in various places until he was sixteen ; he then came to Iowa and located in Burlington and remained there for one year, he then went to Illinois and lived there for about eight years. In 1860 he went to Indiana and located in OF WRIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 467 Porter County and was there married in March, 1862, to Miss Emerline PoUett, a native of Indiana. They had one child, but it and its mother died when our subject was serving his country in the late civil war. He enlisted in August, 1862, in Company C, Ninety-ninth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, of the Fifteenth Army Corps under General Logan. He also was with Sherman on his famous march to the sea. He served until the close of the war and participated in the grand review at WashingtoTj. After the close of the war he went to Valparaiso, Indiana, and was there married to Miss Mary A. Dunn, a native of Ohio and a daughter of Ezra and Lydia (Ball) Dunn, of Puritan de- scent. The following year he came to Iowa and located in Marshall County. Here for ten years he followed blacksmithing and then removed to Grundy County and there re- mained until he came to this county in 1882. Here he purchased 420 acres of wild land at a cost of $10 per acre, which he has since im- proved. He is the largest farmer in Lake Township. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M., at Marshalltown, also of the G. A.R, General Lyons Post, at Clarion. Politically he affiliates with the Democratic party. Mr. King is a self made man and by his own in- dustry and exertion has accumulated a good property, and by his many years of honorable and upright dealing has won the confidence and esteem of all who know him. -^tf* CHARLES A. BIRDSALL, one of the representative young men of Wall Lake Township. He was born in Weyanwega, Waupaca County, Wisconsin, January 4, 1857, a son of Benjamin Birdsall, deceased one of Wright, County's most pro- minent men, whose sketch will appear else- where. Charles was fourteen years of age where he came to Wright County, where he grew to manhood; his education was received in Wisconsin. The Birdsall homestead con- tains some 1,200 acres of fine land and Charles owns some 480 acres adjoining on the south and partly improved. He is en- gaged in general fanning and stock-raising, keeps about 170 head of cattle, besides a large number of horses and swine. Our subject is politically an Independent; though but a young man is numbered socially and finan- cially among the leading men of the county. W. BURROWS is one of the men who is worthy of mention in this work; he * is one of the well-known early pioneers of Blaine Township. He was born in Sufiblk County, England, on the 3d of November, 1826, and is a son of William and Emma (Ashford) Burrows, who had two children: Charlotte and C. W. ; the parents lived until death in Suitblk County, and the sister also died in England. Our subject was reared a farmer, ^,nd received his education in his native country. He resided in England, engaged at farm work until he was twenty- six ye^rs of age, and in 1852 he started for America on a sailing vessel, being six weeks and two days on the voyage; he landed at New York, and went direct to Grant County, Wis- consin, where he worked at farm work for about two years. He was married, Novem- ber 27, 1856, to Miss Jane Gurney, a native of Suifolk County, England, and a daughter of Benjamin and Jane (Pritty) Gnrney, who came to America on the same ship as our subject. After marriage our subject resided in Grant County until 1865 when he came to Wright County, coming by team himself, and his wife an5 children coming by railroad. 468 BIOOBAPEICAL RECORD A2>[D PORTRAIT ALBUM He first settled in Franklin County, at Otis- ville just across the county line, and in 1874 he came on to his present farm, eighty acres of ■which had been improved by a John Prichard and the other eighty by a Mr. Lin- coln; the farm is well adapted for either grain or stock; he has a good house and other farm buildings all surrounded by a fine grove. Everything about the place shows the thrift of the owner; he is engaged in general farm- ing and stock-raising. Mr. Burrows and wife are the parents of eight children, viz. : Charlotte, the wife of M. E. Eckert, of Dows, of Iowa; William Ashford, whose farm adjoins the father's on the west; Ulysses G. ; George W., a teacher; Edwin Chester, Oliver P. and John W. They lost one by death — Jane Eliza, who died in her twenty-second year. Mr. Burrows is politically a Eepub- lican, but has no official aspirations. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church of Dows; he has served as class-leader for many years, and was superintendent of the Sunday-school for a number of years. He has given his children the benefit of a good education, and they are all well fitted for a good and useiul life. Three of his sons are members of the Dows Band. tot n i\ a ^1 I g ■ » Yh i «a» I W. MASON, proprietor of the City drug store. This business was estab- * lished by Dr. Brackett, in 1874, and the present proprietor became a partner in 1886, and in August, 1887, became the owner of the business." He carries in stock a full line of goods, such as is carried in a first-class drug store. He is a registered pharmacist. G. W. Mason was born in Tama County, Iowa, and there he received a liberal education. In 1882 he came to Wright County, and has since been engaged in the drug business, except six months, which he spent in the DesMoines School of Pharmacy. He was married September 8, 1886, to Miss Abbie Pinkam, a daughter of H. Pinkam, of Liberty Township, and one of the prominent men of that township. Mr. and Mrs. Mason have one daughter, Bessie. Mr. Mason is a member of the I. O. O. F. and A. F. and A. M. Politically he is a Kepublican, C. McIlSfTOSH, of Goldfield, is one of the pioneers of Wright County, the date of his coming being March 3, 1857. Mr. Mcintosh is a native of the Em- pire State, having been born in Albany County April 9, 1832. His father was Alexander Mcintosh. The Mcintosh family were of Scotch ancestry. The mother was Betsey Wood, a daughter of Major Wood, an oflicer in the Revolutionary war; the family were of English origin. Alexander Mcin- tosh and wife continued to live in Albany County until their death. They were the parents of eight children who grew to man- hood and womanhood, six sons and two daughters, all living but the second son and the youngest daughter. O. C. was the young- est of the six sons above referred to. He was reared a farmer and received a common- school education. The first of the family to come to Iowa was O. W. Mcintosh, an elder brother of our subject, who came to Iowa in 1856. Here he married Miss Euth Bishop. He was the first acting treasurer, recorder and surveyor of Wright County. He laid out the original plat of the town of Goldfield, in 1857. He resided in Goldfield for several years and then engaged in farming near Bel- mond. Later he went to Butler County, and thence to Dakota, where he now resides. 0. C. and his brother O. W. are the only 'a-u^ f^. OF WBIOET COUNTY, IOWA. 471 members of the family who have ever settled in Iowa. On the 25th of September, 1856, the subject of this notice was married to Miss Selina Dietz, a native of Albany County, New York, and a daughter of Joseph A. Dietz, of Holland origin. On the 16th of January, 1857, accompanied by his wife he started for Goldfield, then called Liberty, but it was not until the 3d of March that he reached his destination, owing to the floods caused by the "January thaw." Mr. Mcin- tosh pre-empted land in Liberty Township, on sections 34 and 35. On this land he settled and here he lived for about two years. In the spring of 1860 he started ^to seek a fortune in the gold mines of the Kocky Mountains, and spent that season mining in the gulches near Central City, Colorado. When he returned he purchased an interest in a steam mill at Goldfield, and removed to town, although he continued to own and operate the farm for a number of years. He retained his interest in the mill for a num- of years, when he purchased a farm on sec- tion 4, in Eagle Grove Township, but continued liis residence in Goldfield. This farm he sold several years since. .The greater part of the life of Mr. Mcintosh has been devoted to agricultural pursuits. He was for three years a member of the mercantile firm of J. S. Braden & Co., and in 1888 en- gaged in banking. In 1861 Mr. Mcintosh was elected sherifi' of Wright County, and served two terms. He has also held the principal township ofiices. Politically Mr. Mcintosh was reared in the school of Democ- racy, but when the Kepnblican party was organized, he identified himself with them and has ever since been a warm advocate of the principles of that great party. He voted for General Fremont in 1856, and has voted for every Republican President. Mr. and Mrs. Mcintosh have one daughter, Ophelia, now wife of G. W. Hanna, a banker at Lu Verne, Iowa. He is one of the representa- tive men of Kossuth County. He laid out the town of Lu Yerne, and has been chiefly instrumental in building up the same. He is also a leading Republican and of much influ- ence in the conncils of his party. In 1888 he was a delegate to the National Convention at Chicago. For the long period of thitty- two years has Mr. Mcintosh been a resident of Wright County. He has seen the county grow from a state of wilderness to the present advanced condition. As a citizen he is ever held in high esteem. Progressive and enter- prising, he is ever foremost in whatever tends to promote the best interests of the community in wliich he lives, and he is a worthy representative of the old pioneer element of Wright County. ►>»S- AYID CORSAIR, one of the intelligent and representative men of Wall Lake Township and an ex-soldier of the late war, was born in Glasgow, Scotland, October 31, 1839, and is a son of David and Jenette (Campbell) Corsair. David, after finishing his education, clerked in a shipping ofiiee for a time and then served an apprenticeship at the carpenter's trade. At nineteen he came to America and located at Chicago, Illinois, where he worked at his trade for several years. He then removed to Elgin, Illinois, working at his trade till the breaking out of the late civil war, when he enlisted in the Fifty-second Illinois Infantry, Company K. He served three years and ten months. He was in the battles of Shiloh, siege and battle of Corinth, Rome, Georgia, siege of Atlanta, Resaca, Snake Creek Gap, Inca, Lovejojs Sta- tion, Rome,Cross Roads, Alatoona, Fays Ferry, Decatur, — twenty-one engagements altogeth- 472 BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM er. He was -wotinded at Savannah, Georgia, by a shot, and was confined in the hospital lor some time. Later he joined his regiment and was at the grand reunion at "Washington, D. C. • He was honorably discharged as Ser- geant at Chicago, Illinois. Later he located at St. Louis, Missouri, where he worked at his trade for one year. He then removed to Winnebago County, Wisconsin, and then to Aurora, Illinois, where he lived eleven years, working at his trade. In 1881 he came to Wright County and located on his present farm, where he has since resided, working at his trade and farming. His many years of experience in business have made him a pro- ficient and thorough workman. He was' married June 2, 1870, to Miss Fannie ISfap- per, who was a daughter of Abel JSIapper, of this county. By this union three sons were born to them, viz.: David C, William C. and Frank J. Mr. Coisair is a Eepubli- can, and has served as township clerk and as justice of the peace. He is a member of the G. A. E., which he joined at Aurora, Illinois. He is a man honorable in all things and highly respected in the community where he lives. «»-«f"-5«-«J"^-«>'^ • a[ T. BUSICK, section 5, Pleasant Town- 1. ship, is one of the well-known early settlers of the township. He came to the county in the year 1864. Mr. Busick was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, October 9, 1832, a son of Hezekiah and Matilda (Hazel) Busick, both natives of Ohio. When our subject was a small child his parents re- moved to Tippecanoe County, Indiana, where our subject lived until he was seventeen years old; he then removed to near Peru, Indiana. He lived in this locality until 1861. In 1853 he was married to Miss Susan Mur- phy, a native of Wayne County, Indiana, and a daughter of Joshua and Tacy (Shoemaker) Murphy. In 1861 our subject- removed to Lee County, Illinois, where he lived for three years and then removed to Wright County, Iowa, and located near where he now lives. He now has a good farm of 220 acres well improved, and is engaged in general farming and stock-raising. Mr. and Mrs. Busick are the parents of nine children, viz.: Elwood, William, James, Perry, Kosa, Eva, Henry, Oliver and Abba. They have lost two by death, Thomas and Adaline. Politically our subject is a Democrat, but was a Eepublicau until 1882. »>»f. EICHAEDSON, banker EOEGE H. and grain dealer of Belmond, Iowa, is of English, Irish and Welsh extraction. His ancestors all came to America at an early day, and many of their descendants were residents of Vermont and JSTew Hampshire. The father of the subject of this sketch was born in J^ew Hampshire; lived in Kew Hampshire and Vermont until he removed to Canada, and lived there a number of years. George was born in Waterloo, Canada, February 7, 1844, and at the present time is forty-four years old. In 1852 his father removed to Ogle County, Illinois, the county being at that time comparatively wild; lived in Foreston, Illinois, during his boyhood days and at the age of seventeen engaged in bookkeeping and grain buying for Martin Hellen, with whom he remained until be sold out his business, and was then employed by his successor. At the early age of nineteen he was offered and accepted the oflBce of deputy postmaster at Foreston, which ofiice he held for about two years or until he formed a partnership with Mr. John Korns, and en- OF WRIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 473 gaged in the grain business, in which busi- ness he has continued up to the present time. la the spring of 1863 he formed the acquaintance of C. Jennette Thompson, for whom he formed a strong attachment. They were married in the following fall — ■ Sej)tember 22d. Her ancestors came over from Scotland at a very early day, and among her ancestors of note may be mentioned "Israel Putnam. Removed to Belmont, Iowa, in the spring of 1873 with Mr. A. A. Eobert- son, well-known in this part of Iowa. They engaged in the grain and live stock business and bought the first cars of hogs ever pur- chased in Belraond and drove them to Garner and shipped from there. Intended erecting a grain house in Behfljnd, but owing to the collapse of the railroad building of the lines to Belraond, they removed to Alden, Iowa, and continued in business there and at Iowa Falls until the fall of 1881, when he returned to Belmond for the third time, and established the lovi^a Valley Bank and built a large steam elevator, in which lines of business he is engaged at the present time; has always taken a very active part in the advancing and improving the public schools and in all edu- cational works. He has probably the finest collection in Iowa of petrified agates and chalcedony from the petrified forests of Ari- zona, which places of wonderful interest he and his wife visited during their extended visit through the west in the spring of 1888. fOHN PEAEL, farmer and stock-raiser, section 6, Clarion Township. The sub- ject of this sketch has been identified with the interests of Wright County since the year 1868. He is a native of JSTew York, born in Oneida County, February 22, 1834, a son of Orange and Ellen (Timason) PearL The father was a native of New York and of Puritan descent. He served as a soldier in the Revolutionary war. The mother was a daughter of John Timason, who came from Germany to this country, and he also served in the war of the Revolution. Our subject was reared on a farm in his native country; when he became thirteen years old he began working out by the month, and continued to do so until he was twenty-one years of age. In 1855 he started west and located in Ogle County, Illinois, and worked at farm work until the breaking out of the late civil war. He enlisted August 4, 1862, in Company F, Seventy-fourth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, serving in Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama, Missouri and Georgia. He participated in the battles of Perry ville, Stone River, Chick- amauga. Mission Ridge, Atlanta and Frank- lin; also battles of Nashville and Peach-tree Creek. He served his country faithfully until the close of the war and was honorably dis- charged in July, 1865. He then returned to Ogle County. He was married July 4, 1867, to Miss Lucina Miller, a daughter of Thomas and Nancy (Vanderwalker) Miller, who were from New York and settled in Illinois in 1842. In 1868 our subject emigrated to Iowa and purchased 160 acres of wild land in what is now Clarion Township, his being the third family to locate in the township. He began the task of making a home, and has since followed farming. As a result of his marriage he and his wife are the parents of twelve children, of whom eleven still survive, viz.: Jennie, the wife of Albert Fox, of Clarion; Nancy Belle, Thomas Caylon, Nel- lie, Kitty, Marcus Edmnnd, John Hester, George Otis, Thadeus Monroe, Grace, Win- fred and the youngest is Harrison, named after the president-elect. Mr. Pearl has served in local offices of trust. He is a mem- ber of the G. A. R., General Lyons Post, No. 474 BIOGRAPHICAL BECOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM 133, of Clarion, and is one of the charter members. Politically he affiliates with the Republican party. Mrs. Pearl is a charter member of the Womens' Kelief Corps, Gen- eral Lyons Post, No. 30. i-SmJ-. f^AMES WHITTEN, deceased, was born i in Glasgow, Scotland,in the year 1798, a son of James Whitten, also a native of Scotland, a man of limited means, and at an early age our subject was obliged to maintain himself. When twenty-one years of age he emigrated to Canada and took up a tract of Government land and engaged in farming. He was married January 16, 1835, to Miss Ellen Mclntyre, a native of Lanark, Scotland, born in 1816, a daughter of Hugh and Maria (Burns) Mclntyre. In 1834 Mrs. Whitten, with her father's family, emigrated to Canada, coming in a sailing vessel and being four weeks on the water. Her parents settled on Government land, where they passed the re- mainder of their days. Our subject resided in Canada until he emigrated to Wright County, in 1881, and settled on the farm now occupied by his widow and son James. Mr. and Mrs. Whitten were the parents of eleven children, of whom nine still survive — Jane (deceased), Maria, Ellen, Mary, Laticia (deceased), Daniel, JSTorman, James, George and Lizzie. Mr. Whitten departed this life February 22, 1888. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian church. » 3 i i | « rAMES raiser, WHITTEN was born farmer and stock- in Canada, May 17, ^ 1850, the fourth son and ninth child o James Whitten, deceased. He was reared on his father's farm in his native country and received a common school education. His youth was spent in assisting his father on tiie farm. He was married April 23, 1880, to MissElizabethMcKurdy, a native of Lanark County, Canada, and daughter of Michael and Elizabeth (McLelland) McKurdy, natives of Lanark, Scotland. The following fall after his marriage he came to Wright County with his father's family and settled with him on 160 acres of wild laud, which they improved and he has since followed agricultural pur- suits. Mr. and Mrs. Whitten are the parents of three children, two of whom still survive — Lizzie and Sarah. Andrew died at the age of seven months and seventeen days, Mr. and Mrs. Whitten are members of the Pres- byterian church. "^ "I ' SuS ' H. GRIFFITH, who resides on section 20, Eagle Grove Township, is one of " the early and well-known citizens of Wright County. He dates his residence in the county from October 24, in the year 1856. Mr. Griffith is a native of the Empire State, having been born in Orleans County, New York, February 3, 1833, a son of Samuel and Hannah (Demmou) Griffith, natives of the State of New York. They were the parents of ten children, of whom the subject of this notice was the ninth. The parents of Mr. Griffith came to Wright County in 1859, and lived here until death. 0. H. Griffith was reared at farming, but at the age of eighteen years engaged in learning the carpenter's trade. At twenty years he went to LaGrange County, Indiana, and worked at his trade and at wagon-making. Then he went to Ogle County, Illinois, where he worked at his trade for fifteen months. He then, in 1855, removed to Black Hawk County, Iowa, and in the fall of 1856 he located in Boone Town- OF WMIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 475 ship, Wright County, Iowa, where he settled on eighty acres of wild land. There he con- tinued to live until 1867. Previous to the war of the Rebellion he spent some" twenty months in the mountains of the west, engaged in the capacity of a wheelwright. In Decem- ber, 1863, he enlisted as a recruit in Com- pany A, Thirty-second Iowa Infantry. He took an active part in the Meridian raid. In this expedition he contracted the measles, from the effects of which he has never fully recovered, and which incapacitates him from further active service in the army. In 1867, as before stated, he located on his present farm. This is one of the best-known farms in the county, as on this farm stood the grove which contained the old eagle tree, from which the township and town took their name. He has 244 acres of land under a good state of cultivation, and is engaged in general farming and stock-raising; he also makes a specialty of small fruit. In this branch of business he has attained much suc- cess. Mr. Griffith was married in Ausrust, 1870, to Miss Sallie C. Entriken, a native of Chester County, Pennsylvania, and a daugh- ter of Smith and Hannah Entriken. Mr. Griffith and wife have one daughter, Ethelyn Irene. In politics Mr. Griffith is a Eepubli- can. He is a member of the I. O. O. P., and a member of the Hartraan Post, G. A. R, at Goldiield, Iowa. ^LLIAM COULSOJSr, farmer, sec- tion 18, Iowa Township, is a native of Wisconsin, born in Iowa County, February 12, 1849, a son of John and Eliza- beth (Harrison) Coulson, who were natives of Lincolnshire, England, and came to Wiscon- sin in the year 1837. Our subject was reared on a farm and received a common school edu- cation ; he resided with bis parents until he reached his majority. In the fall of 1872 he came to Wright County and rented land until 1881, when he purchased sixty-five acres of wild land, a part of his present farm, which he improved, and has added to and he now has 160 acres of fine land in a high state of cultivation. He was married November 80, 1882, to Miss Florence Veeder, a daughter of the late Daniel Veeder, of whom mention is made elsewhere in this volume. By this union two children were born to them — Frederick and Robert. Politically Mr. Coul- son affiliates with the Democratic party. •°-'-*S^ 2 " S '' S *-"-- — H. WHIPPLE, attorney at law and real estate and loan agent, Dows, Iowa» 9 established his business in 1880. He is a native of Akron, Summit County, Ohio, and was born May 24, 1849, a son of R. G. Whipple. When our subject was two years old his parents removed to Berlin, Green Lake County, Wisconsin, where R. H. Whip- ple grew to manhood. He received his edu- cation in the public schools and at the Law- rence University in Appleton, Wisconsin. During the war of the Rebellion he enlisted as drummer in the Eleventh Wisconsin In- fantry, Company I. He was honorably dis- charged on account of disability and returned to his home; later he enlisted in the First Wisconsin Battery and served until the close of the war. During his term of service he took an active part in the Red River expedi- tion, was in the engagement before Mobile and at New Orleans and several other minor engagements. In the year 1876 our subject located in Sioux Rapids, Iowa, where he en- gaged in teaching for several years. He was admitted to the bar in Wright County, Iowa, in February, 1883. Mr. Whipple is a 476 BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM self-made man ; he is a man of firm convictions as to right and wrong, and has by his honor- able conduct made many friends in the county and gives promise of a bright future. He was united in marriage at Dows, Iowa, in 1872, to Miss Hatty Ellis and a result of this union they are the parents of four children,viz. : Fred. M., Maud, Mamie and Clara M. Mr. "Whipple is a member of the Masonic order. Cornelian Lodge, !No. 425, at Dows, and has served as master of the same; also of Hope Chapter, at Webster City, Iowa, and of St. Elmo Commandery No. 48, of Iowa Falls. He was elected county attorney of Wright County, Iowa, at the November, 1888, elec- tion by the largest majority ever given to a county officer when there was an opposition candidate in the field. He is a staunch Republican, of course. ^[HAELES NELSON OYERBAUGH, one of the pioneers of Wright County, resides on section 20, Liberty Town- ship. His farm of 280 acres comprises the northwest quarter and the west half of the northeast quarter of section 20 and the southeast quarter of the southeast quarter of section 18. He also owns the north- east quarter of the southwest qiiarter of the southwest quarter of section 21, the latter being a timber lot. Mr. Overbaugh is a na- tive of the Empire State, born in Greene County, New York, May 14, 1820. His father was John Overbaugh. The Overbaugh family were one of the early families from Holland who settled along the Hudson in the early history of the colony of New York. Near Caskill, New York, in an old burial place is a stone marking the last resting place of John P. Overbaugh, and the year of his death is given as 1734. The Overbaugh family in the United States are all supposed to have sprung from