V
\
\
j j « - - * * l>*\
HISTORY
OF
Franklin sCerro Gordo Counties,
IOWA,
TOGETHER WITH SKETCHES OF THEIR TOWNS, VILLAGES AND TOWNSHIPS, EDUCATIONAL
CIVIL, MILITARY AND POLITICAL HISTORY; PORTRAITS OF PROM-
INENT PERSONS, AND BIOGRAPHIES OF
REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS.
HISTORY OF IO W A,
EMBRACING ACCOUNTS OF THE PRE-HISTORIC RACES, AND A BRIEF REVTEW
OF ITS CIVIL AND MILITARY HISTORY.
I LLU STR ATED
SPRINGFIELD, ILL.
UNION PUBLISHING COMPANY. ...
1883.
1 J J
- ®
work, arid in order to insure correctness, and a work in which every citizen might feel
a just pride, we asked that a committee be appointed in each county to examine the
general history, and a like committee in each township to examine the township
histories. This was done, and, with but one or two exceptions, every man thus ap-
pointed served to the best of his ability, and the wisdom of the choice of the com
mittees is shown in the work performed. We feel confident that we here present to
our patrons a work that is as correct as human beings can make it. That errors will
be discovered, we have no doubt. Man is a fallible being, but every statement herein
published is honestly believed in by the persons furnishing the information, and by
the members of the committee examining it. All desire the truth and nothing but the
truth. They gave much time to the work, and deserve the thanks of all for the faithful
manner in which they discharged the trust reposed in them. With the biograpical
sketches we took special pains. If any errors occur it is the fault of the person fur-
nishing the information, and not ours. An opportunity was given to correct, or even
to re-write the sketches, and if it was not done, let the blame, rest upon those who
failed to do their duty, and not upon us.
In no way is the truth better illustrated that man is dependent upon his fellow man
than in the compilation of county histories. Unless help is rendered by interested
persons, a poor book will be the result. We are happy to say that almost all on whom
our historians called rendered all the aid in their power. In Franklin county we
would especially thank the following named for services rendered : James Thompson,
K. S. Benson, S. M. Jones, D. W. Dow, D. W. Mott, T. C. McKenzie, Austin North, all
the county officers and all the members of the press. In Cerro Gordo we were aided
materially by II. G. Parker, A. C. Owen, Alonzo Willson, I. W. Card, M. P. Rosecrans,
George E. Frost, T. G. Emsley, G. R. Miller, the county officers and the members of
the press. They have our most heartfelt thanks, and we will ever kindly remember
them. The historians of the Company deserve to be remembered. They tried to do
their work well and to please our patrons.
In conclusion, we would say our work is done ; the History of Franklin and Cerro
Gordo Counties is placed in your hands; its handsome typographical appearance will
commend itself to all, and we trust all will be pleased with the work.
Union Publishing Company.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
HISTORY OF IOWA.
CHAPTER I.
PAGE
INTRODUCTORY IT
Original inhabitants 17
Mound Builders 18
The Red Men 18
Discovery of the Mississippi l'J
Marquette 19
LaSalle 20
Purchase of Louisiana , 20
CHAPTER II.
INDIANS AND INDIAN WARS 21
The Ulinis, Sacs" and Foxes 21
The Iowas 23
War between Sacs and Foxes and Iowas "22
The Sioux 24
Black Hawk \Y> r .... 31
Battle of Bad Axe 33
CHAPTER III.
INDIAN TREATIES 36
Black Hawk Treaty 36
Sacs and Fox Treaty :;s
Treaty with the Sioiix 39
Treaty with the Sacs 39
Treaty witli the Foxes 39
Treaty with the Iowas 40
Treaty with the Sacs of Rock River 40
Treaty of 1824 40
Treaty of 1830 40
Treaty with Saes, Foxes and other Tribes 41
Treaty with the Winuebagos 41
Treaty of 1836, with the Sacs and Foxes 42
Treaty of 1837 43
Treaty of Relinquishment : 43
Treaty of 1843 43
CHAPTER IV.
EARLY SETTLEMENTS 43
The Dubuque Settlement 43
The Giard Settlement 43
The Montrose Settlement 43
The Burlington Settlement 43
The Keokuk Settlement 43
Rules for the Government of Dubuque 45
PAGE
Military [nterf erence with Settlements •!.->
Extinguishment of [ndian Titles 46
The Fort Madison Settlement 47
Flint Hills 47
The Davenport Settlement 18
Clayton County Settlement is
Council Bluffs' 18
DesMpines v.<
CHAPTER V.
TERRITORIAL AND STATE ORGANIZATIONS. 50
Territory of Wisconsin 50
Territorial Council 50
Organization of Counties r, 1
Territory of Iowa 51
First Territorial Officers 51
First Iowa Territorial Legislature 58
First Session of the Legislature 52
A Stormy Session 52
Selection of the Capital 52
Iowa City 53
Loan for the Completion of the State House. . . .">:;
Woman's Rights 54
The Missouri War 55
Attempt at State Organization 56
Constitutional ( (invention 56
Second Constitutional Convention .">7
Election of State Officers r>7
Salaries of State Officers .â– 58
CHAPTER VI.
GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OFTHE STATE. 58
State School Superintendent 58
Public Buildings 59
Location of State University 59
Appointment of Supreme Judges 60
Railroad Buildings 62
Organization of the Republican Party 63
Constitutional Convention 64
Des Moines Chosen the State Capital til
Census by Counties 67
CHAPTER VII.
GEOLOGY-TOPOGRAPHY-WATER COURSES 69
Azoic System 70
Lower Silurian System 70
Upper Silurian System 71
1"
:W
-t^*
VI
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
PAGE
Devonian System 71
Carboniferous System 71
Cretacious System 75
Peat 76
Gypsum 76
Minor Deposits Sulphate of Lime 78
Sulphate of Stronita 78
Sulphate of Baryta 78
Sulphate of Magnesia 78
Climate 79
Topography 79
Lakes and Streams 80
CHAPTER VIII.
IOWA AND THE REBELLION 89
Response to the Nation's Call 90
First Infantry 96
Second Infantry 97
Third I nfantry 97
Fourth Infantry 98
Fifth Infantry 98
Sixth Infantry 98
Seventh [nfantry 98
Eighth Infantry 99
Ninth Infantry 99
Tenth Infantry 99
Eleventh Infantry 100
Twelfth Infantry.' 100
Thirteenth Infantry loi
Fourteenth Infantry lol
Fifteenth Infantrj 101
Sixteenth Infantry 102
Seventeenth Infantry 102
Eighteenth Infantry 103
Nineteenth Infantry 103
Twentieth Infantry 103
Twenty-first I afanl ry 103
Twenty-second Infantry 104
Twenty-third I nfantry..'. 104
Twenty-fourth Infantry 105
Twenty-fifth Infantry. 105
Twenty-sixth Infantry 105
Twenty-seventh Infantry 105
Twenty-eighth Infantry 106
Twenty-ninth Infantrj 106
Thirtieth Infantry 106
Thirty-first Infantry 107
Thirty-second Infantry 107
Thirty-third Infantry 107
Thirty-fourth Infantry 107
Thirty-fifth Infantry..' 108
Thirty-sixth Infantry 108
Thirty-seventh I nfantry. 108
Thirty-eighth Infantry 109
Thirty-ninth Infantry 109
Fortieth Infantry 110
Forty-first Infantry 110
PAGE
Forty-fourth Infantry 110
Forty-fifth Infantry HI
Forty-sixth Infantry HI
Forty-seventh Infantry Ill
Forty-eighth Infantry Ill
First Cavalry Ill
Second Cavalry 112
Third Cavalry 112
Fourth Cavalry 112
Fifth Cavalry 113
Sixth Cavalry 113
Seventh Cavalry 113
Eighth Cavalry 114
Ninth Cavalry 114
First Battery 114
Second Battery HI
Third Battery " 115
Fourth Battery 115
Iowa Regiment of Colored Troops 115
Northern Border Brigade 115
Southern Border Brigade 115
Promotions 115
CHAPTER IX.
PAGE
EDUCATIONAL— STATE INSTITUTIONS 117
The First School House 117
Act for the Establishment of Common Schools. 118
The State University 121
State Normal School 123
State Agricultural College 124
Other Colleges and Universities 124
Deaf and Dumb Institute 126
College for the Blind 126
Iowa Hospital for the Insane 127
Hospital for the Insane at Independence 128
Soldiers' Orphans' Home 128
A sylum for Feeble Minded Children 129
Penal Institutions : 129
Anamosa Penitentiary 130
Bovs' Reform School 130
State Historical Society 131
State Agricultural Society 131
Fish-Hatching House 131
CHAPTER XI.
TERRITORIAL AND STATE OFFICERS—
Robert Lucas 215
John Chambers 220
James Clarke 223
Other Territorial Officers 227
State Officers 227
4-
**•
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
VII
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
CHAPTER I.
PAGE.
... 133
135
137
INTRODUCTIORY
CHAPTER II.
TOPOGRAPHY AND GEOLOGY
CHAPTER III.
B A RLY SETTLEMENTS
CHAPTER IV
THE BEGINNING 147
Organization of the County 148
Location of the County Seat 148
County Buildings 152
Organization of Townships 153
CHAPTER V.
COUNTY GOVERNMENT AND OTHER OFFI-
CIAL MATTERS 155
County Court 155
Board of Supervisors 156
Financial 158
Population ^ 161
Register of Deeds 161
Matrimonial 161
CHAPTER VI.
THE COURTS OF FRANKLIN COUNTY 163
District Court 163
Circuit Court 173
County Court 175
CHAPTER VII.
THE BAR OF FRANKLIN COUNTS 175
The Bar of the Past 176
The Bar of To-day 183
CHAPTER VIII.
EDUCATIONAL 189
School Fund Commissioners 192
Educational Development 193
Present Condition 194
The Normal Institute 197
CHAPTER IX.
THE MEDICAL PROFESSION 198
First Physician in the County 198
Maysville Physicians 199
Hampton Physicians 199
Geneva Phvsicians 203
Sheffield Physicans 204
Chapin Physicians 207
Latimer Physicians 207
Dows Physicians 207
Franklin County Medical Society 208
CHAPTER X.
EARLY DAYS 209
By Levi S. Jones 210
Experience of E. A. Howland 210
By Mrs. H.J. Mitchell 213
By L. B. Ravmoud 214
The Indian Scare 220
CHAPTER XI.
PAGE
POLITICAL
Official Vote 238
CHAPTER XII.
NATIONAL, STATE AND COUNTY REPRE-
SENTATION 249
Congressional 249
Members of the General Assembly 251
County Judges 253
County Auditors 255
Treasurer and Recorders 255
County Treasurers 256
County Recorders :'.'<',
Clerks of Courts 257
County Coroners 258
Count v Surveyors 259
Sheriffs 259
Drainage Commissioners 260
Prosecuting Attorneys 26]
CHAPTER XIII.
AGRICULTURE AND AGRICULTURAL SOCIE-
TIES 261
Stock Raising 265
The First Fair : 266
The Re-Organized Society 268
CHAPTER XIV
THE PRESS 269
The Franklin Record 270
The Franklin Reporter 275
The Franklin Recorder 275
Hampton Free Press 281
The Magnet 282
The Chronicle 282
Real Estate Journal 283
Hampton Leader 284
The Sheffield Press 284
CHAPTER XV.
THE WAR FOR THE UNION 286
Franklin Countr Volunteers 290
Roll of Honor 304
CHAPTER XVI.
RAILROADS 306
Illinois Central 306
Central Iowa Railway 306
Dubuque & Dakota 310
Projected Railroads :>1 1
CHAPTER XVII.
:;n
EVENTS OF INTEREST
CHAPTER XVIII.
CLTNTON TOWNSHIP 318
Settlement 318
Organic : >22
Town of Sheffield 323
Incorporation 323
Schools and Churches 323
Societies . 324
Business Interests ">'-'â– ">
Postoffice :> >4:;
~o
CHAPTER XIX.
PAGE
GENEVA TOWNSHIP 344
Settlement 345
Organic 364
Schools 364
Religious 365
Geneva Village 365
Societies 367
CHAPTER XX.
GRANT TOWNSHIP 368
Settlement 368
Items of Interest 373
Organic 373
Schools 373
CHAPTER XXI.
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP 374
Settlement 374
First Things 383
Organic 384
Educational 384
CHAPTER XXII.
HAMPTON CITY AND WASHINGTON TOWN-
SHIP
The Beginning
First Things
Business Development
Hampton Creamery
Banks '
Religious
Societies
Educational
Postoffice
Rec< .riled Plats
Incorporation
Washington Township
Prominent Citizens
384
385
390
395
417
419
423
424
428
429
430
430
430
430
CHAPTER XXIII.
INGRAM TOWNSHIP 432
Settlement 433
Organization 447
First Kvents 448
Schools and Churches 448
Village op Hansell 450
Postoffices 453
Spiing Valley Farm 453
CHAPTER XXIV.
LEETOWNSHIP 457
Settlement 457
Organic 460
Items of Interest 460
CHAPTER XXV.
MARION TOWNSHIP 461
Settlement 461
i Organic 465
Educational 465
Village of Latimer 166
CHAPTER XXVI.
MORGAN TOWNSHIP :... 466
Settlement 466
Organic 473
Schools i','-',
Village of Dows 474
Business Developments r,4
Religious 478
Societies 478
CHAPTER XXVII.
PAGE
MOTTTOWNSHIP 479
Settlement 479
FirstEvents 490
Organic 491
Schools 491
Religious 491
CHAPTER XXVIII.
OAKL AND TOWNSHIP 492
Settlement 492
Historical Events 498
Oakland Village 498
Churches 499
CHAPTER XXIX.
OSCEOLA TOWNSHIP 500
Settlement 500
First Events 509
Religious 509
Village of Faulkner 509
CHAPTER XXX.
REEVE TOWNSHIP 510
Settlement 510
Organic 532
Items of Interest 532
Schools 534
Religious 534
CHAPTER XXXI.
ROSS TOWNSHIP .... v 535
Early Settlement 535
First Events 556
Schools , 556
Religious 556
< irgauic 556
Village of Chapin' 556
CHAPTER XXXII.
RICHLAND TOWNSHIP 557
Settleme nt 558
First Events , 564
Religious 5(54
Old Village of Chapin 565
CHAPTER XXXIII.
S( < )TT TOWNSHIP 565
Settlement — 565
Organic 566
Events of Interest 666
Schools 566
Religious 567
Alexander 507
CHAPTER XXXIV.
WEST FORK TOWNSHIP 568
Early Settlements _ 558
Organic ~ r>*\
First Things 586
Churches 586
Schools 587
CHAPTER XXXV.
WISXER TOWNSHIP 587
Settlement 5ss
• Organic 588
First Events 588
Schools 588
\9
BIOGRAPHICAL
PAGE
A brains. A. S 334
Abrams, H. D 328
Abrams, Henry J 560
Adams, Jon a H 530
Adams, W. T 554
Alexander,!!. E 408
Allen,Jame-W 433
Allen, David 433
Andrews.H.H 354
Andrews, Allen 354
Andrews, O. D 519
Anderson, Andrew 560
AndersoD, A. C 560
An way, James 436
Appelby, Isaac 355
Argent, Thomas F 359
Arlidge, L. H 198
Armstrong, Lemuel... 434
Armstrong, Merrill 435
Asemissen, H. L 476
Atkinson, J. A 485
a very, Frank 582
Avery, W. P 558
Baker, S. E 54!
Baker, T. H 199
Bailey, James M 531
Bailev, Samuel 442
Bailey, T. W 440
Bangs, Alonzo A 471
Bangs, Samuel W 472
Barry, Frank 442
Barney, G. S...i 326
Baurr, John 359
Beach, Frank 359
Beck, J. B 484
Beed, George 421
Beed, James H 395
Heed, William G 395
Beed, Charles 398
Behn, Frederick 464
Bell, John C 358
Bell, Ludwig 359
Belzer, Louis 357
Bender J 321
Ben°on, R. S 419
Benson, Kufus 346
Bennington, W. J 465
Berry, P. C 347
Bijrg, D. E 341
Bigelow, Levi 494
Bird, Robert L 523
Bird, A. H 332
Bird, Isaac..* 548
Blake, Richard T 501
Bland, J- H 183
Bobst, Joseph 481
Boddy, William 370
Bolton, John 325
Booth, C. E 201
Boots, John M 303
Boots, Martin 346
Borst, John L 341
Borst, James 342
Boutin, C. W 407
Bowen, W.S 344
page! page
Brande, James 493 Donovan, M. K 504
Bradley, J. H 174 Dovey, John 360
Brainard, O. H 420
B.idgeman, A. H 179
Brogan, Wesley 369
Dow, Daniel W 183
Hamilton, William. ...
Hanks, E. F
HaDsell, George w .
Harris, W. H
Eddy, H. S 459|Harriman. W. F
Brown, Benjamin S 486lEddy, William.. 547'Harriman, O. B
Bruce, J. W 341 1 Ellis, William 543JHarstwell, William ..
Bryan, W. B 356 Elliott, David 370 Hartgraves, John R.
Bullis, William T 369 Elseffer, Louis 257
Burns, G. W 446 Engebretson, P. R 559
Burns, Michael 504 Erickson, Claus 496
Burres, W. L 409 Esslinger, Samuel 479
Burnham, Edward 439 Esslinger, Edward... . 5S1
Bushyager, J G 575 Esslinger, Emanuel... 580
Burmester, Henry 485 Evans, Frank 497
Butterfield, Benjamin. 514
Butterfleld, JohnS.... 514
Butterfield, Luther.... 502
Byerlee, D.N 338
Caldwell, E 519
Canfield, M 204
Canfield, Charles L 360
Cannam, A. J 412
Carhart, L. B 337
Carter, A. B 338
Carter, A. R 402
Chambers, O. A 438
Chapman, N. B 180
Chase, D. D 168
Church, C. A 563
Church, D. A 563
Church, Walter A 18'
Church, David 346
Churchouse, R.J 333
Ciaypool, N. B 445
Clemmens, N 353
Cl-mmer, G. G 422
Clock, H. A 464
Clock, Eugene 46s"
Clock, C. L 256
Clock, Jarvis 348
( 'lock, H. C
Coble, T. H 410
Cook, JohnP 249
Coon, S. S 40:
Cooney, Martin 503
Cooper, W. F 207
201
207
570
548
486
Corning, G. A
Cornish, F. E
Crapser, S. O
Crawford, J. E
Crawford, William
Crawford, G. W 543
Crosby, A. F 335
Culver, Levi . . 576
Cummings, J. W 485
Darling, J 445
Doherty, Simon 459
Darrah, Robert 375
Daris, S. A 489
Davis, E. T 585
Davidson, W. N 179
Day, W. W 254
Deering, N. C 250
Evans, John E 193
EvaDS, W. D 186
Fraatz, F. L 401
Fahey, John 503
Farnsworth, |William . . . 585
Fessler, Henry 37i
Flovd, H. R 201
Ford, George J 334
Fox, Tbomas 530
Fink, Christopher 489
Fraser, J. W 459
Frazer, James K 472
464
202
Fredericks, Johann .
Funk, J. Z. E.
Frost, E. K 546
Galer,, J. B 200
Cans, J. T 441
Gartser, William 571
Gear, G. L 334
Gerfen, Henry 553
Gibbs, M. D 542
Gibas, S. A. 54ii
Gibson, George C 477
Giffen, J. D 182
Gilchrist, Joseph 34:;
Gilger, J. W 183
(iillett, Chauncy 251
Goble, J. M 530
Goppinger, George 545
Graham, John 476
Grassley, L. F 464
Green, C. B 524
Green, J. A 566
Green, Christopher.... 322
Green, James 321
Gridl^y, S. 563
Guilford, C. S 258
Guthrie, Dr 199
Hacker, T. H 461
Hagenson, N . W 49t;
Haight, J.F 183
Hall, Thomas 574
Hall, S. E 4n:.'
Hall, Lvman 439
llumbli'n, F. M 369
Hamilton, Andrew 374
Hamilton, Robert 375
Hamilton, Lloyd 105
Hartman, John.
Havens, Benjamin
Haymond, Jacob.
Haymond, E. H
Heitman, Bernard
Herbster, John (i.
Hemingway, J. M..
Henderson, H. C, ...
Henley, D, W
Heuberger, Jacob .
Hicks, JohnG
Bill, E.B
Hilliker, Orlando...
Hobbie.C. C
Hocking, H. D
Ho:den,L.P
Holloran, M ichacl . .
Homer, W.C
Homer, Richard —
Horstman, L
Howland,E.A
Hoxie.W.H
Hov, William
Hudson, Y. E. B...
Hudson, A. B
Hudson, AmosB
Humphrey, Dr
Hunt, James
Hunter, J. E
Hutchins, James ll.
Hyndman, G . C
Ihde. Henry
Imlay, John
Ingham, George H. .
Inglis, D. D
Iverson, J.J
Iverson, Iver
Iverson, Erick S . . .
'AG!
. 441;
. 481
. 450
. 555
186
L99
. 320
. ah;
. 533
360
363
35H
356
IS.",
173
L85
554
529
566
439
U 15
332
430
507
347
585
252
131
187
573
259 .
521
201
531
480
300
530
35 1
519
131
123
174
197
196
James, John L
Jeff ers, Byron
Jeffers, Robert
Jenkins. John
Jenkins, "William —
John. E. J
John, CD
Johnson, Jacob P
Johnson, Simon
Johnson, W . B
Jones, Benjamin
Jones, Benjamin
Jones, M. U
Jones, S. M
Jones, W. B
Johnston, JamesJ...
Jones. T.W
Jones, Levi
322
462
. 41(1
4V>
575
585
5S|
566
543
:>-;«•
434
2liii
429
513
511
513
513
- / â– 9 *
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
PAGK
Jones, John C 521
Jordan, Q. A 346
Keeling, E. B 371
Kellam, A. G 182
Kempthorne, Charles.. 376
Kent, John F 47'
Kiefer, E.C 408
Kief er, William H 583
King. John H 182
Klinefelter, Jacob 486
Knau, Adam 355
Knesel, John 577
Knesel, J. S 578
Knoll, John 356
Knight, E.M 547
Kratz, Philip 518
Krukrow, William 582
Kugler, Gotleib 582
Kurtz, Jacob 521
Lane, L. D 253
Lane, Jere jaiah 458
Lathrop, L. S 432
Latham, M. D 523
Latimer, J. F 42*
Lawrence, L 321
Layman, J. J 180
Leahy, M. A ,180
Leas, J. J 200
Lee, Dr 204
Lefever, James 444
Lill, F. R. H 357
Little, A. T 345
Lockwood, L. N 569
Loomis, D 318
Loss, Lucius 482
Lowe, O. F 405
Luke, Garrett W 524
Luke, J. W 186
Lumley, Gideon 461
McCarron, Thomas 508
McCann, Patrick 501
McClelland, Edward... 353
McClintock, N. B 563
McCormick, J. T 185
McCracken, T. E 276
McDonald, N 411
McDougle, James W. . . 355
McFarland, Cave J 163
McKenzie, J. W 170
McKenzie, Tom C 184
McKenzie, W. F 341
McManus, James 503
McMillen, W. H...f. ... 541
McMillen, A. G 558
McNeill, John 485
Malone, Thomas 378
Mallory, D. C 431
Manifold, Eleazer 348
Marble, Warner. ... : . . 482
Marks, Ernst 584
Marks, W. F 555
Meehan, John 436
Mendell, S.J 471
Menning, John 461
Messelheiser, Geoiye.. 485
Meyer, Henry 568
Meyer, Frederick 568
Meyer, Daniel 508
Meyer, John 518
Meyer, Heinrich 463
Meyer, Heinrich 371
Meyer, Henry 256
PAGE
Mver, John W 372
Mickel, Gifford 440
Miller, H. J 476
Miller, Jacob 490^
Miller, Isaac 255]
Millard, Henry J 531 1
Miner, G. R 187
Minert, G. H 443
Minor, A.N 259
Miracle, D. D 174
Missman, Herman 463
Mitchell, H.J 511
Mitchell, I.J 169
Mitchell, S. R 199
Montgomery, J . N 458
Morgan, John 477
Morgan, Lewis H 466
Morgan, F. P 285
Morehouse, E. E 333
Morehouse, H 333
Moris, E . F 555
Mott, Jonathan 455
Mott, C. J 455
Mott, Damon 457
Mott, D. W 456
Mott, A. M 457
Movie, William 559
Muhlenbruch, Henri... 465
Mulford, Thomas 520
Mulkins, J. S 514
Mulkins, Isaac C 513
Mulkins, S. P 512
Mulnix, James A 208
Myers, Moses 50'
Myers, I. W 41
Nichols, W. E...V 338
Nobles, W. S....* 523
Noble, Henry 581
Norte, Charles 584
North, Austin 254
Norton, E. A 408
Norton, James A 199
Nowell, John 482
PAGE
Ray, James 573 Thompson, 1. 1.
Raymond, L, B 277
Reed, L 441
Reeve, James B . . . 253
Reeve, A.T 181
Reeve, John R 513
Rice, Anion 479
Riddle, J. S 46^
PAGE
.. 563
Thompson, O.P 201
Thompson, James 387
Thompson, O.P 33T
Thompson, Wm. H 345
Tidd,C. H 203
Tilman,0. H 363
Tilton.B.R 332
O'Brien, Edward.
Ormrod, James...
507
336
Palmer, Henrv 565
Parks, William 328
Parker, Nathan 400
Parkinson, Samuel 46'
Patton, D. J 486
Paulus, Fred 486
Pearse, James 357
Pearse Jeffrey 358
Pearson, Jacob 378
Pease, George W 483
Peterson, Rev. N 496
Penny, Newton 372
Perrin, Joseph 335
Phelps, Josiah . . 399
Piatt, R, F 179
Pickering Albert 520
Plattner, Nicolaus 372
Pool, V. B 203
Popejoy, John 1 492
Porter, John 167
Potter, J. M 204
Pratt, H. 250
Pride, John M 201
Quasdorf, August 468
Randolph, W. D. F 542
Riggins, E 581[Timerman, W. B 522
Roberts, W. A 407 Tompkins, H. A 331
Roberts, H. P 202 Towle, Warren S 521
Roberts, Cyrus 401 Train, Robert E 466
Robinson, Isaac 495Treanor, James 504
Rodemeyer, Henry .... 463 Treganza, John 336
Rodemeyer, F 462:Trindle, James 437
Roemer, C 445Trumbull, M. M.
Rose, Milo 481Trumbower, John R.
Rose, Samuel L 173 Tucker, W. K
Ross, A. S 536 Tallhelm, Levi
Ross, M. H 2U2
Reinke, W. C 355
Richer, John H 342
Runyan, John M 363
Ryan, Edward 372
st . Clair, A. D 520
Schollein, George 553
Schulz, Ferdinand 472
Schultz, H. E 476
Scott, Milo 481
Scott, Henry 481
Scuntlebury, Edward. . . 377
Selix, Simon 435
Tucker. H. Z.
Ufford, A. W
Vandever, Wm.
Vankirk, David
Vincent, John
Vought, David .
Van Riper, Garrett.
H
176
508
437
369
523
583
250
522
532
563
578
508
Wagner, Isaiah...
Wait, John M 255
Wallace, J. W 376
SelixDavidF 435 Walton, C. W 495
Seney, Charles 560 £ an £ m -5fe N " J ££
Seney Robert 5591â„¢ .William 258
Sharpe, James 378! ^^fsaic T £90
Shepherd Amos H Weaver ™ « ' ' ™
Shroyer, Henry 254' we!
Shroyer, Lewis 51'
Weaver,
S. P.
William H.
547
471
Sime, A. O.
Singer, William J
495
Webber, Moses A 371
^ West, C. F 199
Charles .
588
409|
Smith, F. D
Smith, E. F 405
Snyder, James M 489
Snyder, Anthony 3'
Slade, Joseph 57»l W .estaby,
Slocum, J. W «8 w^e er, Daniel 481
Smith, Obadiah 8«» ShSSS' w™«™ ua
Smith W P , nq ! Whipple, William 468
■•■t"°| Whipple, R. H 188
,a Whitney, J. C 283
Whitney, A. C 338
Whitney, C. E 283
Whitmore, M 453
Wilde, Richard 326
Wilde, J. T 327
Wilkins,W 440
Willhelm, C. E 336
Willix.E. B 475
Wilson, George H 459
Wilton, George W 521
Wire, Jacob 482
Witthoft, J. C 545
Wohlf ord, E. H 464
Soper,G. W
Soper, J. M
Springer, F. M
Stackhouse, G. H...
stalker, J. W
Stalker, Mrs. J. W..
Stearns, John T 181
Stenson, E. H 377
Stephen, S. C 260
Stickney.W. C 410
411
517
512
446
406
406
f^SEuM^!? i»ood,"AibertB:::.:::: m
Stoddard, Lovelett 353
Stonebraker, W.J 397
Stout, J. M 532
Stuart, I. L 281
Studer, Joseph 370
Sutton, George 443
Sweet, O. F 399
W T oodley, Jacob 438
Woodlev, R 443
Wolf, Casper 484
Wolf, William 489
Wolf, William M 490
Wolf, David 490
Wright, George 458
Wright, E. D 536
Taylor, T. B 185
Taylor, William 458
Thomas, Theodore 52g Yenter,
Thomas, William 33i
Thomas, Joseph 327|Zimmerman, J. G.
Thompson, James D... 164.|Zimmerman, O. P.
Yelland, W. R 554
JohnM 354
544
337
J
M
*f.
*J<a k.
*-t»
PORTRAITS.
PAGE
Appleby, Maria 195
Bryan, W. B 350
Bryan, Mrs. W. B 351
Green, Chris 329
I inlay, John 216
I in lay, Mrs. John 217
PAGE
Johnson, S 538
Johnson, Mrs. S 539
Mott, C.J 561
Mott,D. W 451
Mott, A. M 487
.Myers, I. W 414
Myers, Mrs. I. W 415
PAGE
Pearse, James 361
Pease, George W 235
Pen-in, J 291
Quasdorf , August 469
Raymond, L. B 571
Richer, John H 319
Robinson, Isaac 392
Robinson, Mrs. Isaac... 393
PAGE
St. Clair, A. D 150
Shepherd, A 526
Shepherd, Mrs. A ",:.'T
Thompson, Win. 11 177
Wallace. J W 380
Wallace, Mrs. J. W 381
Wheeler, LB W6
HISTORY OF CERRO GORDO COUNTY.
CHAPTER I.
THE CHANGE.
PAGE
.. 589
CHAPTER II.
LOCATION, TOPOGRAPHY AND GEOLOGY.... 590
CHAPTER HI.
EARLY SETTLEMENT 592
By H. G. Parker 593
CHAPTER IV.
CREATION AND ORGANIZATION OF THE
COUNTY â– 601
The County Seat 603
CHAPTER V.
COUNTY GOVERNMENT AND OFFICIAL
MATTERS 605
The County Court 605
Board of Supervisors 609
Population 613
First Instruments Recorded 614
Matrimonial 614
Vital Statistics 616
Civil Sub-div'S'ons 617
CHAPTER VI.
TNDIAN TROUBLES
618
*7li
CHAPTER VII.
PAGE
JUDICIAL 624
District Court '''- 4
Circuit Court 626
County Court 6 -'
CHAPTER VIII.
THE BAR OF CERRO GORDO COUNTY 688
The Bar of the Past • • • 629
The Present Bar 835
CHAPTER IX.
THE MEDICAL PROFESSION 645
Mason City Physicians 64a
Cleai Lake Physicians w£
Rockwell Physicians 855
Plymouth Physicians 855
CHAPTER X.
THE PRESS OF CERRO GORDO COUNTY 657
Cerro Gordo Press 858
Cerro Gordo Republican 858
Clear Lake Independent » >',
Clear Lake Observer j**
Clear Lake Mirror °b|S
M ason City Express °bd
The Freeman ':'!'!
The Western Democrat , ;'.''.'
Mason City Times 8â„¢
The Phonograph 871
Clear Lake Record 8V*
The Plymouth News •■bt ~
XII
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
CHAPTER XI.
PAGE
REMINISCENCES OF PIONEERS 673
By M. P. Rosecrans bid
By George E. Frost 6^4
Bv Will Ed. Tucker 6i<
ByT. H.Parker 67,
CHAPTER XII.
EDUCATIONAL 678
School Fund Commissioner 681
County Superintendents 682
The Development 685
Teachers' Normal Institutes 686
CHAPTER XIII.
AGRICULTURE AND AGRICULTURAL SOC1E-
TIES 687
Stock Raising b ° 8
Cerro Gordo County Agricultural Society 691
CHAPTER XIV.
POLITICAL ■•• 692
Official Vote 692
CHAPTER XV.
NATIONAL, STATE AND COUNTY REPRE-
SENTATION
Congressional
Auditor of State
Republican Electors
I Register State Land Office
District Judge
District Attorney
( I o vernment Appointments
State Bank Examiners
State Appointments
Members of the.General Assembly
County Judges
County Auditors
• Treasurer and Recorders
County Treasurer
County Recorders
Clerk of Courts
Sheriffs
Prosecuting Attorneys
County Surveyors
County Assessor
Coroners
Drainage Commissioners
706
706
706
709
709
709
709
709
709
709
710
715
719
720
720
721
724
726
729
729
730
730
731
CHAPTER XVI.
RAILROADS
Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul
Central Railway of Iowa
Austin & Mason City Railroad
Burlington, Cedar Rapids & Northern.
Projected Railroads
CHAPTER XVII.
( )LD SETTLERS' ASSOCIATION.
First Meeting
Second Meeting
732
733
733
733
733
734
734
736
737
CHAPTER XVIII.
THE WAR-ITS CAUSES 7<<8
CHAPTER XIX.
CERRO GORDO COUNTY IN THE WAR 743
Enlistments 745
Roll of Honor 746
CHAPTER XX.
MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS CHRONOLOGICAL-
LY ARRANGED 747
CHAPTER XXI.
PAGE
BATH TOWNSHIP 757
Settlement ««
First Things â„¢
Organic '{J.;
Schools "63
CHAPTER XXII.
CLEAR LAKE TOWNSHIP 764
Early Settlement 764
First Events 775
Organic 775
Schools 7.5
Town of Clear Lake . . <7o
Recorded Plats 77o
Early Days 7^6
Educational "'
Postoffice 782
Societies 783
Religious 785
City Park 792
Incorporation 79:..
Business Interests 79»
Hotels 798
Clear Lake Mills 799
State Camp Meeting Grounds 800
CHAPTER XXIII.
DOUGHERTY TOWNSHIP 803
Early Settlement 803
Organic 80*5
First Things 806
Schools 806
Religious 807
CHAPTER XXIV.
FALLS TOWNSHIP 807 '
Settlement 808
Organic 829
First Events 829
An Incident of Hardship 830
Churches 830
Schools 831
Plymouth Village.... .: 833
Plymouth Mills 834
Railroads 834
Cemetery Association 834
A Tragic Death 834
Rock Falls 935
Water Power 835
Creamery 836
Incorporation 836
Religious 837
Ladies Union Aid Society 837
CHAPTER XXV.
GENESEO TOWNSHIP 838
Early Settlement , 838
Organic 848
Schools 848
Village of Rockwell 849
Business Interests 849
Postoffice 853
Schools 8*4
Societies — < s 54
Churches 855
Rockwell Cornet Band 856
Incorporation 857
Rockwell's Experience with Saloons 857
CHAPTER XXVI.
GRIMES TOWNSHIP 859
Organic 860
Schools 860
>w
]£_
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
xnr
CHAPTER XXVII.
PAGE
GRANT TOWNSHIP 863
Settlement 863
First Events 868
Organic • 868
Schools 868
Religious 860
CHAPTER XXVIII
LAKE TOWNSHIP '. 860
Settlement 870
Organic 882
First Events 882
Schools 882
CHAPTER XXIX.
LINCOLN TOWNSHIP 883
Earlv Settlement 883
Organic 801
Schools 801
Religious 803
Lincoln Springs Creamery 803
Mills 803
A Winter Night's Experience 803
CHAPTER XXX.
LTME CREEK TOWNSHIP 803
Early Settlement 804
Organic 005
Schools 005
Religious QOti
Boulder Cave '. 007
Lime Creek Brick Yard : 007
CHAPTER XXXI.
MOUNT VERNON TOWNSHIP
Settlement
Organic
First Events
Schools .
008
008
000
010
010
Religious 010
CHAPTER XXXII.
OWENTOWNSHIP 010
Early Settlement 011
Organic 015
Constitutional Amendment 915
First Birth and Marriage 915
Schools 010
CHAPTER XXXIII.
PAGK
PORTLAND TOWNSHIP 017
Settlement 017
Organic 927
Two Men Frozen 928
Portland Mills 929
Cheese Factory : 829
Religious 030
Educational 030
First Events 930
Village of Portland 930
CHAPTER XXXIV.
PLEASANT VALLEY TOWNSHIP 031
Early Settlement 931
Organic 938
Educational - 938
Religious 030
CHAPTER XXXV.
UNION TOWNSHIP 030
Early Settlement 939
First Things 043
Educational 043
Organic 943
CHAPTER XXXVI.
MASON TOWNSHIP 043
Settlement 043
Organic 952
Schools 053
Quarries 053
CHAPTER XXXVII.
MASON CITY 055
Recorded Plats 05i>
Early Hays 057
Items of Interest 966
Centennial Exposition 967
Garfield Memorial Service 068
Incorporation 968
Postoffice 070
Railroads 070
Religious 073
Cemetery 976
Educational 076
Mason City Park 977
Societies 478
Water Power and Mills 980
Business Historv 982
Banks * 007
Building and Loan Association 008
Parker's Opera House 1004
Mason City Lime Kilns 1004
BIOGRAPHICAL
PAGE
Abbott, A. J 930!
Al.rams, J. D 937 1
Adams, Charles M 7K)I
Adams, J. W 644|
Allen, William W 646|
Andrews, M. C 913
Apker, Samuel R 828
Armitage, Garrett S.. 013|
Armsbury, George C 76:
Babcock, Rodolphus..
Bailey, John G
Barnard, W. O
Barney, Rial
Barker, A. J
050
030
1004
011
037
Bauer, Jacob 934
PAGE
Beck, George 850
Becker, James M 060
Behr, C. J 846
Benjamin, Loomis 830
Benner, Wesley 040
Berlin, C. L 818
Bishop, John 922
Bitterman, M.E 031
Blood W. W.. 1002
Blythe, James E 638
Blythe, T. M 651
Boble, Henry 760
Boeye, John Henrv 704
Bogardus, E. R 1003
Bolton, J. E 774
Booth, C. W 865
PAGE
Brainard, J. M 684
Brett, George W 965
Brentner, Washington 051
Brentner, George 057
Brentner, Lee L 044
Briden, J. H 635
Brisbin, Philip 758
Brown, Thomas M 758
Brown, James H 763
Brown, Dwight 002
Brown, H. L 865
Brown, Hiram E 866
Brown, B. A 814
Brown, Elihu 940
Broderick, John 805
Broderick, Patrick 805
PAGE
Bruce, Albert 814
Bruce, James 847
Bryant, Ambrose M... 805
Bryant, Bruce A 0I>
Buckingham, Samuel.. 031
Bugher, Robert 031
Burdiek, Osman 878
Burgess, G. T 065
Burnham, Francis 773
Burnham, J. B 054
Bur ingham, A.J 031
Burkholder, Henry.... 768
Cal lam, Michael 766
Calvert, Henry 810
Calvert, Simon 819
fe*
XTV
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
PAGE
Cameron, W. W 987
Campbell, Daniel 806
Campbell, Robert 808
Card, I. W 631
Card, Silas 645
Carr, J. R 866
Case, Joseph STT
Cathcart, William:.... 932
Chapin, John 771
Chapman, Leo 662
Charlton, J. B 653
Church, Jarvis S 630
Clack. W. K 654
Clark Hugh 759
Clark, James 948
Clark, J. J 637
Clark, Robert 954
Class, S. H. Conrad 888
Claus, John 814
I'laus, Valentine 816
Clement, Franklin 768
Clement, Jane 768
Cligitt, John 637
Cole, J. E 826
Cole, L 825
Col well, Michael 844
Cook, J. W 864
Cooper, Josephus 901
Cornell, Albert 934
Cotey, Joseph 821
Crane, C. E 961
Cr< 188, Dennis H 972
Crow, James 635
Crowell, Elnathan 875
Cummings, A. H 638
Dakin, J B 647
Daney, George 820
Davis, J. 792
Denison, O. T 723
Densmore, Norman 761
Dexter, Mark 866
I >e vi le, Stephen 951
Dilts, Harmon 932
Dort, Elvira F 876
Doud, E.D 966
Dougan, J. M 991
Dougan, Mrs. J. M 954
Dougherty, Daniel 803
Drummond, Thomas. . 630
Dyer, H. A 993
Eager, L. S 962
Eddy, Rush 1003
Ehlers, Fred 827
Elder, James 988
Elder, J T , . 981
Eldridge.A. D 782
Em8ley, T. G 720
Bstabrook, W. L 975
Fairfield, William B.... 626
Farrell, Daniel J 959
Farrell, John A 987
Farington, Charles 817
Federspiel, Thomas 845
Felt, William !U7
Felt, AS 918
Felthous, J. A 845
Felthous, George H 845
Ferrier, James w s",
Fish, Sarah 904
Fisher, Horace W 867
Fisher. William 864
Fisher, Homer E 865
Fitch, Lizzie 724
Flint, Edwin 633
Flood, Patrick 822
Folsom. George W 839
Foster. William H 959
prederick, Jacob 813
prederick, George 813 !
PAGE
Freeman, James D 878
French, Thomas H 890
Frost, George E 643
Frost, Benjamin H 766
Frost, William F 920
Frost, Benjamin 920
Fuller, C. W 887
Fuller, George 757
Fullerton, Neil 913
Gage, J. R 632
Gale, T. K 996
Garner, Alfonso 729
Gardner, Thomas S 794
Garlock, Henry 865
Gaylord, C.W 651
Gibson, James., 960
Gibson, D. T 634
Gibson, George 759
Gildner, Henry 817
Gildner, Conrad 816
Gillett, Henry A 950
Glass, JohnD 637
Goodell, Milton 884
Goodell, George 885
Goodhue, O.A 648
Goodwin, Calvin S 766
Goodvkoontz,F. M 633
Gootlieb,John 821
( i raves, Charles 655
Craves. William C 716
Graham, Charles 761
Green, Horace 953
Gregory, Horace 812
Gregory, Francis M 812
Groves, Henry A 768
Grummon, N. J 840
Hammond, James A . . . 767
Hamstreet, C B 942
Hamstreet, D.W 940
Hamstreet, George 942
Haney, G. B 798
Hansen, Hans R â– 853
Hanson, Nelson 881
Harding, George H 96]
Harding, L. R 889
Harkison.J. L 652
Harris, C.W 850
Harris, Shorland tits
Harroun, Ansel 902
Harroun, John 924
Hathaway, Isaac B 846
Haynes, Danir-1 W 922
Hayes, George , 867
Heath, James B 880
Helm, George 818
Helm, Levi N27
Henderson, William... 760
Hennis, A ndrew 865
Henry, Michael 939
Henry, Thomas 940
Herrick, George L 986
Hickling, Robert 724
Hickok, G.R 941
Hill, Henrv 760
Hill, Jacob P 889
Hill, James 890
Hill. Jesse !U1
Hill, Leonard 896
Hill, Sylvester 881
Hill, Truman S 815
Hill, William 952
Bobbs, T. 1! 941
Howard, E 879
Howard, Thomas O 876
How land,. lames 844
llovev, 0. F 93Ti
Hubbard, O. K 882
Hubbard, <>. J 882
Hughes, G.H 638
Hunt, Lyman 730
PAGE
Hunt, Lyman 839
Hnnt, William 937
Huntley, Charles H 720
Huntley, Clark 773
Huntley, E. D 646
Hutchins, John S 853
Jacobs, E. W 914
Johnson, Josiah D 847
Johnson, W.Scott 729
Joy, Edwin G 950
Kahlke, H. W 762
Keenan, William- 805
Keeney, S. W 996
Keerl, Henry 723
Kimball, O. A 772
Kinney, Reuben 819
Kinyon, John 849
Kirk, H. P 995
Kirk, I. R .... 99'
Klinefelter, L. S 685
Konvalinka, W.J 986
Krug, Conrad , . . . 818
Kuppinger, John A 761
Lamson, George 796
Lane, Richard T 909
Langenberg, Fred 767
Langschadl, Francis J . . 815
Law, Thomas, Si\, 885
Law, Thomas, Jr 885
Lte, J . L 644
Lee, John, 987
Leonard, Benjamin 880
Lien, A. T 997
Lillibridge, R.L 759
Lindon, J. G 878
Lloyd, E. R 991
Long, John B 716
Lucas, W.V 706
Lyman, George E 839
Markley.J.E.E 639
Marsh, H. A , ... 726
Martin, McReady 864
Mason, William H 1003
Massee, G eorge A 804
Mather, H. S 796
Matley, Henry 903
McAdam, James 817
McCulloch, Hathorn... 962
McDowell, George F 653
McFadden, William 772
McGowan, Alexander.. 949
McGowan, Henry 795
McKenzie, Charles 633
McXider, C. H 998
McGrigor, Daniel 983
Meacham, S 920
Meddaugh, Charles A .. 875
Meloy, H.P 914
Miller, A.B 709
Miller, Edson C 655
Miller, George R 636
Miller, George R 904
Mofiett, W.H 888
Moore, Milton G 881
Moore, William H 827
Moran, O. B 'â– >:;:
Moroney, M. V 938
Morris, Richard 808
Morse, George < > 815
Mullan, AW 922
Murdock, Samuel 625
Murphy. J. W 630
Neidermyer, Lewis C . 904
Nelson, N. M 907
Nettleton. William 947
Nichols, Edwin 908
PAGE
Nickerson, J. B 904
Noyes, A. A 647
Noyes, S 719
O'Connell, Patrick 826
O'Neil, Charles H 901
O'Neil, Patrick 826
O'Neil, Patrick....
O'Rourk, J. J
Ogden, JohnG
Osborne, Edward
Overbeck, G. H...
Owen, Anson C...
. 950
.1005
. 647
. 650
. 761
. 968
Page, E. D 1002
Page, L. A 988
Page, Nelson L 825
Palmer, Rodney 878
Palmeter, D. H 793
Palmeter, H. E 793
iPalmeter, Theron 793
Pardee, Amos 919
Parker, H. G 714
Parker, James 927
Parker, John G 941
Parker, Levi 901
Parker, Timothy H ... . 896
Patterson, J. B 844
Paulson, Kettle 951
Peck, L. A 902
Pence, A. W 884
Pence, Gabriel 883
Pence, George 884
Penney, William 1005
Perrett, Joseph 814
Perrett, Thomas . .811
Perry, J. E 793
Phillips, C. H 886
Phillips, John W 798
Pierce Charles E 771
Pierce, Harvey J 772
Piersol, John B 816
Pollock, George 934
Porter, John 630
Prichard, J . O 960
Pride, E. S 940
Putnam, W. R 853
Quackenbush, A.H... 912
Quackenbush, Judson. 912
Randall, Elisha
Randall, Benjamin —
Redington, Herman M
Reiniger, R . G
Reynolds, Patrick
Rice, James A
Richardson, George W.
Richardson, Seth M —
Richardson, B. G
Robinson, John M
Rockwell, George B...
Roder, Andrew
Rogers, F. M
Rogers, Jarvis J
Rood, Howard W
Rosecrans, E . J
Rosecrans, M. P
Ruddiek, George W —
Rugg, William A
Rule, James
Rule, Duncan
Russell, John
Russell, John
Russell, John J
Sabin, H S
Sale, H. W
Sampson, E. H
Sanborn, George W..
Sanderson, L. O
Sanford, S. S
981
985
810
627
903
771
774
767
884
774
S43
758
725
838
932
726
64(1
626
672
722
725
895
965
S95
92!
652
865
971
867
830
F
t
** a
"Ttl
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
xv
PAOE
Sargent, C. W 986
Schermerhorn, M. S 639
Seabury, C. B 877
Secor, Gabriel L 847
Senior, Henry 918
Shaw, Edward 773
Shields, H. H 888
Shipley,C. P 1001
Simenson, Matt 797
Sirrine, James 870
Skinner, M. M 802
Skinner, W. M 652
Smith, C. H 649;
Smith, C. H 996
Smith, H. 1 721
Smith, Thomas A 655:
Somers, F. M 650
Spear, James 863
Spotts, Samuel 923
Stanbery, Rec 671
Stanbery, John S 635
Stanbery, Thomas 924
btanbery, William C — 646
Stearns, G. A 992
Stevens, A. M 914
Stevens, Oscar 800
PAGE; PAGE
Stevens, Seth B 894!Turnure, F.J 958
Stewart, ('. M. C 9*6 Tuttle, Murcua 711
Stilson, A. R 921 Tuttle, A. 15 984
Storer, Andrew W 933 Tuttle, Elon A 873
Sutton, Benjamin 810
('temlurl'er, G. P S50
Tasker, J
Taylor. D
Telford, D. W
Temple, Frank E
Tenney, Thomas
Tenney, Charles W
Tenney ' harles
Thada, Joseph
Thomas, Amos
Thompson, W. E
Thompson, E. O
Thompson, O. B
Thompson, Mrs. Lueina
Tiffany, Major
Tinker, J. B
Todd. R. M
Tompkins, W! C
Trapp, DavidS
iTucker, Christopher...
795
8881
639
947|
682
683
sin
880
886,
716
886 j
944
947
982
994
825
722
843
730
Valentine, J. H
VanAnken, L. M.. .
Van Dusen, Dr
Van Patter, Henry.
Van Wie, J. H
Vermilva, George 716
V email. Nelson 949
Vinton, Horace 960
958
923
647
72»i
980
Walker, Daniel W 829
Walker, George H 656
Walker, J. W '.sr,
Wallraff, Peter 828
Walter, Francis 840
Ward, George 822
Warren. N. W 879
Washburn, S. H 650
Watts, Daniel 890
PAGE
Walts. George A 890
Waughtal, s. B 994
Wauninger, Joseph - 995
Wells, w. A 913
West, John 958
Wheeler, A. L 650
Wheeler, E. 9 634
wi Ler, .1. s 962
Wier, A. W T81
Willard, N E 933
Williams, Ira sin
Willis, II. .1 881
Willson, Alon/.o I
Wilson, Thomas B 895
U'inans, B. S 891
Winter, Charles A .. .. 859
Winter, William 932
Wood, James B 875
Wood, Joseph 873
Wood, R. R 788
Woodford, George G... 797
Wright, James 808
Wright, J. C 654
PORTRAITS.
PAGE
Carr, James R 861
Cook, Joseph W 789
Cook, Mrs. Joseph W.. 790
Felthous, George H.... 689
Frost, George E 641
Gibson, George 668
PAGE PAGE
Gibson, Mrs. George.. . 669 Lyman, George E 841
Goodhue, O. A 963i
Harris, Shorland 71'
Harris, C. W 851
Harroun, John 935
Hill, Leonard 898
Hill, Mrs Leonard 899
McDonald, G. F.
... 769
Morris, Richard 823
Parker, H. G..
... 597
PAGE
Stilson, A. R 999
Smith, C. H 989
Sanborn, G. W 679
Tuttle, Morcus 707
Tuttle, A. B 607
Tuttle, E. A 871
FRANKLIN AND CERRO GORDO COUNTY CERTIFICATES,
£_
We, the undersigned, members of the general committee appointed to correct and revise the manuscript
of the History of Franklin County, written and complied by the Union Publishing Company, of Spring-field,
Illinois, do hereby certify that said manuscript was submitted to us, and we did, to the b^st of our recollec-
tion, correct and revise the same, and made all the changes and additions that we, in our judgement, deemed
necessary, am as corrected we approve the same. A. North. I
T). W. Mote, |
* George Reed, )- Committee.
James Thompson, I
S. M Jones, J
Following is the certificate of the committee for the respective cities and townships:
We, tin- committee appointed to revise and correct the history of our respective townships for the His-
tory of Franklin County, written and complied by the Union Publishing Company, of Springfield, Illinois, do
hereby certify that the manuscript was submitted to us, and that we made all the changes, corrections and
additions that we in our judgment, and to the best of our recollection, deemed n«ceosary, and as corrected,
we approve of the sune:
T). W. Dnw,
.Tamos Thompson.
James T. McCormick,
S. M. Jones.
— Washington Township*
and
Hampton City.
T. W. Jones,
A. Creighton,
H.J. Mitchell.
Lewis Shroyer,
M. !5. Jones,
Levi Jones,
— Reeve Township.
Robert Hamilton,
s. H. Vankirk,
Andrew Hamilton,
—Hamilton Township.
H. A . Clock,
L. Elseffer
—Marlon Townsh ip.
Levi Bigelow,
J. I. Popejoy.
—Oakland Township.
L. Stoddard,
Mrs. L. Stoddard,
Richard Horner.
—Geneva Township.
A ugust Quasdorf,
William H. Weaver.
— Morgan To wnsh ip.
R. T. Blake,
Mrs. Susan Jane Sawyer.
—Osceola Township.
Charles Westaby,
—Winner Township.
E. B. Hill,
Henry Palmer.
— Scoff Township.
J. W. Slocum,
O. P. Lane,
H. S. Eddy.
—Lee. Township.
William Boddy,
William Taylor,
Wesley Brogan.
- Grant Township.
Anion Rice,
C.J. Mott.
—Mott Township.
G. W Hansell,
I). W. Mott.
—Ingham Townsh ip .
William Avery,
Rev. William P. Avery,
A. S. Ross.
— Richland Township.
Dr. J. S. Hurd,
A. S. Ross.
— Ross Township.
W. S. Bowen,
R. Wilde,
A . F. Crosby.
— Clinton Township.
John 0. Crapser,
L. N. Lockwood.
— TT'esf Fork Township.
a. w. Shaver,
We. the undersigned, membe-s of the general committee, appointed to correct and i - evis>' the History of
Cerro Gordo County, written and compiled bv the Union Publishing Company of Springfield, Illinois, do
hereby certify tflat the manuscript was su imitted to us and we did, to the best of our recollection, correct
and revise the same, and made all the charges and additions that we, in our judgement, deemed necessary,
and as corrected we approve the same: C. W. Tenney, ]
M. P. Rosecrans,
Henry Martin, \ Committee.
H. O. Parker,
Alonzo Willson. I
Following is the certificate of the committees for the respective cities and townships:
We, the members of the committee appointed to revise and correct the history of our respective town-
ship- for the History of Cerro Gordo County, written and compiled by the Union Publishing Company, of
Spriugfield, Illinois, do hereby certify that the manuscript was submitted to us and that we made all the
changes, corrections and additions that we in our judgment, and to the best of our recollection, deemed
necessary, and as corrected we approve of the same.
C. W. Tenney,
Thomas Fenett,
Richard Morris.
—Fulls Township.
R. T. Lane,
Edwin Nichols,
—■Mb. Vernon Township.
Henry Senior,
A. R. Stilson,
\. -. Felt,
—Portland Township.
C. R. Hamstreet,
T. 15. HoHis,
Tl nis Henry.
— Union Township.
Harmon Dilts,
E. A. Tuttle,
R. Bucrher,
M. P. Rosecrans.
H. W. Rood,
— Lake Township
â €”Pleasant Valley
Township.
James Howland,
Patrick Broderick.
Sid Sanford,
— Dougherty Township
C. A. Winter.
— Grimes Township.
Henry Brown.
J. W. Took.
—Grant Township.
T. S. Gardner,
Michael Callanan,
< >scar Steven*.
—Clear Lake Township.
E. Randal),
James Jenkenson,
George Vermilya.
— Mason City a>nl
Township.
Henry Martin.
A.M. Bryant.
—Lime Creek Township.
B. G. Richardson.
John Pence,
Thomas Law.
—Lincoln Township.
G. B. Rockwell,
A. Rogers.
— Geneseo Township.
Joseph Hill,
G. S. Armitage,
J. Quackenbush,
—Owen Township.
G. 0. Fuller.
T. M. Brown.
William Henderson.
— Bath Township.
TP
is
t« — *-
£+
HISTORY OF IOWA.
Bt--$HE
CHAPTER I.
THE traveler, in wending bis way
across the fair State of Iowa, with
its evidences of civilization upon every
hand; its magnificent churches with spires
pointing heavenward; its school-houses
almost upon every hill; palatial residences
evincing wealth and refinement, cannot
realize that, less than a half century ago,
this "beautiful land" was the home only
of the red man, who roamed at will over
the fair and fertile prairies, hunting in the
woods and fishing in its streams. The
change would seem too great for him to
realize. But it is indeed true. These
churches, these school-houses, these pala-
tial residences, these railroads, these tele-
graph and telephone wires, all have been
erected or placed here within the space of
a half century.
Before the advent of the Red Men, who
were found in possession by the Europeans,
who inhabited this country, is a subject
yet unsolved, and is shrouded in mystery.
That there were human beings of a distinct
race from the red men of later days, is gen-
erally conceded, but scientists fail as yet
to agree as to their nature and origin..
That this continent is co-existent with the
world of the ancients cannot be questioned.
Every investigation instituted under the
auspices of modern civilization confirms
this fact. It is thought by many that the
first inhabitants came from Asia, by way
of Behring's Strait, and in large numbers.
Magnificent cities and monuments were
raised at the bidding of tribal leaders, and
populous settlements centered with thriv-
ing villages sprang up everywhere in man-
ifestation of the progress of the people.
For the last four hundred years the colo-
nizing Caucasian has trodden on the ruins
of a civilization whose greatness he could
only surmise. Among these ruins are
pyramids similar to those which have ren-
dered Egypt famous. The pyramid of
Chalula is square, each side of its base
being 1,335 feet, and its height 172 feet.
Another pyramid north of Vera Cruz is
formed of large blocks of highly polished
porphyry, and bears upon it< front hiero-
~r
.£.
18
HISTORY OF IOWA.
glyphic inscriptions and curious sculpture.
It is 82 feet square, and a flight of 57 steps
conducts to its summit, which is 65 feet
high. The ruins of Palenque are said to
extend 20 miles along the ridge of a moun-
tain, and the remains of an Aztec city, near
the banks of the Gila, are spread over
more than a square league. The principal
feature of the Aztec civilization which has
come down to us was its religion, which
we are told was of a dark and gloomy
character. Each new god created by their
priesthood, instead of arousing new life in
the people, brought death to thousands;
and their grotesque idols exposed to drown
the senses of the beholders in fear, wrought
wretchedness rather than spiritual ha.ppi-
ness. In fact, fear was the great animating
principal, the motive power which sustained
this terrible religion. Their altars were
sprinkled with blood drawn from their own
bodies in large quantities, and on them
thousands of human victims were sacri-
ficed iii, honor of the demons whom they
worshipped. The head and heart of
every captive taken in war were offered
up as a sacrifice to the god of battles,
while the victorious legions feasted on the
remaining portions of the bodies. It is
said that during the ceremonies attendant
on the consecration of two of their tem-
ples, the number of prisoners offered up
in sacrifice was 12,210, while they them-
selves contributed large numbers of volun-
tary victims to the terrible belief.
The race known as the Mound-Builders
next attracts the attention of the ethnolo-
gists. Throughout the Mississippi Valley,
including many portions of Iowa, are found
mounds and walls of earth or stone, which
can only have a human origin. These
mounds vary in size from a few feet to
hundreds of feet in diameter. In them
are often found stone axes, pestles, arrow-
heads, spear-points, pieces of flint, and
other articles. Pottery of various de-
signs is very common in them, and from
the material of which they are made geol-
ogists have attempted to assign their age.
Some have thought that the Mound-
Builders were a race quite distinct from
the modern Indians, and that they werein
an advanced state of civilization. The
best authorities now agree that while the
comparatively civilized people called the
Aztecs built the cities whose ruins are
occasionally found, the Mound-Builders
were the immediate ancestors of the In-
dians De Soto first saw, and little different
from the Indians of to-day.
The origin of the Red Men, or Ameri-
can Indians, is a subject which interests
as well as instructs. It is a favorite topic
with the ethnologist, even as it is One of
deep concern to the ordinary reader. A
review of two works lately published on
the origin of the Indians, treats the matter
in a peculiarly reasonable light. It says :
"Recently a German writer has put for-
ward one theory on the subject, and an
English writer has put forward another
and directly opposite theory. The differ-
ence in opinion concerning our aboriginals
among authors who have made a profound
study of races, is at once curious and in-
teresting. Blumenbach treats them in his
classifications as a distinct variety of the
human family; but, in the three-fold divi-
sion of Dr. Latham, they are ranked among
the Mongolidae. Other writers on races
~
»t»
HISTORY OF IOWA.
19
regard them as a branch of the great Mon-
golian family, which at a distant period
found its way from Asia to this continent,
and remained here for centuries separate
from the rest of mankind, passing, mean-
while, through divers phases of barbarism
and civilization. Morton, our eminent
ethnologist, and his followers, Nott and
Gliddon, claim for our native Red Men an
origin as distinct as the flora and fauna of
this continent. Prichard, whose views are
apt to differ from Morton's, finds reason to
believe, on comparing the American tribes
together, that they must have formed a
separate department of nations from the
earliest period of the world. The era of
their existence as a distinct and isolated
people must probably be dated back to the
time which separated into nations the in-
habitants of the Old World, and gave to
each its individuality and primitive lan-
guage. Dr. Robert Brown, the latest
authority, attributes, in his 'Races of Man-
kind,' an Asiatic origin to our aboriginals.
He says that the Western Indians not only
personally resemble their nearest neighbors
— the Northeastern Asiatics — but they re-
semble them in language and tradition. .
The Esquimaux on the American and the
Tchuktcis on the Asiatic side understand
one another perfectly. Modern anthro-
pologists, indeed, are disposed to think
that Japan, the Kuriles, and neighboring
regions, may be regarded as the original
home of the greater part of the native
American race. It is also admitted by
them that between the tribes scattered
from the Arctic sea to Cape Horn there
is more uniformity of physical feature
than is seen in any other quarter of the
globe. The weight of evidence and au-
thority is altogether in favor of the opin-
ion that our so-called Indians are a branch
of the Mongolian family, and all additional
researches strengthen the opinion. The
tribes of both North and South America
are unquestionably homogeneous, and, in
all likelihood, had their origin in Asia,
though they have been altered and modi-
fied by thousands of years of total separa-
tion from the present stock."
If the conclusions arrived at by the
reviewer is correct, how can one account
for the vast difference in manner and form
between the Red Man as he is now known,
or even as he appeared to Columbus and
his successors in the field of discovery, and
the comparatively civilized inhabitants of
Mexico, as seen in 1521 by Cortez, and of
Peru, as witnessed by Pizarro in 1532 ?
The subject is worthy of investigation.
In the year 1541, Ferdinand DeSoto, a
Spaniard, discovered the Mississippi river,
at the mouth of the Washita. He, how-
ever, penetrated no further north than
the 35th parallel of latitude, his death ter-
minating the expedition. It was thus left
for a later discoverer to first view the
"beautiful land."
In a grand council of Indians on the
shores of Lake Superior, they told the
Frenchmen glowing stories of the "great
river" and the countries near it. Mar-
quette, a Jesuit father, became inspired
with the idea of discovering this noble
river. He was delayed in this great un-
dertaking, however, and spent the interval
in studying the language and habits of the
Illinois Indians, among whom he expected
to travel. In 1673 he completed his pre-
parations for the journey, in which he was
to be accompanied by Joliet, an agent of
;V
a.
20
HISTORY OF IOWA.
the French Government. The Indians,
who had gathered in large numbers to wit-
ness his departure, tried to dissuade him
from the undertaking, representing that
the Indians of the Mississippi Valley were
cruel and blood thirsty, and would resent
the intrusion of strangers upon their do-
main. The great river itself, they said,
was the abode of terrible monsters, who
could swallow both canoes and men. But
Marquette was not diverted from his pur-
pose by these reports, and set out on his
adventurous trip May 13; he reached, first,
an Indian village where once had been a
mission, and where he was treated hospit-
ably; thence, with the aid of two Miami
guides, he proceeded to the Wisconsin,
down which he sailed to the great Missis-
sippi, which had so long been anxiously
looked for; floating down its unknown
waters, the explorer discovered, on the
25th of June, traces of Indians on the west
bank of the river, and landed a little above
the river now known as the Des Moines.
For the first time Europeans trod the soil
of Iowa. Marquette remained here a short
time, becoming acquainted with the In-
dians, and then proceeded on his explora-
tions. He descended the Mississippi to
the Illinois, by which and Lake Michigan
he returned to French settlements.
Nine years later, in 1682, La Salle de-
scended the Mississippi to the Gulf of
Mexico, and, in the name of the king of
France, took formal posession of all the
immense region watered by the great river
and its tributaries from its source to its
mouth, and named it Louisiana, in honor
of his master, Louis XIV. The river he
called " Colbert," in honor of the French
Minister, and at its mouth erected a column
and a cross bearing the inscription, in
French:
' 'LOUIS THE GREAT, KING OF FRANCE AND NAVARRE,
REIGNING APRIL 9, 1682."
France then claimed by right of dis-
covery and occupancy the whole valley of
the Mississippi and its tributaries, includ-
ing Texas. Spain at the same time laid
claim to all the region about the Gulf of
Mexico, and thus these two great nations
were brought into collision. But the
country was actually held and occupied by
the native Indians, especially the great
Miami Confederacy, the Miamis proper
(anciently the Twightwees) being the east-
ern and most powerful tribe.
Spain having failed to make any settle-
ment in the newly-discovered country, it
was left for France to occupy the land,
and that government, soon after trfe dis-
covery of the mouth of the Mississippi by
La Salle, in 1682, began to encourage the
policy of establishing a line of trading
posts and missionary stations, extending
through the west from Canada to Louis-
iana.
In 1762, France, in a time of extreme
weakness, ceded all the territory west of
the Mississippi, including what is now
Iowa, to Spain, which power retained pos-
session until October 1, 1800, when it
retroceded it to France. This latter power
ceded it to the United States in 1803, for
the sum of $15,000,000.
On assuming control, the United States
organized all that region west of the Mis-
sissippi and north of the Territory of
Orleans as the District of Louisiana. In
1805 the District of Louisiana was organ-
ized into the Territory of Louisiana.
j is
- 1 * — â–ºâ–
<§ w_
-<! &
HISTORY OF IOWA.
21
This Territory was subsequently divided,
and now forms seven great States — Louis-
iana, Missouri, Arkansas, Iowa, Minnesota,
Kansas and Nebraska.
CHAPTER II.
INDIANS AND INDIAN WARS.
For more than one hundred years after
Marquette and Joliet trod the virgin soil
of Iowa, and admired its fertile plains,
not a single settlement had been made or
attempted, nor even a trading post estab-
lished. The whole country remained in
the undisputed possession of the native
tribes, who often poured out their life
blood in obstinate contest for supremacy.
That this State, so aptly styled "The
Beautiful Land," had been the theatre of
numerous fierce and bloody struggles be-
tween the rival nations for possession of
the favored region long before its settle-
ment by civilized man, there is no room
for doubt. In these savage wars the
weaker party, whether aggressive or de-
fensive, was either exterminated or driven
from its ancient hunting grounds.
When Marquette visited this country
in 1673, the Illini were a very powerful
people, occupying a large portion of the
State ; but when the country was again
visited by the whites, not a remnant of
that once powerful tribe remained on the
west side of the Mississippi, and Iowa
was principally in the possession of the '
Sacs and Foxes, a warlike tribe which,
originally two distinct nations, residing
in New York and on the waters of the
St. Lawrence, had gradually fought their
way westward, and united, probably after
the Foxes had been driven out of the Fox
River country in 1846, and crossed the
Mississippi. The death of Pontiac, a
famous Sac chieftain, was made the pre-
text for war against the Illini, and a fierce
and bloody struggle ensued, which con-
tinued until the Illini were nearly de-
stroyed, and their hunting grounds pos-
sessed by their victorious foes. The Iowas
also occupied a portion of the State, for a
time, in common with the Sacs, but they,
too, were nearly destroyed by the Sacs
and Foxes, and in " The Beautiful Land "
these natives met their equally warlike
foes, the northern Sioux, with whom they
maintained a constant warfare for the pos-
session of the country for many years.
In 1803, when Louisiana was purchased
by the United States, the Sacs, Foxes and
Iowas possessed the entire State of Iowa,
and the two former tribes, also, occupied
most of Illinois.
T^
t
ff> ^
£
22
HISTORY OF IOWA.
The Sacs had four principal villages,
where most of them resided. Their
largest and most important town — if an
Indian village may be called such — and
from which emanated most of the ob-
stacles encountered by the Government in
the extinguishment of Indian titles to
land in this region, was on Rock river,
near Rock Island ; another was on the
east bat,k of the Mississippi, near the
mouth of Henderson river ; the third
was at the head of the Des Moines Rap-
ids, near the present site of Montrose ;
and the fourth was near the mouth of the
upper Iowa.
The Foxes had three principal villages.
One was on the west side of the Missis-
sippi, six miles above the rapids of Rock
river; another was about twelve miles
from the river, in the rear of the Dubuque
lead mines ; and the third was on Turkey
river.
The Iowas, at one time identified with
the Sacs of Rock river, had withdrawn
from them and become a separate tribe.
Their principal village was on the Des
Moines river, in Van Buren county, on
the site where Iowaville now stands. Here
the last great battle between the Sacs and
Foxes and the Iowas was fought, in which
Black Hawk, then a young man, com-
manded one division of the attacking
forces. The following account of the bat-
tle has been given:
"Contrary to long established custom of
Indian attack, this battle was commenced
in the day-time, the attending circum-
stances justifying this departure from the
well-settled usages of Indian warfare The
battle-field was a level river bottom, about
four miles in length, and two miles wide
near the middle, narrowing to a point at
either end. The main area of this bottom
rises perhaps twenty feet above the river,
leaving a narrow strip of low bottom along
the shore, covered with trees that belted
the prairie on the river side with a thick
forest, and the immediate bank of the river
was fringed with a dense growth of wil-
low. Near the lower end of this prairie,
near the river bank r was situated the Iowa
village. About two miles above it and
near the middle of the prairie is a mound,
covered at the time with a tuft of small
trees and underlmish growing on its sum-
mit. In the rear oi this little elevation or
mound lay a belt of wet prairie, covered,
at that time, with a dense growth of rank,
coarse grass. Bordering this wet prairie
on the north, the country rises abruptly
into elevated broken river bluffs, covered
with a heavy forest for many miles in ex-
tent, and in places thickly clustered with
undergrowth, affording convenient shelter
for the stealthy approach of the foe.
"Through this forest the Sac and Fox war
party made their way in the night, and
secreted themselves in the tall grass spoken
of above, intending to remain in ambush
during the day and make such observa-
tions as this near proximity to their in-
tended victims might afford, to aid them
in their contemplated attack on the town
during the following night. From this
situation their spies could take a full sur-
vey of the village, and watch every move-
ment of the inhabitants, by which means
they were soon convinced that the Iowas
had no suspicion of their presence.
"At the foot of the mound above men-
tioned the Iowas had their race course,
where thev diverted themselves with the
HISTORY OF IOAVA.
23
excitement of horse-racing, and schooled
their young warriors in cavalry evolutions.
In these exercises mock battles were fought,
and the Indian tactics of attack and defense
carefully inculcated, by which means a
skill in horsemanship was acquired that is
rarely' excelled. Unfortunately for them
this day was selected for their equestrian
sports, and, wholly unconscious of the
proximity of their foes, the warriors re-
paired to the race-ground, leaving most of
their arms in the village, and their old
men, women and children unprotected.
"Pash-a-po-po, who was chief in com-
mand of the Sacs and Foxes, perceived at
once the advantage this state of things
afforded for a complete surprise of his now
doomed victims, and ordered Black Hawk
to file off with his young warriors through
the tall grass and gain the cover of the
timber along the river bank, and with the
utmost speed reach the village and com-
mence the battle, while he remained with
his division in the ambush to make a sim-
ultaneous assault on the unarmed men
whose attention was engrossed with the
excitement of the races. The plan was
skillfully laid and most dexterously exe-
cuted. Black Hawk with his forces
reached the village undiscovered, and
made a furious onslaught upon the de-
fenseless inhabitants by firing one general
volley into their midst, and completing the
slaughter with the tomahawk and scalping-
knife, aided by the devouring flames with
which they enveloped the village as soon
as the fire-brand could be spread from
lodge to lodge.
"On the instant of the report of fire-arms
at the village, the forces under Pash-a-po-po
leaped from their couchant position in the
grass, and sprang, tigef-like, upon the un-
armed Iowas in the midst of their racing
sports. The first impulse of the latter natur-
ally led them to make the utmost speed to-
ward their arms in the village, and protect,
if possible, their wives and children from
the attack of their merciless assailants.
The distance from the place of attack on
the prairie was two miles, and a great
number fell in their flight by the bullets
and tomahawks of their enemies, who
pressed them closely with a running fire
the whole way, and the survivors only
reached their town in time to witness the
horrors of its destruction. Their whole
village was in flames, and the dearest
objects of their lives lay in slaughtered
heaps amidst the devouring element, and
the agonizing groans of the dying, mingled
with the exulting shouts of the victorious
foe, filled their hearts with maddening
despair Their wives and children who
had been spared the general massacre were
prisoners, and together with their arms in
the hands of their victors; and all that
could now be done was to draw off their
shattered and defenseless forces, and save
as many lives as possible by a retreat
across the Des Moines river, which they
effected in the best possible manner, and
took a position among the Soap Creek
hills."
Previous to the settlement of their vil-
lage on Rock river, the Sacs and Foxes
had a fierce conflict with the Winnebagos,
subdued them and took possession of their
lands. At one time this village contained
upward of 60 lodges, and was among the
largest Indian villages on the continent.
The number of Sacs and Foxes in 1825
was estimated by the Secretary of War to
£
24
HISTORY OF IOWA.
be 4,600. Their village was situated in
the immediate vicinity of the upper rapids
of the Mississippi, where the flourishing
towns of Rock Island and Davenport are
now situated. The extensive prairies
dotted over with groves, the beautiful
scenery, the picturesque bluffs along the
river banks, the rich and fertile soil pro-
ducing large crops of corn, squash and other
vegetables with little labor, the abundance
of wild fruit, game, fish, and almost every-
thing calculated to make it a delightful
spot for an Indian village, which was
found there, had made this place a favorite
home of the Sacs, and secured for it the
strong attachment and veneration of the
whole nation.
The Sioux located their hunting grounds
north of the Sacs and Foxes. They were
a fierce and warlike nation, who often dis-
puted possessions with their rivals in savage
and bloody warfare. The possessions of
these tribes were mostly located in Minne-
sota, but extended over a portion of
Northern and Western Iowa to the Mis-
souri river. Their descent from the north
upon the hunting grounds of Iowa fre-
quently brought them into collision with
the Sacs and Foxes, and after many a con-
flict and bloody struggle, a boundary line
was established between them by the
Government of the United States, in a
treaty held at Prairie du Chien in 1825.
Instead of settling the difficulties, this
caused them to quarrel ail the more, in
consequence of alleged trespasses upon
each other's side of the line. So bitter
and unrelenting became these contests,
that, in 1830, the Government purchased of
the respective tribes of the Sacs and Foxes,
and the Sioux, a strip of land twenty miles
wide on both sides of the line, thus throw-
ing them forty miles apart by creating a
"neutral ground," and commanded them
to cease their hostilities. They were,
however, allowed to fish and hunt on the
ground unmolested, provided they did not
interfere with each other on United States
territory.
Soon after the acquisition of Louisiana,
the United States Government adopted
measures for the exploration of the new
Territory, having in view the conciliation
of the numerous tribes of Indians by
whom it was possessed, and also the se-
lection of proper sites for the establish-
ment of military posts and trading sta-
tions. The Army of the West, Gen. Wil-
kinson commanding, had its headquarters
at St. Louis. From this post Captains
Lewis and Clarke, with a sufficient force,
were detailed to explore the unknown
sources of the Missouri, and Lieut. Zebu-
Ion M. Pike to ascend to the head waters
of the Mississippi. Lieut. Pike, with
one sergeant, two corporals and seven-
teen privates, left the military camp,
near St. Louis, in a keel boat, with four
months' rations, August 9th, 1805. On
the 20th of the same month the expedition
arrived within the present limits of Iowa,
at the foot of the Des Moines Rapids,
where Pike met William Ewing, who had
just been appointed Indian Agent at this
point, a French interpreter, four chiefs,
fifteen Sacs and Fox warriors. At the
head of the rapids, where Montrose is now
situated, Pike held a council with the
Indians, in which he addressed them sub-
stantially as follows:
" Your great father, the President of the
United States, wishes to be more intimately
HISTORY OF IOWA.
25
acquainted with the situation and wants
of the different nations of Red people in
our newly acquired Territory of Louis-
iana, and has ordered the General to send
a number of his warriors in different
directions to take them by the hand and
make such inquiries as might afford the
satisfaction required."
At the close of the council he presented
the Red Men with some knives, tobacco
and whisky. On the 23d of August he
arrived at what is supposed, from his de-
scription, to be the site of the present city
of Burlington, which he selected as the
location of a military post. He describes
the place as "being on a hill, about forty
miles above the River de Moyne Rapids,
on the west side of the river, in Iatiiude
about 40 deg. 21 min. north. The channel
©f the river runs on that shore. The hill
in front is about 60 feet perpendicular,
and nearly level at the top. About 400
yards in the rear is a small prairie, fit for
gardening, and immediately under the hill
is a limestone spring, sufficient for the
consumption of a whole regiment." In
addition to this description, which corres-
ponds to Burlington, the spot is laid down
on his map at a bend in the river a short
distance below the mouth of the Hender-
son, which pours its waters into the Mis-
sissippi from Illinois. The fort was built
at Fort Madison, but from the distance,
latitude, description and map furnished by
Pike, it could not have been the place se-
lected by him, while all the circumstances
corroborate the opinion that the place he
selected was the spot where Burlington is
now located, called by the early voyagers
on the Mississippi " Flint Hills." In com-
pany with one of his men, 1 'ike went on
shore on a hunting expedition, and follow-
ing a stream which they supposed to be a
part of the Mississippi, they were led away
from their course. Owiug to the intense
heat and tall grass, his two favorite dogs,
which he had taken with him, became ex-
hausted, and he left them on the prairie,
supposing that they would follow him as
soon as they should get rested, and went
on to overtake his boat. After reaching
the river he waited some time for his
canine friends, but they did. not come, and
as he deemed it inexpedient, to detain the
boat longer, two of his men volunteered to
go in pursuit of them, and he continued on
his way up the river, expecting that the
two men would soon overtake him They
lost their way, however, and for six days
were without food, except a few morsels
gathered from the stream, and might have
perished had they not accidentally met a
trader from St. Louis, who induced two
Indians to take them up the river, and they
overtook the boat at Dubuque. At the
latter place Pike was cordially received by
Julien Dubuque, a Frenchman, who held a
mining claim under a grant from Spain.
He had an old field piece, and fired a salute
in honor of the advent of the first Amer-
ican who had visited that part of the Ter-
ritory. He was not, however, disposed to
publish the wealth of his mines, and the
young and evidently inquisitive officer
obtained but little information from him.
Upon leaving this place, Pike pursued
his way up the river, but as he passed
beyond the limits of the present State of
Iowa, a detailed history of his explora-
tions does not proporly belong to this vol-
ume. It is sufficient to say that, on the
site of Fort Suelling, Minnesota, he held a
<F
— ®
\.
26
HISTOEY OF IOWA.
council with the Sioux, Sept. 23, and ob-
tained from them a grant of 100,000 acres
of land. Jan. 8, 1806, he arrived at a trad-
ing post belonging to the Northwest Com-
pany, on Lake De Sable, in latitude 47 ° .
This company at that time carried on their
immense operations from Hudson's Bay to
the St. Lawrence ; up that river, on both
sides along the great lakes, to the head of
Lake Superior, thence to the sources of the
Red River of the North, and west to the
Rocky Mountains, embracing within the
scope of their operations what was subse-
quently the State of Iowa. After suc-
cessfully accomplishing his mission and
performing a valuable service to the whole
Northwest, Pike returned to St. Louis, ar-
riving there April 30, 1806.
Before the Territory of Iowa could be
open to settlement by the whites, it was
necessary that the Indian title should be
extinguished and the original owners re-
moved. The Territory had been pur-
chased by the United States, but was still
occupied by the Indians, who claimed title
to the soil by right of possession. In
order to accomplish this purpose, large
sums of money were expended, besides the
frontier being disturbed by Indian wars,
terminated repeatedly by treaty, only to
be renewed by some act of oppression on
the part of the whites, or some violation
of treaty stipulation.
When the United States assumed con-
trol of the country, by virtue of the Louis-
iana purchase, nearly the whole State was
in possession of the Sacs and Foxes, a
powerful and warlike nation, who were
not disposed to submit without a struggle
to what they considered the encroachment
of the pale faces. Among the most noted
chiefs, and one whose restlessness and
hatred of the Americans occasioned more
trouble to the Government than any other
of his tribe, was Black Hawk, who was
born at the Sac Village, on Rock river, in
1767. He was simply the chief of his own
band of Sac warriors; but by his energy
and ambition he became the leading spirit
of the united nation of Sacs and Foxes,
and one of the prominent figures in the
history of the country from 1804 till his
death.
In early manhood he attained distinc-
tion as a fighting chief, having led cam-
paigns against the Oeages and other neigh-
boring tribes. About the beginning of
the present century he began to appear
prominent in affairs on the Mississippi.
His life was a marvel. He is said by
some to have been the victim of a narrow
prejudice and bitter ill-will against the
Americans.
Upon the cession of Spain to France, in
1801, it did not give up possession of the
country, but retained it, and by the au-
thority of France transferred it to the
United States in 1804. At that time
Black Hawk and his band were in St.
Louis, and were invited to be present and
witness the transfer; but he refused the
invitation, and it is but just to say that
this refusal was caused probably more
from regret that the Indians were to be
transferred from the jurisdiction of the
Spanish authorities than from any special
hatred toward the Americans. In his life
he says: "I found many sad and gloomy
faces because the United States were about
to take possession of the town and country.
Soon after the Americans came I took my
band and went to take leave of my Spanish
LL
HISTORY OF IOWA.
27
father. The Americans came to see
him also. Seeing them approach, we
passed out of one door as they entered an-
other, and immediately started in our
canoes for our village on Rook river, not
liking the change any better than cur
friends appeared to at St. Louis. On
arriving at our village, we gave the news
that* strange people had arrived at St.
Louis, and that we should never see our
Spanish father again. Tne information
made all our people sorry."
November 3, 1804, a treaty was con-
cluded between William Henry Harrison,
then Governor of Indiana Territory, on
behalf of the United States, and five chiefs
of the Sac and Fox nation, by which the
latter, in consideration of $2,234 worth of
goods then delivered, and a yearly annuity
of $1,000 to be paid in goods at just cost,
ceded to the United States all that land on
the east side of the Mississippi, extending
from a point opposite the Jefferson, in
Missouri, to the Wisconsin river, embra-
cing an area of over 51,000,000 of acres.
To this treaty Black Hawk always objected,
and always refused to consider it binding
upon his people. He asserted that the
chiefs or braves who made it had no au-
thority to relinquish the title of the nation
to any of the lands they held or occu-
pied, and, moreover, that they had been
sent to St. Louis on quite a different
errand, namely: to get one of their people
released, who had been imprisoned at St.
Louis for killing a white man.
In 1805 Lieutenant Pike came up the
river for the purpose of holding friendly
councils with the* Indians and selecting
sites for forts within the territory recently
acquired from France by the United
States. Lieut. Pike seems to have been
the first American whom Black Hawk
ever met or had a personal interview with,
and he seemed very much prepossessed in
his favor. He gives the following account
of his visit to Rock Island: "A boat came
up the river with a young American chief
and a small party of soldiers. We heard
of them soon after we passed Salt river.
Some of our young braves watched them
every day to see what sort of people he
had on board. The boat at length arrived
at Rock river, and the young chief came
on shore with his interpreter, made a
speech and gave us some presents. We
in turn presented him with meat and such
other provisions as we had to spare. We
were well pleased with the young chief;
he gave us good advice, and said our
American father would treat us well."
Fort Edwards was erected soon after
Pike's expedition, at what is now Warsaw,
Illinois, also Fort Madison, on the site of
the present town of that name, the latter
being the first fort erected in Iowa. These
movements occasioned great uneasiness
among the Indians. When work was
commenced on Fort Edwards, a delegation
from their nation, headed by some of their
chiefs, went down to see what the Ameri-
cans were doing, and had an interview
with the commander, after which they
returned home and were apparently satis-
fied. In like manner, when Fort Madison
was being erected, they sent down another
delegation from a council of the nation
held at Rock river. According to Black
Hawk's account, the American chief told
them that he was building a house for a
trader, who was coming to sell them goods
cheap, and that the soldiers were coming
— ®
r^
±=fl±H.
2S
HISTORY OF IOWA.
to keep him company — a statement which
Black Hawk says they distrusted at the
time, believing that the fort was an en-
croachment upon their rights, and designed
to aid it getting their lands away from
them. It is claimed, by good authority,
that the building of Fort Madison was a
violation of the treaty of 18U4. By the
11th article of that treaty, the United
States had a right to build a fort near the
mouth of the Wisconsin river, and by
article 6 they had bound themselves "that
if any citizen of the United States or any
other white persons should form a settle-
ment upon their lands, such intruders
should forthwith be removed." Probably
the authorities of the United States did not
regard the establishment of military posts
as coming properly within the meaning of
the term "settlement" as used in the treaty.
At all events, they erected Fort Madison
within the territory reserved to the Indi-
ans, who became very indignant.
Very soon after the fort was built, a
party led by Black Hawk attempted its
destruction. They sent spies to watch the
movements of the garrison, who ascer-
tained that the soldiers were in the habit
of marching out of the fort every morning
and evening for parade, and the plan of
the party was to conceal themselves near
the fort, and attack and surprise them
when they were outside. On the morning
of the proposed day of the att ck, five
soldiers came out and were fired upon by
the Indians, two of them being killed.
The Indians were too hasty in their move-
ment, for the parade had not commenced.
However, they kept up the attack several
days, attempting the old Fox strategy of
setting fire to the fort with blazing arrows;
but finding their efforts unavailing, they
soon gave up and returned to Rock river.
In 181 2, when war was declared between
this country and Great Britain, Black
Hawk and his band allied themselves, with
the British, partly because he was dazzled
by their specious promises, but more prob-
ably because they were deceived by the
Americans. Black Hawk himself declared
that they were forced into war by being
deceived. He narrates the circumstances
as follows: "Several of the head men and
chiefs of the Sacs and Foxes were called
upon to go to Washingt -n to see their
Great Father. On their return they re-
lated what had been said and done. Th^y
said the Great Father wished them, in the
event of a war taking place with England,
not to interfere on either side, but to re-
main neutral. He did not want our help,
but wished us to bunt and support our
families, and live in peace. He said that
British traders would not be permitted to
come on the Mississippi to furnish us with
goods, but that we should be supplied with
an American trader. Our chiefs then told
him that the British traders always gave
them credit in the fall for guns, powder and
goods, to enable us to hunt and clothe our
families. He repeated that the traders at
Fort Madison would have plenty of goods;
that we should go there in the fall and he
would supply us on credit, as the British
traders had done." Black Hawk seems to
have accepted the proposition, and he and
his people were very much pleased. Act- â–
ing in good faith, they fitted out for their
winter's hunt, and went to Fort Madison
in high spirits to receivt? from the trader
their outfit of supplies; but after waiting
some time, they were told by the trader
1
®Pv
that he would not trust them. In vain
they pleaded the promise of their Great
Father at Washington; the trader was
inexorable. Disappointed and crest fallen,
the Indians turned sadly to their own vil-
lage. Says Black Hawk: "Few of us slept
that night. All was gloom and discon-
tent. In the morning a canoe was seen
ascending the river; it soon arrived bear-
ing an express, who brought intelligence
that a British trader had landed at Rock
Island with two boats filled with goods, and
requested us to come up immediately, be-
cause he had good news for us, and a
variety of presents. The express presented
us with tobacco, pipes and wampum. The
news ran through our camp like fire on a
prairie. Our lodges were soon taken down
and all started for Rock Island. Here
ended all our hopes of remaining at peace,
having been forced into the war by being
deceived." He joined the British, who
flattered him, and styled him "Gen. Black
Hawk," decked him with medals, excited
his jealousy against the Americans, and
armed his band; but he met with defeat
and disappointment, and soon abandoned
the service and came home.
There was a portion of the Sacs and
Foxes, whom Black Hawk, with all his
skill and cunning, could* not lead into hos-
tilities to the United States. With
Keokuk ("The Watchful Fox") at their
head, they were disposed to abide by the
treaty of 1804, and to cultivate friendly
relations with the American people. So,
when Black Hawk and his band joined the
fortunes of Great Britain, the rest of the
nation remained* neutral, and, for protec-
tion, organized with Keokuk for their
chief. Thus, the nation was divided into
the "War and Peace party." Black Hawk
says he was informed, after he had gone to
the war, that the nation, which had been
reduced to so small a body of fighting
men, were unable to defend themselves in
case the Americans should attack them,
and, having all the old men, women and
children belonging to the warriors who
had joined the British, on their hands to
provide for, a council was held, and it was
agreed that Quash-qua-m<5 (The Lance)
and other chiefs, together with the old
men, women and children, and such others
as chose to accompany them, should go to
St Louis and place themselves und* r the
American Chief stationed there. Accord-
ingly they went down, and were received
as the "friendly band" of Sacs and Foxes,
and were provided for and sent up the
Missouri river.
On Black Hawk's return from the
British army, he says Keokuk was intro-
duced to him as the war chief of the
braves then in the village. He inquired
how he had become chief; and was in-
formed that their spies had seen a large
armed force going ^toward Peoria, and
fears were entertained of an attack upon
the village; whereupon a council was held,
which concluded to leave the village, and
cross over to the other side of the Mis-
sissippi, Keokuk had been standing at
the door of the lodge when the council
was held, not being allowed to enter on
account of never having killed an enemy,
where he remained until Wa-co-me came
out. Keokuk asked permission to speak
to the council, -which Wa-co-me obtained
for him. He then addressed the chiefs.
He remonstrated against the desertion
of their village, their own homes, and the
J@ w.
>>
30
HIS10RY OF IOWA.
graves of their fathers, and offered to
defend the village.
The council consented that he should be
their war chief. He marshaled bis braves,
sent out spies, and advanced on the lead-
ing trail to Peoria, but returned without
seeing the enemy. The Americans did
not disturb the village, and all were satis-
fied with the appointment of Keokuk.
Like Black Hawk, he was a descendant of
the Sac branch of the nation, and was born
on Rock river in 1*780. He was of a pacific
disposition, but possessed the elements of
true courage, and could fi.rht when occa-
sion required with cool judgment and
heroic energy. In his first battle he en-
countered and killed a Sioux, which placed
him in the rank of warriors, and he was
honored with a public feast by his tribe
in commemoration of the event.
In person, Keokuk was tall and of portly
bearing. In his public speeches he dis-
played a commanding attitude and grace-
ful gestures. He has been described as
an orator, entitled to rank with the most
gifted of his race. He spoke rapidly, but
his enunciation was • clear, distinct and
forcible; he culled his figures from the
stores of nature, and based his arguments
on skillful logic. Unfortunately for his
reputation as an orator among white people,
he was never able to obtain an interpreter
who could claim even a slight acquaint-
ance with philosophy. . With one excep-
tion only, his interpreters were unac-
quainted with the elements of their
mother tongue. Of this serious hindrance
to his fame he was well aware, and re-
tained Frank Labershure, who had re-
ceived a rudimental education in the French
and English languages, until the latter
broke down by dissipation and died.
Keokuk was thus compelled to submit his
speeches for translation to uneducated
men, whose range of thought fell far
below the flights of a gifted mind, and the
fine imagery drawn from nature was be-
yond their power -of reproduction.
Keokuk had sufficient knowledge of the
English language to make him sensible of
this bad rendering of his thoughts, and
often a feeling of mortification at the
bungling efforts was depicted on his coun-
tenance while speaking. The proper
place to form a correct estimate of his
ability as an orator was in the Indian
council, where he addressed himself ex-
clusively to those who understood his lan-
guage, and witnessed the electrical effect
of his eloquence upon his council. He
seems to have possessed a more sober
judgment, and to have had a more intelli-
gent view of the great strength and re-
sources of the United States, than his
noted and restless cotemporary, Black
Hawk. He knew from the first that the
reckless war which Black Hawk and his
band had determined to carry on could
result in nothing but disaster and defeat,
and he used every argument against it.
The large number of warriors whom he
had dissuaded fromfollowmg Black Hawk
became, however, greatly excited with the
war spirit after Stillman's defeat, and but
for the signal tact displayed by Keokuk on
that occasion, would have forced him to
submit to their wishes in joining the rest
of the warriors in the field. A war dance
was held, and Keokuk took part in it,
seeming to be moved with* the current of
the rising storm. When the dance was
over, he called the council together to pre-
@_
p
HISTORY OF IOWA.
31
pare for war. He made a speech, in which
he admitted the justice of their complaints
against the Americans. To seek redress
was a noble aspiration of their nature.
The blood of their brethren had been shed
by the white man, and the spirits of their
braves, slain in battle, called loudly for
vengeance.
' ; I am your chief," said he, " and it is
my duty to lead you to battle, if after fully
considering the matter you are determined
to go; but before you decide to take this
important step, it is wise to inquire into
the chances of success."
He then portrayed to them the great
power of the United States, against whom
they would have to contend, and thought
their chances of success was utterly hope-
less. 'But," said he, "if you do deter-
mine to go upon the warpath, I will agree
to lead you on one condition — that before
we go we kill our old men and our wives
and children, to save them from a linger-
ing death of starvation, and that every one
of us determine to leave our homes on the
other side of the Mississippi." This was
a strong but truthful picture of the pros-
pect before them, and was presented in
such a forcible light as to cool their ardor
and cause them to abandon their rash
undertaking. From this time there was
no serious troulle with the Indians until
the Black Hawk war.
The treaty of 1S04, between the United
States and the chiefs of the Sac and Fox
nations was never acknowledged by Black
Hawk, and, in 1831, he established him-
self with a chosen band of warriors upon
the disputed territory, ordering the whites
to leave the country at once. The settlers
complaining, Governor Reynolds, of Illi-
nois, dispatched General Gaines with a
company of regulars and 1,500 volunteers
to the scene of action. Taking the Indians
by surprise, the troops burnt their village,
and forced them to conclude a treaty, by
which they ceded all their lands east of
the Mississippi, and agreed to remain on
the west side of the river.
Necessity forced the proud spirit of
Black Hawk into submission, which made
him more than ever determined to be
avenged upon his enemies. Having ral-
lied around him the warlike braves of the
Sac and Fox nations, he recro^sed the Mis
sissippi in the spring of 1832. Upon
hearing of the invasion, Governor Rey-
nolds hastily collected a body of 1,800
volunteers, placing them under command
of Brig.-Gen. Samuel Whiteside.
The army marched to the Mississippi,
and, having reduced to ashes the Indian
village known as " Prophet's Town," pro-
ceeded several miles up Rock river, to
Dixon, to join the regular forces under
Gen. Atkinson. They formed, at Dixon,
two companies of volunteers, who, sighing
for glory, were dispatched to reconnoiter
the enemy. They advanced, under com-
mand of Major Stillman, to a creek after-
wards called "Stillman's run," and, while
encamping there, saw a party of mounted
Indians at a distance of a mile. Several of
Stillman's party mounted their horses and
charged the Indians, killing three of them;
but, attacked by the main body, under
Black Hawk, they were routed, and, by
their precipitate flight, spread such a panic
through the camp that the whole company
ran off to Dixon as fast as their legs could
carry them. On their arrival it was found
that there had been eleven killed. The
T
^
FT
32
HISTORY OF IOWA
party came straggling into camp all night
long, four or five at a time, each squad
positive that all who were left behind were
massacred .
It is said that a big, tall Kentuckian,
with a loud voice, who was a Colonel of the
militia, upon his arrival in camp gave to
Gen. Whiteside and the wondering multi-
tude the following glowing and bombastic
account of the battle:
"Sirs," said, he, "our detachment was
encamped among some scattering timber
on the north side of Old Man's creek, with
the prairie from the north gently sloping
down to our encampment. It was just
after twilight, in the gloaming of the even-
ing, when we discovered Black Hawk's
army coming down upon us in solid column ;
they displayed in the form of a crescent
upon the brow of the prairie, and such
accuracy and precision of military move-
ments were never witnessed by man ; they
were equal to the best troops of Wellington
in Spain. I have said that the Indians
came down in solid columns, and displayed
in the form of a crescent; and, what was
most wonderful, there were large squares
of cavalry resting upon the points of the
curve, which squares were supported again
by other columns fifteen deep, extending
back through the woods and over a swamp
three-quarters of a mile, which again rested
on the main body of Black Hawk's army,
"bivouacked upon the banks of the Kish-
wakee. It was a terrible and a glorious
sight to see the tawny warriors as they
rode along our flanks attempting to out-
flank us, with the glittering moonbeams
glistening from their polished blades and
burning spears. It was a sight well calcu-
lated to strike consternation in the stoutest
and boldest heart; and, accordingly, our
men soon began to break, in small squads,
for tall timber.
"In a very little time the rout became
general, the Indians were soon upon our
flanks, and threatened the destruction of
our entire detachment. About this time
Maj. Stillman, Col. Stephenson, Maj. Per-
kins, Capt. Adams, Mr. Hackelton and my-
self, with some others, threw ourselves into
the rear to rally the fugitives and protect
the retreat. But in a short time all my
companions fell bravely fighting hand-to-
hand with the savage enemy, and I alone
was left upon the field of battle About
this time I discovered not far to the left a
corps of horsemen, which seemed to be in
tolerable order. I immediately deployed
to the left, when, leaning down and placing
my body in a recumbent posture upon the
mane of my horse, so as to bring the heads
of the horsemen between my eye and the
horizon, I discovered, by the light of the
moon, that they were gentlemen who did
not wear hats, by which token I knew they
were no friends of mine, I therefore made
a retrograde movement, and recovered my
position, where I remained some time, in
thinking what further I could do for my
country, when a random ball came whist-
ling by my ear, and plainly whispered to
me, 'Stranger, you have no further busi-
ness here.' Upon hearing this, I followed
the example of my companions-in-arms,
and broke for tall timber, and the way I
ran was not a little."
For a long time afterward Maj. Stillman
and his men were subjects of ridicule and
merriment, which was as undeserving as
their expedition was disastrous. Still-
man's defeat spread consternation through-
Tv
$£*.
HISTORY OF IOWA.
33
out the State and nation. The number of
Indians was greatly exaggerated, and the
name of Black Hawk carried with it asso-
ciations of great military talent, savage
cunning and cruelty.
A regiment sent to spy out the country
between Galena and Rock Island, was sur-
prised by a party of seventy Indians, and
was on the point of being thrown into dis-
order, when Gen. Whiteside, then serving
as a private, shouted out that he would
shoot the first man who turned his back on
the enemy. Order being restored, the bat-
tle began. At its very outset Gen. White-
side shot the leader of the Indians, who
thereupon commenced a hasty retreat.
In June, 1832, Black Hawk, with a band
of one hundred and fifty warriors, attacked
the Apple River Fort, near Galena, de-
fended by twenty-five men. This fort, a
mere palisade of logs, was erected to afford
protection to the miners. For fifteen con-
secutive hours the garrison had to sustain
the assault of the savage enemy; but,
knowing very well that no quarter would
be given them, they fought with such fury
and desperation that the Indians, after
losing many of their warriors, were com-
pelled to retreat.
Another party of eleven Indians mur-
dered two men near Fort Hamilton. They
were afterward overtaken by a company
of twenty men, and every one of them
killed.
A new regime: - 1, under the command of
Gen. Atkinson, assembled on the banks of
the Illinois, in the latter part of June.
Major Dement, with a small party, was
sent out to reconnoiter the movements of
a large body of Indians, whose endeavors
to surround him made it advisable for him
to retire. Upon hearing of this engage-
ment, Gen Atkinson sent a detachment to
intercept the Indians, while he with the
main body of his army, moved north to
meet the Indians under Black Hawk.
They moved slowly and cautiously through
the country, pissed through Turtle Vil-
lage, and marched up along R.>ok river.
On their arrival. news was brought of the
discovery of the main trail of the Indians.
Considerable search was made, but they
were unable to discover any vestige of In-
dians, save two, who had shot two soldiers
the day previous.
Hearing that Black Hawk was encamped
on Rock River, at the Manitou village,
they resolved at once to advance upon the
enemy, but in the execution of their de-
sign they met with opposition from their
officers and men. The officers of Gen.
Henry handed to him a written protest;
but he, a man equal to any emergency,
ordered the officers to be arrested and
escorted to Gen. Atkinson. Within a few
minutes after the stern order was given,
the officers all collected around the Gen-
eral's quarters, many of them with tears in
their eyes, pledging themselves that if for-
given they would return to duty and never
do the like again. The General rescinded
the order, and they at once resumed duty.
THE BATTLE OF BAD-AXE.
Gen. Henry marched, on the 15th of
July, in pursuit of the Indians, reaching
Rock river after three days' journey, where
he learned Black Hawk was encamped
further up the river. On July 19 the
troops were ordered to commence their
march. After having made 50 miles, they
® *r
34
HISTORY OF IOWA.
were overtaken by a terrible thunder
storm, which lasted all night. Nothing
cooled, however, in their courage and zeal,
they marched again 50 miles the next day,
encamping near the place where the In-
dians encamped the night before Hurrying
along as fast as they could, the infantry
keeping up an equal pace with the mounted
force, the troops, on the morning of the
2 « st, crossed the river connecting two of
the four lakes, by which the Indians had
been endeavoring to escape. They found,
on their way, the ground strewn with ket-
tles and articles of baggage, which, in the
haste of retreat, the Indians were obliged
to throw away. The troops, inspired with
new ardor, advanced so rapidly that at
noon they fell in with the rear guard of
the Indians. Those who closely pursued
them were saluted by a sudden fire of
musketry from a body of Indians who had
concealed them elves in the high grass of
the prairie. A most desperate charge was
made upon the Indians, who, unable to
resist, retreated obliquely in order to out-
flank the volunteers on the right; but the
latter charged the Indians in their ambush
and expelled them from their thickets at
the point of the bayonet, and dispersed
them. Night set in and the battle ended,
having cost the Indians sixty-eight of their
bravest men, while the loss of the Illinois-
ans amounted to but one killed and eight
wounded.
Soon after this battle, Gens. Atkinson
and Henry joined their forces and pursued
the Indians. Gen. Henry struck the main
trail, left his horses behind, formed an
advance guard of eight men, and marched
forward upon their trail. When these
eight men came within sight of the river,
they were suddenly fired upon, and five of
them killed, the remaining three maintain-
ing their ground till Gen. Henry came up.
Then the Indians, charged upon with the
bayonet, fell back upon their main force;
the battle now became general; the In-
dians fought with desperate valor, but
were furiously assailed by the volunteers
with their bayonets, cutting many of the
Indians to pieces and driving the rest into
the river. Those who escaped from being
drowned found refuge on an island. On
hearing the frequent discharge of mus-
ketry, indicating a general engagement,
Gen. Atkinson abandoned the pursuit of
the twenty Indians under Black Hawk
himself, and hurried to the scene of action,
where he arrived too late to take part in
the battle. He immediately forded the
river with his troops, the water reaching
up to their necks, and landed on the island
where the Indians had secreted them-
selves. The soldiers rushed upon the
Indians, killed several of them, took the
others prisoners, and chased the rest into the
river, where they were either drowned or
shot before reaching the opposite shore.
Thus ended the battle, the Indians losing
three hundred, besides fifty prisoners; the
whites, but seventeen killed and twelve
wounded.
Black Hawk, with his twenty braves,
retreated up the Wisconsin river. The
Winnebagos, desirous of securing the
friendship of the whites, went in pursuit
and captured and delivered them to Gen.
Street, the United States Indian Agent.
Among the prisoners were the son of
Black Hawk and the prophet of the tribe.
These, with Black Hawk, were taken to
•* — T\
HISTORY OF IOWA.
35
Washington, D. C, and soon consigned
as prisoners at Fortress Monroe.
At the interview Black Hawk had with
the President, he closed his speech deliv-
ered on the occasion in the following
words: "We did not expect to conquer
the whites. They have too many houses,
too many men. I took up the hatchet, for
my part, to revenge injuries which my
people could no longer endure. Had I
borne them longer without striking, my
people would have said: 'Black Hawk is a
woman; he is too old to be a chief; he is
no Sac.' These reflections caused me to
raise the war-whoop. I say no more. It
is known to you. Keokuk once was here;
you took him by the hand, and when he
wished to return to his home, you were
willing. Black Hawk expects, like Keo
kuk, he shall be permitted to return, too."
By order of the President, Black Hawk
and his companions, who were in confine-
ment at Fortress Monroe, were set free on
the 4th day of June, 1833.
After their release from prison they
were conducted in charge of Major Gar-
land, through some of the principal cities,
that they might witness the power of the
United States and learn their own inability
to cope with them in war. Great multi-
tudes flocked to see them wherever they
were taken, and the attention paid them
rendered their progress through the coun-
try a triumphal procession, instead of the
transportation of prisoners by an officer.
At Rock Island the prisoners were given
their liberty amid great and impressive
ceremony. In 1838 Black Hawk built him
a dwelling near Des Moines, this State,
and furnished it after the manner of the
whites, and engaged in agricultural pur-
suits and hunting and fishing. Here, with
his wife, to whom he was greatly attached,
he passed the few remaining days of his
life. To his credit, it may be said that
Black Hawk remained true to his wife,
and served her with a devotion uncommon
among Indians, living with her upward of
forty years.
At all times when Black Hawk visited
the whites he was received with marked
attention. He was an honored guest at
the old settlers' reunion in Lee county,
Illinois, at some of their meetings, and
received marked tokens of esteem. In
September, 1838, while on his way to
Rock Island to receive his annuity from
the Government, he contracted a severe
cold, which resulted in a severe attack of
bilious fever, and terminated his life Oct.
3. After his death he was dressed in the
uniform presented to him by the President
while in Washington. He was buried in a
grave six feet in depth, situated upon a
beautiful eminence. The body was placed
in the middle of the grave, in a sitting
position upon a seat constructed for the
purpose. On his left side the cane given
him by Henry Clay was placed upright,
with his right hand resting upon it. His
remains were afterwards stolen and car-
ried away, but they were recovered by the
Governor of Iowa, and placed in the
museum of the Historical Society at Bur-
lington, where they were finally destroyed
by fire.
ip*
£<
36
HISTORY OF IOWA.
CHAPTER III.
INDIAN TREATIES.
As has already been stated, all Iowa was
in actual possession of the Indians when
purchased by the United States Govern-
ment, and for purposes of settlement by
the whites, could only be obtained by
forcible ejectment or re-purchase from
those inhabiting the country. This was
effected in a series of treaties and pur-
chases, of which a synopsis is given:
The territory known as the "Black
Hawk Purchase," although not the first
portion of Iowa ceded to the United States
by the Sacs and Foxes, was the first opened,
to actual settlement by the tide of emi-
gration which flowed across the Missis-
sippi as soon as the Indian title was
extinguished. The treaty which provided
for this cession was made at a council held
on the west bank of the Mississippi, where
now stands the thriving city of Davenport,
on ground now occupied by the Chicago,
Rock Island & Pacific R. R. Co , Sept. 21,
1832. This was just after the "Black
Hawk War," and the defeated savages had
retired from east of the Mississippi. At
the council the Government was repre-
sented by Gen. Winfield Scott and Gov.
Reynolds, of Illinois. Keokuk, Pashapaho
and some thirty other chiefs and warriors
were present. By this treaty the Sacs and
Foxes ceded to the United States a strip
of land on the eastern border of Iowa, fifty
miles wide, from the northern boundary of
Missouri to the mouth of the Upper Iowa
river, containing about 6,000,000 acres.
The western line of the purchase was
parallel with the Mississippi. In consider-
ation of this cession, the United States
Government stipulated to pay annually to
the confederated tribes, for thirty con-
secutive years, $20,000 in specie, and. to
pay the debts of the Indians at Rock
Island, which had been accumulating for
seventeen years, and amounted to $50,000,
due to Davenport & Farnham, Indian
traders. The Government also generously
donated to the Sac and Fox women and
children whose husbands and fathers had
fallen in the Black Hawk War, 35 beef
cattle, 12 bushels of salt, 30 barrels of
pork, 50 barrels of flour, and 6,000 bushels
of corn.
The treaty was ratified February 13,
1833, and took effect on the 1st of June
following, when the Indians quietly re-
moved from the ceded territory, and this
fertile and beautiful region was opened to
white settlers.
By terms of the treaty, out of the Black
Hawk purchase was reserved for the Sacs
and Foxea 400 square miles of land, sit-
uated on the Iowa River, and including
within its limits Keokuk village, on the
right bank of that river. This tract was
known as Keokuk's reserve, and was occu-
pied by the Indians until 1836, when, by
©
f |
^
HISTORY OF IOWA.
37
a treaty made in September between them
and Got. Dodge, of Wisconsin Territory,
it was ceded to the United States. The
council was held on the banks of the Mis-
sissippi, above Davenport, and was the
largest assemblage of the kind ever held by
the Sacs and Foxes to treat for the sale of
lands. About one thousand of their chiefs
and braves were present, and Keokuk was
the leading spirit of the occasion, and
their principal speaker.
By the terms of this treaty, the Sacs
and Foxes were removed to another reser-
vation on the Des Moines river, where an
agency was established at what is now the
town of Agency City. The Government
also gave out of the Black Hawk purchase
to Antoine LeClare, interpreter, in fee
simple, one sectiun of land opposite Rock
Island, and another at the head of the first
rapids above the island on the Iowa side.
This was the first land title granted by
the United States to an individual in Iowa.
Gen. Joseph M. Street established an
agency among the Sacs and Foxes very
soon after the removal of the latter to their
new reservation. He was transferred from
the agency of the Winnebagos for this
purpose. A tarm was selected, upon which
the necessary buildings were erected, in-
cluding a comfortable farm house for the
agent and his family, at the expense of the
Indian fund. A salaried agent was em-
ployed to superintend the farm and dispose
of the crops. Two mills were erected —
one on Soap creek, and the other on Sugar
creek. The latter was soon swept away
by a flood, but the former remained and
did good service for many years.
Connected with the agency were Joseph
Smart and John Goodell, interpreters. The
latter was interpreter for Hard Fishes'
band. Three of the Indian chiefs — Keo-
kuk, Wapello and Appanoose — had each
a large field improved, the two former on
the right bank of the Des Moines, back
from the river, in what is now " Keokuk's
Prairie," and the latter on the present
site of the city of Ottumwa. Among the
traders connected with their agency were
the Messrs. Ewing, from Ohio, and Phelps
& Co , from Illinois, and also J. P. Eddy,
who established his post at what is now
the site of Eddyville. The Indians at this
agency became idle and listless in the ab-
sence of their natural and wonted excite-
ments, and many of them plunged into
dissipation. Keokuk himself became dis-
sipated in the latter years of his life, and
it has been reported that he died of de-
lirium tremens after his removal with his
tribe to Kansas. On May, 1S43, most of
the Indians were removed up the Des
Moines river, above the temporary line of
Red Rock, having ceded the remnant of
their lands in Iowa to the United States,
Sept. 21, 1837, and Oct. 11, 1842. By the
terms of the latter treaty, they held pos-
session of the "New Purchase" till the
autumn of 1845, when most of them were
removed to their reservation in Kansas,
the balance being removed in 1846.
Before any permanent settlement was
made in the Territory of Iowa, white ad-
venturers, trappers and traders, many of
whom were scattered along the Mississippi
and its tributaries, as agents and employes
of the American Fur Company, intermar-
ried with the females of the Sac and Fox
Indians, producing a race of half-breeds,
whose number was never definitely ascer-
tained. There were some respectable and
te
38
HISTORY OF IOWA.
excellent people among them, children of
some refinement and education. For in-
stance: Dr. Muir, a gentleman educated at
Edinburg, Scotland, a Surgeon in the
United States Armv, stationed at a mili-
tary post located on the present site of
Warsaw, married an Indian woman, and
reared his family of three daughters in the
city of Keokuk. Other examples might
be cited, but they are probably exceptions
to the general rule, and the race is now
nearly or quite extinct in Iowa.
August 4, 1824, a treaty was made be-
tween the United States and the Sacs and
Foxes, by which that portion c f Lee county
was reserved to the half-breeds of those
tribes, and which was afterward known as
the " half-breed tract." This reservation
is the triangular piece of land containing
about 119,000 acres, lying between the
Mississippi and the Des Moines rivers. It
is bounded on the north by the prolonga-
tion of the northern line of Missouri. This
line was intended to be a straight one, run-
ning due east, which would have caused it
to strike the Mississippi river at or below
Montrose; but the surveyor who run it took
no notice of the change in the variation of
the needle, as he proceeded eastward, and,
in consequence, the line he run was bent,
deviating more and more to the northward
of a direct line as he approached the Mis-
sissippi river, so that it struck that river at
the lower edge of the town of Fort Madi-
"This erroneous line," says Judge
son.
Mason, "has been acquiesced in as well in
fixing the northern limit of the half-breed
tract as in determining the northern
boundary line of the State of Missouri."
The line thus run included in the reserva-
tion a portion of the lower part of the city
of Fort Madison, and all of the present
townships of Van Buren, Charleston, Jef-
ferson, Des Moines, Montrose and Jackson.
Under the treaty of 1824, the half-breeds
had the right to occupy the soil, but could
not convey it, the reversion being reserved
to the United States. But January 30th,
1843, by act of Congress, this reversionary
right was relinquished, and the half-breeds
acquired the Ian Is in fee simple. This no
sooner done than a horde of speculators
rushed in to buy land of the half-breed
owners, and, in many instances, a gun,
blanket, a pony or a few quarts of whisky
was sufficient for the purchase of large
estates. There was a deal of sharp prac-
tice on both sides. Indians would often
claim ownership of land by virtue of being
half-breeds, and had no difficulty in prov-
ing their mixed blood by the Indians, and
they would cheat the speculators by selling
land to which they had no rightful title.
On the other hand, speculators often
claimed land in which they had no owner-
ship. It was diamond cut diamond, until
at last things became badly mixed-. There
were no authorized surveys, and no boun
dary lines to claim, and, as a natural
result, numerous conflicts and quarrels
ensued.
