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- A
GENEALOGICAL
AND
BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY
OF
KEOKUK COUNTY
IOWA
ILLUSTRATED .
Chicaoo and New York
The Lewis Pniu.TSHiNC. Company
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30]«35
• • ••
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INDEX.
Abel, Henry Jr.. 529
Adam, Michael. 385
Allen, David E.. 400
Allen, Wesley W., 472
Allison, Chester, 365
Ashcraft. A. M., 129
Attig, Levi, 325
Axmear, George W., 68
Axmear, J. C, 66
Axmear, John. Jr., G5
Axmear, John, Sr., G3
F.akehouse. Chailes, 537
Baker, De Witt C, 305
Baker, George B., 239
Bamford, Samuel E., 100
Bartow. George L., 141
Partow, George P.. 142
Bell, George R., 539
Bermel, John, 218
Besser, Nicholas, 387
Bond, Mrs. Mary J., 482
Bower, Frederick L.. 552
Bowman. S. H., 567
Brady. A. C, 470
Bragg, William H., 321
Brice, Robert S.. 199
Bridger, Alfred F., 455
Bristow, John H., 375
Brolliar, Lafayette. 404
Brooks. John T.. U
Brown. A. G., 136
Brown, C. M., 203
Brown, Harry G., 136
Brown, Joseph, 303
Brunt. S. W., 120
Bucher, Aaron, 30
Cameron. Ira F., 436
Campbell, John, 270
Carmichael, A. W., r,fi2
Carrell, Eli H., 43
Clark, John, 272
Clarke, John C, 395
Clary, Leonard, 56
Clemens, Ferdinand, 559
Clyde, David G., 378
Coffman, Ralph G.. 200
Conner, Jacob, 96
Conner, Samuel, 29
Cover, Ulysses G., 319
Crabb, Curtis, 261
Crocker, Benjamin F., 156
Croneweth, John W., 115
Croneweth, Philip, 115
Pelong, Leander, 116
nildine, Henry T„ 373
Dill, Daniel, 398
Dings. Samuel. 207
Doggett. Eugene. 71
Duensing. Henry F., 52
Duke, H. E., 362
Duncan. Jonathan. 277
INDEX.
&lRor(on, Joseph, 371
RIdrUlee. Madison P., 58
Elliott, George W., 410
Ellis. John M., 179
RtiKeldliiKer. John, 213
Etter. William L., 501
Evnns. Edward, 395
lliniiah. William, 189
HInshaw. Levi S., .348
Hinton, Frank D.. 360
Hoge. John, 137
Hoge, Smith B.. 138
Holzwaith. John. 383
Humes. W. H.. 424
linrst. A. S.. 29S
Follmnn. Henry, G9
Follman, Louis, 73
Foster. John C. 1G9
Frltzler, Ellis. 164
Onrrott. Andrew, 324
nemmlll. Robert H.. 296
Olllfoy. Samuel, 333
Glandon. C. M., 534
Goeldner. Ferdinand L., 127
Goeldner, Hugo F., 112
Goeldner. John F.. Ill
Gnpjdnor. John G., 127
Goeldner, Theodore L., 564
Greenlee, James A.. 312
Greeson. Dayton, 467
Grothe. Henry, 492
Gwin, William W . J'U
Halferty, David, 186
llnmlltnn, James A., 184
llnmlllon. Junlous, 523
Harding, William E., 255
Harris. J. N. L., 557
Hart, Nancy M., 79
- Hawk. Allen. 174
Hawk. Ezra, 170
Hawk, Jacob S., 167
Hawk, Morgan. 208
Heald, Allen, 434
Heaton. Samuel E.. 328
Henderson. David N., 426
Henkle, Harmon, 148
Herr. Simon P.. 275
Higgins. Warren, 357
Irons, Charles, 513
Irons, John. 510
Irons, Levi, 519
Irons, Warren C, 521
Jacobs, Joseph B., 162
Johnson, Albert P.. 236
Johnson, Charles A.. 235
Johnson. O. N., 545
Johnston. Curtis G.. 134
Jones. David. 484
Jones. Jacob. 442
Jones, John P., 308
Keep. John O.. 460
Reiser, Brothers, 504
Keiser. Charles O., 505
Reiser, David, 221
Reiser, Samtiei L., 505
Relley, William R., 97
Relly. John J.. 126
Kelly. Thomas. 126
Kendall, Charles F.. 1.59
Kirkpatrick, S. H., 555
Klrkpatrick, Wade. 181
Kloinschmidt. Gottlieb E. 124
Kramer, Nicholas, 217
I.nwrence, O. D.. 338
Lnwson, William. 352
I.emley. J. W.. 493
Lewis, David P.. 475
Linder. James, 94
INDKX.
Marshall, Robert A.. 524
Martin, David P.. 2G8
Martin, R. S., 251
McCay. Calvin. 4(;
McCormick, John H., 32
McDowell, Robert. Sr., 281
McElroy, Joseph K., 242
McParlane, Daniel C, 392
McKinnis. Charles. 28S
McQuaid. Charles E.. 103
Meyer. Frederick. 51
Miller, Cap E.. 144
Millhouse. H. A., 388
Mohme. Henry J., 544
Morgan. Gilbert S.. 20
Morgan. Thomas A.. 27
Morrison, James, 197
Morrison, John, 38
Naunian, Charles A., 139
Kanman. Emil D., 141
Neas. Alexander M., 102
Needham, William H., 501
Nelson, J. M., 411
Newldrk, John O., 514
Newsome, W. W., 344
Newton, Hanno P., 531
Nn.s;ent, Claiborne J., 477
O.gden, Irvin, 340
Oldenburg, George. 154
Oliver, Leonard P., 238
Parkhill, Samuel, 34
Payne. John E.. 423
Pa^yne, Robert H., 421
Pfannebecker, Henry, 490
Pfannebecker, William, 139
Polke, August, 48
Porter, J. W., 241
Ramsey, John L.. 230
Randall, James P., 440
Kandolpb. J. F., 542
Randolph, John, 495
Rangger, Joseph A., 214
Reed, Charles, 294
Reinert, H. H., 22G
Rpinert, Michael. 228
Rentfro, James A., 54
Richardson, Brothers, 33
Richardson, Francis P., 4S0
Richardson, George, 33
Richardson, Gilbert B., 103
Richardson, Joel, 36
Richardson, Jonathan F., 191
Richardson, Joseph M., 118
Richmond. Chauncy, 211
Riggen, John A., 414
Ifobertson, James B. A., 23
Rosecrans, Henry C, 335
Sayler. Godfrey, 432
Schiltz, Edward, 74
Schipfer. Brothers. 114
Schipter. Francis A., 113
Schriever, John W., 541
Schroeder, John, 380
Schwenke, Fred, 49
Scott, Erastus P.. 5(ifi
Shaffer, William A., 447
Shrader. Ananias A., 2G7
Singleton, James, 444
Singmaster, Charles F.. 503
Singmaster, Samuel. 14
Singmaster, Thomas, 438
Smith, Evan, 360
Smith, Hasadiah, 453
Smith. Thomas. 367
Smith. William E.. 448
Smith. William H.. 34G
Smith, William H., 453
Smock, Finley M., 84
Snakenberg, Charles, 509
Snakenberg, Henry, 548
INliEX.
SnakonberR, John J.. 49S
SnakenliorK, Louts, 50G
Snakenberg, Louis D., 451
Snakonberg. William. 403
Spelrs. James R., 194
Stalker. Aaron. 527
Steel. Charles J., 450
Stockman. J. Campbell. 458
Stought. Anthony, 430
Stoulner. John S., 258
Strohmann. Deldrlch H.. 250
Slrohmann. Fred D.. 130
Swcarlngcn. James M.. 81
Swickard. Daniel, 109
Terrell. Crisley. 90
Terrell. James J.. 285
Tresslar, Harvey O., 536
Trumbauer. Charles a., 224
I'lln. A. J,, 150
I'ttorback. A. M.. 177
I'ltorback, Elliott. 14G
Utterback. Josiah. 145
Ulterback. Landon, 249
Valerius, Matt. 497
Vnlinmr, David H., 488
Waganion. William. 377
Wagner. Henry F., 106
Warnock. Alexander, 262
Wenger. Joseph H., 246
Wheeler, Ross S., 391
White. Jonathan F.. 406
Whilson, Pertiller. 314
Williams. Harry D., 220
Williams, J. D., 459
Wilson, Wesley W., 404
Wonderlich, Charles C, 27.S
Woods. William R., 291
Worley. William B.. 300
Wyllie, James, 486
Young. William H., 330
Yule. Samuel. 189
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A GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL
HISTORY
OF
KEOKUK COUNTY, IOWA.
HON. JOHN TINLEY BROOKS.
Tliis is a utilitarian age, in whicli effort nvast contrilnilc to some line
of nsetnlntss whereby may be promoted the welfare of the individual or
the public. The marvellous energy and enterprise of the west has brought
about a great change in the cities there. This change is the result
of the aggregate effort of thousands of enterprising, wide-awake, rnid in-
dustrious citizens, of which class the gentleman named above is a rep-
resentative. He entered upon his i)nsiness career with little capital, but
he possessed determination and a willingness to work. Indolence and
idleness constituted no part of liis nature, and as bis financial resources
have increased, he has made judicious in\-estments, which have classed
him among the substantial residents of his community. His business
methods are progressive. He is systematic in all that he docs, and as
the architect of his own fortunes he has built wisely and well. As time
has passed, the life of Mr. Brooks appealed to his friends as one which
was worthy of honor, and he is therefore the honored representative of
I- CENE.-H.OGICAI. AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
his district in tlic state scn.nte. Mr. r.nH>ul<s is acli\ely enji^aged in the
Inisincss life of the stininjj little city dI' Hedrick. heiiig' at the present
time vice-president and cashier of the l-irst National Itank and cashier d'
the Hc<lricl\ State Savings liank. hoih in Hedrick.
Mr. {{pMiks was horn Octfiher 17. 1850. the ]>lace of his hirlli liaving
heen HeiUnn township. Keokuk connty. Iowa. Me is the son ol jolm ( i.
and Mary (Kvfjer) Br<x)ks. John ( i. lirooks was a native of Butler
county. Oiiio. where lie was reared to ni.inliood. and came to Keokid;
county ill \\^\ cars l;iter he ))crnianentlv located in Benton
township, where he passe<l the life of a highly respected citizen engaged
in farming, his death occurring in iSSo at the age of sixty-two years.
I'ntil the breaking out of tiie Civil war he ga\e allegi.'ince to the jiriii-
ciples of the Democratic party, hut on the issues which ])reci|)itated
that great struggle he followed .\braliani Lincolns princii)les. for whom
he voted in iSfx). and thereafter sup]H>rted the Republican ])artv. I k-
tilled some of the minor 'tfiices of the town-ihip. having been a iustice
of the peace for a period of years, lie wa^ an active member of ih.'
Metiiodist church from boyhoo<l. His marriage to Marv Kyger oc-
curre<l in Butler county when he was in young manhood. She died in
•'*^.^.V •'•Red alnnit thirty-three years. .She bore her husband six cliil-
• Iren. viz: Joscpii Walker. decease<l ; Daniel Bigelow . deceased: l^liza-
l)cth. dcccHscd: Samuel K.. of Hedrick: John Tinley. subject: and
.Mary I-" ranees. Joseph Walker Brooks and Daniel Bigelow Bnwjks. of
these children, served in the Civil war The former enlisted as jtrivaic
m (.'om|>any !•". of the Seventh Iowa \ Dluntecr Infantrv. in iS()i, and
was afterward transferred lo ilic Thnty-third Missouri Infantry, as
first lieutenant such was in command of his conipanv at Hel-
ena. Arkansas, where in battle he was killed July 4. 1863. The latter
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. \.\
serx'ed as a ])ri\ate in the Xinciecntli Iowa N'nluuteer Infantry fri)ni the
summer (if i8'i_' until he was l^cihed m actmn at Sterling" farm, Louisi-
ana, m the summer nf i<Sf)4.
Mr. Brooks was reared ni Hentou townshi]), and the nM liome-
stead was the scene of the boyhood laliors and ])leasures in which lie
iuilula'ed, he in the meantime hecomiu" familiar with the branches
of stinK' taught iri the district schodl. This wa> later sii])|)lemented bv
more ad\ auced work in the schools at Sigourney. and at the Iowa
\\ eslevan L'n.i versitw at .Mount Pleasant, where he graduated m 1873.
Deciding on the law as a prufessidu. .\lr. lirooks then entered the office
of Wdolsou & Babb, at Mount Pleasant, and after hnishing the re-
(juired course of reading passed an examination before the coiu't and
was admitted to the bar at Sigotuiiey in icS"^. He immediateh formed
a partnershi]) with lion. |ohn A. l)onnell. with whom he continued in
association for h\e x'ears. While sticcessful m the practice of law.
the forces of circumstances and opp(inunit\' led him, in iSXi. tn dis-
continue the acti\e ])ractice of law and engage in the banking busi-
ness as cashier of the L'nion B.ank at Sigourney. lie has. however,
maintained his law hjjrary ami continued his ])rofessional studies,
though not practicing. In company with .Mr. W. H. ^'oung, he bought
in 1882 the W'augli farm, in Benton township, and thereon laid out
the town I if Hedrick. Soon after this, in connection with the same
gentleman, Mr. lirooks established the Bank of lleilrick. a ])rivatc
banking institution, which they conducted until i8()(). when it was
merged int<.) the Hedrick State Sa\in.gs Bank, and of this our subject
has continued as cashier, and Mr. N oung is the honored president.
In lyoo Mr. Brooks became interested with others in the organization
of the l-'irst .Xational Bank of Pledrick, of which he is vice-president
11 i.i:.\i:alo(,ic.\i. axd huh.r.u'jiicai. history.
;iiul c.isliicr. Mr. Brooks is also connected witli llie Hedrick 'I'cle-
) 'miil- Company as president. He is extensively connected with die
real estate and farming interests of the county and takes great in-
terest m the raising of fme stock.
The pnhlic life uf Mr. Brooks has been one of cijual activity and
with his business life, lie served a iierioil of ten successi\e
terms as mayor of Uetlrick. He has been for seventeen consecutive
years the treasurer of the Independent district school board. His
liolitical alliliations have always been with the Republican party, in
whose life he has been a tower of strength in the local organization.
His standing in the community and the services which he has rendered
the party in the i)ast made him a marked man in the conventii^ns of
the i)arty as the time passed, but not until lyoi could he be prevailed
nix'i nomination. In that year he became a caiulidate
for siaic scnai'r lor the Twelfth senatorial district, and in the election
which followed he. was chosen to fill that office. Fraternally Mr.
BriMiks is a Knight Templar Mason. The family life of Mr. Brooks
began May 21, 1879. when he chose for a life companion Miss Lucy
T' Willie, daughter of James H. ami Emeline White, of Mount Pleas-
a, who presides with grace over his plea.sant home. She is
ihr ninthcr of four bright and interesting children, namely — Mary,
cc E. and John \V.
S.XMIKL SIN'GMASTER.
rv of Kifikuk rnunty would lie com])lete without mention
tnirs contributetl largely to the de-
iid to its jirogress and im])rovcment along sub-
man whom to know was to respect and honor.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 15
Williout ostentation or display, lie lived so as to win the hi^'li reqanl and
esteem of all with whom he came in contact. 'Jdiere were no excitini,'-
chapters in his life history, yet there was much worthy of enuilatidn. fur
he was always true to his friends, faithful to his family and reliable and
trustworthy in business. He passed away Ajiril i8, 1899, and it is safe
to say that no death in the community has ever been more deeply regret-
tetl than that of Samuel Singmaster. He accomplished much in life that
yet benefits those who knew him and he left to his family an untarnished
name, w hich is above great riches.
]\Ir. Singmaster was born in McCungie, Lehigh county, Pennsyl-
vania, September 17, 1807, and was therefore ninety-one years of age
when called to his final rest. His parents were also natives of Pennsyl-
vania and were of German lineage. In their family were eight sons and
one daughter. During his early youth Samuel Singmaster labored indus-
triously upon his father's farm, receiving but limited educational i)rivileges.
He served a three-years' apprenticeship in a tannery of Philadelphia and
afterward worked for two years in the same establishment for the small
salary of seventy-two dollars per year. When twenty-four years of age
he accompanied his parents on their removal to Perry county, Pennsyl-
\ania.
An important event occurred in his life the following year, for he
was married in Berks county, Pennsylvania, to Mary C. Seischolts, a
\()unglady then twenty-two years of age. For many years they traveled
life's journey together, sharing with each other the joys and sorrows, the
adversity and prosperity which checker the careers of all. They reared,
too, a family who have been a credit to their name. The year after his
marriage Samuel Singmaster and his brother Jacob established a tannery
in Alillerstown, Perrv county, which they conducted successfully for a
1(. GENEALOGICAL A.\D /UOCRAPJ/fCA /. HISTORY.
lew years, when tliex sold out and witli tlic ])rocee(ls built a larger t:iii
ncry in the same t^nvn. Tlieir business increased nntil it enabled tlicni
to eni|)loy sixty men. However, tliey sold their second factory in ordc
to iinild a still greater one an<l the third one was sold in Mr. Miller, their
brother-in-law. lie t'onnd it impossible to pay ])romptl\- ami after a
time the tannery was destroyed by lire, causing; a total loss, as there was
nr) insurance. .Mr. .Siuginaster ami his brother ne\er tried to collect the
consideration and therefore they suffered to a consideratile extent from
the lire.
\l)out that time our subject remosed to ;i more western district in
I'ennsylvaiiia and tinned his attention to farminl,^ purchasiny; one Innv
dre<l and twenty acre- of land, upon wliicli he made partial payments,
in S|)cakin.i; of this |)eriod of his life he said he had "four work horses
with one eye amoniL>; the whoR- drove. ' lie ]H»s.sessed a resolute s])iri'.
and determination and from early momini; unlil dcwe\ eve he was fouml
in the fields, and in harvest time he reaped a ^ood croj) of wheat, about
I'fieen hundred bushels. This bronj^hl a ijimmI price, one dollar :ui<l ;i
half |)er bushel, and enabled him not only to meet his indebtedness, but
also to have one thousand dollars clear as his earnins^s. He then sold
his farm anri purcliased a larj^er one of one hundred and forty acres,
payinp one-half of the amount down. .\ year later lie sold this ])lace at
a {fiKKl profit an<l at that time t<Hik up his alxide in .Millerstown, about
thirty miles from llarrisburij. I'ennsyhania, where he purchased a home
wortii fifteen hundre<l flollars. With his remaining capital, and ,dso .1
"■uni that he lKirrowe<l. he embarked in the cattle business, purcli.ism;..;
droves of from si\iy to one hundred head of cattle in Ohio and diivMi;.;
llicni to the Philadelphia market. Ibis enterprise also proved a proht-
,d)le one. He n -ifime sheeji ;ind horses to market, but he found
GENEALOGICAL AND IHOGRAPLIICAL HLSTORY. 17
llial he could realize iicitliiiiii nff ^A these and aecnrdingh- contined his
attention to dealint^- in cattle. ( )ne of the marked characteristics of Mr.
Sn.y-niaster's career was the readiness with which he reco.t^-nized that
l.usir.tss CDiiditiiins would jiroxe either ])rolital)le or disastrous, and cIiods-
iiig. of course, the former, he carried forward his lahors until Ihcy
hroug'ht to him a \ery desirahle comjjetence. .Xttracted h\- the opimr-
tunities of the j^row int;" west he made his wav to Missmiri. in iS4_', hat
liniling that he could not ohtaiu a clear title to land in that state he came
to Iowa. He was pleased with the west and in Keokuk countv he ])ur-
chased 111 1)^43 a claim on which were a lew hoos and cattle, liiuiiig
these oi (ieorg'e Washington .Male\', one )f the honored ])ioiieers of
the count\'. He paid fifteen hundred dollars for a tract of land cmnpris-
ins.; three Iniudred and tweiit\' acres. Returning home he sent out hrank
Xorlh to take charge of the ]>urchase. In 1S44 he sold his real estate
in Millerstowu for fifteen hundred dollars. ()f this aniMunt \\\i^ hundred
dollars was paid in cash and for the remainder he took wooden clocks
anil leather, luit Axhile the family were en route from the Keystone state
to Keokuk countw Iowa, the weights of the clocks were either lost or
stolen hetween I'ittshurg and llurlington, and in conse(|uence the time-
])ieces sold for a mere trifle. He retailed the clocks and leather among
Ins neighhors in Iowa, hut as he gave credit to many new ac(|uaiiitances
he afterward found that it was difiicult t< 1 make collections. He how -
ever l)rought with hini one thousaml dollars, which 111 1X44 he nuested
in calves, and thus he hecame one of the lirst cattle dealers of Keokuk
county. He was assisted in his work hv his sou Charles and it was a
noticeahle fact concerning the family historv th.at the father aiul sons
always worked togetlier in entire harmony, continuing husmess as a
familv affair through many years, h'or a long period Mr. Singniaster
1 8 GENE A L OGICA I. A ND BIOGRA PHICA L If IS T( )A' ) •.
carried on liis stockraising interests with success. His first large sale
was hundred head of cattle, which brought Jiini twenty-five hundred dol-
lars. His first home was a primitive log cabin, such as was common in
pioneer times, and after he had made his sale of liie one iuuidred head
of cattle he had his sons haul lumber from Jowa City, witji which he
erected a larger and more modern residence, which remained his home
until his death. .\s time advanced his profits increased, he made judi-
cious investments in real estate, becoming one of the most extensive
land owners of this part of Iowa. The business was conducted by the
father and sons until the time of the dcatli of \\'illiam Singmaster, his
youngest son, in 1891. When Charles, another son, arrived at the age
of fifty-two years, his father deeded to him eight hundred acres of land
on which he yet resides, while tlie son 'I'homas remained in partncrshi])
with the father until the hitter's demise. The Singmasters probably
became more widely known through their importations of fine horses
than in any other of their business transactions. In 1875 the firm be-
gan business in this way. William and Charles having charge of the
enterprise while the father furnished the capital. In that year they im-
ported \o\\v head of horses and gradually increased the number until
their importations were very extensive, and between the years 1884
and 1888 each son imported from eighty to one hundred and loriy
head.
When Mr. Singmaster removed to Iowa, the family consisted of
himself, wife, and five children, namely: Charles ]•"., born I'ebruary 20.
i8.:i4: Sarah, born June 15, 1836; Eliza, born March 9. 1838; Tliomas,
b..rn Febrhuary 16, 1840: and James, born July 4, 1842, died on June
i(>. iSC/). The same year another child. TIcnry. was added to tlic fam-
ilv. He was born October 18. 1844, and died December 18, 1845. Will-
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISrORY.
19
iam was born April i6, 1848, and died in Keokuk county, April 17.
1891. Mary Etta, born December 18, 1849, was married October 22.
1878, to Conrad Ramge, and died Fel)ruary 20, 1898. On tiie 13th of
September, 1853, Eliza was also called to her final rest. Three of the
children are still li\-ing. Charles F., whose personal sketch appears else-
where; Sarah, the only surviving daughter, is the wife of David Keiser,
of Keota; and Thomas, the other surviving member of the family, is
represented on another page of this work. Mrs. Singmaster passed away
a few years prior to the death of her husband. She was Ijorn in T'ennsyl-
vania, July 15. 1810, and died December 17, 1894, at the advanced age
of eighty-four years.
Mr. Singmaster departed this life April 18. 1899, when more than
ninety-one years of age, dying after a three weeks' illness of la grippe.
From the obituary notice which appeared in one of the local papers, we
quote the following because of the estimate it gives of the life and char-
acter of him of whom we write :
"What can I say of Samuel Singmaster? You have all known
him. You lia\e all loved him. You ha\'e all respected ruul honored
him. He was a man through and through — every inch a man. He was
held in the greatest esteem by his neighbors, friends and acquaintances.
Such an ideal estimation is truly co\'etcd by all. The deceased was a
man in whom all sought counsel in time of trouble. He never faltered in
responding as a wise counselor to a tronlilesome or vexed problem of a
neighbor."
In the family Mr. Singmaster was a most devoted hu.sband and
father, and to his friends he was ever loyal and true, while his business
associates found him to be reliable, trustworthy and courteous. All who
knew him had for him the highest respect, and his memory is yet en-
.shrined in the hearts of manv with whom he was associated.
JO GENFArOG/C.U. AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
GILBERT S. MORGAN.
Almosl fifty yeears have passed since tliis gentleman arrived in
Keokuk county and he is justly num1)ered among lier honored pioneers
and leading citizens, liis iiome l)eing in Adams townsliip. As an agri-
culturalist he has been prominently identified willi her u])-l)uil(liiig an<l
development, liis is an honorable record of a conscientious man. who
by his upright life has won the confidence of all with whom he has come
in contact.
His father, Hon. 'i'heron .\very Morgan, was one of the ])rominent
citizens of this locality in early days. lie was born in Massachusetts
in January, 1809, and was principally reared in that state. From there
he removed to Ohio and in 1854 came to Iowa, locating in Keokuk enmi-
ty, where he entered land from the government and imjiroved the farm
on which our subject now li\es. In early life he married S\l\ia Mal-
lory, also a native of Massachusetts, and t<i them were bom five chil-
dren, all of whom reached man and womanhood. Roth parents lived to
a ripe old age, the mother being eighty-one at the time of her death,, and
the father ninety-two. Some idea of the high esteem in which he was
held by his fellow citizens can be gathered from an nbiiuary published
at the time of his death, which is as follows:
".\t the little village of Webster, Keokuk county, at ten o'clock,
{•"ebruary 6, 1901, occurred the funeral services of the Hon. Theron
Avery Morgan. While the bells of the village church were tolling and
the people were gathering from all the country-side to i)ay their last
resjjccts to one of their oldest citizens, the funeral carriages were driven
from the home of Gilbert S. Morgan to the Methodist church of Web-
ster. It was this farm from which he took his last journey, that a half
centurv ago Mr. Morgan, then in the prime of vigorous manhood, en-
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 21
tercd as a homestead, and il was from, then thai liis hfe liccame eloselv
mingleil witli the early life and development of Keokuk countv. At the
clui-.ch the serviees were conducted by the Re\-. Smith of the Alethodist
Episcopal church, assisted by the Rev. Matlock of the Congregational
church. Among those gathered there were men who when thev, Ijeard-
less boys of twenty, had marched out to defend the Union, Jiad spoken
of the then gray-bearded Lieutenant Morgan as "h'"ather Rhjrgan."
Rugged men with heads of gra_\' were asseml>led to pay a last token of
respect to their fathers' old friend and contemporary. Rev. Smith spoke
of Mr. ^lorgan's life in Keokuk county, how in social life, in ])hil-
antlirojjy antl in politics he had ever represented that which was noblest
and best. He dwelt upon the strength, ])urity and nobilit}- of the life
which had given of its \-igor to uphold and supjjort our legislature in
those da^■s in the "50s and Tios when men of strength were needed. Men
and W(.)men were present who knew of the unselfishness and ])ractical
Chri.stianitv of his life as a neighbor, ^len were jiresent who knew
of his sterling integrity and steadfa.st honor in ])olitical life and in ])osi-
tions of ptiblic trust. Children and grandchildren were present who
knew of the sweet, unselfish nobility of his family life, which constitutes
true greatness. The relatives present were -Mrs. \'ictoria Morgan, of
Grand Junction: Mrs. Mary W. (iriswold, of Ottumwa : Mr. and Mrs.
G. S. Morgan, of Welwter. The grandchildren present were Misses
Daisy and Hilary Griswold, Morgan Griswold and George O. Griswoid
and Mrs. W. T. Wilson of Ottumwa; Avery Morgan, of Washington;
Mr. and Mrs. William ^^lontz, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Cook. Mr. and Mrs.
William Heaton and Alden Morgan, of Webster. Among others from
abroad were ^^Irs. Tdin M'Donnongh, of Xcw Sharon; and 'J'heron Mor-
gan of South English. The i)all bearers were D. V. Brown, .\lex
22 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
Hearst, D. Swails, John \'an Tyle, T. Gueklner and Hon. Fretl \i. Wliilo.
riic intciinent took place at the httle cemetery of Wehster, wlierc t\\cl\c
years ago was buried Sylvia (Mallory) Morgan, wile of the deceased.
Every one felt to be true the words of Rew Smith in his sermon : 'A
strong man has fallen'."'
Gilbert S. ]\Iorgan was born in Trumbull county. Ohio. April 17.
1841, and was the fourth child and third son in his father's family. He
was about thirteen years of age when he accompanied his parents on
their removal to Keokuk county, and on the home farm in Adams town-
ship he grew to manhood, acquiring a good practical education in the
schools of the neighborhood and also gaining an excellent knowledge of
farm work in its various departments. He remained with his parents
and continued to assist in the operation of his father's land until twcntv-
nine years of age.
On the 14th of November, 1869, was celebrated the marriage of Mr.
Morgan and j\Iiss Sarah A. Ervin, who was born in West Virginia, De-
cember 15, 1848. Her parents, Elias and Maria (Messenger) Ervin.
were al.so natives of that state, the father's l)irth having occurred in Pres-
ton county. In i8(')5 Mr. Irvine brought his family to Iowa and after
spending about a year in Iowa county crmie to Keokuk county and took
up his abode in luiglish River township. To him and his wife were
iiorn fourteen chiUlren, twelve of whom reached mature yejirs and seven
of the number are still living. In this family Mrs. Morgan is the sev-
enth in order of birth and was about sixteen \ears of age when she came
to Keokuk county. She received a good common .school education. By
her marriage she has become the mother of four children, namely : Stella,
wife of William Heaton of English River township: .\lden. who mar-
ried Lconia Hall and resides in Adams township; Rollin E., who mar-
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 2.\
ried i\layme LeclUy and lives in Iowa City; and \'irt;il (',., wlu) is al
home and assists his father in the operation of the farm.
After his marriage Mr. Aforgan located on the old homestead where
lie now lives, and devoted his entire attention to g-eneral farming and
stock raising until 1S72, when he went to California and spent one year
on the Pacific coast engaged in fruit farming. At the end of diat time
he returned to this county and has since followed general farming and
stock raising uninterruptedly, owning a well improved and valuable
place of three hundred and twenty acres, which was once the jiroperty of
his father
I'olitically Mr. Alorgan has been a life-long Republican, and has
taken quite an acti\'e interest in local politics, serving two terms as asses-
sor, and justice of the peace for se\-eral years. Socially he is a niem-
i)er of the Indepentlent Order of Odd Fellows. Through the long years
of his residence in this county he has become widely known, and his
many excellent traits of character have gained him the high regard (jf his
many friends.
JAMES BROOKS AVERS ROBERTSON.
Eor over a third of a century James Brooks Ayers Robertson has
been among the progressive and energetic citiz-ens of Keokuk county,
and at present is living practically retired at his pleasant home in Kes-
wick. For three years he ser\ed his country during the war of the Re-
bellion, participating in some of the most arduous campaigns of that ter-
rible conlFct, and in years of peace, no less than in those of war. he has
bravely performed his duty, and is justly entitfed to a place in the nation's
roll of honor.
24 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
Mr. Robertson was born in Cliester county, Pennsylvania, on tlie
Jtb of Septemljer. 1836. and is a son of Jobn Robertson, a native <>l
I'hiladeliiliia. His paternal grandfather. John Robertson. Sr.. was a
native of En,q;land and was a sea captain, wbo was lost at sea wlicn liis
son John was but eigiit years old. The latter was then bound out and
was reared in a (hiaker family about sixty miles from Philadelphia.
'Ihere he w as united in niarriasje to Miss ^laria Frieze, a native of Ches-
ter county. Pennsylvania, and they bej^an their domestic life in Down-
ington, that county. Mr. lvil)crts(«i lieing engaged at that time in team-
ing between Philadelphia and Pittsburg. Later he removed to Wrights-
ville. York county. Pennsylvania, and for two years was engaged in
luiating on the canal. His next home was at Safe Harbor, Lancast<;r
county, the same state, where he was employed in the iron works for
seven years, and in .Vjjril. 1855. he came to Iowa, landing at Daven-
])ort on the 17th of that month. He first located in Muscatine county,
but in the fall of 1855 removed to Cedar county, where he entered land
and engaged in farming until 1863. Selling bis ])roperty there he then
came to Keokuk county and settled where our subject now lives. 1 lere
he died at the age of seventy years, honored and respected by all who
knew him. Politically he was a life-long Democrat, and religiously was
an earnest and consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church,
taking an active ])art in its work for many years. His estimable wife
died at the age of seventy-three years. They were the parents of seven
children, two of whom died in infancy, while the others reached man and
womanhood and four arc still living. Three of the sons were nuiu-
bered among the boys in blue during the Civil war, these being John
S., Cicorge .\. and our subject. John enlisted in the Thirteenth Missouri
Infantry in 1861, and was captured at Lexington. Missouri, afterward
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 25
paroled and came liome and later rc-enlistd in tlie Eight Iowa Cavalry;
he was captured at Macon. Georgia, and held a prisoner at Anderson-
\ille for about six months. George A. belonged to the same company
and regiment as our subject and serve<l about three years.
Mr. Robertson, of this review, was the second child and second son
in his father's family, and was about eighteen years of age when he
acco'upanied his parents on their renio\-al to this state. He had already
acquired a good common school education. While a resident of Cedar
county he was married, January 19, 1S60, to Miss Clarissa M. Wright,
a nati\e of Ohio, who came to bjwa with her parents when a small child
rmd was reared in Cedar county. By this union there were ele\en chil-
dren, and the familv circle has never been Ijroken bv the hand of death,
the youngest being now eighteen years of age. In order of birth ihev
areas follows: John H., now a resident of Xcbraska : Anna M.. the
wife of John Schuble of Oklahoma; George Allen, a merchant of Okla-
homa; Maggie, the wife of John Brandenburg of California; James. I].
-\., a prominent lawyer and now county attorney of I,incoln county,
Oklahoma; Elizabeth \., wife of iNIichael Gill of .Vltoona, PennsyKania :
Meda. a teacher in the hig'h school of Chandler, Oklahoma; Alice -M.,
who is attending the Methodist Episcopal Training School in Chicago;
\\'arren K., who is attending college in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma;
Charles Howard, a printer of Chandler, Oklahoma: and Ralph K.. who
is at home with his parents and is still in school.
After his marriage Mr. Robertson began farming u])on rented land
and later purchased a small tract which was covered with a heavy growth
of timber, and to the improvement and cultivation nf that i)lacc be de-
voted his energies until he entered the service of his country during the
Civd war, enlisting in .\ugust, i86j, as a private in Company I'., Twenty-
2(. GENF.AlJ^GICAr AXP lUOCRAPIIlCAL HISTORY.
fourth ]n\va \'oluntcer Infantry; l)ut lie was afterward transferred to
tlie First Battalion \'eteran Reserve Corps and was promoted to foiirtli
corporal, serving with that rank when discharged on the 29th of June,
1865, after three years service.
At ilic close of the war Mr. Robertson removed from Cedar countv
to Keokuk county and was first engaged in farming upon rented land
in Atlams township for three years. He then purchased eighty acres
of land on the north side of Eagle river and w.is engaged in the im-
provement and cultivation of that place for six years. In the meantime
he established a store at Aurora, Adams township, the first in this t.nvn-
ship, and conducted the same for four years, during which time the
Burlington. Cedar Rapids S: Xorthern Railroad was built, and having
faith in the future (leveloi)ment of Keswick he removed to that ])lacc
vn the s])ring of 1880 and erected the second store building there. He
carried on general merchandising here with good success for twenty-
two j-ears and he still owns the store building, which he now rents,
having retired from mercantile pursuits.
Mr. Robertson has taken quite an active and prominent part in pub-
lic affairs, being elected county commissioner in 1886, and .so acceptably
did he fill that office that he was re-elected, serving in all six years with
credit to himself and to the entire satisfactic>n of his constituents. He
has also filled tiie offices of justice of the peace, school director and c<in-
stable, and his official duties have always been the most promptly and
faithfully discharged. By his ballot Mr. Robertson supports the men
and measures of the Democratic party, and in his social rel;Uions be is
connected with the Masonic fraternity and the Independent Order of OfM
I'cllows, in which lodges he has filled all the chairs. lie has been active
in ])ronioting the interests of his adopted county along many lines :uid
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 27
hns materially aided in its upbuilding and de\cli:>pment. As an Imuorcd
pioneer and representative man of the comnninity he is also worthy of
the high regard in which he is uniformlv held.
THOMAS A. MORGAN.
Thomas A. Morgan is a leading representative of the business inter-
ests of Webster, Iowa, where he is engaged in general merchandising,
and he also carries on general farming and stock raising in this county.
Of excellent business ability and broad resources, he has attained a
])rominent place among the substantial citizens of liis part of the county
and is a recognized leader in public affairs. He has won success by
his well directed, energetic efforts, and the prosperity that has come to
him is certainly well deserved.
One of Iveokuk county's native sons, Mr. Morgan was born in
English River township, ^lay 17, 1867. His father, Thomas Morgan,
is a native of Kentucky, from which state he removed to Indiana with hi.^
parents during boyhood, and was there rehired and married. In 1846
he came to Iowa and settled in English River township, Keokuk count}-,
where he took up a tract of government land and engaged in farming
throughout his active business life. This worthy pioneer is still living at
the ripe old age of eighty-two years, honored and respected by all who
know him. He is a stanch supporter of the Republican part}- and has
acceptably filled the offices of township trustee and assessor. Religiously
he is a devout member of the Alethodist Episcopal church, and has taken
quite an active part in its work. He was twice married and by the first
union had eight children. For his second wife he wedded Miss Mary
McBride, the mother of our subject. She was born and reared in Renn-
28 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
sylvania and died in Iowa wlicn about sixty-five years of age. She was
the mother of four children, of wliom Thomas A. is tlie youngest.
In the county of liis nativity Thomas A. Morgan grew to manhood,
receivmg a good practical ethication in tlie common schools of English
River township. With the exception of six months spent in California,
his entire life has been passed in Keokuk count}. ^ lie followed farming
until i<^93. when he rcmo\ed to Wchster and embarked in general mer-
chandising, opening a store at that place which he still conducts. lie car-
ries a well selected slo,ck of dry goods, groceries, etc., and by fair and
honorable flealing has btiilt \\\i an excellent trade, which is constantly
increasing. Besides his store he owns other i)roperty in the town and
has a \'aluable farm nf fnur hundred and forty, acres, all in English
P.iver township w ith exception of eighty acres. With the assistance of
hired help he operates this land and is meeting with marked success as a
farmer and stock raiser.
In Novem!)er, i<S87, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Morgan
and Miss Malissa Axmear, a native of \'irginia and a daughter of John
and Julia Axmear, the former of whom was born in Holland and the
latter in Germany. To our .subject and his wife have been born five
children, as follows : Clarence, .\da, Blanch, Grace and Helen. By his
ballot Mr. Morgan supports the men and measures of the Republican
party. He is a worthy representati\c of that class of progressive busi-
ness men who lead quiet, industrious, honest and useful lives, and con-
stitute the best portion of a community. Wherever known he is held
in high regard, and is certainly deserving of honorable mention in the
historv of his native countv.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 29
SAMUEL CONNER.
Among the many well-to-do and able farmers of Lancaster township
none ha\e attained a more enviable repntatior. for integrity and general
ability than Samnel Conner. The interests of township and conntv
have been closely iilentified with his history from the early days. Com-
ing as he did in the )-ear 1844 to Keokuk county, when the pioneers
were just beginning tn settle here, it early devolved upon him to lend
his arm ami his brain to the de\eIopment of the lands and institutions of
the new country.
He \\as born on November 9. 1836, in Tippecanoe county, in the
state of Lidiana. His father, Daniel Conner, was born and rearetl in
Ohio until he arri\-ed at the age of nineteen, at which time he settled in
Indiana. In 1843 'i^ again moved to Iowa and in the year 1844 settled
in. Lancaster townshij), there l)eing at that time almost no settlers in
that part of the state, so that it was necessary to reclaim the land and
clear it for farming. The father of Daniel Conner was of Irish descent
and spent the greater part of his life in old Virginia, dying in Iowa in
adxanced years, Samuel's mother died when he was a very young boy
so that he remembers but little about her and her family, except that she
was a woman of fine qualities and well connected.
He was one of four children, there being to daughters and one son
besides himself. He came to Lancaster township at the early age of
nine years, long before the schools had been developed as they now are.
He, however, made the best use of all opportunities presented to him in
the old log schoolhouse. He remained upon the farm at home assisting in
its multitudinous duties until he arrived at the age of twenty-three years,
when he married Mary E. Jordan. wIk.) also came to Keokuk county
when a small child, being a native of the state of Illinois. After his
30 GliNEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
marriage lie at once lucatctl in the old farm liuuse about two liundrcil
yards from where lie now lives ami here he has remained througlunil
tiie \ears following, carrying on the varied and arduous business of
an agriculturist, and giving all his time and euegies to the care of his
farm ami large family. Nine children in lime were gathered at his
hearlhside, six daughters and three sons. These were Oliver, now dead;
Lottie, wife of John W. Scott, a prominent farmer of Lancaster town-
ship: Kohena. wife of W. B. Morrow, also a prosperous farmer in the
.same townshij): Eva, now dead; Daniel !•'., who is doing a successful
business in Hayesville as a dealer in fine horses; Tima, wife of C. D.
I'arkhill of the same township; lona, now dead: Etfie, who is unmar-
ried, and Isaac A. remain at home.
Mr. CDiincr has always been a successful and representative farmer,
now owning two hundred and eighteen acres of finely cultivateil land,
which constitutes one of the best farms in all ihc adjacent country. Li
political lieliefs he has been throughout his life an ardent Democrat ami
has renderetl to Democracy many invaluable servics and has held vari-
ous important offices in the county. The large family of children born
to .Mr. C(jniicr, while adding to his responsibilities and labors, must prove
a source of much gratification to him. .\ny parent might well be proud
of a life-work exemplified in children of the character and attainments
of these, and as the years go by u|)oii the old homestead, the subject of
this record, surrounded by the many evidences of this life-work .-md its
successes, may well say "It is well."
AARON BUCHER.
There arc some compensations to the man who in early life is de-
prived of i)arental care and nurture. It is indeed hard for a child to
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. U
\\(jrk out his u\\ u destiny, to choose a vocation in hfe and qualify himself
for it, hut in the end the rigorous experiences undergone serve hut tn
strengthen and make self-rehant the develoi)ing man and leave an imprint
which all time canntjt eradicate in the character subjected to such nillu-
ences. Such a man, hew ing his own way. unaided by the strong arm of
a helping father or the lender love and sjinpathy of a mother, was Aaron
Bucher.
He \vas born January zj, 1835, in Sandusky count}', Ohio, the state
which has furnished so many of the strong energetic sons who ha\e
helped to make the west what it now is. His father, Frederick Bucher,
was a native of Pennsylvania and died when our subject was (jnly tweb'e
years of age. His mother, Susanna Wimer, also died when he was only
se\-en years old. Thus he was depri\'ed. while very young, of the
example and support of both parents and frum that time on was thrown
Solely upon his own resources. He matle his home with George \\ imer
from the death of his father until he was twenty-two years of age; on
Xo\'ember zo, 1844, he located in Keokuk cuunly, where during the k.nig
winter months he went to the old log sclKJolhouse, and by his diligence
ami earnest effort acquired a good education, which was of great assist-
ance to him in his later years. As soon as he was large enough he went
to work at farming and with his accustomed zeal and ability soon became
familiar with all its varied duties and responsibilities. At the age of
twenty-three years he had become fully qualihed to assume the mainten-
ance and responsibilities of a home, and XovcmJjcr i, 1857, was united
in marriage to Martha J. Chastain, who also came to this county in the
early days when it was still undeveloped; she was a native of Illinois and
came to Jefferson county, Iowa, in 1843, and to Keokuk county in the
s])ring of 1844. She proved to be a helpmeet not in name alone, but in
32 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
the working; mil nf ilie uuurc i>l' ;ill ilic finiily. Three children were
born to Mr. Bucher : hiwa Kcaster: JaneUo, wit'e of Jacob Conner, a
l)rosperous and well-known farmer of Lancaster township; and Fan-
nie, wife of Charles Conner, likewise an able and well established
I'arnier of. the same county.
lie owns three lunulrcd and forty acres of fine farm land ami also
^ome valuable properties in llayesville. In 1874 Mr. Bticher located
on the farm, where he now li\es. This he cleared and improved, putting up
the houses and barns now there, and conslructiny fences, tilling the soil
and ileveloping the farm in every way until it has become one of the
most fertile and in\ilint^ in the country. He has carried on all branches
and departments of farming most successfull\-. and has been noted for
the fine cliaracter and abundance of the stt)ck which he has raised and
sold from the I'arm.
He has been a life-long Democrat, al all times espousing the inter-
ests and being true to the principles of the Democratic party, to which
lie has rendered invaluable services as occasion ga\e opportunity. He
was treasurer of his school district for some nine years, during which time
he advocated and carried out many reforms and improvements in the
schools. He is one of the oldest settlers of Lancaster township and has
left the stamp of his inlluence and ability upon many of its institutions.
lie is now rea])ing the rewards of his early efforts and trials. He has
reared his family in plenty, giving them all the advantages the country
affords, and has lived to see his untilled and uncultivated farm "blossom
as the rose." He has seen it constantly improving and his fortunes
increasing, and it cannot but alTord him great .satisfaction to look back,
amid the respect and admiration of all. through his long line of successes.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 33
GEORGE RICHARDSON.
Prominent in the affairs of Lancaster townsliip and well known to
all its citizens is the tirni of Richardson Brothers in Ilayesville. Of the
firm George Richardson is the junior partner, but acti\'e in its manage-
ment antl in the assumption of its varied responsibilities and innumeraljle
duties. His history has been for many years past intimately associatetl
with that of his brother, Joel Richards(jn, whose life attainments have
been elsewhere recounted herein.
He was born Septeml:)er ig, 1848, in Steady Run township near
'J'ickridge, and is the seventh child and fifth son in his family. When a
A'outh of fourteen he moved to Lancaster township, where he received his
education in the district schools, and at nineteen became, like his brother,
a teacher in Lancaster township. Lie taught and studied during the
long winter months for about eight vears an.l employed his summers in
fanning and capentering.
He was united in marriage on the J4th day of October, 1875, to
.\nna Lister, who was born in Clark county, hidiana, April 14, 1850,
:ui(l was the daughter of Abram and Lucinda Randolph, tier mother
was also born in the Hoosier state and her father was born in England,
whence he came to America after having passed but four summers, and
was reared in Indiana as a farmer, removing to Keokuk county in 186S.
He located in Steady Run township and died in the year 1894. Lucinda
Randolph is still living and is the mother of seven children, five sons and
two daughters, of whom Anna Lister was second daughter and third
child. She receivefl a superior education in the common schools of the
township.
Mr. George Richardson came to Hayesville in 1881 and opened up
business as a general merchant, in which his efforts were crowned with
31 GENl-.ALOGICAI. AA'P lUOCRArillCAL HISTORY.
more than nnlinary success. In 1S82 President Artliur recognized liis
fitness for tlie position and appointed liim postmaster, and lie has con-
tinued in tlie same position under succeeding presidents until the present
time. In 1885 he formed a partnership witli his hrotlier Joel, wliom
\\c Ikuc l)cf()rc referred to, and continued ihc l)usiness in the name of
Ricliardson Brotliers. Tic has hcen a stanch supporter of the Demo-
cratic principles and canditlates, was township clerk for about two years,
served as mad super\isor, and in many other capacities has rendered
cfikient and highly acceptable services, 'i'hc diversity of experience
which has fallen to the lot of Mr. Richardson has been in itself an educa-
tion, and cou])led with the energy and ambition that have always charac-
terized him. has given him a breadth of view and action that few possess.
SAMUEL TARKHILL.
The .subject of this sketch has resided in Keokuk county for thirty-
four years and is one of its old substantial farmers, who has now
retired from active life. Hugh rarkhill, his father, a native of Scot-
lan.i. followed farming all his life and died there aged fifty-six years.
His wile was Sarah I'itzpatrick, a native of Ireland, and died, there at
the age of fifty-eight. They were the parents of nine children, five sons
and four daughters, all rcacliing matiuity except the youngest daughter.
Samuel Parkhill, the third child and third son, had Jiis birth in
northern Ireland, May 31, 183S; there be enjoyed the advantages of the
schools until sixteen years of age. In 1853 he ventured alone on the
voyage across the Atlantic and first settled in Cincinnati, Ohio, were for
'^wf^ years he engaged in the bakery business. In 1S5S. removing 10
Johnson county. Indiana, he conducted a I'arm until August. uSOj, and
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 35
then enlisted in Company K. One Hundredth Inchana A'uhmteer Infantry,
serving until the end of the war. He was mustered out as seroeruit in
1865. In tliis long- period of ser\-ice j\'Ir. Parkhill took part in the fol-
lowing engagements: Vicksburg, Chattanooga, Missionary Ridge; he
\\as with Sherman on the march to the sea, and took part in the review
at V\'ashington at the close of the war.
At the end of his service he returned to Johnson county, lufliana, and
was there married on November 15, 1865, to Louisa Young, born in that
county, December 15, 1840. Her parents were Joseph and Mary (Moore)
^'oung, the father a native of Virginia and the mi^her of Ohio, and they
were early settlers of Johnson county. The father died at the age of
seventy years and the mother in her sixty-fifth year, and they had nine
children, who grew to maturity, of whom Mrs. Parkhill was the seventh
child; her parents came to Iowa in 1853 but returned to Indiana in 1862.
Mr. and Mrs. Parkhill moved to JefYerson county, Iowa, in 1865,
■,vhcre the_\- remained until January, 1869, and then bought a farm of
eighty acres in Lancaster township, Keokuk county; to this he after-
ward successively added eighty, eighty and one hundred and twenty-six
acres, making a finely culti\'ated estate of three hundred and eighty-six
acres, of which he still owns one hundred and sixty-six acres. He
carried on his successful farming operatious until 1899, when he retired
from active work to Sigourney.
The family consists of four children, Laura E. having died when
one year of age. Willard W. is a farmer in Lancaster township;
Sarah A. Utterback resides in Sigourney ; Charles D. is a farmer in Lan-
caster township; and Joseph Y. is also a farmer in Lancaster town-
ship. In his political views Mr. Parkhill is a stanch Republican, is a
member of Robert E. Low^ Post, Grand Army of the Republic, and
.V. GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
I)elongs to the Christian cluirch. While not yet an aged man, Mr.
Parkhill, after a life of such varied experiences, may well rest and enjoy
the competency which he has earned.
JOEL RICHARDSON.
Joel Richardson well illustrates that type of man who, in a new
country, begins his career in a log schoolhouse as pupil, then as teacher,
then as a growing factor among his fellows, and in later years holds
one after another of responsible offices until he becomes a recognized
leader of men. Such meteoric development we are inclined to look
for in fiction rather than in every day life. l)ut in him wliose record
follows, it is sober truth.
He was born in AIcDonough county, Illinois, on tlic iitli day of
.Augu.st. 1839. His father, Anson Richardson, claims Ohio as his natal
state, whence he moved to IMcDonough county, where he engaged in agri-
cultural pursuits, going from there to the state of Iowa and locating
at Steady Run in Keokuk county, finally settling in Lancaster township
in the year 1862, where he still lives at the advanced age of eighty-
seven years.
His mother, Lydia W'eller, came witli her people from Kentucky
in the early days and settled in Indiana. She also lived to the rii)e
old age of seventy-two years, having celebrated her golden wedding in
the Iwsom of her family and her friends, an occasion which was made a
time of great rejoicing and festivity. Si.xteen children were born to
her, eight of whom lived to maturity.
Of these children Joel was the third and was eight years old when
he came to Keokuk county and thence went to Steady Run, where upon
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. .37
tlie rouyh slab benches of the did log schoolhouse he learned his eaiiv
lessons and became so ]3roficient that at the age of twent^'-two years he
was gi\-en the position of teacher and for eighteen years thereafter in
the \vinter time continued his work of teaching, doing farming and
carjjentering in the summer time. His first marriage in iSGo in
Steady Run was to Mary C. Brown, who died leaving three children,
Sclui}ler; Julia, wife of Perry Weller of Sigounley, a prosperous pho-
tograplier; and \"iola, unmarried. By his second marriage in 1876 to
I\Iary E. Hubbard he had fi\'e children. His wife was born in Lan-
caster, Keokuk county, Iowa, and was the daughter of William H.
and Samaria (Chastainj Huljbard, who were early settlers of Keokuk
county. Their children were Lucia, Ral[)li, Carl, Ray and Frank. Li
1863 he came to Lancaster township and located on the farm where
he now lives. This consists of one hundred and ninety-one acres of
rich bottom land running down to Skunk ri\'er, and from the porch
of his house may be had a beautiful view across his highly im^jroved
fruitful land. He does a general merchandise business together with
his brother George, whose history appears in this work, and combines
with this very successfully the managing of his farm.
He espouses the principles of Democracy and usually casts his vote
in support of the Democratic candidates. He has risen from one po-
sition to another as the years go by, having served in many township
offices; he was justice of the peace for about ten years, during which
time his decisions and official acts were guided by great discretion and
wisdom : was also clerk of the courts for a considerable time ; antl during
all the fiftv-se\-en years of his residence in Keokuk county lie lias been
intimatelv identified with the growth of its institutions, and has always
been esteemed as one of the most influential and competent men of the
38 GENILA LOGICAL AND niOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
coiiiily. lie iiuulc use of every opportunity in lil'e. and obstacles to him
were but stejjping stones to further achievements and development.
HON. JOHN MORRISON.
Among the many prominent sons of pioneers in Keokuk county,
Iowa, is the postmaster at Hedrick, the honorable gentleman named
above.wiio is a native of Scotland, where he was born January 30. 1835.