three brothers who set- tled near Catskill, New York. John Over- baugh married Helen Manning. The Man- ning family were one of the early families of Dutchess County. The parents of our sub- ject continued to live in New York until their death. The father died in 1843, in his fifty-first year. The mother survived him several years. They were the parents of eleven children, four sons and seven daugh- ters. The four sons and five of the daughters grew to man and womanhood, and two sons and three daughters are living, viz. : Sarah Helen, wife of Oscar Curtis, lives in Fulton County, Illinois; Charles Nelson is the second in age; the third is John H., who still lives in Greene County, New York; Cornelia A., widow of Alonzo Lane, lives in Catskill, New York; Charlotte, the youngest, is the wife of William Comfort, and also lives in Catskill, New York. The subject of this notice was reared a farmer, and at the age of twenty- one he engaged in teaching, and one year later went to Ashtabula County, Ohio, and entered as a student the Grand River Insti- tute, where he remained for two years. He then went to Guernsey County and resumed teaching. On October 20, 1846, Mr. Over- baugh was married to Miss Eliza J. Dwigans, a native of that county and a daughter of John Dwigans. Her mother's maiden name was Roseman. Mr. Overbaugh continued to follow the occupation of teaching until 1848, when he engaged in farming. In 1853 he removed to Knox County, Ohio, where he engaged in farming for two years and then removed to Benton County, Iowa. This was in the fall of 1854. Here he also engaged in farming, and also taught two terms of school. In 1855 he came to Wright County and en- tered 160 acres of his present farm, and pur- chased the timber land above mentioned at f^- OF WRIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 479 the same time. In July, 1858, he came here with his family, and here he has lived since. What changes have taken place since then ! All was wild and new. Roads and bridges, there were none. He came from Benton County with his family, which he brought in a wagon drawn by two yoke of oxen, the trip consuming two weeks. It was necessary to ford or ferry across all streams. On arriving at Eagle Creek he found that the stream had been swollen by the recent rains, and fearing to enter the stream with his wagon, lest he should place his family in danger, he con- trived to convey his family, consisting of a wife and five children, in the following man- ner. After wading the creek and finding that it was not beyond his depth, he placed two of his children in a wash tub, and push- ing it before him, waded the stream and landed them safe on the other side, and returning he transferred the remainder of the family in the same way. In taking his wife across he tied two tubs together and finally had them all safe on the opposite side. Mr. Overbaugh settled on his land and began im- proving it at once. He, like other pioneers, was not largely blessed with money when he came here, having just enough to pay for enter- ing his first eighty acres and pay for his ten acres of timber. Wishing to enter eighty acres adjoining, a friend kindly offered to enter it for him, whicli he did in his own name and charged him forty per cent, for the use of the money — a pretty high rate of in- terest. After coming here our subject taught a number of terms of school. In 1867 he was elected county treasurer and served one term. He has aleo been a member of the board of supervisors. Mr. Overbaugh is one of the most successful farmers and stock- growers in Wright County and is keeping a few short-horn cattle. He has a beautiful home, and all its surroundings indicate the thrift of the owner. On his place he has three fine flowing wells, which has given to it the name of the Fountain Farm. Mr. and Mrs. Overbaugh have five children, four sons and one daughter, viz.: John M.,William H., Harriet A., Alonzo N. and Edwin E. They lost their eldest child, a daughter, Mary M. The children have all been engaged in teach- ing. John M. is now auditor of Wright County, it being his third term. In politics Mr. Overbaugh was reared a Democrat, but on the organization of the Republican party he became identified with it, where he has ever since remained. In both politics and religion he is his own judge as to right and wrong. «o» * iy « 3 i * S " f^'" '''*"* H. FILLMORE, proprietor of the "Hillside Stock Farm," is one of the ** well-known and enterprising citizens of Vernon Township. He came to the county in the year 1883. He was born near the Marishi River, New Brunswick, May 25, 1839, a son of John Fillmore, now a resident of Vernon Township, aged ninety-four years, who was a son of John Fillmore, who was a descendant of Captain John Fillmore, of Morridge, who alone captured a pirate vessel and for which he received a large amount of prize money and a gold-headed cane from the citizens of Boston, as a testimonial of the great act which made his name famous. The father of our subject was a Tory and served under the British flag in the war of 1812, and was a Captain in the British army. The mother of our subject was Sarah (Reed) Fill- more, and was born in New Brunswick, a daughter of Joshua and Sarah Reed, who were of Grermau ancestry. The father of our subject with his family left New Bruns- wick in 1845, and came to Chicago, Illinois, 480 BIOGBAPEIGAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM where they made a short stay and then re- moved to Kane County, Illinois. The Reeds had preceded them and all were among the earliest settlers of Kane County. Here the father of our subject improved a farm and made his home. His wife died September 15, 1885, at the ripe old age of eighty-three. He and his wife had eleven children born to them, D. H. being the ninth child. He was reared a farmer, and received his educa- tion in Kane County and the Philadelphia Commercial College. During the great Re- bellion he was one to go in defense of his adopted country. He enlisted in the Eighth Illinois Cavalry, Company A. The regiment was raised by General Farnsworth, and was one of the best cavalry regiments in the service. Our subject enlisted as a private, but was, after the battle of Antietam, pro- moted to the office of Quartermaster Sergeant, and for gallant conduct during the battle of Gettysburg was promoted to Second Lieuten- • ant. On July 6, 1863, at the battle of Wills- port, Maryland, he was wounded in the hip and abdomen, and was confined to the hospital for three months. He joined his regiment at St. Charles, Illinois, and went with them to Virginia. He was honorably discharged August 15, 1864, at Chicago, Illinois, after having served his country faithfully for three years. After his return from the army he located in Kane County, Illinois, and en- gaged in farming until his health failed, by reason of the Wounds he received in the army. He then engaged in the boot and shoe busi- ness at Sycamore, Illinois, which he followed for six years with great financial success. He then sold his business and also his farm and came to Wright County and bought his pres- ent farm. He owns 800 acres of land, and the "Hillside" farm is the best improved farm in the township. Pie has a fine house, built in modern style, situated a few rods from Park Lake, a beautiful little sheet of water, a good barn and other good farm buildings. He also owns a good residence at Dows, where he is engaged in the lumber and coal business. Our subject was married in the fall of 1864, to Miss Anna L. Dobson, a lady of education and refinement, who had been a teacher. She was a daughter of John P. and Fanny Dobson, of Rockford, Illinois. By this union were born seven sons; five died in early childhood. Harry, a bright boy of fourteen years, died October 20, 1887. This was a great loss to the parents. One son survives, Floyd H., who was born No- vember 12, 1877. Mr. Fillmore is a Repub- lican, and u strong adherent of the principles of that great party. He has taken an active interest in politics and has been frequently called upon to address public gatherings. His views on reformation and the regulations of public evils are sound and convincing. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and a grand patriarch of the order; he is also a member of the Masonic order at Dows. IHARLES PACKARD lives on the northwest quarter of section 16, Boone Township, where he settled in May, 1866. There were no improvements on the place when he purchased it; he buying it of the State, it being school land. He is a native of the Green Mountain State, having been born in the town of Woodstock, Windsor County, Yermont, June 1, 1833. His father was Nathan Hudson Packard, also a native of Vermont. The mother of our subject was Celia Houghton. They had nine chil- dren who grew to man and womanhood, seven sons and two daughters. The subject of this notice was the youngestof the family. Nathan Hudson Packard was a soldier in the war of OF WRIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 481 1812. Wlien his son Charles was but two years old the father went to Michigan for the purpose of locating land upon a land warrant he had received for services rendered during that war, and died soon after reach- ing there. The family continued to live in Vermont till Charles was twelve years old, when they came west. Two of the sons, liobert, the eldest, and Cyrenius H., had come west before that time; the former had lo- cated in Chicago and the latter in Cook County, eighteen miles west of Chicago. The mother after coming west resided with her children till her death. She died at the home of her daughter, in Lake County, Illi- nois, about 1867. Cyrenius H. was the first of the family to come to'Iowa; he came to Clayton County about 1850., Another brother of our subject, Artemas C, also went to Clay- ton County and made his home. In 1857 these two brothers came to Wright Ceunty and made settlements in Boone Township. Charles was variously engaged after coming west. He was for a time engaged at lumber- ing on the head waters of the Mississippi, and also in rafting lumber down that river. Later he was engaged in the lead mines at Galena, Illinois. He married in 1854, at Hazel, Grant County, Wisconsin, to Miss Mary Ann Singles, a native of Pennsylvania and a daughter of James A. Singles. Our sub- ject then resided in Grant County, engaging in mining and teaming till 1860, when he came to Wright County. The first land he owned in this county was the northwest quarter of section 22, where he resided till 1862, when he sold out and entered the army in the war of the Eebellion, his family living, while he was in the army, at Luni. On the 14th day of August, 1862, Charles and his two brothers, before mentioned, en- listed in Company A, of the Thirty-second Iowa Yolunteer Infantry. Cyrenius con- tinued with his regiment and took part in several battles. Previous to the battle of Bayoumeter, one of the out-works of Little Rock, he had been sick and confined in the hospital. - When this fight occurred he in- sisted on joining his company, though really unable to do duty. The battle was a severe one and he was exposed all the following night to a severe storm. The result was that he survived the battle but a few days, dying in the hospital at Little Rock, Sep- tember 18, 1863. He was a gallant soldier and his desire to serve in the ranks when he was unable to do so, doubtless caused his death. Artemas C. served with Charles through the war and now lives in Wadnas County, Minnesota. Charles and Artemas took part in the Red River expedition and for forty-two successive days they were under fire. Thence they went to Memphis and took part in the battle of Tupelo, defeating the Confederate General Forrest. In the fall of the same year (1864) they took part in defeating Price in Missouri, and driving him out of the State. Thence they went to Nash- ville, which they reached while the battle of Franklin was in progress, and took part in the battle of Nashville which resulted in the entire destruction of Hood's army by the Union army under General Thomas. Thence they went to New Orleans where the army was re-organized, taking part in the siege and capture of Mobile; thence to Mont- gomery, Alabama, and remaining there till the close of the war. Mr. Packard was not wounded in battle, nor was Artemas C, but at the battle of Nashville five balls passed through his clothes, and at Fort Blakely, while on picket duty he had a personal en- counter with a Confederate soldier, his face being burned by the powder of tlie rebel's gun. His~ health is much broken by his service in the army. He was a brave and 483 BIOGBAPHIGAL RE O ORB AND PORTRAIT gallant soldier, and both he and his brothers, ■ one of whom gave his life for the old flag, did their duty well. It should be here men- tioned that a nephew of our subject, Inrank A. Packard, a son of Eobert Packard, also served in the same regiment and company. He was taken prisoner April 9, 1864, and was confined at Tyler, Texas.' From this place he made his escape and reached our lines at Little Rock, Arkansas, justasthewar closed. He ii now a resident of Salina, Kansas. After the war Mr. Packard returned to Wright County and here he has since lived. He and and his wife have nine children, five sons and four daughters. Mr. Packard is a member of the 0. H. Packard Post, ISTo. 307, at Penwick, Humboldt County, Iowa. Mr. Packard is one of the representative men of Wright County. He is a worthy citizen as he was a gallant soldier. In politics he is a Republican. Still another of our subject's brothers, Nathan Packard, served in the army as a member of an Illinois regiment; he now lives in Wadena County, Minnesota., Another brother, Alfred, lives in Massachusetts. A sister, Mrs. Celia Diana Loobey, removed from Illinois to Boone Township, where she died several years ago. It was at her home when living in Illinois, that the mother died. All surviving members of the family have now been mentioned. Few families can be found that have furnished a larger number of soldiers in the war of the Rebellion than did the Packard family. t<*Hi^?«-5«-»S-»S»"-*» ffAMES S. BRADEN is the pioneer and I leading merchant of Goldfield. He es- tablished his business in 1872. He was born in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, September 9, 1834. His father was William S. Braden, a native of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, the family being of Scotch- Irish origin. The mother of our subject was Elizabeth Weinland, a native of Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, and of German an- cestry. Her grandfather, also named Wein- land, was a Hessian soldier in the war of tlie Revolution, but deserted the British army and joined the Americans and fought on their side until the close of the war. Will- iam S. Braden and wife continued to reside in Pennsylvania till death. They were the parents of ten children, five sons and five daughters. James S. was the eldest of the children; he was reared a farmer, but also in his youth he was engaged for a time as a clerk in astore. In 1855, when about twenty-' one years old, he left home and weqt to Henry County, Illinois. Having his own way to make in the world he engaged at whatever occupation presented itself. In 1860 he married Eliza McNeill, a daughter of John McNeill. Mrs. Braden was born in Whiteside County, Illinois, July 5, 1842; her parents had but a few months before ©migrated to Illinois from the North of Ireland. In August, 1862, Mr. Braden en- listed in Company A, One Hundred and Twelfth Illinois Volunteer Infantry. This regiment was commanded by General Thomas J. Henderson, and was attached to the Army of the Ohio and was one of the many gallant regiments that Illinois sent to the defense of the old flag. Mr. Braden took part in many of the important battles of the war, includ- ing Buzzards Roost. At Eesaca he was wounded in the right foot by a fragment of a shell, but refused to go to the hospital and remained with the ambulance corps, until he was able to march, which was a period of about two weeks. He then rejoined his regiment and' took part in the battle of Pine Mountain, Eutoy Creek, Kenesaw Mountain and in all the battles that at- OF WMIQET COUNTY, IOWA. 488 tended the siege of Atlanta. After the At- lanta campaign he took part with his regi- ment in the battles of Columbia, Franklin and Nashville. Thence the regiment was transferred to Alexandria, Virginia, and thence down ihe coast to Fort Fisher, where they arrived a few days after the capture of the Fort by General Terry. Thence they went to Wilmington, North Carolina; thence to Goldsboro, where they formed a junction with General Sherman's army; thence they marched to Goldsboro; thence to Eawliegh, where they arrived about the time that Johnson surrendered his regiment. They remained at the latter place for several weeks and then went to Washington, and thence to Chicago, where it was discharged July 6, 1865. March 6, 1863, Mr. Braden with others were captured by Confederates under General Pegram, at Danville, Kentucky, and were paroled March 13, 1863. They could not send them South as they were cut off by the Union forces and were therefore taken to Camp Chase, Ohio. After remaining there until Septtmber 1, 1863, he was ex- changed and joined his regiment at Mt. Sterling, Kentucky, and was with it until mustered out at the close of the war. In the fall of the same year Mr. Braden visited Iowa for the purpose of making a location. He returned to Illinois that autumn and in February, 1866, came back and has ever since been a resident of Wright C ounty. For about six years Mr. Braden was engaged in farming in Boone Township, and he engaged in the mercantile business in 1872 as above stated. He has been alone in the business except for a period of about three years, during which time he was associated with O. C. Mcintosh and H. Mclntyre. Mr. Braden was postmaster at Goldfield for four- teen years, or until the advent of the Cleve- land administration. Mr. and Mrs. Braden have three children, two daughters and one son, viz.: Ida, born in 1870; Carrie, born December 25, 1878, and Willie, born in 1880. They lost their eldest daughter, Lois, born in 1863 and died in 1876. Lois was an amiable and promising child and her death was a great affliction to her parents. Mr. Braden has been one of the successful busi- ness men of Wright County and his success has been attained by his own effort. As stated he is the leading merchant of Gold- iield and has been identified with its growth and prosperity for the past sixteen years. Be- sides his valuable town property he owns not less than 800 acres of fine land. In politics he is a Republican and a warm admirer of the principles of that party. fAMES WILLIAMS is one of the well- known, enterprising and intelligent citi- zens of Blaine Township, and came to the county in the year 1874; he bought eighty acres of his present farm in 1878. He was born in Cornwall, England, May 9, 1839, and was there reared. At an early age he went to work in the mines of Cornwall and con- tinued at that until he was twenty-six years of age. He then went to the West Indies Islands and went to work in the copper and nickle mines of Taylor Bros., an English firm, while there he was taken sick with the yellow fever and black vomit, and was the only one of tlie company that recovered from those dread diseases. In 1865 he came to the United States and worked in the zinc mines at Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and from there he went to the copper mines of Lake Superior, where he worked for some time; in 1868 he went to the Pilot Knob iron mines in Missouri, where he had charge of the mines for five years; he then came to Wriglit County, later 484 BIOOBAPHIOAL BEOOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM he went to Canada and remained for three years, and returned to this county where he has since made his home, though in the fall of 1879 at the urgent request of the company at Pilot Knob he returne 1 and took charge of the mines again for the period of eighteen months. He now owns 160 acres of fine land near Dows; it is well improved, has a fine house and barn, a good grove and orchard; everything shows to the thrift and comfort of the owner. He is engaged in general farm- ing and stock-raising; he also owns valuable property in the town of Dows. He was mar- ried on the 4th of July, 1868, to Miss Betsy Beach, who was born in Canada, and was a daughter of Enos and Mary (Bearid) Beach, both natives of Canada. Mr. Williams is a Republican, has served as township trustee for five years; is member of the I. O. 0. F., Kidgely Lodge, 450, of Dows, Iowa, is also a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and is steward and trustee of the same. He has always taken an active interest in educa- tion and religion, and has always been a lib- eral supporter ^of the same; he has the confid- ence and esteem of all who know him. 1. GILLISPIE, Boone Township, sec- tion 20, a member of the County '® Board of Supervisors, is one of the well-known leading representative men of the county and has been a resident here since the year 1869. He was born in Mercer County, Pennsylvania, November 5, 1842, a son of James, and Hannah (McDowell) Gillispie, who were also natives of Pennsylvania. The family removed to Mercer County, Illinois, when S. I. was twelve years of age, and here he grew to manhood. He was reared a farmer and received his education in the pub- lic schools. During the great Eebellion in answer to Lincoln's call for 200,000 men he enlisted in the Eighty-third Illinois Infantry, Company D, and served in the Army of the Cumberland under General Thomas. He took an active part in the battle of Fort Don- elson and several minor engagements, and was honorably discharged at Camp Douglas, Chicago, Illinois, July 5, 1865. He then re- turned to Mercer County, Illinois, where he lived till he came to this county. His father came with him and they settled on 480 acres of wild land and commenced the task of making a home. Some time after the father went to California, where he died. The mother resides with her son S. I., where she has all the comforts of life to ease her declin- ing years. The home farm is one of the best in the township and contains 600 acres of fine land. It is improved with a good house, barn and other farm buildings; a wind- mill furnishes water for the stock, and everything about the place shows the thrift and prosper- ity of the owner. Mr. Gillispie and wife have one son, Roy M., who was born October 4, 1881. They lost two by death— Estella G., who died in her eighth year, and Archie I., who died in his fourth year. Politically our subject is a Republican. He has served in many township offices, and in the fall of 1885 he was elected county supervisor, and has served in a manner that is a credit to himself and a benefit to his constituents. He is a member of the G. A. R., Cyrenus Pack- ard Post, No. 307, of Renwick, Iowa, and is a member of the I. 0. O. F., Lodge No. 484, at Renwick. fG. MEOHEM, farmer and stock-raiser, section 19, Lincoln Township. The * subject of this sketch has been identified with the interests of Wright County since the year 1878. He is a native of Ohio, born XJ/U^o^y'^u^T^i^-^ OV WRIOET OOUNTT, IOWA. 487 in Belmont County, July 26, 1835, a son of Lewis and Bethsheba (Danford) Mechem. The father was a native of Washington Coun- ty, Pennsylvania, a son of John Mechem, who came with his two brothers, to this coun- ty when young men, and followed mercantile pursuits. The Mechem family came to Ohio in the year 1796, being pioneers of that coun ty. While on the way they had to clear a road from Wheeling, Yirginia, to Barnesville, Ohio, and on arriving there they had for neighbors Indians, wolves and other denizens of the forest. They here entered tracts of Government land and made for themselves a home. Here the father of our subject grew to manhood and lived until he was eighty- two years of age. The grandfather died here at an advanced age. Lewis Mechem was married, when twenty-one years of age, to Miss Bethsheba Danford, a daughter of the Hon. William and Elizabeth (Moore) Dan- ford, who were one of the old Puritan fam- ilies and of Dutch descent. They were born on the Ten-Mile Creek, in Pennsylvania, and came to Ohio in 1795. The father died at Sandusky, Ohio, in the war of 1812. Our subject was reared on a farm and re- sided with his parents until he liad reached his majority. He was married JSTovember 20, 1856, to Miss Malinda Dawson, a native of Belmont County and a daughter of George and Bebecca (Brewer) Dawson, who came from Pennsylvania to that country. After their marriage he engaged in farming until during the late civil war. He enlisted in the One Hundred and Twenty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Company D, in June, 1863, and was commissioned First Lieutenant and served as- Recruiting Officer tor several months, serving in the Ninth Army Corps in Tennessee. He participated in the battles of Knoxville, Cumberland Gap and many other skirmishes. He served until the ex- piration of his enlistment, in the fall of 1864, and then returned to Ohio and re-engaged in farming there until 1866, when he emigrated to Iowa and settled in Cedar County, where he followed farming for fourteen years and then came to Wright County and purchased his'present farm ; it was then partly improved ; he has since made it one of the finest im- proved farms in the township. Mr. and Mrs. Mechem are the parents of eight chil- dred, viz.: Aire W., Emmer L., Hulda J., died December 25, 1866, at the age of three years; George L., Anna E., W. Frank, J. Homer and Arthur O. Mr. Mechem was elected county commissioner in 1884 and served for two years. He and his wife are members of the Christian church. Politically our subject is a Republican, casting his first vote for Fremont and has always since voted the straight Republican ticket. *** "' Vn "' ^ * * ^ *-^>~4o< ILLIAM HOAG is one of the well- known early settlers of ' Vernon Township, came to the county in 1869. He was born in East Lothon Parish of White Kirk, Scotland, January 1, 1816, a son of James and Jenette (Lothon) Hoag. He was reared a farmer and reeeived his edu- cation in his native country. When twenty- one years of age he married Miss Isabella Hall, who was born in Berwickshire-on-the- Tyne. She is a daughter of John and Isabella (Greve) 'Hall. Our subject lived in Scotland until 1851, when he came to America. He landed in New York and then went direct to Waukesha County, Wis., where he improved a farm and made a home for sixteen years, when with his family he came to Wright County and located on wild prairie land. He was one of the earliest settlers in the south part of the county. Here he has since lived 488 BIOQBAPHIOAL REOOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM and iihproved his farm in a good manner. He has a good house and barn, surrounded by a fine grove, a wind-mill and a good orchard; all show the thrift of the owner, and his farm compares with the best in the township. Mr. and Mrs. Hoag have six chil- dren living, viz.: Isabella, Jeneatte, Cather- ine, Mary, John and William. James, the eldest son died in 1883, from disease he con- tracted in the army, having served three years in Company B, Twenty-eighth Wiscon- sin Infantry. He left a wife and two chil- dren, who now reside in Blairsburg Township, Hamilton County, Iowa. Our subject is a Kepublican. He has given his children the benefit of a good education. He is cordial to all, honorable in business, and has the re- spect of all who know him. — w-«|*4t-»f.