January 16, 1838, Edward Johnstone,
Thomas S. Wilson and David Brigham
were appointed commissioners by the Wis-
consin Legislature, clothed with power to
settle their difficulties, and to decide upon
the validity of claims, or sell them for the
benefit of the real owners. The act pro-
vided that these commissioners should be
paid six dollars a day each. The commis-
sion entered upon its duties, and continued
until the next session of the Legislature,
<&-
HISTORY OF IOWA.
39
when the act creating it was repealed, in-
validating all that had been done, and
depriving the commissioners of their pay.
The repealing act, however, authorized the
commissioners to commence action against
the owners of the half-breed tract, to re-
ceive pay for their services in the District
of Lee county. Two judgements were
obtained, and on execution the whole tract
was sold to Hugh T. Reid, the sheriff exe-
cuting the deed. Mr. Reid sold portions
of it to various parties; but his own title
was questioned, and he became involved
in litigation. Decisions in favor of Reid
and those holding under him were made
by both District and Supreme Courts; but
in December, 1850, these decisions were
finally reversed by the Supreme Court of
the United States, in the case of Joseph
Web -iter, plaintiff in error, vs. Hugh T.
Reid, nnd judgement titles failed.
About nine years before the judgement
titles were finally abrogated as above,
another class of titles were brought into
competition with them, and, in the conflict
between the two, the final decision was
obtained. These were the titles based on
the "decree of partition" issued by the
United States District Court for the Ter-
ritory of Iowa, May 8, 1841, and certified
to by the clerk on the 2d day of June of
the same year. Edward Johnstone and
Hugh T. Reid, then law partners at Fort
Madison, fib d the petition for the decree
in behalf of the St. Louis claimants of
half-breed lands. Francis S. Key, author
of the Star-Spangled Banner, who was
then attorney for the New York Land
Company, which held heavy interests in
these lands, took a leading part in the
measure, and drew up the documents in
which it was presented to the court.
Judge Charles Mason, of Burlington, pre-
sided. The plan of partition divided the
the tract into 101 shares, and arranged that
each claimant should draw his proportion
by lot, and should abide the result, what-
ever it might be. The arrangement was
entered into, the lots drawn, and the plat
of the same filed in the Recorder's office,
October 6, 1S41. Upon this basis the titles
to the land in the Half-B.eed Tract are
now held.
We subjoin a synopsis of the different
treaties male with the Indians of Iowa:
1. Treaty with the Sioux. — Made July
15, 1815; ratified December 16, 1815. This
treaty was made at Portage des Sioux of
Minnesota and Upper Iowa, and the United
States, by William Clark and Ninian Ed-
wards, Commissioners, and was merely a
treatise of peace and friendship on the
part of these Indians toward the Unitei
States at the close of the war of 1812.
2. Treaty with the Sacs. — A similar
treaty of peace was made at Portage des
Sioux, between the United States and the
Sacs, by William Clark, Ninian Edwards
and Auguste Cboteau, on the 13th of Sep-
tember, 1815, and ratified at the same date
as the abDve. In this the treaty of 1804
was re-affirmed, and the Sacs here repre-
sented promised for themselves and their
bands to keep entirely separate from the
Sacs of Roc'c river, who, under Black
Hawk, had joined the British in the war
just then closed.
3. Treaty with the Foxes. — A separate
treaty of peace was made with the Foxes
at Portage des Sioux, by the same commis-
sioners, on the 14th of September, 1815,
and ratified the same as the ab >ve, wherein
is
Jk.
@_
40
HISTORY OF IOWA.
the Foxes re-affirmed the treaty of St. Louis,
of November 3d, 1804, and agreed to de-
liver up all their prisoners to the officer in
command at Fort Clark, now Peoria, Illi-
nois.
4. Treaty with the Ioicas. — A treaty of
peace and mutual good-will was made
between the United States and the Iowa
tribe of Indians, at Portage des Sioux, by
the same commissioners as above, on the
16th of September, 1815, at the close of the
war with Great Britain, and ratified at the
same date as the others.
5. Treaty io>'th the Sacs of Hock
River. — Made at St. Louis, on the 13th of
May, 1816, between the United States and
the Sacs of Rock river, by the Commis-
sioners, William Clark, Ninian Edwards
and Auguste Choteau, and ratified Dec. 30,
1816. In this treaty that of 1804 was re-
established and enforced by the chiefs and
head men of the Sacs of Rock river, and
Black Hawk himself attached to it his sig-
nature, or, as he said, "touched the goose-
quill."
6. Treaty of 1824.— On the 4th of
August, 1824, a treaty was made between
the United States and the Sacs and Foxes, in
the city of Washington, by William Clark,
Commissioner, wherein the Sac and Fox
nations relinquished their title to all lands
in Missouri, and that portion of the south-
east corner of Iowa known as the "half-
breed tract" was set off and reserved for
the use of the half breeds of the Sacs and
Foxes, they holding title in the same man-
ner as Indians. Ratified Jan. 18, 1825.
1. Treaty of August 19, 1825.— At this
date a treaty was made by William Clark
and Lewis Cass, at Prairie du Chien, be-
tween the United States and the Chippe-
was, Sacs and Foxes, Menominees, Winne-
bagos, and a portion of the Ottawas and
Potawatomies. In this treaty, in order
make peace between the contending tribes
as to the limits of their respective hunting
grounds in Iowa, it was agreed that the
United States Government should run a
boundary line between the Sioux, on the
north, and the Sacs and Foxes on the south,
as follows :
Commencing at the mo.uth of the Upper
Iowa river, on the west bank of the Mis-
sissippi, and ascending said Iowa river to
its west fork; thence up the fork to its
source; thence crossing the fork of Red
Cedar river in a direct line to the lower
fork of the Calumet river, and down that
fork to its junction with the Missouri river.
8. Treaty of 1830.— On the 15th of
July, 1830, the confederate tribes of the
Sacs and Foxes ceded to the United States
a strip of country lying south of the above
line, twenty miles in width, and extending
along the line aforesaid from the Missis-
sippi to the Des Moines river. The Sioux
also, whose possessions were north of the
line, ceded to the Government, in the same
treaty, a strip on the north side of the
boundary. Thus the United States, at the
ratification of this treaty, February 24,
1831, came into possession of a portion of
Iowa forty miles wide, extending along
the Clarke and Cass line of 1825, from the
Mississippi to the Des Moines river. This
territory was then known as the "Neutral
Ground," and the tribes on either side of
the line were allowed to fish and hunt on
it unmolested until it was rqade a Winne-
bago reservation, and the Winnebagos
were removed to it in 1841.
( 3 â–
HISTORY OF IOWA.
41
9. Treaty with the Sacs and Foxes and
other tribes. — At the same time of the
above treaty respecting the "Neutral
Ground" (July 15, 1830), the Sacs and
Foxes, Western Sioux, Oniahas, Iowas and
Missouris ceded to the United States a por-
tion of the western slope of Iowa, the
boundaries of which were defined as fol-
lows: Beginning at the upper fork of the
Des Moines river, and passing the sources
of the Little Sioux and Floyd rivers, to the
bank of the first creek that falls into 'he
Big Sioux, or Calumet, on the easx side;
thence down said creek and the Calumet
river to the Missouri river; thence down
said Missouri river to the Missouri State
line above the Kansas; thence along said
line to the northwest corner of said State;
thence to the high lands between the
waters falling into the Missouri and Des
Moines, passing to said high lands along
the dividing ridge between the forks of
the Grand river; thence along said high
lands or ridge separating the waters of the
Missouri from those of the Des Moines, to
a point opposite the source of the Boyer
river, and thence in a direct line to the
upper fork of the Des Moines, the place of
beginning.
It was understood that the lands ceded
anil relinquished by this treaty were to be
assigned and allotted, under the direction
of the President of the United States, to
the tribes then living thereon, or to such
other tribes as the President might locate
thereon for hunting and other purposes.
In consideration of three tracts of land
ceded in this treaty, the United States
agreed to pay to the Sacs $3,000; to the
Foxes, $3,000; to the Sioux, $ -2,000; to the
Yankton and Santee bands of Sioux, $3,000;
to the Omahas, $1,500; and to the Ottoea
and Missouris, $-j, 500— to be paid annually
for ten successive years. In addition to
these annuities, the Government agreed to
furnish some of the tribes with b'ack-
smiths and agricultural implements to the
amount of $200, at the expense of the
United States, and to set apart $3,000 an-
nually for the education of the children of
these tribes. It does not appear that any
fort was erected in this territory prior to
the erection of Fort Atkinson on the Neu-
tral Ground in 184u-'4l.
This treaty was made by William Clark,
Superintendent of Indian Affairs, and Col.
Willoughby Morgan, of the United States
First Infantry, and came into effect by
proclamation, February 24, 1831.
10. Treaty with the Winnebagos. —
Made at Fort Armstrong, Rock Island,
September 15th, 1832, by General Winfield
Scott and Hon. John Reynolds, Governor
of Illinois. In this treaty the Winne-
bagos ceded to the United States all their
land lying on the east side of the Missis-
sippi, and in part consideration therefor
the United States granted to the Winne-
bagos, to be held as other Indian lands
are held, that portion of Iowa known as
the Neutral Grounds The exchange of
the two tracts of country was to take place
on or before the 1st day of June, 1833. In
addition to the Neutral Grounds, it was
stipulated that the United States should
give the Winnebagos, beginning in Sep-
tember, 1833, and continuing for twenty-
seven euccessive years, $10,000 in specie,
and establish a school among them with a
farm and garden, and provide other facili-
ties for the education of their chi dren, not
to exceed in cast $3,000' a year, and to con-
-5 L_
42
HISTORY OF IOWA.
tinue the same twenty-seven successive
years. Six agriculturists, twelve yoke of
oxen, and plows and other farming tools
were to be supplied by the Government.
11. Treaty o/1832 with the Sacs and
Foxes. — Already mentioned as the Black
Hawk purchase.
12. Treaty of 1836 with the Sacs and
Foxes. — Ceding Keokuk's reserve to the
United States, for which the Government
stipulated to pay $30,000, and an annuity
of 110,000 for ten successive years, to-
gether with other sums and debts of the
Indians to various parties.
13. Treaty of 1837.— On the 21st of
October, 1837, a treaty was made at the
city of Washington, between Carey A.
Harris, Commissioner of Indian Affairs,
and the confederate tribes of Sacs and
Foxes, ratified February 21, 1838, wherein
another slice of the soil of Iowa was ob-
tained, described in the treaty as follows:
"A tract of country containing 1,250,000
acres, lying west and adjoining the tract
conveyed by them to the United States in
the treaty of September 21, 1832. It is
understood that the points of termination
for the present cession shall be the north-
ern and southern points of tract as fixed
by the survey made under the authority of
the United States, and that a line shall be
drawn between them so as to intersect a
line extended westwardly from the angle
of said tract nearly opposite to Rock Island,
as laid down in the above survey, so far as
may be necessary to include the number of
acres hereby ceded, which last mentioned
line, it is estimated, will be about twenty-
five miles."
This piece of land was about twenty-five
miles in the middle, and ran off to a point
at both ends, lying directly back to the
Black Hawk purchase, and of the same
length.
14. Treaty of Relinquishment. — At the
same date as the above treaty, in the city
of Washington, Carey A. Harris, Commis-
sioner, the Sacs and Foxes ceded to tl e
United States all their right and interest
in the country lying south of the boundary
line between the Sacs, Foxes and Sioux, as
described in the treaty of August 19, 1825,
and between the Missouri and Mississippi
rivers, the United Slates paying for the
same $160,000, The Indians also gave up
all claims and interests under the treaties
previously made with them, for the satis-
faction of which no appropriations had
been made.
15. Treaty of 1842.— The last treaty
was made with the Sacs and Foxes October
II, 1842; ratified March 23, 1843. It was
made at the Sac and Fox agency (Agency
City), by John Chambers, Commissioner
on behalf of the United States. In this
treaty the Sac and Fox Indians ceded to
the United States all their lands west of
the Mississippi to which they had any
claim or title. By the terms of this treaty
they were to be removed from the country
at the expiration of three years, and all
who remained after that were to move at
their own expense. Part of them were
removed to Kansas in the fall of 1845, and
the rest the spring following.
HISTORY OF IOWA.
43
CHAPTER IV.
EARLY SETTLEMENTS.
The first permanent settlement made by
whites within the limits of Iowa, was by
Julien Dubuque, in 1788, when, with a small
party of miners, he settled on the site of
the city that now bears his name, where he
lived until his death, in 1810. What was
known as the Girard settlement, in Clayton
county, was made by some parties prior to
the commencement of the present century.
It consisted of three cabins, in 1805. Louis
Honori settled on the site of the present
town of Montrose, probably in 1799, and
resided thereuntil 1805, when his property
passed into other hands. Indian traders
had established themselves at various points
at an early date. Mr. Johnson, an agent
of the American Fur Company, had a
trading post below Burlington, where he
carried on traffic with the Indians some-
time before the United States purchased
Louisiana. In 1820, LeMoliese, a French
trader, had a station at what is now San-
dusky, six miles above Keokuk, in Lee
county. The same year, a cabin was built
where the city of Keokuk now stands, by
Dr. Samuel C. Muir, a surgeon in the
United States Army. His marriage and
subsequent life were very romantic. While
stationed at a military post on the Upper
Mississippi, the post was visited by a beau-
tiful Indian maiden — whose native name,
unfortunately, has not been preserved —
who, in her dreams, had seen a white brave
unmoor his canoe, paddle it across the
river, and come directly to her lodge. She
felt assured, according to the superstitious
belief of her race, that in her dreams she
had seen her future husband, and had come
to the fort to find him. Meeting Dr. Muir,
she instantly recognized him as the hero of
her dream, which, with childlike innocence
and simplicity, she related to him. Her
dream was indeed prophetic. Charmed
with Sophia's beauty, innocence and devo-
tion, the doctor honorably married her; but
after awhile the sneers and gibes of his
brother officers — less honorable than he,
perhaps — made him feel ashamed of his
dark-skinned wife, and when his regiment
was ordered down the river to Bellefon-
taine, it is said he embraced the opportu-
nity to rid himself of her, never expecting
to see her again, and little dreaming that
she would have the courage to follow him.
But, with her infant chiid, this intrepid
wife and mother started alone in her canoe,
and after many days of weary labor an 1 a
lonely journey of 900 miles, she at last
reached him. She afterward remarked,
when speaking of this toilsome journey
down the river in search of her husband:
"When I got there I was all perished
away — so thin !" The doctor, touched by
such unexampled devotion, took her to his
heart, and ever after, until his death, treat-
ed her with marked respect. She always
;rt
i r=>
44
HISTORY OF IOWA.
presided at his table with grace and dig-
nity, but never abandoned her native style
of dress. In 1819-'20 he was stationed at
Fort Edward, now Warsaw, but the sense-
less ridicule of some of his brother officers
on account of his Indian wife induced him
to resign his commission. He then built
a cabin, as above stated, where Keokuk is
now situated, and made a claim to some
land. This claim he leased to Otis Rey-
nolds and John Culver, of St Louis, and
went to La Pointe (afterward Galena),
where he practiced his profession for ten
years, when he returned to Keokuk. His
Indian wife bore to him four children —
Louise, James, Mary and Sophia. Dr.
Muir died suddenly of cholera, in 1832,
but left his property in such a condition
that it was soon wasted in vexatious liti-
gation, and his brave and faithful wife, left
friendless and penniless, became discour-
aged, and, with her two younger children,
disappeared. It is said she returned to her
people, on the Upper Missouri.
The gentleman who had '.eased Dr.
Muir's claim at Keokuk, subsequently em-
ployed as their agent Moses Stillwel), who
arrived with his family in 1828, and took
possession. His brothers in-law, Amos and
Valencourt Van Ansdal, came with him
and settled near. Mr. Stillwell's daughter
Margaret (afterward Mrs. Ford), was born
in 1831 at the foot of the rapids, called by
the Indians Puckashetuck. She was prob-
ably the first white American child born
in Iowa.
In 1829 Dr. Isaac Gallaud made a set-
tlement on the Lower Rapids, at what is
now Nashville. The same year James S.
Langworthy, who had been engaged in
lead mining at Galena since 1824, resolved
to visit the Dubuque mines. The lead
mines in the Dubuque region were an
object of great interest to the miners about
Galena, for they were known to be rich in
lead ore. To explore these mine's, and to
obtain permission to work them was there-
fore eminently desirable. Crossing the
Mississippi at a point now known as Dun-
leith, in a canoe, and swimming his horse
by his side, he landed on the spot known
as the Jones Street Levee. Before him
was spread out a beautiful prairie, on
which the city of Dubuque now stands.
Two miles south, at the mouth of Catfish
creek, was a village of Sacs and Foxes.
Thither Mr, Langworthy proceeded, and
was well received by the natives. He
endeavored to obtain permission from
them to mine in their hills; but this they
refused. He, however, succeeded in gain-
ing the confidence of the chief to such an
extent as to be allowed to travel in the
interior for three weeks, and explore the
country. He employed two young Indians
as guides, and traversed in different direc-
tions the whole region lying between the
Maqu keta and Turkey rivers. He re-
turned to the village, secured the good will
of the Indians, and, returning to Galena,
formed plans for future operations, to be
executed as soon as the circumstances
would permit. In the following year, with
his brother, Lucius H., and others, having
obtained the consent of the Indians, Mr.
Langworthy crossed the Mississippi and
commenced mining in the vicinity around
Dubuque.
Although these lands had been pur-
chased from France, they were not in the
actual posession of the United States.
The Indian titles had not been ex-
— vs
4^
HISTORY OF IOWA.
45
tinguished, and these adventurous pers us
were beyond the limits of any State or
Territorial government. The first settlers
were therefore obliged to be their own
law-makers, and to agree to such regula-
tions as the exegencies of the case de-
manded. The first act resembling civil
legislation in Iowa was done by the miners
.at this point, in June, 1830. They met on
the bank of the river, by the side of an old
cottonwood drift log, at what is now the
Jones Street Leevee, Dubuque, and elected
a committee, consisting of J. C. Lang-
worthy, H F. Lander, James McPhetres,
Samuel Scales and E. M. Wren. This may
be called the first Legislature in Iowa, the
members of which gathered around that
old cottonwood log, and agreed to and re-
ported the following, written by Mr. Ling-'
worthy, on a half sheet of coarse, ui.ruled
paper, the old log being the writing desk:
"We, a committee, having been chosen
to draft certain rules and regulations
(laws), by which we, as miners, will be
governed, and, having duly considered the
subject, do unanimously agree that we will
be governed by the regulations on the east
side of the Mississippi river, with the fol-
lowing exceptions, to-wit:
Article I. That each and every man
shall hold two hundred yards square of
ground by working said ground one day
in six."
'•Article II. We further agree that
there shall be chosen by the majority of
the miners present, a person who shall hold
this article, and who shall grant letters of
arbitration on application having been
made, and that said letters of arbitration
shall be obligatory on the parties so apply-
ing."
The report was accepted by the miners
present, who elected Dr Jarote in ace >rd-
ance with article second. Here, then, we
have, in 1830, a primitive Legislature
elected by the people, the law drafted by
it being submitted to the people for ap-
proval, and under it Dr. Jarote was elected
first Governor. And the laws thus enacted
were as promptly obeyed as any have been
since.
After this, the miners, who had thus
erected an independent government of
their own on the west side of the Missis-
sippi river, continued to work succ ssfully
for a long time, and the new settlement
attracted considerable attention. But the
west side of the Mississippi belonged to
the Sac and Fox Indians, and the Govern-
ment, in order to preserve peace on the
frontier, as well as to protect the Indians
in their rights under the treaty, ordered
the settlers not only to stop mining, but to
remove from the Indian Territory. They
were simply intruders. The execution of
this order was intrusted to Col. Zachary
Taylor, then in command of the military
post at Prairie du Chien, who, early in
July, sent an officer to the miners to forbid
settlement, and to command the miners to
remove, within ten days, to the east side
of the Mississippi, or they would be driven
off by armed force The miners, how-
ever, were reluctant about leaving the rich
"leads" they had already discovered and
opened, and were not disposed to obey the
order to remove with any considerable
degree of alacrity.
In due time Colonel Taylor dispatched
a detachment of troops to enforce his
order. The miners, anticipating their
arrival, had, excepting three, recrossed the
&
46
HISTORY OF IOWA.
river, and from the east bank saw the
troops land on the western shore. The
three who had lingered a little too long
were, however, permitted to make their
escape unmolested. From this time a mil-
itary force was stationed at Dubuque 10
prevent the settlers from returning, until
June, 1832. The Indians returned, and
were encouraged to operate the rich mines
opened by the late white occupants
In June, 1832, the troops were ordered
to the east side of the Mississippi to assist
in the annihilation of the very Indians
whose rights they had been protecting on
the west side. Immediately after the close
of the Black Hawk war, and the negotia-
tions of the treaty in September, 1832, by
which the Sacs and Foxes ceded the tract
known as the "Black Hawk Purchase," the
settlers, supposing that now they had a
right to re-enter the territory, returned and
took possession of their claims, built cab-
ins, erected furnaces and prepared large
quantities of lead for market. But the
prospects of the hardy and enterprising
settlers and miners were again ruthlessly
interferred with by the Government, on
the ground that the treaty with the Indians
would not go into force until June 1st,
1833, although they had withdrawn from
the vicinity of the settlement. Col. Taylor
was again ordered by the War Department
to remove the miners, and, in January,
L833, troops were again sent from Prairie
du Chien to Dubuque, for that purpose.
This was a serious and perhaps unneces-
sary hardship imposed upon the miners.
They were compelled to abandon their
cabins and homes in mid-winter. This,
too, was only out of respect for forms, for
the purchase had been made, and the In-
dians had retired. After the lapse of fifty
years, no very satisfactory reason for this
rigorous action of the Government can be
given. But the orders had been given,
and there was no alternative but to obey.
Many of the settlers re-crossed the river,
and did not return; a few, however, re-
moved to an island near the east bank of
the river, built rude cabins of poles, in
which to store their lead until spring, when
they could float the fruits of their labors
to St. Louis for sale, and where they could
remain until the treaty went into force,
when they could return. Among these
were the Langworthy brothers, who had
on hand about 300,000 poun Js of lead.
No sooner had the miners left than Lieu-
tenant Covington, who had been placed in
command at Dubuque, by Colonel Taylor,
ordered some of the cabins of the settlers
to be torn down, and wagons and other
property to be destroyed. This wanton
and inexcusable action on the part of a
subordinate, clothed with a little brief
authority, was sternly rebuked by Col.
Taylor, and Covington was superseded by
Lieut. George Wilson, who pursued a just
and friendly course with the p'.oneers, who
were only waiting for the time when they
could repossess their claims.
The treaty went formally into effect
June, 1833; the troops were withdrawn,
and the Langworthy brothers and a few
others at once returned and resumed pos-
session of their homes and claims. From
this time must date the first permanent set-
tlement of this portion of Iowa. Mr. John
P. Sheldon was appointed superintendent
of the mines, by the Government, and a
system of permits to miners and licenses
to smelters was adopted, similar to that
?
X
HISTORY OF IOWA
47
which hat! been in operation at Galena
since 1825, under Lieut. Martin Thomas
and Capt. Thomas C. Legate. Substan-
tially the primitive law enacted by the
miners assembled around that old cotton-
wood drift log in 1830, was adopted and
enforced by the United States Govern-
ment, except that miners were required to
sell their mineral to licensed smelters, and
the smelter was required to give bonds for
the payment of six per cent, of all lead
manufactured, to the Government.
The rule in the United States mines,
on Fever river, in Illinois, had been,
until 1830, that the miners must pay a ten
per cent. tax. This tax upon the miners
created much dissatisfaction among the
miners on the west side, as it had on the
east side of the Mississippi. They thought
they had suffered hardships and privations
enough in opening the way for civilization,
without being subjected to the imposition
of an odious Government tax upon their
means of subsistence, when the Federal
Government could better afford to aid than
to extort from them. The measure soon
became very unpopular. It was difficult
to collect the taxes, and the whole system
was abolished in about ten years.
About five hundred people arrived in
the mining district in 1833, after the In-
dian title was fully extinguished, of whom
one hundred and fifty were from Galena.
in the same year Mr. Langworthy assisted
in building the first school-house in Iowa,
and thus was formed the nucleus of the
populous and thriving city of Dubuque. Mr.
Langworthy lived to see the naked prairie
on which he first settled become the site
of a city of 15,000 inhabitants; the
small school-housa which he aided in con-
structing replaced by three substantial ed-
ifices, wherein 2,000 children were being
trained; churches erected in every part of
the city, and railroads connecting the wil-
derness, which he first explored, with all
the eastern world. He died suddenly, on
the 13th of March, 1865, while on a trip
over the Dubuque & Southern railroad, at
Monticello, and the evening train brought
the news of his death, and his remains.
Lucius H. Langworthy, his brother, was
one of the most worthy, gifted and influ-
ential of the old settlers of this section of
Iowa. He died greatly lamented by many
friends, in June, 1865.
The name "Dubuque" was given to the
settlement by the miners, at a meeting held
in 1834.
Soon after the close of the Black Hawk
war, in 1832, Zachariah Hawkins, Benja-
min Jennings, Aaron White, Augustine
Horton, Samuel Gooch, Daniel Thompson
and Peter Williams made claims at Fort
Madison. In 1833, Gen. John II Knapp
and Col. Nathaniel Knapp purchased these
claims, and, in the summer of 1835, they
laid out the town of "Fort Madison," and
lots were exposed for sale early in 1836.
The town was subsequently re surveyed
and platted by the United States Govern-
ment. The population rapidly increased,
and in less than two years the beautiful
location was covered by a flourishing town
containing nearly 600 inhabitants, with a
large proportion of enterprising merchants,
mechanics and manufacturers.
In the fall of 1832, Simpson S. White
erected a cabin on the site of Burlington,
79 miles below Rock Island During the
war, parties had looked longingly upon the
"Flint Hills" from the opposite side of the
\
— * 2>
43
HISTORY OF IOWA.
river, and White was soon followed by
others. David Tothers made a claim on
the prairie, about three miles back from
the river, at a place since known as the
farm of Judge Morgan. The following
winter the settlers were driven off by the
military from Rock Island, as intruders
upon the rights of the Indians. White's
cabin was burned by the soldiers. He
returned to Illinois, where he remained
during the winter, an J, in the following
summer, as soon as the Indian title was
extinguished, returned and re-built his
cabin. White was joined by his brother-
in-law, Doolittle, and they laid out the
town of Burlington in 1834, on a beautiful
area of sloping eminences and gentle de-
clevities, enclosed within a natural amphi-
theater formed by the surrounding hills,
which were covered with luxuriant forests,
and presented the most picturesque scenery.
The same autumn witnessed the opening
of the ii rst dry goods stores, by Dr. W. R.
Ross and Major Jeremiah Smith, each well
supplied with Western merchandise. Such
was the beginning cf Burlington, which,
in less than four years, became the seat of
government for the territory of Wisconsin,
and, in three years more, contained a pop-
ulation of 1,400 persons.
Immediately after the treaty with the
Sacs and Foxes, in September, 1832, Col.
George Davenport made the tirst claim on
the site of the present thriving city of
Davenport. As early as 1827, Col. Daven-
port had established a flat-boat ferry, which
ran between the island and the main shore
of Iowa, by which he carried on a trade
with the Indians west of the Mississippi.
In 1833 Capt. Benjamin W. Clark moved
from Illinois, and laid the foundation of
the town of Buffalo, in Scott county, which
was the first actual settlement within the
limits of that county.
The first settlers of Davenport were
Antoine LeClaire, Col. George Davenport,
Major Thomas Smith, Major Wm. Gordon,
Philip Hambough, Alex. W. McGregor,
Levi S. Colton, Captain James May, and
others.
A settlement was made in Clayton county
in the spring of 1832, on Turkey river, by
Robert Hatfield and Wm. W. Wayman.
No further settlement was made in this
part of the State until 1836
The first settlers of Muscatine county
were Benjamin Nye, John Vanater and G.
W. Kasey, all of whom came in 1834. E.
E. Fay, Wm. St. John, N. Fullington, H.
Reece, Jona Pettibone, R. P. Lowe, Stephen
Whicher, Abijah W T hitney, J. E Fletcher,
W. D. Abernethy and Alexis Smith were
also early settlers of Muscatine.
As early as 1824 a French trader named
Hart had established a trading post, and
built a cabin on the bluffs above the large
spring now known as "Mynster Spring,"
within the limits of the present city of
Council Bluffs, and had probably been
there some time, as the post was known to
the employes of the American Fur Com-
pany as "La Cote de Hart," or "Ilart's
Bluff."
In 1827 an agent of the American Fur
Company, Francis Guitar, with others, en-
camped in the timber at the foot of the
bluffs, about on the present location of
Broadway, and afterward settled there.
In 1839 a block house was built on the
bluff in the east part of the city. The
Pottawatomie Indians occupied this part
of the State until ?846 7, when they re-
~®
<2 W_
^ 9
£*
HISTORY OF IOWA.
49
linquished the territory and removed to
Kansas. Billy Caldwell was then princi-
pal chief. There were no white settlers in
that part of the State except Indian traders,
until the arrival of the Mormons under the
lead of Brigham Young. These people,
on their way westward, halted for the win-
ter of 1846-7 on the west bank of the Mis-
souri river, about rive miles above Omaha,
at a place now called Florence. Some of
them had reached the eastern bank of the
river the spring before, in season to plant
a crop. In the spring of 1847 Young and
a portion of the colony pursued their jour-
ney to Salt Lake, but a large portion of
them returned to the Iowa side and settled
mainly within the present limits of Potta-
watomie county. The principal settlement
of this strange community was at a place
first called ''Miller's Hollow," on Indian
creek, and afterward named Kanesville, in
honor of Col. Kane, of Pennsylvania, who
visited them soon afterward. The Mor-
mon settlement extended over the county
and into neighboring counties, wherever
timber and water furnished desirable loca-
tions. Orson Hyde, priest, lawyer and
editor, was installed as President of the
Quorum of Twelve, and all that part of the
State remained under Mormon control for
several years. In 1847 they raised a bat-
talion, numbering 500 men, for the Mexi-
can war. In 1848 Hyde started a paper,
called the Frontier Guardian, at Kanes-
ville.
In 1849, after many of the faithful had
left to join Brigham Young, at Salt Lake,
the Mormons in this section of Iowa num-
bered 6,552, and, in 1850, 7,828, but they
were not all within the limits of Pottawat-
omie county. This county was organized
in 1848, all the first officials being Mor-
mons. In 1852 the order was promulgated
that all the true believers should gather
together at Salt Lake. Genti es flocked
in, and in a few years nearly all the first
settlers were gone.
May 9, 1843, Capt. James Allen, with a
small detachment of troops, on board the
steamer "lone," arrived at the present site
of the capital of the State, DesMoines.
This was the first steamer to ascend the
DesMoines river to this point. The troops
and stores were landed at what is now the
foot of Court Avenue, DesMoines, and
Capt. Allen returned in the steamer to
Fort Sanford, to arrauge for bringing up
more soldiers and supplies. In due time
they, too, arrived, and a fort wrs built
near the mouth of Raccoon Fork, at its
confluence with the DesMoines, and named
Fort DesMoines. Soon after the arrival of
the troops, a trading post was established
on the east side of the river, by two noted
Indian traders, named Ewing, from Ohio.
Among the first settlers in this part of
Iowa were Benjamin Bryant, J. B. Scott,
James Drake (gunsmith), John Sturtevant,
Robert Kinzie, Alexander Turner, Peter
Newcomer, and others.
-t s>
f*
-fe
50
HISTORY OF IOWA.
CHAPTER V.
TERRITORIAL AND STATE ORGANIZATIONS.
The immigration to Iowa after the Black
Hawk purchase was so rapid and steady
that some provision for civil government
became necessary. Accordingly, in 1834,
all the territory comprising the present
States of Iowa, Wisconsin and Minnesota
was made subject to the jurisdiction of
Michigan Territory. Up to this time there
had been no county or other organization
in what is now the State of Iowa, although
one or two justices of the peace had been
appointed, and a postoffice was established
at Dubuque in 1833. In September of
1834, therefore, the Territorial Legislature
of Michigan created two counties on the
west side of the Mississippi river — Du-
buque and DesMoines — separated by a line
drawn westward from the foot of Rock
Isla'nd. These counties were partially or-
ganized. John King was appointed Chief
Justice of Dubuque county, and Isaac Lef-
fler (of Burlington) of DesMoines county.
Two associate justices, in each county,
were appointed by the Governor.
In October, 1835, Gen. George W. Jones,
now a citizen of Dubuque, was elected a
delegate to Congress. April 20, 183(5,
through the efforts of Gen. Jones, Con-
gress passed a bill creating the Territory
of Wisconsin, which went into operation
July 4, of the same year. Iowa was then
included in the Territory of Wisconsin, of
which Gen Henry Dodge was appointed
Governor; John S. Horner, Secretary;
Charles Dunn, Chief Justice; David Irwin
and William C. Frazer, Associate Justices.
Sept. 9, 1836, Governor Dodge ordered
a census of the new Territory to be taken.
This census showed a population of 10,531,
of which DesMoines county contained
6,257, and Dubuque 4,274. "Under the
apportionment, the two above named
counties were entitled to six members
of the Council and thirteen of the House
of Representatives. The Governor issued
his proclamation for an election to be held
on the first Monday of October, 1836, on
which day the following members of the
first Territorial Legislature of Wisconsin
were elected from the two counties in the
Black Hawk purchase :
Dubuqie — Council: John Fally, Thos.
McKnight, Thos. McCraney. House: Lor-
ing Wheeler, Haldin Whelan, Peter Hill
Engle, Patrick Quigly, Hosea F. Camp.
DksMoines — Council: Jeremiah Smith,
Jr., Joseph B. Teas, Arthur B. Ingram.
House: Isaac Leffler, Thos. Blair, Warren
L. Jenkins, John Box, George W. Teas,
Eli Reynolds, David R Chance.
The Legislature assembled at Belmont,
in the present State of Wisconsin, October
25th, 1836, and organized by electing Henry
Baird President of the Council, and Peter
Hill Engle (of Dubuque) Speaker of the
House.
HISTORY OF IOWA.
51
At this session the county of DesMoines
was divided into DesMoines, Lee, VanBu-
ren, Henry, Muscatine and Cook. This
last is now called Scott county. The first
Legislature adjourned December 9th, 1836.
The second Legis'ature ussembled at
Burlington, November 9, 1837. It divided
Dubuque into the counties of Dubuque,
Clayton, Fayette, Delaware, Buchanan.
Jackson, Jones, Linn, Benton, Clinton and
Cedar, and adjourned January 20th, 1838.
A third session was held at Burlington,
commencing June 1st, and ending June
12th, lb38. Most of the new counties
were not organized until several years
afterward
The question of the organization of the
Territory of Iowa now began to be agi-
tated, aud the desires of the people found
expression in a convention held Nov. 1st,
which memoralized Congress to organize a
Territory west of the Mississippi, and to
settle the boundary line between Wiscon-
sin Territory and Missouri. The Territorial
Legislature of Wisconsin, then in session
at Burlington, joined in the petition. Gen.
George W. Jones, of Dubuque, then re-
siding atLinsinawa Mound, in what is now
Wisconsin, was delegate to Congress from
Wisconsin Territory, and labored so earn-
estly that the act was passed dividing the
Territory of Wisconsin, and providing for
the territorial government of Iowa. This
was approved June 12, 1838, to take effect
and be in force on and after July 3, 1838.
The new Territory embraced "all that
part of the prf sent Territory of Wisconsin
west of the Mississippi river, and west of
a line drawn due north from the head-
waters or sources of the Mississippi to the
Territorial line." The organic act pro-
vided for a Governor, whose term of office
should be three years; and for a Secretary,
Chief Justice, two Associate Justices, and
Attorney and Marshal, who should serve
four years, to. be appointed by the Pr si-
dent, by and with the advice and consent
of the Senate.
The act also provided for the election, by
the white male inhabitants, citizens of .the
United States, over 21 years of age, of a
House of Representatives, consisting of
26 members, and a council, to consist of 13
members. It also appropriated $5,000 for
a public library, and $20,000 for the erec-
tion of public buildings.
In accordance with this act, President
Van Buren appointed ex-Governor Robert
Lucas, of Ohio, to be the first Governer of
the new Territory. Wm. B. Conway, of
Pittsburg, was appointed Secretary of the
Territory; Charles Mason, of Burlington,
Chief Justice, and Thomas S. Wilson, of
Dubuque, and Joseph Williams, of Penn-
sylvania, Associate Judges of the Supreme
and District Courts; Mr. Van Allen, of
New York, Attorney; Francis Gehon, of
Dubuque, Marshal; Augustus C. Dodge,
Register of the Land Office at Burlington,
and Thos. McKnight, Receiver of the Land
Office at Dubuque. Mr. Van Allen, the
District Attorney, died at Rockingham
soon after his appointment, and Col. Chas.
Weston was appointed to fill his vacancy.
Mr. Conway, the Secretary, also d ed at
Burlington during the second session of
the Legislature, and James Clarke, editor
of the GazeUe,w&s appointed to succeed him.
Governor Lucas, immediately after his
arrival, issued a proclamation for the elec-
tion of, members of the first Territorial
Legislature, to be held on the 10th of Sep-
:r7
<a_
52
HIS TORY OF IOWA.
tember, dividing the Territory into election
districts for that purpose, and appointing
the 12th of November, for the meeting of
the Legislature to be elected at Burlington.
The members were elected in accordance
with this proclamation, and assembled at
the appointed time and place. The fol-
lowing are their names :
Council— Jesse B. Brown, J. Keith, E
A. M. Swazey, Arthur Ingram, Robert
Ralston, George Hepner, Jesse J. Payne,
D. B. Hughes, James M. Clark, Charles
Whittlesey, Jonathan W. Parker, Warner
Lewis, Stephen Hempstead.
House — Wm. Patterson, Hawkins Tay-
lor, Calvin J. Price, James Brierly, James
Hall, Gideon S. Bailey, Samuel Parker,
James W. Grimes, George Temple, Van
B. Delashmutt, Thomas Blair, George H.
Beeler, Wm. G. Coop, Wm. H. Wallace,
Asbury B. Porter, John Frierson, Wm. L.
Toole, Levi Thornton, S. C. Hastings,
Robert G. Roberts, Laurel Summers, Ja-
bez A. Burchard, Jr., Chauncey Swan, An-
drew Bankson, Thomas Cox and Hardin
Nowlin.
Although a large majority of both
branches of the Legislature were Demo-
ocrats, Gen. Jesse B. Brown (Whig), of
Lee county, was elected President of the
Council, and Hon. Wm. H.Wallace (Whig),
of Henry county, Speaker of the House of
Representatives — the former unanimously
and the latter with but little opposition
. At that time national politics were little
heeded by the people of the new Territory,
but in 1840, during the Presidential cam-
paign, party lines were strongly drawn.
At the same time with this Legislature,-
a Congressional delegate was also elected.
Out of four candidates, William W. Chap-
man was elected.
The first session of the Iowa Territorial
Legislature was a stormy and exciting one.
By the organic law the Governor was
clothed with almost unlimited veto power.
Governor Lucus seemed disposed to make
free use of it, and the independent Hawk-
eyes could not quietly submit to arbitrary
and absolute rule y and the result was an
unpleasant controversy between the execu-
tive and legislative departments; Congress,
however, by act approved March 3d, 1839,
amended the organic law by restricting
the veto power of the Governor to the two-
thirds rule, and took from him the power
to appoint sheriffs and magistrates. Among
the first important matters demanding at-
tention was the location of the seat of
government, and provision for the erection
of public buildings, for which Congress
had appropriated $20,000. Gov. Lucas,
in his message, had recommended the ap-
pointment of commissioners with a view
to selecting a central location. The extent
of the future State of Iowa was not known
or thought of. Only a strip of land fifty
miles wide, bordering on the Mississippi
river, was the Indian title extinguished,
and a central location meant some central
point in the Black Hawk Purchase.
The friends of a central location sup-
ported the Governor's suggestion. The
Southern members were divided between
Burlington and Mount Pleasant, but finally
united on the latter as the proper location
for the seat of government. The central
and southern parties were very nearly equal,
and, in consequence, much excitement pre-
vailed. The central party at last tri-
umphed, and, on January 21st, 1839, an act
O 4^
-rf ©
HISTORY OF IOWA.
53
was passed appointing Chauncey Swan, of
Dubuque county, John Ronalds, of Louisa
county, and Robert Ralston, of DesMoines
county. Commissioners to select a site for
a permanent seat of government within
the limits of Johnson county.
The first settlement within the limits of
Johnson county was made in 1837. The
county was created by act of the Territorial
Legislature of Wisconsin, approved Dec.
21, 1837, and organized by act pa sed at
the special session at Burlington, in June,
1838, the organization to date from July 4,
following. Napoleon, on the Iowa river,
a few miles below the future Iowa City,
was designated as the temporary county
seat.
All things considered, the location of
the capital in Johnson county was a wise
act. The Territory was bounded on the
north by the British possessions; east, by
the Mississippi river to its source; thence
by a line drawn due north to the northern
boundary of the United States; south, by
the State of Missouri, and west by the
Missouri and White Earth rivers. But
this immense territory was in undisputed
possession of the Indians, except a strip
on the Mississippi, known as the Black
H#wk Purchase. Johnson county was,
from north to south, in the geographical
center of this purchase, and as near the
east and west geographical center of the
future State of Iowa as could then be made,
as the boundary line between the lands of
the United States and the Indians estab-
lished by the treaty of Oct. 21, 1837, was
immediately west of the county limits.
After selecting the site, the Commission-
ers were directed to lay out 640 acres into
a town, to be called Iowa City,and to pro-
ceed to sell lots and erect public buildings
thereon, Congress having granted a section
of land to be selected by the Teiritory for
this purpose. The Commissioners met at
Napoleon, Johnson county, May 1, 1
selected for a site section 10, in township
79 north, of range 6 west of the fifth prin-
cipal meridian, and immediately surveyed
it and laid off the town. The first sale of
lots took place Aug. 16, 1839. The site
selected for the public buildings was a
little west of the center of the section,
where a square of 10 acres, on the elevated
grounds overlooking the river, was reserved
for the purpose. The capitol is located in
the center of this square. The second Ter-
ritorial Legislature, which assembled in
November, 1839, passed an act requiring
the Commissioners to adopt such plan for
the building that the aggregate cost, when
complete, should not exceed $51/00, and
if they had already adopted a plan involv-
ing a greater expenditure, they were direct-
ed to abandon it. Plans for the building
were designed and drawn by Mr. John F.
Rague, of Springfield, Ills., and July 4,
1840, the corner-stone of the edifice was
laid with appropriate ceremonies. Samuel
C. Trowbridge was marshal of the day,
and Governor Lucas delivered the address
on that occasion.
On July 13, 1840, Governor Lucas an-
nounced to the Legislature tljen as-
sembled in special session, that on the
4th of that month he had visited Iowa
City, and found the basement of the cap-
itol nearly completed. A bill authorizing
a loan of $-0,000 for the building was
passed January 15, 1841, the unsold lots of
Iowa City being the security offered, but
only $5,500 was obtained under the act.
54
HISTORY OF IOWA.
Monday, December 6, 1841, the fourth
Legislative Assembly met at the new cap-
ital, Iowa City, but the capitol building
could not be used, and the Legislature oc-
cupied a temporary frame house, that had
been erected for that purpose during the
session of 1841-2. At this session, the
Superintendent of Public Buildings (who,
with the Territorial Agent, had superseded
the Commissioners first appointed,) esti-
mated the expense of completing the build-
ing at $33,330, and of completing rooms
for the use of the Legislature at $15,600.
During the following year the Superin-
tendent commenced obtaining stone from a
new quarry about ten miles northeast of the
city. This is now known as the "Old Cap-
itol Quarry," and is thought to contain an
immense quantity of excellent building
stone. Here all the stone for completing
the building was obtained, and it was so
far completed that, on the 5th day of De-
cember, 1842, the Legislature assembled in
the new Capitol. At this session the Su-
perintendent estimated that it would cost
$39,143 to finish the building. This was
nearly $6,000 higher than the estimate of
the previous year, notwithstanding a large
sum had been expended in the meantime.
This rather discouraging discrepancy was
accounted for by the fact that the officers
in charge of the work were constantly
short »f funds. Except the Congressional
appropriation of $20,000, and the loan of
$5,500 obtained from the Miners' Bank of
Dubuque, all the funds for the prosecution
of the work were derived from the sale of
the city lots (which did not sell very rap-
idly), from certificates of indebtedness,
and from scrip, based upon unsold lots,
which was to be received in payment for
such lots when they were sold. At one
time the SuperinteLdent madea requisition
for bills of iron and glass, which could not
be obtained nearer than St. Louis. To
meet this, the agent sold some lots for a
draft payable at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania,
for which he was compelled to pay 25 per
cent, exchange. This draft amounted to
$507, which that officer reported to be more
than one-half the cash actually handled by
him during the entire season, when the dis-
bursements amounted to very nearly $24,-
000. With such uncertainty, it could not
be expected that the estimate could be
very accurate. With all these disadvan-
tages, however, the woik appears to have
been prudently prosecuted, and as rapidly
as circumstances would permit.
In 1841, John Chambers succeded Robert
Lucas as Territorial Governor. The office
was held by him until 1845, when it was
filled by James Clarke.
The first Legislative Assembly laid the
broad foundation of civil equality, on which
has been constructed one of the most lib-
eral governments in the Union. Its first
act was to recognize the equality of woman
with man, before the law, by providing
that " no action commenced by a single
woman, who marries during the pendency
thereof, shall abate on account of such
marriage." This principle has been
adopted in all subsequent legislation in
Iowa, and to-day woman has full and equal
rights with man, excepting only the right
of the ballot.
Religious toleration was also secured to
all, personal liberty strictly guarded the
rights and privileges of ci.izenship ex-
tended to all white persons, and the purity
of elections secured by heavy penalties
&
HISTORY OF IOWA.
55
against bribery and corruption. The
judiciary power was vested in a Supreme
Court, District Court, Probate Court and
justices of the peace. Real estate was
made divisible by will, and intestate pro-
perty divided equitably among heirs.
Murder was made punishable by death,
and proportionate penalties fixed for lesser
crimes. A system of free schools, open
for every class of white citizens, w r as estab-
lished. Provision was made for a system
of roads and highways. Thus, under the
Territorial organization, the country began
to emerge from a savage wilderness, and
take on the forms of civil government.
The Territorial Legislature held its
eighth and last session at Iowa City, com-
mencing December 1, 1845. James Clark
was the same year appointed the successor
of Governor Chambers, and was the third
and last Territorial Governor. In 1843 the
Territorial Legislature compiled and pub-
lished a code of general statutes, making
a volume of 800 pages, that continued in
force until July, 1851.
THE MISSOURI WAR.
In defining the boundaries of the coun-
ties bordering on Missouri, the Iowa
authorities had fixed a line which has
since been established as the boundary
between Iowa and Missouri. The consti-
tution of Missouri defined her northern
boundary to be the parallel of latitude which
passes through the rapids of Des Moines
river. The lower rapids of the Mississippi
immediately above the mouth of the Des
M'ines river had always been known as
the Des Moines Rapids, or the "rapids of
the Des Moines river." The Missourians
(evidently not well versed in history or
geography), insisted on running the
northern boundary line from the rapids in
the Des Moines river, just lelow Keosau-
qua, thus taking from Iowa a strip of ter-
ritory eight or ten miles wide. â– Assuming
this as her northern boundary line, Missouri
attempted to exercise jurisdiction over the
disputed territory by assessing taxes, and
sending her sheriffs to collect them by
distraining the personal property of the
settlers. The Iowans, however, were not
disposed to submit, and the Missouri offi-
cials were arrested by the sheriffs of Davis
and Van Buren counties and confined in
jail. Governor Boggs, of Miss mi, called
out his milita to enforce the claim and
sustain the officers of Missouri. Governor
Lucas called out the militia of Iowa
About 1,200 men were enlisted, and 500
were actually armed and encamped in
Van Buren county, ready to defend the
integrity of the Territory. Subsequently,
Gen. A. C. Dodge, of Burlington, General
Churchman, of Dubuque, and Dr. Clark,
of Fort Madison, were sent to Missouri as
envoys plenipotentiary, to effect, if possi-
ble, a peaceable adjustment of the diffi-
culty. Upon their arrival, they found that
the county commissioners of Clark county,
Missouri, had rescinded their order for the
collection of taxes, and that Governor
Boggs had dispatched messengers to the
Governor of Iowa proposing to submit an
agreed case to the Supreme Court of the
United States for the settlement of the
boundary question. This proposition was
declined; but afterward, upon petition of
Iowa and Missouri, Congress authorized a
suit to settle the controversy. The suit
was duly instituted, and resulted in the
decision that Iowa had onlv asserted "the
e>
<r> l-
56
HISTORY OF IOWA.
truth of history," and that she knew
where the rapids of Des Moines river were
located. Thus ended the Missouri war.
"There was much good sense," says Hon.
C. C. Nourse, "in the basi- upon which
peace was secured, to-wit: ' If Missourians
did not know where the rapids of the river
Des Moines were located, that was no suf-
ficient reason for killing them off with
powder and lead; and if we did know a
little more of history and geography than
they did, we ought not to be shot for our
learning:. We commend our mutual for-
bearance to older and greater people.' "
Under an order from the Supreme Court
of the United States, William G. Miner, of
Missouri, and Henry B. Hendershott, of
Iowa, acted as commissioners, and surveyed
and established the boundary. The ex-
penses of the war on the part of Iowa were
never paid, either by the United States or
the Territorial Government. The patriots
who furnished supplies to the troops had
to bear the cost and charges of the struggle
The population being sufficient to justify
the formation of a State government, the
Territorial Legislature of Iowa passed an
act, which was approved February 12th,
1844, submitting to the people the ques-
tion of the formation of a State constitu-
tion and providing for the election of
delegates to a convention to be convened
for that purpose. The people voted upon
this at their township elections in the fol-
lowing April. The measure was carried
by a large majority, and the delegates
elected assembled in convention at Iowa
City October 7th, 1844. On the first day
of November following, the convention
completed its work, and adopted the first
State constitution
Hon Shepherd Ltffler, the president of
this convention, was instructed to transmit
a certified copy of this constitution to the
delegate in Congress, to be by him sub-
mitted to that body at the earliest practi-
cable day. It also provided that it should
be submitted, together with any conditions
or changes that might be made by Con-
gress, to the People of the Territory, for
their approval or rejection, at the township
election in April, 1815.
The Constitution, as thus prepared, pro-
vided the following boundaries for the
State: Beginning in the middle of the
channel of the Mississippi river, opposite
the mouth of the Des Moines river; thence
up the said river Des Moines, in the mid-
dle of the main channel thereof, to a point
where it is intersected by the old Indian
bounda'y line, or line run b}* John C. Sul-
livan in 1816; thence westwardly along
said line to the "old" northwest corner of
Missouri; thence due west to the middle
of the main channel of the Missouri river;
thence up the middle of the main channel
of the river last mentioned, to the mouth
of the Sioux or Calumet river; thence in a
direct line to the middle of the main chan-
nel of the St. Peters river, where the Wa-
tonwan river — according to Nicollett's
map — enters the same; thence down the
middle of the main channel of the said
river to the middle of the main channel
of the Mississippi river; thence down the
middle of the main channel of said river
to the place of beginning.
These boundaries were considerably
more extended than other Western States,
and Congress therefore amended the Con-
stitution, by act approved March 3, 1845,
as follows: Beginning at the mouth of
HISTORY OF IOWA.
57
the Deo Moines river, at the middle of the
Mississippi; thence by the middle of the
channel of that river to a parallel of lati-
tude, passing through the mouth of the
Maukato or Blue Earth river; thence west,
along said parallel of latitude, to a point
where it is intersected by a meridian line
17 ° 30' west of the meridian of Wash-
ington City; thence due south, to the
northern boundary line of the State of
Missouri; thence eastwardly, following
that boundary to the point at which the
same intersects the Des Moines river;
thence by the middle of the channel of
that river to the place of beginning.
Had these boundaries been accepted,
they would have placed the northern
boundary of the State about 30 miles
north of its present location, and would
have deprived it of the Missouri slope and
the boundary of that river. The western
boundary would have been near the west
line of what is now Kossuth county. But
it was not so to be. In consequence of
this radical and unwelcome change in the
boundaries, the people refused to accept
the act of Congress, and rejected the Con-
stitution, at the election held Aug. 4, 1845,
by a vote of 7,656 to 7,235.
May 4, 1846, a second Convention met
at Iowa City, and on the 18th of the same
month another Constitution, prescribing
the boundaries as they now are, was
adopted. This was accepted by the people,
August 3, by a vote of 9,492 to 9,036. The
new Constitution was approved by Con-
gress, and Iowa was admitted as a sov-
ereign State in the American Union, Dec.
28, 1846.
The people of the State, anticipating
favorable action by Congress, held an
election for State officers October 26,
which resulted in Ansel Briggs being de-
clared Governor; Elisha Cutler, Jr , Secre-
tary of State; Joseph T. Fales, Auditor;
Morgan Reno, Treasurer; and members of
the Senate and House of Representatives.
The act of Congress which admitted
Iowa gave her the 16th section of every
township of land in the State, or its
equivalent, for the support of schools;
also, 72 sections of land for the purpose of
a university; also, five sections of land for
the completion of her public buildings;
also, the salt springs within her limits, not
exceeding 12 in number, with sections of
land adjoining each; also, in consideration
that her public lands should be exempt
from taxation by the State, she gave the
State five per cent, of the net proceeds of
the sale of public lands within the State.
Thus provided for as a bride with her
marriage portion, Iowa commenced house-
keeping on her own account.
A majority of the Constitutional Con-
vention of 1846 were of the Democratic
party; and the instrument contains some
of the peculiar tenets of the party of that
day. All banks of issue were prohibited
within the State. The State was prohibited
from becoming a stockholder in any cor-
poration for pecuniary profit, and the Gen-
eral Assembly could only provide for pri-
vate corporations by general statutes. The
constitution also limited the State's indebt-
edness to $100,000. It required the Gen-
eral Assembly to provide public schools
throughout the State for at least three
months in the year. Six months previous
residence of any white male citizen of the
United States constituted him an elector.
53
HISTORY OF IOWA.
The government was started on an
economical basis. The members of the
General Assembly received, each, two dol-
lars per day for the first fifty days of the
session, and one dollar per day thereafter.
The sessions were to be biennial. The
salaries of the State officers were limited
the first ten years as follows: Governor,
$1,000 per annum; Secretary of State, $500;
Treasurer of State, $400; Auditor of State,
$600; and Judges of the Supreme Court,
$1,000 each. And it may be said here that
these prices did not discourage the best
talent of the State from seeking these
positions, and that during these ten years
none of these officers were ever known to
receive bribes, or to steal one dollar of the
public money. At the time of organiza-
tion as a State, Iowa had a population of
116,651, as appears by the census of 1847.
There were twenty-seven organized coun-
ties in the State, and the settlements were
being rapidly pushed toward the Missouri
river.
CHAPTER VI.
GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OP THE STATE.
The first General Assembly was com-
posed of nineteen Senators and forty Rep-
resentatives. It assembled in Iowa City,
November 30th, 1846, about one month be-
fore Congress passed the act of admission.
The most important business transacted
was the passage of a bill authorizing a
loan of $50,000 for means to run the State
government and pay the expenses of the
Constitutional Convention. The election
of United States Senators was called up at
this session, and was the occasion of much
excitement and no little hard feeling. The
Whigs had a majority of two in the House
and the Democrats a majority of one in
the Senate. After repeated attempts to
control these majorities for caucus nom-
inees, and frequent sessions of a joint con-
vention for purposes of an election, the
attempt was abandoned. A public school
law was passed at this session, for the or-
ganization of public schools in the State.
In pursuance of its provisions, an election
f.r superintendent of public instruction
was held the following spring, and James
Harlan received a majority of the votes
cast. After the election the Democratic
Secretary of State discovered that the law
contained no provision for its publication
in the newspapers, and he claimed it had
*?\<5
I
â– P 4^
4-
HISTORY OF IOWA.
59
not <xone into effect
He, therefore, and
the Governor, refused Harlan a certificate
of election. The Supreme Court sustained
their action.
At this first session of the General As-
sembly, the Treasurer of State reported
that the capitol building was in a very
exposed condition, liable to injury from
storms, and expressed the hope that some
provision would be made to complete it, at
least sufficiently to protect it from the
weather. The General Assembly re-
sponded by appropriating 12,500 for the
completion of the public buildings. At
the first session, also, arose the question of
the relocation of the capitol. The western
boundary of the State, as now determined,
left Iowa City too far toward the eastern
and southern boundary of the State; this
was conceded. Congress had appropri-
ated five sections of land for the erection
of public buildings, and toward the close
of the session a bill was introduced pro-
viding for the relocation of the seat of
government, involving to some extent the
location of the State University, which
had already been discussed. This bill
gave rise to much discussion, and parlia-
mentary maneuvering almost purely sec-
tional in its character. It provided for
the appointment of commissioners, who
were authorized to make a location as near
the geographical centre of the State as
a healthy and eligible site could be ob-
tained; to -select the five sections of land
donated by Congress, to survey and plat
into town lots not exceeding one section of
the land so selected; to sell lots at public
sale, not to exceed two in each block.
Having done this, they were then required
to suspend further operatio; s, and make a
report of their proceeding to the Governor.
The bill passed both Houses by decisive
votes, received the signature of the Gov-
ernor, and became a law. Soon after, by
"An act to locate and establish a State
University," approved Feb. 25, 1847, the
unfinished public buildings at Iowa City,
together with the ten acres of lands on which
they were situated, were granted for the
use of the University, reserving their use,
however, by the General Assembly and the
State officers, until other provisions were
made by law.
The Commissioners forthwith entered
upon their duties, and selected four sec-
tions and two half sections in Jasper
county. Two of these sections are in what
is now DesMoines township, and the others
in Fairview township, in the southern part
of that oounty. These lands are situated
between Prairie City and Monroe, on the
Keokuk & DesMoines railroad, which runs
diagonally through them. Here a town
was platted called Monroe City, and a sale
of lots took place. The number of 415
lots were sold, at prices that were not con-
sidered remarkably remunerative. The
cash payments (one-fourth) amounted to"
$1,797.43, while the expenses of the sale
and the claims of the Commissioners for
services amounted to $2,206.57. The Com-
missioners made a report of their proceed-
ings to the Governor, as required by law,
but the location was generally condemned.
When the report of the Commissioners,
showing this brilliant financial operation,
had been read in the House of Represent-
ativ, s, at the next session, and while it was
under consideration, an indignant member,
afterward known as the eccentric Judge
McFarland, moved to lefer the report to a
r
<a_
60
HISIOBY OF IOWA.
select committee of five, with instructions
to report "how much of said city of Mon-
roe was under water, and how much was
burned." The report was referred, with-
out the instructions, but Monroe City never
became the seat of government. By an
act approved January 15, 1849, the law by
which the location had been made was re-
pealed, and the new town was vacated, the
money paid by purchasers of lots being
refunded to them. This, of course, re-
tained the seat of government at Iowa
City, and precluded for the time the occu-
pation of the building and grounds by the
University.
At the same session $3,000 more were
appropriated for completing the State
building at Iowa City. In 1852, the fur-
ther sum of $5,000, and in 1854 $4,000
more were appropriated for the same pur-
pose, making the whole cost $123,000, paid
partly by the general Government and
partly by the State, but principally by the
proceeds of the sale of lots in Iowa City.
After the adjournment of the first Gen-
eral Assembly, the Governor appointed
Joseph Williams, Chief Justice, and Geo.
• Green and John F. Kinney Judges, of the
Supreme Court. They were afterward
elected by the second General Assembly,
and constituted the Supreme Court until
1855, with the exception that Kinney re-
signed iQ January, 1854, and J. C. Hall, of
Burlington, was appointed in his place.
Hall was one of the earliest and ablest
lawyers of the State, and his memory will
long be cherished by the early members of
the profession. Some changes having
occurred by death and removal, the Gov-
ernor was induced to call an extra session
of the General Assembly in Januarv, 1843,
with the hope of an election of United
States Senators. The attempt, however,
was again unsuccessful. At this session,
Charles Mason, William G. Woodward and
Stephen Hempstead were appointed Com-
missioners to prepare a code of laws for
the State. Their work was finished in
1850, and was adopted by the General As-
sembly. This "code" contained, among
other provisions, a code of civil practice,
superseding the old common-law forms of
actions and writs, and it was admissible
for, its simplicity and method. It remained
in force until 1863, when it was superseded
by the more complicated and metaphys-
ical system of the revision of that year.
The first Representatives in Congress
were S. Clinton Hastings, of Muscatine,
and Shepherd Leffler, of DesMoines county.
The second General Assembly elected
to the United States Senate, Augustus
Caesar Dodge and George W. Jones. The
State government, after the first session,
was under the c ntrol of Democratic ad-
ministration till 1855. The electoral vote
of the State was cast for Lewis Cass, in
1848, aud for Franklin Pierce in 1852.
The popular vote shows that the Free-Soil
element of State during this period very
nearly held the balance of power, and that
up to 1854 it acted in the State elections
to some extent with the Democratic party.
In 1848 Lewis Cass received 12,093 votes,
Zachary Taylor 11,043, and Martin Van
Buren,the Free-Soil candidate, 1,226 votes,
being 176 less than a majority for Cass.
In 1852, Pierce lec-ived 17,762 votes,
Scott 15,855, and Hale (Free-Soil) 1,606,
being for Pierce 301 votes more than a
majority.
HISTORY OF IOWA
GL
The question of the permanent location
of the seat of government was not settled,
and in 1S51 bills were introduced for its
removal to Fort DesMoines. The latter
appeared to have the support of the major-
ity, but was finally lost in the House on
the question ' of ordering it to its third
reading.
At the next session, in 1853, a bill was
again introduced in the Senate for the re-
moval of the seat of government to Fort
DesMoines, and, on final vote, was just
barely defeated. At the next session, how-
ever, the effort was more successful, and
January 15th, 1855, a bill relocating the
Capital within two miles of the Raccoon
Fork of the DesMoines, and for the ap-
pointment of Commissioners, was approved
by Gov. Grimes. The site was selected in
1856, in accordance with the provisions of
this act; the land being donated to the
State by citizens and property-holders of
DesMoines. An association of citizens
erected a building for a temporary capitol,
and leased it to the State at a nominal
rent.
The passage by Congress of the act
organizing the Territories of Kansas and
Nebraska, and the provision it contained
abrogating that portion of the Missouri
bill that proh bited slavery and involuntary
seivitude north of 36° 30' was the begin-
ning of a political revolution in the North-
ern States, and in none was it more marked
than in the State of Iowa. Iowa was the
"first free child born of the Missouri com-
promise," and has always resented the de-
struction of her foster parent.
In the summer of 1854 there was a tacit
coalition or union of the Whig and Free-
Soil elements of the State. Alarmed at
the aggressive spirit manifested by the ad-
herents of the peculiar institution, the
Free-Sowers, who almost held the balance
of power in the State, readily adopted as
their candidate the Whig nominee for Gov-
ernor. Many of the old-line Whigs aban-
doned their party because of this coalition,
but many strong and able men among the
Democrats co-operated with it. James W.
Grimes was the nominee of the Whigs,
and Curtis Bates, of Polk county, was the
nominee of the Democratic party. Grimes
was then in the vigor of his manhood, and
all the energies of his being appeared to
be aroused by what he denominated tl
aggressions of the slave power. He was
thoroughly in earnest, and canvassed most
of the organized counties of the State.
The people flocked by the thousands to
hear him, and were electrified by his elo-
quence. No one of the opposition at-
tempted to meet him in debate The re-
sult was his election by a majority of 1,404
in a vote of 21,794. A majority was also
secured in the General Assembly on joint
ballot of the two Houses in opposition to
the Democratic party. The opposition
party in 1854-'5 were known as aoti-Ne- .
braska Whigs. A caucus of this opposing
element nominated James Harlan as their
candidate for United States Senator, Geo.
G. Wright for Chief Justice, and Norman
W. Isbell and Wm. G. Woodward for
Judges of the Supreme Court.
A portion of the opposition, however,
refused to go into this caucus, or to abide
by its decision as to the United States Sen-
ator. They were the personal friends of
Ebenezer Cook, of Scott county.
A joint convention was secured, and the
Judges of the Supreme Court were elected.
62
HISTORY OF IOWA.
After frequent balloting and adjournments,
it was at last understood that Cook's
friends had yielded, and would support
Mr. Harlan. When the hour arrived to
which the joint convention had adjourned,
messengers were sent to the Senate by the
House, to inform that body that the House
was ready to meet them in joint conven-
tion. Before this message could be de-
livered, the Senate had adjourned over
until the next day. The anti-Nebraska
Senators, however, entered the hall of the
House and took their seats in joint conven-
tion. Much confusion prevailed, but
finally a President pro tern of the conven-
tion was chosen, and Mr. Harlan was
elected. His seat was contested, and his
ehction declared invalid by the United
States Senate.
At the next session of the General As-
sembly, held in 1857, Mr. Harlan was re-
elected, and was permitted to take his seat.
The year 1856 marked a new era in the
history of Iowa. In 1854 the Chicago &
Rock Island railroad had been completed
to the east bank of the Mississippi river,
opposite Davenport. In the same year the
corner-stone of a railroad bridge that was
to be the first to span the "Father of
Waters,*' was laid with appropriate cere-
monies, at this point. St Louis had re-
solved that the enterprise was unconstitu-
tional, and by writs of injunction made an
unsuccessful effort to prevent its comple-
tion. Twenty years later in her history
St. Louis repented her folly, and made
atonement for her sin by imitating Iowa's
example. January 1st, 1856, this railroad
was completed to Iowa City. In the mean-
time two other railroads had reached the
east bank of the Mississippi — one opposite
Burlington and one opposite Dubuque —
and these were being extended into the
interior of the State. Indeed, four other
lines of railroads had been projected across
the State, from the Mississippi to the Mis-
souri, having eastern connections.
May 15th, 1856, Congress passed an act
granting to the State, to aid in the con-
struction of railroads, the public lands in
alternate sections, six miles on each side
of the proposed lines. An extra session
of the General Assembly was called in
July of this year, that disposed of the
grant to the several companies that pro-
posed to complete these enterprises. The
population of Iowa was now 500,000. Pub-
lic attention had been called to the neces-
sity of a railroad across the continent.
The position of Iowa, in the very heart
and center of the republic, on the route
of this great highway of the continent,
began to attract attention. Cities and
towns sprang up through the State as if
by magic. Capital began to pour into the
State, and had it been employed in devel-
oping the vast coal measures and establish-
ing manufactories, or if it had been
expended in improving the lands, and in
building houses and barns, it would have
been well. But all were in haste to set
rich, and the spirit of speculation ruled the
hour.
In the meantime, every effort was made
to help the speedy completion of the rail-
roads. Nearly every county and city on
the Mississippi, and many in the interior,
voted large corporate subscriptions to the
stock of the railroad companies, and issued
their negotiable bonds for the amount.
Thus enormous county and city debts were
incurred, the payment of which these mu-
HISTORY OF IOWA.
63
nicipalities tried to avoid, upon the plea
that they had exceeded the constitutional
limitation of their powers. The Supreme
Court of the United States held these
bonds to be valid, and the courts, by man-
damus, compelled the city and county
authorities to levy taxes to pay the judg-
ments recovered upon them. These debts
are not all paid, even to this day; but the
worst is over, and the incubus is in the
course of ultimate extinction. The most
valuable lessons are those learned in the
school of experience, and, accordingly, the
corporations of Iowa have ever since been
noted for economy.
In 1856 the Republican party of the
State was duly organized, in full sympathy
with that of the other free States, and at
the ensuing presidential election the elec-
toral vote of the State was cast for John
C. Fremont. The popular vote w r as as
follows : Fremont, 43,954; Buchanan, 36,-
170, and Fillmore, 9,180. This was 1,396
less than a majority for Fremont. The
followi g year an election was held, after
an exciting campaign, for State officers,
resulting in a majority of 1,406 for Ralph
P. Lowe, the Republican nominee. The
Legislature was largely Republican in both
branches.
In June, 1854, a Board of State Com-
missioners contracted with the DesMoines
Navigation Railroad Company, an organ-
ization composed principally of New York
capitalists, to undertake the work, agree-
ing to convey to the company lands at
$1.25 an acre for all moneys advanced
and expended. In the meantime difficul-
ties arose in regard to the extent of the
grant. The State claimed lands through-
out the whole extent of the river to the
north line of the State. The Department
of the Interior changed its rulings under
the several administrations. The Com-
missioner of the General Land Office cer-
tified to the State about 320,000 acres of
land behw the Raccoon Fork of the river,
and about 270,000 acres above it prior to
1857, when he refused to certify any more.
This led to a settlement and compromise
with the Navigation Company in 1858,
whereby the company took all the land
certified to the State at that date, and paid
the State $20,0t0 in addition to what they
had already expended, cancelled their con-
tract and abandoned the work.
The General Assembly granted to the
DesMoines Valley Railroad Company the
remainder of the grant to the State line, to
aid in building a railroad up and along the
DesMoines Valley ; and Congress, in 1862,
extended the grant, by express enactment,
to the rorth line of the State.
The most injurious result to the State,
arising from the spirit of speculation pre-
valent in 1856, was the purchase and entry
of great bodies of Government land within
the State by non-residents. This land was
held for speculation, and placed beyond
the reach of actual settlers for many
years.
From no other one cause has Iowa suf-
fered so much as from the short-sighted
policy of the Federal Government in sell-
ing lands within her borders. The money
thus obtained by the Federal Government
has been comparatively inconsiderable.
The value of this magnificient public do-
main to the United States was not in the
few thousands of dollars she might exact
from the hardy settlers, or that she might
obtain from the speculator who hoped to
â– 19
64
HISTORY OF IOWA.
profit by the settlers' labors in improving
the country. Statesmen should have taken
a broader and more comprehensive view
of national economy, and a view more in
harmony with the divine economy that had
prepared these vast fertile plains of the
West for the "homes of men and the seats
of empire." It was here that new States
were to be builded up that sLould be the
future strength of the nation against for-
eign invasion or home revolt. A single
regiment of Iowa soldiers during the dark
days of the Rebellion was worth more to
the nation than all the money she ever ex-
acted from the toil and sweat of Iowa's
early settlers. Could the statesmen of
forty years ago have looked forward to this
day, when Iowa pays her $1,000,000 annu-
ally into the treasury of the nation for the
extinction of the national debt, they would
have realized that the founding of new
States was a greater enterprise than the
retailing of public lands.
In January, 1857, another Constitutional
Convention assembled at Iowa City, which
framed the present State constitution. One
of the most pressing demands for this con-
vention grew out of the prohibition of banks
under the old constitution. The practical
result of this prohibition was to flood the
State with every species of "wild-cat"
currency. Our circulating medium was
made up in part of the free-bank paper of
Illinois and Indiana. In addition to this,
we had paper issued by Iowa brokers, who
had obtained bank charters from the Ter-
ritorial Legislature of Nebraska, and had
their pretended headquarters at Omaha and
Florence. Our currency was also well
assorted with the bills from other States,
generally such as had the best reputation
where they were least known. This paper
was all at 2, and some of it from ID to 15
per cent, discount. Every man who was
not an expert in detecting counterfeit bills,
and who was not posted in the history of
all manner of banking institutions, did
business at his peril. The new constitution
made ample provisions for house banks
under the supervision of our own laws.
The limitation of our State debt was en-
larged to $250,000, and the corporate in-
debtedness of the cities and counties were
also limited to five per cent, upon the valu-
ation of their taxable property.
The Judges of the Supreme Court were
to be elected by the popular vote.
The permanent seat of government
was fixed at DesMoines, and the State Uni-
versity located at Iowa City. The qualifi-
cations of electors remained the same as
under the old constitution, but the schedule
provided for a vote of the people upon a
separate proposition to strike the word
"white" out of the suffrage clause, which,
had it prevailed, would have resulted in
conferring the right of suffrage without
distinction of color. Since the early or-
ganization of Iowa there had been upon
the statute books a law providing that no
negro, mulatto or Indian should be a com-
petent witness in any suit or proceeding to
which a white man was a party. The Gen-
eral Assembly of 1856-'7 repealed this law,
and the new constitution contained a clause
forbidding such disqualification in the
future. It also provided for the education
of "all youth of the State" through a sys-
tem of common schools. This constitution
was adopted at the ensuing election by a
vote of 40,311 to 38,681.
-* — ^-fr-
ill STORY OF IOWA.
65
October 19, 1S57-, Gov. Grimes issued a
proclamation declaring the City of Des-
Moines to be the capital of the State of
Iowa. The removal of the archives and
offices was commenced at once and con-
tinued through the fall. It was an under-
taking of no small magitude; there was
not a mile of railroad to facilitate the
work, and the season was unusually dis-
agreeable. Rain, snow and other accom-
paniments increased the difficulties, and it
was not until December that the last of the
effects, — the safe of the State Treasurer,
loaded on two large "bob-sleds," drawn by
ten yokes of oxen, — was deposited in the
new capitol. Thus Iowa City ceased to be
the capital of the State after four Territo-
rial Legislatures, six State Legislatures and
three Constitutional Conventions had held
their sessions there.
In 1856 and 1858 large appropriations
were made for the erection of public build-
ings and the support of the unfortunate
classes, and a loan of $200,000 was author-
ized.
During the years 1858-60, the Sioux In-
dians became troublesome in the north-
western part of the State. They made
frequent raids for the purpose of plunder,
and on several occasions murdered whole
families of settlers. In 1861 several com-
panies of militia were ordered to that por-
tion of the State to hunt down and expel
the thieves. No battles were fought, the
Indians fleeing as soon as they ascertained
systematical measures had been adopted
for their punishment.
In 1870 the General Assembly made an
appropriation and provided for the appoint-
ment of a Board of Commissioners to
commence the work of building a new cap-
itol. The corner-stone was laid with ap-
propriate ceremonies November 23, 1871.
The building is a beautiful specimen of
mode»n architecture.
When Wisconsin Territory was organ-
ized, in 1836, the entire population of that
portion of the Territory now embraced in
the State of Iowa, was 10,531. The Terri-
tory then embraced two counties, Dubuque
and DesMoines, erected by the Territory
of Michigan, in 1834. Since then, the
counties have increased to ninety-nine, and
the population in 1880 was 1,624,463. The
following table will show the population at
different periods since the erection of Iowa
Territory:
Tear. Population.
1838 22,5^9
1840 43,115
1844 75,152
1846 97 ,588
1 847 11 6,651
1849 1 52,988
1850 191,982
1851 204,774
1852 230,7 1 3
1854 326,0 1 3
1 856 : • • 5 • 9,055
1859 638,775
1 860 674,913
1863 701,732
1 865 750,699
1867 902,040
1869 1,040,819
1870 1,191,727
1873 1,251,333
1875 1,366,000
1880 1,624,463
The most populous county is Dubuque,
42,997. Polk county has 41,395, and Scott
41,270. Not only in population, but in
\hL
66
HISTORY OF IOWA.
everything contributing to the growth and
greatness of a State has Iowa made rapid
progress. In a little more than thirty-five
years its wild but beautiful prairies have
advanced from the home of the savage to
a highly civilized commonwealth, embra-
cing all the elements of progress which
characterize the older States.
The first railroad across the State was
completed to Council Bluffs in January,
1861. The completion of three others
soon followed.
In 1854 there was not a mile of railroad
in Iowa. Within the succeeding twenty
years, 3,765 miles were built and put in
successful operation.
The present value of buildings for State
institutions, including the estimated cost
of the capitol, is as follows :
State Capitol $2,500,000
State University 400,000
Agricultural College and Farm. 300,000
Institution for the Blind 150,000
Institution for the Deaf and
Dumb 225,000
Institutions for the Insane 1,149,000
Orphans' Home 62,000
Penitentiaries 408,000
Normal School 50,000
Reform School 90,000
The State has never levied more than
two and one-half mills on the dollar for
State tax, and this is at present the consti-
tutional limit. The State has no debt.
No other influence has contributed so
much to the progress and development of
Iowa as the newspapers of the State. No
class of men have labored more assiduously
and disinterestedly for the development of
the State and the advancement of her ma-
terial interests, than her editors. There
are now published in Iowa 25 daily papers,
364 weekly papers, and 13 monthly publi-
cations. These are as a rule well supported
by the people.
Such is briefly a summary of the history
and resources of Iowa. There is perhaps
no other country on earth where so few
people are either rich or poor as in Iowa;
where there is such an equality of condi-
tion, and where so many enjoy a compe-
tence. The law exempts from execution
a homestead to every head of a family.
Every sober, industrious man can in a short
time acquire a home. Iowa is the home
for the immigrant. The children of the
laboring man have no prejudice of caste to
overcome in the effort they may choose to
make for the' improvement of their condi-
tion in life. Here all men enjoy the alien
able blessings of "life, liberty and the pur-
suit of happiness," not only unfettered by
legal disabilities, but also untrammeled by
those fixed conditions of social and busi-
ness life that elsewhere result from accu-
mulated wealth in the possession of the
few. As education is free, so also the ave-
nues of success are open in every pursuit
and calling. The highest incentives exist
to exertion. Labor and effort, whether
manual or mental, are held alike honorable;
and idleness and crime are alone consid-
ered disreputable.
Thriving cities and towns dot the land;
an iron net-work of thousands of miles of
railroads is woven over its fcroad acres;
10,000 school-houses, in which more than
500,000 children are being taught the rudi-
ments of education, testify to the culture
and liberality of the people; high schools,
colleges and universities, are generously
endowed by the State; manufactories are
® c_
-j 3
L£
HISTORY OF IOWA.
67
busy on all her water-courses, and in most
of her cities and towns.
We quote from Judge Nourse: "The
great ultimate fact that America would
demonstrate is, the existence of a people
capable of attaining and preserving a su-
perior civilization, with a government self-
imposed, self-administered and self-perpet-
uated. In this age of wonderful progress,
America can exhibit nothing to the world
of mankind more wonderful or more glo-
rious, than her new States — young empires,
born of her own enterprise, and tutored at
her own political hearth-stone. Well may
she say to the monarchies of the old world,
who look for evidence of her regal grandeur
and state: 'Behold, these are my jewels 1'
And may she never blush to add: 'This
one in the center of the diadem is called
Iowa !" »
The following is the census of Iowa
by counties, as taken by the National Gov-
ernment at each decade:
CENSUS OF IOWA.
COUNTIES.
1840.
1850.
1860.
1870.
18«0.
984
1,533
12, 237
11, 931
454
8,496
8,244
4,232
4.915
7,906
57
3,724
147
281
1,612
12, 949
940
58
4,336
5, 427
52
20, 728
18, 938
383
5,244
13, 764
8,677
11, 024
19,611
180
31, 164
105
12, 073
3,744
1, 309
5,074
1,374
793
3,058
3,982
4,614
17, 868
16, 456
1,213
22, 454
81, 706
14, 584
19,538
17,634
1,586
9,951
1,602
2,451
5.464
19, 731
4,722
1,967
10, 180
8,735
1,523
27, 771
35, 357
2,530
12, 019
15, 565
12, 018
17, 432
27,256
1,389
38, 969
1,392
16, 973
10,768
4, 738
11, 174
4,627
6,399
7,061
11, 199
11, 188
777
3,131
19,791
16,636
7,448
672
135
735
24, 888
23,913
20, 838
14,0-1
517
18,547
7,537
14,293
5, 595
12, 351
16, 943
1,253
3,941
18, 937
11, 461
8,240
14,534
709
11, 512
4,248
1,101
821
3,873
2, 822
28,829
36,764
12, 413
854
7,264
965
1,759
12, 988
18, 748
16, 468
15, 336
168
5,577
17, 9)2
33,099
1,901
3,059
10, 841
42, 997
1,550
825
22,258
14,677
10, 248
1,244
17,653
12, 725
12, 633
14,863
<a »^.
68
HISTORY OF IOWA.
CBIVSO'S OF IOWA— Continued.
COUNTIES.
1840.
1850
•
1860.
1870.
1880.
1.6U9
179
5,440
3,621
18,701
3, 168
332
43
8, 029
18, 493
9,883
15, !8
17, 573
13,306
13,271
416
29, 232
18,947
10, 370
5,766
6,055
999
13, 684
8,931
21, 463
6, 282
2, 3!)6
226
16, 664
22,619
2-, 116
17, 839
24, 898
19, 731
19, 4M4
3,351
37, 210
28. 853
12, 877
10, 3-8
221
13, 884
25,5 8
24, 436
17, 576
8,718
9,582
3,654
12,724
5,934
21, 683
715
11,252
3, 45.3
17,808
8,707
16,649
3, 772
20, 826
10,837
6,341
Ida
4, , , 182
822
7,210
1,280
9,904
4, 472
3,007
4, 822
18,861
5,444
4,939
471
19, 221
1,411
23,771
25, 9iS2
2,773
1,49l
471
17,478
25, 459
21, 052
21,^59
6,179
6,093
1,373
,1,937
34, 859
37, 235
13, 146
14, 530
1,908
1,179
5, 9-9
5, 482
338
7,339
14,816
16,811
6,015
4,481
3,40y
832
8,612
1, 256
16, 444
8
17, 225
25, ^01
25,111
23, 752
14, 135
14,361
9, 055
2,884
5,731
13,719
15, 895
1, 942
23. 163
O'Biion
4, 155
2,219
551
4,419
132
148
1(13
11.625
4,y6d
5,668
2, 923
240
25, 959
818
10
4, 051
5,285
3, 590
2 012
17, 081
14,518
10,281
14, 235
6,4(9
2, 504
168
13,942
1,119
75i
653
9, 975
1,336
2, 1H9
1.446
27, 857
16, 893
15, 581
5,691
1,4 1
38, 509
2,549
570
11, 651
16, 131
6,989
5,9e6
17,672
22, 346
17, 980
18, 952
11,287
10, 484
1, 52B
23. 570
6. 172
2,892
2,392
19,6or
Palo Alto
4, 131
8,5*7
3, 7 1 J
Polk
4,5n
7, 828
615
42, :i95
39, 846
18, 93ri
12, 085
8,771
Scott
2,140
5, 986
41, 270
Shelby
12, 696
5, 426
Story
16, 966
Tama
8
201
21,5 5
Taylor
15, 635
14 980
6,146
12, 270
8,471
961
4, 9. 7
340
17, 042
25, 282
19, 578
1, 594
20, 375
16, 127
15,950
4,917
f 46
23, 9i7
14,997
Wright..-.
7, 953
5 062
43, 112
192, 214
674,913
1,191,792
1, 624, 463
HISTORY OF IOWA.
09
CHAPTER VII.
GEOLOGY — TOPOGRAPHY — WATER COURSES.
Geologists divide the soil of Iowa into
three general divisions — drift, bluff and
alluvial. The drift occupies a much larger
part of the surface of the State than both
the others. The bluff has the next greatest
area of surface, and the alluvial least. All
soil is disintegrated rock. The drift de-
posit of Iowa was derived, to a consider-
able extent, from the rocks of Miunesota;
but the greater part of Iowa drift was de-
rived from its own rocks, much of which
has been transported but a short distance.
In northern and northwestern Iowa the
drift contains more sand and gravel than
elsewhere. In southern Iowa the soil is
frequently stiff and clayey. The bluff soil
is found only, in the western part of the
State, and adjacent to the Missouri river.
Although it contains less than one per cent,
of clay in its composition, it is in no re-
spect inferior to the best drift soil. The
alluvial soil is that of the flood plains of
the river valleys, or bottom lands. That
which is periodically flooded by the rive:s
is of little value for agricultural purposes;
but a large part of it is entirely above the
reach of the highest flood, and is very pro-
ductive.
The stratified rocks of Iowa range from
the Azoic to the Mesozoic, inclusive; but
the greater portion of the surface of the
State is occupied by those of the Palaeozoic
age. The table below will show each of
these formations in their order:
BY8TEM8.
AGES.
Cretaceous ,
Carboniferous..,
Devonian
Upper Silurian.
Lower Silurian.
Azoio
GBOUF8.
PERIODS.
C Post Tertiary
(Lower Cretaceous.
Coal Measures.
j Subcarboniferous.
I ,
Hamilton
Niagara
Cincinnati.
Trenton-
Primordial.
Huronianj
FORMATIONS.
EPOCHS.
Drift
C Inoceramous Bed
< Woodbury Sandstone and Shales
I Nishnabotany Sandstone
t Upper Coal Measures
< Middle Coal Measures
f Lowei Coal Mtasures
!St Louis Limestone
Keokuk Limestone
Burlington Limestone
Kinderhouk Beds
Hamilton Limestone and Shales. .-
Niagara Limestone
Maquoketa Shales
j Galena Limestone
I Trenton Limestone
C St Peter's Sandstone.
< Lower Magnesian Limestone
t Potsdam Sandstone
Sioux Quart zite
THICKNESS
IN FEET.
10 to 200
SO
130
10U
200
20 •
300
75
90
196
175
2(0
35U
B0
250
20D
80
2, r i0
300
50
v w
<a k.
70
HISTORY OF IOWA.
â–²ZOIC SYSTEM.
The Sioux quartzite is found exposed in
natural ledges only upon a few acres in
the extreme northwest corner of the State,
upon the banks of the Big Sioux river,
for which reason the specific name of
Sioux quartzite has been given them. It
is an intensely hard rock, breaks in
splintery fracture, and of a color varying,
in different localities, from a light to deep
red. The process of metamorphism has
been so complete throughout the whole
formation, that the rock is almost every-
where of uniform texture. The dip is
four or five degrees to the northward, and
the trend of the outcrop is eastward and
westward.
LOWER SILURIAN SYSTEM.
Primordial Group. — The Potsdam sand-
stone formation is exposed only in a small
portion of the northeastern part of the
State. It is only to be seen in the bases
of the bluffs and steep valley sides which
border the river there. It is nearly value-
less for economic purposes. No fossils
have been discovered in this formation in
Iowa.
Lower Magnesian Limestone. — This
formation has but little greater geographi-
cal extent in Iowa than the Potsdam sand-
stone. It lacks a uniformity of texture
and stratification, owing to which it is not
generally valuable for building purposes.
The only fossils found in this formation in
the State are a few traces of crinoids, near
McGregor.
The St. Peters sandstone formation is
remarkably uniform in thickness through-
out its known geographical extent, and it
occupies a large portion of the northern
half of Allamakee county, immediately
beneath the drift.
Trenton Group. — With the exception of
the Trenton limestone, all the limestones
of both Upper and Lower Silurian age in
Iowa are magnesian limestone — neafly
pure dolomites. This formation occupies
large portions of Winneshiek and Allama-
kee counties and a small part of Clayton
The greater part of it is useless for eco-
nomic purposes; but there are some com-
pact, even layers that furnish fine material
for window-caps and sills. Fossils are so
abundant in this formation that in some
places the rock is made up of a mass of
shells, corals and fragments *of trilobites,
cemented by calcareous material into a
solid rock. Some of these fossils are new
to science and peculiar to Iowa.
The Galena limestone is the upper form-
ation of the Trenton Group. It is 150
miles long, and seldom exceeds 12 miles
in width. It exhibits its greatest develop-
ment in Dubuque county. It is nearly a
pure dolomite, with a slight admixture of
silicous matter; good blocks for dressing
are sometimes found near the top of the
bed, although it is usually unfit for such a
purpose. This formation is the source of
the lead ore of the Dubuque lead mines.
The lead region proper is confined to an
area of about 15 miles square in the vicinity
of Dubuque. The ore occurs in vertical
fissures, which traverse the rock at regular
intervals from east to west; some is found in
those which have a north and south direc-
tion. This ore is mostly that known as
Galena, or sulphuret of lead, very small
•?;
'-£*
HISTORY OF IOWA.
71
quantities only of the carbonate being
found with it.
Cincinnati Group. — The surface occu-
pied by the Maquoketa shales is more than
100 miles in length, but is singularly long
and narrow, seldom reaching a mile or two
in width. The most northern exposure
ye^ recognized is in the western part of
Winneshiek county, while the most south-
erly is in Jackson county, in the bluffs of
the Mississippi. The formation is largely
composed of bluish and brownish shales,
sometimes slightly arenaceous, sometimes
calcareous, which weather into a tenacious
clay upon the surface, and the soil derived
from it is usually stiff and clayey. Several
species of fossils which characterize the
Cincinnati Group are found in the Maquo-
keta shales, but they contain a larger num-
ber than have been found anywhere else
in these shales in Iowa, and their distinct
faunal characteristics seem to warrant the
separation of the Maquoketa shales as a
distinct formation from others in the
group.
UPPER SILURIAN SYSTEM.
Niagara Group. — The area occupied by
the Niagara limestone is 40 and 50 miles
in width, and nearly 160 miles long, from
north to south. This formation is entirely
a magnesian limestone, with a considerable
portion of silicious matter, in some places,
in the form of chert or coarse flint. A
large part of it probably affords the best
and greatest amount of quarry rock in the
State. The quarries at Anamosa, LeClaire
and Farley are all opened in this forma-
tion.
DEVONIAN SYSTEM.
Hamilton Group. — The area of surface
occupied by the Hamilton limestone and
shales is as great as those by all the form-
ations of both Upper and Lower Silurian
age in the State. Its length is nearly 200
miles, and width from 40 to 50. A large
part of the material of this is quite worth-
less, yet other portions are valuable for
economic purposes; and, having a large
geographical extent in the State, is a very
important formation. Its value for the
production of hydraulic lime has been
demonstrated at Waverly, Bremer county;
the heavier piers and other material re-
quiring strength and durability. All the
Devonian strata of Iowa evidently belong
to a single epoch. The most conspicuous
and characteristic fossils of this formation
are brachiopodes, corals and mullusks.
The coral Acervularia Davidsoni occurs
near Iowa City, and is known as "Iowa
City marble" and "Bird's Eye marble."
CARBONIFEROUS SYSTEM.
Of the three groups of formations that
constitute the carboniferous, viz: the sub-
carboniferous, coal measures and Permian,
only the first two are found in Iowa.
Subcarboniferous Group. — This group
occupies a very large area of surface. Its
eastern border passes from the northeast-
ern part of Winnebago county, with con-
siderable directness in a southeasterly
direction to the northern part of Washing-
ton county. It then makes a broad and
direct bend nearly eastward, striking the
Mississippi at Muscatine. The southern
and western boundaries are to a consider-
able extent the same as that which separates
it from the real field. From the southern
part of Pocahontas county it passes south-
east to Fort Dodge, thence to Webster
City, thence to a point 3 or 4 miles north-
â– RT
^ — 4 >*
n
HISTORY OF IOWA.
east of Eldora, in Hardin county, thence
southward to the middle of the north line
of Jasper county, thence southeastward to
Sigourney, in Keokuk county, thence to
the northeastern corner of Jefferson county,
thence sweeping a few miles eastward to
the southeast corner of Van Buren county.
Its arc is about 250 miles long, and from
20 to 50 miles wide.
The Kinderhook Beda — The most south-
erly exposure of these beds is in Des-
Moines county, near the mouth of Skunk
river. The most northerly now known is
in the eastern part of Pocahontas county,
more than 200 miles distant. The princi-
pal exposures of this formation are along
the bluffs which border the Mississippi and
Skunk rivers, where they form the eastern
and northern boundary of DesMoines
county; along English river, in Washing-
ton county; along the Iowa river in Tama,
Marshall, Hamlin and Franklin counties,
and along the DesMoines river in Hum-
boldt county. This formation has consid-
erable economic value, particularly in the
northern portion of the region it occupies.
In Pocahontas and Humboldt counties it
is invaluable, as no other stone except a
few boulders are found here. At Iowa
Falls the lower division is very good for
building purposes. In Marshall county all
the limestone to be obtained comes from
this formation, and the quarries near Le
Grand are very valuable. At this point
some of the layers are finely veined with
peroxide of iron, and are wrought into both
useful and ornamental objects. In Tama
county the oolitic member is well exposed,
where it is manufactured into lime. Upon
exposure to atmosphere and frost it crum-
bles to pieces; consequently it is not valu-
able for building purposes.
The remains of fishes are the only fossils
yet discovered in this formation that can
be referred to the sub-kingdom Vertebrata;
and so far as yet recognized, they all be-
long to the order Selachians Of Articu-
ticulates, only two species have been recog-
nized, both of which belong to the genus
Phillipsia. The sub-kingdom Mollusca is
also largely represented The Radiata are
represented by a few crinoids, usually
found in a very imperfect condition. The
sub-kingdom is also represented by corals.
The prominent feature in the life of this
epoch was molluscan. It overshadowed
all other branches of the animal kingdom.
The prevailing classes are: Lamellibranch-
iates, in the more arenaceous portions; and
Brachropods in the more calcareous por-
tions. No remains of vegetation have
been detected in any of the strata of this
formation.
The Burlington limestone formation
consists of two distinct calcareous divi-
sions, separated by a series of siliceous
beds; both divisions are crinoidal. The
Burlington limestone is carried down by
the southerly dip of the Iowa rocks, so that
it is seen for the last time in the State in
the valley of Skunk river, near the south-
ern boundary of DesMoines county, which
is the most northerly point that it has been
found, but it probably exists as far north
as Marshall county. Much valuable mate-
rial is afforded by this formation for eco-
nomic purposes. The upper division
furnishes excellent common quarry rock.
Geologists are attracted by the great
abundance and variety of its fossils — cri-
noids — now known to be more than 300.
HISTORY OF IOWA.
73
The only remains of vertebrates discov-
ered in this formation are those of fishes,
and consist of teeth and spines. Bones of
bony fish, on Buffington creek, Louisa
county, is an exposure so fully charged
Avith these remains that it might with pro-
priety be called bone breccia.
Remains of Articulates are rare in this
formation; so far as yet discovered, they
are confined to two species of trilobites of
the genus Phillipsia. Fossil shells are
very common.
The two lowest classes of the sub-king-
dom Radiata are represented in the genera
Zaphrentis, Amplexus and Syringaposa,
while the highest class, Echinoderms, are
found in most extraordinary profusion.
The Keokuk limestone formation is to
be seen only in four counties — Lee, Van
Buren, Henry and DesMoines. In some
localities the upper siliceous portion is
known as the Geode bed; it is not recog-
nizable in the northern portion of the
formation, nor in connection with it where
it is exposed, about 80 miles below Keo-
kuk. The geodes of the Geode bed are
more or less masses of silex, usually hol-
low and lined with crystals of quartz; the
outer crust is rough and unsightly, but the
crystals which stud the interior are often
very beautiful; they* vary in size from the
size of a walnut to a foot in diameter.
This formation is of great economic
value. Large quantities of its stone have
been used in the finest structures in the
State, among which are the postoffices at
Dubuque and DesMoines. The principal
quarries are along the banks of the Missis-
sippi, from Keokuk to Nauvoo. The only
vertebrate fossils in the formation are
fishes, all belonging to the order Selachians,
some of which indicate that their owners
reached a length of 25 or 30 feet. Of the
Articulates, only two species of the genus
Phillipsia have been found in this forma-
tion. Of the Mollusks no Cephalopoda
have yet been recognized in this forma-
tion in Iowa. Gasteropods are rare;
Brachiopods and Polyzoans are quite
abundant. Of Radiates, corals of genera
Zaphrentis, Amplexus and Aulopora are
found* but crinoids are most abundant Of
the low forms of animal life, the proto-
zoans, a small fossil related to the sponges,
is found in this formation in small num-
bers.
The St. Louis limestone is the uppermost
of the sub-carboniferous group in Iowa. It
occupies a small superficial area, consisting
of long, narrow strips, yet its extent is
very great. It is first seen resting on the
geode division of the Keokuk limestone,
near Keokuk; proceeding northward, it
forms a narrow border along the edge of
the coal fields in Lee, DesMoines, Henry,
Jefferson, Washington, Keokuk and Ma-
haska counties; it is then lost sight of
until it appears again in the banks of
Boone river, where it again passes out of
view under the Coal Measures, until it is
next seen in the banks of the DesMoines,
near Fort Dodge. As it exists in Iowa, it
consists of three tolerably distinct sub-
divisions — the magnesian, arenaceous and
calcareous. The upper division furnishes
excellent material for quicklime, and when
quarries are well opened, as in the north-
western part of VanBuren county, large
blocks are obtained. The sandstone, or
middle division, is of little tconomicvalue.
The lower, or magnesian division, furnishes
a valuable and durable stone, exposures of
*J:
HISTORY OF IOWA.
which are found on Lick creek, in Van
Buren county, and on Long creek, seven
miles west of Burlington.
Of the fossils of this formation, the
vertebrates are represented only by the
remains of fish, belonging to the two
orders, Selachians and Ganoids. The
Articulates are represented by one species
of the trilobite, genus Phillipsia; and two
ostracoid genera, Cythra and Beyricia.
The Mollusks distinguished this formation
more than any other branch of the animal
kingdom. Radiates are exceedingly rare,
showing a marked contrast between this
formation and the two preceding it.
The Coal Measure Group is properly
divided into three formations, viz: the
Lower, Middle and Upper Coal Measures;
each having a vertical thickness of about
two hundred feet.
The Lower Coal Measures exists east-
ward and northward of the DesMoines
river, and also occupy a large area west-
ward and southward of that river; but
their southerly dip passes below the Middle
Coal Measure at no great distance from
the river. This formation possesses
greater economic value than any other in
the whole State. The clay that underlies
almost every bed of coal, furnishes a large
amount of material for potters' use. The
sandstone of these measures is usually soft
and unfit for use; but in some places, as in
Red Rock, in Marion county, blocks of
large dimensions are obtained, which make
good building material, samples of which
can be seen in the State Arsenal, at Des
Moines.
But few fossils have been found in any
of the strata of the Lower Coal Measures,
but such animal remains as have been
found are, without exception, of marine
origin. All fossil plants found in these
measures, probably belong to the class
Acrogens. Specimens of Calamites and
several species of ferns are found in all the
Coal Measures, but the genus Lepidoden-
dron seems not to have existed later than
the epoch of the Middle Coal Measures.
The latter formation occupies a narrow
belt of territory in the southern-central
portion of the State, embracing a superfi-
cial area of about 1 ,400 square miles The
counties underlaid by this formation are,
Guthrie, Dallas, Polk, Madison, Warren,
Clarke, Lucas, Monroe, Wayne and Appa-
noose.
Few species of fossils occur in these
beds. Some of the shales and sandstone
have afforded a few imperfectly preserved
land plants, three or four species of ferns,
belonging to the genera. Some of the
carboniferous shales afford beautiful speci-
mens of what appears to have been sea-
weed. Radiates are represented by corals.
The Mollusks are most numerously repre-
sented. Trilobites and ostracoids are the
only remains known of Articulates. Ver-
tebrates are only known by the remains of
Selachians, or sharks and ganoids.
The Upper Coal Measures occupy a very
large area, comprising thirteen whole
counties, in the southwestern part of the
State. By its northern and eastern boun-
daries it adjoins the area occupied by the
Middle Coal Measures. This formation
contains a considerable portion of shales
and sandstone, but the prominent litho-
logical features are its limestones. Al-
though it is known by the name of Upper
Coal Measures, it contains but a single bed
of coal, and that only about 20 inches in
19
\
HISTORY OF IOWA.
75
maximum thickness. The limestone ex-
posed in this formation furnishes good
building material, as in Madison and Fre-
mont counties. The sandstones are quite
worthless. No beds of clay, for potters'
use, are found in the whole formation.
The fossils are more numerous than in
either the Middle or Lower Coal Measures.
The vertebrates are represented by the
fishes of the orders Selachians and Ganoids.
The Articulates are represented by the
trilobites and ostracoids. Mollusks are
represented by the classes Cephalapoda,
Gasterapoda, Lamellibranchiata, Brachio-
poda and Polyzoa. Radiates are more
numerous than in the Middle and Lower
Coal Measures. Protozoans are repre-
sented in the greatest abundance, some
layers of limestone being almost entirely
composed of their small fusiform shells.
CRETACEOUS SYSTEM.
The next strata in the geological series
are of the Cretaceous age. They are found
in the western half of the State, and do
not dip, as do all the other formations
upon which they rest, to the southward
and westward, but have a general dip of
their own to the north of westward, which,
however, is very slight. Although the
actual exposures of* cretaceous rocks are
few in Iowa, there is reason to believe that
nearly all the western half of the State was
originally occupied by them; but they have
been removed by denudation, which has
taken place at two separate periods. The
first period was during its elevation from
the cretaceous sea, and during the long
Tertiary age that passed between the time
of that elevation and the commencement
of the Glacial epoch. The second period
was during the Glacial epoch, when the ice
produced their entire removal over consid-
erable areas. All the cretaceous rocks in
Iowa are a part of the same deposits farther
up the Missouri river, and, in reality, form
their eastern boundary.
The Nishnabotany sandstone has the
most easterly and southerly extent of the
cretaceous deposits of Iowa, reaching the
southeastern part of Guthrie county and
the southern part of Montgomery county.
To the northward, it passes beneath the
Woodbury sandstones and shales, the latter
passing beneath the Inoceramus, or chalky
beds. This sandstone is, with few excep-
tions, valueless for economic purposes.
The only fossils found in this formation
are a few fragments of angios permous
leaves. The strata of Woodbury sand-
stones and shales rest upon the Nishnabot-
any sandstone, and have not been observed
outside of Woodbury county; hence their
name. Their principal exposure is at Ser-
geant's Bluffs, seven miles below Sioux
City. This rock has no value, except for
purposes of common masonry. Fossil re-
mains are rare. Detached scales of a lepi-
doginoid species have been detected, but
no other vertibrate remains of vegetation,
leaves of Salix Meekii and Sassfras creta-
ceum have been occasionally found.
The Inoceramus beds rest upon the
Woodbury sandstone and shales. They
have not been observed in Iowa except in
the bluffs which border the Big Sioux river
in Woodbury and Plymouth counties.
They are composed almost entirely of cal-
careous material, the upper portion of
which is extensively used for lime. No
building material can be obtained from
these beds, and the only value they possess,
76
HISTORY OF IOWA.
except lime, are the marls, which at some
time may be useful on the soil of the adja-
cent region. The only vertebrate remains
found in the cretaceous rocks are the fishes.
Those in the Inoceramus beds are two
species of squaloid Selachians, or certra-
cionts, and three genera of teliosts. Mol-
luscan remains are rare.
PEAT.
Extensive beds of peat exist in Northern
Middle Iowa, which, it is estimated, con-
tain the following areas: Cerro Gordo
county, 1,500 acres; Worth, 2,000; Winne-
bago, 2,000; Hancock, 1,500; Wright, 500;
Kossuth, 700; Dickinson, 80. Several con-
tain peat beds, but the peat is inferior to
that in the northern part of the State.
The beds are of an average depth of four
feet. It is estimated that each acre of
these beds will furnish 250 tons of dry
fuel for each foot in depth. At present
this peat is not utilized, but, owing to its
great distance from the coal fields, and the
absence of timber, the time is coming when
their value will be fully realized.
GYPSUM.
The only sulphate of the alkaline earth
of any economic value is gypsum, and it
may be found in the vicinity of Fort
Dodge, in Webster county. The deposit
occupies a nearly central position in the
county, the DesMoines river running nearly
centrally through it, along the valley sides
of which the gypsum is seen in the form of
ordinary rock cliff and ledges, and also oc-
curring abundantly in similar positions
along both sides of the valleys of the
smaller streams and of the numerous
ravines coming into the river valley. The
most northerly known limit of the deposit
is at a point near the mouth of Lizard
creek, a tributary of the DesMoines river
and almost adjoining the town of Fort
Dodge. The most southerly point at which
it has been exposed is about six miles, by
way of the river, from the northerly point
mentioned. The width of the area is un-
known, as the gypsum becomes lost be-
neath the overlying drift, as one goes up
the ravines and minor valleys.
On either side of the creeks and ravines
which come into the valley of the Des
Moines river, the gypsum is seen jutting
out from beneath the drift in the form of
4
ledges and bold quarry fronts, having
almost the exact appearance of ordinary
limestone exposures, so horizontal and reg-
ular are its lines of stratification, and so
similar in color is it to some varieties of
that rock. The principal quarries now
opened are on Two-Mile creek, a couple of
miles below Fort Dodge.
Age of the Gypsum Deposit — No trace
of fossil remains has been found in the
gypsum or associated clays; neither has
any other indication of its geologic age
been observed except that which is afforded
by its stratigraphical relations; the most
that can be said with certainty is that it is
newer than the coal measures, and older
than the drift. The indications' afforded
by the stratigraphical relations of the gyp-
sum deposit of Fort Dodge are, however,
of considerable value. No Tertiary de-
posits are known to exist within or near
the borders of Iowa, to suggest that it
might be of that age, nor are any of the
Palaeozoic strata newer than the subcar-
boniferous unconformable upon each other
,\.
®_
_^ © L >■>
HISTORY OF IOWA.
77
as the other gypsum is unconformable upon
the strata beneath it. It therefore seems,
in a measure, conclusive that the gypsum
is of Mesozoic age; perhaps older than
the cretaceous.
The lithological origin of this deposit is
as uncertain as its geological age. It seems
to present itself in this relation, as in the
former one, — an isolated fact. None of
the associated strata show any traces of a
double decomposition of pre-existing ma-
terials, such as some have supposed all de-
posits of gypsum to have resulted from.
No considerable quantities of oxide of iron
nor any trace of native sulphur have been
found in connection with it, nor has any
salt been found in the waters of the region.
These substances are common in associa-
tion with other gypsum deposits, and by
many are regarded as indicative of the
method of or resulting from their origin
as such. Throughout the whole region the
Fort Dodge gypsum has the exact appear-
ance of a sedimentary deposit. From
these facts it seems not unreasonable to en-
tertain the opinion that this gypsum origin-
ated as a chemical precipitation in com-
paratively still waters which were satu-
rated with sulphate of lime and destitute
of life; its stratification and impurities
being deposited at the same time as clayey
impurities which had been suspended in
the same waters.
Physical Properties. — Mu^h has already
been said of the physical chai'acter of this
gypsum; but as it is so different in some
respects from other deposits, there are still
other matters worthy of mention in con-
nection with those. According to the re-
sults of a complete analysis of Prof.Emery,
the ordinary gray gypsum contains only
about eight per cent, of impurity, and it
is possible that the average impurity for
the whole deposit will not exceed that pro-
portion, so uniform in quality is it from
top to bottom and from one end of the
region to the other. As plaster for agri-
cultural purposes is sometimes prepared
from gypsum that contains thirty per cent,
of impurity, it will be seen that this is a
very superior article, for such purposes.
The impurities are of such a character
that they do not in any way interfere with
its value for use in the arts.
Although the gypsum rock has a gray
color, it becomes quite white by grinding,
and still whiter by the calcimining process
necessary in the preparation of plaster of
Paris. These tests have all been practi-
cally made in the rooms of the Geological
Survey, and the quality of the plaster of
Paris still further tested by actual use and
experiment. The only use yet made of
the gypsum by the inahabitants is for the
purposes of ordinary building stone. It is
so compact it is found to be comparatively
unaffected by frost, and its ordinary situa-
tion in walls of houses is such that it is
protected from the dissolving action of
water, which can, at most, reach it only
from occasional rains, and the effect of
these is too slight to be perceived after the
lapse of several years. Hon. John F.
Duncombe, of Fort Do'ge, built a fine
residence of it in 1861, the walls of which
appear as unaffected by exposure and as
beautiful as they were when first erected.
Several other houses in Fort Dodge have
been constructed of it, including the depot
buildings of the Dubuque and Sioux City
Railroad. Marv of the sidewalks in the
<2 k^
-J>. §>
>>
73
HISTORY OF IOWA.
town are made of the slabs or flags of gyp-
sum which occur in some of the quarries
in the form of thin layers.
MINOR DEPOSITS OF SULPHATE OP LIME.
Sulphate of lime in the various forms
of fibrous gypsum, selenite and small
amorphous masses, has also been discov-
ered in various formations in different
parts of the State, including the Coal
Measure shales near Fort Dodge, where it
exists in small quantities, quite independ-
ently of the great gypsum deposit there.
The quantity of gypsum in these minor
deposits is always too small to be of any
practical value, usually occurring in shales
and shaly clays. Associated with strata
that contain more or less sulphuret of
iron, gypsum has thus been detected in
the Coal Measures, the St. Louis lime-
stone, the Cretaceous strata, and also in
the Dead Caves of Dubuque.
SULPHATE OP STRONITA.
This mineral is found at Fort Dodge,
which is, perhaps, the only place in Iowa
or in the valley of the Mississippi where
it has as yet been discovered. There, it
occurs in very small quantities in both the
shales of the Lower Coal Measures and in
the clays that overlie the gypsum deposit,
and which is regarded as of the same age
with it. The mineral is fibrous and crys-
talline, the libers being perpendicular to
the plane of the layer; it resembles, in
physical character, the layer of fibro-crys-
talline gypsum, before mentioned. Its
color is of light blue, is transparent, and
shows crystalline facets upon both the
upper and under surfaces of the layer, of
the upper surface being smaller and more
numerous. The layer is probably not
more than a rod in extent in any direction,
and about three inches in maximum thick-
ness. Apparent lines of stratification
occur in it, corresponding with those of
the shales which imbed it. The other
deposit was still smaller in amount, and
occurred as a mass of crystals imbedded
in the clays that overlie the gypsum at
Cummins' quarry, in the valley of Sol-
diers' creek, upon the north side of the
town. The mineral in this clay is nearly
colorless, and somewhat resembles masses
of impure salt. The crystals are so closely
aggregated that they enclose but little im-
purity in the mass, but in almost all other
cases their fundamental forms are ob-
sured. This mineral has almost no prac-
tical value, and is only interesting as a
mineralogical fact.
SULPHATE OF BARYTA.
In Iowa this mineral has been found
only in minute quantities. It has been de-
tected in the Coal Measure shales of De-
catur, Madison and Marion counties,
Devonian limestone of Johnson and Bre-
mer counties, and, also, in the lead caves
of Dubuque. It is in the form of crystals
or small crystalline masses.
SULPHATE OP MAGNESIA.
Epsomite, or native Epsom salts, having
been discovered near Burlington, all the
sulphates of alkaline earths of natural
origin have been recognized in Iowa; all
except the sulphate of lime being in very
small quantity. The Epsomite mentioned
"$
HISTORY OF IOWA.
was found beneath the overhanging cliff of
Burlington limestone near Starr's Mill. It
occurs in the form of efflorescent encrusta-
tions upon the surface of stones, and in
similar small fragile masses among the
pine debris that has fallen down beneath
the overhanging cliff. The projection of
the cliff over the perpendicular face of the
strata beneath, amounts to near 20 feet at
the point where Epsomite was found. The
rock upon which it accumulates is an im-
pure limestone, containing also some car-
bonate of magnesia, together with a small
proportion of iron pyrites, in a finely-
divided condition. By experiments with
this native salt in the office of the Survey,
a fine article of Epsom salts was produced,
but the quantity obtained there is very
small, and would be of no practical value
on account of the cheapness in the market.
CLIMATE.
The greatest objection to the climate of
this State is the prevalence of wind, which
is somewhat greater than in the States
south and east, but not so great as it is
west. The air is pure and generally bra-
cing, — the northern part particularly so
during the winter. The prevailing direc-
tion of the wind during the whole year is
easterly. Correspondingly, thunder-storms
are somewhat more violent in this State
than east or south, but not near so much so
as toward the mountains. As elsewhere in
the Northwestern States, easterly wind-*
bring rain and snow, while westerly ones
clear the sky. While the highest temper-
ature occurs here in August, the month of
July averages the hottest, and January the
coldest. The mean temperature of April
and October nearly corresponds to the
mean temperature of the year, as well as to
the seasons of spring and fall, while that
of summer and winter is best represented
by August and December. Indian summer
is delightful and well prolonged. Untimely
frosts sometimes occur, but seldom severely
enough to do great injury. The wheat
crop being a staple product of the State,
and is not injured at all by frost, this great
resource of the State continues intact.
TOPOGRAPHY.
All the knowledge we have at present
of the topography of the State of Iowa is
that derived from incidental observations
of geological corps, from the surveys made
by railroad engineers, and from barometri-
cal observations made by authority of the
Federal Government. No complete topo
graphical survey has yet been made, lut
this will doubtless be attended to in a few
years.
The State lies wholly within, and com-
prises a part of, a vast plain, and there is
no mountainous or even hilly country
within its borders; for the highest point is
but 1,200 feet above the lowest point; these
two poiuts are nearly 3u0 miles apart, and
the whole State is traversed by gently
flowing rivers. A clearer idea of the great
uniformity of the surface of the State may
be obtained from a statement of the gen-
eral slopes in feet per mile, from point to
point, in straight lines across it.
Per Mile.
From N. E. corner to S. E. cor-
ner of State 1 ft. 1 in.
From N. E. corner to Spirit Lake, 5 ft. 5 in
From N.W corner to SpiritLake, 5 ft.
From N.W. corner to S.W. cor-
ner of the State 2 ft.
:\£
80
HISTORY OF IOWA.
Per Mile.
From S. W. corner to highest
ridge between the two great
rivers (in Ringgold county).. 4 ft. 1 in.
From the highest point in the
State (near Spirit Lake) to the
lowest point in the State (at
the mouth of DesMoines river) 4 ft.
We thus find that there is good degree
of propriety in regarding the whole State
as belonging to a great plain, the lowest
point of which within its border, the south-
eastern corner of the State, is only 444
feet above the level of the sea. The aver-
age height of the whole State above the
level of the sea is not far from 800 feet,
although it is a thousand miles from the
nearest ocean.
These remarks are, of course, to be un-
derstood as applying to the State as a
whole. On examining its surface in detail,
we find a great diversity of surface by the
formation of valleys out of the general
level, which have been evolved by the
actions of streams during the unnumbered
years of the terrace epoch. These river
valleys are deepest in the northwestern
part of the State, and consequently it is
there that the country has the greatest di-
versity of surface, and its physical features
are most strongly marked.
The greater part of Iowa was formerly
one vast prairie. It has, indeed, been
estimated that seven-eighths of the surface
of the State was prairie when first settled.