Xuling briefly tiic salient points in the family history of Mr. Morri-
son, the father's name was John, aiul lie was a native of the same
country, and by occupation was a cotton spinner. He grew to maturity
in tlie old country, married, and with liis family in 1842 came to
America and located in .Allegheny City, Penns\ivania. He engaged
in the cotton spinning business for a peritxl of two years, and then re-
turned with his family to his native land. In the spring of 1848,
however, he again resolved to try his fortunes in the new world, and
this time tried the west, where he remained for a short time in Wis-
consin. He. however, soon came east and located in Ohio, and for
several years plied his trade in the city of Steuljenvillo. In 1854 he
came to Keokuk county, Iowa, and located on a farm in Benton town-
siiip, on which farm he lived until his death, in 1872, at the age of
si.xty-thrce yeears. His father before him was named John, and w'as
a weaver by occupation. He also came to America with his family
atid settled in Oiiio, in about the year 1846. His wife died soon after
coming to .\merica, and he started on a return soon afterward to the
old country, but on the voyage he was taken sick and died. The
mother of the immediate subject of this sketch was Katherine .Mar-
noch. She also was a native of Scotland, and coming to .\merica
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 41
with her husbaiul cUetl in 1873, at aljuut the age uf se\enty-t\vo. Her
father was James ^NlaniDch, who hveil and died in Sccjtlanil. Mr.
and Mrs. [Morrison became the parents of foin- cliikh'en, James, hviug
in Hedricix : Robert, deceased; ]Mary, the deceased wife of Henry Dean;
and John, the suljject of this sketch.
John Morrison was a lad of seven years when the family first
came to America, and on the second trip wa; but fourteen. He was
civen a very fair education in his youth, and began w'ork ci'iite early
for iiiiiiself in the cotton factory at Johnston. Scotland. He engaged
in this business for the first ten years of his business life in different
places in the east, and came with the family at the time stated above
to Keokuk county. He had learned the tinner's trade in the east, and
continued to work at that trade during the first part of his life in the
west at Pella, Iowa. Mr. Morrison married on Christmas da)' )f
1856, Martha Doolittle, who was a native of the Hoosier state, and
'.vhose family had removed to that state from the old Green Mo'tntain
state of \"ermont. In 1857 her people settled on a farm in Bentnn
township. After the marriage of our su])ject he settled on a farm in
the township near his people and had just begun to get it into proper
.-liape when the war cloud gathered over the nation. Putting aside
all otiier considerations, for he felt that his duty was to his country,
he enlisted in the army as a private soldier and enrolled in Company
K. of the Second Iowa Volunteer Infantry, in which organization he
served for three years. He was in some of the most severe battles of
the middle west, was at the surrender of Fort Donaldson, the battle of
Sliiloh, and in many minor engagements. Just subsequent to the
battle of Shiloh he sickened of the typhoid fever and passed a period
in the hos])ital. In 1864 he received his honorable discharge on ac-
42 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
cor.iit of expiration of term of serxice, and returned to the bosom of
his family. He did not remain long at home, however, for he received
an appointment as foreman of a government tin shop at Nashville,
Tennessee, ami re])airing to that place he passed the last year of the
x'.ar in the service of the government. Returning to Keokuk cour.ty,
he followed farming until 1875. in the meantime serving as member
of the twelftli, thirteenth and fourteenth general assembly, represent-
ing Keokuk county, the dates being 1868, 1870 and 1872. In the
latter year he was ai)pointed as a sjjccial envoy by President Grant to
carry to the German and Austria-Hungarian empires a jjostal .'uiil
trades mark treaty to each country. In 1874, after his return from
liic old country on this mission, Mr. Morrison was elected to the
position of county auditor of Keokuk county, and removed to the county
.seat, Sigourncy. Here lie remained until 1886. In i88j he received
the appointment of postmaster at Sigourney, and he served until ['res-
ident Cleveland removed him for offensive partisanship in September,
1885. In 1886 he removed to Hcdrick. then a new town and in partner-
ship with J. T. Brooks and N\'. H. Young, he erected a flouring n<ill
at that point, which he conducted for a period of some ten years, being
also actively engaged in the buying of grain during that period. In
1896 he was elected to the legislature by the Republicans of his district,
in which he served with great credit to himself and satisfaction to his
constituents. In the following year he was appointed postmaster at
Hedrick, a position which he still holds. It is unnecessary to say
that Mr. Morrison is a staunch Republican, and an earnest supporter
of the administration. He has been a Republican ever since the party
was organized, and he is ])rond to state that his first vote was for John
C. Frenii^iit in 1S56. Fratcrn;dly Mr. ^blrrison affiliates with the
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 43
Masons, and is a member of J. M. Hedrick Post of the Grand Arm\'
of the RepubHc, of which he is past commander. Mr. and Mrs. ^Mor-
rison are the parents of a family of seven children, Jessie, the wife of
John Palmer; Mary, wife of Charles Wharton; jNIina, wife of J. C.
Bnrns; Jenn)', wife of Professor Samuel Byers, Ames, Iowa; John, Jr.;
Ruth, a graduate of Ames College; Josiah S., also a graduate of Ames,
and at present engaged with the Chicago & Northwestern railroad as
a civil engineer. The son mentioned above as John Morrison, Jr.,
was a well-educated boy, a graduate of West Point ^^lilitary Academy.
At the time of the breaking out of the Spanish- American war, he was
assigned to duty with Troop A, Fourth United States Ca\-alry, in the
Philippines, where he was killed January i8, 1901, while in com-
mand of Troop A. Mr. Morrison and his family ha\-e always been
prominently identified with the social life of the sterling little city of
Hedrick. where they are held in the highest esteem by a large circle
of friends. Mr. Morrison has a wide acquaintance in the county, and
his fidelity to all duties in litVs relations has gained him the regard
i)f his fellow men to a high degree.
ELI H. CARRELL.
Eli H. Carrell, a retired citizen of Sigourney, Iowa, was born in
Logan county, Ohio, August 15. 1838, and is a son of George B. and
Censaline (Shirley) Carrell, both of whom were natives of Virginia.
The Carrell family is of Irish origin, while the Shirley family originated
in England, George B. Carrell was reared in Virginia, where his
father had located when he came as a lad to America. At Charlestown
Mr. Carrell married and with his wife mo\e(i to Greene county, Ohio,
4 1 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
about 1S36, and two years later to Logan county. Oliio. wliere our sul)-
ject was born. Mr. Carrell was a cabinet-maker and learned his trade
in Chqirlestown. In connection with this he was also undertaker, a<
was the custom at that time, and he laid away the remains of fullv six
hundred persons in Logan county and vicinity ; he following carpenter-
ing also. He was much respected as a true, honest and upright man.
About 1866 he moved to Iowa and located on a farm in Washington
county. His death occurred at .\dell. Dallas county, Iowa, and his
burial was at Mount Pleasant. His eighty years had not only silvered
his hair, but had made a record for him of an exemplary life. lie was
one of tlic most active supporters of the Methodist church in his neigh-
borhood and was always read}- to jjrcwiote its usefulness to the extent
I if his means. I'ormerly he was a Whig, but embraced the principles
of the Republican party at a later dale, and was a great admirer of
John C. Fremont. He filled many oiilices of trust and was a justice of
the i»cacc both in Ohio and Iowa.
The mother of our subject was born at Charlestown, \^irginia, and
her father. William Shirley, was a soldier in the war of 1812, holding
high rank. She ilied in her seventy-fifth year. She bore her husband
six sons and three daughters: William C. who is a merchant at Charles-
town. Virginia; Samuel S.. who is in the oil business at Hartford City.
Indiana: Edwin, who is in business at .\dell, Iowa: Eli 11.. who is our
subject: Miss ,\nnie, wlio resides at Adell : Margaret, who is the wife of
Milton Singmaster of Mountaingrove, Missouri; George W. ; Cen.saline
[^., who is Mrs. Holloway: and Trniics, who died at Mt. Pleasant, Iowa,
aged forty-one years.
Eli II. Carrell, a retiretl citizen of Sigourney. Iowa, was born in
ni.iiiu'd until about nimtccn vc.irs iif .'ii;e. reccixing his education in the
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 45
common schools and assisting his fatlier. At the age of eigliteen he
went as a carpenter's assistant witli liis brother Echvin in Logan count\-,
and tlie next year accompanied -In'm to fiercer connt_\-, Ilinois, Ijnt two
years later lie retnrned to Ohio. Here he soon bnih up a good Inisiness
in carpenter work, extending it to building and contracting, remaining
so engaged until 1862. He then went back to Mercer county and re-
mained there at work until his lirother and family decided to move to
Washington county, Iowa, when he accompanied them. For one year
he \\as in the pump business, but again returned to Ohio and remained
there until 1868, when he rejoined the family in Washington county.
Iowa. In 1873 he came to Keokuk county, and opened a furniture and
undertaking business, in which he continued at Richland for eight years,
changing to dry-goods and groceries for two years, and then bought a
farm in Lancaster township. Mr. Carrell operated the farm for three
years and then located in Sigourney, engaging in the grocery, flour and
feed business, in which he continued until December 12, 1901, at wliich
time he sold out and retired from activity.
Mr. Carrell is regarded as a very substantial citizen of the county.
For many years he was prominent in politics and very acceptably held
many of the local offices. In national affairs he supports the Repub-
lican partv. but in local matters he uses his own judgment. Fraternally
he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the
Masonic fraternity. In June. 1874. Mr. Carrell was united in marriage
with Mary A. Swearingen, who was born in Montgomery county. Indi-
ana, on June 3. 1854. and is a daughter of W. A. and Elizabeth (Hall)
Swearingen, and three children were born to this union, namely; Dr.
Oscar Vane, a dentist of Sigom-ney; Owen G., a teacher in the Deaf-
Mute College, at Austin, Texas, being a deaf-mute himself and well ed-
46 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
ucated; and Laura A. As one of the influential citizens of Sigourney
Mr. Carrell is iiiglily regarded, biu lie is also esteemed as a reliable, pub-
lic-spirited, charitable and most useful resident by the large circle who
have known him for so many years.
CALVIN McCAY.
Since an early epoch in the development of Keokuk county. Calvin
McCay has been numbered among its citizens. To know the earlv
life of our subject in this county, we have but to picture the conditions
common here five or six decades ago. Much of the land was wild,
awaiting the awakening energy of civilization to transform it into richly
cultivated fields. Schools were primitive, and the curriculum limited.
The now thriving towns and cities were merely hamlets, or h.id Udl been
founded, and the settlers w ere deprived f)f many of the comforts and con-
veniences of the older east; but they were people of resolute thrift an.-'
with determined purpose well fitted to the work of making homes in the
wilderness. Calvin McCay bore his part in the task of breaking u])
and developing the wild land, and now in the evening of life is enjoying
the results of his well directed labors. Washington county, Pennsyl-
vania, was the place of the nativity of Mr. McCay, his birth occurring
there November 26, 1830. His father, James McCay. was a native
of the Keystone state, and was by occupation a farmer. His mother
was Sarah Stoolfire, also a native of the Keystone state. They were
the parents of twelve children, all of whom grew to maturity, and ten of
whom still live: William, Calvin, Charles, Matilda, Susana, Phoebe,
Catherine, Elizabeth. Mary, Samuel, Joshua, and Thomas.
Mr. McCay. on account of the large family at hnmc, was early in
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 47
life bound out to a Mr. David McKune and remained with liim until he
re<-iched his majority, engaged in the labors of farm life. During this
time AJr. ]\IcCay was treated as an own child by Mr. and Mrs. McKune.
They ga\e him the best education that could be secured in his district.
At the age of twenty-one he started out for himself w^ith nothing of cai)i-
tal but good health, an earnest and determined spirit. He first worked by
the month for different farmers about the neighborhood and in 1853,
with his mother and two sisters, came out to Edgar county, Illinois,
where they remained a short time. They later were joined by his
brother, Charles, and the family settled in Shelby county, Illinois, where
they lived for three years. Mr. McCay was married in Macon count}',
Illinois, on the 4th of July, 1858, to Cynthia J. Wells, and after mar-
riage came to Keokuk county, where he located in German tinvnshii),
near where he now resides. Here he purchased a farm of forty acres,
and has since that time been actively engaged in agricultural pursuits in
this part of the county. In 1870 he Ijought his pre.sent farm, on which
he has since lived. Here he has one of the finest rural homes in the
county, and has the satisfaction of knowing that he made all the im-
provements himself. Mr. McCay has had a more or less eventful life,
devoted to activity in diiTferent branches in his earlier history. In 1863
he made a trip across the plains, ^•isiting Salt Lake City, and later going
on to Virginia City. This trip consumetl about a year and he returned
by the water route.
The lady who became the wife of ^Ir. McCay was born near Dan-
ville, Illinois. July 19, 1836. She was the daughter of Bazzell E. and
Katherine (Jones) Wells, father a native of Ohio, and mother of Ken-
tuck}-. They became the parents of ele\-en children, six of whom grew
to maturity. This lady has borne to IMr. McCay the following family:
48 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
Arnold, David, Alice, Gertrude, Granville, Emma, and Lindlay. All
the cliildren save Alice were born in Keokuk county, and she was born
in .Macon county, lliinois. In political faith Mr. McCay adheres to the
principles of the Democracy and has been honored frequently by being
chosen to some of the minor offices of the township, having served
a [)criod as trustee. lie is proud to claim thai he is a self-made man
in the highest acceptance of that term, and he is certainly deserving of
that ai)pellation, Idr he has secured his competence by his own exertions.
I Ic and his family are held in the highest repute by an extensive circle
of friends in Keokuk county.
AUGUST Pf^LKE.
August Polke. a prominent farmer and representative citizen of Van
I'lurcn tnwnship, Keokuk county. Iowa, was born in Germany, December
26, 1823, and is a son of Matthew and Flor.i (Kornauski) Polke, both
of whom were natives of Germany, and lived and died in their own
land. They were the parents of three children, namely : August, Albert
and Ferdinand, the last of whom is deceased; all were born and reared
in Germany.
August came to America on 1857, accompanied b>- his younger
brother: he was then about thirty-four years of age and for ten years
thereafter worked on farms in the state of Illinois. In 1867 he came
to Keokuk county. Iowa, and obtained one hundred and fifty acres of raw
land, and immediately, with energy and perseverance, started upon its
clearing and cultivation. This was but the beginning, for now Mr.
Polke owns four hundred and twenty-four acres of fine land and is one
of tlie most sulwtantial men in ilu- iMunvhJi). lie has engaged in gen-
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 4')
cral fanning and has been parlicniarly successful in the raising of slock,
iiogs, shee;) and cattle.
In 1853 Wx. Polke was niarrietl in Germany to Henrietta Nickel,
a native of German}-, who was reared there,, and a family of ten children
has been born to our subject and estimable wife, as follows: Helnionl;
Adeline, deceased ; Henrietta deceased : Augusta : Albertine ; Rudolph ;
Hannah; Edward; Richard; Ro.sa Paline. Mr. Polke and family be-
long to the Lutheran church in Sigourney, to the building of which he
was a generous contributor. The family is one which is held in high
esteem in Van Buren township and our subject is one of the leading
citizens.
FRED SCHWENKE.
I' red Schwenke, who resides on one of the well impro\-ed and feriile
farms in section 6. German township. Keokuk county, Iowa, is one ol
the leading German-American farmers of this section, who since 1851 has
been a resident of the United States. The birth of ^Ir. Schwenke look
place in Hanover, Germany, April i, 1827, and he remained in his na-
tive place until he was twenty-five years of age. Until he was fourteen
years old he went to school and then began work as an apprentice to the
tailor's trade; he completed the term of his apprenticeship in three years
and then worked as a journeyman until he came to America in 1831.
His parents died when he as about four years of age and he was reareil
by his father's sister. He landed in this country at the port of New
Orleans and there for nine months he was employed at his trade. Tunes
becoming dull in that locality, our subject decided to make his way to
Keokuk county, Iowa, tales of the rich farm land in this secti(.)n having
reached him. lience he started up the Mississippi river, reaching Bur-
so GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
lington, and later came by team to Sigourney. While working through
the succeeding three years at his trade in Lancaster, he sought out a
\aluablc tract of huul, entered it from the government and founded his
home.
The first marriage of Mr. Schwenke was to Caroline Oldenburg,
and one son, Henry, still survives from this union. .After the death of
his first wife, our subject married .\nna Mary Luers, who was horn in
Hanover, Germany, March 28, 1840. She came to America in 1861 and
to Keokuk county in the same year. .\ family of nine children was born
to this unii)n, as follows: Daviil, still unmarried, who operates the
farm; lleniiaii 1).. who is a druggist in .Sigourney: Caroline, who mar-
ried Ferdinand Buhnemann, lives in German township: Mary C, who
married Fred L. Slrohmann, lives near Delta: Fred G., who conducts
'I grocery business at Sigourney: Miss Martha M. resides al home; |ohn
follows the trade of carpeuler: Dora M.. wIkj married Charles M. (ioeld-
ncr, lives on a farm in German township: and George 11. \\ .. who is a
teacher, li\ cs al home.
Mr. Schwenke is one of the pioneers of Keokuk county, and during
his fifty years of residence has gained the esteem of all w ho know him.
He owns one of the well improved and valuable farms of German town-
ship, comprising one hundred and twenty-seven acres, and his buildings
and farm surroundings testify lo the excellence of his methods of agri-
culture, as well as his thrift and good management. In politics he is
a Republican, and has served very acceptably as school director. His
religious membership is w ilh the EvaiTgelical church and in its founding
and progress he has had much to do. His inlluence has always been in
the direction of improvement and no worthy enterjjrise in the township
finds him indifferent. He has been an important factor in the develop-
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 51
ment nt Iiis ]iart of tlic county and is ranked among its representative
men.
FREDERICK MEYER.
One of tlie most liighly esteemed and prominent old settlers of
German township. Keokuk county, Iowa, who resides upon a tine, well
improved farm in section 9, is Ereclerick JMeyer, who came here in 1854.
The hirth of I-'rederick ]\Iever was on January 3, 1853, in Hano\'cr,
Germany, and his father, John Meyer, was born in the same place,
and there married Margaret Muller. In 1834 John Meyer and family
came to America and settled in Keokuk ci unity, Iowa, \Ahere he bought
eighty acres of lan<l which was still raw prairie: with great industry
he cleared this and placed it under cultivation. This first eighty acres
liad been purchased of the go\'ernment and he paid one and one-.iuarter
dollars an acre for it. His second purchase cost him more, but he kept
iin adding until at one time he owned three hundrd and twenty acres.
He was a leading member of the Evangelical church and very materially
assisted in the building of what is the leading house of worship for that
religious body in this township. His death occurred when he was
aljout sixty-eight years of age. His widow still survives, at the age of
seventy-two years. They reared all of their seven children, six sons
and one daughter. These are as follows: Frederick, the subject of
this sketch: William, a resident of Xebraska : Kate, the wife of Charles
McKue, of Colorado; John, a resident of Xebraska: Louis, a gencr:d
farmer on the old homestead: George, a druggist in Hancock county,
Iowa: and Henry, also a druggist there.
Frederick Mever, of this sketch, was about one and one-half years
52 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
old \\licii his parents broiiglit him to Geman townshii). Here he was
reared and attended scliool. assisting in the fann work, driving oxen,
])Iowing and breaking up tlie prairie land. After lie was twenty-one years
old he worked for a neighboring farmer for one year, and in June, 1879.
was married to Miss Mary Cassens, wiio was l^orn in Hanover, Ger-
many, on Noveniber 13. 1847. She came to America with her parents
wlien aljout five \cars of age and was reared in German township,
ilcr iirst marriage was to Ernest I'autli. and five cliildren were born
to this union, namely: Henry, John. Charles. Anna and Matilda. Tlio
children liorn to our suljject and wife are the following: ^\'illian^,
(Justaf, Mary. Louisa and Emma.
In addition to being an extensive farmer. Mr. ^Teyer is a large
stock rai.ser and owns eight hundred acres of land. He has taken a
l)rominent ])art in politics and lias held various offices, being townshi])
trustee for tlu'ee years. He is fraternally connected with the order ui
Modern Brotherhood of America and belongs to and liberally con-
tributes to the -support of the Evangelical cliurch. He is one of ibc re-
spcinsible. sul)Stantial and rejjre.sentative citizens of German township.
HEXin- inv:i:j)i:kiLK 1)l-i:.\sixg.
Henry Erederick Duensing. a prominent farmer and old settler of
fk-rman township, Keokuk county. Iowa, owning a fine farm in section
A. was born in Hanover, Germany, March 14, 1844. and is a son of
Christian and Dorethc fVoltmcr) Duensing, both of whom were n:il-
ivcs of Germany. Trior to coming to .America in 1845 Christian Duen-
sing was a farmer and oil mill ojjerator in his native land. He landed
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 53
in Xew Orleans, wliere lie spent six months, and then came np the ri\c'-
as far as St. Lonis, ^Missouri, l)ut three weeks later came on to F\coknk
connty. Iowa, and settled in German township, in May, 1846. Here
he took up one hundred and eighty acres of government land, huilt a
log house on it and moved his family there. This log cahin has a his-
toric interest, as it was the second house erected in German township
and still stands on the farm which our suljject now owns. There
the family li\-ed until the father later built a second log house, as tlie
family was increased by the birth of three more children, consisting
then of three sons and three daughters. The father died in 1870, in
his sixty-ninth year. The mother lived until she was seventy-six
years of age. Both parents were most worthy, industrious and kind-
hearted people, who were esteemed by all who knew them; the)- were
pioneers who were of great value to German township. Of tlieir
children three daughters and one son, our subject, grew to maturity.
Henrv Frederick Duensing was the fourth chdd and \\vt second
son born to his parents, and was two years and two months old x.hen
In's father came to Keokuk county, making him one of the old residents.
fTis education was obtained in the log schoolhouse with its puncheon
fl(jor, and the writing lesson was given to the pupils as they rested on
tlieir knees and made desks out of their slab seats. He also attended a
German school for a time and Uuis acquired an excellent knowledge of
all the necessary branches. He began to assist on the farm as soon
as he was old enough and has always been interested in agricultural
matters.
On December 2-/, 1867, Mr. Duensing was united in marriage with
.Vdeline Bruns, who was also born in Germany, March 6, 1851, and
came to America when not quite seventeen years of age and joined
54 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTOkY.
her sister in Keokuk county, Iowa. After marriage tliey settled on
tlie old liomestead, which is a fine farm of three hundred and forty acres.
!u;d in addition to this lie owns another vaUialjle tract, comprising one
hundred and fifty acres, in Lancaster township. Not only has he heen
a very successful farmer, i)ul he is one of the largest stock raisers in
tiie township, making a specialty of sheep an<l cattle raising. His farms
are generally acknowledged to he the finest in Keokuk county. During
his fifty-six years" residence in German townsliip he lias seen many
changes, and can recall the time when there were hut three houses in
Sigourney. which is now a thrifty town of alx)ut two thousand popu-
lation.
The twelve children horn to our suhject and wife were as follows:
Christian, deceased; Anna, the wife of John Seger, of Idaho; Mary,
the wife of Ilcnry Spciss, of Keokuk county; Henry I'cnlinaiul, married
Kate Reck, of Keokuk county; Dorethe W., the wife nf Arthur Cineld-
ner, of German township; Katherine E., single, at home; as arc also
John C. G., Fred IX. ll.innali W., .Adeline M., Sophia L.. and Arthur
L. Mr. Duensing has been a life-long Democrat and has held many of
the local offices in the township, being one of its most honest and
ui)right citizens. lie has long been a member and a very liberal sup-
porter of the Evangelical church, of which the family also arc members.
JAMES ALLEN RENTFRO.
James .\llcn Rcntfrr., a successful farmer and rcjirescntative citizen
of Keokuk county, Iowa, was born in Illinois, near Springfield, on
January lo. 1834. His parents were John S. and Telitha (Hollenheck)
Rent fro, the former of whom was i)orn March 1, i8or). in Kentuckv
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 55
and was taken when yuung to Illinois by his grandfather, by whom he was
reared to manhood. John S. grew up a farmer, and with his neigh-
bors took part in the Black Hawk war. He married Telitha Hollenbeck,
who was born in Kentucky in iSio, a daughter of Abraham Hollenbeck,
who mu\ed to Illinois and there reared his children. This family was
of Dutch descent. In 1849 JNlr. Rentfro moved to Keokuk county,
Iowa, and li\ed in Steady Run township for six years, removing then for
a short time to Sigourney, and about i88_' located on the farm of two
hundred acres in Van Buren township, which is now the property of
our subject. Mr. Rentfro was a hard-working, industrious man anil
made valuable improvements wherever he located. In political sen-
timent he was a Republican. .\ family of tw'eh'e children was born
to him and wife, as follows: Mary, Elizabeth, James Allen, William,
Nancy, Joseph, Rebecca, Margaret, John, Perry, Robert and Martha ;
Mary, Nancy, Perry and Robert being deceased.
Our subject was reared until his fifteenth year in Illinois and
then accompanied his father to Iowa. Here he assisted on the farm
until the outbreak of the Civil war, when with loyalty he offered his
services to the government, enlisting in July, 1861, in the Fifth Iowa
Volunteer Infantry, under Colonel \Vorthington, and serving faith-
fully for three years. Mr. Rentfro took part in the siege of Vicksburg
and was wounded at luka, Mississippi, on September 19, 1862, so seri-
ously that he was kept for four months in a hospital and was then
transferred to the veteran reserves. He was mustered out at St. Louis,
Misscuri, on July 4, 1864, with a fine record. After his return from
the army our subject resumed farming and after his father's death
purchased the old home farm, which he has continued to successfully
operate ever since.
5<i GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
'1 iic tirsl marriage oi -Mr. Reufro was lo Lovinia ^IcMillian, and
two cliildren were born to this union, both of whom died in infancy. His
second marriage was to Arilla D. Curtis, who was born in November,
1851, in Ohio, and is a daughter of Benjamin F. and Amanda Curtis,
l)oth of whom were born in Oliio and became early settlers in Iowa.
To this marriage a family of eight children has been born, all of whom
survive except the eldest, John S. The others are: Clarence C,
iJe.'^sic L., Harley .\.. Charles C, Earl, Clarkson, and Benita A., all
of whom were born and have been reared and educated in this county.
Tile eldest son is a minister in the Atlvcnt ciiurch. to which religious
body the family belongs. Our subject is assistant in the Sunday school
and an honored deacon in the church. In politics he is a Republican
and takes a somewhat active part in its local organizations. Mr. Rentfro
is a licro of the Civil war. a hard-working, honest and upright man who
enjoys, as he deserves, tlic resjjcct of the community in which he lives.
LKO.X AKIl CI.ARY.
Leonard Clary, who during life was a prominent farmer and rcp-
lesentative citizen of \^an Burcn township, Keokuk county, Iowa, was
burn in I'lcniing county. Kentucky, July 14, 1827, and died March Ji,
iSf^3. His i)arents were George and Frances (Seibold) Clary, tlic
former of whom was born in Maryland and went to Kentucky when
l.e was very young, his parents moving to that state. W'licn lie attained
maturity he was married to Frances Seibold and they reared five chil-
dren, two boys and three girls; of these our late subject was the oldest,
I wo of the family being now deceased.
W'lien Leonard Clary, of this sketch, was fcnir years of age his
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 57
p.:i rents moved to Indiana, where they resided hjr nine years, mo\int;'
then to Keokuk CDunty, Iowa, and settHng in \'an Buren townsh.ip. Jn
llic eastern [lart uf the townsliip ;\lr. Ckiry entered six hundred and fort}-
acres of huid, providing a farm for each of his children in this way.
Eacii settled on his own land and undertook the clearing of it. In 185!"^
L-eonard Clary mo\-ed to Missoin"i and there engaged in farming until
1861, when he came hack to \'an Buren township and settled on a
tarn which he operated here for ten years, moving then to Union
county, hut in 1877 located on the farm now occupied hy his family,
consisting of one hundred and sixty acres.
In December, 1849, Leonard Clary was united in marriage with
Emily Asberr}-, who was born :\Iarch 21, 1833, in Indiana, an<l is a
daughter of Benjamin and ]Mary H. (Porter) Asberry, both of wdiom
were natives of the south, the former of \'irginia and the latter of
Kentucky. While still cjuite a young man, ^Ir. Asberry settled in Ken-
tucky, where he married, and then mnved to Indiana, where he followed
his trade of blacksmith. In the fall of 1850 he removed to ]\Ionroe
count\', Iowa, and engaged there in farming for about twenty-two
yjart, going then to Ringgold county, Iowa, where he died at the age
of ninety-six A-ears. During the Ci\'il war he served during 1863 in
what was called the Iowa Gray Beards regiment, coming home then on
account of disability. The mcjther of Mrs. Clary, Mary H. Porter, be-
longed to an old Kentucky family of prominence. These parents had
a family of five boys and two girls, of which family Mrs. Clary was the
second child. The names are noted as follows: Samuel, deceasetl ;
Emily; Joseph, deceased; Thomas; William; Mary Ann, and Benja-
min; all of whiim were born in Indiana, and in that state Mrs. Clary
was reared and educated. To her marriage with Mr. Clary were
.=>8 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
born eight cliiklrcii, namely: llcnrv, W. W., Maylon, Thomas, Mary
F., Amos, and i<ia M.. aU hmn in Kenkui': eounty, and one died in
infancy.
During life Mr. Clary was a most respected member of society.
He took a great interest in all matters concerning his family and town-
ship and never spared time tjr expense to advance llieir interests. In
politics he was a Democrat and liJied the office of assessor with credit to
himself and the public. He had many warm friends and was known
for his honesty and integrity.
.MADI.SO.V j'AI^K i'LDRlDGE.
In the death of this man. March 16, 1897. the township of Lan-
caster lost one of its old and intluential citizens and a most successful ag-
riculturist. Coming here in ihc early days, and never shirking re-
sixMisibiJity. he assisted in the molding and development of local in-
stitutions, and at the same time .so conducted his own afifairs as to win
for himself and family a \ery solid prosperity.
Mr. Eklridge was born in Cayuga county. Xew York, August 27,
1815, and was of a family well known and highly respected in that
vicinity. ITis father. Richard F.ldridge, was also born in Xew York,
and there f^r the niDSt pari made his home. He was a patriotic citi-
zen, and when the war of 18 u broke out enlisted and served as a
])rivate. He married Tacy Parker, and after her death he formed a
second union. By the first marriage there were eight children, of whom
Madison Park was the second. Mrs. I'lldridge v. as of Welsh descent.
Madison Park h'ldridge remained under the sheltering influence of
a good home until he was nineteen years old, and in the common
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 5'J
^cliools of liis neig'liborhoocl procured a tliorough rudimentary educa-
tion. Upon leaving home lie went to the growing- state of Oliio, wliere,
making liis Iiome with an uncle, he liired out by the month as a farm
hand. By attenchng strictly to liis business he made gotxl wages, and
continued the work for some time. He later traveled extensively though
the south, and finally coming to Stephenson county, Illinois, settled upon
a farm, where he remained for some \-ears. Previous experience as a
farm hand had made him familiar with the different methods of agri-
culture, and possessing the wisdom to apply the best to his own farm
management he \\as enabled to earn more than a comfortable li\-ing
for himself and family. He continued his work here with only one
interruption until 1864. The break in his regular routine \\as caused
by the Civil war. Though ]:)ast the prime of life when this occurred, he
did not hesitate to offer his services, and in 1862 enlisted in Company
H, Xinety-second Illinois \'olunteer Infantry, and went to the front as
a private. After a year, however, on account of being disabled, he
was honorably discharged. Soon after returning to his home he dis-
posed of his Illinois farm and mo\ed to Keokuk county, Iowa, settling
u])on the farm where his wife still resides. Here from year to year he
made new improvements and cleared new tracts and he continued his
labors here for thirty-four years. The place now embraces three hun-
dred and twenty-three acres of good land, largely under cultivation,
and is one of the most productive farms in the section, being a part of
the bottom lands. In 1849, while still residing in Stephenson county,
Illinois, ]Mr. Eldridge married Sophia Gaylord, who was born in Pcrrys-
burgh, Cataraugus county, New York, January 24, 1827, and who at
the age of twelve years moved with her parents to Stephenson county.
Illinois, where in one of the rude log schoolhouses she procured her
60 C/uVF. A LOGICAL AND niOGRAPIflCAL I f IS TOR V.
education. She is now residing on the splendid farm in Lancaster town-
ship, wliich was left her hy her Inisband. To Mr. and Mrs. Eldridge
have been born the follo\\ ing cliildren : Barber, who died young;
1-ncretia. wiio married V. 1). Hicks, a farmer of Lancaster township,
and they have two children, Zoe and Rul\v; Lucy married Oliver Glass,
and they have four cliildren, Lottie, Mamie, Minnie and !Max; Dan,
residing in Arkansas: Jessie, deceased: Minnie, now deceased: Ettie,
\\ho married J. E. Flanigan, and tlie\- have four children, Lola, Ruth,
Paul and Eugene.
Mr. Eldridge possessed to a marked degree the sound judgment,
the physical vitality and the ability to keep before him one clear, stead-
fast purpose, which gu into the make-up of a successful agriculturist.
"S'ct while succeeding in business, he never neglected his social and
public obligations. As a Civil war veteran he was long prominent in
the Grand .\rmy of the Repul)lic. He was known all over the county,
and everywhere highly esteemed.
The Gaylord family to which Mrs. Eldridge belonged was from
Connecticut. Both her grandfather. Amos Gajdord, and her fatlier.
Hiram Gaylord, were natives of that .state, the latter being born in
Hartford. The grandfather moved to Illinois with his son and died
there, 'i'he father was reared in Connecticut, but when a young man
left the slate and settled upon a farm in New York, where he engaged
■n agriculture successfully for some years. In 1839 he moved to Illinois
and settled upon a farm in Stephenson county, where he spent the rest
of his life, dying there :.t tlie age of sixty-five. After coming to Xew
^'ork Mr. Gaylord married Lucinda Chapin, who was born in Brattlc-
lioro, \'crniont, and when nine years old came with her parents. Daniel
.111(1 Lucy Chapin, to (Incid.'i county. .\i'\\ ^'ork. Her parenls were
/^C£^3^-
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 63
both born in Vermont, but were of Welsh and Irisli descent. To Mr.
and Mrs. Gayhird were born eight children, three sons and fi\-e daughters.
One child died in infancy. Mrs. Eldridge was next to the youngest.
JOHN AXMEAR, SR.
It is astonishing to witness the success of young men who ha\-e
emigrated to America without capital and through their own unaided
efforts have arisen to positions of wealth and prominence. The readiness
with which they adapt themselves to circumstances and take advantage of
the opportunities offered brings to them success and wins them a place
among the leading men of the community in which they reside. To this
class belongs John Axmear, Sr., a prosperous citizen and retired farmer
now living in the \illage of Keswick, Iowa.
He was born in Amsterdam, Holland, on the 30th of November,
1822, and was reared and educated in his native land, attending school
until sixteen years of age and acquiring a good knowledge of the com-
mon branches of learning. He then clerked in a store for two years,
and at the end of that time entered the army, in which he served for
four years. On Iea\'ing the service he resumed clerking and was thus
employed for five years. In the meantime he was married, the lady of
his choice being Duty Deline, by whom he had five children, four sons
and one daughter, namely: John, Emily, Jacob C, William and George
W. The mother of these children died in i860, and for his second
wife Mr, Axmear married in 1861 Julia Ann ]^,Iartin, a native of Bavaria,
Germany, and by this union he has one daughter, Malissa, wife of T. A.
Morgan, of Webster, Iowa.
It was in 1850 that Mr. Axmear emigrated to the new world and
64 GEMEALOGiCAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
took up Iiis residence in Baltimore, Maryland, but after a short time
s])ent in that city he removed to Cumberland, the same state. In tlie
employ of the Baltimore & Ohio railroad he was later sent to \'irginia,
where he held the position of boss of a gang of seventy-five Irish
laborers, who were employed in laying the first track at Oakland, Mary-
land, lor thirteen years he remained in the service of that company.
(luring which time he had charge of the workmen laying the track from
Oakland. Maryland, to WHieeling, West \'irginia. ,
Seeking a home in the west, Mr. Axniear came to Keokuk county.
Iowa, in i8f\^. and bought a farm of one hundred and four acres of lanil
in .\(lams townshii). wliicli he at once began to improve and cuhiwile.
Meeting with success as an agricidturist. he has added to \\\^ i)rn])erty
from time to time as Iiis financial resources have increased, until to-day
he and his sons together own aliont two thousand acres of valuable land,
most of wliicli is in .\dams township, this county, though three hundred
and twenty acres are in Minnesota. Mr. Axmear continued his farm-
ing operations until i8()0, when lie rcni<)\-ed to Keswick and retired
from active labor. His property in town consists of thirteen acres, it
being one of the finest places in Keokuk county, as the grounds are laid
(iff into a beautiful lawn, which show the skill of an expert landscape
gardener. Here, surrounded liy all the comforts which make life worth
the living. Mr. Axmear expects to spend his remaining days. enji\ving
;i well-earned rest. ITe deserves to be classed among the purely self-
made men who owe their advancement entirely to their own well-directed
efforts. Industry, enterprise and good management have been the
means whereby he has achieved his success, and his C(wr^e in life has q\o-
bcen such as to win for him the confidence and high regard of all with
whom he has been Imnight in coutart. In liis political affiliations Mr.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 65
Axmear is a stanch Republican, who has ever taken a commendable in-
terest in tlie affairs of his adopted country.
JOHN AXMEAR, JR.
Tiiis well-known and prominent agriculturist, residing on section
3, Adams township, has shown in his successful career that he has the
ability to plan wisely and execute with energy, a combination which,
when possessed by men in any walk of life, never fails to effect notable
results, and Mr. Axmear is to-day one of the most prosperous citizens
of his conmuuiity. He was born in Cumberland, Maryland, October 3,
1850, and is the oldest son of John Axmear, Sr., whose sketch appears
above. During his boyhood the family made tlieir home in West Vir-
ginia and in the subscription schools of that state he acquired his primary
education. He was twelve years of age on the removal to Iowa, and he
was later a student in the district schools of Adams township, this county,
and the high school of Sigourney. \\'hen out of school he assisted his
father in the operation of the home farm.
In 1882 Mr. Axmear was united in marriage to IVIiss Cordelia
Wyant, who was born and reared in White Pigeon, this county, and
they have become the parents of five children who are still living, namely :
Jennie, Etta, Katie, Clara and John. There was also one child that
died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Axmear began their domestic life upon
the farm in Adams township, where they still reside. In connection with
his farming operations, our subject engaged in teaching school for
twenty-two terms, two of these being in the village school of South
Enghsh, and the remainder in the district schools of this county. He
taught his last school in the winter of 1882-3. During his vacations
(.0 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
and mil ui school liouis he engaged in feeding cattle, chopping wood
and working at various occupations whereby he might increase his
income. Since 1882, however, he has given his undividetl attention to
general farming and stock raising and has met with most gratifying
success in his labors. He is to-day the owner of a very valuable and
highly ])roducti\-e farm of si.x hundred and si.xty-nine acres, which Ik
has placed under a high state of cultivation, transforming it into a model
larm with the best of improvements. In 1893 he erected an elegant ten-
nx^rn house ant! the other buildings upon the place are in keqiing there-
with. \n addition to the raising of crops best adapted to the soil and
climate, he gives considerable attention to the raising of stock, making
a specially of polled Angus or .\bercleen cattle, having a fine herd of
about one hundred and twenty-five. Mr. .\xmear is also a stockholder,
director and president of the Farmers' Savings Bank of North English,
which was organized October i. 1897, and has a capital stock of ten tlnju-
sand dollars. He was one of its organizers, and it owes its success
largely to his capable management and good business ability.
In his political afiiliations i\Ir. Axmear is a stanch Republiam, and
he has taken quite an active part in local affairs, serving as assessor of
.\dams township and president and secretary of the school board. Fra-
ternally he is an honored member of the Masonic lodge at Sigourney. In
business affairs he is prompt, energetic and notably reliable and generally
carries forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes.
J. C. AXMEAR.
J. C .\xmear, one of the rci)rcsentalive citizens and successful
farmers .nid stork raisers of Ad.nms lownshij), whose home is on section
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 67
I, first opened his eyes to the Hght of day in Preston county. West \'ir-
ginia. September 6, 1854. He is the second son of John Axmear, Sr.,
whose sketch appears above. From tlie age of nine years nur subject
has made his home in this county, and is indebted to its pubHc school
system for his early educational privileges. Under the able dircctiiMi
of his father he acquired an excellent knowledge of all the duties which
fall to the lot of the agriculturist, and he continued to assist in the
operation of the home farm until his marriage.
That important e\-ent in his life occurred December 4, 1879, Miss
Rosa Brakel becoming his wife. She is a native of Johnson county,
Iowa, and was there reared and educated. Seven sons bless tliis union,
who in order of birth are as follows: Arthur, who is a graduate of
the Keswick high school and now has charge of his father's farm ii'
Wilkin county.. Minnesota; William, who is also a graduate ()f the Kes-
wick high school and is now at home; Fred and George, twins; Sidney,
Bruce and Cecil, all at home.
Since leaving the parental roof Mr. .\xmear has always resided
upon his present farm on section i, Adams townshii),and in its operation
he has met with excellent success. He has erected thereon a good resi-
dence, barns and other outbuildings for the shelter of grain and stock,
and to-day he has one of the best improved farms of the locality. It com-
[irises four hundred and thirty-nine acres, and besides this valualjle tract
Mr. Axmear owns a half-section of land in \\'ilkin county, Minnesota,
and business property in North English, Iowa. He is also a stockholder
in the Farmers" Savings Bank of that place and is recognized as one ot
the leading business men of his community. He is actively interested
in raising, feeding and shipping stock and at the present writing, in
1902, has a herd of one hundred and thirty cattle upon his place. This
68 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
braiicli of his business lias added very materially to his income, and he
is one of the most substantial men of his community, as well as one oi
its most honored and highly esteemed citizens. The Republican party
has always found iu him a stanch supporter of its principles, and he
takes a commendable interest in public affairs.
GEORGE W. AXMEAR.
The subject ol this pcrstmaj narrative is one of the most successful
and progressive farmers within the borders of Adams township, where
almost his entire life lias been passed. He is a native of West Virginia,
however, born on the 171I1 of April. 1858, and is the youngest son and
fifth child in the family of John Axmear, Sr.. who is represented above
in this work. (Jeorge W. .\xnioar was only four years old when the
family took up their residence in Keokuk county, and with its develop-
ment and upbuilding they have since been pmniinontly identilicd.
Our subject passed the days of his boyhood and youth upon the old
homestead in Adams township and is indebted to the district schools of
the neighborhood for his educational advantages. He labored in field
and meadow, assisting in the operation of the farm iox five years after
his marriage, which important event in his life was celebrated in 1885 in
Adams township. The lady of his choice was Miss Rosa Lane, who
was born in Wisconsin in 1866 and was very young when brought to
lowa.liy her parents, Hiram and Jane (Bennett) Lane, early settlers of
Keokuk county, where Mrs. Axmear was reared, remaining under the
parental roof until her marriage. Her father, who was a farmer by
occu])ation, died in Woodbury county, Iowa, in 1897. Unto our subject
and his wife li.ivc been l)iirn six children, one son and five daughters,
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
69
namel}- : Lulu, Gale, Pearl, L. V., Bertha and Xe\-a, all born and reared
on the old homestead.
As previously stated, Mr. Axmear continued to engage in farming
upon the old home place ^vith his father and brothers for five years after
his marriage, and in 1890 began farming alone upon four hundred and
twenty-eight acres of the old homestead, a part of which he cleared, and
he made a number of improvements thereon. He continued to reside
upon that place until 1901, when he removed to his present home on a
separate farm of one hundred and tweh'e acres of land, it being a rich
and valuable tract under a high state of cultivation. Here he has built
a nice home and good barns and other outlniildiu^gs, which stand as
monuments to his thrift and enterpri.se. Jn fact, he has made all of the
improvements on the place, which ranks among the best farms of the
neighborhood. In connection with general farming he also carries on
stock raising with good success. He is a stockholder of the h\armers
Savings Bank of North English and is one of the most reliable business
men of his community. Both Mr. and Mrs. Axmear are members of
the Methodist Protestant church of Adams township, and since attaining
his majority he has always afhliated with the Republican party, taking
quite an active interest in public affairs, as every true American citizen
should.
HENRY FOLLMAN.
Henry Follman, a well-to-do farmer and old settler of Lancaster
township, in this county, is a born worker and a man of remarkable
push and energy. Losing his father at an early age in a foreign land,
he came to this country when quite young, and not only took a hand .at
70 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
earning liis own living but also assisted in the maintenance of his
mother and sisters. Deciding to follow farming and sliunning no hard-
ship, he bravely pushed west and in this way came into possession of
some of the best land our country had to offer. Mr. Follman was born
in Germany, July 7, 1839, and is the son of Frederick and Frances l-'oll-
man. both natives of Germany. The elder Mr. Follman was reared and
educated in T'lcrmany, and there married and made his home. To
him and his wife were born in that country four children — Frederick,
Henry, Lucilla and Louisa. Mr. Follman died in his native land.
.\ftcr the death of the father the family came to this country and
.settled in Illinois, where Mrs. Follman spent her last da3-s.
Henry l-"ollnian was Ijut twelve years old when he came to this
country. In spite of his youth, however, he took up the active duties of
life like a man, hired nut at anything he could turn his hand to, and in
this way purchased a farm, where he with his mother and her other
children resided for many years. .\s the land was new and mostly un-
broken, with determination he .set to work and assisted in clearing it.
and made it in time the equal of any in the vicinity. In 1856 he and his
brother left their mother and sisters in possession of the farm they h.id
worked so hard to earn, and in an emigrant train started to the newly
settled state of Iowa, there to make their own fortunes. .After some
looking about Mr. Follman settled upon a fifty-acre tract in Lancaster
township, a little west of his present farm, now known as the Barlow
place. Here he remained eight years clearing and cultivating the land
and makine many improvements upon it. In 1877 he purchased his
present farm, a s]jlendid one hundred and seventy-five acre tract, which,
however, needed considerable clearing and breaking. ihis work cn-
j)cri('iiii- liriil cii.itili',' l'-in iml\ I... i will r,, .lu. an<l in lime he luul one
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 71
of tlie best farms in liis vicinity. By obser\'atii)n and the exercise of
good judgment he lias acquired the knack of making his place yield large
and excellent crops, and he is looked upon as a man who thoroughly
understands his work.
In 1864 INIr. Follman married Esta Maxwell, who was born in
Indiana, and who when rather young came with her parents. J. \\".
and IMariah Maxwell, to this county, where they afterward resided. Mr.
and ^Irs. Follman have had eight children, all of whom have been born
and reared in Lancaster townshii): William H., Frederick E.. John
A.. Lucy. Fulton, Stella, Elsie and Minnie. As one of the highly
respected old settlers of the township. Mr. Follman has always had his
say in tlie management of local affairs. He is exceeilingly popular and
has filled with marked ability several offices in the township. In politics
he affiliates with the Democrats.
EUGENE DOGGETT.
One of the prominent farmers in Keokuk county, Iowa, resides on
section 2"]. Lancaster township, and was born on the farm which he
now owns and operates on December 8, 1856. He is a son of A. J.
and Mary (Gilliland) Doggett. who for many years were most highly
respected residents of this county. Early in the settlement of Keokuk
county, when no more than nine families had yet dared the certain
l)rivations of pioneer life in what was then a wilderness, Presley Dog-
gett came from his Kentucky home and located a small claim on a
tract adjoining our suliject's present farm. Here he built his cabin
and cleared his fields, rearing a family and offering a welcome to the
faithful preacher who made his circuit through the woods on his mis-
72 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL IlISTOkY.
sion, for Mr. Doo-.e^ett was one of tlie founders of the Baptist clnircli
in this locality. His hfe did not extend over fifty-seven years. The
fatlier of our subject, son of tliis early pioneer, was sixteen vears old
when he came to Keokuk county, and he later located on our subject's
present farm, where he engaged in extensive stock raising, buying
and selling the same also, and shipping more than almost any other
resident of the township at that time. He died at the age of seventy
years to the day. In politics a strong Democrat, he was equally stanch
in his adherence to ihe tenets of the Baptist church.
The mother of our subject was born in Indiana and was reared
there until the age of fifteen years, when she accompanied her parents
to Keokuk county. Iowa. She is a daughter of James and Susan Gilli-
land. both of whom were natives of Indiana. Mr. and Mrs. Doggelt
had born lo ilieni a family of twelve children, eight daughters and
four sons, of these, six daughters and our subject alone survive.
Eugene Doggett received his educatiim in the common schools of
Lancaster townshi]) and grew to manhood, assisting on the farm and
gradually becoming financially interested in the handling and shipping
of horses. He now owns a large and productixe farm, comprising
four hundred and sixty acres of well cultivated land, and is justly re-
garded as one of the leading men of substance in this locality, lie
carries on a general line of farming, does some stock raising and rents ;i
])ortion of his land.
On January 2C. 1889, Mr. Doggett was married to I'hronia ^[ver.s,
who was born in Keokuk county, Iowa, and was a daughter of Asa
and Rachel Myers, a family of early settlers. Mrs. Doggett died .May
y, 1898, leaving a family of three children, namely: Myrtle. liruce ancl
Blanche. The second marriage of our subject was to Mar\- fackson.
VENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 73
\\!io was burn in Jackson township, Keokuk county, and to this union
ha\e l)een b(jrn two sons, Howard and Homer. Mr. Doggett has spent
his wiiole hfe in Lancaster township and is widely known as a man of
rehabihty and uprightness. He has been a hfe-long Democrat, but he
has ne\er sought office, his kirge agricuhural interests engaging his
time anil attention.
LOUIS FOLLMAN.
Louis Follman, a pmminent farmer of Lancaster township, Keokuk
county, Iowa, was born February _'G. 1858, and is a son of Frederick
and Frances (Lefler) Follman, Ijoth of whom were natives of Germany.
Frederick Follman was l:iut a small boy when his mother brought him
to America and settled for a short time in Missouri. The mother later
took him to Illinois, where he grew up, working on various farms, and
later came to Iowa. He settled on a farm in the western part of
Lancaster township, only renting the land, as he was a skilled stone-
mason and soon found plenty of employment in his line. Finding-
conditions favorable, Mr. Follman later bought a small farm of forty
acres, selling it, however, in 1878. He is now engaged in business
as a book agent at Martinsburg. He is a Democrat in politics and
has at various times very efficiently filled a number of the local offices.
His marriage took place in Illinois to Frances Lefler, who also came
to America from Germany when quite young, accompanying her parents.
Four children were born to this union, namely : Louis, our subject ;
Frank J.; Louisa; and Adeline, deceased. All of these children were
born and reared in Lancaster township.
Our subject, Louis Follman, acquired an excellent common school
74 GENEALOGICAL AND DIOGRAPLIICAL HISTORY.
education and remained with his father until twenty-one years of age.
Me tlicn joined a government survey expedition and went to California,
where he remained for fi\e years, coming back to the old home in 18S4.
Mr. I'ollman then engaged in farming on the farm he now owns, com-
lirising ei<jhty acres, about one-half of which he cleared himself and
on which he has made the excellent improvements. In the spring of
1884 he was married to Cynthia Childs, who was born in \'an Buren
township in 1864 and was about twelve years old when her parents
mf)ved to Lancaster township. Her father, Aaron Childs. was born
.\pril 28, 1826, in the state of New York, where he lived until his
marriage to Fatima Marsh, who was also born and reared in Xew York.
Some time in the forties they came to Keokuk county, Iowa, anil here
Mr. Childs died in December, 1896. .\ family of six chiklren was
l)(irn lu .Mr. and Mrs. C'hilds. namely: I'lorence, Alvin M. and I'lorence
C. deceased ; O. W. ; Cynthia; and Myrtle E. The throe sursixors were
burn in this county. The children born to our subject antl wife arc
the following : Patti, Fatima, Floy, Ruth and Jean, all of whom were
born on the old homestead.
Mr. Follman now owns a line farm of one hundred autl twenty
acres, which is ])roducti\e and very valualjle. In politics he is a Dem-
ocrat and has very efficiently .served the township in many pc^sitions, and
is now its capable clerk. He has been connected with the order of
Odd Fellows in Sigourney for many years and is a liberal contributor
to the support of the Methodist church, of which his family are members.
EDWARD SCHILTZ.
There is probably no more enterprising citizen in the township of
Lancaster than this prominent young agriculturist residing on his care-
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 75
fully culti\"ated and altractix-e farm in section J9. Besides managing
his own affairs \\ilh the wisdom and science that would do credit to a
man of twice his years, he takes a leading hand in all public doings
and is one of the most prominent lodge men in the vicinity. His high
intellectual endowments and energy and push, which have thus brought
him to the front, he has undoubtedly inherited from his good German
ancestors.
His grandfather, John Schiltz, possessed to a remarkable degree
these same traits, added to a dauntless courage, which made him bold to
undertake what to other men would seem the impossible, fie was born
in Prussia. Germany, in 1S21. Desiring when a youth of nineteen to
seek his fortune in America, though possessed of scarcely money
enough to pay his passage, he bra\'ely ventured forth and upon landing •
in New York had but twenty-five cents in his pocket. Undismayed,
howe\'er. he wisely set to work and soon found what was equivalent to
money to him. a good position in a flouring mill, whose owners, two
brothers, also possessed a large elevator. Here he remained for a con-
siderable time, acquiring a knowledge of milling of great \alue to him
in later years. After a few years. h(jwe\-er. he left New York and
went west, locating at Peru. Illinois. Here he purchased a mill and
engaged in business for himself for awhile. Though successful, he
finally sold out and came to the new territory of Iowa, settling first in
the vicinity of Solon. Purchasing a water-power mill near bv. he
conducted an extensive manufacturing industry for a short time, which
proved highly profitable. Seeing, however, a better opening for his
business at Riverside, he soon disposed of his Solon property and
moved there, ])urchasing at the same time another large mill. This
he managed with more than his usual good fortune, and kept it in
76 GENEALOGICAL AND DIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
operation I'or iiiaii\ \cars. Later, in 1857, wliile residing in this same
place, in company w itli a Mr. Stcavcnson, he built what has been widely
known as the Black Hawk Mill, on Xorth Skunk stream, in Clear Creek
township, Keokuk county. The mill is a large one, was then run by
water power, and proved as a business venture the crowning success
of his life. He continued to run it to the time of his death, which oc-
curred in iSOy. While residing in I'eru, Illinois, Mr. Schiltz married
Josepiiine Wendling, who was born in Germany. She died at River-
side, in 1857, and some years later, after mo\ing to Keokuk county,
Mr. Schiltz married Anna M. Baker, who was also born in Germany.
She sur\i\cd her husljan<l many vears. By the lirst marriage there was
one child— I'rank. who is mentioned below. By the second marriage
there were five children. Mr. Schiltz's eminently successful career
commended him lo the confidence and respect of all who knew him, and
his influence was felt far and near in any community in which he
ha])pened to reside. To liis children he left not only a large inherit-
ance of brains, but also considerable property as a stepping stone to suc-
cess in life.