^i"w «ELSON SMITH, farmer and stock- flro raiser, section 30, Lincoln Township. -5^ Among the prominent early settlers of the county there are none more worthy of notice in this history than the subject of this sketch. He has been a resident of the county since the year 1876. He is a native of Indiana, born in Fayette County, August 2, 1837, a son of'Jacob and Margaret (Runnels) Smith, of English and Scotch ancestry. The father was a native of New York and came to Indiana with his parents. Here he followed farming and married the mother of our sub- ject, who was a native of Ontario, and came to Fayette County with her father's family about the same time that her husband did. They were the parents of twelve children, of whom nine lived to be grown and still sur- vive. Our subject was the tenth child. They resided in Fayette County until 1856, when they removed to Iowa and settled in Louisa County, near Wapello, where they lived until 1864, and then removed to Wash- ington County, where they passed the balance of their days. The father died in February, 1870, at the age of seventy-two ye&,rs; the mother died July 22, 1887. Our subject was reared on a farm in Fayette County, and lived with his father until the breaking out of the late civil war. He enlisted in Com- pany K, of the Fourth Iowa Cavalry, in January, 1863, at Davenport, Iowa, and then went South to Mississippi. He participated in the battles of Georgetown, Mississippi; Sehna, Alabama; Columbus, and skirmishes too numerous to mention. He served until the close of the war and was honorably dis- charged in 1865, at Atlanta, Georgia. He then returned to his father's home and resided until his marriage to Miss Mary E. Crawford, which occurred November 7, 1868. She is a native of Carroll County, Ohio, and a daughter of Matthew and Frances (Stevenson) Crawford, who were natives of Ireland. The mother came to Ohio when ten years old. She now lives in Washington County, Iowa. The father died when Mrs. Smith was seven years old. After their marriage Mr. Smith settled on a farm in Washington County, where they resided until they came to Wright County, in March, 1876. Here he purchased 148 acres of partly-improved land. He im- mediately planted the seed for a grove and and now his house and other farm buildings are surrounded by one of the finest artificial groves in the county. He has added to his original farm and now has 296 acres of fine land in a high state of cultivation. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are the parents of three children, viz.: William Everett, Annie Jane and Fran- ces Elizabeth. Our subject and his wife are members of the United Presbyterian church. Politically Mr. Smith is an uncompromising Republican. He is a self made man, and by his and his wife's industry and exertion has OF WRIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 489 accumulated a good property, whicli he uses to the best advantage in surrounding himself and family with all the necessary comforts of life and in giving his children the benefit of a good education. fILLIAM STRYKER.— Perhaps no name is better known among the old settlers of Wright County than that of our subject, he being the oldest white settler, and we might say the father of the county. He has been a resident of the county since July 5, 1854. He is a native of State of New York, born near Geneseo, September 13, 1814, a son of John and Fanny (Eastlick) Stryker, who were also natives of New York. The maternal grandsire of [our subject served seven years in the war of the Revolution. William was a lad of eight years when his parents removed to Trumble County, Ohio, where he grew to manhood. His father was a shoemaker by trade, but William was reared a farmer and received a limited education in the subscription schools of those early days. The father lived until death in Ohio, the mother died in Wright County at the ad- vanced age of eighty-four years. When our subject was twenty-one years of age he re- moved to LaGrange County, Indiana; here he married Roxcena Wilcox, who "was born in Pennsylvania and reared in Indiana, and was a daughter of Job and Mary (Gage) Wilcox. Our subject lived in Indiana some five years, when he removed to Bureau County, Illinois, where he entered Government land and resided until 1854, when he came to Wright County, coming with two teams, an ox and a horse team, camping out nights, and after being six weeks on the road they arrived at a small settlement called Webster City, where they rested for a short time and our subject looked over the country and decided to make Wright County his future home. His first house was a rude log cabin, 14x16 feet; no boards were to be had and the floor was of dirt; the next spring an addition of the same size was made to the cabin ; but here in this rude cabin hospitality was dispensed with a liberality only to be found among pioneers; it was given freely to all, friend or stranger. Our subject first busied himself at making shingles, making on some days as high as 1,000 and selling the same at Homer, the county seat of Hamilton and Webster counties. In 1855 our subject took a prominent part in a pioneer celebration at Homer, where the ardent spirit was in demand and freely par- taken of by a majority of the ,men. Here on the same land our subject has lived for thirty- four years. He now has a good brick house surrounded by fine shade trees, a good barn and other farm buildings. Mr. and Mrs. Stryker have seven'children, viz. : John, who was born in LaGrange County, Indiana, in 1840, enlisted in 186i3 and served one year in the Northern Brigade and from January 1, 1864, served in the second Iowa Cavalry, was in the battles of Tupelo, Nashville and other engagements. He was married in 1866 to Miss Nellie Johnson, and by this union they had five children, viz.: Alvin J., Lucretia E., Thomas J,, Oliver A. and Augusta E. John lives on section 38, where he has lOQ acres of fine land. Politically he is a Republican, has' served as tovynship clerk and on the school board; is a member of the A. F. & A. M., of Eagle Grove, Levina, wife of Henry Tex- ters; Jeremiah D., is a genial bachelor, owns a good farm, and is one of the representative men of the township; Emma, wife of Charles M. Spanglar; Effie, wife of James J. Johnson; Marietta, at home ; Lillien May, wife of Charles Orr. Politically our subject is a 490 BIOGBAPEICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM Eepublican, has served as county supervisor and justice of the peace; has been a member of the Methodist church for fifty years, and has served as class-leader for many years. Although past seventy years of age he bears his years lightly, and is a fine specimen of the pioneer farmer. Courteous to all, genial in his disposition he has made many friends who wish him many years of future happi- ness. .1.1 ' >i^»; t i ; . ^H >-w. [ANDEKS M. HUYCK is the attorney at law at Goldfield. He was born in Huron County, Ohio, April 5, 1819. His father was Henry Huyck, a native of Kinderhook, Columbia County, New York. His ancestors were Dutch and came from Holland to this county in the Mayflower, and settled on the Hudson River. The mother of our subject was Catherine Teed, a native of Montgomery County, New York. In 1816 Henry Huyck removed from Dela- ware, New York, to Huron County, Ohio, where he lived until his death. He and his wife had ten children, of whom the subject of this notice is the sole survivor. He was reared a farmer and receiTcd an academic education. He was for many years engaged in teaching. He then read law and was ad- mitted to the bar in August, 1842. He continued to practice in "Williams County, Ohio, till the breaking out of the late civil war. He was district attorney of that,county for several years, and was school examiner for six years. On the 20th of April, 1861, he enlisted in Company E, Fourteenth Ohio, commanded by Colonel James B. Steadman, who afterward became one of the noted Generals of the war. Mr. Huyck was made Second Sergeant on the recommendation of his company. He crossed the Ohio River at Parkersburg, Virginia, with the regiment who were the first Union troops to land in rebeldom, and he was the first to reach the shore from the ferry-boat. He took part in the fight at Philippi and Carricks Ford. At the expiration of the three months for which he had enlisted he re-enlisted in Company I, of the Fourteenth Ohio Infantry, and served as Commissary Sergeant in that command until April, 1864, having veteranized at Chattanooga in 1863. He took part with his regiment in the battle of Mill Springs, Kentucky, and was at Shiloh on the second day of that terrible battle, his command be- ing under Buell. He was also at Perry villa and Stone River. He also took part, both days, in the great battle of Chickamauga, aijd climbed Mission Ridge, near Orchard Knoll, with the Fourteenth Ohio. Soon after this last-mentioned battle he was commissioned Captain and placed in command of Company I, Twenty-seventh U. S. C. \T. He then joined Grant at Petersburg and took part in the charge on the explosion of the mine on the 30th of July, 1864. He also accom- panied the expedition against Fort Fisher, the regiment to which he belonged being the only colored regiment that took part in that battle. He was mustered out of the service on the 30th of September, 1865, after serving in the army four years and six months. He was in constant service during that time; was never in the hospital but always present for duty. After the war he returned to Ohio and purchased^a farm in Williams County. In 1872 he removed to Missouri, and the following year came to Goldfield, Iowa, where he has since practiced his profession. Mr. Huyck was married in 1845 to Miss Cather- ine Miller, of Lockport, Ohio. They have had ten children, four sons and six daugh- ters; six of whom were living in 1888, one son and five daughters. In politics he was a OF WMIQHT COUNTY, IOWA. 491 Democrat. In 1848 he was a delegate to the Free-Soil convention at Buffalo, New York, and assisted in nominating Martin YanBuren for the Presidency. He became identified ■with the Republican party upon its organiza- tion, and in 1856 stumped his part of the State for Fremont; and has supported every Republican candidate for the Presidency since that time. He has written much for news- papers and magazines. Many of his articles are of classic model and finish. He is an omnivorous reader with a marvelous memory. He is now a hale old man with the true otium cum dignitate. ffOEL KENT, deceased, was among the early pioneers of Wright County, coming here in the year 1860. He was a native of Yirginia, born in March, 1810, a son of James and Elizabeth (Hanwood) Kent, who were natives of Virginia and of English de- scent. They removed to Ohio and settled in Montgomery County when our subject was seven years old. At that place our subject was reared at farm work until he was fifteen years old. He then served an apprenticeship at the cooper trade, after which he went to Middletown, Butler County, and engaged in business for himself, and followed it until 1850. He was married in 1842, to Miss Mary A. Pierce, a native of Virginia, and a daughter of Joseph and Mary (Suter) Pierce, whose parents came from England and set- tled in Virginia. When Mrs. Kent was seventeen years of age her parents removed to Butler County, Ohio, where they died, the father at between ninety and one hundred years, and the mother at the age of sixty- three. In 1850 Mr. and Mrs. Kent removed to Clay County, Illinois, and lived For two years, and then came to Iowa and settled in Cedar County, which was at that time the frontier of civilization. Here our subject entered eighty acres of Government land, which he improved and lived upon till 1860, when he came to Wright County and settled on 240 acres of wild land. He sold eighty acres of it and improved the rest, and at the time of his death had it under a high state of cultivation. Mr. and Mrs. Kent were the parents of seven children, viz.: Emily Ann, James P., Joseph A., John F., William L., Laura, Lewis and Flora. Mr. Kent had served in all the township offices and was a member of the County Board of Supervisors for several years. He affiliated with the Democratic party. He and his esteemed wife were members of the Baptist church. Mr. Kent was a self-made man, and by his own industry and exertions had accumu- lated a good property, which he used to the best advantage in surrounding himself and family with all the necessary comforts of life and giving his children the benefit of a good education. fESSE SEVERE, Blaine Township, sec- tion 30, is one of the early and well- known settlers of the township; he came to the county in the year 1869. He was born December 15, 1815, at Mt. Vernon, Knox County, Ohio, and was a son of Jesse Severe, a native tf Virginia and of English ancestry. His mother was a Margaret Pugh, before marriage; she also was a native of Virginia, but was of Irish ancestry. The parents lived until their death in Knox County. Our subject was reared at farm work; he was married March 5, 1840, to Miss Aurilla Jane Osborn in Knox County, born October 30, 1821, a daughter of Thomas Osborn', a native of Connect;icut, who at an 493 BIOGRAPHICAL RMOOBD AND PORTRAIT early age was left an orphan, and after the death of his parents went to sea and followed it for the most of his life. The mother before mai-riage was Miss Olive Manning, a native of Hartford, Connecticut; the parents died in Knox County. Onr subject lived in his native county, engaged in farming until 1869, p,nd then came to "Wright Coui;ty, and located on the land where he now lives; this land be- longs to Mrs. Severe; it was left to her by her father. The farm contain g between 400 and 500 acres and is improved with a good house built after the southern style, situated fortj rods from the road on a naturally line building site, also good barns and other fine buildings, and all is sur- rounded by a iine artificial grove. Mr. and Mrs. Severe are the parents of five children, viz: Thomas Lavosco and Marcus Lafayette, of Blaine Township; Columbus Delano, a practicing physician of Nebraska; Cassius M. at home and Mrs. Eugenie Aurilla Ladd, of Clarion, Iowa. The children were raised in such a manner that they all were fitted for a good and useful life. Mr. and Mrs. Severe have the respect and esteem of all who know them. g ' 3 1 ' ; ■ >" " g^DWIN BALLOU, Eowen, farmer and stock-raiser. The subject of this sketch is one of the pioneers of Wright County, coming here in the year 1855. He is a na- tive of Ohio, born in Portage County in the year 1832, a son of Barnabus and Kachel (Rowen) Ballou, both of whom were natives of Cheshire County, New Hamshire, and of Puritan descent. They came to Portage County, Ohio, about the year 1830 and were among the very earliest pioneers of that county. In 1840 they removed to St. Clair County, Michigan, where the father died in 1846. The mother died in Wright County in the year 1866. They were the parents of eleven children, of whom nine lived to be grown, viz.: Nathan, Lovina, Wilson, Will- iam, Nathaniel, Louisa, Saraph, Edwin and Anfrew. Only three now survive — Lovina (Ballou) Clark, of Canton, St. Lawrence County, New York; Louisa (Ballou) Aldrick, of Ilowen,Wright County, Iowa, and Edwin, the subject of this sketch. Edwin was reared a farmer and received a limited education in the subscription schools of those early days. After the death of his father he went to work in the saw-mills in the summers, and in the lumber regions in the winters. He followed this work until 1853, when he came to Cedar County, Iowa, where he was married on the 28th of August, 1858, to Miss Emily Kent, a daughter pf Jpel and Mary (Pierce) Kent, who came frpra Butler County, Ohio, to Iowa. In 1855 our subject came to Wright County and entered 160 acres of Government land and began improving it. His nearest mill was at Marshalltown, Iowa, but it was later removed to Eldora, and there our subject got his family supplies for some time. When he came to this county there was not to ex- ceed ten families in the county. The county was organized the following fall. Our sub- ject passed through all the hardships incident to pioneer life. He has improved and added to his original purchase until he now has over 500 acres of well improved land and a fine home. He and his first wife were the parents of ten children, of whom eight still survive, viz.: G-eorge, who married Susan Brown; Ovel, who married Esther J. Lyak; Viola, who is married to Franklin N. Tibbits; Carrie, who is married to Edwin J. Lynk; Nathan, who married Mary (Tibbits) Mc- Clentict; Emilys, who is married to Frank Utter; Edwin and Laura. Flora died at the age of fifteen months, and Franklin at Sc^t^c^'-^^^ (Ma^^^l-ihT^ OF WRIQHT COUNTY, IOWA. 495 six mouths. In the spring of 1885 difficulties arose between Mr. Ballou and his wife which resulted in a separation, a divorce being granted them October 19, 1887. At Gait, Iowa, February 22, 1888, Mr. Ballou married Hattie E. P. Hoag, widow of Benjamin D. Hoag, of Macedon, Wayne County, New York, and a daughter of John and Catherine (DeLong) Gildersleeve, who went from Wash- ington, Dutchess County, New York, to Macedon, Wayne County, New York, about the year 1840. Mr. Ballou has served in nearly all the local offices of trust and re- sponsibility. He is a member of the Meth- odist church; also of the I. O. 0. F., Belraond Lodge, No. 285. Politically he affiliates with the Kepublican party. C. TYKRELL is one of the prom- inent and well-known citizens of [o Wright County, and has been a resident of the county since the year 1868. Our subject is a native of Bradford County, Pennsylvania, born January 16, 1847, a son of M. and P. A. Tyrrell. When W. C. was a lad of seven years the family removed to Iowa and located in Jones County. Here our subject grew to manhood; he was reared a farmer and received his education in the public schools of Jones County and at the Oxford Mills Academy. He was married in the fall of 1867, to Miss Ellen F. Rorick, of Jones County. A year later he removed to Wright County and located in Iowa Town- ship. He moved on to his present farm in 1876; his farm contains 1,120 acres of fine land well adapted to stock-raising, it consists of both rich prairie soil and timber, well watered. It is known as the " Franklin Grove Stock Farm." W. C. handles a large amount of stock and only the best grades; Our subject is politically a Republican and is one of the leaders of that party in the county. He was elected treasurer of the county in the year 1879, and served for three terms with credit to himself and to the best interests of the county. Mr. Tyrrell is a Knight Templar, St. Elmo Commandery, of Iowa Falls. He and his estimable wife are the parents of four children, viz.: Etta, Vinnie, W. C, Jr., and Harry. ^*-.f-. fA. GATES, editor and proprietor of the Eagle Grove Times. The Eagle * Grove Times was established in the spring of 1881 by 0. J. Prehm, who con- tinued to conduct the paper till his death, which occurred several years later, when his wife and daughter assumed its management. On June 18, 1885, Packard Brothers pur- chased the paper and in January, 1887, it came into the hands of the present owner and editor, F. A. Gates. It has always been Republican in its politics. It is now an eight-column folio. Its circulation is about five hundred. Mr. Gates is a native of the Buckeye State, having been born near Mans- field, Richland County, Ohio, in 1846. He learned the printing business early in life, engaging at the business in 1862, when but sixteen years of age. In 1861 he came to Hardin County, Iowa, residing in both Eldora and at Iowa Falls; he went to Web- ster City in 1869. In 1873 he purchased a half-interest in the Wright County Monitor, at Clarion, his associate being G. E. Hath- way. He sold that interest in the fall of 1875 and purchased the Belmond Herald in March, 1876, which he run successfully for nine years. Then he purchased a farm near Webster City which he lived on till he came to Eagle Grove and took charge of the Times. The paper is a bright entertaining sheet, with a growing patronage. i-jH^ ILLIAM LUICK, one of the well known early settlers of Wright County, came here in the year 1856, or rather in the winter of '56-'57, which was known to- all the old settlers as the "hard winter.'' Our subject was born in Washte- naw County, Michigan, October 5, 1834, a son of Henry Luick, a native of Germany, who, with his wife and three children, came to this country when he was thirty-five years old. After coming to this country four more children were born to them, making in all seven, five sons and two daughters, of whom our subject was the fourth child. He was reared in Michigan on a farm and there re- ceived his education. At the age of twenty- two he started for the West to better his fortunes. He walked from Dubuque to Wright County and bought forty acres of prairie and six acres of timber and com- menced to make for himself a home. He was married September 21, 1860, to Miss Eose Pierce, of Sagone, Illinois, a daughter of S. D. Pierce. After his marriage he went to Du Page County, Illinois, and engaged in farming for two years, and then returned to Wright County, where he has since lived. He now has a good farm containing 400 acres; has a fine house, a good barn and other 502 BIOGRAPHICAL BEOOBB AND PORTRAIT ALBUM farm buildings, all surrounded by a fine grove of shade and ornamental trees which contains about fifteen acres. He is exten- sively engaged in stock-raising. Mr. and Mrs. Luick are the parents of four children, viz: Smith H., who is married and lives near the homestead; Earness "W., Elma K. and Cora E. Mr. Lnick is a member of the Masonic order. King Solomon Lodge, JSfo. 210; also a member of the I. 0. O. F., No. 265. Politically our subject is a Republican. » S t i S « ^QUILA FRANCE is one of the enter- prising and well-known citizens of Wall Lake Township, and has been a resident of "Wright County since the year 1874. He is a native of Hurdersfield, Yorkshire, Eng- land, was born April 5, 1832; he is a son of Charles and Elizabeth France. Aquila was ten years of age when the family came to America, settlipgin Winnibago Countj,Wis- consin, where our, subject grew to manhood, his youth being passed at farm work. The father was a woolen manufacturer and fol- lowed that business after he went to Wiscon- sin. Our subject received his education in England, Ohio and Wisconsin. He was united in marriage, November 5, 1856, to Miss Lurane Marston, born in Sf. Lawrence County, New York, September 12, 1834, daughter of Hyram and Mary (Phillips) Marston, both of Upper Canada. He en listed during the war of the Rebellion Sep- tember 15, 1861, at Lincoln's call for 500,000 men, enlisting in the Tenth Wisconsin, Com- pany C. At the battle of Murfreesboro he was taken prisoner and released on parol. While at Shelby, Iowa, he was taken sick and was honorably discharged July 25, 1862. On the 31st of March, 1864, he enlisted a second time in the United States Service as a veteran. and was honorably discharged July 7, 1865. He participated in the battles of Hotzes Run, Va., Coal Harbor, Petersburg, Ya., and assisted in cutting ofiT Lee's retreat to Johnston. While in the service his health was so impaired that he has never fully recovered. In 1874 our subject came to Wiight County and located on wild land. Here he has since lived and improved his land; he now owns 120 acres and his son, William, owns eighty acres in Blairsburg Township, Hamilton County. Mr. France has a fine house, built on a naturally fine building site, a good barn and other farm buildings, all surrounded by a fine grove. He works at the carpenter's trade a good deal, and has built most of the school houses in Woolstock Township and the White Fox jschool-houses in Cass Township, Hamilton County. Poli^tically he is Repub- lican; has served as township trustee, and he and his wife are members of the Methodist church. They have two sons, C. M., born .December 18, 1858, married and lives in Blairsburg Township, Hamilton County, and owns 120 acres, a fine house and large barn, and W. H. who lives at home, ic» ip4^ 3 t |£i i ^ |il»-«oi fREDERICK REEF is one of the enter- prising citizens of the township. He was born in Switzerland, January 1, 1841; his parents were both natives of Switzerland. The family came to America in 1850, locating in Hardin County, Ohio, where our subject lived until 1861. He was reared a farmer, receiving his education at the public schools. He enlisted in July, 1862, in Company A, Seventy-fifth Indiana, and served three years. He was a member of the Cumberland Army and fought under Generals Rosecrans and Sherman. He was first under fire at