By prairie it must not be inferred that a
level surface is meant % for they are found
in hilly countries as well. Nor are they
confined to any particular variety of soil,
for they rest upon all formations, from
those of the Azotic to those of the Creta-
ceous age, inclusive. Whatever may have
been their origin, their present existence
in Iowa is not due to the influence of cli-
mate, of the soil, or of any of the under-
lying formations. The real cause is the
prevalence of the annual fires. If these
had been prevented fifty years ago, Iowa
would now be a timbered country. The
encroachment of forest trees upon prairie
farms as soon as the bordering wood-
land is protected from the annual prairie
fires, is well known to farmers throughout
the State. The soil of Iowa is justly
famous for its fertility, and there is prob-
ably no equal area of the earth's surface
that contains so little untillable land, or
whose soil has so high an average of fer-
tility. Ninety-five per cent, of its surface
is capable of a high state of cultivation.
LAKES AND STREAMS.
Lakes — The lakes of Iowa may be prop-
erly divided into two distinct classes. The
first may be called drift lakes, having had
their origin in the depressions left in the
surface of the drift at the close of the gla-
cial epoch, and have rested upon the undis-
turbed surface of the drift deposit ever
since the glaciers disappeared. The others
may be properly termed Jluviatile or allu-
vial lakes, because they have had their
origin by the action of rivers while cut-
ting their own valleys out from the surface
of the drift as it existed at the close of the
glacial epoch, and are now found resting
upon the alluvium. By "alluvium" is
meant the deposit which has accumulated
in the valleys of rivers by the action of
their own currents. It is largely composed
of sand and other coarse material, and
(f
^
HISTORY OF IOWA.
81
upon that deposit are some of the best
productive soils in the State. It is this
deposit which forms the flood plains and
deltas of our rivers, as well as the terraces
of their valleys. The regions to which the
drift lakes are principally confined are near
the head waters of the principal streams
of the State. They are consequently found
in those regions which lie between the
Cedar and DesMoines rivers, and the Des
Moines and Little Sioux. No drift lakes
are found in Southern Iowa. The largest
of the lakes « to be found in the State
are Spirit and Okoboji, in Dickinson
county, Clear Lake in Cerro Gordo county.
and Storm Lake in Buena Vista county.
Spirit Lake. — The width and length of
this lake are about equal, and it contains
about 12 square miles of surface, its north-
ern border resting directly on the boun-
dary of the State. It lies almost directly
upon the - great water-shed. Its shores
are mostly gravelly, and the country about
it fertile.
Okoboji Lake. — This body of water
lies directly south of Spirit Lake, and has
somewhat the shape of a horse-shoe, with
its eastern projection within a few rods
of Spirit Lake, where it receives the out-
let of the latter. Okoboji Lake extends
about five miles southward from Spirit
Lake, thence about the same distance
westward, and it then bends northward
about as far as the eastern projection.
The eastern portion is narrow, but the
western is larger, and in some places 100
feet deep. The surroundings of this and
Spirit Lake are very plea-ant; fish are
abundant in them, and they are the re-
sort of myriads of water-fowl.
Clear Lake. — This lake is situated
upon the water-shed between the Iowa and
Cedar rivers. It is about 5 miles long, 2
or 3 miles wide, and has a maximum
depth of only 15 feet. Its shores and the
country around are like that of Spirit
Lake.
Storm Lake. — This lake rests upon the
great water-shed in Buena Vista county.
It is a clear, beautiful sheet of water, con-
taining a surface area of between 4 and 5
square miles. The outlets of all these
drift lakes are dry during a portion of the
year, except Okoboji.
Walled Lakes. — Along the water-sheds
of Northern Iowa great numbers of small
lakes exist, varying from half a mile to a
mile in diameter. One of the laVes in
Wright county, and another in Sac, have
each received the name of "Walled Lake,"
on account of the embankments on their
borders, which are supposed to be the work
of ancient inhabitants. These embank-
ments are from 2 to 10 feet in height, and
from 5 to 30 feet across. They are the
result of natural causes alone, being refer-
able to the periodic action of ice, aided to
some extent by the action of the waves.
These lakes are very shallow, and in win-
ter freeze to the bottom, so that but little
unfrozen water remains in the middle. The
ice freezes fast to everything on the bot-
tom, and the expansive power of the water
in freezing acts in all directions from the
center to the circumference, and whatever
was on the bottom of the lake has been
thus carried to the shore. This has been
going on from year to year, from century
to century, forming the embankments
which have caused so much wonder.
(3
fte.
Springs issue from all the geological
formations, and form the sides of almost
every valley, but they are more numerous,
and assume proportions which give rise to
the name of sink-holes, along the upland
borders of the Upper Iowa river, owing to
the peculiar fissued and laminated charac-
ter and great thickness of the stra'a of the
age of the Trenton limestone which under-
lies the whole region of the valley of that
stream. No mineral springs, properly so-
called, have yet been discovered in Iowa,
though the water of several artesian wells
is frequently found charged with soluable
mineral substances.
Hivers. — The two great rivers, the Mis-
sissipi and Missouri, from the eastern and
the western boundaries, respectively, of
the State, receive the eastern and western
drainage of it. The Mississippi with its
tributaries in Eastern Iowa drain two-
thirds of the State, and the Missouri with
its tributaries drain the western third. The
great water-shed which divides these two
systems is a land running southward from
a point on the northern boundary line of
the State, near Spirit Lake, in Dickinson
county, to a nearly central point in the
northern part of Adair county. From the
last named point this highest ridge of land
between the two great rivers continues
southward, without change of character,
through Ringgold county, into the State
of Missouri; but it is no longer the great
water-shed. From that point another ^idge
bears off southward, through the counties
of Madison, Clarke, Lucas and Appanoose,
which is now the water-shed.
All streams that rise in Iowa occupy, at
first, only slight depressions of the land,
and are scarcely perceptible. These uniting
into larger streams, though still flowing
over drift and bluff deposits, reach consid-
erable depth into these deposits, in some
cases to a depth of nearly 200 feet from
the general prairie level.
The greater part of the streams in West-
ern Iowa run either along the whole or a
part of their course, upon that peculiar
deposit known as bluff deposit. The
banks even of the small streams are often
five to ten feet in height and quite perpen-
dicular, so that they render the streams
almost everywhere unfordable, and a great
impediment to travel across the open
country where there are no bridges.
This deposit is of a slightly yellowish
ash color, except when darkened by decay-'
ing vegetation, very fine and silicious, but
not sandy, not very cohesive, and not at
all plastic. It forms excellent soil, and
does not bake or crack in drying, except
limy concretions, which are generally dis-
tributed throughout the mass, in shape
and size resembling pebbles; but not a
stone or a pebble can be found in the
whole deposit. It was called "silicious
marl" by Dr. Owen, in his geological re-
port to the Government, and he attributes
its origin to an accumulation of sediment
in an ancient lake, which was afterwaid
drained, and the sediment became dry land.
Prof. Swallow gives it the name of "bluff,"
which is here adopted; but the term, "la-
custrine" would have been more appro-
priate. The peculiar properties of this
deposit are that it will stand securely with
a precipitous front 200 feet high, and yet
is easily excavated with a spade. Wells
dug in it require only to be walled to a
point just above the water-line. Yet, corn-
's:
\
HISTORY OF IOWA.
83
pact as it is, it is very porous, so that
water which falls on it does not remain at
the surface, but percolates through it;
neither does it accumulate within it at any
point, as it does upon and within the drift
and the stratified formations.
The thickest deposit yet known in Iowa
is in Fremont county, where it reaches 200
feet. It is found throughout a region
more than 200 miles in length, and nearly
100 miles in width, and through which the
Missouri runs almost centrally.
This fine sediment is the same which
the Missouri once deposited in a broad
depression in the surface of the drift that
formed a lake-like expansion of that river
in the earliest period of the history of its
valley. The extent of the deposit shows
this lake to have been 100 miles wide and
more than twice as long. The water of
the river was muddy then as now, and the
broad lake became filled with the sediment
which the river brought down. After the
lake became filled with the sediment, the
valley below became deepened by the con-
stant erosive action of the waters, to a
depth sufficient to have drained the lake
of its first waters; but the only effect then
was to cause it to cut its valley out of the
deposits its own muddy waters had formed.
Thus along the valley of that river, so far
as it forms the western boundary of Iowa,
the bluffs which boi'der it are composed of
that sediment known as bluff deposit,
forming a distinct border along the broad,
level flood plain, the width of which varies
from five to fifteen miles, while the orig-
inal sedimentary deposit stretches far in-
land.
Chariton and Grand rivers rise and
run for twenty-five miles of their course
upon the dri ft deposits alone. The first
strata that are exposed by the deepening
valleys of both these streams belong to
the Upper Coal Measure^, and they both
continue upon the same formation until
they make their exit from the State, (the
former in Appanoose county, the latter in
Ringgold county,) near the boundary of
which they passed nearly or quite through
the whole of that formation to the Middle
Coal Measures. Their valleys deepen
gradually, and 15 or 20 miles from the
river they are nearly 150 feet below the gen-
eral level of the adjacent highland. When
the rivers have cut their valleys down
through the series of limestone strata, they
reach those of a clayey composition. Upon
these they widen their valleys, and make
broad flood plains or " bottoms," the soil
of which is stiff and clayey, except where
modified by sandy washings. These
streams are prairie streams in their upper
branches and tributaries, but flow through
woodland farther down. The proportion
of lime in the drift of Iowa is so great that
the water of all the wells and springs is
too " hard " for washing purposes, and the
same substance is so prevalent in the drift
clays that they are always found to have
sufficient flux when used for the manufac-
ture of brick.
Platte river belongs mainly to Missouri.
Its upper branches pass through Ringgold
county. Here the drift deposit reaches its
maximum thickness on an east and west
line across the State, and the valleys are
eroded in some instances to a depth of
200 feet, apparently, through this deposit
alone. Th >. term "drift deposit " applies
to the soil and sub soil of the gre iter parr
84
HISTORY OF IOWA.
of the State, and in it alone many wells
are dug and our forests take root. It rests
upon the stratified rocks. It is composed
of clay, sand, gravel and boulders, promis-
cuously intermixed without stratification,
varying in character in different parts of
the State.
One Hundred and Two river is repre-
sented in Taylor county, the valleys of
which have the same general character of
those just described. The country around
and between the east and west forks of
this stream is almost entirely prairie.
Nodaway river is represented by east,
middle and west branches. The two for-
mer rise in Adair county, the latter in
Cass county/ These rivers and valleys are
fine examples of the small rivers and
valleys of Southern Iowa. They have the
general character of drift valleys, and with
beautiful undulating and sloping sides.
The Nodaway drains one of the finest
agricultural regions in the State, the soil
of which is tillable almost to their very
banks. The banks and the adjacent nar-
row flood-plains are almost everywhere
composed of a rich, deep, dark loam.
Nishnabotany river is represented by
east and west branches, the former having
its source in Anderson county, the latter
in Shelby county. Both these branches,
from their source to their confluence, and
also the main stream from there to the
point where it enters the great flood-plain
of the Missouri, run through a region, the
surface of which is occupied by the bluff
deposit.
The West Nishnabotany is probably
without any valuable mill-sites. In the
western part of Cass county, the East
Nishnabotany loses its identity by becom-
ing abruptly divided up into five or six
different creeks. A few good mill-sites
occur here on this stream. None, how-
ever, that are thought reliable, exist on
either of these rivers, or on the main
stream below the confluence, except, per-
haps, one or two in Montgomery county.
The valleys of the two branches, and the
intervening upland, possess remarkable
fertility.
Buyer river, until it enters the flood-
plain of the Missouri, runs almost, if not
quite, its entire course through the region
occupied by the bluff deposit, and has cut
its valley entirely through it along most of
its passage. The only rocks exposed are
the upper coal measures, near Reed's mill,
in Harrison county. The exposures are
slight, and are the most northerly now
known in Iowa. The valley of this river
has usually gently sloping sides, and an in-
distinctly defined flood-plain. Along the
lower half of its course the adjacent up-
land presents a surface of the billowy
character, peculiar to the bluff deposit.
The source of this river is in Sac county.
Soldier river — The east and middle
branches of this stream have their source
in Crawford county, and the west branch
in Ida county. The whole course of this
river is through the bluff deposit. It has
no exposure of strata along its course.
Little Sioux river. — Under this head are
included both the main and west branches
of that stream, together with the Maple,
which is one of .its branches. The west
branch and the Maple are so similar to
the Soldier river that they need no sep-
arate description. The main stream has
«* t a — -
<S\' i
HISTORY OF IOWA.
85
its boundary near the northern boundary
of the State, and runs most of its course
upon drift deposit alone, entering the
region of the bluff deposit in the southern
part of Cherokee county. The two prin-
cipal upper branches near their source in
Dickinson and Osceola counties are small
prairie creeks within distinct valleys. On
entering Clay county the valley deepens,
and at their confluence has a depth of 200
feet. Just as the valley enters Cherokee
county it turns to the southward, and be-
comes much widened, with its sides gently
sloping to the uplands. When the valley
enters the region of the bluff deposit, it
assumes the billowy appearance. No ex-
posures of strata of any kind have been
found in the valley of the Little Sioux or
any of its branches.
Floyd river. — This river rises upon the
drift in O'Brien county, and flowing south-
ward enters the region of the bluff deposit
a little north of the centre of Plymouth
county. Almost from its source to its
mouth it is a prairie stream, with slightly
sloping valley sides, which blend gradually
with the uplands. A single slight exposure
of sandstone of cretaceous age occurs in the
valley near Sioux City, and which is the
only known exposure of rock of any kind
along its whole length. Near this exposure
is a mill-site, but farther up the stream it
is not valuable for such purposes.
Mock river. — This stream passes through
Lyon and Sioux counties. It was, evi-
dently, so named from the fact that con-
siderable exposures of the red Sioux
quartzite occur along the main branches
of the stream in Minnesota, a few miles
north of the State boundary. Within the
State the main stream and its branches are
drift streams and strata are exposed. The
beds and banks of the streams are usually
sandy and gravelly, with occasionally
boulders intermixed.
Big Sioux River. — The valley of this
river, from the northwest corner of the
State to its mouth, possesses much the
same character as all the streams of the
surface deposits. At Sioux Falls, a few
miles above the northwest corner of the
State, the streams meet with remarkable
obstructions from the presence of Sioux
quartzite, which outcrops directly across
the stream, and causes a fall of about 60
feet within a distance of half a mile, pro-
ducing a series of cascades For the first
25 miles above its mouth, the valley is
very broad, with a broad, flat flood plain,
with gentle slopes, occasionally showing
indistinctly defined terraces. These ter-
races and valley bottoms constitute some
of the finest agricultural land of the re-
gion. On the Iowa side of the valley the
upland presents abrupt bluffs, steep as the
materials of which they are composed will
stand, and from 1 00 to nearly 200 feet
high above the stream. At rare intervals,
about 15 miles from its mouth, the creta-
ceous strata are exposed in the face of the
bluffs of the Iowa side. No other strata
are exposed along that part of the valley
which borders our State, with the single
exception of Sioux quartzite at its extreme
northwestern corner. Some good mill-
sites may be secured along that portion of
this river which borders Lyon county, but
below this the fall will probably be found
insufficient and the locations for dams in-
secure.
-- — v s
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8G
HISTORY OF IOWA.
Missouri River. — This is one of the
muddiest streams on the glohe, and its
waters are known to be very turbid far
toward its source. The chief peculiarity
of this river is its broad flood-plains, and
its adjacent bluff deposits. Much the
greater part of the flood-plain of this river
is upon the Iowa side, and continues from
the south boundary line of the State to
Sioux City, a distance of more than 100
miles in length, varying from three to five
miles in width. This alluvial plain is esti-
mated to contain more than half a million
of acres of land within the State, upward
of 400,000 of which are now tillable.
The rivers of the eastern system of
drainage have quite a different character
from those of the western system. They
are larger, longer and have their valleys
modified to a much greater extent by the
underlying strata. For the latter reason,
water-power is much more abundant upon
them than upon the streams of the western
system.
Des Moines River. — This river has its
source in Minnesota, but it enters Iowa
before it has attained any size, and flows
almost centrally through it from northwest
to southeast, emptying into the Mississippi
at the extreme southeastern corner of the
State. It drains a greater area than any
river within the State. The upper portion
of it is divided into two branches, known
as the east and west forks These unite
in Humboldt county. The valleys of these
branches above their confluence are drift
valleys, except a few small exposures of
subcarbouiferous limestone about five
miles above their confluence. These ex-
posures produce several small mill-sites.
The valleys vary from a few hundred yards
to half mile in width, and are the finest
agricultural lands. In the northern part
of Webster county the character of the
main valley is modified by the presence of
ledges and low cliffs of the subcarbonifer-
ous limestone and gypsum. From a point
a little below Fort Dodge to near Amster-
dam, in Marion county, the river runs all
the way through and upon the lower Coal
Measure strata. Along this part of the
course the flood-plain varies from an
eighth to a mile or more in width. From
Amsterdam to OttumWa the subcarbonifer-
ous rocks pass beneath the river again,
bringing down the Coal Measure strata
into its bed; they rise from it in the ex-
treme northwestern part of VanBuren
county, and subcarboniferous strata re-
sume and keep their place along the valley
to the north of the river.
From Fort Dodge to the northern part
of Lee county the strata of the Lower
Coal Measures are present in the valley.
Its flood-plain is frequently sandy from
the debris of the sandstone and sandy
shales of the Coal Measures produced by
their removal in the process of the forma-
tion of the valley.
The principal tributaries of the Des
Moines are upon the western side. These
are the Raccoon and the three rivers, viz:
South, Middle and North rivers. The
three latter have their sources in the re-
gion occupied by the Upper Coal Measure
limestone formation, flow eastward over
the Middle Coal Measures, and enter the
valley of the DesMoines upon the Lower
Coal Measures. These streams, especially
South and Middle rivers, are frequently
bordered by high, rocky cliffs. Raccoon
=Bp>
A
HISTORY OF IOWA.
87
river has its source upon the heavy surface
' deposits of the middle region of Western
Iowa, and along the greater part of its
course it has excavated its valley out of
those deposits and the Middle Coal
Measure alone. The valley of the Des
Moines and its branches are destined to
become the seat of extensive manufac-
turies, in consequence of the numerous
mill-sites of immense power, and the fact
that the main valley traverses the entire
length of the Iowa coal fields.
Skunk river. — This has its source in
Hamilton county, and runs almost its en-
tire course upon the border of the outcrop
of the Lower Coal Measures, or, more prop-
erly speaking, upon the subcarboniferous
limestone, just where it begins to pass be-
neath the Coal Measures by its southerly
and westerly dip. Its general course is
southeast. From the western part of
Henry county, up as far as Story county,
the broad, flat flood-plain is covered with a
rich, deep clay soil, which, in time of long-
continued rains and overflows of the river,
has made the valley of Skunk river a ter-
ror to travelers from the earliest settlement
of the country. There are some excellent
mill-sites on the lower half of this river,
but they are not so numerous or valuable
as on other rivers of the eastern system.
Iowa river. — This river rises in Han-
cock county, in the midst of a broad,
slightly undulating drift region. The first
rock exposure is that of subcarboniferous
limestone, in the southwestern corner of
Franklin county. It enters the region of
the Devonian strata near the southwestern
corner of Benton county, and in this it
continues to its confluence with the Cedar
in Louisa county. Below the junction
with the Cedar, and for some miles above
that point, its valley is broad, and especi-
ally on the northern side, with a well-
marked flood-plain. Its borders gradually
blend with the uplands as they slope away
in the distance from the river. The Iowa
furnishes numerous and valuable mill-sites.
Cedar river. — This stream is usually
understood to be a branch of the Iowa, but
it ought, really, to be regarded as the main
stream. It rises by numerous branches in
the northern part of the State, and flows
the entire length of the State, through the
region occupied by the Devonian strata and
along the trend occupied by that formation.
The valley of this river, in the upper part
of its course, is narrow, and the sides slope
so gently as to scarcely show where the
lowlands end and the uplands begin. Be-
low the confluence with the Shell Rock,
the flood-plain is more distinctly marked,
and the valley broad and shallow. The
valley of the Cedar is one of the finest re-
gions in the State, and both the main
stream and its branches afford abundant
and reliable mill-sites.
Wapsipinnicon river. — This river has
its source near the source of the Cedar,
and runs parallel and near it almost its en-
tire course, the upper half upon the same
formation — the Devonian. In the north-
eastern part of Linn county it enters the
region of the Niagara limestone, upon
which it continues to the Mississippi. It
is 100 miles long, and yet the area of its
drainage is only from 12 to 20 miles in
width. Hence, its numerous mill-sites are
unusually secure. »
fr
8S
HISTOKY OF IOWA.
Turkey river — This river and the Upper
Iowa are, in many respects, unlike other
Iowa rivers. The difference is due to the
great depth to which they have eroded
their vallevs and the different character of
if
the material through which they have
worked. Turkey river rises in Howard
county, and in Winneshiek county, a few
miles from its source, its valley has attained
a depth of more than 200 feet, and in Fay-
, ette and Clayton counties its depth is in-
creased to 300 and 400 feet. The summit
of the uplands, bordering nearly the whole
length of the valley, is capped by the Ma-
quoketa shales. These shales are under-
laid by the Galena limestone, between 200
and 300 feet thick. The valley has been
eroded through these, and runs upon the
Trenton limestone. Thus all the forma-
tions along and within this valley are Lower
Silurian. The valley is usually narrow,
and without a well-marked flood-plain.
Water-power is abundant, but in most
places inaccessible.
Upper Iowa river. — This river rises in
Minnesota, just beyond the northern boun-
dary line, and enters our State in Howard
county before it has attained any consider-
able size. Its course is nearly eastward
until it reaches the Mississippi. It rises in
the region of the Devonian rocks, and
flows across the outcrops, respectively, of
the Niagara, Galena and Trenton lime-
stone, the lower magnesian limestone, and
Potsdam sandstone, into and through all
of which, except the last, it has cut its val-
ley, which is the deepest of any in Iowa.
The valley sides are almost everywhere
high and steep, and cliffs of lower magne-
sian and Trenton limestone give them a
wild and rugged aspect. In the lower part
of the valley the flood-plain reaches a
width sufficient for the location of small
farms, but usually it is too narrow for such
purposes. On the higher surface, however,
as soon as you leave the valley you come
immediately upon a cultivated country.
This stream has the greatest slope per mile
of any in Iowa, and consequently it fur-
nishes immense water-power. In some
places where creeks come into it, the valley
widens and affords good locations for
farms. The town of Decorah, in Winne-
shiek county, is located in one of these
spots, which makes it a lovely location;
and the power of the river and the small
spring streams around it offer fine facilities
for manufacturing. This river and its
tributaries are the only trout streams in
Iowa.
Mississippi river. — This river may be
described, in general terms, as a broad
canal cut out of the general level of the
country through which the river flows. It
is bordered by abrupt hills or bluffs. The
bottom of the valley ranges from one to
eight miles in width. The whole space
between the bluffs is occupied by the river
and its bottom, or flood-plain only, if we
except the occasional terraces or remains
of ancient flood-plains, which are not now
reached by the highest floods of the river.
The river itself is from half a mile to
nearly a mile in width. There are but four
points along the whole length of the State
where the bluffs approach the stream on
both sides. The Lower Silurian formations
compose the bluffs in the northern part of
the State, but they gradually disappear by
a southerly dip, and the bluffs are con-
I 1
III6T011Y OF IOWA.
89
tinned successively by the Upper Silurian,
Devonian and Subcarboniferous rocks
which are reached near the southeastern
corner of the State.
Considered in their relation to the pres-
ent general surface of the State, the rela-
tive ages of the river valley of Iowa date
back only to the close of the crlncial epoch;
but that the Mississippi and all the rivers
of Northeastern Iowa, if no others, had at
least a large part of the rocky portions of
their valleys eroded by pre-glacial, or, per-
haps, by palseogoic rivers, can scarcely be
doubted.
CHAPTER VIII.
IOWA AND THE REBELLION.
By her record in the war of the rebellion
Iowa proved herself a truly loyal State.
The Presidential campaign of 1860 was
an exciting one, and the fact that civil war
might be inaugurated in case Abraham
Lincoln was elected, was well understood
and duly considered. The people of Iowa
indulged in no hatred or ill-will toward
any section of the country, but were deter-
mined to hold such opinions upon questions
of public interests, and vote for such men
as to them seemed for the general good,
uninfluenced by any threat of violence or
civil war.
The General Assembly of the State of
Iowa, as early as 1851, had by joint resolu-
tion declared that the State of Iowa was
" bound to maintain the union of these
States by all the means in her power."
The same year the State furnished a block
of marble for the Washington Monument
at the national capitol, and by order of the
General Assembly there was inscribed
upon its enduring surface the following:
"Iowa — Her affections, like the rivers of
her borders, 'flow to an inseparable Union."
The time was now approaching in her his-
tory when these declarations of attachment
and fidelity to the nation were to be put
to a practical test.
Certainly the people of no State in the
nation could be more vitally interested in
the question of our national unity than the
people of Iowa. The older States of the
Union, both North and South, were repre-
sented in its population. Iowans were
nearly all immigrants, bound to those older
communities by the most sacred ties of
blood, and most endearing recollections of
early days. In addition to these consider-
90
HISTORY OF IOWA.
±1±
a
ations of a personal character, there were
others of the gravest political importance.
Iowa's geographical position as a State
made the dismemberment of the Union a
matter of serious concern. The Missis-
sippi had been for years its highway to
the markets of the world. The people
could not entertain the thought that its
navigation should pass under the control
of a foreign government. But more than
this was to be feared the consequence of
introducing and recognizing in our national
system the principal of secession or disin-
tegration.
If this should be recognized as a right,
what security had the States of the interior
against their entire isolation from the com-
merce of the world, by the future secession
of the Atlantic and Pacific States? And
the fact also remained, that secession or
separation removed none of the causes of
war. Whatever there was in the peculiar
institution that created differences of sen-
timent or feeling, or caused irritation, still
existed after the separation, with no court
or constitution as the arbiter of rights, and
with the one resort, only, of the sword to
settle differences. In secession and its
logical and necessary results, we saw
nothing but dire confusion and anarchy,
and the utter destruction of that nation-
ality through which alone we felt that our
civil liberties as a people could be pre-
served, and the hopes of our civilization
prepetuated.
The declaration of Mr. Buchanan's last
annual message, that the nation posssesed
no constitutional power to coerce a seced-
ing State, was received by the great
majority of our citizens with humiliation
and distrust. Anxiously they awaited the
expiring hours of his administration, and
looked to the incoming President as to an
expected deliverer that should rescue the
nation from the hands of traitors, and the
control of those whose non-resistance in-
Tifc^ii her destruction. The firing upon the
national flag at Sumter aroused a burning
indignation throughout the loyal States of
the Republic, and nowhere was it more
intense than in Iowa. And when the
proclamation of the President was pub-
lished, April 15,1861, calling for 75,000
citizen soldiers to " maintain the honor,
the integrity, and the existence of our
national Union, and the perpetuity of pop-
ular government," they were more than
willing to respond to the call. Party lines
gave way, and for a while, at least, party
spirit was hushed, and the cause of our
common country was supreme in the affec-
tions of the people. Peculiarly fortunate
were the people of Iowa at this crisis, in
having a truly representative man as ex-
ecutive of the State. Thoroughly honest
and thoroughly earnest, wholly imbued
with the enthusiasm of the hour, fully
aroused to the importance of the crises,
and the magnitude of the struggle upon
which r ~ were entering, with an indomit-
able rt'ill under the control of a strong
common sense, Samuel J. Kirkwood, was,
indeed, a worthy chief to organize and
direct the energies of the people. Within
thirty days after the date of the President's
call for troops, the First Iowa Regiment
was mustered into the service of the
United States, a second regiment was in
camp ready for the service, and the Gen-
eral Assembly of the State wis convened
in special session, and had by joint resolu-
i r y
^
HISTORY OF IOWA
91
tion solemnly pledged every resource of
men and money to the national cause.
So urgent were the offers of companies,
that the Governor conditionally accepted
enough additional companies to compose
two additional regiments. These were
soon accepted by the Secretary of War.
Near the close of May, the Adjutant Gen-
eral of the State reported that 170 compa-
nies had been tendered the Governor to
serve against the enemies of the Union.
The question was eagerly asked, " Which
of us will be allowed to go? " It seemed
as if Iowa was monopolizing the honors
of the period, and would send the larger
part of the 75,000 wanted from the whole
North.
There were much difficulty and consid-
erable delay experienced in fitting the first
three regiments for the field. For the
First Infantry a complete outfit (not uni-
form) of clothing was extemporized, prin-
cipally by the volunteered labor of loyal
women in the different towns — from mate-
rial of various colors and qualities, . ob-
tained within the limits of the State. The
same was done in part for the Second
Infantry. Meantime, an extra session of
the General Assembly had been called by
the Governor, to convene on the 15th of
May. With but little delay, that body
authorized a loan of $800,000, to meet the
extraordinary expenses incurred, and to be
incurred, by the Executive Department,
in consequence of the new emergency. A
wealthy merchant of the State (ex-Gov.
Merrell, then a resident of McGregor)
immediately took from the Governor a
contract to supply a complete outfit of
clothing for three regiments organized,
agreeing to receive, should the Governor
so elect, his pay therefor in the State bonds
at par. This contract he executed to the
letter, and a portion of the clothing (which
was manufactured in Boston, at his order)
was delivered at Keokuk, the place at
which the troops had rendezvoused, in ex-
actly one month from the day in which
the contract had been entered into. The re-
mainder arrived only a few days later. This
clothing was delivered to the soldiers, but
was subsequently condemned by the Gov-
ernment, for the reason that its color was
gray, and blue had been adopted as the
color to be worn by the National troops.
Other States had also clothed their troops,
sent forward under the first call of Presi-
dent Lincoln, with gray uniforms, but it
was soon found that the Confederate forces
were also clothed in gray, and that color
was at once abandoned by the Union
troops. If both armies were clothed alike,
annoying, if not fatal, mistakes were liable
to be made.
While engaged in these efforts to dis-
charge her whole duty in common with all
the other Union-loving States in the great
emergency, Iowa was compelled to make
immediate and ample provision for the
protection of her own borders from threat-
ened invasions on the south by the seces-
sionists of Missouri, and from danger of
incursions from the west and northwest by
bands of hostile Indians, who were freed
from the usual restraint imposed upon
them by the presence of regular troops
stationed at the frontier posts. These
troops were withdrawn to meet the greater
and more pressing danger threatening the
life of the Nation at its very heart.
The Governor of the State, in order to
provide for the adequate defense of Iowa's
92
HISTORY OF IOWA.
borders from the ravages of both rebels
in arms against the Government and of the
more irresistible foes from the Western
plains, was authorized to raise and equip
two regiments of infantry, a squadron of
cavalry (not less than five companies) and
a battalion of artillery (not less than three
companies). Only cavalry were enlisted
for home defense, however, but in times of
special danger, or when calls were made
by the Unionists of Northern Missouri for
assistance against their disloyal enemies,
large numbers of militia on foot often
turned out, and remained in the field until
the necessity for their services had passed.
June 13th, Gen. Lyon, then command-
ing the United States forces in Missouri,
issued the first order for the Iowa volun-
teers to move to the field. The First and
Second Infantry immediately embarked in
steamboats and proceeded to Hannibal.
Two weeks later the Third Infantry was
ordered to the same point. These three,
together with many other of the earlier
organized Iowa regiments, rendered their
first field service in Missouri. The First
Infantry formed a part of the little army
with which Gen. Lyon moved on Spring-
field, and fought the bloody battle of Wil-
son's creek. It received unqualified praise
for its gallant bearing on the field. In the
following month (September), the Third
Iowa, with but very slight support, fought
with honor the sanguinary engagement of
Blue Mills Landing; and in November the
Seventh Iowa, as a part of the force com-
manded by Gen. Grant, greatly distin-
guished itself in the battle of Belmont,
where it poured out its blood like water —
losing more than half of the men it took
into action.
The initial operations in which the bat-
tles referred to took place were followed
by the more important movements led by
Gen. Grant, Gen. Curtis, of this State, and
other commanders, which resulted in de-
feating the armies defending the chief
strategic lines held by the Confederates in
Kentucky, Tennessee, Missouri and Arkan-
sas, compelling their withdrawal from
much of the territory previously controlled
by them in those States. In these and
other movements, down to the grand cul-
minating campaign by which Vicksburg
was captured and the Confederacy perma-
nently severed on the line of the Missis-
sippi river, Iowa troops took part in
steadily increasing numbers. In the in-
vestment and siege of Vicksburg, the
State was represented by thirty regiments
and two batteries, in addition to which
eight regiments and one battery were
employed on the outposts of the besieg-
ing army. The brilliancy of their exploits
on the many fields where they served,
won for them the highest meed of praise,
both in military and civil circles. Mul-
tiplied were the terms in which expres-
sion was given to this sentiment, but these
words of the journals of a neighboring
State: "The Iowa troops have been heroes
among heroes," embody the spirit of all.
In the veteran re-enlistment that dis-
tinguished the closing month of 1863,
above all other periods in the history of
re-enlistment for the National armies, the
Iowa three-years' men (who were rela-
tively more numerous than those of any
other State), were prompt to set the ex-
ample of volunteering for another term
of equal length, thereby adding many
thousands to the great army of those who
~f
>rV
_£
HISTORY OF IOWA.
93
gave this renewed and practical assurance
that the cause of the Union should not
be left without defenders.
In all the important movements of 1864
and '65, by which the confederacy was pen-
etrated in every quarter, and its military
power finally overthrown, the Iowa troops
took part. Their drum-beat was heard on
the banks of every great river of the
South, from the Potomac to the Rio Grande,
and everywhere they rendered the same
faithful devoted service, maintaining on
all occasions their wonted reputation for
valor in the field, and endurance on the
march.
Two Iowa 3-year cavalry regiments were
employed during their whole term of ser-
vice in the operations that were in progress
from 1863 to 1866 against the hostile In-
dians of the Western plains. A portion
of these men were among the last of the
volunteer troops to be mustered out of ser-
vice. The State also supplied a consider-
able number of men to the navy, who took
part in most of the naval operations pros-
ecuted against the Confederate power on
the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts, and the riv-
ers of the West.
The people of Iowa were earl} T and con-
stant workers in the sanitary field, and by
their liberal gifts and personal efforts for
the benefit of the soldiery, placed their
State in the front rank of those who be-
came distinguished for their exhibitions of
patriotic benevolence during the period
covered by the war. Agents appointed by
the governor were stationed at points con-
venient for rendering assistance to the sick
and needy soldiers of the State, while oth-
ers were employed in visiting, from time
to time, hospitals, camps and armies in the
field, and doing whatever the circumstances
rendered possible for the health and com-
fort of such of the Iowa soldiery as mi -lit
m O
be found there.
Charitable enterprises also found a ready
support in Iowa. Some of the benevolent
people of the State early conceived the
idea of establishing a home for sucli of the
children of deceased soldiers as might be
left in destitute circumstances. This idea
first took form in I860, and in the follovtir
ing year a home was opened at Farming-
ton, VanBuren county, in a building leased
for that purpose, and which soon became
tilled to its utmost capacity. The institu-
tion received liberal donations from the
general public, and also from the soldiers
in the field. In 1865 it became necessary
to provide increased accommodations for
the large number of children who were
seeking the benefits of its care. This was
done by establishing a branch at Cedar
Falls, in Black Hawk county, and by secur-
ing, during the same year, for the use of
the parent home, Camp Kinsman, near the
city of Davenport This property, by act
of Congress, was soon afterward donated
to the institution. In 1866, in pursuance
of a law enacted for that purpose, the Sol-
diers' Orphans' Home (which then con-
tained about 450 inmates), became a State
institution, and thereafter the sums neces-
sary for its support were appropriated from
the State treasury. A second branch was
established at Glenwood, Mills county.
Convenient tracks were secured, and valu-
able improvements made at all the different
points. Schools were also established, and
employments provided for such of the
children as were of suitable age. In every
way the provision made for these wards
94
HISTORY OF IOWA.
of the State has been such as to challenge
the approval of every benevolent mind.
The number of children who have been
inmates of the home from its foundation
to the present time is considerably more
than 2,000.
No bounty was paid by the State on
account of the men she placed in the field.
In some instances, toward the close of the
war, bounty, to a comparatively small
amount, was paid by cities and towns. On
only OLe occasion, that of the call of July
18, 1804, was a draft made in Iowa. This
did not occur on account of her proper lia-
bility, as established by previous rulings
of the War Department, to supply men
under that call, but grew out of the great
necessity that there existed for raising
men. The Government insisted on tem-
porarily setting aside, in part, the former
rule of settlements, and enforcing a draft
in all cases where sub-districts in any of
the States should be found deficient in
their supply of men. In no instance was
Iowa, as a whole, found to be indebted to
the General Government for men, on a
settlement of her quota accounts.
Not satisfied with merely doing her duty
under the law, Iowa, of her patriotic gen-
erosity, did more than was required. The
17th, 18th and 37th regiments of infantry,
the 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th regiments of cav-
alry were all enrolled, not to meet any
call from the General Government, but to
enable citizens of the State to enlist un-
der the banners of the Union, in excess of
all demands which could lawfully be made.
The State also contributed a large num-
ber of men and many officers to regiments
in Missouri, Nebraska, Kansas, Illinois,
Wisconsin and Minnesota, and out of a
population of less than 2,000 arms-bearing
colored citizens, raised nearly a whole reg-
iment of African troops. But besides the
troops thus regularly enrolled within the
State, and those who formed part of regi-
ments in neighboring States, there were
not a few of Iowa's citizens in the regular
army, in the different staff departments of
the volunteer army, and in commands to
far distant States.
Those, also, should be noticed who were
called upon to protect the State and adjoin-
ing States from raids, to preserve the inter-
nal peace of the State, etc., in 18 6], when
Northern Missouri was overrun by preda-
tory bands, and the loyal citizens were
being driven from their homes by hun-
dreds, and suffering in life, person and
estate, the border Iowa yeomanry, unskilled
in anything pertaining to war, responded
to the Macedonian cry of their neighbors
and speeded across the line to help them
to the number of 1,500; they were armed
with old fowling pieces and antiquated
militia gear, but they proved effective,
nevertheless, their hearts being in the right
place. In the same year three expeditions
were sent out to beat back the Jackson
bushwhackers who were advancing on
Iowa, driving out the Union people on
their way. These expeditions numbered
about 1,300 men, and performed valuable
service in Missouri.
On the northern border, during the
same year, the Sioux City cavalry, ninety-
three men, and Captain Tripp's company,
about fifty men, were employed to protect
the borders against the Indians.
In 1862, under authority of the General
Assembly, the Northern and Southern
Border Brigades were organized — the one
_®L.
f
±A
r=>
HISTORY OF IOWA.
95
for the protection of the State against
guerilla bands on the south along the entire
border, the other to keep in check the dis-
affected Indians intent on mischief in the
northwest. There were five companies of
the Northern Border Brigade, two hun-
dred and fifty men, and ten cpmpanies of
the Southern Border Brigade, seven hun-
dred and ninety -four men, judiciously
stationed at exposed points. For two
years the State, at her own expense, sup-
ported these organizations. There can be
no doubt that this was a wise expenditure,
considering the service done — that of stay-
ing murder, rapine and arson, which were
threatening to stalk through the State.
Subsequently eight hundred militia in
eleven companies were called out to sup-
press the celebrated Talley treason in
Keokuk county, and five hundred on ac-
count of the disturbances in Poweshiek
and Davies counties.
At the beginning of the war, the popu-
lation of Iowa included about 150,000 men
presumably liable to render military ser-
vice. The State raised for general service
thirty-nine regiments of infantry, nine
regiments of cavalry, and four companies
of artillery, composed of three years' men;
one regiment of infantry, composed of
three months' men, and four regiments
and one batallion of infantry, composed of
100 days' men. The original enlistments
in these various organizations, including
1,727 men raised by draft, numbered a
little more than 69,000. The re-enlist-
ments, including upward of 7,000 vete-
rans, numbered very nearly 8,000. The
enlistments in the regular army and navy,
and organizations of other States, will, if
added, raise the total to upward of 80,000.
The number of men who, under special
enlistments, and as militia, took part at
different times in the operations on the
exposed borders of the State, was probably
as many as 5,000.
As an inevitable result of war, many
became prisoners, and suffered the cruel-
ties of Libby, Andersonville and other
"pens" in the South, which have become
famous the world over, solely because of
the incredible barbarities practiced in
them. Considerable portions of the 8th,
12th and 14th Regiments were captured,
after hard fighting, at Shiloh; the 10th
was nearly all surrendered at Atlanta; the
17th atTilton; the 19th at Sterling farm;
the 36th at Mark's Mill. Many escaped
heroically from rebel imprisonment, and
the narratives of their sufferings would
make many interesting volumes.
Every loyal State of the Union had
many women who devoted much time and
great labor toward relieving the wants of
our sick and wounded soldiery, but for
Iowa can be claimed the honor of inaugu-
rating the great charitable movement
which was so successfully supported by
the noble women of the North. Mrs.
Harlan, wife of Hon. James Harlan,
United States Senator, was the first woman
of our country among those moving in
high circles of society who personally
visited the army and ministered to the
wants of the suffering soldiery. In many
of her visits to the army, Mrs. Harlan was
accompanied by Mrs Joseph T. Fales,
wife of the first State Auditor of Iowa.
No words can describe the good done, the
lives saved, and the deaths made easy by
the host of noble women of Iowa, whose
names it would take a volume to print.
T
96
HISTORY OF IOWA.
Every county, every town, every neighbor-
hood in the State had these true heroines,
whose praise can never be fully known, till
the final rendering of all accounts of deeds
done in the body. The contributions of
the State to "sanitary fairs" during the
war were enormous, amounting to many
hundred thousand dollars. Highly suc-
cessful fairs were held at Dubuque, Mus-
catine, Burlington and Marshalltown,
while all the towns contributed most gen-
erously to fairs of a less general nature.
All this must be added to the work of the
many "Florence Nightingales" of Iowa,
whose heroic sacrifices have won for them
the undying gratitude of the nation.
It is said, to the honor and credit of
Iowa, that while many of the loyal States,
o'der and larger in population and wealth,
incurred heavy State debts for the purpose
of fulfilling their obligations to the Gene-
ral Government, Iowa, while she was fore-
most in duty, while she promptly discharged
all her obligations to her sister States and
the Union, found herself at the close of
the war without any material additions to
her pecuniary liabilities incurred before
the war commenced. Upon final settle-
ment after restoration of peace, her claims
upon the Federal Government were found
to be fully equal to the. amount of her
bond issued and sold during the war to
provide the means for raising and equip-
ping her troops sent into the field, and to
meet the inevitable demands upon her
treasury in consequence of the war.
It was in view of these facts that Iowa
had done more than her duty during the
war, and that without incurring any con-
siderable indebtedness, and that her troops
had fought most gallantly on nearly every
battle-field of the war, that the Newark
Advertiser and other prominent Eastern
journals called Iowa the " Model State of
the Republic."
In the following pages a brief account
is given of each regiment, which was cred-
ited to Iow,» during the war.
The First Regiment was organized
under the President's first proclamation
for volunteers for three months, with John
Francis Bates, of Dubuque, as Colonel;
William H. Merritt, of Cedar Rapids, as
Lieutenant-Colonel, and A. B. Porter, of
Mt. Pleasant, as Major.
The regiment was mustered into the
service of the United States May 14th,
1861, at Keokuk. The different compa-
nies were independent military organiza-
tions before the war; and tendeted their
service before the breaking out of hostili-
ties. The regiment was in quarters in
Keokuk for two weeks, During this time
they became proficient in the use of arms,
and they leai'ned something of practical
camp life. June 13th, the regiment re-
ceived orders to join General Lyon in
Missouri. They immediately embarked
on board a steamer, and by midnight were
at Hannibal, Mo., where they slept on the
floor of a large warehouse. They pro-
ceeded without delay to the interior of the
State, where Gen. Lyon had just defeated
Gov. Jackson with his so-called State
troops. Joining Lyon, they were soon
given a taste of active service. For two
months they were almost constantly on
the march, and occasionally skirmished
with the enemy. August 10th, a sharp
battle was fought with the enemy at
Wilson's Creek, when the gallant and
HISTORY OF IOWA.
noble Gen. Lyon- was killed, and the regi-
ment lost 10 killed and 50 wounded.
After the battle the regiment proceeded to
St. Louis, and their three months having
expired, were mustered out August 25th,
1861. The number of officers and men in
this regiment were 959. Of these 13 were
killed, 13 died, 141 were wounded, and
three were missing.
The Second Infantry was organized
soon after the commencement of the war,
with Samuel R. Curtis, of Keokuk, as
Colonel; James M. Tuttle, of Keosauqua,
as Lieutenant-Colonel; and M. M. Crocker,
of DesMoines, as Major; and was mustered
into the service of the United States, at
Keokuk, in May, 1861. It participated in
the following engagements: Fort Donel-
son, Shiloh, advance on Corinth, Corinth,
Little Bear Creek, Ala., Resaca, Ga., Rome
Cross Roads, Dallas, Kenesaw Mountain,
Nickajack Creek, in front of Atlanta, Jan-
uary 22, 1864, siege of Atlanta, Jonesboro,
Eden Station, Little Ogeechee, Savannah,
Columbia, Lynch's Creek and Bentonville;
went with Sherman on his march to the
sea, and through the Carolinas, home.
This regiment was one of Iowa's most
distinguished commands in the war. It
was the first three years' regiment, and it
left for the theatre of war even before the
First Regiment, by a few hours.
Its companies were enrolled during that
first splendid enthusiasm which followed
the bombaivlment of Fort Sumter, and
they contained many men of talent and
reputation. The regiment especially dis-
tinguished itself in the capture of Fort
Donelson, in entering which it was
awarded the post of honor. It was then
that the unenthusiastic Gen. Halleck pro-
nounced the Iowa Second the " bravest of
the brave." The Second Veteran Infantry
was formed by the consolidation of the
battalions of the Second and Third Vet-
eran Infantry, and was mustered out at
Louisville, Ky., July 12, 1S65. The total
number of ofriceis and men who inlisted
in this regiment was 1,247. Of this num-
ber during the war 65 were kil ed, 134
died, 330 were discharged, 268 were
wounded, 14 were missing and 24 were
captured.
The Third Infantry was organized at
about the same time as the Second, with
Nelson G. Williams, of Dubuque county,
as Colonel; John Scott, of Story county,
Lieutenant-Colonel; William N. Stone, of
Marian county, as Major, and was mustered
into the United States service in June,
1861, at Keokuk. The regiment was en-
gaged at Blue Mills, Mo., Shiloh, Hatch ie
river, Matamoras, Vicksburg, Johnson,
Miss., in the Meridian expedition at At-
lanta, in Sherman's march to the sea, and
through the Carolinas to Richmond and
Washington. The regiment was veteran-
ized and organized as a battalion in 1864,
but before the officers received their com-
missions the battalion bravely fought itself
out of existence at the battle of Atlanta.
The remnant was consolidated with the
veterans of the Second, and the regiment
was mustered out at Louisville, Ky., July
12, 1864. The total number of officers
and men in the regiment was 1,1)74. Of
this number, during the war, 57 were
killed, 133 died, 231 were discharged, 269
were wounded, 10 were missing, 93 were
captured and 19 were transferred.
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98
HISTORY OF IOWA.
The Foueth Infantey was organized
with G. M. Dodge, of Council Bluffs, as
Colonel; Jobn Galligan, of Davenport, as
Lieutenant-Colonel; Wm. R. English, of
Glenwood, as Major. The regiment was
engaged at Pea Ridge, Chickasaw Bayou,
Arkansas Post, Vicksburg, Jackson, Look-
out Mountain, Missionary Ridge, Ring-
gold, Resaca and Taylor's Ridge. It came
home on veteran furlough February 26,
1864; returned in April; was in the cam-
paign against Atlanta, Sherman's march to
the sea, and thence through the Carolinas
to Washington, and home; was mustered
out at Louisville, Ky., July 24, 1865. The
total number of officers and men in this
regiment was 1,184, of whom Gl were
killed, 205 died, 299 were discharged, 338
were wounded, 5 were missing, 44 were
captured and 37 were transferred.
The Fifth Infantey was organized
with Wm. H. Worthington, of Keokuk, as
Colonel; C. Z. Mathias, of Burlington, as
Lieutenant-Colonel; W. S. Robertson, of
Columbus City, as Major, and was mus-
tered into the service of the United States,
at Burlington, July 15, 1861. The regi-
ment was engaged at New Madrid, siege
of Corinth, Iuka, Corinth, Champion Hills,
siege of Vicksburg and Chickamauga.
Went home on veteran furlough in April,
1864, the non-veterans went home in July,
1 864, leaving 180 veterans, who were trans-
ferred to the Fifth Iowa Cavalry. The
Fifth Cavalry was mustered out at Nash-
ville, Tenn., August 11, 1865. The regi-
ment had done brave service, and amply
deserves the high encomium passed upon
it by the generals of the army. The total
number of officers and men in the regi-
ment was 1,037, of whom 65 were killed,
126 died, 244 were discharged, 288 were
wounded, 103 were captured, and 50 were
transferred.
The Sixth Infantey was organized
with John A. McDowell, of Keokuk, as
Colonel; Markoe Cummins, of Muscatine,
as Lieutenant-Colonel; John M. Corse, of
Burlington, as Major; and was mustered
into the service of the United States July
6, 1861, at Burlington. It was engaged at
Shiloh, Mission Ridge, Resaca, Dallas, Big
Shanty, Kenesaw Mountain, Jackson,
Black River Bridge, Jones' Ford, in Sher-
man's march, then returned through the
Carolinas. The regiment served with dis-
tinction at the siege of Jackson, winning
high praise from General Smith, command-
ing. It marched through most of the
Southern States, thousands of miles, and
bore its share of fatigue with unflinching
devotion to duty. The total number of
officers and men in the regiment was 1,013,
of vhom 109 were killed, 157 died, 265
wert discharged, 355 were wounded, 3 were
missLig, and 8 were transferred.
The Seventh Infantey was organized
with J. G. Lauman, of Burlington, as Col-
.onel; Augustus Wentz, of Davenport, as
Lieut.-Colonel; E. M. Rice, of Oskaloosa,
as Major; and was mustered into the
United States service at Burlington, July*
24, 1861. The regiment was engaged in
the battles of Belmont, Fort Henry, Fort
Donelson, Shiloh, siege of Corinth, Cor-
inth, Rome Cross Roads, Dallas, Big
Shanty, Kenesaw Mountain, Nickajack
Creek, siege of Atlanta, July 2 2d in front
of Atlanta, Sherman's campaign to the
ocean, through the Carolinas to Richmond,
and thence to Louisville. Was mustered
^j<s r
<2 C
^ S fc
HISTORY OF IOWA.
99
out at Louisville, Ky., July 12, 1865. The
battle in which the Seventh did the most
service was that of Belmont, in which it
lust 227 in killed, wounded and missing.
The regiment, by four years of faithful
service, earned as honorable a name as can
be found anywhere in the annals of our
volunteer soldiery. The Seventh contained
altogether 1,138 officers and men, and of
these, during the war, 98 were killed, 178
died, 291 discharged, 354 were wounded,
and 29 were transferred.
The Eighth Infantry was organized
with Frederick Steel, of the regular army,
as Colonel; James L. Gedds, of Vinton,
as Lieutenant-Colonel; J. C. Ferguson, of
Knoxville, as Major; and was mustered
into the service of the United States Sep-
tember 12, 1861, at Davenport, Iowa. The
regiment was engaged in the following
battles: Shiloh, Corinth, Vicksburg, Jack-
son and Spanish Fort. Was mustered out
at Selma, Ala., April 20, 1866. The Eighth
fought nobly at Sniloh for ten hours, but
was finally forced to surrender. Most of
the command then suffered in rebel
prisons for eight months, when they were
paroled or released. A portion of the
regiment was not surrendered, and it went
into the famous "Union Brigade." The
regiment was re-organized in 1863, and
performed faithful service until mustered
out in 1866. It was on duty in Alabama
nearly a year after the collapse of the Re-
bellion, and by the "Campaign of Mobile"
earned as wai m a reception as Iowa gave
to any of her returning heroes. Of 1,027
iffieenis and men, 53 were killed, 187 died,
314 were discharged, 288 were wounded,
8 were missing, 394 were captured, and
38 were transferred.
The Ninth Infantry was organized
with Wm. Vandever, of Dubuque, as Colo-
nel; Frank G. Herron, of Dubuque, as
Lieutenant-Colonel; Wm. II. Coyle, of
Decorah, as Major. The regiment was in
the following engagements: Pea Ridge,
Chickasaw Bayou, Arkansas Post, siege of
Vicksburg, Ringgold, Dallas and Lookout
Mountain. It also participated in the
Atianta campaign, Sherman's march to the
sea, and the return home through North
and South Carolina to Richmond. Was
mustered out at Louisville, July 18, 1865.
The Ninth Iowa was recruited and organ-
ized by its first colonel, Wm. Vandever,
who was, in 1862, made a Brigadier-Gene-
ral. The regiment performed most bril-
liant service during the whole war, and
took a prominent part in the battle of
Pea Ridge. It had marched more than
4,000 miles, been transported by rail and
steamer more than 6,000, and traversed
every State by the Confederacy except
Florida and Texas. The regiment brought
home four flags, of which two were de-
posited with the Adjutant-Geneial, one
given to the State Historical Society, aud
one was kept by the regimental associa-
tion, formed by them on being mustered
out. Of 1,090 men and officers, 84 were
killed, 275 died, 274 were discharged, 385
were wounded, 1 was missing, 32 were
captured, and 30 were transferred.
This Tenth Infantry was organized
with Nicholas JPerczel, of Davenport, as
Colonel; W. E. Small, of Iowa City, as
Lieutenant-Colonel; John C. Bennett, of
o» •
<a_
100
HISTORY OF IOWA.
Polk county, as Major; and was mustered
into the service of the United States at
Iowa City, September 6, 1S61. The regi-
ment participated in the following engage-
ments: Siege of Corinth, Iuka, Corinth,
Port Gibson, Raymond, Jackson, Cham-
pion Hills, Vicksburg and Mission Ridge
Was mustered out August 15, 1865.
The bio. diest battle in which the Tenth
took a prominent part was that of Cham-
pion Hills, in which it lost half its number
in killed, wounded and missing. Many
regiments, on coming home, gave to the
State banners with the names on them of
the principal battles in which they had
been engaged. The Tenth gave up its
colors with the simple inscription, "Tenth
Iowa Veteran Volunteers;" and when a
visitor to the State Department looks at
this banner, torn and bloody with four
years of hard service, he will think that
"Tenth Iowa Veteran Volunteers" is as
proud an inscription as flag ever unfurled
to the breeze of heaven. Of 1,027 officers
and men, 63 were killed, 170 died, 256
were discharged, 277 were wounded, 17
were captured, and 49 were transferred.
The Eleventh Infantry was organ-
ized with A. M. Hare, of Muscatine, as
Colonel; John C. Abercrombie as Lieu-
tenant-Colonel; Wm. Hall, of Davenport,
as Maj )r; and was mustered into the ser-
vice of the United States, at Davenport,
in September and October, 1861 The
regiment was engaged in the battle of
Shiloh, siege of Corinth, battles of Cor-
inth, Vicksburg, Atlanta campaign, and
battle of Atlanta. Was mustered out at
Louisville, Ky., July 15, 1865. No regi-
ment did better service in the war, and no
regiment met with heartier welcome on its
return home. Of 1,022 men, 58 were
killed, 178 died, 158 were discharged, 234
were wounded, 4 were missing, 63 were
captured, and 42 were transferred.
The Twelfth Infantry was recruited
soon after the disaster at Bull Run, under
a proclamation" by President Lincoln call-
ing for more volunteers. It was organized
with J. J. Wood, of Maquoketa, as Colonel;
John P. Coulter, of Cedar Rapids, as Lieu-
tenant-Colonel; Samuel D. Brodtbeck, of
Dubuque, as Major; and was mustered into
the service of the United States in October
and November, 1861, the last company
November 25. The regiment was engaged
at Shiloh, Fort Donelson, siege of Vicks-
burg, Tupelo, Mississippi, White River,
Nashville and Spanish Fort. Was mus-
tered out at Memphis, January 20, 1866.
In the battle of Shiloh. the Twelfth fought
gallantly all day in company with the
Eighth and Fourteenth, and at sunset sur-
rendered. They endured a loathsome
captivity in rebel prisons for eight months,
when they were exchanged, and the regi-
ment was re-organized. A few who were
not captured at Shiloh performed ac ive
service in the " Union Brigade," during
these eight months. The newly equipped
regiment immediately joined the army be-
fore Vicksburg, and served actively the
rest of the war. When the regiment vet-
eranized, January 4, 1864, a larger propor-
tion of men re-enlisted than in auv other
regiment from Iowa The following
spring the regiment was home for a few
weeks on veteran furlough. After Lee's
surrender the regiment was continued in
the service in Alabama, on guard and gar-
f
HISTORY OF IOWA.
101
rison duty for several months. Of 981
officers and men, 33 were killed, 285 died,
258 were discharged, 222 were wounded,
404 were captured, and 23 were trans-
ferred.
The Thirteenth Infantry was or-
ganized with M. M. Crocker, of DesMoines,
as Colonel; M. M. Price, of Davenport, as
Lieutenant-Colonel; John Shane, of Vin-
ton, as Major; and was mustered into the
service of the United States, November 1,
1861. The regiment was in the battle of
Shiloh, siege of Corinth, Corintb, Kenesaw
Mountain, siege of. Vicksburg, campaign
against Atlanta, Sherman's march to the
sea, and through the Carolinas, home.
Was mustered out at Louisville, July 21,
1865. This regiment was especially fortu-
nate in having such a commander as Col.
Cro.cker. The men at first objected to
drilling five or six hours every day, and
other severe discipMne; but afterward, in
the battle of Shiloh and elsewhere, they
had ample reason to be grateful for their
drill under Col. Crocker The Thirteenth
did noble service in many important affairs
of the war, and had the honor of being the
first Union troops to enter Columbia, S. C,
where the secession movement first began
Of a total of 989 officers and men, 68 were
killed, 224 died, 270 were discharged, 313
were wounded, 6 were missing, 88 were
captured, and 34 were transferred.
The Fourteenth Infantry was or-
ganized in the fall of 1861, under the call
of October 3. Before the regiment was
organized, the first three companies raised,
A, B and C, were ordered on garrison duty
at Fort Randall, Dakota Territory, and re-
mained ever afterward detached from the
regiment. So that, although in form they
were a part of the Fourteenth Iowa for
some time, they were never under its com-
manding officer. Afterward, these com-
panies for a time were called the First
Battalion of the 41st Infantry; but this
regiment never being organized, they
finally were attached to a cavalry regi-
ment. The Fourteenth, therefore, had at
first but seven companies. In June, 1863,
the number of companies was raised to 10,
and thus constituted for the first time a
full regiment. The regiment w r as fi'-st
organized with Wm. T. Shaw, of Anamosa,
as Colonel; Edward W. Lucas, of Iowa
City, as Lieutenant-Colonel; Hiram Leon-
ard, of DesMoines county, as Major; and
was mustered into the service of the United
States at Davenport, in October, 1861.
The regiment was in the battle of Fort
Donelson, Shiloh, Corinth, Pleasant Hill,
Meridian, Fort De Russey, Tupelo, Town
Creek, Tallahatchie, Pilot Knob, Old
Town, Yellow Bayou, and others. . Was
mustered out, except veterans and recruits,
at Davenport, November 16, 1864. The
regiment was nearly all captured at the
battle of Shiloh, but was after a few
months exchanged and reorganized. The
Fourteenth did some of the hardest fight-
ing that was done in the war. Of 840
officers and men, 31 were killed, 148 died,
191 were discharged, 1S6 were wounded, 1
was missing, 269 were captured, and 23
were transferred.
The Fifteenth Infantry was organ-
ized in the winter of 1861-2, with Hugh
T. Reid, of Keokuk, as Colonel; William
Dewey, of Freemont count}-, as Lieutenant-
®_
102
HISTORY OF IOWA.
Colonel; W. W. Belnap, of Keokuk, as
Major; and was mustered into the service
of the United States at Keokuk, March 19,
1862.
The regiment participated in the battle
of Shiloh, siege of Corinth, battles of
Corinth, Vicksburg, campaign against At-
lanta, battle in front of Atlanta, in Sher-
man's march to the sea, and through the
Carolinas to .Richmond, Washington and
Louisville, where it was mustered out
August 1, 1864. The regiment was most
actively engaged at the siege of Atlanta,
where it was under fire from the rebels
for 81 days. The gallant Fifteenth will
long be honored by the grateful people of
Iowa for its faithful service of three years
and a half in the heart of the rebellion.
Of 1,196 men, 58 were killed, 277 died,
306 were discharged, 416 were wounded,
7 were missing, 83 were captured, and 27
were transferred.
The Sixteenth Infantry was organ-
ized under the first call of 1861, and was
at that time supposed to be the last Iowa
would be called upon to furnish. But the
war was only begun, and Iowa was des-
tined to furnish more troops alter the
Sixteenth than before. As organized, the
Sixteenth had Alexander Chambers for
Colonel; A. H. Sanders, of Davenport, for
Lieutenant-Colonel; and William Purcell,
of Muscatine, for Major. It was mus-
tered into the service of the United States
at Davenport, December 10, 1861.
The Sixteenth was in the battles of
Shiloh, siege of Corinth, Iuka, Corinth,
Kenesaw Mountain, Nickajack Creek, and
the various battles aruui.d Atlanta; in
Sherman's campaigns, and those in the
Carolinas. Its first battle was the bloodiest
of the war — Shiloh; and that they behaved
so well under their first fire, showed that
they were good men. After the battle of
Shiloh, the "Iowa Brigade" was formed,
of which the Sixteenth ever after formed a
part. This "Iowa Brigade" was most
highly praised by the Inspector-General of
the Seventeenth Army Corp-, who de-
clared in his official report that he had
never seen a finer looking body of men, in
any respect. In the battle before Atlanta,
the greater part of the regiment was cap-
tured, and remained in captivity two
months. The Sixteenth was mustered out
July 19, 1865, at Louisville. Of its 819
officers and men, 62 were killed, 255 died,
211 were discharged, 311 were wounded,
14 were missing, 257 were captured, and
29 were transferred
The Seventeenth Infantry was raised
during the spring of 1862, and organized
with John W. Rankin, of .Keokuk, as
Colonel; D. B. Hillis, of Keokuk, as
Lieutenant-Colonel; and Samuel M. Wise,
of Mt. Pleasant, as Major. It was mus-
tered into the service of the United
States at Keokuk, April 16, 1862.
The Seventeenth was in the siege of
Corinth, the battles of Iuka, Corinth, Jack-
son, Champion Hills, Fort Hill, siege of
Vicksburg, Mission Ridge, and Tilton,
Ga., where most of the regiment were
made prisoners of war, October 13, 18G4.
The regiment won special commendation
at the battle of Corinth. Of its 956 mem-
bers, 45 weie killed, 121 died, 222 were
discharged, 245 were wounded, 8 were
missing, 278 were cap'.ured, and 1-8 were
transferred.
;rr
s
HISTORY OF IOWA.
103
The Eighteenth Infantry, as well as
the Seventeenth, was not recruited in re-
sponse to any call of the President, but
was a free gift from the people of Iowa.
It was raised in the early summer of 1862,
and was mustered into the service of the
United States at Clinton, August 5, 6 and
7, 1862, with John Edwards, of Chariton,
as Colonel; T. Z. Cook, of Cedar Rapids,
as Lieutenant-Colonel; Hugh J. Campbell,
of Muscatine, as Major. It was engaged
in the battles of Springfield, Moscow,
Poison Spring, Ark., and others. Much of
its time was spent in garrison duty, west
of the Mississippi, and therefore it did not
share in the brilliant honors of the great
battles east of that river. Had oppor-
tunity offered, no doubt they would have
assaulted Vicfcsburg, or fought above the
clouds on Lookout Mountain, as bravely
as any troops in the Union. It was mus-
tered out July 20, 1865, at Little Rock,
Arkansas. Of 875 officers and men, 28
were killed. 122 died, 233 were discharged,
79 were, wounded, 63 were captured, and
15 were transferred.
The Nineteenth Infantry was the
first regiment organized under President
Lincoln's call of July 2, 1862, made when
the cause of the Union looked most
gloomy. It was mustered into the United
States service August 17, 186-J, at Keokuk,
with Benjamin Crabb, of Washington, as
Colonel; Samuel McFarland, of Mt. Pleas-
ant, as Lieutenant-Colonel; and Daniel
Kent, of Ohio, as Major.
The regiment served faithfully at Prai-
rie Grove, Vicksburg, in the Yazoo river
expedition, at Sterling Farm, and at Span-
ish Fort. At Sterling Farm, September
29, 1863, most of the regiment surrend-
ered, after a hard fight. They were ex-
changed July 22d of the following year,
when they rejoined their regiment at New
Orleans. The Nineteenth was mustered
out at Mobile, Ala., July 18, 1865. Of 9^5
men and officers, 58 were killed, 133 died,
191 were discharged, 198 were wounded,
216 were captured, and 43 were transferred.
The Twentieth Infantry was the sec-
ond of the twenty-two regiments raised in
Iowa under the call of July 2, 1862. The
regiment was raised within two counties,
Linn and Scott, each of which contributed
five companies, and which vied with each
other in patriotism. Wm. McE. Dye, of
Marion, Linn county, was commissioned
Colonel; J. B. Leek, of Davenport, Lieut. -
Colonel; and AVm. G. Thompson, of Ma-
rion, Major. The muster-in took place at
Clinton, August 25, 1862. The Twentieth
fought at Prairie Grove and at Ft. Blakely.
Though not engaged in prominent battles,
it performed valuable garrison duties on
the southern coast. It was on Mustang
Island, off the coast of Texas, seven months.
Was mustered out at Mobile, Ala., July 8,
1865, and on its return home received a
royal welcome from Iowa's citizens. Of
925 officers and men in the Twentieth, 9
were killed, 144 died, 166 were discharged,
52 were wounded, 13 were captured and
39 were transferred.
The Twenty-First Infantry was raised
in August, 1862, with Samuel Merrill (ex-
Governor of Iowa) as Colonel; Cornelius
W. Dunlap, of Mitchell, as Lieut.-Colonel;
S. F. Van Anda, of Delhi, as Major; and
was mustered into the service of the
@ W.
-*d. %
United States August 18, 20, 22 and 23,
except one company, which had been mus-
tered in June. The Twenty-first was en-
gaged at Hartsville, Mo., Black River
Bridge, Fort Beauregard, siege of Vicks-
bursr, and battles of Mobile and Fort
Blakely. For nearly a year the regiment
served in Missouri, where it distinguished
itself by the well-fought battle of Harts-
ville. Then it fought in Mississippi, in
Louisiana, in Texas, in Louisiana again, in
Arkansas, in Tennessee, in Louisiana once
more, and in Alabama. In the battle of
Fort Gibson, this and several other Iowa
regiments were prominent. The Twenty-
first was mustered out at Baton Rouge, La.,
July 15, 1865. Of its 980 officers and men,
39 were killed, 192 died, 159 were dis-
charged, 161 were wounded, 2 were miss-
ing, 21 were captured, and 56 were trans-
ferred.
The Twenty-Second Infantry was or-
ganized in August, 1862, with Wm. M.
Stone, of Knoxville (formerly Major of
the Third Infantry, and since Governor of
IoAa), as Colonel; John A. Garrett, of
Newton, as Lieut. Colonel; Harvey Gra-
ham, of Iowa City, as Major; and was mus-
tered into the United States seivice at Iowa
City, September 10, 1862.
The Twenty-second served in many of
the Southern States, and was engaged at
Vicksburg, Tompson's Hills, in Sherman's
campaign to Jackson, at Winchester, Fish-
er's Hill, and Cedar Creek. The regiment
particularly distinguished itself in an as-
sault upon the enemy's works at Vicks-
burg, and in the battle of Winchester, in
the Shenandoah Valley, where it lost 109
men. In the Vicksburg assault, the regi-
ment lost 164 men. General Grant says
in that assault, only Sergeant Griffith and
11 privates (of the Twenty-second,) suc-
ceeded in entering the fort. Of these,
only the Sergeant and one man returned.
Altogether, there were 30 Iowa regiments
concerned in the siege of Vicksburg. The
regiment was mustered out at Savannah,
Ga., July 25, 1865. Of 1,008 members, 58
were killed, 182 died, 161 were discharged,
267 were wounded, 84 were captured, and
42 were transferred.
The Twenty-Third Infantry was or-
ganized with William Dewey, of Fremont
county, as Colonel; W. H. Kinsman, of
Council Bluffs, as Lieut.-Colonel; S. L.
Glasgow, of Cory don, as Major; and was
mustered into the service of the United
States at DesMoines, September 19, 1862.
The regiment was engaged at Vicksburg,
Port Gibson, Black River, Champion Hills,
Jackson, Milliken's Bend, and Ft. Blakely.
The Twenty-third are the acknowledged
heroes of the battle of Black River Bridge,
and the equal sharers with other troops of
the honors of many battle-fields. At Black
River but a few minutes were used in as-
saulting and carrying the rebel works, but
those few were fought with fearful loss to
the Twenty-third Iowa. After the success-
ful fight, in which the Twenty-first also
took part, Gen. Lawler passed down the
line and shook every man's hand, so great
was his emotion. Gen. Grant called it a
brilliant and daring movement. It was
mustered out at Harrisburg, Texas. July
26, 1865. Of its 961 officers and men, 41
were killed, 233 died, 181 were discharged,
135 were wounded, 3 were captured, and 42
transferred.
® V.
HISTORY OP 1 IOWA.
105
The Twbntt-Foubtu Infantry, called
" The Iowa Temperance regiment," was
raised by Eber C Byarn, of Linn county,
and consisted of men who were pledged to
abstain from the u-^e of liquor in any shape.
Ebei C. Byarn, of Mt Vernon, was Colonel;
John Q. Wilds, of Mt Vernon, Lieutenant-
Colonel; Ed. Wright, of Springdale, as
Major. The regiment was mustered
into the service of the United States at
Muscatine, September 18, 1862. The regi-
ment was engaged at Fort Gibson, Cham-
pion Hills, General Banks' Red river ex-
pedition, Winchester, Fisher's Hill and
Cedar Creek. The battles in which the
Twenty-fourth took the most prominent
part were those of Sabine Cross Roads (in
the Red river expedition) and Fisher's
Hill. Of 979 men and officers, 56 were
killed, 259 died, 205 were discharged, 260
were wounded, 2 were missing, 76 were
captured and 55 were transferred.
Thk Twenty-Fifth Infantry was or-
ganized near the beautiful little city of
Mt. Pleasant, with George A. Stone, of
Mt. Pleasant, as Colonel; Fabian Bry-
dolph as Lieutenant-Colonel; and Calom
Taylor, of Bloomfield, as Major. Was
mustered into the United States service,
at Mr. Pleasant, September 27, 1862. The
regiment was engaged at Arkansas Post,
Vicksburg, Walnut Bluff, Chattanooga,
Campain, Ringgold, Resaca, Dallas, Kena-
saw Mountain, battles around Atlanta,
Love joy Station, Jonesboro, Ships Gap,
Bentonville and was with Sherman on his
march through Georgia and the Carolinas,
to Richmond and Washington. The cap-
ture of Columbia, the capital of the chief
disloyal State, was effected by Iowa troops,
among which were those of the Twenty-
fifth. The regiment was mustered out at
Washington, D. C , June 6, 1865. Of 995
men and officers, 39 were k lied, 223 died,
140 were discharged, 183 were wounded, 4
were missing, 18 were captured and 71
were transferred.
The Twenty-Sixth Infantry was or-
ganized near the city of Clinton. Milo
Smith, of Clinton, was Colonel; S. G.
Magill, of Lyons, was Lieutenant-Colonel;
Samuel Clark, of De Witt, was Major; and
the regiment was mustered in at Clinton,
in August of 1862. The regiment was
engaged at Arkansas Post, Vicksburg,
Snake Creek Gap, Ga., Resaca, Dallas,
Kenesaw Mountain, Decatur, siege of At-
lanta, Ezra Church, Jonesboro, Lovejoy
Station, Ship's Gap, in Sherman's cam-
paign to Savannah and home through the
Carolinas. The regiment took part in
many great battles, and did faithful service
all through the war, after winning com-
mendations from its Generals. On the re-
turn home, the regimental flag was depos-
ited with the State archives, inscribed in.
golden colors with the names of the battles
and victories in which they had shared.
It was mustered out of the service at
Washington, D. C, June 6, 1865. Of 919
men and officers, 44 were killed, 244 died,
147 were discharged, 165 were wounded,
27 were captured and 70 were transferred.
The Twenty-Seventh Infantry was
recruited in the northern part of Iowa, and
was organized with James I. Gilbert, of
Lansing, as Colonel; Jed. Lake, of Inde-
pendence, as Lieutenant-Colonel; and G.
W. Howard, of Bradford, as Major. It
106
HISTORY OF IOWA.
was mustered into the service of the United
States at Dubuque, October 3, 1862. The
Twenty-seventh was engaged at Little
Rock, Ark., the battles of the Red river
expedition, Fort De Russey, Pleasant Hill,
Yellow Bayou, Tupelo, Old Town Creek
and Fort Blakely. This ^regiment had
'varied experience in the matter of climate;
for their first active service was in Minne-
sota, while before the war was over they
made a voyage on the gulf, from the
Balize to Mobile Bay. After faithful ser-
vice through the rest of the war, the regi-
ment was mustered out August 8, 1865, at
Clinton, Iowa. Of 940 officers and men,
9 were killed, 183 died, 207 were dis-
charged, 142 wounded, 6 were missing, 32
were captured and 47 were transferred.
The Twenty-Eighth Infantry was
organized during the autumn of 1862, with
the following officers: Wm. E. Miller, of
Iowa City, Colonel; John Connell, of To-
ledo, Lieutenant-Colonel; and H.B Lynch,
of Millersburg, as Major. The regiment
was engaged at Port Gibson, Jackson and
siege of Vicksburg; was in Bank's Red
river expedition, and fought at Sabine
Cross Roads, in the Shenandoah Valley,
at Winchester, Fisher's Hill and Cedar
Creek. In this last the regiment was most
prominently engaged. During its service
it fought a dozen battles, and traveled well-
nigh the entire circuit of the Confederacy.
The Twenty-eighth was mustered out of
the service at Savannah, Ga., July 31, 1865.
Of its 956 officers and men, 56 were killed,
111 died, 187 were discharged, 262 were
woun'ded, 10 were missing, 93 were cap-
tured and 44 were transferred.
The Twenty-Ninth Infantry was or-
ganized at Council Bluffs, and mustered
into the service of the United States,
December 1, 1862, with Thomas H. Ben-
ton, Jr., of Council Bluffs, as Colonel; R.
F. Patterson, of Keokuk, as Lieutenant-
Colonel; and Charles B. Shoemaker, of
Clarinda, as Major.
The Twenty-ninth was engaged at
Helena, Arkansas Post, Terre Noir, and
Spanish Fort. Though it was one of the
best disciplined and bravest regiments in
the war, it was long kept from participa-
tion in active service by being stationed
in Arkansas The regiment was mustered
out at New Orleans, August 15, 1865. Of
a total of 1,005 officers and men, 21 were
killed, 268 died, 132 were discharged, 107
were wounded, 1 was missing, 55 were
captured and 37 were transferred.
The Thirtieth Infantry was organ-
ized in the summer of 1862, with Charles
B. Abbott, of Louisa county, as Colonel;
William M. G. Torrence, of Keokuk, as
Lieut -Colonel; Lauren Dewey,of Mt. Pleas-
ant, as Major; was mustered into the ser-
vice of the United States at Keokuk, Sep-
tember 23, 1862. The regiment was
engaged at Arkansas Post, Yazoo City,
Vicksburg, Cherokee, Ala., Chattanooga,
Ringgold, Resacka, Kenesaw Mountain,
Atlanta, Lovejoy Station, Jonesboro and
Taylor's Ridge; accompanied Sherman in
his campaign to Savannah and through the
Carolinas to Richmond, and was in the
grand review at Washington, D. C. The
Thirtieth was in the thickest of the war,
and came home loaded with honors, leav-
ing its honored dead on a score of battle-
fields. It was mustered out June 5, 1865.
19
I »
'J
©IV
1 r«>
HISTORY OF IOWA.
107
Of 978 officers and men in this regiment,
44 were killed, 264 died, 145 were dis-
charged, 222 were wounded, 2 were miss-
ing, 19 were captured, and 48 were trans-
ferred.
The Thirty-First Infantry was or-
ganized in the summer of 18G2, with
William Smyth, of Marion, as Colonel;
J. W. Jenkins, of Maquoketa, as Lieuten-
ant-Colonel; and Ezekiel Cutler, of Ana-
mosa, as Major. It was mustered into the
service of the United States at Davenpert,
October 13, 1862.
The Thirty-first was engaged at Chicka-
saw Bayou, Arkansas Post, Raymond,
Jackson, Black River, Vicksburg, Chero-
kee, Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge,
Ringgold, Taylor's Hills, Snake Creek
Gap, Resaca, Dallas, New Hope Church,
Big Shanty, Kenesaw Mountain, Atlanta
and Jonesboro; was in Sherman's cam-
paign through Georgia and the Carolinas,
and was mustered out at Louisville, Ky.,
June 27, 1865. The regiment always did
its part nobly. It was received home with
speeches, feasting, etc., but the people's
joy was tempered with sadness, as the
regiment had gone forth 1,000 strong, and
returned with 370. But had not so many
regiments returned with thinned ranks, the
Rebellion had not been conquered — the
Union had not been saved. Of 977 officers
and men, 13 were killed, 279 died, 176
were discharged, 85 were wounded, 13
were captured, and 72 were transferred.
The Thirty-Second Infantry was or-
ganized in the fall of 1862, with John
Scott, of Nevada, as Colonel; E. H. Mix,
of Shell Rock, as Lieutenant-Colonel; and
G. A. Eberhart, of Waterloo, as Major.
The regiment was mustered into the ser-
vice of the United States at Dubuque,
October 5, 1862. The regiment was en-
gaged at Fort De Russey, Pleasant Hill,
Tupelo, Old Tower Creek, Nashville and
other battles. For some time the regi-
ment was separated, and the detachments
in different fields, but at last they were all
united, and the regiment served as a unit.
It was mustered out at Clinton, Iowa,
August 24,1865. Of 925 officers and men,
59 were killed, 242 died, 174 were dis-
charged, 142 were wounded, 98 were cap-
tured, and 35 were transferred.
The Thirty-Third Infantry was or-
ganized in the fall of 1862, with Samuel
A. Rice, a popular politician of Central
Iowa, as Colonel; Cyrus H. Maskey, of
Sigouruey, as Lieutenant-Colonel; Hiram
D. Gibson, of Kuoxville, as Major; and
was mustered into the service of the
United States at Oskaloosa, October 1,
1862. The regiment was engaged at Little
Rock, Helena, Saline River, Spanish Fort
and Yazoo Pass. The regiment worked
to best advantage at the brilliant victory
of Helena. It remained in Arkansas till
the early part of 1865, when it moved
south to take part in the closing scenes in
Alabama. The Thirty-third was mustered
out of service at New Orleans, July 17,
1865. Of 985 men and officers, 26 were
killed, 241 died, 145 were discharged, 177
were wounded, 7 were missing, 74 were
captured, and 32 were transferred.
The Thirty- Fourth Infantry . was
organized in the fall of 1862, with Ge rge
W. Clarke, of Indianola, as Colonel; W.
+A
<§ *».
108
HISTORY OF" IOWA.
S. Dungan, of Chariton, as Lieutenant-
Colonel; R. D. Kellogg, of Decatur, as
Major; and was mustered into the service
of the United Stales at Burlington, Octo-
ber 15, 1862.
The regiment was engaged at Arkansas
Post, Fort Gaines and other places in
Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Ala-
bama. January 1, 1865, the regiment was
consolidated with the Thirty-eighth. Re-
cruits from the Twenty-first and Twenty-
third had been, on the muster-out of those
regiments, transferred to the Thirty-fourth,
and this regiment had a total of 1,131 offi-
cers and men at its muster-out at Houston,
Texas, August 15, 1865. Of 953 properly
belonging to this regiment, 4 were killed,
234 died, 314 were discharged, 16 were
wounded, 4 were captured and 22 were
transferred. The regiment traveled over
15,000 miles in its service.
The Thirty-Fifth Infantry was re-
cruited in the summer of 1862, and mus-
tered into the service of the United States,
at Muscatine, September 18, with S. G.
Hill, of Muscatine, as Colonel; James S.
Rotbrock, of Muscatine, as Lieutenant-
Colonel, and Henry O'Conner, of Musca-
tine, as Major.
The regiment participated in the battles
of Jackson, siege of Vicksburg, Bayou
Rapids, Bayou ,de Glaze, Pleasant Hill,
Old River Lake, Tupelo, Nashville and
the Mobile campaign. The Thirty-fifth
served bravely in a dozen battles, and
traveled 10,000 miles. On its return home,
it was greeted with a most hearty recep-
tion, and a reunion of old soldiers. The
regiment was mustered out at Davenport,
August 10, 1865, and paid and disbanded
at Muscatine six days later. Of 984 offi-
cers and men, 38 were killed, 208 died, 192
were discharged, 95 were wounded, 3 were
missing, 15 were captured and 65 were
transferred.
The Thirty-Sixth Infantry was or-
ganized in the summer of 1862, with
Charles W. Kittredge, of Ottumwa, as
Colonel; F. M. Drake, of Unionville,
Appanoose county, as Lieutenant-Colonel,
and T. C. Woodward, of Ottumwa, as
Major. The regiment was mustered into
the service of the United States, at Keo-
kuk, October 4, 1862.
The Thii-ty-sixth was engaged at Mark's
Mills Ark., Elkins' Ford, Camden, Helena,
Jenkins' Ferry and other places during the
"Little Rock expedition." The regiment
suffered greatly from sickness. Before it
was fully organized, even, small-pox and
measels attacked the men, and the com-
mand lost 100 men. Then it was obliged
to encounter the malarial fluences of Yazoo
river and Helena. Before they recovered
their vigor fully, more of them were forced
to surrender to the rebels. The regiment
was mustered out at Duvali's Bluff, Ark.,
August 24, 1865. Of 986 officers and men,
35 were killed, 258 died, 191 were dis
charged, 166 were wounded, 460 were cap-
tured and 24 were transferred.
The Thirty-Seventh Infantry was
generally known as the "Gray-beard Reg-
iment." It was composed of men over 45
years of age, and hence not subject to
military service, but their patriotism in-
duced them to enlist, and the services of
the regiment were accepted by the Secre-
tary of War. for post and garrison service.
&
® k_
HISTORY OF IOWA.
109
It was organized with George W. Kincaid,
of Muscatine, as Colonel; Geo. R. West,
of Dubuque, as Lieutenant-Colonel, and
Lyman Allen, of Iowa City, as Major. The
musu r-in look place at Muscatine, Decem-
ber 15, 1862.
The resriment served at St. Louis in
guard of military prisons, then on the line
of the Pacific railway, then at Alton, 111.
Here they remained guarding the rebel
prisoners till January, 1864, when they
moved to Rock Island to perform similar
duties until June 5. They served the next
three months, in very hot weather, at
Memphis. Thence the command moved
to Indianapolis. From here five companies
went to Cincinnati, three to Columbus and
two to Gallipolis, Ohio. At these posts
they remained till May, 1865. This "Gray-
beard Regiment" was the only one of its
kind in the war, and it received many
favorable expressions from commanding
officers under whom it served. It was
mustered out M.ay 24, 1865, the day of the
grand review at Washington. The Thirty-
seven th was the first Iowa three-years'
regiment to come home, and was mustered
out thus early by special request of General
Willich, in whose brigade they were, in
order that they might save their crops, most
of them being farmers. Of 914 officers
and men, 3 were killed, 145 died, 359 were
discharged, 2 were wounded, none were
missing and none captured.
The Thirty-Eighth Infantry was re-
cruited in August, 1862, and mustered into
the service of the United States at Du-
buque, November 4, with D. H. Hughes,
of Decorah, as Colonel; J. O. Hudmitt, of
Waverly, as Lieut -Colonel; and Charles
Chadwick, of West Union, as Major.
The regiment participated in the siege
of Vicksburg and Banks' Red River expe-
dition, and was consolidated with the
Thirty-fourth Infantry, January 1, 1865.
Of all Iowa's regiments, the Thirty-eighth
was most unfortunate in regard to sick-
ness. It had not been in the service two
years when more than 300 enlisted men
and a number of officers had died of
disease. Duiing the same period 100 had
been discharged for inability. There were
long weary weeks when there were not
enough well men to take care of the sick —
not even enough to bury the dead. It was
at last obliged to give up its own existence.
Though the regiment had not had an op-
portunity to achieve brilliant renown in
the field, it did fulfill a no less honored
destiny than many whose banners were
covered with the names of battles. It did
all that men could do — it gave itseif up
for the good of the service. Of its 910
men, 1 was killed, 314 died, 120 were dis-
charged, 2 were wounded and 14 were
transferred.
The .Thirty-Ninth Infantry was or-
ganized with H. J. B. Cummings, of Win-
terset, as Colonel; James Redfield, of
Redfield, Dallas county, as Lieutenant-
Colonel; and J. M. Griffiths, of DesMoines,
as Major.
The regiment was engaged at Parker's
Cross Roads, Tenn., Corinth, Allatoona,
Ga., Resaca, Kenesaw Mountain, Atlanta,
and was in Sherman's march to the sea,
and through the Carolinas to Richmond.
The regiment was one of the most distin-
guished in the field, and met with a royal
welcome from the warm-hearted people
\Fp
- — 4\
110
HISTORY OF IOWA.
of Iowa, on its return home. It had pre-
viously taken part in the grand review at
Washington. It was mustered out at
Washington, June 5, 1865, and was dis-
banded at Clinton, Iowa. Of its 933 officers
and men, 41 were killed, 143 died, 123
were discharged, 113 were wounded, 206
were captured and 16 were transferred.
The Foktieth Infantry was the high-
est in numerical order of Iowa's three-
year's regiments, but not the last to leave
the State. Three or four other regimental
organizations, too, were commenced, but
not completed. Some 300 men were
enlisted for the Forty-first, who united
with the three companies of the Four-
teenth, stationed at Fort Randall, Dakota
Territory; another regiment, to be called
the Forth-second, was attempted, with
camp at Dubuque; and still another, at
Ottumwa, was to be called the Forty-
third. These attempts were unsuccessful
in so far as the complete formation of an
infantry regiment after the Fortieth was
concerned. The Fortieth was organized
at Iowa City, November 15, 1862, with
John A. Garrett, of Newton, as Colonel;
S. F. Cooper, of Grinnell, as Lieutenant-
Colonel; and S. G. Smith, of Newton, as
Major.
The regiment participated in the siege
of Vicksburg, Steele's expedition, Bank's
Red River expedition, and the battle of
Jenkins' Ferry. It was called the "Cop-
perhead Regiment," by political partisans,
but it bore its share of the fatigues of war
in a patriotic way that might have been
emulated by some of their political ene-
mies. The fact is, moreover, the regiment
always gave a small Republican majority,
though the contrary was believed for a
time. The Fortieth was mustered out at
Port Gibson, August 2, 1865. Of 900 offi-
cers and men, 5 were killed, 196 died,
134 were discharged, 43 were wounded, 3
were captured, and 26 were transferred.
The Forty-First Infantry was never
completed as an infantry regiment. It con-
tained three companies. Its infantry or-
ganization was under the command of John
Pattee, of Iowa City. Under authority
from the War Department, these three
companies became K, L and M of the Sev-
enth Cavalry.
The Forty - Fourth Infantry was
raised in the summer of 1864. Generals
Grant and Sherman being actively en-
gaged with large armies against the enemy,
the Governors of the Northwestern States
proposed to the authorities of the War
Department to send into the field a consid-
erable number of troops for a short term
of service, who might relieve others on
guard and garrison duty at the rear, and
thus be the means of adding largely to the
force of drilled and disciplined men at the
front. This proposition was, after a time,
accepted, and the term of service was es-
tablished at 1C0 days. Gov. Stone accord-
ingly issued his proclamation calling for
such troops, and the citizens responded
with four regiments and one battalion.
Because commissions had been issued to
persons designated as officers of the Forty-
first, Forty-second and Forty-third Regi-
ments, which were never organized, how-
ever, although considerable was done in
the way of their formation, the number of
the regiments of 100 days' men commenced
~®
FT
HISTORY OF IOWA.
Ill
with Forty-four. This regiment was under
the command of Colonel Stephen H. Hen-
derson, and was mustered in at Davenport,
June 1, 1864. "
The regiment did garrison duty at
Memphis and La Grange, Tenn., and was
mustered out at Davenport, September 15,
1864 Of 867 officers and men in the
Forty fourth, 1 was killed and 18 died.
There were no other casualties.
The Forty-Fifth Infantry was mus-
tered in at Keokuk, May 25, 1864, with
A. J. Bereman, of Mt. Pleasant, as Colonel;
S. A. Moore, of Bloomfield, as Lieutenant-
Colonel; and J. B. Hope, of Washington,
as Major. This was the first of the
regiments of 100 days' men organized;
it even preceded the Forty-fourth. It
performed garrison duty in Tennessee,
and was mustered out at Keokuk, Septem-
ber 16, 1864 Of 912 officers and men, 2
were killed, 19 died, 1 wounded, and 2
were transferred.
The Forty-Sixth Infantry was organ-
ized with D. B. Henderson, of Clermont,
as Colonel; L. D. Durbin, of Tipton, as
Lieutenant-Colonel; and G. L. Tarbet as
Major. It was mustered in at Dubuque,
June 10, 1864.
The Forty-sixth performed garrison
duty in Tennessee, and was mustered out
at Davenport, September 23, 1864. Of its
892 officers and men, 2 were killed, 24
died, 1 was wounded, and 3 were captured.
The Forty-Seventh Infantry was
mustered into the service of the United
States at Davenport, June 1, 1864, with
James P. Sanford, of Oskaloosa, as Colo-
nel; John Williams, of Iowa City, as
Lieutenant-Colonel; and G. J. Wright, of
Des Moines, as Major.
This regiment was stationed at the
sickly place of Helena, Arkansas, where
many succumbed to disease. Of 884
officers and men, 1 was killed, 46 died, and
1 was transferred.
The Forty-Eighth Infantry (Bat-
talion) was mustered into the United
States service at Davenport, July 13, 1864,
with O. H. P. Scott, of Farmington, as
Lieutenant-Colonel. The battalion served
its time guarding rebel prisoners on Rock
Inland, in the Mississippi river, opposite
Davenport. It was mustered out at Rock
Island barracks, October 21, 1864. Of 340
officers and men, 4 died and 4 were trans-
ferred The services of these 100-days' men
were of great value to the national cause.
They were acknowledged by the President
of the United States, in a special execu-
tive order, returning his hearty thanks to
officers and men.
The First Cavalry was organized in
the spring of 1861, with Fritz Henry War-
ren, of Burlington, as Colonel; Charles E.
Moss of Keokuk, as Lieutenant-Colonel;
E. W. Chamberlain, of Burlington, James
O. Gower, of Iowa City, and W. M. G.
Torrence, of Keokuk, as Majors.
The regiment was engaged at Pleasant
Hill, Mo., Rolla, New Lexington, Elkin's
Ford, Little Rock, Bayou Metoe, Warrens-
burg, Big Creek Bluffs, Antwineville, and
Clear Creek. The regiment veteranized
in the spring of 1864. It did not take the
usual 30 days' furlough until May, for their
services were needed in the field, and they
it
112
HISTORY OF IOWA.
gallantly volunteered to remain. After
the war was closed the First served in
Texas, with Gen. Custer, until its muster-
out, February 15, 1866. Of 1,478 officers
and men, 43 were killed, 215 died, 20V
were discharged, 88 were wounded, 2
were missing, 22 were captured, and 39
were transferred.
The Second Cavalry was organized
with W. L. Elliott, a Captain in the third
cavalry of the regular army, as Colonel;
Edward Hatch, of Muscatine, as Lieuten-
ant-Colonel; and N. P. Hepburn, of Mar-
shalltown, D. E. Coon, of Mason City,
and H. W. Love, of Iowa City, as Majors.
The regiment was mustered in at Daven-
port, September 1, 1861.
The Second participated in the siege ol
Corinth, the battles of Farrnington, Boone-
ville, Rienzi, Iuka, Corinth, Coffeeville,
Palo Alto, Birmingham, Jackson, Grenada,
. Collierville, Moscow, Pontotoc, Tupelo,
Old Town, Oxford and Nashville. The
regiment performed active and arduous
service all through the war, and so often
distinguished Itself as to become well
known throughout the nation. It was
mustered out at Selma, Ala., September
19, 1865. Of its 1,394 officers and men,
41 were killed, 224 died, 147 were dis-
charged, 173 were wounded, 10 were
missing, 74 were captured and 42 were
transferred.
The Third Cavalry was mustered in at
Keokuk, August and September, 1861,
with Cyrus Bussey, of Bloomfield, as
Colonel; H. H. Trimble, of Bloomfield, as
Lieutenant-Colonel; and C. H. Perry, H.
C. Caldwell and W. C. Drake, of Cory-
don, as Majors. The Third was engaged
at Pea Ridge, La Grange, Sycamore, near
Little Rock, Columbus, Pope's Farm, Big
Blue, Ripley, Coldwater, Osage, Talla-
hatchie, Moore's Mill, near Montevallo,
near Independence, Pine Bluff, Bott's
Farm, Gun Town, White's Station, Tupelo
and Village Creek. The regiment was
raised by Hon. Cyrus Bussey, who, in his
call for volunteers, requested each man to
bring with him a good cavalry horse to
sell to the Government. In two weeks he
had a thousand men well mounted, in the
rendesvous at Keokuk. In order to still
further hasten matters, Colonel Bussey
personally contracted in Chicago for
equipments. In this way the delay exper-
ienced by other regiments in preparing for
tbe field was entirely avoided. The regi-
ment took an active part in many battles
and raids, and always behaved with dis-
tinguished gallantry. Was mustered out
at Atlanta, Ga., August 9, 1865. Of 1,360
officers and men, 65 were killed, 251 died,
311 were discharged, 166 were wounded
1 was missing, 146 were captured and 34
were transferred.
The Fourth Cavalry was organized
and mustered into the service of the
United States at Mt. Pleasant, November
21, 1861, with Aebury B. Porter, of Mt.
Pleasant, as Colonel; Thomas Drummond,
of Vinton, as Lieutenant-Colonel; and S.
D. Swan, of Mt. Pleasant, J. E. Jewett, of
DesMoines, and G. A. Stone, of Mt.
Pleasant, as Majors. The Fourth fought
bravely, and lost men at every one of the
following engagements: Gun Town, Miss.,
Helena, Bear Creek, Memphis, Town
Creek, Columbus, Mechanicsburg, Little
V
-J. 9
HISTORY OF IOWA.
113
Blue river, Brownsville, Ripley, Black
River Bridge, Grenada, Tupelo, Yazoo
River, White River, Osage, Lock Creek,
Okalona, and St. Francis River. The
Fourth was one of the bravest and most
successful regiments in the field, and
its services were of the utmost value to
the Union arms. It was mustered out
at Atlanta, Ga.. August 10, 1865. Of
1,227 officers and men, 44 were killed,
207 died, 241 were discharged, 119 were
wounded, 3 were missing, 94 were cap-
tured, and 35 were transferred.
The Fifth Cavalry was but in part an
Iowa regiment. The States of Minnesota
and Missouri and the Territory of Ne-
braska were largely represented; but as
Iowa had the most, it was designated as an
Iowa regiment. It was organized and
mustered into the service at Omaha, with
Wm. W. Lowe, of the regular army, as
Colonel; M. T. Patrick, of Omaha, as Lieu-
tenant-Colonel; and Carl Schaeffer de Bern-
stein, a German baron, Wm. Kelsay and
Alfred B. Braekett as Majors. This regi-
ment was engaged at the second battle of
Fort Donelson, Wartrace, Duck River
Bridge, Sugar Creek, Newman, Camp Creek,
Cumberland works, Tenn., Jonesboro, Ebe-
nezer Church, Lockbridge's Mills, Pulaski
and Cheraw. The gallant Fifth was in
many situations requiring the greatest
coolnes and courage, and always acquitted
itself with high honor. At one time the
regiment was surrounded by rebels, and
the Colonel in charge of the brigade had
escaped with two other regiments to the
Union lines, reporting the Fifth all killed
or captured. But the result was far from
that. At the critical time the brave Major
Young, afterward the Colonel of the regi-
ment, thundered out in the still night air,
"The Fifth Iowa is going straight through;
let the brave follow!" Then came the
single word of command, "Forward ! " and
when they reached the rebel lines,
"Charge I " Fifteen hundred troopers
dashed at full speed over the bodies of
the surprised rebels, and escaped to the
Union lines with the loss of but 15 men.
The regiment was finally mustered out at
Nashville, Tenn, August 11, 1865. Of
its 1,245 officers and men, 47 were killed,
141 died, 224 were discharged, 56 were
wounded, 217 were captured and 17 were
transferred.
The Sixth Cavalry was organized and
mustered in at Davenport, January 31,
1863, with D. S. Wilson, of Dubuque, as
Colonel; S. M. Pollock, of Dubuque, as
Lieutenant-Colonel, and T. H. Shepherd,
of Iowa City, E. P. TenBroeck, of Clin-
ton, and A. E. House, of Delhi, as Majors.
This regiment was employed on the
frontier against the Indians, and did excel-
lent service. Their principal engagement
was the battle of White Stone Hill, in
which they severely punished a band of
hostiles. The Sixth was mustered out at
Sioux City, October 17, 1865. Of 1,125
officers and men, 19 were killed, 72 died,
89 were discharged, 19 were wounded and
7 were transferred.
The Seventh Cavalry was organized
and mustered into the service at Daven-
port, April 27, 1863, with S. W. Summers,
of Ottumwa, as Colonel; John Pattee, of
Iowa City, as Lieutenant-Colonel, and H.
H. Heath and G. M. O'Brien, of Dubuque,
and John S. Wood, of Ottumwa, as Majors
fr
114
HISTORY OF IOWA.
This regiment also served against the
Indians in the West. It fought bravely
in many battles, and won the lasting grati-
tude of the people of the West. It was
mustered out at Leavenworth, Kan., May
17, 1866, except Companies K, L and M,
which were mustered out at Sioux City,
June 22, 1866. Of its 562 officers and
men, 47 were killed, 101 died, 252 were
discharged, 8 were wounded and 9 were
transferred.
The Eighth Cavalry was recruited by
Lieutenant Dorr, of the Twelfth Infantry.
As the result of his energy, 2,000 were
soon enlisted for the Eighth. Some 300
were rejected, 450 were turned over to the
Ninth Cavalry and about 75 to the Fourth
Battery. The Eighth was organized with
Joseph B. Dorr, of Dubuque, as Colonel;
H. G. Barner, of Sidney, as Lieutenant-
Colonel; John J. Bowen, of Hopkinton;
J. D. Thompson, of Eldora, and A. J.
Price, of Guttenberg, as Majors; and was
mustered into the United States service,
at Davenport, September 30, 1863.
This regiment served gallantly in guard
ing Sherman's communications, and at the
battles of Lost Mountain, Lovejoy's Sta-
tion, Newman and Nashville. It partici-
pated in Stoneman's cavalry raid round
Atlanta, and Wilson's raid through Ala-
bama. After the close of hostilities and
before the muster-out, Col. Dorr died of
disease. He was much beloved by his
command, and highly respected at home,
where he had been an able editor. The
Eighth was mustered out at Macon, Ga.,
August 13, 1865. Of its 1,234 officers and
men, 30 were killed, 106 died, 67 were dis-
charged, 87 were wounded, 2 were missing,
259 were captured and 22 were transferred.
The Ninth Cavalry was the last three
years' regiment recruited in Iowa. It was
organized and mustered into the service of
the United States, at Davenport, Novem-
ber 30, 1863, with M. M. Trumbull, of
Cedar Falls, as Colonel; J. P. Knight,
of Mitchell, as Lieutenant-Colonel; E. T.
Ensign, of DesMoines, Willis Drummond,
of McGregor, and William Haddock, of
Waterloo, as Majors.
The regiment performed heavy scout-
ing, guard and garrison duties in Ar-
kansas, for the small part of the war after
it was organized. It was mustered out
at Little Rock, Ark., February 28, 1866.
Of its 1,178 officers and men, 6 were
killed, 178 died, 64 were discharged, 15
were wounded, 1 was captured and 11
were transferred.
The First Battery op Light Artil-
lery was enrolled in the counties of Wa-
pello, DesMoines, Dubuque, Jefferson,
Black Hawk and others, and was mustered
into the service at Burlington, August 17,
1861, with C. H. Fletcher, of Burlington,
as Captain ; was engaged at Pea Ridge,
Port Gibson, in the Atlanta campaign, at
Chickasaw Bayou, Lookout Mountain, etc.;
was mustered out at Davenport, July 5,
1865. Of 149 members, 7 were killed, 55
died, 35 were discharged, 31 were wounded
and 3 transferred.
The Second Battery was enrolled in
the counties of Dallas, Polk, Harrison,
Fremont and Pottawatamie, and mustered
in at Council Bluffs, and at St. Louis, Aug-
-®
3 L*
HISTORY OF IOWA.
115
'a
ust 8 and 31, 1861, with Nelson I. Spoor,
of Council Bluffs, as Captain. The bat-
tery was engaged at Farmiugton, Corinth,
and other places Was mustered out at
Davenport, August 7, 18G5. Of a total of
123 officers and men, 1 was killed, 30 died,
10 were discharged, 15 were wounded, 1
was captured, and were transferred.
The Third Battery was enrolled in
the counties of Dubuque, Black Hawk,
Butler and Floyd, and was mustered into
the service at Dubuque, in September,
1801, with M. M. Hayden, of Dubuque, as
Captain. The battery was engaged at Pea
Ridge and other important battles. Was
mustered out at Davenport, October 23,
1805. Of 142 officers and men, 3 were
killed, 3i died, 28 were discharged, and 18
were wounded.
The Fourth Battert was enrolled in
Mahaska, Henry, Mills and Fremont coun-
ties, and was mustered in at Davenport,
November 23, 1803. This battery was on
duty most of the time in Louisiana, but
did not serve in any important battles.
Was mustered out at Davenport, July 14,
3 805. Of 152 officers and men, died, 11
were discharged, and 1 was transferred.
. The Iowa Regiment of Colored Troops
was organized and mustered into the ser-
vice of the United States, October 23, 1803.
John G. Hudson, Captain Company B,
Thirty-third Missouri, was Colonel; M. F.
Collins, of Keokuk, was Lieut.-Colonel;
and J. L. Murphy, of Keokuk, was Major.
This regiment was afterward the Sixtieth
Regiment of United States Colored Troops.
It was not called upon to fight, but it per-
formed valuable guard and garrison duties
at St. Louis and elsewhere South.
The Northern Border Brigade was
organized by the State of Iowa to protect
the Northwestern frontier. James A. Saw-
yer, of Sioux City, was elected Colonel.
It consisted of five companies, all enlisted
from the northwestern counties.
The Southern Border Brigade was
organized by the State for the purpose of
protecting the southern border of the State,
and was organized in the counties on the
border of Missouri. It consisted of seven
companies in three battalions.
PROMOTIONS.
The following promotions were made by
the United States Government from Iowa
regiments :
MAJOR-GENERALS.
Samuel R. Curtis, Brigadier-General, if m
March 21, 1862.
Frederick Steele, Brigadier-General, from No-
vember 29, 1862.
Frank J. Herron, Brigadier-General, from No-
vember 29, 1862.
Grenvillc M. Dodge, Brigadier-General, from
June 7, 1864.
BRTGADIER- generals.
Samuel R. Curtis, Colonel 2d Infantry, from
May 17, 1861.
Frederick Steele, Colonel 8th Infantry, from
February 6, 1862.
Jacob G. Lanman, Colonel 7th Infantry, from
March 21, 1862.
Grenville M. Dodge, Colonel 4th Infantry,
from M irch 31, 1862.
James M. Tuttle, Colonel 2d Infantry, from
June 9, 1862.
&
'J 5
A
k
,3 »-
-# s
i>
^
116 HISTORY
OF IOWA.
r
Washington L. Elliot, Colonel 2d Cavalry",
Edward Hatch, Brigadier- General, from De-
from June 11, 1862.
cember 15, 1864.
Fitz Henry Warren, Colonel 1st Cavalry, from
William W. Belknap, Brigadier-General, from
July 6, 1862.
March 13, 1865.
Frank J. Herron, Lieut. -Colonel 9th Infantry,
W. L. Elliott, Brigadier-General, from March
from July 30, 1962.
13, 1865.
Charles L. Matthies, Colonel 5th Infantry,
Wm. Vandever, Brigadier-General, from June
from November 29, 1862.
7, 1865.
William Vandever, Colonel 9th Infantry, from
November 29, 1862.
BREVET BRIGADIER- GENERALS.
Marcellus M. Crocker, Colonel 13th Infantry,
»
from November 29, 1862.
Wm. T. Clark, A.A.G., late of 13th Infantry,
Hugh T. Reid, Colonel 15th Infantry, from
from July 22, 1864.
March 13, 1863.
Edward F. Winslow, Colonel 4th Cavalry, from
Samuel A. Rice, Colonel 33d Infantry, from
December 12, 1864.
August 4, 1863.
S. G. Hill, Colonel 35th Infantry, from Decem-
John M. Corse, Colonel 6th Infantry, from
ber 15, 1864.
August 11, 1863.
Thus. H. Benton, Colonel 29th Infantry, from
Cyrus Bussey, Colonel 3d Cavalry, from Jan-
December 15, 1864.
uary 5, 1864.
Samuel S. Glasgow, Colonel 23d Infantry, from
Edward Hatch, Colonel 2d Cavalry, from April
December 19, 1864.
27, 1864.
Clark R. Weaver, Colonel 17th Infantry, from
Elliott W. Rice, Colonel 7th Infantry, from
February 9, 1865.
June 20, 1864.
Geo. A. Stone, Colonel 25th Infantry, from
Wm. W. Belknap, Colonel 5th Infantry, from
March 13, 1865.
July 30, 1864.
Francis M. Drake, Lieut. -Colonel 36th Infant-
J./hn Edwards, Colonel 18th Infantry, from
ry, from February 22, 1865.
September 26, 1864.
Datus E. Coon, Colonel 2d Cavalry, from
James A. Williamson, Colonel 4th Infantry,
March 8, 1865.
from January 13, 1864.
George W. Clark, Colonel 34th Infantry, from
James I. Gilbert, Colonel 27th Infantry, from
March 13, 1865.
February 9, 1865.
Herman H. Heath, Colonel 7th Cavalry, from
Thomas J. McKean, from November 21, 1861 .
March 13, 1865.
J. M. Hedrick, Colonel 15th Infantry, from
BREVET MAJOR-GENERALS.
March 13, 1865.
John M. Corse, Brigadier-General, from Octo
W. W. Lowe, Colonel 5th Cavalry, from March
ber 5, 1861.
3, 1865.
—\
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V
i '
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*[&
HISTORY OF IOWA.
117
CHAPTER IX,
EDUCATIONAL — STATE INSTITUTIONS.
The people of Iowa have ever taken a
deep interest in education, and in this
direction no State in the Union can show
a better record. The system of free pub-
lic schools was planted by the early set-
tlers, and it has expanded and improved
until now it is one of the most complete,
comprehensive and liberal in the country.
In the lead-mining regions of the State,
the first to be settled by the whites, the
hardy pioneers provided the means for the
education of their children even before
they had comfortable dwellings for them-
selves. School teachers were among the
first immigrants to Iowa. Wherever a
little settlement was made, the school
house was the first thing undertaken by
the settlers in a body, and the rude, primi-
tive structures of the early time only dis-
appeared when the communities increased
in population and wealth, and were able to
replace them with more commodious and
comfortable buildings. Perhaps in no
single instance has the magnificent pro-
gress of the State of Iowa been more
marked and rapid than in her common
school system and in her school houses.
To-day the school houses which every-
where dot the broad and fertile prairies of
Iowa are unsurpassed by those of any
other State in this great Union. More
especially is this true in all her cities and
villages, where liberal and lavish appro-
priations have been voted by a generous
people for the erection of large, commodi-
ous and elegant buildings, furnished with
all the modern improvements, and costing
from $10,000 to $60,000 each. The people
of the State have expended more than
$10,000,000 for the erection of public
school buildings.
The first school house within the limits
of Iowa was a log cabin at Dubuque, built
by J. L: Langworthy, and a few other
miners, in the autumn of 1833. When it
was completed, George Cabbage was em-
ployed as teacher during the winter of
1833-4, and thirty-five pupils attended his
school. Barrett Whittemore taught the
school term, with twenty-five pupils in at-
tendance. Mrs. Caroline Dexter com-
menced teaching in Dubuque in March,
1836. She was the first female teacher
there, and probably the first in Iowa. In
1839, Thomas H. Benton, Jr., afterward
for ten years Superintendent of Public
Instruction, opened an English $nd classi-
cal school in Dubuque. The first tax for
the support of schools at Dubuque was
levied in 1840.
At Burlington, a commodious log school
house, built in 1834, was among the first
buildings erected. A Mr. Johnson taught
the first school in the winter of 1834-5.
w
<2_
118
HISTORY OF IOWA.
In Scott county, in the winter of 1835-6,
Simon Crazin taught a four-months term
of school in the house of J. B. Chamberlin.
In Muscatine county, the first school
was taught by George Bumgardner, in the
spring of 1837. In 1839 a log school
house was erected in Muscatine, which
served for a long time as school house,
church and public hall.
The first school in Davenport was taught
in 1838. In Fairfield, Miss Clarissa Saw-
yer, James F. Chambers and Mrs. Reed
taught school in 1839.
. Johnson countv was an entire wilder-
ness when Iowa City was located as the
capital of the Territory of Iowa, in May,
1839. The first sale of lots took place
August 18, 1839, and before January 1,
1840, about twenty families had settled
within the limits of the town. During
the same year Mr. Jesse Berry opened a
school in a small frame building he had
erected on what is now College street.
In Monroe county, the first settlement
was made in 1843, by Mr. John R. Gray,
about two miles from the present site of
Eddyville; and in the summer of 1844 a
log school house was built by Gray, Wm.
V. Beedle, C. Renfro, Joseph McMullen
and Willoughby Randolph, and the first
school was opened by Miss Urania Adams.
The building was occupied for school
purposes for nearly ten years.
About aiyear after the first cabin was
built at Oskaloosa, a log school house was
built, in which school was opened by
Samuel W. Caldwell, in 1844.
At Fort DesMoines, now the capital of
the State, the first school was taught by
Lewis Whitten, Clerk of the District
Court, in the winter of 1846-'7, in one of
the rooms on "Coon Row," built for
barracks.
The first school in Pottawattamie county
was opened by George Green, a Mormon,
at Council Point, prior to 1849; and until
about 1854 nearly all the teachers in that
vicinity were Mormons.
The first school in Decorah was taught
in 1855, by Cyrus C. Carpenter, since Gov-
ernor of the State. In Crawford county
the first school house was built in Mason's
Grove, in 1856, and Morris McHenry first
occupied it ars teacher.
During the first twenty years of the his-
tory of Iowa, the log school house pre-
vailed, and in 1861 there were 893 of these
primitive structures in use for school pur-
poses in the State. Since that time they
have been gradually disappearing. In
1865 there were 796; in 1870, 336; and in
1875, 121.
January 1, 1839, the Territorial Legisla-
ture passed an act providing that " there
shall be established a common school, or
schools, in each of the counties in this
Territory; which shall be open and free
for every class of white citizens between
the ages of five and twenty-one years."
The second section of the act provided that
"the County Board shall, from time to
time, form school districts in their respec-
tive counties, whenever a petition may be
presented for the purpose by a majority of
the voters resident within such contem-
plated district." These districts were
governed by boards of trustees, usually of
three persons; each district was required
to maintain school at least three months
in every year; and later, laws were enacted
providing for county school taxes for the
payment of teachers, and that whatever
±=Ll±
HISTORY OF IOWA.
119
additional sum might be required should
be assessed upon the parents sending, in
proportion to the length of time sent.
In 1846, the year of Iowa's admission as
a State, there were 20,000 scholars, out of
100,000 inhabitants. About 400 school
districts had been organized. In 1850
there was 1,200, and in 1857 the number
had increased to 3,265.
In March 1858, upon the recommenda-
tion of Hon. M. L. Fisher, then Superin-
tendent of Public Instruction, the Seventh
General Assembly enacted, that "each
civil township is declared a school dis-
trict," and provided that these should be
livided into sub-districts. This law went
into force March 20, 1858, and reduced
the number of school districts from about
3,500 to less than 900. This change of
school organization resulted in a very
material reduction of the expenditures for
the compensation of district secretaries
and treasurers. An effort was made for
several years, from 1867 to 1872, to abolish
the sub-district system. Mr. Kissell,
Superintendent, recommended this in his
report of January 1, 1872, and Governor
Merrill forcibly endorsed his views in his
annual message. But the Legislature of
that year provided for the formation of
independent districts from the sub-districts
of district townships.
The system of graded schools was
inaugurated in 1849, and new schools, in
which more than one teacher is employed,
are universally graded.
Teachers' institutes were organized
early in the history of the State. The
first official mention of them occurs in the
annual report of Hon. Thdn.as H. Benton,
Jr., made December 2, 1850, who said: "An
institution of this character was organized
a few years ago, composed of the teachers
of the mineral regions of Illinois, Wiscon-
sin and Iowa. An association of teachers
has also been formed in the county of
Henry, and an effort was made in October
last to organize a regular institute in the
county of Jones." At that time, although
the beneficial influence of these institutes
was admitted, it was urged that the ex-
penses of attending them was greater than
teachers with limited compensation were
able to bear. To obviate this objection,
Mr. Benton recommended that " the sum
of $150 should be appropriated annually
for three years, to be drawn in installments
of $50 by the Superintendent of Public
Instruction, and expended for these insti-
tutions." He proposed that three institutes
should be held annually at points to be
designated by the superintendent.
The expense of this would be trifling,
and all recognized the benefits to be
derived; and yet no legislation was had
until March, 1858, when an act was passed
authorizing the holding of teachers' insti-
tutes for periods not less than six working
days, whenever not less than 30 teachers
should desire. The superintendent was
authorized to expend not exceeding $100
for any one institute, to be paid out by the
county superintendent, as the institute
might direct, for teachers and lecturers,
and $1,000 was appropriated to defray the
expenses of these institutes.
Mr. Fisher at once pushed the matter of
holding institutes, and December 6, 1858,
he reported to the Board of Education
that institutes had been appointed in 20
counties within the preceding six months,
and more would have been held but the
— V3
jy
<2 w.