Frank Schiltz, the well known proprietor of the Sigourney Rolling
Mills, even surpasses his father as an efficient business man, has also
been eminently successful as an agriculturist, and now owns two large
farms in Kecjkuk county, lie was born in Riverside, Johnson county,
Iowa, May 31, 1855, being InU two years old when the family came
to Keokuk county, where he has resided most of his life. In his youth,
however, lie spent considerable time with his maternal grandijarents,
who were residents of Iowa City, and there in the public schools
received a good practical education. While in that city he also worked
for some lime in a mill as a preparati<)n for the business he intendeil
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 77
to pursue in life. Having some means with Avliich to start in life, in
1874 he purchased one-thinl interest in the Black Hawk ]\Iill, in which
his father had taken a hand in building, and he remained with the firm
for ahout three years, earning for himself a large income. After sell-
ing out he purchased a farm in Lafayette township, which he carried on
for five years, meeting with the most gratif\'ing results. Having
by this time. March, 1886, saxed considerable money, he purchased a
two-third interest in the Black Hawk Mill, and here again carried on a
iTourishing business for five years, that is, until 1891. Then selling
out his interest, he (jnce more turned to agriculture, this time in Lan-
caster township, where he purchased another large farm. Applying both
science and practical experience to his efforts, he caused his place to
yield large and \'aluable crops, and gained the reputation of being one
of the most successful agriculturists in the vicinity. In No\-ember,
1897, he came to Sigourney and purchased the Rolling Mills, of which
he has since been the proprietor. He has conducted here a large and
increasing business, giving employment to many men, and deriving
for himself good profits. He has done well in all his business ventures,
and is now a large property owner, possessing among other real estate
tlie two farms already referred to.
Li 1875 Mr. Schiltz married Elizabeth Stein, born in Keokuk
countv, of German descent, and thev had .seven children. Mr. Schiltz
has always been an inlluential man in the community in which he hap-
pened to reside, and his large business interests have greatly benefited
the county. He is an influential member of the Catholic school.
Edward Schiltz, son of Frank, was born in Black Hawk Mills, in
Clear Creek township, September 9, 1876, and was the oldest of his
parents' seven children. In the district schools of his ncighbnrhoDd
78 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
he received liis early education, and later attended the Bloomfield Xor-
mal School for a wliile and the Xormal Institute of Keokuk county,
where lie prepared himself for teaching. After leaving school he
tauglit lor two terms in Keokuk county, giving excellent satisfaction.
Deciding, however, to turn his attention to agriculture, in 1899 he rented
the old Reynolds farm in section 29, Lancaster township, where he still
resides. This place is a large one hundred and thirty-fi\e acre tract,
is well improved and here he carries on general farming and engages
in some stock raising. An excellent manager and possessed of a large
capacity for work, he is meeting with splendid results, and is looked
upon as one of tiie most progressive and \et practical agriculturists in
his county. Mr. Schiltz has recently purchased the old IMintur farm,
consisting of sixty acres and situated a mile and a half southeast of
Sigourney, on which he intenils to make his future home.
In 1898 Mr. Schlitz married Alice Utterhack who was born in
Lancaster township, daughter of Corbin and Jane (Lippard) L'tterback;
she received her education in the common schools of the neighborhood.
Though (|uite young, Mr. Schiltz's remarkable capacity for leadership
has comiuended him to the confidence of the people, and he is exceedingly
jiromincnt in the public aflfairs of his community. As a stanch Re-
publican lie is now serving as chairman of the central committee of the
townshii), and has in other ways made his inlluence felt. He is one
of the most prominent members of the Independent Order of Odd l"ci-
lows, has completed every degree, and filled all the chairs of the order.
.\ man of brilliant social attainments, he is well known throughout the
.i.iinix •111,1 liiv manv w;irni frlcml^.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 79
NANCY MARTIN HART.
Nancy IMartin Hart, now residing on iier large and attracti\e farm
in section 28, Lancaster township, is one of the old settlers of Keokuk
county, Iiaving lived here since February, 1854, with the exception of
seven years spent in Clarke county, Iowa. She was born in Holmes
county, Ohio, July 7, 1833, and is the daughter of Joseph and Rebecca
iKnox) jMartin. Her grandfather, Edward Martin, of German de-
scent, was also a resident of Holmes county, Ohio, for many years, ha\--
ing moved there from Virginia in the early days and settled upon a farm
on Martin's creek, a stream namd in honor of his family. Here he
engaged very extensively in agriculture, and also conducted for many
years a large sawmill. Being an excellent farmer and a judicious busi-
ness man he became possessed in time of considerable wealth.
Joseph Martin, born in Virginia, was only a mere child when the
parents moved to Ohio, and there in the common schools of Holmes
county secured his education. By assisting his father upon the farm in
the early days he became well trained to agriculture, and upon reaching
manhood followed it as a regular occupation. It was in this same place
where he was reared and educated that he married Rebecca Knox, who
was born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, and came to Holmes
county, Ohio, when a child, with her father, David Knox, one of the
pioneer farmers and saw-mill operators of the county. She died at the
age of fifty-one. By this marriage there were eight children, Anna,
Eliza and Mary Jane, now deceased ; Edwin M., a resident of Shelby
county, Iowa; Nancy ]\I., who is mentioned below; Catherine and
Eouisa, now deceased : and Joseph L., who became a soldier in the
Civil war and died during the service. In 1843 ^^i'- Martin, deciding
80 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
to seek his fortune with the pioneers of the rich lands of Iowa, came
to that state and settled upon a farm in \'an P.uren county. Here lie
remained for eleven years, clearing and breaking the land, and makint;
other improvements, so that the place became in the course of his stay
there one of the valuable pieces of property in the county. In 1S54 he
mo\ed to another farm in Lancaster township, Keokuk county, which
he managed with his usual success, and where he remained for tlie
rest of his life, dying there at the advanced age of eighty-nine. lie
was a man of influence in the community, especially in religious circles.
He belonged to the Methodist Episcopal church, took an active part in
all tlie efiforts of that denomination, and often officiated as pastor. In
politics he was at first a \\'hig, and later a stanch Republican.
Xancy .Martin Hart passed that character-developing period of
youth, that is the years between the ages of ten and twenty, in the wild
pioneer settlement of Van Buren county. Here in the rather i)rim-
itive schools of the new community she secured her education, which.
while limited, afforded training in tlie essential virtues of .self-reliance
and industry, without which no character is complete. When her
parents moved to the Lancaster farm in Keokuk county, she came with
them, and there a year later, in July, married Samuel Hart, who was
born in Muskingum coimty, Ohio, May 15, 1830, and when a small boy
came with his parents to Morrow county, Ohio, where he was reared,
and in the common .schools received his education. About 1852 he
came to Iowa, and locating in Muscatine county, remained there for some
time. After their marriage he and Mrs. Hart .settled upon a farm in
Clarke county, Iowa, where they remained until 1862, when he left home
and family at the urgent demands of his country for soldiers, and en-
listing in Company I", Si.xth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, went to the
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 81
front as a private. After participating in many a hard iiglit, May 13,
1864. in the battle uf Resaca, he received a mortal wound and died a
few days later, May 2\. He was buried in the hospital cemetery at
Resaca. ^Mr. and Mrs. Hart had three children: Clark and Mary A.
died in infancy. Emma L. married Kline Iveaster and they have had
five children, four of whom are now living: Joseph B., who is attend-
mg Iowa City Medical College: Leonard, who carries on the home-
stead for his grandmother. Mrs. Hart; Ella R. ; Sidney H. : Carl J. died
in infancy. Some time after the death of her husband Mrs. Hart
mo\ed to her farm in Lancaster township, where she now resides. Her
grandson, who carries on the place, is making a great success of his
farming, and Mrs. Hart recei\'es a very comfortable income. She is
an excellent Business woman and is esteemed as such throughout the
community. ' She is well known all o\er the county. Prominent in
religious circles, she is an active worker in the Methodist Episcopal
church at Lancaster, of which she is a highly respected member.
JAMES M. SWEARINGEN.
James W. Swearingen. a wealthy agriculturist and extensive stock
raiser, now residing at his splendid farm in section 34, Lancaster town-
ship, possesses those strong traits of character which would have
brought him to the front in any occupation he might have chosen in life.
Endowed with foresight, good judgment, self-assertive powers, he might
ha\e made a magnificent business man. Or his remarkable executi\c
ability and his large capacity for leadership might have given him
prestige in the political field. Content, however, to follow the occui)ation
82 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
l(j w Inch he was reareil, lie has here put his forces to good service, ami
has had some to spare for the discharge of public duties.
-Mr. Swearingen comes of a family of agriculturists. His great-
grautl father, Charles Swearingen, followed that occupation for the most
part of his life, first in Ohio, and later in Montgomery county, Indiana;
he was a German by descent. John Swearingen, grandfather of James
M., was also a farmer. Born in Ohio, he was reared there, and upon
reaching manhood followed agriculture for some years. Later he
moved with his family to Indiana, where he spent his last days, dying
there.
William A. Swearingen, father of James M., likewise took a hand
in the development of the agricultural resources of the middle west.
I'xjrn in Butler county, Ohio, he was but eight years old when his parents
moved to the growing state of Indiana. Here in Montgomery countj'
he received his rearing and his education, which was that of the ordinary
farmer's boy of his time and place. As a young man he spent some
years upon an Indiana farm, where, conducting a flourishing industry,
he made in time considerable money. Impressed with the vast re-
sources of the further west, in 1868 he mo\ed to Keokuk county, Iowa,
and there settled upon the farm where James M. now resides. The place
entirely fulfilled his highest anticipations, and here he remained and
worked for some time. He spent his last days with a son in Hedrick,
dying there in his seventy-ninth year. Mr. Swearingen married Mar-
garet E. Hall, who was born in Newberry. South Carolina, and when
nine years old moved with her father, Thomas Hall, to Indiana. Mr.
Hall, a man of Irish descent, was a fariuer by occupation. He hail two
brothers who served seven years in the Revolutionary war under General
George Washington. Mrs. Swearingen's mother was a native of Ire-
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. Sj
land aiul died in South Carolina before slie and Iier father moved to
Indiana. Mrs. Swearingen was a wise and faithful helpmate for manv
years. She died in her sixty-third year. To her and her husband were
born nine children, seven of whom are now living-. Of these James M.
is the oldest. M. Swearingen was a man of pronounced political views;
in the early days he was a \\'hig, but later affiliated with the Democrats.
James M. Swearingen was born in ]Montgomery county, Indiana,
and there grew to manhood. In the common schools of his neighbor-
hood, which he attended for a few months each year, he recei\-ed a good
fundamental education, which he has in later years supplemented by e.\-
tensi\-e reading and the practical work of life. In 1868 he moved to
Keokuk county w ith his jjarents, antl there taking up the manly duties
of hfe, he assisted his father in purchasing the farm, which has since
come into his possession; in fact, with the exception of nine hundred
dollars contributed by his father, he paid for the property himself. I'or
two years after coming to Iowa he clerked in a drug store in Ollie, ac-
quiring a practical knowledge of business and an aptness for the work
which would certainly have proved a stepping stone to something higher
in that line had he chosen to continue the work. The large homestead,
however, recjuiring his attention, he decided to give his undivided eff<jrts
to it, and returning home he has since remained there. Here he car-
ries on general farming, and also engages in stock raising, being suc-
cessful in both lines. He has made many impro\ements upon the place,
clearing and breaking new lands. The property now embraces one
hundred antl thirty-two acres of some of the most productive land in the
vicinity. ^Nlr. Swearingen has made his land pay well, antl as fast as
he has earned money he has made investments in local industries. He
now owns a large amount of stock in the Ollie Savings Bank.
84 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
Xovcniljer 29, 1900. Mr. Sweariugen married Lillia Wilkins, of
Cliicago, wlio was born in Ohio, daughter of Samuel and Mary (Brant)
Wilkins, who were botli born in Ohio and are still living there at Leb-
anon; he follows farming and tlie trade of a carpenter. To Mr. and
Mrs. Wilkins have been born eight children, one son and seven daugh-
ters, Mrs. Swearingen being the oldest of the daughters. Coming to
Iowa some years ago she remained in Fairfield for a while, but later
went to Chicago, where she resided for thirteen years, until her marriage.
Mr. Swearingen is one of the most active men in public afifairs in
his township, and as a man of marked ability has served as constable for
fifteen years, and as secretary of tlie school Ijoard, of which he is still
a member, for ten years. He stands high with ilie Independent Order of
Odd Fellows, of loka Lodge No. 173. luuin^^^ liiied all the chairs of the
order. As a member of tlie Mission Baptist church he is also inlkientia'.
He is well known all over the county, where lie has many warm friends.
When the rural delivery route was established some time ago his energy
and popularity helped him to secure it and he ha.'; since luul il in charge.
FINLEY M. SMOCK.
From the time of the establishment of the town of Keota. Mr.
Smock has been deeply interested in its welfare and active in its ad-
vancement and promotion. Therefore no history of the place would
be complete without mention of his life. He was born in Johnson
county, Indiana, February 18. 1844. The ancestry can be traced back
through four generations to Holland. His father. Rev. David V.
Smock, was born near Madison, Indiana, and for many years was an
active minister of the Presbyterian church. In 1853 he came to Iowa,
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 87
settling in Birmingham, Van Buren count}-. He afterward located in
Sigourney, and became the first pastor of the Presbyterian church of
that place in 185S. During tlie war he removed to the vicinity of
Keota, in which town he died. His life span covered three-score years
and ten, and surely the world is better for his having lived. He was
a man of marked influence and his efforts for the elevation of his fellovv-
men were of no restricted order. He married Margaret A. Brown,
a native of Virginia, in which state she was also reared. She was of
French and Scotch lineage, and died when forty-four years of age. In
their family were four children, of whom Mr. Smock of this review
was the third in order of birth.
When nine years of age F. M. Smock accompanied his parents
on their removal to Iowa, and at the age of fourteen he came to Keokul;
county. He attended the public schools, acquiring a good education,
and at the age of fourteen began learning the wagon-maker's trade.
He was seventeen years of age when, in 1861, in response to his coun-
try's call for troops, he joined the army, enlisting as a member of
Company F, Fifth Iowa Infantry. This was the first company raised
in Keokuk county and he served for four years and one month, having
in the meantime re-enlisted as a veteran of the same company and
regiment. He was afterward transferred to Company G of the
Fifth Iowa Cavalry and took part in many of the principal battles
of the war. He was with Fremont's command in Missouri and par-
ticipated in the engagement at Madrid. He was also in the siege of
Corinth, the battle of luka, the second battle of Corinth, the siege of
Vicksburg, and took part in the engagements at Champion Hills, Mis-
sionary Ridge, the Atlanta campaign, Franklin, the siege of Nashville,
and was at the front all the way with Wilson's cavalry in the raid
88 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
made in the spring of 1865. Other engagements of lesser import-
ance were participated in by Mr. Smock. He was wounded at Cham-
pion Hills through both legs by a minie ball, and was in the hospital
for most of the time for eight months. As soon as he had sufficiently
recovered, however, he rejoined his command in active field service and
w as a brave and loyal soldier, his valor equaling that of many a man of
twice his years. He received an honorable discharge in Augu.st, 1865,
and with a most creditable military record he returned to his home in
Keokuk county, Iowa.
From 1866 until 1871 Mr. Smock was engaged in business in
Sigourney and then came to what is now Keota, locating upon a farm
known as Sunnjside. It was on a part of this farm which was owned
by his brother that the town of Keota was built. There was no idea
of this at the time and the foundation of the present thriving village
had not then been laid. However, it was established in 187J. and Mr.
Smock engaged in the ni:uiufacture of wagons and buggies, carrying
on business with a fair degree of success here for about twelve years.
He then turned his attention to the farm implement business, which
he conducted for three years, and he spent the years of 1880 and 1881
in western Kansas and Colorado. On returning to Keota he served as
deputy postmaster under J. I'- \\'ilson for about four years and
through the succeeding four years he was engaged in the insurance busi-
ness. He was then appointed p^tmaster, acting in that capacity for
four years, and on the expiration of that period he resumed his opera-
tions in insurance and real estate. In 1894 he was elected a clerk oT
the district court for a term of four years, upon the Republican ticket,
and at the close of that time he retired from ofllce as be had entered
it — with the confidence .-md gdod will of all concerned, lie then re-
Genealogical and biographical history. m
turned to Keota and was again engaged in tlie real estate I:)usincss for
two years. In 1900 he formed a business connection as secretary with
the firm of Singmaster & Sons, importers of fine horses, and tliis rela-
tion has since been maintained.
In 1S67 Vlx. Smock was united in marriage to Aliss Mary E. Stran-
ahan, and they have six children: Gertie A., the wife of John C.
Richardson, one of the editors of the Keota Eagle: Winnie i\I.. tlie
wife of S. A. Dougherty, of Muscatine, Iowa: A. Cleave, who mar-
ried Nellie Randolph, daughter of John Randolph, and is now living
in O'Brien county, Iowa: Mattie B., at home: ^^'illiam S., who is clerk-
ing in a store at Keota ; and Bessie L., who is also at home.
In his political affiliations Vlx. Smock has always been a staunch
Republican and has been honored with various oflicial positions. He
served as mayor of Keota for a number of terms, was also justice of
the peace and has filled other local positions. He was one of the
incorporators of the town and has been deeply interested in everything
pertaining to its progress and improvement. He belongs to Ed Carris
Post No. 333, Grand Army of the Republic, in which he has filled all
of the offices. He has also served on the staff of Commander Bailey,
of the Iowa department, and has represented his state at the national
encampment of the order at Philadelphia, Pennsylvam'a, in 1899. He
takes a very active and helpful interest in the work of the Grand Army
of the Republic and is widely known among the honored veterans of the
Civil war. He also has a wide acquaintance in Keokuk county, where
he is known as an enterprising and progressive citizen, and in Keota
the circle of his friends is very extensive.
90 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
CRISLEY TERRELL.
Crisley Terrell, a prosperous agriculturist of Lancaster township,
also engaged in tlic dcc]) well business, possesses those sterling traits of
character, a large capacity for work, sound judgment, and a willing-
ness to make the most of what life offers him, which in themselves
insures success to a man at every step in life. Like many of the
farmers of the vicinity, he came here in the early days, and has taken a
keen interest in the growth of the community and all the civilizing in-
lluences brought to bear upon it.
Mr. Terrell comes of good stock ;uid is the son of Robert R. Terrell,
who was burn in X'irginia, and who, in the early days, about 1810, set-
tled in Ohio. Here as a bricklayer he carried on a lucrative business for
many years. Later he engaged in building, ;uk1 many residences of
Cincinnati were the results of his industry and supervision. Mr. Ter-
rell was married to Barbara Miller, who was born in Ohio, and they
became the parents of five children, three .sons and two daughters, all of
wh(jm grew to maturity, and of whom L'rislcy was the youngest. Mr.
Terrell died in 1846, and his wife's death occurred in Indiana manv
years later.
Crisley Terrell was born in Fayette county, Ohio, April 28, 1846.
and at the early age of five months, by the death of his father, was de-
])ri\cd of that parent's fostering care. He remained at home with his
mother, however, mitil he w.is twenty-one years old, and received a good
common school education, and was disciplined to habits of industry
and .'Ulontion. wliirli had not a little to do with his future success in
life. With little, if anything, but his own hands to depend upon, he
came to Keokuk county in 1868 and hired out as a farm laborer. .\t-
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 91
tending strictly to business, he found no difficulty in holding positions,
and continued this line of work for two years, receiving his wages l)y
the month. Ambitious for something better, at the end of this periotl
he rented a farm and settled down to work for himself. In 1869 he
married Lucretia Reed, who was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, and
in 1855, when nine years old, came with her parents, Park and Lorana
Reed, to Keokuk county, where the family afterward resided. To Mr.
and Mrs. Terrell ha\-e been born nine children, five of whom have been
married, as follows: Park, in business with his father, and a resident
of Sigourney, married to Elva Fair; IMattie, married to Charles W.
Arganbright, and diey resiile in the city of What Cheer; Gusta, a resi-
dent of Primghar, Iowa, married to C. W. Martin ; Annis, married to
C. L. Beali, a farmer of Lancaster township; Mary has taught school
since she was seventeen years old without missing one term, and re-
cently married Dr. Floyd G. Bott, of Iowa City. The other children
are: Lottie; Edna Fern, who is now deceased; Georgia; and Avery, who
is in business with his father.
iNIr. Terrell met with most excellent results as a farm tenant and
continued on the rented place until 1S99. Then, having saved con-
siderable money, he invested in his present farm, a splendid eighty-acre
tract of well impro\-ed land in Lancaster township. This place, which
he has come into possession of by his own thrift and industry, is one
of the most productive in the vicinity, and here he is still carrying on a
flourishing industry. Besides attending to his farming he has for some
time been engaged in the deep well business. The industry has proved
a profitable one and he has taken in as partners his sons. Park and
.\very. The firm, known as Terrell & Sons, has an excellent reputation
throughout the county, where it is doing a large business. Mr. Ter-
92 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
rell has for thirty-four years been a resident of the county, and (kning
tliat time has always evinced a keen interest in pubhc affairs. He is es-
pecially interested in the establishment of good schools, and tlie further-
ing of higher education, lie is liberal in local politics, Init in national
affairs always votes the Democratic ticket. Fraternally he affiliates
with the I'ree and Accepted Masons and the Independent Order of Odd
I'cllows.
JOIIX IIOLLIN McCORMICK.
Coming fronr stanch old Scottish ancestry, than whicii tliere is
none more true, manly and capable, John Hollin McCormick in the
early days of the settlement of Iowa came to join the adventurous ones
who were seeking homes in the untrammeled west. He was born on
the 22d day of I'ebruary, 1838, in Portage county, Ohio. His father.
James McCormick, was a native of Armstrong county, Pennsylvania,
and lived there from the time of his birth on February 11. I7y6. until
the year 1837, when he removed to Portage county, Ohio, where the
subject of this narrative was born. In 1853 he changed his place of
residence, again moving to Keokuk, Iowa, where he died on April 30,
1869. His political persuasion was that of a Whig, and he rendered
\aluaijle services to that party, holding local offices at various times. 1 Ir
was also an active member of the Presbyterian church. His paternal
grandfather. John McCormick, was born in Scotland and came to .Amer-
ica before the Revolution, locating in Pennsylvania.
TTis mother, Sarah Barber, was l)nrn in Pennsylvania on July 25,
181J, and there passed her childhood days. After her marriage to
James McCormick they removed first to Ohio and later to Keokulc,
Iowa, where she died on .\pril 14. 181J4. Ilcr father was a native of
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. ')3
Ireland. She was second wile of James McCormick, whose first wife
was a ]\Iiss Hall. Ten children were born of the first marriage, of
whom nine grew to matnrit}-; of the second nnion ele\en children were
born, of whom nine reached tlie age of adnlts, and of both famihes ten
are now living.
John Hollin McCormick was the third child and eldest son of the
second marriage. He was reared in Snmmit connty, Ohio. In 1857
he went to Van Bnren county, Iowa, and eventually settled in 1859 in
Lancaster township, Keokuk count)". At the age of fifteen years he
began working at the blacksmith trade, which he continued in Summit
county, Ohio, for some three years, when he removed to Iowa and re-
sided for a period of one year, and again remo^•ing to Ohio, spent one
year in that state, from whence he ultimately came to Lancaster town-
ship, where he formed a partnership in the !.)lacksniithing business. In
the fall of 1861 he removed to Sigourney and was there till 1866, when
he located on the farm where he now resides, since which time he has
been engaged bijth in the business of farming and blacksmilhing.
On April 17, 1861, he was married to Hulda Stone, who had re-
moved to Iowa from the Hoosier state, where she was born on October
21, 1S33. Her father, Martin Stone, was born in Genesee county, New
York, but came to Indiana when he was about eighteen years old. He
was twice married, his second wife l)eing Mar\r G. Lindsay. Charles
L. Stone, her half-brother, li\es at Brighton, Washington county, Iowa.
One other child of this second marriage died in infancy. The mother
of Mrs. McCormick, Caroline Cole, was born in Bennington county,
\'ermont, but came to Indiana at the same time that her husband made
the trip. Mrs. McCormick was the fifth child of a family of si.x
daughters and four sons, and came to Keokuk county with her parents
94 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
in 1854. locating- in Lancaster township, where she pursued her edu-
cation in tiic common schools ami afterward taught in the schools of
Keokuk county. Four children were born to them, Donald, who died
in infancy; Fred A., who is now living at home with them; Cora \ ..
wife of Harry Harlan, of What Cheer, Iowa; Lottie A., wife of How-
ard Ricliardson, of Ottumwa, Iowa, who is a telegraph operator at that
place.
Mr. McCormick has a fine farm of one hundred and sixty acres, on
which his home is situated, antl sixty-eight acres east of his home place,
and has long been in the business of general farming and stock raising,
making a specialty of fine blooded trotting horses, many of which have
made splendid track records. Among these are Rinaldo. record
j:ii 1-2: J. II. McCormick. record i-.H): and Major Lacy, record 2:29.
Of late years he has made a specially of raising short-horn cattle, in
which he has been e.xceedingly successful.
In his somewhat varied career Mr. McCurniick has encountered
many difficulties, none of w hitli. however, were sufficient to daunt I.im.
He has steadily overcome all obstacles and has himself alone to credit
I'or his many successes, since he has accomplished all unaided. ■ He
has long been one of the enterprising and leading citizens of the
county, is a Republican in principle and action, a member of the order
ot Masons at Sigourney. where lie holds liigli rank in the esteem and
respect of his brothers, and generally has been pronounced one of the
ablest and most successful men of his day.
JAMES LINDER.
James Linder lias lived for fifty-five years in Keokuk county and is
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 95
one of the very well known and honored citizens who have placed their
impress on the development of the country. His father, Robert Linder,
was a native of Kentucky, but early came to Keokuk county, at a time
when there were only six families in the county. In 1850 he went to
California and died at the age of seventy-six in Montana; by occupation
he was a harness maker, carrying on this trade in Sigourney ; he also
owned a farm. Our subject's mother was Sarah Barnett, a nati\-e of
Illinois, and she still resides in Sigourney at the age of eighty-two.
They were the parents of six children, four daughters and two sons ;
only two yet survi\-e, James and Robert, the latter residing in Nebraska.
James Linder is the fifth child and oldest son, born in Sigourney
January 17, 1846. There he was reared and educated in the public
schools; in 1872 he located on a farm east of Lancaster, in Lancaster
township, and engaged in farming for twenty-six years. In i8c;8 he
sold this farm and bought the farm <if one hundred and thirty-six acres
on section 8, Lancaster township, where he now resides, surrounded by
rll the comforts of country life.
In 1870 Mr. Linder became the husband of Cordelia Strong, a
native of Sullivan county, Missouri, who came to Keokuk county with
her parents when only two years old and was there educated. i\tr. and
Mrs. Linder became the parents of seven children ; the eldest died in
infancy : Edward married ia Missouri and is now living in Lancastm-
township ; Ted is now in Seattle, Washington ; Fred ; Zelpha ; Izette
and Berton. IMr. Linder has always held an independent position in
politics. In his long life in this county he has ably performed all the
duties devolving upon him as a citizen and no stain may be found on his
reputation.
'^0 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGkAPHICAL HISTORV.
JACOB CONNER.
Another enterprising son of Daniel Conner, the pioneer whose life-
work and achievements are recounted elsewhere in this work, was Jacc-h
Conner, a brother of Samuel Conner, whose biography also appears
herein. Jacob Conner was born on Alarch ^5, 1857, in Lancastev town-
ship. i\C(:ikuk county, and has ever since made his home in this fiiiitiul
section ol the Hawkeye state. His father twice married, iiis second
wife being the mother of the subject of this record. Her name was
Elizabeth Wyant and she was born in the Blue Grass state, moving,
however, when of tender years to Indiana. She was twice married,
her first husband being a Mr. Pennington. By her first marriage she
had three chikiren, and six more were added to the llock in her union
with Daniel Conner. Of these five arc now living, Jacob Conner being
the first born, and receiving an excellent education in the schools of Lan-
caster township.
He worked for his father until he reached the age of twenty-seven
years, when he married Zanette Bucher, the ilaughler of Aaron and.
Martha (Chastain) Bucher, a history of whom is also given in this
volume. Mrs. Conner was also born in Lancaster township, Keokuk
couiUy. Idwa, on the i6th day of June, 1865, and has spent all of b.cr
life there. She received a very fine education in the common schools of
the townshi]). and from independent reading and study of her own selcc-
tiim.
After living on the old homestead about one year after his mar-
riage, Mr. Conner and his wife located where they now live, and by his
industry and good management improved and buill up his farm nnlil
in its appearance, efficiency and value it r.-.nks with the best in tiie
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 97
township. In tlie year 1900 he built the handsome residence now
there and put into it all the modern impovements and many convem'ences
dictated by the taste of himself and his wife. He has also built a finely
appointed barn thirty-six by sixty feet in dimensions and has con-
structed man\' other good buildings upon the farm, which consists of
one hundred and sixty acres as well as some timber land.
One child, a daughter, was born to them, whom they named
Mattie Elizabeth; she is still unmarried and at home, and is a very
accomplished and attractive young lady. In their beautiful home Mr.
Conner and his family keep abreast of the times and fully informed
upon all matters. They are liberal in their \iews upon political and
religious questions and present good examples of the progressive, pros-
perous and leading people of the county. Mr. Conner is in politics a
Democrat; is widely known throughout his section of the state, acti\-clv
participating in matters of public interest. He has been a member of
the school board for several years, during which time he has contributed
much to the success of the educational methods employed, and has as-
sumed many other responsibilities in behalf of the county.
WILLIAM R. KELLEY.
\\'illiam R. Kelley, a prominent agriculturist of Lancaster township,
stands as a type of man who has achieved success by constant and un-
flinching adherence to one line of business in life. Reared to farm
work, he has for the most part followed this occupation. Only once
lias he swerved from his pupose, and then it was for the laudable cause
of serving his country in its struggle for the preservation of the Union.
98 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
As a soldier lie flid his duty nobly, and as a citizen he has made the
best of the opportunities that life has offered him.
Mr. Keilcy comes of a family of agriculturists. His grandfather.
W illiam Keliey, was for many years a prominent Pennsylvania farmer.
He was born and reared in that state, and upon reaching manhood there
married Elizabeth Frampton, also of Pennsylvania, and they had twelve
children, all of whom grew to maturity : William, George and John,
wlio are now deceased; Permelia; Tamasine; Fannie and Salley, now
deceased ; Elizabeth, deceased ; Zephaniah, father of subject ; and three
others whose names are not recalled. Besides farming Mr. Keliey fol-
lowed weaving for awhile. He was a man of influence in his com-
munity, and in politics he affiliated with the party from which the
present Democracy is derived.
Zephaniah Keliey. father of William, won liis place in life l)y
keeping in tnuch with the agricultural mo\ement and \enturiiig out nito
newly settled regions. He was born in .Armstrong county. Pennsyl-
\ania, in iSiA. and there obtained his education. During his young
manhood he married Mary Berlin, who was born in Pennsylvania,
daugruer of David and Nancy (Koffman) Berlin, who were of German
descent. To Mr. and Mrs. Keliey were born five children: Reuben R..
now deceased; William R., who is mentioned below; Mary M.. now dc-
cea.sed; Sarah J. ; and George W. The first three were born in Pennsyl-
vania; the two youngest in Illinois. Some years after his marriage
Mr. Keliey moved his f;uniiy to the fertile district of Illinois, where,
settling upon a farm, he engaged in agriculture very successfully for
many years. As a skillful and untiring workman he succeeded in m.ik-
ing his land yield large and profitable crops, and in time became a man
of considerable means. In 1885 he disposed of his Illinois propert\ and
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. m
came to Keokuk county, Iowa, locating at Ollie, in Jackson township.
After a few years' residence here he went to hve with his son. WiUiani
R., where he spent liis last days. He died December 7, 1893. Mr.
Kelley was one of the leading men in his community, and was a Re-
publican, an earnest Christian and belonged to the Baptist church. Fra-
ternally he affiliated with the Free and Accepted Masons.
Wilham R. Kelley was born in Clarion county, Pennsylvania,
May 30, 1842, and there resided until he was seven years old. Then
he mo\ed with his parents to the Illinois farm, where he was mainly
reared and educated. His training was that of the ordinary farm boy
of his day, a few months" attendance upon a country school for a num-
ber of years, and a ^reat deal of vigorous farm work. After leaving
school he engaged regularly in active duties on the home place until
he was twenty-one. Then the Civil war was raging, and in 1863 he
enlisted in the Thirty-fourth Illinois Infantry and went to the front.
He fought in several hot skirmishes, and in the hard battle of Kene-
saw Mountain. Here. June 27, 1864, he was wounded. He remained
in service, however, a year longer, and June 2, 1865, was discharged
at Davenport, Iowa. Returning to Illinois, he there engaged in farming
until 1871, earning for himseli a very comfortable competence. In that
year he married in Illinois Martha J. Jones, who was born in Holmes
county, Ohio, in 1845, a"<J was there reared antl educated. Her jjarents,
John J. and Sarah (Flack) Jones, were of Welsh and Scotch-Irish
descent. To Mr. and Mrs. Kelley have been born five children : Flor-
ence A. ; Lucy G. ; Ralph W. ; John H. ; and Jennie G. Mrs. Kelley died
May 29, 1900, and Mr. Kelley has since. May 4, 1902, married Mrs.
J. H. Davis, who was born in Kentucky, in 1845.
In the year of his first marriage, 1871, Mr. Kelley disposed of
f-»iW QQPi
100 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
inucli of his belongings, and taking some with him, joined the emigrant
trains so frequent in those days and moved to Montgomery county,
Iowa. Here setthng upon a farm he remained for two years, becom-
ing during this time well acquainted with the region and the best farm-
ing districts. At the end of the ])criod, however, he returned to Illi-
nois, where he remained for about a year, settling up his business.
'J'hcn, in 1875, he came back to Iowa and purchased the farm in the
township of Lancaster where he has since remained. This property
consists of ninety acres of excellent farming land, much of which he has
himself cleared. He has made many improvements upon the place, and
has it well under cultivation, and he is still carrying on here a flourish-
ing industry. Mr. Kelley is considered a man of enterprise and thrift.
and is well known throughout the county. In politics he is a Republi-
can ami takes an active interest in local affairs. As a Civil war veteran
he belongs to the Grand Army of the Republic of Sigourney.
S.\.MLKL EIAVOOD BAM FORI), M. D.
The flourishing town of Sigourney, Keokuk county, Iowa, has
cause for congratulation when its list of capable and reiial)lc professional
men is recalled, and among these Dr. Samuel E. Bamford worthily rep-
resents medicine and surgery. Dr. Bam ford is a son of the state,
Ixirn in Muscatine county on .\pril i. 1859. His parents were Rev.
Robert I., antl Eliza (Davis) Bamford, the former of whom was born
in Kno.x county, Indiana, a son of Roljert Bamford, who was born in
1800, in Xew Vork. The early ancestors of the family were of En-
glish origin and .settlers in Canada, from whence they came to New
York. Robert Bamford married Matilda Ludinglon. In .scarcli of a
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. mi
new home, they went into what was then tlie wildeniess of tlie state
of Indiana, and Robert took i^art in the Bhick Hawk w^ar. Still ad-
ventnrons, in 1834 the family went as pioneers to Iowa and l<jcated per-
manently in Muscatine county.
Rev. Robert Bamford was 1)orn in Indiana, INIay 2, 1826, and was
eight years of age \\hen tlie Iowa home was secured. Both his hfe
and that of his only brother, George Bamford, were devotetl to the
ministry of the gospel in the Methodist church, of wdiich the former is
now a superannuated minister, residing at Allerton, Iowa. The UKither
of our subject was born in Indiana, and was a daughter of William
Da\is. who was a native of Virginia, from wdience he removed first
to Indiana and then to ^luscatine county, Iowa. A good Christian
mother, she cared tenderly for her se\'en children ;uul passed out of life
on November i, 1897. The children born t(j Rev. Robert and wife
were : !\Iorris, a minister of the Methodist church ; Bentley, also a min-
ister in the same denomination ; Dr. Samuel, of this sketch ; Alice M. ;
Elmer E., a physician of Centerville, Iowa; Isaiah D., a resident of
Wayne county, Iowa ; and Mattie.
As is not infrequently the case, our subject enjoyed great privileges
as a son of a clergyman, but found the acconii)anying straightened cir-
cumstances would not permit him to fi)ll(,)w a professional career in
early manhood. His education finished in the public schools, he engaged
in teaching in order to provide means for his education in medicine. He
.spent nine years in farming, during which time he stored his mind with
the necessary facts and had the satisfaction of graduating creditably,
in 1889, from the College of Physicians and Surgeons, at Keokuk, Iowa.
Dr. Bamford located at Clio, Wayne county, Iowa, and continued there
in successful practice for a period of seven years. In 1895 the growth
102 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
of Sigourney offered a ])rospecti\e lield for excellent work aiul since
locating here he has built up a large and lucrative practice.
Dr. Bamford is a member of the board of pension examiners and
'S a valuable member of the state and county as well as the American
Medical associations, and also of the .Association of Iowa Physicians.
In politics Dr. Bamford is identified with tlie Republican party, and
fraternally he is connected with the order of Odd Fellows. An early
marriage left him with two daughters, who are now teachers in Wayne
county. His second marriage took place in lyoi, to Miss .\nna .\.
Cogley, of Sigourney. The Doctor is also interested in farming and
handles considerable stock in the way of horses and cattle.
ALEXANDER M. NEAS.
Alexander M. Xeas is one of the progressive and jniblic-spirited
citizens of Sigournew jnwa. whiic he conducts a large and constantly
increasing lumber business. Mr. Xeas was l)orn in Butler county, Ohio.
October 6, 1857. and is a son of Levi ^L Xeas. He was reared on a
farm until he was thirteen years of age, at whicii time his parents
removed to Sigourney, Iowa, where his father found constant and
remunerative employment in tiie growing town, working at his trade
of brick and stone-laying. .\tier obtaining a good, common .school
education, .Mcxander learned the trade of brick and stone masonry
.-md followed it until he was twenty-six years old. During the succeed-
ing years lie was very successful at bridge contracting and at the end
of that ])crio(| purchased a lumber yard in this city. Since iSSij he
has carried on a lumber business, whicli has retiuired all of his time and
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 103
energy to properly manage, and which is one of the important and re-
Hal)le industries of Sigourney.
In 1882 Mr. Neas was married to Miss MolHe Mackey, who is a
daughter of Col. C. H. Mackey, of Sigourney, and two children have
heen born to this union, namely: Henry M. and Edith Gertrude. In
political sentiment Mr. Neas is a Republican, and he is fraternally asso-
ciated with the orders of Knights of Pythias and the Modern Woodmen.
He is one of the solid, trustworthy citizens of Sigourney, honest and
upright, fair in his business dealings and ready to cast his influence at
all times in the direction of education and morality and to further enter-
prises of permanent good to his community.
CHARLES E. McQUAID.
Charles E. McOuaid, a member of the lumljer firm of McCann &
McOuaid, at Sigourney, Iowa, was born in Westmoreland county, Penn-
sylvania, November 15, 1858, and is a son of James F. and Amanda
(Cort) McQuaid, both of whom were natives of the same county.
The ancestry of the family is Scotch-Irish on the paternal side and
( icrman on the maternal, both James McQuaid and Joseph Cort, the
grandfathers, being born, however, in Pennsylvania. The father of our
subject was a merchant for many years in Westmoreland county. In
the year 1869 he removed to Beaver county, Pennsylvania, where his
widow still resides. He died in i8go, aged sixty years. A family of nine
children was born to the parents of our subject, two of whom are de-
ceased.
Charles E. McOuaid. the subject of this sketch, was ten years old
when his ])arents mn\-ed to Reaver county. His rearing was on a f;u-m.
104 GEt^EALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
and lii^ primary education was obtained in the public school, supple-
mented later jjy two years at the State Normal School at Edinboro. The
succeeding three years were spent as a teacher in his native state, and
tlicn he accepted a position as bookkeeper with a wholesale and retail
hat, cap and fur establishment in Pittsburg, remaining with this one firm
for nine years. In April, 1899. he located at What Cheer, Iowa, and for the
two succeeding years was the traveling representative of the Crescent
Coal Company, and for two more years for the C. L. Bering Coal
Company, wholesale, of Chicago, returning to the former comjjany for
two anil one-half years again.
In the spring of 1898 our subject became associated with Leo Vic-
Cann in business in Sigourney, under the firm name of McCann & Mc-
Ouaid, which since that time has been a leading factor in the kunber
trade of this section. This firm succeeded to the oldest lumber yard of
Keokuk county and have instituted progressive methods which have been
met very favoral)ly by the public. Mr. McQuaid has been very active
in looking after all lumber interests and for two years was the president
of the Southeastern Iowa Retail Lumber Association.
Mr. McQuaid was marrici! in 1890 to Miss Lavina Sampson, who
is a daughter of the late Judge E. S. Sampson. Both our subject ami
wife are prominent in the Presbyterian churcli, and for three years he
has been the efficient superintendent of the Sunday school. He is also
president of the Keokuk County Sunday School Associatinii. In
])ul)lic matters our subject has always shown a public-spirited interest,
has served as town councilman, as a Democrat, has been a very acceptable
member of the school board, and in 1902 was chairman of the Demo-
cratic county central committee. Mr. McQuaid's fraternal relation >
arc with the Royal Arch Masons. Canton Lodge of Odd Eellows, the
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 1(15
Modern Woodmen and tlic order of Fraternal Choppers. As a bnsi-
ness man. citizen, Sunday school superintendent and member of X\\^
social circle, Mr. ]\[cOuaid is a man to be esteemed, and he enjoys to the
highest extent the respect and kind wishes of his community.
GILBERT BEEBE RICHARDSON.
One of the leading business men of Sigourney, Iowa, dealing prin-
cipally in music and musical instruments, is Gilbert Beebe Richardson,
who was born on a farm in Steady Run township, Keokuk county, Iowa,
oi; April 14, 1858, and is a son of Thomas and Eliza Ann (Waller)
Richardson, whose history is recorded in the biographic sketch of Joseph
M. Richardson, elsewhere in this volume. Mr. Richardson was reared
on a farm and obtained his education in the common schools. At the
age of nineteen years he began teaching school in tlie rural neighbor-
hoods and continued in this profession for three years. In 1883 he went
into railroading and became agent and telegraph operator for the Bur-
lington & Western railroad, a position he held for twelve years. Our
subject then engaged for a short time in the hardware business at Mar-
tinsburg, but later sold this business and re-entered the employ of the
•^ame railroad, taking a position in the train dispatcher's office at Bur-
lington, serving two years as assistant and one year as chief dispatcher.
On account of failing health he then felt obliged to give up telegraphic
work and seek some other employment. In 1901 he purchased a grocery
store, in Sigourney, but he has since then changed his stock to music,
this being more in accordance with his tastes.
In 1880 Mr. Richardson was united in marriage with Miss Mary
E. McKinnis, of Keokuk county, and four children have been born to
13
lOi. CENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
this union, namely : Pcarlie L., Edna G., Jesse T. and Letina 'M. W'itli
wife and cliildrcn. our subject Ijclongs to the Presljyterian church. Tlis
career in tlus community has won for him the esteem of the citizens and
he has a wide and pleasant acquaintance with the tavclinp jiuhlic in this
Idcalilv, numhcring many friends, who value Iiini highly.
HENRY F. WAGNER.
One of tlie leading young manbers of tiie legal profession, who
has chosen the flourishing town of Sigourney as the scene of his labors,
is Henry F. Wagner, who has already made very gratifying progress,
although but a few years ha\e elapsed since his admission to the Keokuk
county bar. The birth of Mr. Wagner occurred on February ii, 1S74,
in Lancaster township. Keokuk county, Iowa, and he is a son of John
M. and Caroline (Meyer) W^agner. the former of whom was born in
Snyder county, Pennsylvania, on October 22, 1831, and the latter in
Licking county, Ohio, on I'^bruary 6, 1845. Both parents are of Ger-
man descent. They w ere married in Ohio and came to Keokuk county
in 1871 and in 1872 purchased their present fine farm in Lancaster
township. They have four surviving children, namely: Ida .\nn.
Mary C, Susan Belle and Henry F. Air. Wagner has always followed
an agricultural life, and has actively supported the Republican party.
The family is a much respected one in Lancaster township.
Our subject was reared on his father's farm and attended the coun-
try schools until he was fourteen years old, completing the course at
that age. In 1891 he graduated from the Sigourney high .school and at
the age of nineteen began teaching in the country schools. For three
year-; ho worked industriously, working through the summers on the
DANIEL SWICKARD.
■*!l^
MRS. DAHIEL SWICKARD.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 10 '
farm and spending the fall and winter terms in teaching. He entered
the law department of the Iowa State Univesity and at that institution
was graduated in June, 1898. He immediatelj' began practice in
Sieournev and has already won attention from his brother attorneys bv
his legal ability and thorough knowledge. In politics he is a Republican,
while fraternally Iiis associations are with the Royal Arch Masons, the
Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias. On October 12, 1898, he
was married to Miss Lilian Updegraff, of Keokuk county, and a little
daughter has been named Gladys. A very promising future opens he-
fore Mr. Wagner, and his friends predict for him a successful legal
career.
DANIEL SWICKARD.
Prominent among the representatives of Martinsburg, Keokuk
county, who have by honest toil and industry succeeded in acquiring a
handsome competence and are now able to spend the sunset of life in
quiet and retirement, is the gentleman whose name appears abo\'e, a
man who has for the past forty-six years been very eminently connected
with the development and growth of Keokuk county. He is to-day
one of the best and most favorably known men in the county, and has
the confidence and the respect of a large body of associates. Briefly
touching upon the family history of our friend, we note that his people
came from the Keystone state to Steubenville, Ohi(i, wdiere our subject
was born February i, 1822. His father before him was Daniel Swick-
ard, who prior to coming to Ohio had served gallantly as an officer in the
army during the war of 1812, being under the noted General Harrison.
He was a farmer by occupation, and was also interested in the distilHng
business. He was a very large real estate owner. Later in life he removed
no GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
from near Steubenville to I'VanUlin county, Ohio, where he owned a hody
of land of twelve hundred acres and for a period of twelve years was
a man of influence in that community. lie served during that time
as justice of the peace, and at his death, which occurred at the ajre of
eighty-six years, was regarded as one of the best citizens of the county.
In political belief lie followed the teachings of the Whigs, and was later
a supjjorter of the Republican party. His religious afliliations were
witii the Evangelical church, in which organization he was an earnest
and active worker. Grandfather Daniel Swickard was born in the
fatherland, he having come to Pennsylvania in early life, and later to
Ohio, where he died at the age of eighty-four years. Concerning the
maternal ancestry of Mr. Swickard, his mother was Mary Magdaline ;
she died in 1894 at a very advanced age and was the mother of twelve
children.all of whom grew to maturity but one. .\fter her death Mr.
Swickard was again married, there being but one child Ixjrn to the
second nirirriagc.
Of the first family Mr. Swickard. our subject, was the seventh child.
His early xDutli and boyhood were passed in I'ranklin county. Ohio,
wiiere he was given a fair education in the log schoolhouse of that early
time. He remained at home luitil the date of his majority, when he
apprenticed himself to the shoemaker's trade, at which business he
worked for a period of some twelve years. He then engaged in farm-
ing. The ])rimary cause of the change was his failing health. lie ar-
rived in Keokuk county in 1856 and purchased a farm in Steady Run
township, which he conducted for a number of years, and which he
brought to a very high state nf cultivation. He continued the opera-
tion of tliis farm tuuil 1890. when be removed to aMrtinsburg, since
which time he has not been actively engaged in business. He married
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. Ill
in 1844 a lady by the name of Elizabeth Campbell, a sister of Mr. John
Campbell, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this book. Her death
occurred in about 1893 and Mr. Swickard again married, the lady being
his present wife, whose maiden name was Miss Carter, the date of the
marriage being 1894. Mrs. Swickard was born in Plain township,
Franklin county, Ohio, and was there reared and educated. Her father
was D. Carter, a native of Virginia and a pioneer in Franklin county.
Her mother's maiden name was Xancy Noe, who was a native of Xew
Jersey. They were parents of four daughters and one son. Mr. and
Mrs. Swickard are prominent and worthy members of the ^letlKjdist
church, in which organization they have always taken a very active
part, ]\Ir. Swickard having been a member for sixty years, and during
many years of that time has held the office of class leader and steward.
In political affiliations he supports the Republican party, having come
to that party from the old Whig organization. It is due to Air. Swick-
ard to say that he is beloved and respected by all who are acquainted
with him, and his honorable association with the development of the
county entitles him to representation in this \-olume.
JOHN FREDERICK GOELDNER.
Among the worthy and substantial citizens of Keokuk county, Iowa,
who developed a fine farm in Clear Creek township and became one of
the leading agriculturists, was the late John Frederick Goeldner, who was
born in Schlesien, Germany, on April 23, 1831, and passed out of life
on his farm in German township, to which he had moved about six years
])reviously, on August 5, 1897. Mr. Goeldner was reared in his native
country and there learned the trade of plasterer and acquired a fair
112 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
education in the local schools. He reached America in the fall of 1852,
prior to his marriage, accompanied by several of his brothers, and all
for a time remained in Baltimore. It was the object of our subject,
however, to obtain land in some new state and develop it and establisii
a home. From Baltimore he drifted to near St. Louis and finally
reached Keokuk county, Iowa, where he soon purchased land in Clear
Creek township. Here he went industriously to work and in the couse of
years became the owner of a fine farm of three hundred and sixty acres.
He was a successful man. but this success may be entirely attributed to
his own efforts. .\t the same lime tluit he was ac(|uiring property and
thus securing the comfort of his family, he was growing in the esteem of
his fellow citizens.
In 1856 he married Theresa Xauman, who is a sister of Charles A.
Nauman, elsewhere nientinncd: she was born in Saxony, German)-. June
2, 1840, and accompanxing her parents to .Vmerica in 1853. The
marriage took place in Keokuk county, Iowa, and se\en children were
born to them: Otto T., born Octol)er 16, 1858. who is a farmer in Clear
Creek townsiiii). Keokuk county: llulda E., May 25. 1861, died Octo-
ber 26. 1901 ; Ida M., August 20, 1863, who is the widow of A. G.
Schulte; Guide H., January 21. 1866. of Clear Creek township, where he
is farming; .\rthur F... February 11, 1869, who is a farmer in German
township: Hugo F., .\prii 10. 1873, who is an attorney in Sigourney;
and Charles M.. January 29. 1877, who is a farmer on the h.imc place,,
his mother residing w-ith him there. In political sentiment Mr. Goeldner
was a Republican.
Hugo F. Goeldner. one of the leading young attorneys of Sigour-
ney. Inwa, was born in Clear Creek lownsbip. Keokuk county, on .\pni
10. 1873. l'*-* ^^'•^'^ given excellent school advantages and graduated
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 113
from Sigoiirney high school in 1894, entering immediately upon the
study of law and graduating with honor from the law department of the
State University in 1897. He was admitted to practice in Keokuk
county and entered into partnership with his lirother-in-law, A. G.
Schulte, the firm name heing Schulte & Goeklner, tlie firm only being dis-
sol\-ed upon the death of Mr. Schulte on January 30, 1900. In politics
our subject is an active Republican and he is fraternally connected with
the Royal Arch Masons. The success which he has attained in his
chosen profession has been most gratifying and argues for still higher
honors in the future.
FRANCIS A. SCHIPFER, SR.
Francis A. Schipfer, Sr., was born in the kingdom of Prussia, Ger-
many, on February 12, 1831, and is a son of Kaspfer and Barbara
(Wessbecher) Schipfer, who li\ed and died in Genuany, their native
land. Eight children were born to Kaspfer Schipfer and wife, but Francis
A. was the only one who came to America. At that time he was a fairly
well educated young man of twenty years and liad already sufiiciently
filled a clerical position in a mercantile estalilishment. In 185 1 he
landed in the great metropolis of New York, but he remained there but
a sliort time, spending over a year looking about for a suitable place in
which to locate, and visiting Newark, New Jersey; Hamilton, Ohio; and
then Burlington, Iowa. In that city he lived for two and one-half
years, coming to Sigourney on July 3, 1856. Prior to this location he
had filled clerical positions, but here he embarked in Inisiness for him-
self, opening up a general store, his business house continuing all tliese
years. Mr. Schipfer is the only merchant of Sigourney who was in
114 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
business when lie settled lierc. His success lias been very satisfactorv.
althougli several changes have been made in the firm style. It began
as the linn of F. A. Schipfer. later was changed to Schipfer & Sons,
and about 1890, wlieii llie sons took active charge, the name liecame
Schipfer Bros., as it now appears to the trade and tlie public. In iRgo
Mr. Scliipfer made a visit to Germany and renewed old associations.
In 1858 b'rancis .\. Schipfer was married in Sigourney to Emily
Knape, who was also born in Germany. The children liorn to them arc:
Francis A., Merman J., Louis J., Oscar A., Eugene, l-'red C. and Clara,
all of the sons and the daughter making up the present firm of Shipfer
Bros. Mr. Schipfer has never been active in politics, but votes the Re-
imblican ticket.
SCHIPFER BROS.
In the biographical sketch of Francis A. Schipfer, Sr., some history
of the business firm of Schipfer Bros, is indicated. The business has re-
sulted from that estaljlished by Francis .\. Schipfer, .Sr.. in 1856. As
his suns grew into years of usefulness as clerks, they entered their
father's store and were brought up ;uid trained to the business. .Xbmu
1890 the father relinquished active connection with the business, and
the llrm of Schipfer Bros, came into existence. 'i"hc business is con-
ilucted in three adjoining store rooms, one room lieing devoted to dry
goods and notions ,one to clothing and one to groceries. In these
lines of merchandise a large and well selected stock of goods is carried.
The firm enjoys an extensive trade, and is noted for its fair dealing
and courtesy, and is perhajis the leading business tirm nf Sigourney, to
the growth and devclo]>ment of which town it h.is m:Ueri;dly contrib
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTOkY. 115
iited. Francis A. Schipfer, Jr., is the senior member of the firm, he
being tlie eldest of the brotliers. While all the sons anil their onlv
sister constitnte the firm, the sister and Herman J. are not active mem-
bers of the firm. All save these two are identified closely with the man-
agement and direction of the affairs of the firm. HermanJ. is interesteil
in farming. All the sons and the father are numbered among the en-
terprising and representative citizens and the entire family are noted
for much merit, enjoying the esteem and confidence of a wide circle of
acquaintance.