Hoover's Gap; later at OF W BIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 503 Chickamauga, Kenesavr Mountain and siege of Atlanta, where he was wounded in the left shoulder bj a piece of shell, and was con- fined in the hospital for one month. He then joined his regiment at Rome, Georgia, and marched with Sherman to the sea. He was injured by falling through a railroad bridge at Savannah, Georgia, and was again confined in the hospital for a month. From there he went to New York, and then to Madison, Indiana. He was honorably discharged at Indianapolis, June 12, 1865. He then located at Wabash, Indiana, and worked in a spoke and wagon factory until 1873, when he removed to the Pacific coast where he en- gaged in timber and saw-mill work until August, 1887, when he came to Wright County, Iowa, where he had bought 160 acres in 1882. He has built a good house, good stable, granary and sheds, set out a fine grove, and has one of the finest fiowing wells to be found in Wright County, and has sixty- eight acres under cultivation. He is engaged, in general farming and stock-raising. He has also traveled extensively and is a well posted man. H. MECHEM, deceased, was one of the well-known and highly-esteemed citi- ^* zens of Pleasant Township. He came to Wright County in 1866, and here resided until his death, September 6, 1884. He was born at Sandy Creek, Oswego County, l^ew York, June 6, 1820, a son of Jabes and Susan (Terrell) Mechem, natives of Vermont. They had three sons, viz.: Washington, B. F. and A. H. The subject of this sketch, A. H., was married in December, 1850, to Miss Henriette Ingersoll, also a native of Oswego County. After their marriage they lived for a time in Kentucky, and then returned to Oswego County and there resided until 1859, and then came to DuPage County, Illinois, where they lived until they came to Wright County. Mr. and Mrs. Mechem had eight children, viz. : Mary Alice Edwards, Freder- ick T., Charles S., Isaac N., Kosabelle Jeni- son, Benjamin F., Clara May and George W. ■»«-.i^£<. ; i i ; «. ^ 1.11-4.1 ILLIAM ORCUTT, one of the well- known and early settlers of Troy Township, has been a resident of t4ie county since the year 1865. He is a native of Wisconsin, born on the west shore of Lake Michigan, in Racine County, May 31, 1842, a son of Jacob and Mary (Amesj Orcutt, who were natives of New York. William was four years old when his father's family re- moved to Dane County, Wisconsin, where the father lived until death; the mother died in Floyd County, Iowa. William was the youngest of an even dozen of children. He was reared a farmer and received his educa- tion in the common schools, kept up by sub- scriptions. He was married on the 18th of May, 1864, to Miss Mary Bethel, a native of Dane County, Wisconsin, and a daughter of Thomas and Leah (Miller) Bethel. In the spring of 1865 our subject came to this county with a four-horse team a; d wagon and located on 160 acres of wild land, where he has since lived. His first house was a log cabin, covered with slough grass. This answered until he could build a better one, which he did the next year. He built his present house in 1876, and it is a good frame building, built with regard to both conven- ience and comfort. It is surrounded by a beautiful grove of fine shade trees, has a good barn 45x46 feet. A wind-mill fur- nishes pure water for both house and stock. He now owns 240 acres of fine land, and 504 BIOGBAPHIOAL BEOOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM everything about the place shows the thrift and comfort of the owner. Mr. and Mrs. Orcntt have three children, viz.: John W., Olive V. and Cora L. Mr. Orcutt is a Re- publican, a man yet in the prime of life, courteous to all, honorable in all his business relations and is one of the solid men of the county. i>|Mf« fOHN E. GEIFFIN resides on section 23, Liberty Township, on his farm which contains 320 acres, and is on sections 22 and 23. This land was entered by his father, Henry'W. Griffin, in 1857. The same year he entered about 1,500 acres ot land in Iowa, including the farm now owned by his son, above described. Henry'W. Griffin was a native of the State of New York, and was a farmer by occupation. He married Mary J. Clark. He died in New York in 1877, leaving a wife and eight children. The subject of this notice is the only son and the only one of the family residing in Iowa. He was born in Dutchess County, New York, October 4, 1857, and was reared in his native county to the occupation of farming. He was for some time a student of the Albany State Normal School, and also taught for several years. Five of his seven sisters are graduates of the institution above mentioned, and are success- ful teachers. In 1882 the subject of this notice came West for the purpose of locating on and improving this farm, which had been in the possession of the family ever since 'it was entered in 1857. He married in the State of New York in the fall of 1881 to Miss Sarah M. Crosby, a native of Dutchess County. They have two children — ^Harold and Henry. Mr. Griffin has 240 acres of his farm under cultivation, on which he has 500 rods of ditching and other valuable improvements. Mr. Griffin is one of the substantial men and progressive citizens of Liberty Township. In politics he is a Democrat, but intends to support the best man for office regardless of party. fPOHN F. KENT, one of Wright County's i most popular postmasters, is a native of Ohio, born in Middletown, Butler County, August 6, 1S44, a son of Joel and Mary (Fierce) Kent. The father was a native of Tennessee, and the mother a native of Virginia. Our subject was a lad of five years when his parents removed to DeKalb County, Illinois, where they lived for two years and then went to Cedar County, Iowa, being among the earliest settlers there, and then in 1861 they came to Horse Grove, Wright County. John F. was reared a farmer and received his education in the public schools, and for some time engaged in teaching, and later was in the hotel business at Belmond, and in the agricultural implement business for several years. He then removed to Alden and lived for eighteen months, and then at Dows. For a year he traveled for Osborn & Co. He was appointed postmaster October 12, 1885. He was married January 23, 1869, to Miss Martha M. Hiams, a native of Wright County, and a daughter of N. N. Hiams, a native of Renselaer County, New York. The mother was Irene (Godfrey) Hiams, and was born at the same place as her husband. They had seven children, of whom three survive, viz.: A. D., of Blaine Township; Mrs. Sarah vPurdy, of Belmond^ and Mrs. Kent. The parents came to Wright County among the earliest settlers and here lived until their death. The father died in 1883, and the mother in 1888. Mr. Kent and wife are the parents of two daughters, Laila Irene and Mary Alice. Mr. VIZ. OF WRIGHT COUNTT, lOWA. 505 Kent is a member of the Masonic order, Cor- nelian Lodge, No. 425, of Dows. Politically he is a Democrat. K. EASTMAN, the subject of this sketch, was one of the early settlers of i* Wright County, and the first settler of Clarion. He was a native of New Hamp- shire, born in Piermont, Grafton County, July 31, 1808, a son of Henry and Sarah (Kimball) Eastman, natives of New ]{amp- shire and of English ancestry. The father of our subject was killed while serving during the war of 1812, being wounded at the bat- tle of French Mills and died at Halifax, leaving his widow with four children, of which our subject was the youngest. He remained with his mother until he was six- teen years of age, when he went to learn the trade of carding and cloth dressing, here serving an apprenticeship of three yeai-s,and teaching school winters, following this voca- tion for five years. In the years 1832-'33- '34 he traveled for the celebrated firm of Fairbanks, in the scale business. He then went to Havana, Chemung County, New York, and engaged in the mercantile busi- nees, which he followed for about twenty years, and in 1856 he emigrated to Iowa and located in what was then known as "Horse Grove," arriving there on the 3d of May, 1856, engaging in farming for two years. In the fall of 1857 he was elected treasurer and recorder pf Wright County. The county seat was then in contest, and he held his oifice at Horse Grove, now Iowa Township. The county judge being located at Goldfield, in the spring of 1860 he removed his office to Goldfield, where he remained until the people voted to remove the seat of justice to what is now Clarion, where the first building was the court-house, and our subject with the county property was for three days the only resident of Clarion, removing here Novem- ber, 1867. He served as treasurer and re- corder of the county for a period of ten years, after which he engaged in the real estate business with his son, which he followed until 1868. Afterward he became associated with his son-in-law, George A. McKay, and a Mr. Gates, in the real estate and banking business until 1875, when he removed to Webster City and engaged in the mercantile business, which he followed for about nine years, when he went to Arkansas and engaged in the fruit business, which he pursued until the fall of 1886, when he returned to Wright County. He was married October 30, 1837, to Miss Elizabeth McNeal, a native of Ver- mont, a daughter of Daniel McNeal. Mr. and Mrs. Eastman were the parents of three children, viz.: Cornelia, the wife of G. N. Hancock, of Clarion; Helen Laurette, the widow of G. A. McKay, and Oliver K., of Daws County, Nebraska. Mr. E. lost his wife by death October 14, 1858. He was again married July 3, 1874, to Mrs. S. J. Jamison, whose maiden name was Eldridse, of Lebanon, New Hampshire. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian church. Politically he was formerly an old line Whig, and has been a member of the Kepublican party since its organization. -^'V--"S " | " --^ ^UNCAN A. McKINLEY was born in Winnebago County, Illinois, April 12, 1849, a son of Joseph McKinley (whose sketch appears in this volume). Our subject was reared on a frontier farm and re- ceived a common school education. He re- sided with his parents until he was twenty- four years old. He was married October 8, 506 BIOOBAPHIOAL BEOOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM 1876, to Mrs. Mary Doit, whose maiden name was Proctor, and a daughter of the late Abel Proctor (whose sketch appears else- where). By her first marriage Mrs. McKinley had two children, Frank and Emma. Mr. and Mrs. McKinley are the parents of three children, Abel Joseph, Nellie May and Clin- ton Duncan. Mr. McKinley is a member of the A. F. and A. M. King Solomon Lodge, No. 210. Politically he affiliates with the Kepublican party. After his marriage he settled on his father-in-law's farm, which he managed until 1884, and he then moved on to his present farm which he had purchased in 1882, and now has 160 acres of improved land in a high state of cultivation. f[EORGE BINaHAM was born in Lin- f colnshire, England, October 2, 1828, I- and was a son of William and Mary Bingham. Our subject was reared a farmer and resided with his father until he was four- teen years old. He then started out to seek his fortune. In 1850 he started for the United States and landed at New York City, and then came direct to St. Charles, Illinois, where he engaged in farming. He was mar- ried to Miss Caroline Wohrer, who was a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and a daughter of John and Dorotha Wohrer, both natives of Germany, and who came to this country before their marriage. Mr. Bingham and wife settled on a farm in Kendall County, Illinois, for a few months, and then removed to Cedar County, Iowa, where they resided until 1857, and then came to Wright County, arriving here on the 7th of June. He im- mediately purchased 160 acres of unimproved land and commenced the task of making him- self a home. He and his estimable wife have passed through all the hardships and privations of a pioneer life, and by hard work and good management have accumu- lated a good property, having now over 1,000 acres. They are the parents of five children, viz.: Edgar, L. D., C. L., Mary L. and Wal- ter H. Mr. Bingham has, by his many years of honorable and upright dealing, won the confidence and esteem of all who know him. Politically he affiliates with the Re- publican party. Mrs. Bingham is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. ~*^"^'"!*^'^"-«' W. FOX has resided in Wright County since the year 1872. He ® was born in Caledonia County, Ver- mont, February 1, 1837, a son of Seth S. Fox, a native of Massachusetts. The mother of our subject was a native of Yates County, New York. Her father's name was Walter, a physician by profession. The parents of our subject left Yermont and settled in But- ler County, Ohio, when he was one year old. They lived there one year and then removed to Boone County, Illinois, and there resided till death; the father dying December 31, 1854, and the mother December 24, of the same year. Our subject remained in Boone County about one year and then went to Winnebago County, Illinois, and followed various occupations, farming principally. He was married June 21, 1862, to Miss Mary F. Bordwell, a native of Boone County, Illinois, and a daughter of Seth and Mary Bordwell. Her mother's name before marriage was Keggers. She was a native of Erie County, New York. The parents of Mrs. Fox were early settlers of Boone County. After their marriage Mr. Fox commenced farming in Illinois, and followed it till he came to this county. When Mr. Fox was on his way to Iowa, Mrs. Fox, who was then in Chicago j^^jW-t^ l/i-^n.i.(yhot^t-t^ OF WRIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 509 visiting her brother, took sick and died. They had one son born to them, Walter "W". Mt. Fox arrived in this county May 20, 1873. He purchased 160 acres of wild land, built a house and other farm buildings, planted a fine grove and otherwise improved the farm and made it his home until 1884, and then moved on to the farm in Dayton Township, where he now lives. Mr. Fox was married to his present wife June 22, 1877. She was Mrs. Mary F. Mason, of Cedar County, Iowa, the widow of William A. Mason, by whom she had three children, viz.: Ella A., John S. and Jennie Arabella. Mrs. Fox is a native of Belmont County, "Ohio, and a daughter of Dr. John A. and Mary W. Kemp. They came to Cedar County in 1863. Mrs. Kemp's name before marriage was Mitchell. Mrs. Fox came to Iowa after the death of her first husband, Mr. Mason, in 1869. Mr. and Mrs. Fox are the parents of two children by this marriage, viz.: Menzo Errett and Bessie Mable, Mr. Fox has not much education, but is chuck full of patriotism. In politics he is a Bepublican and hurrahs for Harrison and the old flag. E. JENISOlSr, section 4, Pleasant Township, was' born in Lake Coun- * ty, Indiana, March 27, 1854, a son of J. B. Jenison, one of the well-known pio- neers of Wright County. W. E. was four years old when his father removed to this county. Here he grew to manhood on his father's farm and received his education in the public schools near his home. He was married February 21, 1878, to Miss Eomanda Church, a daughter of Orick and Nancy (House) Church, who located in Hancock County, Iowa, in 1854. Mrs. Jenison died in 1881. On the 8th of October, 1884, Mr. Jenison was married to his present wife, who was a Miss Anna Shupe, a step-daughter of James Brooks. Mr. and Mrs. Jenison have two children, viz: Ethel Lorena and Myrtle May. Mr. Jenison moved on to his present farm in 1875; it was at that time wild land and contains 160 acres. He has a good house and barn, a fine grove and everything about the place shows the thrift and prosperity of the owner. He is engaged in general farm- ing and stock-raising. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., No. 265, of Belmond. Politically he is a Republican and has served on the school board. 101 mn * ^ 1 I g ai ^la i lei fH. KING, a native of Belmont County, Ohio, and a son of Andrew and Mary ^^ (Graham) King, was born December 5, 1841. He followed gardening in his younger days, and he devoted time and energies to the care of his mother, his father being dead. Here he lived until the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, when he enlisted in the First Virginia Infantry, Company C, enlist- ing for three months. When discharged he re-enlisted in the Fourth Veterans Regiment. Some of the principal engagements in which he participated were the battles of Winches- ter, Fort Republic, New Market, again near Winchester: also at Sleepy Creek, at New Hope Church, at Lynchburg, and at Cedar Creek, a ball passing through his hat at this place. He was taken prisoner at Newton, while in the hospital, and held captive for one hundred and twelve days. He was a soldier for more than four years, and was mustered out at Wheeling, West Virginia, July 16, 1865. He then returned to Belmont County and took charge of his sister's farm for two years. He then came to Cedar County, Iowa, where he rented land on shares 510 BIOOBAPHIGAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM for six years. During this time he bought eighty acres of land there. He then came to "Wright County, where he met his wife, whom he, married on the 9th of September, 1872. Her maiden name was Mary Hannah Daw- son, a daughter of George and Kebecca (Brewer) Dawson. Then returned to Cedar County, and lived on his farm for two years and then sold out and came to Wright County and purchased 160 acres, his present home, to which he has added 240 acres. He and his wife are the parents of six children, three sons and three daughters, viz.: Fannie Agnes, Ethel Alice, George Andrew, Jessie Alver- eta, Willie, who died in infancy, and Howard J. H. Mr. King served as justice of the peace for one and one-half years; treasurer of school board for five years. He became an Odd Fellow in 1867, at Martin's Ferry, Ohio; is a member of the G. A. K., General Lyons Post, at Clarion, Iowa. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. King owns one of the best improved farms in the county. Po- litically he alEliates with the Eepublican party. ^LBEKT A. GOLDSMITH, M. D., Eagle Grove, is the homoeopathic phy- sician and surgeon of this town, and has been located here since April 16, 1885. He is a native of Canada, where he was l)orn July 10, 1855. His father is Elijah N. and his mother Christiana Jane Goldsmith, also natives of Canada, where they still reside. The doctor received his literary education at Albert University, Belleville, Canada, where he also began the study of medicine. He graduated at the Hahnemann Medical Col- lege, Chicago, on February 21, 1884. He began practice at Valparaiso, Indiana; later he removed to Mouticello, Illinois. Thence to Scotts, Michigan, and thence to Jennings in the same State. He had not yet graduated, though he had taken two courses of lectures at Hahnemann. He now returned to Chi- cagu and took his degree at the time above mentioned. After his graduation he opened an office in Chicago, where he continued till he came here. The doctor was married in Canada in September, 1882, to Miss Nellie A. Canniff. Dr. Goldsmith belongs to a school of medicine that is just growing in popular favor. He is thoroughly educated jn liis profession, and is meeting with excellent success in his present field of labor. Good judgment and a thorough knowledge of all the details of his profession, which are so eminently necessary to success, the doctor possesses in a marked degree. The doctor is not only a successful physician, but an esteemed and progressive citizen. K^DWARD DIGl^AN, one of the well- iL known and enterprising men of Troy Township, has been a resident of the coimty since the year 1870. He is a native of New York City, was born February 15, 1842, a son of Phillip and Mary (Prial) Dig- nan. Edward was six years of age when he was taken to Bucks County, Pa., wliere he lived with a Quaker, one John Black, for seven years, and then returned to the city apd lived for three years; he drove a dray for some time, and then worked at the black- smith's trade. At the age of sixteen he went to Orange County, New York, where he worked at farm work by the month. In 1868 he came to Iowa and bought 160 acres of wild land in Troy Township and two years later he located on the same. He was mar- ried April 29, 1872, to Miss Viola Wood- OF WBIQHT COUNTY, IOWA. 5U ard, a daughter of Jolin Woodard, a promi- nent fanner of this township. Our subject lias added to his original farm until he now ovvns 610 acres of iine farming land; his home farm contains 240 acres improved with a comfortable house, large barns and other good farm buildings and a fine flowing well weich furnishes an abundance of water for house use and for his stock; he is extensively engaged in stock-raising and feeding. Mr. and Mrs. Dignan have five children, viz.: Mary, Julia, John W., Hattie and Phillip E. Mr. Dignan is a Democrat; a member of the I. O. O. F., Eagle Grove Lodge and Encamp- ment No. 129. Our subject started in life with nothing bnt strength and good health, and bj untiring industry and honorable deal- ing has acquired a good property, and has secured the confidence of all with whom he has come in contact. jLFRED WHEELER resides on section 20, Liberty Township, where he settled in the spring of 1880. He has 160 acres of land, on which he has made nearly all the improvements. He was born in Nor- thamptonshire, England, June 23, 1834. His parents were Benjamin and Beatrice Wheeler. When the subject of this notice was just nine years old his parents started for America. The family settled in Waukesha County, Wisconsin, and later removed to Dodge Coun- ty. They were the parents of eight children, five of whom are still living. The subject of this notice enlisted August 15, 1862, in Company A, Thirty-second Wisconsin Volun- teer Infanti'y and served until the close of the war; he was in active service all the time. He took part in some of the important events of the war. He was with General Sherman at the seige of 4tlanta and took part in the 84 - march to the sea. His regiment was in the Sixteenth Corps till after the seige of Atlanta, and then was transferred to the Seventeenth. He also took part in the grand review at Washington. Altogether he took part in no less than twenty engagements; he was never wounded, but he still feels the eifect of his army life. He was married on January 1, 1866, to Miss Josephine Palmer, a native of Illinois, and a daughter of Jeremiah Palmer. They now have seven children, viz.: Jenett, Eugene, Guy, Mattie, Grace, ' Edith, and Myrtle. Mr. Wheeler is one of the indus- trious and energetic citizens of Liberty Township. He was a gallant soldier and fought bravely to restore the LTiiion. In pol- itics he is a Republican. He voted for Gen- eral Fremont in 1856, and has voted for every Republican nominee for the Presidency since that time, except on one occasion, when he first came to Iowa in 1868, he lost his vote. For four years after returning from the army he was unable to do any manual labor, but he has now partially recovered his health. Although plainly entitled to a pen- sion, he receives none; an evidence that there are yet brave and faithful soldiers who lost health in the cause of the country, in the war of the Rebellion, who have failed to receive just recompense for their services. Mr. Wheeler is a worthy citizen as he was a brave and gallant soldier. ' S i i S » L. PICKERING, proprietor of the " Fairview Stock Farm." This farm ® is located two ■ miles southwest of Eagle Grove and is one of the best farms in Wright County. It contains 440 acres of fine land well adapted for stock or grain raising purposes. The proprietor is making a specialty of Percheron horses, Short-horn 513 BIOGBAPEICAL MEOOMD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM and Galloway cattle and Berksliire swine. At Fairview can be found as fine specimens of horses, cattle or swine as there is in this part of Iowa. The proprietor is a good judge of fine stock and has spared neither time nor money in stocking Fairview with ■the best to be had. Mr. Pickering is a na- tive of New Hampshire, burn August 2, 1841, a son of H. K. and Hannah (Doolittle) Pickering. The parents of our subject had five children that grew to man and woman- hood. One son, Horace Greely, was a mem- ber of the Fifty-second Illinois Infantry, Com- pany B, and died at the age of eighteen years when with Sherman on his famous march to the sea; the three daughters, viz.: Loderah Keys, of Illinois; Mattie Stoughton, of Boone County, Iowa, and Abby Moody, of the same place, and H. L., the subject of this sketch. The family came to Bureau County, Illinois, in the spring of 1855, btit the father had lo- cated at Hennepin, in 1833, where he lived for six years and then returned to tlie East. The father after coming to Bureau County, bought a farm in LaMoille Township, where the family lived for many years. H. L. was reared a farmer and received his education in the common schools of New Hampshire and and Illinois. At the age of twenty-nine he married a Miss Laura A. Minnerly, who was born in Ohio and reared in Bureau County; she died in the year 1873. Mr. Pickering was married in September, 1881, to his present wife. Miss Eva Seely, a native of Illinois, and a daughter of David and Eliza Seely. By this union they have three children, viz.: Elmer D., Leslie M. and Dale A. Our subject lived in Bureau County until 1881, when he came to Wright County. The home at Fairview is a cozy-like place, a a good frame house surrounded by a fine grove, and everything about the place, the fences, buildings, cultivated fields *nd broad meadows, indicates the thrift of one of the county's best men. ►4Mf« EORGE W. SHEEWOOD, owner and proprietor of the Central Hotel, at Goldfield. He erected the hotel in 1885, and has conducted it since that time — it is located on the west side of Main street. The proprietor has had considerable expe. rience in hotel-keeping, and has the patron- age of a large share of commercial men and of the traveling public generally. He was born in Baldwinsville, New York, and when he was three years old