120
HISTORY OF IOWA.
appropriation had been exhausted. At the
first session of the Board of Education,
commencing December 6, 1858, a code of
school laws was enacted, which retained
the existing provisions for teachers' insti-
tutes.
In March, 1860, the General Assembly
amended the act of the Board by appro-
priating "a sum not exceeding $50 annually
for one such institute, held as provided by
law in each county." In 1865, the super-
intendent, Mr. Faville, reported that "the
provision made by the State for the benefit
of teachers' institutes had never been so
fully appreciated, both by the people and
the teachers, as during the last two years."
By an act approved March 19, 1874,
normal institutes were established in each
county, to be held annually by the county
superintendents. This was regarded a very
decided step in advance by Mr. Abernethy,
and in 1876 the General Assembly estab-
lished the first permanent State Normal
School, at Cedar Falls, Black Hawk county,
appropriating the building and property of
the Soldiers' Orphans' Home at that place
for that purpose. This school is now "in
the full tide of successful experiment."
The present public school system is ad-
mirably organized, and if the various offi-
cers who are entrusted with educational
interests of the commonwealth continue
faithful and competent, should and will
constantly improve.
Funds for the support of public schools
are derived in several ways. The 16th
section of every congressional township
was set apart by the General Government
for school purposes, being one-thirty-sixth
part of all the lands in the State. The
minimum price of these lauds was fixed at
one dollar and twenty-five cents per acre.
Congress also made an additional donation
to the State of 500,000 acres, and an ap-
propriation of five per cent, on all the
sales of public lands to the school fund.
The State gives to this fund the proceeds
of the sales of all lands which escheat to
it; the proceeds of all fines for the viola-
tion of the liquor and criminal laws. The
money derived from these sources consti-
tutes the permanent school fund of the
State, which cannot be diverted to any
other purpose. The penalties collected by
the courts for fines and forfeitures go to
the school fund in the counties where col-
lected. The proceeds of the sale of these
lands and the five per cent, fund go into the
State treasury, and the State distributes
these proceeds to the several coun ties accord-
ing to their request, and the counties loan
the money to' individuals, for long terms, at
eight per cent, interest, on security of land
valued at three times the amount of the
loan, exclusive of all buildings and im-
provements thereon. The interest on
these loans is paid into the State treasury,
and becomes the available school fund of
the State. The counties are responsible
to the State for all money so loaned, and
the State is likewise responsible to the
school fund for all moneys transferred to
the counties. The interest on these loans
is apportioned by the Sta^e Auditor semi-
annually to the several counties of the
State, in proportion to the number of per-
sons between the ages of five and twenty-
one years. The counties also levy an
annual tax for school purposes, which is
apportioned to the several district townships
in the same way. A district tax is also
levied for the same purpose. The money
f
<Jg — ^
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HISTORY OF IOWA.
121
arising from these several sources consti-
tutes the support of the public schools,
and is sufficient to enable every sub-district
in the State to afford from six to nine
months' school each year.
The burden of direct taxation is thus
lightened, and the efficiency of the schools
increased. The taxes levied for the sup-
port of the schools are self-imposed. Un-
der the admirable school laws of the State,
no taxes can be legally assessed or col-
lected for the erection of school houses
until they have been ordered by the elec-
tion of a district at a school meeting
legally called. The school houses of Iowa
are the pride of the State and an honor to
the people- If they have been built some-
times at a prodigal expense, the tax-payers
have no one to blame but themselves.
The teachers' and contingent funds are
determined by the Board of Directors,
under certain legal instructions. These
Boards are elected annually, except in the
independent districts, in which the Board
may be entirely changed every three years.
The only exception to this mode of levy-
ing taxes for support of schools is the
county school tax, which is determined by
the County Board of Supervisors. The
tax is from one to three mills on the dol-
lar; usually, however, but one.
In 1881 there were in the State 4,339
school districts, containing 11,244 schools,
and employing 21,776 teachers. The
average monthly pay of male teachers was
$32.50, and of female teachers 827 25.
There were 594,730 persons of school age,
of whom 431,513 were enrolled in the
public schools. The average cost of tuition
for each pupil per month was -$1.62. The
expenditures for all school purposes was
$5,129,819.49. The permanent school
fund is now $3,547,123.82, on which the
income for 1881 was §234,622.40. In each
county a teachers' institute is held annu-
ally, under the direction of the county
superintendent, the State contributing
annually 850 to each of these institutes.
THE STATE UNIVERSITY.
By act of Congress, approved July 20,
1840, the Secretary of the Treasury was
authorized to "set apart and reserve from
sale out of any of the public lands within
the Territory of Iowa not otherwise claimed
or appropriated, a quantity of land not ex-
ceeding two entire townships, for the use
and support of a University within said
Territory when it becomes a State." The
first General Assembly, therefore, by act
approved February 25, 1847, established
the "State University of Iowa," at Iowa
City, then the Capital of the State. The
public buildings and other property at Iowa
City, were appropriated to the University,
but the legislative sessions and State offices
were to be held in them until a permanent
location for a Capital was made.
The control and management of the
University were committed to a board of
fifteen trustees, to be appointed by the
Legislature, and five were to be chosen
every two years. The Superintendent of
Public Instruction was made President of
this Board. The organic act provided that
the University should never be under the
control of any religious denomination
whatever; and that as soon as the revenue
from the grant and donations should
amount to $2,000 a year, the University
should commence and continue the instruc-
tion, free of charge, of fifty students annu-
r y
122
HISTORY OF IOWA.
ally. Of course the organization of the
University at Iowa City was impracticable,
so long as the seat of government was re-
tained there.
In January, 1849 % two branches of the
University an<l three normal schools were
established. The branches were located
at Fairfield and Dubuque, and were placed
upon an equal footing, in respect to funds
and all other matters, with the University
at Iowa City. At Fairfield, the Board of
Directors organized and erected a building
at a cost of $2,500. This was nearly de-
stroyed by a hurricane the following year,
but was rebuilt more substantially by the
citizens of Fairfield. This branch never
received any aid from the State, and, Jan-
uary 24, 1853, at the request of the Board,
the General Assembly terminated its rela-
tion to the State. The branch at Dubuque
had only a nominal existence.
The normal schools were located at An-
drew, Oskaloosa and Mt. Pleasant. Each
was to be governed by a Board of seven
Trustees, to be appointed by the Trustees
of the University. Each was to receive
$500 annually from the income of the Uni-
versity fund, upon condition that they
should educate eight common-school teach-
ers, free of charge for tuition, and that the
citizens should contribute an equal sum for
the erection of the requisite buildings.
The school at Andrew was organized No-
vember 21, 1849, with Samuel Ray as
Principal. A building was commenced,
and over $1,000 expended on it, but it was
never completed. The school at Oskaloosa
was started in the court house, September
13, 1852, under the charge of Prof. G. M.
Drake and wife. A two-story brick build-
ing was completed in 1853, costing $2,473.
The school at Mt. Pleasant was never or-
ganized. Neither of these schools received
any aid from the University fund, but in
1857 the Legislature appropriated $1,000
for each of the two schools, and repealed
the laws authorizing the payment to them
of money from the University fund. From
that time they made no further effort to
continue in operation.
From 1847 to 1855, the Board of Trus-
tees was kept full by regular elections by
the Legislature, and the trustees held fre-
quent meetings, but there was no actual
organization of the University. In March,
1855, it was partially opened for a term of
16 weeks. July 16, 1855, Amos Dean, of
Albany, N . Y , was elected President, but
he never entered fully upon its duties.
The University was again opened in Sep-
tember, 1855, and continued in operation
until June, 1856, under Professors John-
son, Welton, Van Valkenburg and Griffin.
The faculty was then re-organized, with
some changes, and the University was
again opened on the third Wednesday of
September, 1856. There were 124 students
(83 males and 41 females) in attendance
during the years 1856-7, and the first regu-
lar catalogue was published
At a special meeting of the Board, Sep-
tember 22, 1857, the honorary degree of
Bachelor of Arts was conferred on D.
Franklin Wells. This was the first degree
conferred by the University.
The new constitution, adopted in 1857,
definitely fixed the Capital at DesMoines,
the State University at Iowa City, and pro-
vided that it should have no branches. In
December of that year, the old capitol
building was turned over to the Trustees
of the University. In 1858, $10,000 were
^t ®
HISTORY OF IOWA.
123
appropriated fur the erection of a board-
ing hall. The Board closed the University
April 27, 1858, on account of insufficient
funds, and dismissed all the faculty ex.ept
Chancellor Dean. At the same time a res-
olution was passed excluding females.
This was soon after reversed by the General
Assembly,
The University was re-opened Septem-
ber 19, 1860, and from this date the real
existence of the University dates. Mr.
Dean had i-esigned before this, and Silas
Totten,D D.,LL D.,was elected President,
at a salary of $2,000. August 19, 1862, he
resigned, and was succeeded by Prof. Oli-
ver M. Spencer. President Spencer was
granted leave of absence for fifteen months
to visit Europe. Prof. Nathan R. Leonard
was elected President pro tern. President
Spencer resigning, James Black, D. D.,
Vice-President of Washington and Jeffer-
son College, Penn., was elected President.
He entered upon his duties in September,
1868.
The Law Department was established in
June, 1S68, and, soon after, the Iowa Law
School, at DesMoines, which had been in
successful operation for three years, was
transferred to Iowa City and merged in
the department
The Medical Department was established
in 1869. Since April 11, 1870, the gov-
ernment of the University has been in the
hands of a Board of Regents.
Dr. Black resigned in 1870, to take
effect December 1; and March 1, 1871,
Rev George Thatcher was elected Presi-
dent.
In June, 1874, the chair of military
instruction was established, and Lieuten-
ant A. D. Schenk, Second Artillery, U. S.
A., was detailed by the President of the
United States as Professor of Military
Science and Tactics.
In June, 1877, Dr. Thatcher's connection
with the University was terminated, and
C. W. S'agle was elected President. He
was succeeded in 1878 by J. L. Pickard,
LL D., who is the present incumbent.
The University has gained a reputation
as one of the leading institutions of the
West, and this position will doubtless be
maintained. The present educational
corps consists of the following, besides
President Pickard: in the Collegiate De-
partment, nine professors and six in-
structor?, including the Professor of Mili-
tary Science; in the Law Department, a
chancellor, two professors and four lec-
turers; in the Medical Department, eight
professors and ten assistant professors and
lecturers.
No preparatory work is done in the
University, but different high schools in
the State, with approved courses of study,
are admitted as preparatory departments
of the University, whose graduates are ad-
mitted without examination. Common
schools, high schools and university are
thus made one connected system.
The present number of students in the
Collegiate Department is: males, 163;
females, 69; total, 232; in Law Depart-
ment, 140; in Medical Department, 195.
STATE NORMAL, SCHOOL.
This is located at Cedar Falls, Black
Hawk county, and was opened in 1^-76.
The institution trains teachers for our
scho'ols, and is doing excellent, though
limited, work. What is wanted is more
vy
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121
HISTORY OF IOWA.
room and increased facilities of every
kind. Other institutions of a similar kind
should also be established throughout the
State.
STATE AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE.
The State Agricultural College and
Farm were established by act of the Gen-
eral Assembly, approved March 23, 1858.
The farm was located in Story county, at
Ames. In 1862 Congress granted to Iowa
240,000 acres of land for the .endowment
of schools of agriculture and the mechani-
cal arts. In 1864 the Assembly voted
$20,000 for the erection of the college
building. In 1866 $91,000 more were
appropriated for the same purpose. The
building was completed in 1868, and the
institution was opened in the following
year. The college is modeled to some
extent after Michigan Agricultural Col-
lege.
Tuition is free to pupils from the State
over sixteen years of age. Students are
required to work on the model farm two
and a half hours each day. The faculty is
of a very high character, and the institu-
tion one of the best of its kind. Sale of
spirits, wine and be.er as a beverage is for-
bidden by law within three miles of the
college. The current expenses of this
•'nstitution are paid by the income from
the permanent endowment. A. S. Welch,
LL. D., is President, and is assisted by
twelve professors and eight instructors.
Whole number of students admitted, 2,600;
present number, 240. The college farm
consists of 860 acres, of which 400 are
under cultivation.
Besides the State University, State
Agricultural College and State Normal
School, ample provision for higher edu-
cation has been made by the different
religious denominations, assisted by local
and individual munificence. There are,
exclusive of State institutions, 23 universi-
ties and colleges, 111 academies and other
private schools. All these are in active
operation, and most of them stand high.
A list of the universities and colleges, and
a brief notice of each, is herewith given:
Amity College is located at College
Springs, Page county. S. C. Marshall is
President. There are 6 instructors and
225 students.
Burlington University is located at Bur-
lington, Des Moines county. E. F Stearns
is President of the faculty. There are 5
instructors and 63 students.
Gallanan College is located at Des
Moines, Polk county. There are 14 in the
faculty, of which C. R. Pomeroy is Presi-
dent, and 188 students are enrolled.
Central University is located at Pella,
Marian county. It is an institution of the
Baptist denomination. Rev. G. W. Gard-
ner is President of the faculty, which
numbers 7. There are 196 students.
Coe College is located at Cedar Rapids,
Linn county. S. Phelps is President.
There are 10 in the faculty and 100
students,
Cornell College is located at Mt. Vernon,
Linn county, and is under the control of
the M. E. Church. W. F. King is Presi-
dent. There are 20 instructors and 400
A
students. This college is one of the
highest in character, and has a large at-
tendance.
Drake University is located at. Des
Moines, Polk county. G. T. Carpenter is
President, and is ably assisted by 25 in-
structors. There are 125 students.
Griswold College is located at Daven-
port, Scott County, and is under the control
of the Episcopal Church, W. S. Perry is
President. There are 7 instructors and 80
students.
Iowa College is located at Grinnell, Po-
weshiek county. G. F. Magoun is Presi-
dent. There are 14 instructors and 359
students. The institution is one of the
leading colleges in Iowa, and is perma-
nently endowed.
Iowa Wesleya?i University is located at
Mt. Pleasant, Henry county,. W. J.
Spaulding is President. There are 6 in
the faculty, and over 160 students in at-
tendance. The University is under the
auspices of the M. E. Church, and enjoys
a high degree of prosperity.
Luther College is situated in Decorah,
Winneshiek county. L. Larson is Presi-
dent of the faculty, which numbers 10.
There are 165 students in attendance.
Clin College is located at Olin, Jones
county. C. L. Porter is President.
Oskaloosa College is situated in Oska-
loosa, Mahaska county. G. H. McLaugh-
lin is President. The faculty numbers 5,
and the students 190. The college stands
very high.
Penn College is situated in Oskaloosa,
Mahaska county. B. Trueblood is Presi-
dent of the faculty, which numbers 5.
There are 1*75 students in attendance.
Simpson Centenary College is located at
Indianola, Warren county. E. L. Parks is
President. There are 9 instructors and
150 students.
Tabor College is located at Tabor, Fre-
mont county. Wm. M. Brooks is Presi-
dent. The college was modeled after
Oberlin college, in Ohio. The faculty
consists of 6, and there are 109 students.
Upper Iowa University is located at
Fayette, Fayette county, and is under the
control of the M. E. Church. Rev. J. W.
Bissell is President. There are 11 instruc-
tors and 850 students. This University
stands very high among the educational
institutions of the State.
University of Des Moines, at DesMoines,
has 5 instructors and 80 students.
Whittier College was established at
Salem, Henry county, by the Friends. J.
W. Coltrane is President. There are 4
instructors and 105 students.
Riverside Institute. — This school is
located at Lyons, on a beautiful, elevation
overlooking the Mississippi river. Rev.
W. T. Currie is the Principal of this
Academy.
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126
HISTORY OF IOWA.
DEAF AND DUMB INSTITUTE.
By an act of the Legislature of Iowa,
approved January 24, 1855, the Iowa Insti-
tute for the Deaf and Dumb was estab-
lished at Iowa City.
In 1866 a great effort was made to re-
move the Institute to DesMoines; but it
was finally permanently located at Council
Bluffs, and the school opened in a rented
building. In 1868 Commissioners were to
locate a site, and superintend the erection
of new building, for which the Legisla-
ture appropriated $125,000. The Com-
missioners selected 90 acres of land two
miles south of the city.
In October, 1870, the main building and
one wing were completed and occupied.
In February, 1877, fire destroyed the main
building and east wing, and during the
summer following a tornado blew off the
roof of the new west wing and the walls
were partially demolished. About 150
pupils were in attendance at the time of
the fire. After that, half of the class were
dismissed, and the number of pupils re-
duced to 70.
The present officers are: B. F. Clayton,
President, Macedonia, term expires in
1886; A Rogers, Secretary, term expires
1884; John H. Stubenranch, term expires
in 1884. The county superintendent of
schools annually reports all persons of
school age that are deaf and dumb; also
those too deaf to acquire learning in the
common schools. The cost per pupil is
$28 per quarter, and is paid by the parents
or guardian ; but when unable to do so, the
expense is borne by the respective county.
The regular appropriation is $11,000 per
annum, drawn quarterly. Parents and
guardians are allowed to clothe their
children.
The whole number admitted to the
Institution is 621. Present number, 221.
Last biennial appropriation, $27,839.
COLLEGE FOR THE BLIND.
The first person to agitate the subject of
an Institute for the Blind was Prof. Sam-
uel Bacon, himself blind, who, in 1852,
established a school of instruction at
Keokuk. The next year the Institute was
adopted by the State, and moved to Iowa
City, by act of the Legislature, approved
January 18, 1853, and opened for the re-
ception of pupils, April 4, 1853. During
the first term 23 pupils were admitted.
Prof. Bacon, the Principal, made his first
report in 1854, and suggested that the
name be changed from "Asylum for the
Blind" (which was the name first adopted)
to that of " Institution for the Instruction
of the Blind." This change was made in
1855, and the Legislature made an annual
appropriation of $55 per quarter for each
pupil; afterward this appropriation was
changed to $3,000 per annum.
Prof. Bacon was a fine scholar, an eco-
nomical manager, and in every way adapted
to his position. During his administration
the institution was, in a great measure,
self-supporting by the sale of articles
manufactured by the blind pupils. There
was also a charge of $25 as an admission
fee for each pupil. Prof. Bacon founded
the Blind Asylum at Jacksonville, Illinois.
In 1858 the citizens of Vinton, Benton
oounty, donated a quarter section of land
and $5,000 for the establishment of the
asylum at that place. On the 8th of May,
.[£
HISTORY OF IOWA.
127
that same year, the trustees met at Vinton
and made arrangements for securing the
donation, and adopted a plan for the erec-
tion of a suitable building. In 1860 the
contract for enclosing was let to Messrs
Finkbine and Lovelace, for $10,420. In
August, 1862, the goods and furniture were
removed from Iowa City to Vinton, and in
the fall of the same year the school was
opened with 24 pupils.
The institution has been built at a vast
expenditure of money, much greater than
it seemed to require for the number of
occupants. The Legislative Committee,
who visited the college in 1878, expressed
their astonishment at this utter disregard
of the fitness of things. They could not
understand why $282,000 should have been
expended for a massive building for the
accommodation of only 130 people, costing
the State over $5,000 a year to heat it, and
about $500 a year for each pupil.
The present officers are: Robert Car-
others, Superintendent; T. F. McCune,
Assistant Superintendent; Trustees: Jacob
Springer, President; M. H. Westbrook,
J. F. White, C. O. Harrington, W. H.
Leavitt, S. H. Watson. Whole number of
occupants, 436. Present number, males,
36; females, 50, Salary of superintendent,
$1,200; assistant, $700; trustees, $4.00 per
day and mileage. Annual appropriation,
$8,000, and $128 per year allowed for each
pupil. Annual meeting of trustees in June.
Biennial appropriation in 1880, $3,000.
IOWA HOSPITAL FOB THE INSANE .
The Iowa Hospital for the Insane was
established by an act of the Legislature,
approved January 24, 1855. Gov. Grimes,
Edward Johnson, of Lee county, and Chris.
S.Blake, of Henry county, were appointed
to locate the institution and superintend
the erection of the building; $4,425 were
appropriated by the Legislature for the
site, and $500,000 for the building. The
commissioners located the institution at
Mount Pleasant, Henry county, and a plan
of the building was drawn by Dr. Bell, of
Massachusetts. The building was designed
to accommodate 300 patients, and in Octo-
ber work commenced, superintended by
Henry Winslow. The Legislature had
appropriated $258,555.67 before it was
completed. One hundred patients were
admitted within three months. In April,
1876, a portion of the building was de-
stroyed by fire From the oppning of the
Hospital to the close of October, 1877,
there were admitted 3,684 patients. Of
these, 1,141 recovered, 505 were improved,
589 were discharged unimproved, and 1
died. During this period 1,384 of the pa-
tients were females.
The trustees are elected by the Legisla-
ture, and all officers are chosen by the
trustees. Superintendents are chosen for
six years. Dr. Ranney was first chosen in
1865; salary, $2,000 annual. Whole number
of patients admitted, 4,598; present num-
ber males, 298; present number females,
235. Trustees paid $5 per day and mile-
age, not to exceed 30 days each year.
Annual meeting, first Wednesday in Octo-
ber; quarterly, January, April and Sep-
tember.
Present officers are: Mark Ranney, M
D , Superintendent; H . M . Bassett, M . D . ,
J. P. Brubaker, M.D., and Max Witte,
'M.D., assistant physicians.
^
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128
HISTORY OF IOWA.
HOSPITAL FOB THE INSANE, AT INDEPEND-
ENCE.
The Legislature of 1867-8 adopted meas-
ures providing for an additional hospital for
the insane, and an appropriation of $125,-
000 was made for that purpose. Maturin
L. Fisher, of Clayton county, E. G. Mor-
gan, of Webster county, and Albert Clark,
of Buchanan county, were appointed com-
missioners to locate and superintend the
erection of a building. These commis-
sioners commenced their labors June 8,
1868, at Independence. They were author-
ized to select the most desirable location,
of not less than 320 acres, within two
miles of the city of Independence, that
might be offered by the citizens free of
charge. They finally selected a site on the
west side of the Wapsipinicon river, about
a mile from its banks, and about the same
distance from Independence. The contract
for building was awarded to David Arm
strong, of Dubuque, for $88,114. It was
signed November 7, 1868, and work was
immediately commenced. George Josse-
lyn was appointed superintendent of the
work. The first meeting of the trustees
was called in July, 1872 At the Septem-
ber meeting, Albert Reynolds, M. D , was
elected Superintendent of the Hospital;
George Josselyn, Steward, and Mrs. Anna
B. Josselyn, Matron.
The Hospital opened May 1,1873. Whole
number of patients admitted, 2,000; pres-
ent number (1882), 533; males, 290; fe-
males, 243. Biennial appropriation (1880),
$35,300.
The present officers are: G. H. Hill,
Superintendent; term expires in 1882;
salary, $1,600. H. G. Brainard, M. D.,
Assistant Superintendent; salary, $1,000.
Noyes Appleman, Steward; salary, $900.
Mrs. Lucy M. Gray, Matron; salary, $600.
soldiers' orphans' home.
This institution is located at Davenport,
Scott county, and was originated by Mrs.
Annie Wittenmeyer, during the late rebel-
lion. This noble woman called a conven-
tion at Muscatine, September 7, 1863, for
the purpose of devising means for the
education and support of the orphan chil-
dren of Iowa, whose fathers lost their lives
in defending their country's honor. The
public interest in the movement was so
great that all parts of the State were
largely represented, and an association was
organized, called the Iowa State Orphan
Asylum. The first meeting of the trus-
tees was held February 14, 1864, at Des
Moines, when Gov. Kirk wood suggested
that a home for disabled soldiers should be
connected with the Asylum, and arrange-
ments were made for raising funds. At
the next meeting, in Davenport, the fol-
lowing month, a committee was appointed,
of which Mr. Howell, of Keokuk, was
chairman, to lease a suitable building,
solicit donations, and procure suitable
furniture. This committee secured a large
brick building in Lawrence, VanBuren
county, and engaged Mr. Fuller, of Mount
Pleasant, as Steward. The work of prepa-
ration was conducted so vigorously that
July 13, following, the executive commit-
tee announced that they were ready to
receive children. Within three weeks 21
were admitted, and in a little more than
six months the soldiers' orphans admitted
numbered 70.
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HISTORY OF IOWA.
129
Miss M. Elliott, of Washington, was
appointed the first Matron, but she resigned
the following February, and was succeeded
by Mrs. E G. Piatt, of Fremont county.
The Home was sustained by voluntary
contributions, until 1866, when it was
taken charge of by the State . The Leg-
islature appropriated $10 per month for
each orphan actually supported, and pro-
vided for the establishment of three
homes. The one in Cedar Falls was organ-
ized in 1865; an old hotel building was
fitted up for it, and by the following Jan-
uary there were 96 inmates. In October,
1869, the Home was removed to a large
brick building about two miles west of
Cedar Falls, and was very prosperous for
several years; but in 1876 the Legislature
devoted this building to the State Normal
School. The same year the Legislature
also devoted the buildings and grounds of
the Soldiers' Orphans' Home, at Glenwood,
Mills county, to an Institution for the Sup-
port of Feeble-Minded Children. It also
provided for the removal of the soldiers'
orphans at Glenwood and Cedar Falls
Homes to the institution located at Daven-
port.
The present officers are: S. W. Pierce,
Superintendent; Mrs. F.W.Pierce, Matron.
Whole number admitted, 1,525; present
number, males, 79; females, 90. The 18th
Grand Army Corps appropriated $2,000 to
build eight cottages, school house and other
buildings; these have been completed, and
the home will, when finished, accommo-
date 200 children. Superintendent's sal-
ary, $1,200 per annum. Trustees are
elected for two years.
ASYLUM FOR FEEBLE-MINDED CHILDREN.
An act of the General Assembly, ap-
proved March 17, 1878, provided for the
establishment of an asylum for feeble-
minded children at Glenwood, Mills
county; and the buildings and grounds of
the Soldiers' Orphans' Home at that place
were taken for this purpose. The asylum
was placed under the management of three
trustees, one of whom should be a resident
of Mills County.
The grounds to be used were found to
be in a very dilapidated condition, and
thorough changes were deemed necessary.
The institution was opened September 1,
1876, and the first pupil admitted Septem-
ber 4. By November, 1877, the number
of pupils had increased to 87. The whole
number admitted has been 257. Present
inmates number 200.
PENAL INSTITUTIONS.
The first penal institution was estab-
lished by an act of the Territorial Legisla-
ture, approved January 25, 1839. This
,act authorized the Governor to draw the
sum of $20,000, appropriated by an act of
Congress in 1838, for public buildings in
the Territory of Iowa. It provided for a
Board of Directors, consisting of three
persons, to be elected by the Legislature,
who should superintend the building of
a penitentiary to be located within a mile
of the public square, in the town of Fort
Madison, county of Lee, provided that the
latter deeded a suitable tract of land for
the purpose, also a spring or stream of
water for the use of the penitentiary.
The first directors were John S. David
and John Claypole. They were given the
power of appointing the warden, the latter
J*L
130
HISTORY OF IOWA.
to appoint his own assistants. The citizens
of Fort Madison executed a deed of 10
acres of land for the building, and Amos
Ladd was appointed superintendent June
5, 1839. The work was soon entered upon,
and the main building and warden's house
were completed in the fall of 1841. It
continued to meet with additions and im-
provements until the arrangements were
all completed according to the design of
the directors. The estimated cost of the
building was $55,933.90, and was designed
of sufficient capacity to accommodate 138
convicts.
Iowa has adopted the enlightened policy
of humane treatment of prisoners, and
utilizes their labor for their own support.
Their labor is let out to contractors, who
pay the State a stipulated sum therefor,
the latter furnishing shops, tools, ma-
chinery, etc , and the supervision of the
convicts.
The present officers of the prison are:
E. C. McMillen, Warden, elected 1878 and
1880; Hiel Haiej Deputy Warden; W. C.
Gunn, Chaplain; A. W. Hoffmeister,
Physician; M. T. Butterfield, Clerk.
The whole number of convicts admitted
up to the present time (1882) is 3,387.
Number of males in 1881, 350; females,
3; number of guards, 33. The Warden
is chosen biennially by the Legislature,
and receives a salary of $2,000 per annum.
ANAMOSA PENITENTIARY.
In 1872 the first steps toward the erec-
tion of a prison at Anamosa, Jones county,
were taken, and by an act of the General
Assembly, approved April 23, this year,
William Ure, Foster L. Downing and Mar-
tin Heisey were appointed commissioners
to construct and control prison buildings,
They met on the 4th of June, following,
and selected a site donated by the citizens
of Anamosa. The plan, drawings and
specifications were furnished by L. W.
Foster & Co., of DesMoines, and work on
the building was commenced September
28, 1872. In 1873, 20 convicts were trans-
ferred from the Fort Madison prison to
Anamosa.
The officers of the Anamosa prison are:
A. E. Martin, Warden; L. B. Peet, Deputy
Warden; Mrs. A. C. Merrill, Chaplain; L.
J. Adair, Physician; T. P. Parsons, Clerk.
The whole number admitted since it was
opened is 816. Number of males in 1882,
133; females, 2. Salaries of officers the
same as those of the Fort Madison peni-
tentiary.
boys' reform school.
By act approved March 31, 1868, the
General Assembly established a reform
school at Salem, Henry county, and pro-
vided for a Board of Trustees, to consist
of one person from each Congressional
District. The trustees immediately leased
the property of the Iowa Manual Labor
Institute, and October 7 following, the
school received its first inmate. The law
at first provided for the admission of
children of both sexes under 18 years of
age. The trustees were directed to organ-
ize a separate school for girls.
In 1872 the school was permanently
located at Eldora, Hardin county, and
$45,000 were appropriated for the neces-
sary buildings.
In 1876 the law was so amended that
only children over 7 and under 16 years of
age were admitted.
$
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HISTORY OF IOWA.
131
The children are taught the elements of
education, in particular the useful branches,
and are also trained in some regular course
of labor, as is best suited to their age, dis-
position and capacity. They are kept
until they arrive at majority, unless bound
out to some responsible party, which
relieves the State of their care. Occasion-
ally they are discharged before the age of
21, for good conduct.
The institution is managed by five trus-
tees, elected by the Legislature. Whole
number of boys admitted, 818. There are
204 inmates at present, and also 63 in the
girls' department, at Micheliville. The
biennial appropriation for 18S0 was
$16,900.
STATE HISTORICAL SOCIETY.
By act of the General Assembly ap-
proved January 28, 1857, a State Historical
Society was provided for in connection
with the University. At the commence-
ment, an appropriation of $250 was made,
to be expended in collecting and preserv-
ing a library of books, pamphlets, papers,
paintings and other materials illustrative
of the history of Iowa. There was appro-
priated the sum of $500 per annum to
maintain this Society. The management
consists of a board of 18 curators, nine
appointed by the Governor and nine
elected by vote of the Society.
The State Historical Society has pub-
lished a series of very valuable collections,
including history, biography, sketches,
reminiscences, etc., with quite a large
number of finely engraved portraits of
prominent and early settlers, under the
title of "Annals of Iowa."
STATE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.
This Society is conducted under the
auspices of the State, and is one of the
greatest promoters of the welfare of the
people under the management of the State
government. It should receive more pe-
cuniary assistance than it does. The
Society holds an annual fair, which has
occurred at DesMoines since 1878. At its
meetings subjects are discussed of the
highest interest and value, and these pro-
ceedings are published at the expense of
the State.
The officers are a President, Vice-Presi-
dent, Secretary, and Treasurer and five
Directors. The last hold office for two
years, and the other officers one year.
FISH HATCHING-HOUSE.
This was established in 1874, and has
for its object the supplying of rivers and
lakes with valuable fish. The General
Assembly first appropriated the sum of
$3,000. Three fish commissioners were
appointed, and the State is divided into
three districts, one for each commissioner.
The Hatching-House was erected near
Anamosa, Jones county, and is conducted
in the same manner as similar houses in
other States. Since 1876 there has been
but one commissioner, B. F. Shaw. Mr.
Shaw is enthusiastic in his work, and has
distributed hundreds of thousands of
small fish of various kinds in the rivers
and lakes of Iowa. The 16th General
Assembly passed an act in 1878 prohibiting
the catching of any kind of fish except
brook trout from March until June of each
year.
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H 1STORY
OF
FRANKLIN COUNTY,
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CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTORY.
w -VIFTY years ago the territory compris-
f- ing the State of Iowa was inhabited only
by the red men. Save in the vicinity of Du-
buque, and in what is known as the Giard
settlement in Clayton county, the whites
had made no effort to inhabit this beauti-
ful land. From these settlements they had
been ordered away, so thai, in the spring
of 18:33, the Indians were in undisturbed
possession. The year previous, by a treaty
with the Indian tribes, that portion of the
State known as the Black Hawk Pur-
chase, came under the control of the gen-
eral government, though the Indian title
did not become extinct until June, 1833.
The traveler, as he now wends his way
through* this State, cannot realize that
such a transformation could have taken
place in such a brief space of time. From
a trackless wilderness, villages, towns and
cities have sprung up, beautiful farms are.
seen and the busy hum of machinery is
heard upon every hand.
Less than a third of a century ago, that
portion of the State of Iowa now consti-
tuting the prosperous county of Franklin,
was still a wilderness. No effort had been
made to cultivate its broad and fertile
prairies, the native forests were undis-
turbed by the woodman's ax, and all things
were as they came from the hand of Na-
ture's God. Now, what a change is be-
held ! Where once the wigwams of the
red men were erected, prosperous towns
and cities appear ; where the red men
passed slowly along upon the trail, the iron-
horse goes whirling by. The change is
great, and one can but marvel at the
rapidity with which it has been brought
about.
It is the duty of the historian to record
these changes ; to show how they have
Jk
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134
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
been made ; to narrate the trials of the
hardy pioneers, and thus present a lesson
to future generations. From the experi-
ences of the past, the lessons of to-day are
learned. In these pages will be recorded
the experiences of the pioneers, together
with many of those of a later day. Care
has been taken in the compilation of the
work, and it is to be hoped lhat the efforts
of the historian will be appreciated and
due credit given for honesty of inten-
tion. As a local writer has well said :
'He who writes of events to which eye wit-
nesses are numerous has no room for
.flights of imagination, and his fancy is
confined between the perpendicular walls
of cold naked facts. We, as a community
or as a county, have no ancestral tree rear-
ing its proud proportions over our heads.
We have none of that material, half his-
tory and half romance, "which is so pliable
and useful in the hands of the ready
writer, or learned historian. That glo-
rious privilege must be left to our descend-
ants, and those who shall write histories
after we are dead and gone." Continuing,
the writer, who is none other than Hon.
L. B. Raymond,* editor of the Franklin
County Recorder, says : "There is scarcely
enough happening in twenty-five years to
make a very extensive history. The wri-
ter of this has labored to get at the facts,
and he has labored under a great disad-
vantage in getting such as he has collected,
from the fact that nearly all the first set-
tlers of the county have gone to other
countries. Nothing is stronger than the
pioneer instinct, and many of those who
were just behind the Indian and the buffalo
* Mr. Raymond commenced a few years ago the
publication, in his newspaper, of the History of
Franklin county, from which are gleaned many of
jhe facts contained herein.
here, are yet at their heels in the west
and southwest, and such a thing as com-
munication with them is out of the ques-
tion.
"Death, too, has been busy, and while
some of our first pioneers are sleeping in
our cemeteries, the silvered heads and
tottering steps of many of those who
remain give warning that they too must
soon pass away. So this work is under-
taken as much to collect and preserve
what it contains as for any other reason.
And we have endeavored to perpetuate
nothing but what is true, and while of
course errors must creep in, we believe it
will be found in the main to be correct as
far as it goes.
"It is not yet a hundred years since in
the broad 50,000,000 acres between the
Mississippi and the Missouri, there was
not a white man, and ninety years ago the
Castilian monarch granted to Julian Du-
buque the "Mines of Spain," and only
seventy-five years have elapsed since the
soil we tread became by the Louisiana
purchase a part of the United States.
From belonging to Louisiana this fair
domain passed, to become a. part of Mich-
igan Territory, known and described as
the Black Hawk purchase. When still
later it became a part of Wisconsin Terri-
tory it had two counties, then, in 1838, it
was made a Territory and thirty-two years
ago, in 1 846, it became a State. It is safe
to say that there are no native born citi-
zens of Iowa over forty -five years of age,
while to find an adult native born Hawkeve
is rare, at least in this portion of the State.
So, as we have said, what we write is
within the memory of a great majority of
our readers."
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CHAPTER II.
TOPOGRAPHY AND GEOLOGY.
Franklin is the fifth county west of the
Mississippi river in the third tier from the
north line of the State. It lies between
the forty-second and forty-third parallels,
the forty-third passing six miles north of
the north line of the county, and between
the ninety-third and ninety-fourth merid-
ians, the ninety-third (16 west of Washing-
ton) passing about two miles east of its
eastern boundary. It contains sixteen
congressional townships or 576 square
miles, being twenty-four miles each way.
The prin ipal streams are the Iowa river,
passing through thirteen sections in the
southwestern portion of the county and
running in a general southeasterly direc-
tion; Beaver creek, rising about the center
of the county east and west, and about two
miles from its south line, and flowing in
an easterly direction; Mayne's creek, con-
sisting of two branches, one rising about
five miles from the western . line of the
county and about six miles from its
southern line, and flowing easterly for
about nine miles, when it is joined by
another branch that rises about seven
miles northwest of the confluence, and
although a very crooked stream, keeps its
generally eastward course, leaving the
county on its east line about ten miles
north of the southeastern corner.
Hartgraves creek is formed of Squaw,
Spring, Otter and 'Buffalo creeks. The
three first come together about five miles
west of the east line of the county, and
about equally distant from its north and
south lines, and the stream runs in a south-
easterly direction into Butler county.
Spring creek rises near the west line of
the county, eight or nine miles from its
northwest corner, while Squaw creek has
its origin northwest of the center of the
county, and both flow in an easterly direc-
tion to their junction. Buffalo creek
has two branches, one rising near
the north line of the county, about
seven miles from the northwest corner
and flowing rather more south than
southeast; the other branch rising about
five miles east of the west line of the
county, and six miles from the north line.
The two branches come together about
four miles from the north line of the county.
Tharp's creek, as it is generally called,
coming also from the west, joins with the
Buffalo, and below this juncture and down
to Spring creek it is known as the
Otter. Both the South Fork and Mayne's
creek empty into the West Fork of the
Cedar, and Beaver creek into the Cedar
itself.
The West Fork of the Cedar enters
Franklin county about six miles west of its
northeast corner and runs in a southeast-
erly direction, leaving the county about
seven miles south of its northeast corner.
V
V
136
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
About three miles south of where it en-
ters the county, it is joined by Bailey's
creek, sometimes, but erroneously, called
the West Fork itself, which rises not far
from the northwestern corner of the county
and runs easterly along its north line,
sometimes in Cerro Gordo county and
sometimes in Franklin until about the cen-
ter, east and west, when it bears south
enough to take it entirely within the lat-
ter county to its junction with the West
Fork, as above stated. These are all the
streams in the county that are of sufficient
size to be named, and all that rise in the
county have their origin in the flat marshy
lands adjoiring then* sources, although
they are all fed by numerous springs af-
ter they get under way and have a distinct
channel formed. Above these springs
they are stroietimes, but not often dry.
They are all clear, limpid streams with
gravel bottoms, and in some cases with
rocky banks, and most of them with a free
rapid current. There are no lakes in the
county.
There are no ranges of high hills in
Franklin county, nor are there any very
large tracts of entirely level land, either
wet or dry. The townships with the most
uneven surface have more small marshes
and the best grass land. The prairie land
throughout the east half of the county is
mostly table plains of nearly level or gen-
tly rolling surface, whole sections of which
have not a spot on them too wet for the
plow. Along most of the streams there
are fine bottom lands of the best quality,
and in the four northeast townships these
bottoms are from one to three miles in
width — in fact, the slope from the West
Fork of the Cedar river is so gradual for
two miles, that it is difficult for the observ-
er to tell where the bottom ends and
the higher prairie begins. Except in the
vicinity of the large groves the banks of
the streams are low, yet the surface rises
so much within a short distance that very
little land is subject to overflow. So nearly
level is the general surface of the county
that from the slight elevations which oc-
casionally occur, isolated, or in irregular
ridges, the eye can take in review a circle
of from thirty to seventy-five sections, all
or some portion of nearly every section
being visible. In most of the best town
ships there are many points from which
the whole of several sections of the best
class of prairie can be seen at the same
time. But few parts of sections anywhere
in the county would be denominated very
rolling, and in these on some of the ridges
there are some gravel knolls; in the cen-
tral and northern parts of the county but
few of these appear, while some of the
highest knolls and ridges are fine loam
and good soil. The county may be said
to be a gently undulating plain with the
higher portions in the central and northern
part and with the valleys depressed to a
depth and width corresponding with the
size of the streams.
The soil is' a black loam, containing
more sand than clay and is of an exceed-
ingly fertile character. In some portions
of the county a few gravel knolls are
found but in most cases the gravel all lies
near the surface and generally disaj)pears
with cultivation. *
The county is not very well supplied
with timber of a natural growth, although
eleven out of the sixteen Congressional
townships have more or less timber within
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
13V
their borders. All the streams have tim-
ber skirting their banks, in many places
widening into groves. Mayne's grove is
the largest body of timber in the count)
and embraces over 3,000 acres. Otis
Grove, on the Iowa river, Van Horn's
Grove, in the central portion of the county,
Tharp's Grove, Shobe's Grove and Bailey's
Grove in the northern portion of the
county, are bodies of timber each contain-
ing from 800 to 1,200 acres. Tow-
head and Blake's Groves, in the south-
eastern part, Four Mile, Highland, Hart-
graves, and Allen's Groves near the east-
ern side of the county and Beed's near the
center are smaller, none of them contain-
ing over a section each. The timber is
mostly oak, interspersed along the streams
with basswood, water elm, soft maple,
honey locust and cottonwood. Aside
from the granite boulders that are some-
times found on the prairies, the only stone
is a buff colored sandstone and limestone
that is found in abundance in the central
and eastern parts appearing for the most
part in low ledges along the streams or
ravines. No coal has ever been discovered
in the county.
CHAPTER III
EARLY SETTLEMENT.
BY L. B. RAYMOND.
The first permanent settlement of Frank-
lin county was indirectly due to the fact
that in 1852 a man named Addison Phelps,
residing in Ashtabula Co., Ohio, started
with his family, to find a new home in
Iowa, and as one of his neighbors, named
James B. Reeve, had for some time had a
desire to examine this unknown region for
himself, Phelps employed him to take a
team and bring a portion of his goods.
Phelps had relatives residing on the Cedar
river above Cedar Falls, and thither they
went, and upon arriving there they left
the family and Phelps, and Reeve struck
out still further west. They went to Rice's
mill on the Iowa river (now Hardin City)
and there were joined by a man named
Moore, of whom nothing is known except-
ing that they found him at Hardin City.
These three men struck out on the track-
less prairie and headed northward toward
the body of timber now widely known as
Mayne's Grove. Late in the afternoon
they reached it and having found a suit-
able place to camp, near the Butterfield
place in the west end of the grove, one
of the party went out and shot a prairie
chicken for supper. The noise of the gun
brought to them, in a few moments, to
their great astonishment, a white man, who,
when he heard the gun, knew that it was,
as he afterwards expressed it, "no Injun's
gun," and started to look up his new
neighbors.
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138
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
This man was John Mayne, who had
that day come to the grove, following up
the stream from its junction with the West
Fork of the Cedar. He had an old style
hoosier wagon drawn by two yoke of
oxen, his wife and child, a bundle of
beaver and mink traps, his trusty rifle and
a very scanty supply of domestic utensils.
He had in his wagon a tent which he had
not yet pitched, but upon meeting with
Phelps, Reeve and Moore, he forthwith
proposed that all should camp together,
and the tent was pitched. Mrs. Mayne
got supper for the party, and while history
is silent as to what the major part of the
meal consisted of, yet it is handed down
that the hostess made biscuit for supper
that were shortened with coon's grease.
Messrs. Phelps and Ree*ve were so well
satisfied with the appearance of the grove
and its surroundings that they decided to
locate there. Mayne said that if they
would make claims, he would do - so also.
So the next day all hands packed up and
turned down the creek and made their
claims. Mayne took the farm now occu-
pied by John C. Jones, Phelps the present
Carter farm where S. H. Carter lives,
and Reeve the place now occupied by his
widow. With Mayne's oxen they broke
furrows to mark the boundaries of their
claims, and Phelps and Reeve returned to
the Cedar river by way of Rice's mills for
provisions and for Phelps' family. Mayne
immediately set about building a shanty,
which stood near the ford just east of John
C. Jones' house and was the first building
erected in Franklin county. It was of
logs of course, with no floor but the dirt,
and covered v ith basswood bark, the
chinks bein^ daubed with mud. In a
few days Reeve, Phelps and family re-
turned and all took up quarters with
Mayne. Phelps began a cabin on his
claim just north of the house qn the farm
owned for many years by Col. A. T. Reeve,
but after getting it three or four logs high,
cold weather set in and he abandoned the
idea of finishing it until spring. As there
was no hay to feed the horse teams of
Phelps and Reeve, the latter returned with
them to the Cedar, near Janesville, where
they engaged keeping for them for the
winter, and came to Mayne's grove on foot.
Reeve and Mayne went to trapping and
hunting for employment, being quite suc-
cessful, and as the country abounded in
elk, buffalo and smaller game, they did
not lack for fresh meat. In fact, their lar-
der was so scantily supplied with every-
thing else, and so plentifully supplied in
this respect, that it began to tell upon the
health of the party. The supply of flour
and meal becoming exhausted, Reeve
started on foot for the Cedar river to bring
back the much needed supplies with his
team. The nearest settlement at this
time was at Bealer's Grove, now Marble
Rock, so he struck across the trackless
prairie in that direction. Soon after he
set out it began to storm and came on bit-
ter cold. He found along towards night
that he was freezing, and it required all
his powers of endurance to keep up. Sev-
eral times he was upon the point of giving
up and lying down to his fate, but by
superhuman efforts kept under way. At
last, just at night fall, he reached the body
of timber now known as Allen's Grove on
the West Fork of the Cedar. Having a
few matches he broke up some twigs, built
a fire and upon taking off his boots found
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HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
139
that his feet were terribly frozen. Sur-
rounded by howling wolves and suffering
the most excruciating tortures with his
feet and hands, he wore away the long
night and in the morning upon attempting
to put on his boots, found his feet so swol-
len that it seemed an utter impossibility
to get them into the boots, but finally,
after cutting the boots nearly to pieces, he
managed to get them on and set out for
Bealer's Grove, where he arrived late that
night more dead than alive. After two
or three days rest there, he got a team to
take him to Janesville, where he remained
for some weeks, unable to stand upon his
feet, and only returned to Mayne's Grove
in March, just in time to find Phelps and
family discouraged and about to leave,
which they shortly did. From the effects
of this adventure Reeve never fully recov-
ered. The flesh nearly all came off from
the soles of his feet and his toes, and it
was several years before he could expose
himself with impunity during the coldest
winter weather.
After Phelps' departure and about the
time that the winter was breaking up,
Reeve and Mayne divided their furs,
Mayne giving Reeve a little dun mare and
a certain number of weeks board for his
share. In a few days after the trade was
made Mayne got up a quarrel, and it imme-
diately occurred to Reeve that this was
done to save the board. Mayne was ugly
and vicious but Reeve was not to be dis-
couraged nor scared off, and so he staid
by, and when Mrs. Mayne prepared a meal,
Mayne would seat himself on one side of
the table and Reeve would seat himself on
the other, although they were not on speak-
ing terms. This state of affairs continued
for several weeks until Mayne became con-
vinced that Reeve would not scare nor
leave, and a sort of a peace was patched
up, which, however, was a sort of an armed
neutrality.
In May, 1853, Leander C. Reeve, a
brother of J. B., came from Ashtabula
county, Ohio, and took the Phelps' claim.
Reeve broke ten acres on his claim and
Mayne who had also claimed J. M. Soper's
present farm, broke ten acres on that. Late
in June of that year George Sturms, Henry
Garner and a man named Fairchild, with
their families came to Mayne's Grove.
Mayne claimed all the best locations, and
sold his original claim, with the shanty
wherein he had wintered (the Jones place)
to Mr. Sturms, the Soper place to Henry
Garner, and the place where Mr. Amos
Sheppard now lives, to Fairchild. Like a
true pioneer he went farther west, going
up into the grove above Maysville and
making a location on what in later years
was known as the Lacy farm A man
named Stevens also came with this last
party, but did not stay. In September
Garner sold his claim to Dr. Arledge, who
had previously made a claim where Ack-
ley now stands, and had sold out to Thomas
Downs. A little later came Samuel Garner
and Job Garner.
In July the Reeve's returned to Ohio,
and in August of that year, J. B., with a
team, his wife and eight children, started
for their new home in Iowa, reaching there
the 15th of September, 1853. Upon their
arrival he finished up the shanty that
Phelps had begun on the claim now owned
by S. H. Carter, and in it they wintered.
In October, 1853, there was quite an
addition to the colony at Mayne's Grove.
140
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Silas Moon came and made a claim where
J. D. Parks now resides. Peter Rhine-
hart came and made his claim to the place
in Geneva township now owned by W. C.
Haines. Rhinehart came too late to get
his cabin up before winter set in, so he
wintered with Sturms. Still later, in the
fall of 1853, the little settlement was
re-inforced by the addition of two men
named Crouch and Webb. They made
their claims at the head of Mayne's Grove,
Webb taking the claim known to all old
settlers as the May place, now occupied
and owned bv J. H. Bond, and Crouch,
who was a brother-in-law of Mayne, mov-
ing in with him on the Lacy farm.
Late in the winter a babe of Mr. Crouch's,
a few months old, died. This was the
first death in the county. Mrs. J. B.
Reeve tells how upon a Sunday Mrs. Mayne
came to her house on horseback to borrow
a little sugar, and to invite her to the fu-
neral at the same time, although the child
was not dead. "Come day after to-mor-
row," she said, "for it will surely be gone
before that time." On Tuesday the fu-
neral came off according to appointment.
In April 1854, Mr. Webb, who had gone
to Rice's Mills' on the Iowa river, to
work, died, and was brought home and
buried. Dr. Arledge officiated, making
a prayer and returning the thanks of the
bereaved ones to the few and scattering
neighbors for their sympathy. These two
graves, yet visible in a lonely and secluded
spot near the west end of Mayne's Grove,
have been pronounced Indian graves by
many persons who were not informed as
to the circumstances of the case.
As early as the spring of 1853, Dr.
Arledge located at the little grove known
in later years as Downs' Grove and
where that portion of Ackley that lies in
Franklin county is located. Arledge built
a cabin on the north side of the county
line about forty rods west of where A.
Severance now resides. With him, or
about the same time, came a man named
McCormick, who made his claim in the
grove generally known since by his name,
his cabin standing south of where John
Fahey now lives and near the north bank
of the Beaver creek, being land now
owned by R. T. Blake. Both Arledge and
McCormick came from the Iowa river,
somewhere about Hardin City, and it is
possible that they made their claims in the
fall of 1852, although neither of them
wintered there. In fact the exact time
that they located on their claims is some-
what obscure, but Mr. Blake, who bought
out McCormick' s claim in 1854, says that
there were eight or ten acres of breaking
upon it done in 1853. Arledge sold out to
Thomas Downs in 1853 and moved to
Mayne's Grove not long after J. B. Reeve
brought his family from Ohio. Arledge
bought out Henry Garner, who had claimed
the present Soper farm, and the cabin on
the place was in the timber south of the
old saw mill on Mayne's creek and north
of Soper's present residence. All the
families that wintered in the county the
winter of 1853-54 have been mentioned,
and their names are here repeated: Judge
Reeve, Job, Samuel and Henry Garner,
John Mayne, Fairchild, George Sturms,
Peter Rhinehart, Silas Moon, Dr. .' rledge,
Crouch and ^\ ebb, who came about mid-
winter. The settlement was also re-in-
forced during the winter by two additions
in the "good old way," the families of Mr.
'v
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
143
Sturras and Samuel Garner each having a
son born to them. Abner Sturms, born in
January, 1854, was the first white child
born in Franklin county.
It was quite a common custom for tbe
settlers to pick out some eligibly located
quarter section or eighty near them and
claim it for some friend who had not
yet arrived, so as to have him in their
neighborhood when he did come. If he
failed to come entirely, why, then the
claim was for sale. James B. and Lean-
der Reeve had a friend back in Ohio,
named Andrew Coffin, so they had
claimed for him the Stark's farm, known
better a? the Reed place. Job Garner,
when he came in the summer, wanted it,
and came to the Reeve's to see about the
prospect of getting it. They told him
that Coffin had authorized them to sell
it, and they thought it was worth $200.
Garner said that he was a preacher and
therefore entered into an argument to con-
vince them what an advantage it would
be to their settlement to have a minister
of the gospel in their midst. Although
not really church-going people the Reeve's
finally told him that he might take the
place and pay for it in preaching, but it
must be recorded that although he took
the claim, he never preached but once and
that was some time during the winter of
1853 or 1854, at the house of Mr. Fair-
child, on the Sheppard place.
The land office for this portion of the
State, at that time, was at Des Moines, and
the abstract of original entries shows the
following entries as made in the county
during the year 1853 :
Sometime during the early part of the
summer of 1S54, James Van Horn came
from near Janesville in Bremer county,
and located where C. J. Mott now lives,
about a mile north of Hampton. He did
not move on to his claim, however, until
fall. A man named Endsley about the
same time settled on the place about a
mile further north, now owned by Walter
Beed, but occupied for many years by
Henry Hacker. Amon Rice thinks that
two brothers named Ellis were trapping
about Shobe's grove the spring before he
came to the county, and that they had
made claims there, and also that a man
named Collyer must have come in there
that same summer and located on the
place now owned by John T. Richards.
Collyer had run away from some place
further east with a daughter of his second
wife, and after a time one of the Ellis
brothers got the girl away from the old
man, and, his wife coming on, he sold out
his claim to a man named Berdell and
went up near Forest City, in. Winnebago
county, and died there. He had always
been on the frontier, and never saw a
threshing machine nor a train of cars.
He did not leave his claim at Shobe's
Grove, however, until 1855.
John I. Popejoy is the oldest settler on
the Iowa river that is there at this writ-
ing. He left Ohio in the spring of
1854 on a tour of observation in the
west. He came firpt to McLean coun-
ty, Illinois, and there, in company
with a brother-in-law, M. H. Pearsons,
took a team and coming westward across
the State of Illinois, crossed the Missis-
sippi at Burlington going to Palmyra, in
Warren county, where Popejoy's father
had in 1853, located and entered an
eightv acre tract. Not finding anything
s
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U 9
144
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
there to suit him, he went to the land
office atDes Moines and upon looking over
the plats of the different counties, noticed
that there were timber lots not entered in
Franklin county, both on the Iowa river,
in Oakland township, and at Highland
Grove, in Geneva township. He entered
the forty in Highland Grove, then and
there, "unsight and unseen," and he and
Pearsons started for Franklin county.
They went to Iowa Falls, stayed there all
night and the next day went up to the
grove, where Popejoy now resides. They
drove into the grove on the east side of
the river, stopped at a spring a few
rods south of his present residence, and
after drinking from the spring, sat down
to rest. In a few moments, two men with
guns came over the brow of the hill and
rapidly approaching them, sung out:
"What the h — 1 are you doing here?"
Popejoy replied: "We came to look at
this grove." One of them replied: "Well,
there were three men here a day or two
ago to look at this grove, and they left
rather sudden." Popejoy rose to his feet,
put his fingers in his mouth and blew a
shrill whistle. The two fellows evidently
thought that re-enforcements were near at
hand, and changed their tactics immedi-
ately. Popejoy says: "Let me see your
gun," and taking it without resistance,
raised it and fired at a tree a few rods off,
and said, "Now, I want this grove. If you
have a claim on it, I will buy you out. If
you haven't/I will make one in a few mo-
ments." The fellow then said he had
a claim and if they would go up onto the
hill, he would show them where he had
begun a cabin, which they did, and there
it was, not far from Mr. Popejoy's present
residence. He then said he would take
fifty dollars for his claim, which Popejoy
paid him without more ado, and thus the
grove changed hands. This man's name
was Hurlbut C. Holmes, and he lived at
that time across the river with one Dr.
Crawford, in a cabin on the Brand place.
Francis M. Mitchell, heretofore mentioned
as making the first entry of land in Frank-
lin county, had a family in the same cabin
at that time, but was then away, Mr.
Popejoy thinks at Des Moines. This was
in May, 1854, and these were all the set-
tlers on the Iowa in Franklin county at
that time, excepting that a man named
Dennis Sprague had a claim where Oak-
land village is now, although he had
neither built a cabin or moved there at
this time.
Popejoy and Pearsons went back to
Des Moines, and the former bought land
enough adjoining his new claim to make
a section, before he got away from the
land office. They then returned to Illi-
nois, Popejoy going back to his home in
Ohio.
There does not appear to have been
many entries of government land made in
1854 in the county, and among those made
in the first part of the season were those
of James Van Horn, who made his entries,
as mentioned, about May 13,1854; an-
drew Cole, who entered the northeast
quarter of the northeast quarter of section
22, township 91, range 20, where his fam-
ily now resides; on the 20th of June, the
same year, Leander C. Reeve, who en-
tered part of section 23, same township;
on the 14th of April, William May, who
entered the southeast quarter of the north-
west quarter of section 27, where Mays-
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
145
ville now is, and also the farm where
J. H. Bond now resides ; on the 22d
day of May, James Newell, who also
entered the land that is now a part
of the old plat of Maysville, where
the school house is and westward of it, on
the 13th of May; Sanford B.Mitchell, who
entered the northwest quarter of section
27 in township 90, range 22, (Oakland
township), on the 27th of April. Also
June 26, David Allen entered land on
section 12, in Ingham township, at the
grove that now bears his name. None of
these, so far as we can find out, moved
their families into the county before July
4, 1854
In June of this year, Charles M. Leg-
gett and a man named Loomis, came from
Lake county, Ohio, to take a look in Iowa
and as he was from the same vicinity as
Judge Reeve, naturally bent his steps to
Franklin county. From Waterloo they
walked up to Maynes' Grove and as it
was exceedingly hot weather, they had a
hard and tedious trip. For water they
were often compelled to drink out of
sloughs and to find a hole wherein an elk
or buffalo had stepped in the soft ground,
leaving a hole that they could drop an
empty pint bottle into and have it fill
with the lukewarm water was counted a
streak of good luck. Leggett selected
120 acres in Geneva township on section
18, where J. A. Pickering now resides
and Loomis bought Peter Rhinehart's
claim, which it will be remembered is
where W. C. Haines now resides, although
the house was further west, up the creek
where O. D. Andrews lived for many
years. Loomis engaged forty acres of
breaking to be done immediately on his
claim and Leggett and Loomis, engaging
Judge Reeve to take them to Cedar Falls,
returned to Ohio.
About this time Fairchild, who, it will
be remembered, had settled on the present
Sheppard place, got into a difficulty that
had the effect of terminating his residence
at Mayne's Grove. Among the settlers
"jumping a claim" was called the greatest
crime known to the community, and they
were consequently banded together in a
league offensive and defensive against all
speculators and interlopers. Sometimes
there was a question as to the legality of
the pre-emption by which a settler held his
claim, but it was always construed in favor
of the settler, such little trifling irregular-
ities as failing to properly mark his bound-
aries or give the proper notice being
overlooked. A speculator came to the
grove on a land hunt along in June and
took a fancy to the claim occupied by
Mayne, and falling in with Fairchild he
obtained the information as to wherein
Mayne's claim was defective, and accord-
ingly the speculator "entered Mayne out"
as it was termed. This raised such a feel-
ing against Fairchild that he packed up
and left the settlement forthwith, and, as
one old settler naively remarked : " 'T was
the best thing he could do, for he would
have been shot if he had stayed."
About the middle of May, 1854, Daniel
Allen and his sons, James and Jonathan,
Wesley Hogan and L. Tatum left Janes-
ville, in Bremer county, where they then
resided, for a look at Franklin county.
They came across to Jamison's Grove and
then struck across for the little grove
three or four miles northeast of Hampton,
now called Beed's Grove. They went up
V
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146
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
and down the stream that runs through
the grove, looking for a spring, as old Mr.
Allen was bound never to locate until he
found a spring of pure water to suit him.
Finally they abandoned the idea of find,
ing one there, and crossing over, looked
along the north side of Van Horn's Grove
but not as far down as C. J. Mott's place,
and then went back to Jamison's Grove,
crossed the West Fork and upon discover-
ing the large spring on the present Gour-
ley place about half a mile north of the
county line bridge in Ingham township,
the elder Allen forthwith drove his stake,
declaring himself satisfied at last. Tatum
went up the stream and found another
spring on the Hoxie place, where he
located, Hogan going further back from
the river and locating where James Ray
lives, just over the line in West Fork
township. It was Saturday night when
all had their claims made, but time was
precious, and on Sunday they cut the logs
and put up the walls of Tatum's house on
the Hoxie place, covered it with basswood
bark and on Monday morning were ready
to commence on Mr. Allen's house, which
they did, and when that was finished up,
all returned to Janesville.
On the second of May they all returned
with their families, and became the first
settlers in Franklin county outside of the
settlement at Mayne's Grove and the two
families of Downs and McCormickin the
southeastern corner of the county. No
one was above them on the West Fork
and only two families at Jamison's Grove.
David Allen was born in North Carolina'
in 1804, and when about ten years of age,
removed with his parents to Indiana
where he resided until nearly thirty years
of age, when he moved to Kentucky and
while there married, and after residing
there a few years returned to Indiana.
About 1849 he moved from Putnam
county in that State to Wapello county in
this State and two years later to Bremer
county where he had resided about three
years when he came to Franklin county
in 1854. He has lived always on the
frontier until now in his old age he is
fairly overtaken by civilization, and as
he is advanced in years and somewhat
broken down by hard work and priva-
tions incident to pioneer life, it will
probably not be his lot to go further
west. He has now, at this writing, re-
sided in Franklin county almost a third
of a century, and he has seen more
changes within its borders in that in-
terval than usually falls to the lot of any
man to witness in a lifetime.
This brings the settlement of Franklin
county up to a time when immigration set
in rapidly, and it is impossible to trace it
further in this chapter. In the histories
of the various townships, the settlement is
treated more at length and carried to a
much later date.
-i 1>\
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
147
CHAPTER IV.
THE BEGINNING.
James M. Marsh, a surveyor, must go into
history as the first white man who ever set
foot on Franklin county soil. The records
state that he had a surveying contract, in
pursuance of which about the 20th of Au-
gust, 1849, b^e began running the township,
lines of this county finishing in the latter
part of September, 1849. Those who as-
sisted him were: William M. Dean and
N. P. Cook, chainmen; B. H. Springer,
flagman; James Casteel, axman. Mr.
Dean was for many years a resident of
Cerro Gordo county. Whether the little
party had any trouble with the Indians or
not cannot be stated.
In September and October, 1849,
John G. McDonald, the deputy sur-
veyor, sub-divided into sections the
following territory: Township 90,
range 19; township 90, range 20; town-
ship 90, range 21; township 90, range 22.
This territory now comprises the fcivil
townships of Osceola, Grant, Lee and
Oakland.
Nothing further was done toward the
sub-division of the other townships until
1851. In June, July, August and Septem-
ber, 1851, Alonzo Shaw ran out the sec-
tion lines of the following territory:
Township 91, range 20; township 91,
range 19 and township 92, range 19, now
comprising civil townships Reeve, Geneva
and Imrham.
In 1852, John T. Everett began work
and surveyed into sections, township 91,
range 21; township 92, range 21; town-
ship 9,3, range 21; township 93, range 20
and commenced township 92, range 22,
but did not complete the work until May,
1853. He did the work in the fall and
was probably stopped by cold weather. In
April and May, 1853, he ran out township
93, range 22. The territory referred to
now embraces the civil townships of Ham-
ilton, Marion, Richland, Ross, Clinton,
Scott and Wisner.
In October, 1852, Charles Gilliam sub-
divided township 91, range 2, now Morgan
township. In the middle of the winter of
1852-3, Leonard B. Hodges sub-divided
township 93, range 19, now West Fork
township. He began work December 25,
1852, and closed January V, 1853.
CREATION OF THE COUNTY.
The third General Assembly convened
at Iowa City, December 2, 1850, and ad-
journed February 5, 1851. Until this time
the greater part of Iowa was unorganized
territory.
The records state that there were forty-
two counties represented in this General
Assembly, although several of these coun-
ties were not organized. Among the first
bills introduced during this session was
one to create about fifty new counties,
which was passed and approved by Gov.
SF
« — ^
■^ — 4
148
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Stephen Hempstead, Jan. 15, 1851. That
portion of the act which related to
Franklin county was as follows:
"Section 12. — That the following shall
be the boundaries of a new county, which
shall be called Franklin, to-wit: Begin-
ning at the northwest corner of township
93 north, range 18 west, thence west on
the line between 93 and 94 to the north-
west corner of township 93 north, range
22 west, thence south on the line between
ranges 22 and 23, to the southwest corner
of township 90 north, range 22 'west,
thence east on the line dividing townships
89 and 90 to the southwest corner of town-
ship 90, range 18 west, thence north to
the place of beginning."
The most diligent inquiry and investiga-
tion has failed to unearth any information
in regard to the name of the county
further than that it was named after Benja-
min Franklin.
ORGANIZATION OF THE COUNTY.
Prior to organization, Franklin county
was for a time attached to Hardin county,
for civil and judicial purposes. It was
subsequently made a part of Chickasaw
county for the same purposes, and the re-
turns of the first election held here were
made to the latter county. But there
seems to have been a conflict of jurisdic-
tion, both claiming it. It is known, how-
ever, that in July, 1855, the county judge
of Chickasaw county issued an order for
holding an election in Franklin county,
and that on the 5th of August, 1855, the
election was held at the house of James
B. Reeve. It is believed that there were
forty-eight votes cast. The following was
the result: James B. Reeve was elected
county judge; Isaac Miller, treasurer and
recorder; Dr. S. R. Mitchell, clerk of
courts; Solomon Staley, sheriff; Henry
Shroyer, school fund commissioner; John
I. Popejoy, assessor; H. P. Allen, survey-
or; Q. A. Jordan, prosecuting attorney;
C. M. Leggett and J. Jones, justices of the
peace. The ballot box was a small nail
box, covered with a shingle having a hole
cut through it.
One of the judges of this election was
John Mitchell, who the others were can-
not be stated. After the election, Mitch-
ell went to Bradford, then the county seat
of Chickasaw county, with the returns,
and Miller and Reeve went to Davenport
after books and blanks for county pur-
poses. A. P. Luse & Co. furnished the
supplies, and on the 19th of December,
1855, an order was drawn to pay for the
same, amounting to $489.50. Among
them were several books that have never
yet been used, and, in fact, the only one
that ever has been used to any great ex-
tent is the minute book "A," which still
exists in a good state of preservation.
Solomon Staley, who had been elected
sheriff, went over to Bradford and quali-
fied and upon his return swore in the bal-
ance of the first officials, and each one re-
ceded the books alloted to him and took
them home. Ellis Parker, county judge
of Hardin county had assessed Franklin
county, and he copied and certified the
same to Isaac Miller, county treasurer.
LOCATION OF THE COUNTY SEAT.
After the organization of the county
had been effected, the principal place for
the transaction of public business was at
the house of the county judge, James B.
Reeve. This, in fact, was headquarters
for Franklin county. It was not long,
^u-
4=i
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
^L
149
«
however, until the attention of the people
was directed to the question as to where
the county seat should be permanently
located. Cave J. McFarland was then
district judge, and to him Dr. Mitchell
went with a petition to have the commis-
sioners appointed. The settlers had decid-
ed upon whom they wanted appointed
as commissioners, but this counted for noth-
ing with Judge McFarland. Imperiously
waving Dr. Mitchell aside, with an oath,
he said : "I appoint Dr. Ault one of the
commissioners, and I don't care whether
the people of Franklin county like it or
not. And I also appoint M. M. Trumbull,
of Butler county, and J. D. Thompson, of
Hardin county, who voted for me, as the
other two commissioners."
The first record of any move by the
commissioners, is found in the county
judge's record under date of January 26,
1856. It reads as follows :
"Adam T. Ault, M. M. Trumbull and J.
D. Thompson, commissioners appointed
by the district court to locate the seat of
justice for Franklin county, appeared
before me and were sworn to perform the
duties of their appointment to the best of
their knowledge and ability, and the re-
quirements of the law.
James B. Reeve, County Judge."
The early settlers state that it was not
hard to see that the people of Franklin
county were to be made the victims of a
county seat ring, and that the county seat
was to be located without consulting their
convenience or wishes. Thomas B. Abel,
of Marietta, Marshall Co., one of the
sharpest business men in the State, owned
a tract of land about one mile south of
the present site of Hampton, comprising
the farm which, in 1883, was owned by G.
C. Ilyndman, and eighty acres lying near
by. Abel, together with William Lough-
ridge, of Oskaloosa, and a man named
Farner entered into a tripartite ar-
rangement whereby they became joint
owners of this tract, and several hun-
dred acres in other sections of Reeve
township, and they proposed to control the
location of the county seat to mutual
advantage. What the people of the
county then surmised, has since turned
out to be true — that Farner's interest was
really owned by J. D. Thompson, as a sub-
sequent assignment from Farner to
Thompson shows. Dr. Ault was, to all
intents and purposes identified with Mc-
Farland, Abel & Co.
In 1872, there appeared in one of the
Hampton papers a sketch of the early set-
tlement of the county, and the statements
therein made regarding the location of
the county seat, called forth the following
letter from M. M. Trumbull, one of the
commissioners for its location. The letter
appeared in the Hampton Free, Press, of
February 16, 18*72, and as it contains the
gist of the whole matter it is here pre-
sented :
"Dubuque.. Iowa, Feb. 13, 1872.
Hampton Free Press:
In your issue of February 9, appears a
sketch of the early history of Franklin
county, in which my name appears as one
of the commissioners to locate the county
seat, but my action in that matter was not
fairly stated. Although I care nothing
about it, still what is worth making into
history at all may as well be made up right.
I thank you for your kindness in adding a
note, at the foot of the sketch, which sets
150
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
me right so far as my vote is concerned,
but it does not fully explain my action.
"A. T. Ault, J. D. Thompson and myself
were appointed commissioners to locate
the county seat of Franklin county, and
were ordered to meet, on a certain day, at
the house of Mr. Reeve to proceed to per-
form our duties. We did meet there, and
adjourned for a few days. We met again
and adjourned. I could not tell why, but
the reason will appear in the seequel. At
last we met. We had liberal offers from
many persons. S. M. Preston had a town,
W. G. Loughridge, I think, had some land
upon which a town might be built. Mr.
Abel had one also. After looking at the
sites, we went to Reeve's to decide the
question. Uncle Job Garner had, in my
opinion, the most available site, taking
into consideration, as our oath required us
to do, the present and future wants of the
people of Franklin county. I gave my
voice and vote emphatically for Gar-
ner's. I was out-voted by the other two,
and they located the county seat on the
Abel place. They called it Jefferson, I
think in compliment to Judge Reeve,
whose former home in Ohio was near
Jefferson. I may be wrong in this latter
point, as I speak from memory. It was
thought that we had postponed the loca-
tion of the county seat until it was too
late to give the requisite notice of a peti-
tion to the county court to order a vote on
the question at the next April election.
On a careful examination of the law, I
became satisfied that if the notices were
got out that day, there would be time
enough. To leave the county seat at
Jefferson one year might fasten it there
forever. There was no time to lose.
Instead of going home I wrote the legal
notices and had them posted that day. I
then made out the petition and left it in
good hands to obtain signatures; and when
the proper time arrived I returned to
Franklin county, laid it before the court, a
i vote was granted, and at the April elec-
tion the people of the county ratified my
choice of a location by a nearly unani-
mous vote. I think Jefferson had but
two votes. The satisfaction of being
endorsed by the people of the county was
all the reward I ever received for my ser-
vices, and it was all I wanted. I had not
one dollar's worth of personal interest in
the matter, and did not own any property
in Franklin county.
"If any of the old pioneers should read
this they will remember the facts — George
Ryan, L. Reeve, Squire Leggett, Ike Mil-
ler, Dr. Mitchell, H. Allen, or any of them.
If you should take the trouble to examine
any of the old records you will find the
petition and notices in .my hand-writing.
"The people of Hampton (which I am
told is now a fine town) will never know
how much they owe to Judge Reeve. He
was a magnificient specimen of western
production; a great, big, brave giant of a
man, with a heart tender as a woman's.
He was hospitable and generous to 'a fault,
if such a thing can be. He was an incor-
ruptible officer, and a thoroughly honest
man. He was a great reader, and had
rare practical sense He had no interest
at Garner's, but he thought the loca-
tion at Jefferson was not a good one, and
was determined that the people of the
county should have fair play. If he had
lacked the proper nerve and spirit, or had
been willing to make something out of
his position, the county seat might never
have been at Hampton.
Very respectfully yours,
M. M. Trumbull."
Uncle Job Garner had named his pro-
posed town Benjamin, but he was after-
words induced to change the name to
Hampton. At the time he made his
proposition to the county, his plat em-
braced the eighty acres bounded on the
north by First street, on the east by Main
street in front of Harriman's Opera Hall;
on the south by Fifth street, and on the
west by the division line between the
original plat and Kingman's addition.
George Kyan, who was something of a
speculator, owned a quarter section of
land adjoining the proposed town plat
The arrangement prior to tbe location of
the county seat here, was that Ryan deed
over to the county one-half of the land;
but when the time for platting came, he
deeded the county an undivided half of
the eighty acres platted, that is, every
other lot. Ryan's and Garner's lands
were platted the same day.
Early in March, 1856, the matter cul-
minated, as will be seen by the following
extract from the county judge's minute-
book: #
"Be it remembered that at a regular term
of the county court in and for the county
of Franklin, State of Iowa, held on Mon-
day the 3d of March, A. D., 1850, a peti-
tion was filed, signed by S. C. Brazzelton
and ninety others, praying that the court
order a vote to be taken, at the next April
election, on the question of removing the
county seat of said county from the
present location to the proposed town
site situated on the south half of the north-
east quarter, and the north half of the
southeast quarter of the northeast quarter
of section 33, township 92, range 20 west,
and it appeared by the affidavit of Job
Garner, a creditable witness, that the peti-
tioners are legal voters of said county, and
it appeared to the satisfaction of the court
that the notices required by law have been
duly posted up, and that the petitioners
constitute a lawful majority of the legal
voters of said county, and all other things
required by law in relation to such publi-
cations having been done, it is therefore
ordered by the court that the prayer of
said petitioners be heard, and that a vote
be taken at the next April election between
said proposed site and the present county
seat, in accordance with the prayer of
petitioners.
James B. Reeve, County Judge.
The election was accordingly held. It
seems that the town of Jefferson did not
have many friends, and only two votes
were cast in favor of it as the county
seit. The county judge made the follow-
ing order in accordance with the vote :
"April 15, 1856. At an election held in
Franklin Co., Iowa, on the 7th day of
April, 1856, in pursuance of an order made
by the county judge that a vote be taken
on the question of removing the county
seat from its present location to the pro-
posed town of Benjamin, and it appearing
from the whole number of votes cast, that
the proposed town of Benjamin had a ma-
jority of all the votes cast, it is therefore
declared the county seat of said county.
James B. Reeve,
County Judge."
This, however, was not the end of county
seat struggles, for again at the February
152
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
term of court in 1S57 a petition was pre-
sented by James G. Curry, signed by 110
voters asking that at the April election
the question of removing the county seat
be submitted to the voters of the county.
A remonstrance was sent in against the
proposition, and after weighing the ques-
tion with all of its bearings the county
judge decided in favor of the latter, and
the question was not submitted.
Another attempt was made to change
the location of the county seat at the Jan-
uary term of county court in 1858, by the
presentation of a petition to Judge Reeve,
signed by S. C. Brazzelton and others.
H. L. Huff, an attorney from Eldora, ap-
peared with a remonstrance signed by
James McManes and others, and again the
prayer of the petitioners was .denied.
At the March term of the county court
in 1860, another attempt was made to re-
move the county seat from Hampton. A
petition signed by A. T. Reeve, and others,
was presented to Judge Henry Shroyer,
praying that the question be submitted to
a vote at an election in April, as to
whether the county seat should not be
removed from Hampton to Maysville.
The same day a remonstrance was pre-
sented by George Ryan, and others, for
the consideration of the court. The case
was argued for several days, both parties
becoming much animated over the subject,
but finally the court decided against the
prayer of the petitioners, thus leaving the
county seat matter quiet again. But at
the June term the same year the matter
again came up for hearing before the same
county judge. This time the petition was
presenttd by E. H. Sparling, signed by
162 voters, asking that the county seat be
removed to Maysville. The same day a
remonstrance was presented by C. Gillett
and others, against its removal. The
case was argued for four days, the proceed-
ings of which covers nine pages in the
court records. The petitioners employed
Baker & Bridgeman, and the remonstra-
tors had N. B. Chapman as counsel.
During the trial of the case before Judge
Shroyer, he was requested to vacate the
bench, as they considered the judge was
personally interested in the matter, hence
was unqualified to decide the case. But
his honor held a different opinion, and
remained in his seat. The case was taken
under advisement, and finally an order
was issued by the county judge to the
effect that the question should be sub-
mitted at the April election, 1862.
But the people were still in favor
of Hampton, and an injunction was pro-
cured restraining the vote upon the ques-
tion. This apparently settled the matter,
for it has never since been brought be
fore the courts. The bittei; feeling that
was once felt over the question has quieted
down, and been forgotten, and as succeed-
ing months, years and decades roll by,
Hampton will give still better satisfaction
as the seat of justice of Franklin county.
COUNTY BUILDINGS.
The contract for building the first court
house in Hampton must have been let
early in 185*7, as under the date of May
29, 1857, an order was issued to F. A.
Denton for $200, being the amount due
him as the second payment for building
the court house. The court house was built
on the southeast corner of the court house
square, in Hampton, and was a one-story
building about 18x30 feet in size, built
â– a
<a_
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
153
mostly of native lumber sawed at Mays-
ville and Hampton. It was finished about
the 1st of July, 1857. July 4, 1857, it was
informally dedicated by a celebration, the
first Fourth of July celebration ever held
in Hampton. No committee of arrange-
ments was appointed and no preliminary
meeting held, but the settlers generally
hitched up their ox teams and came to-
gether. If they organized by electing
any president of the day, his name has
not been mentioned to the historian.
Speeches were made by W. R. Jamison,
of Union Ridge, S. H. Vankirk, of Reeve
township and others. It is believed that
Mr. Vankirk read the Declaration of In-
dependence. All were patriotic and in-
spiring, and as the honest people started
for home in time to do the night chores,
they felt as well repaid for the day spent
as their descendants of to-day, when re-
turning from a celebration in their car-
riages, where more pomp, fuss and feath-
ers, but perhaps no more patriotism and
enthusiasm were exhibited.
The old court house did duty until
1866 % when the erection of the new court
house was commenced, and the old one
was sold to some members of the M. E.
Church and moved on to a lot just south
of J. S. Cole's residence, on Main street,
the intention being to fit it up as a place
of worship. This was never done, how-
ever, but it was remodeled into a dwell-
ing house and was so used until 1879,
when it was removed to lots belonging
to Peter Chance, at ihe south end of
Reeve s ree r , and is now doing dwj as
a stable.
The old court house was for years the
place for all public gatherings, even
dances; and many and bitter were the
controversies between the dancing and
anti-dancing parties as to whe'her it
should be used for such purposes or not.
Generally, however, the dancing party
carried the day.
After i he sale of the court house, 'he
county officers moved their records and
apparatus to the rooms of the school
house, where they remained until the
present court house was built. This
building was erected upon a contract le
to U. Weeks, for $12,500, but the ac ual
cost somewhat exceeded this amount. It
is a neat stone building, 48x70 feet
in size, and stands in the center of the
court house square, in the midst of the
business portion of Hampton. The
grounds are decorated with an abun-
dance of shade trees which were set out
in 1872 or 1873 by C. J. Mott.
The county jail and sheriff's residence
were erected in 1880, at a cost of 19,850.
The lots on which the building stands,
cost $625, of which amount the citizens
of Hampton gave $225, in private sub-
scriptions. The building was erected by
D. W. Dow, contractor, who was the
lowest bidder, and the cells and iron
work were purchased of Paulley & Bro.,
of St. Louis, Missouri. That part of the
building devoted to the residence of the
sheriff is 33x32 feet, two stories high, and
attached to it is the jail, 20x27 feet, one
story high, built of red brick. The prop-
erty is now valued at about $12,000.
ORGANIZATION OF TOWNSHIPS.
According to the laws of the State,
when Franklin county was organized, it
was considered a single township. That
is, where there was no organization, the
-* — dg
154
HISTORY" OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
territory was attached to i ome adjoining
county, and treated as one of its civil sub-
divisions, and was authorized to elect
township officers. Prior to organization,
there is no record stating that Franklin
county had a township organization. It
was attached to Hardin and Chickasaw
counties for judicial and civil purposes.
In August, 1855, the county was organ-
ized and officers elected. Not much was
done the first winter toward getting the
governmental wheels of the county in mo-
tion, but the following spring the county
was divided into three townships, and or-
ders were issued for the election of town-
ship officers.
At the March term of the county court,
1856, the original township was organized,
by the following order of the county judge,
James B. Reeve:
"Be it remembered, that at a regular term
of the county court, in and for the county of
Franklin and State of Iowa, held on Mon-
day, March 3, 1856, that townships 90,
range 19; 90, range 20; 90, range 21 and
91, 19; 91, 20; 91, 21; be it known that it
is ordered by the court, that they be or-
ganized into one township and it be called
Reeve; and that townships 92, 19; 92, 20;
92, 21 and 93, 19; 93, 20 and 93, 21, be
organized into one township and called
Washington; and that townships 90, 22;
91, 22; 92, 22 and 93, 22, be organized in-
to one township, and it be called Morgan.
James B. Reeve,
County Judge."
It will be seen that Morgan township
comprised the territory now embraced in
the townships of Morgan, Oakland, Scott
and Wisner, being twenty-four miles
north and south , and six east and west.
Reeve comprised the present townships of
Osceola, Grant, Lee, Geneva, Reeve and
Hamilton, and was twelve miles north
and south, and eighteen miles east and
west. Washington township included
Ingham, Mott, Washington, Marion, West
Fork, Clinton, Ross and Richland, being
the same size as Reeve.
Since 1856, there have been many
changes made in the boundaries of town-
ships, until they have assumed their pres-
ent limits. At present the civil townships
of Franklin county respectively embrace
territory as follows:
West Fork, township 93, range 19.
Ross, the most of township 93, range 20.
Clinton, 3,360 acres in township 93,
range 20.
Richland, township 93, range 21.
Wisner, township 93, range 22.
Ingham, township 92, range 19.
Mott, all of township 92, range 20, ex-
cept 800 acres.
Washington, 800 acres of township 92,
range 20.
Marion, township 92, range 21.
Scott, township 92, range 22.
Geneva, township 91, range 19.
Reeve, township 91, range 20.
Hamilton, township 91, range 21.
Morgan, township 91, range 22.
Osceola, township 90. range 19.
Grant, township 90, range 20.
Lee, township 90, range 21.
Oakland, township 90, range 22.
FIRST EVENTS.
Addison Phelps and James B. Reeve
were the first settlers of Franklin county.
Abner Sturms, born in January, 1854,
was the first white child born in the
county.
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
155
The first death was that of a babe of
Mr. Crouch, in the winter of 1854-5.
The first entry of land in the county
was made in what is now Oakland town
ship, by Francis M. Mitchell, being the
southeast quarter of the southwest quarter,
and the southwest quarter of the southeast
quarter of section 35.
The first notary public's commission
ever issued to a resident of the county was
to John I. Popejoy, Feb. 14, 1856. It
was signed by James W. Grimes, as
Governor, and Geo. W. McCrary — after-
wards Secretary of War — as Secretary of
State.
The first marriage ever solemnized in
Franklin county took place on the evening
of July 5, 1855. The parties were Alex-
ander Arledge and Julia Peters. The
ceremony was performed by Esquire Mc-
Crary, or McCreery, who at that time
lived on the J. D. 1 'arks' place, and who
held his office by virtue of an appointment
from the county judge of Hardin county.
The happy couple walked down to the
Squire's, and as it was dark before they
returned, the boys of the neighborhood
improved the occasion to make it interest-
ing for the newly wedded pair, by placing
logs and brush in the road for them to
stumble over on their return.
CHAPTER V
COUNTY GOVERNMENT AND OTHER OFFICIAL MATTERS.
When Franklin county was organized,
the local government of the counties
throughout the State was vested in what
was termed the "county court," which con-
sisted of a judge, clerk and sheriff. The
county judge had entire jurisdiction in all
matters which could not properly be
brought before the district court, and
which to-day is vested in the board of
supervisors, and was therefore, to a certain
extent, "supreme ruler," in county matters.
The office was the most important one in
the gift of the people of the county.
COUNTY COURT.
The first term of county court was held
March 3, 1856, Judge J. B. Reeve presid-
ing. Nothing of much importance was
transacted at this tenn, except the order-
ing of the April election, at which time
the question of re-locating the county seat
was to be submitted to the voters of Frank-
lin county. The first statement rendered
by the county judge in regard to the
salaries of the several officers read as
follows:
"It appears from the books of the county
officers that the county judge has received
nothing; the county treasurer thirty-eight
dollars and forty cents; the clerk seventy
cents, amounting to thirty-nine dollars and
ten cents, for the last quarter of A. D.
1856, ending on the first Monday of Au-
gust, which is to be equally divided be-
tween them, making for each of them
^-^
Sii
156
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
thirteen dollars and three cents, and that
the balance of their salary be drawn upon
the treasurer which amounts to sixty-one
dollars and ninety-seven cents each.
James B. Reeve,
County Judge."
In November, 1856, Samuel R. Mitchell
resigned the office of clerk of court, and
Judge Reeve appointed James Thompson
to fill the vacancy.
In 1856, and for some years afterward,
the State liquor laws of Iowa were so
framed that it was left to township, and
counties to regulate the sale of liquors,
by the appointment of what was known as
liquor agents, who had the exclusive sale
of the same and usually received a com-
mission on their sales, but in Franklin
county a salary was paid, as will be seen
by the following order issued by Judge
Reeve :
"August 27, A. D. 1856.— This day
Thomas Baker was appointed agent to
sell liquors in Maysville, for Franklin
county and is to have a salary of five
dollars per month for his services.
James B. Reeve,
County Judge."
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS.
During the winter of 1859-60 an act
was passed by the General Assembly,
which was approved by the governor,
changing the mode of local government,
and creating the board of supervisors of
the county. This board took charge and
had all the powers formerly vested in the
county court, excepting the issuance of
marriage licenses, probate matters and
civil cases.
The county court still held its sessions,
and continued so to do until 1869, when it
was abolished by law ; but nothing of
interest transpired, as the time was all
spent in routine matters.
The board of county supervisors con-
sisted of one member from each township.
The election for members occurred at the
general election, in November, 1^60.
The first meeting of the board of super-
visors was held in January, 1861. The
board consisted of the following members
from their respective townships :
John E. Boyles, two years, Clinton; J. II.
Allen, one year, Ingham; J.M White, one
year, Washington ; Richard Horner, two
years, Geneva; G. M. Davidson, two years,
Osceola; Erastus Baker, one year, Reeves;
Jesse R. Dodd, one year, Morgan. John
E. Boyles was chosen chairman of the
board.
At the January session in 1862, Charles
Flanigan presented a set of rules to govern
the board of supervisors. The board
passed upon and finally adopted the same,
ordering twenty-seven copies to be pub-
lished at the Record office, in Hampton,
in pamphlet form. One of the rules con-
tained therein was "that the clerk of the
board copy every resolution and motion
verbatim."
At the August session of the board that
year, the following resolutions were passed
in behalf of the brave soldiers who at that
time were in the field:
Resolved, 1. That we at our next regular
meeting appropriate the sum of fifty dollars
out of the county treasury to each volunteer that
is hereafter sworn into the United States
service from Franklin county, and ten dollars to
each volunteer heretofore sworn into the service,
who has not received the same, in accordance
with a resolution heretofore passed.
:?i<r
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
157
Resolved, 2. That the wife of each volunteer,
from this county, receive the sum of one dollar
per week and each child, under the age of
twelve years, receive the sum of fifty cents per
week during the term of such volunteer's service
in the army.
In 1863, the board consisted of the fol-
lowing named, from the various town-
ships: John O. Craper, Ingham; Charles
Flanagin, Washington; Levi Jones, Reeve;
Jesse R. Dodd, Morgan; John Ashman,
Clinton; John Fahey, Osceola; Rufus
Benson, Geneva. Charles Flanagin was
elected chairman.
In 1864, the board convened Jan. 3,
and organized by the elec ion of A. Pick-
ering as chairman for the ensuing year.
The supervisor elect, and those present to
answer the roll call, were as follows:
John Ashman, Clinton; Rufus Benson,
Geneva; Henry Bushyager, Ingham; A.
Pickering, Reeve; Daniel Scott, Washing-
ton; L. A. Morgan, Morgan; John Fahey,
Osceola.
At the July session, the board passed
this resolution:
Resolvo That the board make an appropria
tion of $400 out of the county fund for the pur-
pose of procuring arms and aiding a vigilance
committee of Franklin county in the protection
of property against thieves.
In 1865, the board met Jan. 1, and
elected Charles Pickering, of Reeve town-
ship, as chairman. The following con-
stituted the board: Charles Pickering,
Reeve; James Scott, Washington; L. A.
Morgan, Morgan H.; Bush\ager, Ingham;
D. G. Carbaugh, Geneva; John Fahey,
Osceola; B. H. Gibbs, Clinton.
In 1866, the board convened Jan. 5,
and elected D. G. Carbaugh chairman.
This board was made up of the following:
D. G. Carbaugh, Geneva; B. H. Gibbs,
Clinton; John Fahey, Osceola; E. L. Clock,
Reeve; W. G Beed, Washington; E. A.
Howland, Morgan; W. H. Hoxie, Ingham.
Nothing of great importance transpired
during the administration of this board,
except letting the contract for building
the court house at Hampton. It was
awarded toll. Weeks, for $12,500. The
specifications called for a stone building,
48x70 feet and two stories high. In 1867,
the supervisors met in session, the first
week in January, and elected from their
number, D. G. Carbaugh, as chairman.
The members were: W. H. Hoxie, Will-
iam G. Beed, E. L. Clock, E. A. Howland,
H. H. Grinnell, D. G. Carbaugh and John
Fahey. At their June meeting they sold
the old court house at auction, to J- G.
Lambert, for #264.
In 1868, the board consisted of D. G.
Carbaugh, H. H. Grinnell, John Fahey,
A. T. Reeve, Milo Ross, W. H. Hoxie
and E. A. Howland. D. G. Carbaugh was
elected chairman of the board.
At the June session of the board, upon
a petition presented by E. A. Howland,
the territory known as Oakland township,
was set off from Morgan and Reeve town-
ships. AVest Fork township was also cre-
ated this year.
The board of 1869, was made up of
representatives from the nine townships,
as follows: E. A. Howland, Morgan; A.
T. Reeve, Reeve; Milo Ross, Washington;
W. H. Hoxie, Ingham; J. I. Popejoy,
Oakland; Philip Salsberry, Osceola; Allen
Andrews, Geneva; Lyman Hunt, Clinton;
and Isaac Patterson. E. A. Howland
served as chairman.
M
158
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
In 1870, the following constituted the
board of supervisors: T. E. B. Hudson,
West Fork; W. H. Hoxie, Ingham; C. J.
Mott, Washington; A. Andrews, Geneva;
Philip Salsberry, Osceola; E. L. Clock,
Reeve; R. L. Kenyon, Clinton; J. I. Pope-
joy, Oakland; and R. E. Train, Morgan.
The following resolution was passed by
the board:
" Hesolved, That the amount of exemption
from taxation, shall be $2.50 on each acre
of forest trees planted for timber; 50c on
each mile of shade trees, along the high-
way. Also $1.00 for each half mile of
hedge, and $2.50 for each acre of fruit
trees, in a healthy, growing condition.
The fruit trees to be not more than eight
feet apart. This resolution applies to
trees planted in 18*70, only."
This was the last meeting of the county
board of supervisors made up of one mem-
ber from each township. The General As-
sembly, by an act, changed the manner of
local government, and the board of supervi
sors was re-arranged so as to be composed
of three, who were to be elected at large
throughout the county. The first board,
which convened under this law, met
during the first week in January, 1871, the
members being : C. J. Mott, chosen for
three years ; E. L. Clock, two years, and
John I. Popejoy, one year. C. J. Mott
was chosen chairman.
COUNTY SUPERVISORS SINCE 1871.
1872— C. J. Mott, E. L. Clock and B.
K. Jackson, the former being chairman.
1873— C. J. Mott, D. W. Elliott and B.
K. Jackson.
1874— B. K. Jackson, D. W. Elliott and
L. D. Lane, with B. J. Jackson as chair-
man.
1875— D. M. Elliot, L. D. Lane and
David Church, the former serving as
chairman.
1876— David Church, W. A. Alexander
and J. I. Popejoy.
1877 — John I. Popejoy, David Church
and W. A. Alexander. Mr. Church served
as chairman.
1878— J. I. Popejoy, W. A. Alexander
and David Church, with the first named
member as chairman.
1879— W. A. Alexander, David Church
and J. I. Popejoy. W. A. Alexander was
chosen chairman that year.
1880 — David Church, J. I. Popejoy and
W. A. Alexander, with Mr. Church as
their chairman.
1881 — J. I. Popejoy, W. A. Alexander
and William Barry. J. I. Popejoy was
chosen chairman again.
1882 — W. A. Alexander, William Barry
and A. D. St. Clair. W. A. Alexander
was chairman.
1883— A. D. St. Clair, G. W. Hansell
and W. H. McMillen, with the first
named member as their chairman.
FINANCIAL.
A few of the important facts concern-
ing the finances of Franklin county, have
been taken from the records, and are here
presented : The first levy of taxes in the
county was made on the fourth Monday
of August, 1856, by Judge Reeve, of the
county court, and was as follows :
"At a regular session of the county court,
held on the fourth Monday of August, A.
D. 1856, for the levying of taxes upon the
assessed value of taxable property in
Franklin county. It is ordered for State,
one and a quarter mills on the dollar ; for
county, five mills ; for schools, one and
3f
X/0:
-
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
161
one half mills ; roads, two mills, and fifty
cents for county revenue on each poll, and
one dollar for road revenue on each poll.
James 1>. Reeve, County Judge.
S. R. Mitohkll, County Clerk."
In 1858 the total valuation of property
in the county was $1,114,401, of which
hut $48,092 was personal property. The
total taxes collected from same was $10,-
812 96.
In 1870 it had increased as follows:
Total valuation, $1,507,517 ; total amount
of tax collected, $25,471.90, which showed
an increase of tax in proportion to the
valuation.
A marked contrast was seen in the
valuation of the property in 1882, and
that of 1870. The total valuation in 1882,
being $2,934,249 ; the full amount of tax
collected for that year being $85,042. 46.
Five mills of this tax, per dollar, was
county tax ; one, poor ; three, bridge ; and
county school tax, one mill.
POPULATION.
In 1856, the population of Franklin
county was 780, in 1859 it was 1,159.
Four years later it was 1,548. In 1865 it
had increased to 1,899 ; in 1867, to 2,321,
and in 1870, to 4,738. Five years later,
1875, the population was 6,558.
The following gives the population by
townships, in 1880 :
ClintoD, 307
Geneva, 826
Grant,. 592
Hamilton, 417
Ingham, 592
Lee, 411
Marion, 432
Morgan, 484
Mott, ( including Hampton ) 2,304
Oakland 554
Osceoh. 856
Reeve, 763
Richland 409
Ross, 624
Scott, 63
West Fork, 615
Total, 10,249
REGISTRY OK DEEDS.
The records pertaining to this county
commence by the record of a deed filed
June 4, 1855. It was a land conveyance
from James Van Horn and wife to Eldridge
Young; the land being the northwest
quarter of the southwest quarter of section
21, township 92, range 20. The consider-
ation was fifty-five dollars. It was re-
corded by J. H. Cusack, county recorder,
and acknowledged by John Hunter, notary
public. This was while Franklin formed
a part of Hardin county.
The first mortgage on record was filed
on the 25th of January, 1856, by Thomas
T. Rawson and wife, to John H. Martin,
of Butler county. Consideration $735.
In 1883, the books of deeds had run
through all the letters in the alphabet and
up to seven on the numerals; thirty-three
in all. The real estate mortgage books
run by the alphabet to "Q."
MATRIMONIAL. »
In the early matrimonial days young
men and women were not married in
the grand style which usually character-
izes marriages of the present time.
They did not wait for riches to come be-
fore marriage, as is generally the pres-
ent custom, but married and lived in
simple and comfortable style, generally
living happily and gaining the respect of
their neighbors by attending to their own
business. There were no diamond wed-
dings in those days, and the extravagance
that often now attends the marriage cere-
t'
<SL
162
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COTNTY.
mony was unheard of. The old folks
were plain, economical and hospitable
people, and the young folks were imbued
with the same attributes that character-
ized their fathers and mothers. They
were willing to commence housekeeping
in a style corresponding with their means,
trusting to the future for larger houses and
more expensive furniture.
It would doubtless be of interest to give
the record of marriages for the first ten
years of the county's existence, but they
are too numerous, therefore, only the first
few years are given as shown by the mar-
riage license record in the office of the
clerk of court.
The first marriage performed under the
authority of a license issued by Franklin
county, took place Oct. 9, 1855. The
parties were Daniel B. Martin and
Nancy Garner. C. M. Leggett, a justice
of the peace, officiated.
The following is a list of those married
in 1856:
Thomas Perdue and Sarah Ann Rine-
hart, married by James B. Reeve, county
judge.
Thomas Newell and Ellen Lathrop, by
C. M. Leggett, Esq.
Samuel R. Freed and Margaret Garner,
by John E. Boyles, Esq.
John C. Jones and Sarah Jane (Jreigh-
ton, by Rev. James Skillen.
Lewis Shroyer and J. Fennan Jones, by
H. I. Burley, Esq.
Amzi Dodd and Rebecca Gilson, by
Judge J. B. Reeve.
The following is a list of those securing
certificates in 1857:
Henry W. Smith and Hannah Eaves.
They were married by James B. Reeve,
county judge.
Edward L. Clock and Fanny E. Wheeler.
Andrew Newell and Sarah Arnold, by
James Utley.
Owen E. VanHorn and Lydia Ann
Thatcher.
John Butterfleld and Mary Jane Jones,
by J. Jones, justice of the peace.
G. W. Soper and Constantina M. Leg-
gett, by James B. Reeve.
Wm. Sharp and S. Baker.
Solomon Staley and Philo Wheeler, by
John Wilcox.
Wm. Murphy and Marietta Stickland.
Wm. C. Horner and Emaline Berry, by
R. F. Pratt, acting county judge.
The following table shows the number
of marriages contracted each year from
1858 to 1882, inclusive:
1858.
1859.
1860.
1861.
1862.
1863.
1864.
1865.
1866.
1867.
1868.
1869.
1870.
9
1871
8
1872
11
1873
9
1874
7
1875
1876
13
1877
17
1878
22
1879
26
1880
31
1881
20
1882
31
37
49
50
53
54
79
80
84
92
129
98
97
Total 1106
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
1G3
CHAPTER VI.
THE COURTS OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Man is an imperfect being, and, as
such, requires that laws shall he enacted
for his government. When the Almighty
placed Adam and Eve in the garden of
Eden, He gave laws for their observance,
with penalties attached for their violation.
The children of Israel, after leaving Egypt,
were given the ten commandments, the
principles underlying which have proba-
bly been the basis of all laws from that
time to the present. The existence of
laws necessarily implies the existence of
courts wherein all questions of law
shall be determined. This fact being
determined, the framers of the State
constitution instituted certain courts
of justice with well defined powers.
Changes have been made in the jurisdic-
tion of these courts from time to time, but
the rights of every citizen of high or low
degree have ever been maintained.
DISTRICT COURT.
Prior to the organization of Franklin
county, the territory now comprising it
was made a part of the fifth judicial dis-
trict. Cave J. McFarland, of Polk county,
was judge of this district ; but as the
county was not organized, he never held
here a term of court. However, he issued
many official orders affecting Franklin
county, and appointed the commissioners
who located the county seat.
Judge McFarland was an odd character,
although one of the brightest men that
ever presided over the courts of the fifth
or eleventh judicial district.
Cave J. McFarland was born at Mount
Vernon, Knox Co., Ohio. He read law
with John C. McNulty, clerk of the house
of representatives. He went to Lee
Co., Iowa, in 1844, and was subsequently
prosecuting attorney for that county for
several years, and also represented that
county in the legislature. He afterwards
moved to Boone county, where he was ap-
pointed judge of the fifth judicial district,
and was afterwards elected. He died in
April 1869, at Boonesborough. Many anec-
dotes are related of Judge McFarland, some
of which are too good to be lost. He had
nicknames for many of the attorneys who
practiced before his court. James W.
Wood he called Old Timber, and Gov.
Eastman Old Spot, from the fact of his
being marked with small-pox. On one
occasion, while Old Timber was address
ing the court, an ass walked up near one
of the windows and set up a terrible bray.
The judge quickly turned to Mr. Wood
and cried out : "Sit down, Old Timber, sit
down; one at a time, if you please."
In March, 1857, the thirteenth judicial
district was created, composed of the
counties of Franklin, Butler, Grundy,
Hamilton, Hardin, Marshall, Story and
Wright; to which Webster county was
added in February, 1858.
1(34
HIS TORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
The first term of the district court in
Franklin county, as shown by the records,
was held in March, 1857, at Hampton,
with Hon. J. D. Thompson, judge of the
thirteenth judicial district, presiding 1 . It
was a busy term, as all the cases that had
been accumulating for years came up for
trial. S. C. Brazzelton, was clerk of
court, and Solomon Staley, county sheriff.
In those days there was no district attor-
ney, the work of that officer being per-
formed by a county prosecuting attorney.
R. F. Piatt acted in that capacity. The
home attorneys beside Piatt, were W. N.
Davidson, T. H.Baker and A. H. Bridge-
man, all at that time residents of Maysville.
The attorneys from abroad were E. W.
Eastman and 11. L. Huff, of Eldora ; G.
G. and R. G. Reiniger of Charles City ;
A. F. Brown of Cedar Falls; J. W. Wood,
(Old Timber) now of Steamboat Rock,
and Lee and Newton, whose residence at
that time is unknown.
The first grand jurors impanelled were :
Samuel Carbaugh, David G. Carbaugh,
William W. Ward, W. H. Thompson,
Benjamin Jones, Henry W. Smith, W. B.
Freeborn,Robert Darrah, James VanHorn,
Chauncey Gillett, Jacob Schideler, Lemon
Armstrong, Joseph Riddle, John O. Crap-
ser, S. L. Utley, R. St. Clair, J. F. Robbins,
L. H. Morgan, H. P. Allen, J. A. Sim
pier, I. White, D. C. Jones and Obadiah"
Smith. Herman P. Allen was foreman of
the grand jury, and Henry White and G.
W. Thompson, were appointed bailiffs. It
is presumed the jury met at the Hampton
House, as Dr. J. A. Guthrie, who kept the
house at that time, had a bill audited for
room rent.
The first case to come up was entitled
Thomas H. Baker vs. Peter Rinehart.
The case was brought from justice's court
upon writ of error. After hearing argu-
ments of counsel, the court sustained the
error, and ordered that the judgment of
the court below be reversed. The attor-
neys were A. F. Brown and R. F. Piatt.
The first jury trial to come before the
district court of Franklin county, was
entitled Trumond Stoddard vs. Thomas
H. Baker, and was tried March 1,1858.
The jury rendered a verdict of twenty dol-
lars damage for the plaintiff, and an execu-
tion was issued therefor.
. The first petit jury impanelled com-
prised L. H. Arledge, J. E. Boyles, G. W.
Eckley, James Hogan, William JVI ay,
J. Haller and R. F. Quivy.
The first entKy upon the judgment
docket of Franklin county was dated Jan.
19,1856. The parties were William K.
Jamison against Isaac Stover; the amount
of judgment $1 2.1 2^. The record states:
"Execution returned for want of a suffi-
cient bid April the 8th, 1856."
James D. Thompson, the first judge of
the thirteenth judicial district, was born
Sept. 19, 1832, near Fredonia, Chautauqua
Co. N. Y., and is the second son
of Capt. Isaac K. and Emily D. Thompson,
natives respectively of Massachusetts and
Vermont, descendents of English fore-
fathers who settled in New England
before the Revolution He lived with his
parents on a farm, attending the common
schools, and afterwards the academy in
Fredonia, N. Y., till seventeen years
of age, when he went to Niagara county
and taught his first school. During the
winter his father was accidentally killed,
J q *,
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
165
and from that time lie was left to his own
unaided exertions. At the close of his
school, in the spring of 1850, he returned
to Fredonia, and again resumed his
studies at the academy, and in his leisure
hours read law, teaching again the follow-
ing winter in Laona, a town near Fredonia,
still continuing his law studies. In
the spring he entered the law office of
Hon. O. W. Johnson, of Fredonia, and at
the same time recited with his class in the
academy until he finished his law studies.
Always of slight physical development
and high nervous temperment, such close
application told seriously on his health.
Having been a sufferer from neuralgia' to
such an extent for three or four years as
to compel him to read mostly at night, it
now completely prostrated him; and for
more than a year he was unable to read
even the weekly newspaper, and for more
than two years it stuck to him closer than
a brother. Never, during all that time, was
he free from it two weeks in succession.
In the spring of 1854, he came to Iowa,
having passed one year in Kentucky and
one year in Ohio, engaged in railroading,
both in constructing and engineering;
arrived at Marietta, the county seat of
Marshall county, on the 24th of May, meet-
ing there Hon. Delos Arnold, an old friend
and schoolmate, his only acquaintance' in
the State. After remaining at Marshall a
few weeks, he concluded to make Hardin
county his home, and on the evening of
the 15th of June he walked into Eldora
with his satchel on his back, aud soon
opened a law office, engaging in surveying
and real estate business. He was elected
prosecuting attorney at the next regular
election, and in the summer of I 855, be-
came county judge by the resignation of
Judge Alexander Smith. He was nomi-
nated by the democrats for that office
during the Know-Nothing excitement, but
withdrew from the 'contest. In the fall
he returned to New York and was married
to Dorinda Clough, of Laona, on the
12th of September, 1855, and immediately
started for Iowa. In the spring of 185V,
at the request of the democracy and a
few personal friends of the republican
party, he consented to run for the office of
judge of the district court, and though the
district was largely republican, was elect-
ed for the term of four years, holding the
office until legislated out by the adoption
of the new constitution. At the request
of the Democratic Central Committee of
the different counties, he announced him-
self as an independent candidate for re-
election; but owing to the aspiration of
others then professing to belong to that
party, he consented to go before a conven-
tion of his party, and was nominated, re-
ceiving thirty-six out of thirty-nine votes
on the first ballot. The district being
largely republican, and the excitement of
the "Dred Scott decision 1 ' at its height, a
regular nominee of a democratic convention
could expect nothing but defeat, and when
the contest was decided, his opponent,
Hon. John Porter, had a majority of less
than 300 votes. This was a time, also
of county seat removals. Of the counties
forming the district, three-fourths had,
during his term of office, held elections, and
in most cases the contest was carried into
the district court for adjudication. While
holding the office of judge, being largely
interested in the town of Hamption, the
county seat of Franklin county, he moved
166
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
there and resided a portion of the time.
Returning to Eldora after the expiration
of his term of office, he entered into part-
nership with Hon. H. L. Huff, and con-
tinued in the practice of his profession till
he entered the army, in 1861; was a mem-
ber of the State convention that sent dele-
gates to Charleston, in 1860, and canvassed
a portion of the State for Douglas in that
exciting campaign; volunteered as a
private in Capt. Stump's company, but
withdrew by permission to assist in the
organization of the 1st Iowa Cavalry; rais-
ing and commanding company G of that
regiment; returned to Hardin county and
took an active part in the election of the
fall of 1861, supporting Hon. W. J. Moir
as the Union candidate against Mr. Brown,
the republican nominee. After the elec-
tion he returned to his regiment, and was
from that time in active service with his
company and battalion during the years
1861 and 1862, that battalion accompany-
ing Gen. Fremont in his famous campaign
to Springfield; was present commanding
his squadron at the battle of Milford, in
December, 1861, when, after a sharp fight,
1,300 rebels under Cols. Robinson and
Magoffin surrendered to 400 men of the 1st
Iowa Cavalry and fifty regulars under com-
mand of Gen. J. C. Davis; a success that
gave Gen. Pope prominence, and which he
utilized to its full extent. Again at Silver
Creek, Howard county on Jan. 8, 1862.
when the 1st Iowa and a part of Merrill's
Horse defeated Poindexter. In January,
1 862, having been placed in command of the
cavalry stationed at Sedalia, Mo., he, with
a detachment of the 1st Iowa, numbering
120 men, fell upon 800 confederates under
Gen. E. W. Price, son of Gen. Sterling
Price, while crossing the Osage river at
Warsaw, about 4 o'clock on the morning
of the day of the battle of Fort Donelson,
and succeeded in cutting off and capturing
Gen. Price, Col. Dorseyand other officers,
and some fifty or sixty men, 400 horses,
mules, etc., for which service he received
special commendation from Gen. Halleck.
In April of the same year, he was ordered
to Warrensburg to relieve the garrison
under Major Foster, of the Missouri troops,
who had been driven into the stockade,
and besieged by Quantrell and Parker.
Leaving Sedalia at eleven o'lock on a rainy
night, by a forced march of thiny miles,
he reached Warrensburg at sunrise, with
200 men and a section of artillery, to find
that Quantrell had raised the siege and
decamped. So he moved out fifteen miles
from Warrensburg, fell in wiih Col. Parker
and a portion of Quanrell's troops, and
engaged in a running fight for two or ihree
miles through the timber, killing Cap'.
Griffi h and four or five men and wounding
as many more, captured Col. Parker and fif-
teen or twenty of his troops. He was ordered
to Lexington inMay, thence to Clinton.
He was a member of the military commis-
sion at Butler, Bates county,during the sum-
mer of 1862, assuming command at Clin-
ton in August for a while, but owing to
an unyielding attack of neuralgia and
sickness and death in his family, he re-
signed in October, and returned home to
remain only till his health improved, when
he again returned to the army, having
been commissioned major of the 8th regi-
ment, Iowa Cavalry. Soon after he joined
his regiment it was ordered south, and by
the 1st of December reached Nashville^
Tenn. During that month he w as assigned
•Me-
HISTORY OF FRANKIN COUNTY.
16^
to the command of a sub-district, under
the immediate command of Gen. Gillem,
with headquarters at the terminus of the
Western railroad, thirty miles out from
Nashville. This winter he succeeded in de-
feating, killing and capturing at different
times the most of the celebrated Hawkins'
Scouts, and driving Col. Hawkins, their
commander, into the arms of the 2d Ken-
tucky Cavalry, as it was marching through
the country. He was ordered to Iowa in
March, 1864, in command of a detachment
to escort recruits to different regiments in
the department of the Tennessee. After
discharging that duty, he was detailed on
court martial at Nashville till Gen. Sher-
man was ready to begin his march to the
sea, when he was ordered to his regiment,
then stationed at Cleveland, Tenn., but
soon destined to move to the front, where
it was continually engaged in scouting and
skirmishing. One time it was thirteen days
successively iinder fire, till the unfortu-
nate raid near Rome, Ga., resulting in the
capture of its colonel and most of the regi-
ment, a portion only cutting its way out
with Gen. Edward McCook. He was bre-
veted lietenant-colonel for gallant and
meritorious service. The terrible strain
of such severe and continued service, the
exposure and over exertions, resulted in
an attack of neuralgia of the heart, so
violent as to compel him to be sent to the
hospital at Nashville for treatment, where
he remained three nearly months with-
out improvement, and until discharged,
on certificate of permanant disability, by a
medical board specially appointed. Arriv-
ing home in the fall of 1864, broken down
in health but not in spirit, he located on his
farm engagingfor two years in agriculture.
In 1866 he was nominated for congress
by the peoples' party, and made a thorough
canvass of the district, and, though running
far ahead of his ticket, was defeated. In
1867 he received an appointment as pen-
sion agent at DesMoines, to which place
he removed, residing there till his term of
office expired; then returning to Eldora in
1872, was a delegate to the democratic
State convention, and was largely instru-
mental in securing harmony of action be-
tween that convention and that of the
liberal republicans. He was also a delegate
to the Baltimore convention that nomi-
nated Horace Greeley for president, and
was selected by his fellow delegates as the
member (from Iowa) of the committee to
await on Mr. Greeley, of New York, and
appraise him of the choice of the conven-
tion. Having performed this duty, he re-
turned to Iowa and entered vigorously
into the campaign that resulted so disas-
trously to Mr. Greeley and democracy.
Coming to the conclusion that he was not
a president maker, he has from that day
sirce religiously abstained from all con-
ventions. Though a member of the
grange and an active supporter of the
anti-monopoly movement, he only labored
as a private, refusing promotion. In 1874
Judge Thompson closed his office in El-
dora, and in 1875 removed to San Fran-
cisco, Cal., where he now resides.
By the constitution of 1857, Franklin
county became a part of the eleventh judi-
cial district, and still forms a part of that
district.
John Porter, the successor of Judge
Thompson, was born in Washington
Co., Pa., April 14, 1828. His boy-
hood life was spent in milling and
*
168
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
farming during the summer seasons, and
in attending the common schools in the
winter. At the age of eighteen, he com-
menced teaching district school, and for
three years his time was passed altern-
ately in teaching and attending school to
perfect himself in the higher branches.
He then entered the office of Todd, Hoff-
man & Hutchins, Warren, Ohio, where he
read law some years. In 1854, on his
admission to the bar, he located at Ply-
mouth, Ind., where he remained two
years, and then removed to Mason City,
Cerro Gordo Co., Iowa. He soon took
high rank as s a lawyer, and obtained a
good practice for that day. In 1858 he
was elected judge of the newly organized
district, which position he occupied until
he resigned, in 1866. The energy dis-
played, with quick and good judgment,
earned him the good will of both the bar
and people of the district. Judge Porter
was united in marriage with Mariam
Stevens. They had one child. For
several years the judge has taken great
interest in railroads, and has devoted
much of his time to securing roads
through Hardin county. As a lawyer, he
is recognized as one of the best in the
State, and is an honor to the Hardin
county bar.