PHILIP CRONEWETH.
One of the oldest and most highly respected residents of Sigourney,
Keokuk county, Iowa, is Philip Croneweth, who has made his home
liere since 1854. His birth occurred in Baden Baden, Germany, in
1822, where he remained until about the age of nineteen years. Connng
to the United States in the hope of bettering his condition and wishing
to take advantage of the larger opportunities ofl:ered young men in
this country, Mr. Croneweth put into practice the habits of thrift which
he h.ad learned in his native land, and in the course of time accumulated
ample means. Mr. Croneweth engaged in chair-making and house
painting at Blooming Grove, Morrow county, Ohio, for some years,
and there married Miss Mary Mark, who was also born in Germany
and still survives. Three children were born to this union, but the only
survivor is John W., a well known citizen of Sigourney. In 1854 Mr.
Croneweth removed from Ohio \.o this city and here followed both
house painting and cabinet-making.
John W. Croneweth was born in Morrow county, Ohio, July 29,
116 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHtCAL iflSTOkY.
1S48, and was six years of age when his parents came to Iowa. Tlis
education was secured in the public schools, and at the age of eighteen
years he engaged in the grocery business, and during this period also
handled jewelry as a side line. Tluis he became acquainted with the
jewelry business and trade and learned it thoroughly. For a time, with
a partner, ^fr. Croneweth operated a hotel, a restaurant, a grocery and
a jewelry business. When these many enterprises became too large to
be handled together, tlic partnership was dissolved and our subject took
the jewelrv business as his own line of activity. For twenty years he
has conducted the same, with great success, in this city, and by his hon-
est methods and his intiniale relation \.iUi the trade, which enable him
to make reasonable prices, he has won the confidence of the community
and enjoys a large patronage. In iiSS/ .Mr. Croneweth was married to
Miss Rose Constant, and to this union was born one son, I larry. who is
a bright student in the city schools.
Mr. Croneweth is a man of substance and prominence, gaining his
ample means by his own efforts, and the ai)probation of his fellow citi-
zens by his business al)ilily and exemplary life. 1-^or a number of years
he has been active in the Republican party and has served efficiently on
the city council and in llic oflice of recorder. Fraternally he bi'longs
to the Knights of I'ythias, and also to the Masonic Blue lodge.
LEANDER DELONG.
Prominent among the citizens of Keokuk county who have wit-
nessed the marvelous development of the state in the past half century,
and who have taken an active part in its development and progress, is the
gentleman whose name introduces this sketch, a well known and ])ros-
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 117
perous fanner of German township. Mr. Belong is a son of David and
Jane (Law) Delong, and was born in Perry county, Ohio, February 12,
1829. He passed the early days of his boyhood and youth on the farm,
antl attended a district* school, where he acquired his elementary educa-
tion. Arriving at maturity, in 1850 he crossed the plains with an ox
team to California, where he remained for a period of a year engaged
in an attempt to secure S(jme of the gold dust that had been discovered
at the famous Sutter's Mill. He, however, was not very successful in
this attempt, and after a twelve months' trial returned to civilization
b\ way of the Isthmus. His trip home took him to the island of Cuba,
and from thence by way of New Orleans he came home to Washington
county. Remaining here for a period of about a year, he settled in
Keokuk county, the year being 1856. His farm here consists of three
hundred acres of land, most of which he cleared and broke himself, and
has himself placed all of the valuable improvements which are to be found
ori the farm. The marriage of \\x. Delong occurred in the year 1856
in Keokuk county, the lady's name being Sarah Brannan. This lady
was born in Canada. Her people later settled in the Keystone state,
her father's name being Dennis Brannan and her mother's being Sarah.'
They were both natives of Ireland. Mrs. Delong was reared in the Key-
stone state, and early in the fifties came to Keokuk county with her
parents. Mr. Delong is looked upon as one of the leading agriculturists
in Keokuk county, and worthy in every respect of the esteem in which he
is held by a host of admiring friends.
Mentioning the salient points in the family history of Mr. Delon"-,
his father was David Delong, as stated above, a native of Kentucky,
who settled in Ohio on a farm in Guernsey county. After a short resi-
dence there the familv moved to Perry countv, he first contracting mar-
118 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
riage in Guernsey county with Miss Jane Law, the date being 1811.
She was born in Wheehng, West X'irginia, from whicli point her parents
removed in her girlhood to Guernsey county, Ohio. -Mr. Delong is a
member of a family of eight boys and three girls, all but two of whom
grew to maturilv. Jn 1841 the parents removed to Washington
county, Iowa, where they settled on a farm, and continued to reside there
until their death.
JOSEPH M. RICHARDSON.
According to the best information t)blainable -Mr. Kichardson is
of Scotch descent. The great-grandfather is said to have come from
Scotland. He must have lived for some time in the state of New York.
for there a son, Josepli, was born. Tliis S(;n became one of the early
settlers of Ohio, later went to Indiana and subsequently moved to Mc-
Donough county, Illinois, where he died at the age of sixty-two.
Joseph V\-. Richardson, the subject of this sketch, was the .son of
Thomas and Eliza Ann (W'ellcr) Richardson. The father was a
son of the elder Josc])!) and was born September 8, 1809, in Ohio. He
earlv went to Indiana and in 18,^6 removed to Illinois, McDonough
county. He remained here until 1845, when by covered wagon he came
to Iowa. This was two years after the western part of the state was
opened for settlement. Thomas took up farming land from the gov-
ernment in Steady Run township, Keokuk county, where he lived until
the lime f)f his death, in 1872. The date of entry is fixed as 1S46 and
the land is still in the family. As pioneers they naturally underwent
many hardships, but trials shared in common are the meeting ground
for congenial people, and the steadfast, trustful nature of both man and
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 11<)
wife secured fur IVIr. and Mrs. Richardson tlie juy of many friendships.
The}' were ixirents of twelve chikh"en, namely: Lydia AI. ; Joseph M. ;
Benjamin F., of Martinshurg, Iowa; Francis P., living on the old home-
stead; Mary Ellen; James W., deceased; David, residing in Lewis, Iowa;
Eliza Jane; Bennett J., who died; Gilhert B., of Sigourney; Harriet and
Jinima, who have both died. Thomas Richardson was originally a
Whig but later joined the Democratic party. Both he and his wife
were members of the Predestinarian Baptist church.
Eliza Ann W'eller was born in Kentucky, December 30, 1815. Fler
father, Joseph W'eller, was a pioneer settler of Indiana, in which state
he died. His wife was Margaret Fry, a native of Kentucky, whose
family came originally from Pennsyhania. The Weller and Fry fami-
lies are b(Hh of Dutch descent. Eliza Ann W'eller was a woman Lif sweet
yet forceful character. She died in Keokuk county. Iowa, in 1894.
Joseph M. Richardson was born on a farm in Vermilion county,
Indiana, January 7, 1836. At the age of six months his parents moved
to Illinois, and when only nine years old he went with them to Iowa.
His life has been that of a pioneer with linnted advantages for education,
small leisure and plent)' of hardship, privation and strenuous labor. He
was reared on the farm and the ordinary common schools were his
means of instruction, save those surer and more effective means wdiich
try the mettle and prepare admirably for life; we mean the struggle
with pioneer ditticulties, the re\-elations of and communions with nature
and the actual contact with real men. He early went to work for
strangers, on the farm as the all-around hand and in the country store as
clerk. Up to his twentieth year his wages went to his parents. X\ that
time, in 1856, he married and settled on a farm in Lancaster town.ship.
There he lived until 1869, devoting his time chiefly to farming and car-
120 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
peiitering. In .\\W\\, 1869, lie moved to Icjka. luwa, wlicre he opened a
general store, which he conducted for fonrteen years. He spent one
year in farming and in 1884 went into the general merchandise business
at Martinsbm-g, Iowa. In 1885 he was elected on the Democratic
ticket to the office of county auditor. He moved to Sigourney m the
.spring of the following year. In the fall <if 1887 he was re-elected by
his ])arty and at the expiration of his second term, in the .spring of 1890,
he mo\ed to a farm near Martinsburg, which he had received in e.\-
change for his general store. In 1891, in February, he sold this farm
and returned to the merchandise business, this time at Sigourney, which
city he has since made his home. He conducted this general store for
nine years, sold out and after a lapse of one year bought a half interest
in a retail hardware business. After one year he sold his share in that
store and now he is lixing a retired life, cnj<\ving the rcwarils of years of
labor.
On October 9, \)^^^^. .Mr. Richardson married Miss Emily, daughter
of John C. and I'amela Jacobs, who came to Keokuk county about 1846.
She is a native of Indiana. The union was blessed by the birth of nine
children : Henry L., deceased ; Frank P. ; Malissa E. ; \\'illiam H., who
has also held office as county auditor ; Edward E. : Thomas S., deceased ;
S. Walter: Albert L. ; and Susan J- Richardson. Mr. Richardson is a
siilcmlid c.xan.plc of the self-made man ; his life is an illustration of what
industry, application and perseverance will accomplish.
S. \V. BRUNT.
In reviewing the life of S. W. Brunt we arc dealing with the history
of a family that has been connected with the development of several
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 121
states for several generations. James Brunt, the grandfather, was
l)nrn in Curritucl< county, North Carohna, in 1770. He was the eldest
son of Richard and Xancy (Bisco) Brunt; his ancestors had come from
England in the very early days of colonization, settling in his native
county. James married a young woman descended on paternal and
maternal side from the In-ench Huguenots. She was Sarah Harris,
daughter of William and Ann (Cowel) Harris. For several years
after In's marriage James remained in Currituck county, where all his
children were horn save William Harris, the youngest. In 1809 the
family moved to Rowan county. North Carolina. Here the seventh
child, ^^'illiam. was born Alarch 22, 1810. Here James juiued
the Baptists and his wife entered the Methodist church. In 1829 they
moved to Indiana, settling in Rush county and later, in 1836, removing
to Madison county, Indiana, where they spent the last vears of their
lives and where all that remains of these brave pioneers, in an earthly
way, lies buried. The six eldest children were: Lydia, Mary, Ann,
John, Polly and Thomas.
William Harris Brunt, the youngest, was nineteen years old when
he came to Indiana with his parents. He had received a fair education
while in North Carolina and upon entering his new state he engaged in
teaching, saving thereby enough money to buy eighty acres from the
government. This land he cleared and in 1836, when his father located
in Madison county, \\'illiam Harris entered some new land in the same
county, moved his own family tliere and remained for fully eleven years.
Then in the spring of 1848 he cast his eye farther west and took up
more government land in what is now Lancaster township, Keokuk
county, Iowa. Thus, for the third time in his life, he became a pioneer
and in all his efYorts he was nobly aided and encouraged bv his wife, a
12_' GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
woman of sterling qualities, large heart and generous mind, lie had
married her in the old Indiana home while still in Rush county. She
was a native of Maryland, who had been reared in Kentucky, and who
was Xancy Williams, daughter of Mathias and lilizahcth (Lauftis)
Williams: she was excellently prepared to furnish the lighter clement to
happiness and still exert a heningn influence through her calm anil pur-
l)oseful life. She was born .\ugust 14, 1807, and it was her good fortune
before her death, which occurred on October -'5. 1874. in Keokuk county,
to see honor and distinction come to the man of her maiden dreams and
to see her husband rise in the estimation of the community and win the
rcsjicct and esteem of his fellow men. They had been married Febru-
ary 21, 1832. In 1839 they joined the Christian church and to this faith
they ever afterward remained firm adherents. He was ordained a min-
ister of this church in Indiana, and until old age forced his retirement
he continued in the ministry, his labors being mostly those of a local
minister. Their children \\ere: Sarah, widow of Jacob Shoemaker.
living in firand Island, Nebraska : James M.. who died at the age of seven
years: John M., of Lincoln, Kansas; Samuel W.. the subject of this
sketch: and Elizabeth, wife of J. S. Morrow, a farmer of Lancaster
township, this county. They all received a liberal education and excel-
lent home training. John M. Rrunt was during two terms clerk of the
courts of this county and for one term he served as county treasurer.
William II. I'.runl was a public-spirited man, a liberal patron of
church and school. He was an organizer of the Christian church at Lan-
caster, low a. and was a principal donor to the construction of the church
building. lie was a strong L'nion man during secession times, though
in politics he identified himself with the Democatic party. lie held the
office of countv treasurer, was school fund commissioner and member of
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 123
the county board of supervisors. He filled all these positions with en-
tire satisfaction to all concerned and ingratiated himself in the heart of
the communit}". He lived on the farm on which he first settled when he
came to Iowa until his death on July 17, 1898.
Samuel \\'. Brunt was born in ^ladison county, Indiana, October 4,
1840. He was in his eighth year when his parents brought him to Keo-
kuk county. They gave him a fair education, and with industry aiding
natural ability. Samuel reached sufficiently high scholarship to warrant
his entering the profession of teaching. He soon turned his sole atten-
tion to farming. In 1874 he went to California, spent about six years
there in civil engineering and upon his return to Iowa resumed farming,
devoting his main efforts to stock raising antl buying and selling cattle.
It was about this time, somewhere along in the eighties, that he held the
ofKce of county surveyor. Politically he accepts the traditions of his
father and associates himself with the Democrats. For ten years pre-
vious to January, 1900, he was cashier of the Keokuk County State Bank.
The confidence in his integrity was so great that the directors intrusted
him with the entire management, never once during the entire ten years
requiring him to furnish a bond. He was careful and conservative,
and on retiring from the position of cashier he was elected president of
the bank, but declined the position.
In 1866 he married Miss Rebecca Payne, daughter of Rev. Samuel
and Lucy Payne. Their two children are living; they are: Arthur H.,
cashier in the Keokuk County State Bank, succeeding his father ; and
Lidu, wife of U. G. Dawson, residing in Ottumwa, Iowa. Mrs. Brunt
is a native of Iowa. In October, 1861, Mr. Brunt enlisted in Company
D, of the Thirteenth Iowa Volunteer Infantry. He served as a private
three and a half years and was honorably discharged in 1865. He saw
124 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTOkV.
some very active service, being in tlie l)atlles of Shiloli, Corinth, tlie
siege of Vicksburg and Atlanta. He was captured at Atlanta, July 22,
1R64, and for seven inonllis thereafter was held a prisoner of war at An-
dersonvillc and l'"!orencc, Xorth Carolina. He belongs to the Robert F.
Lowe Post, No. 167, Grand Army of the Republic. Fratcrnallv Mr.
13runt is a Mason and a Shriner. He is a member of the Webb Lodge,
No. 182, Ancient Free and .Accepted Masons. He is prominent as a
York Rite Mason. He belongs to Jopa Chapter, Xo. 40, Royal Arch
Masons, of the I)c Payne Commandery, No. 6, Knight Templar, (jf
Oskaloosa. Imva; Kaaba Temple at Davenport, Iowa.
GOTTLIEB E. KLEINSCHMIDT.
Gottlieb E. Kleinschmidt was not quite seven years old when his
parents and four children left Prussia, Germany, and settled in St. Louis,
Missouri, in 1854. Nicholas Kleinschmidt, the father, had no broth-
ers : his only sister and his parents remained in the fatherland. He was
linni m I'russia. April 14. 1816, received a fair education and learned the
trailc of a wagon-maker. ;\t the age of tweiU\-two lie marriad Dora
Schacht, who was born in Prussia, April 6. 1815. They had live chil-
dren: August, who died in Dakota in 1891; Amelia, wife of George
Pennington of Morgan county, Indiana; Gottlieb E. ; William C, a
farmer in Keokuk county, Iowa; and Louis, a farmer of Washington
countv. Iowa. The first four were born in Germany: Louis in Amer-
ica, 'i'hc family lived in St. Louis two years, whore the father worked
at his trade. In the fall of 1855 he went 10 Sigourney, bought a lot
and built a hou.sc for his family, who moved into the new home the fol-
lowing .\pril. He opened a blacksmith and c.irriage sliop and conducted
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 125
Iiis Inisiness witli great success. In 1883 lie gave the management to
his son, Gottheb, thongh for a few years longer he continued to take
an interest in tlie business. He died December 18, 1901 ; his wife, on
June 6, 1S83. They were members of tlie Lutheran church and trained
their family according to the doctrines of their faith. He was a Repub-
lican in politics. His life was a personification of faithful, continued
labor, frugality, honesty and wisdom. He was a thoroughly success-
ful business man.
His son Gottlieb has carried on the business established on worthy
principles of fair dealing and efficient service. He learned the business of
\vagon-making and blacksmithing from his father, with whom he worked
and whom he superseded as head of the establi.shmcnt in 1883. He has
associated with him his own son, George, who since 1900 has charge of
the affairs. Gottlieb E. Kleinschmidt was born in Prussia, Germany,
December 28, 1847. He obtained a common school education, worked
hard at iiis trade and in 1884 took an active interest in the organization
of the Keokuk County State Bank. He was made a director at the time
and has continued in that position ever since. He was for ten years
vice-president of the board and in 1899 he \vas elected president of the
bank. Since 1899 the bank has done an increasingly large business,
due in great measure to the efforts to Mr. Kleinschmidt.
In 1875 he married Miss Sophia, daughter of Charles and Sophia
(Voltmer) Backhous. She is a native of Keokuk county. Mr. and
Mrs. Kleinschmidt have ten children: five daughters and five sons. He
belongs to the Democratic party, but has never held office. Fraternally
he is a member of the local chapter of Independent Order of Odd Fel-
lows and he affiliates with Webb Lodge, No. 182, Ancient Free and
Accepted Masons, of Sigourney.
126 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
JOHN J. KELLY.
John J. Kelly was born in Ireland. Xovember J4. 1826. lie was
tlie son of John and Catherine (Griffin) Kelly. The mother died when
John J. was a boy of eight years and some time later the father entered
npcjii a second marriage. At the age of fifteen John J. left home, went,
to England, where he worked in the coal mines, and five years after,
in 1846, came to America. He settled in Schuylkill county, Pennsyi-
\ania, worked as a miner in the coal fields of that district and became
later a contractor in coal mine and railroad construction work. In the
fall of 1863 he went west, spent the winter at coal mining in Illinois and
in April. 1864, took his family to Liberty township, Keokuk cCunty,
Iowa. There he successfully engaged in farming for many years, devot-
ing considerable time to stock raising and cattle buying.
.\bout 1853 he married Bridget Lagan, who had come to Penn-
sylvania from Ireland with her parents when she was a girl of thirteen
years. She died in May, 1S90, aged fifty-seven years. Of his mar-
riage si.x children were born, namely: Thomas; Patrick, a farmer in
Keokuk count)- ; John, w ho died at the age of about ihiriy-ihrec. leaving
a wife and three children; Mary, a resident of Chicago; Anthony, who
lives on the old homestead ; and Bridget, wife of Andrew Hayes, a farmer
of Liberty township, this county. John J. Kelly died in Sigourney,
Iowa, October 17. i8y8. He was a Roman Catholic and reared his chil-
dren in the faith of his fathers.
THOMAS KELLY.
Thomas Kelly was born in Pennsylvania, June 26, 1854. son of
John J. and Bridget (Lagan) Kelly. He was reared on the farm and
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 127
after completing the course in the common school he went to Dubuciue,
Iowa, for two years of training at St. Joseph's College. He returned to
the farm and for three years he worked in the fields in the summer time
and taught school in winter. He was then appointed deputy couniy
treasurer, and at the end of two years went ir.to the general merchandise
business at Kinross, Keokuk county. The following year, 1890, he was
elected county recorder and returned by his party for a second term.
In 1894 he was appointed assistant cashier of the Sigourney Savings
Bank, a position which he has held e\er since. Thomas Kelly is a Demo-
crat and an acti\e man in his party. He was delegate from his con-
gressional district to the national Democratic con\-ention at Kansas City
in 1900. ]\Ir. Kelly was marrie^l in 1879 to Miss Anastasia Slattery,
a native of Keokuk county, and the marriage has given issue to nine
children.
JOHN G. and FERDLNAND L. GOELDNER.
John G. Goeldner was born in Prussia, Germany, January 14, 1S12.
His parents lived and died in Germany, the mother dying when John
was a boy of six or seven years. At the age of twenty-seven he mar-
ried ; his wife died leaving him two daughters. He married a second
time, choosing Rosa Liersch as wife. In 1858 the family, consisting
of Mr. and Mrs. Goeldner, two daughters by the first wife and two sons
by the second, came to America and settled in Clear Creek township,
Keokuk county, Iowa. He bought eighty acres, involving himself to
some extent in debt but soon gaining a more than an ordinary income
and tln-ough continued industry arriving at considerable wealtli. In
1876 the family moved to Lafay;ette townshij) in the same county: antl
there they live now (1902), Mr. Goeldner holding possession of about
128 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
two hundred forty-eight acres of fine farming land. Tlie children In-
his first wife are: Ernestine, widow of Cliarles Nauman; Hannali. wife
of l-'rcd lust. 1)}- his second wife he had the follovving children : John A.,
living in Adams county, Iowa: T'"rederick T., of Keokuk county; Her-
man, of \\'ashington county; Henry, living in Keokuk county; Ferdi-
nand L., living at Sigourney ; Alvina, who lives at home with her par-
ents; Mary V., widow of Herman C. Axthelm; John G., who died at
the age of sixteen : and Rosa, w ho is still at home. He is a Repuhlican ;
religiously he and his wife arc of the Lutheran persuasion, both being
prominent members of the church and highly respected and esteemed by
friends and ac(juaintances.
l-'erdinand L. Goeldncr has had better educational advantages than
his father, in fact belter advantages than most men of his age and com-
nuiiiily, and his life lias been more eventful than ordinary and marked
with singular success. He was born on a farm in Clear Creek town-
ship, this CDunly. on March 5, 1864. His early cilucation began al ibr
little country school near his home. Later be attended the Keota higii
.school and graduated from that institution in May. 1S84. At .\mes he
attended the Iowa Agricultural College for two years. His was not a
consecutive course of training, for at intervals he taught in tlie public
schools. In the spring of 18S9 he became deputy clerk of the district
court and for four consecutive years he filled that office with universal
satisfaction. In the meantime he studied law with the Hon. G. D.
Woodin and on May 11, 1892, he was admitted to the bar before the
supreme court of Iowa. The next day he was admitted to the United
States circuit court, southern district of Iowa, at Des Moines. January
I, 1893, he opened an office in Sigourney and began the practice of law.
Mr. Goeldner is a Republican and an active man in his party. In 1S93
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 129
lie was chairman of the Republican central county committee and in the
fall of 1894 was elected county attorney for Keokuk county. His parlv
kept him in office for a second term and at the expiration of that time
he resumed his law practice. Wx. Goeldner is a member of the Knig'hts
of Pythias and lielongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He
is still a young- man and has already met with that degree of success
which indicates a jjrilli.ant future.
A. M. ASHCRAFT.
A. M. Ashcraft was born in Carmi, White county, Illinois, .March
5,. 1871. He was the son of Thomas and Cornelia I. (Rice) Ashcraft.
The mother was born and reared in White county ; the father was of
southern extraction. Thomas F. Ashcraft was Ijorn in North Carolina
and at the age of ten moved with his parents to ^Mississippi. Here he
learned the harness-maker's trade. When the secession spirit in the
south grew strong Thomas found it uncomfortable, for he was a strong
.'southern Union man. He was forced to leave the south and made his
way to St. Louis. But even Missouri could not tolerate him, so he
started for Illinois and finally settled in Carmi. There he followed his
trade for many years and married and reared a family.
A. M. Ashcraft, the son, was born and bred there. At the age of
sixteen he began teaching. In the spring of 1881 he entered the ranks
of the traveling salesman and followed that occupation until January 1 .
1896. He had married Miss Ida Jessup, daughter of John Jessup of
Sigourney, on September 19, 1894, and henceforward that city became
his home. In Januarv, 1896, husband and wife went to Iowa City, where
both entered the law department of the University of Iowa. They grad-
130 GENEALOGICAL AND DtOGRAPHtCAL HtSTOkV.
iiatcd in June, 1897. and were together admitted to tlie l)ar tliat same
niontii. Tliey returned to Sigourney and Mr. Aslicraft at once opened
a law office and began practicing, being ably assisted by his wife, who
is a practical stenographer and who does the office and reference work
with precision and ability. Mrs. Ashcraft formerly taught school for
a numl)er of years. She and her husband are members of the Presby-
Icrinn ciiurch.
.Mr. Aslicrafl is certainly one of the rising young men of this coun-
ty ; as an indication we mention his recent election to the office of county
i'ttorney; in 1898 the Republican party nominated him for the oftice but
he was defeated. His party has had such confidence in his ability and
merit that they renominated him in 1900 and this lime with success, and
he was renominated by acclamation in 1902. He is filling the ])osition
with honor to his party and credit to himself, and without douln there is
much in store for this ambitious and honorable young man.
FRRD D. STI^OHMAXX.
One of the progressive and successful farmers and old settlers of
Keokuk counly. Iowa, is Fred D. Strohmann, who lias been one of the
important factors in the agricultural development of Germ.in town-
ship, where in section 7 he owns a fine farm of one liundred and seventy-
one acres. By birth and ancestry Mr. Strohmann is Cerman, his par-
ents Diederich and Doretta (Buckhous) Strohmann being natives of
Hanover, Germany, where he also was born on September 2fi, 1848.
Diederich Strohmann was born in 1819 and served for six years in
the (ierman army, three years as a vf>lunteer. He marriecl ;iiid brought
his wife and four children with him to .\merica. in i85(). landing at .\ew
p
o
a
o
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 133
Orleans. Following the Mississippi they finally landed in Iowa and ar
once located in Keoknk county, on section 5, in German township. Here
Mr. Strohmann died in 1884, hut his widow still survives at the age of
eighty-four years.
Our subject was the eldest of the family of children born to his par-
ents and was eight years of age when the_\- came to Keokuk county. His
primary education in the German schools has been very thorough and
he was not able to add much to liis know ledge of books in the little log
schoolhouse in German township, for in those times the hours of work
were early and continued long. The land was unimproved and he was
needed to assist in its clearing and cultivating. Until his marriage on
October 21, 1870, to Christine Voltmer, he remained at home. Mrs.
Strohmann was born August 13. 1851, in a little log cabin on the farm
which IS now the family home. She is the eldest of fourteen children
and has lived her whole life in German township. Her father David
\'oltmer was a pioneer in this county of 1846.
Mr. and Mrs. Strohmann after marriage located on this farm, and for
two years lived in a log cabin, erecting then the handsome, modern resi-
dence wdiich is now the comfortable family home. This cf)ntains ten
rooms and is fitted up with taste and regard to comfort. The thirteen
children of our subject and wife were born here and all survive with
three exceptions, — Fred, Edward and Ella. The others are : Deitrick, a
prominent farmer of this county; ^Minnie, a popular teacher for eight
years, educated at Highland College, Dixon, Illinois; Matilda, the wife
of Albert Blaise, a prominent farmer of German township ; Dora, the
wife of Louis Goldner, a prominent farmer of Clear Creek township;
Sophia, a graduate of the Sigourney high school, a successful teacher;
and Lucy, David, Lewis, \\'alter and Mable, at home.
134 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
ilr. Strolimann lias long been regarded as one of the most pros-
perous farmers of tlie county, and is also one of its most intelligent and
progressive men. Formerly a Ivcpublican, he lias in later years l)een
identified with the Democratic parly and was its candidate for super-
visor, running far beyond his ticket on account of public confidence. He
has always been a leader in all movements looking to the best interests
of German township and is one of the most substantial as well as reliable
and upright citizens of this section of the county, .\lmost all of his
life has been devoted to the advancement of this locality and it is a matter
of comment that some of the best educated and most influential citizens
have been born and reared in this vicinity.
CURTIS G. JOHNSTON.
Among those of this ccnmty who arc proniinenl in the legal ]irofes-
sion we mention Curtis G. Johnston of Sigourney. .\lthough he had
the advantages of a college training, his advancement is due largely to
his own efforts and private study. He was born on a farm in Jefferson
county, Ohio, June 17, 1837. His father. William, w;is the son of John
Johnston, a native of Ireland and one of the very early settlers of Jeft'er-
son county, Ohio. It is very probable that William was born in the
Buckeye state. He was a carpenter by trade but also engaged in farm-
ii;g and in connection therewith ogerated a saw and grist-mill. He mar-
ried twice: bv his first wife he had three children, and he had several
more by tlie second wife, who was the mother of Curtis. She was bom
in Washington county, Pennsylvania, and traced her ancestry back to
one Hugh Scott, a native of Scotland. Her maiden name was Ro.sanna
Todd. She and her husband were members of the Trotcstant Metli-
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 135
odist church. AX'ilhani Johnston belonged to the Whigs. Botli lie and
liis wife died in Ohio.
After finishing the common school Curtis Johnston attended a col-
lege in Um'ontown. Pennsylvania. He taught school several terms and
then went west, arriving at Davenport, January 13, 1858. He secured
a clerical position in a law office at that city, and thus his law studies
began. In March, 1859. he was admitted to the bar upon examination
before Judge John F. Dillon. In April of the same year he left Daven-
'port, returned to Ohio, entered a law office, continued his studies and
in January, i860, was admitted to the bar of Ohio. He opened an office
in Steubenville, but soon after left for Washington, D. C, wdiere he
secured a position in the treasury department under Secretary Chase.
He held the jiosition four years. In September, 1867, he w^ent west un-
<ler lea\e of absence, visited Sigourney and decided to locate in that city.
He resigned his position at Washington and moved to Sigourney Decem-
ber 16, 1867. He opened a law office and has continued his practice
ever since. Mr. Johnston is not an office seeker ; he belongs in the ranks
of the Republican party.
On February 26, 1867, Mr. Johnston married Hannah Updegraft
in Ohio ; she is a native of that state. They have four children : Edward
A., an attorney-at-law ; Josiah M., a physician at Des Moines, Iowa;
Zella, wife of S. Carl Ouinljy, of Des Moines; antl Thomas K., who
lives at home. Mr. and Mrs. Johnston are members of the Adventist
church. In the summer of 1864 Mr. Johnston joined a party of volun-
teers in the noble service of the hospital corps. They cared for the
sick and wounded through the campaign of the Wilderness under the sur'
geon general of the United States army.
IK) GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
A. G. BROWN.
Abner Gregg Brown was one of the founders of this county. His
nne.xcelled business ability, his progressive spirit and public mindedness
niado him one of the mu\ing forces of the community. He was born
near Harper's Ferry, \'irginia, in October, 1823. In 1833 his parents
m(j\eil to Xenia, Greene county, Ohio. Abner's early training was
tiiat of tile farm and cummun country school. At Xenia he iieid a
clerical position for a mercantile house and Ijccanie the station agent
for the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. In 1855 he came to Iowa, setthng
in Sigourncy and engaging in the general merchandise business for a
number of years. When the increasing business of the city demanded
a local bank, .\. G. Brown was among the first to arrange for the or-
ganization of the First National Bank. He became one of the directors
and continued in that ofHce for years. He purchased land near ihc
southeast limits of the town, engaged extensively in stock raising and
met with such success in all his business enterprises that he became the
owner of eleven hundred acres of fine land. He was a member of the
J\epub!ican party and for years served on the school board of Sigourncy.
He was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
In i86j he married Miss Etta Yerger. a native of Pennsylvania,
."^lir died in 1880 at the age of forty-three. .\l)ncr G. Brown died in
Sigourncy March 13, 1890. They had two children: Harry G.. and Ber-
nicc .\., wife of W. G. Jordan of Ouumwa. Iowa.
Harry CI. Brown was born in Sig<iurncy, December 29, 1865. He
was reared and educated in his native city and in 1893 he marricil Miss
CJrace G. Harlan. Mr. Brown has gone into the business of stock rais-
ing and in that line is proving himself a worthy successor to his father.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL IIISTOKY. 137
He is a Republican in politics. Fraternally he helnngs to the Kniyiit
Templar Masons and is a Shriner of the Kaaba Temple at Daveni)ort.
JOHN HOGE.
The close of the great Civil War marked the beginning of an unpre-
cedented emigration to the west, the spirit of unrest seeming t(j afYect
all classes of society, but being especially strong among the agricul-
turists. Iowa's fertile prairies and shaded woodlands proved an irresist-
ible attraction to the larger number of these h.omeseekers and the vonn"
State was soon the scene of an enormous activity.
The honored name which appears at the head of this sketch is a
familiar one to residents of Keokuk county, for though his life was
])assed in the traditional peace and quiet of the Quaker, John Hoge, by
his consistent and upright Christian life, and his fair dealings with
friend and neighbor, made for himself a lasting monument in their
affections. His death, in 1900, was a distinct loss to the people among
whom he spent his life.
Air. Hoge was born in Belmont county, Ohici, in 1820. His par-
ents, William and Sarah (Wright) Hoge, were early settlers in the
Uuckeye state, being Pennsylvanians by birth. 'J'hey were of that sturdy
class of pioneers which early made Ohio famed in song and story, and
they lie buried in the state of their adoption. Three boys and the same
number of girls composed the family they reared. At the age of
twenty-two years John Hoge was united in marriage to Lydia Bran-
son, a native of the same county. She passed to rest but a few months
prior to her husband, aged seventy-eight years. To them a familv
ot nine children were born, three of whom died in infancy. They lived
138 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
in Belmont county until 1S65. when removal was made to Prairie town-
shii). Keokuk county, where for many years Mr. Hoge was a successful
farmer. He and his wife were of the Quaker faith, exemplifying its
hcauliful tenets in their daily lives. While a strong Repuhlican in poli-
tics, Mr. Hoge had no taste for official life.
Smith P>. Moge was the third son of this family and was born in
r>c]m(int county, Ohio, May 14, 185J. He was a wide-awake lad when
the family removed to the west, and as he grew to manhood contnhntol
much to his father's success by his manly (|uaiities. The ordinary coun-
try .school education was supplemented b\- a course at Penn College.
Oskaloosa, after which he returned to the i'arm and began the battle of
life for himself. L'ntil 1895 Mr. Hoge cultixated his farm e.\clusi\ely,
following in his father's footsteps and establishing for himself a repu-
tation for absolute honesty and integrity. In this year the Repub-
lican party, attracted by the solid character of the man, selected him
for a place m\ the ticket as county treasurer, to which office he was
easily elected. Two years later he was again successful and at the close
of his four years' serxicc turned the office o\er to his successor without
the loss of a penny. Mr. Hoge did not return to the farm but bought an
interest in a clothing business in Sigourney, where he is now en-
gaged, the firm name being Iloge & Kadel. ,
.Mr. llngc was married in 1875. Eliza Mead, his wife, is a native
of Ohio, the daughter of Oscar and Catherine (Crouder) Mead, also
l)ioneer settlers of Keokuk county. They have three children — Marie,
Sidwell and Anna. Mr. aiid Mrs. Hoge are members of the Methodi.st
cliurch, he being also a chapter Mason.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 139
^^•ILLIAAI PFANNEBECKER, RI. D.
The medical fraternity of Keokuk county has an active and honored
mcnil^er in the gentleman named above. He is proud to date his hirth
among the solid farming element of the county, the time being May 31,
1863, his parents, Henry and Eva (Hofmann) Pfannebecker, of whom
mention is made elsewhere in this volume. Dr. Pfannebecker passed the
life of the average country boy, securing a rudimentary education in the
schools of his neighborhood, and later attending an academy in Iowa
City. For a period of four years following he taught country schools in
his home county with success. During the last year he formally bega'.i
preparation for his life work by beginning the reading of metlicine with
Dr. W. A. Dorman, of Sigourney. Selecting Missouri Medical College,
of St. Louis, he continued his studies, and in 1891 finished the course.
He immediately began practice of his profession in Sigourney and has
more than realized the expectations of his frientls by the splendid char-
acter of his work. The Doctor is a close student of his profession, and
has supplemented his former course by post graduate work at his alma
mater. Pie is a Republican in politics, and a worthy member of the
Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Miss Margaret Hensler, of Monroe
county, Missouri, became Mrs. Pfannebecker in iXyi, and their home is
lirightened by the jjresence of two lovely children.
CHARLES A. NAUMAN.
There must be something ennobling in the life of the agriculturist,
else why does urljan society recruit so largely Irom the ranks of conntr^,--
bred men and women? In these latter days, when so many pr(i\-e vic-
tims to the allurements of citv life, and forswear the ijlace of their btilh
140 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
and rearing, it is rcf resiling to record llie life of a man who lived <nu the
measure of his tlays on the farm, proud ahvays to be known as one of
the "sons of toil."
Charles A. Xauman (deceased) was born in Saxony, Germany, Janu-
ary 29, 1833. After i)assing nearly a lifetime in the old country, his
])arents emigrated with their family to America, Charles A. being at that
time twenty years of age. Another son and three daughters made up
the family, two of whom now live in Sigourney. This family came
direct to Keokuk county and settled on a farm in Clear Creek township,
where the parents contiued to reside until their death.
Charles A. Xauman was of that thrifty class of Germans who
give solid strength to any community in which they may settle.. His
parents had given him a lilieral education in the fatherland, even adding
the accompli.shment of speaking the l-Zngiish language. \\'licn he came t)
.\merica he was therefore better equipped than the average foreigner,
and he was not alone proficient in the spoken language, but wielded .1
facile pen as well. During his lifetime he was a frequent and valued
correspondent for the local press. Following the custom of middle-class
Germans his parents had apprenticed him to a trade, and he was pos-
ses.sed of a good knowledge of blacksmithing as a result.
When the war for the preservation of the Union began, Mr. Nau-
man was one of the first to ofifcr his services, becoming a private in Coni-
jiany F, Eighth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, in wliicli he served for a year.
The rigors of armv life were too great, however, and a chronic weakness
of the throat dcvelnping into bronchitis, as a result of which he secured
his discharge. It was this disease, together with other complications,
which finally caused his death in February of 1893. In 1863 Mr. Xau-
man married Miss Marv Goeldner, daughter of John G. Goeldner. who
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 141
has mention elsewhere in this \olume. To tlic union eight cliil(h'en were
horn, ail now living hut one.
Mr. Emil D. Xauman, eldest son of the al)o\e, was born in Keoku'c
county, December 19, 1864. He was given a liberal education in the
common schools and at hjwa City Academy and Commercial College.
For five years thereafter he taught successfully in the schools of the
count}- and for several years engaged in farming, but is now a hook-
keeper. Mr. Nauman is quite active in Republican circles, his first en-
trance into politics being in 1895, when he was elected assessor of Prairie
t(jwnship, and also the following year. In 1900 he was selected to take
the census of Prairie township. In school affairs he has always taken
a keen interest and has ser\-ed as secretary of the school board of his
district for five years. In i8go he was married to Miss Emma Goodman,
of Keokuk county, who has borne him one child, a daughter, named An-
na. Since January, 1902, the famil\' have resided hi Sigourney.
GEORGE L. BARTOW.
A school man of unquestioned ability, b(Jtli in the schoolroom as
principal and in official life as superintendent of Keokuk county schools;
an honored member of the newspaper fraternity, fearless and able as an
advocate of Democratic principles; a lawyer of undoubted ability; and
above all, a gentleman! George L. Bartow receives and merits the con-
fidence and esteem of a very large circle of Keokuk county citizens. The
family of which Mr. Bartow is an honored member dates back to the
time of the French Huguenots, those fearless disseminators of civil and
religious libertv, whose progeny inherit to a large extent their sterling
qualities. Our subject takes the name of his grandfather Bartow (the
142 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL fflSTORV.
French spelling of wliich was Barteau), who lived in Harrison county,
Ohio, from an early day until 1S51, when he settled his family in Jeffer-
son county, Iowa.
George P. Bartow, the father of our present suhject. was born in
Ohio and educated in tlie New Market Academ\ . To this literary founda-
tion he added a course in medicine at the John M. Scudder Eclectic Med-
ical College, of Cincinnati. He engaged in the practice of his profes-
sion in Jefferson county, Iowa, until 1880, wlic he 'removed to Richland,
Keokuk county, where he lived until the time of his decease, in 1885.
He was a physician of fine attainments and a man who was very suc-
cessful in his. business ventures. At the lime of his death he had accum-
ulated a comtortaljle competence, lie was not covetous of political pre-
ferment, but always stood for what was best in the Democratic party.
He was a member of the Masonic fraternity, of the Independent Order
of Odd Fellows, of the Knights of Pythias, and both lie and Mrs. Bartow-
who still survives him, were faithful and consistent members of the Meth-
odist church. I'nlo his marriage were born four children, as follows:
Albert C, Sigourney; George L. ; Alpheus M.. dry goods merchant of
Sigourney; ?klary J., deceased.
The literary education of the subject of this review was obtained in
the country schoolhouse and the Pleasant Plains Academy, where he
was graduated in 1886. For a period of fourteen consecutive terms Mr.
Bartow then gave his attention to disseminating knowledge in the school-
room, a period in which he demonstrated conclusively th.it he not only
had the knowledge, but the ability to impart it to others — not always co-
existent. His success was such in the schoolroom that when his political
party needed the attraction of an unusually strong name they found it in
that of George L. Bartow, and for two successive terms he served
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 14,3
acceptably tlie school interests of the county. While in the schoolrooni
he was principal successively at Thornburg, Richland and ]\Iartinsl;)urg.
His residence at Richland was also the date of a year's experience with
L'ncle Sam, he having served that period as postmaster. At the close of
his service as superintendent of schools Mr. Bartow secured control of
the Sigourney Re\iew and for three years thereafter the Democratic
])arty of the coiuity and state had an organ upon which it could depend
for the faithful exposition of its most cherished principles, while the
people were gi\en a paper which fearlessly printed the news, without
equi\ocation. Previcjus to his election to the office of county superin-
tendent of schools he served for two years in the United States railway
mail service.
During his public life'as superintendent and editor Mr. Bartow had
become much interested in the law as a profession, and it was therefore
a comparatively easy matter for him to enter upon its practice, which he
did after passing a brilliant examination at the local bar. During (fhe
comparatively short period of activity- in the profession he has demon-
strated that the human mind, at least some human minds, are of so
facile a nature as to do many diverse things equally well. His standing
at the bar is without question, and he is rapidly building up a splendid
practice. It is probably unnecessary to state tliat Mr. Bartow is a simon-
pure, uncompromising Democrat. He is affiliated with the order of
Odd Fellows and he and his family are communicants of the Methodist
church. Mr. Bartow was joined in wedlock to ]\Iiss Belle Pfafif, of
Sigourney. Two children, Vora S. and Vera A-, have come to add
delight to their pleasant home.
114 GENEALOGICAL AXD BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
CAP E. MILLER.
Tlie welfare t)f any community depends on the number of strong
young men it can muster. Old men lor wisdom; but it takes tlie elastic
energy and fne of youth to carry great projects through. Old men
think: young men act. And, iliougli it he true that young men may act
without sufficient thought, yet even failure, with strength and a will to
do again, discounts the conservative halting of old age. Keokuk county
has a goodly stock of these young men, alert, acti\e, awake to the prob-
abilities and possibilities of life, and keeping the car of progress in the
van of the procession. Man\- of these are worthy sons of well-to-do
sires, ecjuipped at their expense for the battle of life, while others have
fought their way to success by their own unaided personal effort. Of
this latter class is the subject of this article. At an age when most young
men are just beginning to take life serioush-, he is superintendent of
schools of Keokuk coimtv.
Cap Miller \\as burn and reared to man's estate on a fanu in En-
glish River township, one of a family of nine children. The education
he received in the country school served but to whet the boy's aj^petite for
something broader and deeper. The parents, thougli willing to sacrifice
much for their son's advancement, were able to help but little and do
justice to the other members of liieir large family, antl he was thus
thrown n])on his r)\\n resources. Such a state of affairs, however, tlid
ncit dam])cn the ardor of the youth; indeed, it but challenged the sjiiril of
self-help which had been lying dormant, and led him to resoKe that ho
would secure the oljject of his desires, come what may. The way
oi)ened for him, as it hail for others of like mind before, through the
arduous work of the schoolroom. Teaching one season and attending
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 145
the next constituted his life for several years. After two years at Hcd-
rick Normal, he matriculated in the Iowa State Normal, from which
excellent institution he graduated in 1901. Even before graduating
from the State Normal ]\Ir. Miller had w<in an enviable reputation ns vn
educator. Here his worth was immediate!}' recognized by President
Seerley, and he was frec|uently sent to take temporary charge of schools
throughout the state in the absence of superintendents and principals, an
honor which came to no one not fully deserving, as the reputation of the
State Normal was at stake.
Prior to graduating from the State Normal, Professor Miller took
charge of the Millersburg schools, and the two years of his incumbency
were marked by thorough organization and effecti\e class work. Upon
graduation he was offered the principalship of the DeSoto schools, and
accepting, he taught until the holidays, when he resigned to enter upon
the duties of his present office, to which he had Ijeen elected on the Demo-
cratic ticket, over a strong man on the Republican ticket,, and this in a
Republican county. Since that time this office has felt die rejuvenating
effect of his master hand, the school system of Keokuk county ne\er
having been on a better basis than at the present day.
The family of which Mr. Miller is a member still resides in South
English. The parents, David Wesley and Margaret (McWillianis)
Miller, are natives of the Buckeye state, having come to Iowa in early
life. The>- belong to the substantial farming element and are regarded
as among the best citizens of the county.
JOSIAH UTTERBACK.
Josiah Uttcrback has lived in Sigourney since 1892. He was born
on a farm in Johnson county, Indiana, May 15, 1834. His parents were
146 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
("iirbin and Sarali (Hanks) Ultcrback, both natives of Kentucky an<l
early- settlers of Jobnson county, Indiana. In 1850 they came to Keokuk
county, hiwa, sctth'ns" on a farm ahnnl tlirec miles southeast of Sigour-
ncy. They lived there until their ilcath; the mother passing away at
the age of seventy-one and the father when nearly ninety-four years old.
Of their twelve children nine arc living, of which number Josiah is the
eldest. Corbin Utterback was a successful farmer and extensive stock
raiser. He belonged to the Democratic part)^
Josiah received oidy a common school education and most of his
life has been devoted to farming and stock raising. In 1853 he married
Frances Dyer, a native of Johnson county. Tndiar.a, and by this union
tlicv became the parents of eight children. At the time of his marriage
-Mr. rilcrback moved t(j a farm in Lancaster township, this county, .and
here he made his home until iSijj. 1 Ic was one of the organizers of the
Sigourney Savings Bank and became its fust president. Through a
])eri(rfd of ten vears he has directed the hank's affairs Vvith the utmost care
and success, and he has been retained at its heail to the present time.
Mr. Utterback is still interested in farming and still engages in the
buying and selling of stock. Some time along in the eighties he was
made treasurer of Keokuk comity. He has also taken an interest in
public affairs and found the Democratic principles such as he coidd best
accept.
ELLIOTT UTTERBACK.
FJlif)tt I'tterback has long been a resident of Lancaster township,
Keokuk county, Iowa, and was born in Johnson county, Indiana, .\pril
14, 1842, son of Corbin and Sarah (Hanks) Utterback. His father's
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 147
liistory is recorded in tlic personal sketcli of Josiah Utterback, elsewlierc
in tliis work. Mr. Utterbaclv was the sex'enth child and fourth son and
was about eight years old at his coming to Keokuk county. He was
educated in the district school of Lancaster township and assistetl his
father on the farm. In 1859, when in his eighteenth year he lost a leg,
hut notwithstanding he has had a successful career. He owns a fine,
well improved farm of two hundred acres.
On December 14, 1869, he married Olive Beall, who was born in
Holmes county, Ohio, ]\larch 15, 1847. Her father was Brooklyn Beall,
a native of ^Maryland, and an early settler in Holmes county, Ohio, where
he died at the age of forty-three. Her mother was Mary Ann Siga-
foos ; she as born in Pennsylvania, can:e when a small girl to Ohio and
later, in 1865. came to Keokuk county, where she died in her seventy-
eighth year. She was the mother of eleven children, of whom Mrs.
Utterback was the eighth. The latter was seventeen years old when
she came to Keokuk county. ]\Ir. and ]\Irs. Utterback located at the
west end of Lancaster township. They were the parents of five sons :
Lester C, married Julia Pennington, of Lancaster; Vernon D., the hus-
band of Maud Jacobs, of Lancaster; S. Curtis, who married Florence
Gladfelter and resides in Lancaster ; Chelley C, married Artie Long and
lives in Lancaster; and Elver C, at home, assisting on his father's home.
Mr. Utterback holds membership in the Christian church at Lan-
caster and is one of its trustees. In politics he is a Democrat. lie is
one of the substantial old settlers of -the county and has been actively
interested in all the affairs pertaining to the advancement of the coni-
mnnitv.
148 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
HARiMON HEXKLE.
'llic luting reward of a well s])cnt life is retirement from labor an<l
a period of rest in whicii to enjoy the fruits of former toil. This has
l)een vouchsafed to Mr. Henkle, wlio is now living in Keota — a town
in which lie has been a very important factor as a promoter of many
lines of progress and improvement contributing to the general good.
He uas born in I'ayette county, Ohio, .April 7. 1832, and is a son 0/
George W. Henkle. The grandfather also bore the name of George
Henkle. The former, a native of \irginia. was a farmer by occui);-.-
lion and came westward to Iowa in 1S40, settled in \\ ashington countv.
where he entered land from the government and improved a farm, mak-
ing his home thereon for many years. He died, however, in Keokuk
county, Iowa, at the advanced age of eighty-three years. His political
.support was given to the Whig ]iarty until its dissolution, when he
joined the ranks of the Ke])ublican party, which was then formed, and
niarcheil under its banners throughout his remaining days. He was
honored by his fellow townsmen with a number of local offices and was
a consistent member of the ]*lpiscopal church. His wife, who bore the
maiden name of Polly Bush, died in Washington county, Iowa, when
the subject of this review was about sixteen years of age.
Harmon Henkle was the second child in his father's family and
was eight years of age when he came with them to Iowa. He was
reared and educated in Washington county, pursuing his studies in a
log schoolhouse there such as was common at that time. After arriv-
ing at the age of maturity he was married in Washington county \\\
1S54 ti> i.ydia j. W.irtenbec, a native of Ohio, who came in e:irly girl-
hood to Iowa. To this marriage were burn ti\e children; three of whom
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPLIICAL HISTORY. 149
are living: Ella, now the wife of E. il. Richey, of Keota ; Watson D.,
who married Emma flunter and is a farmer of ^'an Buren county; and
Clara, the wife of E. E. Bowers, a general merchant of Keota, carrying
on liusiness as a member of the firm of Bowers & Sanders.
After his marriage Mr. Henkle located m Richmond, Washington
county, where he followed carpentering until about 1859, ^vhen he re-
moved to Iowa county. There he engaged in farming for two years
and in the spring of 1861 took up his abode at a place which has since
been called Henkletown. trading his farm property for a saw-mill
there. He was then engaged in the manufacture of lumber until the
close of the war and in the meantime he also turned his attention to
general merchandising, which he followed successfully until his removal
to Keota. In 187J this town was laid out and Mr. Henkle became one of
its first merchants, erecting the second or third building of the place.
He and his partner remo\ed their stock of goods from Henkletown
and conducted a general store in Keota until 1886, and in addition
carried on an extensive lumber business under the firm name of Henkle,
Littler & Company. This partnership was maintained for several
years. :\bout 1S86 our subject purchased a third interest in a steam
grist-mill at Keota and carried on general merchandising in connection
with his milling interests, his enterprise contributing materially to the
upbuilding and substantial improvement of the town. In August, 1891,
he removed his mill to Weiser, Washington county, Idaho, where he
conducted business until Julv, 1899, when he sold his interest in the
mill and returned to Keokuk county, Iowa. Mr. Henkle has also
been a factor in agricultural interests here, owning and operating a farm
in Lafayette township, adjoining Keota. He became interested in bank-
ing alTairs here as one of the stockholders of the Keota Bank, which in
X7
150 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
1899 ^^''is merged into the State Bank. Of this institution he has been
tlie vice-president for many years and its successful conduct is due in
no small degree tn his efforts. He has valuable property in the town
and in all his business affairs has met with creditable success. His
prosperity is due entirely to his own efforts and as liie architect of his
fortunes he has huilded wisely and well.
Mr. Henkle is known as a prominent and exemplary .Mason, be-
longing to .\dcl])hi Lodge Xo. 2^'^^2^. Free and .\ccepted Masons. His
connection with the iraleniity dates from 1863. He was treasurer cf
the lodge in Greene township, Iowa county, and in his life shows forili
tlic lie]])ful and benevolent spn^it of the craft. He is also member and
(jne of the trustees of the Baptist church. Since the days of the Civil
war he has been a staunch Republican in his political views and has
held a number of local offices in his township. No man has taken
a more active or helpful interest in Keota than has the subject of this
review, who has wrought along the lines of the greatest good to the
greatest number. His business affairs have been not o\\\y a source of
revenue to himself, Init have also contributed to the general prosperity,
and in many other ways he has aided in the progress and improvement
of this section of the state. Patriotism may well be termed one of
the keynotes of his character and among Keokuk county's valued citizens
he deserves honorable "mention.
A. J. ULIN.
.\. J. I'lin, one of the enterprising farmers and early settlers of
Keokuk county, is a native of the Buckeye state, his birth having oc-
curred in Hardin county. Ohio, on the J/th of Decemlier. 1843. His
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 151
fatlier, A. J. Ulin. was a nati\e of Ohio, and in the year 1849 came to
iinva. settHno^ in Keoi^uk C(jnnty, wliere he engaged in the milling husi-
ness, following that pursuit for ahout twel\-e years prior to his death.
He was married in his native state to Miss Elizaheth Obenour, who was
horn ill Stark count}-. Ohio, and they became the parents of sixteen
children, twelve sons and four daughters, of whom three sons and one
daughter are yet living, namely: A. J., of this review; William W.,
of Seattle, Washington ; John C, of Warren township ; and Sarah, the
wife of Jerome Shadwick. The muther of these children is still li\-ing-
at the ad\anced age of eighty-four years and now makes her home
with her son John. The father was at one time a member of the
Alasonic fraternity and in his life exemplified its beneficent and helpful
spirit. His pohtical support was always given to the Democracy and
he was a devoted and faithful member of the Christian church.
Air. Ulin, of this review, spent his early childhood days in his native
state and with his parents came to Iowa when about seven years of age.
He lived at home until he had attained the age of twenty-three and
early became familiar with the work of the fields. From the time that
he could handle the plow he assisted in the cultivation of the crops.