his father removed to Cayuga County. His father was James Sher- wood. When the subject of this notice was nine years of age his father moved the family to Hillsdale County, Michigan, and later re- moved to Whiteside County, Illinois, where he lived for twenty one years and then re- moved to Carroll County, Illinois. There he lived, in the town of Lanark, till his death, which occurred in 1868; his wife survived him until 1882. James Sherwood and wife have eleven children, eight of whom are living in 1888, three sons and five daughters, viz.: Mrs. Louisa J. Quivey, of Humbolt, Iowa; Mrs. Mary E. Eodman resides in Ne- braska; Ebenezer, in Washington Territory; Stephen E., -in Poweshiek County, Iowa; George W. is the next in age ; Phebe Ann is the widow of James Schemmerhorn, who was a soldier in the late civil war and was wounded and crippled for life in battle; Sarah M. is the widow of Charles Beers, who lost his life in the late war; Mrs. Emeline Bert lives in Des Moines. The deceased members of the family were: Rev. Charles William Sher- wood, an able and worthy minister of the Christian church, who at the time of his 4eath was a resident of Rockwell City, lowaj OF WBIOET OOUNTT, IOWA. 513 John D. and Andrew Hanford. George W. Sherwood, the subject of this sketch, was reared to the occupation of farming. He married in Whiteside County, Illinois, Miss Diantha Thompson, a native of Illinois. In 1863 Mr. Sherwood came to Iowa and located in Tama County, where he engaged in farm- ing. In 1877 he removed to Grundy County, and in the fall of 1882 came to Goldfield. Mr. Sherwood is one of the representative men of Goldfield, and one of its substantial citizens. In politics he is a Republican. His first presidential vote was cast for Abra- ham Lincoln in 1860. Mr. and Mrs. Sher- wood have had six children, but only one is now living, George M., who was born in 1876. |ELSON SLAIKEU resides on section i'/f 18, Eagle Grove Township, where he ^"^^ settled in the spring of 1865. He bought part of his farm of Emory Barnes. Mr. Slaikeu has made all the improvements on his place. He has 240 acres under a good state of cultivation. He was born in Den- mark, November 10, 1840. The subject of this notice is the only one of his father's family that came to America. He had but one brother, Hans Slaikeu, who went to Aus- tralia when he was but twenty years of age. Of him nothing is known. J^elson Slaikeu came to America at the age of nineteen. He lirst went to Racine County, Wisconsin. Af- ter a year he went to McLean County, Illinois; this was in the fall of 1860. In the summer of 1861 he went to Burlington, Iowa. On August 10th of that year he en- listed in Company L, and was transferred to Company G, First Iowa Cavalry. He served till the 9th day of September, 1864, or a lit- tle over three years, when he was mustered out at Davenport by reason of the expiration of his time of enlistment. His field of ser- vice was in Missouri and Arkansas. He was in the battle of Pleasant Hill, Blackwater, Missouri, Little Missouri, Arkansas, took part in the capture of Little Rock, Arkansas, also the battle of Prairie Grove, Arkansas, and other minor engagements, extending, as has been said, over a period of three years. Mr. Slaikeu was not wounded by the bullets of the enemy and continued to enjoy fair health, considering his three years' service. He settled where he now lives soon after his time in the army had expired. He was mar- ried in Wright County to Miss Caroline Middleton, a daughter of John Middleton, one of the pioneers of Wright County. They have five children, viz. : May, Lionel, Alva, George and Ruth. Mr. Slaikeu is one of the representative men of his township. He is a worthy citizen as he was a gallant soldier. He is a member of the Hartman Post, No. 149. In politics he is a Republican. ►^wf« fOHN SULIVAN, section 18, Pleasant Township, is one of the intelligent and enterprising citizens of the county, and came here in the year 1872. He was born in County Kerry, Ireland, in 1832, a sou of Cornelius and Margaret (Murhill) Sulivan. John was reared in his native country and attended the public schools until he was eighteen years of age, and then came to America and located in Rochester, New York, where he lived for five or six years. His mother had died in Ireland, but the father died in Rochester, New York, at the home of our subject. After leaving New York our subject removed to Illinois, near Chicago. He was married February 12, 1857, to Miss Julia Condon, a native of County Tipperary, Ireland. Our subject lived in Elk Grove, 514 BIOGBAPHIGAL BECOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM Cook County, Illinois, until 1872, wlien he came to Wright County and bought his pres- ent farm, which had a small house and some breaking on. Here he has since lived and improved his farm, and has now a good frame house and other farm buildings, all sur- rounded by a fine grove; everything shows the thrift and comfort of the owner. The farn] contains 160 acres. Mr. and Mrs. Sul- ivan are tiie parents of five children, viz.: Matthew, John, Mary Delaney, Aurelia and Katy. Mr. Sulivan has given his children the benefit of a good education, and some of them have been very successful teachers. He lias always taken an active interest in relig- ion and education, and any enterprise that had for its object the best interests of the community in which he has lived, has always received his hearty support. Politically our subject is an Independent. i►>^^. fD. BROOKS, farmer and stock-raiser, section 24, Iowa Township. The sub- ** ject of this sketch has been identified with the interests of Wright County since the year 1868. He is a native of Pennsylva- nia,, born in Pike County, October 5, 1838, a son of Daniel and Mary Brooks, both natives of Yorkshire, England, where they grew to maturity and were married. They em 'grated to America in 1827, and the father engaged in the manufacture of cloth in Pennsylvania until 1843, when he removed to Sparta, Sus- sex County, New Jersey, and followed the same business until about the year 1850, when he engaged in farming and followed that for about ten years, and then removed to Jo Daviess County, Illinois, and heie lived the life of a farmer for the balance of his days. He had served as magistrate for many years. He and his wife were raemherg of the Methodist Episcopal church. His death oc- curred in 1874, at the age of seventy-four; his wife survived him and died at the age of eighty, in the year 1880. Our subject was five years old when his parents removed to New Jersey, and here he received a common- school education. He went with his parents to Illinois and resided with them on their farm until 1864. He was married August, 1864, to Miss Elizabeth Proctor, a native of Jo Daviess County, a daughter of Abel and Mary (MofFatt) Proctor. After their mar- riage he engaged in the hotel business at Scales Mound, Illinois, and followed it for three years. In 1868 they emigrated to Iowa, hauling their goods with teams and being ten days on the road from their home to Iowa Falls. Our subject came on to Wright County and purchased 160 acres of wild land on the banks, of the Iowa Biver and began the task of improving it and making, himself a home. The nearest market was Iowa Falls, thirty miles distant. He now has one of the finest improved farms in the county, which contains 250 acres of fine land in a high state of cultivation. He and his estimable wife are the parents of nine children, seven of whom are still living, viz.: William M., Mary, John A., Edgar S., Estella, Luella and Fred. Mr. Brooks is a member of the A. F. and A. M., King Solomon Lodge, No. 210. Politically he is a Democrat. ■ft*-iii ^ vs, Iowa. He has served in many local offices of trust and responsibility. Politically he affiliates with the Republican party. " ^'"' % * ^ *'* S * ^ *'''"*** — jICHARD LEWIS, one of the highly esteemed and respected men of Wool- stock Township, has been a resident of the county since the year 1871. He was born in Wales, November 1, 1836, a son of Richard and Mary (George) Lewis. In May, 1844, the Lewis family came to America, landing in New York and going direct to Sbuth Port, Wisconsin. The father settled in Keno- sha County, Wisconsin, at Paris, one of the frontier towns. The parents had ten children, nine sons and one daughter, Ricliard being ^ /t^. /^-7<^^L.xjiy2>c^ OF WEIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 543 the eldest; lie grew to manhood in Kenosha County. He was reared a farmer and re- ceived his education at the public schools. In 1855 the parents moved to Juneau County, "Wis., where they lived until death. JRichard was married November 13, 1862, to Miss Jane Pugh, a native of Canada, and a daugh- ter of Hugh and May Pugh, both natives of Wales. In 1871 our subject came to "Wright County and bought 200 acres of wild land; here he has since lived and improved his land, and he now has a good house and barn and other good farm buildings, and the Lewis farm is known as one of the best farms in the in the neighborhood. He now owns 360 acres, and is engaged in general farming and stock-raising. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis have seven children, viz.: Harriette J., wife of S. H. Hartshorn; George H., Sarah S., Mary E., Kichard, Frank and Grace A. Mr. Lewis is a Republican ; has served as assessor and on the school board. He has given his children a good education ; Harrietta was and Sarah is a very successful teacher. They lost one child by death Eddy, dying at the age of eleven years. Mr. Lewis was for many years connected with the Free-will Baptist church, and served as Deacon in the same, be has always taken an active interest in religious and edu- cational matters and has been a liberal sup- porter of the same. lOBERT DUFFY, farmer and stock-. S raiser, section 33, Iowa Township. The subject of this sketch is among the earliest settlers of Wright County, having been a resident of the county since 1855. He is a native of Ireland, born in Londonderry City, December 25, 1819, a son of Robert and Jane (Oljoe) Duffy; the father was a native of the same city as our subject and the mother was a native of Scotland. The youth of our subject was spent at farm work in his native country and in Scotland. In 1840 he emigrated to Canada, sailing from home in the " Alden," and after being thirty-two days on the water he landed in Quebec on tlie 16th day of May, 1840; he then went to Montreal, and went to work on a farm, where he remained for two years, and then went to Kingston and worked on Fort Henry and at various otlier occupations for a yea*". He was married in August, 1841, to Miss Nancy Rowen, a daughter of William and Fanny (Stuart) Rowen, and a native of Ireland; she came to Canada in 1887. Mr. Duffy resided in Canada until in May, 1848, and then went to Hartford, Connecticut, and resided for seven years; it was seven years to a day from the time he crossed the Hudson River on the road to Connecticut that he crossed back again on the road to Iowa. In the fall of 1855 he arrived in Wright County and pur- chased 160 acres of land with the lov^a, one of the most beautiful rivers in the State, pass- ing through it. He and his neighbors used to take turns in going to Cedar Falls and Marshalltown, the then nearest trading points, for their milling and family suppliei and pro- curing the mail. Here he and family passed through all the hardships and privations ince- dent to pioneer life. He has now 240 acres of improved land in a high state of cultivation. Mr. and Mrs. Duffy are the parents of five children, viz. : James, Fanny, (deceased), Will- iam, Robert and Nancy. Mr. Duffy lost his first wife by death August 28, 1866, and was again married October 18, 1872, to Miss Mary Harmon, a native of Chemung County, New York, a daughter of Jacob Harmon and of Puritan descent. By this union they are the parents of one child, Roberty. Mr. Duffy is a member of the I. O. O. F; Politically he afiiliates with the Republican party. Our 546 BIOGBAPHIGAL BEGORD AND POBTBAIT ALBUM subject is a self-made man and by his own exertion and industry has accumulated a good property which he uses to the best advantage in surrounding himself and family with all the necessary comforts of life and in giving his children the benefit of a good education. His house was the first frame house built in the county and the lumber from which it was built was taken from the timber on the farm. ^BEL PROCTOR, deceased, was born in Windsor County, Vermont, on the 31st ^P* of March, 1800. He spent the first fourteen years of his life on a farm, going to school winters. September 14, 1814, he en- tered the office of the Rutland, Vermont, Herald as an apprentice to the printing busi- ness, and remained in that office until March 31, 1821. He then went to school for six months at the Chester, Vermont, Academy. After this he went to Boston and found a situation on the Patriot and Chronicle, and remained nearly two years, and then went to Richmond, Virginia, and engaged as clerk in a boot and shoe store. On July 5, 1825, he started across the mountains for Huntsville, Alabama, and arrived there in the latter part of August. Here he procured an engage- ment as clerk on the steamboat "Nashville," and filled that position until the boat sunk about sixty miles above New Orleans on the 26th of February, 1826. He then went to New Orleans and went as clerkon the steam- boat " Lanscambia." He made one trip to the mouth of the Ohio River, where the boat remained until fall, when it returned to New Orleans and Mr. Proctor engaged as receiv- ing accountant of the cotton delivery, and had cargoes for about thirty boats to look after. On June 16, 1827, he left New Or- leans, and a month later he arrived in Galena, Illinois, and engaged in mining, which he followed until 1834; he then commenced farming on a claim he had made near Scale Mound, and here be continued to reside until 1868, when he came to Wright County, Iowa. Our subject served as fifer in the Black Hawk war. He set the type for the first newspaper west of Chicago. During his residence in Jo Daviess County he served the people as justice of the peace, as county commissioner, and also as assessor and collector of the east- ern district of the county. He was married December 23, 1831, to Mjss Mary Moffatt, a native of Maine. She died May 14, 1865. He and his wife were the parents of ten children of whom seven are still living, viz. : Emily, Charles, Catherine, Elizabeth, Mary Ann, George and Henry. Our subject was made a Mason in the winter of 1824, and at the time of his death was the oldest Mason iu Iowa. His death occurred in March, 1888. l^^flLLIAM C. MOSELY, one of the T|]f representative citizens of Liberty ^ Township and a veteran of the war of the Rebellion, settled on section 29, where he now lives, in September, 1877. He had purchased the place in 1873. He has made all the improvements on the place. He has 120 acres under a good state of cultivation. Mr. Mosely was born in Leicestershire, Eng- land, April 9, 1844. His father, Joseph Mosely, emigrated to America with his fam- ily when our subject was but two years old. After stopping a while- in New York they went to Lee County, Illinois, the family being among the earliest pioneers of that county; that it will be remembered was about forty- two years ago when that part of Illinois was the frontier of civilization ; so it will be seen OF WBIOUT GOliNTT, IOWA. 547 that Mr. Mosely's earliest recollections were amid the pioneer scenes of Illinois. Here on the wild prairie Joseph Moselj settled and made a home for himself and family, and there died in May, 1886. He was born Jan- uary 28, 1821. His wife, the mother of onr subject, died when her son was but eight years old. The father again married and the second wife still survives. Four children, all liv^ing, by the first marriage, of whomWilliam 0. is the eldest; the second is Maria Eliza- beth, of Springfield, Illinois; the third, Anna, of Thayer County, Nebraska, and the fourth, John C, lives in Lee County, Illinois. The youngest of the children by the first marriage died in infancy, and at whose birth the mother died. There are three daughters and one son by the second marriage, viz.: Frank P., Ida May, Emma and Alice. The subject of tliis notice was reared a farmer. He enlisted August 5, 1862, in Company A,- Seventy- fifth Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He took ■part with his regiment in the battle of Perry- ville, Kentucky, but eight days after leaving home. Engaged in the pursuit of the rebel, General Bragg, and took part in the engage- ments at Bowling Green, Kentucky. From the latter place the regiment moved to Nash- ville, Tennessee. He took part in the battles of Mnrfreesboro and Stone River, Liberty Gap and Chickamauga; was also in the battles of Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge, Buz- zard Roost and Resaca. Following , these were others of no less importance including Kenesaw Mountain and Peach Tree Creek. He was in all the important battles that at- tendedthe Atlanta campaign. Later his reg- iment accompanied Sherman's army to Jonesboro, when it returned and joined Gen- eral Thomas and took part in the battles of Franklin and Nashville, and took part in the final destruction of Hood's army. Later took part in a movement to east Tennessee, when the command returned to Nashville. They were discharged at Chioago, June 12, 1865. Mr. Mosely was never severely wounded; he received a slight flesh wound in the first battle of Nashville, in 1863. He was a faith- ful soldier, always ready for duty, and was never absent from his regiment except, per- haps, when foraging, and was never in the hospital. After the war he returned to Illi- nois and was for a time engaged in farming, when he engaged in carpentering, which he followed for a number of years. In August, 1866, he was married to Miss Sophia Hol- lister, of Lee County, Illinois. By that mar- riage they had three children, viz. : Samuel, Arthur and Frank. Mr. Mosely was divorced from his first wife, and on the 12th of August, 1878, he was married to Miss Catherine Brown, of Lee County, Illinois. By this marriage two children have been born, viz.: a son who died in early infancy and Clarence. Mr. Mosely was a charter member of the Hartman Post, No. 149, and is now com- mander of the same. In politics Mr. Mosely is a Republican. ^ •«*-4f. M. PETERSON, one of the prominent and well-known citizens of Yernon ® Township, has been identified with the interests of Wright County since 1869. He was born at Hartland, Windsor County, Yermont, on the 7th of October, 1820, a son of Martin L. Peterson. His mother was a Miss Williard, a daughter of John and Nancy (West) Williard, old residents of Hartland, Yermont; the mother died when our subject was six years old. A. M. was reared a farmer and received his education at the public schools. He was sixteen years old when his father went to Jefferson County, New York; here his father lived many years, and died at McGregor's Landing, Iowa, while on a visit to the West. Our subject was married May 13, 1844, to Miss Jane A. Hunter, a daugh- ter of John and Betsey E. (Bell) Hunter. Our subject was for many years engaged in the manufacture of brick, until 1869, when he came to Wright County and settled on the farm which he now occupies. He has im- proved this farm in a fine manner and now has a fine house built in modern style and well furnished, and good buildings for stock and grain. He now has 365 acres and every- tliing shows to the thrift of the owner. Mr. and Mrs. Peterson have seven children — Emma, wife of W. W. Goldthrite; Hattie /^^^tXcA^a^W OV WRIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 553 J., wife of J. "W. Dielmaiin; Frank A., Will- iam S., Charles F., of Clarion; George H. and Fred H. Mr. Peterson is a Republican, has served as township trustee for many years, has also been a member of the school board. He has always taken a great interest in ed- ucational work, and any enterprise that had for its object the best interests of the com- munity has met with his hearty siipport. His cordial manners and honorable business methods have giade him very popular and he has the esteem of all who know him. A. THOMPSON, the son of George W. and Polly (Bartholomew) Thomp. i® son, was born November 3, 1826, in Ashtabula County, Ohio, and when eight years of age, he with his parents came to Naperville, DuPage County, Illinois, remain- ing one winter, and in 1835 moved to St. Charles, Kane County, Illinois. Here he grew to manhood and married. In August, 1855, he with his wife and one child removed to Iowa Falls, Iowa, remaining until March, 1863. While in Iowa Falls he followed mill- ing and farming. In 1863 he came to Bel- mond, Wright County, where he has since made his home. He took charge and has since operated the grist-mill at Belmond. This mill was the first mill erected in the county, built in 1858. The first year he operated the mill on shares and then pur- chased a one-fourth interest, but now is sole owner. It has a capacity of twenty-five barrels per day. He has done much toward the advancement of Belmond and vicinity, having given his time, energy and means toward the same and is deserving of a hiwli place on the roll of honor among the active and worthy pioneers of Wright County. He enlisted June 15, 1846, during the Mexican war, in Company I, Second Eegiment, Illi- nois Volunteer Infantry, in Scott's division, and served until the close of the war in 1848. In 1850 he made an overland trip to Col- orado with an ox team, going by way of Salt Lake City, leaving St. ChaVles, Illinois, March 27, 1850, and returning in 1852 on horseback in company with four white men. They encountered many hardships which were incident to travel in those days. He has held the office of county supervisor one term and a half, and two years on the town coun- cil and several times was elected but would not be qualified. He is a member of King Solomon Lodge, No. 210, A. F. & A. M. He was married October 12, 1859, to Ruth Ann Hewitt; she was born in New York State, in March, 1830. The result of this union is eight children — Emma, wife of Alex Goudy, who resides in Kansas; Cordelia, wife of William Potter, of Belmond; J. F., resides in Kansas; G. N., at home; Fred A., resides in O'Brien County, Iowa; Mary, wife of E. L. Warner, of O'Brien County, Iowa; A. B. and Zetta, at home. EOEGE GALER, a native of New York State, was born October 6, 1784, and died November 21, 1872. He was one of a family of six children and the son of Adam and Rebecca Galer. George was reared in the city of Reading, where he learned the trade of chair- maker, which he followed the greater portion of his life. He married Mary Orr, of Milton, Pennsylvania. She was born February 26, 1800, and died in Belmond, May 1, 1877. Dr. George B. Galer, the subject of this sketch, and a son of George and Mary Galer, was born in Lycoming County, Pennsylvania, May 27, 1827. When 554 BIOGBAPHIOAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM at the age of nine years his parents moved to Clearfield, Pennsylvania, where he spent his early life. He was educated in the common schools, and was reared to farming and lum- bering, which lie followed for a number of years, but owing to a wound received in a saw-mill his course in life was entirely changed; for, at the age of thirty-two he commenced the study of medicine, and prac- ticed in Pennsylvania until 1869, when he came to Chicago and entered the Eush Medi- cal College, where he graduated in February, 1872. He then chose Belmond, "Wright County, as his field of labor, and March 12, 1872, he landed in "Wright County, where he has since attended the wants of suffering humanity. He has built up an extensive practice and is one of the foremost physicians of Wright County. His success as a physi- cian is unexcelled. He is affable and courte- ous to all, and always ready to hasten to the bedside where suffering can be found. His practice extends for many miles, and his fame as a " sure shot " ou diphtheria has, no doubt, increased his otherwise large practice. He is found riding almost day and night, sufficient to exhaust the ordinary man, but his iron constitution and indomitable will have accomplished wonders. His early prac- tice in the county was full of hardship and adventure, but those days are passed and the doctor could enjoy the remainder of his days in peace and quiet if he desired to withdraw from active service. He was married in 1847, to Elizabeth Curry, who died April 20, 1860. The union resulted in four children, two deceased: Lewis, Jared, Myra, deceased wife of Charles King, and "William, deceased. The doctor married as his second wife, Sep- tember 9, 1862, M. M. Trout, born April 1, 1828. The doctor and lady are active mem- bers of the Methodist Episcopal church. He entered the church at the age of eighteen years. He is a member of I. O. 0. F., Bel- mond Lodge, No. 265, and is -health physician of Belmond. EKIAH WEIGHT, the son_of Able and Phoebe (Straight) Wright, was born in Hancock, New York, May 15, 1825. His early life was spent in Pennsylvania. When he had attained the age of nine years he was bound out to a farmer and as such served six years, when he apprenticed him- self to a blacksmith for a term of five years, at $35 per year, in Dundoff, Pennsylvania. After the expiration of his apprenticeship he traveled as a journeyman for two years, when he returned to Dundoff and purchased — in company with one George Caan — the shop where he had learned his trade. Here they conducted the business for five years. He then moved his business to Clifford's Corners, a point about three miles west of the old stand, where he continued in business until the spring of 1853. May 15th he started for Iowa, and located first at Hardin City, Hardin County, Iowa, where he erected his first house in Iowa. He remained there about one year in the mercantile business, when he removed to Fort Dodge and took charge of the old Waconzo Hotel, which oc- cupied the present site of the Duncomb House. Here he remained until 1858, when he came to Wright County, locating near Belmond, on a farm. Here he