In the fall of 1865, Judge Porter
resigned and Daniel D. Chase was ap-
pointed by the governor, Feb. 5, 1866.
Oct. 9, 1866, he was elected by the people,
and four years later, re-elected.
Daniel D. Chase was born in Canajo-
harie, N. Y., July 4, 1830. Until he
attained the age of seventeen he remained
at the old homestead, attending the dis-
trict school in the winter season, and la-
boring like other lads in rural communi-
ties on the farm during the spring, sum-
mer and autumn. The four ensuing years
he passed at the Ames Academy and the
Cazenovia Seminary, where he acquired a
good academic education, and taught in
the meantime to procure the necessary
funds to pursue his studies. After he
ceased attending the seminary, he became
principal of the public schools at Cazeno-
via, at the same time commencing the
study of law. He was afterwards called
to the charge of Woodstock Academy,
successfully discharging the duties of a
teacher while pursuing his legal studies.
He was admitted to the bar of the State
of New York at the general term of
the Supreme Court, in Saratoga coun-
ty, Jan. 1, 1856, and entered at once
upon the practice of his profession.
In August, 1858, Mr. Chase removed to
Iowa, settling at Webster City, Hamilton
county. He came here with no capital
save that which was stored up in his brain,
and an earnest determination to deserve
success. Upon his arrival in the little fron-
tier town which he had selected as his home,
and which then contained scarcely 400
people, and the county not over 1,600, he
found the small legal practice in the hands
of two older lawyers, who settled there
some time previously. It was many months
before he secured his first retainer — a
discouraging fact to a man of limited
means, when the times were hard, and
growing worse with every succeeding week.
But he patiently bided his time, and final-
ly the temperance people were forced to
employ him in the prosecution of Sunday
violations of the liquor law ; both of his
competitors, fortunately for him, being en-
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
169
gaged on the other side. The fight was a
prolonged and bitter one, and it served to
bring prominently to the notice of the
people the fine legal ability and great
force of character of the hitherto reserved
and rather reticent and neglected young
lawyer. This rough and tumble contest
completely "westernized" him, and from
this time forward he was a favored attor-
ney. In the following winter he visited a
number of the counties in the eleventh
judicial district, becoming acquainted and
securing quite an addition to his slender,
legal practice. In a short time he was
accorded a leading position in his profes-
sion in northwestern Iowa. Noted for his
purity of character, dealing fairly with his
clients, and never encouraging litigation,
except in cases where its necessity and
justice rendered it imperative — thus mak-
ing him always the safest of counselors —
he rapidly won his way to a high place in
the popular estimation. In the autumn of
1859, his name was prominently mentioned
in connection with the position of county
judge, every delegate to the convention
favoring his nomination, but he declined
the proffered honor. In the ensuing year
at the republican judicial convention, he
was unanimously tendered the nomination
for member of the board of education, to
which he was chosen in October following
by a large majority. Before his term of
service expired he was elected district at-
torney. In 1865, a vacancy having oc-
curred in the office of district judge, he
was appointed to fill the vacancy by Gov-
ernor Stone. He was twice nominated by
acclamation and twice elected to this dis-
tinguished position, and, at the close of
nine years continuous service on the
bench, declined a third nomination, and
retired to private life. Judge Chase wus
always held in the highest esteem by both
the bar and the people. On his retirement
from the bench, the bar of Hardin county
passed a most complimentary resolution,
declaring that "by his ability, efficiency
and integrity in the discharge of every
official duty, Judge Chase has won, and is
worthy of, not only the commendation and
plaudits of the bar, but of the entire people
who have received the benefits of his
labor." The bar of the entire district, on
the last day of his court, united in present-
ing him with a magnificent gold watch
and chain, to purchase which they con-
tributed the sum of $500. Judge Chase,
in his early days, was a whig, but has
acted with the republican party since its
organization. He was a delegate-at-large
to the national republican convention
which nominated President Lincoln for
his second term.
In the fall of 1874, Isaac J. Mitchell
was elected judge of the eleventh judicial
district. Isaac J. Mitchell is a native of
.Ohio, and was born in Cincinnati on the
31st of May, 1827. While an infant his
father moved to a farm in Clermont Co.,
Ohio, and there the son worked until he
was nineteen, when he went to a high
school in Laurel, Ohio, a few months, to
prepare himself for a teacher. He taught
in Brazil, Ind., and adjoining districts,
for three years. While preparing to
teach, he worked on a farm for two dollars
a week, devoting the money thus earned
to the purchase of textbooks. He read
law while teaching in Indiana, and com-
pleted his school education by attending
Asbury College, Green castle, Ind., one
CJ >
•2:
J^
170
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
term, when, his health giving way, he had
to leave the institution. He removed to
Boonesborough, Iowa, in June, 1855, and
there resumed his study of law while
e no-aged in the drug business. He fin-
ished reading law early in 1858; was
admitted to the bar in Boonesborough in
April, and opened an office there in that
year. He has since been in constant
practice, except when in office, building
up a large business and an enviable reputa-
tion. He served as justice of the peace in
1857, while reading law in Boonesborough,
and the next year was elected a member
of the State board of education, serving
two years. In 1868 he was elected State.
Senator for the term of four years. He
was chairman of the committee on enroll-
ing- and agriculture, and acted on three or
four other committees. He was a very
useful and influential member of the
Assembly. In 1874 he was elected judge
of the eleventh judicial district. He was
recognized as a man of great purity of
character, well read in th.e law, with good
judgment, dignity, decision of character,
and other qualities that tend to make an
excellent judge. He had a hard struggle
in securing an education, but success
crowned his efforts.
July 10, 1878, J. W. McKenzie, of
Hampton, was nominated for judge of the
eleventh judicial district at the conven-
tion held at Fort Dodge, and was elected
at the October election following, by a
majority of 2,336 over Hon. H. E. J.
Boardman.
Judge McKenzie was compelled to re-
sign on account of ill health, and died
shortly afterwards. From the Franklin
County Recorder, under date Jan. 18,
1882, the following sketch of the judge is
taken:
"Judge McKenzie is dead. After a
lingering illness, which he bore with
extraordinary fortitude, he peacefully
breathed his last at half past four o'clock
last Sunday morning, January 15.
"James Wheeler McKenzie was the son
of Roderick and Rachel McKenzie, and
was born in Wyandot Co., Ohio, July
2, 1843. His early life was spent on a
farm, with such early schooling as the dis-
trict schools could afford. He early man-
ifested a taste for reading and intellectual
pursuits, however, and the outbreak of the
war found him well educated and well in-
formed for his age. His first enlistment
was in a regiment known as the 'Squirrel
Hunters,' which was called into service to
protect the southern border of Ohio, but
this service was of short duration, and in
March, 1864, he enlisted in the Signal
corps as a private. At this time he was,
and had been for two years, a student at
the Ohio Wesleyan University at Dela-
ware, in that State. He was assigned to
duty in the department of the Tennessee,
and most of the time until'the close of the
war he was on duty at the corps head-
quarters, commanded by Logan, McPher-
son and Howard. He was an eye-witness
to the death of General McPherson, in
1864, and narrowly escaped capture at that
time. While at Altoona, Oct. 5, 1864,
when that place was attacked by the reb-
els under General French, he was on duty
with a detachment of signal men and act-
ing as sergeant, but in reality only a pri-
vate, the occurrence took place which has
passed into history and song under the
title of 'Hold the Fort!' For bravery on
cy
^
■, ■■.,,. — .-^-
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
171
this occasion McKenzie was mentioned in
General Order No. 40, from the Bureau of
the Signal corps, Nov. 30, 1804, as fol-
lows:
For coolness, bravery and good behavior un-
der fire, during an attack of the enemy on Al-
to ^na, Ga., Oct. 5, 1864.
In the summer of 1865, he was mustered
out of service, and after one term spent at
Obeilin College, he taught school dur-
ing the winter of 1865-6, and com-
menced the study of law in. the office "of
Berry Bros., at Upper Sandusky, in the
spring of 1866 In the fall of that year
he entered the law department of the
Michigan State University, at Ann Arbor,
graduating therefrom in the spring of
1868. His father had removed with his
family to Richland township, inthiscoun-
ty, in the spring of 1867, so that he spent
the summer at his father's place, returning
here upon his graduating in the spring, as
stated above. At the spring term of the
district court of that year he was admitted
to the bar and commenced practice.
"The first year or two was not encour-
aging to him. He lacked the pushing
forward and self-sufficient manner that
brings so many young lawyers to the
front, especially in the west ; but he was
during all this time a close student, and
finally it began to be known that this pale
faced, quiet young man was a well-read
lawyer, a safe counselor, and above all,
an honest, upright man. From about the
first of the year 1870, his practice steadily
increased until, when at his nomination
for district judge, he stood confessedly at
the head of the bar in Franklin county.
He was never an office seeker, although he
was for three years president of the school
board of the independent district of Hamp-
ton, and, in 1876, was a delegate to the
National Convention at Cincinnati that
nominated Hayes. July 10, 1878, he was
nominated for district judge for the elev-
enth judicial district at the convention
held at Fort Dodge, and was elected at
the October election following by a ma-
jority of 2,336 over Hon. H. E. J. Board-
man, a well known and popular lawyer,
which was 480 ahead of the State repub-
lican ticket in the district. In January
following: he assumed the duties of his
office, and from that time until failing
health compelled his resignation, he dis-
charged the duties of his office with in-
dustry and fidelity, and showed a rare
adaptation to the position. In fact he
possessed in perfection the qualities that
go to make a good judge, and if his life
and health had been spared he would have
made for himself a bright record as a
judge and achieved distinction on the
bench.
"Judge McKenzie was, while eminently
a just man, also a kind-hearted and phil-
anthropic one, and public-spirited and
liberal even beyond his means. He was
a member of the M. E. Church and
met death without a doubt as to the fu-
ture. In December, 1871, he was married
to Delia Hemingway, of Ann Arbor,
Mich., and she remains with four children,
a boy and three girls, to mourn the loss of
the kind husband and father. About a
year ago he was taken with bleeding at
the lungs, but continued to discharge his
duties until March, when he became so
much worse that he came home and took
to his bed. He recovered sufficiently to
take a trip to Tennessee in May, going
n-
from thence to Michigan, where he spent
the summer and then returned home, hav-
ing abandoned all hope, and, as he said
himself, 'Only waiting for the end.'
From that time he gradually grew weaker
and weaker until when death did come to
him it must have come as a relief.
"Other citizens of Hampton may become
more distinguished than he and achieve
greater notoriety and even popularity, as
the world goes, but no one will ever hold
a stronger place in the hearts of our peo-
ple and of all who knew him than J. W.
McKenzie."
In reference to the incident upon which
the song of "Hold the Fort" is based, the
following facts are given: Altoona Pass,
an insignificant station on the Chattanooga
tfe Atlanta railroad, is located at the foot
of the mountains from which it derives its
name. A railroad pass has been cut
through one of the foot hills of the mount-
ains and is named after the station. While
General Sherman was investing Atlanta,
he had established a depot of supplies for
his army at Altoona Pass, and on the 4th
of October, 1864, there were about 1,500,-
000 rations stored here. The Pass was
guarded by the 93d Illinois regiment and
detachments from the 4th Minnesota and
ISth Wisconsin regiments. The two
forts, one on either side of the railroad
pass, were garrisoned by the 12th Wis-
consin Battery, with six ten pound guns;
the entire force being under command of
Lieutenant Colonel Tourtelotte, of the 93d
Illinois. At this time, General Sherman's
army was marching towards the Pass, but
was yet beyond Kenesaw, eighteen miles
from Altoona. During the night of Oct.
4, the forces at the Pass were re-inforced
by the arrival of General Corse, with the
7th Illinois, and another detachment of
the 4th Minnesota. The enemy was ad-
vancing from the south, destroying the
railroad and telegraph lines, and the only
communications to be had with General
Sherman, and his army, was by means of
the signal corps, a detachmentunder Lieu-
tenant Allen, having been sent to Altoona
some weeks previous, for that purpose.
Upon the arrival of General Corse, he
took command .of all the forces at Altoona,
numbering less than 2,000 all told. By
daylight, on the 5th of October, the little
garrison was completely invested by
French's division of Stewart's Confederate
corps, numbering 8,000 men, and a large
force of Cavalry. As soon as it was light
enough to enable the gunners to sight
their guns, the Confederates opened fire
upon the forts from a battery occupying a
commanding position. The fire was im-
mediately answered by the 12th Wisconsin
Battery and a brisk cannonading was kept
up for the next two hours. During this
time, Kenesaw was enveloped in a mist so
dense that the signals could not be seen.
At half -past 8 o'clock the Federals were
summoned to surrender, and upon their
refusal, the Confederates assaulted the
forts with great fury, charging through
the town and up the sides of the hill,
nearly to the Union lines. About ten
o'clock, and while the fight was raging,
the mist cleared away from the brow of
Kenesaw, and the signal flags, for which
the besieged had been anxiously waiting,
were plainly visible through the telescope.
Sherman was calling to the invented forces.
At first it was only necessary to signal a
recognition, which was done by waving*
-* t>\
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
17:'.
the flag above the parapet and without
exposure. Then came from Kenesaw the
famous message, "Hold the Fort for I am
coming. Where is Corse?" signed, Sher-
man. When this message was communi-
cated to General Corse, he said to J. W.
McKenzie, who was in charge of the sig-
nal squad, "Tell Sherman that I am here,
and we can hold the fort." To send this
message to Sherman, required that some
one should mount the parapet of the fort,
and in plain view of the enemy, exposed
to a merciless fire, signal, letter by letter,
each word of the message. McKenzie
called for volunteers. One of the men
answered, "I will go if I am ordered but
will not volunteer," and then McKenzie,
with noble self-sacrifice, seized the flag,
stepped into an embrasure, from there
climbed up to the parapet, and with the
shot and bullets falling like leaden hail
about him, waved the message back to
Sherman.
H. C. Henderson, the present judge of
the eleventh judicial district, is a native
of Virginia, and comes of a family who
were quite prominent in that common-
wealth. His father was an old-line whig
and quite intimate with Henry Clay, John
Bell, and other noted politicians of that
school. The family, or a portion of it,
moved to Illinois at an early day; one of
the members of it having since attained a
national reputation — Thomas J. Hender-
son, colonel of one of the Illinois regi-
ments during the rebellion, and subse-
quently a member of Congress from that
State. While residing in Illinois, H. C.
read law and was admitted to the bar.
For several years he practiced his profes-
sion in Rock Island in that State, from
which place he removed to Iowa, about
1856, locating in Marshalltown. Here he
gained a large practice and quite a reputa-
tion throughout the State, as a lawyer and
as a politician. He is also a radical pro-
hibitionist. On the death of Judge Mc-
Kenzie he was appointed by the governor
of the State to fill the vacancy on the
bench in this district. The position he
has filled in a satisfactory manner, so much
so as to secure him the nomination and
election for the full term, beginning Jan.
1, 1883.
CIRCUIT COURT.
By an act of the General Assembly,
passed and approved April 3, 1868, circuit
courts were established in this State, and
each judicial district was divided into two
circuits, in each of which, at the general
election in November, 1868, and every
four years thereafter, a circuit judge
should be elected. Four terms of court
were provided per year in each county in
the circuits. By this act the office of
county judge was abolished, and all busi-
ness pertaining to that office was trans-
ferred to the circuit court, which was also
to have concurrent jurisdiction with the
district court in all civil actions at law,
and exclusive jurisdiction of all appeals
and writs of error from justices' courts,
mayors' courts, and all other inferior tri-
bunals, either in civil or criminal cases.
Franklin county, together with the coun-
ties of Hardin, Hamilton, Webster,
Wright, Marshall, Story and Boone, were
made the second circuit of the elevenh
judicial district.
Samuel L. Rose, of Hamilton county,
was the first circuit judge. He was elected
in the fall of 1868. Samuel L. Rose was
»
-« s>
174
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
born in Augusta, Oneida Co., N. Y., on the
1 nth of December, 1818. His father was
Dr. Nathaniel Rose, and one of the ances
tors of his mother (whose maiden name
was Abigail Knowles) came over in the
Mayflower. The paternal grandfather of
Samuel was a victim of the Indian massa-
cre at Wyoming, Pa. The early years
of young Rose were spent in schools, he
entering Augusta Academy at an early
age, and remaining in it until he was
eighteen, excepting one winter, when, at
the age of sixteen, he taught school at
Kennett, Chester Co , Pa. Among his
pupils that season were Bayard Taylor
and Mr. Wickersham, since State superin-
tendent of public instruction in Pennsyl-
vania. Mr. Rose began the study of med-
icine before leaving the academy, but at
nineteen abandoned it for the study of the
law, reading at first with Judge Beardsley,
of Utica, and then with Hon. Timothy
Jenkins, of Oneida. He was admitted to
the bar in 1841, and practiced in his native
town until 1850. During the last named
year he moved to Beaver Dam, Wis.,
where he rose to eminence as a lawyer,
giving, meanwhile, part of his time to
railroad matters. In December, 1857, he
removed to Milwaukee, where he engaged
more extensively in railroading, and was
at one time president of the Milwaukee
and Western Railway Company. In 1862
he crossed the Mississippi, halting one
year at Fort Dodge, Iowa, and then loca-
ting at Rose Grove, in the adjoining coun-
ty of Hamilton, fifteen miles from the
county seat, where he now has one of the
loveliest homes in this partof the State.
A farm life has long been his choice.
He has some 600 acres under improve-
ment, and raises a great deal of fruit.
Mr. Rose was elected judge of Dodge
county, Wis., before he was a voter in
that State, and served until 1856, when
he resigned. He was a member of the
Wisconsin legislature four years, two in
each house, and was one of the most
prominent men in that body. Mr. Rose
was the first postmaster at Rose Grove,
and held the office six years. He was
chairman of the board of county super-
visors for six years. While a resident of
Wisconsin, he was a part of the time verv
active in educational matters. He aided
in founding Wayland University, at
Beaver Dam, and was the first president
of its board of trustees. For six years
he was one of the regents of the Univer-
sity of Wisconsin. Mr. Rose belongs to
the Masonic and Odd Fellows orders. He
was a democrat of free soil proclivities
until 1856, since which date he has been
a republican. As a judge, Mr. Rose gave
satisfaction to the bar and public. He
served the full term of four years.
J. H. Bradley was the successor of Judge
Rose, and was elected in the fall of 1872
entering upon the discharge of his duties
in January, 1873. He was re-elected
in 1876, and served his second
term, ending January, 1881. Judge Brad-
ley made an able and impartial judicial
officer, and was generally esteemed by
both bar and people. For several years
previous he had been prosecuting attorney
for the district, and his qualifications were
therefore well known by all.
D. D. Miracle was elected successor of
Judge Bradley, in the fall of 1880. His
f
qualifications as a judge are indisputable,
and as a man he is highly respected. He
is a resident of Webster City, and is a
brother-in-law of Judge D. D Chase.
COUNTY COUKT.
In 1851, by an act of the General As-
sembly, county courts were established
and the office of county judge created.
By the same act the office of probate
judge was abolished, as were also the
offices of county commissioners; the duties
of the commissioners and probate judges
devolving upon the county judge. The
county of Franklin, not being organized
until 1855, had no probate judge nor
county commissioners. The first county
judge was James B. Reeve, one of the
first settlers of the county Upon Judge
Reeve devolved the duty of perfecting
the organization of the county, dividing
it into townships, and such other work
as was necessary to perfect a system of
county government.
CHAPTER VII
THE BAR OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
There is no class or profession which
has more influence in social and
political matters than the bar. Even the
press, which wields a mighty power
among the masses, does not surpass it, as
matters treated by them are generally
local and varying. The pulpit, a great
worker for good, is more devoted to the
moral and spiritual welfare of man. But
the profession of law embraces all under
one grand aim. Upon the few principles
of natural justice is erected the whole
superstructure of civil law tending to re-
lieve the wants and meet the desires of all
alike. The grand object of law is equal
justice to all, not technicality ; although
the latter must be strictly adhered to, to
preserve the supremacy of law. The laws
are formed as exigencies arise demanding
them, by the representatives of the
people. Change is necessary. The wants
of the people of to-day, and the lawful
restraints to be thrown around those of
the present age, differ from those of
former years. They are too lenient or
too severe — in one case to be strengthened,
in the other, modified. The business of
the lawyer does not call upon him to form
laws, but it lies with him to interpret
them, and to apply them to the daily
wants of men. Every matter of import-
ance, every question of weight among all
classes and grades, come before him in
one form or another, for discussion.
Hence, the lawyer is a man of to-day —
posted upon all matters pertaining to the
age in which he lives. His capital is his
ability and individuality, and he cannot
71
*C <T
176
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
bequeath them to his successors. They die
with him, or live in the memory of his
deeds and sayings.
In early days business was not so great
in extent as to occupy the full time of the
lawyer. Suits were not so numerous or
remunerative as to afford him a comforta-
ble living for himself and family, and
often other occupations had to be taken
in connection to swell the slender income.
As a rule the lawyer became a politician,
and more of the prominent lawyers of
those days went to Congress and the State
legislatures, than at present. The people
demanded their services, and they were
glad to accommodate the people. To-day
the profession stands at the head, almost
of all others, and the good lawyer must
always be prominent, as he is one of the
forces which move, control and protect
society. There have been, and still are,
able and prominent men practicing before
the courts of Franklin county — men who
were an honor to the profession to society
and to the county.
In this chapter is presented a sketch of
every lawyer who located in Franklin
county and followed the profession of
law. None are omitted intentionally*
and of some, more would gladly have
been said had material been accessible.
THE BAR OF THE PAST.
Among those who located in Franklin
county, and practiced law, who have
either moved away, quit practice, or are
deceased, are the following : R. F. Piatt,
Samuel B. Jackson, Q. A. Jordan, T. H.
Baker, A. H. Bridgeman, W. N. Davidson,
J. J. Layman, N. B. Chapman, M. A.
Leahy, John T. Stearns, Col. A. T. Reeve,
Maj A. G. Kellam, John TI. King, J, D.
Giffen, J. H. Bland, J. T. Haight and J.
W. Gilger.
In an early day M. M. Trumbull, of
Clarksville, Butler county, was connected
frequently with law cases in this county.
He was a young man and full of fun.
When he came to Franklin county he
would often stop with C. M. Leggett, and
he happened along once just in time to
help Leggett out of trouble. Leggett
had a neighbor named Webster, who lived
across the creek, and who had a large herd
of cattle. The cattle were troubling
Leggett in the fall by getting into his
corn field, but as there was no herd law in
those days i r was almost impossible to get
any redress. Finally, some of Webster's
cattle threw down the fence and Leggett's
own cow got in and ate so much corn that
she died from the effects thereof. Leg-
gett was the only justice of the peace in
the county, and before whom to sue Web-
ster he could not imagine; but Trumbull
came along, stopped over night, and to
him Leggett confided his troubles. Trum-
bull went to work and drew up a notice
to Webster, citing him to appear before
Judge Reeve, the county judge, at the
next term of court, and told Leggett to go
over and serve it. " But the county judge
hasn't any jurisdiction in such cases,"
says Leggett. "That makes no differ-
ence," says Trumbull, "the chances are
ten to one that he don't know it." Ac-
cordingly, Leggett went over, and with
great pomp and ceremony read his notice
to Webster. This scared Webster, and
he began negotiations for a compromise
forthwith, which ended by his giving
Leggett another cow, and paying for ex-
tra trouble and attorney's fee besides,
7
5'^teti*
?m&&
^6/ ^Aj&n^i
&ru>.
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
179
which Trumbull donated to Leggett, as
perhaps his (Trumbull's) conscience would
not allow him to take money for such ad-
vice.
About the first attorney to locate in
Franklin county was Robert F. Piatt.
He was a native of Williamsport, Pa.,
was well educated, being a graduate of
Mifiiinburg Academy. He afterwards
studied law, and was admitted to practice
in Williamsport. Having relatives in
Cedar Co., Iowa, he came west in 1855,
and being a cousin of Herman and Charles
Allen, he came " to view the prospect o'er"
in Franklin county. He found it just or-
ganized, but no lawyer, and thinking that
here was a field that offered good induce-
ments, he put up at Judge Reeve's, and
speedily was the legal adviser of the offi-
cials of the new county, and of everybody
else who desired legal advice. He was a
good penman and everything that he
made a record of was neatly done and in
a business like manner. The first entry
in the county judge's minute book was
written by him. In the spring, after the
location of the county seat, he removed
there and became intimately connected
with the official growth of Franklin
county. He afterwards got into financial
trouble and left the county, going still
farther west.
Samuel B. Jackson was among the very
first attorneys to locate at Hampton, arriv-
ing here about the time the town was
platted. He was a young unmarried man,
and " boarded 'round" during his short
stay. Where he went or what has become
of him is unknown.
Q. A. Jordan was the first prosecuting
attorney of the county, but whether he
had ever been admitted to the bar is un-
known. He never made any pretentions
in regard to the profession.
P. H. Baker came to Franklin county to
practice law in 1856, locating at M^tys-
ville. He engaged in the profession for
a number of years and then began the
practice of medicine, which he has since
continued.
In 1856 the legal profession of Franklin
county received an additional member, in
the person of A. H. Bridgeman, who came
from New York State. Mr. Bridgeman
was highly educated, having graduated as
third in his class from Harvard Uni-
versity. He was also a graduate of the
Albany Law School. At the beginning
of the war he enlisted in Company H, 32d
Iowa Infantry, and after his discharge
from service went to Buchanan county,
this State.
W. N. Davidson came to Franklin
county in 1857, and located first at Mays-
ville. In 1858 he removed to Hampton
and in November of that year, was ap-
pointed county superintendent of schools
and was elected to the same office in 1859.
He commenced the practice of law with
but little preparatory study ; but being a
diligent student and a close observer, he
became well posted in his profession.
Mr. Davidson was not a thoroughly edu-
cated man, but he had an indomitable will
that knew no such thing as " fail. " His
likes and dislikes were intensely strong,
and, as his temperament was not such as
was calculated to make him friends or
extend his acquaintance, he did not
achieve that success here that his talents
entitled him to, although he built up a
good practice and accumulated consider-
t
a . ia.
—4,
/ ^
180
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
able property. It is said of him that he
became one of the best special pleaders in
the State of Iowa. His forte lay entirely
in the preparation of a case. He was a
fine writer and his papers and documents
were faultless. Mr. Davidson was a very
eccentric man ; he would meet a friend
on the street and would shake hands in
the most friendly manner ; but the next
day meeting the same person he would
never show the least sign of recognition ;
his mind being at times so concentrated
on some particular business that he would
pass his best friends without noticing
their presence. He was gifted with a
poetical mind and would sometimes sit
and allow his imagination to soar at will
for hours. Fl e published a book of origi-
nal poems, replete with poetical thought
and grand flights of imagination. In 1875
he went to Ackley, Hardin county, and
from there removed to Bloomington,
111., where he ran a democratic news-
paper for about a year. He then went to
Luverne, Minnesota, where he has since
been judge of the probate court.
The next lawyer to locate in Franklin
county, was J. J. Layman. He was a
native of Elmira, N. Y. and came here
in 1858. From here he went to Cedar
Falls and engaged in the insurance busi-
ness. On the breaking out of the rebell-
ion, Mr. Layman returned to Elmira, N.
Y., and was commissioned as colonel of
a New York regiment.
The next lawyer to commence practice
in the county, was N. B. Chapman, who
came to Hampton in 1859, from Rockford,
Floyd county, this State, where he had
made his home for three or four years.
He was originally from Peekskill, N.
Y., where he had studied law and was
admitted to the bar. He entered upon
the practice of his profession here, and
soon had the best law practice of any
attorney in the county. In 1861, he was
elected county superintendent of schools,
and was re-elected in 1865. Mr. Chap*
man was a genial, open hearted gentleman
and had many friends in the county. He
removed to Grinnell, Iowa, in 1870, from
there went to Iowa City, and from the lat-
ter place removed to Atlantic, Cass county,
where he and his son opened a law office,
and now enjoy a good practice.
M. A. Leahy, came to this county in
1868, and during his first winter taught
school at Chapin. The next winter he
taught the Reeve school in Reeve town-
ship. In 1870, he located at Hampton,
where he opened a law office. In 1871,
he was elected to the State legislature
from Franklin county, and re-elected in
1873. During his second term, he was
chairman of the judiciary committee, the
most important committee of the General
Assembly. In 1878, Mr. Leahy entered
into partnership with Colonel Reeve, in
the practice of law, giving most of his
attention, however, to the real estate and
insurance business. Mr. Leahy entered
the Union army and served in a Wiscon-
sin regiment until the close of the war,
coming out of service as a captain. He
was a fine scholar, having graduated from
the Wisconsin State University, and from
the law department of the Michigan Uni-
versity. He was a man of good moral
character and was respected by the whole
community. He was a good stump speak-
er, and in later years, was the acknowl-
edged leader of the greenback party in
_r
J-
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
181
this county. Mr. Leahy is now located in
Wausau, Wisconsin.
John T. Stearns must also be noted
among the lawyers of Franklin county,
although he never devoted his whole at-
tention to practice. He was a native
of Rensselaer Co., N. Y., ,born April
9, 1841. In 1856 he removed with his
parents to Black Hawk Co., Iowa, his
father settling upon a farm just east of
Cedar Falls. In November, 1856, John
entered the store of T. B. and H. H. Car-
penter, at Cedar Falls, and when, in
March, 1859, they decided to start a branch
store at Hampton, they placed John, then
only eighteen years old, in sole charge of
the business. The room occupied was
one directly adjoining the Hampton House,
and afterwards became a part of it.
Stearns bought the first wheat, and the
first dressed hogs ever sold to any dealer
in this county. The wheat he stored in a
little house that stood where Dr. J. H.
Hutching now resides, on Iowa street. In
the spring of 1863, the Carpenter brothers
closed out their store here, and John
returned to Cedar Falls, but soon went to
Dubuque, and secured a place as salesman
in the house of John Bell & Co. But
in 1864 he left and started a clothing
store at Iowa Falls, and in 1865 sold out
and came back to Hampton, entering into
trade again at the same old stand. In the
spring of 1866 he was appointed post-
master at Hampton, and in the fall of 1866
erected and moved into the building which
was afterward occupied by Isaac Robin-
son. In 1867 he sold out this establish-
ment, and went into the hardware and
agricultural implement business. From
1869 to 1873 he engaged in the real estate
and insurance business, and in the latter
year removed to O'Brien county, in the
northwestern part of the State, where he
remained about three years, returning
here in 1876, when he became a partner in
the real estate and insurance business,
under the firm name of Stearns, King <fc
Co., and continued in that line until 1881,
when he removed to Chamberlain, D. T ,
where he still lives.
Col Arthur T. Reeve was for many
years a member of the bar, and is one of
the leading men of Franklin county. He
is a native of Ohio, born at New Lyme,
Ashtabula county, Dec. 18, 1835, and a
brother of the first judge of Franklin
county — James B. Reeve. The Reeve's
were a patriotic family. The grandfather
of Arthur, and three brothers were in the
Revolutionary war, and two of them died
in a prison ship. Arthur's father was a
farmer, and the son remained at home
until his nineteenth year, having, mean-
time, pursued one year's course of study
at the Orwell Academy. In 1854, he
moved to Iowa, settling at Maysville,
Franklin county, where he followed farm-
ing in the summers and teaching in the
winters. In the spring of 1858 he went
to Buena Vista county, made a claim on
the Little Sioux river, but lost it, and late
in the s me year returned to Franklin
county The summer of 1860 he spent in
the mines of Pike's Peak. In 1861 he
met John Brown, Jr., in Chicago, and en-
listed in the 7th regiment Kansas Cavalry,
better known as the "Jayhawkers." He
started as a private, and became a non-
commissioned officer, serving eighteen
months. As soon as colored men began to
to be mustered in the Union army, Mr.
f
jjs
] 82
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Reeve was detailed to organize such troops.
He soon hsd such a company ready, it
Corinth, Miss., for the 55th regiment Col-
ored Infantry and lie was appointed its
capt in. A little later he aided in organ-
izing the 88th regiment Colored Infantry,
and was appointed major. Still later, he
organized a regiment of colored militia,
and was made its colonel. Near the close
of the rebellion, Col. Reeve was detailed for
service in the Freedmen's Bureau, being
appointed superintendent of the same at
Memphis. This office he held until Jan-
uary, 1866, when he returned to his home
and farm at Maysville. He moved to
Hampton in 18*70; had previously read
law at sundry times ; was admitted to the
bar, and engaged in law prctice and real
estate business. Col. Reeve has held many
offices of trust in Franklin county ; he
was elected county judge in 1861, but
before qualifying enlisted in the army ;
lie was a member of the board of super-
visors from 1867 to 1869, and then elected
treasurer of the county, serving four years.
He has been for a number of years, one
of the regents of the State University, and
in 1873, was a very prominent candidate
for State treasurer. He is now engaged
in the pension bureau of the government,
but still makes Hampton his home. On
the 2d of April, 1858, Mr. Reeve was mar-
ried to H. Lavina Soper, of Maysville,
formerly of St. Lawrence Co.,N. Y. They
have had seven children, six of whom are
living.
Major A. G. Kellam came to Hampton,
from Delevan, Wis., in 1871, and in com-
pany with J. F. Latimer, established the
Franklin County Bank. For about ten
years he remained connected with the
institution, and in the meantime became
a law partner of John H. King and D. W.
Henley. After closing his connection with
the bank he devoted his whole time and
energy to the practice of law. In busi-
ness and social circles he was much es-
teemed and respected and his word was
always as good as his note. Probably no
man has ever had the thorough respect
and friendship of the entire county as
was felt for Mr. Kellam. In 1881 he re-
moved to Chamberlain, Dakota, and is
there engaged in business. In his leaving
the county, Hampton lost a valued citi-
zen.
John II. King commenced practice in
1872, and for a time afterward was in
partnership with W. N. Davidson. He
remained here until August, 1882, then
went to Dakota and was one of the
founders of the town of Chamberlain,
at the terminus of the Milwaukee & St.
Paul R. R. Mr. King was for two terms a
member of the State legislature from
this county, and while there attracted
considerable attention for his zeal and
activity in the interest of his constituents.
No member of the eighteenth General
Assembly stood higher in the estimation
of his contemporaries or made a better
record than did Mr. King. He was an
indefatigable worker, and although not a
success as a lawyer, his energy made him
a man to be sought for. He was one of
the best known men in the State.
J. D. Giffen opened a law office in
Hampton in 1873, and remained about
nine months. From here he went to
Marion, Linn county, this Stale, and in
1S82 was elected judge of the eighth judi-
cial district.
Q ^
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
is::
J. H. Bland came here from Indianola,
Iowa, is 1874, for the purpose of practic-
ing law. He entered into partnership
with D. W. Dow and remained ahout six
months. His health then failed him and
he went to Los Angelos Co., Cal, where
he died soon after. In speaking of the
unexpected death of James H. Bland,
the State Register said: "Mr. Bland, who
was well known in Iowa, removed to Cali-
fornia in 1874, going partly for health
and partly for business. His disease was
diphtheria, and his illness lasted only four
or five days. Mr. Bland had many friends
in our city and many at Indianola, where
he attended college for three years, as
well as at Hampton, this State, where he
used to be in business. He was an inti-
mate friend of Homer Cope, and was him-
self a fine elocutionist, and had read in
public at various places in this State. He
went to California to pursue his profes-
sion, that of law, and was meeting with
unusual success. He was a young gentle-
man of the highest worth and of the
noblest qualities. His age was twenty-
eight."
In 1877 the legal profession received an
addition in the person of J. F. Haight,
who located at Sheffield and commenced
the practice of law. He had but little
practice, paying most of his attention to
insurance business. In 1880 he went to
Tama county, this State, and in 1883 was
located in Hamilton county.
The next lawyer was J. W. Gilger, who
came here from Greene, Butler county, in
1880. He was a native of Venango Co.,
Pa., and came to Butler county early in
the seventies. He was admitted to the
bar in that county and worked up a fair
practice. Mr. Gilger was a man of ability
and was a good lawyer. For eighteen
months he was in partnership with D. W.
Dow, of Hampton, and for a time with
D. W. Henley. In the spring of 1883,
Mr. Gilger removed to Minneapolis, Min.,
to pursue the practice of his profession.
THE ]JAR OF TO-DAY.
In 1883 the legal profession was repre-
sented in Franklin county by the follow-
ing named firms and individuals: D. W.
Dow, McKenzie & Hemingway, James T.
McCormick, D. W. Henley, Taylor &
Evans, Harriman & Luke, William Hoy,
Walter A. Church, G. R Miner and R.
H. Whipple.
Daniel W. Dow, the second attorney to
locate at Hampton, and the oldest resi-
dent attorney in the county, was born in
Washtenaw Co., Mich., on the 30th of
September, 1836. In 1846 his parents
located in Waukesha Co., Wis., and two
years later removed to Whiteside Co., 111.
Having been taught the advantage of an
education, at the age of fifteen he began
attending school, working during the
summer season to secure the necessary
means to attend during the winter. After
he had sufficient education he taught
school during the winter months and at-
tended in the summer At nineteen years
of age he began the study of law, that
profession being his aim from early boy-
hood. For a time he read law with Joseph
Knox, of Rock Island. Early in 1859 he
was admitted to the bar, and soon after
came to Iowa, and was admitted to prac-
tice before the courts of this State in
Clinton county. In July, 1859, he located
at Hampton and began the practice of his
profession. One year after his arrival he
184
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
was elected clerk of the courts and re-elect-
ed twice. After retiring from office he
again began practicing his profession, in
which he has since been actively engaged.
He is to-day one of the most successful
attorneys in northern Iowa, and his suc-
cess is largely due to his untiring zeal and
energy. Mr. Dow has always taken an
active part in any enterprise of a public
nature that would tend to advance the
interests of his county, and probably no
man has worked harder than Daniel W.
Dow to make Franklin county what it
is to-day. He is a forcible speaker, clear
and logical in his arguments, and is an
honor to the bar of Franklin county.
For a short time he served in the war
for the Union, enlisting in 1864 in com-
pany G, 44th Iowa Infantry, as lieuten-
ant, and served in that capacity until
honorably discharged at the expiration
of his term of service. On the 4th of
December, 1864, Mr. Dow was married
to Miss M J. Carter, daughter of S. H.
Carter of Reeve township. Their chil-
dren are — Guy H., Sarah A., Alma and Abi.
Tom C. McKenzie came to Hampton
in March, 1867, in company with his
brother J. W. He remained a short time,
then went to Cedar Falls and studied law
in the office of Packard & Brown. He
pursued his studies until fall, then went
to Ann Arbor, Mich., and took a law
course, returning to Hampton the follow-
ing spring. Mr. McKenzie was admitted
to the bar in April, soon after his return
to this place. He then went to Sioux City,
this State, and engaged in the real estate
business; but not meeting with the success
he expected, he returned to Hampton in
the fall, and in company with his brother,
opened the first regular law office in the
place. The country was new, however,
and there was but little business for law-
yers; so Mr. McKenzie concluded to try
his skill in a newspaper enterprise. He
went to Ackley, Hardin county, this State,
and established the Ackley Mirror, which
paper he ran until fall, when he sold and
returned to Hampton. He has since made
this his home, engaged in the practice of
his profession. Mr. McKenzie was born in
in Wyandot Co., Ohio, Sept. 30, 1845. His
parents were Roderick and Rachel (Berry)
McKenzie; the former a native of New
York; the latter of Virginia. Mr. McKen-
zie made his native State his home, until
coming to Iowa as above stated. He re-
ceived his education at Ohio Wesleyan
University, and at Oberlin College, hav-
ing attended two years at the former
and part of one year at the latter insti-
tution. In ( the spring of 1864, he enlisted
in the Signal Corps and served until the
close of the war. Most of this time the
signal squad was attached to the 15th
Army Corps, General John A. Logan,
commander. Mr. McKenzie was married
Dec. 1, 1869, to Florence Brown, of Cedar
Falls. Jan. 16, 1876, Mrs. McKenzie died
leaving two children — Nellie and Edwin,
and one month later, little Edwin fol-
lowed her. Mr. McKenzie was again
married March 26, 1879, to Louie M.
Harris, of Kirksville, Mo. This union
has been blessed with two children —
Gertrude and James W. In 1870, Mr.
McKenzie was elected clerk of the dis-
trict court, and resigned in June, 1875.
In 1877, he was elected county treas-
urer and was re-elected in 1879. In
L
HISTORY OF FRANKTN COUNTY.
185
1878, Mr. McKenzie entered into partner-
ship with J. M. Hemingway, for the pur-
pose of practicing law, under the firm
name of McKenzie & Hemingway. The
firm is one of the most reliable in the
county and have a large law practice.
J. M. Hemingway, junior member of
the law firm of McKenzie & Hemingway,
has been a resident of Hampton since 1 875.
He was born at Hadley, Mich., Dec. 4,
1848, and is a son of John and Sarah
(Dexter) Hemingway. In 1869, he entered
the literary department of the University,
of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, and graduated
in 1873. He came to Iowa in 1874, and
matriculated at the State University at
Iowa City, and graduated from the law
department in the spring of 1875. He
was admitted to practice in the supreme
court of the State in June of that year.
On opening his office at Hampton, he was
associated with Hon. J. W. McKenzie, and
on the latter's election as judge, he formed
a co-partnership with T. C. McKenzie.
He is a republican in politics. His busi-
ness connection is regarded as among the
leading in the county, and the firm is do-
ing a prosperous and extensive business.
Mr. Hemingway was married in 1877, to
Natalia Zimmerman, born in La Porte,
Ind. They have one child — Irma.
James T McCormick, is one of the gen-
tlemen who can present valid claims to
the rank of pioneer in Franklin county,
arriving here in October 1857. Soon after,
he was appointed deputy treasurer and re-
corder, which position he filled three years.
In 1860, he engaged in the real estate
business at Hampton. In 1862, he was
appointed to fill a position in the quarter-
master's department at Washington, D. C,
where he remained six years. He has since
been justice of the peace at Hampton, and
is a charter member of the Knights of
Pythias, and belongs to the society of A.
O. U. W. Mr. McCormick was born in
Union Co., Penn., May 8, 1836. He is a
son of Samuel C. and Sarah (Taggart)
McCormick. He was educated at the
Baptist University, atLewisburg, Penn.
D. W. Henley has been engaged in the
practice of his profession at Hampton,
since 1875. He was born in what is now
Hendricks Co., Ind., Jan. 26, 1848. He
is a son of W. H. and Elizabeth (Pitts)
Henley. He attended the public schools
of his native county, and finished his edu-
cation at Earlham ( ollege, where he grad-
uated in 1871. He soon after began the
study of law at Indianapolis, and soon
after entered the law school at Des
Moines. Iowa. In December 1875, he was
admitted to the bar. Tie located at Hamp-
ton, and associated with John H. King,
and afterwards "with A. G. Kellam. Until
lately, he has been a member of the law
firm of Henley & Gilmer. In politics, he
is a staunch republican and belongs to the
order of Masons Mr. Henley was mar-
ried, in 1871, to Emily Stanton.
T. B. Taylor, senior member of the law
firm of Taylor & Evans, came to Hamp-
ton in 1873, and since 1874 has devoted
his time to his profession. Mr. Taylor
read law with Judge McKenzie, was ad-
mitted to the bar in 1874, and then com-
menced the practice of law in Hampton.
The next June he was appointed clerk of
courts of Franklin county, and in 1876
was elected to the same office which he
held one term, and then resumed the prac-
tice of law, which he has since followed.
186
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
He is a republican and a member of the
'.VI. E. Church. He was married in 1872
to Nellie VanSant. They have three
living children: Olive, Ralph V. and
Thomas B. Mr. Taylor was born in Du-
buque Co., Iowa, Jan. 1, 1853, graduated
at Cornell College in 1872, was afterwards
principal of Albion Seminary one year,
and was engaged in Hampton with Taylor
& Carhart for about eight months in the
book and music business. In 1879 he en-
tered partnership with W. D. Evans for
the practice of law.
William D. Evans located and com-
menced the practice of law in Hampton
in 1879, being associated with T. B. Tay-
lor. He was born in Racine Co., Wis.,
May 10, 1852, and in 1858 came with his
parents and settled in Iowa City, Iowa,
where at the age of twenty-one he gradu-
ated at the State University, in the col-
lege department in 1878, and in the law
department in 1879. He is a republican,
an earnest advocate of temperance and a
member of the Congregational Church at
Hampton. He and Julia Clark, of Iowa
City, were married in 1879 and have two
children: Evan S. and William Devoid.
W. F. Harriman, mayor of Hampton, is
among the leading attorneys of Franklin
county. He was born at Warner, N. H.,
Aug. 16, 1841. Until the age of nineteen
he was engaged in obtaining his education,
studying first in the public schools and
afterward at the New London Literary
and Scientific Institute. He was employed
some time subsequently in teaching, and
later in reading law. He came west to
Floyd Co., Iowa, in 1860, and in 1869
was admitted to the bar at Charles City.
He soon after removed to Cherokee Co.,
Iowa. After a brief residence there he
was elected to the office of county super-
intendent of schools, which post he held
two years. In 1876 he came to Hampton,
and has since been actively engaged in
the prosecution of his profession. He is
of the firm of Harriman & Luke. He is
independent in politics and gives his sup-
port to the candidate who is, in his judg-
ment, most fit .for the position. He is
popular with the people and has held
several official positions previous to his
present incumbency. Mr. Harriman is a
member of the Masonic order, and be-
longs to Anchor Lodge, No. 191, of Hamp-
ton. He was married in 1865 to Ella E.
Mitchell. Ti eir children are: John W.,
Wilbert E. and Charles B. Harriman.
J. W. Luke, junior member of the law
firm of Harriman & Luke, was born near
Albany, Albany Co., N. Y., in 1840. His
parents were Garrett and Maria (Hotelling)
Luke, both natives of Albany Co., N. Y.
In 1849 the family removed to Cayuga
county, same State, where they lived five
years. In 1854 they removed to Illinois,
locating for the first four years in Boone
county, and at the expiration of that time
went to Jo Daviess county. In April,
1861, Mr. Luke enlisted in company E,
15th Illinois Infantry, and on the oraran-
ization of the company he was elected
second lieutenant. He commanded the
company during almost the entire time
until the summer of 1865, when the com-
pany disbanded and Mr. Luke was dis-
charged from service as a captain. Dur-
ing the war Mr. Luke participated in the
battles of Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Vicks-
burg, Atlanta and all of the .engagements
of the Army of the Tennessee, to which his
'A
<m« *.
u i>
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
187
company was attached. At the battle of
Sliiloh he was wounded in the right thigh
and in the left leg below the knee, being
disabled for over two months. On the
first day of that memorable battle, there
were seventy men in his company, and
out of that number there were forty that
were killed or wounded. After his dis-
charge Mr. Luke returned to Jo Daviess
Co., 111., and was elected sheriff of the
county, which office he held for two years.
In the meantime he had been applying
himself to the study of law, and as soon
as his term of office expired was admitted
to the bar, commencing practice at once.
Shortly after being admitted to the bar
Mr. Luke was elected prosecuting attor-
ney of his county, holding the office four
years. After this he engaged in the prac-
tice of his chosen profession at Galena,
111., until the spring of 1882, when he
came to Hampton. He at once opened a
law office, engaging in practice alone until
fall, when he entered into partnership
with W. F. Harriman, under the firm
name of Harriman & Luke. Mr. Luke
was married in September, 1866, to Sarah
A. Yerrington, a native of Michigan.
William Hoy has been a practicing at-
torney in Hampton since 1878. He was
born Aug. 26, 1840, and when nine years
of age, moved with his parents to eastern
Wisconsin, where he grew to manhood
and obtained a good common school edu-
cation, which was supplemented by a five
years course at Hamline University, at
Red Wing, Minn. He then engaged as
principal of the schools of Kasson, Minn.,
and afterwards at Newton, Iowa. He
retained the latter position five years
and then entered the law office of Hon.
J. C. Cook, of Newton, afterwards mem-
ber of Congress from that district. He
was admitted to the bar in Jasper Co.,
Iowa, in 1876, and soon after transferred
his interests to Hampton. Mr. Hoy has
given his attention chiefly to commercial
law and ranks high as an expert in that
avenue of his profession. He is doing an
immense business and has an extensive
reputation as a commercial lawyer. In
politics he is a republican, and is a mem-
ber of the M. E. Church. In 1863, he was
married to Miss M. C. Ferguson of New
York.
Walter A. Church came with his parents,
David and Harriet C. (Shattuck) Church,
in 1856, to Franklin Co., Iowa. He
was born March 23, 1853, in Erie Co.,
Penn. He attended the log school
house ; the Albion Seminary ; read law
with W. F. Harriman ; afterwards took a
law course at Iowa City and was .admitted,
March, 1880, in Franklin county, before
Judge Bradley. He practiced two years
in Hampton, and then engaged in farming
and stock raising, which he still continues.
In politics he is a republican. In October,
1880, he married MissL.E. Norton. They
have one child.
G. R. Miner came to Sheffield, Iowa,
1879, having come to Franklin county in
1869. He was born in Windsor Co.,
Vt., in 1845. Here he grew up on a
farm, working part of the time in a saw-
mill, received an academic education at
Barre, Vt., and in 1856, entered the Mich-
igan State University at Ann Arbor. On
leaving that institution he came to Iowa
and taught school two terms at Earlville,
Iowa He then went to Iowa Falls and
studied law in the office of N. W. Ander-
9
3l\
-&.
1S8
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY'.
son for about a«year and a half. In 1869,
he came to Franklin county to teach in
what was then Clinton township. In 1873,
he moved to what is now Marion town-
ship and was largely instrumental in its
organization. Mr. Miner taught the first
school in the township, was the first town-
ship clerk, holding the office for three
years and has also held the offices of treas-
urer and secretary of the school board,
each two years. In all he has taught
school about fifteen terms in this county.
In 18*79, he was admitted to the bar at
Hampton and at once removed to Sheffield,
where he has practiced his profession ever
since, doing at the same time a very ex-
tensive insurance business. He was one
of the charter members of the Masonic
lodge. He served one year in the army,
enlisting in the 16th Vermont Volunteer
Infantry in 1862. He is also a member
and is adjutant of the G. A. R He was
married, in 1872, to Mary J. Miner, born
in Ohio. They have five children — May,
Ora, Zoa, Rio and Ina.
R. H. Whipple, an attorney at Dows
and member of the firm of Whipple &
Train, was born in Akron, Ohio, May 24,
1849. When yet a child his parents set-
tled in Green Lake Co., Wis., and
two years later removed to Brandon.
In 1866, they came to Franklin county
and settled on section 30, Morgan town-
ship, where the father still lives, the
mother having been called away by death
in 1881. R. H. Whipple received his
early education in Wisconsin. In October,
1862, he enlisted as a drummer in compa-
ny I, 11th Wisconsin Infantry, and served
in that regiment until July, 1864, when
he re-enlisted in the 1st Wisconsin Bat-
tery and remained in service until July,
1865. On receiving his discharge he re-
turned to Wisconsin, and in 1866, came to
Iowa with his parents. Since that time he
has devoted much of his time to teaching,
and was principal of the high schools at
Estherville and Spencer, Iowa. In 1877
and 1878, he read law with Lot Thomas,
of Storm Lake, after which he engaged
in railroading for Hon. S. L. Dows, re-
maining with him during the years 1880,
1881 and 1882. He was admitted to the
bar at Clarion, Wright County, before
Judge Miracle, and then formed the part-
nership now existing between himself and
R. E. Train, in the law, collection and
real estate business. Mr. Whipple was
married in 1873 to Harriet M. Ellis,
who was born in Linn Co , Iowa,
May 29, 1858. They have three children
— Freddie, Maude and Mamie. Mr. Whip-
ple is a republican in politics and has
held various local offices ; he is a mem-
ber of the Masonic fraternity and a man
who holds the respect and esteem of all
who know him.
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
189
CHAPTER VIII
EDUCATIONAL.
The educational history of Franklin
county is one of interest, and the zeal dis-
played by many in the interests of good
schools is indeed commendable. The
common schools of our country are now
regarded by many as essential to the
safety of the Republic. The first settlers
of the Territory showed in their works
their faith in the public schools. Gov.
Robert Lucas, in his message to the first
legislative assembly of Iowa Territory,
which convened at Burlington, Nov. 12,
1838, says, in reference to schools :
" The 12th section of the act of congress
establishing our Territory declares, ' that
the citizens of Iowa shall enjoy all the
rights, privileges and immunities hereto-
fore granted and secured to the Territory
of Wisconsin and its inhabitants.' This
extends to us all the rights, privileges and
immunities specified in the ordinance of
congress of the 13th of July, 1787.
" The 3d article of this ordinance de-
clares, 'that religion, morality and knowl-
edge being necessary to good government
and the happiness of mankind, schools
and all the means of education shall be
forever encouraged.'
" Congress, to carry out this declara-
tion, has granted one section of land in
each township to the inhabitants of such
township for the purposes of schools
therein.
"There is no subject to which I wish
to call your attention more emphatically
than the subject of establishing, at the
commencement of our political existence, a
well digested system of common schools."
This assembly addressed itself early to
the task of providing for a system of com-
mon schools, and enacted a law providing
for the formation of districts, the estab-
lishing of schools, and authorized the
voters of each district, when lawfully
assembled, to levy and collect the neces-
sary taxes, " either in cash or good, mer-
chantable property, at cash price, upon
the inhabitants of their respective dis-
tricts, not exceeding one-half per centum,
nor amounting to more than $10 on any
one person, to do all and everything nec-
essary to the establishment and support
of schools within the same."
The second legislative assembly enacted,
Jan. 16, 1840, a much more comprehen-
sive law to establish a system of common
schools — a law containing many excellent
features. Its provisions were, however,
in advance of the existing public senti-
ment, on the subject of education, mak-
ing ample provision as it did for free pub-
lic schools. Even the people of Iowa were
scarcely ready for such a law.
In the United States census of 1840,
very few schools, either private or public,
were reported. One academy in Scott
v
V
*,r« t.
190
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
county, with 25 scholars, and in the State,
63 primary and common schools with 1,500
scholars, being the whole number reported.
The first section of the act of 1839 for
the establishment of common schools pro-
vided, that "there shall be established a
common school, or schools, in each of the
counties of this Territory, which shall be
open and free for every class of white
citizens between the ages of five and twen-
ty-one years;" the second section provid-
ing that "the county board shall, from
time to time, form such districts in their
respective counties, whenever a petition
may be presented for that purpose by a
majority of the voters resident within such
contemplated district." These districts
were governed by aboard of three trustees,
whose duties were to examine and employ
teachers, superintend the schools, and
collect and disburse the taxes voted by
the electors for school purposes.
Among the earlier enactments of the
Territorial legislature were those requir-
ing that each district maintain at least
three month's school every year, and that
the expenses for the same be raised by
taxes levied upon the property of said dis-
trict. Among the latter enactments was
that providing for a county school tax to
be levied to pay teachers, and that what-
ever additional sum might be required
for this purpose should be assessed upon
the parents sending in proportion to the
length of time sent. The rate-bill system
was thus adopted near the close of the
Territorial period.
When Iowa was admitted into the
Union as a State, Dec. 28, 1846, with
a population of 100,000, and a reported
school population of about 20,000, about
400 districts had been organized. From
this time the number of districts rap-
idly increased, reaching 1,000 in 1879,
and 1,200 in 1850. In 1857 the number
of organized school districts had increased
to 3,265. The Hon. Maturin L. Fisher,
who then so ably filled the office of super-
intendent of public instruction, in his re-
port, dated November, 1857, urged the re-
vision of the school law, and of the reduc-
tion in the number of school districts.
The seventh general assembly again
took up the subject of the revision of the
school laws, and on the 12th day of March,
1858, passed "An act for the Public In-
struction of the State of Iowa," the first
section of which provided that " Each
civil township in the sever 1 counties of
this State is hereby declared a school dis-
trict for all the purposes of this act, the
boundaries of. s.iid township being the
boundaries of said school district, and
every township hereafter laid out and or-
ganized, a school district; and each dis-
trict, as at present organized, shall be-
come a sub-district for the purposes here-
inafter provided : Provided, that each in-
corporated city or town, including the
territory annexed thereto for school pur-
poses, and which contains not less than
1,000 inhabitants, shall be and is hereby
created a school district." This law took
effect March 20, 1858, and reduced the
number of districts from about 3,500 to
less than 900.
In December, 1858, a law was enacted
providing that any city or incorporated
town, including the territory annexed
thereto for school purposes, may constitute
a school district, by vote of the majority
of electors residing upon the territory of
1
±L
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
101
such contemplated district. In 1860 the
provisions of this act were extended to
unincorporated towns and villages con-
taining not less than 300 inhabitants.
By an act passed April 3, I860, this
privilege was further extended to any city
or sub-district containing not less than 200
inhabitants, and certain territory contigu-
ous thereto. It soon became evident that
by this amendment a serious innovation
would be made in the district township
system, by the formation of independent
districts in the more thickly settled and
wealthier portions of the townships. The
amendment was repealed early in the ses-
sion of the following General Assembly.
Hon. D. F. Wells, in his report, dated
December, 1867, says that " the advantages
of the district township system are so nu-
merous and apparent that prominent edu-
cators in other States where it is not yet
introduced are laboring earnestly for its
adoption."
Hon. A. S. Kissell labored assiduously
to secure such a change as would remove
the sub-district feature of our system,
which had proved a fruitful source of dis-
cord and dissatisfaction, and was every
year making the system more unpopular
as it became more difficult of administra-
tion. He desired to abolish the sub-dis-
trict meeting and the office of sub-director,
and make each township a single school
district, to be governed by a board of di-
rectors elected at the annual district town-
ship meeting for the term of three years.
In his report, dated Jan. 1, 1872, he
says: "In this system every township
becomes a school district, and all sub-dis-
trict boundaries are abandoned ; and if
this plan were carried into effect in this
State it would allow no other school di-
visions than those of the independent and
township districts.
"The most experienced educators of the
country have advocated this system.
Among these are such men as Horace
Mann, U. S. Commissioner Barnard, ex-
Gov. Boutwell, Dr. Newton Bateman, of
Illinois. Dr. Gregory, late superintendent,
of Michigan, and the county and State
superintendents of one-third of the States
of the Union. The arguments advanced
by many of these experienced school men
are unanswerable. Massachusetts and
Pennsylvania have tested the system prac-
tically for several years; it is pronounced
by these States a success; and this suc-
cessful experiment of three or four years
should have greater weight with us in
this young and growing commonwealth
than any theoretical arguments that could
be advanced."
Notwithstanding the efforts and array
of argument, and the conviction on the
part or those who had made a special study
of this subject, the general assembly which
convened Jan. 8, 1872, enacted a law
providing for the formation of independent
districts, from the sub-districts of a dis-
trict township. This law has ever been a
plague to county superintendents, and
several efforts have been made to effect its
repeal, but without avail.
Every governor that Iowa has had has
given his warmest approval of the com-
mon school system. Gov. James W.
Grimes, in his inaugural message, Dec.
9, 1854, displays broad statesmanship,
advanced and liberal views and eminently
sound philosophy in the following lan-
guage :
t
At
192
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
" Government is established for the pro-
tection of the governed. But, that protec-
tion does not consistmerely in the enforce-
ment of laws against injury to the person
and property. Men do not make a volun-
tary abnegation of their natural rights,
simply that those rights may be protected
by the body politic. It reaches more vital
interests than those of property. Its
greatest object is to elevate and ennoble
the citizen. It would fall far short of its
design if it did not disseminate intelli-
gence, and build up the moral energies of
the people. It is organized to establish
justice, promote the public welfare and
secure the blessings of liberty. It is de-
signed to foster the instincts of truth, jus-
tice and philanthrophy, that are implanted
in our very natures, and from which
all constitutions and laws derive their va-
lidity and value. It should afford moral
as well as physical protection by educat-
ing the rising generation ; by encouraging
industry and sobriety; by steadfas ly ad-
hering to the right, and by being ever true
to the instincts of freedom and humanity.
" To accomplish these high aims of gov.
ernment, the first requisite is ample
provision for the education of the youth
of the State. The common school
fund of the State should be scrupu-
lously preserved, and a more efficient sys-
tem of common schools than we now have
should be adopted. The State should see
to it that the elements of education, like
the elements of universal nature, are above,
around, and beneath all.
"It is agreed that the safety and per-
petuity of our republican institutions de-
pend upon the diffusion of intelligence
among the masses of the people. The
statistics of the penitentiaries and alms-
houses throughout the country abundantly
show that education is the best preventa-
tive of pauperism and crime. They show,
also, that the prevention of those evils is
much less expensive than the punishment
of the one, and the relief of the other.
Education, too, is the great equalizer of
human conditions. It places the poor on
an equality with the rich. It subjects the
appetites and passions of the rich to the
restraints of reason and conscience, and
thus prepares each for a career of useful-
ness and honor. Every consideration,
therefore, of duty and policy impels us to
sustain the common schools of the State
in the highest possible efficiency."
SCHOOL FUND COMMISSIONERS.
When Franklin county came into exist-
ence, in 1855, the office of superintendent
had not been created. The only school
officer was the school fund commissioner,
who merely had charge of the school funds,
to a certain extent the same as has the
board of supervisors of to-day. He had
authority to make loans of the school
funds to private parties uj30n sufficient se-
curity, and most of the mortgages recorded
as made in early days were made to him
in consideration of the loan of school
funds. In those days the directors hired
the teacher, examining those whom they
wished to employ, and public examina-
tions were unknown.
The first school fund commissioner was
Henry Schroyer, who was elected in
August, 1865.
Henry Schroyer settled in Franklin
county, in 1854, coming from Muncie,
Delaware Co., Ind. He was not an edu-
cated man, but was possessed of good
-r' «"
t=-
-* »;>.
<£*
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
193
natural ability. He was an active poli-
tician and was an efficient officer, serving
his constituents with good satisfaction.
He left the county in 1859 and moved to
Mahaska county.
In April, 1858, George W. Hansell was
elected school fund commissioner.
In the spring of 1858 the office of school
fund commissioner was abolished, the
duties thereafter devolving mostly upon
the' board of supervisors. The office of
county superintendent of schools was at
this time created. The duties and work of
the office was then the same as at the
present day, visiting schools, holding ex-
aminations, and looking after the interests
of educational matters in general.
The first to fill this office was Robert
F. Piatt, who was elected in 1858, and re-
signed in November of the same year.
W. N. Davidson was appointed to fill
the vacancy occasioned by the resignation
of Piatt, and in 1859 was elected to the
office.
N. B. Chapman succeeded W. N. Dav-
idson in the office of county superintend-
ent of schools in the fall of 1861.
In 1863, Dr. C. F. West was elected
county superintendent of schools. Dr.
West was a practicing physician of Hamp-
ton. •
Dr. West was succeeded by N. B. Chap-
man in 1865, and in 1867 L. B. Raymond
was elected county superintendent.
The next superintendent was J. C.
Whitney, who was elected in 1869 and re-
elected in 1871. Mr. Whitney was at this
time editor of the Franklin Reporter. Mr.
Whitney resigning in the spring of 1872,
G. G. Clemmer was appointed to fill the
vacany. Mr. Clemmer held the office
until fall, when J. W. Myers was elected.
Mr Clemmer was elected to the office in
the fall of 1873.
The office of superintendent was made
vacant in the fall of 1875, by the resigna-
tion of Mr. Clemmer. G. H. Brock was
appointed to the office and held it until
Jan. 1, 1876, when Miss O. M. Reeve*
superintendent elect, entered upon the
duties of the office. In the summer of
1877, Miss Reeve resigned and L. B.
Raymond was appointed to complete the
year.
In the fall of 1877, I. W. Myers was
elected county superintendent and served
for one term.
The next county superintendent was
John E Evans, who was elected in 1879,
and re-elected in 1881.
John E. Evans, the present superintend-
ent of schools of Franklin county, came
here in 1876, and soon after became prin-
cipal of the schools at Geneva and retained
the position six terms. He was born in
Racine Co., Wis., Aug. 22, 1850,
and is a son of E. J. and Ann (Davis)
Evans. His parents removed to Iowa
Co., Iowa, when he was eight years of
age. He obtained a fair degree of educa-
tion at the district schools, and studied
three years at the University at Iowa City.
Mr. Evans is a supporter of the principles
of the republican party, and a member of
the Congregational Church at Hampton.
He was married, in 1875, to Amelia Jones,
born in the State of New York.
EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT.
From the time of the first settlement of
the county, and the organization of the
first district, the number of school districts
increased very rapidly, and educational
i *f
&
—I
194
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
facilities became more and more efficient.
Every decade that passed showed a marked
contrast to the preceding one. In 1870,
there were 1,889 persons in Franklin
county between the ages of five and twenty -
one years, 985 males and 904 females, and
of these, 1,129 were enrolled in the schools
of the county. There were fifty-six schools
in the county, with one gi-aded. There
were two brick, four stone and thirty-
eight frame school houses. Male teachers
received an average of $6.75 per week
and female teachers $9.13. In 1875, the
number between the ages of five and
twenty-one had increased to 1,191 males
and 1,142 females, 1,804 being enrolled as
pupils in the public schools. The number of
schools had increased to seventy-one, with
one graded. There were two brick, six
stone, and sixty-three frame school houses
in the county. Male teachers received a
monthly compensation of $34.57, and
females $25.43.
PRESENT CONDITION.
From the last statistical report, a num-
ber of items have been collected which
will show conclusively the condition of
educational matters in Franklin county in
1883:
Number of district townships in the
county 15
Number of independent districts 31
Number of sub-districts 71
Number of ungraded schools in the
county 103
Number of rooms in graded schools. . 14
Average term of schools in county. ... 7.19
Number of male teachers employed in
the county 52
Number of female teachers 68
Avei age monthly compensation to male
teachers $35.88
Female teachers 27.47
Total number of children in county
between ages of five and twenty-one
years 3,891
Total number of pupils enrolled in the
schools of the county 3,029
Total average attendance 1,717
Number of school houses in the county-
Frame 107
Brick 1
Stone 4
Total value of houses $64,365
Total value of apparatus 2,683
Total number of certificates issued in
1882 180
First grade 74
Second grade 65
Third grade 41
Number of applicants rejected 28
The following general remarks concern-
ing the present condition of educational
matters in Franklin county was contributed
by John E. Evans, county superintendent:
"The schools of Franklin county will
compare favorably with those of neighbor-
ing counties. The complaints which
could be made here can be made as truly
in other counties, and in fact all over the
State. Among these may be mentioned
the scarcity of good teachers, and. the con-
tinual change in the teaching force.
Other employments offer inducements,
and the best teachers soon leave the pro-
fession. The schools are compelled to use
a great deal of raw material or go without
teachers. However, our school may be
said to be in good condition considering
the many difficulties to be overcome
"Our teachers are generally in earnest and
realize he importance of their work.
"Our institutes have been well attended
and have been very successful in every
respect.
I § w
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es&te &Jti
CcSfUK. (2#^&W
J-
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
197
"The sentiment of our people is strongly
in favor of the schools. They are willing
to he taxed for their support, and generally
appreciate good work. A number of new
school houses are built each year as the
settlement demands. These houses are
generally good substantial buildings, and
provided with the best patent seats and
other furniture.
"Franklin county stands in need of more
higli schools. At present there is only
one school in the county which has a course
of study in advance of the common school
course. A county high school or private
academy or any similar institution would
be a great benefit, as the supply of well
qualified teachers would be increased.
Such an institution would be welcome.
John E. Evans,
County Superintendent.
THE NORMAL INSTITUTE.
By an act passed by the General Assem-
bly of Iowa in 1873, the county superin-
tendents were required to commence and
each year hold a teachers' or normal insti-
tute at some convenient point in each
county for the drill of those who were
teachers, or who intended to teach. The
design was to furnish teachers an oppor-
tunity to review and enlarge their knowl-
edge of the branches to be taught, to ac-
quaint themselves with improved meth-
ods of teaching, to awaken an increased \
desire for self-improvement in knowledge
and skill and power to control others, and
to give them more confidence and ability
in managing the affairs of the school.
For the purpose of defraying the expenses
incident to such gatherings, the institute
fund was created, to which the State pays
fifty dollars, the balance being made up by
the one dollar examination fees paid to
the county superintendent, and the fees of
one dollar each charged to each member
who attends the institute. This fund is
under the exclusive control of the county
superintendent. There is no law com-
pelling teachers to attend the institutes,
but each applicant for a certificate is re-
quired to show good cause for not having
attended. The county superintendent is
very active in this particular and contin-
ually urges upon the teachers the necessi-
ty of attending the institutes. The first
institute was held at Hampton, in 1874,
by G. G. Clemmer, county superintend-
ent. There was but a meagre attendance,
but the results were lasting and beneficial
and year by year the institutes have been
growing stronger, with steadily increasing
attendance.
The ninth annual normal institute of
Franklin county was held in the high
school building at Hampton, Aug. 7, 1882,
in compliance with the call of John E.
Evans, county superintendent. The total
enrollment was 114. Professor Sabin, of
Clinton, Iowa, was conductor of the insti-
tute exercises, and occupied that position
with great credit to himself and to those
who had chosen him. The lecturers were
Prof. Sabin, Rev. Mr. Plumraer and Miss
E. A. Hamilton.
•F
198
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
CHAPTER IX.
THE MEDICAL PROFESSION.
It is the general impression that no
community could well get along without
physicians, and the impression is well
founded, although possibly a little exag-
erated. Yet it would be trying and sor-
ry work for any community to attempt
to do entirely without the aid of those
who have made the work of allaying the
sufferings of the afflicted a life study and
a life object. The work of physicians,
when needed, is not measured by dollars,
and the long years preparing them for
emergencies where life and death are
struggling for supremacy, are above value.
As to progress, the medical world has
made wonderful strides, and, in the future,
will undoubtedly keep up its onward
march. Even to-day medical science has
so mastered its intricacies that there are
remedies for almost every phase of dis-
ease; and, if the past rapid progress con-
tinues, fifty years hence will see the
science of medicine advanced to a wonder-
ful stage of excellence.
FIRST PHYSICIAN IN THE COUNTY.
Dr. L. H. Arlidge was the first practic-
ing physician to locate in Franklin county.
He came from Indiana in 1854, and pur-
chased a farm of Mr. Mayne, the farm
now owned by J. M. Soper. Arlidge had
a wife and three children. He had a com-
mon school education, and, though it is
said thathis medical education was limited,
yet he had an extensive practice for that
day. He was a minister in the M. E.
Church, and a first rate preacher. Many
of the present settlers remember hearing
him preach.
An incident is related of him by Mr.
Soper. At the time Mr. Soper purchased
the farm, Franklin county was attached
to Hardin county, and, before the bargain
was closed between him and the doctor,
they both went to Eldora to look over the
records. Finding everything satisfactory,
the bargain was closed and the money
was paid to Mr. Soper. The doctor then
went to a drug store, got a gallon demi-
john full of the best brandy, to help them
on the way home. He placed the demi-
john in the wagon, and the roads being
rough it struck a projecting bolt in the
bottom of the box, making a hole through
which the brandy ran into the wagon box,
on seeing which, the doctor excitedly ex-
claimed, "My gracious, I am losing all my
brandy;" and catching a bucket he got
under the wagon and caught the liquid as
it ran through the cracks of the box. He
was what was termed a Hoosier, and spoke
that dialect. He went from here to Man-
kato, Minn., but shortly came back, re-
mained a few years and then went to
Nebraska. He fell from the top of a
wagon load of logs, and the wheel passing
over his head resulted in his death. He
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
199
was married twice— his first wife died in
Ackley, Iowa; his second wife still sur-
vives, is married again and lives in the
southern part of the State.
MAYSVILLK . PHYSICIANS.
Dr. L. H. Arlidge located one mile east
of the present site of Maysville, in 1854,
as stated.
Dr. S. R. Mitchell came in 1855, and
commenced the practice of medicine at
Maysville, remaining at that place until
186:2, when he removed to Ottumwa, this
State. The doctor was very popular as a
physician, and was held in high esteem.
He had a large practice, and made many
long rides to reach his patients.
Dr. Addis came to Franklin county, and
located near Maysville in about 1856. He
remained several years, then moved to
Ponca, Neb., where he practiced until his
death.
HAMPTON PHYSICIANS.
Among the first physicians to locate in
Hampton, was Dr. Guthrie. He came
here in the fall of 1856, and besides
following his profession, kept hotel in a
little building which stood on the present
site of the Beed block. Dr. Guthrie was
a man of good morals, and had many traits
of character which made him a respected
citizen. In 1858, he removed to New
Hartford, Butler Co., Iowa. His present
location, if he is still living, is unknown.
Dr. T. H. Baker began the practice of
medicine at Hampton at a very early day,
and is still an honored citizen and physi-
cian. He is the oldest practicing physician
in the county.
Dr. J. S. Hurd practiced here for many
years. He is still a resident of Chapin,
this county.
Dr. C. F. West, allopath, came to this
place in 1863, and remained until 1865.
Dr. West was from Missouri, and on leav-
ing Hampton, went to Indianola, Warren
Co., Iowa, where he is now following his
profession. Dr. West was a man of ability,
but had little practice. He is now doing
well and has a good business in Indianola.
Dr. O. B. Harriman located and com-
menced the practice of medicine at Hamp-
ton, in 1 865. He was born Sept., 29, 1 836,
in Warner, N. H., where, in his youth, lie
attended Ellenwood Seminary — now Web
ster. He began the study of medicine in
Concord, N. H., entered Dartmouth Med-
ical College in 1857, where he graduated
in 1860, followed his profession four years
in Rockford, Iowa, and then settled at
Hampton. He was the first president of
the Franklin County Medical Association,
and a member of the Northwestern and
Iowa State Medical Association. He was
superintendent of schools, of his native
town, at the age of twenty, and has "held
many municipal offices in Hampton. He
was an elector on the Harrison and Tyler
ticket. In a nutshell, he is a democrat,
Mason, Knight Templar and Odd Fellow.
In April 1868, he married Ellen J. Don-
ovan and they have seven children — Ed-
win, Jennie, Lily, Lura, Vera, Dua and an
infant.
Dr. James A. Norton came to Hampton
in 1869. He practiced here for about three
years, then returned to Tiffin, Ohio, his
former home. He has since served three
terms in the Ohio legislature. Dr. Nor-
ton was small in stature, of quick, nervous
temperment, and was as "smart as a whip."
He was a graduate of the Cleveland Medi-
cal College, at Cleveland, Ohio. He was
Is
200
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
1
married in Franklin county to Miss Hem-
ing, a native of Okiu.
J. B. Galer, M. D., born in Milton,
Penn., Feb. 4, 1822, a son of George and
Mary (Orr) Galer, Ideated at Hampton,
Iowa, as a physician June 1, 1870, and still
resides there, having a large practice. He
is a member of the County Medical Asso-
ciation, and was one of its charter mem-
bers. He went with his parents to Muncie,
Lycoming Co., Penn., and at fourteen he
went to Clearfield, same State. He has
also lived at Jefferson and Fayette, Wis.,
and Warren, 111. In 1848, he entered
Rush Medical College and graduated.
From Aug. 9, 1862, until Dec. 25, 1863,
he was assistant surgeon in the 31st regi-
ment, Wisconsin Volunteers, and resigned
because of ill-health. In October, 1852, he
married Louisa E. Beals, of St. Albans,
Vt., who died Jan. 15, 1870; and Oct. 10,
1872, he married Abba A. Gould, of
Georgia, Vt.
Dr. J. J. Leas came to Hampton, from
St. Louis, in 1871, for the purpose of practic-
ing medicine. He was a good physician
and full of fun. He remained in Hamp-
ton about ten years, when he went to
Nebraska.
Dr. Lincoln, an old school physician,
came to Hampton, from Ohio, in 1871,
and remained one year. His practice was
not very extensive, so he left.
James H. Hutchins, M. D., came to
Hampton, Franklin Co., Iowa, in 1873,
and has since devoted his time to the
practice of medicine in this vicinity. He
is senior member of the firm of Hutchins
& Funk, in the drug business, but gives
his entire time to his practice, lie was
born Jan. 10, 1845, at Kendall, Niagara
Co., N. Y., and in August of the same
year his parents, Osmond B. and Lydia
(Davis) Hu chins, came wes' and settled
at Rockford, 111. Ai the age of fifteen he
entered the Rock River Seminary, at
Mount Morris, 111 , where he spent three
years in study, after which he engaged
two vears in teaching, and when he was
twenty years of age began reading medi-
cine in the office of B. G. Pierce, M. D., at
Warren, 111. Here he spent two years,
and then entered Rush Medical College,
where he graduated, Feb. 1, 1871. He
practiced a few months at Riverside,
Wis., then a year and a half at Apple
River, 111., after which he located at
Hampton, in 1873. The same year he
graduated he was appointed United States
Examining Surgeon but resigned the
same, in consequence of his removal to
this State, and in 1876 he was re-appointed
to the same position, which he still holds.
He is now coroner of this county, and has
been secretary of the Franklin Coun y
Medical Society. In June, 1864, he en-
listed as a non-commissioned officer, com-
pany B, 142d Illinois Volunteer Infantry
and was mustered out of the service with
his regiment in the fall of the same year,
at Camp Fry, Chicago, 111. In 1880, Dr.
Hutchins went to New York for the pur-
pose of more thoroughly preparing him-
self for his professional work. He took
special instruction under Professor Alfred
L. Loomis, at Bellevue Hospital, also at
the Woman's Hospital, under T. Adis
Emmet, A. M., M. D., and received a
thorough course of instruction from Pro-
fessor Montrose A. Pallen, at the L'niver.
sity Medical College. He also attended
the general course of lectures ai the med-
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
201
ical department of the University of the
city of New York, graduating there in
March, 1881. Dr. Hutchins is a skillful
and successful physician. He is in love
with his profession and is establishing an
extensive practice which is well deserved,
as his medical knowledge has been of the
highest order. In February 1871, he was
married to Celesta O. Frank. They have
one daughter — lone C, now ten years of
age.
In 1874, the medical profession at
Hampton was re-inforced by the arrival of
Dr. Chappell, a physician of the homeo-
pathic school. He remained about five or
six months, then went to Oregon, 111.
Dr. C. E. Booth arrived in VI ay, 1876,
and at once opened an office. Dr. Booth
came here from Le Roy, Wis., and was a
graduate of Rush Medical College, Chica-
go, 111. He entered into partnership with
Dr. J. H. Hutchins, and remained six
months, when he returned to Le Roy, Wis.
Dr. Booth was a gentleman and a thorough
scholar. He made many friends and be-
came very popular. Previous to his locat-
ing here, he had been professor of physi-
ology and anatomy in a medical institu-
tion at Le Roy, and on his return to that
place was placed in the same position.
In 1877, Dr. O. P. Thompson, allopath,
who was born in Hampton, opened an
office. He remained about six months.
Dr. Thompson was a graduate of the Iowa
State University at Iowa City. He came
home from Wisconsin, where he had been
practicing.
Dr. John M. Pride located at Hampton
in 1878. He entered into partnership
with Dr. O. B. Harriraan and remained
about one year. Dr. Pride graduated
from the medical department of the Iowa
S ate University at Iowa City. He is now
practicing in Whitamore, Kossuth Co.,
this Siate, and is succeeding remarkably
well, having a large practice.
Dr. C A. Corning, homeopathic phy-
sician and surgeon, located at Hampton in
1878 and enjoys a lucrative practice. He
was born at Manchester, N. H., Aug. 18,
1835. He acquired a good education, and
at the age of nineteen years he came to
Wisconsin, where, not long after, he en-
gaged in teaching, which vocation he fol-
lowed for some years. He was married
in 1861 to Isabel Town. He was at that
time principal of the schools at Kilbourn
City, Columbia Co., Wis. In 1864 he
went to Union Co., 111., to establish him-
self in the fruit business. He found it
distasteful and resumed his former occu-
pation, obtaining an appointment as prin-
cipal of the Lamoille schools in Bureau
Co., 111. He remained there two years and
then accepted a like position in the schools
in Buda,in that county. His wife died at
Buda in 1868, leaving one child, Ernest
Banks. Meanwhile he had been prose-
cuting the study of medicine and gradu-
ated at Hahnemann College, Chicago.
He commenced the practice of medicine
in 1871, and continued until 1878 at Mar-
seilles, 111., when he came to Hampton.
He was again married in 1875 to Josephine
Town, sister of the first Mrs. Corning.
By this second marriage there is one
child, Edward Ray.
In 1879, the number of physicians of
Hampton was increased by the arrival of
Dr. Humphrey, who came from Cedar-
ville, 111. He was a graduate of the
Pennsylvania State Medical College, at
*s<
202
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Philadelphia. Dr. Humphrey remained
here until the summer of 1881, then re-
turned to Cedarville, 111., where he is
now practicing. Dr. Humphrey was a
large, fine looking man, but was too re-
served to make many friends, although
he was respected by every one.
Dr. J. Z. E. Funk came to Hampton
direct from Rush Medical College, Chi-
cago, in 1880, and attended to the busi-
ness of Dr. J. H. Hutchins for nine
months while the latter gentleman was
in New York city. From here he went
to Spirit Lake, Iowa, where he is now
practicing. Dr. Funk was a man of good
ability and thoroughly understood his pro-
fession.
In the summer of 1881 Dr. Floyd came
from Johnson Co., Iowa, and located in
this place. He remained about six months,
then went to Sheffield, this county, where
he still remains.
Dr. H. P. Roberts, of Hampton, was
born in Sussex Co., N. J., Dec. 1, 1828,
and when about eight years of age moved
with his parents to Knox Co., Ohio, where
he received an academic education in
Fredericktown. He commenced the study
of medicine in the spring of 184V, with
Thomas Rigdon Potter, a graduate of the
Jefferson Medical College, of Philadel-
phia, Pa. ; completing his medical educa-
tion at the Western Reserve Medical Col-
lege, at Cleveland, Ohio, in the spring of
1857. He was married Dec. 25, 1849, to
Abbie S. Lane, and commenced the prac-
tice of his profession in Amity, Knox
county, in 1851. After remaining in prac-
tice in that place for five years, he re-
moved with his family in 1856 to Morri-
son, Whiteside Co., 111., where he re-
mained in active professional business for
twenty years. In June, 18*76, he came to
Franklin county and located four miles
north of Hampton on a half section of
land which he had purchased in 1864.
Having frequent professional calls at his
farm, he concluded to make his prof ession
his exclusive business, and in the spring
of 1882, opened an office in Hampton.
Politically, the doctor is a republican ;
in religion he is a Congregationalism
Mr. and Mrs. Roberts have nine chil-
dren living, four sons and five daughters
— Charlotte Ann, Charles P., Hattie A.,
Edward B., Etta L., Henry G., Lena May,
John H. and Gertie B.
In 1883 the medical profession at
Hampton was represented by Drs. J. B.
Galer, O. B. Harriman, J. H. Hutchins,
H. P. Roberts and T. H. Baker, of the
allopathic school ; and G. A. Corning,
homeopathist.
Dr. M. H. Ross is the senior resident
dentist at Hampton. His father, A. S.
Ross, came to Iowa in 1853 and settled in
Franklin county in 1857. He still resides
near Chapin. Dr. Ross was born in La
Porte Co.. Ind., Dec. 22, 1842. In July,
1861, he enlisted in company C, 6th Iowa
Infantry, and became first sergeant of
the company. He received two wounds
and was the only one of seven that enlist-
ed with him who lived to see the close
of the war. He received his discharge at
Davenport, Iowa, at the clo>e of the war.
He returned to Franklin county and in
1866 entered the office of Dr. Flowers at
Grinnell. He commenced practice at Hamp-
ton in 1868 and has since pursued his
business here with the exception of two
years^ when he was engaged in mining
V
HISTORY OF FRANKIN COUNTY.
203
in Montana. He is a member of the
Iowa State Dental Association, belongs
to the order of F. & A. M. and is
present Secretary of Anchor Lodge No.
191. He was married in I860 to Eliza
Mitchell, a native of Wisconsin. Dr.
and Mrs. Ross have four children — Carl,
Frank, Totta and Minnie.
V. B. Pool, dental surgeon, has been
located at Hampton since December, 1881,
and has an extensive and increasing busi-
ness. He is a graduate of Victoria Den-
tal College at Toronto, Canada, and a
registered dentist of the State of Iowa.
Dr. Pool was born in Oxford Co., Canada,
Feb. 21, 1850. He received a common
school education in the county of his
birth and afterward studied for his profes-
sion. He came to western Wisconsin in
1878, and in the spring of 1879 to Mason
City, Iowa, where, associated with Dr.
Harkinson, he engaged in dentistry. ' He
was married Feb. 10, 1877, to Christiana
Harkinson, born in Oxford Co., Canada.
Their children are Nellie, May and Hardy
Fayette.
GENEVA PHYSICIANS.
C. H. Tidd, M. D., came to Franklin
Co., Iowa, and located in Geneva in 1875.
He has been very successful in the prac-
tice of medicine, having by close applica-
tion to his profession built up an exten-
sive practice. He was born in Coolville,
Athens Co., Ohio, Oct. 28, 1847, where he
spent his youth, attending the village
school. He then spent three years in
the academy, when by the final exami-
nation he was pronounced prepared for
the sophomore class in college, but cir-
cumstances prevented his then entering
college and he engaged with a mercan-
tile firm in Brooklyn, Mich., and after-
wards in the same business in Brighton,
111. During this time he employed all his
spare hours in the preliminary studies of
medicine for which he always had a fond-
ness. After spending two years at Brigh-
ton he returned to Ohio where he entered
the Medical College of Ohio in 1869, and
graduated in 1872. By a competitive ex-
amination he was elected one of the in-
ternes of the Good Samaritan Hospital in
Cincinnati, where he spent one year. He
then began the practice of medicine at
Middleport, Ohio, and established an ex-
tensive practice, but owing to some finan-
cial reverses decided to come west, and
after considerable prospecting chose Gen-
eva as his future home. In January, 1883,
he was selected by the Central Railway of
Iowa as first assistant surgeon of the road
with charge of all cases occurring north
of Marshalltown; die, with surgeon W. R.
Nugent, of Oskaloosa, being the only sur-
geons employed by the company along the
entire line. He is widely known to the
medical profession as the author of sev-
eral medical essays, for one of which he
received five years' subscription to the
New York Medical Journal, one of the
oldest and most reliable medical journals
in America. He is also a frequent con-
tributor to the Detroit Lancet, the South-
ern Medical Review and the MediccU and
Surgical Reporter of Philadelphia. For
an article published in the latter the
editor presented him with a copy each of
Flint's Physiology, Vogal on Diseases of
Children and Pepper and Smith on Dis-
eases of Children.
-r*
204
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
SHEFFIELD PHYSICIANS.
The first physician to locate in Sheffield
was Dr. Mosley Canfield, who came from
Marshalltown in 1873-4. Previous to his
coming here, he had been engaged in the
dry goods business, but on coming to Shef-
field gave his whole attention to the
practice of his profession, and remained
until his death which occurred in July,
1880. He belonged to the homeopathic
school, and thoroughly understood his pro-
fession. He was a man of strong republi-
can principles, well read and highly
respected. He had a large practice. His
widow now lives in Marshall county, this
State.
Dr. J. M. Potter, of the eclectic school,
came from Faribault, Minn., and located
at Sheffield in 1875. He was a native of
New York State and had studied his pro-
fession in Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1881 he
went to Xenia, Dallas county, this State,
where he was still located in 1883. He
built up a fair practice and was thought
well of as a physician.
Dr. Lee located in Sheffield in 1882,
coming from Wisconsin. Dr. Lee is a
graduate of Ann Arbor College, Michigan,
and is a first-class physician. His prac-
tice is steadily increasing, and he is des-
tined to be one of the leading physicians
of the county. The doctor is a married
man and has one child.
H. R. Floyd, M. D., came to Iowa in
1876, and in October, 1881, located at
Sheffield, Franklin couniy, where he still
remains enjoying an increasing and lucra-
tive practice. He was born in Canada in
1839, and at the age of thirteen ran away
from home and went to New York, thence
sailed to England and Germany as a cabin
boy in the steamship Washington; came
back to New York, but soon returned to
the sea. During the voyage he was ship-
wrecked, and after being seven days in an
open boat on the ocean without food, was
picked up in an insensible condition and
brought back to New York. In Newark
N. Y. he worked at carriage blacksmithing
about three years and also attended a night
school. After this he went to Savannah, Ga.
and from there sailed 1 o England and
en ered the English army. He partici-
pated in the capture of Sebastopol, and
was afterward stationed in Gibraltar for
four years, during which time he accom-
panied a party of officers to Africa as an
interpreter, he being a good Spanish lin-
quist. While they were observing the
conduct of the war between Spain and
Morocco he was sergeant in command of
"Eropa Point Guard," at Gibraltar, where
the confederate steamer, Sumpter, under
Capt. Semmes, captured three Uni'ed
States vessels in the straits, bonding two
and burning one. He received orders
from Gov. Sir William Codrington: "If
that vessel" (the Sumpter) "does not show
her colors on entering the bay, sink her
without warning." He at once prepared
to do so by bringing three sixty-eight
pounder Armstrong guns to bear on her.
But before the guns opened on ner she
showed her colors and hus was saved
from her impending ruin. Soon afterwards
the United States gunboat Tuscorora
arrived and Capt. Semmes was obliged to
sell the Sumpter and leave her there. Dr.
Floyd was for three years hospital ser-
geant and dispenser of medicine, and
afterwards, in 18*62, he procured a dis-
charge and returned to America (his
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
207
f
parents having died during his absence),
and in 1864, joined the New York
Moun ed Rifles, and was engaged in and
around Petersburg and Richmond, and
finally at Appomatox where Lee surren-
dered. His regiment was sent as provost
guard to Maysville, Buckingham Co.,
Va., where he organized and taught the
first freedmen's school in the south, with-
out any remuneration. In 1865, he was
mustered out and returned >o Canada
where he attended the Toronto Military
school and obtained a certificate of fitness
to command. He then joined the volun-
teers to resist Fenian invasion. After
this wave of danger passed over, he re-
turned to the United States, went to Balti-
more Md., and was florist and botanist for a
large firm, attended part of a term in
Maryland University, went with Prof.
Agassiz and party to Brazil, South America,
to collect natural curiosities, for six months,
and remained there in the practice of medi-
cine three years, at which time he re-
tured to America and was employed as
landscape gardner, on Highland Park,
Bal imore. He came to Iowa in 1876,
and was married to Agnes Danskin, of
Marengo, Dec. 25, 1876. He then attended
lectures at the College of Physicians and
Surgeons at Keokuk, where he graduated
and then practiced medicine in Solon and
Tiffin in this State until he came to
Sheffield.
CHAPIN PHYSICIANS.
The medical profession is represented
at Chapin by Drs. J. S. Hurd and W. F.
Cooper.
Dr. W. F. Cooper has been a practicing
physician of Cr apin sinae July 22, 1881.
He was born in Medina Co., Ohio, Sept.
19, 1845. His parents, Wm, G. and
Maria (Smith) • Cooper, came from Con-
necticut and Massachusetts respectively.
The subject of this sketch speni his boy-
hood on his father's farm, attending he
district school, supplemented by several
terms at Delaware Academy and Oberlin
College. While attending school and
afterward while pursuing the study of
medicine, he frequently engaged in teach-
ing He engaged in the study and practice
of medicine in Ohio for six years in Green
and Miami counties, also prac iced one
year in Decatur Co., Ind., after which
he came to Chapin. Dr. Cooper is a
gentleman of fine personal appearance,
easy address, rare educational attainments,
and is rapidly pushing his way to the front
rank among the medical fraternity of
Franklin county. He has good success in
the treatment of patients, and his field of
practice is constantly enlarging. On the
24th of September, 1867, he married
Aurietta Gridley, of Medina Co., Ohio.
They are the parents of two children — L.
May and Lillian M. Dr. Cooper was a
soldier in the War of the Rebellion, serv-
ing as private in the 166th regiment,
Ohio National Guards. He was on duty
in Virginaa little more than four months.
LATIMER.
Dr. Thorn represents the medical fra-
ternity at this place.
PHYSICIANS AT DOWS.
Dr. F. E. Cornish located at Dows in
October, 1880, and is the local physician
of the B., C. R. & N. Railway Company ,als< i
physician of Morgan township, Franklin
county, and Vernon and Blair townships,
Wright county, having an extended prac-
tice and drug trade. He was born in
r=
9
'v
Jk
208
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Oneida Co., N. Y., in 1849. He received
his education at the Bennett Medical Col-
lege, in Chicago, practicing in that city
four years. In February, 1877, he moved
to Parkersburg, engaging in his profes-
sion until October, 1880, when he moved
to Dows. He was married, July 10, 1867,
to Elizabeth Dwyer, a native of New York
city, born in 1850. They have two chil-
dren — Sanford Stephen and Arthur Guy.
James A. Mulnix, M. D., a native of
New York, came to Dows on the 1st of
September, 1881, and commenced the prac-
tice of medicine. He has been very suc-
cessful as a physician and has a large and
increasing business. He was born Nov.
8, 1852, in Ulster Co., N. Y., and was the
second child of J. L. and Margaret (John
son) Mulnix, both natives of New York.
The father was born Dec. 18, 1819, the
mother Sept. 14, of the fame year. In
1859, the family removed to Ogle Co.,
111., where the parents remained until
March, 1880, when they settled in Frank-
lin Co., Iowa, where they still live. James
A. Mulnix attended Carthage College, at
Carthage, 111., in the winter of 1876-7,
then entered Keokuk Medical College
and graduated in 1878, after which he
practiced medicine for two years in Alden,
Hardin Co., Iowa, and then came to Dows.
He was married at Adrian, 111., Jan. 26,
1882, to Sallie L. Rice, of Cincinnati. Dr.
Mulnix is a member of the Masonic frater-
nity.
FRANKLIN COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. '
On Feb. 15, 1876, a meeting was held
at Hampton by the representatives of the
medical profession, for the purpose of
forming an association of this kind. The
following gentlemen were present at this
meeting: J. B. Galer, O. B. Harriman, J.
I. Leas, J. H. Hutchins, C. H. Tidd and J.
S. Hurd. The officers elected, were as
follows: O. B. Harriman, president; C.
H. Tidd, vice-president; J H. Hutchins,
secretary; J. B. Galer, treasurer. This
meeting resulted in the permanent organi-
zation of the society.
The rules and regulations fixed the
time of meeting on the first Tuesday of
each month, the annual meeting to be held
the first Tuesday in February of each year.
The above named officers held until 1880,
when a change was made by the election
of C. H. Tidd as president and Oscar
Thompson, secretary; the o her officers
being retained.
The object of the society was to be the
advancemeir of medical knowledge, he
uniformity of medical ethics, the promo-
tion of harmony and fraternity in the
medical profession, the protection of he
interests of its members, the promotion of
all measures adapted to the relief of the suf-
fering, and to improve the health and pro-
tect the lives of the community.*
The members of the association in 1883,
were: Drs. J B. Galer, O. B. Harriman,
J. I. Leas, J. H. Hutchins, C. H. Tidd, J.
S. Hurd and P. C. Shephard.
en — -
""* e)
>k
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
209
CHAPTER X
EARLY DAYS.
The following account of personal mat-
ters is given to show the disadvantages
under which the hardy pioneers procured
the homes which now seem so comfort-
able. Whatever of romance attached to
the lives of the hardy colonists was abund-
antly compensated for by hard work. Con-
trast the journey of that devoted party
through the roadless and bridgeless tract
between Chicago and their destination
with that of a party on a like trip to-day.
Instead of weeks of labor and toil, priva-
tion and suffering, with cold and hunger,
a seat is taken in a palace car, at noon, in
Chicago, an unexceptional supper is par-
taken of without leaving the train, the
passenger retires upon a downy couch, and
in the morning awakens to find himself at
his destination in central or northern
Iowa, having lost only a half day on the
journey. Those who enjoy these bless-
ings would be less than human if they
were not filled with gratitude to these ear-
ly settlers, who paved the way and actually
made the present condition of things pos-
sible. At that time the confines of civi-
lization were on the lakes. Chicago had
not many thousand people. Milwaukee
was just beginning to be a village and
Dubuque was a mere vidette — an outpost
of civilization. Their was nothing in the
now great State of Iowa^ except the intrin-
sic merit of the location, to attract people
from their more or less comfortable homes
in the east or on the other side of the wa-
ter. The imagined grand possibilities of
the future gave birth to hope which
"springs eternal in the human heart," lur-
ing them on, and although those who
came were usually regarded by the friends
they left as soldiers of fortune, who if
they ever returned at all would indeed be
fortunate, yet in spite of this they came
and have fought their way through trials
and adversity to a realization of their ear-
ly hopes. They were a sturdy race who
realized the inequality of the struggle in
the old States or countries and resolved
to plant themselves where merit would
not be suppressed by traditions.
The men who came, were, as a rule, en-
terprising, open-hearted and sympathetic.
They were good neighbors and so good
neighboi'hoods were created, and they il-
lustrated the idea of the brotherhood of
man more by example than by quoting
creeds, with a bravery that never blanched
in the face of the most appalling danger.
They nevertheless were tender, kind and
considerate in the presence of misfortune,
and their deficiency in outward manifes-
tations of piety was more than compen-
sated for by their love and regard for hu-
manity, And if this meed of praise is
justly due to the men, and it certainly is,
what shall be said of the heroic women
V
_
210
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
who braved the vicissitudes of frontier
life, endured the absence of home, friends
and old associations, the severing of whose
tender ties must have wrung all hearts.
The devotion which would lead to such a
breaking away to follow a father, a hus-
band or a son into a trackless waste be-
yond the Mississippi, where gloomy ap-
prehensions must have arisen in the mind,
is worthy of the highest praise. The val-
ue of the part taken by the noble women
who first came to this uninhabited region
cannot be over estimated. Although by
nature liberal, they practiced the most
rigid economy and often at critical times
preserved order, reclaiming the men from
despair during gloomy periods, and their
example of industry constantly admon
ished him to renewed exertion, and the in-
stincts of womanhood ever encouraged in-
tegrity and manhood.
As to the effects of frontier life upon
those who have secured homes west of the
Mississippi, a few observations may not
be inappropriate.
Years ago the Rev. Dr. Bushnell, a
noted divine in the east, preached a ser-
mon on the barbarous tendencies of civili-
zation in the west, and on this the rever-
end gentleman predicated an urgent ap-
. peal to Christianity to put forth renewed
and strenuous efforts to save the west from
a relapse into barbarism. This tendency
was supposed lo result from the disruption
of social and religious ties, the mingling
of heterogeneous elements and the remov-
al of external restraints, so common, and
supposed to be so patent, in older commu-
nities. Dr. Bushnell did not have a suffi-
ciently extended view of the subject, for,
in looking over the history of the past, we
find that in a nomadic condition there is
never any real progress in refinement. In-
stitutions for the elevation of the race must
be planted deep in the soil before they
can raise their heads in beauty and majes-
ty towards heaven, and bear fruit for the
enlightenment of nations. The evils of
which Dr. Bushnell was so afraid are
merely temporary in their character and
will have no lasting impression. What
actually happens is this : at first there is
an obvious increase of human freedom,
but the element of self-government every-
where largely predominates, and the fu-
sion of the races, which is inevitable, will
in due time create a composite nationality
or a race as unlike as it must be superior
to those that have preceded it. Even now,
before the first generation has passed
away, society in the west has outgrown
the irritation of the transplanting, and
there are no more vicious elements in so-
ciety here than in the east, as the criminal
statistics will abundantly show.
EARLY DAYS, BY LEVI S. JONES.
"On the 12th of September, 1854, myself
and family left Indiana to come to Iowa.
\Ve came through with horse teams, also
bringing several head of cattle, and were
twenty-two days on the road. The trip
was a long one, and the roads were so
bad on account of much rain that we had
a hard time getting here. We located
first in Buchanan county, where we spent
the winter. During the winter I hunted
for a permanent location, and finally found
my way to Franklin county, where, in
Reeve township, we found just the loca-
tion we desired. On ihe 1st of March,
1S55, we left Buchanan county, and after
a week's hard driving through mud and
â– A^..
slush, we reached our destination. About
this time hay was very scarce, and we had
to go to Hardin county to get hay for the
horses and cattle. Hay was high, and for
a small wagon box full we had to pay five
dollars. Grass soon came, however, and
we had no more hay to buy. Market was
a long way from us. For provisions we had
to go to Waterloo and Cedar Rapids, and
thought we were living in fine style if we
had plenty of corn cakes. During our
first winter here a great amount of snow
fell, making it almost impossible to get
about with horses, so everything had to
be hauled on hand sleds. This same win-
ter we had the good fortune to kill a large
elk that furnished us with the finest steaks
and broils all winter. Our dog, a great
strong fellow, chased the elk about five
miles and finally got it down and stood
guard until we came up. Our first crop
was a lot of sod corn. We broke twelve
acres of our land and chopped in the seed:
We had a good crop, and some said the
corn was as sound and firm as any they
had ever seen in the east. We first lived
in a rude cabin made of rough logs, and I
have often said that that old log cabin was
just as good as a mansion. In 1860, I
built a more modern house in which I
now live.
EXPERIENCE OF HON. E. A. HOWLAND.
"On the 1st day of April, 1859, I landed
with my family at Otisville. I was obliged
to stay over night on my way from Web-
ster City at Walled Lake, stopping at the
celebrated hotel kept by E. Purcell. That
night, March 31, it froze nearly hard
enough to bear a man on the ice; and I
was obliged to break a road through the
ice with my feet in order to get my team
through the sloughs that abound between
there and Otisville, and then carry my
wife on my shoulders; my hired man drove
the team. I took formal possession about
twelve o'clock m. of the log house where
William II Selleck now lives. It was
snowing some, freezing hard, and my
clothes were wet to the waist. To add to
the genuine merriment of the occasion,
my wife, as she stepped into the door and
took a general survey of puncheon doors
and puncheon floor, the chimney built of
slicks and mud, and the roof "shingled
mit shakes," and the entire house plas-
tered with, mud and hog grease, shed a
few tears but said not a word. The 2d of
April was ushered in by an old fashioned
blizzard. The snow was driven into the
old shanty through its numerous crevices,
adding very much to our personal discom-
fort. The clouds broke away towards
night, when by a vigorous use of a scoop
shovel we relieved the inside of the shanty
of snow-drifts. The weather continued
cold until the last of April, and the farm-
ers commenced sowing about the 1st of
May. During the summer of 1857 or
1858, H. L. Morgan, who owned the
west of the southwest quarter of section 30,
township 91, range 22, and the southeast
quarter of the southwest quarter of section
31, township 91, range 22, laid off into
town lots the west half of the southwest
quarter of the southwest quarter of sec-
tion 30, township 91. range 22, and called
the town Otisville. About the same time
a postoflice was established at Otisville
with Lewis H. Morgan as postmaster. The
farm that I moved on as a renter, was
entered in 1859 by a Mr. Bacon, but at the
time I occupied it, was owned by Philan-
il
<2 JL.
a. 9
212
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
der Smith and Isaac Munson, of Jefferson
Co., N. Y. The farm consisted of the
west fractional half of the west fractional
half of the northwest quarter of section 31,
township 91, range 22, also the southeast
quarter of the southeast quarter of section
25; the west half of the southeast quarter
and northwest quarter of section 31,
and the southeast quarter of the north-
east quarter of section 36, in all
292^- acres. Just across the road from
where the Otisville school house now
stands was a log shanty about 14x16 feet,
in which were living Frank White and
family and Charles Bnllis and family with
R. E. Train and Robert Duffy as boarders,
in all fourteen persons. White and r>ullis
soon after moved to Horse Grove, and
Train and Duffy rented the farm now
owned by A. S. Eskridge. Joseph Os-
born owned and occupied what is now
known as the W. H. Troth farm. Joseph
Ray lived on section 29, on the east side
of the grove, and an old bachelor by the
name of Weaver at the northeast corner
of the grove, on section 29. Weaver was
considered a dangerous character, feared
by all his neighbors, who warned me to be
careful howl offended him. He did draw
a rifle on me and threatened to blow my
brains out. Not having any brains to
spare, I concluded to "beard the lion in
his den." As a result he was the worst
whipped man I ever saw, and nobody hurt.
The entire neighborhood bein,q; hoosiers
they had declared war on the Yankee, but
when the bully was cleaned out they sued
for peace, and from that time I had no
more trouble with the natives.
The first Sabbath school was established
in 1860 or 1861, with R. E. Train as
superintendent, and E. A. Howland as
bible class leader. Mrs. Samuel Parkin-
son was the only professing Christian in
the community, and it was through her
efforts that the school was established. Of
course Mrs. Parkinson always opened the
school with prayer. Train and Howland
were decidedly worldly, and knew about
as much of the bible as they did of their
dutch almanac. After a thorough revival
of religion in the winter of 1862-3, a
church was organized and known as the
Presbyterian Church of Otisville and Oak-
land. Ever since that time the Sabbath
school at Otisville has been a grand
success. Lewis II Morgan sold his faim
the spring of 1864, I think, and removed
to Oregon, where he still resides. R. E.
Train was married to Huldah Jane Mor-
gan in the spring of 1861. I was invited to
attend the wedding, but was warned by
Mrs. Morgan that I must not plague Jane,
as that would make Train mad. Not being
the possessor of clothing suitable for so
great an occasion, I borrowed a suit of my
brother, and in company with Mrs. How-
land attended the wedding. Jedediah,
Esq., of Oakland, was the officiating
magistrate, and it was hard to tell which
was the most embarrassed, the 'Squire or
the bridegroom. I was compelled, how-
ever, to interrupt the cermony when about
half through to change sides with the
bride and groom, as I did not want them
married left handed. In the spring of
1865, I purchased the farm of Smith &
Munson, together with all the stock, farm-
ing utensils, etc., running in debt therefor
about $5,000 on ten years' time at seven
per cent, interest, but was fortunate to
pay for it in four years. I remained on
-/la
J« *
±=±\£+
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
213
this farm until October, 1873, when I sold
it to W. C. Tyrrell, and removed to Bel-
mont. Frank Walters purchased the Ray
farm, on section 29, east side of the grove,
in 1861. Mrs. Walters was a fine speci-
men of a Posey county hoosier. She was
an inveterate smoker, but raised her own
tobacco. Her breath was enough to con-
vince any one of the evile of tobacco smok-
ing. During the summer of 1867, 1 think,
t^e people gathered in the grove near Mr.
Walters' house for a basket picnic, and
they had a good time generally. After
dinner the game of Copenhagen was intro-
duced. It consisted of forming a ring
with one hand hold of a rope, and one or
two persons inside the ring. If the per-
sons inside the ring could strike the hand
of one of the opposite sex while hold of
the rope, it was their privilege to kiss
them before they dodged inside the rope.
The cattle king was on hand as usual,
and, feeling that I owed him one, I
managed to get Mrs. Walters inside the
ring and instructed her to go for Popejoy.
Calling Popejoy's attention to his horses,
Mrs. Walters took the advantage and dealt
him a fearful blow on the hand. Before
he could recover from his astonishment
she kissed him on his mouth, giving him
the full benefit of her delicious breath.
Popejoy declared it was a regular millen-
nium buss, and it so effectually cured him
of the habit of smoking, that he didn't
indulge again for two years.
INCIDENTS OF EARLY DAYS IN FRANKLIN
COUNTY.
By Mrs. H. J. Mitchell.
As the historian requested me to write
a reminiscence of pioneer life, this thought
suggests itself. Our early experience
might encourage other young people to
see a light beyond the present dark cloud
of poverty. In regard to our financial
circumstances, we had nothing, or nearly
so. I was young, not quite seventee , and
had earned a little money teaching school
at one dollar and a half per week. My
husband, H. J. Mitchell, said one day
(before we were married), "I have twenty
dollars, do you think we could commence
house-keeping ?" I thought we could, so
we were married and began keepir g house
and only used thirteen of the twenty
dollars, that included our furniture, cook
stove, dishes and groceries. Our stove
only cost one dollar and a half, three
chairs, fifty cents a piece, our table, my
husband made, also our bedsteads. I had
beds and bedding for two beds, my sister
gave me two breadths of rag carpet, this
I spread on the sit ing room side of our
house. The house was 14x16 feet. I put
a curtain around the meal barrel ( we had
no flour ) and over it placed a board on
which I laid the family bible and hymn
book. This was our center table. I had
white curtains at my one window, also
around one bed. I had two beds in this
one room, for I always believed in being
ready for guests. Now we were keeping
house and quite nice and cozy it seemed,
but with what little expense. We have
neighbors near us now who can remember
our little home. We both tried our best
to earn something. I would knit lace
gloves or sew for any who would hire such
things done. When we had been married
about one year, my father gave me thirty
dollars. This bought our first cow, and
from her milk I sold, during the next four
-®
T"
214
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
months, twelve dollars worth of butter.
Here I will tell a little incident : One of
the neighbors, Leander Reeves, came to
father Jones (he was our class leader and
still is) to have his horses shod; his wife
came to make me a visit. I had sold all
the butter except enough for one meal,
this was kept that I should not be out. I
felt very pleased to see her, we had a nice
visit and dinner was over. The sun (we
had no clock ) indicated that night was
approaching and I ought to get — I was
going to say tea, but that was out of the
question, as we had no tea — supper, but
the butter was gone; we had eaten it for
dinner. We had meat, and I must make
that answer. It was quite a trial for me
Mr. Reeves' folks were quite well off and
I felt sorry for them to know that I had
sold all the butter, yet now I feel glad
that I was willing to do what I could to
pay for our home. My husband was
working every day that he could get work
to do, for the land must be paid for and
only our two pair of hands to earn the
money ; but I forget, about this time two
other little hands came to help, and they
surely did help. Many here can remem-
ber little Charley, he is at rest now, but
he was one of the comforts of pioneer
life. The winter of 1856-7 was very
cold and my brother-in-law, John Mitch-
ell, thought we must come and stay
with them; they lived near the timber and
we on the prairie. They had a log house
18x20 feet. Their family consisted of
eleven persons, three of which were
boarders, but people did not think of
being crowded in those days. We kept
the baby in a basket hung over a joist and
we would each as we passed, jog the
basket. It was'nt as nice, perhaps, as a
crib, but he seemed as happy as need be.
One more item and I am done. The sum-
mer we were married three years, our cow
died. It was a great loss to us, for we
had neither butter to eat nor sell ; how-
ever, we had a pig to kill, and as calico
dresses had got pretty scarce, I sold the
lard at the store of Clock & Wheeler.
There was only enough to pay for seven
yards. I made it up and it was rather
short. One of the neighbors cime to see
me and she said "your dress is too short,"
but I said "it will be long enough before
I get another. " Thus, you see, though
we were poor, we were happy.
I feel that I must speak of our first ride
with our own team and conveyance.
We had a yoke of two year old steers.
This was when we had been rnrried a
little over one year. My husband made a
little sled, also a yoke for the steers. He
hitched them to the sled and tied a rope
to their horns and I took the baby and
rode on the sled. He walked and led the
team. We have rode out under different
circumstances since, but I am sure we
never enjoyed ourselves better than we
did that day. I do not think we endured
more privations than others, really not as
much as some. I have only written this
to encourage young people to think that
they may dare the privations of frontier
life, and feel confident that with industry
and economy, they may hope o make for
themselves and children a comfortable
home. Mrs. Octavia Mitchell.
INCIDENTS OF EARLY DAYS.
By L. B. Raymond.
Game of almost every description
abounded herein 1852 and 1853, including
t — a r
9
/?
cy-'o'fnv q^s n-^cctf .
;?£$%
-
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
219
buffalo and elk. The buffalo disappeared
about 1854, and the elk about 1856. Judge
Reeve and Mr. Mayne, late in the fall of
1852, while hunting for elk, and both on
foot, came across a drove of nearly a hun-
dred buffaloes in the ravine below A. D.
St. Clair's present residence in Reeve
township, and fired into them but without
effect. The buffaloes started northward
and they followed them, getting a shot
now and then, as the herd would come to
a stream and be huddled together at the
crossing. They killed none, however,
until they had followed them to Bailey's
creek, some four or five miles west of
Shobe's Grove, when they were fortunate
enough to creep up behind a bluff and
kill two. But it was already getting dark,
and a sudden snow squall came up so that
they could not get their bearings, and ac-
cordingly they skinned their slain buf-
faloes and wrapping themselves in the
hides lay down and slept until morning.
By daylight it was clear and they could
distinguish the timber at Shobe's grove'
whither they wended their way and
reached home by noon Judge Reeve and
William Braden, now of Otisville, killed
an immense buffalo bull on the prairie in
June, 1856, somewhere near section 16, in
Hamilton township. The old fellow was
just jumping the channel of Mayne's creek,
when a shot brought him down and he
tumbled into the bed of the creek, and
was so heavy that it was impossible for
them to get him out without going for
more help. This is about the last buffalo
that we have any record of excepting
a stray one that wandered into the county
about 1854-5, and was discovered near
Maysville by \V. L. Schroyer. The whole
— r- 10
neighborhood turned out on horseback and
after a three hours hunt he was finally
killed near the south line of the county
about half way between Ackley and Iowa
Falls. The elk stayed longer. C. M.
Leggett tells of killing one on September,
1855, on or near the place now owned by
S. H. Carter in Reeve township. Leggett
and Solomon Staley were drawing hay,
Leggett being on the load. He saw the
elk off about half a mile, and calling
Staley's attention to it, slid down from the
load and each taking a horse and pitch-
fork, started in pursuit. Leggett overtook
him and struck him in the neck with* the
fork, but the tines stuck fast and jerked
the handle out of his hands. He kept
close behind, however, and when the elk
came to the little creek that runs across
the southeast corner of Carter's farm the
handle stuck in the ground, and Leggett,
jumping from his horse, held on until
Staley came up with the other fork, which
he firmly planted in the elk's neck on the
other side. Dr. Mitchell was out hunting
prairie chickens and came up with a shot
gun, terribly excited. Standing off about
ten feet he took good aim, fired and missed
clean. He then took aim with the other
barrel, but had the "buck ague" so badly
that he landed the charge in the elk's nose,
whereupon the poor beast bellowed ter-
rifically. Leggett then tried to get the
doctor to take hold of the pitchfork and
let him try his hand with the gun, but the
doctor's blood was up and he swore
he would shoot that elk if it took all
the powder he had in his horn. Ac-
cordingly he reloaded and walking up to
the animal, putting the muzzle of the gun
about six inches from its head, put an end
to its sufferings.
t
<>
220
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
This exploit excited all hands so much
that, the next morning they made up a
party consisting of half a dozen men, a
team, two or three saddle horses, and no
end of dogs, and all hands went up south-
west of the Merriss place in Grant town-
ship and after skirmishing around they
got up a small herd and Dr. Mitchell had
the good fortune to kill another one, and
some one else in the party, whose name
we eannot now give, killed one also,
which they thought was good enough for
one day. In the fall of 1855, Leggett and his
wife were going across the prairie to John
I. Popejoy's, when they saw a large herd
of elk crossing Mayne's creek directly west
of George Wright's residence, in Lee town-
ship They counted 195, and saw more
that they did not count. Deer never were
numerous, as they are more apt to frequent
timbered countries, but what few there
were when the first settlers came, soon
disappeared.