He was married in May, 1864. to Samaria J. Wilcox, who was born
in Indiana, but was reared in Iowa, her father, Epliriam Wilcox, hav-
ing been one of the early pioneer settlers of Keokuk county. The
home of I\Ir. and Mrs. Ulin has been blessed with ten sons and two
daughters, namely: Mary E., who is deceased; Andrew E. ; John T. ;
Alfred, deceased; Elmer; James W. ; George R., deceased; Jesse L. ;
Cora, the wife of Nason Lisk, of Warren township; Clyde; Walter,
deceased; and Arthur. All of the children were born in Keokuk count\'.
IS^ GENEALOGICAL AND DIOGRAPIIICAL HISTORY.
Tliey were proNidcd with good educational prixileges and liave been a
credit to their parents.
Soon after his marriage Mr. llin purchased the farm upon wliicli
lie now resides, and it has since been his home. It comprises two
hundred and forty acres of land under a high state of cultivation. He
raises the cereals best adapted to the soil and climate, and annually
the ])ro(lucts ot his fields return to him a good income. lie belongs to
the Independent Order of Odd I'ellows and formerly he was identi-
fied with Keota lodge, but at the present time his membership is in
Chicago Lodge No. 385, of Delta. He indorses the political views
which are embodied in the platform of the Democratic party and he
is a member of the Christian church. His life has ever been an honor-
able and u])right one, and though quietly passed, his example is well
worthy of emulation because he has always been f(jund loyal to the
truth and to the right.
GEORriR OLDENBURG.
On March 2C), 1901, there died at his farm residence in Cicrmrm
township, a gentleman who was for long years connected with the devel-
o])nicnl of Kc(jkul< county, and in whose death the county sufFeretl a
severe loss. There ha\e been few resiilents in this portion of Iowa who
have enjoyed in a greater degree the esteem and friendship of a larger
circle of friends than George Oldenburg. He was a man of sterling
W'f)rth, of genial disposition and of unf.iiliiig courtesy, and these (|ualities
rendered him pfipular, while his sterling character enabled him to retain
friendship when gained.
Mr. Oldenburg was a native of the fatherland, where he was born in
GEORGE OLDENBURG AHD FAMILY.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 155
Landesbergen, Hanover, May 15, 1843, son of Frederick and Williel-
niina (Bakeliaus) Oldenburg. His parents lived and died in Germany.
They had three ciiiidren, viz., Henry of Oklahoma; George antl Char-
lotte, of Hampton, Iowa, the last two being twins. The mother was
the father's second wife, his first wife being a sister of the second. By
the first marriage there were the following children : Diedrick, deceased :
W'ilhelmina, deceased; Louise, of Sigciurney; Caroline, deceased; Fred-
rick, deceased; Dorethe, of Sigourney; Frederick, of Germany; and
Sophie, of Sigourney. He passed his boyhood and youth in
the old country, where he received the excellent education which the Ger-
man people insist on giving to their children, and on arriving at matur-
ity he, in 1S64, came to America. He settled immediately in Keokuk coun-
ty, where for a period he worked Ijy the month. His habits of thrift
and economy were such as to enable him to save a portion of his wages,
with which in 1873 he bought the farm where his widow now resides.
The farm was of primitive soil, and presented a very different appear-
ance from what it does now after years of cultivation under a master
hand. The original purchase was of eigiity acres, to which he added
at different times until it was increased to one hundred and se\•ent^•-fcJur.
All of the impro\-ements on tliis \-aluable farm were made by Air. Olden-
burg. In political faith Mr. Oldenburg voted with the Democratic party
until i8y6, at which time he transferred his allegiance to the Republican
party. As stated before, he was a man of sterling integrity, a kind hus-
band, and a good father. Mrs. Oldenburg's maiden name was Anna
Bruns. She was the daughter of John H. and Elizabeth (Harmeling)
Bruns and was born in Herzogthum Brunswick, Germany, on the 19th
of August, 1853. ]\Irs. Oldenburg was one of a family of three chil-
dren, two daughters and one son. The son and both of the parents died
15«. GENEALOGICAL AND niOGRAPIIICAL HISTORY.
m the old country. The sister nmrried Mr. II. F. Diiensing, of tliis
county, a skctcli of wliom appears elsewhere in this volume. Mrs. Olden-
l)ing is the youngest child of the family ant! came to America with her
sister in 1867. She married Mr. Oldenhurg in 1873, 'i"<J became the
mother of eight children: Minnie A., deceased: George F., who lives
in Kansas: Doris L. : Adelheid M. ; Louise D. : Augusta A. M. ; Frederick
11.. deceased; and Charlotte A. Minnie A. died when an infant, and
I'Vederick when nearly ten years old. Since the death of Mr. Olden-
hurg Mrs. Oldenburg continues the conduct of the farm, and is making
a brave fight to educate her children to make them worthy and respectable
citizens. She is lady of many fine traits of character, of good business
judgment, and merits the highest esteem of a large circle of acquaintances.
BEXJ.VMIX I'. CROCKER.
There arc few states in the L'nion more favored than Iowa. She
has splendid natural resources that ha\e yieldeil rich returns for the
l.ihor of men ^){ energetic purpose, who realize that work is the key
ihal causes the portals to swing wide open for prosperity. 'I'he natural
advantages of this section of Iowa attracted at an early day a supe-
rior class of settlers, thrifty, industrious and law-abiding, whose influ-
ence p'ave permanent direction to the development of the new locahty.
They founded homes and established families, whose representatives arc
now well known among the substantial residents of the commonwealth,
lielonging to the latter class is Squire Benjamin F. Crocker, justice of
the i)eace ;md notary public, residing in the beautiful little city of
Martinsburg. Scjuire Crocker is a native of Indiana, where he was
burn in Franklin county, October J, i8ji.
I'.enjamin Crocker, his father, was a Xew Englander by birth,
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 157
\\liere lie was reared to manhnod and married in the state of Massa-
chusetts. .\l)out the year 1810 he emigrated to Indiana, and estah-
lished himself in Franklin county. In his younger days he was n
shoemaker hy trade, and he continued this business in connection with
the clearing up of his farm in Franklin county. Here he li\-ed out
a long life of usefulness and died at the age of seventy-five years.
The grandfather of our subject was also Benjamin, he having been
the original American ancestor who emigrated from England. On
the maternal side Mr. Crocker remembers less concerning his family,
his mother, Elizabeth Bourne, having died when he was Imt three
years old. It is known, howe\-er, that they were earlv settlers in
Massachusetts. Mr. Crocker's father was twice married. To the first
marriage six chiUlren were born and to the second there were three
children, the Squire being the fourth child of the first marriage.
He was reared in his native county in the Hoosier state and re-
rei\-ed a fairly good education in the common schools of his district.
He remained at home until he was sixteen, when he was apprenticed
tf- the blacksmith trade. In the severe labor of this trade he was
engaged for the apprentice period of three years. In all he was en.-
gaged in this business twenty-five years of his life, during which time
he made the reputation of being one of the best workers in iron in the
community. Squire Crocker married in Franklin county, Indian.a,
h'cbruary 4, 1840, Miss Elizabeth Cassaday, who was a nati\'e of
New Jersey. She became the mother of eight children, four of whom
are now living: Thomas, the eldest son, lives in Washington state:
Harry lives in Martinsburg and is at .the present time postmaster (if
the city: Sumner resides in Kansas: Patricia is the widow of John
Behm, now residing in Martinsburg. The mother of this family died
158 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL IIISTOkY.
May lo, 1870. For a period of fourteen years after estaljlishing
himself in business, Mr. Crocker continued in Decatur county, Indiana,
engaged also in agriculture in connection with his blacksniithing. In
tlie year 1854 he was carried on tlie great \va\e of emigration that sei:
in toward the west to Henry county, Iowa, Init after a year .settled in
Keokuk county, locating east of Martinsburg. Here lie engaged in
farming and I)lacksmitliing, carrying on llic l)usiness until iSCi.
He had been an interested participant in the discussion of the ques-
tions wliich had threatened war, and his inhcreiU i)atriotism was suclr
as to cause him to drop all consideration of business and tender his
services in sustaining the country in its dark days. \\q enlisted in
Compau}' I, of the First Iowa Ca\alry, as a private soldier, in which
organization he served until 1864, having l)ecn promoted to the ofiice of
quartermaster sergeant in the nie;intimc for meritorious conduct. His
military service was largely seen in the west with the guerillas, among
whom he had some startling experiences. He served for a period of
three years and three months. Receiving his honorable disciiarge, Mr.
Crocker returned to his home, where he continued in the business jf
farming for a period. He then started the Inst hanhvarc business
which had e\er been conducted in Martinsburg. and which he continued
for a period of thirteen years, when he disposed of his interest to his son.
I'or eighteen years Squire Crocker has been the honored justice
of the peace and notary pul)lic in Martinsburg, and during tliat time
has been iiniminently identified with the public life of the county. In
I'olitical faith he sn))i)orts the principles of Lincoln and is proud to be
known as one of the organizers of that party in the fifties. I'raternally
he affiliates with the Ma.sons an<l is a chrirter nionihcr of the first lodge
started in Martinsburg. I'or ;i period of fifty ye.irs iu- has been carnc^^t
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 159
and devoted in his adherence to the principles and faith of the Metli-
odist Episcopal church, being at the present time one of its trustees.
The career of Squire Crocker has been one of marked activity and use-
fulness, and demonstrates the possibilities of labor in America, wliere
opportunity is not hampered by caste or class. His energy has l^oen
the foundation of his success, and on it he has erected the superstructure
of a comfortable competence. He is a highly esteemed resident of
Martinsl)urg, and as such we gladly give him representation in tliis
\olume.
CHARLES F. KENDALL.
From an early epoch in the development of Keokuk county Charles
1". Kendall has made his home here and is now well known as a leading
and successful farmer of Warren township. He was born in Mo!i-
mouth, Warren county, Illinois, August 4, i(S42. His father, Francis
G. Kendall, was a nati\e of Pennsyh'ania, born in 181 1. He spent his
early childhood there and acquired his education in the public schools,
remaining with his parents until he had attained his majority. Wlien
a young man he emigrated westward to Warren county, Illinois, an;l
was married in Monmouth to Jane E. Merrifield, a native of Ohio, who
spent her girlhood days in Cincinnati. They became the parents of
seven children, three sons and four daughters, and of this number two
daughters and a son are yet living. The family record is as follovv's :
Selurus W., deceased; Louisa Jane; Charles F. ; Clark A., deceased;
Sarah Adelaide, deceased ; Mary E. ; and Emma A., deceased. The
last two were twins. It was in the year 1844 that the father of these
children came to Iowa, settling first at Grand View, Louisa county,
160 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL IIISTOkY.
wlicrc lie remained until 1856. He then removed to Keokuk county,
locating on a farm of two hundred and thirty acres, which he inn-
chased. It was raw prairie land at that time, hut soon his labors
wrought a transformation and the tract became well improved and pro-
ductive. Upon the farm he remained until 1885, when he removed
CO What Cheer, Iowa, there making his home until within a short time
prior to his death. He died at the home of his daughter in What
Ciiccr, in February, 1894, when eighty-three years of age. .\ mem-
ber of the Dcm<:)cratic party, he kept well informed on political issues,
but was never an oflice-seeker. At one time he held membership in
the United Presbyteri;in church.
Charles F. Kendall was only two years of age when his parents
became citizens of Louisa county, Iowa, and there he remained nnifl
about sixteen years of age. when he accompanied them to Keokuk
county, in February, 1856. He continued to assist in the cultivation of
his father's land until eighteen years of age. when on the 21st of
October, 1861. he responded to his country's call for aid. enlisting in
Comj)any D, Thirteenth Iowa Infantry, being mustered in at Da\cn-
])(0t. He served for three years and nine months as a loyal defender of
the old tlag and the cause it represented and was mustered out on the
.(lb of July, 1865. at Louisville, Kentiurky. He had participated in the
battles of Shiloh. Corinth, Vicksburg, Atlanta, Nashville, and Kingston
in Xortli Carolina. He was wounded three times, but was not disabled
for any great length of time. He was mustered out as seventh cor-
poral. He had command of Company A, First 'Battalion, Second
Ilrigade, of the Army of the Tennessee, was in command aI)out six
months and during that period his company was engaged in the bat-
tles of Naslix'illc. Tennessee, and Kingston, North Carolina. His
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 161
ciim])any was captured, but he being wounded at that time was pre-
\cnted from being with liis company and he tlius escaped a term of
imprisonment in Anderson\ille prison. After receiving an honorable
discharge, having faitlifully performed every duty devolving upon hin\
in army life, he returned to his home and resumed the occupation of
farming. He purchased a farm of one hundred and twenty acres in
Washington township, Keokuk county, which he culti\-ated and im-
l>roved, and the well tilled fields yielded to him in return rich and abund-
ant harvests.
On the jyth of December, 1868, Mr. Kendell was united in mar-
riage to Miss Hattie Vickrey, a native of Keokuk county, and a daugh-
ter of Cyrus \'ickrey, a pioneer settler of Keokuk county, who was born
in Highland county, Ohio, February 21, 1827. His father was of
Scotch and his mother of English descent, tracing their ancestry to the
family of Sir Walter Raleigh. Mr. and Mrs. Kendall became the
parents of four children, three sons and one daughter, as follows: Cyrus
G., now residing in western Colorado: William Franklin, who is living
in Warren township; Sarah Adelade, the deceased wife of F.
.\. Black; and Freddie X., at home with his parents. Mr. Kendal!
resided upon the farm which he improved for eleven years. He then
sold it and went to Colorado, where he engaged in teaming for about
four }-ears. On the expiration of that period he returned and located
on a farm in Warren township. This farm comprised nine hundred
acres, which he purchased. He still owns of this eight huntlred and
forty-five acres, all under a high state of cultivation. He resided
upon this farm until about 1899. He then Iniilt the attractive and suli-
stantial home in Delta where he now resides. He is sixty years of age
and his wife is fifty. His careful supervision of his farming interests
162 GENEALOGICAL AND niOGRAPlIICAL HISTORY.
has hn)iij;lu liim splendid returns and he is one of the inlluential men
of his coninumily. wliere he is also honored and respected for the
good he has accomplished, the many acts of kindness shown toward
those in need, and his well si)ent life, which has been spent in strict
accord with the ])rinciples of truth and right.
He is a mcnihcr of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of
Delta. Chicago Lodge No. 385, and is also a member of the drand
Armv of the Republic, whereby he maintains pleasant relations with
his old comrades who, with their hearts filled with love and honor
for their country, wore the blue upon southern baftlefields and fought
so nobly for the preservation of the Union. Mr. Kendall is a Demo-
crat ill his political views and indicates his religious faith by member-
slii]) in the Christian church of Delta, his wife also being a member of
this church. lie and his wife have many friends in the community
where they reside and both are valued and respected citizens.
JOSEl'll B. J.\COBS.
Joseph I). Jacobs, a retired fanner and old .settler .if Warren town-
shiji. Koikuk county, was born in Johnson county. Indiana, I'^bruary 28,
1836. His father, .\uslin Jacobs, was a native of Kentucky and in
that state spent his childhood days and ac(|uircd his education. His
n;itrd day was October 21, 1S03, and he remained with his parents
throughout the period of his minority, removing with them to W^ayne
county. Indiana. He was married in Wayne county to Susan Borz-
worth, a native of I'reble county, Ohio, in which state she remained
with her parents until her marriage. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Jacobs were
born seven children, four sons and three daughters, as follows: Dru-
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 1(,.3
silla, now deceased; Bennett; Nancy; Henry, also deceased; John, wli )
(lied in infancy; Joseph, and Ruth, who also died in infancy. The
mother of these children passed away in 1840 in Indiana, and the same
year the father was again married, his second union being with Hannah
Walker. The}', too, had seven children, namely: Whitcomb, Sarah
I'Vances, Austin, Hannah. Frank. Perry and Anson. The second wife
died in 1853. h^i\-e years previous to this Mr. Jacobs had brought
his family to Iowa, locating in Keokuk county, near Lancaster. He
])tn-chased a farm of seven hundred acres, which was partially im-
pnned, and made his home thereon until 1870, when he traded his
property for the Cioodhart mill and turned his attention to the milling
business. On the 24th of December, 1861, he was badly injured in
the luill, his clothing being caught in the machinery so that he was
thrown into the works and badly crushed, but he recovered and lived
until October 21, 1873, when he was called to his final rest, being at
that time seventy years of age. His death occurred at his home near
llie mill and was keenly regretted by man\- friends. He was always .a
member of the Democratic party and also of the Baptist church.
Joseph B. Jacobs spent his early chililhood days in Indiana an<l
at the age of twelve years accomiianied his father to Iowa. He re-
mained at home until twenty-two years of age and on the 24th of De-
cember, 1858, made preparations for having adiome of his own by his
marriage to Mary H. Vittetoe, a native of Morgan county, Indiana,
where she spent her early childhood, coming with her parents to Iowa
w hen a maiden of seven summers. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Jacolis
was blessed with six chiklren, four sons and two daughters.
These were: William Chester, who died in infancy; Isabelle
and Luella, both deceased; Ed.son M. ; James and John, who
11.4 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
;irc deceased. 'i'lie niotlicr died August 2, 1869, at Ikt home
three miles soutli df Delta, and on llie Jd of Fehruary, 1870, Mr.
faci)l)S was asjain married, his secoud union heing with ]\hirv .\. Coble,
a native of Morgan county, Indiana. 1 hey are the parents of four chil-
dren, two sons and two daughters: Joseph, Florence, John, all de-
ceased: and Minnie, the wife of John Hasty, Jr. The mother of these
died September iG, 1883, and September 24. 1884, Mr. Jacobs married
Mrs. Sarah Frazer, nee Bass.
.\fter coming to Iowa Mr. Jacobs resided upon his farm until ilio
death of his lirsl wife. Since 1884 Mr. Jacobs has resided in Delta, lie
has led an agricultural life and gained a comfortable competence, which
now enables him to put aside business cares. He is a staunch advoca'e
of the Prohibition party and has been honored with a number of
political positions of trust and responsibility. In 1884 he was elected
r. member of the board of county supervisors and filled that position for
three years. He has also held all the township offices and was a mem-
ber of the town coiuicil of Delta, of the school board and was 'may<.r
of the town. He hokls membership in the Methodist Episcopal churcii
of Delta and gives an active and earnest support to every measure and
movement which he believes will contribute to the general good. For
more than a half century he has lived in this county and well deserves
to be numbered among- its honored pioneer citizens.
ELLIS FRITZLER.
Ellis Fritzler, who is an enterprising farmer and a native of Keokuk
county, was born in Washington township. January 13, 1845. ^^'^
father, .\ndrew h'ritzler, was a native of Cicrmauy. born near I'erlin,
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 165
May 8, 1815, and was thirteen years of age when in 1827 he came to
tlie L'nited States in com])any witli liis parents, the family I^eing es-
talilisiicd in Miami county. Ohio, wliere lie remained until he came to
Iowa, in 1S42. and settled in Henry county, near W'infield. He was
married in Ohio, the lady of his choice lieing Polly Ellis, a native of the
Buckeye state. They were the parents of ten children, seven sons and
three daughters, and is a remarkahle fact that the Ijand of children
still remains unbroken by the hand of death. These children are:
Henry, Albert, Ellis, Hannah, John A., Thomas J.. Andrew L., Anna
jM., .\lfred W. and Barbara B. All of the children were born in Iowa
with the exception of the eldest. As abo\-e stated, the father came *.o
this state in 1842, taking up his abode upon a farm in Henry county,
where he remained for about a )ear. He then removed to Keokuk
county and k)cated in Washington township, wliere he entered a farm.
All was raw land ujjon which not a furrow had been turned or an im-
pro\-ement made, but soon the track of the shining plow was seen across
the prairie. He continued the work of improvement and development
until his place became very valuable. He after\\ard sold the farm and
purchased another tract of land in the same township, retaining this in his
possession until a few years prior to his death, when he sold it and
remo\-e(l to Springfiekl, in the same township, where his remaining days
were jjassed. He departed this life December 20, 1894, at the age of
seventv-nine years, seven months and twelve days. He was a member
I if the Democratic party and a leading and inhuential member (jf his
cnmmunity, enjoying the respect of his fellow-men by reason of his
genuine worth.
Ellis Fritzler spent his early youth upon the home farm in Wash-
ington lownshii). remaining with his ]):irents until his marriage. That
166 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
important event in his life occurred Xovcmhcr 4. 1866, the lady of
his choice being Miss Martha McNahh, a native of Keokuk county,
where she was born and reared. 'J'hey were the parents of but one
child, .\ndrc\v, who is now deceased. Soon after his niarriat,^e Mr.
Fritzlcr ])urchascd a farm in Warren township comprising three lunulred
and Iwentv acres, the greater part of which was still in its primitive
condition, but he at once began to clear and cultivate the land and in
" ' course of time llic well tilled fields returned to him golden harvests.
lie sold that farm in 1879 and purchased another near Delta, and the
latter property he still owns, his attention being given to its further
cultivation with excellent results.
In 1872 Mr. Fritzler was called upon to mourn the loss of his fir-t
wife, who (lied on the 10th of May of that year, at the home of her
husband's lather, in Delta, being at the time twenty-four years of age.
(Jn the 24th of November, i876,Mr. l-Vitzler was again married, his
second union being with Xancy McNabb, a sister of his first wife
and at that time the widow of George Clubb, formerly of \'an Ihuxn
township. She was the first while female child born in Warren town-
ship. May 17, 1844, and has always lived in this county, being a
representative of one of the honored pioneer families. By her fir,--!
husband she had two children, Susie Clubb, and Georgia, deceascc'.
Mr. Fritzler is a staunch Prohibitionist in politics and he and wife are
members of the Christian church of Delta. Temperance and morality
have always received his support and he is ever found as the friend of
all measures calcidaled to ni)lift m.inkind and to promote the welfare
and ])rogrc^-; oT the community of which he is a resident.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 167
JACOB S. HAWK.
In tliis puhlicatiiiii, wliich lias to do with those who ha\'e been in
the past or are to-day pr<;)minently concerned in the bnsiness, profes-
sional, political and social life of Keokuk county, we are gratified to
give a specific consideration to Jacob S. Hawk, of Martinsburg, for his
life has been one of acti\"ity and he is widely known throughout the
county. He is a nati\'e of the Buckeye state, where he was born in
Jackson township, iladison county, September 28, 1827. He comes
of an old Virginia family, his father, William Hawk, having been born
there, and reared and educated. Upon arriving at maturity he moved
over into Ohio with his father, Jacob Hawk, and the rest of the
family. Here our subject's father married and began his life as a
farmer in Aladison township. In the year 1853 he joined the great
wave of emigration that was setting in toward the west and located in
Keokuk county, where he took up land in Steady Run township. Here
he continued to cultivate his farm until 1855, in which vear he died at
the age of fifty-eight years. He was a staunch Republican in politics
and is remembered to have been a very worthy citizen of that section
of the count}'. The mother of our subject was Leah Switzer, also a
native of the Old Dominion state. She died in 1840 at a comparatively
early age, being the mother of nine children, four sons and five daugh-
ters, all of whom grew to maturit}-, and seven of this family being still
alive. The whole family came to Keokuk county in 1853.
JNIr. Hawk was reared to farm life, and given a fair education. He
assisted his father on the farm until the date of his marriage, Sep-
tember 6, 1849, \vhen he set up an establishment of his own, continu-
ing in the agricultural life to which he had been reared. His wife was
168 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
lilccla J. Ilenson, who was a native of Jackson county, Ohio. Upon
arrival in Keokuk county Mr. Hawk l(H)k \\\^ kuid in Steady Run town-
ship, where he engaged actively in farming until 1890, at which time,
having i)y thrift and econom_\- accjuired a fair competence, he retiretl
from acti\e business, and ]nn'chasing a home in Martinsburg has since
that time resided in that city. He retained his farm of one hundred and
sixty-six acres up to tlie year 1900, when he sold out. Mr. and Mrs.
Hawk had live children, three of whom are living: William, residing
at hemic: Jnhn, at Martinsburg: M. J., wife of Millard Parish, residing
in Oregon City. Oregon.
Mr. Hawk has been continuously connected with the affairs of
Steady \i\\w township for forty-live years. He is a staunch Republicuii
in politics, and has filled some of the minor oliices of the township, hav-
ing been constable for a period of fomleen years. He is a
member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and is a Mason, having
liis membership at Martinsburg; he is also attiliated with the Independ-
ent Order of Odd F'elioW'S. It is worthy of note in connection with
the record of this worthy gentleman that at the time when his country
needed his services he enlisted in Company ]•", Thirty-third Iowa Vol-
unteer Infantry, as a private soldier, in this organization he saw some
severe service. During the service he was promoted to the position of
sergeant of his company. The life of a .soldier, however, was too
severe for his constitution, and he was honorably discharged on account
of disability.
Mr. Hawk is one of the stockholders and directors of the Martins-
burg Xational liank. one of the stnjiige.st organizations in Keokuk
conniv. .Mthough he is retired from active life as carried on by the
farming element, he still keeps up his interest in everything that looks
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. lo9
to the adxancement of the material interests of his count}'. His ac-
quaintance throughout the country is such that his athice is frequently
sought in matters of in\-estnient 1)\' the vounger men of the community,
wlio ha\'e great confidence in his judgment in matters of land invest-
ment. In husiness Mr. Hawk has attained a \ery desirable success.
I.)ei)cndent entirely upon his own efforts, he has surmounted the ob-
stacles in his i)ath. and the difliculties which he has encountered ha\'e
ser\-ed as an impetus to renewed labor. In this way he has ad\-anced
steadily to a ])osition of intluence and now. having acquired a handsome
comi)etencc. he is enjoxing a well earned rest.
JOHN C. FOSTER.
This prominent and representative citizen of Hedrick was born v.\
Henr\' county, Illinois, October 2"]. 1865. He is a voung man ()f push
and energv. and a worthy member of a community in which young
men take the leaihng part. His father was AT. B. Foster, a native of
Illinois, and for long years a prominent farmer in that state. He is
now a resident of Colorado. Mr. Foster's mother was Clara L. W'eath-
erby, now deceased. Mr. Foster is the only living child of their mar-
riage. He was educated in the public schools of Chicago, and leaving
school at the age of fifteen, began life for himself. He worked on a
farm until 1894, when he came to the new town of Hedrick and became
connected with the public ser\-ice. serving a period of eight years as
constable. He was then marshal of the city for a jieriod of three vears.
and for the following four years was night watchman of the z\\\. He
is at tlie ])resent time engaged in the real estate, insurance and loan busi-
ness.
171) GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
Mr. I'oster was niairieil im the 19th of January, 1890, to Miss
Minnie I!. Kooiitz, a native of K.eokiik county and a daughter 0/
1 iein y Koontz, one of tlic pioneers of Benton township. He settled
there aliout 1840. iiaving removed from Xortli Carohna. Mrs. Fos-
ter's moilier's maiden name was Ehzaheth Grimes. Mr. and Mrs.
I'oster ha\ e tiiree interesting cliildren : Beiva L., Addie and Vernie.
Mr. l'"osler lias always taken a \ery jjrominent interest in the public
life of the community in which he resides and holds to a marked degree
the coulidence of his associates. In 1901 he was nominated on the
kepuhlican ticket for sheriff of Keokuk county. He made a gallant
race, but owing to local complications he was not able to overcome the
large majority against him. Ihe vote, however, was ver}- close. For
a i>eriod of four years he acted as secretary of the board of education,
l-'raternally he aftiliates with the Knights of Pythias, Lodge No. 39S,
the Modern Woodmen of .\merica, No. 1937. in both of which orders
he has taken a very active i)art. and in which he is held in high esteem.
EZR.\ II.WVK.
On section 22, in Steady Run township, in this county, lives the
irentleman whose name initiates this paragraph, and who has resided in
the same locality for an even half century. He was brought to the
count V when he was a child, .'ind he ami oilier members of the family
have been identilied with its agricultural development since that time,
lie is a son of David Hawk and is a native of the Buckeye state,
having been born in what is now known as Vinton county, March 22,
1840. The family comes from old Airginia state. David Hawk hav-
ing been born in (ireenbrier county and having removed with his
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 171
])arents at a \ery early day ti.i Athens countw Oliio. Here he was reared
amid tlie ])ioneer scenes of the Buckeye state and learned the lessons
which later stood him in gootl stead in carving out for himself a home
amidst the pioneer scenes of this western state. He grew to manhood
and married in Ohii), and in 1849 came to Keokuk countv and entered
land from the go\ernment. He did not remain long at that time, how-
ever, hut returned to Ohio, wh.ere he c<_)ntinued farming until 1853,
when he brought his family to Keokuk county and settled on the tract of
land \Ahich he had entered five years previously. He continued to culti-
-wate this land until 1868, when he moved to the farm upon which our
subject's brother .Mien now resides. This farm he continued to cultivate
until the date of his death, that event taking place at the age of seventy-
one years. Mr. Hawk is remembered as being a man of many noble
finalities of character, was must industrious and a man of good business
judo-ment. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and
in the line of politics was a sup])orter <>f the old Whig party, and when
the Republican party was organized he became a staunch supporter of
the ]jrinciples ])romulgated by that organization. During the period of
his residence in Steady Run township he ser\-ed in the different local
omces with great acceptance. Hi^father before him, Jacob Hawk, had
also been a native of Virginia and was one of the pioneers of Athens
county, Ohio, luuiiig remoxed there after his marriage in Virginia,
which event occurred about 1813. It is remembered as a tradition in
the familv that the ilawk \'irginia Imlding was in the same locality as
the Washington plantation, and our subject's grandfather had a neigh-
borly acquaintance with General George W^ashington.
On the maternal side of the family Elizabeth Loveing, our subject's
mother, was also a native of the Old Dominion state, where she was
172 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
horn in I'luvania county, and was hnmglu to Ross county. Ohio. Ijv her
Darents when a .ijirl of twelve years of age. She was a daughter of Jolm
Loveing. who liad joined tlie great tide of emigration in the early part
of the century whicli had set in from \'irginia to Ohio, and he settled in
Ross county before the war of i8i2, where he continued to cultivate his
farm until his death. On the paternal side Mr. Hawk is of mixed Ger-
man and Holland-Dutch extraction, while from his mother he gets an
luiglish strain of blood. His parents had a family of nine children, six
sons and three daughters, eight of whom grew to maturity. Of this
famih .Mr. Hawk is the fourth child and the third son.
He was about thirteen years old when the family came to Keokuk
county. 1 le received UKist of his education in the district schools of Vin-
ton couiily. Ohio, though he remembers instruction in the little old log
schoolhouse which is still standing in Steady Run townshi]). He re-
mained at home engaged in the hard labor of clearing up a pioneer farm,
and no special e\ cut of importance occurred to mar the monotony of his
existence unlii that great event which changed the current of the li\cs
of so many of the youths of the country in the sixties — the great Civil
war. Mr. Hawk was reared to principles of intense loyalty to the gov-
ernment, and was thus read) at the very outset to gi\c himself, if
need be, as a sacrifice fur the maintenance of the constitution. He
became a member in iSdi, uf COnipany 1. First Iowa Cavalry, as a private
sdldier. in which organization he ser\ed for a period of three years and
three months; being at his post of duty during all of that time, except a
short period which he passed in the hospital on account of sickness.
He was promoted during this service to the position of corporal. He
|)articiiialed in the following principal battles, his services being mainly
west nf tlie Mississipjii river: P>lack Water. Missouri: Siher Creek;
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 175
Prairie Grove. Arkansas: and he was in at the taking of Little Rock,
Arkansas. Tliere were a great many smaller skirmishes in which he
participated and an immense amount of scouting service, his command
ha\ing heen fur a considerable peril id detailed to look after the noted
guerilla band led by Ouantrel. In all of this service he was faithful,
and was at his post of duty at all times; he received his honorable dis-
charge at Davenport. Septemljer 9. 1864. He then returned to his homj
and took up the thread of life where he had laid it down in 1861, and
has since been engaged in agricultur.al pursuits within the bounds of the
township where he was reared. He owns liere a large and well ap-
pointed farm of two hundred and ten acres, and is also cultivating another
holding on section 27-28 of one hundred and sixty acres. He also has an
interest in a tract of one hundred and sixty-se\-en acres in Steady Run
township in company with his brother Elijah.
Air. Hawk began his family life in 1869, when on the 3d of March
he was joined in marriage to Liza A. AIcGee. Tliis lady was a nati\ e
of the Hoosier state, having been Ixirn in Orange county, June 18, 185).
She was the daughter of Henry and Mary E. (Ham) McGee. Her
father was a native of Kentucky, as was also her mother. They re-
moved from the Hoosier state to Iveokuk county wdien Mrs. Hawk was
a child of seven years. Mr. and Mrs. Hawk are the parents of seven
children, Ida, the wife of Hubert Lewis, a Steady Run township farm-
er: \\'illiam H., deceased at the age of eight: Erank, deceased at four
years; Otis, Earl, Clifton; and Raymond; all children at home. Era-
ternally Air. Hawk is a prominent and worthy member of the Masonic
fraternity, having his membership in Xo. 106 Lodge, at Martinsburg.
Tie, like his father before him, is a staunch Republican and has been
honored witii several of the local offices during his lifetime here in
174 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
brcaay Run township. He is a man who is well and favorably known
all over the county as one of the most substantial of the farming ele-
ment. He can always be depended upon to aid in any enterprise that
has for its purpose the advancement and progress of society in his ini-
mediate community. His many noble qualities of citizenship attract
to him the kiml nffices of a large number of friends.
ALLEN H.WVK.
This gentleman is the youngest child of David and Elizabeth Hawk,
as referred to above. He is tlie present efficient trustee of Steady Run
township and is a man of influence in the affairs of the county. In con-
nection with his farming, which is conducted upon the Hawk home-
stead, where tlie father hved a long time and died, he is also interested
in tlie financial institutions of the town of Hedrick, being stockholder in
t vo of the banks of that city. Mr. Hawk was born on the 2d of Janu-
ary, 1855, on the old home farm where iiis brother now resides. He
received his education in the little old log schoolhouse of the home
(iislrict and was reared w illi the rest of the children to the severe labor
of a pioneer farm. Fie remained at home until his marriage, which
occmred on the J4th of October, 1S77. The lady he married was Miss
Sara Uoltorff, a native also of Steady Run township, the daughter of J.
L. and Mary M. (Heninger) Bottorff. Her father v.as a pioneer of the
county, who emigrated to the west from the Hoosier state. The parents
of Mrs. Hawk were married in this county and remained here until their
deaths. After his marriage Mr. Hawk immediately began housekeeping
on the old homestead, where he has since continued to reside, engaged in
farming and .stock raising. They have two children, Roy and Luln.
^y - lop
Genealogical and BioGRAPtiicAL msToRY. m
The farm whicli Air. Hawk cultivates consists of two liundred and forty
<".cre< at the home place, which body of land is regarded as one of the
best and most highly improved farm properties in Keokuk county. He
also operates a tract of one hundred and twenty acres on section 29.
As stated in the first part of this article, Mr. Hawk is also inter-
ested in the banking business, being a stockholder in the First National
I'-ank and also in the Savings Bank of the neighboring city of Hedrick.
He supports the party of Lincoln and Garfield and is at present serving
his fourth year as trustee of Steady Run township. Mr. Hawk is very
actively interested in the Masonic fraternity, having his Blue lodge
membership in Martinsburg, a member of the chapter at Sigourney,
and a member of the commandery at Oskaloosa. In these different
branches of the order he has served frequently in the different chairs.
He was master of his lodge for a continuous period of twelve years,
senior warden for four years, and is now master of the lodge at Mar-
tinsburg. He is a man who has passed his entire lifetime within the
bounds of his native county, is a public-spirited and progressive citizen,
and his prominent identification with the business interests of the county
all go to make him universally recognized and honored. The authors of
this \olume are glad tb gi\e representation to this family in the pages of
a work which is devoted to the honorable families of Keokuk countv.
HON. A. M. UTTERBACK.
Among the well and favorably known citizens of Keokuk county is
Mr. Utterback was reared on the farm and given a common school
education. He remained at the parental home until he was married,
in 1879, Miss Julia E. Hayes becoming his wife. Her parents, J. W.
178 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTOkY.
and Esther ( Rrolliar) Hayes, were among the earliest settlers of Keo-
nunibered A. M. I'tterhack. of Hedrick. He is a native of this county.
His birth occurred in Lancaster imvnsliip. April y, i860. Of Josiah
Utterback. his father, a biographical sketch appears elsewhere in this
volume.
kuk countv. I'or the three years succeeding his marriage, Mr, I'tter-
tack was engaged in farming, and then for one year was in the lumber
business at Delta. Iowa. He dien removed to Marlinsburg. where he
was engaged in the same business for a very l)rief period. For several
years thereafter. Mr. L'lterback folluwcd agricultur.il pursuits together
with stock raising and dealing, in Steady Run townshi]). He left the
farm in 1S92. and remove<l to the town (if 1 leiirick. which, has since beeii
his place of residence. In company with others he became intere.sted
in the llcdrick race course, of whicii he lattr became sole proprietor.
Under his ownership and management for fnur years this race course
became famous and yielded him good revenue, contributing at the same
time materially to the upbuilding of Hedrick, which also became well
advertised bv reason of the excellent and well atiemled races. This
business interest he sold after conducting it alone for four years. In
1902, in association with others, he was an organizer of the Hedrick
State Bank, of which he has been president since its organization, l-'or
many years Mr. Utterback has extensively dealt in stock, — in cattle
mostly, and is reckoned among the leading stockmen of the coiuuy.
I'olitically he has always afliliated with the Democratic jjarty. and
as the Democratic candidate, he was elected in 1901 to the lower hou.se
of the Iowa legislature as representative from the Twenty-fourth dis-
trict. He has also served one term as a member of the county board
of supervisors. As a citizen Mr. Utterback's course in life has been
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 179
that of public-spirited man. His business career has been characterized
by enterprise and success. His genial disposition and pleasing manners
have gained for him innumerable friends. l*"i\e children ha\e been born
into his home. Tiieir names are Hubert, Blanche, Alia, Fred and Ruth.
The family is luimbered among the leaders of social circles in Hedrick,
w here tliey are held in highest esteem.
JOHN M. ELLIS.
Iowa owes her de\elopment. prominence and prosperity largely to
her agriculturists and in tiu'u she has been kind to them. Many of
those who came here at an early day and took part in the development
of the wild land have found that it was rich in resources and that as
ihe years ha\-e passed their success has increased until their labors have
b'"ouglit to them comfortable comjietences. Such has been the case with
Mr. Ellis, who is now a retiretl farmer of Warren township. He was
]j(jrn in Allen countw Ohio, February 2, 1838, a son of John and Han-
n.'di (Brainard) Ellis. The father was born in New York and re-
mained in tliat state during the period nf his early youth, after which
he removed to Ohio, where he followed the occupation of farming. In
the year 1841 he came to Iowa, locating first in Henry county, where he
remained for about two years. On the expiration of that period he
r:ioved to Keokuk county, locating in Washington township, and there he
remained upon a farm until 1859. In that year he removed to a farm
near Delta, which continued to be his place of residence until his life's
labors were ended in death. He jiassed away in b^bruary, 1882, at the
ripe old age of eighty-six years. He was married in Ohio to Miss Han-
nah Brainard, a native of that state, and they were people of the high-
180 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
est respectabilit)'. Tliey became ilie parents of ten children, three sons
and seven daugliters, all of whom were Ijorn in Ohio. In early life the
father ga\e his political support to the \\ hig party and upon its dissolu-
tion joined tlie ranks of the Republican party and continued to follow
its banners until iiis demise. Both lie and his wife were consistent and
faithful members of the Methodist Episcopal church.
John M. Ellis was only about three years of age when brought by
his parents to Iowa and has since been a resident of this state, so that
his entire life practical!}- has been passed here. He has therefore been
a witness of much of the growth and development of Iowa and feels just
pride in what has been accomplished, for the state has made rapid strides
in progress, improvement ami up-building. He remained at home with
his parents until his marriage, and in fact, lived with them until they
were called to their final rest. He has always followed the occupation
of farming and he still owns a small tract of land near Delta. At the
time of the Civil war he manifested his loyalty to the government by
offering his services in 1861 and joining Company D of the Thirteenth
Iowa Infantry. 1 le was mustered in at Davenport and served for three
years and one month, during w liicli time he was twice wounded, once in
the head and again in the hip. He took part in a number of important
engagements, includinir ilie skirmish at Pittsburg Landing and the en-
tire siege of Yicksburg. He was also in the battle of Kene.viw Moun-
tain, where he received his first wound, and this so incapacitated him
that he was never again w ith his regiment in active field service. He
received an honorable discharge in November, 1864, and was mustered
out at Chickamauga, Tennessee.
On the 18th of February. 1866, was celebrated the marriage of Mr.
Ellis and Miss Nancy Casey, a native of Ohio and a daughter of Ben-
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 181
jamin Casey, one of the pioneer settlers of Keokuk county, who arrived
here in 1855. Mr. and Mrs. ElHs now have five children, namely : James
W. ; Liliie Adel, the wife of E. Greely; Emma Luella, the wife of E. A.
Garrett ; Henry \^'alter : and Charles, deceased. The children were all
born in Warren township and the sons still live in that township, but
the daughters are both residents of Oklahoma. Mr. Ellis has ever been
known as a loyal and public spirited citizen, interested in the welfare of
his community and its promotion. He has always been identified with
the Republican party since he became a voter and believes firmly in its
principles, although he has never sought or desired office. He holds
membership in the Methodist Episcopal church antl throughout the com-
munity where he has so long resided he is widely and favorably known.
In matters of friendship he is faithful, is true to all the ties of the home,
in business is reliable and as a citizen is as true and loyal to his country
and her welfare as when he followed the stars and stripes on the battle-
fields of the south.
WADE KIRKPATRICK.
The city of Hedrick is one of the latest additions to the galaxy of
municipal stars in Keokuk county, but in the short period of its exist-
ence has shown such vigorous growth as to bid fair to outstrij;, its older
competitors. Its phenomenal increase in population and the metropol-
itan character that it has rapidly taken on has been due to the stirring
up-to-date class of citizens which have been in control of its municipal
organization. We are privileged here to present the name of one of the
gentlemen who has had much to do with the development of this sturdy
little city, and who is ready at all times to sacrifice time and mone)- in its
182 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
progress. He is at the present time justice of the peace and mayor of
llcdrick. and is a man of sterling worth and character in the community.
Mr. Kirkpatrick is a native of the state of Ohio, having been born
in Madison county. November y, 1846. He is the son of Minor and
Hannah (Godfrey) Kirkpatrick. Tlie Kirkpatricks are originally from
\'irginia, the father having been burn there, and at age of fifteen
years removed to Madison county, Ohio. He was by occupation a
fanner, and in llie great wave of emigration that came into Iowa about
the close of the Mexican war, he came to the state, the date being 1848.
In 1850 he returned to Oliio and brought his family to Wapello county,
locating at a ])oint ti>ur miles south of tiic present city of Hedrick.
Here he lived until 1885. engaged in agricultural jninsuits. He died
in the city of Ottumwa in 1S94. at the age of seventy-eight years.
(irandfatlier TlKimas Kirkpatrick was also a native of the Old Domin-
ion state, and was an early settler in Madison county. Ohio, the date
of his remo\al there being about 1830. The Kirkpatricks are of Scotch-
Irish e.xtraclion, our subject's great-grandfather. Hugh Kirkpatrick.
having been the original ancestor, who came to America about the lime
of the Revolutionary war, in which as a young man he participated. It
is also noted of the grandfather, Thomas Kirkpatrick. that he took a cre<l-
itable part in the war of 1812. On the maternal side of the family, the
Godfreys were also from the Old Dominion state, moving into Ohio at
alxjut the same time with the Kirkpatricks. Our subject's maternal
grandfather was Lewis Godfrey. The marriage of our subject's par-
ents took place about the year 1840, and they became the parents of se\ e:i
children, of which family our subject is the third child.
He was but four years old when he came to \\ apcllo county, and is
therefore entitled to be considered almost a native of Iowa. He was
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 183
reared and educated on the farm, receiving a fair common school edu-
cation, and being taught at home habits of economy and industry. He
was but a lad when the war cloud burst with its destructive effect over
the country, and he chafed restlessly under the restraint of home influ-
ences during the early period of that sanguinary struggle, for the patri-
otism of the boy was such that he longed to be at the front defending
Old Glory. His opportunity came, however, and in 1864 he enlisted
as a private soldier in Company K, of the Second Iowa Volunteer In-
fantry, and was immediately sent to the front, arriving in time to partic-
ijKite in the Atlanta campaign. Here Mr. Kirkpatrick had the misfor-
tune to receive a severe wound in the left leg, which caused amputation of
the same and incapacitated him for further service. He received his
honorable discharge in March, 1865, after which time he returned home.
After the war he entered a harness shop, and learned that trade, which
he worked at for the following seven years, chiefly in the city of Ot-
tumwa. In 1872 he was elected county recorder of Wapello county,
which office he held for a period of eight years and administered with
entire satisfaction to his constituency, having received re-election three
different times. Upon retirinj^ from this office, from the period of 188 1
to 1888 he engaged in agriculture on a farm three miles south of
Hedrick. In the latter year he gave up his farming pursuits and moved
into the city of Hedrick, where he has "since resided. Here, as before
stated, he has been very intimately connected with the public life of the
community, and has manifested a most commendable degree of activ-
itv in its interests. Mr. Kirkpatrick is of a social, jovial disposition,
and enters into the fraternal life of the community with zest. He is
a member of the Masonic order, and is prominently identified with the
184 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
Grand Army of the Republic, being past commander of J. M. Hedrick
Post, No. 424. In political faith, Mr. Kirkpatrick is a Republican.
Our subject was married in 1875 to Lydia J. Spilman, and to this
marriage were born three children, two of whom died in infancy. The
other, Wade Thomas Kirkpatrick, now nineteen years of age, is a stu-
dent in the Iowa State College at ^Vmes, Iowa. Mrs. Kirkpatrick died in
1887. Air. Kirkpatrick was again married, to a Miss Lucinda V. NefF,
who died in 1893. In 1896 Mr. Kirkpatrick was married to Miss Anna
B. Hill, a native of Wapello county, Iowa, and daughter of N. C. and
Mary (Blake) Hill, a proniineni pioneer family of Wapello county. Mrs.
Kirkpatrick was born in 1853 and was reared and educated in the county
above stated, where .she was for many years a popular and successful
school teacher. Mr. and j\Irs. Kirkpatrick are members of the Meth-
odist Episcopal church of Hedrick, Iowa.
JAMES A. 1I.\ MILTON.
James A. Hamilton has always resided in the Mississippi valley,
and the spirit of progress and improvement which has doniinatetl the
west has been exemplified in his life. Industrious and energetic, his
work in former years has enabled him to now largely put aside business
cares. He was born in Putnam county, Missouri, IMarch 7, 1848, a
son of Wilson C. and Rachel (Summers ) Hamilton. The father was
a native of Virginia, born in Roanoke county, in October, 1814. When
a young man he left home and in early life engaged in school teaching.
When the country became involved in war with Mexico he joined the
American army and fmight for the rights of his nation, lie married
Rachel Summers, a native of \'irginia, and ihoy became the parents
Genealogical and biographical history. iss
of five sons, of whom four are yet lixing, as follows: Junius A., James
A., Carrie S., and Wilson B. It was in the year 1863 that the father
came to Iowa, settling in Keokuk county. Soon afterward he purchased
a farm of one hundred and sixty acres, the greater part of which was
still in its primitive condition, but with characteristic energy he began
to clear and cultivate his land and in course of time it was transformed
into rich fields. He carried on agricultural pursuits until his death,
which occurred on the old family homestead in Warren township, in
Marcli, 1899. when he had reached the ripe old age of eighty-four
years. His political support as given the Democracy.
James A. Hamilton remained under the parental roof through his
boyhood days and at the age of sixteen years came with his parents to
Iowa. He assisted in the cultivation and improvement of the home
farm until he had attained his majority, when he started out in life for
himself. He was united in marriage, July 16, 1869, to Matilda Vert,
who was born in Washington county, Iowa, a daughter of Reason Vert,
one of the pioneer settlers of Keokuk and of Washington counties. The
liome of Mr. and Airs. Hamilton has been blessed with nine children,
five sons and four daughters, as follows : Rachel, now deceased ; Ella,
the wife of Vinton Dawson, of Keokuk county; Mary, deceased; Wil-
son. James, Cleveland, Jesse, Jennie and Fred. The eldest son, Wil-
son, is an attorney of Sigourney, where he is practicing as a mem'^'"-
of the firm of Talley & Hamilton, and in the fall of 1902 was elected
county attorney.
For about a year after his marriage Mr. Hamilton remained upon
the old home farm and then purchased a tract of land in Warren town-
ship comprising three hundred acres, which he yet owns. He remained
upon that farm until 1890, when he built a home in Delta, where he is
186 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL IIISTOkY.
now living, one of the respected retired farmers of tlie place. He be-
longs to Delta Lodge No. 385, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and
in his life exemplifies the spirit of the fraternity. His political support
has ever been given to the Democracy, and as every irue American citi-
zen should do. he takes a deep interest in the political is.sues and ques-
tions of the day, although he has never been an office seeker. His life
has been quietly passed, yet he has always been found true to public and
pri\ate duties and to the obligations of the home and of friendship. He
has a wide acquaintance in Keokuk county, where he has now long resid-
ed, and the large majority of those vyho know him gi\e him their friend-
sliip.
DAVID HALFERTV.
In tiie pioneer epoch in the history of this section of Iowa David
Halferty, who was born in county Down. Ireland, was educated for the'
substantial development and permanent inipro\enient of Keokuk county.
He saw he wild lands transformed into fine farms, while industrial and
commercial interests have been introduced and lluis towns liave become
thriving cities. In llie work of progress he did his share and was par-
ticularly active as a representative of the agricultural interests of tlie
cominunilw He was one of the oldest settlers of Richland township
at tiic time of his deatli. wliich occurred August 31, 1902.
Mr. Halferty was born on the 9th of November, 181 7. in Fairfield
township, Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, of which state iiis father,
John Halferty. was also a native. His paternal grandfather, Edwanl
Halferty, wiio was born in County Down, Ireland, was educated for tiic
priesthood, came to this country with a hroihcr at an early day and
took u]) his rc<iilcnro in the Keystone state. From Pennsylvania John
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 1S7
Halferty remoxed to Ohio, becoming a pioneer of Richland county,
wliere he made his liome thnjugliout the remainder of his hfe, dying
at about the age of sixt_\-tive }ears. By occupation he was a fanner.
His wife, Avho bore liie maiden name of Ehzaljeth Nisbet, was also a
nati\-e of Pennsylvania and was of Welsh and German descent. She
died when about se\ent_\- }-ears of age. In the family of this worthy
coujjle were twelve children, elex^en sons and one daughter, and with
one exception all reached man and womanhood, there never being a
death in the family until all were grow n. The sons were all stout and
(luite large. Three of the children are still living, namely: Zepheniah;
Jacob: and Fdizabeth, the wife of Allen Armentrout of California.
The subject of this sketch was a child of about six years when he
accompanied his parents on their renicjval to Ohio, and in Richland
count}' he grew to manhood, his education being obtained in an old
time log schoolhouse, Samuel Kirkwood being one of his teachers. On
reaching man's estate he was married in Knox county, Ohio, Novem-
Ijer 2, 1843. to ?»liss Mary Brolliar, who was born in Somerset county,
Pennsylvania, on the 24th of May, 1824, and was but four years old
when her family removed to Stark county. Ohio. Two years later they
took up their residence in Knox county, where she was reared and edu-
cated, attending school near Ankenytown, which place was named in
honor of her uncle, Mr. Ankeny. who was a prominent man of that local-
ity and represented his district in the Ohio legislature. Mrs. Halferty
was also the sixth in order of birth in a family of twelve children, six
sons and six daughters.
Our subject and his wife began their married life upon the old
homestead near Ankenytown in Knox county. Ohio, Init in 1845 they
decided to try their fortune on the other side of the Mississippi and cam*
188 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
to Keokuk county, Iowa, by teams, locating at once in Richlantl town-
ship, where a link- lot; house was buiU in ihe midst of the forest. Al-
though this priniiti\e dwelling contained but one room, the latch-stnng
was always out and many a guest was maile welcome within its hospitable
doors. Ujx)n this farm Mr. and Mrs. Halfcrty had lived for fifty-seven
years, when he diet!, and during this time it lias been converted from
a wild tract to one of great fruit fulness. Tlnouglioul liis active busi-
ness life our subject followed agricultural pursuits. He took up land
from the government and at one time owned tin^ee hundred and sixty
acres, but dispose<l of nnich of this, though at his death he owned one
hundred and thirty acres, which is imder a high state of cultivation and
well improved. Having retired from active labor he rented a fe\v years
before his death the farm, and enjoyed a well earned rest.
To Mr. and Mrs. Halferty were born eight children, as follows:
Elenora, now the wife of Dr. John Roop. a resident of Nebraska; Jor-
dan A., deceased: Columbus ])., who married .Alwilda Clevenger: Ze-
pheniah, who marritnl X'cnishia Stewart: Leonidas C, who marrietl Hat-
tie Powell : Isadora, deceased: \'an, who married May Jolly: and Dora.
the wife of S. E. Chacey. The parents of these children celebrated their
golden wedding in 1893, having for over half a century traveled life's
journey together, sharing its joys and sorrows, its adversity and pros-
perity. Their married life covered ;i ])eriod of fifty-seven years, and
they had iwenty-one gr;uulclnldren and two great-grandchildren.
After attaining his inajority Mr. Halferty supixjrted the Demo-
cratic party until 1853. when he became a Whig, and on the organiza-
tion of the Republican party he joined its ranks and thereafter continued
a stanch supporter of its i)rinciples. I'Vom 1857 he was a member
of the Baptist church and took an active part in church work. His
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 1S9
estimable widow, however, holds membership in the Adventist church.
She survives him and resides on the old home.
Mr. Halferty was uni\-ersally respected b}- all who knew him, ami
tluring the fifty-seven years he lived in Richland township he was never
sued or ever brought suit in court, and no quarrel or serious trouble
ever arose between him and a neighbor. He retained his mental facul-
ties in full vigor up to the hour of his death and the data for this sketch
of his life was furnished bv him a short time before his death.
SAMUEL YULE.
Samuel Yule is a stock farmer of Richland township residing on
section ig, where he owns and operates two hundred and ten acres of
good land. He was born in Ashland county, Ohio, January 12, 1844.