has since made his home, in Belmond and on the farm. He is one of Wright County's pioneers, and has assisted largely in the opening up and improvement of the county. He has seen the dark as well as the bright side of life in Wright County. Locating here in the swamps he has seen the gradual development as it grew to be one of the finest counties in OF WRIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 555 the State. He had to contend with many liardships in the earlier part of his sojourn here, the nearest phice he had to dispose of his marketing being Cedar Falls, a distance of seventy-five miles. Here he would haul his grain and dressed pork, receiving for the same a mere pittance. He has received for nicely dressed pork after taking it a dis- tance of seventy-five miles 1^ cents per pound, and for wheat 35 cents per bushel. He has held the ofiice of county supervisor three years, and justice "of the peace two years. He is a stanch Democrat. He was married in Pennsylvania in 1847, to Miss Sarah Round. The result of this union is one son, Alonzo, who is in Denver, Colorado. As his second wife he married, in 1865, Mary J. White. She, was born in Orange County, New York, January 4, 1829. Two children bless this union — Estella M., wife of George F. Ott, of Oskaloosa, and Eva M., at home. jLBEET BAILEY, an enterprising and successful young man of Woolstock Township, was born in Pierce County, Wisconsin, March 17, 1862, a son of Amos W. Bailey (deceased), a well-known and early settler of Hamilton County,Towa,and a native of New Hampshire. Albert's mother was Mary (Swart) Bailey, a native of Massachu- setts. Albert was eight years old when his father's family came to Hamilton County and settled on the "AVhite Fox," where his father lived until death in 1878. Albert was reared on the farm, receiving his education at the public schools. He was married October 7, 1883, to Miss Anna Sheeley, of Hamilton County, Iowa, a daughter of Morgan and Jane (Wilcox) Sheeley. A short time after his marriage he settled on his present farm which contains 200 acres of fine land, well 36 fenced, well supplied with water, a good house and grove, and other good farm build- ings. He is engaged in general farming and stock-raising. <&»- tf . iy 1 *3 ' 'S * "^ '* *'^ " "" D. WELCH, one of the pioneers of Woolstock Township, came to Wright ® County in 1868. He was born in Huron County, Ohio, July 21, 1850: a son of D. B.Welch, a well-known pioneer of the coun- ty and a native of York State. The mother of our subject was Anna (Bates) Welch, a native of New York State. The family left Huron County in 1854, and came to Linn County, Iowa, where they lived for two years and then returned to Ohio; here they resided until 1863, when they again returned to to Iowa and located in Ilfti-diu County; later lived in Marshall County, and in 1868 came to Wright County, and settled on section 36, Woolstock Township. The father of our sub- ject lived here for eighteen months and then returned to Ohio. The mother died in Wakeman, Ohio, in 1870. The father now lives in Beadle County, Dakota. H. D. was reared a farmer and received his educa- tion in the public schools and Marshalltown Seminary. Himself and his wife were both teachers of Hamilton County. He located on his present farm in 1870, but had owned the same since 1868. He has improved it in a good manner. He now owns 200 acres of fine land. He has a good house and barn, surrounded by a fine grove,and a geared wind- mill furnishes pure water and grinds feed for his stock — everything shows to the thrift of the owner. He was married April 30, 1873, to Miss Rachel Garth, of Hamilton County, Iowa, daughter of James Garth (deceased), whose sketch will appear on an- other page. Mr. and Mrs. Welch are the 556 BIOORAPIIIGAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM parents of eight children, viz.: Leslie K., Minnie E., Garth D., Anna May and Seth D. Three deceased — Celia, Melia and Harvey A. Mr. Welch is a Hepublican, has served as township trustee, and on the school board; is a member of the Methodist church. He is counted socially, morally and financially among Wright County's best men. .>>^^. jMOS MolNTYEE, of Goldfield, is one of the pioneers of Wright County. He is a native of Wayne County, New York, where he was born May 9, 1832. His father was Andrew Mclntyre, who died when Ills son was but five years old. The family were among the early settlers of Rhode Island. The mother of the subject of this notice was Catherine Youngs, who survived her husband many years. Andrew Mclntyre and wife had ten children, six sons and four daughters. The subject of this notice was the eighth child of the family. Seven of the family are living in 1888. Mr. Mclntyre was reared to the occupation of farming. In 1852 he was married to Hannah D. Griffith, a daughter of Samuel Griffith. Mrs. Mc- lntyre is a sister of Charles H. Griffith, of Eagle Grove Township. In the fall of 1853 Mr. Mclntyre and wife removed to Michigan and two years later to Illinois, and in Octo- ber, 1856, came to Wright County. He pre-empted 160 acres of land in Boone Township, and in August, 1857, proved up on his pre-emption and received a deed for the same. He and wife occupied that place for about four years, when they removed to Goldfield, where they have since lived. Mr. and Mrs. Mclntyre have had four children, two of whom are living: Lewis Adalbert, born October 10, 1855, who is a resident of Liberty Township; Horace Wilber, born June 4, 1858, also a resident of Liberty Township. Their deceased children M'ere Isabel and Walter O. ; both died in child- hood. As will be seen, Mr. and Mrs. Mc- lntyre are among the earliest of the pioneers of Wright County; but very few families had preceded them to this county, and here they have lived for the long period of thirty- two years, and have witnessed the changes and growth that the county has since made. In politics Mr. Mclntyre has always' affiliated with the Republican party, and has voted for every Republican candidate for President ex- cept Eremont. Being on his journey West when the election of 1856 took place, he was not permitted to vote for the great path- finder. Mr. and Mrs. Mclntyre are among the highly esteemed old settlers of Wright County, where they have lived so long, and are well worthy a place in the permanent record of the old settlers of Wright County, now being prepared. fREDERICK KELLING, residing on section 14, Liberty Township, is one of the well-known pioneers of Wright County. He was born in Holstein, Germany, in 1827, where he grew to manhood. When his parents emigrated to America, the family consisted of the parents and eleven children. After arriving in this country they settled in Davenport, Iowa. In 1857 the parents, four sons and two daughters came to Wright County. The parents are now dead; they lived for many years at the home of their son Erederick, where the father died ; the mother afterward made her home with her daughter, Mrs. Martin, till her decease. Three sons are still residents of Liberty Township, viz. : Frederick, George and John. James, the youngest of the four brothers, served in the OV WBIOET COUNTT, IOWA. 559 Union army in the war of the Rebellion, as a member of the Second Iowa Cavalry; he now resides in Cedar County, Iowa. Frederick Kelling married in Davenport to Miss Mar- garet Buck, also a native of Germany, and who came to America with friends of the family in 1857. Her parents, John and Arvena Buck, came over in 1865, and lived with Mrs. Kelling at the time of their death ; the father died in 1881 and the mother in 1886. They had but two daughters — Mrs. Kelling, who was born in 1835, and Frances, in 1837, who was the wife of Clouse Eowher, of Tama County, Iowa; she died May 14, 1888, leaving ten children. Mr. and Mrs. Kelling have nine children, three sons and six daughters, viz.: Mary, Carrie, Fred, Emma, Dora, Maggie, John, William and Minnie. Mr. Kelling has lived where he now does since 1857. He has a fine farm of 160 acres. Their first residence was a loo-- cabin, in which they lived till the spring of 1883. They now have a beautiful home and all its surroundings indicate thrift and pros- perity. k.UGH WHITTEN, farmer and stock- raiser, section 22, Iowa Township. The subject of this sketch has been a resi- dent of Wright County since the year 1875. He is a native of Canada, born in Lanark County, April 27, 1837, a son. of James and Ellen (Mclntire) Whjtten, natives of Scot- land. Our subject was reared on a farm and resided with his parents until he was twenty- three years of age. In 1865 he came to Wood County, Wisconsin, where he engaged in various occupations for eight years. He was married January 9, 1870, to Miss Louisa Butler, a native of Prussia, who came to this country when six years old. In 1875 our subject came to Wright County and set- tled on his present farm, which he had pur- chased in 1870. He has improved and added to liis original farm, and now has 400 acres of finely improved land in a high state of cultivation. He and his estimable wife are the parents of seven children, four sons and three daughters, viz.: Walter H., James A., Daniel, Ellen, Norman, Mary and Annie. Mr. Whitten is a self-made man, and by his own industry and exertion has accumulated a good property, which he uses to the best ad- vantage in surrounding himself and family with all the necessary comforts of life and in giving his children the benefit of a good education. ILLIAM H. GILLESPIE, section 28, Boone Township. The subject of this sketch was the first man to set- tle with a family in Boone Township. C. H. Martin preceded him two or three weeks, but had no family at the time. Mr. Gilles- pie was born in Mercer County, Pennsylvania, September 26, 1813. His father was John Gillespie, a native of Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, and of Scotch descent. He took part in what was known as the whisky rebellion of that State. The mother ot our subject was Margaret Beam, native of Penn- sylvania. Her parents were natives of Ire- land. Her father was James Beam. John Gillespie was a farmer and died in Mercer County, Pennsylvania, in 1821. His wife died in 1842. They were the parents of ten children, five sons and five daughters; all lived to be grown. Our subject is now the only survivor. Mr. Gillespie, losing his father early in life, was thrown on his own resources and compelled to carve out his own fortune. His opportunities for obtaining an education were limited to a few weeks each year at the subscription school. He was 560 BIOQBAPHIGAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM married September 21, 1837, to Miss Rebecca Alexander, born Jnly 27, 1814, and reared in Beaver County, Pennsylvania, a daughter of Robert and Nancy (Pbillis) Alexander, natives of Pennsylvania, where they lived during their lives and reared a family of eight children. May 27, 1857, Mr. Gillespie started West where he could procure Gov- ernment land, and the following July 1st arrived in Wright County and entered 160 acres, where he has since made his home; and October, 1858, his family removed here, where they have resided for a period of thirty-one years. The county was in posses- sion at the time of wild animals, who had surclaimed it as their natural hermitage. It would be difficult for the writer to relate the hardships and privations that the pioneers of Wright County passed through. Their near- est market was Waterloo and Marshalltown, which were then small settlements. From one to two weeks were consumed in going to those points, depending on the roads and streams which were not bridged and at many seasons of the year were dangerous to cross; in fact, getting to mill was often impossible, and the corn for bi'ead was often ground in a coffee-mill. -Mr. Gillespie regards his ex- perience going to the land office ut Ft. Dodge to secure his pre-emption when the land came into market, as the most intei-esting of his career. He was accompanied by Milton McConnell. They went all the way on foot, a distance of thirty miles. It was in June, 1858. There were no roads, and much of the way no path. The streams were much swollen and had to be crossed by wading and swimming; but they finally reached their destination and secured their land and re- turned after an absence of four days. Mr. Gillespie has now a fine farm of 400 acres of improved land in a high state of cultivation. Having no children of their own they have adopted and reared three, viz.: Samuel, now of New Castle, Pennsylvania; James, who was reared by them from six j'ears old, now a resident of Boone Township; Clara J., the wife of S. J. Kitts. Mr. and Mrs. Gillespie celebrated their golden wedding September 21, 1887, at which time many of the old set- tlers were present. In politics Mr. Gillespie is a Democrat. His first vote was cast for General Jackson, in 1832; and has voted for every Democratic candidate since, except in 1840, when he met with an accident which prevented him from going to the polls. » ;n; « ^ENRY H. DAVIS, one of the promi- nent citizens of Wright County, was reared on a farm in his native county. His father died March 17, 1854, being sixty- seven years old, and our subject resided with his mother until her death. She was left with five children, three daughters and two sons. She died January 14, 1857, at the age of sixty-one years. After this sad event he left the farm and went to Fulton City, White- side County, Illinois, where he engaged in the dry goods store of Grinnell & Meeker, re- maining two years, when he returned to his former home and remained until August 14, 1862, when he enlisted in Conipany E, Twenty-second Wisconsin Volunteer Infan- try under Col. William L. Utley. The regi- ment was organized at Camp Utley, Racine, Wisconsin, and was mustered into the United States service September 1, 1862; left for Cincinnati on tlie 16th of September; was one of the Boys in Blue that crossed the pon- toon bridge over the Ohio River to Covington, Kentucky; was in the central division of the army, was detailed on picket duty nearLexing ton, Kentucky, when he was td,ken sick and sent to the hospital; when he recovered suffi- OF WRIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 561 ciently he was detailed as nurse for a time, and the following March he was sent to Louisville when he was again taken sick, and on the 29th of April was honorably dis- charged and sent home. On the 20th day of December, 1863, he started for Iowa and arrived at the town of Belmond, "Wright County on the 23d of the same month, and has since made this his home. In 1872 he, in company with I. O. Grant, built the first church building in Wright County, this be- ing the Catholic church at Belmond. In 1874 worked on the Protestant church building: in the county, also assisted in the construction of the Methodist Episcopal church, which was dedicated July 19, 1874, and our subject was chosen sexton, which position he has filled creditably for fourteen years. In 1882 he built the Davis House, also the West store in the Union block on Main street. He was married December 8, 1872, to Miss Cordilia Fulton; having no children of their own they have adopted Mary Alice Pierce Davis, who is now eleven years old. Mr. Davis is a member of the A. F. & A. M., King Solomon Lodge, No. 210, also a member of the G. A. R., Whited Post. Politically he afilliates with the Republican party. I LIAS DeLONG is one of the well- known citizens of Vernon Township, came to Wright County in the year 1884. He was born in Allegany County, New York, November 8, 1834, and was a son of Robert and Permelia (Boynton) DeLong, also natives New York. Elias was ten years old when his parents removed to Jefi"erson County, Wisconsin, where our sub- ject grew to manhood. His youth was passed at farm work, and receiving an edu- cation at the common schools. In 1857 he started for the far West with an ox team,and during the gold excitement at Pike's Peak he went theie, afterward he went to New Mexico. At the breaking out of the late civil war he enlisted in the First Colorado In- fantry, in October,18t)l, which was later made a Cavalry regiment. He was injured while as- sisting in making a dam across the Platte Ri ver, after serving nine months he was honorably at Fort Craig, New Mexico. He then work- ed for the United States Government for six years, as wagon-master of freight wagons, and had some very narrow escapes from the Indians. One time the assistant wagon- master took his place for two hours, and was killed while on duty; at several times the mules were stampeded by the Indians and at one time he came near being. captured, but escaped by making his mule jump into the Rio Grande River. After many years spent in the far West, returned to Wisconsin. He was married October 12, 1867, to Miss Cynthia Joslyn, a daughter of Zebediah and Elsia (Palmer) Joslyn. Mrs. DeLong is the author of many beautiful poems and a fre- quent contributor to different periodicals of the day. Our subject lived in Jefierson County for some time, and then removed to Walworth County, Wisconsin, near Geneva Lake, and there resided until 1884, when he came to Wright County and located on his present farm. He now owns 115 acres of good land well improved; has comfortable farm buildings, and is engaged in raising Holstein cattle and has as good speci- men ts of that breed as are to be found in this part of I jwa. He and his wife have one daughter: Dora. His wife's father and mother reside with him; the old gentleman is an ardent Republican, casting his first vote for John Quincy Adams. He,, voted for William Henry Harrison in 1840, and if living will support "Ben," and cast his vote B62 BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM for him on the 6th day of November next. He has voted at sixteen Presidential elec- tions. Mr. Delong is also a Republican, and is a cordial, hail fellow and a good citizen. |LMORE MIDDLETON, section 34, Eagle Grove Township, was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, May 17, 1836; a son of Hutcheson Middleton, who was a native of Maryland, and of English descent. The father of our subject was reared in Cumberland County, on the Potomac River, and married Aehsah D. Emmison,alsoa native of Maryland. Some time after their marriage they emigrated to Ohio, and were among the^first settlers of Tuscarawas County where they resided for thirty years. They were the parents of eleven children, eight lived to be grown. In 1855 two of the sons came to Iowa, and the following year the family followed. Mr. Middleton, . Sr., set- tled on a tract of wild land in section 15, Troy Township, where he passed the balance of his days. He died April, 1869. The mother of our siibject is still living, at the advanced age of eighty-five years. Of her eight children who came to "Wright County, six still survive. Our subject was the fifth child of the family who grew to maturity. He was reared on a farm, and educated in the public schools. In 1856 he with his younger brother left their native home and started for Iowa, our subject bein^ then about twenty years of age. They came with teams, and four weeks later the father and family started by rail road, and reached Iowa City on the same day that our subject and his brother did, and on arriv- ing at Troy Township, Wright County, they found but four or five families then in the township. Our subject here assisted liis father in improving his frontier farm, their nearest market being Dubuque and Iowa City. They here endured the hardships of the winters of 1856 and 1857. Finally Cedar Falls became a trading point, where they did their marketing as late as 1863. February, 1858, he was married to Miss Lucinda Lee, a native of Ohio; a daughter of Daniel Lee, au old resident of Cass Township, Hamil- ton County. Mr. and Mrs. Middleton are the parents of eight children, three sons and five daughters — Orilla, Lyman, Jesse, Hattie M., Aehsah, Grace, Sammy and Jennie. Mr. Middleton purchased his first farm in section 15, Troy Township, where he resided for many years. Mr. M. now has a landed estate of 437 acres of improved land in a high state of cultivation. He is one of the early school teachers of Wright County. He served as postmaster in Eagle Grove Township, from 1873 to 1880; served as a member of the board of supervisors for six years; was justice of the peace for thirty- one years, and township clerk for nine years. In politics he is an ardent worker in the Republican ranks. lELSON COX, the leading hardware n merchant of Eagle Grove, is located on the east side of town. Mr. Cox was born in Madison County, Ohio, January 17, 1831; a son of John and Isabella (Arregton) Cox, natives of Maryland. The early life of our subject was devoted to farm work in the summer season, and attending the public schools in winter. In 1856 he removed to Nevada, Story County, Iowa, where he en- gaged in the furniture business and general merchandising; being one of the first busi- ness men in the town. In 1864 he removed to Webster City, wliere for several years he OF WRIGHT COUNTY, IOWA . 563 engaged in the lumber and agricultural implement business. In 1881 he established a branch of his business at Eagle Grove and continued in business at "Webster City until 1885, when he discontinued his business in Webster City. He now carries a heavy stock of shelf and heavy hardware, also the agricult- ural implement business. Mr. Cox erected the second building on the east side of Eagle Grove. Mr. Cox was married in Ifevada, Iowa, in 1860 to Miss L. D. Crossley, a native of Ohio, but reared in Illinois, a daughter of George H. Crossley. Mr. and Mrs. Cox are the parents of two children, Nellie and Rollin. Our subject has been prominently identified with the business in- terests of Eagle Grove. He laid out the addition to the town known as the Cox ad- dition. In politics he affiliates with the Republican party. A. HOWLAND, proprietor of the Cadwell House, Eagle Grove, is one of '* the well-known representative men of Wright County, and was born in Watertown, Jefferson County, New York, February 27, 1832. His father, Rufus Howland, was a native of Rhode Island. The origin of the Howland family is traced back to John How- land, who came over in the Mayflovper. When a young man Rufns Howland emigrated to Jefferson County, New York, which was then the frontier of civilization. He there mar- ried Sarah Woodard, a native of Massachu- setts. Here Rufus Howland hewed out of the forest a home for himself and family, and there lived the balance of his days. The father of our subject died December 8, 1852; the mother died in June, 1854. They were the parents of nine children, five sons and four daughters; three sons and' two daughters are still living. Our subject was reared on a farm, receiving his education in the schools of his native town. In April, 1855, he went to Joliet, Illinois, and in April, 1856, to Ft. Dodge, Iowa. On reaching Iowa Falls on the trip the stages were unable to go through, and our subject, in company with a dozen others, started to make the trip on foot, but finding the streams badly swollen only Mr. Howland and one Morgan Crosby, pushed on to their destination. But instead of locating at Ft. Dodge, Mr. Howland returned to Web- ster City and purchased an interest in what is now called the Hamilton House (then the Willson House). In January, 1858, he was married to Miss Fidelia Valentine, of Paines- ville, Ohio. In June of tliat year he went to Ft. Dodge, and in company with S. P. Farr kept the St. Charles Hotel for a time. In the spring of 1859 he engaged in farming and stock-raising, at Otisville, on the line between Franklin and Wright counties. He here made a specialty of dairying in which he was highly successful and the products of his dairy became widely known. During the year he purchased a farm of 300 acres and during, the year that he occupied the farm he engaged in the real estate business. Feb- ruary 28, 1870, he lost his wife by death and the following December he married Miss S. Lou Myatt, a native of Ohio. In the fall of 1871 he was elected to the State Senate from the Forty-ninth Senatorial district, serving through the fourteenth and fifteenth sessions of the general assembly. In October, 1873, Mr. Howland sold his farm and removed to Belmond and engaged in the mercantile bus- iness, which he followed until December, 1882, when he engaged in the hotel business. He came to Eagle Grove in August, 1884. Mr. Howland has seven children, four sons and three daughters. Mr. Howland has been identified with the interests of Wright Coun- S64 BlO&RAPItWAL RECOtlD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM ty and vicinity for a period of thirty years; has passed through all the hardships and privations of a pioneer life and by his many years of honorable and upright dealing has won the confidence and esteem of all who know him. Politically he has been a Eepnb- lican since the organization of that party. He and his wife are members of the Congre- gational church. ►4^-•^' H. OBEETOJSr, one of the prominent citizens of Blaine Township and an ex- soldier of the late civil war, came to Wright County in the year 1866. He was born in Lewis County, New York, on June 25, 1840, a son of Alexander and Catherine (Adams) Oberton, who were natives of Can- ada and of French ancestry. The father and mother lived in Lewis County until death, the father dying in 1879 and the mother in 1848. At the age of sixteen our subject started out into the world to make a living for himself, going first to Cook County, Illinois, where he woi-ked oiit by the month until the late war broke out, and on the 9th of August, 1862, in answer to Lincoln's call for 300,000 men, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Thirteenth Illinois Infantry, Company G. He was taken sick with the bronchitis, then the measles and then the lung fever, and was confined in the Foundry Hospital, at Mem- phis, and later at Mound City, near Cairo, Illinois. He was honorably discharged after seven months' service on account of disability. He then returned to Cook County, Illinois. On the 4th of November, 1860, he was mar-' ried to Miss Elizabeth Nobles, who was born in Jeflerson, Cook