THE INDIAN SCARE.
All newly settled countries, if they do
not suffer from the depredations of the
Indians, have panics caused by reports of
t eir depredations elsewhere or frequently
by false reports of massacres, etc. Fiank-
lin county had her first experience in this
line or. the 4th of July, 1854, and its origin
is believed to be about a follows :
Clear Lake was regarded as with-
in the " neutral ground" between the
Sioux, Sacs and Foxes, and any tres-
passing on this ground by either tribe,
was sure to bring on trouble. But the
government had made it a Winnebago
reservation, and placed the Winnebagoes
thereon, although the Sioux never con-
sented to have the reservation used by
that tribe and becime so hostile in their
attitude towards them that Fort Atkinson,
in the southwest corner of Winneshiek
county was built in 1840, and soldiers
placed therein to protect the Winneba-
goes from the inroads of the bloodthirsty
Sioux.
In 1851 a man named Hewitt, who had
been a trader among the Winnebagoes, lo-
cated at Clear Lake, and in the fall of
1853, several families of Winnebagoes
headed by a chief called To-Shan-ega (The
Otter) came and located where the village
of Clear Lake now stands. The Sioux,
who, as has been stated, lived farther north,
in Minnesota, hearing of this, determined
to exterminate the little paity of Winne-
bagoes, and accordingly in June, 1854,
came down to the lake about five hundred
strong. For some time they pretened to
be friendly, but before long caught a Win-
nebago boy away from the village alone,
whom they killed and chopped off his
head. Hewitt and his two other white
neighbors then seeing that trouble was
inevitable sent the Winnebagoes with
their teams to Fort Snelling,near St. Paul,
starting them in the night. After they
were gone the settlers all gathered at the
house of Mr. Dickinson and the Sioux
hung around until satisfied that the Win-
nebagoes had gone, when they left for
Minnesota. Soon after their departure, a
detachment of fifty soldiers, that had been
sent by the Governor of the State, arrived
at the lake, and it was from this affair
that the report spread through all northern
Iowa that a general massacre of* the whites
was intended by the Indians.
- — 4 *
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
221
The little settlement at Mayne's Grove,
or the greater portion of it spent July 4,
1854, at the house of John Mitchell, which
our readers will remember was the old
Mayne house on the John S. Jones place.
While history and tradition both are silent
as to what the particular exercises of the
day were f so far as the lords of creation are
concerned, yet it is to be presumed that
they sat out doors in the shade and talked
politics or told hunting stories, like their
brethren of a later day. The iadies
had a quilting, and all had a good
dinner, thanks to the hospitality and
culinary skill of Mrs. Mitchell and Miss
Smith. At an early hour they separated,
and wended their way homeward with
their ox teams, and we presume that the
most of the families, after comparing
their fourth with the good times gone by
back in Ohio or Indiana or eke where, re-
tired to their beds about the usual time.
In the middle of the night, however, word
was carried hurriedly from cabin to cabin :
"The Indians ! the Indians !" And as the
pioneer would open his door and stand,
half asleep and half awake, he would be
entirely awakened by his neighbor's state-
ment that, "Four hundred Sioux warriors
are at Clear Lake and moving this way !"
How the report reached the settlement
we are unable to say, but so far as we now
learn, Silas Moon, who lived on the J. D.
Parks place, was the first to spread the
news. A son of Job Garner notified the
people who lived in the "bend" of the
creek ; Mitchells, Springers, Sturms, Ar-
lidges, etc. By daylight the whole set-
tlement was ready for the march and ex-
cepting the families of John Mayne and
Dr. Arlidge struck out for the settlement
at Beaver Grove, in Butler county. It
should have been stated that the wife of
Dr. Arlidge died two or three days be-
fore this time, and was buried in the cem-
etery on the hill west of J. S. Jones', being
the first person buried there, and her
children had all been taken home by rela-
tives residing near Hardin City, Arlidge
absolutely refusing to go, and when the
train left was still there. Miss Smith,
(now Mrs. H. J.Mitchell) and others think
that he either remained there while they
were away or went to Hardin City. Mayne,
too, went to the Iowa river with his family
instead of going with the rest.
Old Mr. Mitchell, too, strongly objected
to going, and wanted to stay and fight it
out, and at first declared he w r ould not go,
but finally was persuaded to accompany
the rest. It was warm weather and there
were but two horse teams in the train, all
the balance being oxen. The settlers,
too, had gathered up most of their cattle,
and as ihey were driven along their pro-
gress was necessarily tedious and slow.
They passed within a mile or so of Downs'
Grove and the Downs family seeing the
wagons, came out. To the excited imag-
inations of the fugitives, the panic-stricken
family, who it seems had also heard some-
thing of the Indian troubles, became
bloodthirsty savages who had already
murdered Downs' family, and now sallied
forth from the grove to massacre the emi-
grants, pillage the train and exterminate
the white population of Franklin county
at one blow. Flight was impossible so a
halt was ordered, and the little party
disposed in as good order as possible for
defense. Happily, however, the precau-
tions were needless, and the train forth-
I s
r
JyJ(3
222
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
with proceeded on its way, augmented by
the Downs' family who having no team,
accompanied it on foot. Where the Mc-
Cormick family were at this time does not
appear, but they were probably at Hardin
City spending the fourth and had not yet
returned home.
At night they camped and sentinels were
posted, and let it be recorded that Miss
Smith, the pioneer teacher of Franklin
county, insisted on taking her turn in
standing guard with the rest.
In about three days they reached their
destination and most of them camped near
where the village of New Hartford now is,
# some of them going to Cedar Falls.
The two elder sons of Mr. Allen, to-
gether with Hogan and Tatum, had gone
back to Janesville to spend ihe fourth, and
at that place heard of the Indian trouble,
and while one of the boys and Hogan
joined a company who were going up to
Clear Lake to learn the exact state of af-
fairs, the other one and Tatum returned to
Allen's Grove after the families, bringing
them down to Janesville where they re-
mained nearly two months, returning
about the first of September.
Of the party who went to Beaver Grove
some of them returned in about two weeks
while some stayed until after harvest, and
returned to find the most of their sod corn
and vegetables destroyed by what stock
they had left at home.
It is doubtful whether Mayne ever re-
turned with his family to the grove after
this time or not. His claim, as has been
stated, had been "entered out" and late in
the summer he left for Missouri in about
the same style, and just about as rich in
this world's goods as he had come into
Franklin county, two years before. He
was a remarkable man in many respects
and there was something mysterious about
him that none of his neighbors ever solved.
From what his wife said he was from In-
diana and had always been just on the
verge of civilization, dividing his time
between trapping, hunting and making
claims. He never referred to his past life,
and from this it was inferred that he had
committed some deed for which he had
fled westward.
He was quick-witted and sharp in many
things but exceedingly superstitious and
distrustful. When going on a hunting
expedition he never took his gun and went
out of doors, but always went out without
it, and had his wife bring it out to him.
This he fancied brought him good luck,
and it is said that he would wait for hours
before setting forth upon a hunt when his
wife was absent, for her to return and
hand him out his gun. He could neither
read nor write and as his name was given
to the grove where he resided and the
creek that runs through it, it is spelled on
all old maps as "Main," but in later years
W. N. Davidson, Esq., an attorney of
Hampton, drew a large map of the county
and in lettering the creek adopted the plan
of spelling the name "Mayne," and this
method of spelling it generally prevails at
present. Of JVlayne's subsequent history
we have never heard anything, yet it is
fair to presume, that if alive, he is some-
where at the heels of the buffalo and the
Indian in the far west.
Anion and Urias Rice have been men-
tioned as locating at Four Mile Grove in
June, 1854. They arrived there on 'he
25th of June and moved into the house
â– x'Ur
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
223
with Job Garner who lived on the Boots
place. With the family of Anion Rice
came a sister of Mrs. Rice's, Anna Scott,
(now Mrs. J. B. Goldsborough) who is a
resident of Hampton at the present time,
and was one of the party at Mr. John
Mitchell's, on the 4th of July, but she
states that instead of the Indian scare be-
ing the night following, it was the Sunday
night following although she cannot now
recollect what day in the week the 4th
came on. The news was brought to the
families of Garner and the Rices, by one
of the VanHorns, who had been up to his
claim on the farm where C. J. Mott now
resides just north of Hampton, and was
then on his way back to his family near
Janesville, in Bremer county. It now
appears probable that Van Horn must have
been the one who also carried the news
to the settlement at Mayne's Grove, prob-
ably to Moon's on the J. D. Parks place.
VanHorn came to Garners before bed-
time and the families immediately set
about making preparations for departure.
Garner's people had quite a number of
chickens and the thrifty housewife con-
cluded that the best method of taking
them along was to kill, pick and cook
them, which job took nearly all night to
accomplish, and when daylight came, all
were loaded up and on the way down
Mayne's creek. They camped the first
night at the "Horse-neck," near Willough-
by, in Butler county, which must have
been a pretty good drive for ox-teams.
The next day they went to Cedar Falls.
The Garner family remained away
about three weeks and Amon Rice's about
four. Urias Rice did not return to the
county at all.
Mention has been made of Peter Rhine-
hart's selling his claim (the Haines place)
to a man named Loomis who came out
with C. M. Leggett, in June. Immediately
after the Indian "hegira" Rhineheart went
still farther down the creek and made a
claim where W. B. Bryan now lives, and
where William Ward lived for several
years. There just above the spring on the
side hill he built a double log house that
was imposing in its dimensions in those
days The same house was afterwards
torn down and moved to Hampton, and
stood until about 1877 on the front of the
lots now occupied by Major Kellam's resi-
dence on Reeve street. '
Rhinehart got well settled in his new
house in November and about the same
time a man named Carnes came and made
a claim where Richard Horner now lives
and built there. Of him we know scarcely
anything excepting that his wife died that
winter and that he left the county a year
or so afterwards.
Silas Moon sold his claim on the J. D.
Parks place in September to a man named
McCrary or McCreery and also went far-
ther down the creek, locating where A.
D. Benson now lives. About the same
time a man named Henry W. Smith came
and made a claim on the old Perdue
place, now also owned by Benson, and
built a house. Later still in the fall,
Quincy A. Jordan, from Illinois, came and
taking the claim where Rufus Benson re-
sides, built a large log house there. Jor-
dan was pretty well-to-do in this world's
goods and had furniture and family
clothing, considerably ahead of the aver-
age of his neighbors. Jordan's people
brought with them a little Swiss girl, ap-
224
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
parently ten or twelve years of age, of
whom they made a sort of a menial. The
child could not speak a word of the Eng-
lish language, but seemed unhappy and
wretched, and in a couple of months after
the arrival of the family here, two men,
dressed and appearing like gentlemen,
came on and took the child away. No
explanations were made to the neighbors,
but it was reported in the community at
the time, that Jordan was compelled to
pay the men quite a respectable sum as
damages. Nothing further was ever known
about the matter.
In December, 1854, a subscription school
was stalled in one room of Rhinehart's
double log house and Miss Anna Scott,
although not yet fifteen years of age, was
engaged as its teacher. The school con-
tinued through the winter with good suc-
cess. Spelling schools were frequent and
the whole population of the settlement
would turn out. This was the second
school taught in the county, the first being
that of Miss Smith, (Mrs. Mitchell) already
mentioned.
CHAPTER XI
POLITICAL.
The political history of a country is
always one of general interest, and espe-
cially is this true in a free land, where in
the eyes of the law, all are upon an equal-
ity, where it has been shown that even
the humblest — the rail-splitter or the tow-
path boy — can attain the highest honor
that can be bestowed upon the American
citizen. We delight to see merit rewarded;
we are pleased with the onward progress
of one from the humblest walks of life, as
step by step he mounts the ladder of
fame. Every citizen has a political am-
bition, and although he may never reach
the highest pinnacle, there is a possibility
that his children may.
There is an excitement about a political
campaign which all enjoy, and although
personalities are often indulged in, as a
general thing all yield gracefully to the
verdict of the people, a majority vote, and
submit themselves unto the "powers that
be."
In this chapter it is designed to briefly
sketch the political history of Franklin
county, giving the various general and
local issues that entered into each cam-
paign, and to so trace the political straws
that the reader may know which way the
tide runs.
Franklin county was organized by the
election of officers to fill the various coun-
; ty offices, in August, 1855. Since that
time there has never been held a regular
democratic convention for the nomination
of county officers. The contest has always
5
been between the republican nominees and
independent candidates, the latter usually
under the head of "peoples'," "farmers'" or
"independent ticket."
In 1856 former issues dividing political
parties had disappeared and new issues
were being rapidly formed. The whig
party had ceased to exist, and on its ruins
had been erected two other parties, one
having for its central truth opposition to
the further extension of slavery, and the
other that American-born citizens must
rule America. These parties had, of course,
absorbed many of the members of the old
democratic party. The American party,
not being opposed to slavery, or, at least,
making no opposition to it, either in the
States in which it existed or the newly
formed territories, where it had been
made snbject to admission by the re-
peal of the Missouri Compromise, had be-
come a numerous body in the South, with
many adherents in the North. The repub-
lican party, basing its claims for popular
suffrage upon its advocacy of freedom in
the territories, was not permitted an exist-
ence in the southern States, and of ne-
cessity was confined to the North. The
first State convention by the newly organ-
ized republican party was held at Iowa
City, February 22, and placed a ticket in
the field for State officers, and adopted a
platform in accordance with the princi-
ples of equal rights and firm opposition
to slavery. The democratic convention
met at the capitol, June 26, nominated a
ticket, and adopted a platform in accord-
ance with that adopted at the National
Convention at Cincinnati. The nomina-
tion of James Buchanan and John C.
Breckenridge was enthusiastically con
firmed. In Franklin county the newly or-
ganized party had a regular ticket in the
field. For president the vote stood: John
C.Fremont, republican, 110; James Bu-
chanan, 32; republican majority, 78.
The April election, 1857, was for coun-
ty attorney, clerk of court and assessor,
all important offices. Robert F. Piatt
was elected to the former by a majority of
8 over Benjamin Butterfield, the vote
standing 85 to 77; For clerk the vote stood
S. C. Brazzelton, 79 J. A. Guthrie, 72, and
Solomon Brazzelton, 18. For assessor
John I. Popejoy was successful over Wil-
liam Thorpe by a majority of 21.
The October election, 1857, was for
governor, lieutenant-governor, a repre-
sentative in the General Assembly and
county officers. A light vote was cast,
Ralph P. Lowe, republican, for governor,
receiving 70 votes, against Ben M. Sam-
uels, democrat, 32.
The first hutly contested campaign in
Franklin county took place concern-
ing the August election, 1857. The strife
between Maysville and Hampton for the
county seat caused a division in political
matters at this election for the first time,
that was the controlling element in every
election held in the county for twelve
years thereafter. Judge Reeve, who had
been elected county judge at the organi-
zation of the county in 1855, was a candi-
date for re-election to that office, which
was the most important in the county.
He was in favor of retaining the county
seat at Hampton — although he lived much
nearer Maysville — as he held that good
faith required it should remain there, af-
ter the unanimous vote removing it from
"Jefferson." Dr. Mitchell, on the con-
~oV
226
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
trary, was strong for removing it to Mays-
ville, where he had built and owned a
steam saw mill, and was regarded at that
time as its leading citizen. He was put
forward to oppose Judge Reeve. Isaac
Miller, county treasurer, who had been
elected in 1855, was a candidate for re-
election, but sympathized with Maysville,
and was supported by its citizens. He
had before this traded farms with George
Ryan, and removed to the farm now
owned by J. D. Parks, in Reeve township.
Against him the Hampton faction ran a
young man named Milton Clover, who
had lately come to the county, and was
boarding at Uncle Job Garner's. He
seems to have been selected mainly be-
cause nothing could be said against him,
rather than for any especial qualifications.
H. P. Allen, for county surveyor, and A.
S. Ross, for sheriff, had no opposition.
The vote for county judge was canvassed
by R. F. Piatt, who signed himself " Pros.
Att'y and ex-officio Co. Judge," and jus-
tices Boyles and Utley. They declared
Dr. Mitchell elected county judge, he hav-
ing, according to their returns, received
109 votes, and Judge Reeve 108. Judge
Reeve officiated as canvasser in the vote
for county treasurer, assisted by Boyles
and Utley, and they declared Clover
elected county treasurer, he receiving 107
votes, Miller 104, and Isaac N. Dodd 5.
The returns were certified to on the 8th
of August, and on the 10th, Judge Reeve
filed the necessary papers to contest the
election of Dr. Mitchell, and on the same
day, Miller filed notice of contest against
Clover. As these two contests were of
great importance at that time, the record
of the trial is given in full :
" Contested election in Franklin county
for the office of treasurer and recorder,
Isaac Miller, contestant vs. Milton Clover,
incumbent. Contestant's statement filed
Aug. 8, 1857. Bond filed and approved
Aug. 10, 1857. Precept issued Aug. 13,
1857. Contestant filed his nomination
Aug. 18, 1857, to-wit: George H. Ing-
ham. The incumbent having failed to
nominate an associate judge, as required
by law, the county judge appoints for him
William H. Thompson, on the 18th of
August, 1857." (The above entry was
made by the court.)
" Parties appeared at the time set forth
in the notices. Now came the incumbent,
by his attorneys, and filed his answer, and
made a motion as follows : That the pro-
ceedings in this case be dismissed for
the following causes : That William H.
Thompson, one of the judges in this case,
was not legally appointed ; that the notice
to the incumbent was served on the 14th
of August, 1857, and the appointment
made on the 18th of August, 1857, as ap-
pears on record. James B. Reeve, county
judge of Franklin county. Motion argued
and overruled by the court, and instructed
the clerk to change the records so that
they will read that the appointment of
William H. Thompson, one of the associ-
ate judges in this case, was made by the
county judge, on the 20th of August, in-
stead of Aug. 18, 1857. To which ruling
the incumbent said he would file his bill
of exceptions. Now comes the contestant,
by his attorney, and moves the court to
allow him to file a copy of the original
written nomination of W. H. Thompson,
as one of the associate judges, appointed
by James B. Reeve, county judge, Milton
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
227
Clover having failed to appoint within the
time allowed by law, the original written
nomination having been lost.
The ruling of the court is that the three
names alleged to be illegal votes in Wash-
ington township be stricken out of the
answer, the incumbent will file a bill of
exceptions to the rulings of the court or
the proceedings. Accordingly, the court
adjourned until Friday, Sept. 11, 1857,
at 9 o'clock a. m.
Parties appeared and court was called,
then adjourned until Saturday, Sept. 12,
1857, at 9 o'clock a. m. Now, to-wit,
court was called and parties appeared, then
adjourned until Monday, Sept. 19, 1857,
at 9 o'clock a. m.
Sept. 14, 1857, parties appeared, and
court was called. Now came the incum-
bent, by his attorneys, and filed his affi-
davit that R. F. Piatt vacate his seat for
cause as a judge in this case, who refused
to do so. Now came the incumbent, by his
attorneys, and filed his bond of appeal, and
notices of appeal being served on Isaac
Miller and filed this 1 4th day of September,
1857, and also notices of appeal served on
the judges of said cause. Returned and
filed on Sept. 14, 1857.
Cortrt ruled that the trial of the cause
should be heard. Now came the incum-
bent, by his attorneys, and filed his
amended statement. Witnesses on the
part of contestant were called and sworn.
Court adjourned until Sept. 15, 1857, at
9 o'clock A. M.
Sept. 15, 1857. Now on this day, about
one o'clock, court was called. Parties on
the part of the contestant appeared and
some of the witnesses sworn. The judg-
ment of the court is that Isaac Miller is
duly elected to the office of treasurer and
recorder of the county of Franklin, and
direct that judgment be entered against
the incumbent, Milton Clover, for the costs
in said suit to be taxed in said case.
Contested election in Franklin county for
the office of county judge, James B. Reeve,
contestant, vs. S. R. Mitchell, incumbent.
Bonds and other necessary papers filed.
The incumbent specially came and filed
his affidavit setting forth causes therefore-
and praying that R. F. Piatt, prosecuting
attorney, in and for said county, vacate
his seat as a judge in said cause. Affi-
davit argued and overruled, whereupon the
contestant, by his attorney, asks leave
to amend his statement. Refused for the
time being, whereupon contestant de-
clared himself ready for trial. Witnesses
on the part of contestant called and sworn,
when contestant, by his attorney, asked to
tile an amended statement; argued and
leave granted. An amended statement
filed. Adjourned until Sept. 8, 1857, 9
o'clock A. M.
Sept. 8, 1857. Parties appeared and in-
cumbent filed his motion for cause asking
that the said contestant's amended state-
ment be stricken from the files. Motion
argued and overruled. Incumbent, by his
attorney, then filed his motion asking that
the names of the persons set forth in said
amended statement as having voted
illegally be stricken out. Without argu-
ing, overruled, whereupon incumbent filed
an oath, his prayer for continuance of
said cause at contestant's cost. Granted,
and cOsts accrued up to the time of
filing the amended statement taxed
to the contestant and then adjourned ac-
11
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228
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
cordingly until Thursday, Sept. 10, 1857,
at 9 o'clock a. m.
Court called at time stated. Parties ap-
peared. The incumbent, S. R. Mitchell,
came, by his attorneys, and filed his answer
to the original statement and also to the
amended statement, both of which are on
file. Now comes the contestant, by his
attorney, and files a demurer. The court
overruled the demurer. Now comes the
contestant, by his attorney, and asks to
amend his amended statement by striking
out that William Cay wood was not a legal
voter from the fact that he was 'not a legal
voter at the time' of the late August elec-
tion. The court allowed the amendment.
Now comes the contestant and files, by his
attorney, his replication. Now came the
incumbent, by his attorneys, and moved to
exclude the poll books, from the fact that
they had not been filed in the county
office, which motion was overruled. Evi-
dence was introduced to identify the pa-
pers as being the original poll books, and
the court filed them and allowed them
to be admitted. The witnesses on the
part of the contestant were again called
and sworn. Court adjourned until Friday
at 7 : 30 o'clock a. m.
According to stated time, parties ap-
peared, and court convened. Now came
the contestant, by his attorney, and asked to
amend his amended statement. Argued,
and then, without ruling on said motion,
court adjourned until Saturday.
According to stated time, parties ap-
pealed, court was called, and then the
motion to amend was allowed by adding
four new names that did vote in Reeve
township at the late August election, 1857,
as illegal, and also the names of two that
did vote in Morgan township illegally, and
also the name of one that did illegally
vote in Washington township. Now came
the incumbent, by his attorneys, and filed
his affidavit and motion to continue the
cause until the first Monday in October,
1857, at the cost of the contestant, from
the fact that they want to prepare an an-
swer to the amended statement. Argued?
and court ruled that court adjourn until
Wednesday, Sept. 16, 1857, and that
the cost of contestant's own witnesses of
Sept. 12, 1857, be taxed to contest-
ant in said cause. On the 14th of Sep-
tember, 1857, the incumbent, by his attor-
ney, filed his bond of appeal in this cause.
Notice of appeal was issued on Sept. 14,
1857, to James B. Reeve, served and re-
turned on the same day, and notice was
issued to R. F. Piatt, John I. Popejoy and
George H. Ingham, the judges of said
cause ; which notice was served, returned
and filed Sept. 26, 1857.
Sept. 16, 1857, court was called about
one o'clock, the bench to try this cause.
Parties appeared on the part of the contest-
ant. Witnesses were called, on the part
of the contestant, and sworn.
The decision of the court is that James
B. Reeve is duly declared elected county
judge of Franklin county, and that judg-
ment be entered against S. R. Mitchell,
the incumbent, for the costs in this case."
The April election of 1858, was another
hotly contested one in Franklin county.
The officers to he elected were school
fund commissioner and superintendent.
George W. Han sell was elected to the
former office over Henry Schrover, receiv-
ing a majority of 23. R. F. Piatt was
elected county superintendent, receiving
s r*
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY
229
61 votes, to William C. Boyles 38, and
John Staley 17. Boyles contested Piatt's
election, but the judges, James Van Horn
and T. H. Baker, decided in favor of Piatt.
In 1859, there were both State and
county officers to be elected and the con-
test was again sharp in Franklin county.
A full vote was polled. In Fianklin
county, the vote on governor stood: S. J.
Kirkwood, republican, 201; A. C. Dodge,
democrat, 51. For county judge, Henry
Shroye received 153 votes, and James B.
Reeve, 100. Both c ndidates lived in
Reeve township, but Judge Reeve was ac-
cused by his neighbors, of favoring Hamp-
ton at the expense of Maysville, and con-
sequently had his own town against him.
At the sime election, James Thompson
hid 106 votes fo county treasurer, John
E. Boyles, 88 and Isaac Miller (the incum-
bent) 53. For sheriff, F. A. Denton had
86 votes, George Ryan, 58; W. B. Free-
burn, 46; G. W. Thompson, 32; J. E. Can-
nam, 19; T. C. Riddle, 5; evidently a
"free for all" race. Of this canvass, it is
told by the old settlers, that Ryan rode
over he county in a buggy, driving a fine
pair of horses with silver plated harness
on (the only outfit of the kind in the coun-
ty) while Denton, his successful opponent,
made his canvass on foot and wearing
clothes that badly needed repairs, thus
giving to the "sovereigns" occular demon-
stration that he needed he office.
Steve Jones, then editor of the Record,
relates that one of the candidates, who
only got a few votes for sheriff, came into
the Record office to order his tickets.
"Now, Steve," said the candidate, "I want
my name on every ticket you print."
Steve tried to explain to him that that
was impossible, but was unable to con-
vince him. About election time, he called
around again and gave Steve a lively
sliaking-up for having disobeyed his in-
structions, and Steve had all he could do
to get the misunderstanding satisfactorily
adjusted.
The country was now becoming deeply
moved over questions which stirred the
popular heart as none had ever done be-
fore. The storm h d been gHhering ever
since the repeal of the Missouri Compro-
mise; the struggles in Kansas had deeply
intensified the feelings of the people of
the North, and John Brown's attempt upon
Harper's Ferry had been skillfully managed
so as to arouse and heat the people of the
South. That the Territories of the United
States should be forever consecrated to
freedom was the solemn determination of
a large majority of the people of the North,
and that the boundaries of the institution
of slavery should not be further enlarged.
The South, seeking its perpetuation by
means of enlarged political power, deter-
mined that it should not be restricted, but
should have enlarged privileges. The
questions dividing parties were thus chiefly
sectional and pointed directly to war. In
this state of public mind the republicrn
party met in National Convention at Chi-
cago, for the purpose of placing in the
field candidates for the office of President
and Vice-President. The names of Sew-
ard, Lincoln, Chase, Blair and Bates were
proposed for the chief office. In the con-
vention it was plain to see who was the
favorite of the lookers-on. Every men-
tion of Lincoln's name was received with
cheer after cheer. Three ballots were
taken; on the last, Mr. Lincoln received a
M
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230
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
majority of the whole votes, and was made
the unanimous choice of the convention
amidst the most intense enthusiasm. Han-
nibal Hamlin, of Maine, was selected as
the candidate for Vice-President.
The Democratic National Convention
was called to meet at Charleston, South
Carolina. The friends of Stephen A.
Douglas were active in urging his claims
to the nomination for the Presidency, many
of the delegates from the northern States
being instructed to use all honorable means
to that end. The claims of Douglas were
stoutly contested by the leaders of the
democracy of the South, and it was evi-
dent some time before the convention as-
sembled that it would be difficult to come
to an agreement, especially as the rule of
the Democratic National Conventions re-
quired a two-thirds vote to nominate.
Meeting in the city of Charleston, April
23, 1860, the convention remained in ses-
sion ten days, at the expiration of which
time no nominations were made, many of
the delegates from the southern States
withdrawing. After taking fifty-seven
ballots, it was found impossible for any
Candida' e to receive a two-thirds vote of
the entire body, so many delegates having
withdrawn. An adjournment was then
had to Baltimore June 19. At this latter
place the convention met, pursuant to ad-
journmen , but even here no agreement
could be reached between the factions.
After a six days' meeting, Stephen A.
Douglas was nominated for President, and
Benjamin Fitzpatrick, of Alabama, for
Vice-President. The nomination of Doug-
las was received with very great enthusi-
asm. Mr. Fitzpatrick declining, Herschel
V. Johnson, of Georgia, was substituted.
Mr. Johnson accepted the nomination.
That portion of the convention which
seceded held a convention June 23, and
nominated John C. Ureckenridge, of Ken-
tucky, for President, and Joseph Lane, of
Oregon, for Vice-President. A "Union"
convention was also held, at which .lohn
Bell, of Tennessee was nominated for
President, and Edward Everett, of Massa-
chusetts, for Vice-President.
With four Presidential candidates in the
field, the exciting questions growing out
of the institution of slavery, and the threats
of disunion by a portion of the south in
the event of the election of Lincoln, tended
to make the campaign one of great inter-
est "Wide-Awake" clubs and organiza-
tions of " Hickory Boys " on the part of
republicans and Douglas democrats, re-
spectively, tended to increase the excite-
ment. Large and enthusiastic meetings
were held by each party iu all the leading
towns and cities, and even in many of the
smaller villages. The names of the "Rail-
Splitter" and the "Little Giant" evoked
the greatest enthusiasm.
The Republican State Convention met in
Iowa city, May 23, nominated a State
ticket, and adopted a platform endorsing
the action of the National Convention at
Chicago, endorsing its nominations and
favoring rigid ( conomy in State matters.
The Democratic Convention met at Des
Moines July 12, nominated a State ticket,
and passed resolutions endorsing Douglas
and Johnson. The "Union ticket" was
strongly condemned.
In this county the fight was waged as
hard as in any county in the State. There
was but one county officer of any import-
±=Al*
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
231
ance to be elected — clerk of the district
court — consequently there was but little
to attract from the great National ques-
tions.
The war for the Union was in progress
during the political campaign of 1861, and
issues arrowing out of that war were form-
ing.
The republicans were the first to meet
in convention, assembling at Des Moines,
July 31, and nominating a candidate for
governor and other State officers, adopting
a platform heartily supporting the govern-
ment in its assertion of the right to coerce,
denouncing the doctrine of secession,
maintaining the supremacy of the consti-
tution, and declaring in the most forcible
language that the rebellion should be put
down at any cost.
The Democratic State Convention passed
resolutions also unequivocally condemning
the action of the seceding States, but de-
claring it to be the legitimate result of
the successful teaching of the irrepressi-
ble conflict, and also denying in toto the
right of the government to perpetuate the
Union by force of arms. State sover-
eignty was endorsed, and the opposite
doctrine declared to be fraught with dis-
astrous consequences.
The campaign in this county afforded
but little interest, the all-exciting ques-
tions of the war, filling the mind of every
voter.
During 1862, the Union army had met
with several reverses, and a gloomy feel-
ing pervaded the minds of the people,
having its effect upon the canvass for
State officers.
The democrats met in convention at
Des Moines, and adopted a platform in
which they expressed themselves as in
favor of using all constitutional means for
the suppression of the rebellion, and op-
posing any scheme of confiscation or
emancipation; objecting to a suppression
of the writ of habeas corpus; declaring
the superiority of the white over the
black race and opposed to the purchase of
slaves.
The republicans, in their platform,
adopted at Des Moines, resolved that it
was the duty of every man to help main-
tain the government, condemned the
course of the secession sympathizers, and
asked all who were favorable to giving he
national administration honest support, to
co-operate with them.
In this county the campaign afforded
but little of interest. The county officers
to be elected were county judge and clerk
of court. Austin North was elected to the
former, and D. W. Dow to the latter.
In 1863, the democracy of the State met
in convention at Des Moines, July 8, and
nominated a candidate for governor and
other State officers Questions growing
out of the war still afforded issues be-
tween the parties. The writ of habeas
corpus had been suspended by the Presi-
dent; martial law had been declared in
some of the States not in rebellion, and
the proclamation of emancipation had
been issued. These measures the de-
mocracy in convention and by resolution
opposed, while the republican convention,
which convened June 17, favored each.
Thus were the issues defined. In Frank-
lin county the vote on governor stood:
William M. Stone, republican, 11)3; James
M. Tuttle, democrat, 63; republican ma-
jority, 130.
~i
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232
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
J
In 1864, Abraham Lincoln was re-nom-
inated by the republicans, and associated
with him on the ticket was Andrew John-
son, the Union governor of Tennessee.
The democrats put in nomination Gen.
George B. McClellan for the Presidency,
and George H. Pendleton, of Ohio, for
the Vice-Presidency. The republicans
of Iowa, held a convention at Des Moines,
July 7, and adopted a platform confirming
the re-nomination of Abraham Lincoln,
and paying high tributes of praise to the
loyal soldiers and soldiers' wives who
were daily making sacrifices that the
Union might be s .ved. The Democratic
State Convention met at DesMoines, July
16, selected a State ticket, but adopted no
platform. A peace convention, however,
was held at Iowa City, August 24, which
adopted resolutions denouncing the war
and its further support, and rejecting the
equality of the negro with the white man.
In 1865, the republicans were first in
the field, meeting in convention at Des
Moines, June 14, nominating a ticket and
adopting a platform. The Union anti-
negro suffrage party met at the capital,
August 23 and nominated a ticket, and
adopted a platform in which they resolved
to sustain the administration of Andrew
Johnson ; that they were opposed to
negro suffrage ; that the soldiers of the
late war deserved well of their country-
men, and that their sympathies were with
them. The democrats met in convention
the same day, but made no nominations,
the party supporting the soldier's ticket
as it was known.
The campaign of 1866 was fought on
the issue of reconstruction in the southern
States. The republicans ii) convention
resolved that the people who subdued the
rebellion and their representatives in
Congress had the right to re-organize the
States that had been in rebellion.. This
was denied by some of the republicans
and the entire democratic party. The
conservative republicans, or those who
were opposed to congressional action,
met in convention and nominated a State
ticket. The democratic convention adopt-
ed a platform, nominated two candi-
dates, and resolved to support the ticket
of the conservatives.
The general issues dividing the parties
in 1867 were the same as in 1866.
The year 1868 brought with it another
Presidential campaign. The republican
National Convention met in Chicago and
placed in nomination Ulysses S. Grant,
the victorious Union general, associating
with him Schuyler Colfax, of Indiana.
The democratic National Convention nom-
inated Horatio Seymour and Francis P.
Blair, Jr., for President and Vice Presi-
dent. The financial question began to be
a leading issue, especially with reference
to the payment of the bonds in coin or
greenbacks, the republicans favoring the
payment in coin, the democrats opposing.
The latter also, by resolution, favored the
abolition of the national banking system,
and the substitution of United States notes
for those of national banks. This was
opposed by the republicans.
The campaigns of 1869, 1870 and 1871
were devoid of much interest, and were
but repetitions of the results of previous
years, as a glance at the official vote in
this chapter will show.
The movement known as the liberal re-
publican had a large influence, politically,
h ?\
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HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
233
in 1872, having virtually dictated the dem-
ocratic nomination for the Presidency,
and the platform of principles on which
the campaign against the republican party
was dictated. The liberal republicans
were those connected with the republican
party who were opposed to any extreme
measures in the reconstruction of the
southern States, and who believed the
time had come when past issues should be
forgotten, and new issues formed; that
the hand of reconciliation should be of-
fered the South, and a united country,
working together to build up the waste
places of the South. Many of the most
able men of the republican party, includ-
ing Horace Greeley, Charles Sumner, Ly-
man Trumbull, John M. Palmer, and oth-
ers, united in this movement. In May a
National Convention was held by the lib-
eral republicans, in Cincinnati, which
nominated Horace Greeley for President,
and B. Gratz Brown for Vice President.
The following is a synopsis of the resolu-
tions adopted :
1. Equality of all men before the law ;
equal and exact justice to all, without
regard to race, color or previous condi-
tion.
2. Opposition to the re-opening of all
questions settled by the 13th, 14th and
15th amendments to the constitution.
3. Demand for the immediate and
absolute removal of all disabilities im-
posed on account of the rebellion.
4. Local self-government; supremacy
of the civil over the military, and demand
for the largest individual liberty consist-
ent with public order.
5. Denunciation of the existing system
of civil service.
TT
6. Demand for a system of federal
taxation which should not unnecessarily
interfere with the industries of the peo-
ple ; reference of the tariff to the congres-
sional districts.
7. Demand for civil service reform,
and for the election of President for a
single term only.
8. Maintenance of public credit and
denunciation of repudiation.
9. A speedy return to specie payment,
10. Thanks to the citizen-soldiers and
sailors of the Republic.
11. Opposition to further grants to
railroads
12. Cultivation of friendship with all
nations ; regarding alike dishonorable,
either to demand wha is not right or
submit to what is wrong.
The democracy, in convention, ratified
the nominations of Greeley and Brown,
and adopted the platform of the liberal
republicans. The republicans re-nomi-
nated President Grant, and associated
with him on the ticket Henry Wilson, of
Massachusetts, for Vice-President. The
disaffection among the democrats in conse-
quence of the nomination of Horace
Greeley, a life-long political enemy, was so
great, that a third ticket was nominated,
at the head of which was Charles O'Con-
nor, the distinguished lawyer of New
York. The democrats and liberal republi-
cans met in State convention, and nomi-
nated a ticket composed of two democrats
and three liberal republicans, and passed
a resolution endorsing the nomination of
Greeley. The liberal ticket in this county
did not meet with much encouragement,
the vote given it being only that number
usually polled by the democratic nomi-
•Tv
A
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234
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
*H-
nees. The total vote this year in Frank-
lin county was 1,035, and the republican
majority ranged between 708 and 898.
The question of Capital vs. Labor,
engaged the attention of the people in
1873. The Republican State Convention
met at DesMoines June 25, and after
nominating candidates, adopted resolu-
tions declaring against monopolies, and
urging that the several States should care-
fully restrict the powers of the railroad
companies and other monopolies. Class
legislation was also denounced. The
democratic party of the State made no
regular nomination this year, but gener-
ally supported the anti-monopoly ticket.
A convention was held at DesMoines,
August 12, nominating candidates, and
adopting resolutions, declaring that the old
party organizations were no longer useful,
denouncing corruption in government
affairs, and urging the necessity of politi-
cal honesty. In this county the general
aspect of affairs remained unchanged, the
republicans carrying the county on the
State ticket by majorities ranging above
800. The total vote was about 1,100.
In 1874, the issues were the same as in
the previous year, and the anti-monopolists
made a gallant light in this county as well
as in the State, but were defeated in both.
A convention was called to meet at Des
Moines June 24, 1875, to bo, composed of
democrats, anti-monopolists and liberal
republicans. Assembling, a ticket was
nominated headed by Shepherd Lefler for
governor, and a platform of principles
adopted covering the principal ground of
belief of the three elements represented.
The republicans met in convention and
nominated S. J. Kirkwood for governor.
A temperance convention was also held,
and Rev. John H. Lozier nominated for
governor. In Franklin county, the vote
for governor stood: Kirkwood, 923; Lefler,
214. The temperance candidate did not
receive a single vote in this county.
The election in 1876, was for National,
State and county officers. Rutherford B.
Hayes and William A. Wheeler were the
republican candidates for President and
Vice-President, while Samuel J. Tilden
and Thomas A. Hendricks received the
nomination of the democratic party for the
same offices. Peter Cooper was the nomi-
nee of the independent party or green-
backe s for President. The hard times
which began in 1878 had a perceptible ef-
fect upon this campaign. The democratic
party, which for some years had been act-
ing on the defensive, when not allied to
some other political body, now assumed
the aggressive, and under the banner of
"Tilden and reform," forced the republi-
cans in the defensive. On the part of the
democrats the campaign was boldly con-
ducted, though it cannot truthfully be said
that Tilden was the choice of the Nation,
especially of the western element of the
party.
In this State the greenbackers held two
conventions, at the first of which it adopted
a platform containing their principal
tenets.
The republicans adopted as a platform
substantially the following points: 1,
Unity of the Nation; 2, Economy in the
administration of the government; 3, A
currency convertible with coin; 4, All rail-
way and other corporations to be subject
to the law-making power. The democrats
adopted but a single resolution approving
-€
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HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
2:57
the platform of the National Democratic
Convention and the nominations of Tiklen
and Hendricks.
In 1877, State tickets were nominated
by democrats, republicans, greenbackers
and prohibitionists. The latter had for a
candidate, Elias Jessup, of Hardin county.
The republican candidate, was John H.
Gear; 'democratic, John P. Irish; and
greenback, Daniel P. Stubbs. The vote in
Franklin county stood: Gear, 1311; Irish,
336; Jessup, 10; Stubbs, 16.
In 1878, State tickets were nominated
by greenbackers, democrats and republi-
cans. Subsequently a fusion was effected
by the democrats and greenbackers, and a
portion of the nominees of each of their
State tickets were chosen as the choice of
both parties. The result in this county is
seen by the official vote.
The campaign of 1879, was opened May
12, by the democracy meeting in conven-
tion and nominating a State ticket, headed
by H. H. Trimble for governor. A lengthy
platform was adopted. The greenbackers
were next in the field, their ticket being
headed by Daniel Campbell for governor.
The republicans met and nominated John
H. Gear for governor, together with a full
State ticket. Lastly, the prohibitionists
met and placed in nomination George T.
Carpenter, of Mahaska, for governor. Mr.
Carpenter declining, D. R. Dungan, of
Eldora, was substituted. The republicans
nominated a straight ticket, while the op-
position combined on a "People's ticket,"
composed of independent republicans,
greenbackers and democrats.
The general campaign in 1880 began
quite early, especially among aspirants for
office, and their friends. The preliminary
canvass for the nomination grew quite
warm as both republicans and democrats
were alike confident that they would suc-
ceed in the National struggle. James A.
Garfield received the republican nomina-
tion for President, and associated with him
on the ticket, was Chester A. Arthur for
Vice-President. Winfield S. Hancock was
nominated for Presidentby the democrats,
and with him was William H. English for
Vice-President. James B. Weaver and
Gen. Chambers for President and Vice-
President, respectively, on the National
or greenback ticket. The canvass was
pushed with vigor, the democratic and re-
publican parties each using their utmost .
endeavors to be successful. The National
party, under the lead of Weaver, also
endeavored to increase its' votes, Mr.
Weaver making speeches in more than
half the States in the Union. The first
State Convention held in Iowa this year
was by the republicans, at DesMoines,
April 7. The platform adopted consisted
of three resolutions, the first demanding
that candidates be nominated at Chicago
by the National Republican Convention,
of National reputation for ability; second,
that James G. Blaine be the choice of the
republicans of the State, and third, in-
structing delegates to the National Con-
vention to vote for Blaine. The green-
backers met at DesMoines, May 11, and
adopted a platform re-asserting their de-
mands for the abolition of the National
banks, the reduction of the army, the
limitation of Chinese immigration, the
reduction of salaries, and the payment of
the National debt in greenbacks. The
democrats met at DesMoines, Sept. 2,
p
■»'«â–
st
nominated a ticket, and adopted a plat-
form endorsing Hancock and English, and
the National platform adopted at Cincin-
nati.
The election of 1881 was for State and
county officers. The three leading parties
had tickets in the field. In Franklin
county the vote for governor stood:
Buren R. Sherman, republican, 1,135; L.
G. Kinne, democrat, 188; D. M. Clark,
greenback, 75.
In 1882, the election was for State and
county officers and members of Congress,
and was a heated one. Particulars as to
candidates and vote will be found in the
official vote.
OFFICIAL VOTE.
In this connection is presented the of-
ficial vote of Franklin county, for every
general election from 1856 to 1883, so
far as could be ascertained from the
records in the court house.
The following is the record transcript
of the elections since that time:
Election August, 1856
Prosecuting Attorney.
Samuel B . Jackson 28 — 7
Robert F. Piatt 21
Clerk of Courts.
.Samuel R. Mitchell 33
November, 1856.
sideut.
John C. Fremont 110—78
James Buchanan 32
Delegates to Constitutional Convention
S. Winchester 110-91
William McClintock 19
April, 1857.
Prosecuting Attorney.
Robert F. Piatt 85—8
Benjamin Butterneld 77
Clerk of Courts.
S. C. Brazzelton 79 — 7
James A. Guthrie 72
Solomon Brazzelton 18
County Assessor.
John I. Popejoy 95 — 21
William Tharpe 74
August, 1857.
County Judge.
Samuel R. Mitchell 109 — 1
James B. Reeve 108
Treasurer and Recorder
Milton Clover 108—3
Isaac Miller 104
Isaac Dodd 1
Surveyor.
H P. Allen 219
Sheriff.
A. S. Ross 216
Coroner
William Ward 111—12
George Ryan 99
William Vanhorn 3
April, 1858.
Superintendent of Schools.
R. F. Piatt. 61-23
William C. Boyles 37
John Staley 17
School Fund Commissioner.
George W. Hansell 39-13
H. W. Shroyer. 16
October, 1858.
Clerk of Courts.
John D. Leland 86—13
John E. Boyles 73
S. C. Brazzelton 45
Drainage Commissioners.
W. H. Thompson 78—30
David Church 48
Coroner.
John Cromwell 62 —16
E. H. Sparling 46
A. H. Bridgeman 1
George Lyman 1
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
239
October, 1859.
County Judge.
Henry Shroyer 153—53
James B . Reeve 10 °
Treasurer and Recorder.
, 106—18
88
63
55
1
James Thompson
John E. Boyles
Isaac Miller 53
Sheriff.
F. A. Denton 86—28
George Ryan 5 °
W . B. Freeburn 46
George W. Thompson 32
J. E. Cannam * 9
T. C. Riddle 5
School Superintendent.
W. N. Davidson 170—59
J. W. Avery m
A. H. Bridgeman I 3
Surveyor.
Obadiah Smith 171—98
J. M. Hansberry 73
Drainage Commissioner.
L H. Morgan 351
Coroner.
L. Armstrong 349
November, 1860.
Clerk of Courts.
D. W. Dow : 152—38
John D. Lelaud 114
Henry White , 32
A. H. Bridgeman 1
Coroner.
L Shroyer 138—112
W. W. Soper 26
L. Benjamin 20
J. M. White 6
D. W. Dow !
J. D. Brand 6
Drainage Commissioner.
William May 111—101
James Jenkins 1()
County Judge.
A. T. Reeve ' 132—69
J. M. White
F. A. Denton
A. Denton
Treasurer and Recorder.
George Beed 237—211
L. H Morgan 26
S. R. Mitchell 6
Surveyor.
O.Smith ^4-33
S. H. Vankirk 71
a
1
.141-64
. 77
. 50
2
George Beed
Sheriff.
J.W.Ward 97 ~ 30
William Ward 67
E.A.Evans •• 38
J. E. Hunter 45
Scattering
School Superintendent.
N. B. Chapman
W.N. Davidson
J. W. Avery
J. Avery
October, 1862.
County Judge .
Austin North I"" 179
N. McDonald U
James T. McCormick 8
Clerk of Courts.
Daniel W. Dow 196-133
W. N. ^Davidson 63
note -For some reason the records do not give any
returns for the vears 1863, 1864 and 1865. The list ot
offiâ„¢ elected 'will be found, in the chapter ^up-n
but it is impossible to give the
L. chroyer.
1
October, 1861.
Governor.
Samuel J. Kirk wood, rep. , . 237—20
W. H. Merritt, dem'
officers elected
' 'Representation ;
vote.
30
Election, October 9, 1866.
Clerk of District Court
R. S. Benson
A. T. Reeve
County Recorder.
James H. Beed
H. C. Graves
George Beed i
Additional Tax.
For additional tax
Against " "
.195
257— 115
142
97
M<a —
240
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Election, October 8, 1867.
County Judge.
W. W. Day 242—35
James Thompson 207
D. D Day 1
County Treasurrr.
George Beed 446
Sheriff.
A. Pickering 248—55
Lewis P. Berry 193
N. B. Chapman 1
Superintendent of Schools,
L. B. Raymond 222—33
N. B. Chapman 189
John Avery 1
County Surveyor
S. H. Vankirk 433—423
O.Smith 10
Coroner.
J. C. Addis 445
Drainage Commissioner.
B. H. Gibbs 399
November, 1868.
Clerk of Courts.
R. S. Benson 554 547
J. T. McFaddin 7
James Beed 1
Recorder.
Henry Meyer 232—38
James Beed 1 194
James Walker 156
Charles Meyer 1
October, 1869.
Auditor.
R. S. Benson 374 50
G. G. Clemmer 324
G. C. Clemmer 2
Treasurer.
A. T. Reeve 380—54
George Beed 326
Sheriff.
A. B. Hudson 399—92
D. G. Carbaugh 307
School Superintendent
J. Cheston Whitney 429—163
L. B. Raymond 266
Drainage Commissioner.
Henry Thompson 16
Election, October, 1870.
Judges of Supreme Court.
Chester C. Cole, Rep 381
W. E. Miller, Rep 596
James G. Day, Rep 594
J. C. Knapp. Dem 38
P. H. Smith. Dem 38
Reuben Noble, Dem 38
Secretary of State .
Ed Wright 594—584
Charles Doerr : . . 10
Auditor of State.
John Russell 595—585
W . W. Garner 10
State Treasurer.
Samuel E. Rankin 595—557
W. C. James 38
Register of State Land office.
Aaron Brown 595 — 557
D. T. Ellsworth 38
Attorney General.
Henry Oleman 595—558
H. M. Martin 37
Supreme Court Reporter.
Charles Liudeman 595—557
W. E. McLellan 38
Congress.
Jackson Orr 592 — 555
C. C. Smeltzer 37
District Judge.
Daniel D. Chase 592
District Attorney.
J. H. Bradley 588
Clerk of Courts.
T. C. McKenzie 605—599
George Pettis 6
D. W. Dow 1
County Recorder.
Henry Meyer, Sr 611—605
Ed. Avery 6
Coroner.
J. M. Wait 609
Board of Supervisors,
C. J. Mott 460
E. L. Clock 440
J. I. Popejoy 501
W. H. Hoxie 201
David Elliott 23
Baker 1
*
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
•241
October Election, 1871.
Governor.
C. C. Carpenter 745—664
J. C. Kuapp 81
Lieutenant Governor.
H. C. Bullis 745—656
M. M. Ham 89
Judge Supreme Court
J. G. Day 748—660
J. P. Duncombe 88
Superintendent Public Instruction.
A. Abernetby 748—696
E. Mumm 36
E. M.Dunn 52
State Senator.
E. A. Howland 808
Representative.
M. A. Leahy 797
County Treasurer.
A. T. Reeve 806
Auditor.
R. S. Benson 819
Sheriff.
A. B. Hudson 461—92
A. Pickering 369
County Superintendent
J. C. Whitney 815
Surveyor.
0. Smith 839
Coroner.
A . Graham 835
Supervisor.
B. K. Jackson 429—18
J.I. Popejoy 411
Stock Act.
For 349
Against 370—21
November Election, 1872.
Secretary of State .
Josiah T. Young 953—871
E. A. Guilbert 82
State Treasurer.
William Christy 876—717
M. J. Rholfs 159
Register State Land Office.
Aaron Brown 870—710
Jacob Butler 150
Attorney General.
(To fill vacancy.)
M. E. Cutts 870
Congressman, 4th District.
H. O. Pratt 869—708
A. T. Lusch 161
Judge Circuit Court, 11th District.
J. H. Bradley 882—869
John A. Hull 13
F. Bliss 1
District Attorney.
M, D. O'Connell 909—898
H. E. J. Boardman 11
W. N. Davidson 2
J. M. McKenzie 1
Clerk of District and Circuit Court.
T. C. McKenzie 1038
County Recorder.
G. C. Hayes 1039
Supervisor.
D. W. Elliott 762-496
E. L. Clock 267
Superintendent of Schools.
(To fill vacancy.)
I. W.Myers 544—83
G. H. Brock 461
M. A. Ives 1
Stuck Act.
For 497—148
Against 349
October Election, 1873
Governor.
C. C. Carpenter 979—866
J. G. Vale 113
Lieutenant Governor.
Joseph Dysart 981—871
C. Whiting 110
Supreme Judge.
Joseph M. Beck 979—866
B. J. Hall ' 113
Superintendent Public Instruction.
A. Abernetby 978—866
D. W. Prindle 112
Representative.
M. A. Leahy 978—870
G B. Rockwell 108
*-
242
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
County Auditor.
J. M. Wait 683—283
William H. Thompson 400
Treasurer.
R. S. Benson 572—57
George. Beed 515
Sheriff.
A. N. Minor 719—356
Philip Salisbury 303
Surveyor.
P, S. Brennan 674—276
S. H. Vankirk 398
Superintendent of Schools.
G. G. Clemmer 1061-1057
I. W. Myers 4
Coroner.
Andrew Graham 1069
Supervisor.
L. D. Lane 598—122
C. J. Mott 476
County High School
For 165
Against 744—579
Increase of Board of Supervisors.
For 126
Against 746—621
October' Election, 1874.
Secretary of State.
JosiahT. Young 749—516
David Morgan 233
Auditor of State.
B. R. Sherman 753—514
Joseph M. King 229
State Treasurer.
William Christy 750—518
H. C. Hargis 232
Register State Land Office.
David Secor 749—517
R. H. Rodearmel 232
Attorney General.
M. E. Cutts.. 750—518
John H. Keatly 232
Supreme Court Reporter.
J. S.Runnells 750-518
J. M. Weart 232
Clerk of Supreme Court.
E. J. Holmes 750—518
George W.Bali 232
Congressman.
H. O. Pratt 721—483
John Bowman 238
Judge of District Court .
I. J. Mitchell 617—347
John Porter 270
District Attorney.
M. D. O'Connell 671—353
C. A. Clark 315
John Porter 1
Col. Clark 1
C. H. Clark 1
Clerk of Circuit and District Courts.
M. A. Ives 587—219
A. 1. Smith 368
T. C. McKenzie 2
I. W. Daggett 3
County Recorder.
G. C. Hayes 935
Stock Act.
For 682—557
Against 125
Supervisor.
David Church 228—140
Richard T. Blake 88
William Boots 1
T. E. B. Hudson 1
October Election, 1875.
Governor.
Samuel J. Kirkwood 923—709
Shepherd Lefler 214
Lieutenant Governor.
Joshua G. Newbold 923—709
Emmett B. Woodward 214
Supreme Judge.
Austin Adams 923—710
William J. Knight 213
Superintendent Public Instruction.
Alonzo Abernethy 924 — 711
Isaiah Doane 213
State Senator.
Lemuel Dwelle 929—721
James M. Elder 208
Representative 68th District.
Lorenzo D. Lane 456 — 11
Daniel W. Dow.... 445
George B. Rockwell 27
Marmaduke P. Rosecrans 196
£.
P
HISTORY OF FRANKIN COUNTY.
243
County Auditor.
JohnM. Wait 1103-1084
James M. Snyder 19
County Treasurer.
Rufus S. Benson 768—413
Henry Meyers, Sr 355
Clerk of Courts.
(To fill vacancy )
Thomas B. Taylor 595—73
James T. McCormick • 522
William C.Tyrrell 2
Sheriff.
Abel N . Minor 937—813
Newton Penney 124
0. H. Hemming 65
County Superintendent of Schools.
OrillaM. Reeve 574—79
G. H. Brock 495
1. W. Myers 8
County Surveyor.
L B. Raymond 447 — 64
P. S. Brennau 283
S. H. Vankirk 282
Coroner.
O. B. Harriman 1114
Supervisor.
John I. Popejoy 208
November Election, 1876.
Judge Supreme Court.
William H. Seevers 1175—796
Walter I. Hayes 379
Judge Supreme Court to fill vacancy created by
Chapter 7 of Acts 16th General Assembly.
James H. Rothrock 1176—798
William Graham 378
Judge Supreme Court to fill vacancy caused by
resignation of Chester C. Cole,
William H. Seevers 1175—796
Walter I. Hayes 379
Charles Negus 1
Secretary of State.
Josiah T. Young 1175—796
Ji >hn Strubenraugh 379
A McReady 5
Auditor State.
BurenR. Sherman 1175—796
Wm. Qroneweg 379
David Brown 5
Treasurer State.
George W. Bemis 1175—796
Wesley Jones 379
G. C. Fry 5
Register State Land Office.
David Secor 1175—796
N. C. Ridenour 379
G. M. Walker 5
Attorney General.
John F. McJunkin 1175—796
J. C. Cook 379
Superintendent Public Instruction.
(To fill vacancy.)
Carl W. Van Coellen 1180—1175
J. A. North 5
Congress.
Nathaniel C. Deering 1177—793
Cyrus Foreman 384
Judge Circuit Court.
J. H. Bradley 1268—978
J. T. Frazier 290
Clerk of Courts.
Thomas B. Taylor 893—3181
James T. McCormick 575
G.R.Miner : 87
County Recorder.
Guy C . Hayes 1561
Supervisor.
W. A. Alexander 371—125
William Glendenning 246
October Election, 1877.
Governor.
John H. Gear 1311—975
John P. Irish 336
Elias Jessup 10
Daniel P. Stubbs 16
Lieutenant Governor.
Frank T. Campbell 1344—1020
William C.James 324
O. McCready, 16
Judge Supreme Court.
J. G. Day 1339—1011
H. E. J. Boardman 328
John Porter 16
Superintendent Public Instruction.
C. W. Von Coellen 1331—1210
G D. Cullison 121
V. G. Collison 202
S. T. Ballard * 16
2 44
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Representative 78th District.
John H.King 1208—996
W.W. Knapp 207
Daniel Dougherty 255
County Auditor.
C. L. Clock 879—86
John M. Wait 793
County Treasurer.
T. C. McKenzie 905—126
Gideon G. Clemmer 779
Sheriff.
M. B. Jones, rep 892—560
M. K. Donovan, deru 332
Robert Jeffers 268
John H. Rule 182
John Hartgraves 1
Surveyor. (To fill vacancy.)
S. H. Vankirk 574—222
John T. Stearns 352
Surveyor. (Full term.)
S. H. Vankirk 909—152
John T. Stearns 757
t Superintendent Schools. (To fill vacancy.)
I. W Myers 900—410
L. B. Raymond 490
G. W. Miller 4
Superintendent Schools. (Full term )
I. W. Myers 1077—524
L. B. Raymond 553
G. W. Miller 13
Coroner.
J. H. Hutchins 829—742
C. D. Tidd 77
O. B. Harriman 9
Dr. J. I. Leas 1
Supervisor.
David Church, 352
October Election 1878.
Secretary of State.
John A. T. Hull 1127—702
F M. Farnsworth 425
£. M. Farnsworth 145
E.N. Farnsworth 29
Auditor of State.
,Buren R. Sherman 1128—584
Joseph Eibceck 543
G. D. Swearinget 44
Treasurer of State.
George W. Bemis 1128—565
M. L. Devin 563
M. L. Divine 35
Register State Land Office.
James K. Powers 1130—534
M. Farrington 596
Attorney General.
John F. McJunken 1054—543
John Gibbon? 511
John E. McJunken , 73
John Gibbins 29
C. H. Jackson 44
Supreme Judge.
James H. Rothrock 1126—537
James C. Knapp 589
James Knapp 9
Clerk Supreme Court.
Edward J. Holmes 1127—529
Alex . Runyan . 598
Supreme Court Reporter.
John S. Runnells 1061—564
John B. Elliott 497
John S. Rennells 66
John Elliott 43
George W. Rutherford 44
Congress.
Nathaniel C. Peering 1101—547
L. H. Welier , 554
W. V. Allen 74
District Judge. '
J. W. McKenzie 1485-1264
H. E. J. Boardman 221
District Attorney.
J. L. Stevens 1247—780
N. B. Hyatt 467
Clerk of Courts.
Henry A. Harriman, 986 — 251
T. B.Taylor 735
County Recorder.
A. W. Crawford 801—67
C. S. Guilford 734
George W. Fulsom 166
Supervisor.
J. I. Popejoy 242—21
Wesley Brogun 221
a <2-
HI STORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
24\
October Election, 1879.
Governor.
John H. Gear 1345-1067
H. H. Trimble 278
Daniel Campbell 180
Lieutenant Governor.
Frank T. Campbell 1343-1070
J. A. O. Yeaman 273
H. M. Moore 182
Supreme Judge. â–
J. M. Beck 1344-1069
Reuben Noble 275
M. H. Jones 180
Superintendent Public Instruction.
Carl W. Von Coellen 1346-1075
Erwin Boke 271
J. A. Nash 182
State Senator.
F.M. Goodykoont 1791
Representative.
John H. King 1240—698
H.H. Schell 542
C. C.Freeguard 1
S. B. Elder 1
County Auditor
Charles L. Clock 1567-1364
Philip II. Wolf enbarger 203
C. P.Philps 18
County Treasurer.
Tom C. McKenzie, Ind 1596-1398
J. M. Carroll 198
N. B. Enfield.., 1
Sheriff.
Martin B. Jones 1546-1301
M. A.Leahey 245
A.R.Carter 8
Surveyor.
S. H. Van Kirk 1130-821
Thomas R. Kelley 333
P. S. Brennan 309
Superintendent of Schools.
JohnE. Evans 872—167
I. W. Myers 675
George Miller 206
Loren J. Merris 5
Coroner.
James H. Hutchins 778-237
C. H. Tidd 541
Wil'iani Buddy 221
j, Crebbs 59
Supervisor.
W. A. Alexander 405—25
W. H. McMillan 380
Jail Appropriation.
For 1100-876
Against 224
November Election, 1880.
Secretary of State.
J. A. T. Hull 1519—1047
A. B. Keith 402
George M . Walker 70
Auditor of State.
W. V. Lucas 1516—1041
Charles I. Barker 401
G. V. Swearinger 74
Treasurer of State.
E. H Conger 1517—1041
Martin Blim 401
Matthew Farrington 73
Register of State Land Office.
J. K. Powers 1521—1129
Daniel Dougherty 392
Thomas Hooker 74
Attorney General.
S. McPherson 1516—1115
Charles A. Clark 401
W. A. Spurrier 74
Congress .
N. C. Deering 1457—1092
J. S. Root 365
M. B. Doolittle 154
J. H. King 1
E. J. Dean 12
Circuit Judge.
David D. Miracle 1684—1381
John Porter 303
Clerk of Courts.
C. S. Guilford 1968—1964
R. S. Wardwell 4
Mose Harriman 1
County Recorder.
A. W. Crawford 1975—1971
T.I. McChesney 4
Supervisor.
William Barry 364—172
A. H. Bemis f. .. 192
3
9
Jk-
U 9
•248
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Â¥
Additional Appropriation for County Jail.
For 1448—1277
Against 171
Convention for Constitutional Amendment.
Yes 1390—1152
No 238
October Election, 1881.
Governor.
Buren R. Sherman 1135—870
L. G. Kinne 188
D. M.Clark 75
Thomas Phelps 1
AVm . Johnson 1
Lieutenant-Governor.
0. H. Manning 1138—876
J. M. Walker 189
James M. Holland 72
John M. Cent 1
Supreme Judge.
Austin Adams 1137—874
H. B. Hendershott 190
Jacob W. Rogers 1
W. W. Williamson 72
Superintendent of Public Instruction.
J. W. Akers 1138—876
W. H. Butler 260
J . Hammond 1
Mrs. A. M. Swain 1
State Senator (Vacancy).
11. G. Parker 1301
Representative.
It. S. Benson 1246—1103
F. J. Bush 143
District Judge.
II. C. Henderson 1391
County Auditor.
1. M. Wait 834—278
C. P. Phelps 555
J. S. Nye 1
Treasurer.
C. L. Clock 1397
Sheriff.
S. C. Stevens 1387—1381
J. M. Soper 4
Frank Thayer 1
J. S. Nye .* 1
IT-
County Superintendent of Schools.
John E. Evans 1387
Nancy Evans 1
Solomon Gamble 1
County Surveyor.
S H. Vaukirk 1384
T. Kelley 1
E. H. Weitzel 1
Coroner.
J. H. Hutchins 1397
Supervisor.
A. D. St. Clair 273
N. Penny 2
StOCK Act.
For permitting stock to run at large. ... 64
Against 1134
November, 1882.
Secretary State.
John A. T. Hull 1232
T. O. Walker 524
William Gaston 33
Auditor State.
John L. Brown 1232—708
William Thompson 524
G. A. Wyant 33
Treasurer State.
Edwin H. Conger 1232—708
John Foley 524
George Doerr 33
Attorney Genera 1 .
Smith McPherson 1232—707
J . II . Bremermann 525
James A. Rice 33
Supreme Judge.
William H. Seevers 1163—653
Charles E. Bronson 510
M A. Jones 33
II. T. Bonorden 16
Clerk Supreme Court.
Gilbert B. Pray 1232—723
H. F. Bonorden 509
J. E. N. Clark 33
Reporter Supreme Court.
Ezra C. Eborsole 12:;t— (WO
L. A. Palmer 535
J. II. Williamson 33
J « I
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
249
District Judge.
II. ('. Henderson 1218—675
B. L. Burritt 543
District Attorney.
J. L. Stevens 1295—839
M. W. Anderson 45G
Congress.
J. A. Holmes 1279—806
John Cliggitt 473
[suae Doane 34
John l>unn 1
Clerk of Courts.
C. S. Guilford 1765—1763
R. S. Bird 2
County Recorder.
Lewis Elseffer 1730
Supervisor.
W. H. McMillan 421— 16
L. P. Holden 408
Ilolden 2
H. P. Ilolden 11
CHAPTER XII
NATIONAL, STATE AND COUNTY REPRESENTATION.
While unworthy men, at times, may
force themselves into office, it cannot but
be acknowledged that the great body of
office-holders of the country are truly rep-
resentative men, — men of positive force
and character. They are of the number
that build up and strengthen a town
county or State. In this chapter, as far as
possible, are given sketches of all who
have served the Nation, State or county,
in an official capacity, who could be
classed among the citizens of Franklin
county. Some of the sketches are imper-
fect, but it is not the fault of the historian
that they are not more complete. Some
of the parties have passed away, leaving
no record from which a sketch could be
obtained, while others have left the
county and the place of their residence is
unknown.
CONGRESSIONAL.
Franklin county became a part of the
second congressional district, on its or-
ganization, and was represented in the
thirty-third Congress, from 1853 to 1855, .,
by John P. Cook, of Davenport.
Mr. Cook was a native of the State of
New York, and in 1836, came west to
Davenport. He was elected a member of
Congress as a whig, and held the views
of that party until its dissolution. On the
breaking up of the whig party, he affili-
ated with the democratic party, the prin-
ciples of which he labored to sustain and
promulgate, even to the end of his days.
His life was one of great energy and in-
dustry. He was by natural instinct a true
western man, — a wide-awake, thoroughly
active pioneer, w' o never saw the time
when he could lay aside the business har-
ness, and, to all appearances, never wanted
to. As a lawyer, he had but few superiors;
was always ready, fluent and an able ad-
vocate, and with these qualities were com-
bined energy, tact and industry ; and for
v
V
250
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
years he stood pre-eminently high. Mr.
Cook died at Davenport, April 17, 1872.
James Thorington, of Davenport, was
the next representative in Congress from
the second district. He was not a man of
extraordinary ability, but was a good poli-
tician and wire-puller. He was after-
ward minister to one of the South Amer-
ican States.
Timothy Davis, of Elkader, Clayton
county, was the next, and served the dis-
trict from 1857 to 1859, in the thirty-fifth
Congress.
William Vandever, of Dubuque, was
elected a member of the thirty-sixth
Congress and re-elected to the thirty-
seventh. William Vandever was a native
of Maryland. In 1839, he came west, lo-
cating in Rock Island, where he remained
until 1851, when he moved to Dubuque.
In 1855, he formed a partnership with
Ben. W. Samuels, of Dubuque, in the
practice of law. In 1858, he was elect-
ed a member of the thirty-sixth Congress.
He made a useful member of that body.
While serving his second term, he aban-
doned his seat in Congress, returned home
and raised the 9th Iowa Infantry, of which
he was made colonel. In 1862, he was
promoted to a brigadier-general, and at the
close of the war was breveted major-gen-
eral.
By the census of 1862, Iowa was enti-
tled to six representatives in Congress.
Franklin, on the State being re-districted,
became a part of the sixth district. Its
first representative was A. W. Hubbard, of
Sioux City. He was elected in the fall of
1862, and became a member of the thirty-
eighth Congress. He was re-elected a
member of the thirty-ninth and fortieth
Congress.
Charles Pomeroy, of Fort Dodge, was
the next representative in Congress from
the sixth district. He was elected in 1868
as a member of the forty first Congress,
and served one term, when he was suc-
ceeded by Jackson Orr, of Boonesborough,
in 1871, who served in the forty-second
Congress as a representative. He was
also re-elected to the forty-third Congress.
In 1870, it was found that the popula-
tion of the State had increased to a num-
ber entitling it to nine representatives in
Congress. In the re-districting, Franklin
county became a part of the fourth dis-
trict. It was first represented by Henry
O. Pratt, of Charles City, in the 43d Con-
gress; he was re-elected to the 44th and
served until March, 1877. Mr. Pratt was
a native of Maine. He came west at an
early day, and in June, 1862, was admitted
to the bar at Mason City. Soon after-
wards a call was made for 600,000 men,
by the president, and he enlisted as a
private in company B, 32d Iowa Infantry.
He became completely broken down in
health in less than a year, and was dis-
charged in the spring of 1863. The fol-
lowing summer, while regaining his health,
he taught a small school in Worth Co.,
Iowa. His health being restored, he com-
menced the practice of law at Charles City.
N. C. Deering was the successor to Mr.
Pratt. He was elected as a member of
the 45th and re-elected to the 46th and
47th Congress. He was an influential
memb'r. In 1882, a change was again
made in the congressional district by
which Franklin county was thrown into
the tenth district, and Major J. A. Holmes,
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HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
251
of Boone county, was elected as the first
representative after this change. Col.
John Scott, of Story county, and Hon. C.
C Carpenter, of Fort Dodge, were candi-
dates in the convention against him.
MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY.
The fourth General Assembly convened
at Iowa City Dec. 6, 1852, and adjourned
Jan. 24, 1853. At this time Franklin
county, although unorganized, was asso-
ciated with Dallas, Greene, Polk, Boone,
Story, Marshall, Risley, Will, Fox, Poca-
hontas, Humboldt, Wright, Hardin, Cerro
Gordo, Hancock, Kossuth, Palo Alto,
Emmett, Bancroft, Winnebago and Worth,
constituting one district, with Andrew L.
Hull as senator, and J. F. Rice, J. C.
Goodson and Benjamin Green as repre-
sentatives.
The fifth General Assembly convened at
Iowa City, Dec. 4, 1854, and also convened
in extra session in July, 1858. The dis-
trict, of which Franklin county was a part,
was represented by James C. Jordan, in
the Senate, and Jacob W. Rogers in the
House.
The sixth General Assembly convened
at Iowa City, in December, 1856, and ad-
journed Jan. 29, 1857. At this time the
district was composed of Fayette, Bremer,
Butler, Franklin, Grundy, Hardin, Wright,
Webster, Boone, Story, Greene and Hum-
boldt counties. The district was represented
by Aaron Brown, of Fayette, in the Sen-
ate, and Walter C. Wilson, of Hamilton,
in the House.
The seventh General Assembly convened
at DesMoines, Jan. 11, 1858. Aaron Brown
was still in the Senate, and the district
was represented in the House by C. C.
Carpenter, of Fort Dodge.
The eighth General Assembly convened
at DesMoines, Jan. 8, 1860, and also con-
vened in extra session, May 15, 1861.
At this time Franklin county was asso-
ciated with Grundy, Black Hawk and But-
ler counties as the thirty-sixth senatorial
district, and was represented by A. F.
Brown, a lawyer from Black Hawk county.
The representative district comprised the
counties of Franklin, Wright, Butler and
Grundy, which was served in the House
by Chauncy Gillett, of Hampton.
Chauncy Gillett was born in Bridport,
Addison Co., Vt., in October, 1820, and
when little past his majority removed to
Chillicothe, Ohio. In 1844, he moved to
Columbus and went into business there —
that of handling musical instruments. In
1856, he made some investments in Frank-
lin county, but did not move his family
out until 1857. Upon his arrival he laid
out the northeast quarter of the northeast
quarter of section 30 — forty acres— into Gil-
lett's addition to Hampton, and built the
house which is now a part of the Phtenix
Hotel, on the corner of Fourth and Main
streets. In 1859, he was elected to the
legislature, and served with marked ability.
He was a radical republican, and was the
first republican postmaster at Hampton,
having been appointed by President Lin-
coln in the spring of 1861. Never a very
strong or robust man, the vigorous cli-
mate proved too much for him and he was
stricken with consumption. With charac-
teristic pluck and nerve, however, he
kept up his courage and hope to the last,
and insisted on taking a trip to Chicago
on business against the advice of his
family and friends, and while there was
taken worse, and died in September, 1862.
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252
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
He was a public-spirited man, and a citi-
zen whose loss was severely felt in Hamp-
ton, and if he had lived, his ability and
the esteem in which he was held would
have doubtless placed him among the first
men in Iowa. He left no children, and
his wife yet resides in Hampton, and is
now the wife of E. S. Stiles.
The ninth General Assembly convened
in January, 1862. This district was rep.
resented by A. F. Brown, in the Senate
and Alonzo Converse, of Butler county, in
the House.
The tenth General Assembly convened
at Des Moines, Jan. 11, 1864. At this
date the counties of Hardin, Grundy,
Black Hawk, Butler and Franklin consti-
tuted the thirty-ninth senatorial district and
was represented by Coker F. Clarkson, of
Grundy. Franklin was then in the fifty- third
representative district,and was represented
by Willis A. Lathrop, of Butler Centre.
The eleventh General Assembly con-
vened January 8, 1866. George W. Bas-
sett represented the district in the Senate,
and G. W. Hand in the House.
The twelfth General Assembly con-
vened in January, 1868. At this time
this district was composed of Franklin,
Butler, Grundy and Cerro Gordo counties,
and was represented in the Senate by
Marcus Tuttle, of Clear Lake. In the
House, Wright, Hamilton, Franklin and
Cerro Gordo counties were represented by
J.O. Hunter, now of Webster City.
The thirteenth General Assembly con-
vened in January, 18*70. Worth, Mitchell,
Cerro Gordo, Franklin, Wright, Hancock,
Winnebago and Kossuth counties were
represented in the Senate by Marcus Tut-
tle. In the House, J. D. Hunter repre-
T
sented the counties of Franklin, Hancock,
Hamilton and Wright.
The fourteenth General Assembly con-
vened at Des Moines in January, 1872.
At this time Franklin county was repre-
sented in the State Senate by Hon. E. A.
Howland. In the House, the county was
served by M. A. Leahy, of Hampton.
The fifteenth General Assembly con-
vened at Des Moines, January, 1874. At
this session Franklin county was repre-
sented by the same parties as at the pre-
ceding one, M. A. Leahy having been
re-elected.
Senator E. A. Howland was a native
of Rutland, Jefferson Co., N. Y., born
Feb. 27, 1832. In the spring of 1855, he
emigrated to Joliet, 111., and one year
later came to Iow r a, locating at Fort Dodge,
where he remained one month and went
to Webster City, where he engaged in the
livery business. In 1858, he returned to
Fort Dodge and in company with C. P.
Farr kept the St. Charles Hotel for a year.
In 1859 he came to Franklin county, set-
tled at Otisville and went to farming and
dairying. He afterwards added a land
agency to his business and was exceed-
ingly well prospered as to this world's
goods. For many years he was the mem-
ber of the board of supervisors from Mor-
gan township, and was chairman of that
body for two or three years. In 1871, he
was elected State senator and served his
term with credit to himself. In 187:!, he
removed to Belmond, where he still lives.
The sixteenth General Assembly con-
vened in January, 1876, at DesMoines.
Hon. Lemuel Dwelle had been elected to
succeed E. A. Howland, as State senator,
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HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
253
and Lorenzo D. Lane took the place of M.
A. Leahy as representative.
L. D. Lane came to Franklin Co., Iowa,
in 1870, and lived on a farm near Hamp-
ton until 1880, when he went into the
book and music trade in Hampton. He
was one of the board of supervisors two
years, is now justice of the peace, and was
one term in the Iowa State legislature.
He is a member of the M. E. Church in
Hampton. He was married in 1852 to
.Miss M. A. Mickle, and they have three
children living. Mr. Lane was born, July
2 ( J, 1830, in Licking Co., Ohio, where he
grew up. He received a common school
education, and spent three years in the
Wesleyan University, Delaware, Ohio,
then came west to Freeport, 111., and from
there to this county.
The seventeenth General Assembly con-
vened in January, 18*78, at DesMoines. At
this time Hon. Lemuel Dwelle, of Worth
county, was still representing the district
in the Senate. Hon. John H. King was
Representative.
The eighteenth General Assembly con-
vened in January, 1880. At this t me
Hon. F. M. Goodykoontz, of Mason City,
was senator from the district of which
Franklin county formed a part. Hon.
John H. King had been re-elected repre"
sentative.
The nineteenth General Assembly con-
vened at DesMoines in January, 1882.
H. G. Parker, of Mason City, was represent-
ing the district in the Senate, and R. S.
Benson, of Hampton, served the county
in the House.
COUNTY OFFICERS.
The history of Franklin county would
indeed be incomplete without a record <»('
the county officers, who have served since
the organization of the county. There
has been much difficulty connected with ob-
taining material for biographical sketches
of those who have died or moved from
the county since their official services woe
performed. Where the mention of men,
who were prominent in their day, is short,
it is because of the meagre material to be
secured. The following embraces a com-
plete list of the various officers from 1855
to 1883, inclusive :
COUNTY JUDGE.
This was the most important of the
county officers, embracing 'he work now
attended toby the board of supervisors
and auditor, and also a great deal of busi-
ness now handled by the circuit court.
The first county judge of Franklin county
was James B. Reeve. He was first elected
in August, 1855, and two years later was
re-elected, serving until January, I860.
His second election, in 185 7, was con-
tested by Dr. S. R. Mitchell, but after a
lengthy trial Judge Reeve was declared
elected. Upon him, as the first county
judge, devolved the duty of perfecting
the organization of the county, dividing it
into townships, and such other work as
was necessary to perfect a system of
county government. Judge James B.
Reeve was one of Franklin county's prom-
inent men, and was highly respected by
all who knew him. He was one of the
first three men who settled in Franklin
county, and is remembered by the citizens,
both in his private and official capacity
as a man, in the fullest sense of that word.
It is seldom that the first settler of a new
county enters so fully into its history as
docs Mr. Reeve. When the South re
A
254
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
belled against the old flag, and the country
was in peril, Mr. Reeve raised a company,
of which he was made captain. He went
South with his company and was taken
sick at Fort Pillow, from which he never
recovered, and died June 24, 1863. He
was born in Lyme, Conn., Dec. 27, 1816.
His parents, with several other families,
moved to Ashtabula Co., Ohio, when he
he was but five'years of age, and settled
in an unorganized township, which upon
its organization they called New Lyme,
after the town in which he was born.
Here he grew to manhood, and received a
common school education. He was mar-
ried Feb. 9, 1840, to Adeline Riggs,
born in Geauga Co., Ohio, Dec. 23, 1819.
In the fall of 1852 he came, in^company
with Addison Phelps, to Franklin Co.,
Iowa, and settled on section 23, township
91, range 20, where his wife still resides.
Mr. and Mrs. Ree^e had eleven children,
all living but the eldest son (Fernando T.)
who died at Andersonville prison. Those
living are — T. Henry, Orrilla M., Orson
G., Beulah M ., J. Rumsey, Susan M., J.
Albert, Sarah E., Herman D. and Emily
A. The three oldest sons were also in the
army.
The second county judge of Franklin
county was Henry Shroyer, who was
elected in the fall of 1869, and began
official duties on Jan. 2, 1860. Henry
Shroyer came here from Indiana in 1856
and settled near Maysville, in Reeve
township. He was a married man and
had a large family. He was a republican,
a man of fair ability and made a good
officer. During the latter part of the
decade between 1860 and 18V0, Shroyer
moved to Mahaska county, this State, where,
in 1882, he was still living, engaged in
farming.
In October, 1861, A. T. Reeve was
elected county judge, but did not qualify,
as he soon went into the army, and for a
few months S. R. Mitchell acted ascounty
judge.
W. N. Davidson was appointed to fill
the vacancy, and served until succeeded
by Judge Austin Morth. Davidson was a
lawyer of Hampton, and is noted at
length in the Bar Chapter.
In the fall of 1862, Judge Austin North
was elected to the office, and was twice
thereafter re-elected, serving nearly five
years. He made a good judge, and after
his resignation, a few months before the
expiration of his term, the members of the
bar prepared and presented him with a
testimonial of their esteem and regard for
him as a man, and appreciation of his
services as an official. This was signed
by W. N. Davidson, attorney ; N. B.
Chapman, attorney and superintendent ;
George Beed, treasurer ; James H. Beed,
recorder ; R. S. Benson, clerk ; A. Pick-
ering, sheriff.
After the resignation of Judge North,
James Thompson was appointed county
judge and served about four months, until
his successor was elected and qualified.
He is still a resident and an honored
citizen of Hampton.
W. W. Day was the next county judge,
being elected in the fall of 1867 and serv-
ing until the office was abolished by law.
Judge Day came from Pennsylvania at an
early day, and settled in Reeve township.
He was quite an old man at the time, was
married and was a shoemaker by trade.
He made a good officer, and made many
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I*
k
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
255
friends. Since his first settlement in
Franklin county his residence has not
been continuous, but in 1883 he was living
in Marion township.
COUNTY AUDITORS.
In 1869 the office of county judge was
abolished, and that of county auditor
created. Captain R. S. Benson was the
first elected to this office, and two years
later, in 1871, he was re-elected. He
made one of the most popular and efficient
officers the county has ever had.
In October, 1873, J. M. Waitwas elected
county auditor, and being re-elected,
served until January, 1878.
C. L. Clock was the next county auditor,
being elected in 1877, and re-elected in
1879. He is the present county treasurer.
In the fall of 1881, John M. Wait was
again elected county auditor, and his term
continues until January, 1884. He is a
gentlemanly, careful, correct and most
satisfactory officer. John M. Wait located
in what is now Mott township in 1865.
He lived on a farm three years, after
which he embarked in the drug business
at Hampton, and later, in the grocery
trade. In 1873, he was elected county
auditor, and re-elected in 1875 without any
opposition. At the expiration of his
second term he established himself as
a real estate broker. Four years later, in
1881, he was re-elected to his present posi-
tion. He is a republican in politics, and
is a member of t'ne Congregational Church.
He was married in 1860 to Alice M.
Aldrich, born in Hancock Co., 111. Mr.
and Mrs. Wai have three children — Wal-
ter W., Wells and Bertha V.
TREASURER AND RECORDERS.
When Franklin county was organized, and
for several years thereafter, the duties per-
taining to the present offices of treasurer
and recorder were attended to by one
officer. The work of each was about the
same as at the present day, but there was
so little to do that it hardly kept one man
busy to attend to both. Upon the organ-
ization, Isaac Miller was elected treas-
urer and recorder, and was the first
to act in that capacity. Isaac Miller came
here from Howard Co., Ind., in 1855, and
settled in Reeve township with his family,
consisting of wife and a number of chil-
dren. He was a pleasant, affable man, of
but little education, though with a good deal
of natural tact, and succeeded very well in
the office, as there was but little to do. In
some respects he was rather rough. He
remained here until about 1864 when he
removed to Nebraska. Isaac Miller was
re-elected in 1857. The vote stood 107
for Milton Clover, his opponent, and 104
for Miller, but after an extended contest
trial, Miller was declared duly elected.
In October, 1859, James Thompson was
elected treasurer and recorder, over John
E. Boyles and Isaac Miller. Mr. Thomp-
son served for two years, George Beed
being his deputy.
Geoj-e Beed was elected to the office in
the fall of 1861, and re-elec'ed in 1863.
In 1863-4, by an act of the General As-
sembly, the offices of treasurer and recorder
were separated, and provision was made for
the election of an officer to attend to the
duties of each. But notwithstanding this
provision, George Beed continued to attend
to the duties of both offices for one term
after the passage of the act.
14
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JtL.
256
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
COUNTY TREASURERS.
In 1865, George Beed was elected
treasurer of Franklin county, and in 1867,
was re-elected, serving until January,
1870. The value and appreciation of Mr.
Ueed as an official, and a citizen, is attested
by the fact that he was kept in the office
for eight consecutive years.
Col. A. T. Reeve succeeded George
Beed as county treasurer, and served until
January, 1874. In the fall of 1873, he
was a prominent candidate for the office
of State treasurer, hut was defeated in the
convention.
In the fall of 1873, Rufus S. Benson
was elected treasurer of Franklin county,
and was re-elected in 1875, serving until
January, 1878.
In October, 1877, T. C. McKenzie was
elected to succeed Mr. Benson. He was
re-elected in 1879, serving four years.
Mr. McKenzie had served the county
prior to this in the capacity of clerk of
court, and was probably the most popular '
man who has ever held office in Franklin
county. After the expiration of his term,
he resumed the practice of law at Hamp-
ton, in which he is now engaged.
C. L. Clock succeeded Mr. McKenzie as
treasurer, being elected in the fall of 1881.
Charles L. Clock came to Franklin
county immediately after the close of the
war in 1865. He located on a farm in
Reeve township, and was engaged in ag-
ricultural pursuits until 1875, when he be-
gan to operate in grain and continued that
business two years. He was elected
county auditor in 1877, and re-elected in
1879. In 1881, he was elected to his
present position. In politics he is a rad-
ical republican. He has been a member
of the Methodist Episcopal Church since
1872, and during that time has been an
active and zealous laborer in religious
matters. He is a member of the Masonic
fraternity, and has taken the degree of the
Royal Arch Chapter. Mr. Clock was
married Jan. 1, 1867, to Rebecca Haskell.
They have three children — Fred H., Harry
L. and Charles H. Mr. Clock is a son of
Ebenezer and Lucinda (Jarvis) Clock. His
father died in 1845, and, in 1852, his
mother removed to Illinois, and settled in
Jo Daviess county. 1861, Mr. Clock en-
listed in company E, 15th Illinois Infantry,
and served as a private two years, when
he became forage master, and acted in
that capacity until the close of the war in
1865.
COUNTY RECORDERS.
This office was separated from that of
treasurer in 1863-4, but for two years af-
terward, George Beed attended to the
duties of both offices. James H. Beed
was the first to hold the office of recorder
distinct from others, and served until Jan-
uary. 1869, making two years.
Henry Meyer, Sr., succeeded James H.
Beed as recorder, being elected in 1868,
and re-elected in 1870. Mr. Meyer was
born in Switzerland on the 27th of June,
1809. In 1833, he came to America, and
settled in southern Illinois, where he re-
mained, engaged at farming, until 1846,
and then moved northward to Sauk Co.,
Wis. There he engaged at the same vo-
cation, and remained until 1855, when he
came to Franklin Co., Iowa, and set-
tled on the West Fork. In 1868, as stated,
he was elec ed recorder of the county.
After the expiration of his second term of
office, he embarked in mercantile trade at
V
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HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
257
Hampton, and was in active business life
until 1882, when he retired. Mr. Meyer
was married in 1831, to Sophia Baumgart-
ner, who was born in Switzerland, Novem-
ber 8, 1812. The have been blessed with
twelve children. The living ones are
Sophia, Henry, Fred, Emile, Bertha and
Adolph.
At the fall election, 1872, G. C. Hayes
was elected recorder of Franklin county
without opposition. In 1874 and 1876,
Mr. Hayes was re-elected, serving six
years in all. He made a popular and effi-
cient officer.
A. W. Crawford succeeded G. C. Hayes
as recorder, in the fall of 1878, and being
re-elected in 1880, served until January,
1883.
Louis Elseffer was elected in the fall of
1882, and began official duties in January,
1883.
Louis Elseffer has been a resident of
Iowa since 1856, when his parents, Peter
and Jane (Tapp) Elseffer, located in Cedar
county. Mr. Elseffer was born in New
York City, Aug. 30, 1844. He enlist, d
from Cedar county in 1861, enrolling in
company E, 1 1th Iowa Infantry, and re-
ceived an honorable discharge in July,
1865, at Louisville, Ky. On his return to
Cedar county, he engaged in literary work,
and entered upon the career of a news-
paper reporter and correspondent. In
1875, he came to Franklin county and set-
tled on a farm in Marion township. He
was elected county recorder in 1882, on
the republican ticket. He is a member
of the Masonic order. Mr. Elseffer was
married in 1870, to Delilah Medaris.
CLERKS OF COURT.
There has been some controversy among
the early settlers as to who was the first
c-lerk of court. It seems that at the first
election there was no clerk elected, or at
least, none qualified, and James Thomp
son was appointed to fill the vacancy.
At the August election, in 1856, Dr. S.
R. Mitchell was elected clerk and served
until the ensuing April election, in 1857.
Dr. Mitchell was the first physician to
locate in Franklin county and is treated
at length in the Medical Chapter.
In April, 1857, Sowel C. Brazzelton was
elected to succeed Mitchell. Not much is
remembered of Brazzelton except that he
settled atMaysville in the summer of 1855,
and was largely interested in the county
seat fights between that place and Hamp-
ton. He left the county years ago.
John D. Leland was elected clerk of
court in October, 1858, over John E. Boyles
and S. C. Brazzelton. Leland served for
two years and was candidate for re-elec-
tion, but was defeated.
D. W. Dow was the successful candi-
date for clerk of court in November, 1860,
defeating J. D. Leland and Henry White.
Mr. Dow was twice re-elected, and served
six years, but was absent a portion of the
time in the army. He is the oldest resi-
dent attorney in Hampton, and is noticed
at length in the Bar Chapter.
In the fall of 1866, R. S. Benson was
elected clerk of court, and two years later
was re elected.
T. C. McKenzie succeeded Mr. Benson
to the clerkship, being elected in 1870,
and re-elected in 1872, without opposition.
In the fall of 1874, M. A. Ives was
elected clerk of court, over A. I. Smith.
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258
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
lie did not qualify, however, and T. B.
Taylor was appointed lo the office. At
the fall election, in 1875, he was elected
to fill the vacancy. In November, 1876,
Mr. Taylor was re-elected to the office and
served until January, 1879.
In 1878, Henry A. Harriman was elected
clerk of court and served one terra.
C. S. Guilford succeeded Mr. Harriman
by election in 1880. In 1882, he was re-
elected and is now serving his second
term.
C S. Guilford was born at Cincinnati,
Ohio, on the 15th of October, 1852, a son
of C. C. and H. S. (Coffin) Guilford.
Twelve years later the family removed
to Tama Co., Iowa, and settled upon a
farm. When fifteen years old C. S. begm
clerking in a store at Toledo, Iowa, and
followed that vocation for about three
years and a half, when he became deputy
county auditor. For two years and a half
he filled that position and then came to
Hampton and compiled a set of Franklin
county abstract books, and engaged in the
loan, real estate and abstract business un-
til elected clerk of court in 1880. In pol-
itics Mr. Guilford is a republican. He is
an efficient and accommodating county
officer and is popular among all classes.
He was married, in 1875, to Lydia
Thompson, daughter of James Thompson,
of Hampton. Three children bless this
union — Edna A., William H. and Cady
Swain.
COUNTY CORONERS.
This office was in existence at the time
Franklin county was organized, but for
some reason it was not filled at the time of
the first election. At the election in Au-
gust, 1857, William Ward was elected
coroner over George Ryan by a majority
of twelve, and served for one year.
William Ward came from Pennsylvania
and settled on Mayne's creek, in Reeve
township, in the fall of 1856. About 1873,
he moved into Hampton and for two
years engaged in the livery business; then
bought the Shobe place near Sheffield and
farmed it for several years, when he sold
out and removed to Texas. After one sea-
son's stop there he moved to Kansas, in
which State he still resides. He is re-
membered as a man of unimpeachable in-
tegrity.
In the fall of 1858, Joshua Cromwell
was elected coroner over E. H. Sparling
by a majority of sixteen, and served for
one year.
L. Armstrong came next as coroner by
election in the fall of 1859, and held the
office about the same length of time.
In November, 1860, L. Shroyer was
elected coroner by a majority of 112 over
W.W.Soper. Mr. Shroyer was from Os-
ceola township. He left the county a num-
ber of years ago and moved to some point
in Nebraska.
During the next few years S. H. Carter
and J. K Addis held the office of coroner;
but a portion of the time it was vacant.
In October, 1870, John M. Wait was
elected to he office. He was afterwards
elected county auditor.
A. Graham succeeded Mr. Wait, being
elected in 1871 and re-elected in 1873.
Graham came to Hampton in 1869, from
Ohio. He was a blacksmith and during
his stay here operated a shop, part of the
time in partnership with S. Tyler. A few
years since he removed to Tama county.
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
259
In 1875, Dr. O. B. Harriman was elected
coroner and served for one term.
Dr. J. II. Hutch ins succeeded Dr. Har-
riman in 1877, and being re-elected in
1879 and 1881, is serving his third term.
COUNTY SURVEYORS.
The first surveyor of Franklin county was
Herman P. Allen, who was elected on the
organization of the county in August,
1855. He was re-elected in 1857, and
served until his successor was elected in
August, 1859.
Obadiah Smith was the second sur
veyor, being elected in 1859, and three
times thereafter re-elected. Obadiah Smith
first came to Franklin county in April,
1855, and entered a claim for land on
sections 27 and 28, of what is now
Washington township. During the first
summer he broke a few acres, and in the
winter of 1855-6 he went east, returning
the ensuing spring to Franklin county,
where he has since been a resident. He
has always been actively interested in
county politics and has held most of the
local offices. Mr. Smith was born in
Rhode Island May 4, 1832. His life, pre-
vious to his locating in Iowa, was spent
in his native State.
In 1867 S. H. Vankirk was elected
county surveyor, and served for one term.
In October 1869, Obadiah Smith was
again elected surveyor. In 1877 he was
re-elected.
P. S. Brennan was elected to succeed
Mr. Smith in the fall of 1873, and served
for two years.
In October, 1875, L. B. Raymond was
elected to the office of county surveyor,
but did not serve out the full term and
S. H. Vankirk was elected in the fall of
1877 to fill the vacancy, and for the en-
suing regular term. S. H. Vankirk was
re-elected in 1879 and 1881.
SHERIFFS.
The first sheriff of Franklin county was
Solomon Staley, who was elected on the
organization of the county in August,
1855. Staley was from Ohio, and settled
with his family in Reeve township at an
early day. He remained in the county
until about 1876, when he went to Ne-
braska.
In August, 1857, A. S. Ross was elected
sheriff of Franklin county and served for
two years.
F. A. Denton was elected to succeed
Ross in August, 1859, over five other can-
didates. He served the regular term of
two years.
Tn 1861 J. W. Ward was elected sheriff.
He served his term, and shortly after the
war moved westward.
In October, 1867, A. Pickering was
elected sheriff over Lewis P. Berry.
A. B. Hudson succeeded Mr. Pickering
by election in October, 1869, and in 1871
was re-elected and served until January,
1874. Hudson was from Ohio, and settled
at an early day on Mayne's creek in Reeve
township. He remained in the county
until about 1876, when he removed to
Kansas, where he still lives. He was a
man of good ability and made a popular
officer. When the war broke out he en-
listed and became captain before the
close.
A. N. Minor succeeded Capt. Hudson
as sheriff. He was elec'ed in 1873 and
re elected in 1875. Minor had settled
on Mayne's creek in Reeve township
some years previous to his election and
-V
260
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
was engaged in farming. In 1873 he
removed to . Hampton and purchased the
hardware business of Stearns & North, and
for several years was in trade • there in
partnership with his father-in-law, Mr.
Norton. He now lives in Clarion, Wright
Co., Iowa..
In October, 1877, M. B. Jones was elec-
ted sheriff, and two years later was re-
elected, serving until January, 1882. M.
B. Jones is a son of Levi Jones, one of the
pioneers of Reeve township, and is a
native of Delaware Co., Ind., born Sept.
16,1841. In the fall of 1854 became
with his parents to Franklin county, and
has made this his home since that time.
In August, 1861, he enlisted in company I,
9th Iowa Infantry, and served until the
close of the w^, in 1865. In the battle of
Kennesaw Mountain he received a gun-
shot wound in the leg; and was wounded
in the head in the battle of Pea Ridge.
After receiving his discharge he returned
to Franklin county, and on the 16th of
May, 1866, was married to Martha A. But-
terfield, who was born in Vermilion Co.,
111., Sept. 11,1847. She died Oct. 14, 1879,
and on the 16th of December, 1881, Mr.
Jones was married to Carrie Smith, a na-
tive of Burlington, Vt., born Sept. 16,
1848. By this union there is one son —
Martin L. In politics Mr. Jones is a staunch
republican. He is a member of the I. O.
O. F., at Hampton, and of the Masonic
lodge at Geneva.
S. C. Stephen was the successor of
M. B. Jones, as sheriff of Franklin county,
being elected in the fall of 1881. S. C.
Stephen came west in 1870, settling
first in Vernon township, Wright county.
He was a farmer there five years and man-
aged the hotel at Alden two years later,
after which, until 1881, he was proprie or
of the Phoenix hotel at Hampton. He was
then elected sheriff, and has proved him-
self a competent and efficient officer. Mr.
Stevens was born in Grant Co., Wis., Dec.
20, 1840. His early life was spent in his
native county, where his father was a pio-
neer, and who died there in June, 1881, at
the advanced age of 84 years. Mr Stephens
was married in 1861 to Jennie S. Steph-
ens, a native of La Fayette Co., Wis.
Their children are Arthur W., Frank M.
and Laina M. In the spring of 1862, it
should have been stated, Mr. Stephens and
wife crossed the plains to California,
where they remained for two years and
then returned to Platteville, Wis., remain-
ing in the latter place until they came
west to stay in 1870.
COUNTY ASSESSOR.
TLis office was created in 1856, to take
the place of township assessors. John I.
Popejoy was the first and only assessor
ever elected in the county, as it was abol-
ished, the duties reverting to the former
and present system of township assessor.
DRAINAGE COMMISSIONERS.
This office was of but little importance,
and many of the gentlemen elected did
not qualify. The first drainage commis-
sioner of Franklin county was William
H. Thompson, who was elected in October,
1858.
In the fall of 1859 Lewis H. Morgan
was elected to the office without oppo-
sition.
William May succeeded Morgan. He
was elected in the fall of 1860, defeating
James Jenkins.
a^.
]£*.
B
HISTORY OF FRANKIN COUNTY.
261
In October, 1867, B. H. Gibbs was
elected drainage commissioner without
opposition.
Henry Thompson was the next drainage
commissioner, and was the last in the
county, as the office was abolished by law.
PROSECUTING ATTORNEYS.
A short time prior to the organization
of Franklin county this office was created
by an act of the General Assembly. The
first to fill it for this county was Q. A.
Jordan. He was elected at the August
election in 1855.
Samuel B Jackson succeeded Mr. Jor-
dan, being elected in August, 1856, but
for some reason did not serve but a few
months.
In April, 1857, Robert F. Piatt was
elected county attorney over Benjamin
Butterfield by a majority of eight.
Piatt held the office until it was abol-
ished by law, and that of district attor-
ney took its place.
CHAPTER XIII.
AGRICULTURE AND AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES.
Franklin county is acknowledged as be-
ing among the best and most prosperous
agricultural counties in northern Iowa.
Its people are wide awake and keep pace
with the progressive march of a civiliza-
tion of happiness, industry and culture.
Its future possibilities may be set high
among the cluster of its hundred sisters —
a star of pride to the noble State. The
early pioneers did not come loaded with
wealth, and, in fact, few had more than
enough to barely get settled upon their
land; but they came with that which, in
those days, was equal to it — training in
agricultural pursuits, and were not
ashamed to do hard work. In connection
with industrious habits, they had energy
and determination to win success. The
county was new and there was no alterna-
tive but that success must be wrought
from the soil, which was their only wealth
and hope. In spite of all the obstacles
and inconveniences to be encountered,
success attended their efforts, and the
transformation from the primitive to the
present comfortable condition of things
was accomplished. Nor is the end yet
reached, for the county still has a mine of
agricultural wealth yet undeveloped, which,
as years roll on, will grow more and more
valuable.
Early in the development of this county,
wheat was the main product, and for a
number of years excellent crops were
raised with scarcely a failure. At the
present time it has partially given up its
former place to other cereals, while the
farmers find many other avenues in which
to devote their time and energies. The
gradual increase in stock-raising has
262
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
placed corn in the front rank. Of late
years flax has been raised quite extensively.
Rye, barley and all the cereals common
to this latitude do well — vegetables and
small fruits thrive where well cultivated.
At an early day it was supposed that
apples could not be successfully raised in
this part of Iowa, but the county, in 1883,
had many fine, thrifty orchards, which
proved quite the contrary.
The following comparative statistics
have been gathered:
In 1856, there were 2,477 acres of im-
proved land ia the county, and 20,043
unimproved. There were but fifty-eight
acres of wheat raised that year, producing
761 bushels; eighty-three acres of oats,
yielding 1,767 bushels; corn, 675 acres,
yielding 18,625 bushels; potatoes, twenty-
three acres, producing 3,682 bushels. The
number of hogs sold from the county was
170, valued at $550; cattle sold, 171,
valued at $5,230; pounds of butter made,
5,900. At that date there were 133 dwell-
ing houses and 149 families in the county.
The heads of the families were engaged
in the following occupations: Farmers,
149; blacksmiths, 2; carpenters, 3; wagon-
maker, 1; cabinet-maker, 1; tailor, 1;
shoemaker, 1; harness-maker, 1; trader,
1; doctors, 3; lawyer, 1; gunsmiths, 2;
cooper, 1, and surveyor, 1.
In 1875, Franklin county had 69,859
acres of improved land and 43,046 of un-
improved Of the former, 31,096 acres
were in wheat, which harvested 445,909
bushels, or an average of about fourteen
bushels per acre; of corn, there was 24,066
acres, yielding 758,983 bushels, or thirty-
one bushels per acre; oats 9,532 acres,
averaging thirty and one-half bushels per
acre; potatoes, 622 acres, which produced
52,887 bushels. The same year there
were 12,280 hogs slaughtered and sold for
slaughtering purposes in Franklin county.
Number of horses sold for exportation,
122; milch cows, 3,208; pounds of butter
made, 222,336. There were 1,007 dogs at
that time according to the census report.
From the census report of 1880 — the
latest — the following facts are gleaned:
Total population in 1880 10 249
Native population 8 261
Foreign population 1 988
Number of farms in Franklin Co 1 429
Number acies of improved lands 179 142
Value of farms, including lands,
fences, buildings... $3,886 408
Value of farm implements and ma-
chinery $282 984
Value of live stock, June 1, 1880 $935 679
Estimated value of all farm produc-
tions, sold, consumed or on hand
for 1879 $1,131 214
Number of horses 6 335
Number of mules and asses 227
Number working oxen 4
Number milch cows 5 845
Number other cattle 14 484
Number sheep 2 253
Numberswine 38 276
Number gallons milk produced in 1880 13 955
Pounds of butter 402 969
Pounds of cheese 18 967
Bushels of barley harvested 24 033
Bushels of buckwheat 919
Bushels of corn 2,117 940
Bushels of oats 600 039
Bushels of rye 5 748
Bushels of wheat 507 482
Pounds of tobacco 2 630
Value of orchard products $3 047
Tons of hay 30 516
Bushels of potatoes 91 852
From -the abstract of assessment for
1883, the following facts are gleaned:
There were 362,346 acres of land subject
u «
fe.
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
265
to taxation, valued at $2,11 7,789; town
lots, $123,030; cattle, 20,060, valued at
$99,595; horses, 6,680, valued at $126,913;
mules and asses, 238, valued at $5,032;
sheep, 1741, valued at $866; swine, 16,-
635, valued at $15,560; vehicles 430, val-
ued at $7,542; merchandise, $56,954; man-
ufacturers, $1,936; moneys and credits,
$79,260. The total personal property
amounted to $414,418; total taxable prop-
erty, $2,877,858.
STOCK RAISING.
As has been stated heretofore in this
chapter, a few years ago this region, and,
in fact, the whole great west was almost
wholly devoted to the cultivation and pro-
duction of the cereals common to this lati-
tude. The time was when agriculture
was pursued to the almost entire exclusion
of all else. But to-day this is all changed.
A revolution has swept over Iowa and the
west since the war, which has had its
effect upon business, settlement and com-
merce in such a manner as has brought
the State forward among the ranks of its
sister States witli rapidity unequalled in
the history of the past. Iowa to-day oc-
cupies a position among the foremost of
States, of which her citizens may well be
proud. Of course this progress cannot be
credited particularly to any one produc-
tion or branch of industry, but more to
the natural resources and wealth of soil
which dame nature has been so profuse in
bestowing, together with that of stock-
raising. Nearly all portions of the State
of Iowa are admirably adapted to the rais-
ing of stock. Franklin county, lying in
the very best portion of the State, is
unsurpassed in this respect. It has all
the natural advantages, an abundance
of water and excellent grazing land,
while the soil is unsurpassed for the pro-
duction of corn. The region of the Iowa
river valley has justly achieved a wide
reputation as a stock-raising country,
the attention of farmers being turned
almost wholly toward the raising of corn
and stock, with success that is proven by
the many fine stock farms to be seen in
all parts of the county.
To show the growth of the business of
raising stock in Franklin county, the sta-
tistics which are presented in this connec-
tion, have been compiled. It must be
remembered that the value given is the
assessed value and is really less than one-
fourth of the actual worth.
The first report of statistics for Franklin
county was made in 1856. During this
year the number of acres of corn raised
was 675, yielding 18,625 bushels. The
number of hogs sold were 170, valued at
$550. There were 171 head of cattle sold,
valued at $5,230. During the year there
were 5,900 pounds of butter made.
Ten years later, in 1866, there were
4,294 acres of corn planted, which yielded
100,199 bushels. There were in the county
2,500 hogs; 2,650 head of cattle; 993 milch
cows; 60,336 pounds of butter made; 5,-
910 pounds of cheese made; 4,439 sheep,
yielding 17,390 pounds of wool; 1,155
horses; 28 mules and asses.
In 1868 the number of cattle assessed in
the county was 2,471, valued at $31,821;
horses, 1,361, assessed at $54,534; 23mules,
assessed at $800; 2,764 sheep, valued at
$2,113; 1,146 hogs, valued at $1,015.
In 1871 the number of cattle assessed
was 4,41 7, at $29,702; 2,552 horses, assessed
at $58,526; 67 mules, assessed at $1,833;
15
in
266
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
1,505 sheep, assessed at $547; 2,771 hogs,
assessed at $2,163.
Two years later, in 1873, there were 5,-
911 head of cattle, assessed at $36,070;
3,148 horses, assessed at $70,298; 56 mules,
assessed at $1,519; 1,232 sheep, assessed
at $443; 5,342 swine, assessed at $1,548.
In 1875 there were 8,082 head of cattle
in the county, assessed at $51,153.10; 3,.
638 horses, assessed at $86,982.80; 106
mules, assessed at $2,451.60; 831 sheep,
assessed at $1,127.80; 7,281 hogs, assessed
at $9,461.46.
In 1877 there were 8,415 head of cattle
in the county, assessed at $52,623; 4,382
horses, assessed at $103,879; 157 mules,
assessed at $4,122; 12,229 hogs, assessed
at $16,653.
In 1879 there were 9,901 head of cattle
in the county, assessed at $48,110; 4,951
horses, assessed at $105,008; 181 mules,
assessed at $4,173; 1,592 sheep, assessed
at $793; 19,872 hogs, assessed at $16,361.
In 1881 there were 16,102 head of cattle
in the county, assessed at $77,073; 5,902
horses, assessed at $117,139; 250 mules,
assessed at $5,422; 2,207 sheep, assessed
at $1,060; 14,706 hogs, assessed at $12,897.
From the last report, for the year 1883,
it is found there were 20,060 head of cat-
tle, assessed at $99,595; 6,680 horses,
assessed at $126,913; 238 mules, assessed
at $5,032; 1,741 sheep, assessed at $866;
16,635 hogs, assessed at $15,560.
The following is the report of 1883,
made to represent the estimated actual
value : 20,060 head of cattle, valued at
$501,500; 6,680 horses, valued at $534,400;
16,635 hogs, valued at $207,937.50; total
estimated value of cattle, horses and hogs
in the county in 1883, $1,243,837.50.
THE FIRST FAIR.
About the first fair in Franklin county
was held at Hampton, in 1859. The ex-
hibition was made on the public square,
and the court house was used as the fine
art gallery. There was a good display of
everything, and the fair was well at-
tended, all of the farmers, throughout al-
most the entire county, turning out. No
admission was charged, and the premiums
consisted almost wholly of cer ificates and
ribbons. The officers were : President,
J. M. Soper; secretary, J. T. McCormick.
Among the most prominent workers in the
enterprise were George W. Hansell, James
Thompson, C. Gillett and David Church.
FRANKLIN COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.
This society held its first fair in Octo-
ber, 1860, after which the first regular offi-
cers were elected for the ensuing year, as
follows: President, Samuel Carbaugh ; sec-
retary, C. Gillett ; treasurer, L. H. Mor-
gan. Under the constitution of the soci-
ety, each township was entitled to a repre-
sentative or director, and the following
were chosen at this meeting : Clinton
township, E. H. Wing ; Ingham, J. R.
Hartgrave ; Reeve, J. M. Soper ; Geneva,
W. Ward ; Osceola, W. Richardson ;
Morgan, E. A. Howland ; Washington,
A. Gillett.
Officers for 1862— President, William
G. Beed ; secretary, N. B. Chapman ;
treasurer, C. J. Mott ; directors, Morgan
township, F. H. Munson ; VVashington,
D. W. Dow ; Reeve, A. T. Reeve ; Clin-
ton, B. D. Robinson ; Geneva, George
Hinsell ; Ingham, G. H. Ingham ; Osceo-
la, R. T. Blake.
Officers for 1864 — President, William
G. Beed ; vice president, Samuel Car-
f
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
267
baugh; secretary, George Beed; treasurer,
C. J. Mott; directors, Washington town-
ship, C. H. Ingham ; Geneva, George
Hansell ; Reeve, Henry Shroyer ; Morgan,
E. A. Rowland ; Osceola, William Rich-
ardson ; Clinton, H. H. Grinnell ; Ingham,
A. T. Little.
Officers for 1865 — President, Samuel
Carbaugh ; vice president, William G.
Beed ; secretary, George Beed ; treasurer,
C. J. Mott; directors, Reeve township,
Isaac Miller ; Washington, O. F. Kitchell;
Clinton, B. C. Robinson; Ingham, H. C.
Graves ; Geneva, D. Church , Osceola, J.
M. Pierce ; Morgan, J. M. Baker.
Officers for 1866— President, David
Church; vice-president, C.J. Mott; sec-
retary, George Beed , treasurer, G. H.
Ingham ; directors, Reeve township, Wil-
liam Birkett ; Washington, N.. B Chap-
man ; Clinton, B. Colt ; Ingham, J. O.
Crapser ; Geneva, D. Carbaugh ; Osceola,
J. W. Ward ; Morgan, J. M. Baker.
Officers for 1867 — President, David
Church; vice-president, James Thomp-
son ; secretary, George Beed ; treasurer,
G. H. Ingham ; directors, Reeve town-
ship, A. Reed ; Washington, C. J. Mott ;
Clinton, G. W. Hemming ; Ingham, W.
H. Hoxie ; Geneva, D. G. Carbaugh ; Os-
ceola, James Whiteside ; Morgan, E. A,
Howland.
Officers for 1868— President, John I.
Popejoy ; secretary, L. B. Raymond;
treasurer, H. C. Clock ; directors, Reeve
township, A. T. Reeve ; Washington,
James Thompson ; Clinton, R. McKenzie;
Ingham, W. H. Hoxie ; Geneva, William
Ward ; Osceola, John Fahey ; Morgan,
E. A. Howland ; West Fork, Henry
Meyers.
Officers of 1869— President, A. T.
Reeve, ; vice-president, James Thomp-
son ; secretary, L. B. Raymond ; treasu-
rer, H. C. Clock ; directors, Clinton town-
ship, H. H. Grinnell ; West Foi k, A. T.
Little ; Ingham, W. H. Hoxie ; Washing-
ton, S. C. Rose ; Geneva, William Ward;
Reeve, Ira Hodges ; Osceola, John Fahey;
Morgan, E. A. Howland.
Officers for 1872— Presidi nt, D. G. Car-
baugh ; vice-president, C. J. Mott ; secre-
tary, S. J. Reeve ; treasurer, H: H. Grin-
nell ; directors, Washington township,
W. H. Hoxie ; Reeve, J. D. Parks ; Gen-
eva, D. Church ; Clinton, E. B. Richards;
West Fork, H. Bushyager; Ingham, D.
W. Mott ; Osceola, H. Ingraham ; Grant,
W. Brogan ; Lee, D. C. Mott ; Oakland,
J. I. Popejoy ; Morgan, E. A. Howland ;
Hamilton, Robert Hamilton.
Officers for 1873— President,D. W. Mott;
vice-president, L. P. Holden; secretary,
J. M. Wait; treasurer, George Beed; di-
rectors, Washington township, D. G. Car-
baugh; Clinton, N. Ebersole; Richland,
H. H. Grinnell; West Fork, H. Bushya-
ger; Ingham, H. Clark; Geneva, D. Church;
Osceola, R. T. Blake; Grant, W. Brogan;
Lee, B. R. Fitch; Oakland, E. A. Smith;
Morgan, E. A. Howland; Hamilton, J. W.
Wallace; Reeve, E. L. Clock.
No officers were elected in 1874 and
1875, but in 1876 the society again re-
vived and the following were elected:
president, C. J. Mott; vice-president, J.
W. Wallace; secretary, E. C. Grinnell;
treasurer, H. D. Harriman; directors:
West Fork township, E. Esslinger; Clin-
ton, W. A. Alexander; Richland, William
Ward; Marion, G. R. Minor; Washington,
N. C. Cummings; Ingham, D. W. Mott;
^7
Jfe
-* — »t*
268
HISTORY" OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Geneva, D. Church; Reeve, A. B. Hudson;
Hamilton, R. D. Hamilton; Morgan, R.