His father, John Yule, was a native of Scotland, born in Aberdeen-
shire, and in his nati\-e land was reared and married. \\\ 1836 he
crossed the Atlantic to America, locating in Ashland county, Ohio,
where he followed his trade of stone cutting and also assisted materially
in building many of the foundations that were laid in Ashland count)'
at an early day. His last days were passed upon a farm in Keokuk
county, Iowa, where he arrived in 1854, taking up his abode on the farm
which is now the home of our subject. There he died on the 7th of
February, 1880, in the eighty-sixth year of his age. His wife, who
bore the maiden name of Jeanette Thompson, was a native of Bauf
Shire, Scotland, and reached a very advanced age, namely, ninety-one
years. This worthy couple were the parents of eight children, six sons
and two daughters. Three of the number were born in Scotland, while
the others were born in Ashland county, Ohio. These are : James, de-
190 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
ceased; Juliii, who like liis brother (Hed in California; George, a resi-
dent of Colorado; William, who makes his home in New Mexico;
Margaret, the widow of David Baughev and a resident of Iowa; Ellen,
the wife of A. J. Ramsey, of Kichhind. Iowa; Samuel, of this review;
c.nd Joseph, who is living in Colorado.
Mr. Yule, whose name introduces this record, was the se\enth in
order of birth in his father's family and was a youth of ele\en sum-
mers when he came with his parents to Keokuk county, Iowa, being
reared ujjon the farm which is now his home. He continued to care
f(jr his aged parents until they were called to their final rest and
throughout the years of his active manhood he has devoted his atten-
tion to agricultural jmrsuits with excellent success. As a companion
ana helpmate on life's journey he chose Sarah Wharton, and after two
vears of li;i|)pv married life lie was called upon to mourn the loss of
his wife. In 1S75 he was again married, his second union being with
Sarah M. Wagner, a native of Indiana and a daughter of Abraham and
Catherine \\'agner, in whose family were eight children. Mrs. Yule being
the fourth in order of birth. With her parents she was brought to
Keokuk county during her early childhood. By her marriage she has
become the mother of four children: Anna B., the wife of Jean Davis,
a resident of Richland; Lulu E., the wife of Roy Davis, who is living
in Jefferson county, Iowa; Nettie C, the wife of Frank Shelley, whose
home is in Jackson township. Keokuk county; and James B.. who is
assisting his father on the home farm.
Mr. Yule owns an excellent tract of land of two hundred and ten
acres, which is well improved. He is a stock farmer and keeps on
hand a fine herd of Galloway cattle. In his stock dealings he has pros-
j,r,<.l Iiw riniuial sales bringing to him a good financial return. He is
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 191
now recognized as one of tlie prosperous farmers of Richland tovvnsliip,
vliere he has made his home for forty-eight years, his upright hfe win-
ning for him the confidence and friendship of those with whom he has
been brought in contact. He is a leading and active member of rhe
Congregational church and is a stanch RepubHcan, doing all in his power
to promote the growth and insure the success of his party, yet he has
never sought or desired office. Fraternally he has for some years been
connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He is a public-
si)irited man, taking an active interest in everything pertaining to the
geenral welfare. In 1892 he made a trip to the west, visiting Cdeu-
wood Springs, Denver and other places of interest in Colorado. He is
content, however, to make Keokuk county his home, for here he has
found good business opportunities, and as the result of his industry and
untiring enterprise he has steadily progressed until he has gained for
himself a comfortable competence.
JONATHAN F. RICHARDSON, M. D.
Dr. Jonathan Franklin Richardson is u retired physician living in
Keota and is a man whose upright life as well as professional ability
have gained for him the respect and confidence of his fellow-men. He
was born in Vermilion county, Indiana, July 30, 1836, and is the eldest
in a family of thirteen children, whose parents were Anson and Lyd.'
(Weller) Richardson. The father was born in Ohio on the 2d of Dc
cember, 1814, and was a son of Joseph Richardson, whose birth occurred
in England. After accjuiring his education in the common schools An-
son Richardson learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed for
many years. In 1836 he came from Indiana to Illinois and in 1845
192 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
came with his family to Keukuk county, Iowa, where he is still living,
]iis home being now in Lancaster township. He married Lydia Weller,
whose birth occurred December 2, 1818, and was of German descent,
licr mother having been born in the fatherland. Mrs. Richardson Hved
to be about sixty-three years of age.
The Doctor was only about six weeks old when his parents removed
to McDonough county, Illnois, where he remained until a youth of nine
years, when the family came to Koekuk county. Iowa. Here he was '
reared and in the district sdiools he pursued his education, the temple
of learning being a log building in which the furnishings were crude
and the methods of instruction were also somewhat primitive. Outside
of school hours, however, he has greatly broadened his knowledge by
reading, experience, observation and study, and is to-day a well in-
formed man of scholarly attainments. Wishing to devote his energies
to the practice of medicine he began study for the profession under the
direction of Doctor Flint, of Ottumwa, Iowa, in whose office he remained
for aljout four years. He then began practice and in 1861 removed
to Keokuk, where he entered the College of Physicians and Surgeons of
that city, being graduated there with the class of 1864. He then took
up his abode in Keokuk county and in 1872 removed to Harper, this
county, where he was continuously in the practice for nineteen years,
enjoying a large patronage, which was accorded him by reason of his
acknowledged skill and ability as a member of the medical profession.
In 1891 he came to Keota, where he remained in active practice until
about 1894. when he retired to private life to enjoy the rest wdiich
he has surely earned and richly deserves. During the long years of
his active coiinc^-tion with the medical profes.sion he kept in touch
with the progress of the limes through reading and study .nid thus
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. lo3
continually broadened his 'knowledge and promoted his efficiency in the
\\(irk of alleviating human suffering.
On the JOth of October, 1859, Dr. Richardson was united in mar-
riage to Martha Jacobs, who was born in Johnson county, Indiana,
on the 14th of June. 1839, a daughter of John C. and Permelia (Craig),
Jacobs. Her parents were both born in Kentucky in the year 18 ri and
became the parents of eight children, of whom Mrs. Richardson is
the third in order of birth. She was brought to Keokuk county in 1846
when but seven years of age, the family becoming pioneer settlers of
this portion of the state. By her marriage she became the mother of
six children: Edward Lee, who died at the age of two years; Adla, at
home; Robert Lee, who is engaged in the furniture busines in Keota ;
John C, who is a printer by trade; Anson, who died at the age of nine
months : and Austin, who is editor of the Eagle, a paper published at
Keota.
The Doctor gave his political support to the Democracy until 1896,
when his views concerning the monetary question and other important
issues before the people led him to ally his forces with the Republican
part}'. His fellow-townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, elected
him to the office of mayor of Keota. but he resigned before the expira-
tion of his term. He has ser\ed as pension examiner for twenty years
and for many years he was a \'alued memljer of the County Medical So-
ciety. He is the oldest physician of the county to-day, having been here
for nearly sixty years. In the early days he traveled far and wide to
administer needed aid to the sick and suffering, and he won the love
and gratitude of many a household, h'ew men in the county are more
widelv known than the Doctor and none more deserve the high regard
extended to tliem than does this honored member of the medical pro-
fession.
194 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
JAMES R. SPEIRS.
Among the well known and highly respected citizens of Keokuk
county, who for half a century has played an important part in tiie
development i)f this section of the state, is James R. Speirs of Martins-
burg, at the present time the honored president of that staunch financial
institution, the Martinsburg Bank. There are few men whose lives are
crowned witli tlic honor and respect that is universally accorded Mr.
Speirs, and through long connection witji this portion of the state his
has been an unblemished character. Willi him success in life was
reached by sterling qualities of mintl and heart, true to every manly
l)rinciple. He has ne\er de\iated from what his judgment indicated
to be right and honorable between his fellow-men and himself. He
has never swerved from the path of duty, and along many substantial
lines of progress he has labored for the welfare of the people among
whom he has resided. Xo citizen of the county is more deservhig of
representation in a volume which purports, as does this one, to set fortii
the more honora])le families which Iia\e been connected with the develop-
ment and growth of Keokuk county.
James R. Speirs is a Buckeye by birth, born in Buller county, Sep-
tember 20, 1828. His father. Robert Speirs, was a Scotchman by birth,
born in Glasgow about 1793. He remained in the old country until he
was twenty-eight years of age and as a single man came to America
and located in New Jersey, where he began his married life. He later
removed his family to Butler county, Ohio, w liere he worked at his trade,
for ;i few years, that of a weaver, lie married in Xew Jersey.
Miss Mary I'.urk. and in 1864 removed to Steady Run township, Keokuk
county, where he passed the remainder of his life in the cultivation
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 195
of the farm, "n which lie died at the age of eighty-six years. The
mother of our subject was a native of New Jersey, the Burks being of
Irish extraction. The\- were also weavers by occupation. Their family
consisted of twelve children, ele\en of whom they reared to maturity.
The subject of this sketch is the hfth sori and the fifth child of the
familv. He removed with the famil}- to Indiana at the age of three
years, in which state he was reared to manhood. His education was of
a rather primitix'e and limited kinti, he Ijeing able to go to school but
three months in the year. He remained dutifully at hcjme until
his marriage, engaged in helping his parents in the battle of life. October
9, 1852, marks the date of his marriage with Katherine Stenger, who
was a native of Preljle countx', Ohio, where she was reared to woman-
hood. To this marriage were born three children, Mary E., deceased;
Sara A., also deceased: and Anna, wife of John AlcCreary, a prominent
farmer of Jackson township, Keokuk county. ^Ir. Speirs married his
present wife in the year iSCjo. the exact date lieing January 26th. Mrs.
Speirs' maiden name was Phyllis Flint, and she is a nati\-e of Franklin
county, Indiana. In the year 1854 Mr. S])eirs removed with his family
to Keokuk county, where he settled in Jackson township, and wdiere for
thirty-six years he continued to reside engaged actively in the cultiva-
tion of his farm. In 1890 he located in Martinsbnrg and bought an
interest in the Martinsbnrg Bank, uf which he became vice president.
On the 6th of February, 1899, this bank was reorganized and Mr. Speirs
was chosen as its president. This is one oi the most solid financial
institutions of the county, its officers being men of the very highest stand-
ing and character. They are as follows: Our subject is the honored
president: Mr. I. N. Ogden, vice president: Earl Young, cashier: John
Speirs, nephew of subject, is assitant cashier: while W. R. Speirs,
196 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
anotlier nei)he\\. is a stockholder. The capital stock of llie hank is
$600,000. Besides his hanking interests Mr. Speirs is very largely inter-
ested in real estate in the cit\-, and also has interest in farming prop-
erty in Keokuk county.
Ever since the organization of the part\- Mr. Speirs has been a
staunch and earnest supporter of Republican jirinciples He has served
in different positions of trust, having been a trustee of the town-
ship for a considerable period. Fraternally he is a member of the
Independent Order of Odd I'ellows, and for fifty years has been promi-
nently identified with the I'resiiyterian church, in which he is an hon-
ored elder. .\t the time of the Civil war Mr. Speirs was found a loyal
citizen, who valiantly espoused the cause of the Union and went forth to
do battle for the stars and stripes. In 1862 he enlisted as sergeant in
company F, Thirty-third Iowa Volunteer Infantry, and his period of
service covered three years. His command became part of the army of
the West and saw service in many of the hard fought battles, and in
many smaller skirmishes with Indians and guerillas. At the battle
of Helena he was unfortunate enough to receive a wound in the arm
by a minie ball, but was not incapacitated for service. He received an
honorable discharge from the service at Xew Orleans in August of
1865. Mr. Speirs takes active interest in the affairs of Keokuk county,
being particularly interested in the pioneers who came to the county in
the early day. and who are responsible for its marvelous growth and
progress. He was instrumental in the fniMualion of the Old Settlers'
Organization and takes great delight in its yearly meetings at Sigour-
ncy.
In all life's relations James R. Speirs has followed a course at
once honorable and upright, and his life demonstrates the worth of
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY . 197
integrity and enterprise in the busy affairs of tlie world. His lite has
been honorably associated with the history of Keokuk county, and m
business he sustains an unassailable reputation. He antl his family
receive and merit the encomiums of a very large circle of friends.
JAMES MORRISON.
In every community are found quiet and retiring men who seek no
public honors or public notice, yet exert a strong influence on the com-
munity by reason of their upright lives, their fidelity to principles and
their devotion to the good of their community. Such a man is James
.Morrison, who was for long years an honored representative of the agri-
cultural interests of Benton township, and his life in manv respects is
worthy of emulation. He is at the present time residing in the town
of Hedrick, where he is living a retired life on the competence which
his well directed efforts in earlier manhood ha\-e brought to hnn.
James Morrison is of Scottish descent, having been born in Scot-
land, August 27, 1836. He is the second child of John and Katherine
(Marnoch) Morrison. For further mention of his parental history sec
the personal sketch of John Morrison, of Hedrick. who is his brother.
James Morrison was a mere lad when he came to America with his
parents, who remained six years in the state of Ohio and came in 18^4
to Keokuk county, where they settled on wild land in Benton townshij).
Here James was reared to manhood and, was taught the habits of indus-
try and perseverance, which have e\er been traits of his character.
In 1862 he enlisted in company F, Thirty-third Iowa Volunteer Infantry,
as a private soldier. In this organization he served until the close of the
war, mostly in the west. In all his service he passed pot a single day
198 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
off duty and was always found at his post. He received an honorable
discharge at Xew Orleans in 1865, on account of the close of war, hav-
ing served well the country of his adoption. On llie i6tli of April. 1868,
he was joined to Rachel fhulson. daughter of Joseph and Rachel Hud-
son. Mrs. Morrison is a native (jf X'irginia, where she was born in Wash-
ington county in 1843. When she was ten years old her parents re-
moved to Jefferson county, Iowa. Her father was a native of England,
and her mother was a native of Virginia; they had four sons and four
daughters, all of whom are living but one daughter, and all are mar-
ried and have families of their own. To the marriage of Mr. and
Mrs. Morrison there were born six children: Mary, wife of Jos. Davis,
of Eddyvillc: James, residing in 1 ledrick : Margaret resides at home;
Hugh is a farmer in llcnton township; Walter is a son at home; Katy,
wild (linl ill girlhood, .\tter their marriage Mr. Morrison located at
tiic old homestead in IkiUon township, where they resided for the next
thirteen years engaged in farming and stock raising. In i88t ^Ir. Mor-
rison bought a farm in another i)art of the lownshi]), upon uhicli they
lived until they retired from active work and removed to the town
of Hedrick. He still retains this farm of one hundred sixty acres. Mr.
Morrison is one of the old pioneers of the county, and his life has been
such as to secure him the friendshi]) of a numerous acquaintance.
hi ])(jlitical affairs he has always been a staunch Republican, and is
proud of the fact that he was one of the early supporters of that party.
He has been honored with some of the minor offices of his township,
having served as trustee for a period of years. h"raternally he is afliliatcd
with the Masonic order, having his membersliip in Garfield Lodge, No.
485. I le is also a member of the (hand Army of the Reiniblic. J. M. 1 led-
rick. Post No. 424. Mr. Morrison has been very successful in the ]im-suit
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 199
of agriculture, due largely to his untiring industry and excellent business
judgment, steadily pursuing his way undeterred by the obstacles and
dit^culties in his path. Steady application, careful study of business
methods to be followed, close attention to details, combined with untir-
ing energy — these are the traits of character which have brought to him
success. He is passing his life in easy retirement among an extensive
cncle of friends.
ROBERT S. BRICE, M. D.
Dr. Robert Stockton Brice is one of the oldest resident physicians
in Keokuk county and has easily maintained a position in the front
rank of the medical fraternity in this part of the state throughcjut the
years of his residence here. He now makes his home in I'Ceata, where
he has resided almost continuously from the establishment of the town.
His practice extends over a wide territory, and in a calling where suc-
cess and advancement depend upon individual merit, upon comprehensive
learning and marked ability, he has won distinction, gaining a very envi-
able reputation, yet he is not less esteemed for his personal worth than
for his professional ability.
The Doctor was born in Belmont county, Ohio, July 7, 1838, and
comes of a family of Scotch lineage. His grandfather, the Rev. James
Brice, was a nati\e of Virginia and was a minister of the Presbyterian
church. His son, John Brice, the father of our subject, was also
born in the Old Dominion and was a farmer by occupation. He
married Agness Byers, who was born and reared in Pennsylvania, a
daughter of Andrew Byers, whose birth occurred in the Keystone state
and w ho was of German descent. He, too, carried on agricultural pur-
suits to support his family.
200 GENEALOGICAL AND l3IOGkAPHICAL HlSTOkV.
The Doctor was tlie sixtli cliikl and fourth son in a family of eiglit
children, five sons and three daughters, all of whom reached years ot*
maturity. He was reared in his native place, pursued his early educa-
tion in the public schools and continued his studies in the West Alex-
andria Academy, where he was graduated. Turning his attention to
educational work, he successfully engaged in teaching for many years
and for two years was the principal of the Powhattan school. Wherever
he was employed his services were highly satisfactory, for he was a
capable instructor, imparting with clearness to others the knowledge
he had acquired. At length he determined to enter the medical profession
and therefore began studying, wiiii Dr. K. M. Bain, of Powhattan,
Ohio, as his preceptor. He continued to read under his direction for
two years, when he offered his services to his country and became
an assistant surgeon, remaining with the army for two years. He
was stationed at Brown Hospital, at Louisville, Kentucky, and at Float-
ing Hospital, at New Albany. Indiana. In 1864 he resumed his stvidies
in the medical department of the Lniversity of Michigan, at Ann Arbor,
and the following years he came to Iowa.
Dr. Brice made his way direct to Keokuk county and located for
l)ractice in Talleyrand, where he remained until 187J, when on the estab-
lishment of the town of Keota, he came to this jilace. where he has
remained continuously since with the exception of a period of three
years, from 1890 until i8<)j;, when he was in Denver, for his health.
During that time he also engaged in practice. He was the first physician
of Keota and from the time he located here he has enjoyed a good
patronage. In i88_> he pur.sued a course in medicine at Louisville, Ken-
tucky, and he has continually added to his knowledge concerning the
healing art by reading, research and investigation .so that his under-
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 203
standing of medical piincipies is broad and comprehensive, and he lias
always been qnicl< to adopt any new methods of treatment that he be-
lieved would prove beneficial. He has been a member of the Keoknk
county medical society, tlie Washington county medical society, the state
medical association and the National medical association and he is
special examining physician for many insurance companies.
In 1871 Dr. Brice was united in marriage to Mrs. Minerva Smith,
nee Butler, and they now have one daughter, Nellie, who possesses excel-
lent musical talent and is now acting as organist in the Presbyterian
church. The Doctor is now the only charter member of Enterprise
Lodge, No. 159, Independent Order of Odd Fellows; he was at one time
very active in its work and has been honored with all of the offices
within the gift of the fraters of the lodge. He is a prominent member
of the Presbyterian church, is active in its work and has for a number
of years served as one of its elders. He was also chairman of the
building committee at the time of the reconstruction of the house of
worship. Local advancement and national progress have ever been
causes dear to his heart and Dr. Brice has co-operated in many move-
ments for the welfare and advancement of Keota and Keokuk county.
His sterling worth has gained for him friends in all walks of life and he
is held in the highest esteem by young and old, rich and poor, while in
his profession he has long maintained a leading position as a medical
practitioner of Keokuk county.
C. M. BROWN.
C. M. Brown is a native of Knox county, Ohio. He w^as born No-
vember 9, 1845, and is the son of Garretson and Ann (Holland)
204 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
Brown. The fatlier was of Welsh descent. His early ancestors settled
in Maryland and there, in Montgomery county, Garretson was born in
1802. His wife was of German descent, one of a family of twelve chil-
dren who all grew to maturity. She was Ijorn in Monongalia county,
W'est \'irginia, and for a short time after her marriage to Mr. Brown
continued to live in her native state. Later they moved to Knox county,
Ohio, where Mr. Brown engaged in farming for many years. In 1872
tiie> settled in Keokuk county, this state, still interested in farming. The
wife died m 1874 at the age of seventy, and the husband remained on his
farm until the time of his death in i88g. Three of their nine chilJien
died in infanc\-. four are udw living: two sons and one daughter in Keo-
kuk county and one son in Muscatine county.
C. M. Brown was reared on the farm in Ohio and his education
was begun in the district schools of the county. Later he entered the
high school at Mt. Vernon, Ohio, and subsequently spent a year at Ken-
yon College in Gambier, Ohio. He taught school for two terms in his
native state and in 1868 came west and taught for two years in the
schools of Muscatine county, Iowa. Before leaving Ohio he had already
begun the study of law and in 1871 he graduated from the law depart-
ment of the state university at Iowa City. lie at once located in Si-
gourney, where he has continued ever since with the exception of about
five years spent at Whatcheer, Iowa. He is actively concerned witJi the
political affairs of his state. In 1881 his party, the Republican, nomi-
nated him for state senator. He was elected and held the office for four
years. In 1874 he married Miss Flora Sami>son, daughter of Judge E.
S. Sampson. They are the parents of four children, naiuely : .Anna, wife
of Ernst E. Brackin of Coal Creek, Iowa; Roy C. an attorney-at-law
associated with the father and having charge of a law otVice in What-
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 205
cheer, the firm being Brown & Brown; Millie E. and Helen, wiio are
both at home. The son saw active service during the late Spanish-
American war. He was a member of the I^'ifty-first Iowa Volunteer
Infantry and spent one year in the Philippines. Mr. and Mrs. Brown
are both members of the Presbyterian church. Fraternally he beltings
t<:) the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and is prominent in Grand
Army of the Republic circles. In 1863 he enlisted with the national
guard in Ohio, and on May 2, 1864, entered Company A of the One Hun-
dred Forty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He ranked as a private,
and at the expiration of his term of service he was discharged, in Sep-
tember, 1864. He is a member of the Robert F. Lowe post and has
been commander for two years. He has served for one year on the staff
of the national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, an in-
dex of Mr. Brown's popularity and executive ability.
RALPH G. COFFMAN.
Ralph G. Coffman was born in Washington county, Iowa, August
15, 1875. His father, the Rev. J. W. Coffman, was a native of Virginia
and pursued his education in Shurtleff College, at Chicago, and Morgan
Park Seminary. He became a minister of the Baptist church and for
many years engaged in preaching the gospel both in Illinois and in
iowa. About 1865 he took up his abode in Washington county, Iowa,
and for some time was also located in Burlington. He is now retired
from the ministry and makes iiis home at Keota, but his interest in
church work is deep and abiding and his influence is yet given to the
advancement of the cause of Christianity, of which he was so long a
faithful representative in ministry. He married Margaret Bear, a
206 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
native of Washington county, Iowa, and a daughter of Gideon and
Mary Bear, who were among the pioneer settlers of that county. Her
father was a farmer by occupation, one of the leading land holders
cf Washington county, becoming a wealthy man so that he was enabled
to provide well for each of his ten children. Of this family Mrs. Coflf-
man was the third child and second daughter. To Rev. and Mrs.
Cofifman were born four children, two sons and two daughters, namely:
Carrie; Northup, a farmer of Washington -county; Ralph G., our sub-
ject; and Mary, who is living at the parental home..
Ralph G. Cofifman jjursued his education in public schools and in
Central University of Iowa, Focated at Pella, Iowa, where he pursued a
classical course. He then began teaching school and followed that pro-
fession for four years, during which time he spent one year as prin-
cipal of the schools of Lancaster. Iowa. In 1898 he was tendered the
position of secretary and bookkeeper by the firm of Keiser Brothers, of
Keota, and accepting this position he held the same until recently, and ac
present is in the employ of the Keokuk County News.
On the 2ist of November, igoo, Mr. CofYman was united in mar-
riage to Georgia Green, a daughter of II. V. and Lizzie (Ramsey)
Green. Mr. Coffman holds membership in the Masonic fraternity and
has taken the Royal Arch degrees. He is also connected with the
Knights of Pythias fraternity and is a man well known and well liked
throughout this portion of Iowa. His scholarly attainments, his courtesy
and his genial manner have made him a pleasant companion and a pop-
ular gentleman, and in the history of Keokuk county he well deserves
mention.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 207
SAMUEL DINGS, M. D.
Among the medical practitioners of Keota is numbered Dr. Samuel
Dings, who is accorded a liberal and lucrative patronage by reason of
his ability in the life work he has chosen. He was born in Washington
county, New York, October 23, 1857. His father, John Dings, was also
a native of the Empire state and there the grandfather, Adam Dings,
was likewise born. The family is of English' lineage and was early
established in. New York. John Dings became a carpenter and farmer
and for many years resided in Argyle, New York. He wedded Margaret
McFadden, a native of the Empire state and of Scotch lineage. The
Doctor is the second of their four children, two daughters and two sons,
all of whom are yet living. The father, however, passed away in
Argyle, New York at age of sixty-five years, while the mother died
in Crawfordsville, Iowa, when thirty-three years of age.
Dr. Dings is the only member of the family living in this state. He
is indebted to the public school system of New York for the early
educational privileges he enjoyed, having pursued his studies in Wash-
ington county. He afterward attended Howe's Academy, at Mount
Pleasant, Iowa, and also the academy in Washington, Iowa. He came
lO this state in 1876, locating in Washington county, and here he
engaged in teaching to some extent. In 1882 he went to Kansas, locat-
ing m Nortonville, where he engaged in farnnng for about five years,
and on the expiration of that period, having determined to enter the
medical profession, he took up the study of medicine in 1886. In 18S7
he matriculated in the College of Physicians and Surgeons, of Keokuk,
Iowa, and on completing the regular course was graduated with the class
of 1889. The same year he located for practice in Keota, where he has
208 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
since remained. W'liatever tends to promote the interests of his pro-
fession and place before man tlie key to tlie mystery of that complex
problem which we call "life" at once attracts the interest and co-opera-
tion of Dr. Dings. He is an extremely busy and successful practitioner,
many professional as well as social demands being made upon his
services.
In 1881 occurred the marriage of Dr. Dings and Miss Ida May
Hood, a daughter of Samuel Hood, who was born and reared in Louisa
county, Iowa, and pursued her education there. Unto them have been
born two children: Samuel E., and Harold H. Both the Doctor and
his wife hold membership in the United Presbyterian church, take an
active part in its work and at the present time the Doctor is serving as
superintendent of the Sunday-school. He is a Republican in politics with
strong Prohibition tendencies. In the line of his jjrofession he is con-
nected with the cdunly medical society and the Eastern Iowa District
Medical Society, and thrnugh the interchange of thought and experience
in ilie broiherhood of these organizations he is continually broadening
his knowledge concerning the medical profession ami the methods of
practice in vogue with the members of the fraternity. His own research,
experience and experimenting as well as careful observation have also
heightened his skill, and he now enjoys a liberal practice in Keota and the
surn nine ling country.
MORG.VN HAWK.
Having put aside farm work Morgan Hawk is now li\ing a re-
tired life, making his home in the town of Deltas where he is widely
and favorably known. lie was born in I'nion county, Ohio, July 4,
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 209
1838, and comes of an old Virginia family. His father, Jacob Hawk,
\\as born in Hardy county, \irginia, and there spent the days of
iiis boyhood and youth, but in early manhood he left the Old Dominion
and in 1830 traveled westward to Knox county Ohio. There he located
and after a time removed to Union county, that state, where he remained
until 1854. In the latter year he determined to establish a home beyond
the Mississippi, attracted by the possibilities of this great and rapidly
developing section of the country. Making his way to Iowa he settled
in Warren township, Keokuk county, where he purchased a farm of
two hundred and ninety acres of partially improved land. He was
married in Virginia to Sedeen Real, a native of the Old Dominion,
where she remained until her marriage. They became the parents of
ten children, seven sons and three daughters : Eunice B., Martin ; Dolly,
who died in infancy; Isaac; William and John, deceased; Anthony,
Sarah, Morgan, and Vanson. The father of this family remained upon
the old home farm in Warren township until his death, which occurred
in 1878, when he was eighty-four years of age. He was a life-long
Democrat and was a member of the Baptist church. In whatever com-
munity he resided he was known for his sterling worth, his fidelity and
manly principles and his devotion to truth and the right.
Morgan Hawk was the sixth son and ninth child in his father's
family. Under the parental roof he spent the days of his childhood,
and with his parents came to Iowa when fifteen years of age, remaining
with them until they were called to their final rest. He afterward became
the owner of the old homestead, which remained in his possession until
1 90 1. He has resided in Delta since 1899. He bought a lot here and
built his present home. Throughout the years of his business life he
carried on agricultural pursuits, his training at this work in youth ha\'-
210 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
ing brought liini practical experience which well titled him to take charge
of the farm on attaining manhood. He followed progressive methods,
keeping in touch w ith the advancement of the times, and everything about
tlie place was indicative of the careful and enterprising spirit of the
owner, whose efforts at farm work were crowned with a high degree of
success whch now enables him to put aside business cares and rest in
the enjoyment of the fruits of his former toil.
Mr. Hawk was married in Warren township to Miss Sarah Jane
Scott, a native of Indiana and a daughter of John Scott, who was born in
Kentucky and became one of the pioneer settlers of Keokuk county,
Iowa, arriving here in tlie year 1S44. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs.
Hawk has been blessed witli ten cliildren, four sons and six daughters,
as follows: John, Edward, Mary, Lacey, Amanda, the wife of Lee
Dawson; Clara, the wife of Wesley Snider; William; Delia, the wife
of Virgil Bell; Gertrude, the wife of John S. Scoonover; and Jessie, de-
ceased. All of these children were born on the old family homestead
and with the exception of tln-ce, all of the living are yet residents of
Warren township, and those three reside in neighboring townships, so
that the surviving members of the family are all near to their parents.
Mr. Hawk has ever devoted his political work to the support of the
Democracy and has kept well informed on the issues of the day, so that
he has been enabled to support his position by intelligent argument.
Both he and his wife are faithful and devoted members of the Christian
church, are well known in tiie community where they make their home
and arc highly respected by reason of their many excellent qualities
of heart and mind. They have long traveled life's journey together and
have many friends.
Genealogical and biographical history. 211
chauncy richmond.
Chauncy Richmond, who is now Hving a retired life in Webster,
but for many years was actively associated with farming interests in
Keokuk county, was born in Loraine county, Ohio, February 12, 18 18.
His father, Amos Richmond, was a native of New York and was of
English parentage. He spent the days of his youth in the Empire state,
acquired his education in its public schools and remained with his par-
ents until he had attained early manhood. He served his comitry
throughout the war of 18 12 and when a young man left the Empire
state and removed westward to Ohio, settling in Loraine county, where
he carried on the work of tilling the soil. He was married in that county
to Miss Alvira Bronson, a native of Connecticut, where she was reared
and educated. They were the parents of eight children, five sons and
three daughters.
Chauncy Richmond is the eldest son and now the only surviving
member of the family. He spent his early childhood in the county of
his nativity and is indebted to its public school system for the educational
privileges he enjoyed. He remained at home until fifteen years of age
and then went to Cleveland, Ohio, where he became connected with the
tanning business, which he followed there for three years. He next
became a sailor upon Lake Erie, and after a year spent in that way he
left Cleveland, removing to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, where he secured
a position as a watchman on the steamboat Favorite, on which vessel
he made the trip from Pittsburg down the Ohio and Mississippi rivers
to New Orleans and thence across the gulf of Mexico to Mobile, Ala-
bama. He remained upon the Favorite throughout the winter, but in the
spring returned to New Orleans and thence made his way up the Missis-
212 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
sippi river to St. Louis, Missouri. From there he went to Louisville,
Kentucky, and ran on a boat from that city to Pittsburg, remaining iu
that position for about a year. Leaving the boat at Louisville, he pro-
ceeded to St. Louis and from there went up the river to Warsaw, Illi-
nois, where he engaged in farming, remaining there for about three
years.
During that period Mr. Richmond was married on the 27th of
February, 1841, in Carthage, Hancock county, Illinois, the lady of his
choice being' Miss Elizabeth Marsh, a daughter of Benjamin Franklin
Marsh, a native of Vermont, and a sister of Colonel B. F. Marsh, who
was a soldier of liie Ci\il war and has since been prominent in politics
in Illinois. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Richmond has been blessed
with eight children, four sons and four daughters, of whom three sons
and three daughters are yet living. The family record is as follows;
Benjamin F. ; Charles Amos, now deceased : Sophia R., who died in in-
fancy; Charlotte A., the wife of Bacon Holmes, of Smith county,
Kansas; Elvira R., the wife of Delbert Hoyt, a retired farmer living in
Webster; Arthur M.; Alice B., the wife of Joseph Herrick, of German
township, Keokuk county; and George H., who completes the family.
After his marriage Mr. Richmond left Illinois and went to LaGrange
county, Indiana, where he settled upon a farm which he had bought, all
of which was then raw land, but lie made excellent improvements upon
it and transformed it into an excellent property. All of the children
were born upon that farm. In 1865 Mr. Richmond removed with his
family to Iowa, settling in English River township, Keokuk county,
near Webster. He secured one hundred and sixty acres of improve*]
land and continued its further cultivation and improvement until 1891,
when he put aside the work of the fields and removed to Webster, where
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 213
he built a house in which he is now hving in the enjoyment of a well
earned rest. He was energetic and active in the prosecution of his
work, reliable in his business transactions and of strong purpose, and
those qualities brought to him a competence which now supplies him
with all the comforts and many of the luxuries of life.
From its organization Mr. Richmond has been identified with the
Republican party, and his study of the political issues of the day and the
attitude of the parties concerning public questions has never caused
liun to want to change his political allegiance. He and his wife have long
been Congregationalists in religious faith and their membership is now
with the church of that denomination in Webster. They are both highly
respected residents of the town, well worthv of representation among
the valued citizens of their adopted county.
JOHN ENGELDINGER.
Among the many worthy foreigners who have come to this country
and helped make it what it is and rendered uncleared land to flourish
and blossom like the rose is the family of our subject. John Engeldinger,
the father of our subject, was a Prussian, a farmer by occupation, reared
and educated in his native laiul, and married Anna Mary Nittler, also of
Prussia. They had six children, of whom our subject was the fourth
child, three boys and three girls: Anna, Mary, Nicholas (deceased),
John, Peter and Anna, all of whom were born and reared in Prussia.
In 1855 the father and family came to Keokuk county and settled on
forty acres of raw land in Clear Creek township ; this land he cleared,
and he built the first log hou.se this side of Clear Creek. He died in 1862
214 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
and was buried in the clnircli burying ground of the CathoHc church o!
Clear Creek, of wliich he had been a member. In politics he was a
Democrat.
John Engeldinger, the subject of this sketch, was born May ii,
1S44, in Prussia; tie was reared in Keokuk county and remained on the
home plate until after his father's death. In 1889 he came to his pres-
ent location and bought eighty acres, mostly uncleared land, which he
improved and added to until now he has one hundred and eighty acres
of valuable farming land. Mr. Engeldinger took as his wife in 1868
Susan Schilz, who was born in Germany in 1844. where she was reared:
she was the daughter of Peter and Marguerette Schilz, who were old
settlers in this county. Nine children were born to our subject, six boys
and three girls: Peter, Susan, John C, Henry, Edward, George. August,
Anna and Mary T., all of whom were reared and educated on the old
homestead.
Mr. Engeldinger is a faitliful member of tlic Catholic church of
Clear Creek township: he helped to build the present edifice, and he
has always taken an active part in school affairs, having served as trustee
for twelve years. As a zealous and active Democrat, he was for eight
years tow-nship trustee and also holds other local offices. In all affairs he
has shown himself earnest, active and loyal and is one of the well known
men of the county.
JOSEPH A RAXGGER.
Father Rangger is one of the most prominent workers in the
Catholic church in this section and ha., devoted many years of his
life to the advancement of its cause among his fellow-men. His influ-
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 215
ence is ever found on the side of progress, of liberty and of right, and
the effect of his labors has been far reaching. He is the loved pastor
of the church in Clear Creek township, Keokuk county. Father Rangger
was born in Voels, near Innsbruck, in the Tyrol, Austria, on the i6th
of January, 1867, while his father was also a native of that country
and was a farmer by occupation, being born on the farm on which the
Rangger family have resided for three hundred years. For his wife iie
chose Victoria Woerndle, also a native of Austria, having been born and
reared in the region of the Alps. This union resulted in the birth of
eight children, four sons and four daughters, as follows : Katherine
and Mary, both deceased; Juliana; Francis; Anna; Joseph A., the subject
of this review ; Marcus, who is now a priest in Vienna, Austria ; and
Anthony, who still resides on the old home farm in Austria, where the
children were all born and reared.
When twelve years of age Joseph A. Rangger entered a seminar v
at Brixen, where he remained for three years, and on the expiration uf
lliat period in 1881, he became a student in the Royal Gymnasium at
Halle, there continuing his studies for two years, while for the following-
year he was at Innsbruck. When but eighteen years of age he bade
adieu to the home of his youth and crossed the broad Atlantic to the
United States, and after his arrival in the new world he completed his
studies in the St. Francis Seminary, at Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where
he remained until 1891. In that year he was ordained to the priesthood by
Bishop Cosgrove, and shortly afterward returned on a visit to his native
Austria, spending six months amid friends and relatives and viewing
again the scenes of his boyhood and youth. After his return to America
he made his way to Wilton Junction, Iowa, where for three months he
ministered to the needs of the parish, their regular pastor, Father Duggan,
216 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
being tlien ill. His next place of residence was at Davenport, Iowa,
where for four months he had charge of a hospital, while for the follow-
ing three months he served as a substitute to the church at Perry, this
state.
Since the 14th of April. 1893, he has ministered to the needs of
tilt congregation in Clear Creek township, and during his pastorate the
old brick church, which was erecteil in 1863, has been replaced by a new
aiid beautiful edifice, the school building repaired and a new parsonage
erected at an expense of two thousand, fi've hundred dollars. During
this time the Sisters have taken charge of the school and the attendance
has increased one hundred per cent. Through the entiring efforts of
Father Rangger congregation increased so rapidly that it became
necessary to secure larger accommodations, and accordingly in 189S they
laid the foundation for the jircsciU structure. The laying of the corner
stone, on Wednesday, June 8, 1898, for this beautiful edifice, was one
of the most notable events in the history of Catholicism in Clear Creek
township, and was witnessed by from fifteen hundred to two thousand
people. It was an impressive ceremony and one that will long be remem-
bered by those who were present. The old church witnessed the pass-
ing of a generation, and there the ancestors of the present congregation
went to worship and offer up prayer and also to listen to the divine
words of their jjaslor. The sermon was conducted by the Rt. Rev. Bisho])
Cosgrove, assisted by tiie \isiting clerg\' and the cost of the building
was about eleven thousand, five hundred dollars. Father Rangger is
widely kudwii in Catholic circles throughout this section of the .state,
Euci his daily life has been a light guiding many to the better way.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 2] 7
NICHOLAS KRAMER.
It is an evidence of stability of character when a man has remained
and been successful throughout his life in one place, and it is upon such
men that the nation's faith and strength depend. Such a man is Nich-
olas Kramer, who was born in Keokuk county and has lived here for
more than fifty years. His father, John Peter Kramer, was a German,
and received his training in the excellent institutions of that sturdy na-
tion. In 1840, when he was about thirty years of age, he emigrated
to America and took up his abode first in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, but
in 1843 l"'^ moved westward and settled in Lafayette township, Keokuk
county, Iowa, before this now great state had been admitted to the
Union. Here he entered three hundred and twenty acres of raw land
from the government and by industrious toil soon possessed an improve!
and highly cultivated farm. He also entered and enclosed four hun-
dred acres more. He was then one of the earliest settlers of Keokuk
county ; his political views were Democratic and his church membership
was with the Roman Catholic church in Clear Creek township. He
died in this county about 1887. In 1844, in Keokuk county, he was
married to Anna Kelson, who was born and reared in Germany and came
to this country soon after Mr. Kramer did. Mr. and Mrs. Kramer
were the parents of two children: Nicholas, our subject; and Lena, who
v\-:.s reared in Keokuk county, but is now deceased ; the latter was the wife
of John Bermel, whose sketch will be found in another part of this book.
Nicholas Kramer was born on his father's farm in this county on
September 22, 1850. Like the othe'- boys of the neighborhood he
attended the district schools during the winter and worked on the farm
in the summer. On leaving school at the age of eighteen, he helped
218 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
his father and was instrumental in clearing the farm. He continued
witli Ills fatlicr until his marriage, wlien lie moved to the north of the
old homestead and in 1876 settled on two hundred acres of mostly new
land and has since improved and added to it until lie now has two hun-
dred and eighty acres, all improved. In 1875 Mr. Kramer wedded Jose-
phine Conrad, who was born in Pennsylvania, but soon went to Wiscon-
sin, where she lived until she was eight years old; she then came to
Keokuk county with her parents and there grew to womanhood. Her
parents were Jacob Conrad and Margueretta Wilhelme, natives of Ger-
many. To Mr. and Mrs. Kramer were born three children : John Peter,
deceased; Margueretta; and Threasa C. Mr Kramer belongs to the
Democratic party and has held several local township offices, for ten
years being supervisor. He is a zealous member of the Harper Catholic
church and is active in church affairs, being on the church board, and
he also helped to build the church. Respected and esteaiied by all, he
is a valuable citizen.
JOHN BERMEL.
Perhaps no one foreign nation has contributed more sturdy men
to the building up of agriculture in America than has Germany. The
farms of German settlers are always well tilled and prosperous looking
and are an ornament and model to the community. Our subject, John
Bcrmel, is a descendant of one of these pioneers from the fatherland.
Antdu Bcrmcl, born in Germany, came to America when he was
about eighteen years of age and for a short time cast his Va in Ohio;
he returned to the <ild country for a short time and his second coming
ended in his taking up his residence on a farm in Muscatine county.
Iowa, about 1850, being, therefore, one of the old settlers of the state,
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 219
rdid one of the enterprises in which he assisted was the building of tlie
first railroad from Davenport, Iowa, west. He was always interested
in the success of the Democratic party and was a member of the Catholic
church. His death took place in Muscatine county when he was seventy-
eight years old. His wife was Katherine Oiler; she lived in Germany
until she was grown, and then she ventured, the first one of her family,
to come alone to America, her parents following her the next year. She
came directly to Iowa and was married to Mr. Bermel in Muscatine coun-
ty. Five children were the fruit of the marriage, as follows : John
Bermel, the eldest, Katherine, Paulina, Peter and Frank.
John Bermel was born in Muscatine county, in April, 1855 ; in the
district school of his neighborhood his young mind was trained and at
his eighteenth year he began his practical life on his father's farm, where
he worked for three years. At the age of twenty-one he married and
went to farming in Lafayette township, Keokuk county; it was on
that farm that the first white man was born in the township. Taking
up two hundred acres of land owned by his father-in-law, J. P. Kramer,
by his own efforts he brought it under a fine state of cultivation. Mr.
Bermel still owns the farm that he started with and is one of the success-
ful agriculturists of the county.
His first wife, whom he married in 1876, was Mary M.Kramer, born
in 1857, ^nd one of the first children born in Lafayette township; she
was the child of John Peter Kramer, whose history is recorded in another
chapter. There were four children born of this marriage: John (de-
ceased), Nicholas, Anton, and Christina. Mrs. Bermel passed away
in 1890 and in 1892 Mr. Bermel took his second wife, Mary Mengold, a
native of Scott county, Iowa, born July 19, i860, and her education
was received for the most part in the schools of Davenport. She is
220 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
the mother of four children : WilHam, Anna, Margueritte, and Agnes.
Mr. Bermel is interested in the Democratic party, is school director,
takes a prominent part in educational affairs, is a member of the Catho-
lic church at Harper, and is well thought of wherever known.
HARRY D. WILLIAMS.
In commercial circles in Keota Harry D. Williams occupies a cred-
itable and honorable position. He conducts a general store, dealing in
drygoods and groceries, and his trade has reached gratifying propor-
tions in recognition of his honorable business methods and because of
the excellent line of goods which he carries. Mis commercial interests
have brought to him a wide acquaintance and as he has gained many
friends in Keokuk county we know lliat ihc historyof his life will pnne
of interest to many of our readers.
Mr. Williams was born in Marshall county, Indiana, on the iTth
of August, 1865. His father. J. II. Williams, was a native of West
Virginia, whence he removed westward, becoming a factor in the devel-
opment of the great Mississippi valley. In 18,72 he removed to Keokuk
county, locating in Keota, where he engaged in merchandising, continu-
ing business along that line up to the time of his death, which occurred in
April, 1884. He was one of the pioneer merchants of the town and a
respected and worthy citizen. He married Harriet Ilawley, a native of
Virginia, and the subject of this review was their only child.
Harry D. Williams was a little lad of seven summers when he ac-
companied his parents to Keota. Here he entered the public schools.
acquiring a knowledge of the common branches of learning, and later he
entered the Davenport Business College, in which he was graduated. He
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 221
was also a student in the W'esleyan University at Mount Pleasant, Iowa,
for a time. He entered \\\)o\\ his business career in the capacity of a
clerk in his father's store, and w hen nineteen years of age he began busi-
ness on his own account in tlie building in which he is yet located. Al-
though but a young man he is, however, one of the oldest merchants of
the place, having for eighteen years been a representative of the trade
interests of this town. He carries both drygoods and groceries and ,is
enjoying a liberal patronage which he well merits. His attention lias
been given throughout his lousiness career to this enterprise and because
of his close application, his energy and perseverance, he has met with
gratifying success.
On the 22A of November, 1888, Mr. Williams was united in mar-
riage to Nora Daiber, a daughter of Michael and Lizzie (Smeltzer)
Uaiber. She was born in Muscatine. Iowa, in 1867, and is a graduate of
Keota iiigh school. Three interesting children grace this union: Hazel
D., H. Gale, and George D.. who are still under the parental roof. The
parents hold membership in the United Presbyterian church and are
highly esteemed people of the community, who enjoy the hospitality of
the best homes here. In manner Mr. Williams is kindly and genial, and
his genuine worth and jovial nature have made him a popular resident
of Keokuk county.
DAVID KEISER.
The story of the discovery of gold in California and early mining ex-
periences there now read almost like a romance, so diiiferent are the pres-
ent conditions of that state from those existing when the first rush was
made to the gold fields. David Keiser was among those who at that
222 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
early day sought a fortune on tlie Pacific coast and has many interesting
incidents to relate of his life in California. Three times he made the trip
to the coast, hut eventually he turned his attention to farming in Keokuk
county, Iowa, and ha\ing prospered in his undertakings so that he won
a handsome competence, he is now living a retired life in Keota.
Mr. Keiser is a native of Perrj- county, Pennsylvania, horn May 4,
1S28, and comes of an old family of German lineage that was founded
in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, prior to the Revolutionary war.
Isaac Keis r, the father of our suhject, was born in Lancaster county,
but was reared and married in Perry county. A blacksmith by trade,
for a number of years he conducted a shop in Bloomfield, Perry county,
and when he sold his smithy he purchased a farm in that county, mak-
ing it his home until 1846, when he came to Iowa, locating in Des
Moines county near Burlington. His last days were .spent in that city,
where he died at the age of seventy-five years. The mother of our
subject died when he was but two weeks old, he being the youngest of
six children. The father afterwanl married a Miss Bower and to them
were born three children. Of these nine children but two are now living:
David, and his half-brother, Samuel Keiser, who lives in New London,
Henry county, Iowa.
David Keiser was eighteen years of age when he came to Iowa
with his father. He worked in Burlington for two years at the wagon-
maker's trade and for about a year was employed in the jiineries of
Michigan. In 1849, attracted by the discovery of gold in California,
he made the long journey across the hot and arid sand plains and througli
the mountain passes with an ox-team, and after reaching his destination
he worked in lh<.- mines for five years, meeting with splendid success
and taking out as high as five thousand dollars in a single day. He
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 223
also went through the experiences of mining life there which now seem
so marvelous, and the story of that five years is now an interesting-
chapter in his life's history.
In 1854 Mr. Keiser returned to Iowa and the following year was
united in marriage to Miss Sarah A. Singmaster, a daughter of Samuel
and Mary (Svveetwood) Singmaster. Her father was born in Berks
county, Pennsylvania, and in 1846 came to Iowa, casting his lot with
the pioneer settlers of Keokuk county, Iowa. He lived to the advanced
age of ninety-one years, while his -wife, who was a native of Berks
county, Pennsylvania, reached the age of eighty-four years. They were
the parents of nine children : Charles F., Sarah, Eliza, Thomas, James,
Marietta, William, and two who died in infancy. Mrs. Keiser is the
second child and eldest daughter and was born in Perry county, Penn-
sylvania,, January 15, 1836. She was ten years of age when she came
to Keokuk county, where she has since made her home. The wedding
trip of Mr. and Mrs. Keiser consisted of a journey to California, and
they were gone from home for six months. They went by the way of
New York and returned by the Nicaragua route. On again reachin.g Iowa
they located in Bu'-lington.
Mr. Keiser there engaged in the milling business, operating what
was known as the Farmers' Grist-mill. About 1S64, however, he sold
that mill and again crossed the plains to California, with n pony train,
visi*-ing the Tlolden state and also Oregon. In the spring he returned
by way of Oi'egon and Idaho, making the trip from the latter strife to
Iowa on horseback. He and his brothers were the discoverers of two
deep mines at Georgetown and TJammaluke Hills, which Lecame known
as the Keiser mines, and have yieldetl much gold. On the return from
from his third trip to California, Mr. Keiser purchased a farm about
2J4 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
seven miles west of Burlington, -.vliere he was engaged in general fann-
ing and stock-raising for seven years. He then came to LaFayette
township, Keokuk county, wliere he purchased a farm, which lie con-
ducted successfully until 1901. when he relircl from active farm life
and removed to Keota, where he is now living. He still owns Un-ee
hundred and twenty acres in the home place, and has in all about five
iiundred acres of valuable land in this county.
The home of Mr. and Mrs. Reiser has been blessed with six
children: William S., a ])rominent farmer of South Dakota; Samuel I.
and Charles O.. who are re])resentative citi/cns of this county and are
mentioned elsewhere in this work: Allie U., at home; Lola I., the wife
of E. Gilbert, of Keota; and John D., who is ojierating the home farm.
Tlic parents are earnest and consistent members of the Methodist Epis-
copal church, in which Mr. Kciscr is serving as trustee, and he belongs
to .\delphi Lodge, Ancicr.l Free and Accepted Mason of Keota. He is a
stalwart Republican in his ])olitical views and is widely known as a lead-
ing and highly respected citizen of the county. His residence in the slate
covers more than half a century and thus he has been a witness of much
of its growth and development. His has been a somewhat eventful career,
in which there have been some exciting chapters, but wherever he has
been and in whatever condition of life, Mr. Keiser has commanded es-
teem by his sterlipg worth and won friends by his genial nature and
kindly disposition.
CHARLES A. TRUMBAUER, M. D.
Exacting demands are made upon the jihysician. Of him we demand
not only a thorough knowledge of the medical science and marked skill
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 225
in his profession, but also a genial nature, a sunny disposition and kindly
sympath}'. Dr. Trunibauer, meeting these requirements, has already
gained success as a member of the medical fraternity, although he is yet
a young man. He was born in Berks county, Pennsylvania^ November
30, 1870, and comes of a family of German lineage. His father, Addi-
son Trumbauer, was born and reared in Pennsylvania and by occupation
was a farmer. He removed to Iowa in 1884, locating in Independence,
Buchanan county, on the 3d of April of that year. He now resides at
AVaterloo, this state. In early inanhood lie wedded Mary Romig, a
native of Pennsylvania, who was of Holland tlescent and who died at the
age of fifty-two voars. This w<jrthy couple were the parents of ten chil-
dren, of whom five daughters and three sons are yet living.
Dr. Trumbauer is the fourth child and the second son of this family
and was thirteen years of age at the time of their removal to Iowa. His
education, which was begun in the schools of Pennsylvania, was con-
tinued in this state and for two years he was a student in the high school
of Jesup, Iowa. When he was eighteen years of age his father gave 'him
his time, and for five months thereafter he was employed in the insane
hospital at Independence. He then entered Central College, at Pella,
Iowa, where he pursued a three years' preparatory course. He then
went to Kansas and entered the normal at St. John and in the fall of the
same year became a student in the Keokuk Medical College, of Keokuk
fowa, where he was graduated in the spring of 1897. Dr. Trumbauer
then located at Eldon, Iowa, where he remained for six months, and in
August of the same year he took up his abode at Harper, in Keokuk
county. Iowa, where he was in practice until January, 1902, when he
located at Keota. He has alreadv won recognition here by reason of his
226 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
skill in practice and liis thorough understanding of tlie principles of the
medical science.
On the 251)1 of March, 1897, the Doctor was united in marriage
to Laura L. Bryson, a daughter of J. K. and Harriet (Dunham) Bryson.
Socially the Doctor is connected with tiic Independent Order of Odd
Fellows. In his political views he is independent when casting his ballot
at local elections, supporting the men whom lie thinks best qualified for
ofVice. He belongs to the Baptist church and is deeply interested in
everything pertaining to the general good along social, intellectual and
moral lines. His professional connection is witli the Keokuk County
Medical Society and he now has a good practice, i^eing recognized as one
of the leading physicians of the county.
H. H. RlilNERT.
H. H. Reinert is proprietor of the leading drugstore of Keota, an
establishment which would be a credit to a city of greater size because
of its neat and tasteful appearance, the excellent line of goods carried
and the obliging courtesy of the proprietor. .Mr. Reinert is one of
Iowa's native sons, liis Iiirlli liaxing occurred in Sigourney. November
8, 1871. He is the fourth child of Michael and Marj^ (Horras) Reinert
and comes of a family of German lineage. He was reared and educated
in this state, pursuing his studies in the public schools of Sigourney,
and he entered upon his business career in tlic cajiacity of a clerk witli
hi.i brother, C. C. Reinert, at South English, in wiiose ser\ ice he re-
mained for two years. Later he was salesman in the employ of J. E.
Tiraff. in Sigourney, and afterwanls purchased iiis brother's store and
conductefl it for several vcars. lie then hec.anic ccmnccted with the <lrug
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 227
trade in Tipton, Iowa, wliere 'le remained for about t\ o years, having
also purchased a store tliere. In April. 1901, he came to Keota. where
he established his drugstore and is now doing an excellent business, hav-
ing the leading establishment of its kind in the town. His experience
in the business covers eleven years and his marked success is attributed
to the fact that he is thorough and painstaking in all that he does. In
February, 1896, he passed the state examination before the board of
pharmacy and was the only one who passed in a class of fourteen appli-
cants. During his residence in other towns he gained "lie confidence
and esteem of a large circle of patrons and friends, and his history in
Keota is similar. He carries a large and well selected stock of goods —
drugs, proprietary medicines, toilet articles, and a large and varied line
of jewelry, silverware, clocks, watches and diamonds. The fine display
of toilet articles and other goods, with the jewelry, tastefully arranged,
add to the attractiveness and value of the stock. Neatness and taste
characterize the store in e\ery department, and Mr. Reinert now has a
\ery liberal patronage, which is constantly growing.