County, Illinois, and was a daughter of Major and Mary (Hufl') Nobles, both natives of England. The mother died when Mrs. Oberton was a child, and the father died in November, 1883. Our subject lived in Cook County, Illinois, until 1866, when he came to "Wright County, and lived at PVyburg, in Iowa Township, for two years, and then located on eighty acres of wild prairie land where he now lives, he being one of the first settlers of the town- ship. He came to Iowa without a dollar, but with a family of three children and poor health. His first team was a yoke of yearling steers and a wagon he made himself, the wheels made of plank; but now he rides in his top carriage. His first house was a small shanty, 12 by 16 feet, and his stables, straw sheds, etc., but now he has a fine house built in modern style, and a fine barn 36 by 64 feet, with stone basement, which stands in the place of the rude sheds; a wind-mill and two fine flowing wells furnish water for house use and for his stock; he also has one of the finest groves and orchards in the township, and he has added 160 acres more of land to his eighty acres, making 240 acres, and the farm is free of incumbrance, and he keeps ten horses, fifty to sixty head of cattle and lots of pigs, everything about the place showing the thrift and prosperity of the owner. Mr. and Mrs. Oberton are the happy parents of seven children, viz. : Harriet Frances, wife of W. C. Mitchell, of South Chicago, chief engineer of the rolling mills of South Chicago; Everetta N. Reed, Mortimer "W., Byron H., William M., Catherine I. and Lester C. His second daughter married a carpenter, J. L. Reed, of Marshall County, Iowa. His two oldest sops are grown to manhood and started out for themselves. Mr. Oberton is a Republican; has served as con- stable and on the school board, also as road supervisor four years, and re-elected in 1888; is a member of the M. E. church, a member of the G. A. R., General Lyons Post, No. 133, of Clarion, Iowa, also a mem- CO^T-^ ^ClU'^/a^^'^ J(^-U7^ OP WRIGHT aOTTNTT, TOIVA. ml ber of the I. O. O. F., Ridgely Lodge, No. 450, Dows, Iowa. Mrs. Oberton is a mem- ber of the Relief Corps of General Lyons Post, and she and three of the children are members of the jGrood Templars' Lodge, No. 383, of Gait, Iowa. ... i. ig . i i i[ . g .. ... ^ATHANIEL BAKER PAINE, Eagle Grove Township, is one of the promi- nent pioneers of Wright County, and is a native of Worcester County, Massachu- setts, where he was born January 17, 1827, a son of David D. and Jemima (French) Paine, natives of Massachusetts, the former of Wor- cester County, and the latter of Dedham. Our subject was the second son of live sons and three daughters. He resided on the farm until he was sixteen years of age, when he went to learn the machinist's trade, serving a full apprenticeship, learning the trade in all its details. lie was married March 11, 1852, to Miss Amanda S. HeWett, and the following June he removed to Cleve- land, Ohio, and there formed a partnership with Dennis Holt, and engaged in the manu- facture of engines. This partnership con- tinued about two yeai's, when it was dissolved on account of the failing health of Mr. Paine. He resolved to go West, and in company with his brother-in-law. Judge Sumner B. Hewett, came to Iowa, arriving at what was then known as Fort Des Moines, with a view of locating where wild game was plenty. So they came to Wright County, which was then inhabited by Indians, buffalo, elk, deer, and other denizens of the forest. Mr. Paine selected the tract of land which constitutes his present home. He erected a log cabin, and then he and Judge Hewett returned to Rock Island, Illinois, where they had left their wives and Mrs. Paine's parents. The following February the party returned to their future frontier homes. Here Mr. Paine foxmd opportunities for hunting and fishing abundant. These families enjoyed the pleas- ures and endured the hardships and priva- tions of pioneer life. Mr. Paine and wife occupied their rude log cabin happily together. This in time gave way to a more commodious log house, which the family occupied for four- teen years, when he ei-ected his present beauti- ful home in 1868, and was when built the finest residence in the county. When he settled here there was not a tree to be seen on the prairie. He now has a fine grove of native timber surrounding his home. Mr. and Mrs. Paine are the parents of five chil- dren — David D., Warren A., Frank L., John S. and Mary E. Mr. Paine has taken great interest in educational matters, and has been instrumental in organizing good facilities for instructing the rising generation, and his children have received a share which they have improved to the best of their ability, and all have excellent educations. Mr. Paine and his sons have a landed estate of 1,400 acres of improved land in a high state of cultivation, he having retained the home farm of 200 acres. In politics Mr. Paine affiliates with the Republican party; in other matters he is liberal. -5«-^ C. PALMER was born in Erie County, New Tork, October 31, 1819, spending his early life in his native State on a farm and attending the schools near his home. He married Caroline Thompson, also a native of Erie County, New York, born July 14, 1820. In the fall of 1869 they came to Wright County from Illinois, locating on section 34) Liberty Township, where he purchased 160 acres of partially improved S68 mOQBAPHlOAL MEOORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM land, which he improved, and at the same time of his settlement he piirchased a home in Groldiield, where he passed the balance of his dajs, dying at the age of sixty-seven years. His wife survived him but a short time, and died at the age of sixty-four years. They were active and consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. They were the parents of five children — Josephine, the wife of A. F. Wheeler; Laura, Eugene A., and Eva, the wife of George Epelrore. Mr. Palmer served as township trustee and school director seven terms. He was an energetic, public-spirited man, and enjoyed the confi- dence of all who knew him. His son, Eu- gene A., was born in Dodge County, Wis- consin, March 18, 1855, and came to Wright Connty with his parents, where he has since made his home. His education was obtained at the schools in Goldfield. He now lives on his fine farm, which contains eighty acres of the old homestead. He was married May 7, 1880, to Mariah Myers, daughter of Sam- uel and Mary A. Myers. Mrs. Palmer was born in Wisconsin, February 1, 1861, and came to Wright County with her parents in 1876. By this union three children have been born — Eose E., Paul L. and Olive C. •«*-i-t> i^iM^ WILLIAM HAMILTON MONTGOM- ERY, of Liberty Township, is one of the earliest of the pioneers of Wright County, the time of his settlement being the 10th of September, 1854. Mr. Montgomery, Minter Brassfield and William Stryker were tlie first three permanent settlers of the county, and but an interval of a few weeks existed between their coming. Mr. Mont- gomery is a native of Kichmond County, Ohio, where he was born December 1, 1832. His father was John Montgomery, a native of Pennsylvania, and his mother, Margaret Taylor, -was also a native of Pennsylvania. The Montgomery family are doubtless of Irish origin. John Montgomery was one of the pioneers of Richmond .County, his loca- tion being ten miles south of the present city of Mansfield. Here he and his wife lived till their death, the former dying in 1848, at the age of fifty, and the latter dying at the age of sixty-five, about 1865. They had a family of seven children, who grew to man and woman- hood, and of whom five are living in 1888, viz.: Samuel H., the eldest living in Stark County, Ohio; Mrs. Jane Caton, of Chester- ville, Ohio; Mrs. Elvira McCune, of Card- ington, Ohio; Mrs. Eleanor Reynolds, of Shreveport, Indiana, and the subject of this notice. Mrs. Kosanna Brown, the eldest daughter, died in Steuben County in April, 1887. Mr. Montgomery was reared a farmer and received his education in the common schools of his native county. He was married June 6, 1854, to Miss Elizabeth Bishop, a daughter of John and Jane Bishop, the former was born in Pennsylvania, and the latter in "Virginia. They were for thirty years or more residents of Morrow County, Ohio, and in 1849 removed to Iowa County, Iowa, where they lived till death. They were the parents of seventeen children, fourteen of whom lived to be men and women, and of whom there are eleven living in 1888, three sons and eight daughters. All are residents of Iowa but two daughters, one of whom lives In Dakota, and the other in Ohio. Mrs. Montgomery, as were all her brothers and sisters, was born in Morrow County, Ohio, and came to Iowa with her parents in 1849. Soon after their marriage Mr. Montgomery and his new bride came to Wright County, and here all was new. Buffaloes were tlien abundant. He and his wife have stood in their cabin door and counted hundreds of OF WRIQBT COrTNtT, lOWA. them as they passed. Elk were also abund- ant, and so was all game incident to the country. Their nearest market and mill was at Cedar Falls, a distance of eighty miles or so; their nearest postoffiee was Homer, at a distance of thirty miles. Much of the ma- terial used for clothing and the like was got at Iowa City. Still they were young and en- ergetic and they enjoyed the life, believing that the future promised well for this portion of Iowa. And their hopes have all been real- ized. The married life of Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery has been blessed by five chil- dren, two boys and three girls. Two of the children are now living, viz.: Amanda, who was the first child born in the county, was born March 21, 1855. She is now the wife of H. B. Bjorson. John is the other one. He was born December 5, 1858. He married Minnie Wright, a daughter of A. "Wright, of Eagle Grove. Amanda has four children, viz.: William, Archie, Frank and Ada. John has one child, Bertha. The deceased children of Mr. Montgomery were: Cora, Mary and Herbert, all dying in childhood. Mr. Mont- gomery and son have 367 acres of Wright County's best soil. Mr. Montgomery is now a Kepublican; was reared in the Jackson school of politics, but since the organiza- tion of the Republican party he has been found a warm supporter of its principles. ■ ...I i .ig . it i ; . |H .-w |OUGLAS C. FILKINS, attorney at law. Eagle Grove, is the oldest lawyer in the place, having located here July, 1881. He is a native of Iowa, born in Vinton, Benton County, Aprils, 1859. Ilis father was a native of JS'ew York, and is now deceased. His mother was also a native of the Empire State. Tiie father was a civil engineer by profession, but the latter part of his life was spent on a farm where our sub- ject was reared. He received his early edu- cation at Belle Plains, Iowa, and took three years' course at the Iowa State University and graduated from the law department in 1881. He located in Eagle Grove soon after, where he has since been engaged in tiie prac- tice of his profession. He has served as city attorney since the organization of the town; was elected mayor in the spring of 1888. Though still a young man he has justly gained the reputation of a skillful and suc- cessful lawyer. Politically he affiliates with the Democratic party — probably is due to his efforts the honor of organizing the Democratic party in Wright County. He is an active worker in the interest of liis party. He is a speaker of ability and effect and an able advocate of his political convictions. He is a member of the A. F. and A. M. fAMES MACK is a native of Glasgow, Scotland, born March 23, 1812. His early life was spent at the weaver's loom in his native city, weaving shawls, and while at work at his loom he conceived the pattern known as the Paisley shawl. He followed his trade there until about the year 1840, when he came to America, first locating in Henry County, New York, for three years, when he removed to Little Rock, Illinois, re- maining about four years; thence to Moline, Illinois, and two years later came to Wright County, Iowa, locating in Luni, where he engaged in farming, which he followed until his death, which occurred in February, 1884. In 1861 he purchased eighty acres of land in section 16, Liberty Township, which was then a wild tract of prairie, where he built a home and improved his land. He served in many local offices of trust and responsibility. 5'?0 BtOGltAPEtCAL BBCOltD AND PORTBAtT ALBUM He married in Scotland Miss Maggie Will- iams, who was born in 1814:, and died in April, 1881. They were the parents of ten children, three dying in Scotland: Thomas, Annie, Maggie (deceased), Robert P., Charles H. and George F., who resides in Liberty Township, and was born in Little Rock, Illinois, March 12, 1855, and came to Wright Connty with his parents when a child, and here has since made his home. He was reared to farming pursuits and now owns a line farm of 160 acres of improved land in a high state- of cultivation. He was married July 13, 1878, to Miss Hellen A. Robinson, born in La Salle County, Illinois, July 18, 1857. They are the parents of three chil- dren: Maggie E., Meda and Rena A. Mr. Mack hasi officiated in nearly all the township offices; is a member of the I. O. O. F., Rin- wick Lodge, No. 448. Politically he affili- ates with the Republican party. ^— «M-.i+?-»°» [ILLIAM M. GRAVES, section 1, Belmond Township, was born in Chicago, Illinois, April 19, 1837, a son of Jediah and Anna (Owens) Graves, of Puritan and Scotch origin. "When our sub- ject was two years old his parents removed to Winnebago County, Illinois, where he was reared on a farm, and received his edu- cation in tlie common schools. September, 1857, he was married to Miss Ellen Rogers, of Winnebago County, Illinois, who was born in 1840 and died in 1869, leaving two chil- dren, Eliza J. and Mary Ann. He was again married February 17, 1872, to Mary, daugh- ter of John R. and Sarah M. Housley, of English and Puritan descent. She was born n St. Louis, March 25, 1842, and when six iyears of age with her parents came to Lan- caster, Grant County, Wisconsin, where she spent her early life, and was married in Rock County, Wisconsin. By this union two chil- dren were born — Stella, born September 9, 1873, died in infancy; Freddie, born Decem- ber 6, 1878, and died March 25, 1888. In 1877 Mr. Graves came from Franklin County, Iowa, to Wright County, aud settled in sec- tion 1, Belmond Township. He has im- proved his farm of 181 acres, and now has one of the finest farms in the county. lie is a member of the I. O. O. F. Politically he affiliates with the Republican party. '♦S^ "! ' ' S ' S'" *-*" J. SAVERCOAL was born in Oakland County, Michigan, March 31, 1845, a son of H. C. and Ruth (Harrington) Savercoal. Our subject was reared on a farm in his native county, and received his educa- tion in the common schools. In 1869 he came to Wright County, Iowa, and purchased eighty acres of land on section 16, Belmond Township, where he resided until 1883, when he removed to the village of Belmond, having begun on his farm when it was in its primitive state, a wild prairie, which he im- proved and made a beautiful home. He was married January 1, 1873, to Miss Anna Fulton, a daughter of Joseph and Cordelia 572 BIOGRAPHICAL RBOORB AND PORTRAIT ALBUM Fulton. Mrs. Savercoal was born in St. Charles, Illinois, June 11, 1854, and came to Wright County with her parents in Sep- tember, 1868. Mr. Savercoal is a member of the I. O. O. F., Belmond Lodge, and is the present street commissioner of Belmond. He is a strong advocate of the principles of the Republican party. •°^"' |"^'S'|" "^ A. THORP, section 19, Boone Town- ship, is one of the well-known leading men of Wright County, in which he has made his home since the year 1873. He is a native of Dodge Connty, Wisconsin, where he was born February 4, 1847, a son of Truman Thorp, a native of Oswego County, New York, and M. (Atkinson) Thorp, a native of Lincolnshire, England. The Thorp family settled in Dodge County in 1847, being among the first settlers there. When onr subject was twelve j'ears old his parents re- moved to Monroe County, Wisconsin, where he grew to manhood. He was reared a farmer, and received his education in the public schools. Li 1873 he came to Wright County and bought eighty acres of wild land, where he has since lived, improved and added to his original purchase until he now owns .645 acres of good land, 455 acres of it being in Wright County and the balance being in Humboldt County. His residence is the best in the township, built in 1887, at a cost of $3,000, modern style and furnished in a good manner. He has a good barn and other farm buildings, and is extensively engaged in stock- raising and feeding. Mr. Thorp was married^ May 11, 1873, to Miss Lilly Fierce. She is a native of Canada, but was a resident of Humboldt County at the time of marriage. By this union six children have been born to them, viz. : Keedie, Verra, Truman, Ros- coe, Yilah and Loyd. Politically Mr. Thorp is a Republican. He has served as township trustee and treasurer, also as a member of the school board. He is a member of the Masonic order, also of the I. O. O. F. -i^^ |[EORGE L. CUTLER was born in Cleveland, Ohio, April 23, 1843; a son of L. H. and Mary Cutler. When our subject was three years of age his parents re- moved to Kenosha, Wisconsin, and two years later to Freeport, Hlinois, and in 1855 to where Belmond, Wright County, Iowa, now stands — then an unbroken prairie, with but only one log hut to indicate that white men had ever traveled this country. But during the summer following several families located in the neighborhood. The elk roamed the prairie in countless numbers together with myriads of wolves, which would come to the very doors of the homes of the settlers. But with the advancement of civilization the wild animals vanished from the county. Our subject was reared on a frontier farm,receiving his education in such schools as were furnished by the pioneers. After reaching the age of twenty-three years he attended Eastman's Commercial College, at Chicago one term. In the fall of 1864 he enlisted in Company F, Second Iowa Cavalry, serving until the close of the war. in the spring of 1867 he engaged in the grocery and drug business with his father-in-law, conducting this busi- ness for three years, when they disposed of the drug stock and added general merchan- dise, which they followed for about three years, when they sold out, and our subject engaged in farming for two years. He then engaged in carpentering for a time, and then returned to his farm where he now resides. He was married August. 30, 1868, to Miss Missing Page Missing Page OF WRIGHT G0UUT7, IOWA. 575 Mattie Morse, daughter of Judge John L. Morse. Mrs. Cutler was born April 24, 1845. By this union they had threechildren — Ori J. died at the age of seventeen years, having justcompleted his sophomore course at Ames College. He died December 27, 1887; Susan M. and Claire. Mr. Cutler is a mem- ber of the I. O. O. F., Eelmond Lodge 265. He is the present nominee for recorder of Wright County, ou the Republican ticket. ^ ' ! i' t »!*■»-' " H. PURDY, son of John and Zaider (Adams) Purdy, was born in Jasper, I® Stueben County, New York, Septem- ber 3, 1842. His father, John Purdy, was born in Dutchess County, New York, B'eb- rnary 14, 1812, and died in February, 1872, in New York. His mother was born in 1816, and is at the present time living in Ft. Worth, Texas, at the advanced age of seventy-two years. They were the parents of ten chil- dren, all living but one — Jane, wife of George Lason, of New York; W. H., the subject of this sketch; Amanda, deceased; John, resid- ing in Dakota; Daniel, in Texas; George, living in California; Ephraim, wlio lives in Montana; Charles, of Nebraska; Rachel, in Indian Territory, and Nettie, wife of Mr. Mitchell, who also lives in Texas. Mr. Purdy remained at his home in Jasper, New York, until twenty-one years of age, following the business of bis father — lumbering. He re- ceived his education principally in the com- mon schools with the exception of three terms in the academy. After he reached his ma- jority he came West, visiting the States of Michigan, Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Ken- tucky and various other points, among the number this State, finally locating in Bel- mond, this State, in July, 1865, where he has since made his home, purchasing when he first came some 200 acres of land of which he has dealt in quite extensively. He was one of the first stage drivers in this section of Iowa, his route extending from Belmond to Webster City, this State. On the 2d day of June, 1872, he was married to Mrs. Sarah, widow of William Rowen, and daughter of N. N. and Irena (Godfrey) Haims, born in Troy, New York, June 13, 1842. In the spring of 1858 she emigrated with her par- ents, who were among the first settlers, to Iowa Township, locating on a farm owned by their two sons, who had come in the fall of 1856, and pre-empted 160 acres, also pur- chasing eighty acres. Mr, Haims was born February 23, 1809, and died February 12, 1882. Mrs. Haims was born January 24, 1811, and died January 18, 1888. They were the parents of six cliildren — Robert, Phoebe and Mortimer, deceased; the latter enlisted in Company A, Thirty-second Iowa Volunteer Infantry and died at the expiration of three years of active service in the late war; Alpheus, living at Rowan; Sarah F., wife of W. H. Purdy, and Martha, wife of John F. Kent, residing at Daws P. O. Mr. and Mrs. Purdy are the parents of two chil- dren — Rena and Daniel, both at home. Mrs. Pnrdy is also the mother of two children by her first husband — Luella, deceased, and Robert W., of Burlington, Iowa. His grand- fathers both served in the war of the Rev- olution. Mr. Purdy is a member of King Solomon Lodge, No. 210; also a member of the I, O. O. F. o^Hj-i [HARLES. H. MORSE, M. D., is the pioneer physician of Eagle Grove, coming here May 1, 1881. He is a native of Iowa, born in Maquoketa, Jackson County, January 1, 1856. His father, Stephen 576 BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM Morse, was a pioneer of Jackson County and a native of Cortland County, New York. He was a pioneer of liockton, Illinois, removing to Iowa in 1854. In 1856 he removed to Butler County, Iowa, locating near Parkers- burg, where he owned at one time the greater part of that town site; later he purchased a farm across the county line in Grundy Coun- ty, -where he lived till death. The mother of our subject was formerly Sophia Hooker, from JS'ew York, now a resident of Eagle Grove. Stephen Morse and wife were the parents of seven children, six still survive. Our subject was the third child and was reared on a farm. He studied medicine with Dr. M. I. Powers, of Parkersburg, and was later for five years at the Normal School at Cedar Falls. lie graduated from the med- ical department of the Iowa State University in March, 1881, and soon after located at Eagle Grove. The doctor secured his edu- cation solely by his own efforts. Dr. Morse married Miss Dell Davis, of Parkersburg. By this union they have one son, Wayne. The doctor is a member of the Ft. Dodsre Medical Society. In politics he is a Kepnb- lican. let m l S m g * * S ' " V '""***^ ' jEV. JOHN EGAI^, of the St. Francis 1 Catholic Church of Belmond, being the first church established in the county. It was organized under the pastorate of Father O'Dowd, now of Independence, Iowa. The churcli now enjoys a membership of about forty-five families, and is under the pastorate of Father John £gan, who was born in County Galway, Ireland, January, 1863, where he was reared and spent his early life. He is the son of James and Mary (Gavin) Egan. Our subject was the sixth of nine children. He received his early education in the primary schools, and at the age of fifteen years entered the St. Francis Academy at Mt. Ballou Bridge, where he studied four years, then entered Hallom's College, Dublin, where he completed his course of study in 1887; was ordained June 19, 1887, and after, a two months' vacation came to America, landing in New York Sep- tember, 1887, and came iirectly to Dubuque, Iowa. He assisted in St. Patrick's Church until December 22, 1887, when he received notice, by order of Bishop Hennessey, to go to Belmond and take cha/ge of St. Francis Church at that place, and arrived in Bel- mond December 24, 1887, when he took up his duties, and where he has since ofticiated. He also has charge of the St. John's Church at Clarion, which cliurch was erected in 1883, with a membership of 180. "£ " 2 ' ' S'S '"-*"* fABEZ WHITING was born in England, near Bath, April 4, 1790, and came to America in 1816, and located in Phila- delphia, where he remained some time work- ing at the tailor's trade, and thence to Susque- hanna County, Pennsylvania, where he re- mained for a short time, working at his trade, and in 1835 he came to La Salle County, Illi- nois, where he met and married Betsey T. Hatch, daughter of. William Embler, of Litchfield County, Connecticut, and Elizabeth (Camp) Embler, also of Connecticut. Bet- sey was born in Litchfield County, Connect- icut, June 15, 1802. She and Mr. Whiting were married August 27, 1837. They are the parents of three children — one died in infancy — A. C. and John A., who resides in Belmond. A. C. was born August 15, 1839, and John A. born August 19, 1841. A. C. came to Wright County in 1870, and in the fall of .the same year his parents came OF WBIOHT COJfNTT, IOWA. 577 also. They located in Belinond Township, where they have since resided. A. C.'s father died in Belmond Township, April, 1878, at the age of eighty-eight, while his widow still survives, at the ripe old age of eighty-six, and resides with her son, A. C. in Belmond. A. C. was reared to farm life, which he followed until 1887, when he came to Belmond and en- gaged in buying grain. When he first came to "Wright County he purchased a farm of 160 acres with his brother J. A., which they have improved and placed under good culti- vation, and have since added to until they have in all 425 acres. Adolphus 0. was married on October 