E. Train; Oakland, E. A. Smith; Lee, O.
P. Lee; Grant, W. Brogan; Osceola, S.
French. ,
Officers for 1877-President, G. W. Han-
sel; vice-president, J. B. Peck; secretary,
J. M. Snider; treasurer, W. W. Thayer, di-
rectors, West Fork township, Henry Bush-
yoger; Clinton, R. S. Sullivan; Richland,
E. C. Grinnell; Marion, G. R. Minor;
Washington, John McNeal; Ingham,
Frank Berry; Geneva, D. Church; Reeve,
J. M. Soper; Hamilton, D. Elliott; Mor-
gan, E. J. Mendell; Oakland, J. I. Pope-
joy; Lee, J. W. Slocum; Grant, W. Bro-
gan; Osceola, James Whiteside.
Officers for 1878— President, William
Parks; vice-president, Joe Atkinson; sec-
retary, J. M. Snider; treasurer, W. W.
Shi-oyer; directors: Washington township,
J. B. Peck; Reeve, J. M. Soper; West
Fork, H. Bushyager; Ingham, G. W. Han-
sell; Geneva, D. Church; Osceola, S. G.
Walters; Lee, B. S. Eddy; Grant, W. Bro-
gan; Oakland, E. A. Smith; Morgan, S. J.
Mendell; Hamilton, J. W. Wallace; Mar-
ion, L. Elseffer; Richland, A. G. McMil-
len; Clinton, R. Wilde.
THE RE-ORGANIZED SOCIETY.
At the annual meeting held on Dec. 9,
1878, the following officers were elected
for the ensuing year: President, R. S. Ben-
son; vice-president, S. J. Mendell; treas-
urer, B. S. Brown; secretary, J. B. Peck.
The several townships were represented
by the following: West Fork, George Ott;
Clinton, W. A. Alexander; Richland, D,
Vought; Ingham, D. W. Mott; Mott, J.
A. Atkinson; Washington, J. F. Lattimer;
Marion, G. Shaver; Scott, J. D. Merriss;
Geneva, James Pierce; Reeve, W. J.
Shroyer; Hamilton, R.J. Elliott; Morgan,
W. H. Weaver; Osceola, G. Dart; Grant,
Nelson Salley; Lee, J. W. Trayer; Oak-
land, E. A. Purdy.
The society appointed a committee to
examine the records and inquire into the
organization of the agricultural society to
see whether it was a legal corporation or
not This committee consisted of J W.
McKenzie, D W. Dow and John T.
Stearns At the next meeting of the so-
ciety this committee reported the follow-
ing :
"We, your committee, beg leave to re-
port that we have examined the books,
constitution and papers of the society and
find that this association is not complete,
in that its constitution, organization and
by laws have never been recorded."
After this report a committee was ap
pointed to revise the by-laws and consti
tution of the Franklin County Agricultural
Society This committee consisted of D.
W. Dow, J. T. Stearns and W. W.Thay
er. Under the new organization there
were eighty six life members enrolled,
new constitution and by-laws were framed
and adopted, and the society thus placed
on legal footing. The society, however,
had become much involved, and by a re-
port made in June, 1883, it was found that
it owed the Citizens' Bank, at Hampton,
4319 besides costs on same. At a meet
ing held that month, A. T. Reeve pre
sented the following resolution:
" -Resolved, That the president and sec
retary of this society shall negotiate a loan
for the purpose of paying off the present
indebtedness of the society, provided, that
fL-i
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
269
two-thirds of the life membership shall
vote to do so "
Officers for 1880 : President, R. S. Ben-
son; secretary, E. S. Patterson; treasurer,
J. B. Peck. Patterson failed to qualify,
and E. C. Grinnell was appointed in his
place.
The following were township directors:
West Fork, Henry Bus "yager ; Ingham,
George Hansell; Geneva, David Church ;
Osceola, S. A. French ; Lee, O. P. Lane ;
Grant, W. Bullis ; Reeve, W. C. Haines ;
Washington, D. W. Dow; Mott, J. At-
kinson; Ross, A. S. Ross; Clinton, J. G.
Zimmerman ; Richland, Robert Seeney ;
Marion, George R. Miner ; Hamilton, R.
J. Elliott; Oakland, E. A. Smith; Morgan,
A. Quasdorf ; Scott, J. D. Demaras.
Officers for 1881: President, R. S. Ben-
son ; vice-president, David Church ; sec-
retary, Walter Church ; treasurer, B. S.-
Brown.
Officers for 1882 : President, C. J. Mott;
vice-president, David Church , secretary,
C. L. Clock ; treasurer, B. S. Brown.
CHAPTER XIV
THE PRESS.
Franklin county has had abundant op-
portunities to test the value of newspapers
as aids in building up business centres, and
making known its resources to the outer
world, while the civilizing influence is
almost unlimited ; and as a general thing,
its citizens have always manifested a lib-
eral spirit or purpose towards the various
journalistic enterprises that have been
inaugurated in their midst. It must be
truthfully said that in dispensing their
patronage to the press, they have been
tolerant and magnanimous, as they have
been reasonably generous to journals of
all parties. It may be difficult to cor-
rectly estimate the advantages derived by
Franklin county, in a business point of
view, from the influence of the press,
which at various times has called into
requisition respectable, if not eminent
talent in the advocacy of local inter-
ests, which have had a tendency to in-
spire its citizens as well as friends, far
and near, with hope and confidence in its
prosperity.
In every community there are shriveled
souls whose participation in the benefits
of enterprise is greater than their efforts
to promote the public welfare. These are
the men who will never subscribe for a
newspaper, but will always be on the alert
to secure, gratuitously, the first perusal
of their neighbor's" papers. These per-
sons are the croakers, who predict evil
and disparage enterprise. But with
very few exceptions, the press of this re-
^Sh
270
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
gion, or the community through which
they circulate, has never been cursed with
such drones. On the contrary, as patrons
of the press, Franklin county citizens have
established a good name. As records of
current history, the local press should be
preserved by town and county govern-
ments, in their archives for reference. As
these papers are the repositories wherein
are stored the facts and' the events, the
deeds and the sayings, the undertakings
and achievements that go to make up his-
tory. One by one these things are gath-
ered and placed in type; one by one these
papers are issued; one by one these papers
are gathered together and bound, and an-
other volume of local, general and individ-
ual history is laid away imperishable.
The volumes thus collected, are sifted by
the historian, and the book for the library
is ready.
There should be some means devised by
which press records might be preserved
and made accessible. This of course, is
attempted in all offices; but, as a general
thing, files are sadly deficient; still by dil-
igent search and much inquiry, enough
data has been gleaned to supply a toler-
ably accurate record of the county press;
but if any inaccuracies or omissions are
noticeable, they may be attributed to the
absence of completeness in the files.
•
THE FRANKLIN RECORD.
The first delinquent tax list published,
of Franklin county lands, was in the fall
of 1858, when Thomas Drummond, at that
time, one of the editors and proprietors of
the Vinton, (Benton county) Eagle, came
to Hampton and secured the printing of
the tax lis' of that and preceeding years,
in his paper. Stephen M. Jones was one
of the hands in the Eagle office, and in the
'office of the Benton county Democrat, pub-
lished also at Vinton, was a young man
man named M. S. Bowman. Drummond
persuaded Jones and Bowman into the
notion that it would be a good scheme for
them to buy the material of the old Eagle,
as the proprietors wished to put in a new
office, and bring it up here and start a
paper. Accordingly they did so, and about
the middle of February, 1859, George
Ryan, Isaac Miller and James Thompson
having each sent down a team, Bowman
came up with the material. Jones fol-
lowed about two weeks later, with his
family, and the material was put into a
building, fitted up for an office, that stood
on the vacant lot next east of the Baptist
church, and between there and G. G.
Clemmer's residence. Here on Monday,
the 28th of March, 1859, the first number
of the Franklin Record saw the light. It
was a six column folio, and as this was be-
fore the days of "patents," all printed at
home. It compared very favorably in ap-
pearance with county papers in Iowa at
that time. On the first page were quite a
number of business cards. Among the
cards, one is copied entire. Here it is:
CANNAM HOUSE.
The subscriber invites public attention to this
establishment, which he has lately re-opened
and refitted, and intends to keep as nearly as
possible "up to the handle." He will use his
best endeavors to make his house a pleasant spot
by the wayside, and solicits the patronage of
all "hungry, starved souls," promising them
that they shall have the best that can be pro-
cured in this region. He professes to be a
knight of the ribbons, and accordingly takes the
best nossible care of the ' 'nags" — having the
A
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
271
largest and best stable in Franklin county, and
an 'ostler who knows how to "do the thing up
brown."
A. J. Cannam, Proprietor.
Hampton, Franklin Co., Iowa.
The second, or editorial page, had the
salutatory, which is given hereafter, and
several other items. Like the papers of
the day, it had no local page, such matters
as were of local significance finding place
on the editorial page. There is also, on
the same page, a column and a half from
W. N. Davidson, county superintendent of
schools, upon the educational matters of
the county, in which he states that "with
the exception of Morgan township, every
district has one or more schools, and a
majority of them are well attended and
conducted." According to his report,
Geneva had one school, Ingham two, Clin-
ton one, Osceola one, Reeve three, and
Washington four; total, twelve in the
county. He adds to his report, that owing
to high water he was unable to visit one
of the schools in Ingham and the one in
Osceola. Among the news items on this
page it is found that "Old Ossawotamie
Brown, of Kansas notoriety, has arrived
in Fremont county, this State, with a com-
pany of twenty men and several liberated
slaves " Then there are two items warn-
ing people against "dangerous counter-
feits" on certain banks, and a large num-
ber of "news items," all of them evidently
a month old.
The third page has two columns of
reading matter, the leading article being
an extract from a Chicago paper warning
people against going to Pike's Peak,
pronouncing the reports of gold discover-
ies there and on "Cherry creek" humbugs,
gotten up by traders at out-fitting posts.
On this same page is a list of advertised
letters at Maysville, signed "Wm. C.
Boyles, postmaster." Thompson & Beed
have a column advertisement on this page.
The Franklin Recorder ]ob printing office,
half a column; about half a column of
prospectuses and quite a fair showing of
legal notices.
The fourth page has a little over a
column of miscellaneous reading matter,
mostly on the funny order, selected it is
presumed by W. N. Davidson. Several
fonts of type used in printing its pages
are yet in the Recorder office, and must have
been in use several years even then.
In introducing their paper to the public
the editors presented the following:
SALUTATORY.
"We here present the public, and espe-
cially the people of Franklin and adjoin-
ing counties, with the first number of the
Franklin Record. And a decent respect
for the opinions of those whose names we
wish to enroll as the list of our patrons,
induces us to define our position before
them.
"The Record will be the organ of no party,
faction, or particular locality; but will
advocate those principles not incorporated
in political platform, which we conceive
to be right without fear or .favor; and in
so doing we shall hold ourselves amena-
ble to no power except that of public
opinion. In short, while the political
journals of the country are fighting over
the various isms and favorites of party,
we shall take it for granted that the Union
is safe, notwithstanding the assertions
to the contrary — that the country, so far
as partisan interests are involved^ is
going on swimmingly; that is to say, it
i
»rv
â– *&-
272
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
matters nothing to the Record and its pro-
prietors whether Douglas, or Sumner,
Brown, or Muggins, is President in 1860 —
whether the democrats or republicans,
hardshells or softshells, woolies, locofo-
cos or hunkers are in power. We intend
to chronicle important events as they
transpire, give our readers a general
miscellany of news, fun, statistics of va-
rious kinds, and furnish a paper which,
although smaller than many oihers, will
be readable and useful.
"To the citizens of Franklin county we
promise a faithful record of affairs of the
county, descriptions of the advantages and
resources of the country, and such sugges-
tions as may occur to us to be furnished
by correspondents relating to changes and
improvements of all kinds. At the solici-
tation of a number of her citizens we have
transferred to your county our press and
a very large quantity of type and fixtures
of a superior quality and style, which will
compare favorably with those of any simi-
lar establishment in northern Iowa; and
with our best wishes for your welfare we
solicit that support which we hope to
merit. With respect to its eligibility as
an agricultural district, Franklin county
has few superiors; but its inert resources
must be developed by the labor of the
husbandman. Large tracts, now unsettled,
must be peopled by energetic go-ahead
men; and it rests in a great degree with
each of you to forward the day when this
most desirable result shall be attained.
It is not an overwrought idea, that the es-
tablishment of a press in a county like
this is of more present, as well as prospec-
tive, value than the immigration of one
hundred persons. With your aid in cir-
culating our sheet, we shall inform many
thousands in the older and naturally less
favored counties, of a place where there is
a fertile soil, good water and healthy cli-
mate; where, with comparatively light la-
bor, the earth will yield them her richest
blessings, of the present and future worth
of this region, and we shall ever invite
them to come and inhabit it with us. * *
We would be pleased to be able to call
upon every citizen of this, and those ad-
jacent counties whence we reasonably ex-
pect our support, and take them each by
the button-hole and speak to them, in the
most pleasant manner possible, of the great
utility of the press in general, and the
Franklin Record in particular, and in the
blandest tones solicit them to subscribe
and read. This being impracticable we
must content ourselves with relying upon
their good judgment in the matter, and
expecting them to act accordingly, prom-
ising that the Record shall appear the
next and each succeeding week, so long
as we are supported in the work. Mean-
while we doff our beavers and make to
all, until next week, and to the ladies es-
pecially, our most profound Chesterfieldian
salaam."
One of the items in the first issue of the
Record stated that, " Quite a number of
beavers have been shot and trapped by
our citizens the past few days. The high
water of spring generally drives these ani-
mals from their dams and holes when
they are easily secured — so we are told
by those who have tried it on, and they all
bear witness that beaver hunting is rare
sport."
The publication of the Franklin Record
was continued until 1863, when it ceased.
- ' 9
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
275
A few years later the material was pur-
chased by J. Cheston Whitney for #350,
and was used in establishing the Franklin
Reporter, now the Recorder. The founder
of the Record, S.M. Jones, is still a resi-
dent of Hampton.
THE FRANKLIN REPORTER.
This newspaper was established in the
spring of 1866, by J. Cheston Whitney,
the first issue making its appearance on
the 1st day of May, 1866. It was at that
time a six column folio, all home print,
and very well filled with advertisements.
The subscription rate was announced as
being two dollars per year, and it was de-
clared to be devoted to "Local Interests
and General Intelligence." The material
with which the paper was published had
been formerly used in the office of the
Hampton Record. In his introductory,
Mr. Whitney said: "It will be our lead-
ing object to furnish a journal which will
be acceptable to all, and a welcome visitor
at every fireside — a journal which will
tend to the elevation of public morals, to
the advancement of popular education, and
to the material wealth and increased pros-
perity of the county which we have chosen
for our home." It was also stated that
while space should not be occupied by po-
litical harangues and partisan controversy,
yet the paper should be an outspoken re-
publican sheet, because the principles ad-
vocated by that party most nearly accorded
with the convictions of the editor. "But,"
Mr. Whitney continued, "we are not so
bound by party creed that we shall blind-
ly support any man or any measures, sim-
ply because the leaders of the party may
so desire."
L. B. Raymond, at this time, was associ-
ated with J. Cheston Whitney in the
editorial work, he having charge of the
educational department. Mr. Raymond
remained in editorial charge of this de-
partment until the issue of April 4, 1867,
when he was succeeded by N. B. Chap-
man, the county superintendent of schools.
May 9, 1867, the Reporter was enlarged
to a seven column folio, and otherwise
much improved. In 1872, the Reporter
was again enlarged, this time coming out
as a six column quarto. Thus it continued
until April 3, when Mr. Whitney purchased
the Hampton Free Press of L. B. Ray-
mond, and consolidated it with the Re-
porter. The name was then changed to
THE FRANKLIN RECORDER.
In his announcement of the consolida-
tion, Mr. Whitney said: "We make our
bow to the public through the columns of
the only paper published in Franklin
county; and it will be our endeavor, in the
future as in the past, to furnish such a-
sheet as will be a welcome visitor to the
homes of all our patrons." Mr. Whitney
continued the management of the Re-
corder alone until the issue of May 29,
1872, when J. C. Harwood, late editor and
proprietor of the Winnebago Rress, pur-
chased a half interest in the paper and
the firm became Whitney & Harwood. In
this shape the management remained un-
til August, 1876, when J. C. Whitney
withdrew, and shortly afterward engaged
in publishing the Chronicle. J. C. Har-
wood assumed full control of the Re-
corder, and continued to edit and publish
it with good success, until the 1st of Jan-
uary, 1878, when he sold to Col. T. E.
<S t~
16
'F
276
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
McCracken. Shortly after selling out Mr.
Harwood removed to Wright Co., Iowa.
Col. T. E. McCracken immediately after
purchasing the Recorder made satisfactory
arrangements with L. B. Raymond, who
was then running the Hampton Leader,
whereby the two papers were consolidated
under the name of the Franklin county
Recorder, with the firm of McCracken &
Raymond. T. E. McCracken and L. B.
Raymond as editors and proprietors. This
arrangement made the Recorder the con-
solidation of three papers — the Franklin
Recorder, the Hampton Free Press and
the Hampton Leader. In speaking of the
new departure, the editors said, in the issue
of Jan. 8, 1879:
"As the Recorder announced last week,
arrangements have been perfected, where-
by it and the Hampton Leader have been
consolidated into one paper. It was ex-
pected that the name of this paper would
be the Franklin Reporter, but it has been
decided to retain the name Recorder, call-
ing it the Franklin County Recorder, and
as such it would appear to-day if our new
head had arrived in time. We are well
aware that this consolidation of two active,
energetic, aggressive and partisan news-
papers will not meet with favor from all
parties. The old Reporter had friends
who have stood by it through thick and
thin, and whose political gospel it was,
and the same is true of the late Leader,
and it would be too much to expect for
the new Recorder o take the place of
either in the estimation of its most radical
friends. * * * It seems to be the al-
most universal opinion that it is time
peace prevailed and that newspaper fights
in Franklin county should cease."
It was also stated that the Recorder
should be republican always, but just to
those with whom it could not agree. In
conclusion, it was stated: "We have no
differences to perpetuate, nor enemies to
punish, and we really hope that we may
regard all as friends. In the race of life
we desire an equal show and a fair start
with everybody, and we shall try to do
our duty and give you the best country
newspaper in all Iowa." The form of the
paper was changed, in the issue from
which these extracts were taken, from a
six column quarto to an eight column folio,
all printed at home, the patent inside be-
ing discarded.
The partnership between T. E. Mc-
Cracken and L. B. Raymond was con-
tinued until Jan. 7, 1880, when L. B. Ray-
mond purchased the interest of his part-
ner and assumed full control.
T. E. McCracken, the outgoing partner,
came to Hampton from Webster City. He
was a native of Indiana, and frequently
spoke of his former residence in Posey
county. His parents were Quakers, and he
followed in their footsteps. At an early
day he came to Iowa, and in company with
Thomas Mercer, now of California, in
1871, and established the Republican at
Marshalltown. In 1874 he moved to
Webster City and purchased the Hamilton
county Freeman, which he published for
about one year, also engaging in mercan-
tile trade. His coming to Hampton is
mentioned elsewhere. He was sheriff of
Marshall county for four years, and for
several years filled the position of collector
of internal revenue of the old sixth district.
He was a pleasant, social gentleman, witty
and full of fun. He was a blunt spoken
â– L
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
277
man, a great politician and a vigorous
writer. Col. McCracken is now in the
postal service of the government. His
home is in Webster City.
L. B. Raymond became sole proprietor
of the Franklin County Hecorder with the
issue of Jan. 7, 1880. On this date the
paper was enlarged to a nine column folio,
and passed its fifteenth birthday. An inter-
esting feature of the -Recorder at this time
was the "History of Franklin County," by
L. B. Raymond, which was published as
a serial, having reached the fifteenth
number. L. B. Raymond is still proprie-
tor of the Hecorder. It has a large
circulation and ranks among the best
county newspapers in Iowa.
In speaking of the history of the
Hecorder in January, 1880, L. B. Ray-
mond said : " We cannot now call to
mind all the graduates of the Hecorder
office. The writer hereof was the first
' hand ' in the office, and James W.
Sheppard, afterwards of the Rock Rapids
( Lyon county ) Review, the second. Then
came his brother, Frank Sheppard, J. Y.
Lambert, who was very well known here
in his day, but of whose present where-
abouts we are not advised ; A. M. Allen,
now dead, but during his life-time of the
Belmond Mirror and Hampton Magnet;
Clarence Whitney, the present junior
editor of the Hampton Chronicle; T. L.
Hacker, at one time of the Ackley Inde-
pendent, but now private secretary of the
governor of Wisconsin ; F. P. Morgan,
of the Bristow Dud, and many more who
have never had any newspaper experience
on their own hook. The Hecorder has
s een Franklin county increase from 1,500
inhabitants to 10,000, and Hampton, from
a little hamlet too small to bear counting,
to a thriving place of 2,000 people. It
was here before there was any railroad,
and now we have two. It has outlived or
absorbed all of its cotemporaries except
one, and we think may justly claim to be
ranked among the permanent institutions
of Franklin county. "
The following sketch of Levi Beard-
sley Raymond, was prepared by I. L.
Stuart :
L. B. Raymond came to Iowa in the
fall of 18(33 or winter of 1804 and settled
near Aplington, Butler county. He was
just out of the army and broken down in
health, consequent upon injuries received
in the service, and for that reason tried
farming in hopes to regain the same. He
succeeded but indifferently, either at farm-
ing or in benefiting his physical condi-
tion, and having but little capital and no
previous experience at the business, he
abandoned it in disgust in the summer of
1865 and came to Hampton, about even so
far as this world's goods were concerned.
A new school house was built at Hamp-
ton that season ; a two-story stone build-
in ar that stood between the lots now
occupied by the Cannam House and
Gray's Furniture Store on Reeve St., and
Raymond was employed to teach the first
school therein. Miss O. M. Reeve, now
Mrs. J. T. James, of Knoxville, Marion
county, this State, was his first assistant.
In May of the next year, J. Cheston
Whitney came to Hampton from Mason
City, and, buying the material of the old
Franklin Record of S. M. Jones for $300,
started the Franklin Reporter, and hired
r
4
278
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Raymond to work in the office. He also
conducted an educational department, in
the paper, and made himself generally
useful around the institution. We never
heard the wages paid, but it was small, as
the Reporter was a small institution at
that time, being only a six-column folio,
and while it was enough to "summer" on,
it was not enough for winter wages ; at
least so Raymond evidently thought, fox-
when fall came he took another school to
teach in Reeve township at the foot of
Mayne's Grove, in what was then and is
now known as the Reeve district. The
summer of 1867, he put in as traveling
agent for a school furniture house, and
was, in the fall of that year, nominated by
the republicans of Franklin county, as a
candidate for county superintendent of
schools, and was elected by only thirty-
three majority over N. B. Chapman, the
incumbent of the office. The next two
years saw him engrossed in the duties of
his office, in to which he entered heart and
soul, and he has the credit of inaugu-
rating several reforms, the good effeets
of which are felt to the present day
In 1869 he started a second paper
in Hampton, deemed a fool-hardy
venture by many, but as the capital
invested was only $250 there was not much
risk to run. The paper was called the
Hampton Free Press, and although pub-
lished under difficulties and obstacles that
would have discouraged an ordinary man,
the sheet thrived and grew apace. In
1860 he was appointed asssstant United
States Marshal to take the census of Frank-
lin county, which was the first official po-
sition he had ever held wherein the pay
or emoluments- amounted to anything ma-
terial. In the spring of 1872 his atten-
tion was turned to the northwestern por-
tion of the State, then rapidly settling up,
and after a trip made into that vicinity to
see for himself, he came back with so
violent an attack of the western fever that
he sold out the good will and subscription
list of the Free Press to Mr. Whitney
(who consolidated it with the Reporter
under the name of the Franklin County
Recorder) packed up his printing material
and moved to Cherokee, Cherokee county,
where he started a paper called the Chero-
kee Leader. Immediately after this he
purchased the O'Brien Pioneer, which had
previously been printed in Cherokee, but
dated at O'Brien, and put a printing office
into a little attic at that place, employing
O. H. Willits, Ute a typo in the Free
Press office, as local editor and manager.
Shortly after, he bought the good will of
the lately extinct Sioux County Herald,
and put another printing office at Orange
City, in that county. In the fall of 1872
he started a fourth paper at Doon, Lyon
county, called the Lyon County Press, and
a fifth at Newell, Buena Vista county,
called the Mirror. So that he was the
first man to put a printing office into
O'Brien or Lyon counties.
Bis sixth venture in the newspaper line
was started under peculiar circumstances,
and will bear telling somewhat in detail
as illustrating the character of the man and
his tremendous energy and pluck. O'Brien
county had, during the year 1872, been
settling up rapidly, and a railroad had
been surveyed through the northwestern
portion of the county, and a new town
started at Sheldon, which was in the
nortwestern portion of the county, while
f
J-
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
279
the town of O'Brien, the county seat, was
in the southeastern corner of the county.
Sheldon was settled by an enterprising
go-ahead set of young fellows, who made
no secret of their intention to secure the
county seat of O'Brien county, and the
rapidity with which the town grew, and
the country in its vicinity, during the fall
of 1872, made it look as though the scep-
ter was likely to depart from the east side
of the county. Late in December Raymond
happened to be at Doon, Lyon county,
on business connected with his paper there,
and to the little hotel where he was stop-
ping, came two Sheldon men who put up
for the night. Raymond was not intro-
duced to them and they did not know
him. After supper he heard them dis-
cussing a project that was on foot to start
a newspaper in Sheldon early in the new
year, and that the funds were already
raised, and steps would shortly be taken
to give the enterprise a tangible form.
He knew that if the paper was not in ex-
istence the first Monday in January, at the
time the board of supervisors met, it could
not be legally recognized by the board as
an official paper for the ensuing year, and
that if another paper was in existence at
that time, they would be compelled to
recognize it as the second official paper,
and the proposed organ would be left out
in the cold. He got an almanac and
found that it was just eleven days to the
first Monday in January. The Sheldon
men retired to rest and Raymond got out
his team and started for Cherokee, seventy
miles away across a dreary prairie. It
was a bitter cold night, and the wind blew
so that the tract was filled with snow, but
it was not very dark, and despite the
warnings and entreaties of his host he
pulled out. He drove his team until after
daylight, when he stopped at a hospitable
homesteader's sod-house, and after break-
fast, hired the man to take him the rest of
the way to Cherokee, leaving his own team
to rest. Cherokee was reached barely in
time to take a train that left eastward bound.
He had heard of a second hand office for
sale at Manchester, in Delaware county,
and thither he went, arriring there in the
night. Going to the house of the owner
he routed him out and dragged him un-
willingly to the office, and after thirty
minutes' inspection the material changed
hands. Leaving the the ex-owner to pack
it up and have it on the cars by a given time,
Raymond took the 3 a. m. train for Chi-
cago, and, after buying such other material
as was needed, got back to Cherokee in
time to unload his second-hand material
and start it for Sheldon. The day he
crossed the prairie to Sheldon, carrying
the balance of the material with him, the
thermometer was twenty-nine degrees
below zero, and he narrowly escaped death
by freezing. But the paper was out on
time and was Volume 1., Number 1, of the
Sheldon Mail, now one of the leading and
most prosperous weeklies in northwestern
Iowa. It might be stated, as shedding
some light upon the subject, that the
O'Brien Pioneer changed hands the last
issue in December, coming out under the
charge of A. H. Willetts & Co. Who
the "Company" was nobody inquired, but
the Pioneer and Mail were duly recog-
nized as the official papers of O'Brien
county, and the other paper talked of at
Sheldon failed to make its appearance.
280
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
In 1874, came the grasshopper scourge
of northwestern Iowa, and the financial
revulsion consequent upon extravagance
and recklessness by the early officials in
many of the counties. Raymond was
caught with county warrants on his hands
that he had taken at par, which he held
until they went down, in some cases, as
low as thirty-five cents on the dollar.
Not near all due him from private sources
could be collected, and he closed out
all his interests as best he could, taking
land, stock and slow notes, upon some of
which he never realized anything. But
he was satisfied to get out on almost any
terms, and has never been heard to com-
plain of his experience in northwestern
Iowa. After a few months spent in the
employ of the State Printing Company, at
DesMoines, he returned to Hampton, and
for a year or two devoted himself to im-
proving some real estate that he owned in
the county and doing some surveying. He
held the office of county surveyor one
year, and county superintendent of schools
one year to fill a vacancy, and in Decem-
ber, 1877, started a third paper in Hamp-
ton called the Hampton Leader. The
Leader did an excellent business, and on
the 1st of January, 1879, was consolidated
with the Recorder, that paper having been
purchased by Col. T. E. McCracken, and
a new firm organized under the firm name
of McCracken & Raymond. At the close
of the year a stock company bought Mr.
McCracken's interest, and the paper
passed into Mr. Raymond's control where
it has since remained, he now owning
nearly all the stock. Mr. Raymond has
been prominent in politics, in Franklin
county, and indeed in his section of the
State, for many years. He is an excellent
organizer, and while his forte does not lie
in personal solicitation in a campaign, it is
universally conceded that his equal as a
conductor or director of an aggressive and
active compaign does not exist in Frank-
lin county. His advice is always eagerly
sought by candidates and those interested
in political affairs. He is an out-and-out
radical republican, and it is his boast that
during all the time he has voted he has
never scratched a regular republican
ticket. For many years he has been chair
man of the republican county central
committee, and his hand has drawn the
calls for as many conventions as that of
any man in Iowa. In March, 1883, he was
appointed a special examiner in the
United States Pension Office, and was
soon after transferred to the district com-
prising northeastern Wisconsin and the
upper Michigan peninsula. The Recorder
still runs in his name, but is under the
immediate management of Mr. I. L.
Stuart, who is also its local editor.
The subject of this sketch was brought
up near Beloit, Rock Co., Wis., and in
his younger days partially learned the
printer's trade at that place and was a
student at the college there for several
years. He was among the first to enlist
in 1861, serving nearly two yeare in the
6th Wisconsin Infantry, one of the regi-
ments comprising the famous Iron brigade
of the West, and after being discharged
for injuries received in the service, spent
a few months in the provost marshal's of-
fice at Janesville, Wis., coming to
Iowa, as has been stated, late in 1863. He
was married, in 1867, to Mary (). Leverich,
and has four children living — three sons
*>â–
and a daughter. They have buried three.
Mr. Raymond has got along somewhere
between three or four years past forty, is
over six feet in height, is erect and broad-
shouldered and weighs in the neighbor
hood of 215 pounds. He has blue eyes,
light brown hair and a sandy beard, and
is remarkably quick in his movements for
a man of his weight. He is a warm friend
and a. bitter enemy — if he hates a man he
hates him beyond expression, and he can-
not do too much for his friends. He has
the faculty of making money but not al-
ways of keeping it, and is too generous
to ever be a rich man. He is prompt to
act, decided in his convictions, resolute in
his undertakings and perfectly fearless and
independent in everything. He is one of
the most public spirited men that ever
lived, and is always att e front when any
measure is being agitated regarding the
welfare of his town or community. He
has always been prominent in educational
matters, having been a member of the
school board of Hampton twice and is
now a member thereof. He takes a live
ly interest in military matters and is cap-
tain of company H, 6th regiment Iowa
National Guard, and thoroughly devoted
to its interests. He has enemies, as every
active, aggressive man has, but has also
many warm friends. He is thoroughly
devoted to his profession and no member
of the editorial fraternity in Iowa is more
prompt to resent any infringement upon
the rights of the craft than he. Probably
his worst fault is that of too plain speak-
ing, and a tendency to say sarcastic and
cutting things regardless of the feelings
of others, but it is noticeable that he is
much more careful in this respect as he
grows older, and that age and experience
have done much towards mellowing him
down. Of undisputed New England an-
cestry and traits, he is a fair specimen of
the go ahead westernized Yankee.
I. L. Stuart, local editor and manager
of the Franklin County Recorder, was
born in Chester, Vt., Aug. 27, 1855. He
is a son of J. Q. and Lucy J. (Burton)
Stuart, natives of Vermont. His parents
moved to Wisconsin in 1867, locating at
Black Earth, near Madison. Here I. L.
remained until 1873, then went to Bosco-
•
bel, same State, where he edited and pub-
lished the Boscobel Dial. At this time
Mr. Stuart was but eighteen years of age,
yet he succeeded well in his business and
remained in the position three years. In
1876 he went to Milwaukee and worked
on the Milwaukee Sentinel for two years;
he then went to Charles City, Iowa, and
engaged as foreman on the Floyd County
Advocate, remaining until 1881. In that
year Mr. Stuart came to Hampton and
took his present position on the Franklin
County Recorder. Mr. Stuart began his
preparation for the newspaper business
with Burnett & Son, proprietors of the
Black Earth Advertiser. He has grown
up in his profession, and thoroughly un-
derstands every department of newsjjaper
work.
HAMPTON FREE PRESS.
This paper was established at Hamp-
ton, in 1869, by L. B. Raymond, the first
issue making its appearance on the 1st of
October. Mr. Raymond continued its
publication alone, with the exception of
a few months, when G. II. Brock was
associated with him, continuing until
April 3, 1872, when the office was pur-
.9
282
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
chased by J. C. Whitney, and consolidated
with the Recorder.
THE MAGNET.
The Magnet was established in 1871 by
W. C. Eaton. It was a six column folio,
and was a good paper, full of interesting
news and paying advertisements. In 1876
Mr. Eaton sold the paper to J. C. Whit-
ney, who dropped the name Magnet, and
in its stead adopted that of the Chronicle.
Mr. Eaton came to Franklin county from
Wisconsin. He had spent a number of
years in the newspaper business, and
was an able editor. He went from here
to Northwood, Worth county, this State.
THE CHRONICLE.
This representative of the press was es-
tablished at Hampton in 1876, the first
issue making its appearance on the 2d of
August. The founder was J. Cheston
Whitney, who also started the Franklin
Reporter. The paper was a well printed
and ably edited six-column quarto, well
filled with general and local news, and
home advertisements. In introducing his
paper to the public Mr. Whitney, in his
first issue, said :
" Strange, unlooked for, events are con-
stantly occurring. Little did we think
when one short month ago we penned our
parting words, made public through the
columns of the Recorder, that we should
so soon resume the management of a news-
paper in Hampton.
" We expected at that time to seek a
home elsewhere, and in some locality
find new friends and form new associa-
tions, but circumstances have conspired to
produce a different result, and again we
have the pleasure of greeting old, fa-
miliar friends through a different channel
from that hitherto employed. As we
again enter the field of journalism, we do
it with the determination to furnish the
people of Franklin county with a paper of
which they shall have no reason to feel
ashamed. Our object will be to make a
good local paper, and hence, special atten-
tion will be devoted to home interests —
the interests of the town and county in
which we live.
" We shall seek to faithfully chronicle
current events, to encourage and assist in
building up those enterprises which are
calculated to benefit the community, and,
so far as lies in our power, labor to pro-
mote the best interests of the public, upon
whom we are dependent for support.
"We have been connected with the re-
publican party ever since its organization,
and love it for the grand work which it
has accomplished, and while we are free
to admit that abuses have crept into the
party, and unprincipled men have attached
themselves to it for selfish purposes, as
will always be the case with the party in
power, we still believe that it is the party
of progress and reform, and that the gov.
ernment will be more secure by the con-
tinuance of a republican administration,
than by placing it in the hands of the op-
position. Believing this, we shall give
the support and influence of our paper to
the republican party, at the same time
feeling it to be our duty to censure the
wrong wherever found, and to refuse to
aid in the election of unworthy men by
whomsoever placed in nomination. In
short, we shall aim to publish a paper
which will be a welcome and valued guest
in the homes which it may enter; a paper
always earnest in its devotion to the prin-
ce)
?tu
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
283
ciples of sound integrity, whether in social
civil or political circles. We come not
here a stranger, and we regard a lengthy
salutatory unnecess ry, as from our course
in the past a fair conception may be
gained of what may be expected in the
future. With these introductory words
we again hopefully engage in our pleas-
ant work."
In the second issue the. following para-
graph appeared with the statement that
it had been omitted the previous week:
"As was announced in last week's paper,
we have purchased from W. C. Eaton his
entire interest in the Magnet, and shall
continue its publication under the name
of the Chronicle."
J. C. Whitney remained as sole pro-
prietor of the Chronicle until Jan. 4, 1879,
when his son, C. E. Whitney became
a partner. Mr. Whitney announced the
change by saying: "The public are here-
by notified that I have associated with
myself in the publication of the Chronicle
my son, C. E. Whitney, thus realizing
what has for several years been antici-
pated to occur Jan. 1, 1870. The business
of the office will hereafter be transacted
under the name of J. C. Whitney & Son."
The Chronicle had undergone various
changes as to size, and at this time came
to the public as a seven column quarto,
which size is still retained. It has attained
a large and steadily increasing circulation,
and is one of of the largest and best fam-
ily papers in this part of the State. Both
J. C. Whitney and his son, C. E., are
practical newspaper men, and are easy
and fo cible writers.
C. E. Whitney, junior member of the
firm J. C.Whitney & Son, ha-< charge of the
local management of the Chronicle. He
was born in Rockford, 111., Jan. 28, 1857.
His parents, J. C. and Anna (Otis) Whit-
ney, were natives of the New England
States. Mr. Whitney, senior, was for-
merly a carpenter by trade, but for the
past twenty-three years has devoted his
attention to the newspaper business. In
1859 the family came to Iowa, locating in
Floyd county, where the fa* her taught
school for a time, and then engaged in
his present profession. While there Mr.
Whitney served three terms as superin-
tendent of schools. They remained in
Floyd county until 1865, when they re-
moved to Mason City, where J. C. edited
the Mason City Republican in connection
with teaching the city schools. In May,
1866, they came to Hampton, and Ivir.
Whitney, senior, purchased the material
that had been used in the Franklin Record
office, and established what is now the
Franklin Recorder. He has since made
Hampton his home, devoting his attention
to the newspaper business. He has held
many offices of trust.
C. E. Whitney learned his trade in his
father's office, and on the 1st of January,
1879, became a partner in the publi-
cation of the Chronicle. For the past
year he has had entire charge of the
paper. On the 1st of September, 1880,
C. E Whitney was married to Anna B.
Logan, of Hampton, and they have two
children. In politics the Messrs. Whitney
are staunch republicans.
REAL ESTATE JOURNAL.
In 1870 the Real Estate Journal was
established a'. Hampton by James Thomp-
son. It was a monthly, intended chiefly
as an advertising medium for his real
17
284
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
*?
estate business. Mr. Thompson soon after
disposed of his interest to Davidson &
Co., who continued the paper under the
'name of the Freeholder. After several
months the publication was discontinued.
HAMPTON LEADER.
The paper under this name was estab-
lished at Hampton in 1877, the first issue
making its appearance on the 28th of De-
cember, as an eight-column folio with
patent insides. The founder was L. B.
Raymond, who had been identified with
the press of Franklin county since 1866.
The paper was neatly printed, well edited,
and had a good patronage. The office
was well stocked with materials belong-
ing to the art preservative. In intro-
ducing his paper to the public, Mr. Ray-
mond said :
" We take pleasure in presenting to your
notice the initial number of the Hampton
Leader, a weekly newspaper to be published
at Hampton, Franklin Co., Iowa, until
further notice.
"To those who know the undersigned, it
is unnecessary to say that the Leader will
be radically republican at all tiihes and
under all circumstances. We are not of
the number who believe that the republi-
can party is dead, or that it has outlived
its usefulness, but we believe that it has
a glorious and progressive future before
it, as well as honorable record in the past.
We believe that for its future spirit in the
accomplishment of what we regard as its
manifest destiny, it must depend upon the
men to whom its past success is due, and
to those actuated by the same motives and
following the same lines of conduct. The
past record of the republican party is
good enough for us, and if any reform i s
needed, we want it made inside of the
ranks of the party as has been done in
the past."
In the same connection the editor states
that as a logical conclusion, he was
opposed to the administration of Presi-
dent Hayes, and refused to recognize him
as a republican, and that if a fair con-
struction of his language meant " to the
victors belong the spoils" so be it. "But,"
continued the article, "it is only proper to
say that we do not expect to make politi-
cal affairs a prominent feature of the
Leader. We only say what we do on the
subject to properly define our position ;
but we expect to make this pape r a news-
paper in every sense of the word. We
intend to give news, especially the local
news, and our creed upon this point may
be summed up in a very few words ' all
news — and the truth about it. ' "
For one year Mr. Raymond continued
the publication of the Leader, when it was
merged into the Franklin County Recorder,
under the management of McCracken &
Raymond. The Leader had a successful
career and made money for its publisher.
ONCE A MONTH.
This w-s the title of a monthly maga-
zine published at Hampton in 1878, by*
Charles Wilcox. Its existence was short
and uneventful.
THE SHEFFIELD PRESS.
This is among the best local newspapers
in the northern part of the State. It was
established by the present editor and pro-
prietor, Frank P. Morgan, in 1880, the
first issue coming to light on the 4th of
March, 1880, as a five-column folio. It
was, and still is, a neatly printed, well
made up, and ably edited sheet, well filled
. (0
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
285
with local and general news and advertise-
ments. Mr. Morgan is a practical news-
paper man, well posted on all topics of the
day, and a good writer. In introducing
his paper to the public the editor said :
"We herewith present ourselves before
you with a few words by way of introduc-
tion, simply because such is the custom.
We are aware that, as a rule, the starting
of anew paper is a hazardous undertaking,
but hope, with the encouragement and
help of our friends, to be successful. We
view political matters from a republican
standpoint, consequently, the political
complexion of the Press will be of that
character. Not having had an opportunity
to interview Mr. Elaine, or Mr. Grant, or
Mr. Edmunds or Mr. Sherman as to their
respective chances for the Presidency, we
have concluded to accept the situation and
give whichever one receives the nomina-
tion our hearty and undivided support.
At the same time, way down in the secret
recesses of our heart, the man of Maine
occupies a place which is a little more
tender than the places occupied by the
others. Mr. Grant has had glory enough
for any one man in this world ; a third
term might ruin him. Mr. Edmunds is a
very wise, good man, and, no doubt, would
make an excellent President, but they say
he is not available; and Mr. Sherman is
needed right where he now is. This
settles the Presidential question) in our
mind. However, the election of either
one of the above named gentlemen or all
of them or any one else, does not, neces-
sarily, have anything to do with the publi-
cation or control of the Press. Even the
man with the big "bar'l" has not, neither
indeed, can he have any influence over our
destiny in that direction. The Press will
be published all the same and right along,
just as though nothing in particular had
happened ; and we take this occasion to
call upon our friends to assist us in mak-
ing the paper such a one as will be a
credit to our community. This can be
done in no better way than by a liberal
patronage in the way of advertising, job
work, and aid in extending our circulation.
We want a correspondent in every neigh-
borhood, who will give us the news from
their respective localities. If a house, or
a barn, or a hen coop, or a hog-pen, or a
corn-crib is built, or if a man wallops his
Own wife or runs away with his neighbor's
wife, just send us the items and we will
publish them with pleasure. Our two
great objects are to furnish a good home
paper and accumulate wealth. We re-
spectfully ask your co-operation, and be-
lieve we shall receive it.
Respectfully yours,
F. P. Morgan."
The Press has changed its form several
times, assuming its present size, eight
column folio, Jan. 1, 1883. It has a large
and steadily increasing subscription list,
and is justly entitled to be ranked among
the best local papers and advertising me-
diums in this congressional district. The
subscription price is $1.50 per annum.
F. P. Morgan, editor and proprietor of
the Press, was born in Whitewater, Wis.,
May 27, 1853. He is a son of E. F. and
Mary (Benjamin) Morgan. They moved
to Richland Co., Wis., when he was two
years old, where he received his education.
At the age of eighteen, he commenced to
learn the printer's trade, working on both
$
286
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
the Richland County Observer and Sentinel, and founded the Sheffield Press. Mr.
In 1879, he came to Hampton and worked Morgan was married to Nettie Jones,
on the Recorder a few months, and then j daughter of S. M. Jones, of Hampton, in
went to Butler county and started the ' 1880. He is a prominent member of the
Bristow Dial, which he run for three Odd Fellows lodge at Sheffield, and a
months, when he sold, came to Sheffield staunch republican in politics.
CHAPTER XV
THE WAR FOR THE UNION.
The institution of slavery was always a
source of trouble between the free and
slave-holding States. The latter were
always troubled with the thought that the
former would encroach upon their rights,
and nothing could be done to shake this
belief. Compromise measures were
adopted from time to time to settle the
vexed question of slavery, but the fears of
slaveholders were only allayed for a short
time. Threats of secession were often
made by the slaveholding States, but as
some measures of a conciliatory character
were passed, no attempt was made to carry
their thi'eats into execution. Finally came
the repeal of the Missouri Compromise
and the adoption of a measure known as
the Kansas-Nebraska bill. This bill opened
certain territory to slavery which, under
the former act, was forever to be free.
About the time of the passage of this act,
the whig party was in a state of dissolu-
tion, and the great body of that party, to-
gether with certain democrats who were
opposed to the Kansas-Nebraska bill,
united, thus forming a new party to which
was given the name of republican, having
for its object the prevention of the further
extension of slavery. The people of the
South imagined they saw in this new party
not only an organized effort to prevent the
extension of slavery, but one that would
eventually be used to destroy slavery in
those States in which it already existed.
In 1860 four Presidential tickets were
in the field. Abraham Lincoln was the
candidate of the republicans, Stephen A
Douglas of the National democrats, John
C. Breckenridge of the pro-slavery inter-
ests, and John Bell of the Union. The
Union party was composed principally of
those who had previously affiliated with the
American or know-nothing party. Early
in the campaign there were threats of se-
cession and disunion in case of the election
of Abraham Lincoln, but the people were
so accustomed to Southern bravado that
little heed was given to the bluster.
On the 20th of December, 1860, South
Carolina, by a convention of delegates,
declared "That the Union now existing
between South Carolina and the other
T
« — ^-
Jk »
\iL
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
287
States of North America is dissolved, and
that the State of South Carolina has re-
sumed her position among the Nations of
the earth as a free, sovereign and independ-
ent State, with full power to levy war and
conclude peace, contract alliances, estab-
lish commerce, and do all other acts and
thing which independent States may of
right do."
On the 24th Gov. Pickens issued a pro-
clamation declaring that "South Carolina
is, and has a right to be, a free and inde-
pendent State, and as such has a right to
levy war, conclude peace, and do all acts
whatever that rightfully appertain to a free
and independent State."
On the 26th Major'Anderson evacuated
Fort Moultrie and occupied Fort Sumter.
Two days previously he wrote President
Buchanan's Secretary of War, John B.
Floyd, as follows:
"When I inform you that my garrison
consists of only sixty effective men, and
that we are in very indifferent works, the
walls of which are only fourteen feet high;
and that we have, within one hundred and
sixty yards of our walls, sand hills which
command our works, and which afford ad-
mirable sites for batteries and the finest
coverts for sharp-shooters; and that be-
sides this there are numerous houses, some
of them within pistol shot, and you will
at once see that, if attacked in force,
headed by any one but a simpleton, there
is scarcely a possibility of our being able
to hold out long enough for our friends to
come to our succor."
His appeals for re-inforcements were
seconded by General Scott, but unheeded
by President Buchanan, and entirely ig- '
nored by John B. Floyd, Secretary of
War.
On the 28th, South Carolina troops occu-
pied Fort Moultrie and Castle Pinckney,
and hoisted the palmetto nag on the ram-
parts. On the 29th, John B. Floyd re-
signed his place in Buchanan's cabinet,
charging that the President, in refusing
to remove Major Anderson from Charles-
ton Harbor, designed to plunge the country
into civil war, and added: "I cannot con-
sent to be the agent of such a calamity."
On the same day the South Carolina com-
missioners presented their official creden-
tials at Washington, which, on the next
day, were declined.
On the second day of January, 1861,
Georgia declared for secession, and Geor-
gia troops took possession of the United
States arsenal in Augusta, and Forts Pu-
laski and Jackson.
Gov. Ellis, of North Carolina, seized the
forts at Beaufort and Wilmington and the
arsenal at Fayetteville. On the evening
of the 4th, the Alabama and Mississippi
delegations in Congress telegraphed the
conventions of their respective States to
secede, telling them there was no prospect
of a satisfactory adjustment. On the 7th,
the conventions of Alabama, Mississippi
and Tennessee met in secession conclave.
On the 9th, Secretary Thompson resigned
his seat in the cabinet on the ground that,
contrary to promises, troops had been sent
to Major Anderson. On the 9th, the "Star
of the West," carrying supplies and re-in-
forcements to Major Anderson, was fired
into from Morris Island, and turned home-
ward, leaving Fort Sumter and its gallant
little band to the mercy of the rebels. On
the same day, the ordinance of secession
\ !
is
* 4 i
288
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
passed the Mississippi Convention. Flor-
ida adopted an ordinance of secession on
the 10th, and Alabama on the 11th. The
same day (the 11th) Thomas, Secretary of
the Treasury, resigned, and the rebels
seized the arsenal at Baton Rouge, and
Forts Jackson and St. Philip, at the mouth
of the Mississippi river, and Fort Pike at
the Lake Pontchartrain entrance. Pensa-
cola navy ya d and Fart Barrancas were
surrendered to rebel troops by Col. Arm-
strong on the 13th. Lieut. Slemmer, who
had drawn his command from Fort Mc-
Rae to Fort Pickens, defied Armstrong's
orders, and announced his intention to
to hold the fort at all hazards. The
Georgia convention adopted an ordinance
of secession on the 19th. On the 20th,
Lieut. Slemmer was besieged by a thousand
allied troops at Fort Pickens. Louisiana
adopted an ordinance of secession on the
25th. On .the 1st of February the rebels
seized the United States mint and custom
house at New Orleans. The peace con-
vention assembled at Washington on the
4th, but adjourned without doing anything
to quiet the disturbed elements. On the
9th, a provisional constitution was adopted
at Montgomery, Ala., it being the consti-
tution of the United States reconstructed
to suit their purpose. Jefferson Davis,
of Mississippi, was chosen President, and
Alexander H. Stevens, of Georgia, Vice-
President of the Confederate States of
North America. Jeff. Davis was inaugu-
rated on the 18th, and on the 25th it was
learned that General Twiggs, "command-
ing the department of Texas, had basely
betrayed his trust, and that he had sur-
rendered all the military posts, munitions
and arms to the authorities of Texas.
Mr. Lincoln was inaugurated March 4,
1861, in front of the capitol, the inaugu-
ration ceremonies being witnessed by a
vast concourse of people. Before taking
the oath, Mr. Lincoln pronounced in a
clear, ringing voice, his inaugural address,
to hear which there was an almost painful
solicitude, to read which the whole Amer-
ican people and the civilized world awaited
with irrepresible anxiety. With that ad-
dress, and the administration of he oath
of office, the people were assured. All
doubt, if any had previously existed,
was removed. In the hands of Abraham
Lincoln, the people's President, and him-
self of the people, the government was
safe.
Traitors were still busy, plotting and
planning. Troops were mustering in all
the seceded States. On Friday, April 12,
the surrender of Fort Sumter, with its
garrison of sixty effective men, was de-
manded and bravely refused by the gallant
Maj. Anderson. Fire was at once opened
on the helpless garrison by the rebel
forces, numbered by thousands. Resist-
ance was useless, and at last the National
colors were hauled down, and by traitor
hands were trailed in the dust. On Sun-
day morning the 14th, the news of the
surrender was received in all the princi-
pal cities of the Union. That was all,
but that was enough. A day later, when
the news was confirmed and spread through
the country, the patriotic people of the
North were startled from their dreams of
the future — from undertakings half com-
pleted — and made to realize that behind
that mob there was a dark, deep, and well
organized purpose to destroy the govern-
ment, rend the Union in twain, and out
>1
-« n *>
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
289
of its ruins erect a slave oligarchy,
wherein no one would dare question their
rights to hold in bondage the sons and
daughters of men whose skins were black.
Their dreams of the future — their plans
for the establishment of an independ-
ent confederacy — w T ere doomed from their
inception to sad and bitter disappoint-
ment. Everywhere north of Mason and
Dixon's line, the voice of Providence was
heard :
"Draw forth your million blades as one;
Complete the battle now begun ;
God fights with ye, and overhead
Floats the dear banner of your dead.
They, and the glories of the past,
The future, dawning dim and vast,
And all the holiest hopes of man,
Are beaming triumphant in your van."
"Slow to resolve, be swift to do !
Teach ye the False how fights the True !
How buckled Perfidy shall feel,
In her black heart the Patriot's steel ;
How sure the bolt that Justice wings ;
How weak the arm a traitor brings;
How mighty they who steadfast stand,
Fur Freedom's flag and Freedom's land."
On Monday, April 15, President Lin-
coln issued the following proclamation :
"Whereas, The laws of the United States
have for some time past, and are now, opposed,
and the execution thereof obstructed, in the
States of South Carolina, Alabama, Florida, Mis-
sissippi, Louisiana and Texas, by combinations
too powerful to be suppressed by the ordinary
course of judicial proceedings, or by the powers
vested in the marshals ; now, therefore I, Abra-
ham Lincoln, President of the United States, by
virtue of the power in me vested by the Consti-
tution and the laws, have thought to call forth,
and hereby do call forth the militia of the sev-
eral States of the Union, to tliu number of 75,-
000, in order to suppress said combinations, and
to cause the laws to be duly executed.
The details for this subject will be immedi-
ately communicated to the State authorities
through the War Department. I appeal to all
loyal citizens to favor, facilitate, and to aid this
effort to maintain the honor, the integrity, and
existence of our National Union, and the per-
petuity of popular government, and to redress
wrongs already long endured. I deem it proper
to say that the first services assigned to the
forces hereby called forth, will probably be to
repossess the foits, places and property which
have been seized from the Union ; and in every
event the utmost care will be observed, consist-
ently with the object aforesaid, to avoid any
devastation, any destruction of, or interference
with property, or any disturbance of peaceful
citizens in any part of the country; and I hereby
command the persons composing the combina-
tions aforesaid, to dispejse and retire peaceably
to their respective abodes, within twenty days
from this date.
Deeming that the present condition of public
affairs presents an extraordinary occasion, I do,
hereby, in virtue of the power in me vested by
the Constitution, convene both Houses of Con-
gress. The Senators and Representatives are,
therefore summoned to assemble at their re-
spective chambers at 12 oclock noon, on Thurs-
day, the fourth day of July next, then and there
to consider and determine such measures as in
their wisdom the public safety and interest may
seem to demand.
In witness thereof, I have hereunto set my
hand and caused the seal of the United States
to be affixed.
Done at the city of Washington, the fifteenth
day of April, in the year of our Lord one thou
sand eight hundred and sixty-one, and of the
independence of the United States the eighty-
fifth.
By the President,
ABRAHAM LINCOLN,
W. II. Sewabd, Secretary of State."
The last word of this proclamation had
scarcely been taken from the electric wire
before the call was filled. Men and money
were counted out by hundreds and thou-
A
290
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
sands. The people who loved their whole
country could not give enough. Patriot-
ism thrilled and vibrated and pulsated
through every heart. The farm, the work-
shop, the office, the pulpit, the bar, the
bench, the college, the school house — every
calling offered its best men, their lives and
fortunes, in defense of the Government's
honor and unity. Party lines were for a
time ignored. Bitter words, spoken in
moments of political heat, were forgotten
and forgiven, and, joining hands in a com-
mon cause, they repeated the oath of
America's soldier stateman: "Hy the
Great Eternal, the Union must and shall
be preserved ! "
Seventy-five thousand men were not
enough to subdue the Rebellion. Nor
were ten times that number. The war
went on, and call followed call, until it
seemed as if there were not men enough
in all the free States to crush out the Re-
bellion. But to every call for either men
or money there was a willing and ready
response. The gauntlet thrown down by
the traitors of the South was accepted; not,
however, in the spirit with which insolence
meets insolence, but with a firm, deter-
mined spirit of patriotism and love of
country. The duty of the President was
plain under the constitution and laws,
and, above and beyond all, the people,
from whom all political power is derived,
demanded the suppression of the Rebel-
lion, and stood ready to sustain the
authority of their representative and ex-
ecutive officer to the utmost extremity.
Franklin county was behind no county
in the State in the exhibition of sublime
patriotism. Being without railroad or
telegraph facilities, the news did not reach
the people of the county in time to be
numbered in the first call of the President
for 75,000 men, but in the second and every
succeeding call, it responded with its
noblest and best men, some of whom
went forth never to return. The record
of the county at home or in the field is a
noble one. By referring to the chapter
containing the action of the board of su-
pervisors, it will be seen what was done in
an official way. In an unofficial way the
people took hold of the work, aided enlist-
ments, and furnished a large amount of
sanitary supplies.
In this connection has been compiled
from the adjutant-general's report, the
name of every soldier from Franklin county.
If any are omitted it is not intentional, for
great care has been exercised in the com-
pilation, and none have more veneration
for the brave soldier than the author of
this volume. So far as it could be done
mistakes in spelling names have been cor-
rected.
Franklin county was first represented in
the 6th Iowa Volunteer Infantry. The
following is the record:
THIRD INFANTRY.
COMPANY G.
Private.
Orlando A. Lesh.
FIFTH INFANTRY.
COMPANY K.
William E. Conway.
SIXTH INFANTRY.
COMPANY C.
Lieutenant.
HezekiahC. Clock.
Sergeants.
Russell T. Knight, Curtis R. Boyles.
Corp >rals.
James Cairn, Daniel J. Boyles.
r
1
s/9^zu^.
f
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
293
Privates.
J. W. Brown, W. W. Scott,
Charles F. Roberts, G. F. Scott,
M. H. Ross, C. C. Shobe,
John K. Addes.
NINTH INFANTRY.
COMPANY I .
Sergeant.
E. H. Sporling.
Corporal .
John G. Mitchell.
Privates.
Amos H. Halstead, Theodore II. Reeve,
E.A.Miller, James II. Riddle.
II. H. Mead, M. B. Jones,
Silas G. W. Peters, Herman C. Leggett,
Fernando T. Reeve.
TENTH INFANTRY.
COMPANY D .
Corporal .
James M. Paige.
TWELFTH INFANTRY.
COMPANY E.
Privates.
David Creighton, John C. Jones,
P. N. Hart, Elias Moon,
Hiram F. Coon.
SIXTEENTH INFANTRY.
COMPANY I.
Private.
George W. Soules.
THIRTY-SECOND INFANTRY.
COMPANY H.
Captains.
James B. Reeve, Rufus S. Benson,
First Lieutenant.
Orlando A. Lesh.
Second Lieutenant.
Rufus S. Benson.
[Captain after January 24, 1868.]
Sergeants.
J. B. Nelson, William Wood,
Bail ley Median, John S. Love,
B. II Pound.
John Nichols,
Cyrus Wyatt,
Alpheus Jones,
G. S. Merriss,
Joseph Ward,
Corporals.
E. B. Criley.
John B. Woodward,
L. P. Berry,
H A. Clock,
George W. Ross,
W. S. Hausberry.
Musicians.
Miles Birkett, L. M. Stoddard,
Elijah Jones.
Wagoner.
Daniel E. Greeley.
Privates.
Allen, D. C ., May, William,
Avery, John C, McVey, Reuben,
Armstrong, C M., McCord, Harrison,
Baker, JohnD., McCord, Ira,
Ballou, Washington, Merriss, ArbaA.,
Ball, William, Mitchell, W. R. C,
Boyles, Cyrus, Morris, Thomas,
Bradshaw, John J., Murphy, John,
Bridgeman, A. H., Neff, J. G.,
Brooks. Jacob, North, Daniel M.,
Brotherton, H. A., North, J. W.,
Bullis, Charles, Penney, Newton,
Caldwell, E., Phinney, A. E.,
Cole Daniel W., Roberts, C. F.,
Clinesmith, Oliver, Robinson, Solomou,
Collins, Loren, Ross, Geo. W.,
Creighton, Henry, Shobe, Clark,
Crosby, E. W., Shobe, Morgan,
Culver, Levi, Silence, Edmund,
Fry, George W., â– Smith, H. W.,
Grandon, Isaac, Smith, Charles,
Hartwell, S. W., Tilghman, O. II.,
Herman, T, I., Walker, James,
Horner, B. F., Woodward, J. B.
Horner, W. C, Whiteseil, John,
Hubbert, Mechan, John,
Ilurd, J. S-, Justus, Isaac,
Jones, Alpheus, Lord, R. A.,
Brotherton, Hiram, Bullis, German,
Bushyager, J. G., Creighton, S.,
Haitgrave, D. L., Jones, Alex.,
Horner, Jesse, Manifold, William,
Ingraham, W. N. Mulkins, J. O,
Penney, Richard. Mulkins, Willard,
Baker, Samuel, Capron, S. K.,
Hunt, G. L., Kitiell, Warren,
Shobe, Charles W.
lb
jfc
296
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
with thirst, plunged in and drank greedily
of the filthy water.
The two trips from Duvall's Bluffs to
Brownsville, as guard to the Cavalry train,
were trips of hard marching in hot
weather, and of suffering for water for
man ajnd beast, and from heat and dust.
The sick on this march certainly received
no extra care, at first shipped to Helena,
and then to Clarendon, on White river.
About the 21st of August, .a small
steamer, a stern-wheeler, sailed up the
White river loaded with sick and conva-
lescent soldiers. It was one of the hottest
of August days in this climate, when she
run from Clarendon to Duvall's Bluffs,forty-
five miles, in four hours. Not a spot on that
boat, from the border deck to the hurricane
deck, but was covered by a sick ruan #
Sick men were piled away on that hurri-
cane deck in broiling sun, wherever a man
could be laid. Is it any wonder, on that
run of about four hours, twenty-six men
died on that boat? — one of them a corpo-
ral of company G (Carter).
On the 25th day of August another
march of that twenty-six miles across those
prairies of Prairie Co., Ark. About 11
o'clock that night we filed into the little
court house yard at Brownsville. Just as
we filed in, General Davidson stepped to
the fence and said, "Boys, lie down quick-
ly and take some rest, for I will need you
at an early hour." Then turning to an-
other officer, he said, "These brave boys
have marched 500 miles, and kept up with
my Cavalry " By 3 o'clock next morning
we were astir; at 4 o'clock were in line and
on the move. A march of nine miles brought
us to the rebel outposts, skirmishing three
and a half hours to the brow of the hill,
and after maneuvering, etc., half a mile
to the bank of the Bayou Metaire. The
whole movement during the day was only
a bushwhacking affair. In the evening
we fell back to the top of the hill to sup-
port a battery. There dark found us. The
battery and all other troops had left. One
detachment alone was on the field, with
the rebels closing around us, when we
withdrew and fell back that night to a
corn-field near Brownsville; and about 1
o'clock at night, at the word halt, the boys
dropped on the ground and lay down be-
tween corn rows. No alignment encamp-
ment was made. The night was dark, as
dense Mark clouds o'erspread the sky, and
soon the rain came down in torrents; but
there the boys lay — what else could they
do? About 9 o'clock, a. m., it broke away,
but, oh, the mud, mud! We had no ra-
tions, but soon found a patch of sweet po-
tatoes and had a sweet potato breakfast.
The detachment remained two days in
camp in the timber near, aud then moved
to the old Cavalry camp north of town,
where our sick boys had been kept in a
double log house on the edge of the
prairie, and at a little grove of a few scat-
tering oaks, and near a pond of stagnant
water.
On the 31st of August, 1863, the day
was very hot, and hence the train was or-
dered to go through to Duvall's Bluffs in
the night. All the detachment was ordered
to go as guard. The whole detachment
able to go was ordered on the trip. We
could raise only forty men, and some
twelve or fifteen of them were unable to
march, but were ordered to go, as they
could be piled on the wagons, and could
use their guns in case of an attack This
t
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
297
was a serious camp ground to the detach-
ment. A few days and not a well man
was in that camp, and not many men able
to care for the sick. It had been used as
a Cavalry camp until the very ground was
crawling with filth. Every nook and
corner of the old house, every spot on the
floor, porch and hall, was covered with a
sick man. Everything that could be done
under the circumstances was done for the
sick by those who could do. But we were
in advance of the main army and supplies.
No sanitary or sutler supplies had reached
us, and much of the ordinary soldier's fare
was unfit for use. Much of the hard-tack
had too much life. I can now see some
boys breaking their hard-tack into small
bits and blowing out the tilings of life.
On the 6th of October, occurred the first
death. Then William A. Spurlin, one of
the brightest and best of young men, was
laid in an humble soldier's grave. On the
8th he was followed by Henry Canton-
wine. On that day we moved to another
camp south of town, in a nice little grove.
One day's rest there, and the command
was ordered to Little Rock. The sick
were brought and laid down on the sand
in the hot sun before the old log tavern
hospital. That very sand was crawling
with graybacks. As the command moved
away George Macy lay on a cot under a little
tree dying, and soon another of the young
men of our company, Wilson Bond, was
added to that group of humble graves.
There we laid four of the young men of
our company, side by side.
Their young lives were ended,
Their young spirits fled,
And now they are sleeping
In peace with the dead.
Every spot in that old log tavern that
could be occupied, was covered by a sick
man How many of those bravo boys
were buried in that little grave yard, I
never knew.
On the removal of the detachment to
Little Rock, it was relieved for a time
from all guard or other duty, except the
care of its own sick, by order of Gen.
Davidson, adding that the care of its own
sick in camp, was all that it was able to
do. But death had then fastened his cold,
icy hand upon a number of boys. Calvin
M. Sayre, John L. Sayre, Jesse Shultz,
Nathan R. Austin and Ira G. Christian
were soon numbered with the dead. Lit-
tle Rock proved to be a very healthy place
for us, and while there, the company, con-
sidering its reduced condition, improved
very rapidly. It may not be generally
known that that Arkansas expedition of
Gen. Steele's was one of the most de-
structive of life of any campaign of the
war. Steele started with 1,200 men; he
received re-inforcements of at least three
brigades, making at least 15,000 effective
men; 100 men would cover all his loss in
killed and wounded, and yet by the time
he had possession of Little Rock, and was
settled down to his gambling and horse
racing, he had barely 5,100 effective men
fit for duty. And of Gen. Steele I will
say that he had no sympathy in common
with the Union soldiers save his opposi-
tion to the abstract idea of secession.
Gen. McPherson, medical director, af-
terwards at Vicksburg, said that the send-
ing of our four companies through on that
campaign to keep up with the Cavalry,
was a burning shame, one of the outrages
of the war, and no wonder that the men
298
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
were used up; they remained at Little
Rock until the middle of October, when it
moved to Benton, twenty-five miles dis-
tant. It returned to Little Rock, where
they remained until January, 1864, when
it started for Memphis, which place it
reached on the 5th of February. Here it
was ordered to report to Brig.-Gen. A. J.
Smith at Vicksburg. It reached Vicks-
burg on the 9th, and remained there till
the 27th, wl>en it marched out to Black
river to await the army on its return from
the interior.
Meanwhile, Col. Scott established his
headquarters at New Madrid, and assumed
command of the post. On the lTth of
December, 1862, he sent out a detachment
of 100 men, under Capt. Peebles, who went
as far as the St. Francis river, bringing
back several prisoners, much public
property, and valuable information.
On the 28th of December, Col. Scott
destroyed the public property, and evacu-
ated New Madrid, by order of Gen. Davies,
after which he proceeded to Fort Pillow,
reaching there on the 29th. They re-
mained at Fort Pillow for nearly six
months, in the performance of garrison
duties. The command embarked for
Columbus, Ky., on the 17th and 18th of
June, 1863, in detachments, and went into
camp there on the 19th, and there the regi-
mental headquarters remained for more
than seven months, Col. Scott being most
of the time in command of the post.
On July 10, Union City, in Tennes-
see, was captured by the rebels. The
command hastened to that place, but ar-
rived too late to find the enemy; but
buried the dead and cared for the wounded,
and returned. The command was, soon
afterward, again divided into fractions.
Companies B and I, under command of
Capt. Millier, alone remained at regi-
mental headquarters; company C was at-
tached to the 4th Missouri Cavalry;
company E was placed at Fort Quinby,
not far from Columbus, whilst companies
H and K, Capt. Benson commanding,
proceeded down the river to Island No.
10. From this time forth, until Jan-
uary, 1864, the history of each of these
detachments, except that of company C,
is devoid of remarkable events. This
detachment was most actively employed
during most of this period, and the la-
bors of officers and men were arduous
in the extreme. They scouted a wide
extent of country infested by guerrillas;
marched oftentimes a considerable dis-
tance from Columbus, going out in all
weather, by night as often as by day.
They braved many perils and endured
many hardships.
In the month of January, 1864, these
six companies were brought together,
and soon embarked for Vicksburg, where
they were assigned to the second brigade.
Perhaps there was not a single organiza-
tion in the whole army under Maj. Gen.
Sherman, that so gladly commenced that
singular campaign, as the command under
Col. Scott. If the battalion left Vicks-
burg joyfully, its return was still more
joyful, for here were found Major Eber-
hart and his four companies, and the whole
regiment was together for the first time
since November, 1862. The re-union
brought great satisfaction to officers and
men. Shortly after the re-union of the
regiment it was ordered to the department
iu
HISTORY OF FRANKIN COUNTY.
201)
of the Gulf, and there accompanied the
disastrous Red River expedition.
In this expedition the 32d Iowa suffered
more severely, perhaps, than any other
regiment in the expedition. It formed a
part of Gen. A. J. Smith's command, con-
sisting of 10,000 Infantry and three
batteries of artillery, which left Vicks-
burg on March 9, on transports, accom-
panied by gunboats. At the mouth of
Red river this fleet was joined by Admiral
D. D. Porter, with a large fleet, including
several iron-clads. Some miles from
where the Red river enters into the Mis-
sissippi it separates into two streams,
which come together again very near the
mouth; from the southern one of these
two streams flows Achafalaya river. The
fleet entered Red river by the southern
stream, and passed thence into Achafalaya,
proceeding as far as Semmesport, where
the troops disembarked on the night of
the 13th, and immediately commenced a
march on Fort De Russey. The halt was
not ordered till the army had marched
some seven mules. It was twenty-eight
miles from here to Fort De Russey. Nev-
ertheless, the army marched that distance
the next day, constantly harassed by rebel
Cavalry; delayed once two hours at a
stream over which a bridge had to be
made; attacked the fort and carried it by
storm before sundown, and before the
gunboats arrived. In this assault, the 32d
was on the right, and " the men on the
right took the fort," said the prisoners.
Col. Shaw, commanding brigade, speaks
in unqualified praise of all the officers and
men in his command. The loss was
slight on either side. Of the 32d, one
man was killed and two were wounded.
At Fort De Russey, re-embarked and
proceeded to Alexandria, where the troops
again disembarked, and remained nearly
two weeks. At this point the column un-
der Gen. Smith formed a junction with
the column which had marched from New
Orleans. The boats could not be taken
over the rapids while laden, so the troops
marched to Cotile Landing, some twenty-
five miles up the river. Here our regi-
ment had its first battalion drill, with all
the companies in line, since leaving Du-
buque, in November, 1 862. On April 3,
the command again embarked, and reached
Grand 'Ecore on the next evening, where
it remained till the morning of the 7th,
when it marched to the front of the battle
of Pleasant Hill, where the brigade to
which the 32d belonged, commanded by
Col. Shaw, of the 14th Iowa, stood the
brunt of the fight, being the first in the
battle, fighting longer than any other, in
the hardest of the contest, the last to
leave the field, and losing three limes as
many officers and men as any brigade en-
gaged.
" Of Col. John Scott, 32d Iowa," says
the brigade commander, " it is sufficient
to say that he showed himself worthy to
command the 32d Iowa Infantry — a regi-
ment which, after having been entirely
surrounded and cut off from the rest of
the command, with nearly one-half of its
number killed or wounded, among them
many of the best and prominent officers,
forced its way through the enemy's lines,
and was again in line, ready and anxous
to mee the foe in less than thirty min-
utes." It is certain no regiment ever
fought with a sublimer courage than did
the 32d on the battlefield of Pleasant Hill.
I
\<5 •-
300
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Its heroism and its sacrifices were worthy
of a better fate than a retreat from the
scene of its splendid daring and its glory.
The fame of its gallant conduct spread all
over Iowa, as it would have spread over
the whole country had the commanding
general accepted the victory which the
troops had given him. But sad losses be-
fell the regiment. Lieut. Col. Mix was
slain on the field, also many of the officers
were either slain or wounded. The regi-
ment lost, in all, 210 officers and men,
killed, wounded and missing; most of the
missing were also wounded — any so re-
ported, no doubt slain. Iowa gloried in
the fame of her honored sons, and wept
for their dead comrades who fell on the
stricken field. The following beautiful
lines were written by Mrs. Caroline A.
Soule, \ipon hearing of the sad losses sus-
tained by the 32d at Pleasant Hill :
Cold are the sleepers
Wrapt in their shrouds —
Pale are the weepers
The battle has bowed ;
Softly they slumber,
Our soldiers in death —
While hearts without number
Cry, with hushed breath —
O God, are they dead !
Pale are the sleepers,
Like marble they lie —
Sad are the weepers,
Tear-stained their eyes ;
Quiet they slumber,
Soldiers entombed,
While hearts without number,
All shrouded in gloom,
Cry — O, are they gone !
Calm are the sleepers,
Taking their rest-
Sad are the weepers,
Joyless their breasts ;
Softly they slumber,
Our soldiers to-day,
While hearts without number
Cry, only this way,
Can our battles be won ?
Colonel Shaw's brigade covered the
retreat of the army to Grand 'Ecore,
when the 3 2d regiment, after a move-
mei-t up Red river io aid the fleet in
escaping from imminent peril, went into
encampment. It joined in the retreat
down the Red river on the 21st, and
frequently met light bodies of the enemy
in skirmish. The retreat from Alexan-
dria to the Mississippi was also harassed
by the enemy, and considerable skirmishing
took place at Bayou La Morge, Marksville
and Bayou de Glaize, in both of which
the regiments took part. Colonel Shaw in
his report of the latter battle, says to
"Colonel Gilbert, 27th Iowa, Major Eber-
hart of the 32d Iowa, Captain Crane of the
14th Iowa and their commands, is due the
safety of the army. Had they failed to
move into the position assigned them
(although a difficult one, that of chang-
ing front under fire) with less celerity, or
failed to hold it steadily after taking it,
our left and rear would have been envel-
oped by overwhelming numbers, and noth-
ing could have saved us — not even the
fighting qualities of the Sixteenth Army
Corps."
The regiment reached Memphis on the
10th of June, from there the command
moved to Moscow, and thence to La Grange
in the latter part of June. From this
point it marched with General Smith's
forces on the Tupelo campaign. It re-
turned to Memphis, and having encamped
there about ten days, joined in the Oxford
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
303
expedition. The next active campaign, in
which the 32d took part, was in Mis-
souri in the pursuit of Price. It was
a campaign of severe marching for the
Infantry, but not of battle. The regiment,
not well provided for such a campaign,
marched at least 650 miles, averaging
twenty miles a day. It marched across
the State and back again. Halting a few
days at St. Louis, it moved to Cairo by
steamer, arriving Nov. 27.
From here it moved to Nashville, which
was soon afterwards besieged by the rebel
(General Hood. In the battle of Nash-
ville, December 15 and 16, the 32d,
fighting in General Gilbert's Brigade,
was warmly engaged, and won great
credit for daring, efficient behavior. It
captured a battery of five guns and many
prisoners, and lost about twenty-five killed
and wounded. With the pursuit of the
defeated rebels, closed the campaigning of
the regiment for the year 1864, in face of
the enemy.
Early in 1665, the regiment marched to
Clifton, Tenn., whence it moved by
steamer to Eastport, Miss. Its next and
last campaign, was that of Mobile, under
Major-General E. R. S. Canby. Through-
out those laborious and difficult opera-
tions, the 32d performed its part faith-
fully, skillfully and honorably. It
remained in Alabama some time after
the fall of Mobile, and was mustered out
at Clinton, Iowa, Aug. 24, 1865. Returning
to Iowa, the 3 2d Iowa was in due time
disbanded, the officers and men left
from the ravages of three years service,
receiving everywhere along the line of
their journey the kind greetings and
hearty welcome of a grateful people,
whose hearts had been with them through
all their hardships.
FORTY-FOURTH INFANTRY.
( 100 day men )
COMPANY G.
Second Lieutenant.
Daniel W. Dow.
Privates :
J. C. Button, Matthew McCord,
Jesse R. Dodd, L. S. Sayer,
D. C. Knapp, J. W. Yost.
Harrison McCord.
FIRST CAVALRY
COMPANY C
Privates :
Michael Seyb
COMPANY (.
Privates :
George F. Wass.
COMPANY M.
First Lieutenant :
E. A. Dunham.
SECOND CAVALRY.
COMPANY A.
• A. J. Dalrymple.
COMPANY F.
Private :
Lorenzo Cobb.
FOURTH CAVALRY
COMPANY L, .
Quarter-Master Sergeant
George W. Thompson.
Sergeant :
Thomas H. Davis.
Corporal :
Thomas G. Weston .
Privates :
James II. Beed, C. A. Bald
Thomas II. Davis,
Charles Gillett,
A. Gillett,
A. I'. Pcabody,
19
^— ofC*
&
304
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Euiile Myers,
John Shill,
Orin A. Thatcher,
D. O. Waters.
Richard Miller,
Richard Davenport,
James Staley,
SIXTH CAVALRY.
Privates :
Jesse R.Dodd, L. R. Foby.
EIGHTH CAVALRY.
COMPANY G.
Second Sergeant:
John W. Miller.
Private:
Riley Miller.
NINTH CAVALRY.
COMPANY G.
Fourth Sergeant:
William B. Johnson, Hiram F. Coon,
M. V. Johnson.
THIRD BAT'RY IOWA LIGHT ARTILLERY.
Privates:
William Murphy, G. W. Soper,
John H. Scott, John Swanagan.
NORTH h-RN BORDER BRIGADE.
COMPANY C.
Privates:
Samuel N. Guilliams, Franklin Osborn.
KOLL OF HONOR.
The following comprises a list of those
gallant soldiers who left their homes, and
took up the musket for the defense of
their country's honor, never to return, who
laid down their lives in defense of the
Union. "It is sweet and honorable to die
for one^s country," should be engraved
over the grave of each, in characters that
will remain throughout all coming time
and proclaiming to all the future gener-
ations their noble sacrifice:
Captain James B. Reeve, died of conges-
tive fever, at Fort Pillow, Tenn., Jan. 24,
1863.
-r-
Sergeant Russell T. Knight, died Dec.
22, 1862, at Yackona creek, Miss., of inflam-
ation of the bowels.
Corporal Daniel J. Boyles, died Oct. 9,
1863, at Memphis Tenn., of wounds.
John W. Brown, died at Griswoldville,
Ga. ? Nov., 22, 1864, of wounds.
William W. Scott, died of phthisis pul-
monalis, at Tipton Mo., Feb. 8, 1862.
George F. Scott was killed in action,
May 27, 1864, at Resaca, Ga.
Sergeant Edwin H. Sporling, died of
fever, at Bathville, Ark., June 2, 1862.
Corporal John G. Mitchell, died April
2, 1863, at St. Louis, Mo., of diarrhea.
Fernando T. Reeve, died at Anderson-
ville, Ga., Sept., 21, 1864, of debilitas.
James H. Riddle, died of wounds, at
Vicksburg, Miss , June 3, 1863.
Corporal James M. Paige, died May 1 7,
1863, at Champion Hills, Miss., of wounds.
Elias Moon, died June 14, 1862, at At-
lanta, Ga., of starvation, while a prisoner
of war.
Sergeant Benjamin H. Pound, died at
Fish River, Ala., March 23, 1865, of dropsy
of the heart.
John B. Woodward, died of wounds,
April 12, 1864, at Pleasant Hill, La.
Joseph Ward was killed in action at
Pleasant Hill, La., April 9, 1864.
George W. Ross was killed in the bat-
tle at Pleasant Hill, La., April 9, 1864.
John D. Baker was ^killed by guerrillas
at Island No. 10, Oct. 22, 1863.
Hiram Brotherton died at Dubuque,
Nov. 4, 1862, of pneumonia.
William Ball, died of disease, at Colum-
bus, Ky., Feb. 2, 1863
Cyrus Boyler, died April 1, 1863, at
Fort Pillow, Tenn., of typhoid fever.
Is
e>PV
i
Jt
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
305
Hiram A. Brothevton, died of disease
Nov. 4, 1802, at Dubuque, Iowa.
Seth K. Capron, died March 4, 1865, at
Memphis, Tenn., of disease,
Daniel W. Cole was killed in battle
April 9, 18(34, at Pleasant Hill, La.
Oliver Clinesmith, died of disease, at
Fort Pillow, Tenn., April 29, 1863.
Loren Collins, died May 4, 1864, at
Mound City, 111., of disease.
Henry Creighton, died at Memphis,
Tenn., May 17, 1864.
Elemuel W. Crosby was killed in battle
at Pleasant Hill, La., on April 9. 1874.
Geore W. Fry, killed in battle at Pleas-
ant Hill. La., April 9, 1864.
Jesse Horner killed April 9, 1864, in the
battle of Pleasant Hill, La.
David L. Hartgrave, died of disease,
July 29, 1864, at Jefferson Barracks, Mo.
Thomas I. Herman, died May 28, 1864,
in Franklin Co., Iowa.
Warren Kittel, died of disease July 17,
1864, at Memphis, Tenn.
Ralph A. Lord, died Feb. 15, 1865, at
Memphis, Tenn.
Ira McCord, killed in action at Pleasant
Hill, La., April 9, 1864
William C. Manifold, died of measles,
March 13, 1863, at Memphis, Tenn.
Willard Mulkins, died of disease, at
Memphis, Tenn., July 24, 1864.
Isaac C. Mulkins, died April 9, 1864, at
Ft. De Russey, La., of typhoid fever.
Arba A. Merris, killed in battle at Lake
Chicot, Ark., June 6, 1864.
W. R. C. Mitchell, died April 30, 1865,
at Ft. Gaines, Ala., of wounds.
David Perry, died of disease, July 26,
1864, at Memphis, Tenn.
Richard Penney,died at Memphis, Tenn .
March 16, 1864, of disease.
Henry W. Smith, died at Pleasant Hill
La., April 23, 1864, of wounds.
Charles Gillett, died at Cle<r Creek,
Miss., June 21, 1863, of congestive chills.
Martin, V. Johnson died Sept. 12, 1864,
at De Vall's Bluff, Ark., of chronic diar-
rhoea.
William Murphy, died of disease, Aug.
14, 1863, at Memphis, Tenn.
CHAPTER XVI
RAILROADS.
There is no internal improvement that
has done so much to develop the country
as its railroads. The printing press, the
railroad and the telegraph wire com-
bined, certainly move the world as Archi-
medes little dreamed it could be moved.
Up to within a few years, new countries
were required to be opened up by the
hardy pioneers, and their agricultural and
mineral resources well developed before
the capitalists would invest their money
in building of railroads. Now railroads
are first built and the people follow.
Franklin county was not so fortunate as
to have her railroads first built, but her
vast agricultural and mineral resources
were first made known to the world and
then the railroads sought entrance that it
might transport the surplus product of the
county.
ILLINOIS CENTRAL.
One of the first railroads projected in
Iowa was the Dubuque & Pacific, after-'
wards known as the Dubuque & Sioux City
railroad, running from Dubuque across
the northern part of the State to Sioux
City. In 1856, there was a large corps
of men at work upon the eastern line of
the road, and it was hoped by its project-
ors to soon finish it to its western ter-
minus It was completed to Cedar Falls,
when the panic of 1857 forced the com-
pany to cease operations. At this time
the survey h d been made through this
county, and the town of Ackley laid out,
ready to catch the boom which would
surely strike it on the advent of the rail-
road.
The hard times, following the panic of
1857, continued until 'he third year of the
war. Even had better times commenced
on the inauguration of Lincoln, the war
that followed filled the public mind to
such an extent that little else could be
thought of The close of the war in the
spring of 1865, and the abundance of
"greenbacks" in the country, necessitated
some public measures in which the capi-
tal of the country and the people could be
employed.
The officers of the Dubuque & Sioux
City railroad now determined to push it
through to completion. Accordingly, a
large force of men was put to work upon
the road during the summer of 1865, and it
was rapidly pushed forward, the road be
ing completed and cars running to Ackley
in the middle of October, and early in the
year 1866, to Iowa Falls. Here opera-
tions again ceased, the company being-
unable to raise the money for its com-
pletion
Two years passed, when another com
pany, known as the Iowa Falls <fc Sioux
« fc~
J
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
307
City Railroad Company, took hold of the
work and in due time completed it to its
western terminus The two roads were
leased to the Illinois Central Railroad
Company, and the line is now known as
the Iowa Division of the Illinois Central
railroad.
This road crosses the extreme southeast-
ern corner of Franklin county. The town
of Ackley, on the county line between
Franklin and Hardin, furnishes a desira-
ble market point for the settlers in the
southern part of the county.
CENTRAL IOWA RAILWAY.
The formation of the Eldora & Steam-
boat Rock Coal Company, together with
the extensive preparations made by the
company for mining coal upon the lands
purchased and leased, led to the organiza-
tion of the Eldora Railroad & Coal Com-
pany, having for its object the building
of a road from Eldora to Ackley, connect-
ing at the latter place with the Dubuque
& Sioux City, now the Illinois Central
Railroad.
Hon. Piatt Smith, of Dubuque, Iowa,
manifested great interest in the formation
of this company and in the building of the
road. It was upon his invitation that the
executive committee of the Eldora &
Steamboat Rock Coal Company proceeded
to Dubuque, in January, 1866, for the pur-
pose of consulting some of the capitalists
of that place. After several meetings
with Mr. Smith and others a new company
was formed, to be known as the Eldora
Railroad & Coal Company, having ob-
jects as already stated, together with the
mining of coal upon the lands purchased
and leased by the old company.
After filing the articles of incorporation
of the new company in the recorder's of-
fice at Dubuque, a meeting was held by
the stock-holders and five directors were
chosen — C. C. Gilman, II. G. Hethering-
ton, S. F. Lathrop, II. L. Buff and YV. J.
Moir. The directors Ihen met and elected
C. C. Gilman president, and James Mc-
Kinley secretary pro tern.
The executive officers of the Eldora and
Steamboat Rock Coal Company, as soon
as the organization of the Eldora Railroad
& Coal Company was completed, entered
into a contract with the latter by which
all its rights, title and interest in the lands
owned or leased by the company should
be transferred to it, on condition that a rail-
road should be built from Ackley to Eldora
on or before the 1st day of July, 1868,
and providing for a re conveyance to the
former should the contract not be complied
with by the time specified. The Eldora
& Steamboat Rock Coal Company fur-
ther agreed to guarantee the right of way
to the railroad company. The consider-
tion of this transfer was that the railroad
company should allow to the stockholders
of the coal company the sum of $30 per
acre, payable in equal amounts of money,
stock and construction bonds of the com-
pany.
The Eldora Railroad & Coal Company
subsequently found itself unable to comply
with the contract as made, and so notified
the Eldora & Steamboat Rock Coal Com-
pany, but expressed itself as abundantly
able and willing to build and operate the
railroad, provided the coal lands should
be donated, instead of its having to pay for
them the sum of $30 per aci-e. This propo-
f
<8 A.
-# 9
,£,
308
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
sition was accepted by the coal company,
and the work was commenced.
The work of grading, tieing and bridg-
ing was put under contract to Dows &
Co., of Cedar Rapids, to be completed by
Nov. 15, 1867. Contracts were also
let to private parties for the mining of
20,000 tons of coal, to be ready for use
when the road was finished. Enough
stock of the road was sold prior to begin-
ning the work to pay the contractors for
grading and tieing. It then became neces-
sary to raise the means for obtaining the
iron and r-olling stock for operating the
road. Bonds were issued to the amount
of $400,000, secured by a first mortgage
lien on the road-bed, rolling stock, lands
and mineral rights, and all other property
or privileges which the company then pos-
sessed or might acquire. A sufficient
number and amount of bonds were sold
for the purpose named, and in due time
the road was completed. In July,
1868, the last spike was driven, and
Eldora was in railroad communication
with the world. At the same moment the
last spike was being driven, news came that
the Supreme Court had decided that Eldora
was the permanent county seat of Hardin
county. A double celebration was therefore
held, and joy reigned supreme in the heart
of every citizen of the place.
The Iowa River Railroad Company was
organized July 8, 1868, under the genera 1
incorporation laws of the State of Iowa,
for the avowed purpose of constructing
and mainlining a north and south line of
railway through the central portion of
Iowa, from the southern boundary line of
Minnesota to the northern boundary line of
Missouri, a distance of 250 miles. The
sixteenth degree of longitude, or as near
thereto as practicable, being selected as a
route which would traverse the richest and
best settled agricultural and mineral dis-
tricts of Iowa, giving access to St. Paul
on the north, by a connection at Mankato
with the Minnesota Valley railroad, and to
St. Louis on the sou h, by a junction with
the North Missouri Railroad at the Mis-
souri State line.
As a preliminary to this great work, the
company, after perfecting its organization,
purchased the seventeen miles of road
completed by the Eldora Railroad &
Coal Company, from Ackley to Eldora,
and the centre of the Iowa Valley coal
basin.
Articles of incorporation were tiled for
record in the office of the Secretary of
State, July 8, 1867. They were signed by
C. C. Gilman, E. W. Eastman, W. J. Moir,
Henry L. Huff, R. H. McBride, D. D.
Chase, Joseph Edgington, Gardner Spen-
cer, J. Q. Patterson, S. K. Edgington and
J. M. Scott, all of Eldora, excepting D. D.
Chase and Gardner Spencer.
The following named were the first offi-
cers and directors: President, C. C. Gil-
man; vice-president, Thomas Kensett;
treasurer, R. A. Babbadge; secretary,
Charles Collins; directors, C. C. Gilman,
H. L. Huff, Wells S. Rice, F. W. H.
Sheffield, H. L. Stout, Horace Abbott,
Thomas Kensett, John S. Gilman and Isaac
Hyde, Jr.
The seventeen miles of road purchased
of the Eldora Railroad Company was fully
equipped and put in operation the first
season. Twenty-seven miles, from Eldora
to Marshalltown, was put under contract
in October, 1868, and the grading was
Fi« — r
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
309
about half finished before severe cold
weather put a stop to operations.
As soon as the weather would permit,
work was resumed upon the road, and rap-
idly pushed forward to Marshalltown, be-
ing completed to that point according to
contract. For the purpose of accomplish-
ing this work, bonds were issued by the
company, and placed in the hands of A. L.
Hatch, of New York, for disposal. In his
circular offering the bonds for sale, Mr.
Hatch said:
"The history of the west during the
past ten years clearly demonstrates the
value of sound railway bonds as an invest-
ment. Steadily increasing in population
and wealth, it not only gives sure promise
from the commencement of a business to
railroads,sufficiently remunerative to insure
the prompt payment of interest and prin-
cipal of a moderate amount of indebted-
ness, incurred in the cost of construction,
but, as shown by the enormous increase of
earnings of western roads of ten years'
growth and upwards, warrants a specula-
tive investment in the stock upon which
the indebtedness is based. Planned as a
legitimate business operation, by careful,
calculating men, with direct regards for
the wants of the county, and built for
cash on as low estimates as any road in
Iowa, the Iowa river railway occupies a
position before the public to-day as a me-
dium for safe investment and speculative
promise seldom reached by project of like
character. The earning of the first seven-
teen miles, in operation for only four
months, give a foundation on which an
estimate can be made. These bonds,
though not bearing a very high rate of
interest, are paying as much as any legiti-
mate operation can afford to — a point to
be considered in the minds of those who
seek a secure and safe investment."
On the 23d day of June, 1869, articles
of incorporation were signed at Marshall-
town for the formation of a new company,
to be known as the Central Railroad
Company of Iowa. This company was
the legitimate successor of the Iowa
River Railroad Company, and having the
same object in view — the construction,
maintenance and operation of a railroad
from the south to the north line of the
State of Iowa. The principal office of the
new company was to be in Marshalltown,
but providi g for meetings of the board
of directors in New York. The capital
stock of the company was limited to $12,
000,000, divided into shares of $100 each,
its issue for the purposes of construction
being restricted to $30,000 per mile. Jay
Cooke & Co., and E. W. Clark & Co.,
bankers in Philadelphia, were made agents
for the sale of the bonds. It was provided
by special contract with the Farmers' Loan
and Trust Company, New York, that the
bonds, or the moneys received from their
sale, should remain in possession of that
company as trustee, to be delivered or paid
out to the railroad company or their order,
only upon the engineer's estimates, as the
work progressed. Under these wise pre-
cautions the capitalists of the East ad-
vanced money, from time to time, for the
completion of the road.
C. C. Gilman, of Eldora, was elected
president of the new company, and great
credit is due him for the work accom-
plished. By his energy and tact, com-
bined with indomitable perseverance, ob-.-
stacles were overcome that would have
A
«&-
310
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
appalled men of less nerve. Under his
administration the road was constructed
north, through Hampton, to Northwood,
within six miles of the Minnesota line,
and south to Albia, in Monroe county,
thirty-six miles from the Missouri line.
The' road not proving as profitable as
anticipated, whether from want of good
management or other causes is left for
others to determine, it was placed in the
hands of a receiver in 1874. D. N. Pick-
ering was appointed to the position,
which he satisfactorily filled for some
time. Subsequently resigning, Hon. J.
13. Grinnell was appointed, and continued
in the discharge of the duties of the office
until the formation of a new company,
which succeeded to all the rights and priv-
ileges of the old.
On the 20th of May, 1879, articles of
incorporation were filed in the office of the
Secretary of State by Russell Sage and
Charles Alexander, of the Central Iowa
Railway Company, .successors to the Cen-
tral Railroad Company of Iowa. The ob-
jects of the new company, as set forth in
article 2, were to "acquire, construct,
equip, maintain and operate a railway
from the north to the south line of the
State of Iowa, embracing the present road
and property, both real and personal of
the Central Railroad Company of Iowa,
subject to the first mortgage, and to
$3,700,000 of the first mortgage bonds ex-
isting and now outstanding on that prop-
erty, which first mortgage bonds this com-
pany assnmes to pay, both principal and
interest, in the manner hereinafter provi-
ded, together with the legal debts of the
^receiver." Isaac M.'Cate was elected presi-
dent of the new company; D.N. Pickering,
superintendent; C. A. Jewett, general pas-
senger and ticket agent.
The Central Iowa railway enters Frank-
lin county, on the south, on section 35,
Osceola township, and passes in a north-
erly direction through the townships of
Osceola, Geneva, Reeve, Mott, Ross, Clin-
ton, leaving the county from section 4, in
the latter township. There are five sta-
tions on the line in Franklin county —
Faulkner, Geneva, Hampton, Chapin and
Sheffield. This road also controls and
operates the branch from Hampton west
to iselmond, twenty-two miles.
BURLINGTON, CEDAR RAPIDS & NORTHERN.
The Pacific Division of the Burlington,
Cedar "Rapids & Northern railroad was
built through the southwestern part of
Franklin county in 1881. It enters the
county on section 34, of Lee township, and
bearing northwesterly passes through Oak-
land, and leaves to enter Wright county,
by way of section 31, Morgan township.
The road operates two stations in the
county — Dows and Carlton.
DUBUQUE AND DAKOTA.
This line of railway enters Franklin coun-
ty from the east through section 24, Ing-
ham township, and bears almost due east
un il it passes Hampton, and reaches the
center of Marion township, when it makes
a north ward curve and finally leaves to enter
Wright county through section 6, Scott
township. This road was graded in 1875-6
by the Iowa & Pacific Railroad Company,
but this company failed, and it was com-
pleted and put into operation in 187'.) and
1880, by the Dubuque & Dakota Railroad
Company, composed of capitalists in
Dubuque. East of Hampton the line is
controlled by the Illinois Central Railroad
Â¥
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
311
Company as a feeder for t' M eir line at
Waverly. West of Hampton the line is
operated to Belmond, Wright county, by
the Central of Iowa Railroad Company.
The road is not yet completed, extending
only from Sumner, in Bremer county, to
Belmond, Wright county.
PROJECTED RAILROADS.
On the 12th of May, 1866, a mass meet-
ing was held at the court house, in Hamp-
ton, to discuss the prospective benefits of
the completion of the Iowa & Minnesota
railroad through Franklin county. The
meeting was called to order by N. B.
Chapman, upon whose nomination Austin
North was chosen president and W. N.
Davidson, secretary. Resolutions were
passed, requesting the board of supervi-
sors to appropriate money to aid in the
construction of the road, and recommend-
ing that the interest of Franklin county
in the swamp lands be devoted to the
same purpose. After some further discus-
sion the meeting adjourned until May 29,
1866, at which time the resolutions passed
at the former meeting were re-affirmed.
1>KS MOINES, HAMPTON & WISCONSIN NAR-
ROW GAUGE KAILROAD
About 1876 the scheme was started for
the construction of a narrow gauge rail-
road from Des Moines to Milwaukee.
The matter was dropped after a little
fruitless agitation. In April, 1878, the
subject was revived and a meeting of the
stockholders of the prospeetive road was
held. Officers were elected as follows :
Directors, James Thompson, J. H. King,
A. T. Reeve, A. G. Kellam, J. T. Stearns,
Robert Jeffers, J. W. McKenzie, D. W.
Dow, George Beed, L. B. Raymond, J. I.
Popejoy and J. J. Smart. These gentle-
men proceeded to elect as officers : James
Thompson, president; A. T. Reeve, vice-
president; J. F. Latimer, treasurer; T. C.
McKenzie, secretary. This scheme soon
fell through.
CHAPTER XVII
EVENTS OF INTEREST.
The winter of 1856-7 is remembered
by all of the old settlers as very severe.
Those who were here affirm that the
valley of Squaw creek, just north of
Hampton, was blown so full of snow by
the frequent and prolonged "blizzards"
that it was level full from bluff to bluff.
During that winter many persons froze
to death in Iowa, and in January, 1857,
a woman named Ryan was frozen to
death near the Hacker place, in Mott
township One of the Garner's lived on
the place now owned by Mr. Silvas, and
the Ryan family on the Hacker place.
Ryan and his wife were at Garner's for
an evening visit, and when they started
home the wind was blowing a gale, and
the air being filled with snow, they lost
2t)
4
312
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
the path. After wandering around for
some time the .woman became exhausted
and could go no. further, and her hus-
band managed to find his way back to
Garner's, and routed them out. They
got up, but it was nearly daylight and
search was useless. In the morning, the
storm having abated, there sat the poor
woman upon a little hillock in full sight
of the house, frozen to death. She was
taken to the house, and then buried on
the hill northwest of Hampton, near John
C. Jones' present residence, where a cem-
etery was started and afterward abandoned
In August, 1866, a sad accident occurred
in Osceola township, which resulted in the
death of Ezra Huff, a young man twenty
years of age. He was engaged mowing
on the prairie with a machine. Some of
the family noticed that the team was
btauding still for an unusual length of
time, and upon going out to discover the
cause of the delay, found the young man
lying across the tongue of the mower,
dead. It was supposed that he went be-
tween the horses to adjust some portion of
the harness, and that they crowded togeth-
er against him with a force sufficient to
cause his death, his breast being crushed
in
In the summer of 1866, John R. Ilart-
graves, of Ingham township, had a horse
stolen while it was grazing on the prairie
He afterwards learned t at a horse an-
swering to the description of the one he
had lost had been seen in Polk county and
upon going there found that it was his.
From information gathered while there
he became satisfied that the horse was
stolen by a young man who had been stop-
ping at MayneV Grove for a few months,
and, upon his return, Mr. Hartgraves
caused his arrest. Sheriff Pickering took
him in o custody, when he was brought
before Judge North, of Hampton, but on
account of the absence of important wit-
nesses the case was continued until they
could be obtained. When the trial finally
came up he was bound over to the district
court, where he plead guilty and was sen-
tenced by Judge Chase to one year in the
penitentiary.
On New Year's day, 1872, a collision
occurred on the Iowa Central railroad be-
tween Hampton and Chapin. ISlo one
was seriously injured.
In April, 1872, two men, Pat Cassady
and Peter Burns, were killed by lightning
in the southeastern part of the county.
During the same month a little son of
Mr. Shoemaker, who lived three or four
miles north of Hampton, accidentally shot
himself in the knee.
On Friday, June 1, 1872, a little two-
year old son of T. J. Armstrong was left
playing in the yard while the mother
went on an errand to a neighbor's. She
was absent but a few moments, and while
returning heard the cries of the little
one, and on entering the house she
found the child with his clothing on
fire and badly burned. It appeared
that the little fellow had climbed up
to the stove by the aid of a chair and
stepped upon the hearth to reach some
berries stewing upon the stove, when his
dress catching fire enveloped him in
flames. Drs. Galer and Harriman were
immediately summoned, but to no avail,
as the child died within two or three
hours. The following morning the sor-
M« ■-
t\ ^L
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
.:]::
rowing parents left for Mt. Vernon, Linn
county, where the remains were buried.
During the night of June 1, 1872, light-
ning struck the house of D. M. Spears,
who lived in Morgan township, and in-
stantly killed a young man named Seward
Rickey. Young Rickey had been at work
for W. H. Weaver and went to Mr. Spears,
a brother-in-law, to spend the night. He
slept upon the floor and the electric fluid
came down the stove pipe, crossed the
floor to where the young man was sleep-
ing, entered his feet and passed out of his
head, and from thence through the side of
the house. The deceased was about nine-
teen years of age and came to this county
from Moscow, Iowa Co., Wis., in October,
1871. Anew lightning rod had been put
on the house on Monday previous to the
the night in question.
On Sunday morning, June 23, 1872,
Hampton was visited by a $3,500 fire. At
an early hour the millinery store of the
Misses Haight was discovered to be on
fire. The alarm was given, and soon a
crowd collected. The flames had gained
such headway, previous to discovery, that
it was impossible to save any of the large
and valuable stock of goods on hand, and
it was wholly consumed. The fire imme-
diately communicated to the dwelling
house of N. McDonald, adjoining, and
that too, was laid in ashes. All of the
household goods were saved, as also were
the doors. Both buildings were owned
by Mr. McDonald, and there was no in-
surance upon either. The Misses Haight
had their stock insured for $1,500.
The Franklin Meeord&r, relates an odd
occurrence, which took place in Franklin
county, in August, 1872, as follows: "Last
Tuesday night Aug., 27, 1872, as Henry
Patterson was returning from Otisville to
his home west of Mayne'a Grove, he was
attacked, on the unsettled prairie, by a man
who presented a pistol and demanded a
horse. Under the circumstances, Patter-
son did not think best to parley with the
highwayman, and proceeded to unharness.
On mounting the horse, the scoundrel
dropped his pistol, and while regaining it,
Patterson loosened the throat latch to the
bridle. When the thief had regained his
position on the horse, Patterson yelled at
the animal, and away he ran pell mell,and
as the bridle dropped off the rider was
soon thrown to the ground, whereupon the
horse followed Patterson home. The next
day search was made for the criminal, but
without avail."
On the 4th of November, 1875, as train
No. 2, on the Iowa Central railroad,
with Charles Norton, conductor, was near-
ing Faulkner, the locomotive jumped the
track, just as a bridge was being passed
about two miles south of that station.
The train, however, passed in safety,
except the rear passenger coach, which
was comfortably filled with passengers.
From the last coach the rear trucks flew
out just as the bridge was gained by the
coach. This let the end of the coach fall
upon the ties, and after being dragged a
short distance, it was hurled down an
embankment ten feet and capsized. Every
seat in the coach was filled with passen-
gers who were hurled with tremen
dous force to the bottom of the inverted
car. The seats were wrenched from their
fastenings and thrown upon the heads of
those below. Strange to say no one was
killed, although thirteen were seriously,
although not fatally, injured.
George W. Hall, of Sheffield, was killed
by an accident July 4, 18*76. It seems
that an anvil had been loaded before Mr.
Hall had arrived upon the ground, by
filling the cavity in the bottom with
powder, and then placing a cast iron burr
from the axle-tree of a thimble skein
wagon over the hole and filling that with
powder. Upon this was placed another
anvil, and upon the whole a heavy iron
weight. When Mr. Hall came upon the
scene a train of powder had been laid in
readiness for the explosion, and he took
the torch, consisting of a lighted # paper
attached to a long iron rod, and applied it
to the trun. The explosion which fol-
lowed burst the cast-iron burr, a portion
of which struck Mr. Hall in the abdomen,
causing his death in a few hours.
Early in August, 1876, J. W. Stocks, of
of Sh ffield, was killed by falling from a
building, which was in course of erection.
The unfortunate man had recently moved
his family from Dubuque, to Sheffield,
and left them illy provided for.
On Monday, Aug. 8, 1876, John Schliep,
a blacksmith, of Sheffield, was kicked in
the head by a horse and his skull badly
fractured.
Early in January, 1877, W. H. Hoxie
had two valuable horses shot.
On Saturday evening, Feb. 24, 1877,
the depot at Hampton was robbed. It
seems that C. W. Vankirk, station agen ,
and Leroy Carriel, operator at this place,
went home to supper, as usual, at about
half pas* six, locking the door of the
office, but leaving that of the waiting
room unfastened. On their return it was
found that during their absence some per-
son had obtained access to the office,
broken open the money drawer with a
hatchet left upon the floor, abstracted the
money and scattered the other stuff, such
as railway tickets and blanks, upon the
floor. The thief had apparently clam-
bered over the high railing between the
passenger room and ticket office, hastily
performed his nefarious job and left. At
the time it was estimated that $ 650 was
stolen.
In February, 1877, the school house at
Old Chapin was destroyed by fire. The
building was 30x40 feet in size, and two
stories high. The bell, which was in the
building, weighed 560 pounds and cost
$400. It was donated by Hon. J. B.
Grinnell. The building was insured for
#1,000.
On Saturday, May 19, 1877, John Banty,
nineteen years of age, was drowned in a
creek ten miles northwest of Hampton.
He and an associate near his own age were
in bathing, and while wading around in
the water he stepped into a deep hole,
and being unable to swim, at once sank to
the bottom. On his again coming to the
surface, his companion swam up to him,
and endeavoring to render assistance came
near losing his own life.
In June, 1877, a span of horses, wagon
and harness, were stolen from J. H. Beard,
of Geneva township, by Dwight Penny.
Penny was Mr. Beard's hired man, and
was sent out on the prairie to do some
breaking, when he improved the opportu-
nity by running away, taking the entire
outfit with him. He was subsequently
heard from t Ackley and Iowa Falls, and
was supposed to have gone north.
■«K
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
3 15
Early in October, 1877, the wife of Nel-
son Brown of Hamilton township, met
witli an accident which proved fatal in its
results. She was assisting her husband in
stacking hay, and fell from the top of a
high load to the ground, receiving so se-
vere a shock that her body was completely
paralyzed from the chest downward. She
remained in this condition, with full con-
trol of her mental faculties, though suffer-
ing no pain, until death ensued.
Hampton was visited by a destructive
fire on the morning, of Nov. 27, 1877. At
about 2 o'clock in the morning the inmates
of the Hampton House were awakened by
the stifling sensation of smoke in their
apartments. Every room was densely tilled,
and with the utmost haste the family and
guests put on their apparel and groped
their way into the open air. It was with
difliculty that some made their escape.
The fire spread rapidly and it was but a
few moments before the entire structure
was wrapped in flames. The alarm had been
given and the people of the town turned
out en masse, all willing to do what they
could to stop the progress -of the flames.
The fire had inade such headway that any
attempt to save the building was futile,
nor was it possible to save much of the
furniture, so attention was turned toward
saving adjacent property. Immediately
adjoining the hotel, on the west, was the
grocery store of S. S. Page. It was evi-
dent that the building must be burned,
and the work of removing the stock
was at once begun, and speedily accom-
plished. The building was then on fire on
the side next to the Hampton House and
the roof and walls were pushed over, re-
straining the Are in that direction. The
Citizens' Bank being a brick building
was saved. The meat market of Phelps &
Atkinson was in imminent danger, but
was saved. On the east the fire quickly
communicated to the meat market kept by
Rule Brothers, which was soon reduced to
ashes. The contents were all taken out
except what was in the cellar. At this
stage of the progress of the fire it appeared
almost certain that a clean sweep would
be made to the street upon the east. Next
to the meat market was the barber shop
of John Buckingham, a small one story
building, and here, by hard labor, the
flames were stayed. Had this building
been another story in height it would have
been impossible to have checked the fire
at this point. The loss was estimated at
the time to have been about as follows:
John Coloney, hotel building and furniture,
$5,000, insurance $2,000; S. S. Page, build-
ing and damage to stock, $800, building
iniured for $300, stock for $900; Rule
Brothers, meat market, $800; no insurance;
J. M. Buckingham, barber shop, $200; no
insurance.
In December, 1877, a good sized ante-
lope was killed on the farm of I. W.
Myers, in Hamilton township, by Mr. and
Mrs. H. E. Latham. The animal was cap-
tured in this way: In attempting to jump
a picket fence near the house it got caught
and Mrs. Latham ran out, grabbed it by
the hind legs and held on until her hus-
band, who had a few moments before
started with his team to take the children
to school, but in answer to her call, re-
turned, came to her rescue and dispatched
the rare game. It was claimed that this
was the first and only antelope ever seen
in the county, and much speculation was
~o
k
316
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
indulged in as to how this one wandered
so far from his "native heath" without
being halted by the bullet of some hunter.
In November, 1878, Wm. Bolitho, a
bright, active youth of about fourteen
years, met with a tragic death at Hampton,
by the accidental discharge of a gun. The
shot inflicted a terrible wound, from which
he died the following day.
An Anti-Horse Thief Association was
organized in December, 1880, with the
following officers: President, M. B.Jones;
vice-presidents, L. P. Holden, L. J. Kron,
N. B. Claypool; secretary, J. B. Peck;
treasurer, H. A. Harriman. The follow-
ing townships were represented in this
society: Washington, Mott, Ross, Ing-
ham, Gene ra, Clinton, West Fork, Reeve
and Hamilton.
On the adjournment of the fall term of
district court, in Franklin county, in 1881,
his honor, Judge Henderson, paid the fol-
lowing compliment to the citizens of the
county, in his remarks to the grand jury:
"Gentlemen of the grand jury, I con-
gratulate you and the people whose in-
terests you represent, that after five days
of careful and diligent inquiry and inves-
tigation, you have been unable to find a
single nuisance existing within the limits
of Franklin county."
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT.
The constitutional amendment, section
26, is as follows: "No person shall manu-
facture for sale, sell, or keep for sale, as a
beverage, any intoxicating liquors what-
ever, including ale, wine and beer. The
General Assembly shall, by law, prescribe
regulations for the enforcement of the
prohibition herein contained, and shall
thereby provide suitable penalties for vio-
lations of the provisions hereof."
The vote in Franklin county on the
adoption of the amendment, stood as
follows:
REEVE TOWNSHIP.
For the amendment 119 — 97
AgaiDSt the amendment 22
CLINTON TOWNSHIP.
For the amendment 50 — 10
Against the amendment 40
ROSS TOWNSHIP.
For the amendment 79 — 40
Against the amendment 33
MOTT TOWNSHIP.
For the amendment 64 — 50
Against the amendment • 14
WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP.
For the amendment 209 — 115
Against the amendment 94
WEST FORK TOWNSHIP.
For the amendment 62 — 46
Against the amendment 16
INGHAM TOWNSHIP.
For the amendment 81—69
Against the amendment 12
OSCEOLA TOWNSHIP.
Against the amendment 90 — 68
For the amendment 22
LEE TOWNSHIP.
Against the amendment 27—9
For the amendment 18
SCOTT TOWNSHIP.
Against the amendment 10 — 7
For the amendment 3
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP.
For the amendment 48 — 40
Against the amendment 8
RICHLAND TOWNSHIP.
For the amendment 66 — 62
Against the amendment 4
OAKLAND TOWNSHIP.
For the amendment 65 — 59
Against the amendment 6
MORGAN TOWNSHIP.
For the amendment 48 — 21
Against the amendment 27
HISTORY OF FRANKIN COUNTY.
317
WI8NER TOWNSHIP,
For the amendment 5 — 5
Against the amendment
GRANT TOWNSHIP.
Against the amendment 69 — 52
For the amendment 17
GENEVA TOWNSHIP.
For the amendment 86 — 25
Against the amendment 61
MARION TOWNSHIP.
For the amendment 29 — 5
Against the amendment 24
Majority in county for amendment 514
THE STATE VS. JACKSON BENHAM.
This was about the most important case
ever tried in Franklin county. From the
evidence taken, the following farts re-
garding it were gleaned : It seems that Z.
T. Shepherd, on the 11th of October, 1866,
was engaged in Iiauling sand from the
banks of a creek in the northern part of
Franklin county. While thus engaged,
Jackson Benham came up on the other side
the creek with gun in hand. Shepherd
hallooed to him that he did not want him
to drive off his cattle, as Benham had
been doing. Benham replied that he had
as much right to drive off cattle as he
(Shepherd) had to shoot other's cattle, asdie
said he could prove Shepherd had done.
This made Shepherd angry and he told
Benham that if the remark was repeated
he would cross the creek and give him a
thrashing. Benham repeated it, and Shep-
herd plunged into the creek with the in-
tention of giving him the thrashing.
Shepherd had an ox whip in his hand, and
as he approached, Benham warned him to
stand back. As to whether Shepherd
struck him or not, the testimony was con-
flicting. At any rate, Shepherd seized
the gun, and in the struggle that ensued
it was discharged, taking effect in Shep-
herd's thigh. This took place Oct. 11,
1866 ; the victim died Oct. 17, 1866. Jack-
son Benham, who was only sixteen years
of age, was arrested at once, and upon ex-
amination was discharged, it being
thought at the time that the injury to Mr.
Shepherd was slight. But, as stated, the
wound proved fatal, and a few weeks
later the grand jury found a bill of indict-
ment against Jackson Benham, and he was
arrested and admitted to bail in the sum
of $5,000 for his appearance at the ensuing
term of the district court. The trial came off
in May, 1867, before Judge D. D. Chase.
The attorneys were : J. H. Bradley, in
behalf of the State, and Enoch W. East-
man and W. N. Davidson for defense.
The jury rendered a verdict of man-
slaughter, and the judge sentenced him to
four years in the penitentiary and to pay
a tine of $100 and costs. The case was
appealed to the supreme court and he was
admitted to bail in the sum of $5,000.