On the 30th of October, 1898, Mr. Reinert was united in marriage
to Ressa Wagner, a daughter of Edward and Celia (Munn) Wagner.
She was be rn in Iowa r cunty. Iowa, and pursued her education in the
public schools of this state and in Fremont, Nebraska, also taking a com-
mercial course in a business college of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She is the
eldest in a family of seven children and is a most estimable lady, who
shares with her husband in the regard of their many friends. Mr.
Reinert belongs to the Masonic fraternity and to the Independent Ordej
of Odd Fellows, and is also a member of the Eastern Star and the
Rebekahs, the ladies' degrees of those organizations. In politics he is
independent, voting for the men whom be thinks best qualified for office.
228 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
He holds membership in tlie Catholic church, in the faith of which he was
reared. In Keota he is a popular merchant, genial, courteous, and oblig-
ing, and well does he deserve the success which has come to him. making
him one of the leading business men of his town.
MICHAEL REINERT.
Michael Reincrt, one of the old settlers of Keokuk county, Iowa,
whose tine, well improved farm of one hundred and forty-seven acres
is located in German township, is one of liie ])rosperous and well-known
farmers, wlm, although born in another country, lias become a valued
citizen of this. Mr. Reinert was born in I'russia, Germany, January i,
1843, ^."'l 's the youngest of four sons and three daughters constituting
the family born to John and Angelica (Leinen) Reinert, both of whom
were also born in Germany, where they li\ed all their lives. Michael
attended the common schools in his native land until he was thirteen
years old and then was employed by neighboring farmers to assist them
and continued to be so employed milil he started for America. In 1861
he reached New York and came on to Keokuk county, Iowa, working
at farm labor through the summers of 1861 and 1862. In the fall of
the latter year he enlisted for service in the Civil war, entering Company
B, Seconl Iowa Volunteer Infantry, as a private, and performed the
duties of a faithful soldier until tlie spring of 1864, when on the 27th of
May of that year he was mustered out, having received an honorable
(hscharge.
.\ftcr completing his army service, our subject returned to Keokuk
county, and was soon engaged at farm work liy the month: continuing
with various farmers of the county until 1865. In February of that
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 229
year he was united in marriage with Mary A. Horas, who was born
in Germany anil came to America with her parents when she wis an
infant. She was reared and educated in Keokuk county and is an admir-
able housekeeper, a kind neighbor and a most devoted and helptui wite
and mother. A family of nine children was born to this union, their
names being the following : Frank, who is a porter in one of the leading
hotels at Long Branch, Xew Jersey ; Casper, who is a druggist, is now
engaged in real estate business in North Dakota ; Charles, who is a
farmer in German township, married Jennie Killmer; Henry H., who is
a druggist at Keota, Keokuk county, married Ressa Wagner; William,
who is a farmer in Clear Creek townsliip, married Lucy Klett ; Miss
Bertha, who resides at home; Bessie, who is the wife of John Strupp,
a prominent farmer of German township; Gustave A., who is a farmer in
North Dakota ; and Fred, who has enjoyed a college education, resides at
home.
Immediately after marriage ^Ir. Reinert took up his residence upon
his present farm, the home being in a log cabin standing on the place.
His energy and industry have made wonderful improvements which
have changed the whole appearance of the place. His residence is one
of comfort and convenience, his barns are substantial and commodious,
while the other improvements show the thrift and good management
which prevail on this place. Mr. Reinert engages in general fanning
and stock-raising and has been very successful in all his efforts. He is
regarded as one of the substantial men of German township.
During the war our subject was a staunch Republican, but in late
years he has been more liberal and generally votes in local matters for the
man he feels best qualified for office. His own reliability and the esti-
mation in which he is held by his neighbors, has been demonstrated by his
230 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
election to almost all of the township offices; he has performed the duties
of trustee, school director, clerk and others, with the utmost efficiency.
Mr. Kcinert is a \ery prominent memher of the Grand Army of the
Repuhlic, belonging to the Robert \'. Lowe Post, in Sigourney. He is
tlie intelligent promoter of all worthy enterprises for improvement in
the township, \otes and works for good schools and good roads and is
in every way \vi)rlhy of the high esteem in which he is held.
JOHN LINN RAMSEY.
J. L. Ramsey, the subject of this review, is a self-made man who
without any extraordinary family or pecuniary advantages at the com-
mencement of life has labored earnestly and energetically and by indomit-
able courage and integrity has achieved both character and fortune and
by sheer force of will and untiring effort he w orked his way upward and
was during many years a leading business man of Keota, and at the pres-
ent time he is living a retired life there.
Vlx. Ramsey was born in Ilillsboro county. New Hampshire, on
the i/th of September, 1830. His father, Eben. Ramsey, was also a
native of the old Granite state and by occupation was a farmer. His
father. Samuel Ramsey, came from Scotland to the new world in coli>nial
days and when the Revolutionary war was begun he joined the army and
fought for the independence of the nation. Me married Elizabeth Wil-
son and settled in Greenfield, Hillsboro county, Xcw Hampshire, upon
a farm. He entered his land from the government and improved the
proi)erty, becoming one of the active and honored pioneer settlers of the
locality. The father of our subject having arrived at years of maturity,
was united in marriage to Mary D. Butler, a relative of Franklin Tierce,
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTOR\ . 233
once president of the United States, also of Horace Greeley and of Gen-
eral Benjamin Bntler. Mrs. Ramsey was born in Bennington, New
Hampshire, and was a daughter of Moody Butler, whose birth occurred in
the old Granite state, the Butlers being a pioneer family there. They were
of Scotch-Irish descent. Unto the parents of our subject were born
four sons. The father died in 1836 and the mother afterward married
again, becoming the wife of Amzi Jones, by whom she had two sons and
one daughter. Her death occurred at the ad\-anced age of eighty-five
years.
J. L. Ramsey, of this review, is the second son born of the first mar-
riage. He remained in his native place until sixteen years of age and
in 1846 removed to western New York, locating at Yates, about forty
miles from the city of Buffalo. He went there with a Mr. Grant and his
cousin, David B. Ramsey, and for a year he attended school and after-
ward engaged in teaching in that locality for two years. In 1849 he
sought a new home, locating near Lexington, Kentucky, where he en-
gaged in teaching for about a year. He then went to Cincinnati, Ohio.
and secured a position on the Dayton & Hamilton Railroad, acting as
fireman for six months. He was tlien promoted to engineer, acting in
that capacity in Ohio until 1854, when he became a resident of Chicago.
There he entered the service of the Rock Island Railroad Company as an
engineer, the road at that time having just been extended to Peoria. He
was one of the first engineers on the line and he traveled all over the
road on construction trains, remaining in the employ of the company for
twenty-five years. He also had charge of the round house of Chicago, at
Rock Island, Peoria and Peru. During the last years of his connection
with the company he acted as station agent in Bureau Junction. Illinois.
He was one of the most trusted employes of the company — a fact which
234 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
is well indicated by his long service covering a (juarter of a century.
In 1880 Mr. Ramsey came to Keokuk county, Iowa, locating in Ke-
ota, where he engaged in the grain Imsiness. building the first elevator
at this place. When a young man in the employ of tlie railroad he had
run an engine from Chicago to Rock Island and llicre transferred his
load to coal barges, which were sent down the river to Muscatine, Iowa.
He also hauled the material which was used to build the Wilton branch
of the Chicago & Rock Island road from Wilton Junction to Muscatine,
so that he had previously visited the state prior to locating in Keota. He
continued in the grain trade here until 1893, when he sold out and re-
tird from active business to enjoy a well deserved rest from further labor.
On the 28th of January, 1857, Mr. Ramsey was united in marriage
to -Mary E. Nelson, who was born in Lexington, Kentucky, December
14, 1833, a daughter of George and Elizabeth (Taylor) Xel.son, the
former a native of Kentucky while the latter was born near Richmond,
Virginia. Mrs. Ramsey is their only child and was reared and educated
in her native place. By her marriage she has become the mother of six
children: Elizabeth, the widow of Forrest Green; Virginia, the wife of
Dr. J. \V. Blythin, a resident of Gordon, Wisconsin, John N., who
wedded May Newton and resides in Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Cieorgia T.,
the wife of A. A. Hulse, a merchant of Keota; Eben J., a furniture dealer
of this place; and Emma C, the wife of Charles 15. Galbreath, who re
sides in Carroll, Iowa.
Mr. Ramsey is a staunch Republican in politics, and has been from
the organization of the j)arty. In an early day he was j)ersonally ac-
quainted with many of the leading men in politics, including such celebri-
ties as John .\. Logan, General Sherman, Richard Yates, Sr. lie has
held several positions of honor and trust. hOr twelve years he served
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 235
as mayor of Keota and his administration was practical and progres-
sive, largely promoting the welfare of the town. For about fifteen
years he was a member of the school board, taking an active interest
in everything pertaining to the general good here, his labors being very
effective in behalf of the same. He is a prominent Mason, belonging to
Adelphi Lodge No. 353, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons,
at Keota. He was an organizer of the council of the fraternity
at Peru, Illinois, the chapter at Rock Island, and belongs to the comman-
dery at Washington, Iowa. In the Scottish Rite he has attained the
thirty-second degree. He has also held all of the offices in the Blue lodge,
the council and commandery. He was also grand engineer of the Broth-
erhood of Locomotive Engineers, and is a member of the Independent
Order of Odd Fellows, though for years he has not been acti\e as such.
Mr. Ramsey is a gentleman who at all times and in all places has com-
manded the respect and esteem of his fellovv men. His life has been
characterized by fidelity to duty, whether in or out of office — and faith-
fulness to duty and strict adherence to a purpose in life will do more
to advance a man's interest than wealth or advantageous circumstances.
The successful men of the day are they who have planned their own ad-
vancement and have accomplished it in spite of many obstacles antl with
a certainty that could have been attained only through their own efforts.
This class of men has a worthy representative in J. L. Ramsey.
CHARLES A. JOHNSON.
Charles A. Johnson, the father of the leading physician of Sigour-
ney, Iowa, Dr. Johnson, was born May 8, 1825, at Yster, Sweden, a son
of Peter and Boel Johnson, who passed their whole lives in that country
236 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
and reared a family of eleven daughters and one son. At the age of
sixteen years, this son left home and traveled from place to place, work-
ing at tailoring, through Sweden, Norway, Russia, England and France.
After an absence of eight years he returned to the old home and for
three years conducted a tailoring shop there, but he started then upon
his travels again, which landed him in Xew York in September, 1851.
He remained in this city until the following April and during this time
met and was warmly welcomed l)y his famous cousin, the Swedish night-
ingale, Jenny Lind. From New York City he drifted to Albany, thence
to BulYalo, Dunkirk, Detroit and then to Chicago, leaving the latter
place hurriedly on account of the prevalence of cholera. For a short
time he was at La Salle, Illinois, and then remained for six months in
rrincetun, went then to Peoria, on to St. Louis, to Burlington and Fair-
field, Iowa, and on May 24, 1854, located at Lancaster, Iowa, where
he opened a tailoring establishment.
In September, 1861, he enlisted in Company D. Thirteenth Iowa
Infantry, and served his adopted country faithfully for three years
anil two months and is now an honored member of the Grand .\rmy of
the Rei)u]jlic. In 1855 he married Mary Gray, who became the mother
of eight children, and died in 1896. In 1900 he married Mrs. Eliza
(Davenport) Roberts. Mr. Johnson has traveled over almost all of the
west and has spent considerable time in Kansas and Colorado.
ALBERT P. JOHNSON, B. C. E., M. D.
Albert I'. Johnson. M. D.. is a leading physician of Sigourncy. Iowa-
in which state he was born, in the village of Lancaster. Keokuk county.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 257
!\Iay 29, 1862, and he is the son of Charles A. and Mary G. (Gray)
Johnson, who are mentioned abo\e.
The rearing of Dr. Johnson was among farm surroundings and
his education was obtained in the pubHc schools, later becoming an
instructor himself in the country neighborhoods. After a year of teach-
ing he entered the Iowa State Agricultural College, where he graduated
in the department of civil engineering in November, 1886. Prior to
this, however, he had spent two years engaged in surveying in Wyom-
ing and New ^Mexico, and immediately after graduating was offered
and accepted the principalship of the schools of What Cheer, Iowa.
Two more years were devoted to civil engineering in tfte upper peninsula
of Michigan, and then he was prepared to put into operation a plan
which had been his desire from youth, that of studying medicine. In
1889 he entered the Missouri Medical College at St. Louis, Missouri,
and graduated therefrom in 1891, locating at Sigourney, where he
has since remained. In 1892 he took a post-graduate course in the
Post-Graduate School of Medicine, at St. Louis, and thus thoroughly
equipped, has built up a large and lucrative general practice.
Dr. Johnson is not only educated in his special line, but, as we
have seen, is thoroughly competent to fill other professional positions.
He is a deep thinker and great student and keeps abreast of the dis-
coveries in his science, and is an active and useful member of Keokuk
county, the South-eastern Iowa and the Iowa State medical societies,
and is also a member of the insane commission for Keokuk county.
In politics he is a Republican, but his strenuous life leaves little time
for activity in that direction. His fraternal connection is with the
Knights of Pythias. In 1891 Dr. Johnson was united in marriage
27
258 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTOkY.
with Miss \'iola Passig, of Sigourney, and one son has been born to
tliis union, namely Alcuin Passig.
LEONARD BRIGGS OLIVER, M. D.
Among the representative pliysicians and surgeons of Iowa, Dr.
Leonard Briggs Oliver, of Sigourney, occupies a prominent place.
He was born in Davenport, Iowa, January lo, 1858. His parents were
Albourne and Eliza (Newhall) Oliver, botli natives of Massachusetts.
The progenitor of the Oliver family in America came from England
and settled in Boston as early as 1632. Our subject's parents removed
from Massachusetts to Iowa in 1856. They located in Davenport, and
here spent the rest of their lives. The father died in 1877, aged si.vty-
three years. The mother's death occurred several years later, she being
sixtj-seven- years of age at her demise. In Massachusetts, during his
early lite, the father was successfully engaged in the manufacture of
morocco leather, but after removing to Davenport the remainder of his
days were spent in partial retirement. Unto these parents twelve chil-
dren were born, our subject being the tenth in the order of birth.
He received a liberal literary education, and in the fall of 1884
entered the medical department of the Iowa State University, where he
graduated three years later. Locating at Dublin, Washington county,
Iowa, he practiced there with success for a period of three years. He
then took a post-graduate course at the Chicago Post-Graduate school
and in May of 1891 located in Sigourney, where he has continued in an
active general practice, also doing much work in surgery. He has
gjiined reputation as a skillful physician and surgeon. In surgery he
has performed innumerable and successful operations, and is local sur-
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 239
geon for the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway, and is a member
of the International Society of Railway Surgeons. He is also a mem-
ber of tiie Keokuk county and the Iowa state medical associations. The
Doctor is a Knight Templar Mason and a member of the Mystic Shrine
— Kaaba Temple, Davenport.
GEORGE B. BAKER. .
The subject of tiiis review, who holds marked prestige among the
members of the bar of Keokuk county, is a lawyer who is using his pro-
fession for the benefit of his fellow-man, to advance the interests of
good government, to promote the general welfare, entertaining a just
conception of the jjurpose of law as the conservator of the rights of the
people, as the protector of the weak against the strong, the just against
the unjust. As few men do, he will live to realize some of the ideals of
the profession to which he devotes himself, and his reputation as a
young lawyer has been won through earnest, honest labor, and his high
standing at the bar is a merited tribute to his ability.
Mr. Baker is at the present time a resident of the stirring com-
munity of Hedrick, in whose marvellous advancement he takes a keen
interest. He was born in Placerville, California, October 13, 1870, and
is a son of Adam M., and Mary (Engledeiger) Baker. jMr. Adam
Baker was a native of Germany, emigrating to this country when a
lad of sixteen. He located in Iowa in 1838, settling first in Washington
county, but in 1858 he moved to California. He came to Keokuk
county in 1873, and located in German township, where he died at the
age of sixty-seven years, and where his wife still continues to reside.
Mr. Baker is one of seven children, and was but three years of age
240 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
when lie came Keokuk county. He was reared on a farm, wliere lie
passed liis boyliood days quietly, and in the district schools of German
township acquired his elementary education. He later became a matric-
ulate of the Iowa City Academy, where he graduated in 1889. For
a period following he taught school in the district schools of Keokuk
county, and deciding upon law as a profession, began his reading. He
was for a number of years engaged in the drug business. In 1897 he
sold out this business and entered the law department of the Iowa State
University, where he graduated on the 7th of June, 1899, with the
degree of LL. li. lie located immediately at Hedrick, and has since
been engaged in the practice of his -profession. Here he has secured
the confidence of the public to a marked extent, and is gradually build-
ing up a lucrative practice.
Mr. Baker was marreid in 1893 i*J ^'•■'- Jester, of Marshalltown,.
Iowa. This lady was the daughter of William and Martha Jester, and
has borne her husband two children : Marie and Millard F. The social
life of Mr. Baker takes in a number of the prominent fraternal organ-
izations, he being a member of the Knights of Pythias. Modern Wood-
men of America, and the M. B. A. In political affiliations he is an
earnest supporter of the principles of the party of Lincoln and Gar-
field. Mr. Baker is an example of what any young man of hustling
(jualities can do in this western country without assistance from any
source and depending entirely upon his own exertions. He is a rcji-
resentative of that class of citizens who ilescrve and receive recognition
at the hands of an admiring public.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 241
DR. J. W. PORTER.
An instance of wliat persistence and concentrated effort \\\\\ do for
a man in any given line coupled with a mental temperament and educa-
tional equipment adapted to that line may be found in the case of Dr.
J. W. Porter of Hedrick. In the twenty-three years of his practice
ihis gentleman has made for himself a reputation unsurpassed in Keo-
kuk county, as a general practitioner, his broad and comprehensive
knowledge of therapeutics causing him to be much sought after. He
is a deep student of the profession, and is always on the alert for new
methods of the treatment of disease. He was the very first physician
that located in the city of Hedrick, and has always commanded a large
and lucrative practice.
Mentioning briefly the salient points in the life of Dr. Porter, his
Iiirth occurred in Bourbon county, Iventucky, March 24, 1854, he being
the son of Rev. H. C. Porter and Jane Dougherty. His parents were
nati\'es also of the Blue-grass state. Rev. Porter was reared in Paris,
the county seat of Bourbon county, and educated at Georgetown Col-
lege. He passed an active life in the ministry of the Baptist church,
-md is still living at the age of eighty years, though he has retired from
the active work of the ministry. Dr. Porter's mother died in 187 1. There
were ten children in the family of which he was a member, eight of whom
are still living, the doctor being the eldest of these children. Amid the
refining influences of a good home our subject was reared, and in the
public schools he secured his scholastic training, completing the pre-
scribed literary course in the Normal school at Ottumwa. For ten
and a half successive terms he engaged in teaching in the public
schools. During this time, having decided to make the medical profes-
242 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
sion his life work, he hegan reading witii Dr. \V. B. Searle, of Ottum-
\va, and matriculating at tlie College of Physicians and Surgeons of
Chicago he became a graduate there in 1889. To evidence the light
in which Dr. Porter regards his profession, and to show his character
as a student, we note here tliat lie has taken four special courses since
that time in Chicago, and several others in difTerent branches of his
profession. He first located at Long's Mill, Iowa, but on the organiza-
tion of the town of Hedrick he cast in his lot here, as stated, being
the first physician on the ground. This was in the year of 1882, and
he has been constantly engaged in ih.it profession in the city of Hedrick
since that time. During that lime the doctor has kept himself in close
touch with his brother physicians through being a member of the Des
Moines \'alley Medical Society, and of the Keokuk County Medical
Society. In religious lielief Dr. Porter fasurs the Baptist faith, of
which church he is a member at Hedrick. The doctor was united in
marriage September 3. 1882, to Miss Phoebe Ebelsheiser, daughter of
Jdhn and Caroline Ebelsheiser, old settlers of Keokuk county, where
Mrs. Porter was born. To this marriage there were born one son and
one daughter ; Mamie, and James Arthur.
JOSEPH K. McELROY.
Joseph K. McElroy is a well-known citizen and an old resident of
the state. Since 1856 he has been identified with many of its business
interests and has a wide acquaintance with its leading men. The
birth of Joseph McElroy occurred May 2, 1836, in Columbiana county,
Ohio, and he is a son of Hugh and Fredericks (Mueller) McElroy.
GUNEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 243
Hugh McElroy landed in Philadelphia, an Irish lad of twenty-one
years, and almost immediately entered upon a successful business career.
He was born near Belfast, county Down, on December 26, 1798, a son
of Andrew and Mary Jane McElroy, who lived out their lives in their
native Ireland. Securing a position as clerk in the great mercantile
house of Dickie Hewey and Stephen Girard, he very soon attracted
the attention of his employers and in less than two years was sent by
them to Pittsburgh to manage their flour shipments to New Orleans.
Young Hugh accompanied the flour to the southern city on the flat-boat,
as that was the means of transportation aft'orded at that time, but his
impatience made him return by foot to Philadelphia, rather than await
the slow river route. Another trip was successfully undertaken, and
from this trip he returned by sea.
Soon after, his business instincts and an adventurous spirit induced
him to make his way to the new portions of Ohio and after making a
trial venture in the mercantile business in .Somerset, Perry county, he
embarked on a larger scale at New- Lisbon, in Columbiana county,
operating a store and a distillery and introducing the first steam engine
ever in use in the state. To conduct his business properly it was neces-
sary for him to make frequent trips to various points and as this was
prior to the building of any railroads in this vicinity, Mr. McElroy
crossed the Aflegheny mountains fifty-two times, either on horseback or
b}' the lumbering old stage. In 1838 his business enterprise induced
him to locate at Sidney, in Shelby county, Ohio, and here he became
the first merchant and also built and operated a grist-mill, a carding-
mill, a saw-mill and also a cooper shop, providing thus for the wants
of the community, and accepting raw material in return for merchandise,
a great accommodation on account of the scarcity of money in these
244 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
regions. In 1840 lie was one of tlie prime movers in liie building of
tlie Ohio Mainland canal, sixteen miles in length, which has a feeder lo-
cated at Lockport, Ohio. After promoting all these activities, his ener-
gies turned in another direction, and in 1850 he sold his interests and
embarked in the business of pork packing, at Sidney, Ohio; Madison,
Indiana; Peoria, Illinois; Muscatine and Keokuk, Iowa; and Hannibal,
Missouri. To buy pork he made his first trip to the west in 1856, mak-
ing his head-quarters at Oskaloosa, Iowa, paying unheard of prices
for the commodity and returning in the same business in 1857 and 1S58.
jMr. McElroy then disposed of his business and closed out his trade
relations, and went back to his old home at Sidney. There as one of the
leading capitalists, he opened a state bank, known as the Shelby State
Bank, and continued his financial operations until his death in 1864.
His was a remarkable career. Born with great natural gifts, he devel-
oped them for the benefit of others as well as himself, and attached to
him many of the leading men of his time. It was no secret that he was
a valued adviser of Salmon P. Chase even after the latter had attained
his high office in the government.
In his early voting days, Hugh McElroy was a Whig, and later
became a zealous Republican and e.xerted decided influence in his party.
Mr. IMcElroy was twice married. His first wife w^as Frederica Muel-
ler and was of German parentage, the three sons born them being:
John Andrew, who resides at Beloit, Kansas; William B., who is de-
ceased ; and Joseph K., who is the subject of this biography. The death
of William B. McElroy took place in 1857. in Sigourney. Iowa. He
was a man of education, in earlier years had an adventurous life in
whaling vessels, hut later oi)eratc(l a hardware store in this city, where
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTOkY. 245
lie was well known and respected. The second wife of Hugh McElroy
was Ann Stephenson, by whom there were no children.
Joseph K. McElroy was reared in Sidney, Ohio, and obtained his
education there in the public schools. In 1856 he accompanied his
father to Iowa, and upon the death of his brother, William, settled
up the latter's business affairs at Sigourney. He then went back to Sid-
ney and engaged in the hardware business, removing in 1859-60 to
Marion, Indiana, in the same line of business, and in the spring of
1863 located permanently in Sigourney and followed farming until 1865.
Our subject then opened up a general store in this city, which he suc-
cessfully conducted for a period of twelve years, selling out in order to
enter upon a partnership with E. Laffer in another similar enterprise,
which continued for two years, and for two more years he was asso-
ciated with A. G. Brown in the dry-goods business. In 1889 Mr. Mc-
Elroy first engaged in the hotel business in Sigourney, selling out three
years later. He conducted hotels at several other points for short sea-
sons, at Keota, and Winfield, and remained two years at Columbus Junc-
tion, returning to Sigourney in 1898, at which time, in partnership with
his son-in-law, C. C. Berry, he took charge of the Merchants Hotel. In
the fall of 1902 he disposed of his interest in this business.
Mr. McElroy has been a life-long supporter of the Republican party
and well recalls the occasion of his first presidential vote, cast for John C.
Fremont. He numbers many friends among the old residents of Sigour-
ney and has been identified with much of the permanent development of
Keokuk county.
In 1858, at Sigourney, Mr. McElroy was united in marriage with
Miss Harriet E. Cattell, and one daughter, Cora, was born to this union,
she now being the wife of C. C. Berry. She was born in Marion, Ohio,
246 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL lilSTORY.
and her one son, Leonard, is now agent for the United States Express
Company at Sigourney.
The birth of Mrs. McElroy was in Stark coanty, Oliio, and she is a
daughter of Samuel G. and Elizabetli (Hair) Cattell, the former of whom
was born January 1 1, 1812, at Mount Holly, New Jersey, and died in Si-
gourney in February, 1900. His widow resides with her daughter, Mrs.
McElroy. In 1857 Mr. Cattell located in Sigourney and followed an
agricultural life. He was a quiet man of exemplary life and character,
a consistent mcniloer of tlie Presbyterian church, and a good citizen. He
voted with llie Kepublican party. His two children were a son and
daughter, the furnier of whom is John B. Cattell, a resident of Wichita,
Kansas. For a number of years the mother of Mrs. Cattell lived in
Sigourney and her venerable appearance is still recalled, as her age
reached ninety years. A most interesting picture is in the possession of
the faniilv, which shows five generations together, all at one time resid-
ing with our subject.
JOSEPH H. WENGER.
Joseph H. Wenger resides in Liberty township, where for many
years he was an active factor in agricultural circles, but at the present
time he is leaving the work of the farm to others and is enjoying a richly
merited rest. He was born in Kdom, \'irginia, November 15, 1835,
and comes of a family of German lineage. Christian Wenger, his pater-
nal great-grandfather, was born in the Palatinate, Germany, where he
remained until 17J7, when he braved the dangers incident to an ocean
voyage at that day and crossed the .\lianlic to the new world. He
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 247
located in Lancaster county, Pennsyhania, w here he married Eve Gre-
I)iel and reared his family and made his lionie until his death.
Among his children was Joseph W'enger, the grandfather of our
subject. He was born, reared and educated in Lancaster county, Penn-
syh'ania, and in the year 1785 remo\'etl to Edom. Virginia, settling on a
farm of between fi\'e hundred and six hundred acres, which he pur-
chased, cleared and im])ro\ed, making it a productive property. He
there married Barbara Hoover and they become the parents of thirteen
children, seven sons and six daughters. His first wife died in January,
1792, and on the 1st of December, 1793, he married Anna Hockman,
a native of Page county, Virginia, by whom he had five children, three
sons and two daughters, of whom the eldest was Joseph Wenger, Jr.,
the father of our subject. His birth occurred in Edom, September 17,
1794, and there he spent his earl)- childhood, acquiring his education
there and also following the occupation of farming in his youth. He
was married April 28, 1818, to Barbara Beery, a nati\-e of the Old Do-
minion, born near Newmarket, March 12, 1795, and a daughter of John
Beery, of Edom. To the parents of our suljject were born ten children,
five sons and five daughters: Catherine and John B., both deceased;
Elizabeth, who is living in Georgia, at the age of eighty years ; Isaac,
who is now seventy-nine years of age; Aliraham, Anna, Jacob and Bar-
bara, all deceased : Mary, who lives at the old homestead in Edom, Vir-
ginia ; and Joseph H., of this review.
After his marriage the father of our subject removed to the old
homestead upon which all of his children were born. He was a farmer
by occupation and there carried in agricultural jjursuits until his life's
labors were ended in death, February 14, 1865, when he was seventy
years of age. Throughout his entire life he was identified with the
248 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
Whig party and was a member of the Meiiiumite cliurcli, liis life being
actuated by his Christian principles.
Joseph H. Wenger spent his childhood in the county of his nativity,
being trained to habits of industry, economy and honesty upon the
home farm and thus laying the foundation of an upright character. He
assisted in the cultivation of the fields upon the old homestead until
twenty-five years of age, when he came to Iowa, reaching Liberty town-
ship, Keokuk county, in September, iS6i. There he was employed m
\arious ways, although his attention was principally given to farming.
In 1866, how'ever, with tlie money he had saved from his earnings he
purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land in Liberty township,
just east of South English, and began farming on his own account. This
land was partly under cultivation, and he at once began to further im-
prove and dc\elo]) it. .\s his financial resources were increased he also
added to the property until he had over five hundred acres of very
rich, arable and valualjle land, which he has since divided among his
children, while he is now practically living retired from the active duties
of the farm.
On the 5th of .\])nl. 1868, Mr. Wenger was married to Elizabeth
McAfiferty, a native of W'.iync county. Ohio, but reared and edu-
cated in South English. They are the parents of four children, three
.sons and a daughter: John H., who is living in South English: Ben-
jamin F., who died May 1, 1896, at the age of twenty-five years: Homer
C. who resides upon a part of his father's old farm: and Mollie D.. the
wife of William 1). (iroves. who is also living on the old homestead.
'Ihe parents are members of the Dunkark church, of Liberty township
antl are both well known and highly respected people of the community.
Mr. Wenger has had a successful career and though when he left home
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTOR\ . 249
he had no money and was dependent entirely upon his own resources for
a living, he prospered as the result of his energy and capable manage-
ment, became a prosperous land owner and is now the possessor of a
handsome competence.
LANDON UTTERBACK.
Landon Utterback, son of Corbin and Sarah (Hanks; Utterback,
of whom mention is made in the personal sketch of Josiah Utterback
elsewhere in this \-olume, was born September 3, 1845, and was about
five j-ears old when the family came to Iowa. In the district school
of the neighborhood he received his early instructions. x\t an early
age he began to assist on the farm and throughout his life has been a
successful farmer. His farm consists of one hundred acres of finely
cultivated land, on which he carries on a general farming business.
]Mr. Utterback was twice married. In 1868 Hannah M. Moore
Ijecame his wife and bore him one son, Allen F., a resident of Ottumwa,
Iowa. His second wife was Julia J. Vittetoe, of Keokuk county, and of
one of the oldest families of the county. Her father was a native of
Tennessee and her mother of Kentucky, and they came to Keokuk coun-
ty in 1845. Mr. and Mr. Utterback had four children: Lustella. de-
ceased; Alvin L. deceased; Arthur C. at home; and Lullu M., at home.
Our subject is a life-long Democrat and has never missed vo'ing
on election day since he became old enough. He belongs to the lodge
of Woodmen of the World at Sigourney ; and he is a faithful member
of the Christian church at Lancaster. Among his fellow men he com-
mands the respect of all and his career is one of which he may be proud.
250 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
DEIDRJCH HENRY STROIlM.\Xx\.
D. H. Stroluiiann, one of the oldest settlers and prominent fanners
of Keokuk county, Iowa, whose fine farm is located in section 31, Ger-
man township, was born in Hanover. Germany, on I'^bruary 18. 1851,
and is the second child and the second son of Deidrich and Dorpthe
(Backhaus) Strohmann. both of whom were natives of the same part of
Germany. TIic father died July 9. 1883. aged sixty-four years, and the
mother resides with our subject and is eighty-three years old. These
])arents emigrated to America in iS^C) and came to Keokuk county. Iowa,
when the voung Deidrich was not quite six years of age.
Our subject's education was obtained in the German schools of the
Evangelical association and in the district schools, and he assisted his
father on the farm until the date of his marriage. On February 24.
1880, he was united in marriage with Henrietta Kraclu. who was born
at St. Louis. Missouri, January 14, 1857. and is a daughter of Emil and
Lucetta 'Kiett) Kracht. both of whom were natives of Germany, and
after coming to America located at St. Louis. .Mrs. Strohmann was
se\en years of age when her parents moved to Keokuk county and she
is the fourth member of her parents' family of five children. Her mother
died July 19, 1881, aged sixty- four years, and her father died May 4,
1900, aged eighty. The family of Mr. Strohmann consists of himself,
wife, and daughter Emma, born January 5. 1884. the latter being a very
intelligent .studenl in the public schools.
In 1877 Mr. Strohmann located on his jircscnt farm, where he erect-
ed a comfortable residence and a commodious and substantial b.irn.
This farm comjirises one hundred and twenty-five acres and it li.is been
developetl into one of the very finest estates in this neighlxirhood
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 251
through the industry and excellent agricultural methods employed by its
owner. In politics he is a Democrat, but a liberal one, and endeavors
to secure the best man for the offices, irrespective of politics. Mr. Stroh-
mann is regarded with feelings of respect and esteem in his locality,
his position before his neighbors always demonstrating his integrity
and reliability. He takes a great interest in public matters, especially
those pertaining to his township, and is always ready to do his part in
n^aking improvements.
R. S. MARTIN.
Among the many worthy enterprises of the stirring little city of
Hedrick, Keokuk county, Iowa, none are more deserving of commenda-
tion than the one which is being conducted by the above genetleman and
his sons, who are editors and proprietors of the Hedrick Journal, a
newspaper which has done very valuable service in bringing the develop-
ment of the youthful city to the attention of the capitalists of the east.
Mr. R. S. Martin is a native of Licking county, Ohio, born February
4, 1836. He was the son of Daniel and Sara E. (Hagan) Martin, na-
tives of Pennsylvania. After marriage they removed to Ohio, where he
became a prominent and inlluential citizen, having been judge of the
court of common pleas in Licking county. In 1854 the family removed
to Iowa and located at Steady Run township, Keokuk county, where the
father continued to reside until his death at the advanced age of
ninety-one years. He was a man of \-ery fine mold of character, and
during his life time spread an influence for good in every community
in which he resided. The parents of Mr. ]\lartin had a family of eleven
252 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
children, ten of whom grew to maturit)-, Mr. Martin being the seventli
child and fourth son.
He remained at home until his majority, coming to Iowa with the
family. The first active work he engaged in was the teaching profession,
which he followed for two or three years previous to the war. In 1861,
however, he put aside all considerations of business and was found
a loyal citizen who valiantly espoused the cause of the Union. He was
among the first to enlist, entering the army in 1861 as a private soldier
of Company D, Thirteenth Iowa \'olunteer Infantry. In this company
h.e served three years, and passed through some of the most hotly con-
tested battles of the army of the Cumberland. The first of these battles
was Shiloh, then came the sieges of Corinth and \'icksburg ; after wliich
he was on the Atlanta campaign and in other minor engagements. At
the battle of Shiloh he received a bullet wound, but it did not incapaci-
tate him for duty. He was also wounded in front of Atlanta. He
received an honorable discharge from the service on the 1st of Novem-
ber, 1864, and returned to his home with the consciousness of having
served his country faithfully and well. After the war he continued in
the teaching profession until 1886, when he in company with his sons,
\V. D. and C. J., established the Martinsburg Journal. This plant they
conducted until 1889, when they removed to Iledrick and consolidated
it with the Hedrick Enterprise, the name of the paper since that time
having been the Hedrick Journal. This enterprise has Iieen very suc-
cessful, the paper having one of the largest circulations in the state and
being a power in the moulding of public opinion in its various depart-
ments. Mr. Martin and his sons also do a very large business in job
printing.
The marriage of Mr. Martin occurred in Kcoknk county. Iowa, on
!?L:.^^i^.:..^^^^.^ (b.Ma^^y^
Genealogical and biographical history. 255
15th of January, 1865, when lie led. to the altar Martha J. Hampton.
This lady is a native of Tennessee, from which state her family removed
to Kentucky and in 1856 to Iowa. To the union of Mr. ands Mrs. Mar-
tin three children were born, Walter D. and Charles J., both in business
with their father, and Anna who is the wife of A. A. Buck, of Fremont,
Nebraska. The Martin family has been a very prominent one in this
section of the state of Iowa ever since their removal here. The father,
Daniel Martin, leaves his name to posterity in the name of the town of
Martinsburg, Iowa, which he laid out in 1855. He was a man of much
public spirit, which he bequeathed to his son, who has a live interest in
every movement affecting the welfare of his fellow-townsmen and advo-
cates and assists to the extent of his ability every measure which in his
judgment tends to the advancement of the interests of his county aid
state. i
WILLIAM E. HARDING.
One of the prominent farmers and resident citizens of Adams town-
ship is William E. Harding, whose home is on section 7. A native oi
the Buckeye state, he was born in Morrow county, Ohio, on the 25th
of September, 1859, and is a son of J. H. Harding, whose birth occurred
January 8, 182 1, in what was then Richland county, Ohio, but is now
Morrow county. The paternal grandfather was Mordica Harding, who
was born in Susquehanna county, Pennsylvania, Noveinber 18, 1796,
and died March 21, 1870. At an early date he removed with his parents
to Richland county, Ohio, becoming one of the pioneer settlers of that
locality. His father was Amos Harding, who was of English descent. In
his family were seventeen children, Mordica being the ninth in order
256 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
of birtli. This family was prominently identified with the early devel-
opment of Richland county. Ohio. The maternal grandmother of our
subject was Julia Flint, born May 14, 1790, and died in May, 1862. His
grandmother was Susan Harding, born Alarcii 24, 1794, and died March
2,0. 1 85 1.
In the state of his nativity J. H. Harding, the father of our sub-
ject, grew to manhood and was united in marriage to Miss Emily A.
Flint, who was born at Mansfield, Richland county, her parents having
located in that place when llie town consisted principally of a block house
built for tiie protection of the early settlers from the Indians. In 1862
Mr. Harding left Ohio and came west, taking up his residence in Prairie
township, Keokuk county, Iowa, but two years later he removed to
Adams township, where lie continued to make his home thoughout the
remainder of his life, his death occurring there November 15, 1892, when
he was seventy-one years of age. His wife passed away at the age
of seventy-three on August 11, 1897. She was a daughter of Eliphalet
I'lint, born June 6; 1782, and died in March, i860; he was of Welsh de-
scent and became quite a prominent man of Richland county, Ohio. In
religious faith J. II. Harding was a Baptist, holding membership in iliat
church for many years. His political support was given the Republican
party and he was called upon to fill a number of local ofiices of honor
and trust. For about eleven years he served as president of the Farm-
ers Mutual Insurance Company and was a man widely and favorably
known throughout Keokuk county. His family consists of four sons
and two daughters, one of whom died at the age of two and one-half
yea-.s and another at the age of seventeen; Rosella Pine, wife of Wil-
liam Pine, died April 30, 1891 ; she was the widow of Francis M.
Brown, whom she married in 1867; two sons by her first luisband
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 257
are living, Howard and Berton R. Those of the family still living are
O. C, a resident of Keswick ; Harriet, widow of Reuben Da\'is of
Oskaloosa, Iowa; and W'illiam E., of this review.
Mr. Harfhng of this review is the youngest of the family and was
but four years old when brought by his parents to Keokuk county,
»vhere he spent the days of his boyhood and youth in much the usual
manner of farmer boys and early acquired an excellent knowledge
of all the duties that fall to the lot of the agriculturist. When he
located upon his present farm, which is the old homestead, it was all
wild prairie and he assisted in the arduous task of transforming the
land into rich and productive fields. His education was obtained in
the district schools of the neighborhood, and during his youth he expe-
rienced many of the hardships and privations which faii to the lot of
the pioneer. As a boy he herded sheep until fifteen years of age
and has since given his attention exclusively to agricultural pursuits.
On the 3rd of August, 188 1, Mr. Harding married Miss Jane
C. Orr. a native of County Down, Ireland, who came to America with
her jxircnts, John and Eliza (Dunnin) Orr, when about eight years
old. The family first located in Illinois, but afterward came to Iowa
and settled in Iowa county. Though born in Ireland her parents were
of Scotch descent, the family being originally from the land of the
heather. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Harding,
namly: Clela M., J. Harvey and Harry F. The older son is now
attending school at Oskaloosa, Iowa, and the others are still at home.
Mr. and IMrs. Harding began their domestic life upon a farm on
section 8, Adams township, where they made their home for nine
years, Init in 1889 they returned to the old homestead, to the cultiva-
tion and improvement of which he has since devoted his attention, and
258 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
Mr. Harding is now tiie owner of two hundred acres of well improved
and valuable land. In connection with general farming he carries
on stock raising. For forty years Wr. Harding has been identified with
the interests of Keokuk county and has ever borne his part in the work
of up-building and improvement. Politically he is identified with the
Republican party and socially is connected with the Masonic fraternity,
belonging to the lodge at Thornburg. As a citizen he ever stands
ready to discharge any duty devolving upon him and justly merits
the high regard in which he is held.
JOHN S. STOUTXER, M. D.
Dr. John S. Stoutner, of Keota, has passed the eightieth milestone
on life's journey and is now living in honorable retirement from labor.
His life record has been characterized by many of the sterling qualities
of upright manhood, and wherever known he has won the respect and
good will of those with whom he has been associated. Now in the even-
ing of life he receives the veneration and esteem which should ever be
accorded to those who ha\e advanced far on life's journey. He is a
native of Pennsylvania, his birth having occurred in Bedford county on
the 5th of Ai)ril, i8jj. His father, Benjamin Stoutner. was born in
Maryland and there spent his boyhood and youth. The grandfather,
John Stoutner. was also supposed to be a native of Maryland and was
of Cerman descent. On leaving his native state Benjamin Stoutner took
\\\> his abode in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, where he carried on
blacksmithing. He was married in Pennsylvania and several years
laler located in Richland county, Ohio, where he spent his remaining
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 259
(lays, dying when eighty-four years of age. His life was in consistent
harmony with his profession as a member of the Lutheran church and in
politics he was always a stanch Democrat. His wife bore the maiden
name of Catherine Shertzer. a native of Pennsylvania, where she was
reared. She also died in her eighty-fourth year. Her father, Jacob
Shertzer, was born in the Iveystone state and was of German lineage.
To the parents of our subject were born ten children, four sons
and six daughters, all of whom reached adult age with the exception
of one son who died when ten years old.
Dr. Stoutner is the eldest of the family. He was reared in the
place of his nativity until seventeen years of age, when he accompanied
his parents on their removal to Richland county, Ohio, remaining with
them until lie had attained the age of twenty-two years. He then went
to Massilon, Ohio, and took up the study of medicine under the direc-
tion of Dr. John Shertzer, who directed his reading for two years
and ten months. He afterward pursued a course of study at Willough-
by college, Ohio, twenty miles east of Cleveland. When he had bec.Miie
well qualified for the active practice of the profession he located in
.New Washington, Crawford county, Ohio, where he opened an office
and was there in practice for five years, during which time he acquired
a good patronage. He then went to Ganges, Richland county, where he
remained for one year, after which he came to the west, it
was in 1854 that he made his way to Iowa, locating in
Washington county at a place called Paris. For nine years he prac-
ticed successfully there and at the end of that time abandoned his
profession in order to give his attention to agricuUural pursuits. He
purchased two farms in Washington county and on selling that land
bought property in township 76 of Washington county, becoming the
260 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
owner of three luindred and twenty 'acres upon which he located,
devoting liis energies to its development and improvement. His lahors
\\rought a transformation in the place so that it became a very val-
uable and attractive farm, and thereon he continued to make his home
until 1890, when he retired from farm life and purchased a residence
property in Keota. He had added to his land until he was the owner
of seven hundred and ninety acres of as rich land as can be found in
the country. He gave to his son. Oliver, a tract of eighty acres, a similar
amount to his son William, and they are now prominent farmers of
\\''ashington county.
On the 28th of October, 1847. the Doctor was united in marriage
to Hilary .\nn Keith, a native of Richland county. Ohio, born January 5,
1824, and a daughter of Michael anil Margaret Keith, both of whom
were natives of Pennsylvania. In their family were two sons and fi\c-
daughters, and death did not sever the family tie until after they had
reached mature years. Mrs. Stoutner is the youngest of the children
and was reared and educated in her native place. By her marriage
she has become the mother of six children : Margaret, now deceased ; Oli-
\er, a resident farmer of Washington county: Xaomi, the wife of
Warren Stewart, a stockman of Keota; William, also a fanner of Wash-
ington county: Edward, deceased: and Nettie, the wife of Squire H. S.
Statler, of Keota.
The Doctor is a stanch Democrat, having firm faith in the prin-
ciples of the party, which he also supports by his ballot and his influence.
He is a member of the Christian church, in which he has taken an active
part, doing all in his power to promote its growth and upbuilding. In
his business affairs he has prospered and is to-day in comfortable financial
circumstances, whereby he is enabled to enjoy many of the luxuries as
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 26l
well as of the necessities of life. He is a well preserved man of eighty
years, for nature is kindly to those who abuse not her laws. His life
has in many respects been highly commendable and his example is
therefore well worthy of emulation.
CURTIS CRABB.
Curtis Crabb, who carries on general farming on section 9, Lafay-
ette township, was born in Carroll county, Maryland, on the 22d of
April, 1S57. His father, George Crabb, was a native of the same local-
ity and was a blacksmith b)- occupation. The year 1872 witnessed his
arri\al in Keokuk county, Iowa, and he located on a farm which is now
the home of our subject, making it his place of residence until his death,
which occurred in his sixty-first year. He was a member of the Wine
brennerian church. He wedded Susan Wincers, also a native of Carroll,
county, Maryland, and she, too, died in her sixty-first year. They were
tiie parents of two children, a son and a daughter.
Curtis Crabb is now the only living member of the family, his sis-
ter, Elizabeth, having died when a small child. He was about thirteen
years old when he came to Keokuk county, Iowa, and here in the public
schools he continued his education, which had been begun in the common
schools of his native county. When but a small boy he had to begin
work to provide for his own support, and he cared for his father and
mother in their later years, thus repaying with filial love and attention
the care which they had bestowed upon him in early youth. In 1890
he was united in marriage to Miss Clara McVay, a daughter of John
and Abigal (Moon) McVay.
262 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
Mr. Crabb is the owner of an excellent farm of eighty acres and
carries on general farming and stock raising with a fair degree of
success. He is recognized as one of the progressive men of the township.
In politics he is an earnest Democrat, and on the ticket was elected to the
office of assessor, but did not serve on account of physical disability. He
belongs to Adelphi Lodge. No. 353 of Keota, and is true to its teachings
and its tenets, for in his life he closely follows the principles of the
craft.
ALEXANDER WARNOCK.
Alexander Warnock, a prominent farmer and representative of
Adams township, Keokuk county, was born on the 20th of April, 1845,
in county Down, Ireland, and is a son of John and Mary (Campbell)
Warnock, who were also natives of the Emerald Isle, the former born
March 23, 1820, and the latter on the i8th of June 1815. Mary Camp-
bell was a direct descendant of the long famous house of .A.rgyle. Both
parents were reared and educated in their native land and there continued
to reside for several years after their marriage, four of their eight child-
ren being born there, while the birth of tlie others occurred after the
emigation of the family to America. By occupation the father was a
farmer. It was in 1849 that the family crossed the broad .\tlantic and
took up their residence in Rock Island, Illinois, where the father accept-
ed a position on the Enterprise, a steamboat plying on the Mississippi.
He was thus employed the first summer after coming to this country and
then began work for the firm of Bailey & Boyle, who owned and operated
a sawmill, in which lie wnked for about two years. He then rented
the property and ran il on his own account for some time, after which
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 263
the family removed to tlie country in the spring of 1854, and he broke
and improved one hundred and sixty acres of land. He afterward lived on
several other farms in Rock Island county and continued to engage in
agricultural pursuits until life's labors were ended in death on the 27th
of August, 1887. Ir, politics he was a stanch Republican and took an
active interest in public affairs. He was an earnest and consistent
member of the United Presbyterian church m Rock Island county and
was a man highly respected and esteemed by all who knew him. His
children were: Margaret: William, deceased: Alexander; David: James
C. John, deceased: Hugh and Janet.
Alexander Warnock was only four years old at the time the family
came to the new world and in Rock Island county. Illinois, he passed
the days of his boyhood and youth m much the usual mannar of farm
boys, no event of special importance occurring to vary the routine of
farm work during that time. On leaving home in 1868 he came to Keo-
kuk county, Iowa, and settled upon his present farm in Adams town-
ship, which consists of one hundred sixty acres of rich and arable land,
which he has placed under a high state of cultivation and improved
with good and substantial buildings. In connection with general farm-
ing he gives considerable attention to the raising of a high grade of
pedigreed stock, making a specialty of short-horn cattle, of which he
has a fine herd upon his place.
At Oskaloosa, Iowa, on the 9th of March, 1869, was celebrated the
marriage of Mr. Warnock and Miss Agnes McCracken, who was also
a native of Ireland, born on the 25th of December, 1847; l^er parents
being James and Elizabeth (McCormick) McCracken, both natives of
the same country. In 1849 she was brought by her parents to the
United States and the family became early settlers of Keokuk county.
264 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTOkY.
Her father, who was a prominent farmer, died in 1887. Mrs. Warnock
was reared and educated in Rock Island county, lUinois, and by her
marriage to our subject became the mother of seven children, four
sons and tliree daughters, who in order of birtli are as follows: John,
born in the fall of 1869; Elizabeth, September 19, 1871 ; James M.,
September 10, 1873; Mary, in 187-;; Jefferson Clarke, in 1879; William,
December 8, 1881 ; and Gertrude. April 3, 1894. All were born on the
home farm.
Jn his political affiliations, Mr. Warnock has been a life-long Dem-
ocrat and has taken quite an active interest in local politics, while relig-
iously he is a member of the United Presbyterian church and is a man
who commands tlic respect and confidence of all witli whom he comes
in contact, either in business or social life.
WILLIAM W. GWIX.
It is now our privilege and pleasure to trace the life of one of
Keota's most honored citizen from the time his grandfather came to
this country over a century ago, until the present, when the grandson
after a successful life is spending his remaining days in peaceful con-
templation of the past and hope of the future. Isaam Gwin, grandfather
of William W. Gwin, was a native of Ireland; his wife was Mary Can-
teberry; he left the land of his birth when very young, and settleil
with his wife in Tennessee about the time it became a state. By trade
he was a miller and by profession a Baptist preacher. .Although a
slave holder, the practice was abhorrent to his nature, and in i8_'o he
freed his slaves and moved to Indiana, that lie might lie in a state op-
posed to slavery, and in this state he died. He was the father of ten
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 2t.5
children, the father of our subject being the ninth child and the youngest
son.
R. W. Gwin, the father of William \V., and an early settler of
iowa, was born on his father's homestead in Tennessee on January 30,
1S04, anti there his boyhood was passed, and he received such educa-
tional ad\antages as were then to be had. He was not yet twenty years
old when his father rem(i\ed to the free state of Indiana. There he
was married when twenty-one years of age and five years later moved
to Illinois and occupied a farm of one hundred and si.xty acres east of
the Illinois river. In 1831, crossing the Illinois, he settled on another
farm of one hundred and sixty acres and remained there about five years.
His ne.xt move was across the Mississippi into Des Moines county, Iowa,
where he lived for two years; then for five years he was in Louisa
county, and in 1843 ''^ bought, in Washington county, four hundred
acres of land from the government, which he improved and cultivated
until 1858. Then emigrating with part of his family to Kansas, he
settled on fi\e hunilred acres of partly improved land, on which he
built a house and made many improvements; about 1878 he moved
further south to Montgomery count}', Kansas, purchasing a fine farm
and town property in Independence, and here in 1885 he ended his
long and useful life. He was a Republican in politics and a member
of the Sons of Temperance. His wife was Nancy Watkins, born in
1807 in Kentucky, where she was reared and educated; her parents were
John and Mary Watkins, who removed to Indiana about the same time
Mr. Gwin's father did. Mr. and Mrs. Gwin were the parents of
fifteen children, five boys and ten girls. One cliild died in 1843, ^^^^
from then on until 1885 the family was unbroken by death. The
children are as follows: Mary (deceased), William W., Jane, Sarah,
266 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
Martha (deceased), John, Louisa, Nancy (died in 1843), EHzabeth,
Marguerette, Caroline. Anna. Richard, Martin, and Walter.
Onr immediate subject, William W. G\\ in. whose father and grand-
father we have just sketched, was born in Indiana on September 29,
i<S27, and so, was nine years old when his father crossed the Mississippi
ri\er into Iowa. And in 1858, when his father removed to Kansas, he
had already acquired a fine farm of two hundred acres in Washington
county. He had purchased his land from the government between the
years 1847 and 1855 and had brought it into a fine state of cultiva-
tion. In 1885 Mr. Gwin moved to Keokuk county and bought a house
and lot in Keota. anil retired from active farming. I'or two years he
was engineer in a flour mill, and in 1889 he engaged in the lumber busi-
ness by buying out the old Hinkle lumber yard. This venture proved
very successful, and later he took in S. S. Wright as partner; in 1895
he sold his interest to his i)artncr, and has since lived retired, having
well earned a rest and freedom from business cares.
Mr. Ciwin was married in 1851 to Catherine Bush, who was born in
1833 in Ohio, where she remained till she was thirteen \ears old; she
is the daughter of Absalom Bush and Violet Arnold, who came to Iowa
;ind settled on a farm in 1846. Mr. and Mrs] Gwin were the parents of
ten children, six boys and four girls: Joshua (deceased), Anderson
(deceased), Nathan .\., \'iolet (deceased). Smiley (deceased), Ella
May, Williard D.. Nora A., Lillie. and Orley.
Mr. Gwin is a charter member of Masonic Lodge, No. 96. at
Richmond. He is a charter memlier of tlic Christian church at Keota,
helped to build it, and among the first officers of the church he was
chosen the first elder and the third trustee, and is now also president of
llic official bo.ird. .\s a Republican he has served as a member of
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 267
the city council. His life spent in varied activity has reflected honor
not only upon himself but upon those with whom he has lived.