6, 1864, to Mary J., daughter of John A. and Mary J. Ostrander. She was born August 17, 1834, in New York City. They are the parents of four chil- , dren, Minnie B., Edith G., Frank O. and Ad- die T. The family are members of the Con- gregational church. A. C. is a member of the I. O. O. F. and the Ancient Order United Workmen. "*^"""*fa^ 3 t i i » ^ i'"-"*** SAVID CUPFETT was a native of Penn- sylvania, l)orn April 16, 1808, and died in Delaware County, Iowa, December 28, 1875. He married Elizabeth Mickle, also'a native of Pennsylvania; she was born in October, 1808, and is still living residing in Canton, Dakota Territory. In 1852 Mr. Cuppett with his family emigrated to Iowa, locating in Delaware County, where he spent the latter part of his life. He followed the avocation of blacksmithing and was a man that held the confidence and esteem of all his neighbors, as was shown by bestowing upon him for eleven consecutive terms the ofiice of j ustice of the peace. He and his lady were both active and worthy members of the Meth- odist Episcopal church. They were the parents ^ of twelve children, of whom five are still liv ing. D. L. the representative of the Cuppett family, a resident of Wright County, was born December 25, 1841, in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, and came to Iowa with his parents when but eleven years of age, and spent his early life in Delaware County as- sisting his father in the blacksmith shop until he was about sixteen years old, when he commenced the potter's trade, working at the same for about four years, when the Ee- bellion broke out. He then enlisted in Com- pany G, Ninth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, serving four years. He was wounded at the battle of Pea Eidge in the right shoulder and was unable to do duty for five months. Again at Kenesaw Mountain he was slightly wounded. He participated in twenty-one battles, most notable were those of Pea Eidge, siege of Vicksburg, Lookout Mountain, Mis- sion Eidge, Kenesaw Mountain, etc. He served his country well, and well deserves a warm place in the hearts of his fellow-men. He was married September 24, 1866, to Lu- cretia K., daughter of Hezekiah and Sarah (Clark) Hubbard. She was born May 23, 1848. They are the parents of six children: Arthur B., Laurina, Mamie, Sadie, Lee, one deceased in infancy. After their marriage they first located in Centralia, Dubuque County, Iowa, where Mr. Cuppett engaged in the pottery business, which he followed two and one half years, after which he moved to Colesburg, Delaware County, and entered the general merchandise business, following the same for two and one-half years, when he removed to Belmond, Wright County, where he now resides. For one sea- son after locating at Belmond he engaged in farming, and then entered the hardware busi- ness, keeping a full line of hardware, tinware and agricultural implements. He has done much toward the improvement of Belmond 578 BIOGBAPHIGAL BEOOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM and vicinity. OflBcially, he has been called upon by his people to fill most of the town- ship offices, which he has done with credit to himself and satisfactory to his constituents. He affiliates with the Eepublican party; is a worthy member of the G. A. E., Whited Post ISTo. 168, King Solomon Lodge,' No. 210, I. O. O. F., No. 265, and Iowa Legion of Honor, No. 130. ^ .lo»-iJ4»-iii 3l 1 ^ "^^*^' *°* ^ G. PKITCHARD, the son of P. A. and Eliza J. Pritchard, was born in Pitts- l® field, Michigan, December 19, 1840, where he was reared. When at the age of sixteen he came to Belmond, remaining about one year; he then removed to Alden, Hardin County, Iowa, and in 1861 he went to Colorado, in the mining district, where he engaged in mining ftr gold one summer. He then returned in the fall to Alden, and in the spring of 1862 returned to Colorado and engaged in trading for one season, when he again returned to Alden, and in 1863 he removed to Belmond and purchased a farm of eighty acres on time, having nothing but a small team of horses and $14 in money, which he was compelled to spend for feed for his team, and his provisions he bought on time till he could raise a crop. He took his mother with him to keep house, and the next year (February, 1864), he married Juliet, daughter of M. P. and Lucy (Green) Eosecrans. She was born in Dela- ware, Delaware County, Ohio. The result of this union was four children, three living: Charles G. married Gina McGuire, and re- sides in Calliope, Sioux County, Iowa, en- gaged in the mercantile trade; Stella, deceased at the age of thirteen; Blanche, the wife of J. G. Grundy, principal of Belmond school, and Edgar B., at home. After Mr. Pritchard's marriage he continued farming until 1871, when he engaged in the mercan- tile business at Concord, Hancock County, in company with William Finch for one year, when he purchased the entire stock and removed the same to Belmond, where he has since continued the business. He "brought the first printing press and issued the first newspaper in the county, called the Belmond Mirror. The press was the old Lovejoy press that was sunk in the Mississippi Eiver at Alton. He and his brother erected the first frame dwelling in the county, now oc- cupied by C. Sprague, one and one-half miles northeast of Belmond. Mr. Pritchard was largely instrumental in getting the first rail- road through Belmond, using his means and influence toward the same. He is a member of King Solomon Lodge, No. 210, F. and A. M., alsoa member of the Chapter at Hamp- ton, and a member of the Antioch Command- ery. No. 43, Mason City. He is a thorough business man, always taking an active part in anything tending toward the advancement and improvement of the community gen- erally. fP. BYEES, one of the early settlers of Belmond, Wright County, was born ^ in Judson County, Illinois, January 30, 1843, son of John and Minnie (Damour) Byers. His father was a native of Baltimore, Maryland. His mother was born in Swit- zerland and immigrated to America when but sixteen years of age , locating in Galena, Illi- nois, where she M^as married to Mr. Byers in 1841. They were the parents of five chil- dren, four of whom are living— John P.; Mary J., wife of John Wendell, residing in Keithsburg, Illinois; Charlotta A., deceased, wife of William Tropp, of Earlville, Iowa; OF WBIOUT OOUNTT, IOWA. 579 Alcestra W"., wife of Henry Kaul, also resid- ing in Keithsburg, Illinois, and J. Francis, residing in tins State. John P. Byer's early life was spent on a farm, receiving his educa- tion in the common-schools, with the excep- tion of one term in the high school. He learned the trade of harness-making in Clarmont, this State. In 1862, the 8th of August, he en- listed in the Twenty-seventh Iowa Infantry, and remained on the field of battle until the close of the Rebellion, which was three years. He was engaged in thirteen battles, returning from the field without a single wound. Mr. Byers came to Belmond in 1869 and pur- chased the first and only harness shop of Charles Cutler, continuing in that business, with the exception of eight months up to the present time. In 1871 he was married to Laura Harwood, daughter of James and L (Sabin) Harwood, born June 22, 1851, in Stephenson County, Illinois. They are the parents of four children — John E., Guy J., "Walter S. (deceased), and Laura B. Mr. Byers if a member of King Solomon Lodge, No. 210, and Grand Army of the Republic, Whited Post, 247; also United Work- men, 168. Has served as township trustee, and is now township clerk, liked and respect- ed by all. Politically he is identified with the Republican party. ALEXANDER BREWSAU6H was a native of Paris, France, and when but a mere lad came with his parents to Louisville,, Kentucky, where his early life was spent. He chose as his profession the tan- ner's trade, which he followed until 1838, when he removed to Mechanicsburg, Illinois, where he met and married Mary Smallhafifer in 1839. In 1842, when returning from a visit to Louisville by boat, the boat sank and Mr. Brewsaugh sank to rise no more. He left a wife and one son to mourn his loss, who remained for a few years in Me- chanicsburg, when they removed to Spring- field, Illinois; here our subject, the son, J. B., received his early education, when he had arrived at the age of fifteen. He then went to Petersburg, where he entered a plow fac- tory and machine shop, serving an appren- ticeship of three and one-half years. At the age of twenty he went to Philadelphia, Penn- sylvania, where he remained until the spring of 1861, when he removed to Middletown, Logan County, Illinois. Here he enlisted under the first call in the United States three months' service in Company H, Seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry, under General John Cook, being the first regiment organized in the State; while located at Alton, in the beginning of his service, while arresting a rebel major and a spy he received a severe wound in the hip. However he succeeded in making the arrest. After his three months' service he returned to Middletown, Illinois, and organized Company K,Twenty-eighth Illi- nois Volunteer Infantry, and marched to the front as First Lieutenant, in which capacity he served until 1862, when he was forced to retire on account of the wound received at Alton. He participated in two engagements — Charleston, Missouri, and Belmont. He also served as drill-master at Camp Gates for some time. After his return to Illinois he was married May 1, 1862, to Mary A. Brown, born in Little York, Pennsylvania, in 1840, and died August 12, 1871. The result of this union was three children: Alice, wife of F. B. Johnston, of Stillwater, Minnesota, and George and Charles, who are partners in busi- ness with their father at Belmond. After his marriage he engaged in blacksmithing, which he followed there until the death of his wife. He then removed to Stillwater, Minnesota, 580 BIOOBAPEIGAL REOOBD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM where he made his home until 1874, when he came to Belmond, where he engaged in the manufacturing of wagons and black- smithing, where he has since conducted his business, which is quite extensive. He has erected several of the best buildings in Bel- mond, both in residences and business houses. In fact is one of the main factors in the im- provement of the town of Belmond. He has served as city council, served on the board of trustees, and as deputy sheriff under H. E. A. Diehl. He married again as his second wife, in 1875, Emma Eobinson, daughter of John H. and Martha Robinson, who was among the first school teachers of Wright County, having taught fourteen terms of school pre- vious to her marriage. Two children grace this last marriage: Rosco Clyde and Grace. Mr. Brewsaugh is a member of King Solo- mon Lodge, A. F. & A. M., No. 210, and G. A. E. Whited Post. He was born Novem- ber 3, 1840. B. GROUT, one of the well-known citi- zens of the township of Wall Lake, '® came to Wright County in 1870. He was born in Windom County, Yermont, October 29, 1837, son of Joel anc| Lucy (Batcheller) Grout. Our subject was reared in ills native county a farmer, and received his education in the public schools. At the age of fifteen he went to New York State; later to the City and to Massachusetts. He en- listed February, 1865, in the United States Engineer Corps and served three years, receiv- ing his honorable discharge in 1868, at Wil- lets Point, New York, where the corps had been stationed for two years. He was mar- ried, in June, 1863, to Miss Theresa Brown, a native of Cumberland County, Maine, and a daughter of Ellison and Lucinda Brown. In 1868 he came to Webster City, Iowa, and engaged in the furniture business; he pur- chased wild land where he now lives, and a year later moved on to the same. He now owns 320 acres of well improved land, with good house and other farm buildings. Mr. and Mr. Grout are the parents of five chil- dren, viz. : Edith, Cora, Irving, Leland, Ella F. Mr. Grout is a Republican; a member of the G. A. R. Winfield Scott Post, Webster City, Iowa; member of the Methodist Epis- copal church, and one of the township's best citizens. io»-ii>t^ri 3 l i ^ 'i'^^ " <"' fOHN A. WHITING, the son of Jabez and Betsey T. Whiting, was born August 19, 1841, and spent his early life on a farm in Illinois, and received his education in the. common schools. In 1867 he came to Wright County, Iowa, locating in Belmond Township, purchasing 128 acres of wild prairie land. This he improved and put un- der good cultivation. His first summer on his new farm was spent in undisturbed quiet, as he was unmarried, and his nearest neigh- bor was three miles distant. He applied himself so closely to the improvement of his farm that he saw but three people the first summer spent in Wright County. He has faced the hardships of pioneer life unflinch- ingly, and has had to undergo many priva- tions that he might secure for himself a home and its comforts; but he has been amply rewarded for his efforts. He was married in 1871 to Susan A., daughter of John and Susan Morse. She was born in Michigan February 14, 1850, and died Feb- ruary 5, 1875. She was a worthy and con- sistent member of the Congregational church. He was married again October 80, 1879, to Mary M., daughter of Frederick H. Bronson. OP WRIOHT COUNTY, IOWA. 581 She was born in North Adams, Massachu" setts, September 18, 1843, and came to Bel- mond with her father in 1879. Mr. Whiting enlisted in April, 1861; was mastered in June 13, 1861, in Company H, Twentieth Illinois Yolunteer Infantry. He was dis charged July 17, 1864. He participated in some ten or twelve battles, most notable among them were: Fort Donelson, Shiloh, siege of Yicksburg, Big Shanty, etc. He is a member of G. A. E., Whited Post, ISTo. 168. He is a strong advocate of the Repub- lican principles. He takes an active part in the welfare of the coiintry generally, and is one of "Wright County's most worthy and re- spected citizens. > Si i ; « tP. AEMSTEONG, one of the enterpris- ing and successful early settlers of " Wall Lake Township, came to Wright County, in the year 1869. He was born in Washtenaw County, Michigan, on the 2d day of March, 1834; a son of John D. Armstrono-, of Scotch ancestry ; born near Geneva, New York; the mother of our subject was Alvird (Grover) Armsti-ong; a native of Connecticut. L. P. j^rmstrong grew to manhood in his native county; his youth was passed in farm- ing and his education was received at the public schools and academies. In 1853 he game to Scott County, Iowa, where he spent three months; he then went to LaCrosse, Wisconsin, where he made his home for sev- eral years, working in the pine woods and at saw-mill work. In 1857 he removed to Moni- teau Counly, Missouri, at the town of Cali- fornia where he engaged in the livery busi- ness, until the breaking out of the civil war, when his horses and stock were taken and his barn set on fire; he then returned to Wis- consin. He enlisted in 1862 and was as- signed to the Thirtieth Wisconsin, Company C; his regiment was first on duty at Madi- son, later at Milwaukee and Camp Washburn, Wisconsin; then ordered at Camp Reno, the regiment having been ordered to the North- west. This regiment built Ft. Price on the Upper Missouri, where they were stationed for several months; from there they came down the Missouri River on flat-boats to St. Joe, Missouri; thence to Louisville, Ken- tucky, by rail; here the regimei.t had charge of the rebel prisoners for some time, and at other points. Our subject was honorably discharged in July, 1865, and returned to Wisconsin, where he lived until 1869, when he came to Wright County. He now owns 460 acres of well improved land; his house is a good frame building, late style architecture and well finished, surrounded by a fine grove of soft maple, white ash and other varieties of fine trees, containing seven acres; his barn is 40x58 feet; he also has three fine flowing wells. Everything shows thrift and comfort. He was married, June 18, 1871, to Miss Caroline Waters, who was born in LaSalle County, Illinois, a daughter of Henry and Louisa (Bernard) Waters. Our subject is politically a Republican; a man cordial to all, honorable in business, and is one of Wright County's best citizens. ■■'- "■| * 3H; . gi »-K. — . E. PACKARD, the son of E. C. and Caroline (Baily) Packard, was born in Fredonia, Licking County, Ohio, Feb- ruary 15, 1848, and when but four years of age he, with his parents, moved to Waupaca County, Wisconsin, where they resided until 1864, which time was spent on a farm. Ilis education was received in the common schools of Wisconsin, and when sixteen years of age he came with his parents to Hancock 582 BIOGRAPHICAL BEGORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM County, Iowa, locating on a farm. On De- cember 24, 1868, he married Henrietta, daughter of Edwin Stearns, of Clear Lake, Cerro Gordo County, Iowa. She was born at Newburyport, Mass., August 13, 1852. They are the parents of seven children, six living: the first died in infancy; Tessa A., born Jan- uary 28, 1872; Daisy E., born December 17, 1875; Georgiana, born August 3, 1876; Silas S., born January 24, 1881; Marian, born February 13, 1883; Edwin C, born June 3, 1887. After Mr. Packard's mar- riage he, with his wife, came to Eelmond, where they have since made their home. After a few years he commenced clerking for W. H. Mitchell; from Mitchell's he went with E. A. Howland, remaining with him for about five years. ■ In 1878 he was appointed deputy sheriff", serving two years ; after which he was elected constable, serving one year; at the same time doing a collecting business. In 1881 he was appointed cashier of the Iowa Valley Bank of Eelmond, in which capacity he served five- years, when he accepted the position of station agent on the Ft. D. & M. C. E. E., at Belmond, which position he still retains, proving himself efficient and worthy of the confidence of his employers. He is a member of the I. 0. O. F., JSTo. 265. He is a strong advocate of the principles of the Eepublican party, having always voted that ticket. i-|<-»ff^"-»« fB. KERN, a native of Lorraine, France, was the son of Baltshazzar and Mary ® A. (Stiemets) Kern. He was born September 15, 1836. He spent his early life in France, and at the age of twenty-one came to America and located in western New York, remaining about four years, when he came to Cedar Falls, Iowa, remaining two years; then went to Rockford, Floyd County, Iowa, where he remained four years, conduct- ing a boot and shoe house. He then removed to Mason City for one year — in the boot and shoe trade; thence to Amsterdam, Hancock County, where he engaged in general mer- chandising for four years, and in 1875 he came to Belmond, Wright County, where he .engaged in general merchandise', which he followed for twelve years. He built the only hotel in Belmond, which is a credit to the county. He took charge of the hotel on two different occasions simply to keep it in run- ning order. Mr. Kern went out of business in the fall of 1885, on account of his health failing, and placed his son in diarge, giving him one-half interest, where the son con- ducted business at the old stand for about six months and then moved the stock to Ells- worth, Minnesota, where he still conducts the business, and by the change of his business the county of Wright lost one of its most en- terprising and worthy business men in the person of Charles J. Kern. J. B. Kern, the subject of this sketch, has retired from active life, and is enjoying the fruits of his labors. He was married November 27, 1862, on Thanksgiving day, in Batavia, Genesee Coun- ty, New York, to Justine A., daughter of Frank and Malina (White) Rayer. She was born on October 3, 1841, in Gouhenau, France, and came to America with her parents in 1851. The result of this union is four children: Charles J., born in Bethana, •New York, September 14, 1863, and resides at Ellsworth, Minnesota; Ida, born in Cedar Falls, March 7, 1865, the wife of Will E. Bullard, resides in Belmond; Clara, born September 11, 1868, in Rockford, Floyd County, Iowa, and Raymond, born May 21, 1878, in Belmond, at home. Mr. Kern has done as much as any other man in the com- munity toward building up the town of Bel- mond and vicinity. He has always showed a good spirit toward anything tending toward the advancement and improvement of the community '^in general. He spent his two last years in Paris, France. When the Re- bellion broke out Mr. Kern wanted to enlist, but owing to a crippled hand," which he re- ceived in Paris in a woolen factory, he was rejected, but was afterward drafted and again rejected. He spent the winter of 1886 and 18S7 in southern California, on a pleasure OJf WRIGHT COUNTY, IOWA. 587 trip, conpled with a desire to improve his health. He has a finely cultivated farm of 200 acres, about three miles north of Belmond. » SnS « fOHN "WASP:M is one of the well-known representative citizens of Wright Coun- ty, and is also a representative of one of its pioneer families. He and his father, Adam Wasem, settled in Eagle Grove Town- ship, ou the farm which John now owns, in 1856. The father purchased the northwest quarter of section 29, and 120 acres of the southeast quarter of section 28. John pur- chased at the same time the east half of the southwest quarter of section 29. This land was all in Eagle Grove Township. Adam "Wasem was born in Hesse Darmstadt, Ger- many, in 1800. He was a man of much note in his native land, being for some time police commissioner and burgomaster of his town. He was twice married, and had altogether twelve children, five sons and seven daugh- ters. John was of the first family of children, his mother being Philippina Euler. The second wife was Maria Hirschman. Adam Wasem was filling the positions above men- tioned during the Revolution of 1848. In this revolution the second son, Jacob, took part and was taken prisoner and confined in prison for twenty-two weeks. The eldest son, George, had then come to America. John Wasem also took some part in the Revolution, but deciding that it would be best for him to leave Germany, owing to the unpleasant con- dition of afi"air8 there, he came to New York in the spring of 1850. The eldest and second son and the eldest sister, now Mrs. Charlotte Odenheimer, had already reached that city. In 1856 the father and the remainder of the family also came. On the arrival of the family in New York, John with the rest came West and made the settlement as above men- tioned. Here the father lived till his death, which occurred in 1881. His wife died several years previously. George, the eldest son, died in New York in 1850. The second son, Jacob, is a hatter by trade, and went from New York City to Watertown, New York, thence to Cincinnati, Ohio, and now resides at St. Louis. There are eleven sur- viving children, four sons and seven daugh- ters, all the daughters being residents of Iowa. Adam and Fred are the sons from the second family of children, not yet mentioned. The former, a farmer, lives near Fort Dodge, and the latter lives at Marshalltown, where he is carrying on a furniture factory. John Wasem was born in Germany, March 5, 1829. He was reared to the cultivation of the grape. He married in New York, his wife's maiden name being Anna Cass, a native of Philadel- phia. They have twelve children, seven sons and five daughters, of whom six are now living — five sons — George, a painter; Adam H., John C. and William H., engaged in the mercantile business in the town of Eagle Grove, and Edwin S., at the old homestead, carrying on the farm. Two of the sons, George and Adam, are married. The one surviving daughter, Amelia J., lives at home with her parents. Kate, the eldest daughter, died in 1887. She was the wife of George Wright, a merchant in the town of Eagle Grove, and left three children. The rest of the children died when young. His farm con- tains 300 acres, comprising his original farm, also his father's and additions. Mr. Wasem is one of the leading farmers and stock-raisers of Wright County. His farm is commonly known as the Mineral Spring Farm, from a fine spring near his residence and others on the place, and is numbered among the most desirable to be found in Wright County. He 588 BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD AND PORTRAIT ALBUM. also is the owner of some houses and lots in the town of Eagle Grove. Mr. "Wasem is at present a member of the board of supervisors, having been elected in 1885, and re-elected in 1888. He is one of the directors of the First National Bank of Eagle Grove, also at present and the first president of the Eagle Grove District Agricultural Society. He has also held the principal township oflSces. In politics he is a Republican, and a warm ad- vocate of the principles of that great organi- zation. |ETER STACY was born in Lynn County, Canada, April 22, 1843, where he was reared until he had attained the age of sixteen years, when he went to Alex- ander Bay, York State, remaining about three years; from there to Marquette, Michigan, and thence to Negarna, remaining about four years, after which he removed to Fayette, Michigan, and in 1869 he came to Iowa, locating at Dows, but remained only about eleven months, when he returned to Michi- gan; thence to Aldin, and then to Amster- dam, Hancock County, Iowa, where he engaged in blacksmithing and wood-working. Here he made a stay of five' years. While there he was married, in 1870, to Sarah S. Pratt, and in 1875, he with his family, came to Belmoud, where he has since been engaged in business. He conducts a blacksmith and plow factory, doing all kinds of repair work. He is a skilled mechanic and attends to all ^branches of his business. He is a self-made man, being left an orphan at a very early age. "When he came to Belmond he had compara- tively nothing, but by hard and honest toil he has accumulated quite a snug little for- tune, and to-day is possessor of about $5,000 of property in Belmond. His family con- sists of six children — Eunice A., Mattie M., Sarah M. and an infant daughter. Joseph L. and Yernie, deceased. Mr. Stacy is a member of King Solomon Lodge, No. 210, A. F. and A. M.