When the case came before the supreme
court, a new trial was granted and the case
came back to the district court, where it
was tried in June, 1868. The jury again ren-
dered a verdict of guilty of manslaughter,
and the court sentenced Jackson Benham
to two years in the penitentiary and $100
fine. Gov. Eastman, one of the counsel
for the defense, gave notice that if the
prisoner conducted himself in a proper
manner for a reasonable length of time, a
petition would be circulated for his par-
don ; and the Hampton Reporter of that
date said : "The sympathies of tl e public
are largely on the side of young Benham,
and such a petition would be very gener
ally signed." In January, 1869, Gov.
Merrill pardoned Benham and he returned
home.
318
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
CHAPTER XVIII
CLINTON TOWNSHIP.
This township embraced the territory
contained in congressional township 93,
range 20, until June 4, 1879, when the
board of supervisors divided it, calling all
the territory, except sections 3, 4, 9, 10,
and a part of 5 and 8, Ross township,
thus limiting Clinton to less then six sec-
tions, the greater portion of which is
embraced in the incorporate limits of the
town of Sheffield.
The township is mostly prairie except
a small belt of timber along Bailey's creek,
which enters the township on section 8,
and after coui'sing its way diagonally
southeast across the corner of the town-
ship, passes out from section 10.
The soil, in common with the other town-
ships of Franklin county, is a very rich
productive loam.
SETTLEMENT.
The first settlers in what now comprises
Clinton township were: L. W. Bailey, S.
E. Baker, John Goldsberry and John
Goldsberry, Jr.
L. W. Bailey came from Ohio in 1856,
and settled on section 9.
S. E. Baker came from Illinois in 1859,
locating on section 9, where he lived until
1874, at which time he sold out and re-
moved from the county.
John Goldsberry and his son, settled on
section 9, about 1857, but left before 1860.
In I860, A. F. Crosby came from Ohio
and purchased the northwest quarter of
section 9, and engaged in farming; he also
run the first wagon shop in the township,
doing repair work at a shop on his farm.
He remained on the farm until 1874, when
he moved to Sheffield and there started a
wagon shop.
Among those who have arrived and
taken up homes since that time are the
following: H. D. Abrams, Joseph Per-
rin, John Richer, B. R. Tilton, A. H. Bird,
D. Loomis, J. Bender, James Green, Chris-
topher Green and John L. James.
D. Loomis was born in Oneida Co., N.
Y., in 1828. His father and mother, Ben-
jamin and Martha (Denslow) Loomis,
went to Oakland Co., Mich., when the sub-
ject of this sketch was a mere child. He
remained on his father's farm until he
was twenty-three years of age, having re-
ceived a common school education. He
then bought a farm of his own, in the
same State, which he continued to work
for twelve years then removed to Winne-
bago Co., 111., where he bought a farm and
lived until 1870; then sold and came to
Iowa settling on the southwest quarter of
section 16, West Fork township. Here he
engaged in stock raising. His farm is
now worth $30 per acre, which he has
rented to a son and son-in-law, he having
grA^/
a^iSi^
.jjk
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
321
bought a residence in the town of Shef-
field. He has held local offices in the dif-
ferent States in which he has lived. Polit-
cally, he is and has always been a republi-
can. Mr. Loomis was married in 1853, to
Lucy Cross, a native of Michigan. They
have five children — Lydia, Amy, Elmer,
Lucy and John. They have buried three.
His parents both died in Michigan, at the
age of seventy years.
J. Bender, one of the enterprising farm-
ers of Clinton township, is a native of
Pennsylvania, born in Lycoming county,
Sept. 10, 1838. His parents, John and
Elizabeth (Koontz) Bender, natives of
the same county and State, afterward re-
moved to Wayne Co., Ohio, and from there
to Mercer county. In 1861, J. Bender
enlisted in company C, 31st Ohio Volun-
teer Infantry, md took part in the battles
of Mill- Spring, Ressaca, Murfreesboro,
Chattanooga, Mission Ridge, Chicka-
mauga, and other minor engagements. He
was with Sherman on his march to the
sea, and on the march to Richmond. At
Triune, Tenn., a minnie ball passed
through his arm, tearing the muscles but
breaking no bones. He enlisted as a pri-
vate, served three years, re-enlisted in the
same company, and in July, 1865, he was
honorably discharged, as corporal. After
the war he returned to Mercer Co., Ohio,
and resided there till he came to Franklin
Co., Iowa, in 1873. He lived two years in
Hampton, then removed to his present
farm of eighty acres, in Clinton township,
near Sheffield. Pie is an intelligent farmer,
and is meeting with success. In 1866, he
and Hannah Murlin, of Mercer Co., Ohio,
were united in marriage, and have had fire
children, four of whom are living — Will-
iam, Mary, Frank and Ralph. Their Bec-
ond child, Joseph, died in Ohio. Mrs.
Bender had eight brothers in the army, all
of whom served four years. One of them
was killed at Nashville, and another was
killed by accident shortly after his return
from the war. Mr. and Mrs. Bender are
members of the M. E. Church. In politics
Mr. Bender has always been a republican.
James Green, another of the leading
farmers of Clinton township, was born at
Elizabeth, Jo Daviess Co., 111., March 6,
1S46. His parents, Jesse and Martha
(Hanson) Green, were born in Yorkshire,
England, and settled in Illinois in 1842.
James learned the trade of spinner when
twenty-one, and worked at it four years at
Council Hill, 111., then went to Elizabeth,
and for six years was foreman of a farm
of 2,000 acres. In 1876 he removed to
Sheffield, Iowa, and engaged in general
merchandise, in company with Mr. Com-
bellick. The partnership was dissolved
in six months, as Mr. Green did not like
the confinement of the store. He then
bought the farm on which he now resides,
consisting of eighty acres of good land in
Clinton township, adjoining the village of
Sheffield. He has made good improve-
ments and has a pleasant home. He pays
considerable attention to the raising of
stock, has seventy-five hogs, twenty head
of cattle and four horses. His land is
valued at #45 per acre. In the fall of
1868 Mr. Green married Sarah Combellick,
of Council Hill, 111., by whom he had six
children, five of whom are living — Edith
N., Charles Cyrus, John W., James Jesse
and baby Dot, Mr. and Mrs. Green are
members of the M. E. Church. In poli-
21
-* 9
tics he is a republican, and has held the
office of town trustee.
Christopher Green, who came to Clinton
township in 1879, was born in Yorkshire,
England, in 1836. His parents, Jesse and
Martha Green emigrated to New Diggings,
Wis., when he was six years old, residing
there two years. They then removed to
Jo Da.viess Co. ,.111., where they still live
at the age of seventy-five, hale and hearty,
and able to read without glasses. In 1857,
Christopher went to Stephenson Co., 111.
In 1861, he enlisted as bugler and musician,
in the 46th Illinois Volunteer Infantry,
remaining about two years and being in
some of the fiercest engagements of the
war. He then returned to Illinois, and
was at home but five months, when he
went to the Washoe district, Nevada, en-
gaging in the lumber business, which
proved successful. Three years after, he
sustained heavy losses, and disposed of the
business. He then pursued ranching until
1872, when he went to White Pine Co.,
Nev., where he engaged in mining and
cattle raising, in which he was successful
until 1877, when his mines became almost
worthless, and the hard winter killed most
of his cattle. After these reverses he re
turned to the Washoe district. He was
acquainted with Mackey, Fair, O'Brien,
Flood and other mining millionaires of
to-day, but at that time poorer than him-
self. After an absence of sixteen years,
he returned to Jo Daviess county, and in
1879, came to Franklin Co., Iowa, when
he purchased his present farm, now val-
ued at #50 per acre. He takes an interest
in politics and is a member of the school
and township boards. He was married to
Catherine Winkless, a native of England,
in 1867, and has two children — Frances
Isabella and Martha Lula.
John L James was born in Council
Hill, Jo Daviess Co., 111., on the 8th of
March, 1859. His parents, Richard T.
and Mary (Combellick) James, were na-
tives of England, and were among the
early settlers of Jo Daviess Co., 111. The
family remained in that county until April,
1881, when they removed to Franklin Co.,
Iowa, and settled on a farm in Clinton
township Richard James died in Jan-
uary, 1882, leaving a wife and nine chil-
dren, six of whom reside on the farm.
John L James conducts the farm devoting
his time to the raising of stock, for which
the place is well adapted. He has forty
head of cattle, forty hogs and four horses.
The farm comprises 120 acres of fine land,
worth $40 per acre, and adjoins the vil-
lage of Sheffield on the west. Mr James
is an industrious and energetic young man,
and is meeting with well deserved success.
The first child born in Clinton township,
was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs Lyman
Bailey, in 1857. The first death was a
Mrs. Brown, in 1857. The first wedding
in the township, was a daughter of A F.
Crosby, to Charles Smith They were
married at the house of Mr. Crosby, by A.
T. Little, justice of the peace, in 1865.
ORGANIC.
Clinton was detached from Washington
township in 1859 and named after Clin-
ton, N. Y ., from whence came some of the
early settlers. In 1879 it was again divid-
ed, all of its territory but about five
sections being organized into what is
known as h'oss township. The first elec
tion was held in October, 1879. In 1883,
the township officers were : C. Green, H.
f
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
323
D. Abrams, T. II Harris, trustees ; H. D.
Haw kins, clerk ; H D. Abrams, assessor ;
W. S. Bowen and John Bolton, justices
of the peace ; J. W. Hall and T. F. Allen,
constables.
CEMETERY.
The township purchased seven acres of
land in the south west quarter of the
northwest quarter of section 3, in 1878,
for cemetery purposes. This is the only
cemetery in the township.
TOWN OF SHEFFIELD.
Sheffield is located in Clinton township,
on section 4, and in 1883, contained about
600 inhabitants. It was named for Mr.
Sheffield, of Dubuque, who was the origi-
nal owner of the town site. Gilman and
Thompson laid out the town plat, March
2, 1874, which contained forty acres, to
which additions have been made from
time to time. In 1883, it contained about
1G0 acres.
The first building after the erection of
the depot, was a small store erected by
James Thompson, one of the founders of
the place, which stood where Tompkins
& Thompsons business house afterward
stood.
INCORPORATION.
The place was incorporated in 1876, the
first election being held May 13, 1876.
The following were the first officers :
Mayor, W. S. Bowen ; recorder, M.
Crawford ; trustees, R. Wilde, H. K.
Phelps, S. E. Spalding, P. A. Pope and
G. C. Culver, The next year S. B. Elder
was elected mayor, and served one year.
He was succeeded by W. S. Bowen, who
at the present time, August, 1883, is still in
office. J. T. Wilde, W. T. McKenzie,
O. P. Thompson, H. Morehouse, J. 11
Richer and T. Thomas were trustees ; 0.
S. Barney, recorder ; William Thomas,
treasurer.
SCHOOLS.
The first school in what is now Clinton
township was taught in the winter of
1859-60, in a lo«; smoke-house, on section
9, by Miss Hoit, who only had two schol-
ars. A school house was built, in 1860,
on section 9, which was afterwards moved
over into what is now Ross township, and
was still used for school purposes in 1883.
The only school house in what now con-
stitutes Clinton township is located in the
town of Sheffield. The building was
erected in 1875 and is a two-story struc-
ture, 26x36 feet, costing $2,000. The
first teacher was A O. Hemming who
taught in the winter of 1874-5. In 1883,
the teachers were D. R. Bradford and
D. Thompson.
CHURCHES.
The first religious society in the neigh-
borhood of Sheffield was called the West
Fork Baptist Society, organized in No-
vember, 1863. This Church was formed
by A. F. Crosby and wife, A. T. Little
and wife, R. Knapp and Olive Gillett.
The Methodist Church was organized
in November, 1880, with a membership
of forty. The society built a church in
1882, at a cost of $2,250, which was dedi-
cated in November, 1882. The first pastor
in charge was Rev. Coleman. In 1883,
Rev. Will was pastor, at which time a
union Sunday school was maintained by
the several denominations the meeting-
place being at the Baptist church. II.
D. Hocking was at that time superintend-
ent. The trustees of the church were: .1
Perrin, James Ormrod, Win. Combellick,
•t.
324
HloToliV OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
R. J. Churchouse and L B. Carhart.
James Thompson donated the lot upon
which the church was built.
The Baptist Church of Sheffield was or-
ganized in 1876, and in 1880 they com-
menced to build a church edifice, the
cost of which was $2,300. all of which was
raised by subscription. This house of
worship was built under the direction of
A. Dailey, A. F Crosby, James Borst, H.
Winchell and W. S. b'owen. Rev. A. R.
Button was the first regular pastor. Rev.
J. F. Bryant was their pastor in 1883, at
which time there was a membership of
twenty-seven.
SOCIETIES.
Mulligan Post, No. 102, G. A. R., was
organized Oct. 20, 1882, with twenty-
three members, mustered by R. S. Benson,
assisted by other members of the McKen-
zie post, at Hampton. The post received
its name, at the suggestion of J. H. Rich-
er, in honor of the famous, gallant hero,
James R. Mulligan, colonel of the 23d 111
inois regiment, who was shot down at
the head of his command at the battle
before Winchester, on the 24th of July,
1864. He was immediately picked up by
his men and laid upon a stretcher to be
carried from the field, his last words be-
ing: "Lay me down and save the flag."
Well may the post at Sheffield be proud
of the name of Mulligan.
"There is no prouder grave,
Even in thy own proud clime."
The charter members were : Hiram
Chase, John Richer, J. Bender, G. R.
Miner, William Combellick, F W. Kim
ball, R. Cook, J. S Barney, B. R. Tilton, H.
R.Floyd, James D. Abrams, C. D. Johns, R.
Wilde, J Perrin,! I. Thompson, A. Bailey,
D F. Ross, Ed. Eslinger, Emanuel Es-
linger and Samuel Eslinger. The follow-
ing were the officers : J. S. Barney, com-
mander; CD. Johns, sr. vice commander;
R. J. Churchouse, jr. vice commander; G.
R. Miner, adjutant; John Richer, chap-
lain; William Combellick, quartermaster;
Joseph Perrin, officer of the day; Samuel
Eslinger, officer of the guard; I.I. Thomp-
son, sergeant major; B. R. Tilton, quar-
termaster sergeant. These officers served
for three months and the following, who
still held in 1883, were elected: R. J.
Churchouse, commander; William Parks,
Ser vice commander; G. R. Miner, adju-
tant; Jonathan Bender, jr. vice com-
mander; William Combellick, quarter-
master; Joseph Perrin, officer of the day;
Asa Bailey, officer of the guard; F. W.
Kimball, sergeant major; C. J. Webster,
quartermaster sergeant; John Richer, sur-
geon; Ed. Eslinger, chaplain.
No deaths had occurred in the order, up
to July, 1883, at which time the post num-
bered forty-six. In 1883, the post was
financially in a good condition — the quar-
termaster having in his hands enough
money to pay the current expenses of that
year. The post holds its meetings each
month, on the Saturday evening before
the full moon; all the members working
in harmony, and the best of feeling always
prevailing. The youngest member was,
at this date, thirty-seven years old, and
the oldest fifty-six. Five of the members
were born in England, one in Ireland and
the remainder were from eight States of
the Union.
FATAL ACCIDENT.
On the 4th of July, 1876, a terrible acci-
dent occurred at Sheffield, which proved
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HISTORY OF FRANKIiN COUNTY.
325
fatal. Just as the north bound passenger
train, on the Central of Iowa railroad, was
drawing into the station, a man named
George Hall, a carpenter by trade, touched
off an anvil as a salute to the incoming
train, which was an excursion train with
passengers bound for a centennial 4th of
July celebration at Clear Lake. A ring
had been placed over the opening in the
anvil, which burst, a segment of which
struck the unfortunate man in the lower
part of the abdomen, completely severing
his intestines. He survived, in fearful
anguish, until 3 o'clock, p. m., of the
same day. The event cast a gloom over
the town making the day one of mourning
instead of joy and celebration.
Another fatal accident occurred in Sep-
tember, 1876. Joseph Stocks, a carpenter,
fell from a low scaffolding and received
injuries, from which he died in three days.
He left a wife and three children, who
now reside in Belmont, Wis.
BUSINESS INTERESTS.
In the spring of 187-4, Elias Whitney
erected a small hotel. That year the town
improved rapidly, every branch of busi-
ness being soon represented. The place
continued to grow until 1877, when a re-
action took place and but little improve-
ment was made until 1880, when it again
commenced to thrive.
The second hotel in the place was built
by John Bolton, in 1874, who was still
its proprietor in 1883.
The third hotel was opened in 1880 by
E. C. Scheader, called the Galena House.
Uncle John Bolton, proprietor of the
Gilman House, was born in Knox Co.,
Ohio, in May, 1821. He is the son of John
and Magdalen a Bolton. He lived in his
native place until he was sixteen years <>f
age, when he moved to the western part
of Ohio. Mr. Bolton was reared on a farm,
receiving a common school education. He
continued to live in Ohio until the spring
of 1865, when he came to Iowa and settled
in Mahaska county, where he farmed for
five years, then came to Franklin county
and settled at Hampton, where he was in
the livery business. From Hampton he
went on a farm in Washington township,
where he staid until he came to Sheffield
and bought a third interest in the plat
which was owned by Thompson, Gilman
& Bolton. He built a store 22x26 feet
and engaged in the hardware business, but
the demand was so great for a hotel that
he gave up his hardware business and
opened a hotel the next fall, to which he
built an addition of 26x36 feet, two stories
high; kitchen, one story high and 20x30
feet. This gave the people confidence in
the place and raised the price of the land
at once from f 5 to $6 per acre. In the
year 1880, Mr. Bolton sold his interest in
the town plat to Thompson, retaining only
the property where his hotel is and four
other lots. He was one of the directors of
the school when the school house was
built, helped finish the building and hired
the first teacher. In the spring of 1883,
he was appointed justice of the peace to
fill a vacancy, and still holds that office.
Mr. Bolton was married in 1843, to Lucre-
tia Barber; she died in 1856, leaving two
children — Samantba and Sally O., the
former being the wife of Robert McMagus,
of Marshalltown, and the latter the wife of
Wm. Ogle, now of Kansas. Mr. Bolton
,vas married in 1857, to Almira
Jk>v
326
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Thompson, a sister of Mr. Thompson, pro-
prietor of the town site. He has been
a member the A. F. & A. M. for over
twenty-five years, and was one of the charter
members of t e lodge at Sheffield. He has
also been a member of the Odd Fellows
lodge for the past twenty-six years, and
helped charter Hampton lodge. Mr.
Bolton has held some of the offices in the
lodge in Ohio. He is called "Uncle John"
by every one far and near. In token of
their respect and esteem for him, on his
sixtieth birthday, the R R. boys gave him
a grand surprise, making him $200 worth
of presents, including a fine gold headed
cane. There were about 120 present.
Another hotel, in 1883, was being
operated by William Harstwell, who was
born in Brockville, Canada, in 1837.
When a child his parents moved to Lon-
don, Canada, where he lived until nineteen
years of age. He was raised on a farm,
and received a common school education.
In 1856, he went to Wisconsin, but re-
mained there only a short time. From
there he moved to Illinois, bought land,
and remained until 1860, when he came
to Iowa. Mr. Harstwell was one of the
first settlers in West Fork township, there
being only two or three farmers when he
came there. He helped to organize the
town. He now rents his farm, and for the
past year has lived in town, running a
hotel. He bought his present hotel in
1882. In 1857, he was married to Clara
Hall, a native of Canada. They have
three children — Emma, Ida and Lyle.
The first to engage in the hardware
trade was M. Linchrist, in 1875. He con-
tinued in the business about a year and
then sold to Culver Bros, who afterward
sold o W. B. Barney & Bro.
C. S.Barney was born in Lancaster, Wis.,
in 1856. When eight years of age his par-
ents moved to Detroit, Mich., where he
grew to manhood. He was educated at
Patterson select school, graduating in
1872. He then went to Lansing, Iowa,
where he learned the tinner's trade, and
followed it for three years. In 1875, he
went to Hampton, and worked at his trade
until 1879, when he came to Sheffield and
bought out Cresler Bros., extending the
store building deeper and filling up with
a well selected stock.
The first to engage in the lumber busi-
ness was Richard Wilde, in 1874. Rich-
ard Wilde was born in Dubuque, low a,
in April, 1836. His parents, John and
Mary Wilde, came to Iowa in 1835, and
here Richard grew to manhood. He re-
ceived a liberal education, completing it
at Mt. Vernon in 1856, at the age of twen-
ty years. His father was a miner, and
his son was well drilled in the same busi-
ness, so that in 1858 he went to Missouri
and engaged in the lead mining business.
In 1861, he entered the army in the Inde-
pendent battallion, 3d Missouri Cavalry,
as a private. He was in the battle of
Little Rock, and the Red river expedition.
He was taken prisoner at Hartsville, Mo.,
in 1863, but was soon paroled. He then
went to Dubuque and thence to Wisconsin,
where he conducted a lead furnace, and in
1869 came to Franklin county and settled
in Clinton township, near the present site
of Sheffield. Here he followed farming
until 1874, when he moved to Sheffield,
and engaged in business until 1881, when
he retired. In 1882-3, he bought out the
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
327
[
interest of Thompson & Gil man in the
town plat, and has done, and is doing,
more than any other man in building up
the town. He owns a great many build-
ings and is still adding to the number.
Mr. Wilde came here in 1869, compara-
tively poor, but by strict integrity and
close attention to business, lie has amassed
a good fortune. He is a member of the
A. F. & A. M., at Hampton; is also a
member of the I. O. O. F., of this place,
and has held at differed t fimes all the
olKces of his lodge. He was also one of
charter members. He was married in
1868, to Miss M. J. Raine, a native of Eng-
land. They are the parents of three chil-
dren — Effie, Fannie and Willie.
In 1881, Thomas & Lawrence purchased
the lumber business of Richard Wilde,
and in 1883 were the only representa-
tives of this branch of business.
L. Lawrence, of the firm of Thomas &
Lawrence, dealers in lumber and coal, was
born in Grant Co., Wis., in 1856. He
came here in 1881, and formed a partner-
ship with Mr. Thomas in the lumber and
coal trade, and they have a good business.
His early life was spent on his father's
farm in Grant Co., Wis., and later in Jo
Daviess Co., 111. His education was ac-
quired in the common schools, after which
he spent a few years railroading. In pol-
itics he is a republican; is a member of
the Masonic lodge at. Sheffield, and has
been its secretary ever since the lodge was
organized; he is also a member of the
Royal Arch Chapter, at Hampton, Iowa.
Joseph Thorn s was born in Lafayette
Co., Wis., in 1854. He is the son of
Thomas and Rosetta Thomas. When he
was four years of age his parents moved
to Grant Co., Wis., where he was raised
on a farm, and educated at the public
schools. When he was twenty-one years
of age he went to Piano, 111., to work in a
reaper manufactory. He remained there
two years, when he returned to Wiscon-
sin, staying there with his mother one
year. His father died when he was quite
young. In 1878 he came to this place
and clerked for his brother one year. He
then, in company with his present partner,
Mr. Lawrence, spent one year traveling
through the west, taking in Nebraska,
Kansas, Minnesota and Indian Territory.
They then returned to Sheffield, formed a
partnership, and engaged in the lumber
business, buying out R. Wilde. In the
winter of 1882-3 they started the coal
yard. Mr. Thomas was married in June,
1882, to Julia Lawrence, a sister of his
partner. She was a native of East Du-
buque, 111. They have one child — Fleta
May. Mr. Thomas is a member of the
Masonic lodge, was one of the charter
members, and has been the S. W. ever
since the lodge was organized.
In 1881 J. T. Wilde entered into part-
nership with William Parks, and engaged
in the lumber and coal trade. J. T. Wilde,
of the firm of Wilde & Parks, was born
in Dubuque, Iowa, in 1857, where he re-
ceived an academic education, completing
it in 1876. He then spent two years in
the east, and in 1878 came to Sheffield and
worked for his uncle in the coal business
for two years. In 1881 he spent a short
time in Colorado and New Mexico, but
soon returned to Sheffield, and in com-
pany with William Parks bought the
lumber and coal yard. Mr. Wilde is a
member of the I. O. O. F. Politic lly
Thr
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V
I
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328
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
he is a republic m. He was married in
18*79 to Ella Zimmerman, who died June,
1881, leaving one child — John G.
The first agricultural implement ware-
house at Sheffield was star-ed, in 1875, by
H. D. Abrams, who sold to R F. Sullivan,
in 1878. In 1882, William Parks estab-
lished himself, in company with his son,
in the agricultural implement business.
H. D. Abrams, one of the settlers of
1866, was born in Chenango Co., N. Y.,
Oct 5, 1833. When he was quite young
his parents, Henry J. and Rachel (Ray)
Abrams, moved to Wayne Co., N. Y., and
again, in 1857, moved to Lee Co , 111., in
which county the subject of this sketch
was reared and educated in the common
schools In 1866, he came to Franklin
Co., Iowa, and settled on section 5, Clinton
township, buying at that time 200 acres
of land. He has since disposed of part of
it and now owns only 120 acres, a portion
of which is within the present corporation
of Sheffield His land, which he bought
at $2.50 per acre, is now valued at $40 per
acre He built the first frame house on
the north side of South Fork. For miles
up and down the creek he made the first
wagon track He lived on his farm until
the spring of 1875, when he came into
Sheffield and engaged in farm machinery
and real estate business. He took an ac-
tive part in the locating of Sheffield. Af-
ter three years he s^ave up the selling of
farm machinery and since then has been
dealing in real estate and insurance, hav-
ing charge of several farms in this locality
for eastern parties. In 1870, he was made
secretary of the school board and has held
the office ever since, except one or two
years He has been constable and dep-
uty sheriff for four years, also one of the
town trustees, and assessor for a longtime.
He is a member and secretary of the I.
O. O. F. His parents are still living in
this town, aged seventy-two years. He
was married, Nov. 3, 1858, to Hulda Cor-
nell, of Lee Co., 111. They are the par-
ents of five children — Nellie, wife of
James Cook, of Clinton; Mattie, wife of
Irving Kithell, of Colorado ;' Martha, wife
of D. B. Burright, of this town; Hattie
and Ida, who still live with their parents.
William Parks, of the firm of William
Parks & Son, was born in Knox Co., Ohio,
in 1834, and went with his parents, in
1848, to Green Co., Wis. After his edu-
cation in the common schools he went
to Missouri and spent three years in the
hardware business, then returned to Wis-
consin, where he went into the dry goods
business, remaining until 1876, when he
came to Franklin Co., Iowa, settled at
Hampton and engaged in selling dry
goods. He spent three years at Leadville,
Col., mining and prospecting, and made a
small fortune. In 1882, he came back to
Franklin county and established himself
in the business of farm machin-ry in Shef-
field, which business he still follows. He
is a member of the Masonic lodge at
Hampton and is a republican in politics.
He was married, in 1865, to Angeline
Bennett, also a native of Ohio. They
are the parents of five children — Dallas
B , Emma E., Henna A., Charlie and Der-
win.
Thomas Bros, engaged in the general
merchandise business in February, 1879.
Their store building was 24x60 feet and
two stories high. They did a business of
$25,000 annually.
f
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AA^lt
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NEW YORK
PUBLIC LIBRARY'
andTiWen
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HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
331
William Thomas was born in England,
in 1844, and is a son of Thomas and
Rosetta Thomas. He came to Sheffield,
Franklin Co., Iowa, in 1879, and, in part-
nership with his brother, wentinto the gen-
eral merchandise and grain business,
where they have built up a large and lu-
crative business. He came to America,
with his parents, in 1848, and settled in
Grant Co., Wis. He received a common
school education and grew to manhood on
a farm In 1864, when he was twenty-
two years of age, he went to California,
and with good success engaged in mining
for three years, then returned to Wisconsin.
He came here in 1879. Mr. Thomas was
a charter member of the Masonic lodge,
of which he has been master since its
organization. He was also a master for
two years in Wisconsin. He is a mem-
ber of Arch Chapter, at Hampton, also
Asylum Commandery, No. 43; was one
of the charter members of the I. O. O. F.,
of which he is still a member. He has
been, and is now, treasurer of the town.
He was married in 1871 to Miss E. Glover,
a native of Wisconsin. They have three
children — E., Orville and Bertha.
In 1883, the general merchandise busi-
ness was represented by Tompkins &
Thompson, Thomas Bros., Hocking &
Slade and A. H. Bird.
O. P. Thompson, of the firm of Tomp-
kins & Thompson, was born in Benton Co.,
Iowa, Oct. 23, 1854, and settled in Shef-
field, Clinton township, in 1878. His
parents, James and Mary Thompson, set-
tled in Hampton, Iowa, when he was two
years of age. Here he grew up. His
father was the first merchant in Hamp-
ton, afterwards engaged in the real estate
business. After receiving a common
school education, O. P. Thompson spent
two years at Grinnell College, entered
the medical department of the State Uni
versity at eighteen years of age, in 1872,
and graduated in 1875, after which he
commenced the practice of medicine at
Neilsville, Wis., remaining there for two
years. He then spent a year in traveling
and came to this place in 1878, and fol-
lowed his profession for three and a half
years when failing health compelled him
to give up his practice. He then formed
a partnership with Mr. Tompkins, which
has been successfully continued ever since.
Mr. Thompson was married in 1878, to
Lizzie M. Pride, a native of Ohio.
H. A. Tompkins was born in Westches-
ter Co., N. Y., in 1846. He is the son of
Thomas H. and Charlotta Tompkins. He
remained in his native place until he was
seventeen years of age. In 1863 he came to
Iowa on his own account, and first settled
in • 'ancock county. For five years, he was
engaged in several different occupations,
and in 1870 he returned to New York, re-
maining there until the spring of 1874,
when he again came to Iowa and settled
at Clear Lake, engaging in the machinery
business until 1878. He then went into a
store in that place, where he remained
until he came to Sheffield, and on the 1st
of January, 1882, engaged in general mer-
chandise business in company with O. P.
Thompson where he has been very suc-
cessful He was married in 1868, to
Frances Kelsey, a native of Ohio. She
died in 1870, leaving one child — Vinna J.
He was again married, in October, 1876, to
Harriet A. Andrews, a native of Wiscon-
99
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332
M
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
sin. One child has blessed this union —
George. H.
H. D. Hocking, of the firm of Hocking
& Slade, dealers in general merchandise,
Sheffield, and the present clerk of Clinton
township, was born in England in 1834,
and in 1841, came with his parents to
America, settling at Galena, 111., where he
grew to manhood, with liberal educational
advantages, completing at Mt. Morris,
111., Academy. His father was a mer-
chant, and much of his leisure time was
spent behind his father's counter, thus
laying a firm basis of practical experience
that he utilized in his future life. When
only nineteen, he began life for himself
by accepting a clerkship in a general mer-
chandise store in Galena, where he con-
tinued until 1877, when he came to Iowa
and settled at Sheffield, Franklin County,
taking a clerkship in the store of William
Combellick, where he remained until
the fall of 1882, when he embarked in
business for himself, forming a partner
ship with J. Slade, a well to do farmer of
West Fork township and engaging in the
general merchandising business. They
com nenced with a very small store and
with limited stock, but under the careful
management and business capacity of Mr.
Hocking, combined with the frugality and
care of his partner, their business has been
a success f'om the first, amounting now to
to about $20,000 per annum, and constant-
ly increasing. Mr. Hocking is a working
and influential member of the M. E. Church
and a member of the I. O. O. F. at Galena,
111. In politics he has been a life long
republican. He has been twice married.
The first time in 1859, to Angeline Cattle
wh© died in 1860, and again in 1864 to
Miss A. A. Anderson. They are the
parents of one child — Willie, who is a
clerk in his father's store.
A. H. Bird, dealer in general merchan-
dise, was born in Canada in 1847. He
was brought up on a farm, received a
common school education and came to the
United States in 1867. He first settled at
Watertown, Wis., where he followed
farming for six years, or until 1872, when
he came to Iowa and bought a farm in
Clinton township, Franklin county. Here
he continued to farm until 1882 when he
sold out, and, in company with William
Combellick, engaged in the mercantile
business in Sheffield. In March, 1883, he
bought out the entire business and has
now one of the largest and best stocked
stores in the to * n He was f®r five years
one of the trustees of Geneseo town-
ship and a member of the school board
for two years. He was wedded, in 1872,
to Flora E. Jones. They have four chil-
dren — Nellie A., Florence, Sidney and
Hugh.
The first exclusive grocery store was
started by B. R. Tilton, in 1882. B. R.
Tilton came to Franklin county in 1882.
He was born in Maine, in 1848, where he
was reared on a farm, educated at the
common schools and followed farm life
in his native State until March, 1872, at
which time he came to Iowa and settled
at Pleasant Grove, Floyd county, where
he farmed for three years. In 1875, he
went to Riverton township, the same
county, where he engaged in farming until
1877. From there he went to Nashua,
Iowa, and engaged in speculation in real
estate and stock until 1882, when he
came to Sheffield and opened a grocery
I
19
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HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUN'l V.
:;:;:;
store. In 18G4, he enlisted in company
D, 9th Maine Volunteer Infantry, and
and served with distinction until the close
of the war. Ha received a severe wound
in the mouth, at the battle of Darbytown
Road, Virginia, in the fall of 1864; the
hall entered his mouth and came out at
the side of his face, near his right ear.
He was only sixteen years old at the time.
He remained in the hospital until the
close of the war, suffering greatly from
his wound. In 1873, he was married to
Martha J. Clark. They have had three
children — Lula, Mary J. and George H.
The eldest, Lula, died of diphtheria, in
1870, and was buried at Pleasant Grove.
Mr. Tilton belongs to the G. A. R. and
also the A. O. U. W. societies.
E. K. Morehouse opened a gro-
cery store, in 1881, carrying boots
and shoes also. The first year his
sales amounted to $15,000.
Elmer E. Morehouse, dealer in groceries
and boots and shoes, was born in West
Fork township, Franklin Co., Iowa, in
August, 1801, being the first white child
born in that township. In childhood he
was made a cripple for life by an attack
of spinal meningitis. This necessitated
his fitting himself for a position in life
that could be filled by -the unfortunate,
lie therefore sought and obtained a good
educ ition. After completing it, he taught
school for some years. He then clerked
in a store at Hampton for about two years,
and then in 1881, he came to Sheffield and
engaged in his present business. He is a
rising man, of fine culture, good business
qualifications, and is highly respected by
all who know him.
. II. Morehouse, farmer and partner of E.
E. .Morehouse, is one of the settlers of 18G0
and was born in the district of London,
Canada, in 1832. He is a son ol John and
Clarissa Morehouse, and came to ihe
United States with them in 1838, first set-
ling in Oakland Co,, Mich., where l.e
spent his boyhood on a farm, receiving
but a common school education. In 185G
he went to Illinois, where he followed
farming until 1860, when he came to
Iowa, purchasing a farm on section 3,
West Fork township, Franklin county,
where he continued to live until 1881,
when he came to the village of Sheffield
and opened a store connected with his son
Elmer, but has led a quiet retired life
since his settling here. He was among
the first settlers in West Fork township,
and took quite an active interest in the
matters of the township, having filled
many of the offices from time to time. For
two year, 1863 and 1864, he was mail
carrier from Hampton to Cedar Falls,
Iowa. At the present time he is a member
of the Sheffield city council. He was
married in 1855, to Harriet M. Davis, and
they have four children — Frank, Lorenzo,
George and Elmer.
The first furniture dealer was S. E.
Spaulding, who opened a store in 1870.
He continued two years, and was succeeded
in 1881 by R. J. Churchouse, who erected
a building 22x44 feet two stories high.
R. J. Churchouse, proprietor of Sheffield
furniture store, was born in England, in
i845. In his childhood he came to America
with his parents and settled in Waukesha
Co , Wis , remaining two years, when his
mother died. He and his father then re-
turned to England, but after a lapse of
334
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
three years returned to the United States
and were two years in York State, from
thence again to Wisconsin. He was brought
up on a farm, but received a liberal educa
tion. He enlisted, in 1861, in the 8th
Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, company
D, as a private, but two years served as a
non-commissioned officer, and was in many
of the heavy battles of the war, having
been with Grant and Sherman four years.
At the close of the war he returned to
Wisconsin and engaged in lumbering and
farming until 1872, when he came to Iowa
and located in Cerro Gordo county for ten
years, where he followed farming. In the
spring of 1882, he came to Sheffield, I rank
lin county, building a store and engaging
in the furniture business, which he has
since successfully followed. He was mar-
ried, in 1872, to Phebe Thayer, and they
have two children- George and Harvey.
They are members of the M. E. Church,
and he is a member of the Grand Army of
the Republic.
The first livery stable in Sheffield was
run by Wesley Hall. The next to engage
in the business was William Ritter, in
February, 1880, wh*o sold to Ford & Gear,
the following year.
G. L. Gear, of the firm of Ford &
Gear, was born in 1858, in Jo Daviess
Co., 111., and came to Franklin Co., Iowa,
settling at Sheffield, Clinton township, in
the spring of 1881. He was the son of
William T. and Eliza (Day) Gear. He
grew up in his native county, was
educated at the common schools, and re-
mained at home until the death of his
father in 1880. He then came west and
spent six months in Minnesota, and in
1881 came to Sheffield, where, in company
with Mr. Ford, he bought the livery sta-
ble, in which business he is now en-
gaged. In politics he is a republican, and
is a member of the I. O. O. F. at this
place, lie was married in 1883 to Susie
Ford.
George J. Ford, of Ford & Gear, was
born in Jo Daviess Co., 111., Aug. 9, 1855.
His parents, Richard and Eliza (Richards)
Ford, were natives of Cornwall, England,
and were among the early settlers of Jo
Daviess Co., 111. George remained at
home on the farm until the age of twen-
ty-two, when he struck out in life for
himself. In February, 1879, he went to
Leadville, Col., remaining there seven
months. He was engaged as waiter in a
boarding house for three weeks, when he
took full charge of the house, until the 1st
of May, and then engaged m the charcoal
business with a large contractor, as fore-
man. In August he was taken sick and
returned to Illinois, and in 1880 came
to Iowa for his health. In February, 1881,
he engaged in the livery business with
Mr. Gear, which business he has since
continued with success. Mr. Ford mar-
ried Eliza V. Gear, June 9, 1881, at Shef-
field. They have one daughter, Millie,
born May 17, 1883. Mr. Ford is a member
of the Sheffield Lodge of Odd Fellows.
The first to engage in the harness
business was J. W. Winship, in 1874.
He carried a small line of boots and
shoes, also. In 1882 he sold to A. S.
Abrams.
A. S. Abrams, proprietor of the Shef-
field harness shop, was born in Wayne
Co., N. Y., in 1850. When seven years
of age, his parents moved to Lee Co.,
111., where he grew to manhood on a
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
335
farm, receiving but a common school
education. At the age of twenty-one
years, he commenced to learn his trade,
which he has followed the greater part
of the time since. In 1875 he came to
Franklin Co., Iowa, and settled on a farm,
with his father, in Richland township,
where he remained until September,
1882, then came to Sheffield and engaged
in his present business. His shop is the
only one in the place, and he is do
ing a good business. He is a member
of the Odd Fellows lodge, and is one
of the officers. He is also a member of
the encampment at Mason City. He was
married in 1870 to Mary Gorton, a na-
tive of Pennsylvania. She died in 1879,
and he was married in December, 1882,
to Irene Couch. One child was left him,
by his first wife, named Winnie.
The first blacksmith was Joseph Perrin,
who opened a shop in 1874. He is a na-
tive of England, born in 1835. He came
to America with his parents in 1849, set-
tling in Jo Daviess Co., 111. When he was
seventeen years of age he learned the
blacksmith trade and followed it in Illi-
nois until 1861, at which time he enlisted
in the 3d Missouri Cavalry, serving nearly
three and a half years, a good part of the
time being spent at his trade. At the
close of the war he was honorably dis-
charged, came home with his regiment
and turned his steps towards Illinois,
where he followed his trade until he came
to Iowa, in 1870, and settled in Clinton
township. Here he farmed until Sheffield
was started, then came to the village and
built the first blacksmith shop. His busi-
ness is large and lucrative. He owns 120
acres of land near the village, also eighty
acres adjoining the village, ten acres of
which he ha* platted into lots as the Per-
rin addition to Sheffield. Mr. Perrin was
a member of the school board two years,
and has held other minor town offices. He
is a member of the Masonic order at Shef-
field, of which he is an officer, and signed
its charter; is also an officer in the G. A.
R. He was married in 1865 to Maria M.
Wilde. They have five children — Bertha,
George K., Ada M. Florence W and
Frank E.
The first to engage in wagon and car-
riage work was A. F. Crosby, who opened
a shop in 1874, and in 1883 was still in
the business. In 1882, John Treganza
staited a wagon shop.
A. F. Crosby came to Franklin Co.,
Iowa, in 1859, and settled ii. Clinton town-
ship in 1860, engaging in farming. He
was born in Wayne Co., N. Y. in 1818.
He is the son of E. Y. and Abigail (Frank-
lin) Crosby, the former of New York, the
latter of Pennsylvania. When he was
eight years of age, his parents moved to
western New York, and when he was
fourteen, they went to Ohio. There A.
F. Crosby was brought up on a farm, re-
ceived a common school education, and
followed farming till he was twenty-seven
years of age. In 1845, he went to work
at the trade of carriage making in Penn-
sylvania, and after two years there, went
to Ohio and worked at wagon making,
until he went to Wisconsin, in 1855.
Here he worked at his trade till he came
to Franklin Co., Iowa. Mr. Crosby started
the first shop in the county in 1860, and
has been in the business more or less ever
since. He was married in 1841, to Sophro-
nia Squire, a native of Ohio. They are
336
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
the parents of five children, two living; one
died in infancy. Elerauel enlisted' in com-
pany H, 32d Iowa Volunteer Infantry, and
was killed at the battle of Pleasant Hill,
La., April 9, 1864, at the age of nineteen.
Their eldest daughter died of consumption
in 1873, leaving a family of three children.
She was the wife of Charles Smith —
Squire E., a farmer in Nebraska, and
Adalaide, the wife of A. Dailey, who is
Mr. Crosby's partner. Mr. Crosby is the
oldest resident settler in the town.- He
and his wife have lived together for forty-
two years. Their oldest daughter, Maria,
was the first child married in the township.
Mr. and Mrs. Crosby are both active mem-
bers of the Baptist Church, he having been
a member for thirty-two, and his wife
forty-six years. He has been justice of
the peace, trustee of the township, assessor,
and president of the school board. In
politics, he is a republican, and a strong
temperance man.
John Treganza was born in England in
1841, and came to America in 1843, with
his parents, who settled in Jo Daviess Co.,
111. He lived on a farm until seventeen
years of age, when he commenced to learn
the wheel wright trade, and also that of
stone cutter; the latter he followed for
four years, and since that time has fol-
lowed wagon making. In 18*79, he came
to Iowa, working at his trade at Hampton
until the spring of 1882, and then moved
to Sheffield, engaging in the wagon busi-
ness. He was married in 1864 to Eliza-
beth Mills. They have four children —
Joseph, Emma, Marcus M. and Henry.
C. E. Willhelm established a restaurant
at Sheffield in 1878, and was succeed by J.
W. Hall. J. W. Hall came to Franklin
Co., Iowa, about 1863 or 1864. He was
born in St. Clair Co., Mich., 1841, came,
when a child, with his parents to Illinois,
and his father being a railroad conductor,
went with him as teamster at the age of
twelve, which he followed until he came
to Iowa, in 1863. In 1864 he bought a
farm in West Fork township, where he
farmed till 1868, then went to Mason Cily
as foreman on the C, M. & St. P. railroad,
with fourteen teams in his charge, and re-
mained there four years. In 1872, he was
on the Illinois Central R. R., spent the two
summers of 1873 and 1874 on the Central
Iowa R. R., and and returned to Mason
City as drayman for five years. He then
went to Missouri as foreman on the K. C.
N. R. R,. running two seasons, after which
he came back to Sheffield and bought the
billiard hall and ran it six months. He
then spent one season as foreman on the
C, M. & St. P. R. R., and a few months as
engineer in the mill, and finally settled in
Sheffield where he still lives.
The first meat market was operated by
S. E. Baker, who continued but a short
time.
James Ormrod opened the next market,
in April 1881. He came to Franklin Co , in
March, 1876, and leased 480 acres of land
in Clinton township, where he engaged in
stock and grain raising until April, 1881,
when he opened a meat market in Shef-
field, which business he still continues. He
is extensively engaged in shipping stock
to the Chicago market, having shipped
last year about $50,000 worth. He is a
native of England, born in November,
1850, and when two years old came with
his parents to America, living for seven
years in Newport, R. I. He then went
M.
_s
HISTORY OF FRANKIN COUNTY.
337
J
to Warren, JoDaviess Co., 111. He was
brought up on a farm and received a com-
mon school education. Mr. Ormrod is a
republican in politics, and is an active
member of the M. E. Church. He was
married in December, 1874, to Miss E. L.
Farnham,a native of Wisconsin. They have
two children living — Jimmie and Leone.
The Bank of Sheffield was established
Jan. 1, 1880^ with T. B. Taylor, as presi-
dent; W. D. Evans, vice-president, and L.
B. Carhart, as cashier and business
manager.
L. B. Carhart, in the spring of 1873,
came to Hampton, Iowa, and in company
with T. B. Taylor, started a book and
music store. He purchased Mr. Taylor's
interest the following spring and continued
the business alone till the fall of 1877,
when he sold out and went to Grinnell,
Iowa, where he engaged with his father
and brother in the lumber business for
two years. In the fall of 1879, he sold his
interests at Grinnell and moved to Shef
Held. Iowa, where, in company with T. B.
Taylor and W. D. Evans, of Hampton, he
started the Sheffield bank, of which he
is the cashier and business manager. Mr.
Carhart is one of the trustees,and also treas-
urer ®f the M. E. Church, of which he is a
member. In politics he is a strong re-
publican and a thorough temperance man.
He was born Jan. 1, 1850, in Onondaga
Co., N. Y. With his parents, John and
Angelina Carhart, he came to Iowa and
settled near Davenport, in 1855. His boy-
hood days were spent on the farm, where
he was not a stranger to hard labor. In
1S08, he entered Cornell College, Iowa, at
Mt. Vernon, and graduated in June, 1872.
He was married in August of the same
year to Addie M. Wright, and soon after
came to Eldora, Iowa, where he engaged
in teaching, being principal of the graded
schools of that place. Here he taught
for two terms, and in the spring of 1873,
came to Hampton. Mr. and Mrs. Carhart
are the parents of four children — Edward,
Herman, Charles and Harry.
O. C. Zimmerman, proprietor of the-
Sheffield billiard hall, was born in Clay-
ton Co., Iowa, in 1853. Soon afterward
his parents went to Pennsylvania, but in
less than two years returned to Clayton
county, where they remained for ten
years and then came to Franklin county
and settled on the farm adjoining Shef-
field, where his father still lives. During
his younger days, O. C. Zimmerman
spent some time in a store, but was on a
farm the most of the time, receivkig such
an education as the district schools af-
forded. In 1877, he was married,
bought a farm and started out for himself.
He now owns in all 280 acres of land in
different places. During the winter of
1882-3 he moved into Sheffield and fitted
up the billiard hall which he now runs.
Mr. Zimmerman is a member of the I. O.
O. F. and Masonic fraternities. He is
father of three children — J. J., Clara May
and Effie.
The first physician who practiced at
Sheffield was Dr. J. M. Potter, who came
in 1875. In 1883, this profession was rep-
resented by Drs. G. W. Lee and II. R.
Floyd, both locating here in 1882.
The first drug store was started by Dr.
J. M. Potter, in 1875, who, in 1880, sold
to Anderson & Nichols. This partner-
ship continued until 1882, when Mr.
VlvT
~&
338
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Anderson sold his interest in the business
to Mr. Nichols.
William E. Nichols was born in San-
dusky Co., Ohio, in 1854. When quite
young, his parents moved to northern Indi-
ana. Here he received a liberal academic
education. At fourteen years of age he
started out for himself. He posted him-
self in pharmacy and has followed it with
success ever since. He opened his first
store at Wyoming, Iowa, remained there
one year, then sold out and in the fall of
1880 came to Sheffield, Iowa, and in com-
pany with Mr. Anderson, bought the
drug business then owned by J. M. Potter.
This partnership continued till the spring
of 1882, when Mr. Nichols bought out his
partner. He has built up a good business
and is very popular with all classes. In
the spring of 1883, he rented another
store and has put in a large stock of mu-
sical instrument*, and being a fine musi-
cian himself, he will hereafter give his per-
sonal attention to this branch of his large
business. In September, 1881, he was
married to Collin Skinner, at Manson,
Iowa.
The butter and egg business is carried
on by A. H. Bird, Hockett & Slade, and
Thomas Bros.
Sheffield supports one newspaper — the
Sheffield Press, edited by F. P. Morgan.
A. B. Carter, the popular barber at
Sheffield, came here in 1878. He was born
in Floyd Co., Iowa, in 1853, and was the
first child born in that county, where his
parents settled in 1852. There he grew
up, receiving a common school educa-
tion, and remained on the farm until he
was twenty-two years of age, when he
commenced to learn the barber's trade at
Nashua, Iowa, following it there and other
places until he came here. When he came
here he built a small shop, and later a
larger one, and by strict attention to busi-
ness has secured and holds a very lucra
tive custom. He is a member of the Odd
Fellows, was one of the charter members,
gave much assistance in starting the order
here, and has passed all the chairs. He
was married in 1876 to Sophronia Baurn-
gardner.
D. N. Byerlee, station agent at Sheffield,
was born in Albia, Monroe Co., Iowa, in
1855. He is the son of A. J. and Mary J.
Byerlee. The subject of this sketch was
reared on a farm, receiving a common
school education at the Albia High School.
In 1876 he went on the C, B. & Q. R. R.,
on the middle Iowa division, as agent and
operator; this he followed until the fall
of 1882, when he gave up railroading and
commenced to study short hand at Albia.
He worked there for a time, and then came
to Sheffield as agent of the station, in May,
1883. He was married in 1877 to Belle
Hickey, a native of Iowa. They have one
child — Libbie E.
A. C. Whitney, contractor and builder,
came to Franklin county in 1878, and lo-
cated at Sheffield, where he formed a
partnership with L S. Bullard, and has
since been engaged in the business; they
having built many of the houses in this
thriving little city. He was born in New
Hampshire in 1837, and learned his trade
from his father, who was also a carpenter.
He left home, going to Winnebago Co.,
111., remaining three years; then to Kane
county, where he remained twelve years,
following his trade and fanning; from
thence to Lake county, remaining until
Ml
1
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
341
1878, when he came to Clinton township.
He was married in 1861 to Clara J. Cary,
who died in 1876, leaving four children —
George, Lizzie, Adell and Anna. He was
again married in 1881 to Martha Wilhelm,
and has one child by his present wife —
Freddie. He is a member of the Masonic
fraternity at Sheffield, and is present tyler
of the lodge.
J. W. Bruce, of the firm of Bigg &
Bruce, contractors and builders, was born
in Dodge Co., Wis., in 1856, and came to
Sheffield, Franklin Co., Iowa, in 1878.
He worked for Mr. Bigg two years and
since that time has been in partnership
with him. When he was nineteen years
years of age he commenced to learn the
carpenter trade, and in 1876, came to
Iowa settling in Rockwell, Cerro Gordo
county, where he followed his trade until
he came here. Mr. Bruce owns a fine
house and lot, and in company with Mr.
Bigg owns the shop where they do busi-
ness. In politics he is a republican; is
also a member of the I. O. O. F. In 1882,
he was united in marriage with Tillie
Hall, of Illinois.
D. E. Bigg was born in England in 1848.
He came to America in 1862 and settled
in Fon du Lac, Wis., where he commenced
to learn his trade when he was quite
young. He received a common school
education. In 1878, he came to this place
and worked at his trade — that of con-
tractor and builder — until 1881, when he
formed a joint partnership with J. VV.
Bruce, under the firm name of Bigg &
Bruce, and thus thev have. continued. He
is a member of the school board; also a
member of the Odd Fellows lodge of which
he has been an officer. He is a republican
in politics. Mr. Bigg was married in 1873
to Lucinda Thayer, of Wisconsin. They
have, four children — Maude, Ethia, Johnnie
and Grace.
John L. Borst, coal dealer in Sheffield,
Iowa, came to Franklin county in 1876,
and after farming for about five years,
located in Sheffield. He was born in
Fon du Lac, Wis., in 1852, where he
grew up and followed farming with his
parents until he was twenty years of age.
He then went into the drug business in
connection with a livery stable and bus
line. He also spent a few yeai*s, during
the time he was engaged in farming, in
speculating in stock. His parents were
James and Millica Borst. He was mar-
ried Feb. 20, 1873, to Ella P. John, a na-
tive of Ohio. They have two children —
Frank L. and Arthur Earle.
W. F. McKenzie, grain dealer, was born
in Wyandot Co., Ohio, in 1849. In his
native county he grew to manhood on a
farm, receiving a good education, spending
two years at the State University of Iowa,
finishing in 1874. He came to Franklin
Co., Iowa with his parents in the spring
of 1868, settling in Clinton township, and
when only eighteen years of age, he com-
menced teaching school; taught several
terms before entering the university, also
four terms while in that institution. In
1875, he went into the stock business,
buying and shipping to the Chicago
market; this he continued until one year
ago. In the fall of 1878 he formed a part-
nership for the purpose of buying grain,
and is now doing a fine business. His
father, Roderick and mother, Rachel, both
died about a year ago. Mr McKenzie is
a member of the Odd Fellows lodge, be-
1
23
JW-
342
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
ing one of the charter members. In poli
tics he is a republican. Mr. McKenzie
was married in October, 1880, to Maggie
Winchell, a native of Wisconsin. They
have one child — Alma. He has held
many of the town offices; is school treas-
urer at this time, also a member of the
city council
Among other prominent men of Shef-
field are James Borst, John H. Richer and
Joseph Gilchrist.
John H. Richer came to Clinton town-
ship, Franklin Co., Iowa, in 1870. He
was born in Philadelphia, Penn., Dec. 21,
1837, and at ten years of age went with
his parents to Lebanon, Warren Co., Ohio
His father being a shoemaker, at the age
of thirteen John began to learn that
trade, afterwards working at it in Dayton,
Ohio, until 1854, when he settled in Tou-
lon, 111., then in Henry county, thence
removed to Atchinson, same State, where
for two years he was in business for him-
self He then sold out, went to Osceola
and worked as a journeyman. May 2,
1862, he enlisted in company G, 65th
Illinois Volunteer Infantry, known as the
Scotch regiment, being largely composed
of men of Scotch descent. He enlisted
as a private, but for faithful duty the first
night he was on guard, he was promoted
to second corporal by Colonel Mulligan,
of the 23d Illinois. On Sept 19, 1862, di-
rectly after the battle of Antietam, he was
made second sergeant. Here he was
wounded in the head by the fragment of
a shell which left him for some time un-
conscious, but in a week he was in his
place again. He was taken prisoner at
Harper's Ferry, but at once paroled He
had his right shoulder broken in a rail-
road collision during the war, contracted
heart disease and rheumatism in the army,
and now draws a pension of $18 per
month. He was in the battles of Antie-
tam, Harper's Ferry and others, and was
honorably discharged at the close of the
war. After the war he returned to Osce-
ola, 111., and followed his trade until he
came here in 1870, in search of health.
He settled in Clinton township till Shef-
field was started, then came to town and
worked at his trade,. In 1876, he was ap-
pointed postmaster and held the office un-
til Mr. Bowen was appointed. • In 1881,
he went into business in company with H.
Morehouse, where he continued until the
spring of 1883 He signed the charter
and was instrumental in the organization
of the G. A. R here, of which he is ser-
geant. He was married, March 8, 1858,
to Mary E. Milden, a native of Ohio,
They have had three children — Corrilla
Louisa, Ransom Dudley and lone Effie,
who died when five years of age.
James Borst is a prominent resident of
Sheffield, having come here in 1877. He
was born in Schoharie Co., N. Y. When
sixteen years old he went to Laporte Co.,
Ind., going from there to Missouri, thence
to Wisconsin in 1856. His advantages
were very limited. When he was mar-
ried he commenced life without a dollar,
but by hard work and close economy he
began to accumulate property, and when
he went to Wisconsin, in 1856, he bought
a small farm and from that day onward
he has made rapid advancement in the
acquisition of wealth, far surpassing the
dreams of his boyhood. He is now sixty-*
seven years of age, hale and vigorous,
and possesses a large fortune. In 1867
© l —
Jfc
"e>
a_
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
343
he moved into the village of Fox Lake,
Wis., and for ten years he retired from
active labor. In 1 877 he c me to Shef-
field, Iowa, where he invested a large
amount of his fortune. He owns 280
acres of land in Clinton township, ad-
joining the town, a part of which is in
the corporation. He owns the finest resi-
dence in the town, built by himself in
1877, also the finest business block built
in 188-2, at a cost of $7,000. He also
has several other business houses and four
tenement houses, and is doing much in
building up the town. He has platted
Borst's addition to the village, and sells
lots at prices to encourage settlers. For
fifteen years Mr. Borst has been an
active member of the Baptist Church,
and a life-long republican, lie is a very
liberal man and joins heartily in every-
thing that tends to build up the town,
and his efforts are appreciated by the
people. He was married in 1843 to Me-
lissa Culver. They have four children
— Bethone, Wm. D , Joseph B. and John
L.
Joseph Gilchrist, one of the early set-
tlers of Ross township, was born in West-
moreland Co., Penn., July 3, 1827. He
is the son of Josepn and Julia (McCollister)
Gilchrist, both natives of Pennsylvania.
His mother died while he was a child, and
he was brought up on his father's farm.
At the age of eighteen he began to learn
the shoemaker's trade, at New Salem
Cross Roads, Pennsylvania, which vocation
he followed for a number of years. In
1858, he removed to Iowa and located at
â– Shell Rock, Butler county, where he
worked at shoemaking about three years,
then removed to Franklin county. In the
fall of 1862, he settled on the place he now
owns. He first bought forty acres on sec-
tion 10, to which he has added from time
to time, until he is now the owner of 240
acres, nearly all of which is under cultiva-
tion. Mr. Gilchrist is an enterprising
farmer, having twenty-eight head of cattle
and nine horses on his place. He began
setting out fruit trees soon after locat-
ing, and now has a thrifty orchard, nearly
all in bearing condition. Mr. Gilchrist
married Sarah A. Bushyager, of Pennsyl-
vania, Aug. 8, 1849. She has borne him
eight children, all of whom are now liv-
ing — Irving K., born May 3, 1850; Mary
E., born Oct. 4, 1850; William D., born
Nov. 5, 1854; Sarah L., born Oct. 31, 1856;
Martha J., born April 19, 1859; Alice S.,
born Aug. 1, 1861; Joseph G., born March
12, 1864, and Truman H. J., born Dec. 1,
1866. The first four children were born
at Adamsburg, Penn., the next in Butler
Co., Iowa, and the three last named in
Franklin county. Mr. and Mrs. Gilchrist
are members of the Disciple Church at
Rockwell.
POSTOFB'ICE.
The postoftice, at Sheffield was estab-
lished in 1 874. W. S. Bowen was the first
postmaster; he served one year and was
succeeded by N. J. Brown, who kept the
office a year, when Mr. Bowen again re-
ceived the appointment, and was still post-
master in 1883. The office was made a
money order office in October, 1877. The
first order was issued to Richard Wilde
for $48, payable at Mason City to Brick-
son & Nelson, dated Oct. 1, 1877. In
August, 1883, there had been issued 4,7<»7
money orders.
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344
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
VV. S. Bowen, postmaster and mayor of
the town of Sheffield, in 1883, has been
identified with the interests of the place
since its very commencement. Mr. Bowen
was born in Canada East, near the Ver-
mont line, in October, 1829. He is the
son of Peter and Mary Bowen, natives of
New Hampshire. He was brought up on
a farm, receiving a common school educa-
tion. He followed farming in his native
county. When he moved to Clayton Co.,
Iowa, he followed the same occupation
until 1867. Mr. Bowen then removed to
Franklin county, settling in Clinton town-
ship on section 5 and owning 200 acres of
the section. When the town of Sheffield
was laid out, in 1874, he moved to that
village and was soon after appointed post-
master. After holding the office a short
time he vacated it for a few years, but was
again appointed, and was still postmaster
in 1883. He has been a justice of the
peace for several years, was elected mayor
when the town was first incorporated, and
with the exception of one term, has held
that office ever since. He was also town
treasurer for eight years, and has been
connected with the school board most of
the time since he lived in Sheffield. In
politics he is a strong republican. He was
married, in 1864, to Hattie Vance.
CHAPTER XIX.
GENEVA TOWNSHIP.
This township, in 1883, comprised con-
gressional township 91, range 19 west, and
was one of the four townships in the east-
ern tier of the county. Martin Boots,
Peter C. Berry, D. G. Carbaugh, Q. A.
Jordan and Jabash Jones, were among the
first settlers of the township.
The land is of a most excellent quality,
and as highly valued as any in Franklin
county. Mayne's creek runs through the
township from west to east, which, with
its small tributaries, waters and drains
the en ire township. Timber is found in
Four Mile Grove and Highland Grove.
Great is the contrast of the township,
as seen in 1883, with that of 1860, when
the few settlers were undergoing hard-
ships, such as the future generations can
never fully conceive of. The pioneer
would look out over the wide frontier and
wonder if he would live to enjoy the priv-
ileges of a fully developed country —
whether the iron horse would ever course
through this section of Iowa in place .of
the ox team method of transporting mer-
chandise and produce. Each season
brought with it some signs of better days,
until in 1870 the farmer and merchant
found access to the eastern markets by
way of the Central of Iowa Railway,
from that date the county has steadily ad-
vanced, and in 1883 Geneva, as well as
pj*
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
345
those townships adjoining it, was fast
developing into a choice agricultural dis-
trict, and in the near future is destined to
rank high among the fair garden spots of
Iowa.
SETTLEMENT.
The first settlers of this township were:
Job Garner, Anion Rice and Peter Rein-
hart, in 1854.
Garner located on section 15, and built
the first house in the township, remaining
there a year. He then sold to Martin
Boots and entered the land where Hamp-
ton now stands, giving forty acres of the
same to the county.
In 1855, J. E. Perdue, Silas Moon, Mar-
tin Boots, Charles Leggett, Henry Smith,
George Hansell, William H. Thompson,
David Church, Q. A. Jordan, Rufus Ben-
son and Samuel Carbaugh, settled in the
township.
J. E. Perdue came from Illinois, locat-
ing on section 17, where he lived until
1868, when he removed to southern Iowa.
Silas Moon came from Indiana and set-
tied on section 17, where he remained for
a time and moved to Oregon territory.
Charles Leggett settled on land after-
ward owned by J. Pickering.
Henry Smith first came in the fall of
1854, but did not come to remain until the
following spring. He entered land on
on section 17, which he afterward sold to
J. E. Perdue.
George Hansell moved from Ohio to
Cedar Co., Iowa, April, 1855. He came
to Geneva township in July of that year,
locating on sections 6 and 7, where he
lived until 1873, when he removed to Ing-
ham township, where he had owned land
for several years. The station on the
Dubuque & Dakota railway was named
after him.
William II. Thompson came in 1855 and
settled on sections 7 and 8. His wife tells
of many laughable incidents connected
with pioneer life in Franklin county. It
is related that the few women of the set-
tlement used to call upon each other, not
for sympathy, but for the express purpose
of getting more of a company to help
each other "hate the country."
The old settlers of the township tell of
a "curious" soup, noted for not being over
rich. A soup bone was hung up in the
window and its shadow allowed to fall
upon boiling water.
William H. Thompson, one of the old
settlers of Geneva township, was born in
New Hampshire in 1831. He grew to
mannood in his native State, on the farm,
attending the common school and acade-
my in his native town, where he also
taught school. In the fall of 1855, he
came to Franklin county and entered his
present farm. He remained in Waterloo,
Iowa, during the winter, returning to his
new home the following spring, where he
has since resided. On the organization
of the township, Mr. Thompson was ap-
pointed township clerk. He has also held
the office of drainage commissioner, and
in 1856 held the office of deputy county
clerk. He is a staunch republican. He
was married in the spring of 1857 to Lucy
E. Joslin, a native of New Hampshire,
born in 1828 ; they have had six children,
four of whom are now living — George D.
Herbert W., Clarence H. and Roland J.
Mr. Thompson is a member of the Metho-
dist Church.
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346
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
David Church located in the township
in the fall of 1855 and hired a house. In
the spring of 1856, he built and moved
his family there. He settled on section 9,
and in 1883 owned several hundred acres
of land in this county. David Church was
born in Erie, Penn., Oct., 20, 1827,
and is a son of David and Margaret
(Clark) Church. He came to Franklin
Co., Iowa, in 1855 and bought a claim in
Geneva township. In 1856, tie brought
his family, commenced improvements and
farmed until 1881. He was one of the
board of county supervisors for six years,
was one of the organizers of the Citizen's
Bank of Hampton, and always a director
of the same. He is an active politician and
has been a life long democrat. He re-
ceived a limited education in his native
State. In 1854, he came west and lo-
cated in Winnebago Co., 111. In 1852, he
and Hariet C. Shattuck, of Pennsylvania,
were married and have two children —
Walter, residing in Washington town-
ship, and George H.
Q. A. Jordan came from Illinois in
1854 or early in 1855, locating on section
16. He remained until just prior to the
war, when he moved to Kansas While
a resident of the township he saw what
he supposed to be some elk in the distance;
having a fleet footed mare he mounted
her, with his gun, and started for them.
Upon nearing the objects he found them
to be two horses, with a man riding one oi
them and leading the other. The man
put whip and spur to the horses and tried
to make good his escape, but when Jordan
got within shooting distance, he called
upon him to halt, saying he would shoot
if he did not. The man did not obey,
and, good as his word, Jordan fired and
wounded him. He then brought him
back a prisoner, when it was found that he
was a horse thief. Shortly afterwards
parties came from Fort Dodge, claimed
the horses, and took charge of this pio-
neer thief, who was dealt with according
to law.
Martin Boots is one of the early settlers
in Geneva township. He was a native of
of Fayette Co., Ohio, born in 1817. He
was reared on the farm, and when sixteen
years of age, went with his parents to
Indiana. He received his education at
the log school-house, hence it was a lim-
ited common school education. When
twenty-one he engaged in farming. May
25, 1844 he married Rebecca Jones, born
in Preston Co., W. Va., in 1820. In the
fall of 1854, they came to Iowa, stopping
the first winter near Waterloo, and the
following spring, coming to Geneva town-
ship, they purchased and opened the farm
on which he still resides. The first relig-
ious services in the township were held
at his house. Mr. and Mrs. Boots are
members of the United Brethren Church,
and have eight children: Rhoda, William,
Martha J., James W , Mary E., John M.,
Malena E. and Simeon. In politics he is
a republican. His farm consists of 240
acres, valued at $30 per acre, containing
excellent buildings, near which is a fine
spring, which furnishes an abundance of
water, not only for domestic purposes, but
also for stock. He makes stock a special-
ty, and is successful.
Rufus Benson settled on section 16.
He was born in the town of Richmond,
Cheshire Co., N. H, Sept. 7, 1804, and is
a son of Isaac and Eunice (Sawyer) Ben-
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HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
347
f
son, natives of New Hampshire. His
grandfather was one of the first settlers of
that State. Rufus was the fifth of seven
children, three girls and four boys. His
father died in Vermont. His mother
died when he was but seven years old.
When twelve years old he went with a
married sister to Ohio, where he remained
three years, when he returned to New
Hampshire. After staying two years
here he returned to Ohio, where he mar-
ried, Dec. 11, 1828, Caroline Wells, a na
tive of Geauga Co., Ohio, born Aug. 12,
1810, by whom he had four children. In
1^55 he came to Franklin county, settling
on section 16, Geneva township, where
he now resides. Mrs Benson died Sep-
tember 5, 1862. He was again married
Dec. 13, 1864, and by this marriage had
three children.
During 1856, Richard Horner and P.
C. Berry, came to this township. Hor-
ner came from Indiana and settled on
section 18, which had been taken up by
John Evans, the year prior. Mr Horner
was born, November 28, 1812, in Balti-
more, Md. At fourteen years of age, he
was bound out to learn blacksmithing.
After serving an apprenticeship for five
years, he spent four years working at his
trade in Chambersburg and Pittsburg,
when he returned to Baltimore and stayed
there eighteen months, and also two years
in Pittsburg. He also spent sometime in
boating between Pittsburg and New Or-
leans. In 1835 he went to Cincinnati,
Ohio, and worked at his trade two years,
and in 1837, went to Warren, Wayne
county, Ind., and followed his trade until
he came here, in 1856. After coming to
Franklin county he combined blacksmith-
ing and farming until 1862, when he
turned his attention wholly to farming,
which he still follows. He was married,
October 22, 1840, to Hannah Maninfold,
born in Washington Co., Tenn., De-
cember 1, 1820. They have had eight
children — Benjamin, Jesse, (deceased),
Joseph, (deceased), William, John, (de-
ceased), and Shepherd. Three of his sons
served in the war, where Jesse was killed.
Mr and Mrs. Horner, were members of
the United Brethren Church for twelve
years, but there being no church of that
denomination where they live, in Geneva
township, they have united with the M.
E. Church. Mr. Horner was originally a
Democrat, but became a Republican on
the organization of that party He has
an excellent record as a man and citizen,
is one of the solid men of the county, and
well regarded by all his fellows.
W. C. Horner w^s born in Indiana, in
1844, and came to Franklin county with
his parents when fourteen years old, re-
ceiving a common school education. He
enlisted Aug. 13, 1862, in company H,
32d Iowa Infantry, and was in the follow-
ing engagements: Red River Expedition,
Nashville, Eastport, Miss., and Holly
Springs. After he received his discharge
he returned to Franklin county, where he
was married Dec. 31, 1865,toRhoda Boots,
born in Indiana, March, 1845. They have
eight children living — Martha E., Herbert
Q., Ida May, Bertha R., William A.,
James W., Edith I. and Charles C. He
is a republican in politics and has held
local offices.
P. C. Berry, born in Lebanon Co. Penn.
in 1815, is a son of Peter and
Elizabeth (Lutz) Berry, natives of Penn-
4
348
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
sylvania. In 1815, they removed to Cin-
cinnati, and from there to Batavia, and
then to Butler Co., Ohio, and again to
Cass Co., Ind., where the father died in
1853, the mother in 1873. They reared a
family of eight children, the subject of
this sketch being the sixth. P. C. Berry
was reared on his father's farm, and as the
advantages were not what they now are,
his education was limited. He was mar-
ried in Cass county, Aug. 4, 1836, to
Christena Thomas, a native of Preble Co.,
Onio, born Feb. 14, 1817. Her parents,
Lewis and Barbara (Albright) Thomas
were natives of North Carolina, from
whence they removed to Ohio, then to
Indiana, both dying in Miami county.
They had eleven children; Mrs. Berry be-
ing the eighth. In 1856, Mr. Berry emi
grated with his family to Franklin county,
and purchased ihe farm where he now
lives. He and his wife have been mem-
bers of the Methodist Church upwards of
forty years. The farm consists of 328^
acres, under a good state of cultivation,
valued at $35 per acre. He is a republi-
can in politics. Fourteen children have
been born to them, seven of whom are
now living — Mary J., Emeline, Edward
N , Oliver B., William D., James C. and
John W. Mr. Berry is a member of the
Masonic order, and was a charter mem-
ber of the Hampton lodge. He is regarded
as an excellent citizen.
In 1858, Eleazer Manifold settled ki
Geneva township. He was the seventh
son of a family of eleven children. Mr.
Manifold, Sr., was born in Tennessee, in
1812. When a boy he went to Indiana
where he was married to Hannah
Sedanbaugh, born in Pennsylvania. She
died in 1874. Eleazer was born in
Randolph Co , Ind. When eight years
of age, his parents removed to Iowa and
wintered in Black Hawk county, and in
the spring of 1858, came to Franklin
county, settling at Four Mile Grove, in
Geneva township, where the father died
in 1875. The mother is still living near
where they first settled in the township.
Eleazer was married June 15, 1874, to
Elma C. Pound, born in Wisconsin, in
1855. They have three children — Alva C,
Edna A. and Jesse B.
During 1859, Jarvis Clock and his son,
H. C. Clock settled in Geneva township.
Jarvis Clock, the second son of Ebenezer
and Lucinda Clock, was born near Islip,
Suffolk Co., L. I., Feb., 1828. In 1832
his parents moved to Painesville, Lake Co.,
Ohio, where he attended school until he
was about fourteen years of age, when he
went into the employ of the captain of a
vessel engaged in the merchant service on
the lakes. Here he remained for several
years and then went on board a whaling
ship. He was fond of a sailor's life and
followed it for several successive years.
In 1855 he came to Iowa and purchased a
farm iu Franklin county, Geneva town-
ship. On the 9th of September, 1858, he
was married to Nancy Marvin, of Pike
Co., Ohio. The following winter they
spent in Illinois, and in the spring came
to Franklin Co., Iowa. He immediately
began improving his place though they
did not move on it until 1866. That year
he built a substantial stone house and the
following year set out an orchard and
planted a grove of maple trees. ' He was
careful for nothing so much as to make
his farm a valuable and comfortable home.
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HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
353
and means of sustenance for his family,
and though he did not live to improve it
according to his ideal, yet he made it one
of the best farms in the county. There
are four .children in this family — Mary
Belle, born Jan. 12, 1862, Kire LaClare,
born July 8, £§1863, Archie Louis, born
Oct. 25, 186V and Rose Marvin, born Feb.
28, 1873. In February, 1879, Mr. Clock
was attacked with pneumonia, and after
an illness of only a few days, died Feb. 18,
1879, at the age of fifty-one years. For
more than twenty-five years he had been a
member of the I. O. O. F. and was buried
by that order. He was a man of ster-
ling integrity, and his influence was always
on the side of religion, temperance and
right.
Lovelett Stoddard came in 1860, having
lived three years in Reeve township. He
was born in Connecticut, in 1816, where
he grew to manhood. He received a com-
mon school education, was married Sept.
6, 1840, in Connecticut, to Catherine E.
Bishop, who was born in England, in
1818. In 1857 they came to Franklin
county, and first settled in Reeve town-
ship, remaining until the spring of 1860,
when they removed to Geneva township,
where they still reside. They have had
two children— Fannie E., (now deceased),
born Nov. 28, 1842. She was finely edu-
cated, was one of the early teachers
of the county, and was married Nov. 4,
1862, to Dr. S. R .Mitchell. Three children
were born unto them — Clara L., Mary F.
and Fannie M. William P., was born May
29, 1845. He received a good common
school education. He is republican in
politics, and has held the office of town-
ship clerk, and school secretary. He was
married Dec. $f5, 1876, to Alice E. Hedges,
a native of Ohio, born July 30, 1857.
They have two children — Mark L. and
Glenn H. Mr. and Mrs. Stoddard, senior,
are members of Episcopal Church. Mr.
and Mrs. Stoddard, junior, are members of
the M. E. Church.
Among others who came to the town-
ship during the next ten years were: Ed-
ward McClelland, N. Clemmens, Henry
Andrews, Henry Ihde, Isaac Appelby,
James W. McDougle, Adam Knau and
John G. Herbster.
Edward McClelland is a son of Frederick
and Dorcas (Carr) McClelland, who were
early settlers of Pennsylvania, where they
lived until their death; his father died
January 18-? 9, aged seventy years, and his
mother, in 1863, aged sixty-seven. They
had ten children, six boys and four girls.
The subject of this sketch was the fourth,
and one of twins, born in Bradford in
1824. He acquired a good common school
education and chose farming as an occu-
pation. He married Hann h P. Roberts,
July 18, 1847. She was born in Bradford,
Penn., May 27, 1820. They came to
Geneva township in 1861, and in January
1878, removed to their present home on
section 15. Four children have been
born to them -Edward B., Marietta (de-
ceased), Edward D. and Mary J. They
are members of the Disciple Church, and
also of the Grange. He is a republi.
can in politics, and has held several county
offices.
N. Clemmens is of German descent,
born in Washington Co., Penn., in 1833.
There he grew to manhood, and was married
in 1^58 to Susan AVhiteman, born in 1832.
In 1862 they came to Franklin county, and
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354
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
now live on section 2 in Geneva township.
His farm consists of 240 acres, valued at $20
per acre. They have had seven children,
six of whom are now living — Sarah E.,
Francis K., Andrew, James, William,
George W. (deceased) and Allison.
Allen Andrews, was born in Onondaga
Co., N. Y., in 1828. He spent his youth
on a farm and was educated at the com-
mon schools. His parents were natives
of Connecticut, from which State they re-
moved when quite young to New York,
where they both died. After the father's
death Allen returned and spent four years
in Connecticut, and then came back to
New York, where he was married in 1851
to Mary Hotchkiss, a native of New York,
born in 1828. In 1853 he emigrated to
Dodge Co., Wis., where he worked at his
trade of carpenter and joiner until 1866,
when he came to Franklin Co., Iowa, and
settled on section 13, in Geneva township,
where he lived until his death in Decem-
ber 1875. He left a wife and nine chil-
dren — Henry H., Carrie H., now wife of
Frank Watson, Nellie I., Minnie C,
Eleanor E., Emma E., Maria A., Frank B.
and Mercy M. Mr. Andrews was a repub-
lican in politics, and frequently held local
offices. At one time he was a member of
the board of county supervisors. He was
always a good father and worthy citizen.
He was a member of the Masonic fra-
ternity.
Henry H. Andrews, son of Allen An-
drews, and an old settler of Geneva town-
ship, was born in Dodge Co., Wis.,
August, 1855. He came with his parents
to Franklin county, where he has since
lived. After his father died he took
charge of the farm and family. He was
married Nov. 2, 1878, to Charlotte E.
Hacker, a native of Dane Co., Wis., born,
June, 1857. They have had three chil-
dren— C. Belle, Clare M. and Allen H.
Henry H. Andrews is a republican, and
at times has held local offices in his town-
ship.
Henry Ihde was born in Suite Amt
Schweren, Germany. When sixteen years
old, his parents emigrated to 'Dodge Co.,
Wis. He received a common school edu-
cation in the German language. He enlisted
in company C, 1st Wisconsin regiment,
served three month in the army of the
Potomac; was enrolled April 24, 1861;
discharged Aug. 21, 1861. He re-enlisted
Aug. 21, 1862 in company K, 29th Wis-
consin Infantry; discharged June 22, 1865;
was wounded in the face by a gun-shot
at Champion Hills near Vicksburg. After
receiving his discharge he returned to
Wisconsin, and in 1867 removed to Frank-
lin county and settled in Geneva town-
ship, where he still lives. He was mar-
ried Nov. 1, 1865, to Mary Burmeister, a
native of Zecun Amt Hagenow, Germany.
They have five children — George, Clara,
Laura, Augusta and Edwin. He served
faithfully in the war and his pension is
only a just due. He is an estimable citi-
zen.
John M. Yenter, a native of Wurtem-
burg, Germany, came to Pennsylvania
when twenty-one years old. He remained
there eleven years, and then went to Du-
buque, Iowa, and in 1867 came to Franklin
county, settling on section 22, in Geneva
township. He was the first to start the
thriving German settlement in that town-
ship. While a resideir of Dubuque, he
worked at mason work, and also in the
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
355
lead mines. He was first married in
Pennsylvania to Mary Klent, by whom he
had two children, one of which is still liv-
ing — Martin. His wife died before he
left Pennsylvania, and he married again.
By the second wife he had two children.
His third wife was the widow of Christo-
pher Bolinger, by whom he has had four
children.
Isaac Appelby was born in Madison Co.,
N. Y., in 1809. When a boy his parents
removed to Cayuga county, where Isaac
grew to manhood. He received a good
common school education. He was twice
married; first in 1831, to Betsey Suthard,
a native of New York, by whom he had
six children, four of whom are now living.
In 1864 he moved to Jo Daviess Co., 111.,
where his wife died the next year. He
was again married in Oswego Co., N. Y.,
in 1858, to Maria Wilder, born in Madison
Co., N. Y., in 1825, after which he re-
turned to Jo Daviess county, remaining
until 1868, when they removed to Frank-
lin county and purchased the farm. He
died of pleuro-pneumonia, Feb. 4, 1875,
leaving a wife and four children to mourn
his loss. His children are — Eli, George,
Myron and Leroy B. George is prosecu-
ting his studies in the Chicago Medical Col-
lege. Mr. Appelby was formerly a demo-
crat, but since coming here had voted the
republican ticket. His farm consists of
152 acres, valued at $30 per acre, and is
well improved. In the autumn of 1882,
Mrs. Appelby fell and dislocated her hip.
While it troubles her considerably, she is
still in full possession of her mental fac-
ulties
James W. McDougle is from Seneca
Co., Ohio, born Jan. 28, 1835, where he
grew to manhood, receiving a common
school education. He is of Scotch extrac-
tion. He was married in Richland Co.,
Ohio, Dec. 20, 1863, to Margaret J. Riley,"
born in Allegheny Co., Penn., June 8,
1840. In the fall of 1868, he came to
Franklin county, remained over winter at
Mayne's Grove, and in the spring came to
Geneva township, where he still resides.
He enlisted May 2, 1864, in company I,
164th Ohio National Guards, serving until
Aug. 27, 1864. They have had two chil
dren — William and May (deceased).
They are members of the Methodist
Church at Four Mile Grove.
Adam Knau came to Franklin county,
with his family, in the spring of 1869, and
located on section 22, Geneva township,
where he still resides. He was born in
Hessia, Germany, Sept. 28, 1831. When
eighteen years of age he emigrated to
Pennsylvania. He was married in Butler
Co., Iowa, to Mrs. Margaret Winkler, a
native of Bavaria, born in 1825. They
have had four children, three of whom are
now living — Henry A., John G. and
Margaret S. John is dead. They are
members of the Evangelical Church. He
is a republican in politics, and at present is a
member of the board of township trustees.
W. C. Reinke was born in Prussia, in
1838. He is the son of Joachin and Han-
nah (Schmall) Reinke, natives of Prussia;
the father born in 1815, and the mother in
1814. In 1857, they came to Americ.i,
set ling in Dodge Co., Wis ,following farm-
ing until 1866, when they removed to Iowa
and settled in Hardin county ,where the sub-
ject of this sketch had preceded them the
year previous. They remained here until
1869, and then removed to Franklin county
356
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
settling on section 25, in Geneva town-
ship, where they still reside The subject
of this sketch is the eldest of six children.
He received his education in the common
school, in the German language, and also
attended school after coming to America.
He was ordained minister of the gospel,
in the Evangelical Association, in 1867,
his first circuit being at Butler Center,
Butler Co., Iowa. He is now engaged in
farming.
John G. Herbster was born in Baden,
Germany, Oct. 28, 1821. His parents
were natives of Germany, where they
lived until their death, the father in 1858,
aged sixty-three, the mother in 1852, aged
fifty -two, having a family of eight chil-
dren, Mi*. Herbster being the second. He
was married in 1859, to Ann Mary Schrei-
ber, born in Germany, Nov. 20, 1829. In
the spring of 1859, they came to the
United States and settled in Stephenson
Co., 111., where they lived two years,
when he removed to Hardin Co., Iowa,
and remained until the spring of 1869,
when he came to Geneva township and
purchased a farm of 160 acres on section
35. Mr. and Mrs. Herbster have had four
children, three of whom are living — Jacob,
Mary and Emma. They are members of
the Evangelical Association. He is inde-
pendent in politics, and has held local
offices.
Among the settlers of 1870, were Wil-
liam B. Bryan, John Knoll, Louis Belzer
and Fred. R. H. Lill.
William B. Bryan came to Geneva
township in 1870, and settled on section 7.
He was born in Geauga Co., Ohio, July 10,
1837. His parents, in 1843, moved to Jo-
Daviess Co., 111. He received a good edu-
cation, and chose farming for an occupa-
tion. He enlisted Aug. 15, 1862, in company
H, 96th Illinois Infantry, serving until
the close of the war. He was wounded
by a musket ball at the ba tie of Lookout
Mountain, and after his discharge returned
to JoDaviess county, where he was mar-
ried Dec 25, 1866, to Susan K. Townsend,
born in JoDaviess county, Feb. 1 6, 1 846. He
was the fourth son of Abram and Polly E.
(Beadsley) Bryan; father born in 1803, in
State of New York, mother born in Ohio,
in 1813, and were married in 1829,
having a family of seven children. The
father died March 11, 1872; the mother is
still living. The parents of Mrs. Bryan
were George N. and Mary (Miner) Town-
send; the father was born in Vernon
Co., N. J., Aug. 28, 1806; mother in~ On-
tario Co., N. Y., March 31, 1811. Mr.
Townsend was orderly sergeant in the
Winnebago war. Had a family of thir-
teen children, Mrs. Bryan being the sixth.
Mr. and Mrs. Bryan have had seven chil-
dren, six of whom are living — George S.,
Harry H., Ernest T., Roy S. Wayne,
(deceased), Mary W. and William I.
John Knoll came from 111 i ois in 1870.
He was a native of Berne, Germany, born
March 4, 1813. He received a good edu-
cation in the German language and
learned 'he stone mason trade, at which
he worked until 1852, when he came to
Buffalo, N. Y., and labored two years,
and then went to Freeport, 111., remaining
until 1870, when he moved to Franklin
county, settling in Geneva township,
where he lived until his dea h, Aug. 7,
1882. He was married in 1842 to Anna
B. Gruber, a native of Germany, born in
1819. They had four children, two of
<a *^
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
357
whom are now living — John and Mary,
now the wife of Frederick Schrieber,
residents of the township. John, Jr.,
was born Jan 9, 1847, in Germany, and
came with his parents to Franklin county,
where he grew to manhood and received
a common school education in the English
language. He was married Jan. 16, 1879,
to Catherine Hoebel, born in Freeport,
Stephenson Co., 111., April 25, 1857.
They have two children, Edward and
Mary. They are members of the Evan-
gelical Church.
Louis Belzer is a native of Germany,
born in 1836. In 1848 his parents emi-
grated to the United States and settled in
Washington Co., Wis. ; were there five
years, when they moved to Dodge Co.,
Wis., and remained ten years, and then
moved to Iowa, settling in Black Hawk
county, where his parents still live. Louis
remained there seven years, when he
came to Franklin county, and located in
Geneva township, on the farm where he
now resides. He was married Sept. 27,
1862, to Mary Ann Krebs, a native of
New York, born in 1839. They were the
parents of twelve children, eight of whom
are now living — Susan C, Sarah M.,
Franklin L., Luella B., Mary G., Edward
W., Freddy A. and Frieda A. (twins).
They are members of the Evangelical
Association. Louis and Barbara Krebs,
parents of Mrs. Belzer, are natives of
Alsace. They came to the United States
in 1830, and settled in New York State,
where Mrs. Belzer was born. Her father
died in 1852, aged fifty-two years.
Frederick R. H. Lill has been a resi-
dent of section 14, Geneva township, since
1870. He was born in Lincolnshire,
England, Nov. 10, 1818, receiving a com-
mon school education, and where he en-
gaged in farming and as teamster until
1856, when he emigrated to Canada;
thence to Green Lake Co., Wis., in 1869,
where he lived for one year and sought
Iowa for a permanent home He was mar-
ried, in 1846, to Elizabeth Brown, born in
Lincolnshire, in 1820. They had two chil-
dren — Harriet who died in England, and
Mary A., born in Canada. They are
members of the Methodist Church. He
is a republican in politics and has been in
office. He has eighty acres of land valued
at $35 per acre, which is under an excel-
lent state of cultivation.
James Pearse settled in the township
in 1872. He is a native of England, born
in Devonshire, May 4, 1825. He is the
son of Jeffrey and Joan (Hendy) Pearse,
natives of Devonshire, England, who died
there, the father July 7, 1847, aged
sixty-three, the mother in January, 1869,
aged seventy. His father was born and
raised in the house where the family had
lived for several generations. His parents
had eleven children, of whom James was
the tenth. He grew to manhood in his
native land, and though his early advan-
tages were limited as to an education, yet
by self-application and study he has ac-
quired a good practical education. In
1850, he emigrated to Canada, and en-
gaged in farming, remaining there until
1871, when he removed to Linn Co,
Iowa, renting land one year. The next
fall he came to Franklin county, locating
on section 7, in Geneva township, where
he still remains. He now has 600 acres
of good land, valued at $25 per acre. Mr.
Pearse has been very successful since he
358
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
came here. He landed at Hampton with
no capital to begin on except a wagon and
three horses ; but by industry, economy
and hard work, he has secured a good
home and competence for life. On the
12th of April, 1852, he wedded Jane Rey-
nolds, who was born in Suffolk, England,
Aug. 1, 1823. By this union they have
had eight children : William, Hannah
(deceased), Jeffrey, Thomas, John, James
Henry, George Reynolds and Stephen.
Mr. and Mrs. Pearse are members of the
Methodist Church at Geneva. He is a
sound republican, and at different times
has filled local offices in his township and
county.
Jeffrey Pearse is a farmer by vocation,
his farm consisting of 120 acres, under a
good state of cultivation, valued at $20
per acre. He is the son of James Pearse,
born in Halton Co., Canada, April 15,
1857. When fourteen years of age he emi-
grated with his parents to Iowa, first going
to Linn county and from there to Franklin
county, where he grew to manhood, re-
ceiving a common school education. He
was married, May 31, 1883, to Polly
Hayes, born in Green Lake Co., Wis.,
Oct., 7, 1864. Mr. Pearse is a mem-
ber of the I. O. O. F. lodge at Geneva.
Bernard Heitman located herein 1873.
He was born in Germany, in 1824. When
eighteen years old he emigrated to America
and settled in Galena, 111., where he was
married Feb. 4, 1864 to Mrs. Mary Feich,
born in Alsace, June 15, 1831. She had
been the wife of Frank Xavier, born in
France, Oct. 30, 1824, married at Wood-
stock Illinois, April 1, 1850. They had
four children — Mary, Joseph, Celestine
and Louisa. Mr. Xavier died Sept. 30,
1 860. By her last marriage they have four
children — Henry, Josephine, Julia and
Antoinette. Mr. Heitman was also twice
married, had four children all now living- —
Mary, Catherine, Caroline and Frank. They
are all members of the Catholic Church.
Mr. Heitman came to Franklin county
from Illinois in 1873. and purchased the
farm, where the family now reside.
John Baurr was born in Wurtemburg,
Germany, where he grew to manhood. He
had good educational advantages, having
attended Heidelberg two winters, after at-
tending the common schools. He was a
weaver by occupation. When twenty-one
years of age he removed to Dubuque
Co., Iowa, remaining until 1873, when he
came to Franklin county and located on
section 23, in Geneva township, where he
is now living. He was married May 6,
1867, to Rosine Christina Sinn, born in
Wurtemburg in 1840. Five children have
been born to them — John, George, Willie,
Chris, (deceased) and Charley. The
mother of Mrs. Baurr is still living in
Wurtemburg at the age of seventy-five;
the father died in 1877, aged seventy-nine*
John C Bell is the second son of John
and Elizabeth (Bonson) Bell, descendants
on the mother's side of an old family of
Bonsons. Mrs. Bell's grandfather, Richard
Bonson, was a liberal of the John Bright
school, and spent a large fortune in com-
batting aristocracy. He died about the
year 1816, aged ninety-nine years. John
C. Bell was born in Yorkshire, England,
where he received a limited education.
His father was born in 1809, the mother
in the same year. The father died in
1854. In 1855, the mother and family
emigrated to this country and located in
c
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
350
Grant Co., Wis., and in 1883, resided
in Lafayette Co., Wis. She has a fam-
ily of ten children. The father was a
mining surveyor and contractor, of whom
J. C. received instruction, which he has
followed extensively in Wisconsin, Illi-
nois, California, Idaho and British Colum-
bia. He came to Geneva township, Frank-
lin county, in 1875, and has since engaged
in farming. In 1867, he wedded Sarah J.
Raw, born in Grant Co., Wis., in 1840.
They are the parents of eight children —
Bonson C, Mary A., Barbara C, Laura,
Edward S., Fannie, John C. and Ella.
In politics, he is a republican and holds
the office of justice of the peace, and has
held the office of secretary of the school
board seven years.
Frank Beach was the fourth son of Les-
ter and Lydia (Chase) Beach, natives of
New York, and who removed to Ohio,
where they were married, in 1835, and
then moved to Peoria Co , 111 , being
among the first settlers of that county,
where the mother still lives, aged sixty-five.
The father died in 1857, aged fifty-four.
They had a family of nine children.
Frank enlisted in company K, 86th Illi-
nois; after serving several months, was
taken sick and discharged and is now on
the pension list. He was married, Dec.
•29, 1864, to Sarah Elsey, born in Essex,
England, in 1845, and who went to Rome,
N. Y., remained one year, thence to Kane
Co., 111., and from there to Peoria county,
where she was married. Mr. and Mrs.
Beach have had four children, three of
whom are living — Lydia E., Emily C,
Lilla M. and Frank. They are members
of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Four
Mile Grove. They removed to Bear
Grove, Butler county, in 1866, and in June,
to Franklin county, settling on section
12. The farm consists of 320 acres. He
is a republican in politics, and has held
local offices in Madison township, Butler
county. He is an estimable citizen and
held in high regard by his neighbors.
Thomas F. Argent was born in Galena,
Jo Daviess Co., 111., Nov. 17, 1845. In
1861, he went to Pike's Peak and engaged
in mining two years, and in January, 1863,
he enlisted in McLean's Independent bat-
tery, serving until September, 1865, near-
ly two years of which time he spent on the
plains and one year against Gen. Price in
Missouri. After receiving his discharge,
he returned to Illinois, and in May, 1866,
went to Colorado and engaged in lumber-
ing, remaining fourteen months, when he
returned to Galena and engaged in farm-
ing until April, 1876, then came to Frank-
lin county and settled in Reeve township
and engaged in farming there until 187 7,
when he came, to Geneva township, and,
in the spring of 1881, rented the place
where he still resides. He was married,
May, 1870, to Elizabeth Ginn, born in Jo
Daviess Co., 111., November, 1846 They
have five children — William, Nettie, John
D., Jane and Robert.
Ludwig Bell, a native of Mecklenburg
Schwerin, was born in 1828; grew to man-
hood there and received a good education
in the German language. He emigrated
to Milwaukee, Wis., and remained until
1865, when he went to Monroe county,
staid until 1873, when he removed toAck-
ley, Hardin Co., Iowa; thence to Madison
township, Butler county. In 1878, he
moved to Geneva township, Franklin
county, section 12, where his home now
â– fl*-
360
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
is. His farm consists of 280 acres, valued
at $20 per acre, and is one of the best
stock farms in the county. He was mar-
ried in his native country, in 1859, to
Mary Wichman, who was also born in
Mecklenburg. They are the parents of
eight children — John F., Mary, Charley,
Riecke, (deceased) William, Minna, Lou-
isa and Tilda. Mr. and Mrs. Bell are mem-
bers of the Evangelical Church Mr. Bell
is a democrat and a good citizen.
Charles L. Canfield was born in Trum-
'bull Co., Ohio, Sept. 8, 1832, and grew to
manhood on the farm, receiving a com-
mon sc ool education. When twenty-one
years of age his parents moved to La Fay
ette Co., Wis., and engaged in farming.
He was mirried March 25, 1855, to Har-
riet Hurlbert, a native of Lamoille Co.,
Vt, born Feb. 9, 1833. In 1878 they
came to Franklin county, settling in Gen-
eva township, where he has since resided.
He engaged in farming until 1881, when
he purchased the Geneva, hotel. He is a
member of the I. O. O. F. society. Mr.
and Mrs. Canfield are members of the
Freewill Baptist Church, and are parents
of four children — Ella L., Eva S., Hattie
A. and Charles W.
John Dovey was born in Somersetshire,
England, in 183V. At the age of fourteen
he emigrated to Canada, remaining four
years, thence to Dubuque Co., Iowa, where
he staid until the spring of 1871, and
then went to Ackley, Hardin Co., and in
t e spring of 1881, removed to Franklin
county, locating on section 23, in Geneva
township, where he still lives. He was
married in 1858 to Adelaide Jackson, who
died in Hardin county, in 1874. He was
married in 1874 to Josephine Miller, who
died March 24, 1881. He then married in
January, 1883, Mrs. Mary J. (Berry) Mur-
phy, daughter of Peter C. and Christina
Berry, old settlers of Geneva township. She
was married to Mr. Murphy Feb. 15, 1855,
in Cass Co., Ind. In the spring of 1856
they came to Franklin county. They had
five children, four of whom are now liv-
ing — Peter D., John H., Maggie E. and
EmmaC, wife of G. G. Cooley of Bristow,
Butler county, who died Oct. 5, 1882, and
Rhoda M. Mr. Murphy served in the
army and died June 8, 1881.
Rev. Jacob Haymond was born near
Wheeling, W. Va., in 1826. He was the
son of Edward and Nancy (Jones) Hay-
mond, natives of West Virginia. In 1836
they removed to Indiana, and locating
near Indianapolis, engaged in farming
until 1855, when they removed to Black
Hawk Co., Iowa, where they remained
until they died, the father in 1860, aged
sixty-one, the mother in 1863, aged sixty-
one. Rev. J. Haymond was married in
Indiana in 1847, to Martha Smith, born
in North Carolina in 1820. After their
marriage they went for a short time to
Illinois, and in 1856 to Black Hawk Co.,
Iowa, where he tilled the soil until 1860,
when he entered the ministry, which
profession he still follows. Though he
only had a common school education, yet
by reading and study he is well informed.
He was converted before his marriage,
in Indiana, and united with the Methodist
Episcopal Church. His first chai"ge was
Spring Creek, from 1860 to 1863, since
which time he has been engaged in Mar-
shall, Grundy, Hardin and Linn counties,
and in 1879 took charge of the church at
Geneva, remaining there three years,
i^&c^^z&t
.42
â– J
4.\j>
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
363
after which he went to Marshall county,
where he is now. They had nine chil-
dren, among them three pair of twins
— Emily L., Malissa and Alonzo T.(twins),
Elisha B., Edward FI , Ellen M. and
Esther (twins), Byron and Eluma F.
(twins), the latter deceased.
Edward H. Haymond, fifth son of Rev.
J. Haymond, was born September, 1852,
in Kendall Co., 111. He went with his
parents to Black Hawk and Hardin coun-
ties, and after finishing his studies in the
common schools, attended Friend's Acad-
emy at Providence, and also two terms in
the Normal school at Iowa Falls, after
which he followed teaching five years.
He was married in April, 1873, to Etna
E. Pence, born at Steamboat Rock, Har-
din county, in 1856. He removed to Mar-
shall Co., Iowa, in 1874, and remained
there five years, then returned to Hardin
county, and in 1881 came to Franklin
county, settling on section 13, Geneva
township, where he still resides. Mr. and
Mrs. Haymond have three children —
Frank E., M. May and Roy C.
John M. Boots, O. H. Til man, and John
M. Runyan were also among the early
settlers in Geneva township.
John M. Boots is the son of Martin
Boots, an old settler of Geneva township,
and was born in the township, June 1,
1856. He had a good common school educa
tion, was reared on his father's farm
and since doing for himself, has engaged
in farming. He was married Jan. 22,
1882, to Rachel M. Manifold, born in
Black Hawk county, March 25, 1856. Her
parents are old settlers of the township.
He moved to his present farm on section
2, in the spring of 1S82.
O. H. Tilman, a native of Darke Co.,
Ohio, born in 1839, was a son of Daniel
and Mary (Thomas) Tilman. His father
was born in Ohio, the mother in Tennessee.
In 1842, they moved to Indiana, and in
1855 to Franklin Co., Iowa, settling on
section 10, Geneva township, where they
lived until they died, the father in 1861,
at the age of fifty two, the mother at
Ackley, in 1876, at the age of sixty-four.
Aug. 14, 1862, the son, O. H. Tilman, en-
listed in company II. 32d Iowa Volunteers
and served until Aug. 25, 1865. He took
part in a number of engagements. When
he received his discharge he came back to
Franklin county, where he has since re-
sided, except four years spent at Ackley.
He was married in 1867 to Miss M. L.
Clinesmith, born in Holmes Co., Iowa, in
1848. Her parents were natives of Penn-
sylvania, who moved to Ohio in 1832,
stopped in Wayne, and afterwards moved
to Franklin county, where they are now
living with their daughter. The father
was born in 1 805, the mother in 1 809. They
had six children, all dead but one, Mrs.
Tilman. Mr and Mrs. O. H. Tilman have
two children, W. O and Jessie M. Mr.
Tilman is a member of the I. O. O. F. at
Ackley. The parents of Mrs. Tilman,
Andrew and Margaret (Miller) Cline-
smith, came from Ohio to Franklin county,
in 1855, and settled at Mayne's Grove, re
maming there one year, when they went
to Morgan township; they also lived at
Ackley, Hardin county.
John M. Runyan came from Trumbull
Co. Ohio. He was born Feb. 18, 1834,
and is a son of John and Jane (McLese)
Runyan. His father was born in Alle-
gheny Co., Penn., March IS, ISO.!, and
Jl
364
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
his mother, born in the North of Ireland,
(near Giant's Causeway) in 1805. They
were married in Mercer Co., Penn., then
went to Ohio, John M. being born the
same year. They remained there one
year, then spent one year in Pennsylvania,
but returned to Ohio, where the father
still resides. The mother died in 1877.
John M. attended Kinsman's Academy,
in Trumbull Co., Ohio, three years. He
chose farming for a vocation, which he
still follows. He was married Nov. 1,1857,
to Alcena E. Canfield, born in Hartford,
Trumbull Co., Ohio, June 24, 1842. They
have two children — Addie M. and Charlie
J. They are now members of the Metho-
dist Church, but were formerly Free-will
Baptists. Mr. Runyan went to La Fay-
ette Co., Wis., in 1854, where he was
married. He moved to Franklin county
and settled in Geneva township, where
he still resides. He enlisted August,
1862, in company B, 31st Regular Infant-
ry Volunteers, serving eight months, but
was discharged by reason of sickness con
tracted in the army.
FIRST THINGS.
The first marriage, the first birth, and
also the first death in Geneva township,
occurred in the family of Henry Smith,
who was married to his second wife, Han-
nah Eves, in 1857 or 1858, this being the
first marriage. Mr. Smith lost a child by
his first wife in 1855, which was born in
1854.
ORGANIC.
In the spring of 1858 the township was
organized by the county judge, who ap-
pointed William II. Thompson, clerk;
Daniel Tillman and William B. Johnson,
trustees. The first election was held in
the spring of 1858, at a log school house
on section 16.
The township officials for 1883 were:
William H. Thompson and Adam Knau,
trustees; Fred Stermer, assessor; M. L.
Tidd, clerk; George W. Parks and J. C.
Bell, justices of the peace.
schools.
The first school was taught by Anna
Scott, in the winter of 1854-5, at the cabin
residence of Peter Reinhart. Only five
scholars attended this pioneer school. A
school was taught by Alvira Johnson —
afterward wife of Mr. Cray ton — in 1856,
at the house of Daniel Tilman. The first
school house was built, on section 16, in
1857, by subscription. The first term of
school in this house was taught by William
H. Thompson, who was a party to a laugh-
able circumstance. One morning Mr.
Thompson went to the school house to
open school, but he found the scholars,
headed by the big boys, had locked him
out, and refused to let him in unless he
would agree to treat them to something,
the next Friday. Mr. Thompson, full of
Yankee wit and shrewdness, climbed the
fire-place chimney, made of split sticks
and mud, and placed a broad board over
the top of the chimney flue, which drove
the smoke downward into the school room.
Notwithstanding this the boys maintained
their position, though peering out of the
windows with bloodshot, streaming eyes;
the teacher was obliged to go home and
did not return until the following morn-
ing, when he found things serene; but the
big boys all had red eyes, but took the
surroundings in as a double joke, on both
teacher and scholars. Among the older
boys who took part in this was William
Horine, who, later in life, was color bearer
&
1
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
365
in an Indiana regiment, had his foot shot
off at the battle of Gettysburg and was
afterward educated by the State of In-
dina. The first permanent school house
was erected during the summer of 1862,
in which a school was kept the following
winter, by Amelia Cole, with fifteen
scholars. This house was in use for
school purposes until 1873, when it was
sold at auction to John Strain, for $50. In
1883, Geneva township had eight school
houses and 340 children of school age. It
will be seen by the following, that
"rings" existed, even at an early day.
Section 16 was the school section, and
was to be sold at auction to the
highest bidder, according to law ; but
the few settlers combined into a "ring"
and Agreed not to bid against one another
in the sale of this land, which took in
Four Mile Grove, containing some choice
timber land, which the pioneers had by a
a rnutu J understanding staked off, into
five and ten acre lots, for their own use.
In consequence of this the lands were
sold at an average price, of about $1.30
per acre.
RELIGIOUS.
The first religious services were held at
the house of Mr. Boots, on section 15, in
the summer of 1855, by Revs. Brown and
Olmstead, who held occasional services.
The United Brethren denomination organ-
ized a society in 1858, by Revs. John
Buckmaster and Israel Schaffer, with the
following members : John Gould, Mr. and
Mrs. Boots, Jesse Manifold and wife, J.
Jones, Mary Jones, Thomas Jones and
Sarah Jones. Services were held at the
log school house, on section 16, preaching
once in four weeks, usually.
CEMETERY.
The-first cemetery in Geneva township
was located about a mile east of Four Mile
Grove. This cemetery served the whole
township until 1868, when the interments
were removed to grounds near the (irove.
Another cemetery was located at High-
land Grove, which, in 18*75, was removed
to^the Geneva village cemetry.
GENEVA VILLAGE.
Geneva is situated on section in of
Geneva township. It was platted in Sep-
tember, 1871, by Win. J. McVey, of Dix-
on, 111. The first to engage in business at
this point was H. C. Clock, who erected a
building 22x26 feet, two stories high, and
commenced to do business in October,
1871, with a stock of about 18,000. Mr.
Clock was still engaged in business, in
1883 carrying a general stock.
The Geneva House was built by H. C.
Clock. The original building was a school
house, which was moved for this purpose
and added to, making its present dimen-
sion. The first landlord was II. C.
Clock. In 1875, he sold to A. P. Mc-
Cardle, who ran the house for a time,
when it again fell into the hands of Mr.
Clock, who ran it until March 25, 1881,
when Charles L. Canfield became proprie-
tor, and was still running it in 1883.
The drug business was first represented
by Tidd & Silence, who opened a store in
1880, continuing in company a year, when
Tidd became sole proprietor, and was run-
ning the only drug business there in 1883.
He also was the only practicing physician
of the town at the time.
The first one to engage in the hardware
trade, was John D. Parks, in 1875, in a
building erected for the purpose. He was
v
-y
t.
300
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
succeeded by his son, George, who sold to
J A. Waddington, proprietor of the only
hardware store at Geneva, in 1883.
A boot and shoe shop, doing repair
work and carrying a full line of boots and
shoes, was established at Geneva in 1878,
by Joseph Kulas, who was in trade there
in 1883.
George Thompson started the first ex-
clusive grocery store, in 1877. He sold to
Fred Steiner, in March, 1880.
A wagon shop was opened by Joseph
Fuchs, in 1882, and a blacksmith shop
about the same time by George Johnson.
The Geneva Creamery was established
in the spring of 1881, by H. C. Clock at a
cost of $1,600. The building was 20x26
feet, with a wing for horse-power room
20x30 feet. In 1883, this creamery was
consuming the milk of 500 cows. During
the month of July, 1883, $1,600 was paid
for cream at this creamery, showing that
the farmers paid much attention to dairy
business, which is one of the paying
branches of farm work in Franklin county.
The first one to deal in lumber, was M.
Burns, who opened a yard in October,
1871, continuing in trade until 1872, when
he sold to H. C Clock, who was still run-
ning the business in 1883, having an annual
sale of $10,000 worth of lumber.
The pioneer grain dealer of Geneva was
M. Burns, who ran lumber and grain busi-
ness together for a year. H. C. Clock &
Bro. built the Geneva elevator, in 1875, at
a cost of $4,000. It was a frame building,
28x36 feet, and had a capacity of 6,000
bushels.
POSTOFFICE.
In 1858, a postoffice was established
near Geneva, and kept at private houses for
many years. William H. Thompson was
among the first who took charge of the
mail in the township. He held the posi
tion also after the Central Iowa railway
was built, and before Geneva village was
platted or made a stopping place; and a
good joke is told on Mr. Thompson, who
went out one dark night with a lantern
and signaled the train to stop, and de-
manded the Geneva mail pouch to be
thrown off. The office had not yet been
ordered moved to the village, but the con-
ductor told him to go to gehenna and passed
on. Soon after the station was established,
and H. C. Clock was appointed postmaster.
He was still holding Ihe office at his store
in 1883. In July, 1881, the office was made a
money order office. The first order was
issued to Charles H Tidd in favor of
George S. Clark, for $5.25. The first order
paid was to Peter W. Hicks from George
Hicks, for $10.10. The first five months
there were 185 orders issued, and up to
Aug. 1, 1883, there had been 902 issued,
which is a good index to the business of
the town. '
H. C. Clock, postmaster of Geneva and
an old resident of Franklin county, and
the first to engage in the mercantile busi-
ness at Geneva, was born in Painesville,
Lake Co., Ohio, July 24, 1839. He is
is the son of Ebenezer and Lucinda
(Jarvis) Clock, natives of Islip, L. I., who
were of English extraction. They were
married in the year 1824, and emigrated
in 1830 to Lake Co., Ohio, where the
father died in 1841, at the age of forty-
one, the mother dying in 1869, aged sixty-
three. They were the parents of nine
children, seven boys and two girls ; the
subject of this sketch being the sixth.
T
jil
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
367
EL C. Clock, in 1853, removed to Jo
Daviess Co., Ill , and in 1 859 came to Mays-
ville, Franklin county, and engaged in the
mercantile business with his brother; he
followed the same until June 24, 1861,
when he entered the State service, and
July 17, the same year, was mustered into
company C, 6th Infantry, Iowa Volunteers,
of which he was made 1st sergeant, which
position he held until May, 1862, when
he was promoted to 2d lieutenant, then
1st lieutenant, and in 1864 to captain,
which position he held until his final dis-
charge, Feb. 25, 1865. On receiving
his discharge, he returned to M tysville
and again entered the mercantile business
with his brother, which he followed until
the fall of 1871, w T hen he removed to
Geneva and engaged in the same business
which he still follows, and is the present
postmaster. He is a member of the Odd
Fellow and Masonic fraternities. He
was married May 17, 1865, to Emily A.
Roberts, born in 1839 at Spartansburg,
Crawford Co., Penn., by whom he has had
eight children, all of whom are still liv-
ing except one. He is a republican in
politics. Captain Clock took part in the
battles of Pittsburg Landing, siege of
Corinth, charge at Jackson, Miss., Mission
Ridge, and engagements between Chatta-
nooga and Atlanta.
SOCIETIES.
Alba Lodge No. 213, I. O. O. F., was
organized at Maysville January 23, 1871,
by H. C. Clock, W. W. Soper, A. A.
Noble, W. T. Bullis, T. H. Reeve and G.
W. Soper. The first officers elected were:
W. W. Soper, N. G. ; A. A. Noble, V.
G. ; T. H. Reeve, secretary ; H. C. Clock,
treasurer.
The lodge increased rapidly, and con-
tinued to hold their meetings at Maysville
until the completion of the Central Rail-
way of Iowa, in 1874, when it was re-
moved to Geneva. The following is a list
of the noble grands who have served
since its organization ; W. W Soper, A.
A. Noble, H. C. Clock, T. H. Reeve, Silas
Page, J. H. Stevenson, M. B Jones, J.
M. Hedges, J. M. Runyan, C. L Clock,
J. H. Page, C. C McArdle, John Hide,
R. B. McCord, D. J. McMillan, V. A.
Harris, James Kulas, H. M. Roberts, C.
H. Tidd and S. L. Jones.
Jarvis Clock joined by card Oct. 3, 1871,
and died Feb:, 18, 1879. The lodge has
had seventy-two members since its organ-
ization. In 1883, it numbered thirty-five,
at which time it was in a sound condition,
with new members being added from
time to time. There are but very few, if
any, lodges in this district that are in a
better condition, financially or otherwise.
The decrease in its membership is due
chiefly to removal of members, most of
whom have taken withdrawal cards. Only
two deaths had occurred in the lodge up
toAug.-l, 1883 — S R. Hedges, who was
drowned in Nebraska, and Jarvis Clock,
who died at home. But one member's wife
has died since the organization of the
lodge— Mrs. G. W. Soper.
Kedron Lodge, No. 24 i, A. F. & A,
M., was organized at Maysville, Iowa,
July 29, 1868, by a dispensation from the
grand master, -which was granted to C.
L. Clock, A. *B. Hudson, K. L. Clock,
Henry Shroyer, J. M. Jones, A. Pickering
and B. K. Jackson. The lodge was or-
ganized by the election of the following
officers : Charles L. Clock, J. W. ; L. S.
^
< 4«— *•
-« 9\
368
HISTORY OF FRANKLIN COUNTY.
Cooley, secretary ; J. D. Parks, treasurer,
H. C. Clock, S. D. ; Henry Shroyer J. D.;
J. M. Jones and Albert Pickering, stew-
ards ; B. K. Jackson, Tyler.
The lodge was removed to Geneva, Jan.
•28, 1874. The lodge showed their appre-
ciation for services rendered by C. L.
Clock, by re-electing him to the office of
worshipful master, nine successive years, at
the end of which time, he removed to
Hampton to assume the duties of county
auditor. W. T. Bullis succeeded Mr.
Clock, serving one year. B. K. Jackson
was elected in 1878, and served one year
and was succeeded by H. C. Clock, who
served two years. W. T. Bullis was again
elected in 1881, serving one year. Dr. C.
H. Tidd was elected in 1882 and was re-
elected in 1883. Daniel W. Bullis was
initiated at Maysville, Oct., 5, 1870, and
remained a constant and faithful member
until his death in March, 1870. His was
the only death in the lodge up to August,
1883 — a very remarkable fact. The total
membership of the lodge since its organi-
zation, has been fifty-nine. In 1883, it
was twenty-seven; the decrease being due
to removals, except the one death men-
tioned. The success of the lodge has
always been very flattering. The grand
secretary of the State remarked to a dele-
gate from this lodge, to the Grand Lodge,
a few years since, "That it was unneces-
sary to look over the papers of this lodge,
as they were always correct." Kedron
lodge has always been extremely careful
in the selection of officers, and as a result,
have been financially sound.
A Methodist Episcopal Church was or-
ganized at an early day in Reeve township,
and was afterward known as the Geneva
Methodist Church. This s 