ANANIAS A. SHRADER.
Ananias A. Shrader is a well known business man of Keota, Keo-
kuk county, Iowa, where he carries on a contracting and building busi-
ness, and many structures in the town and throughout the county attest
his skill and industry. His father was Samuel W. Shrader, who was
born in the state of Pennsylvania, and after receiving his education
learned the trade of a millwright and lived in that state until he was
forty years of age. In 1856 he mo\-ed with his family to Iowa and set-
tled on eighty acres in Muscatine county ; he conducted this farm and
engaged in milling for eight years. In 1864 he went to Iowa county
and bought a farm, for the most part well improved; after remaining
here until 1880 he took up his residence in Keota and there lived retired
from active labor until his death, April 23, 1893. He was a member of
the Democratic party and was connected with the Lutheran church.
While in Pennsylvania he married Sarah Aklinger, a native of that state
and born in 1826. Six children were born bef<ire they left Pennsylvania
and one in Iowa, three boys and four girls: Joseph A., Mary, Kather-
ine (deceased), Ananias, Susan, Rebecca (decea.sed), and Samuel H.
Ananias Shrader was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania.
April 8, 1849. and was seven years old when his father left that state
and came to Iowa. Up to his twenty-fifth year he farmed with his
father, and then in 1875 he was married to Emma Pugh, a native of
Illinois and a daughter of William and Sarah Pugh, old settlers of
268 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
ihat state, where botli of iheni d'ied. Mr. and Mrs. Shrader liad two
boys, hut both are now dead, one of whom was named W'ilhani : they
were born in Iowa county, Iowa.
In 1881 our subject removed from Iowa county to Keota, and for
two years was employed in the Ilenkle and Ritche furniture store; at
liie end of that time he and his brother opened a general store, which
they successfully carried on for three years. After selling out his
l)usiness in 1886 he began contracting and building and has engaged
in this ever since. The ])rinciples of the Democratic party have appealed
to his political reason; in religion he is an ardent member of the Meth-
odist church and helped financially and also erected the ])resent church
at Keota.
DA\ID P. MARTIN.
Among the well known and respected retired farmers of Keota,
Iowa, is David P. Martin, who for many years carried on the most
honorable pursuit of agriculture and now is spending the remaining
days of life in the enjoyment of his well earned competency. His
father, David M. Martin, was burn in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania,
in 1816, and was a jolly miller of that locality, and here he m.Trried
and his children were born, but in 185J; he came west and went to
farming in the state of Illinois, where he remained until his death in
1892. His wife was Elizabeth Palmer, of Pennsylvania, and she was
the mother of six children, three boj's and three .girls, David being the
fourth in order of birth and the eldest son : Rebecca, Maria. Harriett
(deceased). David 1'., Samuel and Solomon; all of these spent their
early life in their home in Pennsylvania.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 269
David P. Martin \\as born on the 6th day of January, 1839, and
spent the first fourteen years of his hfe in the old Pennsylvania home,
and there received the rudiments of the education which he completed
in Illinois. His school daj's were finished in liis twentieth year and then
he worked on the farm until he was of age. In that year, i860, he was
married, and in the spring of 1862 he enlisted in the First Illinois
\^olunteer Ca\'alry, Company G, and after being in the service for a
few months was mustered out in July of the same year. Returning to
the farm in Illinois, he remained there until i86g, at which time
he took his family to a farm of one hundred and si.xty acres in Lafayette
township, Keokuk county, Iowa. This land was uncleared, but in a
short time by his assiduous labor it was brought under a fine state of
cultivation. In 1888 Mr. Martin sold his farm and retiring to Keota
purchased three lots and three houses and has since lived in this place;
he also purchased a half interest in a general store and continued in its
management for six years, but then sold it back to H. F. Williams, and
has since enjoyed the pleasure of domestic life, untrammeled by the cares
of business.
Mr. Martin was married to Hortensia J. Golden, daughter of
John and Lucila Golden, of Ohio, where she wa.s born; she came to
Illinois with her parents and remained tliere until her marriage. They
have no children of their own, but adopted three: Leona R., who is
now dead; Ellie Romines, and Lottie Glen (deceased). The Republican
jjarty finds a loyal supporter in Mr. Martin; the family are members
of the Methodist Episcopal church, and he is not only a member but an
active worker for the cause of religion, being a trustee, and he was on
the building committee when the present church was erected. His hon-
270 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
orable and active career has not failed to bring him many friend? and
make him a prominent figure in his city.
JOHN CAMPBELL.
As a man travels on in the journey of life and passes the prime
of manhood, his strength and energy are somewhat lessened by age,
which is an indication that it is intended that his last years shonld be,
at least to some extent, a period of rest. Not all who pass he meridian
of life are permitted to put aside business cares, for through the lack
of business ability or mismanagement they have not acquired capital
sufficient to supply their needs in their declining years. We here present,
however, a gentleman who is enjoying a well earned rest. Long con-
nected with the agricultural interests of the county, his capable manage-
ment and the careful husbanding of his resources brought to him a very
desirable competence, which now supplies him witii all the necessities
and many of the luxuries that go to make life worth living.
This rather brief and imperfect sketch of the Campbell family will
serve to place before our readers a record that can be safely emulated
by all young men. Mr. John Campbell is a native of Franklin county,
Ohio, born December 25, 1829. His parents were Robert and Phoebe
(Martin) Campbell, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. They
were married in Franklin county, and located in Plain township. The
mother died at the birth of our subject and the father died here at the
age of sixty-six years. He was an active and earnest menil)er of the
Methodist church, and a follower of Jefferson in politics. His father
before him was born in Ireland and came to America when but a boy
with his two brother. The grandmother of Mr. Campbell was June
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 271
Meads, a daughter of aii old pioneer family of Pennsylvania. The
mother of our suliject was also a native of Pennsylvania. She became
the mother of four children, three sons and one daughter, of whom our
subject is the voungest, and all of whom grew to maturity and lived to a
good old age.
Our subject is the only living member of the family. He was
born, educated and married in his native county. The date of the
marriage was August 30, 1854, when he was joined to Miss Sara
Thrall, a native of Licking county, Ohio, and the daughter of Dr. B. F.
and Eliza (Pyle) Thrall. Her father was born in Vermont, and was a
practicing physician for a number of years in Licking county and during
the Civil war was a surgeon in the Federal army. He was a man of
line education and of excellent reputation in his profession. He had a
family consisting of ten children, fi\e sons and five daughters, all grow-
ing to maturity. Our subject remained in Ohio until 1855, when he
came to Iowa, w'here he located first in Des Moines county, and in the
fall of 1859 came on to Keokuk county and located in Martinsburg.
Here he remained for two years, during which time he was post-
master and hotel keeper. He then removed back to Ohio, and remained
there two years, and then returned to Keokuk county, where he pur-
chased land and engaged in farming. Since coming to Iowa Mr. Camp-
bell has had a very busy existence, and has been prominent in the local
life of the different communities in which he has resided. He has
lived in several localities in the county and has always been prominent-
ly identified as a member of the agricultural and stock raising class.
By the use of good business judgment, and a life of energetic activity,
he has been enabled to accumulate a considerable property. In 1900
272 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
he retired from active business and has since resided at Hedrick in
enjoyment of the competency whicli he has so well earned.
Air. and Mrs. Campbell arc the jjarents of eight children. B. Frank,
a farmer of Keokuk county : Daniel, a farmer in Steady Run town-
.ship; I'ha'be. wife of Dr. W. 11. Wilson of Table Rock, Nebraska;
Eliza, wife of Geo. R. Davis, Steady Run township: Minnie, single
and at home; Robert, a farmer of Steady Run township: Homer, de-
ceased at nine years; and a son, who died in infancy. These child-
ren were given fair educational advantages, and given also excellent
financial aid for the beginning of their several battles of life. In polit-
ical faith Mr. Campbell has always adhered to Democratic principles,
and during the long fight for the principles of prohibition in Iowa has
been exceedingly active in favor of the prohibition legislation that has
been enacted. He has held only minor oflices, never being a seeker
of political preferment. He .iml his wife are members of the Methodist
church, in which he has been active as an official and has been a liberal
contributor.
JOHN CLARK.
.\t an early day in the development of Keokuk county the late John
Clark became one of its residents. Many years have passed since then,
bringing great changes, and in the wnrk of transformation he bore his
part as a loyal and interested citizen. He carricil on farming on section
9. Lafayette township, where he had a good home and valuable property.
Mr. Clark was born in Lincolnshire, England, March J5, 1830. His
father, Thomas Clark, also a native of that country and a farmer by
occupation, died in England when about eighty years of age. His wife.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 273
Rebecca (Cunningham) Clark, was also born, lived and died in Eng-
land, passing away when the subject of this review was only about a
year old. The father was three times married, the mother of our
subject being his second wife, and to them were born three children.
The brothers of our subject were David antl Daniel. They, too, came
to the United States and both died in Illinois in 1902.
John Clark was the youngest of the three "brothers and was a self-made
man whose strong perseverance and diligence were the means of bring-
ing to him creditable success in life. He was about twelve years of
age when he began work by the week, receiving twenty-five cents for
a week's wages. He was willing to take any employment that would
yield him an honest living. For three years he remained with Mrs.
Back, his first employer, and then entered the service of Mr. Wilson,
a farmer with whom he remained for a year. He next entered the
scr\'ice of Air. Cullum. also a farmer, with whom he continued for about
a year. He next worked for Air. Stewart, near Spalding, England.
Thus another twelve months passed and he then went to the home which
his father owned and worked in that locality, as he could find employ-
ment. Belie\ing that he could enjoy better business opportunities in the
new world he came to America with his brother David in the year
1852. They first located in Washington, Illinois, near Peoria. They
had about fi\e hundred dollars in money when they reached that place
and thus they began life in the new world. Mr. Clark of this review
remained in Washington or its vicinity for about eight years, working
by the month.
In the meantime, in 1855, Mr. Clark was united in marriage to
Margaret Ferguson, a native of Scotland, and in 1857 ^e came to
Keokuk count)-, Iowa, locating on the land on which was his late home
274 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
and where his daughter now resides. Here lie improved a place which,
when it came into his possession, was entirely wild and uucultivatcd,
although the land was fenced. He built the residence, bams and other
outbuildings upon the place, added all the modern equipments which
are here seen and cultivated the fields until now they are very productive.
For l'orty-fi\e years he made his residence here and lived to witness
much of the growth of the comity. He had two hundred and six acres of
land and throughout the years of his residence successfully carried on
general farming and stock raising.
Unto Mr. and ^Frs. Clark were born four children who are yet liv-
ing and two who lia\e passed away, namely: William, a resident
farmer of Keokuk county: Eliza, the wife of John Herr, who also fol-
lows farming in this county: JMay the wife of George McDonald, who
operates her father's land: Catherine, the wife of Benjamin Showalter,
of East Chicago, Indiana : and David and Benjamin, both deceased.
The mother ])asscd away February 13, 1898, tlying in the faith of
the Presbyterian church, of w liicli she was a consistent and loyal mem-
ber. She possessed many excellent traits of heart and mind, which
have endeared her to her friends as well as to her immediate family.
In his political views Mr. Clark was an earnest Republican, whose study
of the questions and issues of the day led him to give his aid to that
|)arty. His life serves to illustrate what excellent business opportunities
are furnished in .\merica to young men of ambition, determination and
industry. Success may here lie won by tlicse qualities unhampered by
caste or class. Desiring to provide well for his family, Mr. Clark
labored untiringly at farm work until several years ago, when his
health failed him and at the time of his dcalli he was numbered among
the men of affluence of the community and as a .substantial and rcpre-
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 275
sentati\'e citizen connected with agricullural interests in Kcdkuk ounty.
His name is also on the role of pioneer settlers, for throngh almost a
half centnry he lived in this part of Iowa. Mr. Clark died on October
23, 1902, and the event was the occasion of sincere regret throngliont
the community of his friends and neighbors.
SIMON P. HERR.
Simon P. Herr, who is connected with the farming interests of
Lafayette township, makes his home on section 7 and has here an
excellent farm of one hundred and sixty acres of well improved land.
He is a native of Pennsylvania, his birth having occurred in Montour
county, on the 26th of January, 1848. His parents were Michad and
Catherine (Sandle) Herr, both of whom were natives of the Keystone
state. The father was born in Lancaster county and was there reared
and married. In 1858 he came to Iowa, taking up his abode in Liberty
township, where he purchased a farm, and it remained his place of
residence until he was called to his final rest in his seventieth year. His
wife also died in this county when about sixty-two years of age. They
were the parents of eight children, and Simon P. is the fifth of this
number.
Simon was about ten years of age w hen he came with his parents
to Keokuk county and on the home farm in Liberty township was
trained to habits of industry and economy, honesty and integrity. He
enjoyed the pleasures in which most boys of the period indulged and
also assisted in farm labor as his age and strength would permit, while
in the district schools near his home he mastered the branches of Eng-
lish learning usually taught in such institutions.
276 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
In 187s Mr. Herr was united in marriage to Miss Eliza Ferguson, a
native of Illinois, who came to Keokuk county with her parents in
her early girlhood. The young couple began their domestic life in
Liberty township, where they remained for about six years, and then
came to their present home on section 7. Lafayette township. Here thev
have since remained and Mr. Herr has devoted his time and energies to
to the general work of tilling the soil and raising stock, placing his
one hundred and sixty acres of land under a high state of cultivation,
.so that it compares very favorably with the best improved farms in
this portion of the state.
The home of .Mr. and Mrs. llcrr was blessed with live chi!<hon :
Charlie. Mabel. IXaisv. Earl, and Willie. I'or his second wife Mr. Herr
chose Anna I leycr. who was the fust girl born in Har])er. luwa. her
parents being John and Mary ( I'auly) lleyer. who were early .settlers
of Harper, locating there at the time the railroad was built. Mrs. Herr
accordinglv .•^pent her girlhood days in that town and was a student
in its public schools. 'I'heir three living children are: Leona. Earnest,
and Lillian. They have also lost two children. Cecilia and Lawrence.
From pioneer times down to the present Mr. Herr has been identified
with the growth and progress of Keokuk county, taking an active
and abiding interest in all that has pertained tc the general welfare a-id
to the public good. He is a Democrat and has held local oftice.'s, dis-
charging his duties with marked promptness and fidelity: he has served
ar, road supervisor and as school director. He is a member of the
Presbylenaii church, and liis life has been in strict conformity with its
teachings and its principles.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 277
JONATHAN DUNCAN.
Speaking from an historical point of view, ii is only a shoit time
since tlie region west of the Alleglieny mountains was a "howUng"
wilderness and the land producing nothing beneficial to civilization.
And men who came to the middle west even in the middle of the last
century are looked upon as old settlers and almost patriarchs of the
country. The subject of this sketch has been in Iowa ever since 1854.
locating in Washington county, where he engaged in farmmg, and is
one of the old and respected farmers of Keokuk county, having lived
here a good many years ago, and two years ago he removed here again
from Washington county. The grandfather of Jonathan Duncan was of
Scotch descent, as the name indicates, and was a native of Pennsylvania
and lived during the struggle of the colonies for independence. \\ iiliam
Duncan, the father of Jonathan, was born in Pennsylvania in 177b, and
was reared and educated on a farm and in the schools of the times,
followed the occupation of a farmer, and in politics belonged to the
old ^^ hig party. His first wife w-as Jane Drennen, who was the
mother of six children: William, James, David, Mary, Eliza and Eliza
Ann, all of whom are deceased. His second wife, the mother of our
subject, was Mary Kinsie, born and reared in Pennsylvania. They had
five children, of whom Jonathan was the eldest. The others were: Samuel
(deceased), Hiram, Rachel (deceased) and Sarah (deceased), all born
and reared in Pennsylvania.
Jonathan Duncan was born on the 30th of March, 1824; he learned
the trade of a blacksmith and after serving an apprenticeship of three
years went into business on his own account. At the age of thirty he
decided to go west, and accordingly came to Iowa in 1854 and .settled
278 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
on a farm in Washington county; liere he remained a short time and
tlicn came to Keokuk county, wliere he conducted a farm for twenty
years. In 1S74 he rcturnctl to Washington county and carried on farm-
ing there for some time. l)ut linally returned to tliis county and lias
since been living in Keota.
Mr. Duncan's first marriage was to Elizabeth Moore, a native of
Pennsylvania: this took i)lace in 1861, and she died in 1872, the mother
of four children, William, Ida, Mattie and Charles. In 1875 he again
married, and his wife was Mary Teunent, who was born in New York
cit)- and came with her parents to Ohio whcM she was about ten years
old and was there educated. Her parents, John and Mary Teunent,
were natives of Ireland, coming to Ohio at an early day, and there they
died. Mr. Duncan was a believer in the principles of the Whig party
while that organization was in existence ami he later became a Repub-
lican. He is a member of the United Presbyterian church of Keota, and
is an influential and upright citizen of his community.
CHARLES C. WONDERLICH.
In studying the early history of Keokuk county, Iowa, we find that
Frederick A. Wonderlich. the father of our immediate subject, was one
of the very earliest settlers of this county. A native of Germany, he
remained in his fatherland until he was thirteen years old. when he
came to Ohio, where he remained for some time. It was in tlie '40s
that he came to Keokuk county and settled on eighty acres in Jackson
township, which he labored hard to clear and cultivate. His political
beliefs were strongly Republican and he was always interested in the
A^ (>-{-cjLT/^r.^<H^<>^^^7^
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 281
public weal of his community. He was married in Keokuk county to
Adeline Bottger, who came from Germany to this county in 1854.
Nine children were born to Mr. and ]\Irs. Wonderlich, of whom our
subject is the oldest. In order of Ijirth they are : Charles C, John
Philip (deceased), Sarah A., Anna A., Abram L., Aaron A. J., George
and Ollie; these children were all reared in Keokuk county.
The birth of Charles C. Wonderlich occurred in Jackson town-
ship. Keokuk county, on the 6th of Septeviber, 1856. Until he was
twenty-six years old he spent his time on his father's farm, going to
school and assisting in the duties of the farm; in 1882, however, he
began farming on his own account on an adjoining place. He now has
ninety acres of excellent and well improved land.
On the 14th of December, 1881, Rosa I. Wheeler became his wife;
she is a native of the same county and her father was Calvin Wheeler,
who was an old settler and died while in the army during the Civil war.
jMiss Wheeler's mother was Sarah M. (Baker) Wheeler. Mr. and Mrs.
Wonderlich have two children, boy and girl : Dora A., who was born
on the farm September 10, 1882, and Frank H., born August 26, 1888.
Mr. Wonderlich was road supervisor in his district and takes an active
interest in the Republican party. His has been a varied and busy life,
which mav well ser\e as a model for those who follow him.
ROBERT McDowell, sr.
Tales of heroism have been the theme of song and story through-
out the ages. The soldier has figured prominently in all writings, yet
there is another kind of heroism which is as worthy of mention, and
282 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
that is sucli as is done by the ])ioneer settlers who meet the difficult
conditions of life upon the frontier when cut off from the comforts of
the older east. They establish homes in a wild country, perform the
arduous task of developing new land with few of the conveniences and
comforts which they have previously known. The struggle is often
a stern and hard one, but it has been met by men of strong courage
and unfaltering purpose. Such a one is Robert McDowell. These
men deserve all praise and honor and the splendid states of the west
will ever stand as monuments to their memory.
Mr. McDowell is now living a retired life in Kinross, Iowa. He
was born in Bucks county, I'ennsyhania, on the 14th of January, 1818,
and comes of Scotch ancestry. His paternal grandfather, Sutfon Mc-
Dowell, was a Revolutionary s6ldier under Cieneral Washington and
had his leg shot ofY in the battle of Billet. lie was an officer and
after losing his leg he obtained a cork leg and remained in command of
his company until the close of the war, proving a valiant soldier. He
lived t(3 be about one hundred years of age. General McDow'ell. who
fought in the first battle at Bull Run, was a second cousin of the subject
of this review. Samuel McDowell, the father of our subject, was born
in Bucks county, Pennsylvania, and by occupation was a farmer and
weaver. He married Rebecca Hallowell, a native of Philadelphia.
Pennsylvania. Her father lived to be about eighty years of age, while
her mother reached the very advanced age of one hundred and three
years. Leaving the Keystone state the parents of our subject removed
westward antl both died when sixty years of age, Samuel McDowell
passing away in White Pigeon, Michigan. His wife came of English
ancestry, who were Quakers in religious faith. Eight children .\ '.re
born unto this worthy couple, of whom Robert McDowell is the oldest.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 283
He was reared in Columbia county, Pennsylvania, from the age
of five years. His fatlier moved across the mountains at that time, by
wagon. settHng near Fort Washington. In early life Mr. McDowell
was for some time a captain of a boat which sailed on the Susquehanna,
Delaware and other rivers, and also made coasting trips. He was thus
engaged for about twelve years. In 1839 he was first married, Miss
Catherine Herr becoming his wife, and unto them were born twelve
children, ten of whom reached years of maturity. The mother passed
away in Keokuk county, Iowa, about 1893. After their marriage
the 3'oung couple took up their abode in Pennsylvania, whence they
removed to Rock Island county, Illinois, and in 1852 became residents
of Keokuk county, Iowa, locating in Liberty township, among its first
settlers. Mr. McDowell secured government land on the prairie, built a
log house and, after cutting away some timber, began the development
of a farm which bordered on the English river. There he improved
iiis land successfull}". carrying on general agricultural pursuits until
about 1885, when he rented his land to his sons and took up his abode
in Kinross, where he has since lived. He was a progressive agriculturist,
wide-awake and enterprising, and his work was successfully carried
on. He accumulated a large tract of land, at one time becoming the
owner of sixteen hundred acres. He was also for many years engaged
in the stock business, buying and shipping, and his annual sales brought
to him an excellent income in the line of work which he undertook. He
possessed sound business judgment and enterprise and his efforts proved
very efficient in winning success.
Mr. and Mrs. McDowell traveled life's journey together as man
and wife for fift\--six years. Theirs was a happy married life, in which
their confidence and love increased as the years went by. Their children
284 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
were as follows: David, who now resides in Keokuk county; Catherine,
deceased; Martin, a resident of Keota; Lovina, the wife of William
Kent, of Nebraska; Ellen, the wife of George Dillen. of Keota; Eliz-
abeth, the wife of John La Fever, of Washington county, Iowa; Sarah,
the wife of Theodore Green of Washington county; Mrs. Hattie Winter,
deceased ; Robert, who resides upon the old home farm in Liberty town-
ship: Xancy. the deceased wife of John Lawler: and William and
Johnie, who have passed away. In 1898 Mr. McDowell was again
married, his second union being with Mrs. ^L E. (Crosby) Oldaker, who
was born in Licking county. Ohio, a daughter of Edwin and Dianna
(Green) Crosby. The mother was a descendant of the well known
Green family and the father was born in Rhode Island and came of an
old New England family, his ancestors having crossed the Atlantic in
the Mayflower. Mrs. McDowell was their sixth child and was reared
in Licking county, Ohio, until she was about twelve years of age, when
she became a resident of Iowa City, Johnson county, Iowa, On the 1st
of January, i860, she gave her hand in marriage to H. J. Oldaker. and
became the mother of six children, five of whom are living, namely :
IL E. : .\. T., deceased: William G. ; H. W. : Beulah, the wife of Robert
Thomas: and Lola, the wife of Ivan E. Coffey. A. J. Oldaker served
as county recorded of Iowa county for four years and was a prominent
and influential resident there, while H. E. Oldaker served as dejiuty
county clerk of the county for eight years.
In his political affiliations Mr. McDowell has been a life-long Demo-
crat and in early manhood cast his ballot for James K. Polk. His
fellow-townsmen had honored him with a number of local offices and
he has taken an active part in the uplniilding of schoolhouses and
churches and has been the friend of every movement for the jironiotion
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 285
of the general good and for the development of the county in wliicli
he has hved for so long. He was reared in the faith of the Society ol
Friends and with that denomination has always been identified, exempli-
fying in his life his Christian faith. In 1876 he made a trip to Phila-
delphia, where all his relatives were living, he being the only one of the
family who resides in Keokuk county. He is now enjoying a well-
earned rest from labor. By carefully watching and improving his
business opportunities and laboring untiringly for the achievement of a
competence, he gained an honorable place among the substantial resi-
dents of this portion of the state.
JAMES J. TERRELL.
One of the honored citizens and distincti\'ely representative busi-
ness men of the thriving village of Ollie, which is located in Jackson
township, Keokuk county, is Mr. Terrell, and his progressive and
public spirited attitude has greatly benefited this section of the county,
in whose industrial and civic advancement lie has ever shown marked
interest. James J. Terrell was born in Fayette county, Ohio, on the 6th
of June, 1848, being a son of Samuel C. Terrell, who was born in
Virginia, in February, 1802. The latter's father, Samuel Terrell, was
likewise a native of Virginia and was a member of the Society of
Friends. By reason of his great repugnance to the institution of slaver\,
which so greatly obtained in his native state, he emigrated thence to
Ohio in an early day, his son Samuel C. being at the time a mere
child, and he was numbered among the pioneers of Highland county,
having located on the site of the present village of Leesburg. He there
reclaimed and developed an excellent farm, and it may be noted that
286 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
lie had one of the most extensive maple-sugar camps in that section,
which still continues to be celebrated for its products in this line. He
was finally compelled to abandon this farm, the government authoriiies
deciding that this and other land in the vicinity was the property of
the heirs of General Lee, a distinguished officer of the Revolution. Mr.
Terrell then ])urchased another tract of land in the same locality and
also brought this under efYectixe cultivation.
On that farm the father of our subject was reared, amid the envir-
onments of pioneer life, and after his marriage he continued to make
his home in that locality for several years, his first wife dying there,
in 1S44. They became the jjarents of three children, all of whom are
now deceased. In 1847 Samuel C. Terrell consummated a second mar-
riage, being then united to Mrs. Malinda (Johnson) Morton, the v>idow
of Greenbury Horton. She was born and reared in Ohio, l)ciiig the
daughter of Mica jab and Rachel Johnson, who were pioneers of the
Buckeye state, where they died, her grandfather having previously
been the owner of a valuable estate in North Carolina and having beeu
a cle'.gyman. Samuel C. and Malinda (Johnson) Terrell became the
])arents of four children, of whom one died in infancy, while the
three surviving are: James J., the immediate subject of this sketch;
Sarah \'.. the wife of R. H. Cutler, of Sigourney, this county: and
Samuel C, of Lancaster, Iowa. In the year 1855 Samuel C. Terrell
removed with his family from Ohio to Iowa, locating in Jackson town-
ship. Keokuk county, on a farm of seventy-five acres, which lie im-
proved, and there he continued to reside until he had attained the vener-
able age of eighty-seven years when he retired from active affairs
and thereafter made his home in OIlie, with his son James J., until his
death, which occurred in April, 1889, his wife passing away in October,
1891.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 287
James J. Terrell remained at the parental home until he had
attained the age of twenty-four, and on the last day of the year, 1881,
he located in Ollie, where he opened a blacksmith and wagon shop,
which he successfully conducted for several years. He finally established
a feed mill here and afterward erected and equipped a saw-mill, conduct-
ing operations with marked success until 1895, ^vhen he disposed of his
interests in the enterprises noted- Eventually, however, he again be-
came identified with the industrial activities of the place, and he is now
the owner of the planing mill and wagon and machine shops, which arc
among the important business establishments of the town. He was the
first president of the Bank of Ollie, originated the plans for its building
and was chairman of the committee which liad charge of the erection
of the same, in which connection he drew the warrants in payment
for all work done on the structure. Mr. Terrell has shown marked
executive ability and keen business discrimination and he has attained a
position of independence, being known as one of the substantial citizens
of the county, while his course has ever been such as to retain to him
unqualified confidence and esteem.
Jn politics Mr. Terrell has given an unswerving allegiance to the
Republican party and has been an active worker in its cause, while iie
has ever taken a deep interest in public affairs of a local nature, and
has naturally been called upon to serve in offices of trust and respor-
sibilty. In 1894 he was elected a member of the board of county super-
visors, retaining this incumbency for a period of six years, while he
has held various other local offices and has been president of the school
board for a long term of years. He is a member of the Baptist church
at Ollie, as is also his wife, and both have taken an active part in its
work. Fraternally our subject has been identifi'^ed with the Independent
288 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
Order of Odd Fellows for the past thirty years, being a member of
Kossuth Lodge, No. 32. He is also a member of the time-honored fra-
ternity of Freemasons, in which he served his lodge as master, at various
intervals, for a period of about eight years, while he also represented
the same in the grand lodge of the state. He is a member of the lodge
of Knights of Pythias at Ollie and also of the Mutual Benefit Asso-
ciation here, having been the first president of the latter.
In 1883 Mr. Terrill was united in marriage to Miss Katherine Bow-
ersox, who was born in Peniisylvania, on the 21st of September, 1851,
and who accompanied her parents on their removal to Iowa when she
was a child. They first located in Washington county, and when Mrs.
'I'errell was about sixteen years of age they came to Keokuk county.
To Mr. and Mrs. Terrell have been born eleven children, their names,
in order of birth, being as follows: Oscar S., Mary M. (deceased),
David S., Nannie A. (deceased), Frank A., William A., James W., Ger-
trude A., Mary and ?^Iartha (twins, both deceased) and Charles C. (de-
ceased.)
CHARLES McKINNIS. M. D.
So dependent is man upon his fellow-men that the worth of the
of the individual is largely estimated by what he has done for humanity.
There is no class to whom greater gratitude is due than to those self-
abnegating, noble-minded men whose life work has been the alleviation
of the burden of suffering that rests upon the world, thus lengthening
the span of human existence. Their influence can not lie measured bv
any known standard and ihcir power goes hand in liand witli the
beneficent laws of nature that Cfmie from the .source of life itself.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 289
Among the able representatives of tlie medical profession in Keokuk
county is Dr. AlcKiiinis, wlio is established in practice of medicine and
surgery in the thriving town of Ollie, his support being of a distinctly
representative order and his standing in the community, both as a man
and a physician, being such as to establish him high in the confidence
and regard of all who know him.
The old Buckeye state figures as the place of Dr. McKinnis' ivitiv-
ity, since he was born in Vinton county, Ohio, on the 22d of April, 185 1,
being a son of Jesse McKinnis, who was likewise born in the same state
in 1830 and was there reared to maturity. At the outbreak of the war
ot the Rebellion he enlisted as a private in an Ohio regiment of vohni-
teer infantry, with which he was in active service for a period of ninety
days, within which he contracted a disease which resulted in his
death about a decade later. In the fall of 1863 Jesse McKinnis, in com-
pany with his wife and their children, all of whom were born in Ohio,
came to Iowa and settled on a farm in Jefferson county, where he con-
tinued in agricultural pursuits until 1865, when he removed to Wash-
ington county, where he was engaged in farming until his death, which
occurred in 1872. In his native state he was united in marriage to Miss
;\liie Wilson, who was born in Maryland, whence her parents emigrated
to Ohio when she was about ten years of age, her father becoming one
of the successful farmers of the Buckeye state. They later moved to
Iowa, where they passed the remainder of their lives. Their names
were William and Elizabeth Wilson. Jesse and Allie McKinnis became
the parents of three sons and one daughter, namely: Charles, the im-
mediate subject of this sketch; George, a resident of Ollie; Mary E., the
wife of G. B. Richardson of Sigourney, this county; and Jasper, who
died at the age of ninteen years.
290 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
Dr. McKinnis received his early educational discipline in the pub-
lic schools of Ohio and Iowa, and tliat he made proper utilization of the
advantages afforded him is evident when \vc re\crt to the fact that he
became eligible for the pedagogic profession when a youth, having been
a successful teacher from the age of twenty-one until that of twenty-live
years, within which interval he taught one year in the public schools of
Washington countv and the remainder in the schools of Keokuk county,
having l)Con twcnly-two years of age at the lime of his father's death.
After gixing uj) his pedagogic work the Doctor engaged in the drug
business at luka. where he remained unlil 1882, when he established
himself in the same line of enterprise in Ollic and also entered upon the
general pract'ce of medicine here, having ilioroughly prepared himself
for the work of his profession and having been in practice in loka prior
to coming to Ollie. His technical education was received in Keokuk
Medical College, where he prosecuted his studies with energy and
marked discrimination.
In Jefferson cnuntv. in iS7J, Dr. McKinnis was united in mar-
riage to Miss Laura Helen McCarty, who was born in Washington
county, this state, in 1851, being the daughter of Robert and Rebecca
McCarty, who emigrated from Pennsylvania and became numbered
among the pioneers of Washington county, Iowa, where their children
were reared and educated. Dr. and Mrs. McKinnis are the parents of
three children, namely: Mollie B., who is the wife of R. L. Grimes, a
jeweler of Dows, Iowa; Ivy, who is the wife of C. W. Long, a hard-
ware merchant of Dows Iowa; and Stella Grace, who still remains at
Ihc parental home; all were born and reared in Keokuk county.
Dr. McKinnis is one of the public spirited citizens and pojjular
physicians of this section of the county, and he still continues to conduct
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 291
a drug store in Ollie in connection with his general practice, whicli is
of wide extent. He has taken at al! times a deep interest in p.dil'c
affairs of a local nature, and has given his inlluence and aid in support
of such measures as ha\e tended to the general welfare, while in his
political proclivities he has heen a stalwart adherent of the Republican
party, as had been his father also. Fraternally he is identified with
Ollie Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons; with loka Lodge, No. 173,
Independent Order of Odd Fellows; with the organization of Modern
W oodmen at Richland, the Triple Alliance and the Mutual Benefit Asso-
ciation at Ollie, while he is one of the prominent and honored members
of four different medical societies. The Doctor and his wife hold mem-
bership in the Baptist church at Ollie, and he has been clerk of its
ofilicial board for a number of years past, taking a zealous interest in
both the spiritual and temi.ioral work of the organization.
WILLIAxM R. WOODS.
Each calling or business, if honorable, has its place in the scheme
of human existence, constituting a part of the plan whereby life's meth-
ods are pursued and man reaches his ultimate destiny, and thus there is
maintained a social balance to which each contributes. The dignity of
honest toil and endeavor is the only true dignity, and tKis unqualified
respect is due to those who are of the rank and file of the world's work-
ers. The subject of this review, who is one of the honored pioneers of
Keokuk county, where he has maintained his home for nearly forty
years, may well be classed as one of the world's workers, for his life
has been one of consecutive endeavor and his course has been such as
to commend him to the confidence and esteem of all with whom he has
292 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
l)ccn tiiniwn in contact in the various relations of life, while he is clearly
entitled to representation in this volume.
William R. Woods. \vho is engaged in the blacksmithing business
in the \iliage of Ollie, is a native of Dearborn county, Indiana, where
he was horn on tlie 5th of December, 1836, being a son of Joscpli and
]ilizabetii J. (Bushfield) Woods, both of wlvmi were l)()rn and reared
in I'ennsylvania and both of whom were of Scotch-Irish lineage.
Shortly after their marriage they removed from the old Keystone state
to Dearborn county, Indiana, and there the father of our subject took
;:p a tract of government land, whose reclamation and improvement
he forthwith instituted. Finally, howe\er. he disposed of this farm and
rcmo\c(l to Jefferson county, in the same state, wliere lie continued in
agricultural jjursuits until his death, in his fifty-fourth year, his wife
having passed away about 1838. Of their eight children the subject of
this skctcli was the youngest and he is one of the two survivors, the
other being his brother James, who is a resident of Jefiferson county,
Indiana. Those deceased are as follows: Elizabeth, Samuel. Margaret,
Joseph, Charles L. and one wlio died in infancy.
William K. Woods was reared to the sturdy discipline of the farm
and remained on the homestead until the death of his father: his early
educational advantages having been such, as were afforded in the primi-
tive schools of the jjioneer epoch in Indiana. After the death of his father
Mr. Woods went to the town of Greenwood, Johnson county, where he
entered upon an apprenticeship at the blacksmith trade, serving for three
years and receiving as compensation the sum of one hundred and thirty-
five dollars, together with his boar.l and clothing. .After completing his
apprenticeship, and having become a skilled artisan, he continued in
the employ of his instructor for one year, and then proceeded to the
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 293
west, being employed as a journeyman at his trade for the succeeding
three years, within which he Hved in various locahties. In 1858 he
returned to Indiana, and tliere in the foHowing year he was united
in marriage to Miss Elizabeth J. Brenton, who was born in that state
in the year 1840, being a daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth E. Brenton.
and after his marriage our subject engaged in the work of his trade on
his o\\n responsibility, establishing himself in business in Johnson
count}-, Indiana. At the expiration of three years he removed to Marion
county, where he was employed as a journeyman until 1866, when he
removed to Illinois, where he carried on a shop about three months,
and then came to Keokuk county, Iowa, where he has ever since main-
tained his home. He located in the village of loka, where he opened a
blacksmith shop and conducted business for nearly fifteen years,— until
1880. Thereafter he was engaged in various pursuits for a number
of years, and in 1892 he took up his residence in Ollie, where he has
since been successfully engaged hi the blacksmith business, having a
well equipped shop and securing an excellent patronage. To him and
his estimable wife two children were born, the elder of whom, Elizabeth,
died at the age of two years, while the younger daughter, Maggie M.,
is the wife of Homer Pridey of Harrison, Nebraska.
In politics Mr. Woods is a stalwart adherent of the Democrat party
and he has been an active worker in its cause, while he has been called
upon to serve in various offices of public trust and responsibility, having
given able service as mayor of Ollie, while he was incumbent of the
offices of justice of the peace and township clerk for a number of years
each. Fraternally he is a popular member of the Independent Order of
Odd Fellows and Knights of Pythias.
2Q4 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
CHARLES REED.
Charles Reed is an old settler and retired farmer miw living in
Webster, Keokuk county, lie was born in Marion county, Indiana,
October i, 1840. His father. Isaac Reed, was an old settler ot Keokuk
county, Iowa, and a native of 'J'ennessee, where his birth occurred in
1805. He was there reared and educated and afterward engaged in
farming to some extent in his native state. However, he removed from
Tennessee to Indiana when a young man, settling on a farm in the latter
state. He was married in Tennessee to Sarah Morrison, a native of
Kentucky, and they became the parents of eleven children, six sons and
five daughters, of whom Charles was the youngest son and tlie seventh
child. These are: William: one who died in infancy; Alexander; an-
other who died in inl'ancy: fames, (Griggs, Charles, Eliza, Sarah. Mar-
garet, and a tiiird who d-cd in infancy, (^f tlie children who rc;iched
mature years nearly :dl were reared in Keokuk county, for in 1830 the
lather removed with his family to Iowa, settlins; in (icrman township,
Keokuk county, upon a farm of one hundred -.wmX sixty .acres of improved
land. The fcjilowing year, however, he remo\ed with his famiiv to
English River township, where he located upon a farm of a quarter-
section of raw land. Here with the aid of his sons he cleared the tract
and improved the place, making it a valuable and highly productive
farm. His death occurred in 1865, after wliicli his son Criggs lived
upon the old home place until his death, and his widow yet owns the
farm. In early life Isaac Reed gave his political supjiort to the Whig
party and upon its dissolution he joined the ranks of the new Republi-
can party. He held membership in the Methodist Episcopal church of
Webster, aided in erecting a house of worship there and took an active
interest in promoting the cause of Christianity.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 295
Charles Reed was reared on the old home and is indebted to the
pul)Hc school system of the country for the educational privileges he
enjoyed. He was about twenty-five years of age at the time of his fath-
er's death. He then purchased a tract of land in English River town-
ship of one hundred and fifty acres, which was wild and uncultivated,
but with characteristic energy he began its cultivation and improvement
and made his home thereon tor thirty-four \ears, his attention ben:g
gixx'P. continuously Id hi.-, farm work. He placed his fields under a very
high state of cultivation and added all modern equipments and acces-
sories to the place.
On the 28th of October, 1871, Mr. Reed was united in marriage
to Laura A. Holliday, a native of Illinois, born February 12, 1S53.
When two years of age she was brought to Keokuk county, Iowa, by
her parents, H. M. and Nancy Ann Holliday, who were early residents
of this portion of the state. They settled in Adams township upon a
farm of two hundred acres of raw land and her father at once began
to plow the fields, plant his crops and in course of time garnered rich
harvests. It was upon this farm that Mrs. Reed spent her girlhood days.
Her mother died upon the old homstead and her father passed away on
a farm not far distant. To Mr. and Mrs. Reed have been born seven
children, five sons and two daughters: Stella, Frank, Edward L., Donna
A., Benjamin, ^lorgan, and Fred. Of this number Frank is now de-
ceased. All w^ere born and reared on the farm in English River town-
ship.
In 1900 Mr. Reed left the old homestead and removed to Webster,
retiring from active farming life. He purchased a lot in the town and
l)uilt a home there and is now comfortably situated. In his younger days
he was identified with the Republican party, but for the last several
2'U',
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
years lias advocated "greenback" principles. Socially he is connected
with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of South English. He is
a member of the ilethodist church of Webster, which he aided in build-
ing, and takes an active interest in cluirch work and is serving as one of
its trustees. At the time of tiie Civil war he manifested his loyally to
Ins country by enlisting in 1861 in the Eighth Iowa Infantry, in which
he served for one year, being mustered out in 1862. He then resumed
farm work whicli he continued with success until his retirement to
private life. He is now one of the oldest residents of this portion of
Keokuk county and has witnessed its improvement as the years have
passed, bearing his pan in all the work of development.
ROBERT H. GEMMILL.
Robert II. Gcmmill is one of the highly respected citizens of South
English, whose useful and well s])cnt life has not only gained for him
the confidence of his fellow men, jjui has also secured for him a comfort-
able competence which enables him to lay aside all business cares and
spend his declining days in ease and retirement. His father, John
Genimiil, was a native of Paisly, Scotland, antl on his emigration to
America in 1846 settled in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania, where lie followed
his trade of a weaver for about two years. He tlicn removed to Potters
Mills, the same state, and remained there unli! 1854. His next place
of residence was .\iilroy, Pennsylvania, where he made his home ui til
his death, wliicli oaurrcd in 1887. In 183S he was united in marriage
to Miss Jane Dempster, also a native of Scotland, and iliey became the
parents of ten childrc:\ seven sons and three daughters, who in order of
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 297
hirtli were as follows: William; John, James \V. and Maggie T-. all
three deceased; Annie; Robert H., our subject; Mathew, deceased; John
D. ; Alexander, deceased ; and Kate.
Mr. Genimill was born, reared and educated in Centre county, Penn-
sylvania, the date of his birth being April 9, 1850. He remained with his
parents until he reached the age of nineteen 3'ears, and on leaving home
came to Keokuk county, Iowa, locating in Lafayette township, where
he worked at farming in the employ of others. In June, 1S73, '^^ niar-
ried Miss Elizabeth Archer a native of Scotlautl, and to them were burn
two children, but both are now deceased.
After his marriage Mr. Gemmill removed to German township,
where he continued to work for others until 18S4, when he purchased
a farm of one hundred and twenty acres, which was all raw land when
it came into his possession and which he improved. However, he con-
tinued with his former employer, David Archer, until 189J, when he
took up his residence upon his own place and devoted his energies to
its improvement and cultivation until his removal to South English in
1901. He has since lived in practical retirement, enjoying the fruits of
his former toil, surrounded by all the comforts which make life worth
the living.
Fraternally Mr. Gemmill is an honored member of Naphthali Lodge,
No. 188, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, of South English,
and the Odd Fellows Lodge, No. 263, of the same place. Politically
he has always been identified with the Republican party since attaining
his majority, and in religious belief is a Presbyterian, being an active
and prominent member of his church. He is a man of upright char-
acter and is highly respected and esteemed by all who know him.
298 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
A. S. HURST.
For many years tlie subject of this sketch was one of the active and
progressive agriculturists of Keokuk county, as well as one of its most
reliable ami honored citizens, and now in his declining years he is enjoy-
ing a well earned rest at his pleasant home in Webster, free from the
cares and responsibilities of business life. Mr. Hurst was born in Greene
county, Pennsylvania, on the i ilh of October, 1843, ^'i*^' '■'^ ^ '^o" o^ Hen-
ry ]'. Hurst, who was a native of Lancaster county, that state, where his
early cliililhocul was passed. 'Jhc father was quite young on the death
of his ])arcnls and he subsequently made his Imme with his uncle, Philij)
Hurst, until he attained his majority. He then went to the city of
Pittsburg, Pennsyhania, where he worked at the carpenter's trade for
nine years, and fmni there removed to Clarksville, Greene county, that
stc.te, where he continued to follow the same pur.suit until his marriage.
Plis next home was in Jefferson, Greene county, where he worked at his
trade for about three years, and then removed to a farm in the same
county, though he continued to follow the cKCupation of carpentering.
After spending two years there he located on another small farm, which
he purchased and impro\ed, devoting his energies to its cultivation for
about seventeen years in coiniection with work at his trade. In 1866
he came to I(n\a and bought an improve<l farm of one hundred acres in
Keokuk county, to which he removed his family the following year. This
farm was in English River town.ship. and he made it his home until
called to his final rest on the Jud of February, 1S70, when fifty-seven
years of age. In 1842 he had married Miss Melvina Stewart, a native
of Greene county, Pennsylvania and a daughter of Alexander Stewart.
She was of German descent. By this union were born two children, a
son and daughter, both of whom are still living, our subject being the
eldest.
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 299
-V. S. Hurst passed tlie days of his boyliond and ynutli in tlie county
of his nativity and is indebted to its pubhc schools for the educational
privileges he enjoyed. He remained under the parental roof untd he
reached the age of eighteen years and then learned the carpenter's trade,
which he followed in Penns}d\ania until 1864. On leaving home he
went to Knox county, Ohio, where he continued to follow his chosen
occupation for about a }ear, and then, after a brief visit at home, he
came to Keokuk countw h)wa, arriving here on the i8th of February,
1865. He located in English River township, where he worked at his
trade for one year and then took charge of his father's farm, continu-
ing its operation after the death of his father until the spring of 1898,
when he remoxed to his [jresent home in Webster, where he is now living
a retired life.
In the fall of 1867 Mr. Hurst was united in marriage to Miss Sarah
Miller, a nati\e of Ohio ruid a daughter of Sanuiel Miller, who was born
in Pennsyhania and was a farmer by occupation. She was born June
28, 1846, in Hancock county, Ohio, where her early life was passed
and where her education was obtained. In 1855 she accompanied her
parents on their remo\al to Keokuk county, Iowa, and became a resident
of English River township, remaining at home until her marriage. Unto
Mr. and ]Mrs. Hurst were born four children, two sons and two daugh-
ers, but the first born died in infancy. Henry P. Hurst, the next of the
family, is now operating the old homestead farm, a part of which he
owns. Elizabeth is the wife of S. E. Heaton, a hardware dealer of Web-
ster. Samuel M. is clerking in his brother-in-law's store. As a public
spirited and energetic citizen Mr. Hurst has ever borne an important
]xirt in public affairs and was a maiiber of the vigilance committee of
Keokuk county until it was disbanded. His political support has always
300 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
been given llic Democratic party and lie has taken an active part in pro-
moting its interests. He is an old and highly respected citizen of his
adopted county and is justly deserving of prominent mention in its his-
tory.
WILLIAM 15. WORLEV.
"The talent of success is nothing more than what you can do well
and doing well whatever you. do, without any thougiit of fame," says
■ Longfellow. A practical illustration of this sentiment is given in the
lite record of .Mr. W'orlcy. who is one of the honored pioneers of Iowa.
a veteran of the war of the Rebellion and one of the substantial and
highly respected citizens of the town of Ollie, Keokuk county, where
lie has long been engaged in the funiiluro and undertaking business.
S])ringing from sturdy flerman ancestry, it has been his fortune to in-
herit the best elements of that industrious and intelligent people, and his
career has been such as might naturally bo expected from such a com-
bination of attributes. lie has achieved a definite and worthy success
through his own efforts, has ever been as true to the duties of citizen-
ship ;is he was loyal to the old flag whose fortunes he so valiantly fol-
lowed en \\xc bpttlefields of the south, ar.<I he is peculiarly deserving of
representation in a work of the province of this publication.
William 1'. Worlcy is a native of the old Keystone state of the
Union, having been born in Somerset county, Pennsylvania, on the ist
of October, 1827. His father, David Worley. was born in Wittenberg,
Germany, where he was reared, and when a young man he severed
the ties which bound him to home antl native land and emigratcil to
America, locating in Pennsylvania, where eventually was solemnized
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 301
liis marriage to Miss Elizabeth Althouse, who was born in that state,
of which her parents were pioneer settlers, both being of stanch old
German Hneage. Da\id and Ehzabeth Worley became tlie parents of
eiglit chilch-en, of whom all are now deceased except onr subject and his
brother George, who is a resident of Ohio. The names of the children
are here entered in the order of birth: John, Julia Ann, William B., Su-
san, George, Katherine, David and Aaron.
\Mien the subject of this review was a mere child his parents re-
moved from Pennsylvania to Ohio, becoming numbered among the pio-
neers of Richland county, Avhere they passed the remainder of their
lives, the father ha\ing there reclaimed and improved a good farm. Wil-
liam B. was reared amid the surroundings of the pioneer farm and he
early began to contribute his quota toward the work involved in its im-
provement and cultivation, while his educational privileges were such
as fell to the lot of the average youth of the locality and period. He
remained on the homestead until the death of his father, after which
he went to the village of Newville, where he learned the trade of cabinet-
making,while at the expiration of one year ho turned his attention to work
at the carpenter trade, in which line he became a .skilled artisan. In
1852, when twenty-five years of age, Mr. Worley left his native state
and came to Iowa, passing the first winter in Cedar county and thence
going to Washington county, where he was engaged in the work of his
trade until i860, when he went to Miss(nn-i, where he remained until
after the harvest season of that year, then returning to Iowa. This
was in the crucial epoch which led up to the Civil war, and when the rebel
guns thundered against the ramparts of old Fort Sumter Mr. Worley's
intrinsic patriotism and loyalty were roused to action, and in 1S61 he
tendered his services in defense of the Union, enlisting as a private in
302 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
Company I. Fortietli Iowa Volunteer Infantry, with which he served
for three years, the regiment Ijeing commanded by Colonel Garnett. He
jiarticipated in the Ijattle of Seven Pines and in numerous other minor en-
gagements, but the regiment was assigned to garrison duty during the
greater portion of the time, and mn' subject was in the quartermaster's
• lepartment ;it the tiine of the expiration of his term, receiving his honor-
able discharge in 1864, at Iowa City. He then came to Keokuk county,
where he had taken up a tract of land shortly before enlisting for the
war, and here he established himself upon his farm, which comprisetl
eighty acres, engaged in agricultural pursuits, making excellent improxe-
ments on his place, while he worked more or less at his trade, ha\ing
erected three residences in Jackson tnwnship for his own use ])rior to
taking up his home in (^llie, where he has resided since 1888. Here
lie engaged in the furniture and undertaking business, and be now has a
large and well er|uip])ed establishment ff)r a town of the size, while
his appointments fur the proper conducting of his enterprise as a funeral
director are of the best order, Mr. W'orley has ever shown a spirit of
absolute fairness and impregnable integrity ni all liis dealings, and thus
he has gained the confidence of the community and secured an excellent
supporting patronage, while he is honored as one of the pioneers of the
county and as one who has ably played his part in furthering the advance-
ment and civic prosperity (A tliis favnrcd sectioTi of the Hawkcye .state.
Tn politics he has given .-ui inierpiivocal allegiance to the Republican
party from the time of its orgfanization. .unl while he has not been
afflicted with political ambition of a personal sort be has ever taken a
deep interest in the party cause, while he has served in various offices
of local order. He .md his wife are consistent members of the Baptist
church in their home town and aid in its direct work and collateral
GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY. 303
l)enevolences, while their pleasant home has ever been notable for the
cordial hospitality w hich is there ever in evidence. In the State of Ohio,
in 185 1, Mr. W'orley was united in marriage to Miss Jane Crowner,
who was born there, a daughter of John Crowner, one of the pioneers
of the Buckeye state. To our subject and his estimable wife have
been born nine children, their names, in order of birth, being as follows:
Ji)hn, Sabina, Lane, Gertrude, Atla, George, William, Ollie and Frank.
All are living except John and Gertrude and all are well established in
life.
JOSEPH BROWN.
To endure the toils of early pioneer life, not to give up amid the
many discouragements th.at lieset one who ventures beyond the beaten
paths, and at last to feel that the vast structure of civilization around
him has been partially reareil by liiniself, i.*; a reward that comes to the
early settlers of our country and causes a feeling of contentment with
life's efforts. In the history of Keokuk county Joseph Brown and his
father deserve a prominent place.
Thomas Brown, the father of our s^cDJect, was born and reared in
Pennsylvania, was one of the brave men who struggled for the second
and complete vindication of America iu the war of 18 12, and shortly
afterward came west and settled in Knox county, Ohio. There in the
forests, from wliich the Indians and wild beasts had not yet been ilriven,
he cleared a farm and built his home. Here was his residence until
1S48, and then in a wagon he journeyed to Iowa with his family; he took
uj) the present farm of one hundred and sixty acres and brought it into
a state of cultivation : this he later increased by three hundred acres.
304 GENEALOGICAL AND BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY.
He lived faitlilul to all tlie diUics of citizenship, allied with the Demo-
cratic party, and passed away in 1854. While in Ohio he married
Nancy Markley; she came from Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania,
to Knox ctamty. Oliio ; her ])arents were among the earliest settlers of
the latter county. To this worthy couple were born sixteen children,
of whom only three are now (1902) living.
Joseph Brown was the fifteenth in order of birth of these children
anti was born December 22, 1833, '" l'^ii<^'>^ county, Ohio. It was in
his sixteenth year that he came with his father to Iowa, and there he
completed his education in the district schools. His father tlied when
he was twenty-one years old. and then he rented the old home place and
one liundred acres besides ; the latter he had to clear before it was
suitable for cultivation. He now owns two hundred ami twenty acres
of i'lne land. In Augu.st of i8'^^'i Joseph Brown enlisted in the For-
tieth Iowa Volunteer Infantry and through three years he served in many
of the important engagements of the war, being on the skirmish line
at the siege of Vicksburg. Being mustered out in 1864. he returned
to his farm labors.
In 1876, in Pennsylvania, Mr. Brown married Sarah Hice, who
was born in Beaver county, Pennsylvania, in 1838; she came to Iowa
whe 
